Friday, May 30, 2014

Now Available: Nokia XL Added Leverage?

Nokia XL is Now Available!

If Nokia X didn't appeal to your needs then the XL might with additional leverage.

The Nokia XL packs a big 5 inch IPS Display but wait a minute it only at WVGA (800 x 480 pixel resolution) so might expect some pixelation if you're used to high detail screen. Moving on, powering the device is a 1GHz Dual-Core Snapdragon S4 Processor with Adreno 203 Graphics is pretty much old tech however it still perform as Nokia does optimizes its devices. To further support the chipset is a 768MB RAM and 4GB Internal Storage.

Connectivity is just the regular WiFi, Bluetooth and GPS. For data, you will just have 3G and HSPA. You wont be left out in sharing and getting online and we know how reliable Nokia with connecting people.

For camera features, Nokia XL is equipped with 5MP AF primary back camera with LED Flash and 2MP front. Though for some of you, this is entry level but quality of output from Nokia devices is better than some interpolated others.

Battery is at 2000mAh but again it seems different to treat Nokia the same with much optimization and efficiency to their devices.

Overall, there are shortcoming to Nokia XL but we can't deny the fact that they have been in the mobile industry and have added leverage to their competitors. So with their Android Offering still they do a better job in producing hammer phones that are built to last and functions well.

Looking for XL? Get it here:
Nokia XL (Black)
Nokia XL (Bright Green)Nokia XL (White)Nokia XL (Orange)
Nokia XL (Yellow)

Specs Summary
Nokia X (Android 4.1)
5 inch WVGA IPS Display
1GHz Dual-Core Processor
Adreno 203 GPU
768MB RAM
4GB Internal Storage
Expandable via MicroSD
5MP AF Back Camera
With LED Flash
2MP Front
3G/HSPA
WiFi
Bluetooth
GPS
2000mAh Battery

Cherry Mobile Scope LTE - Tablet LTE for Less?

We might see a game changer here if the Price is right for the First Local Brand LTE Tablet - Cherry Mobile Scope.

To start off, the tablet sports an 8 inch XGA (1024 x 768 pixels) IPS Display powered by 1.2GHz Snapdragon 400 MSM8926 with Adreno 305 Graphics. Memory is at 1GB RAM and Internal Storage at 8GB thats supported by microSD expansion slot for good measure. The innards are very good though not retina or high pixel density, I am sure the chipset will able to deliver smooth Android and gaming experience and also has fair amount of memory and disk space for apps and among others.

Moving on the optics, it packs a 5MP primary back camera with Flash and 2MP front camera. This should cover your casual picture/video needs including those selfies and video chats.

Cherry Mobile Scope main selling point is that it has 4G LTE (Long-Term Evolution) for which has only been dominated by international brands for the tablet category. This should earn the title first LTE Tablet by local brand. Other than that, you do have WiFi and Bluetooth. No GPS.

The device runs Android 4.3 Jellybean but Kitkat is on the way considering Qualcomm source codes are open compared to Mediatek so development for Snapdragon devices is easier.

Battery is at 4000mAh and since you do get battery guru to fully optimize Scope's battery.

Overall, Cherry Mobile Scope has potential to be a game changer in the tablet market with up-to-date hardware and soon-to-be updated software plus LTE it will be a force to recon with. If the price is right...

I would say Cherry Mobile partnership with Qualcomm is great. I would expect them to be able to update CM Probe, Nova 2, Omega Icon, Razor 2.0 and Omega Aeon (did I miss anything? haha) together with Cherry Mobile Scope.




Specs Summary
Android 4.3 Jelly Bean
(Upgradeable to KitKat)
8 inch XGA IPS Display
1.2GHz Quad-Core Processor
Snapdragon 400 MSM8926
Adreno 305 GPU
1GB RAM
8GB Internal Storage
Expandable via MicroSD
5MP Back Camera
With Flash
2MP VGA Front
LTE/HSPA+
WiFi
Bluetooth
4000mAh Battery

Thursday, May 29, 2014

Cherry Mobile Omega Aeon Divine Powers?

Cherry Mobile has just released the Omega Aeon. The name is associated with divine powers so should we expect great things from AEON? Let find out



The device packs a 5 inch HD IPS OGS Display which is big and decent enough if your into games and movies. Though I prefer if they put some added protection but guess that what separates it from Omega Icon.

Powering the Aeon is a 1.2GHz Quad-Core Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 MSM8212 that also powers (CM Probe, Nova 2, Omega Icon, and Razor 2). Many have been confused due to whats appearing in the benchmarks data of the devices but it is Adreno 302 GPU and NOT 305 such that it is Snapdragon 200 (you may check Snapdragon website to check). When it comes to memory and storage the usual combo of 1GB RAM/ 4GB Phone Storage but you do have microSD slot for expansion.

WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, HSPA+ for its connectivity features so you do get the usual stuff to share and connect online and facilitate your data needs.

The Omega Aeon gains a whopping 13MP primary back camera with Flash and 5MP MP front. Don't be too blown away with this such that it is interpolated with limitation of its chipset sets to support 8MP only. Cherry does sometimes exaggerates to gain plus points.

With all the internals covered at the end of the day we should look at the battery. Sadly, this has been Cherry Mobile's biggest criticism with regards to their devices and AEON can join with its measly 1700mAh battery. For the 5 incher, guess you need a power bank for a companion.

To wrap things up, the Cherry Mobile AEON is just a demi-god with powers but has its limitations. The new Qualcomm Snapdragon MSM8212 1.2 GHz Quad-Core does fairly well in performance even against 1.3GHz Mediatek and also has nifty battery saving features. Camera is said to be 13MP but if I may recommend they should have improved the sensor and not just interpolation. Battery needs help. Still Cherry Mobile Omega AEON at 5,999.00 budget price would have gain some worship.

Want One? Check out Cherry Angel, our very trusted seller.
Photo Credits to Cherry Angel

or Get it here! Nationwide Delivery! Even COD!
Cherry Mobile AEON Black
Cherry Mobile AEON White

Specs Summary
Android Jellybean 4.3 
5 inch HD IPS OGS Display 
1.2GHz Quad-Core 
Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 MSM8212 
Adreno 302 GPU 
1GB RAM 
4GB Internal Storage 
Expandable via MicroSD 
13MP Main Camera 
With Flash 
5MP Front Camera 
HSPA+ 
WiFi 
Bluetooth 
GPS
1700mAh Battery
5,999.00

Cherry Mobile Life 2.0 Springs Again?

Cherry Mobile springs Life to 2.0 comes with few updates.

Life was selling like hot cakes back then so let see if 2.0 can soar as the original.

The new Life 2.0 retains the 4 inch WVGA Display size but hopefully it won't have the touch bug which plague the First. Another thing to consider is that the new life is now packing a Quad-Core Snapdragon 200 MSM8212 Processor up from Dual Core that will surely a boost in performance and efficiency. Again, like other CM with the same chipset, it packs Adreno 302 NOT 305 that may show in benchmarks apps such that according to Cherry Mobile these apps have not yet been updated. Still has 512MB RAM which is a downer but its entry level so might be compatible with some people basic smartphone needs. 4GB of internal storage is available but it does have a microSD Slot for expansion purposes.


Camera has jumped to 8MP primary back camera from 5MP but who knows it might be just interpolated, just hope it delivers better output. Oh it comes with Flash for added light and for flashlight (feel free tough to check if it bright or not). The usual VGA front is present for your selfies and video chat.

For its connectivity, it features the standard WiFi, Bluetooth, and GPS. Cherry Mobile also delivers HSPA+ data connectivity at this price range which is great cause admittedly being connected is a need nowadays.

The hard thing to consider is the battery at 1350mAh. This battery size is good for small screen but cant say on this 4 incher and it limits phone use especially when playing games and data on.

Overall, Life at 2.0 brings a lot of improvements yet still the same as of the original in delivery the basic smartphone experience to newbies, entry level and less fortunate. Some of us to say finds happiness in the simple things and so Cherry Mobile is a simple joy. Hopefully no touch bug, Snapdragon 200 chipset and battery optimized and efficient, if this are met guess we cant complain at only 3,299.00.

It's Available at Cherry Angel (Trusted Seller)

Picture Credits to Cherry Angel

Looking for one? Get it here
Cherry Mobile Life 2.0

Specs Summary
Android Jelly Bean 4.3
4 inch WVGA Display
1.2GHz Quad-Core
Snapdragon 200 MSM8212
Adreno 302 GPU
4GB Internal Storage
Expandable Via MicroSD up to 32GB
8MP Back Camera 
W/ Flash
VGA Front Camera
HSPA+
WiFi
Bluetooth
GPS
1350mAh Battery

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

Cherry Mobile Emerald Enticingly Brilliant

Cherry Mobile has been targeting the budget conscious consumers with wide range of smartphones with decent hardware and a more premium look with their Gem Series. To top the festival of gem smartphones is the Cherry Mobile Emerald.


The Emerald is quite a charm with quite an enticing over-all look. It does follow on the aesthetics of Flare S2 elegant design and form. It sports a 4 inch WVGA Display that is just about right size for your pocket. Powered by 1.3GHz Dual-Core Mediatek MT6572 Processor with Mali-400 GPU will surely handle simple task and functions. Memory is at 512MB of RAM and 4GB of Internal Storage is enough to store you apps and data needs. MicroSD expansion slot is present so if you need more storage just stick a bigger capacity card. The usual stuff of an entry level device to able to run your most of your social media apps as well as not so graphic intensive games.

Credit to Jester Gazzingan.
Big Shout Out to You Guys there at Cherry Mobile Emerald Facebook Groups!!!


For its optics, it equipped with a 5MP primary back camera with Flash and VGA front. Just good enough for snapping those regular photos and selfies as well as video chat with friends abroad via skype.

You do get a the normal set of connectivity like WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS and also HSPA+ data connectivity. Seriously at this time this should be the standards for entry level. 2G handset will be left out such that majority needs 3G connectivity.


At the price of 2,899.00, it is your basic phone or may be a secondary for that matter. As I put it, Cherry Mobile Emerald is enticing brilliant with its premium looks and completely packed will surely steal some limelight from the other brand (2G only, same spec) models at the similar price. Though my major concern is the battery pack that will be powering the device such that this is where Cherry Mobile falters.

Photo Credits to Cherry Angel

Looking for Emerald? Get it here:
Cherry Mobile Emerald (Silver)

Specs Summary
Android 4.2 Jellybean
4 inch WVGA (800x480 pixels) Display
1.3GHz Dual-Core Processor
Mediatek MT6572
Mali-400MP GPU
512MB RAM
4GB Internal Storage
Expandable via MicroSD
5MP Back Camera
With Flash
VGA Front
HSPA+ / 3G
WiFi
Bluetooth
GPS
1400mAh Battery

Thursday, May 22, 2014

Spotted Huawei Ascend G730 Reliable Phablet Companion

Looking for something that's just right size for your fingertips for your regular phone needs or for spreadsheets or word for work then you might take a gander at what Huawei is offering - The Ascend G730.


The new Ascend sports a 5.5 inch qHD (960 x 540 pixels) more or less the a smartphone or a tablet. Lets admit it with a bigger screen we can do more things. Moving on, the device is powered by 1.3GHz Mediatek MT6582 Quad-Core Processor with Mali-400MP2 GPU coupled with 1GB RAM and 4GB of Internal Storage (expandable via MicroSD). For reference this chipset does fairly well in Antutu ( between 15,000-19,000 mark).

On to its optics, the Ascend G730 packs an 5MP primary back camera with Flash and a VGA Front. From a Huawei user perspective, this is far weak point with the company's devices. Hopefully they improved on their sensors.

Connectivity is as usual with WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS and HSPA+ for data connectivity.

Packing a 2300mAh battery will surely give you enough power.

Overall, the Huawei Ascend G730 is a great Phablet companion with its flexible size used either for phone functions or as a tablet for work and games. It's also reliable that can run your every app needs even multi-tasking between apps. Regular connectivity and camera features is just there but with a bigger battery you will do more with your Huawei Ascend G730.

Sold at cmkcellphones.com at 8,700.00


Specs Summary
Huawei Ascend G730
Android 4.2 - Emotion UI 2.0
5.5 inch qHD TFT Display
1.3GHz Quad-Core
Mediatek MT6582 Processsor
Mali-400MP2 GPU
1GB RAM
4GB Internal Storage
Expandable via MicroSD up to 32GB
5MP Back Camera
With Flash
VGA Front Camera
HSPA+
WiFi
Bluetooth
GPS
2300mAh Battery

Monday, May 19, 2014

Cherry Mobile Omega Icon - Mega Iconic

Cherry Mobile has released yet another Omega - the Icon. Cherry Mobile is going with a more premium look with much of its releases today so as with Omega Icon with a faux leather back.


The device houses a 5 ich HD IPS Display with Dragontrail Glass Protection. Powered by 1.2GHz Quad-Core Snapdragon 200 Processor MSM8212 with Adreno 302 GPU (see Cherry Mobile Statement Below) with 1GB RAM and 4GB Internal Storage with MicroSD expansion port. Its innards ensures you fluid Android 4.3 experience and gaming.

Photo Credits to Ron Ramon
Benchmarks indicate MSM8610 with Adreno 305 GPU but according to Cherry Mobile it MSM8212 is fairly new chipset and that Benchmark Apps have not yet been updated. See official statement here:
Big Shout Out to the Admins of Cherry Mobile Page 

In terms of connectivity, it packs the usual stuff - WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS and has HSPA+ for data connectivity. Battery is at 2000 mAh is just adequate more or less 8-10 hrs depends on usage.



Finally its camera features is a 13MP Rear and 5MP front supported both with flash. This would definitely lit up those dim camera moments or your selfies.

Photo Credits to Ron Ramon

Overall, Cherry Mobile is improving their line up. The Omega Icon is turning out to be mega iconic with its design, hardware and camera features at only 6,499.00.

If you want to buy one make sure you check if there is a problem with WiFi. Some users report that there is a bug that wont let you turn it off and some disconnecting and connecting issues.


Side Note: Early Users points to Micromax A121 Canvas Elanza 2 as the OEM. If this is true, then its camera features are just interpolated (13MP vs 8MP rear 5MP vs 2MP front). 

Big Shout Out to the Guys over on Facebook Cherry Mobile Omega ICON UNITED and Cherry Mobile Omega Icon Group.


Want One? Get it here:

Specs Summary:
Android Jellybean 4.3
5 inch HD IPS Display
Dragontrail Glass Protection
1.2GHz Quad-Core
Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 MSM8212
Adreno 302
1GB RAM
4GB Internal Storage
Expandable via MicroSD
13MP Main Camera W/ Flash
5MP Front Camera W/ Flash
HSPA+
WiFi
Bluetooth
GPS
2000mAh Battery

Friday, May 16, 2014

Spotted: Google Chromecast Now Available

Google Chromecast can now be purchase for Philippine Market.


The device is just like your regular usb thumb drives but with an HDMI. All you need is to plugged it in to your TV and you will be able to control it with your smartphone, tablet and other supported device and enjoy pictures, music, videos and other content onto a wide screen.




It's a great way to share!

Get One Now:
Google Chromecast Seller 1
Google Chromecast Seller 2

Update: Spotted also via Villman Philippines

Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Free Access to BPI Mobile App Patnership with Globe

Two Ayala companies converge, Globe Telecom and Bank of the Philippine Islands makes mobile banking easier.



If you have an account with BPI and is making use of their Mobile App then you are in luck with Globe you get FREE ACCESS.


Check your Account. Fund Transfer. Buy Load. Pay Bills. Invest! All under your fingertips powered by Globe "widest" network.



Promo Mechanics:
1. Promo duration: April 30, 2014 to August 31, 2014.
2. Access to BPI Express Mobile App's selected after log-in transactions will be free to all Globe and TM subscribers during the promo period. 
3. No registration will be required to avail of the promo.
4. After log-in transactions included in the promo are: Balance Inquiry, Funds Transfer, Bills Payment, Prepaid Card Reload, Prepaid Mobile Reload, Subscribe/Redeem Investments, Change Password, Enable/Disable Transfer to Anyone, Checkbook Reorder, Stop Payment Order, Enroll Additional Account, and Enroll 3rd Party Account.
5. After log-in transactions are zero-rated and will not be charged against the subscriber's prepaid load, postpaid account or data-allocation
6. The app's ATM/Branch Locator, FX Rates Inquiry, and links to other BPI domains are not part of the free access and will be charged accordingly.
7. To activate the promo, the Globe or TM subscriber should:
*Turn on the device's data service
*Turn off all other features or apps that may pull data. These will be charged accordingly.

Monday, May 12, 2014

Cherry Mobile Razor 2.0 - Slimmer Lighter Sharper

Cherry Mobile has remade its Razor bringing it to 2.0 status at 7mm thin at weighing only 100g.

Notable changes for a sharper display from 4.5 inch qHD to 4.7 inch HD and retains its Dragontrail Protection. The New Razor 2.0 is now powered by 1.2Hz Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 MSM8212 with Adreno 302 NOT 305 Graphics, a change of heart parting from Mediatek. It still has 4GB of Internal Storage and 1GB RAM. Subsequently, MicroSD expansion slot to support that amount of storage.

I believe the device will have the similar connectivity features - WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS as well as up to HSPA+ data connectivity.

On a plus point, its camera goes up to 12MP Auto Focus (from 8MP ehem 5MP interpolated) camera supported by LED Flash. 2MP Front is here to stay for selfies and video chat needs.

Sadly, 1750mAh Battery just wont cut it  for heavy user but then again being slim, thin, and light has its disadvantages and this is surely a major one. On flip side it is Removable compared to the first Razor thereby if there's a possibility modders might find an alternative (if available or exist) to power up the Razor 2.0.


With all taken consideration, Razor 2.0 main selling point is its slimmer, lighter, and  its HD Display. It also has packs power to handle a fluid Android 4.3 Jelly Bean experience and slight Gaming. Slight because with its slimmer frame, it should just have a sacrificial decent battery. Kudos to Cherry Mobile for always giving consumer an option for some of their preference as well as deliver feature packed smartphones though sometimes it seems like a great flood at every end of the quarter hahaha.

Specs Summary
Cherry Mobile Razor 2.0
Android 4.3
4.7 inch HD IPS LCD Display
Dragontrail Protection
1.2GHz Quad-Core Processor
Snapdragon 200 MSM8212
Adreno 302 GPU
1GB RAM
4GB Internal Storage
Expandable via MicroSD
12MP AF Back Camera
With LED Flash
2MP Front Camera
HSPA+
WiFi
Bluetooth
GPS
1750mAh Battery
6,499.00

Sunday, May 11, 2014

Cherry Mobile Nova 2 - Budget but Strong

Seems Cherry Mobile is rolling out more handsets and notably at very competitive price.

Here is Cherry Mobile Nova 2



Sporting 4 inch WVGA (800 x 480 pixels) IPS LCD Display powered by 1.2 Qualcomm Snapdragon MSM8212 Quad-Core Processor with Adreno 302 GPU coupled with 4GB of Internal Storage and 1GB RAM. It also comes with microSD expansion slot. It also runs though Android Jelly Bean but it is at 4.3 version.

In terms of connectivity, the regular WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS is there and with todays standard HSPA+.

Moving on to the camera, it does pack a 8MP back with Flash and VGA front. But the camera is fixed focus and even first user said that this is the major flaw of the Nova 2.

Package contains propriety Battery, Headset, Charger and Cord, and Manual.

Benchmark is at 16K. See Here:
Note: As you can see it is said to have a Snapdragon 200 MSM8610 but its GPU is Adreno 305. Per official statement of Cherry Mobile it is equipped with MSM8212 and that Benchmarks Apps are not yet updated with the said chipset. But Cherry is contradicting itself in terms of GPU such that the chipset powers CM Probe which accordingly they said to have Adreno 302 GPU. Anu ba talaga?

Big Shout Out to the Admins of Cherry Mobile Page 

At 3,899.00 it will certainly attract our budget conscious geeks looking for strong hardware and decent feature portfolio. Another plus points is that Nova 2 is upgradeable to KitKat No Kikat yet for this device. Cherry Mobile is surely is King when it comes to pricing and up-to-date internals for it products. But hopefully they could level up their game in terms of battery.

Handset Photos courtesy of Cherry Angel
Benchmark by Sir Alexander Tan


Looking to buy one? Try Cherry Angel or here:


Specs Summary
Cherry Mobile Nova 2
Android 4.3 Jelly Bean
Upgradeable to KitKat
4 inch IPS LCD Display
WVGA (800 x 480 pixels) Resolution
1.2GHz Quad-Core Processor
Qualcomm Snapdragon MSM8212
Adreno 302 GPU
1GB RAM
4GB Internal Storage
Expandable via MicroSD
8MP FF Back Camera
With Flash
VGA Front Camera
HSPA+
WiFi
Bluetooth
GPS
Dual Sim / Dual Standby
1500mAh Battery
3,899.00