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B
y any standard 2017 has been a momentous year, particularly in digital space. India is now a ‘Mobile First’ country with 82% of citizens having
EDITORI A L
mobile access and over 400 million accessing
Pankaj Mohindroo |
internet via mobile. Not surprising, the hand
Shelley Vishwajeet | Editor
device is today a person’s alter-ego and Man Friday combined. The way to a man or woman’s heart will now be via mobile. This has significant implications for the market, brands, government utilities and other stakeholders as any future reach-out
Editor-in-Chief
Ramesh Kumar Raja | Assistant Editor Haider Ali Khan | Senior Correspondent Nijhum Rudra | Correspondent Vanshika Malhotra | Reporter
strategy will have to have mobile at its centre. The year will also be remembered for giving an unprecedented push to digital dreams with an aim to
DE S I G N Ajit Kumar Parashar | Sr. Graphic Designer
shake up the old order and usher the new. There have been market disruptions, serious telecom battles but in the end peace has prevailed and economy is back on track and in fact it is on a surer and stronger footing. Momentous financial and taxation reforms definitely caused short term discomforts but have paved way for handsome long term dividends. GST has removed many anomalies which was prevalent in inter-state and inter-retail platforms in mobile trade as reforms have
M A R K ETIN G Puja Mohindroo | Manager - Business Sandeep Kumar | Sr. Manager – Marketing
O P ER A TION S K. Rajagopalan | Advisor-Legal, Accounts & Administration
created a level playing field between online and offline
Deepak Kohli | Manager – Accounts
platforms while bringing taxation parity across states.
Varun Lama | Sr. Manager – Human Resources
The taxation regime aims to be on par with the best
B. G. Mathur | Manager- Production
practices in the world. The year was also marked by strong innovations in handset device space. We saw launch of quad-cam mobiles while smartphones with finger sensors were becoming the new must. Bezel-less form is being increasingly preferred by bigger OEMs. You will read more about this in this issue.
CIRC U L A TION Bhupender Singh Bisht | Manager – Circulation
A D V I S OR Y BO A RD Bejon Misra Rajan Mathews S.D. Saxena
With your support and patronage, My Mobile flag
Subhash Chandra
continues to ride high. Many thanks for this. We remain
Sunil Dutt
firm in our resolve to bring you the most happening,
Sonu Bhasin
most relevant information surrounding mobile eco-
Uvaraj Natarajan
system in a reader friendly format. With this I wish you a very joyous and productive new year. Happy Reading! n
G ET IN TO U CH Editorial : shelley@mymobile.co.in Marketing : sandeep@mymobile.co.in Circulation : bhupender@mymobile.co.in Phone : 011—46206161 Fax : 011—41520637 Edited, published, printed and owned by Pankaj Mohindroo, Published from Flat No. 25, First Floor, Shankar Market, Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001. Printed at HT Media Ltd. B-2, Sector 63, Noida.
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The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for errors and omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and the views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the reader’s particular circumstances. The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged.
Volume XII, Issue XII, december 2017
MYMOBILE
contents
68
50
96 98 Style Notes 10 letters 12 Cell Speak
continues to grow at impressive pace
96
Established OEMs grow
stronger in China
The Burntest 73 XOLO ERA 3X
14 Rumor Mill
102 Apple leads, Samsung slips
74 SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB A
16 NEWS
and Moto makes a comeback in USA Q3, 2017
76 XIAOMI MI MIX 2
68 Consumer Insight
78 SONY XPERIA XZ1
A deep and interesting insight
82 MOTO G5s PLUS
21 big NEWS 111 My Guide 28 just in Get a close look at new mobile devices now in the market
50 Lead Story The Big Picture – 2017
into consumer preferences when it comes to choosing a handset
Chief Speak 70
Dr Salil Prabhakar – Founder,
President & CEO, Delta ID
Market Insights 66 Indian mobile phone market
06 | december 2017
98
Shripal Gandhi – Founder &
CEO, Swipe Mobile
80 CENTRIC A1
84 HONOR HOLLY 4 86 GOOGLE PIXEL 2 88 MICROMAX BHARAT 1
Face to Face: Interviews with business/industry leaders
92
Karan Thukral – Chairman,
Kara Mobiles
MYMOBILE
contents
What's Inside
94
Abhijit Mishra – Country
106 Offbeat
Director, KAYAK India
The Partnership of Sound
100 Sudhir Pillai – General
Geniuses
Manager, Honeywell Home & Building Technologies, India
108 Bazaar Bargain
134 Rakesh Yadav – Director,
buy today
Four phones which are smart
HGD India
90 By Invitation
135 Add Ons The latest and the best of
The HR Catalyst –
gadgets and accessories, from
Gaurav Verma,
Bluetooth speakers to next
Chief Technical Officer,
generation digicams
Aasaanjobs
90
148 Vantage Point The Two Second Canon – By Divya Virmani
106
102
111 Total number of pages = 150
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aware of the whole insight
had this tendency to keeping
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about any latest mobile or
away from Jioin the market
Since I am a dedicated
technology but what we get
but not the case anymore.
reader since my young age, I
from it, which is very helpful
The new service provider has
have been admired as the
and deep. I am a regular
taken everyone by storm.
one who knows everything in
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HONOR 9i
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magazine
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and very timely as people Dear My Mobile team, it gives me an immense knowledge of mobile ecosystem which you guys deliver through the magazine and it’s simply brilliant. I would also suggest you to add few more devices and gadgets like you did of Honor 9i in your burn tests. Majority of readers or the users might not be
10 | december 2017
e ave th
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ream in a d ellpho c y e t k u o o st zy ab ew lines? an als n the late e a r c c d u n f o u hav o a Are y al to pen a for news our hands u think yo o y ti se poten have a no rave to lay t them? If y CV to r u le, c u Do yo e? Do you world abo . Rush you My Mobi in e in ou headl and tell th king for y your name o s o e o l to se gizm u, we are .co.in ine. o e y l i n b i o it az mym e mag team@ best mobil India’s
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Quotes
“We are trying to bring new telecom policy by February. For this the working group has started the process. We expect to finalise draft by end of December and place it for public comments” — Manoj Sinha, Union Telecom Minister, talking to mediapersons in New Delhi
“We continue to focus on expanding our offline retail presence through Moto Hubs. Also, we want to bring in premium devices and bring great customer experience” — Sudhin Mathur, MD, Motorola Mobility India, at a launch event in New Delhi
“This industry has always been very competitive. We at Nokia have a certain vision for the brand and have certain plans on how we want to build the business over the years. That’s where we are focused” — Ajey Mehta, India VP, HMD Global, in an interaction with a news daily
“We want to be an enterprise solutions powerhouse, and not just sell SIM cards. We have entered the home broadband space via acquisition of YOU Broadband… We can now sell fixed line and content along with broadband to SMEs and startups as well”
— Sunil Sood, MD & CEO, Vodafone India, speaking at an event in Mumbai
12 | december 2017
“India is the only country in the world with billion biometrics and as many mobile phones and bank accounts. Therefore, in future, it will be the only nation which will make a lot of disruptions” — Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog, addressing an event in Noida, UP
MYMOBILE
Rumour Mill
Talk
in Tech Corners
Samsung Galaxy A series likely to have ‘Infinity Display’
WhatsApp working on a standalone app for iPad users
The next-generation Galaxy A series smartphones from Samsung, namely the Galaxy A5 and the Galaxy A7 2018, are anticipated to sport a near edge-to-edge Infinity Display. As per reports, the Galaxy A (2018) devices will be much like the flagship Galaxy S8/S8+ and the Galaxy Note 8 in terms of the display and front design. “While the Galaxy A5 (2018) will have an Infinity Display, it may not be curved. In that case, it will be similar to the one we find on the Galaxy S8 Active,” SamMobile recently reported. This would mean a major upgrade to the A series as all previous Galaxy A handsets come with a conventional 16:9 aspect ratio display. Samsung introduced this longer-than-wider display with Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ smartphones to coincide with its Infinity Display. The company’s latest flagship Galaxy Note 8 also sports the same aspect ratio and Infinity Display.
Messaging service WhatsApp is reportedly working on a dedicated app for iPad users as references of WhatsApp for iPad are spotted on latest WhatsApp desktop app. Popular WhatsApp change tracking website WABetaInfo recently tweeted, “Great news for all WhatsApp users having an iPad device. Our rumour about a WhatsApp for iPad app was real (real like our other rumours as WhatsApp Business and the Facebook infrastructure).” WABetaInfo also stated on Twitter the WhatsApp Desktop 0.2.6968 app references for an iPad application. However, the WhatsApp tracking website did not reveal whether the company was planning for a standalone application or will it be just a client application like the WhatsApp Web. Whatsapp recently introduced a series of new features like ‘Delete for Everyone’ that allows its over one billion users to revoke their messages in case they sent those to a wrong person or group.
14 | DECEMBER 2017
Windows apps being quietly developed for rumoured Microsoft foldable device If rumours from around the web and Microsoft’s past patents are to believe, the company could be working on a foldable tablet-like device. Adding to these speculations, Thurrott.com website has come with a revelation that Microsoft is already working on the Universal Windows Platform apps optimised for dual screen for the foldable tablet. The device could also support Pen input, the function of which may do more than just using it in OneNote. It could be used for Mail, Calendar, and other apps as well. It has been rumoured that Alex Kipman, the Technical Fellow of new device categories in the Windows and Devices Group at Microsoft, is working on the dual screen of the tablet. The screen could support a holographic display. n
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What’s Up
newsbits Airtel, Karbonn strengthen their partnership under ‘Mera Pehla Smartphone’ initiative
Bharti Airtel has come up with two new Android powered 4G smartphones at the price of a feature phone in partnership with Karbonn Mobiles. The launch is a part of Airtel’s ‘Mera Pehla Smartphone’ initiative, which is aimed at enabling every Indian to buy a 4G smartphone and get on to the digital superhighway. The ‘A1 Indian’ 4G smartphone comes at an effective price of Rs 1,799 (compared to MRP of Rs 4,390) and the ‘A41 Power’ is available at an effective price of Rs 1,849 (compared to MRP of Rs 4,290). Both devices come with a full touch 4” screen, 1GB RAM, Dual SIM slots, Dual Camera along with a host of features. The 4G smartphones, which are Google certified, run on the latest Android 7.0 Nougat OS and offer full access to all apps on Google Play Store, including YouTube, Facebook and WhatsApp. Samsung unveils Exynos 9810 processor
Samsung has launched its next-generation chipset in the Exynos 9 series, dubbed the Exynos 9810. The new chipset, along with as many as 35 other Samsung products, recently grabbed the CES 2018 Innovation Awards. The new Exynos 9810 processor is reportedly built on third Generation custom CPU cores. The chipset comes with improved GPU, presumed to be Mali-G72 one, given the usage of Mali-G71 GPU in Samsung’s predecessor chipset. Additionally, the Exynos 9810 is based on second generation 10nm FinFET technology by the company. The Exynos 9810 comes with Category 18 LTE modem with speed up to 1.2gbps. The Exynos 9810 is expected
16 | december 2017
to make its entry with the future Samsung Galaxy S9, in addition to the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 mobile platform variant. itel smartphones to come pre-loaded with Indus OS Homegrown smartphone operating system Indus OS recently signed its first international brand partnership with itel Mobile. The partnership will see Indus App Bazaar on a majority of new itel smartphone devices, with the first one expected to be launched this quarter. Through this
partnership with Indus OS, itel Mobile is looking at introducing software differentiation in the Indian smartphone market. “Since our launch in India, we have set several benchmarks and created major disruptions in the country’s mobile phone industry. Since our launch in India, we have set several benchmarks and created major disruptions in the country’s mobile phone industry. This market-specific focus offers a truly unique user experience and will help us in adding another layer of personalisation for itel customers across the country. We are confident that the integration of Indus App Bazaar into our strong product portfolio will enable unparalleled differentiation for itel products,” said Sudhir Kumar, CEO – itel Mobile India. Intex to ramp up its accessories business
Intex Technologies is going to roll out a new series of polymer based powerbanks ranging
between 6,000 mAh to 20,000 mAh starting first week of December 2017. The sleek designed portable powerbanks will be available at all leading retail outlets. The company will also add headsets and car inverter charger to its name. Manish Gupta, Business Head - Mobile Accessories, Intex Technologies showcased the new product portfolio of the home grown brand and assured that the brand will also provide service assistance to almost 1,500 locations across India. “We will be targeting the rural and semi-urban areas because that’s where the potential lies,” he said. The company wants to focus purely on offline model to boost its presence and sales across the country. Intex is also mulling to start working on Bluetooth headsets across various price categories. The mobile accessories business of Intex is Rs 100 crore entity in 2016-17, which was started with just seven crores in 2011. The vertical saw an upsurge of 49%. Apple teams up with Steven Spielberg on video expansion
Tech major Apple is teaming up with awardwinning director Steven Spielberg for its first major push into TV programming. The iPhone maker is bringing back Spielberg’s 30-year-old anthology series “Amazing Stories”’ in its attempt to build an online video subscription service to challenge the digital networks operated by Netflix, Amazon, Hulu and HBO. “We love being at the forefront of Apple’s investment in scripted programming, and can’t think of a better property than Spielberg’s beloved ‘Amazing Stories’ franchise,”’ NBC Entertainment President Jennifer Salke said in a statement recently. NBC Entertainment works with Spielberg’s Amblin Television on the series. Apple reportedly declined to comment on the deal. The Wall Street Journal first reported Apple had secured the “Amazing Stories” rights.
MYMOBILE
What’s Up
newsbits Microsoft to end last free Windows 10 upgrades in December
Microsoft will stop providing free Windows 10 upgrade to some of its users by December 31. It’s worth noting that the company had already stopped free upgrade to Windows 10 in July last year but users who use accessibility features received an extension, a report in Zdnet said recently. Accessibility features in Windows are options to help users who may have trouble using their computers normally. In July, Microsoft announced: “We are not restricting the free upgrade offer to specific assistive technologies. If you use assistive technology on Windows, you are eligible for the free upgrade offer.” According to the report, Microsoft quietly edited that page and updated the original statement “We will make a public announcement prior to ending the offer” to “The accessibility upgrade offer expires on December 31, 2017”. Microsoft had announced Windows 10 operating system in 2015. M-tech introduces G24 feature phone with a selfie camera
M-tech, a manufacturer of affordable mobile phones, recently introduced its new selfie feature phone – the G24. It is equipped with a powerful 1000mAh battery that offers seven hours talk time and 300 hours standby time. The dual SIM G24 comes with a 4.5cm QQVGA display and features a dual digital camera that is perfect for taking selfies. The phone offers support in five languages – English, Hindi, Kannada, Telugu and Bengali. The M-tech G24 comes
18 | december 2017
with a 16GB expandable memory and packs a host of useful features like MP3/MP4/WAV player, wireless FM radio, Bluetooth, audio/ video recording, auto call record and torch among others. Priced at Rs 899, the G 24 comes in five bold colours – Black, Red, Blue, Grey and Brown. Optiemus launches BlackBerry KEYone Limited Edition Black in Sri Lanka
Optiemus Infracom, a leading Indian telecom enterprise, recently made its entry into the Sri Lanka market with the launch of BlackBerry KEYone Limited Edition Black. Optiemus signed a licensing deal with BlackBerry in February this year to design, manufacture and distribute BlackBerry branded smartphones In India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal. After successfully launching the phone in India, Optiemus has partnered with Softlogic, Sri Lanka’s renowned business conglomerate, to handle the distribution and retail operations of BlackBerry smartphones. Optiemus’ entry into Sri Lanka supports the company’s growth strategy aimed at expanding its customer base in new geographies. The smartphone is the first BlackBerry branded device locally manufactured by Optiemus Infracom under the licensing agreement. Airtel introduces ‘Data Rollover’ for home broadband customers Telecom operator Bharti Airtel recently introduced ‘Data Rollover’ facility for its home broadband customers. With this, all unused monthly data will be carried forward and added to the data benefit of the next billing cycle, further enhancing the value proposition for customers. This is a first of its kind innovation in the fixed home
broadband segment in India. The ‘Data Rollover’ facility will ensure that Airtel home broadband customers never waste any data that they pay for and continue enjoying a great online experience. Customers can accumulate up to 1000 GB data and easily track their usage and balance data available on MyAirtel App. Airtel Home Broadband has over 2.1 million customers and is the second largest home broadband provider in India. Airtel had introduced ‘Data Rollover’ for its postpaid mobile customers in July 2017 as part of Project Next. Vodafone launches new Red postpaid plans to take on Airtel, Jio Postpaid just got a lot more attractive for Vodafone consumers in India. The telecom operator recently launched its new set of RED postpaid plans that packs in unprecedented telecom and value added benefits under three types of plans – RED Traveler, RED International and RED Signature. The new Vodafone postpaid plans under RED Traveler come with free national roaming and the guarantee that a consumer will never be charged for a call
made from anywhere in India to anywhere in India. Across all three plan types, Vodafone RED postpaid consumers will also enjoy different, exciting value added benefits such as: the gift of up to 12 months of free Netflix; free access to latest movies and live TV with Vodafone Play; access to over 4000 of the world’s best magazines at their fingertips with free subscription to
MYMOBILE
Magzter; and free access to Red Shield, a handset protection feature that protects consumers’ handsets from theft and damage. Reliance Jio set to launch its own VR app in 2018
Reliance Jio, the new entrant in the telecom industry, is planning to launch its own Virtual Reality (VR) app in 2018 and is hoping to collaborate with experts at Birmingham City University in England. Aiming to explore potential partnerships in the future, the Head and Creative Director of Jio Studios, Aditya Bhat and Ankit Sharma respectively, visited the university recently to learn more about how it is training the next generation of virtual reality (VR) professionals. The Founder and Managing Director of philmCGI, Anand Bhanushali, also spent time with senior academics of the university as part of a visit organised by the UK’s Department of International Trade. Based out of both Mumbai and Pune, philmCGI is an animation studio where some 90 artists provide computer-generated images and visual effects services in films and television for some of the biggest studios in Europe and Asia, and is also expanding its offer in VR and Augmented Reality (AR). Facebook Events is now Facebook Local After launching the separate Facebook
Events app, Mark Zuckerberg-owned social media platform has renamed the app as Facebook Local, with the introduction of various new features. The previously called Facebook Events app helped in keeping the
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users updated about the events happening in his or her close proximity or somewhere else. The app lists the events in which the users’ friends are interested in or the events organized by the Pages the users have liked on Facebook or some updates from the events you have already attended. The rebranded Facebook Local has introduced the ability to search for events, places, and activities taking place that may interest the users. Users can further go through Guides to find events, places or things in every category and can view the invitations which have not been responded, at the top of the users’ calendar. The new Facebook Local app is available to download via the App Store. Twitter doubles character limit to 280 for (nearly) everyone
Twitter has doubled the limit for tweets to 280 characters, in a bid to draw in more users and boost engagement at the social network. Giving users twice the space to voice their thoughts ushers in a new era for the online platform, whose hallmark 140character cap had encouraged users to craft succinct missives. “We’re expanding the character limit! We want it to be easier and faster for everyone to express themselves,” tweeted the site, which started testing an increase to its limit in most languages in early September. The changes will be rolled out in all languages except Japanese, Korean, and Chinese, in which space limitations have not been an issue, Twitter said. It is the first time the tweet character cap has been raised since Twitter was founded 11 years ago. Fake WhatsApp found on Google Play Store An app mimicking the popular messaging app- WhatsApp was found listed on the Google Play Store recently, which led to around one million downloads on part of the Android users. According to a report by
Motherboard, the dupe account, going by the name ‘Update WhatsApp Messenger’ was listed under the same developer name (WhatsApp Inc.) as the original WhatsApp app. The report further suggests that the fake app was created to generate revenue by pushing ads to the user’s apps. It is also assumed that apart from revenue generation, the malicious app could also access users’ personal data. The difference between the original and the fake app is the Unicode whitespace tagged along with the latter, however, nearly invisible, befooling the users easily. Google, on its spotting the fake app led to the name change of the app to ‘Dual Whatsweb Update’ and the icon name has also been changed. This was followed by the removal of the app from the Google Play Store.
What’s Up
newsbits
Paytm launches BHIM UPI on its platform Paytm has introduced payments using BHIM UPI on its platform. Users can create their own Paytm BHIM UPI ID on the app, which will be issued by Paytm Payments Bank. Paytm users can link any of their Savings bank account with this unique Paytm BHIM UPI ID and start sending and accepting money. Paytm BHIM UPI IDs are being accepted across all banks and BHIM
UPI apps. To create UPI ID, users can go to the BHIM UPI section on Paytm app home screen. These IDs will be users’ registered mobile number. This feature preview is currently available on the Paytm Android app and will soon be available on iOS as well. Paytm will also be training its 5 million merchant partners to create their Paytm BHIM UPI ID and accept money using the same. Times Internet partners Truecaller to quicken, strengthen sign-ups for users Times Internet Ltd. has entered into a partnership with Truecaller, to make sign-
december 2017 | 19
What’s Up
newsbits ups and phone number verifications easy for its users. The tie-up is in line with TIL’s unique ‘Single Sign On’ initiative, the objective of which is to increase user convenience by providing a homogeneous sign-up and log-in interface across all TIL web and mobile properties. Times Internet, with its 37-plus digital properties, already offers unified logins (SSO) and loyalty. However, this new tie-up with Truecaller will further smoothen the sign-up and authentication processes for TIL’s customers, of whom 75% access the portals through their mobile devices. Truecaller’s mobile number based identity solution - ‘Truecaller Software Development Kit - innovation has made mobile authentication exclusively number-based since mobile numbers are highly personalized and user-specific. Telecom Sector Skill Council signs MoU with Udacity to drive skill development
Telecom Sector Skill Council (TSSC) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Udacity India for complementing the skills imparted by the vocational system and providing better livelihood opportunities. The MoU was signed by Lt Gen SP Kochhar (TSSC CEO) and Clarissa Shen (VP International, Udacity). The partnership will open new and higher standards of training opportunities for students to enhance their core skills, get future job ready. Through this MoU, Udacity India and TSSC aim to drive skill development for youth in India. Students will access to Udacity Nanodegrees which features cutting-edge curriculum built by Silicon Valley leaders and taught by expert instructors. Students enrolling into Nanodegree programs will have access to one-on-one coaching, moderated forums,
20 | december 2017
and project reviews ensure a personalized experience. U2opia Mobile to help banks, insurers speed up Aadhaar verification procedure
Linking of Aadhaar, issued by the UIDAI, has become an important part of our lives. U2opia Mobile is helping banks with accelerating this tedious process with its Aadhaar verification service. U2opia Mobile ensures an easy process of linking one’s Aadhaar with their bank account as customers can get their KYC done from the comfort of their home and at a time of their convenience. The user will have to dial a USSD short code from their Registered Mobile Number, then type their Aadhaar number and they will get verified instantly. The simple three screen verification process will remove the need for OTP verification or paper-based verification for KYC. “U2opia Mobile’s Aadhaar verification service works well on all mobile handsets as USSD is a basic 2G/3G mobile feature,” said Sumesh Menon, Co-Founder and CEO, U2opia Mobile. Skype gets new photo filters
Microsoft-owned video calling platform Skype has received a new update which has
added new filters and stickers to Skype’s app version. Skype, in its recent blog post stated, “Since introducing the new Skype, we’ve been adding new features to bring more fun and personalization to your Highlights and conversations. Today, we’re introducing photo effects—smart, whimsical effects, like quirky face stickers and witty captions, for your photos or Highlights. Smart photo effects give you customized effects options based on what’s in each picture—try them on selfies, in a picture of your morning coffee, or a photo of your pet.” In order to add various new quirky AI-based effects to the images, users are required to click a picture from within the app, tap the magic wand icon present at the top, and select from a plethora of effect options to complete. Additionally, the users can share the resultant image on the Highlights section. The updated Skype is now available for Android and iOS users. Videocon launches ‘Eco Series’ CCTV solutions
Leading consumer electronics brand Videocon recently launched its ‘Eco Series’ range of CCTV solutions. The brand aims to accelerate market expansion and its growth plan ensuring a fair market share of 11 per cent by 2020 and targets to be among the top three prominent players by 2021, with topline of Rs 1,050 crore. With the roll-out of ‘Eco Series’, Videocon Wallcam aims to make CCTV solutions affordable and accessible to the end users who, as per the brand, perceive CCTV solutions to be expensive and complicated. This entry level, low priced series of CCTV solutions is targeted at the retail segment comprising household and small commercial establishments. The ‘Eco Series’ comprises 1MP, 1.3 MP and 2MP AHD indoor and outdoor cameras and 4, 8 and 16 channel DVRs (Digital Video Recorders). n team@mymobile.co.in
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Apple tops the wearable market in Q3 2017, Xiaomi follows A
pple has regained the top spot in the wearable band market in Q3 2017, with shipments of 3.9 million, according to a recent report by Canalys. The Cupertino-based tech giant posted its strongest quarter so far in 2017, thanks to the release of the Apple Watch Series 3. Xiaomi and Fitbit, which shipped 3.6 million and 3.5 million wearable bands respectively, have also bucked the trend of continue to be the core focus, the traditionally vendors are striving to increase the weaker Q3 by posting quarter-onvalue of smartwatches by prioritizing quarter growth. But despite the design and highlighting increase in smartwatch shipments, key features,” said Canalys waning demand for basic bands Research Analyst Mo Jia. meant the overall wearable band Smartwatches are vital for improving market fell 2% to reach 17.3 million the overall brand image for units. smartphone vendors looking to enter “Strong demand for the LTEthe premium segment. “Apple and enabled Apple Watch Series 3 has Samsung are increasing user dispelled service providers’ doubts stickiness and brand loyalty by about the cellular smartwatch not adopting an ecosystem strategy, appealing to customers,” said which includes wearables and audio Canalys Analyst Jason Low. accessories. Smartphone vendors Despite strong shipments, the Apple must reevaluate their respective Watch Series 3 did not reach its full smartwatch strategies to derive potential in Q3. It suffered limited more value beyond smartphone availability as demand outstripped – Mo Jia, growth,” said Jia. supply in major markets. Service Research Analyst, Canalys Vendors are expecting a providers had underestimated stronger Q4 this year, with new demand for the new Apple Watch. smartwatches highlighting improved health-tracking features and “In China, customers with high expectations are being driven away longer battery life, on top of better and slimmer designs. Q4 by the service disruption fiasco in the country. Besides bringing in performance will be crucial to assess consumers’ reaction toward more stock, operators should work on improving their remote service provisioning systems to cater for the expected higher the emerging trend of fashionable smartwatches that prioritize demand in Q4,” said Low. According to Canalys estimates, form rather than function. “Google must show stronger commitment 800,000 Apple Watch units shipped in Q3 were cellular- to help Android Wear vendors, which are now mostly watchmakers and fashion brands, to further improve the user experience and enabled. Samsung, Apple and Huawei, the top three smartphone vendors app ecosystem. Otherwise, the market will see further consolidation, by volume in Q3 2017, have positioned smartwatches to as vendors such as Apple, Samsung and Fitbit dominate with their complement their premium smartphones. “While health features watch software platforms,” added Low. n
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“Apple and Samsung are increasing user stickiness and brand loyalty by adopting an ecosystem strategy, which includes wearables and audio accessories. Smartphone vendors must reevaluate their respective smartwatch strategies to derive more value beyond smartphone growth”
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Ericsson brings the ‘first ever’ live demonstration of 5G to India G lobal communications technology leader Ericsson recently showcased the first live 5G end-to-end demonstration in India using its 5G test bed and 5G NR Radio, demonstrating extremely high throughput and ultra-low latency. This milestone builds on Ericsson’s pioneering role in the Indian telecom industry. It reinforces the company’s commitment to bring the latest technology innovations and creating a 5G ecosystem in the country in support of the Indian government’s vision to have 5G mobile network roll outs in India by 2020. The technology exhibit at Ericsson Connect 2017 also featured 5G use cases and live demonstration of essential technologies on the road to 5G like Gigabit LTE (1 GBPS download speeds) with License Assisted Access (LAA) technology. The LAA live demo
thought leadership. We are the first to market with solutions that enable today’s networks to evolve smoothly to the next generation of networks.” Ericsson’s new 5G platform comprises the 5G core, radio and transport portfolios, together with digital support systems, transformation services and security. Nitin Bansal, Managing Director, Ericsson India, said, “5G is expected to play a major role in digitalization of industries. 5G will bring new level of performance and characteristics to the telecom networks enabling new services and creating new ecosystems. New revenue streams will open for operators as they go beyond being connectivity and infrastructure providers to become service enablers and service creators. 5G has the potential to enable 43% incremental revenue opportunity for the Indian operators by 2026.”
“5G is expected to play a major role in digitalization of industries. 5G will bring new level of performance and characteristics to the telecom networks enabling new services and creating new ecosystems. New revenue streams will open for operators as they go beyond being connectivity and infrastructure providers to become service enablers and service creators” – Nitin Bansal, Managing Director, Ericsson India highlights how this technology can leverage wireless network resources using higher frequency bands on a small cell architecture. Other technology innovations presented in the showcase included advancements in Radio Network Evolution, 5G Ready Transport and Network Slicing. Nunzio Mirtillo, Head of Market Area – SE Asia, Oceania and India, Ericsson, said, “We are strengthening our commitment to the Indian market by pioneering the first live 5G demonstration in the country. The 5G technology showcase has been organised in the direction of creating a robust 5G eco system in the country even as the government plans to have 5G network roll outs by 2020.” He further added, “5G research and development is natural for Ericsson, thanks to our innovation, R&D focus, technology leadership and
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As per the recently released Ericsson 5G Business Potential Report, 5G will enable a $27 billion revenue opportunity for Indian telecom operators by 2026. The largest opportunity will be seen in sectors like manufacturing, energy and utilities followed by public safety and health sectors. This will be over and above the revenue generated from traditional services which is expected to grow up to $63 billion by 2026. Agriculture will open-up revenue opportunities up to $400 million for telecom operators. The application of 5G will be in areas like field monitoring and mapping, livestock routing and monitoring, on-field applications, and related services. The retail sector in India will offer potential 5G enabled revenue of up to $1.15 billion by 2026. 5G can help in revolutionizing customer experience and increase operational efficiencies within the retail segment. n
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Lenovo seeks to be among top-three smartphone sellers with offline push
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hinese technology major Lenovo reportedly plans to partner with around 500 multi-brand stores in India, as the company seeks to be among the top-three smartphone sellers in the country with its Motorola brand. According to reports, the stores will be tagged ‘Motorola preferred partners’ under the project, mirroring a similar offline retail strategy that helped rival Xiaomi rapidly gain market share in India and close the gap with leader Samsung. Reports quoting three senior industry executives said the company is even contemplating to stop selling handsets under the Lenovo brand or make it a small online-focused brand from next year, since it feels the Motorola brand that it acquired in 2014 has far higher recall and a premium positioning. Lenovo has reportedly already reached out to mobile phone retailers in Mumbai, the National Capital Region and Bengaluru to set up 45-50 such Motorola stores each, whereby a dominant shelf and branding space will be offered to the brand. The concept will eventually be taken national, expanding the count to 400-500 stores in the next one year. These stores will sell the entire Motorola range, including the models sold online. The preferred partners will, however, be separate from the exclusive Motorola brand outlets whose number is currently more than 50 and will be doubled in one year, the executives were quoted as saying. Lenovo wants to focus
on offline sales to be among the top three handset makers in India first and then topple Xiaomi for the second spot, the executives said. Next year, it has plans to launch 35-40 smartphones under the Motorola brand, which will be positioned in the Rs 5,000 – Rs 20,000 segment that accounts for over 85% of the market. LenovoMotorola combined was the fifth largest smartphone maker in the Indian market, after Samsung (a 23% share), Xiaomi (22%), Vivo (9%) and Oppo (8%) in that order in the July-September quarter, as per market tracker Counterpoint Research. n
Creativeland Asia wins Transsion Holdings’ business in India C hina-based Transsion Holdings has assigned its creative duties to Creativeland Asia. A leading player in the mobile industry, Transsion Holdings is best-known for its brands Tecno, itel, Infinix and Spice. Creativeland will be responsible for the branding and communications mandate for Transsion across these four brands as well as its accessories brand Oraimoin India. The account was won following a multi-agency pitch. Gaurav Tikoo, SVP Marketing, Transsion Holdings, India, said, “Transsion Holdings has long term plans for the Indian market and we increasingly want to work with partners who can live our vision and help fuel growth. Creativeland Asia understood our philosophy and the kind of impact we want to create in this highly competitive market. We look forward
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to working with its team to create clutterbreaking campaigns and to fortify the brand recall for all our brands.” Sajan Raj Kurup, Founder and Creative Chairman, Creativeland Asia Group, said, “Creativeland welcomes the brands from Transsion Holdings. A strong win for us yet again in the Delhi-NCR market. With a lot of sound learning from the past, I look forward to a strong new innings in this extremely competitive category.” Rana Barua, Chief Executive Officer, Creativeland Asia Group, said, “Our strength as an integrated unit and the ability to take a leap with our creative power, efficacy and agility has shown us a great result. As part of the pitch process, we were up against some of the sizeable networks of the country and it proves the point yet again – that CLA is truly ahead of the curve on solutions. Transsion Holdings is a prestigious group and we look forward to partnering them on all the brands.” n
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Panasonic aims 5% share in Indian handset market S eeking to strengthen its product portfolio, Panasonic aims to capture at least five per cent share in India’s burgeoning mobile phone market in the next three years. According to reports quoting a top company official, The Japanese technology major expects to register 25 per cent growth in the current fiscal and clock a turnover of Rs 12,000 crore, of which around 12 per cent would come from the handset business. “We have around two per cent share of the mobile segment and our intention is to have around five per cent market share in the next three years,” Panasonic India and South Asia President and CEO Manish Sharma recently said. The company is targeting the mid-segment in the handset market, i.e handsets priced in the range of Rs 8,000-15,000, he added. Sharma said in the next three years, the contribution of the mobile handset business would more than double to 25 per cent as the segment is expanding at a fast pace. “It’s (phone business) still small and at the close of this year, it would be 12 per cent of the Indian revenue. This would continue to
grow higher and in next three years, we are looking at 25 per cent of revenue contribution coming from this segment,” Sharma said on the sidelines of a CEAMA event. Asked about expansion of its product portfolio, Sharma said: “A major transition is happening and not only the product portfolio but positioning and offerings are also witnessing a great change.” Recently, Panasonic introduced around 11 SKUs in one go, he said adding that on January 6-7 next year, new models will be introduced. n
Samsung collaborates with MoEngage to boost engagement
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alifornia-based omnichannel growth marketing platform MoEngage has won the mandate to drive engagement on Samsung India’s My Galaxy application. With the new partnership, MoEngage hopes to utilize its forward-looking, AI-driven marketing automation platform to drive engagement on Samsung India’s My Galaxy application. MoEngage bagged the mandate after several rounds of competitive bidding from various global mobile engagement platform providers. My Galaxy application, Samsung India’s flagship application, is an all-in-one product that brings
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entertainment, services and Samsung Care on one platform for users. My Galaxy application offers the convenience of several apps in one app which makes it very handy for Samsung phone users. With this partnership, Samsung India will be able to leverage MoEngage’s push notifications, in-app messages, and email marketing capabilities to keep My Galaxy application users engaged and encourage app usage. Using MoEngage’s superior user intelligence and engagement platform, Samsung will be able to further understand their app users better for tailoring future services. The MoEngage platform provides marketers with a superior user engagement platform that delivers effective 1:1 personalized engagement via push, in-app, email and web push channels, and industry’s most advanced segmentation engine. With the recent launch of products like Uplift and Sherpa, the company is also making deep forays into advanced machine learning, to help boost marketing engagement for brands. Built using the latest web-based technologies and a vastly experienced team, MoEngage has emerged as a leading global SaaS (Software as a service) player, ready to take-on the engagement and retention needs of app and web businesses - from start-ups to large enterprise. n
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Foxconn India eyes space in Nokia SEZ to boost production T he India arm of Foxconn, the world’s largest contract manufacturer of electronics, is evaluating areas within the Nokia special economic zone (SEZ) at Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu, as it looks to expand production capacity which is set to double to at least 30 million by the year end. The Taiwanese manufacturing major is however not keen on reopening its now-closed plant and neither the old Nokia factory. According to an ET report quoting people aware of the company’s plans, the world’s largest contract manufacturer is exploring the area for housing plants for its key clients like Nokia, now owned by HMD Global, and Xiaomi, which are growing rapidly and will require more production capacity in the coming quarters. “There will have to be more capacity, they are reaching their production peaks in the present lines in Andhra Pradesh,” one of
the people aware of the production of the company was quoted as saying. Foxconn Technology Group reportedly declined to comment on queries regarding expansion in India. Xiaomi, which sold nearly 4 million phones in October, and Nokia which has swiftly risen to No 3 in feature phones within a year of relaunch, get their phones made from Foxconn in India. Both companies had earlier said that they want to ramp up capacity to meet the unending demand of their phones, as both expand their portfolios. Both want that all the phones that they sell here should be made locally, thus production capacity has to increase. Foxconn makes phones and televisions in India for other brands at four plants in Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, and one near Chennai. The company also makes phones for Oppo, Gionee and its own brand Infocus. n
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Yuho Mobile to invest Rs 500 crore to start India production C hinese phone manufacturer Yuho Mobile recently said it plans to invest Rs 500 crore to start its production in India as it looks to touch the Rs 1,000 crore sales mark by the end of next year. “We are planning to invest Rs 500 crore by next year. We are talking to Foxconn for setting up a manufacturing facility at Noida, near
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Delhi,” Yuho Mobile Business Head (Distribution Sales) Rajeev Tiwari told reporters at an event in Guwahati. The company will outsource manufacturing of the handsets and is looking to have a capacity to produce 10 lakh units annually, he added. “The production is likely to start from mid-2018. Apart from the Indian market, this facility will also cater to the SAARC countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and the Philippines,” Tiwari said. Yuho Mobile Pvt Ltd launched its India operations four months back and is currently having sales of Rs 30 lakh every month, he added. “In the first phase, we aim to be present through 7,000 outlets in North and East regions of India. In the second phase, our target is to be present in 10,000 outlets across the country. A total business top line of Rs 1,000 crore by 2018 should keep us in good stead,” Tiwari said. The company rolled out three models for the North Eastern market, priced between Rs 6,000 and Rs 15,000 recently. Tiwari said the company is aiming to be present in the region through 700800 sales outlets within next three months. n december 2017 | 25
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Airtel launches India’s first telecom infra project community lab T elecom operator Bharti Airtel recently launched India’s first telecom infra project (TIP) community lab. Airtel is amongst the early members of TIP – a global initiative founded by Facebook, Deutsche Telekom, Intel, Nokia and SK Telecom to create a new approach to building and deploying telecom network infrastructure. Airtel is demonstrating its commitment to TIP’s efforts by converting a part of its engineering centre for Network Excellence in Manesar (Gurgaon) - its lab for validation and demonstration of new technologies and solutions - into a TIP Community Lab. The fully equipped state-of-the-art facility will be used by TIP project group members to create innovative solutions for telecom networks. “Having been at the forefront of India’s telecom revolution, Airtel is excited to extend its network innovation facilities to the growing TIP Community Lab program. We look forward to collaborating with other TIP members in creating innovative network infrastructure solutions for the future, and quickly and cost-effectively expand the reach of our networks to serve customers with exciting and disruptive solutions,” said Abhay Savargaonkar, Director – Networks (India & South Asia), Bharti Airtel. Founded in February 2016, TIP is an
engineering-focused initiative driven by operators, suppliers, integrators, and startups to disaggregate the traditional network deployment approach. The community’s collective aim is to collaborate on new technologies, examine new business approaches and spur new investments into the telecom space. “We look forward to working with Airtel to establish the first TIP Community Lab in Manesar. Our community is re-imagining traditional approaches to network deployment everywhere, and this lab can accelerate the development of innovative solutions for achieving this goal,” said Axel Clauberg, TIP Chairman and Vice President, Technology Innovation, Deutsche Telekom AG. n
MediaTek ties up with Google to deliver certified Android software, mobile services to device makers
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ediaTek Inc. recently announced that it is the first System-onChip (SoC) partner for GMS Express, a program designed to provide approved Android software solutions, including GoogleTM Mobile Services (GMS) and Google Compatibility Test Suite (CTS) certification, to device makers. As GMS Express’s first SoC partner, MediaTek can help device makers get to market more cost effectively and faster and ensure high-quality, consistent consumer experiences with AndroidTM applications and devices. Under the new program, MediaTek provides device makers with a pre-tested, pre-certified,
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and fully compliant build of Android and GMS. For the past several months, MediaTek has already worked with several of its customers in connection with GMS Express. “MediaTek is focused on making great technology available to everyone. This program supports the entire Android community and ensures that from the program’s OEM participants and their devices within the program, only pre-tested and certified Android builds appear in the marketplace to give consumers confidence they have a secure, first-class Android experience,” said TL Lee, General Manager of MediaTek’s wireless business. MediaTek customers – Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s) and Original Design Manufacturers (ODM’s) – can reduce the typical compatibility certification process from three months to four weeks. They also receive frequent security patches to reduce risks of device hacking. MediaTek’s support of GMS Express is seamless because of its smartphone design expertise and experience working with the large, global Android customer base. MediaTek chipsets power more than 1.5 billion devices a year across a broad range of products including smartphones, TVs, voice assisted devices, routers and more. MediaTek, the first SoC provider to support Google’s GMS Express program, has been a market innovator since the company first entered the mobile market with a mission to improve time-to-market and mobile ecosystem efficiency. n
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he second phase of BharatNet project with an outlay of Rs 31,000 crore and a mandate to provide high-speed broadband to all panchayats by March 2019 got off the block recently. Additionally, the Department of Telecommunications requested all states to provide a list of unconnected villages so that all of them can be connected with telecom services by 2020. Telecom Minister Manoj Sinha, along with Law and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, Human Resource Development Minister Prakash Javadekar and Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi were present at the launch of the second phase of the project in New Delhi. “Under the project, we will provide 1 gbps (gigabuit per second) bandwidth capacity at panchayat level. The Cabinet in July 2017 approved a modified implementation strategy for BharatNet which include... project completion for all 2.5 lakh panchayats by March 2019,” Sinha said at the launch. The telecom ministry expects to complete the first phase of the project covering over 1 lakh panchayats by the end of December. As per official data, broadband services have already been started in more than 48,000 panchayats and over 75,000 panchayats are ready for the services. “The progress of service readiness has picked
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Govt starts BharatNet Phase 2, aims 100% connectivity by 2020 T
up to such an extent that in October 2017 around 25,000 gram panchayats have already been made service ready. All 1 lakh panchayats under first phase will be ready for broadband by the end of December,” Sinha said. Javadekar said that broadband connectivity in all panchayats will be key growth enabler, especially in the field of education. “We want to bring revolution in schools, like there was operation blackboard in 1970s. We are now dreaming of digital board and the connectivity (through BharatNet) will transform the entire nation,” he said. n
Operators demand bringing OTTs under same rules for data protection and security L eading telecom players including Bharti Airtel, Idea Cellular and Reliance Jio, have advocated for ‘equally and uniformally’ bringing in over-the-top (OTT) apps like Whatsapp, Viber and others, under the ambit of data protection rules, the same way that carriers were adhering to under present license norms. However, proponents of data protection and consumer privacy, such as the Internet Freedom Foundation, batted for a comprehensive legislation in the matter, even as it called out present data protection requirements as “inadequate and completely deficient” given the large amounts of data transmitted through mobile phones. The carriers also propagated the need for measures such as mandatory local-hosting of data, which would prevent movement of personal data of customers outside Indian borders. Internet-based companies however argued against adopting such measures as such moves could threaten open diversity of the internet, and could be reciprocated by other countries on Indian companies overseas.
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“The regulatory framework to ensure data privacy, data security and data ownership is well defined for the telecom service providers,” the Mukesh Amabni-owned carrier said in its submission to the Trai’ discussion paper on privacy, security and ownership of data in the sector. Leading carriers advocated that carriers did not need any further mandate as data privacy and protection norms embedded in the licences were robust. Backed by the industry body COAI, they propagated same service same rules for stakeholders including OTT communications providers who offer voice telephony or messaging services that are similar to that of telecom firms, and ride on operator networks. Bharti Airtel applied the same argument to content providers, device manufacturers, browsers, operating system providers that also function in the internet ecosystem, that deal with same personal data but are governed by different rules and regulations. Idea too sought a regulatory parity for all in this regard. n
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Tata Sons to infuse over Rs 36,000cr in Tata Teleservices T ata Sons plans to infuse over Rs 36,000 crore in Tata Teleservices to strengthen the telecom company’s balance sheet, ahead of the sale of its consumer mobile services business to Bharti Airtel. The proposed investment follows the Japanese telecom partner NTT DoCoMo’s exit from Tata Tele. According to the October agreement, Bharti Airtel will acquire Tata Tele’s consumer mobile services business on a no-cash, no-debt basis. The loss-making Tata Tele will use the money to clear its debt, which stands over Rs 40,000 crore. This debt includes deferred spectrum fees of Rs 9,500 crore. Bharti Airtel will take only a small part of the spectrum liabilities, which would be about Rs 2,000 crore. The investment into Tata Tele will be the largest infusion by Tata Sons in an operating Tata company this year. In February, Tata Sons, the holding company of the Tata Group, had decided to invest Rs 10,000 crore in various group companies to raise its holding in these entities. On August 9, the board of Tata Sons had approved investments in various group companies whose estimated value for
fund infusion was Rs 36,400 crore. The investments would be either through the equity route or by providing corporate guarantees to these companies for their borrowing programmes. In October, Tata Tele’s listed subsidiary Tata Tele (Maharashtra) had said it plans to raise up to Rs 20,000 crore through various sources, including from Tata Sons. Tata Sons will finance the Rs 36,400-crore investment through debt. Currently, the company has an AAA long-term rating from Crisil, indicating the highest level of safety. n
Intel unleashes its first ever commercial 5G modem, the XMM 8060 5 G technology has turned out to be a huge buzz in the global market for the past couple of months. Intel, the international manufacturer of computing devices has showcased its first of its kind commercial 5G modem, called XMM 8060 5G. Intel, which also offers 4G LTE chips to Apple is expected to throw a tough competition to leading chipset maker Qualcomm. The latter has escalated its market share with its unique LTE and chipsets, but
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now Intel is speculated to threaten it with the launch of its first ever 5G modem. Intel also announced it has successfully completed a full end-to-end 5G call based on its early 5G silicon, the Intel 5G Modem – a key milestone in its development. Finally, the Intel XMM 7560 modem unveiled at Mobile World Congress 2017 has achieved gigabit-class speeds. 5G is more than the device, it requires a cloud-ready, virtualized 5G network. Intel is unique in bringing the network, cloud and clients together in a powerful end-to-end 5G solution. “Today’s wireless networks are the equivalent of data driving down a single-lane highway; tomorrow’s will need to serve as a multilane superhighway as data moves at warp speed with 5G networks,” said Sandra Rivera, Intel senior vice president and general manager of the Network Platforms Group. Additionally, Intel is helping set the pace for the industry with the Intel 5G Modem. Announced at CES 2017, Intel’s early 5G silicon is successfully making calls over the 28GHz band. Along with the Intel Mobile Trial Platform, Intel technology is at the heart of dozens of trials around the world, giving Intel and the industry valuable learnings about the technologies that will make 5G a reality. Wi-Fi will play an increasingly important role for mobile networks as we move to 5G. n team@mymobile.co.in
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Xiaomi sets up third manufacturing facility in India dedicated to powerbanks
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hinese smartphone brand Xiaomi recently announced its third manufacturing plant in India and the first facility for power banks. This manufacturing plant is in partnership with Hipad Technology and is situated in Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Along with this, Xiaomi also announced 10000mAh Mi Power Bank 2i and 20000mAh Mi Power Bank 2i. Extending its commitment to the Make in India initiative, Mi Power Bank 2i will be assembled at Hipad Technology’s facility in Noida. Hipad Technology’s manufacturing unit is a dedicated powerbank facility for Xiaomi and is spread across 2.3 lakh square feet. The starting production capacity for the facility is nearly seven powerbanks per minute during its operational hours. Xiaomi entered India in July 2014 and quickly announced plans to establish its first manufacturing plant for its smartphones. Today, the company has two smartphone manufacturing plants in Sri City, Andhra Pradesh and more than 95% of its smartphones sold in India are assembled locally. Manu Jain, Vice President, Xiaomi and Managing Director, Xiaomi India, said, “We want our India Mi fans to enjoy the best quality technology at an affordable rate, and manufacturing locally
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helps us achieve our vision. We are extending our commitment of building a truly localized company and hope to bring the ecosystem of world’s best powerbanks to India with our partners Hipad Technology.” He further added, “Hipad is our partner in China for powerbanks and their constant support has helped Xiaomi become the most popular powerbank brand in the world. We thought with the growing market size of powerbanks in India, it is important that we bring our manufacturing partners to India to provide Mi fans a truly localized product and extend our commitment to Make in India.” n
Trai suggests relaxing spectrum holding caps
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n a move that would encourage mergers and acquisitions as well as spectrum trading in a market where small carriers are trying to sell assets, including airwaves, to repay debt, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India recently suggested removing the 50% limit put for companies on holding spectrum within each band. Instead, it advocated a separate 50% cap on the combined spectrum holdings
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of telcos in the 700 MHz, 800 MHz and 900 MHz bands (sub-1 Ghz bands), which form the most lucrative range but are also more expensive due to their propagation characteristics and cost efficiencies. The telecom regulator also suggested increasing the overall spectrum holding limit for companies to 35% from 25%. This should encourage consolidation as well as participation in spectrum auctions, thereby increasing government revenue. The suggestions, if accepted by the telecom department, are a win-win for a sector struggling under brutal competition, as well as consumers who would get better services from fewer telcos with larger spectrum holdings. The development would immediately benefit Vodafone India and Idea Cellular, which are in the process of merging their operations. Post-merger, the combined entity would be able to retain all the airwaves owned individually by the two companies. Such a move would also offer an opportunity to Reliance Jio Infocomm to mop up more airwaves in the 800 MHz band from Reliance Communications, which is looking to sell its bandwidth to raise funds and pare debt. The Trai’s views will now go to the telecom department, and form part of the broad proposal for giving relief to the debt-laden telecom sector. The final decision has to be made by the Cabinet. The department had sought Trai’s opinion on the matter on September 29. n
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ATC Telecom to acquire standalone tower businesses of Vodafone India, Idea S oon-to-be-merged telcos Vodafone India and Idea Cellular have separately agreed to sell their respective standalone tower businesses in India to ATC Telecom Infrastructure Private Ltd (ATC TIPL) for an aggregate enterprise value of Rs 78.5 billion or $1.2 billion. The merger of both the companies is expected to be completed in 2018. At the time of announcement of merger in March, both telcos revealed their intention to sell their individual standalone tower businesses to strengthen the balance sheet of the combined business. The standalone tower businesses of Vodafone India and Idea are pan-Indian passive telecommunication infrastructure businesses, comprising a combined portfolio of approximately 20,000 towers with a combined tenancy ratio of 1.65x as at 30 June 2017. Idea will sell its entire stake in ICISL and Vodafone India will sell a business undertaking to ATC TIPL. Both Vodafone India and Idea as customers, and ATC TIPL as a mobile network infrastructure provider, have agreed to treat each other as long-term preferred partners, subject to existing arrangements. The parties will work together to further the expansion of high speed mobile networks in India. After Vodafone India and Idea complete their merger, 6,300 co-located tenancies of the two operators on the combined standalone tower businesses will collapse into single tenancies over a period of two years without the payment of exit
penalties. In the event that the completion of the sale of the standalone tower businesses precedes the completion of the proposed merger of Vodafone India and Idea, Vodafone India will receive Rs 38.5 billion (US$592 million) and Idea will receive Rs 40.0 billion (US$615 million). The receipt of these proceeds prior to completion was anticipated and provided for in the merger agreement and hence would not affect the agreed terms of the Vodafone India and Idea merger. n
Reliance Jio now sets sights on ecommerce A fter successfully disrupting India’s telecom sector, Reliance Jio is reportedly preparing to venture into the crowded ecommerce market leveraging its vast network and hundreds of millions of subscribers, according to an ET report quoting two persons aware of the development. The report said the company is working with corner stores, or ‘kiranas’, and consumer brands
to create an operational model that will enable shoppers to buy at neighbourhood shops using digital coupons via its Jio Money platform or text messages. A pilot project involving several stores and leading brands is underway at Mumbai, Chennai and Ahmedabad and a larger rollout is likely next year, the report added. Given Jio’s rapid growth to gain 132 million subscribers in about a year, its entry into online-to-offline ecommerce should put on notice payment companies including Paytm and PhonePe that are also forging collaborations with corner stores and other entities. These firms, though, have the strong backing of investors to aggressively expand their networks. Ecommerce giants Amazon and Flipkart, too, are investing significant sums in their grocery delivery businesses. Although Reliance Jio declined comment to a detailed emailed questionnaire from ET, the online-to-offline business model is strategic for a new digital entrant like Jio, as of India’s $650-billion retail industry, only 3-4% is ecommerce and another 8% is controlled by organised retailers such as Shoppers Stop and Big Bazaar. The remaining 88-89% of the market rests with smaller entities such as corner stores. For the pilot, Jio has reportedly roped in ITC, Wipro, Dabur, Tata Beverages, Godrej Consumer Products and Amul. n team@mymobile.co.in
30 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
Centric L3
P
riyanka Communications, which forayed into the Indian smartphone market with the launch of its Centric brand
Li-Polymer battery that gives a long lasting performance. The smartphone has 2GB RAM and 16GB ROM (internal
earlier this year, has now introduced the Centric L3 smartphone,
memory) which is expandable up to 256GB via a MicroSD
the new flaunt in town. The smartphone has rounded edges
card. It has a front fingerprint sensor and two dedicated SIM
and ultra narrow bezels that give it a perfect hand feel.
slots with a MicroSD card support.
In terms of technical specifications, the Centric L3 sports
On the camera front, the Centric L3 has a 13-megapixel
5� (12.7cm) HD 1280x720 IPS Oncell Display with 2.5D
rear autofocus with LED flash that lets you capture your life
curved glass that provides strong protection to the screen.
moments as clearly as it happens with vivid clarity and stunning
Immersive HD IPS display on the board gives an amazing
detail. For selfie, the smartphone has a 5-megapixel front
experience while watching a video. The smartphone is powered
camera with the latest inbuilt technology that gives superb
by a 1.3GHz quad core processor with Mali T720 MP2 GPU
clarity and pin point focus.
that ensures smooth operation,
The connectivity options on the
smart
board include 4G LTE, VoLTE,
switching and speedy
ViLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n,
multi-tasking. It runs
Bluetooth v4.0, USB2.0, GPS/
Android 7.0 Nougat
AGPS and OTG support. Other
operating system and is
features include Gesture Control
backed by a 3050mAh
and HotKnot. n
www.mymobileindia.com
First Look
justin
december 2017 | 31
First Look
justin OPPO F5
A
fter being launched in Philippines recently, OPPO F5 has
The OPPO F5 sources
finally arrived in India. The major highlight of the selfie-
fuel from a 3200mAh
centric smartphone is its bezel-less display (known as Full
battery and runs
Screen display).
Android 7.1 Nougat
Talking about the technical specs, the OPPO F5 sports a 6-inch full HD+ display with an aspect ratio rated at 18:9 and
with the company’s ColorOS 3.2 on top.
a screen resolution rated at 2,160 x 1,080 pixels. It is powered
The smartphone sports dual SIM card slots and comes with
by an octa-core MediaTek Helio P23 processor along with ARM
several connectivity options such as Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n,
Mali G71 MP2 GPU. It comes equipped with 4GB of RAM and
Bluetooth v4.2, GPS and OTG support. There is also a rear-
32GB of internal storage being expandable up to 256GB with
mounted fingerprint sensor and also supports facial
the use of a microSD card.
recognition.
In the camera department, the smartphone comprises a
The OPPO F5 is priced at Rs 19,990, and is available
16-megapixel primary shooter with LED flash, while the front
in Black and Gold colour options. There is another
features a 20-megapixel snapper. The smartphone is also
6GB RAM/128GB ROM variant in Red and Black colour
capable of creating Bokeh Effect and with the help of artificial
options, to be made available for Rs 24,990, starting December,
intelligence allows users to enhance the various facial elements.
2017. n
32 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
First Look
justin
Xiaomi Redmi Y1, Y1 Lite
S
oon after launching the Android One-powered Mi A1 and the
5.5-inch HD display. Similar to Redmi Y1, the smartphone
flagship Mi Mix 2, Chinese tech major Xiaomi recently
features a 13 MP f/2.0 rear camera and is powered by a 3080mAh
launched the selfie-centric Redmi Y1 and Redmi Y1 Lite
battery.
smartphones, and announced the release of the global version
Redmi Y1 has been launched at a price point of Rs 8,999 for
of MIUI 9 — an upgrade to its customised Android-based
3GB RAM and 32GB storage model and Rs 10,999 for the 4GB
operating system.
RAM and 64GB storage variant. Redmi Y1 Lite is the cheaper
Starting with the Redmi Y1, it is the Xiaomi’s first smartphone
sibling in the selfie-centric series at a price of Rs 6,999. Both
in India which features selfie light and a 16MP front-facing
the smartphones are available on e-commerce platform Amazon.
camera. It has a 13MP f/2.0 rear camera. The device has 5.5-
in.
inch HD display with Corning Gorilla glass and is powered by a
Meanwhile, the MIUI 9 upgrade started rolling out from
3080mAh battery. Redmi Y1 houses Qualcomm Snapdragon
November 3, beginning with three devices —Mi Max 2, Mi Mix
435 octa-core chipset, a dedicated micro-SD card slot and dual-
2 and Redmi Note 4 smartphones. The update includes India-
SIM (nano+nano) slots. The fingerprint sensor is placed at the
specific features such as a “panchaang calendar”, Indian festival
rear of the device.
cards and IRCTC card that makes SMSes by IRCTC easy to read.
Redmi Y1 Lite, on the other hand, features an octa-core
The new OS based on Android Nougat also supports three major
Qualcomm Snapdragon 425 processor, sports a dedicated
style notifications which are multiple styles, bundling notifications
micro-SD card slot with dual-SIM (nano+nano) capabilities and
and quick replies. n
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 33
First Look
justin
Karbonn K9 Smart Selfie
H
omegrown Karbonn Mobiles has launched a new budget
of 2.5D super tough glass. The smartphone is powered by
smartphone, called the K9 Smart Selfie in India. As the
quad-core processor clocked at 1.1GHz. The device comes
name suggests, the main highlight of the smartphone is the
equipped with 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage which
selfie camera it houses at the front.
can be further expanded up to 32GB with the use of a memory
The smartphone houses an 8-megapixel front camera
card. The device is backed by a 2300mAh battery with a
featuring LED flash, while the primary shooter is rated at
standby time of up to 180 hours and talk time up to 8 hours.
5-megapixel, also coming with LED flash. The smartphone
The dual-SIM K9 Smart Selfie runs Android 7.0 Nougat and
comes with various camera features such as Night shot mode
is topped with connectivity options such as 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi,
and Beauty mode.
Bluetooth, and GPS.
In terms of the hardware specifications, the Karbonn K9 Smart Selfie comes with a 5-inch FWQVGA display with a layer
34 | december 2017
The Karbonn K9 Smart Selfie costs Rs 4,890 and comes in Black and Blue colour options. n
MYMOBILE
Panasonic Eluga I5
T
echnology major Panasonic has launched a new budget
In the camera department, there is a 13-megapixel rear
smartphone in its Eluga series, called the Eluga I5 in
shooter with LED flash, while on the front there is a 5-megapixel
India. Speaking of the hardware specifications, the Eluga I5
snapper for selfies and video calling. The Eluga I5 is backed by a 2500mAh battery and runs Android 7.0 Nougat.
comes with a 5-inch HD display with a layer of 2.5D curved
The dual-SIM smartphone comes with various connectivity
glass and Asahi Dragontrail glass for protection. The
options such as 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth
smartphone is powered by quad-core 64-bit MediaTek
v4.0, and GPS. The smartphone is also accompanied by a
MT6737 processor with Mali-T720 GPU. The successor to
fingerprint scanner situated at the back.
the Eluga I4 comes equipped with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of
The smartphone comes with a price tag of Rs 6,499 and
internal storage which can be further expanded up to 128GB
is available to buy exclusively via Flipkart. The Panasonic
via a memory card.
Eluga I5 comes in Black and Gold colour variants. n
www.mymobileindia.com
First Look
justin
december 2017 | 35
First Look
justin
Celkon Smart 4G
J
oining Karbonn, Celkon too has launched a new smartphone, dubbed the Celkon Smart 4G in
collaboration with Airtel, under the ‘Mera Pehla 4G Smartphone’ for Rs 1,349. The 4G VoLTE-enabled smartphone can be
bought by making a payment of Rs 2,849, followed by 36 recharges of Rs 169 every month. The users will get a cashback of Rs 500 after 18 months and another cashback of Rs 1,000 after 36 months. Additionally, users can make any recharge provided he or she makes a total recharge of Rs 3,000 in 18 months. In terms of the hardware specs, the Celkon Smart 4G comes with a 4-inch WVGA display and is powered by a quad-core processor ticking at 1.3GHz. The smartphone comes equipped with 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage which can be further expanded up to 32GB with the use of a memory card. The smartphone is backed by a 1500mAh battery and runs Android 6.0 Marshmallow. In the camera department, there is a 3.2megapixel rear shooter with LED flash and the frontfacing camera stands at 2-megapixel. The dual-SIM Celkon Smart 4G is topped with various connectivity options such as 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth v2.1, GPS, and a 3.5mm audio jack. n
36 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
First Look
justin
itel S 21
i
tel Mobile, part of Chinese mobile manufacturer Transsion
Holdings, has launched its dual-aperture camera smartphone, the
seen in its price segment. The S21 comes with 64-bit Mediatek powered quad-core
S21. The latest entrant into itel’s growing portfolio for 4G
processor paired with 1GB RAM and Mali-T860 MP1 GPU clocking
smartphones, S21 claims to be India’s first and only smartphone
a speed of 400 MHz. The smartphone enables its users to access
under Rs 6,000 offering a dual front camera function.
dual social media accounts including, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram,
The budget smartphone sports 2MP+5MP with a panoramic
and WhatsApp. The phone sports a metal body design.
field view of 120 degree. The smartphone also comes equipped
The smartphone is backed by a 2700mAh Li-polymer battery
with an 8MP rear camera with auto-focus, face detection, and other
with battery optimization technology, which company claims can
compelling picture enhancement features.
offer 2G talktime of 18 hours, 3G talktime of 15 hours, 4G talktime
The S21 comes with 16GB of internal memory, which is further
of 10 hours, and a long standby time of 350 hours. Its Smart Phone
expandable up to 32GB. The smartphone also uses a 5-inch IPS
Manager comes bundled with user-friendly apps such as Accelerate,
screen with blue-ray eye protection and sunlight display. The 4G
App Freeze, App Lock, Power Saver, and Carl Care (for end-to-end
VoLTE and ViLTE-enabled smartphone is powered by Android 7.0
service support).
(Nougat) and comes loaded with a fingerprint sensor with 360 degree readability. The company claims that this feature is hardly
www.mymobileindia.com
The itel S21 is available across India in three colour options: Moonlight Silver, Champagne Gold and Elegant Black. n
december 2017 | 37
First Look
justin Alcatel A5 LED, A7
A
lcatel, a French brand of mobile handsets owned by Finnish consumer electronics company Nokia
and used under license by Chinese electronics company TCL Corporation, has launched its new midrange smartphone in India, known as the Alcatel A5 LED and A7. Alcatel A7: The smartphone sports a 5.5-inch Full HD display, has a 4GB RAM and 32GB in-built
storage that can be expanded up to 128GB through external microSD card. The phone operates on Android 7.0 Nougat and also sports two front-facing speakers on the top and at the bottom edges of the panel. The phone is powered by a large 4000mAh battery with 9V1.67A fast charging support and backed by a MediaTek MT6750T chipset that further clocks up to 1.5GHz. For optics, the phone offers a 16MP primary camera with dual-tone LED flash, and an 8-megapixel selfie camera. The connectivity options include dual-SIM support, 4G VoLTE and ViLTE support, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi.
Alcatel A5 LED: It was first unveiled at the MWC 2017 whose USP is the LED back panel, which is equipped with LIGHTUP+ MOD LED cover, which can be customized for calls, messages and notifications and the device features a 5.2-inch HD (780p) display. The phone is powered by a 3100mAh battery and is backed by a MediaTek MT6753 octacore processor coupled with 3GB of RAM and 16GB expandable ROM. For photography, the Alcatel LED phone offers a 13MP primary camera coupled with f/2.0 aperture, and dual-tone LED flash. The selfie camera has a 5MP sensor furnished with improved LED flash. The phone operates on Android Marshmallow out-of-the-box and the connectivity options include dual-SIM support, 4G VoLTE and ViLTE support, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Both the smartphones, Alcatel A7 and Alcatel A5 LED are available exclusively on Amazon.in at a price tag of Rs 13,999 and Rs 12,999, respectively. The Alcatel A5 LED is available in Black colour, whereas the Alcatel A7 comes in Metallic Gold and Metallic Black colour variants. n
38 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
Flipkart Billion Capture+
V
enturing into the tech sphere, online marketplace Flipkart recently launched its first ‘Made for India’ smartphone, the
Billion Capture+, produced exclusively to address the unique needs of Indian customers. It is a part of Flipkart’s private label Billion. The Billion Capture+ packs top-end features usually reserved for flagship smartphones, such as 13MP + 13MP dual
First Look
justin
rear camera, a long-lasting battery with Quick Charge, powerful Snapdragon 625 octa-core processor for breezy multitasking, free unlimited cloud storage, and the latest Android Nougat. The phone has a premium metal body with easy-to-hold curves and a fingerprint sensor on the back for ease of use. The newly-launched smartphone comes with a flagship 13MP+13MP dual rear camera setup. Its powerful rear cameras are twinned with RGB and monochrome sensors that work like the human eye, and dual tone flash to capture vibrant colours in vivid detail. It produces stunning pictures with the help of other premium features such as ‘super night mode’ that captures double the light even at night, ‘Portrait Mode’ for clear background highlights, and ‘Depth of Field’ to capture minute details with the dual sensors that gauge real depth in an image. The smartphone boasts a 3500mAh battery for up to two days of uninterrupted battery life. Its USB Type C charger equipped with Quick Charge out of the box gives seven hours of battery life within just 15 minutes of charging. The Billion Capture+ will be available in two configurations - 3GB RAM + 32GB ROM at Rs 10,999 and 4GB RAM + 64GB ROM at Rs 12,999. Both variants come in two colours - Mystic Black and Desert Gold, and customers can avail of attractive launch offers along with consumer finance options on Flipkart such as No Cost EMI, discounts on leading debit/credit cards and more. n
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 39
First Look
justin
Panasonic Eluga A4
P
anasonic recently added a new phone to its budget
with a 13-megapixel camera at the back which also comes
segment, known as the Eluga A4. The main highlight of
coupled with LED flash for better photography. On the front,
the smartphone is its massive battery set up. In terms of the technical specifications, the Eluga A4 comes
the smartphone comes with a 5-megapixel selfie camera. The Eluga A4 comes with several connectivity options like
with a 5.2-inch HD (720p) display and runs on Android 7.0
– 4G VoLTE support, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB OTG. Like
Nougat operating system. It is powered by a MediaTek quad-
other Panasonic smartphones, the Eluga A4 also comes with
core processor clocked at 1.25GHz. The device comes with
company’s in-house Arbo Assistant.
3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage which can be further
The smartphone is available for buying from Panasonic’s
expanded up to 128GB via a microSD card. The device comes
authorized dealers at a price tag of Rs 12,490. The Eluga A4
with a massive and long lasting 5000mAh battery.
is available in three colour options: Champagne Gold, Mocha
In the camera department, the Panasonic Eluga A4 comes
40 | december 2017
Gold, and Marine Blue. n
MYMOBILE
Motorola Moto X4
M
otorola recently launched the Moto X4 smartphone in
Nougat. The smartphone comes with IP68 rating making it
India. The main highlight of the device is the dual camera
water and dust resistant, and is compatible with Amazon
module it houses at the back.
Alexa.
The camera department comprises 12-megapixel and
Additionally, the Moto X4 consists of the company’s Moto
8-megapixel cameras at the back featuring dual-LED flash and
Actions, Moto Display, and Moto Voice software features. It
PDAF, while at the front there is a 16-megapixel shooter with
comes topped with various connectivity option such as 4G
LED flash.
VoLTE, Bluetooth v5.0, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, GPS, A-GPS,
Talking about the technical specifications, the Moto X4
USB Type-C, NFC, FM radio, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
sports a 5.2-inch full HD LCD display being full HD LCD and
Furthermore, another highlight of the smartphone is the
is powered by an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 630
IP68 certification for water resistance the smartphone comes
processor ticking at 2.2GHz. It comes in two RAM/ROM
with. The Moto X4 is also accompanied by a fingerprint sensor
configurations- 3GB RAM/32GB ROM and 4GB RAM/64GB
embedded in the home button.
of internal storage. The Moto X4 is backed by a 3000mAh battery with TurboPower charging technology and runs Stock Android 7.1.1
The Motorola Moto X4 is priced at Rs 20,999 (3GB RA/32GB ROM) and Rs 22,999 (4GB RAM/64GB ROM) and is available exclusively via Flipkart and Moto Hubs. n
First Look
justin
First Look
justin
Infinix Zero 5, Zero 5 Pro
T
ranssion Holdings brand Infinix has unveiled two new
expandable up to 128GB via a microSD card.
smartphones, dubbed the Infinix Zero 5 and the Infinix
The Infinix Zero 5 is backed by a huge 4350mAh battery
Zero 5 Pro. The main highlight of the Infinix Zero 5 is the
with fast charging tech and runs the company’s own XOS 3.0
presence of dual cameras at the back, one rated at 12-
custom skin with Android 7.0 Nougat on top.
megapixel while the other one stands at 13-megapixel
The smartphone houses triple SIM card slots, and comes
featuring Sony IMX386 sensor, dual-tone LED flash, and 2x
with connectivity options such as 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11
optical zoom. The one at the front is rated at 16-megapixel
a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth v4.2, GPS, and GLONASS. There is also
with LED flash.
a fingerprint scanner situated at the back.
Talking about the technical specifications, the Infinix Zero 5 sports a 5.98-inch full HD 2.5D display protected by Corning
The Infinix Zero 5 Pro on the other hand, is similar to the Zero 5, except for the toned up 128GB of internal storage.
Gorilla Glass 3. The smartphone is powered by octa-core
The Infinix Zero 5 and the Infinix Zero 5 Pro are priced at
MediaTek Helio P25 chipset clocked at 2.6GHz, along with
Rs 17,999 and Rs 19,999, respectively. They are up for grabs
6GB of RAM. The device comes with 64GB of inbuilt storage
exclusively via online portal Flipkart. n
42 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
First Look
justin
Zen Admire Unity
E
xpanding its Admire series, homegrown Zen Mobile recently
In the camera department, the Zen Admire Unity houses a
unveiled a new budget smartphone, dubbed the Zen Admire
5-megapixel primary shooter with LED flash, while the front-
Unity in India. The major highlight of the smartphone is the 4G
facing camera is rated at 2-megapixel for selfies and video
VoLTE support it comes with.
calling. The device is backed by a 2300mAh battery and runs
In terms of the hardware specs, the Zen Admire Unity comes with 5-inch FWVGA display with a screen resolution rated at
Android 7.0 Nougat. The Zen Admire Unity houses dual SIM card slots, and is
854 x 480 pixels, and is powered by a quad-core processor
topped with connectivity options such as 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi
clocked at 1.3GHz. The smartphone comes equipped with 1GB
802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth v4.0, and GPS.
of RAM and 8GB of internal storage which comes with the option to expand up to 64GB with the use of a microSD card.
www.mymobileindia.com
The Zen Admire Unity is priced at Rs 5,099 and comes in Black, Gold, Pink and Blue colour variants. n
december 2017 | 43
First Look
justin
Gionee M7 Power
A
fter being introduced in China recently, Gionee M7 Power has now arrived in India.
Among the many highlights, the main highlight of the smartphone is the FullView display rated at 6-inch, with an aspect ratio of 18:9. The display, with minimal bezels, is HD+ in nature. Another highlight is the massive 5000mAh battery the device comes with. The other technical specs include a Qualcomm Snapdragon 435 mobile platform, coupled with 4GB of RAM. The smartphone comes with 64GB of inbuilt storage which can be expanded up to 256GB using a memory card. The Gionee M7 Power runs Android 7.1.1 Nougat with Amigo OS 5.0 on top. The smartphone also comes with a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor. In terms of the optics, the device features a 13-megapixel primary shooter with PDAF and LED flash and an 8-megapixel front camera. The smartphone is accompanied by the 3D Dynamic mode which allows users to capture threedimensional images with ease. The smartphone comes with a price tag of Rs 16,999 and is available exclusively via Amazon India. The Gionee M7 Power comes in Blue, Black and Gold colour variants. n
44 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
Intex Aqua Jewel 2, Aqua Lions T1
H
omebred Intex Technologies has come up with two new
and comes in Black and Champagne colour options.
budget smartphones in its Aqua series, dubbed the Aqua
Coming to the Aqua Lions T1, the device comes with a
Jewel 2 and the Aqua Lions T1 in India. Both the smartphones
5.2-inch display with a screen resolution rated at 480 x 854
come with 4G VoLTE support.
pixels and is powered by a quad-core processor. The device is
Starting with the Aqua Jewel 2, the smartphone features
equipped with 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage,
a 5-inch HD display and is powered by a quad-core Spreadtrum
expandable up to 64GB with the use of a microSD card.
processor. There is 2GB of RAM and 16GB of onboard storage
Camera-wise, both the Aqua Jewel 2 and Lions T1 come with
which can be further expanded up to 32GB via a memory
the same camera configuration. The Aqua Lions T1 is backed
card. On the camera front, there is an 8-megapixel shooter at
by a bigger 2700mAh battery and runs Android 7.0 Nougat.
the back with LED flash and a 5-megapixel front snapper with
The smartphone comes in Black, Champagne, and Coffee
fixed focus.
colour variants.
The smartphone is backed by a 2500mAh battery and runs Android 7.0 Nougat. The device also supports dual SIM cards
www.mymobileindia.com
First Look
justin
The Aqua Jewel 2 is priced at Rs 5,899 and the Aqua Lions T1 costs Rs 4,999. n
december 2017 | 45
First Look
justin Honor Holly 4 Plus
A
scending in the Indian offline market, Huawei’s sub-brand
The Honor Holly 4 Plus is packed with a 4000mAh battery
Honor recently launched the Holly 4 Plus smartphone in
which allows users to enjoy long-lasting entertainment and
India. The device comes incorporated with apical technology and
efficient usage of the product. The device comes bundled with
numerous new exciting features and is designed for consumers
a 5V/2A charger, 3.5 mm handsfree with inline call button, and
who wish to capture sharper pictures with a massive battery.
standard USB-A to microUSB cable.
The Holly 4 Plus comes with a 2.5D all glass display with a
In the camera department, the Holly 4 Plus offers 12MP rear
metal finish design. The 13.97cm screen comes with HD quality
camera with 1.25micrometer sensor for superior low light
display that delivers sharp and rich viewing experience. Powered
photography. The 8MP front camera comes with a beauty mode
by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 435 octa-core 64bit processor
that helps the consumer click crisper images with supreme speed
running on the Android 7.0 with EMUI 5.1 on top, the device
focus of 0.3sec.
comes with 3GB RAM and 32 GB internal storage which can be expanded up to 128 GB.
46 | december 2017
The Honor Holly 4 Plus is priced at Rs 13,999, and is available in Grey, Gold and Silver colour variants. n
MYMOBILE
First Look
justin
Vivo V7
V
ivo has launched yet another selfie-centric smartphone, the
4GB of RAM.
Vivo V7, which is the smaller version of Vivo V7+ launched
The Vivo V7 sports a 16-megapixel rear camera with flash
back in September this year. The newly-launched Vivo V7 carries
and an f/2.0 aperture, apart from a 24-megapixel front camera
the same features like its predecessor V7+ except for a smaller
with a soft ‘Moonlight Glow’ selfie light and an f/2.0 aperture.
battery, half the onboard storage, and a smaller display. The USP
The smartphone bears 32GB of inbuilt storage that’s expandable
of the phone is its 18:9 screen and 24MP selfie camera.
via microSD card (up to 256GB) with a dedicated slot.
Talking about its specifications and features, the Vivo V7 features Funtouch OS 3.2, based on Android 7.1 Nougat. The
Connectivity options on the Vivo V7 include 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth v4.2, GPS/ AGPS, Micro-USB, and FM radio.
smartphone sports a 5.7-inch HD+ (720x1440 pixels) FullView
The phone, priced at Rs 18,990, will be available exclusively
IPS display with an 18:9 aspect ratio. It is powered by an octa-
via Flipkart. It comes in two colour variants- Matte Black and
core Snapdragon 450 SoC clocked up to 1.8GHz, coupled with
Champagne Gold. n
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 47
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justin
Lenovo Tab 7
A
fter several rumours and teases, Lenovo has finally launched the mid-range Tab 7 in
India, which is available exclusively on Flipkart at a price of Rs 9,999. The company is also offering end number of discounts and schemes upon purchasing the product. The first set of buyers will get additional benefits and offers,
clocked at 1.3GHz, coupled with Mali-T720 GPU.
stated Lenovo. Axis Bank credit card users will get a sharp
For optics, the phone sports a 2MP selfie sensor and a 5MP
discount of 5% if the product is purchased from Flipkart. Both
primary camera sensor. Moreover, the Lenovo Tab 7 features a
Flipkart and Lenovo together are providing no-cost EMI options
16GM ROM, which can be further, expanded up to 128GB via a
that start from Rs 1,111 a month.
microSD card. It operates on Android 7.0 Nougat OS and is pre-
The all-new Lenovo Tab 7 is furnished with Dolby Atmos surround sound technology and a front-facing speaker. According
loaded with numerous apps like Lenovo Framework, Lenovo Account, Google Calendar, Google Sheets and a few more.
to Lenovo, the device has targeted mainly the Indian families.
Powered by a 3500mAh lithium-polymer battery,
Along with resolution of 1280x720 pixels, the device features
the connectivity options on the phone include Wi-Fi 802.11
6.98-inch coupled with an IPS display. Equipped with a 2GB
a/b/g/n, Bluetooth v4.0, A-GPS, micro-USB and also supports
RAM, the phone is backed by quad-core MediaTek processor
4G LTE. n
48 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
First Look
justin
OnePlus 5T
A
fter doubling its market share in the premium smartphone
Unlock feature with the touted advanced facial recognition
segment in India, Chinese smartphone brand OnePlus recently
algorithms.
launched its latest flagship device OnePlus 5T globally, including
In terms of other specs, the OnePlus 5T is powered by the same
in the country. The phone was officially introduced at an event held
Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor as the predecessor and
in New York.
comes in two RAM/ROM options: 6GB RAM/64GB ROM, and 8GB
Like many smartphones coming up these days, the OnePlus
RAM/128 ROM. The battery capacity stands at 3300mAh with
5T has the new bezel-less display rated at 6.01-inch. The display
the company’s Dash Charge tech for fast charging. The smartphone
is full HD+ full Optic AMOLED in nature, with an aspect ratio of
runs OnePlus’ OxygenOS based on Android 7.1.1 Nougat. The
18:9.
dual-SIM OnePlus 5T comes with several connectivity options
The OnePlus 5T has retained the dual rear camera setup with the similar camera configuration as the OnePlus 5, rated at 16megapixel and 20-megapixel. However, the secondary camera at
such as Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth v5.0, GPS, GLONASS, and NFC. The OnePlus 5T costs Rs 32,999 for 6GB RAM/64GB ROM
the back comes with changed aperture standing at f/1.7, with the
model and Rs 37,999 for 8GB RAM/128GB ROM variant (same
absence of a telephoto lens. The front-facing shooter is rated at
as the OnePlus 5). It is up for grabs at Amazon India. n
16-megapixel with improvements for low-light photography, using Intelligent Pixel Technology.
team@mymobile.co.in
Another difference is the fingerprint scanner placement which now rests at the back, above the company’s logo, and the absence of capacitive buttons. The OnePlus 5T also comes with Face
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 49
lead story
The Big Picture
2017
“The Only Thing That Is Constant Is Change” –Heraclitus of Ephesus c.535 – c.475 BCE A week may or may not be a long time in politics but a year is definitely a long period in digital times. A lot has happened in the exciting year that is 2017, specially related to mobile, telecom and digital space. When we thought that we have seen enough innovations in mobile design, there came new features; when we thought there would never be a bridge between feature phone and a smart phone, there came LTE enabled feature phones and when we thought old order will change yielding place to the new in the telecom space, the reigning telecom king not only survived the challenger’s onslaught but appears to have emerged stronger from the deadly skirmishes. All this and more…..Least to say 2017 has been an extraordinary year by any standard. Here we take you through the most happening developments, trends and innovations that made waves in 2017.
50 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
India Now A ‘Mobile First’ Market With mobile internet users base crossing 400 million marks while 82% of Indians spending time on mobile, mobile is now the undisputed device where the focus of every stakeholder is!
I
ndia is now a ‘Mobile First’ market, with
cent rise in internet users who spend eight
entail adopting newer strategies. The
82 per cent of its population spending
hours a day online on average as compared
growing dependence on mobile is now
their time on mobile phones with internet
to last year. According to a recent study
pushing businesses to treat mobile as a big
tariffs at almost bottom level. ‘Mobile First’
released by the Internet and Mobile
piece in their marketing strategy. It is no
signifies that a significant majority of
Association of India, nearly 77 per cent of
longer just another channel for customer
population have started using mobile as
urban users and 92 per cent of rural users
engagement, it has now become the ‘first
the primary device/access for seeking and
consider mobile as the primary device to
channel of preference’ for brands. A Tetra
sharing information, purchase, banking
access the internet. Mobile now represents
Pak’s recent study themed around
transactions etc. With mobile outpacing
two out of three minutes spent online.
‘connected consumers’ points out, “in this
every other device as primary gateway, it
So what does it imply? It means whether
scenario, winning over today’s empowered,
has entrenched its position further. The
one is a marketer, brand strategist or policy
connected consumers requires brands to
number of internet users in India by now
maker, they would have to devise mobile
go beyond the traditional rules of
has crossed 460 million marks, out of
centric strategies to attract and win over
engagement.”
which mobile internet users is close to 400
this empowered connected group. For
Greater connectivity and the proliferation
million. India also saw a whopping 23 per
businesses, winning over consumers will
of online platforms present a challenge for
Limelight
lead story
brands, as consumers expect a consistent experience and messaging across all the touchpoints where they interact especially on social media. The third-party, usergenerated content is becoming ever more important particularly for this region where more than 168 million people are now using social media monthly, with 82 per cent accessing platforms via mobile devices – the highest ratio in the world. n
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 51
Limelight
lead story
Smartphone is the New Addiction Almost half of smartphone users around the world spend more than 5 hours a day on their smartphones
S
martphones have changed the world in
Exhibit 1: Time Spent on Smartphones Daily
a remarkably short time frame. In just
a decade, smartphones have become
4%
central to people’s lives from communication to content consumption to commerce perspective. As a result, people are now
26%
Less than 1hr
20%
7hrs+
1 - 3hrs
spending more time on their smartphones than any other device. Today, nearly half of the world’s population uses a smartphone and annual spending on new smartphone
5 - 7hrs
29%
21%
3 - 5hrs
hardware exceeds 370 billion US dollars. A recent study by Counterpoint Research Source : Counterpoint Research
revealed that users today spend more than five hours on smartphones. And people who are running businesses on their phones,
Exhibit 2: Top Use-Cases for Smartphone Users
the usage goes over 7 hours! Browsing the internet and gaming top smartphone use-cases. And Indians’ love for smartphone has just increased. According to one Mary Meeker report, Indian consumers spend as much as 28 hours a week on their
64%
Browsing the internet Games
62%
Making voice calls
56%
smartphones, seven fold more than the time they end up spending in watching
Messaging
54%
programmes on television as more users access internet on their mobile phone! n
Source : Counterpoint Research
52 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
Limelight
lead story
Feature Phones Are Here To Stay Defying all doomsday predictions, feature phones remain well entrenched in many geographies including India and Africa
W
ith phenomenal rise in popularity and
economical cost. The 4G enabled LTE
to a 4G smartphone. Voice calls and texts remains the king.
adoption of smartphones, obituary of
Feature phones have been the biggest
feature phones were being penned but
innovation in the handset device impacting
In India, by last count feature phone
feature phones have not only survived but
and improving the lives the millions.
continue to account for more than 52% of
continue to thrive in India and many
Smartphone and feature phone also signify
total handset shipment (Approximately
countries of Africa and Asia. Globally, more
the great digital divide which is a function
155 of 275 million units) and their share
than 400 million feature phones were sold
of demographic divide where most of the
is not going to slide down in hurry as
in 2016 and the number could go up by
2G user base are refraining from upgrading
cheaper feature phones with 4G capabilities
3% this year. Together with Africa and
to advanced 4G ecosystem mainly due to
enabling people to use the internet, will
India, there are no less than 1.3 billion
firstly the pricing, lack of literacy in many
slow down migration to smartphones,
feature phone users globally!
cases, lack of need for the mobile internet
which remain out of reach of the pockets of
So what could have be the reason – well
and related applications as well as a mind
majority despite a steady fall in their price.
in low income countries, the tiny feature
block of a steep learning curve to upgrade
Over 100 brands compete in Indian market
phone serves the need of majority of
for this segment with Samsung, Lava,
population very ably and at the most
Karbonn, Intex leading the pack. n
december 2017 | 53
www.mymobileindia.com
Limelight
lead story
Nokia: Emperor Returns Nokia’s comeback was a global and much welcome event but it faces an uphill journey in its new inning
N
o brand has ruled the mobility world
selling over 150 million units! Under its
like Nokia did in its heydays. 10 out
legendary CEO Jorma Ollila (1992-2006)
of 15 best handset models ever sold have
Nokia went from one milestone to another
been Nokia with its iconic 1100 topping
and the fab run continued till 2014. And
250 million sales mark twice – once in
just when everyone had believed that
2003 and again in 2005. Nokia was
Nokia will rule the chart till eternity, it
synonymous with feature phones,
floundered due to – let us put it simplistically
sturdiness, innovation, aesthetics, ease of
- on wrong reading of future!
use while commanding an unbeatable
The downhill journey was swift. Its fall
market share globally. In short, it was the
contributed to a large extent to the
Emperor of mobile world till feature phones
swift rise of Samsung mobiles and some
ruled. It even sprung a big surprise with
Chinese brands. A distraught Nokia first
touchscreen when Nokia 5230 became
became a protectorate of Microsoft which
the best selling handset globally in 2009
failed to do capitalize on its mammoth Jorma Ollila – Nokia CEO 1992-2006
legacy. Finally, some ex-employees of Nokia themselves decided to take on the cudgel of reviving the brand themselves by forming HMD Global. Manufacturing was outsourced to Foxconn. And at MWC Barcelona in February 2017, Nokia returned with 3310 and 3 smartphones based on Android platform. Return of the prodigy was amongst the biggest news in mobility world and rightly so. The world however awaits to see whether Nokia will be able to reconnect with people the way it used to; whether the dethroned emperor will be able to wrest its lost territories from competition in an
Nokia 808 PurView had 41 Megapixel camera! b
54 | december 2017
y
Nokia 1100 – Highest sold handset device in history
environment which is remarkably different when it last ruled. n
MYMOBILE
The Enchanters The three handsets which were really special
iPhone X: As Apple’s 10th Anniversary gift, we got the lay our eyes on
megapixel each (supporting Portrait mode, digital zoom up to
the revolutionary, futuristic iPhone X. Written in roman but
10X and the new Portrait Lightning feature), while the front
pronounced in number, the iPhone X marked Apple’s entry
camera is a TrueDepth one, rated at 7-megapixel, supporting
into the bezel-less display arena, featuring a 5.8-inch OLED
Portrait mode, Animoji, Portrait Lightning, and Facial
Super Retina display and A11 Bionic chipset. Coming in
recognition (replacing Touch ID). With IP67 certification for
64GB and 256GB of internal storage options, the smartphone
water and dust resistance, the iPhone X comes with iOS 11,
sports a vertically placed dual rear camera, rated at 12-
and costs Rs 89,000 (64GB) and Rs 1,02,000 (256GB).
Limelight
lead story
Samsung Galaxy Note8 The more than 6 inches tall smartphone of the Note series known as Samsung Galaxy Note8, was seen as the new benchmark in the flagship segment.The dual 12 megapixel rear lens with Optical Image Stabilization smartphone even took the DxOMark by storm with stunning, crystal clear and crispier and properly exposed images. Even the 8MP selfie shooter was like anything. You rarely miss any beautiful moment. Powered by Exynos 8895 with 10nm octa-core processor clocked at 2.3GHz and 1.7GHz, it has also got Mali-G71 MP20 GPUalong with 6GB of RAM for ultimate gaming experience. To be precise, the 6.3 inch QHD display, 1440 x 2960 resolution, 521 ppi pixel density and 18.5.9 aspect ratio, the Galaxy Note8 derives its power from a
Google Pixel 2 XL
3,300mAH lithium-ion battery.
The second generation of the Google Pixel hit the market
Priced at Rs 67,900, Note8
in two variants; Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. The phone was
was also anticipated to wipe
carved out by the HTC team for Google and what a
the Note7 debacle from
product it has been. Available in 4GB of RAM and two
the mind of users across
variants of ROM, which are 64GB and 128GB, Pixel 2
the globe.
is majorly focused upon the 12.2MP rear camera which delivers most sought after images on social media. The 8MP front lens is equally good with its amazing portrait mode shots. Apart from this you will get unlimited amount of storage on Google for free. The water-resistant smartphone comes with Qualcomm Snapdragon’s best performing lineage of processor which is the 835 SoC and the latest Android 8.0, also known as Oreo. Pixel 2 is being sold at Rs 61,000 with a 2,700 mAh battery. Pixel 2 XL last costed Rs 82,000 and comes laced with 128 GB memory. n
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 55
Limelight
lead story
Fingerprint Sensors The New Essential
B
iometrics is becoming a key feature in
almost three in four smartphones! Study
technology, which can be used in with wide
smartphones and more than half of the
by Counterpoint Research says that
range of materials and even under the
smartphones shipped today already come
“fingerprint sensor is likely to become the
display screen or under water, will drive the
laced with fingerprint sensors. And next
standard choice for smartphone OEMs to
technology forward.
year, more than a billion smartphone with
provide for authentication. This is driven
Samsung was the market leader within
fingerprint sensors will be shipped – a
by a rapid rise in services such as digital
fingerprint enabled smartphones,
whopping 71% of total shipment –
payments, mobile banking and the
contributing to 12% market share, followed
commensurate increase in the need to be
by Apple and Huawei with 11% and 8%
able to authenticate the user
respectively, during Q2 2017. In terms of
securely.”
adoption across the total portfolio
Even low and medium range
shipments, Apple and Xiaomi led, followed
smartphones will see increasing
by Huawei and OPPO. However, Samsung,
adoption of fingerprint sensors.
ZTE and LG lagged their rivals with a
According to Parv Sharma of
relatively lower rate of fingerprint
Counterpoint Research, ““The
sensor integration across their total
penetration of fingerprint sensors in
shipments. Chinese brands are
the low-mid end smartphones will
already using fingerprint sensors as a
increase next year due to rising
differentiator, especially in emerging
scale and declining cost of the
markets, to compete with local and
Global Smartphone Fingerprint Sensor Penetration
71% 58% 51% 25% 14% 3%
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017 (E)
2018 (E)
Source : Market Outlook CY2017Q2
56 | december 2017
fingerprint sensor, making it one of the
international brands. They are adding
essential components in a smartphone.”
capabilities beyond just unlocking the
With changing smartphone designs to
phones or payments to include gestures to
include more edge to edge displays,
control the camera, gallery and other
ultrasonic and optical fingerprint sensor
applications. n
MYMOBILE
Quad Cameras More the merrier!
W
ith the onset of 2017, we saw the
of two more cameras rated at 13-megapixel
Nubia Z17 miniS, on the other hand,
emerging concept of dual cameras,
and 2-megapixel each with soft flash,
features 13-megapixel dual cameras at the
taking shape and finding its way into
adding capabilities (such as the Bokeh
back, with another pair rated at 16-
numerous smartphones, in various
effect) of a dual-camera setup to the front
megapixel and 5-megapixel each,
segments. Technology evolved and dual
as well as the back.
upfront.
cameras could soon be a thing of the past,
Grasping the same piece of technology,
While at the very moment the future of
given the current existence of quad cameras
ZTE’s sub-brand Nubia got registered in the
the incorporation of four cameras in
in a smartphone. The first-ever smartphone
four-camera arena with the launch of the
smartphones stands vague, this could be a
embracing the four-camera tech is the
Nubia Z17S and the Nubia Z17 miniS in
propitious piece. However, camera
Gionee S10 with 16-megapixel and
China. The Nubia Z17S houses two
enhancements are such, one can’t
8-megapixel dual rear shooters and another
cameras at the back, rated at 23-megapixel
tell. n
dual camera setup at the front, standing at
and 12-megapixel and the front has two
20-megapixel and 8-megapixel.
cameras, each rated at 5-megapixel. The
Limelight
lead story
Another entrant is the Honor 9i (which is the Huawei Maimang 6 in China). The Honor 9i features 16-megapixel and 2-megapixel dual cameras at the back with dual-tone LED flash with the front consisting
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 59
Limelight
lead story
Bezel-less Display Bigger is better!
T
aking ‘bigger is better’ way too seriously, smartphone makers
less but with less bezels, tech companies like to call them bezel-
decided to go the less bezel way (with the launch of the Xiaomi
less (or edge-to-edge, or Full Vision, or Full View).
Mi Mix in 2016). Since then, the adaptation of the 18:9 aspect
The advantage a bezel-less display provides, you ask? We get
ratio was something everyone went bonkers about, giving rise to
a wider view of things we see on a smartphone (I mean watching
bezel-less, aka, edge-to-edge displays. The list is too big; we have
movies is now fun). Additionally, the smartphones weigh so much
the Xiaomi Mi Mix, Xiaomi Mi Mix 2, Samsung Galaxy S8/S8+
lighter, irrespective of the big screen size they sport.
and the Galaxy Note 8. From the high-end iPhone X to the mid-
Even though the bezel-less smartphones appear appealing
ranger Vivo V7+, to the one from the Indian shores- the Micromax
enough to take on the future (and the present), we still lack a
Canvas Infinity, we have a list too long.
smartphone with a complete bezel-less display, being durable.
To start with the basics, bezels on a smartphone mean the
However, the trending term- bezel-less is going nowhere, eventually
plastic/metal part of it at the front and bezel-less is not having
giving rise to a sturdy, stylish and sleek smartphone, until we find
one. While the smartphones we have are still not entirely bezel-
a new display concept to introduce to the world. n
60 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
Limelight
lead story
Virtual Assistants The New Men Fridays!
“S
iri, do you love me?’ Or ‘What’s this song?’ are some phrases
languages including US English, US Spanish, Korean, and
our dear Siri or Google Assistant is quite used to today.
Chinese and many more.
Today, the arguably popular Artificial Intelligence-based virtual
Panasonic Arbo, present currently in the budget Panasonic
assistants have totally taken a toll over the mobile world, given the
Eluga Ray series, is a simpler assistant capable of unlocking/
presence of Siri, Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Microsoft
locking the device, making calls, keeping a track of user activities
Cortana, and the latest ones- Samsung Bixby and Panasonic Arbo.
and suggesting things accordingly.
Making smartphones, laptops, and smartwatches smarter, we
Amidst the already-present digital assistants, there is also a
have the tints and tones of intelligence in machines making our
possibility we might see Nokia’s in-house virtual assistant, dubbed
day-to-day chores much easier, and providing us with answers to
Nokia Viki, for which the HMD Global-owned company has been
the aforementioned frequently-asked questions.
granted a patent for the same.
2017 saw the entry of Samsung Bixby and Panasonic Arbo,
They might come handy, being the best friends we need, but
furthering the niche segment of a virtual assistant. Samsung Bixby
with evolving features for our 24x7 assistants, they are likely to
is at your service via text, voice or even touch. It not only talks back
soon be everywhere, entering our minds and acting as a part of
to you, but makes recommendations, reminders, in various
our psychological and physical system. n
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 61
Limelight
lead story
Android 8.0 and iOS 11 One-upmanship continues and it’s rather good for the mobile world
T
he old rivals had their annual ritual to showcase their
Picture-in-Picture mode to perform multiple tasks simultaneously,
worthiness over each other. So as part of the mandatory
and an improved notification channel with notification popping
annual launch, this year too, Google and Apple unveiled their 2017 version of operating systems- Android 8.0 Oreo and iOS 11.
up in the form of notification dots. There is the new Android Instant apps feature allowing users to access several apps from the browser, without the need to
Android 8.0 Oreo, another sweet treat by Google, is faster and
install the apps. Additionally, the new Android 8.0 Oreo is safer,
able to boot smartphones much faster, coming with various new
coming with Google Play Protect and Battery saving mode. There
added features. The features include the autofill feature to fill
is a plethora of new emoticons with various other improvements
up forms or necessary information within apps automatically, the
and bug fixes. iOS 11, on the other hand, has brought in new features in the Camera app such as the ability to create GIF-like loops from Live photos, create reverse videos, apply the Long Exposure effect, and new professional photo filters. The App Store has been redesigned, the message app has a new app drawer, and Siri and Apple Music have been improved. The Control Center has been revamped with the ability to customize it. We get the detailed maps, ability to type with one hand with the enablement of closely placed keys on the keypad, and the ability to sign up to the Apple ID by placing two iOS devices closely. For the iPad users, iOS 11 has the new Files app, Slide Over and Split-screen features, Drag and Drop feature, improved Apple Pencil, and the introduction of the AR-enabled ARKit app. n
62 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
Mobile Ad Spend Zooms As mobile becomes even more ubiquitous, mobile centric ad spend is taking a sharp northward climb
F
or the first time last year, mobile ad revenue surpassed
20
television or desktop ad spend. The growth continues
billion this year and largest chunk will be spent on mobile advertising. According to forecast by media measurement company Zenith, by 2019, advertisers will spend more on mobile than all traditional media, except television, put together. Globally, by the year closes, mobile ad spending would have crossed USD
Growth Rate%
unabated. Digital advertising spend is likely to cross USD 85
107 billion. By 2019, mobile spending is poised to reach USD
15 10 5 0
156 billion and will account for 62.5 percent of internet expenditure and 26.4 percent of all expenditure. The gains come
Limelight
lead story
Digital
Outdoor
Television Magazines
-5
as consumers more frequently access the web on their phones. Indeed, smartphones are driving all growth in web traffic. Online display ads, including social media in-feed ads, online video and
Advertising Spend shift to Mobile Percentage of total Digital Ad Spend that is Mobile
other digital formats, are the fastest-growing ad types. Meanwhile desktop (non-mobile) advertising is expected to drop USD2.9 billion, or 3 percent, to USD 96 billion. Global ad spend overall is expected to grow 4 percent this year, reaching USD 558 billion by year end.
38.5%
52.4%
62.6%
2014
2015
2016
67.4%
68.6%
69.9%
2018
2019
2017
Coming to India, mobile ads are expected to make up 62% of digital ad spends by 2021. According to an eMarketer report, rise
television will remain the biggest advertising platform in India
in mobile advertising will also help boost overall digital marketing
for sometime now, mobile ad spend will be the fastest growing
spending to around USD 1.21 billion in 2017. And though,
category which is expected to grow by 85% in 2017. n
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 63
Limelight
lead story
The Meteoric Rise of Chinese Mobile Brands Astounding growth of Chinese mobile OEMs globally looks unstoppable as they continue to wrest more grounds from competition around the world
B
y mid this year, Chinese mobile companies had cornered over
the charge. Samsung has been holding the top spot but its market
48% global mobile market share. By now, it could have gone
share has been static while Chinese brands have grown by leaps
past half line as they have wrested more grounds in key countries
and bounds. Even in feature phone, Chinese conglomerate iTel is
like India and USA besides their own home turf. According
now number two player after Samsung.
Counterpoint Research’s study released in August, Chinese
Chinese OEMs have also wrested market share from Samsung
smartphone brands marked a record 48 percent market share
and Apple worldwide. Moto now owned by Lenovo, has made a
worldwide with India, South Asia and Africa remaining as key
remarkable comeback in US recently. Within their homeland, their
focus geographies. Xiaomi with 60 percent, Vivo (45 percent),
growth has been even more impressive. Huawei, Oppo, Vivo
Oppo (33 percent) and Huawei (20 percent) led the Chinese
continue to dominate the competition and widening the gap while
march.
capturing the top three spots while Xiaomi has made a surprise
“Chinese brands have been successful in not only cementing
comeback. The China market contributes almost 30% of the
their positions in their home country but also managing to expand
global smartphone volumes and winning in this market alone can
beyond mainland China at the same time,” points out Tarun
push a brand into the top five rankings globally. And it’s becoming
Pathak, Associate Director, Counterpoint Research.
increasingly difficult for international brands to match BBK or
Here in India, Chinese OEMs had garnered over 51% smartphone market in first quarter itself and the lead has widened
Huawei’s attractive portfolio, scale, marketing muscle and broader channel reach. Chinese OEMs rise continues unabated. n
since. And top the four selling smartphone brands out of five happens to be Chinese with Xiaomi, Vivo, Oppo, Lenovo leading
64 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
The Telecom War Airtel appears to have had the last laugh in the bitter year long acrimonious battles unleashed by entrant Reliance Jio to capture the vast Indian telecom space and dislodge competition
A
rmed with Rs 50,000 crore in its kitty and the newly acquired
younger sibling Anil Ambani. RCom went deeper into debts while
pan-India 4G spectrum rights as firing guns, Mukesh Ambani
deciding to shut down wireless business. Airtel certainly is having
led Jio unleashed a no-hold barred disruptive, and often
the last laugh and remains the king of Indian telecom space. The
annihilatory, tariff war to wrest territories and acquire consumers
challenger will once again have to wait to take over the crown. n
from existing debt ridden telecom player in an market which had
team@mymobile.co.in
been touted as crowded and stressed by telecom experts. The
Limelight
lead story
biggest gunfire appeared to have been reserved for the market leader Airtel. In the beginning a stunned opposition just didn’t know how to respond to Jio’s no-hold barrage. Idea and Vodafone joined hands to fence themselves. Airtel appeared to be bearing the maximum brunt of attack. But Sunil Mittal, the feisty war horse who has earlier too faced many corporate battles for survival, held his nerves and started matching Jio’s move for moves. If Jio came with radical ‘India ka apna smartphone’ – the 4G enabled LTE feature phone at a most attractive price point, then Airtel sprang a surprise with Aritel-Karbonn ‘Real Indian Smartphone’ at an even more attractive offer. Slowly but surely Jio appeared to have losing steam even as lady luck once again started smiling on Airtel which got a virtual free gift of Tata Mobile along with its significant subscriber base and its spectrum. Ironically, in the end, the biggest and unintended casualty of Jio’s blitzkrieg has been none other than RCom - the company owned by Mukesh Ambani’s
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 65
Study
market insight
Indian Handset Market
Leaders Of The Pack As Indian mobile phone market continues to grow at impressive pace, Xiaomi and Samsung now contribute to almost half of the smartphone volume. Indian handset makers like Micromax and Lava have once again begun reporting growth
A
ccording to the latest research
of the growth was driven by online
from Counterpoint’s Market
channels such as Flipkart’s Big Billion
Monitor service, India
sale and Amazon’s Great Indian festival
handset shipments reached
in September. Offline players also
an all-time high of over 84 Million for the
contributed to some of the shipment
first time ever driven by strong sell-in of
growth filling the channel ahead of
both featurephones and smartphones.
Diwali. As a result, fourth quarter will be
In terms of performance during the
crucial for offline players as they need to
quarter, smartphone shipments in India
streamline their inventory levels which
grew by 18% YoY while featurephone
they have accumulated ahead of Diwali.
shipments declined by 4% YoY. Bulk
We expect discounts and offers to run
Exhibit 1: India Smartphone and Featurephone Shipments Market Share in Q3 2017 India Smartphone Shipment Market Share %
Q3 2016
Q3 2017
23%
23%
XIAOMI
6%
22%
VIVO
5%
9%
OPPO
4%
8%
LENOVO*
9%
7%
OTHERS
53%
31%
TOTAL
100%
100%
India Featurephone Shipment Market Share %
Q3 2016
Q3 2017
21%
23%
6%
13%
10%
9%
-%
8%
LAVA
13%
7%
OTHERS
50%
40%
100%
100%
Samsung
Samsung ITEL MICROMAX NOKIA (HMD)
TOTAL
Source : Counterpoint Research Market Monitor Q3 2017
“Samsung and Xiaomi together contributed to almost 45% of the smartphone market. This is the first time since 2012 that the top two brands have reached this level of combined share, signaling that key brands are ramping up their presence in India” – Karn Chauhan, Research Analyst at Counterpoint Research
Lenovo* Includes Motorola
66 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
even post Diwali.
up their presence in India. Additionally, the
Commenting on the findings, Karn
quarter was marked with return to growth
Chauhan, Research Analyst at Counterpoint
for local handset players such as Micromax
Research said, “India continues to be an
and Lava in the smartphone segment.”
attractive destination for handset OEMs.
Exhibit 2: India Top Models Q3 2017 Rank
Top Smartphone Models Q3 2017
1
Xiaomi Redmi Note 4
With strong smartphone growth and a
Shobhit Srivastava, Research Analyst
2
Xiaomi Redmi 4
sizeable featurephone market for at least
at Counterpoint Research further added,
3
Xiaomi Redmi 4A
three to four years, OEMs in India can
“It has been almost a year since Reliance
4
Samsung Galaxy J2
target a diverse set of audiences. This has
Jio launched its 4G LTE network officially,
allowed a number of OEM’s to still realize
which drove an inflection point for mobile
5
double digit growth in the featurephone
data consumption as well as demand for 4G
segment in spite of being absent in the
capable phones. Within a year, Jio attracted
1
Samsung Music 2
smartphone segment.”
more than 100 million subscribers to its
2
Samsung Guru 1200
Commenting on the competition, Mr
network and now is targeting the next 100
Chauhan further highlighted, “Samsung
million subscribers by bringing the first
3
Reliance Jio JioPhone
and Xiaomi together contributed to almost
ever LTE featurephone to the market. This
45% of the smartphone market. This is
has changed the dynamic of the Indian
Oppo A37
Rank
Top Featurephone Models Q3 2017
4 Nokia 105 (2017) 5
Samsung Guru Plus Source : Counterpoint Research Market Monitor Q3 2017
the first time since 2012 that the top two
mobile market where OEMs and operators
brands have reached this level of combined
are partnering to launch affordable 4G
attractive the bundled value proposition is,
share, signaling that key brands are ramping
bundled offerings. It will all boil down to how
keeping in mind the effectiveness of Total
Market Highlights India mobile handset and smartphone market grew by 6% & 18% YoY driven by strong pre-Diwali shipments.
n
• Featurephone segment declined 4% YoY but grew 22% QoQ driven by sub-USD15 (INR1,000) devices as well as entry of Jiophone and Nokia branded phones in the market during the quarter.
Cost of Ownership.” Commenting on the top-selling smartphones, Associate Director Tarun Pathak, noted, “Xiaomi continues to post back to back record quarters in India and create new benchmarks. Three out of the top five bestselling smartphones in
• Chinese brands performance remained strong and contributed to more than half of the total smartphone shipments. It is their third consecutive quarter when their market share is well over 50% after they took over local players in 2H 2016.
India were from Xiaomi alone. Xiaomi has
• However, local brands like Micromax and Lava grew 41% and 24% QoQ in the smartphone segment recovering from their all-time low during demonetization last year. Micromax Bharat 2 was the bestselling model in the sub $75 segment.
is now transitioning into performance
• Xiaomi, iTel, Oppo, Vivo & OnePlus were the fastest growing smartphone brands during the quarter.
been popular in the past for its “value for money offerings”, however, the popularity compared to last year. This can be attributed to a streamlined supply chain effort by Xiaomi and relatively weaker
• Three out of four mobile handsets shipped were “Made in India” during Q3 2017. As the number of assembly units has crossed the 100 factories landmark, Government through its phased manufacturing program will look forward to an increased contribution of mobile ecosystem players to increase local value addition currently pegged at a low 5.6%. For this, introduction of SMT lines by players will be crucial in the short term, further catalyzing the growth of number of factories and component ecosystem.
offerings from competitors in the online
• LTE capable smartphones contributed to 97% of smartphone shipments in Q3 2017. However, in terms of installed base almost 40% smartphones are still only 3G or 2G capable signaling a faster upgrade cycle.
segment in spite of pulling out of the
• Affordable mid end segment (INR 10,000-15,000 or USD150-230) was the fastest growing segment driven by strong performance of Xiaomi, the Chinese vendor, contributing to almost half of the shipments.
channel. Mr Pathak highlighting on the still important featurephone segment, added, “Samsung continues to dominate the featurephone segment elsewhere, highlighting the importance of catering to the huge base of Indian featurephone users. However, we also witnessed the
• Premium segment (INR 30,000 or USD465) grew record 3X YoY during Q3 2017 due to the strong performance of Apple, OnePlus & Samsung which grew the overall size of the premium segment
strong entry of Nokia branded featurephone
• Qualcomm was the leader among smartphone chipset suppliers. Qualcomm powered smartphones grew a healthy 73% YoY in Q3 2017. The demand of Qualcomm chipsets in the mid segment was driven by Chinese brands as they continue to be the key reason for growth.
Entry of the much awaited Jiophone also
www.mymobileindia.com
Study
market insight
with Nokia 105 becoming the one of top selling models during the quarter. propelled it to the top five bestselling featurephones.”n
team@mymobile.co.in
december 2017 | 67
Trendz
cONSUMER insight
So, What Do
Mobile Buyers Want? MoMagic survey gives a deep and interesting insight into consumer preferences when it comes to choosing a handset
W
hen it comes to
quotient, the screen quality was not
Study found out that with data prices
opting for a handset
something that something many bothered
dropping almost every month post the
device, features play
with. The survey reveals that a significant
market entry of Reliance Jio and 4G
an important part in
44% of the people said that they want
influencing the buying decision. But
better battery capacity in their mobile
which features really matter in tilting the
phones indicating most of the mobile
decision. A recent pan India survey by
phones in the market, including several
MoMagic Technologies, a leading mobile
flagship phones, are still unable to tackle
ad tech company, gives a deep insights
this key issue. The study also found that
into this aspect.
only about 8% of the buyers bothered
The survey reveals that while high battery capacity is a high influencing
about screen quality. Rapid migration to 4G enabled phones:
What was the main factor for choosing the phone you’re using?
21%
46%
21%
12% Screen quality
Camera quality
Phone design
Processor brand
“4G Mobile internet penetration in India is happening at a rapid pace and at very low price points customers can experience 4G speeds. This has led to faster adoption of customers to shift to shopping on ecommerce apps through mobile phones and this trend will continue to go up,” – Arun Gupta, Founder & CEO, MoMagic Technologies
68 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
How much did you pay for your smartphone?
How often do you use your phone’s camera?
MoMagic Technologies: MoMagic Group, founded in 2011, with strategic investments by MediaTek and Foxconn has been consistently innovating-developing AI/Big Data Technology solutions and has the widest deployment of applications on Mobile platform ecosystem. The strong business presence in Asian Market along with Strategic tie-ups with multiple Mobile OEMs, MoMagic started Joint Venture companies with Leading OEMs. Other than Mobile Brands, MoMagic is Strategic Partner with leading Apps and Content Providers in Asian Market as well.
Trendz
CONSUMER insight
When do you plan to buy a new smartphone?
enabled phones also getting cheaper, many Indian buyers have now moved to 4G phones. “56% of the respondents surveyed were using 4G phones, followed by 3G at 34% and just 7% were using 2G.” “4G Mobile internet penetration in India is happening at a rapid pace and at very low price points customers can experience When do you mainly use your smartphone for?
4G speeds. This has led to faster adoption of customers to shift to shopping on ecommerce apps through mobile phones and this trend will continue to go up,” said Arun Gupta, Founder & CEO of MoMagic Technologies. Data Usage: Survey also indicated that in spite of low mobile data cost, 41% of the respondents limit data themselves and
How big should a smartphone screen be?
28% of them do not either limit or monitor data usage. As Indian buyers get technologically savvy, mobile processors brand has started to play key role in their buying decisions. When purchasing a phone, 46 per cent pay attention to a processor brand name while 21 percent reckon phone design and camera quality and only 12 per cent pay attention to screen quality of a smartphone.n team@mymobile.co.in
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 69
In Conversation
chief speak
“Iris is a strong modality that consumers will find increasingly more reliable, secure and easy-to-use on the smartphones” The ‘IRIS’ - a thin, circular structure in the eye, responsible for controlling the diameter and size of the pupil and thus the amount of light reaching the retina, has a lot to do with the biometric authentication of an individual. Owing to its rich security pattern, which remains unaffected by external conditions and not changes with age or occupation, it has emerged as a great help to smartphones which usually contain a lot of information that may be compromised if it goes in the wrong hand. Delta ID, started in 2011, California, has made remarkable advances in bringing iris technology to consumer mobile devices and applications and has fast emerged as a global leader in this field. Delta ID’s ActiveIRIS technology includes software for iris capture and segmentation for authentication with UIDAI servers. When combined with UIDAI standard compliant iris hardware components, ActiveIRIS software enables iris based Aadhaar authentication and eKYC that works reliably across the population in conditions and scenarios where users typically use their mobile devices. To discuss the various aspects of iris technology and how Delta ID is contributing to make mobile devices more secure, Ramesh Kumar Raja had a
138 | november 2017
MYMOBILE
chief speak CEO of Delta ID. Prior to founding Delta ID, Dr Prabhakar was the
Director of R&D and Chief Scientist at DigitalPersona Inc. He has also been a consultant to the World Bank as a subject matter expert on identity solutions and their foundational role in social protection schemes. He played an instrumental role in advising the Government of India and designing the country’s first UIDAI biometric subsystem, parts of the middleware and also assisted in the procurement of biometric technology. Excerpts… Iris technology is slowly but surely becoming a medium to make authentications more secure. How do you look at its future, especially with regard to the mobile devices? If we talk about the mobile devices, specifically, biometric authentication technologies such as iris recognition technology are going to be a norm in mobile devices. Several
In Conversation
conversation with Dr Salil Prabhakar, Founder, President and
leading handsets today are equipped with the iris recognition technology. Furthermore, as per the ABI Research, nearly 300 million smartphones equipped with iris scanner will be shipped by 2021. Hence, the future does look promising for the iris technology and in the coming years, we’ll witness the technology gaining mainstream prominence everywhere around us. What advantages do you see iris offering over fingerprint readers? Iris is an internal, donutshaped organ behind the cornea of an eye. As a protected, internal organ, the iris remains unaffected by external conditions, it does not change with age or occupation. Additionally, iris has a rich pattern which translates into higher entropy in the realm of authentication and security. Overall, the iris is a more reliable and secure modality for authentication. How significant it is to Government of India’s Aadhaar programme? Iris scanning has been widely adopted in various Government initiatives using Aadhaar. Aadhaar has been made mandatory by the Government of India for resident authentication and e-KYC. Since iris recognition is more secure and reliable, especially for people from diverse age-groups and demographics, it has been a key enabler of Aadhaar authentication.
www.mymobileindia.com
“We have already enabled Aadhaar authentication, in association with Samsung in the Samsung Galaxy Tab Iris which was launched in 2016. We continue to work with multiple OEMs, and look forward to launching Aadhaar enabled mobile devices with them in the short term” december 2017 | 71
In Conversation
chief speak Being a global leader in this segment, how do you look at India as a market and what are your future plans? India today stands poised at the edge of digital revolution. To the same end, there is immense scope for iris scanning in the subcontinent. We have already enabled Aadhaar authentication, in association with Samsung in the Samsung Galaxy Tab Iris which was launched in 2016. We continue to work with multiple OEMs, and look forward to launching Aadhaar enabled mobile devices with them in the short term. Recently you collaborated with Indus OS to launch Aadhaar authenticated operating system. Can you elaborate about the technicalities of the development? Delta ID is essentially providing the iris technology component for Aadhaar authentication and e-KYC. Once such capabilities are part of the platform multiple apps can take advantage of the strong authentication available to access various secure services. What is the best way to overcome misplaced
“As Delta ID, we have been able to innovate on technology front, and lead the market in bringing the iris scanning technology in association with our strategic partners and customers. We launched the world’s first iris scanning capable smartphone with Fujitsu and NTT DOCOMO, in May 2015, and have now introduced many more devices with them in the Japan market. We have also launched multiple other devices with various global OEMs” by iris scanning.
negative perceptions on iris among the wider
Delta ID is also venturing into the fields of banking and automobiles to offer its services.
public? Not sure if there is any negative
What have been the key elements in Delta
Is smartphone again going to be a key
perception of iris. Any new, and might I add
ID’s success in bringing products to market?
driver to ensure security? Certainly, we are
– disruptive technology, has been subject to
As Delta ID, we have been able to innovate
venturing into different industry verticals.
a lack of trust and negative perception in the
on technology front, and lead the market
Recently, our partner Gentex showcased
beginning. However, over the years, most of
in bringing the iris scanning technology in
iris scanning capable rear-view mirrors at
the technologies that once faced resistance,
association with our strategic partners and
CES last year. This rear-view mirror is used
have now become a part and parcel of our
customers. We launched the world’s first iris
for authenticating the drivers for secure
everyday lives. I foresee the same trajectory
scanning capable smartphone with Fujitsu
ignition, in-cabin personalization, and in
for iris scanning as well.
and NTT DOCOMO, in May 2015, and
future possibly for in-car payments.
We are actively engaging with the media
have now introduced many more devices
Going further, we see iris scanning in
and mass communication platforms to
with them in the Japan market. We have
many more smartphones in the near future.
create awareness about the security and
also launched multiple other devices with
Iris is a strong modality that consumers will
reliability features offered by iris scanning.
various global OEMs. Another core area
find increasingly more reliable, secure and
Contributing towards the Government’s
of focus has been bringing iris to mobile
easy-to-use on the smartphones. n
initiative of Aadhaar authentication also
devices for Aadhaar authentication. On the
helped us in educating consumers about
fronts we have provided the iris scanning
the technology.
capability in the Samsung Galaxy Tab Iris
As the technology becomes more easily
SM-T116IR, available here in India. From
available, owing to iris scanning equipped
the beginning we have remained focused on
smartphones of today, we are affirmative
bringing iris to enable the mobile platform,
that the negative perceptions, if any, will
and this singular focus has helped us in
change and the consumers will appreciate
further improving the product and getting
the convenience security features offered
success with customers and partners.
72 | december 2017
ramesh@mymobile.co.in
MYMOBILE
XOLO Era 3X
With Cameras actually impressive
H
ome-grown company XOLO, known for its budget
smartphones, recently added three new
processor and the ability to
smartphones to its Era series,
multi-task with 3GB of RAM.
dubbed the Era 3, the Era 2V
The smartphone comes with
and the Era 3X. The common
16GB of internal storage.
strand which held all the three smartphones is the Moonlight
verdict
The smartphone during my usage has performed well.
feature the smartphones come
good and scores a decent score
with, making them selfie-
in the looks department.
Looks
07 /10
one out of the lot- the Era
Cameras
3X for review, and here is my
The XOLO Era 3X has
Cameras
08 /10
review for the smartphone.
the cameras as its USP,
Performance
07 /10
the 3,000mAh battery took
Battery
07 /10
fine through almost a day.
centric ones. I got the high-end
Design
specifically the one at the front. Both the front and the
Boxy yet goodlooking Impressive Above average
The newly Era 3X retains the
primary shooters are rated
Lasted a day on single charge
same boxy design the XOLO
at 13-megapixel featuring
Value For Money
Era series is usually seen
LED flash. In terms of the
sporting. However, this time
performance, the cameras
we have a premium-looking
of smartphone actually
rear-side seen on the device.
excelled. The rear camera
Starting with the back panel,
has produced pictures with
there are antenna bands at the
all the details highlighted.
PROS
top and the bottom, with the
While the pictures were a little
Camera
camera module, fingerprint
processed, the good quality
scanner and the ‘XOLO’ logo
can’t be neglected. The HDR
between them. Upfront, there
mode too, worked its magic
is the front camera with LED
and created a good quality
flash at the top part, while at
picture. The front camera tells
with a layer of 2.5D curved
the bottom end lies the three
the same story and this time
glass, is protected by Corning
usual capacitive buttons.
I was really impressed with
Gorilla Glass 3. Another
The right-hand side of the
the resultant pictures. The
impressive element is the
smartphone houses the volume
main highlight- the Moonlight
display which produced rich
rocker and the power on/off
feature specified for low or no
and crisp colours, with the
button, the head comprises
photography too performed
touch being above average.
a 3.5mm audio jack, and the
decently.
The viewing angles were fine
chin contains micro-USB port and speaker grilles on either
Display
sides.
The display of the smartphone
A nice option
OVERALL
08 /10
of an average consumer were executed well. While a while to charge, it worked
7.0 Nougat, making the UI friendly. Among others is
74%
the rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, which could unlock the smartphone in less than a second.
Cons Low internal storage
(For detailed specifications, please refer to My Guide)
Conclusion With a price tag of Rs 7,499, the XOLO Era 3X is a budget smartphone with some decent specs. Proving to be
and the display was adequately bright.
Hardware
department, this time too has
an HD resolution of 1,920 x
The smartphone gets its power
no innovation, it still looks
1,080 pixels. The display,
from MediaTek MT6737A
www.mymobileindia.com
throughout and various tasks
The smartphone runs Android
is rated at 5-inch and has
While the design
It remained stutter-free
Tried & Tested
burntest
a camera-centric smartphone, the smartphone can easily become a daily driver for an average consumer. However, it stands against the likes of smartphones such as the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4A with a better processor and internal storage, Panasonic P55 Max and Eluga Ray with bigger 5,000mAh and 4,000mAh batteries, respectively. n vanshika@mymobile.co.in
december 2017 | 73
Tried & Tested
burntest
Samsung Galaxy Tab A A Nice Tab to begin with
T
he Seoul located
Display
something ideal for ebooks,
only 7.5 mm thick
electronic giant
Samsung Galaxy Tab A has
magazines, articles etc.
and weighing just
is yet again here
a screen display of size 8.00
with a new launch
320g so it is light
inch which is very reasonable
Design
in its electronics departments
and comfortable display size
The front of the device is
under sub department of
neither too big nor too small
having the camera for selfie
smartphones and tablets.
for a tab. If you like working
aligned with the speaker
Platform
This time in our review we
while travelling or while going
grille on top. The lower side
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A
will be shading light on the
to your work and want to save
of the Tab A is possessing
is powered by 1.4 GHz Quad
Samsung Galaxy Tab A.
some time then the Galaxy
capacitive buttons on both
Core processor which will
Samsung is one of the leading
Tab A will give you an upper
sides of the home button.
let the device to function
manufacturers of smartphones
hand. The size of the tab is
The right side of the device is
smoothly, seeping away the
and tablets. The last tablet by
something peculiar which is
having the power button and
burden of big applications.
the company was Galaxy Tab
making it to stand in some
the volume buttons. Going to
The Tab is equipped with 2
S3, launched months ago.
different zone as compared to
the back of the device there
GB RAM and Android 7.1 OS
Samsung wants to remain
other tabs. The real deal in the
is the company logo with
which is the latest update of
intact in mid-ranged segment
display is its 4:3 aspect which
the rear camera. The device
Android OS. The Galaxy Tab A
amidst companies like Lenovo
makes an absolute knockout
is eye catching device with
delivers powerful performance
and Micromax.
for ardent readers looking for
sophisticated simplicity. It is
with a simplified UI, tailored
74 | december 2017
to carry around and also easy to grip.
MYMOBILE
to a new screen ratio. The ROM
of the tab. The Tab is offering
of child friendly apps which
size of the Samsung Galaxy
5 megapixel front camera
educate ad well as entertain
Tab A is of 16 GB and it can be
which will let you make clear
and help develop the child’s
Connectivity
expanded upto 256 GB with
videos and to take clear selfies
talents. The Tab is aiming to
The connectivity options
the help of microSD card. The
but when its dark and lack of
reach all the age groups not
include Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth,
gaming experience is good as
availability of light then the
just the adults but also the
FM. Sensors on the tablet
well but you cannot play high
camera does not perform well.
kids. The kid section is one of
include Proximity sensor,
the attracting aspects of the
Ambient light sensor,
graphic games like Asphalt
and cool very shortly.
and other big sized games. The
Kid Section
device which might attract the
Accelerometer, and Gyroscope.
RAM size of the device could
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A
users. The Samsung Galaxy
Despite the presence of
have been improved because
also has something extra to
Tab A can be easily connected
such sensors there are some
2GB of RAM on some occasions
offer, the Kids Mode. In this,
with Samsung Smart TV. This
sensors which are missing like
do let the device go slow.
the device offers a great range
can be done via Bluetooth
Temperature sensor, Barometer
or Samsung account. All the
sensor and Compass sensor.
contents of the Tab such as
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A
pictures and videos can now be
supports one nano SIM card
viewed on the TV.
which supports 4G.
Battery
Conclusion
The battery of the Samsung
The Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab A is of 5,000
A is an attempt of the
mAh which is non-removable
company to stay in mid-range
in nature. The battery of the
segment where there is huge
device can give long hour of
competition from the brands
entertainment and without
such as Micromax and Lenovo.
Camera The rear camera comes with exciting options to make your photography a fulfilling experience. The 8 MP rear camera helps take clear images and the auto focus for this purpose works perfectly. Videos and images, both are captured with much ease. However, if someone is truly looking for a
verdict Looks
Feels huge in hand
08 /10
Cameras
07 /10
Performance
07 /10
Satisfactory results Could have been better
Battery
Enough to drive it a day
Value For Money A nice beginner
OVERALL
09 /10 08 /10
78%
getting low easily so you don’t
Priced at around Rs 17,990,
of similar price range then the
have to worry about charging
Tab A can be your companion
camera does need an upgrade
the device on regular occasions.
in long run with huge battery
in terms of its quality. There are
The charger of the device
life and bigger display. It’s
Cons
charges the device rapidly
rugged and solid in design
Heavy
as well. There is some minor
but too heavy also. If you’re
heating observed while charging
interested in Tabs which does
and using big applications but
not hurt your pocket that
it is not of that much concern
much, the Tab A could be an
because the device gets stable
option. n
tab instead of a smartphone
features though, that make this tab stand out on other grounds, such as the continuous shot feature which can be operated by holding down the camera button. All the other options are also featured on the screen
PROS Battery, Display
(For detailed specifications, please refer to My Guide)
Tried & Tested
burntest
haider@mymobile.co.in
december 2017 | 75
Tried & Tested
burntest
XIAOMI MI MIX 2 Best from Xiaomi till now
X
iaomi has made
material which can by chance
new at the back of the device
side of the device there is
deeper in-roads
put scratch on your phone.
which is that instead of ‘Mi’
the power button and giving
into the Indian
The back though gets your
logo the device is saying “Mix
company to power button
smartphone
finger marks wherever you
designed by Xiaomi”. At the
there are the volume rockers.
market with huge number
touch the device but it can be
bottom of the device there is
On the left there is dual nano
of products in each price
cleaned easily. The device is
USB Type C port that acts as
SIM card slot.
segment. The company has
very comfortable to hold and
charging port as well as the
managed to reach all the
operate. On the rear side of Mi
headphones jack and ditches
Display
sectors of population using
Mix 2 there is 12 MP camera
the usual 3.5mm jack. The
The Mi Mix 2 is featuring 5.99
smartphones; every now
in the centre with gold plated
company is giving an adapter
inch full HD plus no bezel
and then you will encounter
protruding rim and below the
to convert for you to use your
display on three sides but just
an individual using Xiaomi
camera there is the fingerprint
regular earphones with the
a tiny one at the chin, where
phone. The achievement of the
sensor and there is something
smartphone. At the right
it is having the front camera
company is only because of its variable smartphones price range which gave the company an upper hand to attract the users. The Redmi Note series took the smartphone market by storm and made great sale. Not just the Redmi series other smartphones of the company also managed to attract the users. In this review we will be shading light on the Xiaomi most expensive smartphone in India Mi Mix 2 which ranges between Rs 35,000 to 36,000.
Design The Mi Mix 2 has a delightful look with its ceramic back and has an aluminium frame with zero gaps. The ceramic material is scratchproof and it can stand any sharp
76 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
at the right corner and the
then that experience is also
enough to store anything you
is of 5 MP which is loaded
notification LED light in the
impressive because the Mi Mix
wish for. The external storage
with beautification feature.
centre. The display has been
2 runs any game smoothly.
cannot be expanded as there
The selfie camera is not upto
made more delighting with
The display plus processor
is no microSD card slot but
expectation because when
the 18:9 aspect ratio with a
plus RAM are giving fusion
when there is such internal
you are paying 36,000 for
resolution of 2160 x 1080 and
of powerful performance to
storage of 128 GB there is
a smartphone you hope for
403 ppi. With such display
let you play any games or to
no requirement of further
selfie camera which will give
size and resolution you cannot
perform any task. The storage
expanding it. The Mi Mix 2 has
you thrilling images but the
miss any detail of what has
is immense as well, as the
the latest Android operating
Mi Mix 2 front camera only
been portraying in the device.
Mi Mix 2 is offering 128 GB
system which is Android 7.1.1
gives average selfies plus the
The colour reproduction is
of internal storage which is
and is paired with Xiaomi’s
placement of the camera is
own MIUI 8.5.1.0 software.
towards the bottom of the
You won’t find app drawer
screen which is something that
in the Mi Mix 2. The device
is confusing for the users. The
is offering a second space
front camera does add to the
which enables users to have
disadvantage of the device.
accurate and the viewing angles are impressive as well. There is also a reading mode
verdict Looks
option to reduce the blue light
Very unique
emission.
Cameras
Platform The Mi Mix 2 is powered by a 2.45GHz octa-core Snapdragon 835 processor SoC which is powerful enough to make you run your applications like an
09 /10
Back overshadows front
08 /10
different profiles with separate
09 /10
wallpapers, apps, files and
Battery
Battery
photos. The Mi Mix 2 though
The Xiaomi Mix 2 is having
08 /10
forces you to keep some pre-
a powerful non removable
Value For Money
08 /10
loaded apps with third party
battery of 3,400mAh. The
such as Amazon, Microsoft
battery power is enough to give
Office and WPS Office that can
you long hour of entertainment
be uninstalled.
and fun. The device last for
Performance Very fluidic
Ample strength If you love new features
OVERALL
84%
easy walk in the park and it
long time with a single charge
should be expected from any
Cameras
device which is having such
The Mi Mix 2 has 12 MP
There is rapid charger as well
Sony IMX368 rear camera
to charge the device at a faster
with 4 axis Optical Image
rate.
price range. The power of the processor is further enhanced with 6 GB RAM of the device. The RAM of the device will let you run any app with ease. If you like playing big sized games with high graphics
PROS Processor, Display
Cons Could be the front camera positioning
(For detailed specifications, please refer to My Guide)
Stabilization. The rear
and it lasts throughout the day.
Overall the device is
camera captures good quality
powerful and delivers
of images which are clear
great performance but the
and crisp. The rear camera
disappointingaspects are the
performs well even in dim
cameras of Mi Mix 2.
light. The overall performance
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of the rear is quite average
Conclusion
and it could have been further
The Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 definitely
improved. The selfie camera
deserves applause for the new concept of putting the front camera at the front bottom but, that could also turn suicidal for it. The powerful processor adds value to an Rs 36,000 smartphone. Surely, Mi Mix 2 is a mixed bag of surprises and few misses as well. n haider@mymobile.co.in
december 2017 | 77
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SONY XPERIA XZ1 Amazes in each moment
T
he Japanese
smartphones as compared to
there is an earpiece as well
of the device there is the
multinational
Sony. Keeping all this aside,
which produces good quality
hybrid SIM tray which can
conglomerate
the company has continued
of sound while watching
accept either two SIM cards
which is known
to manufacture smartphones
videos or listening to music.
or one SIM card and one
as Sony is one of the oldest
which are costlier and in this
The front side is also sporting
microSD card. The device
and most trusted brand
review we will be looking in
sensors and notification LED.
is light and easy to carry
when it comes to electronic
detail about the recent launch
The back has a custom alloy
around and it fits perfectly in
products. One of the major
of the company which is Sony
designed by Sony, rear camera
your palm making it easy to
segments of the company
Xperia XZ1. The Xperia series
sensor and LED flash as well.
operate. The smartphone is
is its smartphone segment,
have launched some power
The bottom of the device is
IP65/ 68 water resistant and
which are producing some
performing smartphones as
featuring USB Type C port
India variant comes with dual-
stunning smartphones not just
the word “Xperia” represents
for charging and connectivity
SIM support.
in Indian smartphone market
experience.
alongside the primary mic
but all over the world. But
and the top is featuring
Display
in recent past the company
Design
3.5mm headphone jack and
The new Xperia XZ1 has a
have somewhere lost its
The new Xperia XZ1 has a
an additional mic for noise
5.2 inch full HD display and
charm and attractive aspects
solid style and it is quite
cancellation. At the right side
the display is protected by a
in the field of smartphone
attracting to look at because it
of the device there are the
solid slab of Gorilla Glass 5
manufacturing and one of the
is not following the common
volume rockers and power
which is for sure to protect
most prominent reasons is the
curved display design which is
button which is having the
the display from any scratch
lack of low and middle ranged
found in all the smartphones
fingerprint scanner embedded
or damage and it is latest
smartphones. The other
which you basically see
in it, there is the dedicated
Gorilla Glass by Corning. The
reason is the riseof various
nowadays. The front of the
camera button as well which
display has a screen resolution
smartphones companies which
device is having the company
is usually found in all Sony’s
of 1080x1920 pixels. The
have provided low costing
logo and the front camera and
smartphone. At the left side
display undoubtedly will give
78 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
device is having impressive 13 megapixel camera and if you are a selfie lover then you will love the selfie camera. You can click selfies at any condition without any issue no matter whether it is dim light or night. There is motion eye camera with super slow motion and Predictive Capture lets you see moments you have never seen before.
Battery The Xperia XZ1 has 2,700mAh non removable battery. The battery power as compared to you nice viewing experience
of the device. The device is
and you will have full HD
having 64 GB of ROM and
microSD card. The new Xperia XZ1 is the
feel. The device uses Sony’s
first Android smartphone to
BRAVIA TV technology which
be launched with Android
lets you play HDR shows and movies that are so clear and lifelike.
verdict Looks
Uniquely Xperia
Cameras
Performance The new Xperia XZ1 is powered by Snapdragon 835 SoC processor and the everyday task is handled smoothly. The processor is supported by 4GB RAM and the entire apps do run smoothly without
Trendsetter
Performance Like a Beast
Battery
Needed more
Value For Money Worth it
OVERALL
08 /10
8.0 Oreo which is one of the main attracting features of the device. It is something which
10 /10 10/10
is not easily found in most of the smartphones of recent launch.
07 /10
Cameras
09 /10
The Xperia XZ has a rear
88%
camera of 19 megapixel which is powerful and clicks stunning images and the camera of
any issue. The RAM easily lets
the phone will surely attract
you play any big sized games
you. The rear camera captures
and the gaming experience is
super sharp motion shots and
also good, games like Asphalt
it can capture sequences of
runs smoothly. The phone also works with PlayStation 4 as well so you can play the latest cutting edge games anywhere in your home. But if you are
PROS Cameras, Processor
Cons Could be the battery
(For detailed specifications, please refer to My Guide)
moving objects in sharp focus. The images taken at night are also exceptionally clear and vivid. The rear camera also holds various features which will attract the users. The big
paying above 40,000 you expect RAM size little more
it is enough storage to let
highlight of the device is the
because other smartphone
you store any apps, media or
3D scanner packed inside the
companies are providing 6GB
games without being in double
rear camera, which is capable
RAM in the same price range.
mind of the device is getting
of building a full scale 3D
The RAM size somewhere is
full. The storage can further
model of your face or any other
adding to the disadvantage
be expanded with the help of
object in few seconds. The
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other devices of same price range is quite average because other phones are offering more than 3,000 mAh battery power. Despite having 2,700 mAh battery the device lasts long and with a single charge it lasts throughout the day. There is rapid charger provided which charges the device in short span of time.
Conclusion In the context of present market offerings, Sony Xperia XZ1 is just like a cakewalk if you could afford to pay Rs 44,990. The performance is so immersive that you don’t want to leave it aside and the response time is in the fraction of second all due to the latest Android (8.0) Oreocoupled with fastest range of Snapdragon 835 processor. The cameras of XZ1 as always, stands apart in the device with slow motion, 3D creator and much more but, there are few disappointments as well such as battery and same old design. n haider@mymobile.co.in
december 2017 | 79
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CENTRIC A1 Has it all you need
O
ne of the most
brand is under the Priyanka
looking smartphone and has
two SIMS at a time or one
growing and
Communications India
a unibody metal design which
SIM and one microSD card.
flourishing
Private Limited (PCIPL) that
is just 7.8mm thin with
The right side of the phone is
market in India
operates three brand names
curved edges which is adding
sporting volume rockers and
is the smartphone market
namely Priyanka Telecom,
to the beauty of the phone.
the power button. The rear
where there are various
Centric and FRND.
The bottom side of the device
side of the device is having
companies giving tough
is having two speaker grilles
the rear camera, LED flash
competition to each other.
previously launched series
which are aimed at delivering
and the fingerprint sensor
The smartphone market
of smartphones like Centric
great sound quality; there is
aligned horizontally. Below
in India is dominated by
L1, P1, P1 Plus, and G1.
USB port at the bottom as
the fingerprint sensor lies the
Japanese and Chinese
The latest launch of the
well. The front side of the
logo of the device.
companies but in recent
company is the Centric A1
device at the upper region
times it has been seen that
which is priced in the mid-
is having the selfie camera
Display
there are Indian smartphones
range smartphones having
along with the flash. The
The new Centric A1 has
companies which are rising
the price tag between Rs
lower side of the front side is
a display size of 5.5 inch
up in the market and doing
10,000 – 11,000. In this
having the home key at the
which is full HD and has
reasonably good. One such
review we will see what does
centre and the two capacitive
resolution of 1920x1080
Indian company is Centric
Centric A1 possesses to lure
keys are placed on both side
pixels which is quite good
which is coming up with
the customers.
of the home key. The left
and the resolution gives you
side of the device is having
clear clarity while you watch
the SIM tray which is Hybrid
anything. The display of the
SIM tray allowing you to use
device is protected by 2.5D
new ideas and perspective
The company has
to expand its business in the
Design
smartphone market. Centric
The new Centric is good
80 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
13 megapixel with LED Flash so you can shoot amazing pictures at day and even at task. The gaming experience is also quite good because the display of the device with its aspect ratio gives users a real amazing experience. The RAM of the phone allows you to play high definitions game. The high definitions game on some occasions does heat the phone to some extent but overall the device functions well. The ROM of the device is of 32 GB which allows you store multiple apps, media, and games. Further the storage curved glass which shields your phone’s display and
verdict Looks
prevent any scratch or crack by
Solid and Sturdy
sudden fall of the device. The
Cameras
display size will give you good gaming experience also as because the size is such which
Never disappoints
08 /10 08 /10
Performance
07 /10
Battery
07 /10
Fluent throughout
provides you wider viewing
Enough for a day
angles.
Value For Money
Platform
OVERALL
A nice pick
08 /10
76%
can be expanded up to 128 GB with the help of microSD card. The new Centric A1 runs on Android 7.1.1 Nougat which is almost found in all the new smartphones who a have latest OS from Android. The device will also get the Oreo update soon as well.
Cameras Centric A1 has two impressive
The new Centric A1 is powered
cameras to attract the users
by 1.4GHz Qualcomm
to let them click amazing
Snapdragon 430 SoC
pictures in any condition.
processor. The processor is
PROS
developed in such manner that
Cameras
it lets you run your smartphone smoothly.The device is having 3 GB of RAM which is to
Cons
Centric A1 has 8 MP front
Could be the battery
camera with LED flash which
(For detailed specifications, please refer to My Guide)
take you away with the tasks
means that you do not have to worry about the condition or about the lighting of the environment in which you
without having much load on
able to keep the device from
are clicking selfie because
other processes of the phone.
getting over heated and also
the LED is there. So for selfie
The RAM with the help of
not allowing the device to get
lovers it is quite an attracting
the processor to some extent
hanged in between in any
feature. The rear camera is of
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night as well. The cameras are quite good giving you clear and crispy images even in the dim lightings. The camera app features a face beauty mode and various editing filters which are now latest and trending. The cameras of Centric A1 deliver decent images so one might find Centric A1 attracting.
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Battery The new Centric A1 possesses an impressive battery power. It is powered by 3,000 mAh non removable battery giving the phone boost of power. The battery power of the device is quite impressive allowing the users to use the phone throughout the day. It gives you non- stop hour of enjoyment whether you are playing game or you are enjoying movies. The charging of the device is powered by a Qualcomm rapid charger 3.0 which has the capability to charge the device fast. It can give 4 hours of talk time in just 10 minutes of charge.
Conclusion The new Centric A1 clicks all the boxes of being a good performer in the mid-range segment. The phone feels nice in hand as the size is quite appropriate. Both the cameras give decent images without much of noise. In a nutshell, A1 could a good option to begin with in just Rs 10,999 n haider@mymobile.co.in
december 2017 | 81
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MOTO G5s PLUS A good mid ranger
L
enovo has
good impressions in the Indian
of the box and to be one of the
logo of the company could
impressed and
market and has provided
most favoured smartphone in
be seen in middle of the rear
made huge
the users with various series
the Indian market is its price
side. There is something new
success by
of powerful and delighting
range because it provides all
as well with the new Moto G5s
combining its power with Moto
smartphones at a reasonable
the necessary aspects required
Plus which is that the device
and delivering smartphones
price range. There are various
in smartphone at a reasonable
boasts of a water repellent
which are in demand at all
series of smartphones
and affordable price range.
nano coating for protection
the times in the smartphone
launched by the company like
In this review we will be
against accidental splashes.
market especially in Indian
E series, G series, and Z series.
looking at one of the G series
smartphone market. Moto has
What makes Moto to stand out
smartphone launched by the
Display
company which is Moto G5s
The display of new Moto G5s
Plus. The previous G series
Plus is following the display
smartphones have stood well
size trend as well which is
up to the expectations of the
having a display size of 5.5
users, so we will look into
inch which is seen in most the
details what does this new fifth
smartphones of the price tag
generation Moto G5s Plus have
which is assigned with Moto
to offer.
G5s Plus. The display is full
Design
comforting experience when
The new G5s Plus has
you are performing any task.
full metal body which is
The resolution of the device
something new and earlier
is of 1080x1920 pixel which
not seen in the G series
means the video and image
smartphones of the company.
viewing quality is very good.
The device is light weight as
The display of the device
well and you can easily carry
is protected from random
it around without feeling any
scratches and falls by the
load. At the bottom of the
Corning Gorilla Glass 3.
device there is micro USB port
82 | december 2017
HD and gives you nice and
along with a speaker grille and
Platform
microphone. The front side
The new Moto G5s Plus has
of the device has the selfie
Snapdragon 625 SoC and
camera along with the sensor
the processor is clocked at
and at the front side towards
2 GHz. The company have
the bottom of display lies
provided one of the powerful
the fingerprint sensor which
processor which was earlier
works fine and recognises
seen in Z series of the phones
your fingerprint impression
by the Moto but in the new
in micro seconds. The rear
Moto G5s Plus you are getting
side of the device sports the
such processor which is like
rear camera which is giving
bonus for the users and will
the rear panel circular bumps
attract those who don’t like any
around it. There is flash as
hindrance while performing or
well at the rear side and the
using any application.There
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verdict
is 4GB of RAM embedded
Moto G5s Plus admirable
in the device to make it deal
and desirable is its dual
with heavy tasks with ease.
rear cameras. There are two
The RAM supports big file
13 megapixel sensors with
games and gives you better
f/2.0 apertures and colour
experience when using the
correcting dual LED flash. If
device. Games like Asphalt
you like capturing clear shots
runs smoothly. The ROM of
and saving memories in clear
the device is of 64 GB which is
and crisp form then the rear
quite impressive as it can store
camera will provide you with
immense amount of apps and
that option. The rear camera
any files. The ROM can further
captures stunning images no
be expanded upto 128 GB with
matter what the conditions
the help of microSD card. The
are. The selfie camera is of 8
At last it could be said that the
internal storage of the device
megapixel sensor with an f/2.0
device is perfect for use and
is giving it an advantage which
aperture, wide angle lens, and
is doing justice with the price
is not usually seen in other
LED flash, so if you are selfie
smartphones of the same price
lover then you will love the new
range of G5s Plus. So it could
Moto G5s Plus.
be said that it will attract the buyers for sure.The new Moto
Battery
G5s Plus runs on Android 7.1
The new G5s Plus has a
Nougat operating system.
powerful battery of 3,000
Cameras
Looks
Very clean
08 /10
Cameras
08 /10
Performance
09 /10
Battery
08 /10
Impressive overall Very smooth Enough for a day
Value For Money A good choice
OVERALL
PROS Processor
09 /10
84%
charges the device at a rapid rate. The new G5s Plus is a hybrid dual-SIM phone with two Nano-SIM slots, one of which is a shared microSD slot. Connectivity options on the smartphone include 4G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS/ A-GPS, Micro-USB, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Conclusion
Cons
tag which it is having. The
Heating might be an issue
hot selling smartphones in the
(For detailed specifications, please refer to My Guide)
Moto G5s Plus is one of the mid segment and it’s because of the perfect mixture of good specs in just Rs 15,999. The dual lens setup and
mAh which will give you long
other phones of same power
solid design as well as splash
hours of phone usage with a
is comparatively long lasting
resistant make it a perfect
One of the most attracting
single charge. The battery
and powerful. The phone has
upgrade to your closet. n
features which is making new
of the phone as compared to
the Turbo power charger which
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haider@mymobile.co.in
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HONOR HOLLY 4 A nice beginner
H
onor is yet again here with a new launch of smartphone
Honor Holly 4 which is basically an upgraded version of last year’s Honor Holly 3. The company have delivered some stunning smartphones which made impact all around the smartphone market especially the launches which stole the limelight were Honor 8, Honor 8pro, Honor 8 Lite and last but not least the stunning Honor 9i. In this review we will be looking in detail about Honor Holly 4 and what it has in it to make it last and stand strong in the Indian smartphone market which demands powerful performance at a reasonable price tag.
Design The new Honor Holly 4 has a metal body which do looks beautiful in your hand. The device is light and easy to carry around and fits your palm easily because it has a compact size which carries just 5 inch display. The rear side of the device is sporting the fingerprint sensor, 13 megapixel rear camera with LED flash. Coming to the front of the device it has 5 megapixel front camera and the logo of the brand is below the display. There is a 3.5mm headphone jack at the top of the device and at the bottom there is the USB port and
84 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
verdict Looks
09 /10
Cameras
09 /10
Performance
09 /10
Battery
Manages a day
08 /10
Value For Money
10 /10
Mediocre Shoots nicely Easy throughout
A nice beginner
OVERALL
72%
x 1.2GHz Cortex A53 + 4 x 1.5 GHz Cortex A53). It has 64 bit
Cons
PROS Processor
Could be the front camera
(For detailed specifications, please refer to My Guide)
do get little tangled up.
giving you long hours of fun and entertainment. The device
Mobile platform with Adreno
Cameras
5o5 GPU. The processor is
The new Honor Holly 4 has 13
just a single charge. There is
powerful expanding the battery
megapixel rear camera which
little heating noted while the
life as well as running the tasks
delivers nice images in most
charging and because of the
smoothly. The Honor Holly 4
conditions with LED flash. The
metallic body the heating is
has 3 GB RAM which eases
images were properly exposed
noted easily while holding it.
last throughout the day with
the path for your tasks to get
in most of well-lit situations
two speaker grilles. The hybrid
performed smoothly. With such
but it tends to disappoint a
the device include 4G VoLTE
dual SIM tray is at the left side
processor combined with RAM
bit when it comes to dark or
and it supports 4G Indian
of the device.
the device is all set to deliver
dim conditions.The selfie
bands as well. There is Wi-Fi
a great performance in every
camera is of 5 megapixel and
802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth v4.1,
Display
The connectivity options of
field and to handle any process
does deliver clear selfies but
micro USB with OTG support.
The new Honor Holly 4 has a
without any issue. The ROM
when you look around there
The sensors which the Holly 4
HD display of 5 inch with a
of the device is 32 GB giving
are other smartphones with
possesses are accelerometer,
resolution of 1280x720 pixels
enough space for storage and
better selfie camera. If you
ambient light sensor, and
which is majorly found in all
further the storage can be
are selfie lover then you will
proximity sensor.
the smartphones of the price
expanded with the help of
be just satisfied with the selfie
range which Honor Holly 4 is
microSD card. The processor,
camera not excited which is
Conclusion
carrying. The display is neither
RAM and ROM of the device
another setback of the device.
To sum up, the device does
too big nor too small for you
is doing justice with the price
Overall, both the lenses are
deliver goodperformance while
to perform any task let it be
tag of the device and giving
just like any other mediocre
performing most of the tasks.
playing games or watching
tough competition to other
smartphone in the market.
The rear camera adds value
any video or performing any
smartphones of the same price
Though, it may look cool to
to the device while the front
official work. But when you
range.
the first time buyers but if you
disappointed.The battery is
have any great expectations
manageable to great extent
look at other smartphones with
Honor Holly 4 has the
the price range of 12,000 you
latest version of EMUI 5.1
from Holly 4 in camera
and can take you a day at least.
will find display sizes bigger,
which is newer version than
performance, you need to
The display isn’t that good
so it could be said that in the
the previous launch of the
think once again.
while the design failed
field of display size it is lagging
company which was Honor
behind somewhere.
8 Lite and Honor 8 Pro and
Battery
the UI is based on Android
The new Honor Holly is
4 will have to face some
Performance
to impress me. Selling nearly at Rs 11,000, the Honor Holly
7.0 Nougat. The gaming
powered by 3,020 mAh non
tough competition from the
Honor Holly 4 powered
experience is also good but
removable battery. The battery
likes of Moto E4 Plus and
by octa-core Qualcomm
while playing big sized games
is undoubtedly powerful
Redmi Note 4. n
Snapdragon 430 processor (4
with high graphics the device
making the device last long
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GOOGLE PIXEL 2 Brilliance Amalgamated
G
oogle has
The Pixel is designed by and
come up with
is marketed as being a Google
the second
product although the company
lineage of Pixel
used HTC as a contract
devices; Pixel 2 and XL. This
manufacturer and recently
is also seen as an attempt
both the companies had stuck
by the Google to raise the
a deal to transfer manpower
bar in the premium segment
that was into making Pixel
of smartphones mainly
devices. I’ve got Pixel 2 for the
dominated by Apple and
review. So let’s check out how
Samsung across the globe.
it fared on our parameters.
Design The top section of Pixel 2 is made from glass to provide antenna transmissivity and the back is made from aluminium with a thin premium coating of plastic. The phone is great to look at and has a slim body design. The phone is easy to carry around as well and it will fit the size of your hand easily
as it is having the display size of just 5 inch but that does not add to the disadvantage of the device. The rear side of the phone is having the fingerprint sensor to unlock the device with a single touch plus it is used for clicking the images. There is 12.2 megapixel rear camera at the rear side as well which can record 4K video at 30 FPS, 1080p video at 120 FPS and 720p video at 240 FPS. Not to forget there is LED flash as well at rear side of the device. The front side of the device is sporting 8 megapixel selfie camera and the speaker is placed at front side only. The bottom of the device has USB Type C port which is used both for charging and for connecting headset. There is no different connectivity option for headphone jack. At the right side of the device there are the power button and volume rockers. The left side of the device is having the SIM tray and you won’t find space for microSD card there as because the phone does not support microSD card and internal memory cannot be expanded. The lack of separate headphone jack and inability to expand storage might add up to the minus point of the device.
Display The new Google Pixel 2 has a display size of 5-inch full HD OLED panel which produces nicely saturated colours and the aspect ratio of display is of
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burntest 16:9. The resolution size of the device is 1080x1920 pixels. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5 which is the latest protecting glass by Corning and the phone is resistant against any scratch or any sudden fall.
Platform The new Google Pixel 2 is powered by Snapdragon 835 SoC processor and you will witness everyday task is handled smoothly without any issue. The processor is supported by 4GB RAM and the apps do run smoothly reducing the workload of the processor. The RAM easily lets you play any big sized games and the gaming experience is also good, games like Asphalt Injustice 2 runs smoothly. But on the other hand phones of the price tag which Google Pixel 2 is carrying are offering mostly 6 GB of RAM. The RAM size might provide a minus point to the device. The device is having 64 GB of ROM and it is enough storage to let you store any apps, media or games without being in double mind of the device is getting full. The storage cannot be further expanded as there is no space for microSD card. Overall experience of the processor and RAM is very good and it
is set to trigger Google Assistant. Since the device is having OLED panels which means that there is an always-on display feature along with something
Stabilisation.
called Now Playing, which taps
The camera captures
into Google’s AI capabilities
great quality of images at any
to try to identify songs playing
condition. There are various
in the background, and one
effects like slow motion
the device.
don’t even need an Internet
camera and other features
For charging of
connection for that.
which further enhancing the
the device there is rapid
camera quality and adding to
charger which boost up the
the advantage of the device.
battery charging and let you
The new Google Pixel 2 has a
The portrait mode gives some
use your device with short time
powerful rear camera of 12.2
stunning shots. Each and every
of separation from your phone.
megapixel with wide f/1.8
detail of a frame gets properly
There is no issue of the device
apertures and Optical Image
exposed and on top of that
getting heated up during the
there’s unlimited storage from
charging.
Google so you don’t have to
The other connectivity options
bother about the number of
include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0,
08 /10
clicks you might have.
GPS, and NFC. The device
The selfie camera is of 8
supports 4G Indian network
Cameras
10 /10
megapixel with f/2.4 aperture
band as well. The sensors on
Performance
10 /10
and it will excite the selfie
the phone include fingerprint,
lovers for sure and there are
accelerometer, gyro, proximity,
various selfie effects as well.
compass, and barometer.
Cameras
verdict Looks
Not much of innovation Stand out Like a Flagship
Battery
Drains less
08 /10
Value For Money
10 /10
If you could afford it
OVERALL
92%
won’t give you any point to complaint about. The new update of Android OS which are guaranteed for a long time. There’s a new feature called Active Edge, which works similarly to the ‘squeeze’
for the selfie mode as well apart
Conclusion
from other beautification mode.
The Google Pixel 2 clearly wins
In a nutshell, Pixel 2 is one
the heart of the user with top
the best lens smartphone at
notch camera performance,
present.
immersive response and light
Battery
Google Pixel 2cruns on latest is Android 8 Oreo and updates
The portrait mode also works
PROS Cameras, Processor
Cons Could be the battery
(For detailed specifications, please refer to My Guide)
gesture on the HTC U11, and
www.mymobileindia.com
weight design. The smartphone runs like breeze throughout
The new Google Pixel 2 has
no matter which type of game
a non-removable battery of
you’re interested in. Available
2,700 mAh. The battery
at nearly Rs 61,000, Pixel 2 is
is made to last for long
a serious competitor for iPhone
hours providing non-stop
8 and Samsung Note 8. n
entertainment and usage of
haider@mymobile.co.in
december 2017 | 87
Tried & Tested
burntest
MICROMAX BHARAT 1 For an affordable 4G experience
O
ne of the most
who feel uncomfortable with
renowned, well
the smartphones because
established
of all the complex settings
Indian
and not being able to operate
verdict
feature phone.The new Bharat 1 has something interesting
Looks
08 /10
to offer to the user which is calling and data per month at
Basic Design
smartphone in the market in
it properly. Micromax has
Cameras
none other than the Micromax,
Not to rely on
07 /10
brought back the feature
Performance
09 /10
Battery
10 /10 10 /10
Very good
that it provides you unlimited an amazing price of just Rs 97
headquartered in Gurgaon,
phone in trend and has given
Haryana. Micromax over the
a gift of 4G with it. The new
past has proved itself well and
feature phone Bharat 1
Too much to ask for
had done justice with its logo
from Micromax is aimed at
Value For Money
and what does that stands
reaching those sections of
for. As we all know the punch
people who cannot afford 4G
logo of Micromax has punched
smartphones. In this review
itself in every section of the
we will see what new it has
sound to come out is also at
Indian economic society.
to offer with its latest launch
the front side of the device.
It provides smartphones
of 4G feature phone called
There is VGA selfie camera
of every range from low to
Bharat 1.The new 4G feature
high price range. The usage
phone from Micromax have
of smartphones have been
fused with BSNL for providing
increased immensely in the
best 4G offers to you at low
recent last decade but there
price. The phone is for sure
are various section of people
to give competition to JIO
88 | december 2017
Worthy purchase
OVERALL
PROS Battery, Processor
88%
Cons Competition
(For detailed specifications, please refer to My Guide)
from BSNL.
Design The phone looks like all the feature phones with keypad and a display at front side of the device. The path for the
as well at the front. The head or the top of the device is sporting flashlight which is basically to make the device a preferable choice in rural areas. The bottom of the
MYMOBILE
device is having the USB port
is of 4 GB and allows you to
day. The charging is also rapid
the 4G feature phone. Overall
and the 3.5mm headphone
store multiple apps and media
as the charger quickly transfers
the phone delivers great
jack. At the back there is the
and the storage can further
charge via its cable. The device
performance and for a feature
2 MP rear camera and the
be expanded further with the
at sometimes do heat up but
phone with 4G it is making
Micromax logo. The logo is also
placement of SD card. The
not to that much extent where
everybody to get connected
at the front side of the device.
phone is offering a great deal
it could become noticeable
with each other at a much
The SIM holders are beneath
of performance in its processor
and be a major of concern.
faster speed.The best part
the battery and you basically
and the users won’t have any
have to remove battery to put
complaint because in a feature
Conclusion
your SIM cards and microSD
phone it is the best which one
The phone is priced at 2,200
immediate competitor Jio but
card. The battery is removable
can get.
Indian rupees and it is doing
it has to face some difficulties
justice with its price tag as it
with Airtel-Karbonn bundled
provides you 4G and an offer
phone. n
in nature. The phone supports dual micro SIM cards and the
Cameras
4G Indian band network. The
The Bharat 1 has a selfie
connectivity also includes
camera as well
Wi-Fi option, GPS, and
of 0.3 megapixel
Bluetooth as well.
which at its
Display
piece of work. Although you
screen. The phone has QVGA
cannot have a crispy
screen which has resolution
and sharp selfie
of 320 pixels horizontally
but you can have a
by 240 pixels vertically. The
selfie atleast. There
colours produced by the screen
is 2 megapixel
are good and basically good
rear camera and it
enough for a feature phone.
also clicks decent
One can watch clear videos
pictures. The phone
and view images which have
has kept in mind all
decent colour texture.
the trending aspects
by Qualcomm Snapdragon
haider@mymobile.co.in
reasonable decent
is 6.09 cm which is 2.4 inch
The new Bharat A1 is powered
one service provider like its
price range did
The display size of the phone
Performance
from BSNL to make you utilize
is that it’s not locked to just
Tried & Tested
burntest
which nowadays any smartphone usually possesses.
Processor which is to keep the
Battery
phone processes steady and to
The phone has a
keep the battery from getting
removable battery
heated up while performing
of 2,000 mAh
any task. The processor of the
which is relatively
device is supported by the
a powerful battery
ROM of the device which is
for feature phone.
of 512 MB. The RAM does
The battery lasts for
decent work together with
long and let you to
processor. While using any fig
use it for a longer
sized application the phone
periof of time. In a
do tangles up little bit. The
single charge it can
internal storage of the phone
last throughout the
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 89
Guest Column
by Invitation
The HR Catalyst Gaurav Verma dwells upon four key technological innovations which are transforming the human resources today
T
he role of human resources
possess, will need in the short, long, and
HR team. Given the immense pressures and
team in a company requires
medium term future, and how to provide
challenging expectations placed upon them,
a macro-level engagement
the required skills – either through hiring
it is no wonder that HR managers, even while
with the employees of a
new people, or through on-the-job training.
trying to manage employee concerns, are
company to manage recruitment and hiring
Managing a large workforce, tracking their
vulnerable to stress and burning out. Further,
and suggesting employee training and
skills, finding new talent, managing the
the level of analytical work required in figuring
development strategies. These activities
existing talent, organizing trainings – these
out future requirements is often beyond the
require the HR team to have a clear idea
are all incredibly data-intensive activities, and
processing power of most analysts, let alone
of the skills that the company’s employees
often put substantial pressure on a company’s
the average HR executive. The solution? The use of technology to optimize has been trending in HR, and here are 4 of the best innovations being used in HR today.
People analytics Conventionally, HR databases were oftoverlooked collections of old resumes from old applications and personal employee data of little consequence for the day-to-day running of companies. However, this data held incredibly relevant information about candidate skill-sets; it was entirely plausible that a candidate was hired for some skill, but their other talents were irrelevant at that
“A kind of big brother to HR applications and tools, HR platforms are end-to-end employee management systems that enable technology to optimize nearly every aspect of HR functioning. Their in-built recruitment management systems handle everything from sourcing, online interviewing, interview management, candidate scoring, ongoing candidate relationship management, and onboarding”
90 | december 2017
time. In the past, when there was a need for that talent, HR teams would often consider external resources instead of checking to see if the talent was available in-house. Over the last few years, companies have been moving their back-office HR data to the forefront, using advanced analytics and reporting dashboards to track available talent, and identify where, when, and how to add new skills to the mix. With enough data, advanced
MYMOBILE
from sourcing, online interviewing, interview management, candidate scoring, ongoing candidate relationship management, and onboarding. They also provide technical support for HR teams to look at existing employee’s KRAs, goals, targets, performance, concerns, feedback, and other metrics that help them gain an immediate insight into the health and efficiency of the company’s workforce. They often have features that allow the employees to have access to their own dashboard, where they can track their own performance according to metrics set by their superiors in the corporate hierarchy or by themselves. These systems have exhibited increased efficiency and
Guest Column
by invitation
performance amongst employees across functions and verticals.
Big Data/AI in recruitment One of the biggest challenges that HR teams face during recruitment is being able to predict whether a candidate will be a ‘good fit’ for the company or not. Subjective
“Over the last few years, companies have been moving their back-office HR data to the forefront, using advanced analytics and reporting dashboards to track available talent, and identify where, when, and how to add new skills to the mix”
evaluations of a candidate’s ‘attitude’ are fraught with inaccuracies, as candidates are looking to sell themselves to a company and often overstate their eagerness to perform, but show their true colors and capabilities once they are hired. This mismatch between
analytics engines can even create predictive
sent in through mobile devices, allowing for
expectations and reality are difficult to deal
models about the company’s growth and
online video interviews and communications,
with, especially since the atmosphere of
talent mix, and predictively suggest new hires,
to presenting current employees with
suspicion that they create can lead to the
streamlining and making the recruitment
data about their leaves, in-and-out times,
rejection of worthy candidates and accepting
process more efficient and targeted.
meetings, reminders, tasks, and so forth.
unworthy candidates who project an air of
These applications are an important support
unwarranted confidence. But why risk making
system for HR employees, helping them not
such arbitrary choices when you can use
The market has had HR management
just keep track of the many things they have
data and computers to do it for you? Using
tools for several years now, with varying
to do over the course of a day, but also by
massive amounts of collected information
levels of effectiveness and utility. For the
helping them conduct those activities with a
and improving over time, AI can use Big
most part, these tools were trackers that
level of convenience not seen before.
Data to help HR teams choose between
HR applications and tools
required manual input, and would only aid HR executives in the same manner as
HR platforms
to-do lists would. However, advancements
A kind of big brother to HR applications
in communication technologies have made
and tools, HR platforms are end-to-end
these tools and software suites immensely
employee management systems that enable
more powerful. These tools now allow for
technology to optimize nearly every aspect of
a much more streamlined recruitment
HR functioning. Their in-built recruitment
process, from allowing applications to be
management systems handle everything
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different candidates by giving more accurate probabilities about which candidate would be a better choice for your company. n
Mr Gaurav Verma is Chief Technical Officer, Aasaanjobs which is a leading online HR marketplace connecting employers, consultants and job seekers for jobs.
december 2017 | 91
In Conversation
face to face
“We would increase our production to 4 lakh units a month�
Kara Mobiles, A Delhi-based homegrown brand, is on an expansion spree with
Which are the target areas of Kara Mobiles? Our majority sales come from non-metro cities and towns. We are present in West
two more brands to its name and
Bengal, Bihar, Maharashtra, Rajasthan,
wants to make it big in the field of mobile
Punjab, Hyderabad, Uttar Pradesh,
manufacturing within the country. Being a
Karnataka, Gujarat and North Eastern States. At the same time we would be
startup, the journey of Kara Mobiles has not
exploring new demography as well.
been that smooth due to demonetization in
What would be the suitable channel for
the initial stages but now it has recovered
growth? We will be focusing on both
from the initial hiccups to take on to the already established players in the Indian
the medium to sell our devices. Online is doing well as of now and the offline medium is on the rise.
market. Karan Thukral, Chairman of
How has been the sale during Diwali and
Kara Mobiles shared his anecdotes with
post GST? Overall, GST has not impacted
Haider Ali Khan about the company and its
impacted earlier was demonetization. We
planning ahead.
92 | december 2017
the sales of our devices but, what had were almost on the brink of closure at
MYMOBILE
that time because we have just started our
getting only few enquiries but now things
respective brands. It’s the amount of
operations in September 2016, two months
have improved. Now people can easily
money that you put into a brand comes
before demonetization was implemented.
identify our brand Kara.
back automatically to you. The kind of
But, things have improved since then.
investments which Chinese companies are
GST has provided a level playing field for all
How do you see the competition in the market?
putting in brand promotion is huge. We are
of us as an industry. The rate which used to
The competition will always be there and at
not going to copy their model but will surely
be at 5 percent now stands at 12 percent
the same time each one is able to sell their
focus on going strength to strength as even
and that will ultimately percolate on to the
the banks are willing to give credits to us
buyer’s pocket.
which wasn’t the case earlier. So we at Kara
“We are focusing on music, What is production capability of Kara Mobiles? The current production battery, torch and selfie output at this facility is 1.5 lakhs cameras. We do keep in mind units per month. The production of feature phones is more as compared the design of our each product to smartphones. We have started our to give the maximum out of operation on 5 September 2016 with just 40 members, manufacturing around minimum amount in 30 thousands units in a month. We have that range” hired Indian engineers at that time to look
are very optimistic about our future and not wary of the competition in the market. What is the USP of Kara Mobiles? For that you have to feel our products. We are focusing on music, battery, torch and selfie cameras. We do keep in mind the design of our each product to give the maximum out of minimum amount in that range. We are also giving 100 days replacement warranty on the handsets. We
In Conversation
face to face
into the nuances of manufacturing without any other outsourcing. And now, we’re a team of more than 200 people. Where do you see the demand in the areas which you would be targeting? Is it the feature or smartphones? The area which we’re targeting is more interested into feature phones and because of that if we’re producing 100 mobiles in a day, 70 of them would be feature phones, rest are smartphones. The demand keeps on changing. In the initial six months we were
have over 400 service centers across the country. What would be your planning for the future? We will be bringing more Androidbased phones in the coming months. Wewould aspire to increase the production capacity to 4 lakhs units per month and for that we will be adding more workforce. At the same time, we are also mulling options to start our own in-house battery manufacturing n haider@mymobile.co.in
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 93
In Conversation
face to face
“We see an immense potential in the online travel market in India” US-based online fare aggregator and metasearch app, KAYAK, wants to make it big in India despite stiff competition from the indigenous players in the market. The travel portal has tasted success in US market and aims to replicate the same here in India. Abhijit Mishra, Country Director, KAYAK India, spoke with Haider Ali Khan on the various
features of the app and their plans for Indian market. Why KAYAK, when we have other options as well? What’s different about KAYAK is that we do all the hard work for you, by searching and comparing hundreds of travel sites so our users don’t have to. And we do this across flights, hotels, cars and packages And our App is very helpful, it’s like having your own personal travel assistant to plan and manage your whole trip. Everything is in one place; we help you organize it all in one App. Our strategy is to deliver comprehensive, accurate and fast results to our users. Where does technology become a catalyst for you and a traveler? We believe we have the strongest technology team in the travel industry that could bring value to travelers. As a global tech company, innovation is a priority, that’s why we have a dedicated team that focuses on site technology and innovation. Our travel tools like Trips, Explore, Price Forecast etc. were designed to make travel planning and managing trips easier and our users love them. For example, Trips organizes and manages your travel itineraries and notifies you when “your flight departs in 3 hours”. Also, Price Forecast recommends whether to “book now” or “wait”, so you can book with confidence, once travelers start using these tools, they are hooked, and cannot travel without us anymore! For me, KAYAK has always been my personal favorite travel
94 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
“Having pioneered the category globally, the onus of simplifying travel for Indian customers is a priority for us at KAYAK. Our tools and technology will help Indian travelers search, plan and manage their trips more easily” tool because its makes travelling much
What are the trends in India while
We will continue to educate consumers
easier. When travelling becomes easy,
choosing a flight, hotel or destination? Do
about our brand and the suite of travel
naturally you will find yourself always on
people still opt for more discounts offering
tools that we offer. We hope that with
the go.
platforms?
KAYAK, travelers can spend more time
Our latest KAYAK “Travel Addicts”
looking forward to their travel plans and
Have you been able to taste the success in
survey tells us that 62% of Indians check
leaving the stress from travel planning
India as you did in US and European Countries?
flight prices every day before booking, and
behind. We are not focusing only on
We see an immense potential in the online
47% of Indians open multiple browsers
mobile, but an all-rounded seamless
travel market in India, with increasing
to compare prices - meaning that Indian
experience across platforms, throughout
internet penetration and smartphone
travelers are really keen in finding and
their journey.
adoption, India stands at the cusp of an
securing cheap travel deals.
internet revolution. While the online travel space has witnessed a boom, over the years, today, there are hundreds of players in the same space vying for consumer’s attention. However, more than being a challenge, we see this as an opportunity for the industry and for consumers. Having pioneered the category globally, the onus of simplifying travel for Indian customers is a priority for us at KAYAK. Our tools and technology will help Indian travelers search, plan and manage their trips more easily. What sets KAYAK apart from other travel search engines and online
This also tells us that KAYAK is highly
“We are not focusing only on mobile, but an all-rounded seamless experience across platforms, throughout their journey. As we penetrate further into the Indian market, we want our app and website to be a one stop travel solution for all Indian travelers”
travel agencies is the comprehensiveness
As we penetrate further into the Indian
In Conversation
face to face
market, we want our app and website to be a one stop travel solution for all Indian travelers. Do you also need a face to promote KAYAK in India like many do? For us, the quality of our proposition is what we believe will attract users. At this stage, we are looking to familiarize consumers with using travel metasearch engines, because for years, Indian consumers have been booking their trips through travel agents or OTAs. We will continue to educate consumers about KAYAK and the many travel tools that we offer.
of our search results and the travel tools we provide.
How beneficial has the facility of e-Visa
Did this boom in smartphone users
been for a traveler and an online portal like
across the world help your cause to get the
relevant for Indian travelers because we
KAYAK? e-Visas have immensely eased
maximum traction and hence revenues?
search hundreds of travel sites at once and
travel for people across the globe, because
Increasing smartphone penetration has
we offer comprehensive search results, so
it enables last-minute travels. E-Visas will
enabled almost every mobile application,
users don’t have to spend time in doing the
not only benefit travelers, but also give an
including KAYAK, to do more. Mobile is a
hard work anymore.
opportunity to travel portals to tap into the
key strategic priority for KAYAK; we want our
frequent flyers looking to fly last-minute.
users to not only use us for travel planning
What would be your business plan for India?
Someday, you might leave for a trip
but to allow us to assist throughout their
India is a rapidly growing travel market
with just your mobile device - because your
trip. Our KAYAK mobile app has more than
and has continued to show impressive
boarding pass, passport, key to your hotel
60+ million downloads, and one-third
growth over the past several years. We see
room and wallet - could all be accessible
of our traffic is mobile and that number
an immense potential in the online travel
continues to grow.
market.
from your smartphone. n haider@mymobile.co.in
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 95
International
market insight
China
Established OEMs grow stronger
Established players are widening the gap with competition while replacement users are driving the volume in world’s biggest smartphone market
C
hina really matters and when
last year. Q3 2016 was marked by robust
meant that sales to consumers were strong
it comes to smartphones
growth by a number of brands including
in Q3 2017, growing by almost 12% year
it matters even more as it
OPPO and Vivo. This year shipment growth
on year.
happens to be the biggest
was strong in the second quarter, resulting
These factors resulted in a close
smartphone market while contributing
in many brands ending Q2 2017 with
competitive dynamic between the top
almost 30% of the global smartphone
high inventory levels and leading to softer
three brands. Commenting on the analysis,
volumes. Winning in this market is critical
shipments in the third quarter. However
James Yan, Research Director at
as this market alone can push a brand into
efforts to correct the excess inventory
Counterpoint Research said, “Compared
the top five rankings globally. So who are the leaders of the pack here? The latest Counterpoint Research’s Market Monitor study reveals that established domestic leaders such as Huawei, Oppo and vivo continue to dominate the competition and widening the gap while capturing the top three spots. The surprise comeback, however, has been from Xiaomi which has made the market dynamics super competitive. According to the Counterpoint Research, smartphone shipments in China were down 1% YoY but grew 3% sequentially during Q3 2017. Chinese market shipments slowed in Q3 2017 compared to a strong quarter
96 | december 2017
“Huawei, Oppo and vivo continue to dominate the competition and widening the gap while capturing the top three spots in China market. The surprise comeback, however, has been from Xiaomi which has made the market dynamics super competitive” MYMOBILE
to last year, where Oppo and vivo were the fastest growing brands in China with volumes up 109% YoY and 78% YoY
Exhibit 1: China Smartphone Shipments & Market Share in Q3 2017 Q3 2016
Q3 2017
oppo
16.5%
18.9%
the two brands are still growing at a healthy
HUAWEI
14.9%
18.6%
rate and have closed on the previous
VIVO
16.1%
18.6%
quarter’s leader, Huawei. OPPO’s R11 was
XIAOMI
10.3%
13.8%
APPLE
8.5%
10.0%
OTHERS
26.8%
20.0%
TOTAL
100%
100%
respectively, growth for these two brands has slowed down this quarter. Nonetheless,
the bestselling model overall, which helped OPPO edge just ahead of Huawei during the quarter.” Yan continued, “Huawei’s growth for the quarter (+23% YoY) was stronger than its performance in the same quarter last year. This was possible thanks to a wider
China Smartphone Shipment Market Share %
Source : Counterpoint Research Market Monitor Q3 2017 *Shipments refers to sales from the manufacturer to the first layer of the distribution channel. It is not the same as sales to the final consumer.
mix of its older generation iPhones and
portfolio across a broad range of price
channel fill for the iPhone 8 series.
bands, catering to different consumers.
However Apple exited the quarter with
In spite of this, Huawei couldn’t keep up
some iPhone 8 inventory due to softer than
with OPPO and saw Vivo closing in as well,
expected demand compared to the iPhone
thanks to its X9 series.”
7 series.”
Commenting on Xiaomi’s performance
Mr Pathak, further added, “We expect
during the quarter, Counterpoint’s
that the soft Apple sales are temporary
Research Analyst Mengmeng Zhang noted,
because some of the 100 million plus
“Xiaomi made a strong comeback, as its
loyal iPhone users will upgrade to iPhone
shipments grew 32% annually driven by
X and, if successful, it will help Apple to
strong demand for its Redmi 4X series
grow both volume and value as demand
at the low-end and Mi 6 at the high-end. Xiaomi’s strong recovery can be attributed to a streamlined supply chain and being more effective in securing key components. Additionally, Xiaomi has focused on expanding its offline distribution channel under the Mi Home brand, expanding its total addressable market. Ms. Zhang, further added, “While Xiaomi has made a strong comeback, it is still behind the market leaders. For Xiaomi, offline distribution is the key to reaching OPPO or Huawei’s scale, but most of Xiaomi’s sales are still skewed towards lower-end models. Xiaomi needs its premium flagship Mi Mix 2 to succeed like OPPO’s R11 and Vivo’s X series, to generate a halo effect and build brand equity.” While OPPO, Huawei, Vivo and Xiaomi have succeeded lately, all eyes are on Apple. Commenting on Apple’s performance and outlook, Counterpoint’s Associate Director Tarun Pathak noted, “Apple shipments grew by 17% YoY driven by an increased
www.mymobileindia.com
International
market insight
is likely to spread beyond normal cyclic
“We expect that the soft Apple sales are temporary because some of the 100 million plus loyal iPhone users will upgrade to iPhone X and, if successful, it will help Apple to grow both volume and value as demand is likely to spread beyond normal cyclic quarters” – Tarun Pathak, Associate Director, Counterpoint
quarters. Apple is still leading the premium segment (USD500 above) and strong performance from iPhone X will further consolidate Apple’s leadership in the segment.” Commenting on the shifting price band trend Counterpoint’s Research Analyst Mengmeng Zhang noted, “The Chinese smartphone market is now being driven by replacement users with the USD300 - 399 price segment being the fastest growing. This indicates that Chinese middle classes are spending more on affordable flagship offerings from major domestic players. Even in the premium segment, domestic players like Huawei are positioning their flagship models just below the premium offerings from Apple and Samsung. This strategy is designed to penetrate premium market while maximizing revenue and profit. n team@mymobile.co.in
december 2017 | 97
In Conversation
chief speak
“We are focusing on customised solutions for enterprise in Healthcare, Education and Infomedia” Shripal Gandhi, Founder & CEO of Swipe wants to create a different brand identity for the company with unique products and offerings. He spoke with My Mobile about the indigenous brand and its way forward. How has been these five years for Swipe?
unit in India under the “Make in India”
Being a startup it must have been very tough
initiative. Our focus has been on delivering
for you to carve a niche among the bigger
the latest technologies in the industry
players in the market? In the five years of
at very economically viable prices to our
its existence, Swipe mobile has emerged
customers. Having our own manufacturing
as one of the very few home-grown mobile
set-up helps in getting the cost lower which
handset manufacturers in India to have
is reflected on our product’s MOP. Swipe is
made a mark in Indian mobile handsets
also one of the first Indian mobile phone
market. We introduced India’s first 3D tablet
makers to develop its own Android-based
– Swipe 3D Life Plus – which created a
Operating Systems – Freedom OS – that
huge visibility in the then relatively nascent
takes the smartphone user experience
tablets market. Today, Swipe is the fastest-
to the next level with unique features
growing mobile internet company in India
including high level of customization.
with almost 10% market share in tablets.
Overall, today, Swipe is one of the few
Swipe is also one of the first mobile
home-grown mobile handsets companies
handset firms to set up its
with presence in the entire smartphone
own manufacturing
manufacturing ecosystem including hardware and software components. Which are the portfolios Swipe caters to? What would be the newer domain for you? Currently Swipe is in to smartphones and tablets, we are trying to expand and work on many segments, and soon shall be launching in to new sectors by the coming year. While I am not at liberty to give you details of our upcoming offerings in tables and mobile phones, but one thing is certain. All our products will be featurerich, will offer better performance and will incorporate superior safety and user experience. We are focusing on customised solutions for enterprise in Healthcare, Education and
84 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
Infomedia domain. We are also working on a proprietary app to enhance the experience of our tablets and smartphones and on futuristic mobility accessories. What are the product differentiation Swipe has to offer in this price sensitive market like India? In a growing country like India, the most important factor for the consumer is good value for the money that they shell. The price and promotions are set so that the consumers are attracted toward the products and motivate them to purchase it. We always keep in focus our target audience and quality over quantity when we manufacture products. Swipe also uses various analytics to understand the insights and choose the right channel to grab our customer’s attention. Lastly, after sales service is the most important fact and we try to obtain feedback from the consumers about their experience, which assures them about their choices. Swipe is backed
“The entire mobile ecosystem has also seen more exits than the entries because of the cut throat competition”
by 400+ support centres, through which it provides comprehensive service to its
powerbank designs shall see a whole new
customers across the length and breadth
phase. Also dual cameras are what people
of the country.
are expecting and need more these days. Something new and revolutionary is being
Accessories have become complimentary
planned by the R&D team, we shall wait for
along with mobile and tablets. Where do you
the suspense.
see yourself in this segment? We have just entered the power bank segment in the last
Where do you see the growth potential in
month, by creating a bang by launching two
mobile ecosystem? The revenue sector of
new power banks together. These products
the dynamic mobile industry has boomed
are in demand since the moment they have
up after entire digitalization has taken over
gone live till now. We are yet to launch other
the globe. Every year, the competition gets
accessories, once we enter that segment
tougher and tougher by various vendors
too, I’m sure they’ll be easily available with
getting in much advanced products in
the mobiles and tabs too.
terms of unique specifications, colours, etc. With the Indian mobile market growing
You are known for launching innovative
at unprecedented rate the opportunity to
products. Could we expect few more
grow only increases with each financial
innovation coming from Swipe? Swipe
quarter for the company. The enormities
has come up with many India’s first to
of the opportunities are really high. The
be launched products, after which we
entire mobile ecosystem has also seen
have built an unconventional approach
more exits than the entries because of the
to product development. We believe that
cut throat competition. However, factors
each product should be made according
such as affordable phones, better specs,
to the customer’s preference in the shortest
and online accessibility are responsible for
possible time. In the coming year, mobile
accelerated potential growth.
www.mymobileindia.com
Which is the best suited channel for Swipe, online or offline? Swipe products are available both Offline and Online modes. We already have a tie up with sites such as Flipkart, Snapdeal, PayTm, Naaptol, etc. Online mode is much preferred due to its reach and accessibility for a huge number of
In Conversation
chief speak
audiences, though we are equally focussing on the retail part too. Your thoughts on competition with the homegrown brands? Swipe has always been open to learning new things and changing and adapting themselves to the new trends easily which the consumers are in need of. Certainly, the bigger home grown brands are more visible due to the brand recognition and their investments but smaller brands focus on the quality more than the quantity which makes them ideal for their consumers and they know what to expect from them. Swipe has been one of fastest-growing tablets manufacturer in India, having grown at an above-market rate of 35% since inception quarter-onquarter for the last 6 quarters. Swipe, today enjoys market leadership in many states in India. n
haider@mymobile.co.in
december 2017 | 99
In Conversation
face to face
“Honeywell’s air purifier offers real time indoor air pollution solutions” Air pollution has become a real concern as it is a serious threat to health and lives of specially urban dwellers in India. air pollution turns out to be more hazardous when it gets trapped inside home and becomes indoor air pollution. Thus, Air purifiers are the new must in many cities for healthy living. Honeywell, the American multinational conglomerate, is among global leaders in developing and manufacturing air purifiers. Nijhum Rudra interacted with Sudhir Pillai, General Manager, Honeywell Home and Building Technologies, India about the
solutions the company is offering to tackle the menace of air pollution and its marketing strategies. How big is the air purifier market in India? What
Honeywell, the category could grow more
range of air purifiers is washable. The air
is Honeywell’s share of the air purifier market?
than 10 times in the next five years.
purifiers filter cost ranges from INR 2500 to
In 2016, the air purifier market in India
INR 6000 depending on the model.
witnessed a sale of 125,000 units. Volumes
On what basis should one select the air purifiers?
are expected to double this year based on
What is an average life span of the filter and
How are Honeywell air purifiers different from
market research by companies like TechSci
usually what is the cost for replacing the filter?
other purifiers in the market? The Honeywell
and 6w research.
The lifespan of a filter is largely dependent
Air Touch range of air purifiers comes with
on the usage of the product and the pollution
the assurance of the company’s patented
What is the potential for the air purifiers market
level. However, HEPA filter life can last up to
HiSiv technology, HEPA filter, and pre-
in India over the next five years? With growing
two-three years under the right conditions,
filter. The three-layer filter combination
awareness about indoor air pollution, and
though one year is more realistic in spaces
eliminates large dust particles, PM2.5,
as consumers experience the benefits of
with larger amounts of particulate matter in
bacteria, formaldehyde, harmful gases, and
using air purifiers from trusted brands like
the air. The pre-filter in Honeywell Air Touch
volatile organic compounds. The filtration
100 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
technology is recommended for Indian homes by Indian Medical Academy for Preventive Healthcare. These air purifiers are designed to be intuitive and come packed with user friendly features. The latest feature is real time ambient air pollution measurement, which most air purifiers do not offer. The Honeywell Air Touch Gold and the Move Pure car air
value, lifestyle, and healthcare benefits
purifier are very well received by consumers.
that the Honeywell Air Touch air purifiers
We are confident that the newly introduced
stand for.
Air Touch I8 and Air Touch A5 will be equally liked by consumers. Honeywell has the broadest portfolio in air purifiers. Can you tell us more about the range? Honeywell is a leading brand in the indoor air purification space with one of the widest portfolio available to address pollution inside homes, cars, and institutions. So, whether you are at home, at work, or travelling, we have an indoor air purifier for you. We offer complete range of air purifiers which is also available on e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and PayTM, and offline channels, including large and small format retail stores. For your latest launch, you have collaborated with Kareena Kapoor Khan. What is the reason for choosing Kareena Kapoor Khan for this endorsement? Honeywell is a Fortune 100 diversified technology conglomerate, positioned to become a software-industrial leader. The customer for our technology and engineering solutions has been mostly B2B even though the end-consumer has always been a beneficiary. Now, for products like the Honeywell Air Touch air purifier, the buyer is a digitally aware end consumer. Accordingly, it is
www.mymobileindia.com
In Conversation
face to face
How do you think this campaign will stand
“The filtration technology is recommended for Indian homes by Indian Medical Academy for Preventive Healthcare. These air purifiers are designed to be intuitive and come packed with user friendly features�
out, and what do you expect this campaign to achieve? Even though the market is bombarded with commercials everywhere, in the indoor air purification space, there is limited consumer awareness around indoor air pollution. Most people assume that once you shut yourself in a home, you are protected from outdoor air pollution. That is not true. Cooking, incense, pet dander, aerosols, fumes from paints and upholstery, all contribute to indoor air pollution. This campaign will help us raise public awareness about the hazards
imperative for us to go B2C. You will find these products across e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and PayTM, as well as large- and small-format retail stores already.
of indoor air pollution. Secondly, we have technology available today at an affordable price, which is an immediate, ready-now solution, especially for those who are sensitive to indoor air pollution. n
Today, women are the more significant buying-decision makers around the world. Ms Kareena Kapoor Khan is not only a lifestyle icon, she is also seen as a person of discerning taste and choices. She is a successful woman professional, health and fitness-conscious, and a mother. She represents an increasingly influential consumer segment, and stands for the
nijhum@mymobile.co.in
december 2017 | 101
International
market insight
USA Q3, 2017:
Apple Leads, Samsung Slips, Moto Makes a Comeback
One in three smartphones shipped was an iPhone and even as Samsung slipped, Moto, ZTE & LG registered strong gains while Verizon remained the largest smartphone sales channel
A
ccording to the latest
Commenting on the third quarter dip in
addition, the US market saw a significant
research from Counterpoint’s
demand, Research Director, Jeff Fieldhack,
number of Apple faithful opt to wait for the
Market Monitor program,
noted, “There were a few reasons for the
iPhone X.”
US smartphone shipments
stall after 2Q17’s 14% YoY growth. First,
Postpaid upgrade rates also remained
remained flat during the third quarter of
the major carriers took a pause on the
muted during the quarter averaging 5.5%,
2017. The quarter witnessed a highly
number of major marketing campaigns run
down both YoY and sequentially. AT&T saw
competitive environment among carriers
including a much less aggressive iPhone
record lows at 3.9%. Sprint upgrades were
and OEMs in the prepaid segment.
8/8Plus launch late in the quarter. In
6.7%, high of the big 4 carriers.
102 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
during the quarter. MetroPCS, Cricket, and Boost remained strong. Offerings four lines for USD100 and free phones was the key modus operandi for these carriers. Even Verizon, who has not focused on prepaid, added 140k subscribers. Prepaid churn remains high compared to the decrease postpaid has seen. As a result, TracFone lost 365k subscribersand was the one which was hurt the most. Discontinued government subsidized programs have hurt volumes. In addition, with unlimited plans now everywhere, carriers are focusing on capacity for their quality smartphone base and doing less wholesaling.” Commenting on market leader Apple’s performance considering the launch of new iPhone models later in the quarter, Mr Fieldhack, added, “Apple also continued to grow share within prepaid channels with its 6S and SE whereas 7 and 7 Plus held serve benefitting from multiple BOGO and trade-in offers by carriers during the back to school season. However, the new iPhone 8 series saw a muted launch, by Apple standards, highlighting that many seasoned Apple users were willing to pay or at least have a look before shelling out the USD1,000+ price tag for the iPhone X.” Highlighting the recent iPhone X launch, Mr Fieldhack, noted, “As per our retail surveys, the iPhone X launch saw higher store traffic than last year. Checks showed 256GB memory configuration sold slightly above 64GB on its opening weekend. Apple’s guidance suggests the iPhone X will be a strong contributor of Apple’s mix in CYQ4.” Highlighting on the star performer during the quarter, Research Analyst, Archana Srinivasan, added, “Motorola made a significant comeback almost doubling its Commenting on the low upgrades, Mr Fieldhack added, “These lower postpaid upgrades showed US consumers expected higher promotional activity and opted to wait for the holiday season. Some Apple loyalists were waiting to see the iPhone X. US carriers added 750k prepaid subscribers
www.mymobileindia.com
volumes and market share annually and was the fastest growing brand in Q3 2017. This allowed the Chinese vendor to jump back into the top five rankings after a long time. Motorola’s focus on affordable devices for prepaid/unlocked market and breaking out from Verizon’s shadows helped drive growth during the quarter. This signifies that
“There were a few reasons for the stall after 2Q17’s 14% YoY growth. First, the major carriers took a pause on the number of major marketing campaigns run including a much less aggressive iPhone 8/8Plus launch late in the quarter. In addition, the US market saw a significant number of Apple faithful opt to wait for the iPhone X”
International
market insight
– Jeff Fieldhack, Research Director, Counterpoint on third quarter dip in US demand muscle memory for the Moto brand is still strong among US consumers.” Commenting further, Ms Srinivasan added, “Motorola also benefitted in terms of visibility with presence across all four of the major carriers with its Moto Z2 Force Edition in premium segment. The Moto E series was actually the key volume driver for Motorola during the quarter across prepaid and open channels.” Sharing insights on in-carrier
december 2017 | 103
International
market insight competition, Research Director, Neil
share, especially strong within Verizon
Shah, mentioned, “Verizon had a good
and T-Mobile. GS8, GS 8Plus, and the
quarter and remained the biggest channel
Note 8 and their high ASPs dominated
for smartphone sales, followed by T-Mobile,
Android sales. The company has faced
AT&T and Sprint. Sprint has almost caught
some challenges in the entry and mid-
up with AT&T in terms of smartphone sales
tiers being challenged by LG, ZTE, Moto.
as upgrade rates at AT&T have been the
The company is also doing some variant
lowest. Apple led all the major carriers with
pruning. LG grew its share
Exhibit 1: USA OEM Smartphone Shipment Share Q3 2017 and Growth %
to 17.6% and is gaining on its Korean rival, Samsung. G6 volumes were solid, but a fraction of Apple and Samsung flagships. K-Series and Stylus 3 continue to dominate value
Source : Counterpoint Technology Market Research
tiers. Key to LG’s success is R&D and
robust demand for its older models, unlike
sales logistics support across all four major
in past, as the iPhone 8 series contributed
carriers and open channels.
little. Meanwhile, Samsung saw decent
ZTE grew its smartphone volumes 34%
start for its Galaxy Note8 after the Note 7
YoY. The company continues to be a top
debacle. But, the overall volume growth
seller within prepaid channels with its
slowed down due to the rise of Apple andLG
value, large display offerings. The Max Pro
in high-tier segments. LG had a strong
continues to sell in multiple channels. The
quarter recording highest ever volume
company launched the dual displayAxon
for the third quarter closing on Samsung
M, a unique media consumption device,
volumes, especially at T-Mobile & Sprint.”
within AT&T to kickstart a new form-factor
Mr Shah added, “ZTE made strides
revolution.Despite not being a high-
in the prepaid segment with strong
volume SKU, it will help the company
performance at Virgin, Boost, MetroPCS
gain mindshare and potentially help get
and Cricket channels. However, TracFone
the Axon-series ranged within other carrier
suffered the most during the quarter,
channels.
as a result, Alcatel-TCL, which enjoyed
Alcatel has been challenged seeing
stronghold at the prepaid giant,also saw its
its market share drop4.1% YoY due to an
market position slipping.”
aging portfolio, higher churn at TracFone
In terms of best-selling smartphone
and muted sell through of its BlackBerry
models during the quarter, Apple took the
brand. Ownership control changes may be
lion’s share capturing six out of top ten
partially responsible for the delays of new
spots as iPhone 7 was the most popular
launches and promotions.
smartphone in USA. The Moto E4 and LG Stylo 3 were also solid performers.
Other Insights
For other OEMs, the US remains a tough market to gain scale. The top five OEMs control 91% in 3Q17, leaving little opportunity for others:
Samsung volumes are always paused
Google: Despite high amounts of TV and
during iPhone launch season. However, the
digital advertising, the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2
premium tier continues to have large value
XL appear to have had a disappointing sales
104 | december 2017
“Motorola made a significant comeback almost doubling its volumes and market share annually and was the fastest growing brand in Q3 2017. This allowed the Chinese vendor to jump back into the top five rankings after a long time. Motorola’s focus on affordable devices for prepaid/unlocked market and breaking out from Verizon’s shadows helped drive growth during the quarter. This signifies that muscle memory for the Moto brand is still strong among US consumers” – Archana Srinivasan, Research Analyst at Counterpoint Research
MYMOBILE
International
market insight Exhibit 2: USA Top Selling Smartphone Models in Q3 2017 8.1%
6.5%
4.3% 3.5% 3.2%
3.0%
3.0% 2.5%
Apple iphone 7
Apple iphone 7 Plus
Samsung Galaxy S8
Apple iphone SE
Apple iphone 8 Plus
Apple iphone 8
Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus
Moto E4
2.3%
Apple iphone 6
2.0%
LG Stylo 3
Source : Counterpoint Research Market Monitor Q3 2017
start. Further, there are multiple reports of
device volumes have picked off volumes
hardware defects including
from Android OEMs.
flagship. BlackBerry re-entered AT&T mid-Quarter
problems with the display. Google has
Essential phone has received some good
worked hard to bring unique hardware to
reviews of its hardware, but has not moved
HTC U11 launched late in Q3. Marketed
the market to convert some iOS subs to
but a few thousand units. Big price drops
as the first smartphone with ‘always on
Android. However, to date, Pixel family
confirm limited take rates of this unlocked
Alexa’, HTC has deviated from Google’s smart
attempting to be a B2B option.
assistant offering temporarilyconsidering Google has now purchased most of HTC’s smartphone assets T-Mobile launched its first smartphone, the LG V30, on 600MHz Band 71. The network was turned on during Q3 and will be adding more devices in 4Q17 and 1Q18. 600MHz in a smartphone is no simple feat, but would be an opportunity for early OEMs, such as LG, because certainly the carrier will be wanting to get these devices out as soon as metros are lit up. T-Mobile – Sprint announced their
“Apple took the lion’s share capturing six out of top ten spots as iPhone 7 was the most popular smartphone in USA. The Moto E4 and LG Stylo 3 were also solid performers”
merger talks have ended. Immediately afterwards, Sprint announced a MVNO deal with Altice USA. The company is also expected to resume talks with cable companies including Charter. n team@mymobile.co.in
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 105
Feature
off beat
The Partnership of Sound Geniuses
A
cademy award winning composer
USPs
A R Rahman, who is also the global brand ambassador of JBL by Harmon Kardon, performed
recently in New Delhi even as the sound major launched a slew of audio products. We feature two of them here which are a delight to connoisseurs and are top of the line in their category. JBL Pulse 3 Speakers: The speakers, with a price tag of Rs 15,999, are easy-to-carry and portable ones coming with wireless Bluetooth enablement. Sporting features such as noise and echo cancelling, IPX7 certification for water resistance and support for voice assistant, the speakerphone is a walking 360-deree lightshow and sound producer, suitable for on-the-go usage with the added fun of light and sound show. Additionally, the
• Wireless Bluetooth Streaming: Wirelessly connect up to 2 smartphones or tablets and take turns playing music with exceptional 360° sound. • 12 Hours of Playtime: The built-in rechargeable Li-ion battery provides up to 12 hours of playtime with music and light show. • 360° Lightshow and Sound: JBL Pulse 3’s customizable 360° lightshow sets the atmosphere by bringing your favorite songs to life. • IPX7 Waterproof: No more worrying about the Pulse 3 getting wet due to rain, spills or submersion in water. • JBL Connect+: Amplify your listening experience and build your own party by wirelessly connecting more than 100 JBL Connect+ enabled speakers. • Speakerphone: With the noise and echo cancelling speakerphone, you can take calls from your speaker with a touch of a button - crystal clear. • JBL Connect App: You can make your music look amazing by customizing the light sequences and easily adjust your settings with the JBL Connect app. • Voice Assistant Integration: Access Siri or Google Now from the speaker with a simple button press.
JBL Pulse 3 offers up to 12 hours of playtime and support for JBL Connect+.
connectivity. The Harman Kardon Omni 20+
Harman Kardon Omni 20+: The multi-
stereo speaker further comes with support
directional wireless stereo speaker
for Wi-Fi 802.11ac. With a portable and
supports HD quality and has
compact design, the Harman Kardon Omni
Chromecast incorporated within.
20+ is priced at Rs 21,990. n
The speaker supports up to 60W output power and is capable of streaming HD audio at the rate 24 bit/192kHz, with digital and
analog
vanshika@mymobile.co.in
106 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
Great Deals
mobilesensex
bazaar bargain Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 (3GB RAM / 4GB RAM)
Xiaomi’s arguably best-selling Redmi Note 4 sports a 5.5-inch full HD 2.5D curved glass display with 401ppi of pixel density. Under the hood, there is a Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 mobile platform, along with MaliT880 MP4 GPU. It comes with 2GB RAM and 16GB of internal storage, in addition to 3GB of RAM/32GB ROM and 4GB of RAM/64GB ROM variants. It features a 13MP rear camera with PDAF and dual-tone LED flash while the front-facing snapper stands at 5MP. It is juiced by a 4100mAh battery and runs MIUI 8.0 with Android 6.0 Marshmallow on top of it. n
Launched at: Rs 30,990 Current Price: Rs 24,990
Oppo F3 Plus
Launched at: Rs 10,999 / Rs 12,999 Current Price: Rs 9,999 / Rs 11,999
108 | december 2017
The main highlight of the device is the dual frontfacing camera setup which includes a 16MP camera with 1/3 inch sensor, aperture f/2.0 and an 8MP 120degree wide-angle lens with a 6P lens. It also boasts a 16MP shooter. The smartphone sports a 6-inch Full HD display with Corning Glass 5 protection and a screen resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It is powered by an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 653 processor along with Adreno 510. It is backed by 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage, which can be expanded up to 256GB. It runs on Android 6.0 Marshmallow and has a 4000mAh battery. n
MYMOBILE
Great Deals
mobilesensex
Asus ZenFone 3 Max (ZC520TL) The key highlight of the ZenFone Max 5.2 is its massive battery setup. It is backed by a 4100mAh battery. The smartphone comes with a 5.2-inch HD display with 720x1280 pixels resolution. It is powered by a 1.25GHz quadcore MediaTek MT6737T processor, coupled with 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage which is further expandable via a microSD card. The smartphone currently runs on the latest ZenUI version based on Android 7.1.1 Nougat. It has hybrid dual-SIM (Micro+Nano) support and comes with a 13MP camera on the back panel, while on the front the device sports a 5MP sensor. n
Launched at: Rs 11,999 Current Price: Rs 9,999
InFocus Snap 4 The InFocus Snap 4 sports a 5.2-inch HD (720x1280 pixels) IPS display. It runs on Android 7.0 Nougat and has a metal unibody design with a 7.9mm thickness and 164 gram weight. It is powered by an octa-core MediaTek MT6750N processor clocked at 1GHz coupled with 4GB of RAM and Mali-T860 GPU. There’s 64GB of inbuilt storage on-board that can be expanded further via microSD card. It houses a 3000mAh battery under-the-hood and packs a fingerprint scanner at the back. It has a dual rear camera setup of 13MP and 8MP. At the front, it features a dual 8MP camera setup. n team@mymobile.co.in Launched at: Rs 12,999 Current Price: Rs 9,999
www.mymobileindia.com
(Note: Prices are those available at prominent dealers, online and/or offline. They may not reflect official price reductions)
december 2017 | 109
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MY GUIDE While My Mobile tries to ensure accuracy in the pricing and features any discrepancies that may emerge are beyond our control. Please check with the retailer about features of the phone before buying. Feel free to update us.
(Last updated on November 22, 2017)
Disclaimer : The prices quoted in My Guide are the Best Buy prices quoted by the respective compa nies, ex-Delhi. The prices may vary on account of promotional schemes or dealer discretion.
Devices featured in the My Guide have been segregated into different categories based on price and colour-coded as:
Up to Rs. 2,499 Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999 Rs. 6,000 – Rs. 9,999 Rs.10,000 – Rs. 14,999 Rs.15,000 – Rs. 19,999 Rs. 20,000 – Rs. 29,999 RS. 30,000 and above. Tablets
Spreadtrum—ST Intel Atom—IA Qualcomm Snapdragon—QS MediaTek—MT MediaTek Helio—MTH
MYGUIDE UP TO RS. 2,499
UP TO RS. 2,499
MODELS
UP TO RS. 2,499
PARAMETERS
HITECH
I-SMART
ITEL
LEPHONE
Model
Pride 350
IS-100L Selfie
IS-203 Plus
IS-201 Plus
Smart Selfie it5231
K1
K5
Display (inches/res)
2.8-inch
1.8 inch
2.4 inch
2.4 inch
2.4/ 240 x 320
1.8
2.4
126 x 53 x 10
126 x 53 x 10
124.5 x 54 x 11.4
112 x 46.5 x 13.9
112*46.5*13.9
90
90
-
64
64
ST 6531
ARM926EJ-S Core 312MHz
360MHz/64Mb
312MHz /32MB
312MHz /32MB
Dimension (mm)
131 x 58 x 10.2
Weight (grams)
82
Processor/RAM
Spreadtrum 6531DA/NA
112 x 46.5 x 13.5 70 ARM926EJ-S Core 312MHz
Operating system
Nucleus
NA
NA
NA
-
NA
NA
Storage/Expandable
32+32MB
32MB/32MB/8GB
32MB/32MB/8GB
32MB/32MB/8GB
64MB/32GB
32MB / 32GB
32MB / 32GB
Rear/Front Camera
1.3 MP/NA
0.8MP/0.8MP
0.8MP
1.3MP
0.08MP/0.3MP
Digital Camera
0.3 MP
1,800
1000
1000
2000
1900
1000
1450
2G/3G/4G
Yes/No/No
YES/NO/NO
YES/NO/NO
YES/NO/NO
Yes/No/No
Yes/No/No
Yes/No/No
Dual SIM
Yes
YES
YES
YES
Yes
YES
YES
Yes/Yes
YES
YES
YES
Yes/Yes
YES
YES
Launched
Launched
Launched
Launched
May, 2016
August '2016
NA
1,549
745
828
1,049
1,335
674
950
Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
UP TO RS. 2,499
Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999
MODELS
Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999
LEPHONE
PARAMETERS
HONOR
HITECH
IN-FOCUS
Model
L1
K7
Sleek 9
Honor Bee
Amaze S9
Air A8
Bingo 10 (M415)
Display (inches/res)
2
2.4
2.4
4.5/ 854 x 480
4.5 /-
5.0/ 540 x 960
4.5/ 480 x 854
Dimension (mm)
123*51.8*14.9
100 x 42 x 13.4
100 x 42 x 13.4
134.3 x 66.7 X 10
140 x 66.88 x 9.65
140.2 x 72.4 x 8.8
135.65 x 67.38 x 10.43
Weight (grams)
102
62
62
170
150
152
140
Processor/RAM
312MHz /32MB
312MHz /32MB
312MHz /32MB
ST SC 7732/1GB
ST 7731/512MB
ST 7731/1GB
MT 6580A/1GB
NA
NA
NA
Android OS, v4.4
5.1 Lollipop
5.2 Lollipop
Android OS, 6.0
Storage/Expandable
32MB / 32GB
32MB / 32GB
32MB / 32GB
8GB/32GB
4GB/32GB
8GB/32GB
8GB/32GB
Rear/Front Camera
Digital Camera/ Digital Camera
0.1 MP
0.1 MP
8MP/2MP
5MP/2MP
8MP/2MP
5MP/5MP
2,500
2,500
800
1,730
1,400
2,000
2,000
2G/3G/4G
Yes/No/No
Yes/No/No
Yes/No/No
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/No
Dual SIM
YES
YES
YES
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Music Player/FM
YES
YES
YES
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
OCTOBER' 2016
NA
NA
May, 2015
-
-
April, 2016
999
999
1,325
4,999
2,999
4,999
4,399
Operating system
Battery (mAh)
Launch Price Rs.
112 I DECEMBER 2017
MYMOBILE
MYGUIDE Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999
Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999
MODELS
Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999
PARAMETERS
IN-FOCUS
INTEX
I-SMART
Bingo 21 (M 430)
Aqua Fish
Cloud Glory 4G
Cloud String HD
Aqua Classic 2
E4
IS-i1
4.5/ 854 x 480
5/720x1280
4.5/ 480 x 854
5/ 720 x 1280
5/480/854
4/480/800
5
Dimension (mm)
136.8 x 67 x 10.95
142.4x72x9.6
134.2 x 68 x 9
144.5 x 72.5 x 8.7
145.2x72.6x10.9
124.1x64.2x9.8
144x73.4x9.2
Weight (grams)
152
150
120
150
136
151
Processor/RAM
ST Shark/2GB
Quad core/2GB
MT 6735M/ 1GB
SC 9832A/ 1GB
qcta-core/1GB
quad-core/1GB
SC9832/1GB
Operating system
Android 5.1
Sailfish 2.0
Android 6.0
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
6.0 Marshmallow
Storage/Expandable
8GB/32GB
16GB/32GB
8GB/ 32GB
8GB/ 32GB
8GB/32GB
8GB/32GB
1GB/8GB/32GB
Rear/Front Camera
8MP/5MP
8MP/2MP
5MP/2MP
8MP/2MP
5MP/2MP
2MP/2MP
8MP/5MP
2,300
2500
1,800
2,200
2200
1800
2200
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
March, 2016
February,2016
June, 2016
May, 2016
5,499
5,499
3,999
5,599
Model Display (inches/res)
Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
4,600
4,740
3,333
Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999
Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999
MODELS
Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999
Launched
ITEL
PARAMETERS
Model Display (inches/res) Dimension (mm)
LYF
MICROMAX
Power Pro it1410
Wish it1507
Wish it1407
Flame 1
Wind 7i
Canvas Juice 3 Q393
Canvas Spark 3
4/ 800 x 480
5/854 x 480
4/WVGA/TN
4.5/854 x 480
5/1280x720
5.0/720 x 1280
5.5/720x1280
124 x 64.7 x 12.2
144.4 x 73 x 8.5
125 x 64.3 x 10.9
132.6 x 66.2 x 9.3
143.5 x 72 x 8.7
NA
-
Weight (grams)
-
-
-
138
156
NA
-
Processor/RAM
Dual core, 1.3 GHz/512MB
Quad core, 1.2 GHz/512MB
Quad core, 1.2 GHz/512MB
QS 210/1GB
QS 210/1GB
MT6580/2GB
quad-core/1GB
Operating system
Android4.4
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Storage/Expandable
8GB/32GB
8GB/32GB
8GB/32GB
8GB/128GB
8GB/128GB
8GB/32GB
8GB/32GB
2.0MP/0.3MP
5.0MP/2.0MP
2.0MP/0.3MP
5MP/5MP
8MP/5MP
8MP/2MP
8MP/5MP
2,800
2,400
1500mAh, Li-ion
2,000
2,250
4,000
2,500
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/No
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
May, 2016
April, 2016
April.2016
February, 2015
NA
March, 2016
3,339
5,063
2,989
5,499
4,171
4,848
Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
www.mymobileindia.com
4,999
DECEMBER 2017 I 113
MYGUIDE Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999
Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999
MODELS
Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999
MICROMAX
VIDEOCON
Canvas Bolt Selfie
Delite11
Astra Metal 4G
Astra Colors 4G
Astra NXT+
Zi-34
Astra Prism
4.5/854x480
5/1280x720
5/480X854
5/720X1280
4 inch
3.5 inch
5 inch
Dimension (mm)
-
146.66X74.3X10.52
143.8X73.3X10.4
142.9X71.65X11
125.4X64.2X13
116.2X61.4X11.3
134.4X67X10.1
Weight (grams)
-
151
171
182
130
108
119
MTK6735/1GB
Quad-core/1GB
1.5Ghz Quadcore ARM
Spreadtrum
Operating system
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 4.4.2
Android 6.0
Storage/Expandable
8GB/32GB
8GB/32GB
1GB/8GB
1GB/8GB
1GB/8GB
256 MB/512 MB
512 MB/4GB
Rear/Front Camera
5MP/5MP
5MP/2MP
5MP/2MP
5MP/5MP
2MP/0.3MP
0.3MP/ 0.3MP
0.3MP/2MP
1,750
3,000
3,000
4,000
2,000
1,200
1,700
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/No
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
May, 2016
NA
Launched
Launched
Launched
Launched
Launched
4,849
5,840
5,553
6,499
3,703
2,993
3,813
PARAMETERS
Model Display (inches/res)
Processor/RAM
Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
ZIOX
1.2 GHz Quadcore
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999
MODELS
Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999
512MB+4GB(DDR2) 2xCortex-A7,32bit
ZIOX
PARAMETERS
ASUS
Astra Zing
Astra Zoom
Astra Zing+
Astra NXT
Astra NXT 4G
Astra Force 4G
Zenfone 2 Laser ZE550KL
4 inch
4 inch
5 inch
4 inch
4 inch
5 inch
5.5/720 x 1280
Dimension (mm)
124X64X10.1
125 x 64 x 10.2
146.4X73.6X10.1
125X65X10
123.5*64.2*10.5
144X73.5X10
152.5 x 77.2 x 3.9
Weight (grams)
105
107
107
110
Model Display (inches/res)
Processor/RAM
1.2 GHz Quadcore 1.2 GHz Quadcore 1.2 GHz Quadcore 1.2 GHz Quadcore
111
172
170
SC9832A Quadcore ARM
SC9832A Quad-core ARM
QS 410/2GB
Operating system
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 5.0
Storage/Expandable
512MB/4GB
512MB/8GB
512MB/8GB
512MB/4GB
4GB/512MB
1GB/16GB
16GB/128GB
Rear/Front Camera
0.3MP/2MP
0.4MP/0.3MP
0.3MP/5MP
2MP/0.3MP
2MP/0.3MP
5MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
1,400
1,450
2,000
1,600
1,450
3,000
3,000
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Music Player/FM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/No
Launched
Launched
Launched
Launched
Launched
Launched
August, 2015
3,653
3,703
4,323
3,603
3,599
6,053
9,299
Battery (mAh)
Launch Price Rs.
114 I DECEMBER 2017
MYMOBILE
MYGUIDE RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
MODELS
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
ASUS
PARAMETERS
CELKON
COOLPAD
Zenfone Max
Zenfone C ZC451CG
Q550
Note 3 Lite
Mega 2.5D
Note 3 Plus
Mega 3
5.5/ 720 x 1280
4.5/480 x 854
5.0/720 x 1280
5.0/720 x 1280
5.5/720x1280
5.5/1080x1920
5.5/1280x720
Dimension (mm)
156 x 77.5 x 10.55
136.5 x 67 x 10.9
145.6 x 71.8 x 8
140.8 x 70.4 x 8.9
153x77x8
151.9 x 77 x 9.3
154.4x76.8x8.35
Weight (grams)
202
150
149
141
141
168
171
Processor/RAM
QS 615/ 2GB, 3GB
IA Z2520/ 1GB
Broadcom/2GB
MT6735/3GB
Quad core/3GB
MT6753/3GB
octa-core/2GB
Android 6.0
Android 4.4
Android Kitkat 4.4.2
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
16GB/32GB, 64GB
8GB/64GB
16GB/32GB
16GB/32GB
16GB/32GB
16GB/64GB
16GB/64GB
13MP/5MP
5MP/0.3MP
8MP/2MP
13MP/5MP
8MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
8MP/8MP
5,000
2,100
2,500
2,500
2,500
3,000
3,050
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/-
Yes/Yes
May, 2016
January, 2015
2,014
January, 2016
August, 2016
May, 2016
November,2016
9,325/ 12,999
5,499
7,499
6,999
6,999
8,999
6,999
Model Display (inches/res)
Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
MODELS
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
COOLPAD
PARAMETERS
GIONEE
HONOR
HITECH
Note 3
Note 3s
Note 5 Lite
P7
Honor Holly 3
Honor Holly 2 Plus
Air A9
5.5/720 x 1280
5.5/1920x1080
5/1280X970
5.0/720x1280
5.5/1920x1080
4.8/720 x 1280
5.0-inch, 720 x 1280
Dimension (mm)
152 x 77 x 9
154.5x77x8.6
145.3X72.3X8.7
NA
NA
143.1 x 71.8 x 9.7
140.2 x 72.4 x 8.8
Weight (grams)
150
167
148
NA
NA
160
152
Processor/RAM
MT6753/3GB
octa-core/3GB
MT6735/3GB
Quad-core/2GB
Kirin 620/2GB
MT6735P /2GB
MT 3735M/2GB
Operating system
Android 5.1
Android6.0
Android6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 5.1.1
Android 5.1
Storage/Expandable
16GB/64GB
32GB/32GB
16GB
16GB
16GB/128GB
16GB/128GB
16GB/32GB
Rear/Front Camera
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/8MP
8MP/5MP
13MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/8MP
3,000
2,500
2,500
2,300
3,100
4,000
3,500
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
NA
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
NA
Yes/-
Yes/Yes
October, 2015
November,2016
March, 2017
December,2016
October, 2016
February, 2016
-
8,999
9,999
8,199
9,999
9,999
8,499
6,999
Model Display (inches/res)
Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
www.mymobileindia.com
DECEMBER 2017 I 115
MYGUIDE RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
MODELS
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
IN-FOCUS
PARAMETERS
INTEX
I-SMART
Model
M 350 (16GB)
M680
M810
Aqua S7
Aqua Secure
Aqua View
IS-57i
Display (inches/res)
5.0/720 x 1280
5.5/720x1280
5.5/1080x1920
5/720x1280
4.5/ 480 x 854
5/ 720 x 1280
5.0/480 x 854
Dimension (mm)
151 x 71.5 x 10.6
156 x 76.8 x 7.25
153.70 x 76.20 x 6.99
142.5x72.5x8.7
133.5 x 66.5 x 9.4
124 x 64 x 10.3
146.72 x 72.85 x 8.73
Weight (grams)
146
158
155
150
130
146
155
Processor/RAM
MT6732/2GB
MT 6753/2GB
QS 801/ 2GB
Quad core/3GB
MTK6735M/ 1GB
MTK6735P/ 1GB
Quad Core/1 GB
Operating system
Android 4.4.2
Android 5.1
Android 5.0
Android 6.0
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 4.4.2
16GB/64GB
16GB/32GB
16GB/64GB
16GB/64GB
8GB/ 32GB
16GB/ 32GB
8GB/64GB
8MP/8MP
13MP/13MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
5MP/ 2MP
8MP/5MP
8.0MP/3.2MP
2,500
2,600
2,600
3,200
1,900
2,200
2,100
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/ Yes/ Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/No
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
June, 2015
December, 2015
July, 2015
September, 2016
May, 2016
June, 2016
September, 2016
6,999
8,999
9,999
9,499
6,499
8,999
6,499
Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
MODELS
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
I-SMART
PARAMETERS
ITEL
KARA
Model
IS-56i HD Mercury V6
Wish it1512
Power Pro it1553
Selfie Pro it1511
Mega 4
Mega 2
Display (inches/res)
5/HD IPS, MiraVision, 5.0-inch/720 x 1280 cast screen
5/FWVGA/TN
5.5)
5.0/1280 x 720
5.0/HD IPS,
5.0-inch, HD IPS,
Dimension (mm)
143.54 x 71.55 x 8.52 148.24X72.56X11.44
143x72x8.65
138.5x69.5x9.8
138.5x69.5x9.8
152.4X77.1X9.5
152.4X77.1X9.5
-
-
-
184
184 1.3GHz Quad Core(64bit)
Weight (grams)
170
Ultra 50
186
Quad Core/1 GB
1.3GHz Quad Core
Quad core/1GB
Quad core/1GB
Quad core/1GB
1.3GHz Quad Core(64bit)
Android 4.4.2
Marshmallow 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
8GB/64GB
3GB/32GB/64GB
8GB/32GB
16GB/32GB
8GB/32GB
1GB/16GB
2GB/16GB
8.0MP/3.2MP
13MP/5MP
5.0MP/2.0MP
8.0MP/2.0MP
8.0MP/2.0MP
8MP/2MP
13MP/5MP
2,500
3,000
2,500
5,050
2,500
2,000
3,000
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
152.4X77.1X9.5
Yes/Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes
Yes
September, 2015
Launched
June, 2016
June, 2016
April, 2016
Launched
Launched
6,999
9,990
6,000
7,290
6,999
7,499
9,099
Processor/RAM Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
116 I DECEMBER 2017
MYMOBILE
MYGUIDE RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
MODELS
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
LAVA
PARAMETERS
LEPHONE
X10
Pixel V2
X50+
W12
W11
W7+
W7
Display (inches/res)
5.0/ 720 x 1280
5.0/ 720 x 1280
5.5/1280x720
5 inch/1280X720
5 inch/1280X720
5/1280X720 IPS
5/854X480
Dimension (mm)
142 x 70.8 x 7.9
141.6 x 70.8 x 7.6
155x71.8x8.85
145.2X72.4X10
144X72.4X9.5
143.6x72.5x9.1
143.6x72.5x10
Weight (grams)
133
128
155
148
161
151
177
Processor/RAM
Quad core /3GB
Quad Core/ 2GB
quad-core/2GB
Operating system
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0, Marshmallow
Storage/Expandable
16GB/32GB
16GB/32GB
32GB/32GB
1GB/16GB/32GB
1GB/16GB/32GB
1 GB/8 GB
1GB/8GB/32GB
Rear/Front Camera
13MP/5MP
13MP/8MP
8MP/5MP
8MP/2MP
8MP/2MP
5MP/5MP
5MP/2MP
2,900
2,500
2,800
2,000
2,000
1,800
2,000
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
"Yes "
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
November, 2015
September, 2015
Launched
Launched
Launched
Launched
9,999
8,499
6,399
6,999
5,999
4,999
Model
Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
9,199
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
Android 6.0, Marshmallow
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
MODELS
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
1.3GHz Quad Core 1.3GHz Quad Core 1.3GHz Quad Core 1.3GHz Quad Core
PARAMETERS
LEPHONE
LENOVO
LYF
LG
MICROMAX
W2
K5 Plus
K3 Note
K6 Power
Wind 5
K7
Canvas Unite 4
4.5/854X480
5.0/1080 x 1920
5.5/1080 x 1920
5/1920x1080
5/ 720 x 1280
5/ 480 x 854
5.0/ 1280 x 720
Dimension (mm)
134.5X68X10.2
142 x 71 x 8.2
152.6 x 76.2 x 8
141.9x70.3x9.3
144.6 x 72.8 x 8.45
143.6 x 72.5 x 8.95
NA
Weight (grams)
126
142
150
145
137
Model Display (inches/res)
NA
1.3GHz Quad Core
QS616/2GB
MT6752 /2GB
QS 430/3GB
MT6735P/ 1GB
1.1GHz Quad Core/ 1.5GB
Android 6.0, Marshmallow
Android 5.1
Android 5.0
Android 6.0
Android 5.1
Android 5.0
Android 6.0
1GB/8GB/32GB
16GB/32GB
16GB/32GB
32GB/128GB
8GB/ 32GB
8GB/32GB
8GB/64GB
2MP/VGA
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/8MP
8MP/ 5MP
5MP/5MP
8MP/5MP
1,500
2750
2,900
4,000
2,000
2,125
2,500
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/ Yes/ Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Music Player/FM
Yes
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Launched
April, 2016
March, 2015
November,2016
June, 2016
January, 2016
June, 2016
4,499
8,499
9,999
9,999
6,599
8,690
6,999
Processor/RAM Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Launch Price Rs.
www.mymobileindia.com
MTK 6735P/1GB
DECEMBER 2017 I 117
MYGUIDE RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
MODELS
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
MICROMAX
PARAMETERS
MOTOROLA
Canvas Amaze 2
Canvas XP 4G
Canvas 5
Canvas Unite 4 Pro
Canvas Sliver 5
Moto G4 Play
Moto E4/Plus
5/ 720 x 1280
5.0/720 x 1280
5.2/1080 x 1920
5.0/ 1280 x 720
4.8/720 x 1280
5/720x1280
5/5.5/1280x720
Dimension (mm)
NA
NA
NA
NA
5.1mm thick
144.4x72x9.9
144.5x72x9.3/ 155x77.5x9.55
Weight (grams)
NA
NA
NA
NA
97
137
150,/181
Processor/RAM
QS415/ 2GB
MT6735P/3GB
MT6753/3GB
Quad core/ 2GB
QS 410 /2GB
QS 410/2GB
MTK6737
Operating system
Android 5.0.2
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 5.0.2
Android 6.0
Android 7.1.1
Storage/Expandable
8GB/ 32GB
16GB/32GB
16GB/64GB
16GB/32GB
16GB/No
16GB/128GB
2/16/3/32GB
Rear/Front Camera
13MP/ 5MP
8MP/2MP
13MP/5MP
8MP/5MP
8MP/5MP
8MP/5MP
8MP/5MP/13MP/5MP
2,500
2,000
2,900
3,900
2,000
2,800
28,00/5,000
2G/3G/4G
Yes/ Yes/ Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/-
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
June, 2016
May, 2016
November, 2015
June, 2016
2,015
September, 2016
August, 2017
7,499
7,499
9,999
7,499
8,387
8,999
8,450 onwards
Model Display (inches/res)
Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
MODELS
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
PARAMETERS
NOKIA
PANASONIC
SAMSUNG
Eluga Ray 500/700 5/5.5/720 x 1280/ 1080 x 1920 144.3 x 71.3 x 9.2/ 153.8 x 75.4 x 8.9
Galaxy J1 4G
Galaxy On5
Galaxy On 5 Pro
Galaxy J2 (2016)
4.3/480x800
5.0/720 x 1280
5.0/ 1280 x 720
5.0/ 1280 x 720
129x68.2x8.9
142.3 x 72.1 x 8.5
142.3 x 72.1 x 8.5
142.4 x 71.1 x 8.0
163/182
131
149
149
138
MTK6737
MT6737/MT6753
Quad-core/1GB
Quad-core/1.5GB
Quad core/ 2GB
Quad core/ 1.5GB
Android 7.0
Android 7.0
Android 7.0
Android 4.4 KitKat
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
16GB/128GB
3GB/16GB
3GB/32GB
4GB/256GB
8GB/128GB
16GB/128GB
8GB/128GB
8MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
5/13/13/13
5MP/2MP
8MP/5MP
8MP/5MP
8MP/5MP
2,650
5,000
4,000/5,000
2,050
2,600
2,600
2,600
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
Yes/No
July, 2017
August, 2017
September, 2017
Januray 2017
October, 2015
July, 2016
July, 2016
8,635
7,499
8,999/9,999
6,890
6,990
6,490
6,990
Nokia 3
P55 Max
5/1280X720
5.5/1280x720
Dimension (mm)
143.4x71.4x8.4
152 x 72.6 x 8.7
Weight (grams)
NA
180
Processor/RAM
MT 6737
Model Display (inches/res)
Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
118 I DECEMBER 2017
MYMOBILE
MYGUIDE RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
MODELS
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
PARAMETERS
Model
SAMSUNG
TCL
XIAOMI
Galaxy J2 Pro (2016)
TCL 560
TCL 562
Redmi 2 Prime
Display (inches/res)
5/720x1280
5.5/ 1280x720
5.5/1920x1080
4.7/720 x 1280
Dimension (mm)
142.4x71.1x8
NA
152x77x8
Weight (grams)
138
156
150
133
Processor/RAM
Quad core/2GB
QS 210/2GB
MT6755M/3GB
Operating system
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Storage/Expandable
16GB/128GB
Redmi 3S/ 3s Prime Redmi Note Prime
5/ 1280X720
Redmi Note 3
5.5/720 x 1280
5.5/1080 x 1920
154 x 78.7 x 9.45
150 x 76 x 8.65
144
185
164
QS 410/2GB
QS 430/ 2GB, 3GB
QS 410/2GB
QS 650/2GB,3GB
Android 6.0
Android 4.4
Android 6.0
Android 4.4
Android 5.0.2
16GB/32GB
32GB/64GB
16GB/32GB
16GB, 32GB/128GB
16GB/32GB
16GB,32GB/32GB
8MP/5MP
8MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
8MP/2MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
16MP/5MP
2,600
2,500
2,960
2,200
4,100
3,100
4,000
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Music Player/FM
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/-
Launch
July,2016
July, 2016
July,2016
August, 2015
August, 2016
December, 2015
March, 2016
9,090
6,999
9,999
6,999
6,999/ 8,999
7,999
9,999/ 11,999
Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Price Rs.
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
MODELS
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
134.00 x 67.20 x 9.4 139.4 X 69.7 X 8.5
XIAOMI
PARAMETERS
VIDEOCON
Redmi 3s Plus
Redmi Note 4
Graphite2
Graphite1
Delite21
Krypton3
Ultra30
5/1280x720
5.5/1080X1920
4.5/1280x720
4.5/1280x720
5/1280x720
5/1280x720
5/1920X1080
Dimension (mm)
139.3x69.6x8.5
151X76X8.3
137.55X70.28X10
136.76X69X10
146.66X74.3X10.52
144.5X73.14X9.74
144.31X73X10
Weight (grams)
144
165
129
127
151
153
153
Processor/RAM
QS 430/2GB
QS625/2GB,3GB,4GB
Quad-core/1GB
Quad-core/1GB
Quad-core/2GB
Quad-core/2GB
Quad-core/3GB
Operating system
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Storage/Expandable
32GB/128GB
32GB/64GB
8GB/64GB
8GB/64GB
16GB/32GB
16GB/32GB
32GB/64GB
Rear/Front Camera
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
5MP/2MP
5MP/2MP
8MP/2MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
Battery (mAh)
4000/4100
4,100
2,000
2,000
3,000
3,000
4,000
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes (Hybrid)
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yees
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
October,2016
January, 2017
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
9,499
9,999
6,299
6,499
7,200
7,999
9,990
Model Display (inches/res)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
www.mymobileindia.com
DECEMBER 2017 I 119
MYGUIDE RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
MODELS
RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999
PARAMETERS
Model Display (inches/res) Dimension (mm)
VIDEOCON
YU
ZEN
ZOPO
ZTE
ASUS
Ultra50
Yunique
Yuphoria
Cinemax 3
ZP331
Blade V6
Zenfone 2 (2GB/4GB)
5/1920X1080
4.7/720x1280
5.0/720x1280
5.5/720x1280
4.5/ 854 x 480
5/ 1280 x 720
5.5/ 1080 x 1920
133 x 65.7 x 8.5
142X69.5X6.8
152.5 x 77.2 x 10.9
148.24X72.56X11.44 134.5 x 67.5 x 8.3 142.4 x 73 x 8.2-9.35
Weight (grams)
186
128
143
August,2016
113
122
170
Processor/RAM
Quad-core/3GB
QS 410 / 1GB
Quad core / 2GB
Quad core/2GB
Quad core/1GB
MTK 6735/2GB
IA Z3560 /2GB
Operating system
Android 6.0
Android 5.1.
Android 5.1.1
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 5.0
Storage/Expandable
32GB/64GB
8GB/32GB
16GB/32GB
16GB/32GB
8 GB/64 GB
16GB/128GB
16GB,32GB/128GB
Rear/Front Camera
13MP/5MP
8MP/2MP
8MP/5MP
5MP/3.2MP
5 MP/2 MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
3,000
2,000
2,230
2,900
1,700
2,500
3,000
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/-
NA
September, 2015
May, 2015
August, 2016
-
July, 2016
March, 2015
9,990
6,300
6,499
6,999
7,500
9,999
13,999, 18,999
Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
MODELS
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
ASUS
PARAMETERS
CENTRIC
Model
Zenfone Selfie
Zenfone 3 lazer
Zenfone 3 Max(ZC520TL)
Display (inches/res)
5.5/1080 x 1920
5.5/1920x1080
5.2/1280x720
Dimension (mm)
156.5 x 77.2 x 10.8
149x76x7.9
Weight (grams)
170
Processor/RAM
QS615 /2GB,3GB
COOLPAD
GIONEE
Coolpad Note 5
Cool 1
F 103 Pro
5.5/1920x1080
5.5/1920x1080
5.50/1080x1920
5.0/ 1280 x 720
149x73.7x8.55
152 x 76 x 7.8
NA
148
160
NA
173
142
QS 430.4GB
Quad-core/3GB
QS 430
QS 617/4GB
1.4GHz octa-core
Quad core/ 3GB
Android 5.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 7.1.1
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
16GB,32GB/128GB
32GB/128GB
32GB/32GB
3GB/32GB/256GB
32GB/64GB
32GB
16GB/128GB
13MP/13MP
13MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/8MP
13MP/8MP
13MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
3,000
3,000
4,100
3,000
4,010
4,000
2,400
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes/-
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/No
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
Yes/No
Launch
August, 2015
October,2016
November,2016
November, 2017
October, 2016
January, 2017
July, 2016
Price Rs.
10,999/ 16,999
18,999
12,999
10,999
10,999
13,999
11,999
Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM
120 I DECEMBER 2017
A1
NEW
152.00 x 74.80 x 8.20 145.3 x 70.5 x 8.5
MYMOBILE
MYGUIDE RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
MODELS
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
PARAMETERS
GIONEE
HONOR
HTC
INFOCUS
KARA
Marathon M5 Lite
Honor 5C
Honor 5X
Honor 6X
Desire 630
Epic 1
Mega 1
Display (inches/res)
5.0/720 x 1280
5.2/ 1920 x 1080
5.5/ 1080 x 1920
5.5/1080X1920
5.0/ 1280 x 720
5.5/1920x1080
5.5-inch
Dimension (mm)
143 x 69.9 x 8.5
147.1 x 73.8 x 8.3
151.3 x 76.3 x 8.15
150.9X76.2X8.2
146.9 x 70.9 x 8.3
153x76x8.4
152.4X77.1X9.5
Weight (grams)
182
156
158
162
140
184
Model
Quad Core/3GB
Kirin 650/ 2GB
QS 616 /2GB
Kirin 655
QS 400/2GB
Decca-core/3GB
1.5GHz Quad Core(64bit)
Operating system
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 5.1.1
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Storage/Expandable
32GB/128GB
16GB/128GB
16GB/128GB
32GB/64GB
16GB/2TB
32GB/128GB
3GB/32GB
8MP/5MP
13MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
12 and 2MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
16MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
4,000
3,000
3,000
3,340
2,200
3,000
4,000
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
Yes/-
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
Yes
December, 2015
June, 2016
January, 2016
Jnauray 2017
February, 2016
November,2016
Launched
13,000
10,999
12,999
11,999
10,890
12,999
12,999
Processor/RAM
Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
MODELS
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
PARAMETERS
LAVA
Display (inches/res) Dimension (mm)
LEECO
LENOVO
V5
Le 1S
Le 2
Phab 2
Vibe K4 Note
Vibe S1
Phab Plus
5.5/720x1280
5.5/1080x1920
5.5/ 1920 x 1080
6.4/1920x1080
5.5/1080x1920
5.0/1080x1920
6.8/1080 x 1920
151.9 x 94.7 x 8.3 151.9 x 74.2 x 7.6 151.1 x 74.2 x 7.7
175x89.5x6.89
153.67 X 76.45 X 9.14
143.3 x 70.8 x 7.8
186.6 x 96.6 x 7.6
Model
Weight (grams)
153
169
153
225
158
132
229
Processor/RAM
Quad core/3GB
"MT H X10/3GB"
QS 652/ 3GB
MTK8735/3GB
MT 6753/3GB
MT6752/3GB
QS 615 /2GB
Operating system
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 5.1.
Android 5.0
Android 5.0
Storage/Expandable
16GB/32GB
32GB/No
32GB/No
32GB/128GB
16GB/128GB
32GB/128GB
32GB/64GB
Rear/Front Camera
13MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
16MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/8 MP + 2 MP
13MP/5MP
3,000
3,000
3,000
4,050
3,300
2,420
3,500
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes/Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/-
January, 2016
January, 2016
June, 2016
December,2016
January, 2016
November, 2015
October, 2015
11,299
10,999
11,999
11,999
11,999
12,999
14,999
Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
www.mymobileindia.com
DECEMBER 2017 I 121
MYGUIDE RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
MODELS
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
LENOVO
PARAMETERS
LYF
LG
Model
Vibe K5 Note
Phab 2 Plus
K8 Note
F1
K 10
X Screen
G4 Stylus
Display (inches/res)
5.5/1920x1080
6.4/1920x1080
5.5/1080 x 1920
5.5/1920x1080
5.3/ 1280 x 720
4.93/ 1280x720
5.7/ 720 x 1280
Dimension (mm)
152x75.7x8.49
174x88x5.5
154.5 x 75.9 x 8.5
155.5x77.6x7.9
146.6x74.8x8.8
142.6 x 71.8 x 7.1
154.4 x 79.2 x 9.4
Weight (grams)
165
218
180
153
140
120
163
Helio P10/4GB
MT/3GB
MT Decacore/3GB/4GB
QS 617/3GB
QS 410/2GB
QS 410/2GB
QS 400 /1GB
Operating system
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 7.1.1
Android 6.0
Android 5.0
Android 6.0
Android 5.0
Storage/Expandable
32GB/128GB
32GB/128GB
32GB/64GB/256GB
32GB/128GB
16GB/32GB
16GB/128GB
16GB/32GB
13MP.8MP
13MP,13MP/8MP
13+5MP/13MP
16MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
3,500
4,050
4,000
3,200
2,300
2,300
3,000
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/-
Jaunuary,2016
November,2016
August, 2017
October,2016
January, 2016
July, 2016
May, 2015
13,499
14,999
12,999
13,099
12,999
12,990
13,869
Processor/RAM
Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
MODELS
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
MICROMAX
PARAMETERS
MOTOROLA
NOKIA
Canvas 6
Canvas 6 Pro
Moto G Turbo Edition
Moto G4
Moto G4 Plus
G5 Plus
Nokia 5
5.5/1920 x 1080
5.5/1920 x 1080
5.0/720 x 1280
5.5/ 1920 x 1080
5.5/ 1920X1080
5.2/1980X1080
5.2/ 720x1280
Dimension (mm)
-
-
142.1 x 72.4 x 11.6
153 x 76.6 x 7.9
153X76.6X9.8
153X76X9.6
149.7 x 72.5 x 8.05
Weight (grams)
-
-
155
155
155
155
NA
Processor/RAM
MT6753/3GB
Helio x10/4GB
QS 615 /2GB
QS 617/2GB
QS 617/2GB,3GB
QS 625 Octa-core
QS 430
Operating system
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 5.1.1
Android 6.0.1
Android 6.1
Android 7.0
Android 7.1.1
Storage/Expandable
32GB/128GB
Yes/Yes
16GB/32GB
16GB/128GB
16GB, 32GB/128GB
16GB/32GB
2GB/16GB
13MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
16MP/5MP
12MP/5MP
13MP/8MP
3,000
3,000
2,470
3,000
3,000
3,000
3,000
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes
Yes
Yes
May, 2016
May, 2016
2,015
May, 2016
May,2016
March, 2017
July, 2017
10,999
10,999
10,999
10,499
13,499/ 14,999
12,999
12,499
Model Display (inches/res)
Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
122 I DECEMBER 2017
MYMOBILE
MYGUIDE RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
MODELS
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
PARAMETERS
NOKIA
NUBIA
PANASONIC
Nokia 6
Z11 Mini
N1
Eluga Note
Eluga Arc
Eluga Pulse X
Eluga A3/A3 Pro
5.5/1920X1080
5/1920x1080
5.5/1920x1080
5.5/ 1920 x 1080
4.7/720x1280
5.5/1280X720
5.2/720 x 1280
Dimension (mm)
154 x 75.8 x 7.85
141.4x70x8
150.9x79x8.9
146 x 74.50 x 8.10
139 x 67 x 8.10
139 x 67 x 8.10
148.7 x 72.4 x 9.1
Weight (grams)
NA
138
190
142
130
152
161
Processor/RAM
QS 430
QS/3GB
MTK P10/3GB
Octa Core/3GB
QS 410/2GB
Quad-core/3GB
Quad-core/3GB
Android 7.1.1
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 7.0
Storage/Expandable
3BG/32GB
32GB/200GB
32GB/128GB
32GB/32GB
16GB/32GB
16GB/128GB
16GB/32GB/128GB
Rear/Front Camera
8MP/16MP
16MP/8MP
13MP/13MP
16MP/5MP
8MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/8MP
3,000
2,800
5,000
3,000
1,800
3,000
4,000
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/yes
Yes/Yes/yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
No
yes
yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Music Player/FM
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes
Yes
July, 2017
October,2016
December,2016
July, 2016
April,2016
March, 2017
August, 2017
14,299
12,999
11,999
10,290
10,190
10,990
11,290/12,790
Model Display (inches/res)
Operating system
Battery (mAh)
Launch Price Rs.
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
MODELS
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
SAMSUNG
PARAMETERS
Galaxy On7
Galaxy J5
Galaxy J Max
Galaxy J5 (2016)
Galaxy J7
J5 Prime
Galaxy On7 Pro
Display (inches/res)
5.5/1280 x 720
5.0/1280 x 720
7.0/ 1280 x 800
5.2/1280x720
5.5/720 x 1280
5/1080x720
5.5/1280 x 720
Dimension (mm)
77.5x151.8x8.2
142.1 x 71.8 x 7.9
186.9 x 108.8 x 8.7
145.7 x 72.3 x 8.1
152.2 x 78.6 x 7.5
142.8x69.5x8.1
151.8 x 77.5 x 8.2
Weight (grams)
171
146
NA
158
171
143
171
Processor/RAM
Quad-core/1.5GB
Quad-core/1.5GB
Quad core/1.5GB
QS 410/2GB
Octa Core/1.5GB
Quad-core/2GB
Quad core/ 2GB
Operating system
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Storage/Expandable
8GB/128GB
8GB/128GB
8GB/200GB
16GB/128GB
16GB/128GB
16GB/256GB
16GB/128GB
Rear/Front Camera
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
8MP/2MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
8MP/5MP
3,000
2,600
4,000
3,100
3,000
2,400
3,000
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
October, 2015
June, 2015
July, 2016
May, 2016
2,015
September,2016
July, 2016
10,990
10,390
11,400
13,990
11,890
12,990
10,900
Model
Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
www.mymobileindia.com
DECEMBER 2017 I 123
MYGUIDE RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
MODELS
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
XIAOMI
PARAMETERS
VIDEOCON
VIVO
YU
Mi 4i
Mi Max
Cube3
Y51L
Y55L
Y55S
Yureka Plus (YU5510A,YU5510 )
Display (inches/res)
5.0/1080 x 1920
6.44/1920x1080
5/1280x720
5.0/ 540x960
5.2/1280x720
5.2/1280x720
5.5/1080x1920
Dimension (mm)
138.1 x 69.6 x 7.8
173.1x88.3x7.5
147.9x72.9x7.5
147.9x72.9x7.5
155 x 78 x 9
Weight (grams)
130
203
152.5
157
142
142
154
Processor/RAM
QS 615/2GB
QS 650,652/ 3GB,4GB
Quad-core/3GB
QS 410/2GB
QS 430/2GB
QS 425/3GB
QS 615/2GB
Operating system
Android 5.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 5.0.2
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 4.4.4
16GB,32GB/No
32GB,128GB/128GB
32GB/64GB
16GB/128GB
16GB/128GB
16GB/256GB
16GB/32GB
13MP/5MP
16MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
8MP/5MP
8MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
3,120
4,850
3000
2,350
2,650
2,730
2,500
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/yes
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
April, 2015
June,2016
NA
January, 2016
October,2016
March, 2017
July, 2015
11,999/ 14,999
10,999
10,490
10,700
11,980
12,490
8,999
Model
Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
144.5X73.14X9.74 143.80 x 71.70 x 7.52
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999
MODELS
RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999
YU
PARAMETERS
ZOPO
ASUS
Yunicorn
Yureka Note
ZP350
ZP370
Hero 1
Z1
Zenfone 2 Laser ZE601KL
Display (inches/res)
5.5/(1080X1920)
6.0/1080 x 1920
5.0 / 1280 x 720
5.5/ 1280 x 720
5.0/1280 x 720
5.5/1920 x 1080
6.0/ 1080 x 1920
Dimension (mm)
153.3X75.4X8.5
-
145.9 x 71.4 x 8.5
153.8 x 77.1 x 9
146.1 x 70.6 x 8.65
155.7 x 77.3 x 8.9
164.6 x 84 x 10.6
Weight (grams)
172
-
137
167
136
175
190
Processor/RAM
MT Helio P10/4GB
MTK6753T/3GB
Quad-core/1GB
Ouad-core/1GB
Quad-core/2GB
QS 801/3GB
QS 616/3GB
Operating system
Androis 5.1.1
Android 5.1.1
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 5.1.1
Android 5.0
Storage/Expandable
32GB/128GB
16GB/Yes
8GB/64GB
8GB/64GB
16 GB/64 GB
64GB/No
32GB/128GB
13MP/5MP
13MP/8MP
8.0MP/2.0MP
8.0MP/2.0MP
13.2 MP/5.0MP
13MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
4,000
4,000
2,100
3,000
2,500
4,100
3,000
2G/3G/4G
yes/yes/yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Music Player/FM
yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/-
Yes/No
May,2016
April, 2016
NA
NA
NA
May, 2016
December, 2015
12,999
13,499
10,000
11,000
14,500
13,499
16,499
Model
Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Launch Price Rs.
124 I DECEMBER 2017
MYMOBILE
MYGUIDE RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999
RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999
MODELS
RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999
ASUS
CREO
ZENFONE 3 MAX(ZC553KL)
Mark 1
Marathon M5
S6
S6s
Desire 728 LTE
Desire 828
Display (inches/res)
5.5/1920x1080
5.5/ 1440x2560
5.5/ 720 x 1280
5.5/ 720 x 1280
5.5/1920x1080
5.5/ 720 x 1280
5.5/720 x 1280
Dimension (mm)
151.4x76.24x8.3
155.4 x 76.1 x 8.7
152 x 76 x 8.6
151.9 x 74.6 x 6.9
154.5x75.6x8.15
157.9 x 77.8 x 7.8
157.9 x 77.8 x 7.89
Weight (grams)
175
190
211
147
166
153
148
MT6753/2GB
MT6753/1.5GB
PARAMETERS
Model
GIONEE
HTC
Processor/RAM
QS 430/3GB
Helio X10 /3GB
MT6735/3GB
MT6753T /3GB
1.3GHZ OCTA CORE/3GB
Operating system
Android 6.0
Android 5.1.1
Android 5.1
Android 5.1.1
Android 6.0
Android 5.1.1
Android 5.1
Storage/Expandable
32GB/128GB
32GB/-
32GB/128GB
32GB/128GB
32gb/128gb
16GB/200GB
16GB/2TB
16MP/8MP
21MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
4,100
3,100
6,020
3,150
3,159
2,800
2,800
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/No
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
November,2016
April,2016
November,2015
November, 2015
August,2016
November, 2015
November, 2015
17,999
19,999
17,500
19,999
17, 999
12,999
15,300
Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999
RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999
MODELS
RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999
HTC
PARAMETERS
LENOVO
LYF
Desire 825
HTC 10 Lifestyle
Vibe P1
Vibe Shot
Vibe X3
Z2 Plus
Earth 1
5.5/ 1280 x 720
5.5/1920x1080
5.5/1080x1920
5.0/1080 x 1920
5.5/1080x1920
5/1920x1080
5.5/1080x1920
Dimension (mm)
156.9 x 76.9 x 7.4
156.9x76.9x7.7
152.9 x 75.6 x 9.9
142.7 x 70 x 7.6
154 x 76.5 x 9.3
140.2x60x6.2
154 x 76.6 x 7.25
Weight (grams)
155
155
187
145
175
150
162.5.
Processor/RAM
QS 400/2GB
QS 400/3GB
QS615 /2GB
QS 615/3GB
QS 808 /3GB
QS 820/3GB,4GB
QS 615/3GB
Operating system
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 5.1.1
Storage/Expandable
16GB/2TB
32GB/2TB
32GB/128GB
32GB/128GB
32GB/128GB
32GB,64GB/128GB
32GB/32GB
Rear/Front Camera
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
16MP/8MP
21MP/8MP
13MP/8MP
13MP + 2MP/5MP
2,700
2,700
5,000
3,000
3,500
3,500
3,500
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/-
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
February, 2016
September,2016
October, 2015
June, 2015
December, 2015
September,2016
January, 2016
12,550
15,990
15,499
18,500
19,999
19,999
19,499
Model Display (inches/res)
Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
www.mymobileindia.com
DECEMBER 2017 I 125
MYGUIDE RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999
RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999
MODELS
RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999
LYF
MOTOROLA
NEXTBIT
OPPO
Earth 2
Moto X Play
Robin
F1 S
Galaxy J7 (2016)
Galaxy On8
On Nxt
5/1920x1080
5.5/1080 x 1920
5.2/ 1080 x 1920
5.5/1280x720
5.5/1280x720
5.5/1920x1080
5.5/1920x1080
Dimension (mm)
142x76x7.9
148 x 75 x 10.9
149 x 72 x 7
154 x 76 x 7.38
76 x 151 x 7.8
151.7x76x7.8
151.7x75x8
Weight (grams)
140
169
NA
160
169
169
167
Processor/RAM
QS 615/3GB
QS615 /2GB
QS 808/3GB
MTK 6750/3GB
Exynos 7870/2GB
Octa-core/3GB
Octa-core/3GB
Operating system
Android 5.1
Android 5.1.1
Android 6.0
Android 5.1.1
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Storage/Expandable
32GB/64GB
16GB,32GB/128GB
32GB/ 100GB
32GB/128GB
16GB/128GB
16GB/128GB
32GB/256GB
Rear/Front Camera
13MP/13MP
21MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/16MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/8MP
2500
3,630
2,680
3,075
3,300
3,300
3,300
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
Yes/yes
Yes/Yes
Sept, 2015
May, 2016
August, 2016
May, 2016
September,2016
October,2016
15,999
19,999
16,444
14,900
12,090
14,900
PARAMETERS
Model Display (inches/res)
Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch
19,999
Price Rs.
RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999
RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999
MODELS
RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
PARAMETERS
VIVO
XIAOMI
ZOPO
APPLE
J7 Prime
J7 Max
V3
V5
MIMax 2
SPEED 7 PLUS
iPhone 5S
5.5/1920x1080
5.7/1920x1080
5.0/1280×720
5.5/1280x720
6.44/1080 x 1920
5.5/ 1920 x 1080
4.0/640 x 1136
Dimension (mm)
151.7x75x8
151.7x75x8.1
143.6 x 71 x 7.5
153.8x75.5x7.55
174.1 x 88.7 x 7.6
153.6 x 76.5 x 8.8
123.8 x 58.6 x 7.6
Weight (grams)
167
167
138
154
211
164
112
Processor/RAM
Octa-core/3GB
Octa-core MediaTek
QS 616/3GB
octa-core/4GB
QS 625/4GB
Octa-core /3GB
Dual-core/1GB
Operating system
Android 6.0
Android 7.0
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 7.1.1
Android 5.1
iOS 9.2.1
Storage/Expandable
16MP/256GB
4GB/32GB
32GB/128GB
32GB/128GB
64/128GB
16 GB/64 GB
16GB,32GB,64GB/No
13MP/8MP
13MP/13MP
13MP/8MP
13MP/20MP
12/5MP
13 MP/5.0MP
8MP/1.2MP
3,300
3,300
2,550
3,000
5,300
3,000
1,560
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/-
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
September,2016
July, 2017
May, 2016
November,2016
August, 2017
NA
September, 2013
14,900
17,290
15,250
16,990
16,999
17,500
19,280 onwards
Model Display (inches/res)
Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
126 I DECEMBER 2017
MYMOBILE
MYGUIDE RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999
RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999
MODELS
RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999
ASUS
PARAMETERS
BLACKBERRY
COOLPAD
GIONEE
HONOR
Zenfone 3
Zenfone 3 Ultra
DTEK 50
Max
M5 Plus
S6 Pro
Honor 8
Display (inches/res)
5.2,5.5/(1920x1080)
6.8/(1920x1080)
5.2/1920x1080
5.5/1920x1080
6.0/1920 x 1080
5.5/1920x1080
5.2/1920x1080
Dimension (mm)
146.87 x 73.98 x 7.69 186.4 x 93.9 x 6.8
147x72.5x7.4
152x75.5x7.6
-
153x75.3x7.6
145.5x71x7.45
Model
Weight (grams)
144
233
135
170
210.8g
170
153
Processor/RAM
QS 625/3GB,4GB
QS 652/4GB
QS 617/3GB
QS 617/4GB
Octa Core/3GB
octa-core/4GB
Kirin 950/4GB
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 5.1
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
32GB,64GB/2TB
64GB/128GB
16GB/2TB
64GB/128GB
64GB/128GB
64GB/256GB
32GB/128GB
16MP/8MP
23MP/8MP
13MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/8MP
12MP,12MP/8MP
1
4,600
3000
2,800
5,020
3,130
2,900
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
yes/yes/yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
No
yes
Yes
Yes
No
Music Player/FM
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
August,2016
August, 2016
November,2016
May, 2016
May, 2016
October,2016
October, 2016
21,999/ 27,999
29,999
21,000
24,999
27,000
21,130
29,000
Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Launch Price Rs.
RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999
RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999
MODELS
RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999
PARAMETERS
HONOR
HTC
LEECO
LG
Honor 7
X9
Desire 10 Pro
Max 2
Stylus 2
Stylus 2 Plus
Nexus 5X
Display (inches/res)
5.2/1080 x 1920
5.5/ 1080 x 1920
5.5/1920x1080
5.7/(2560X1440)
5.7/1280X720
5.7/ 1920 x 1080
5.2/ 1080 x 1920
Dimension (mm)
143.2 x 71.9 x 8.5
153.9 x 75.9 x 7.99
156.5x76x7.86
156.8 x 77.6 x 7.99
155 x 79.6 x 7.4
155 X 79.6 X 7.4
147 x 72.6 x 7.9
Weight (grams)
157
170
165
185
145
146
136
Processor/RAM
HS Kirin 935/3GB
MT H X10/ 3GB
Helio P10/4GB
QS 820/4GB, 6GB
Quad Core /2GB
Octa Core/3GB
QS 808/2GB
Operating system
Android 5.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Storage/Expandable
16GB/128GB
32GB/2TB
64GB/2TB
32GB, 64GB
16GB/2TB
32GB/2TB
16GB,32GB/No
20MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
20MP/13MP
21MP/8MP
13MP/8MP
16MP/8MP
12.3MP/5MP
3,100
3,000
3000
3,100
3,000
3,000
2,700
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/yes
Yes/Yes/yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
July, 2015
May, 2016
November,2016
June,2016
May,2016
July, 2016
October, 2015
22,999
25,990
26,490
22,999/ 29,999
20,500
24,000
24,490/30,645
Model
Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
www.mymobileindia.com
DECEMBER 2017 I 127
MYGUIDE RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999
RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999
MODELS
RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999
MOTOROLA
PARAMETERS
NUBIA
ONEPLUS
Moto X Style
Moto Z Play
Z 2 Play
Z11
2
3T
OnePlus 5
5.7/ 1440 x 2560
5.5/1920x1080
5.5/1920X1080
5.5/1920z1080
5.5/1080p
5.5/1920x1080
5.5/1080 x 1920
Dimension (mm)
153.9 x 76.2 x 11.06
156.4x76.4x6.99
156.2X76.2X5.99
151.8x72.3x7.5
151.8x74.9x9.85
152.7x74.5x7.35
154.2 x 74.1 x 7.3
Weight (grams)
179
165
145
162
175
158
153
Processor/RAM
QS 808/3GB
QS 625/3GB
QS 626/4GB
QS 820/6GB
QS 810/3GB&4GB
QS 821/6GB
QS 835/8GB
Operating system
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 7.1.1
Android 6.0
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 7.1.1
16GB,32GB/128GB
32GB/2TB
64GB/2TB
64GB/2TB
64GB
64GB
64GB
21MP/5MP
16MP/5MP
12MP/5MP
16MP/8MP
13MP/5MP
16MP/16MP
16MP/16MP
3,000
3,510
3,000
3000
3,300
3400
3,300
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
September, 2015
October,2016
July, 2017
December,2016
July, 2015
December.2016
June, 2017
26, 999/ 28,999
20,490
24,999
29,999
22,999
22,000
32,999
Model Display (inches/res)
Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999
RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999
MODELS
RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999
SAMSUNG
PARAMETERS
Model Display (inches/res)
Galaxy A7
Galaxy A5 (2016)
5.5/1080 x 1920
5.2/1080 x 1920
Galaxy A7 (2016) Galaxy A5/A7 (2017)
SMARTRON
SONY
J7 Pro
t phone
Xperia C4
5.5/ 1080 x 1920
5.2/5.5/1080X1920
5.5/1920X1080
5.5/1920x1080
5.5/1080 x 1920
150.3 x 77.4 x 7.8
158.2x78.2x6.98
150.3 x 77.4 x 7.9
Dimension (mm)
151 x 76.2 x 6.3
144.8 x 71 x 7.3
151.5 x 74.1 x 7.3
144.8 x 71 x 7.3/ 151.5X74.1X7.3
Weight (grams)
141
153
169
157/I86
157
149
147
Processor/RAM
Octa Core/2GB
Octa Core/2GB
Octa Core/3GB
Octa Core/2GB/3GB
Octa core Exynos/3GB
QS 810/4GB
MT6752/2GB
Android 5.0.2
Android 5.1.1
Android 5.1.1
Android 6.0
Android 7.0
Android 6.0
Android 5.0
Storage/Expandable
16GB/64GB
16GB/128GB
16GB/128GB
32GB/256GB
64GB
64GB/128GB
16GB/200GB
Rear/Front Camera
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
16MP/16MP/16MP/ 16MP
13MP/13MP
13MP/4MP
13MP/5MP
2,600
2,900
3,300
3000/3600
3,600
3,000
2,600
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/yYes
Yes/Yes
February, 2015
April, 2016
December, 2015
March, 2017
July, 2017
July,2016
June, 2015
22,900
21,900
25,900
28,990/33,490
20,900
22,999
20,800
Operating system
Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
128 I DECEMBER 2017
MYMOBILE
MYGUIDE RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999
RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999
MODELS
RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999
SONY
PARAMETERS
XIAOMI
VIVO
Xperia XA
Xperia Z3+
Xperia C5 Ultra Dual
Mi 5
X5 Pro
V3 Max
VIVO V5 Plus
5.0/1280 x 720
5.2/ 1080 x 1920
6.0/1080 x 1920
5.15/1080 x 1920
5.2/ 1080 x 1920
5.5/1080 x 1920
5.5/1080X1920
Dimension (mm)
143.6 x 66.8 x 7.9
146.3 x 71.9 x 6.9
164.2 x 79.6 x 8.2
144.5 x 69.2 x 7.25
147.9 x 73.5 x 6.4
153.9x77.1x7.58
152.6 x 74 x 7.3
Weight (grams)
137
144
187
129
151
168
159
Processor/RAM
MTK H P10/2GB
QS 810 /3GB
MTK6752/2GB
QS 820/3GB
QS 615/2GB
QS 652/4GB
QS 652/4GB
Operating system
Android 6.0
Android 5.0
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 5.0
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Storage/Expandable
16GB/200GB
32GB/128GB
16GB/200GB
32GB/No
16GB/128GB
32GB/128GB
64GB
13MP/5MP
20.7MP/5MP
13MP/13MP
16MP/4MP
13MP/8MP
13MP/8MP
12MP and 8MP/16 MP
2,300
2,930
2,930
3,000
2,450
3,000
3,160
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
May, 2016
June, 2015
August, 2015
April, 2016
June, 2015
April, 2016
42,736
20,990
26,990
27,799
24,999
21,400
23,980
22,990
Model Display (inches/res)
Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
MODELS
RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
APPLE
PARAMETERS
iPhone 6
iPhone 6Plus
iPhone SE
iPhone 6S
iPhone 6S Plus
iPhone 7
iPhone 7 Plus
Display (inches/res)
4.7/750 x 1334
5.5/1080 x 1920
4.0/640 x 1136
4.7/750 x 1334
5.5/1080 x 1920
4.7/1334x750
5.5/1920x1080
Dimension (mm)
138.1 x 67 x 6.9
158.1 x 77.8 x 7.1
123.8 x 58.6 x 7.6
138.3 x 67.1 x 7.1
158.2 x 77.9 x 7.3
138.3x67.1x7.1
158.2x77.9x7.3
Weight (grams)
129
172
113
143
192
138
188
Processor/RAM
A8,M8/1GB
A8,M8/1GB
A9,M9/2GB
A9,M9/2GB
A9,M9/2GB
A10 Fusion, M10/2GB
A10Fusion, M10/3GB
iOS 9
iOS 9
iOS 9.3
iOS 9
iOS 9
iOS 10
iOS 10
16GB,64GB/No
16GB,64GB/No
16GB,64GB/No
8MP/1.2MP
8MP/1.2MP
12MP/1.2MP
12MP/5MP
12MP/5MP
12MP/7MP
12MP,12MP/7MP
1,810
2,915
1,614
1,715
2,750
1,960
2,900
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/No
September,2014
September,2014
March, 2016
September,2015
September,2015
October,2016
0ctober,2016
23,999
24,999 onwards
24,000 onwards
39,990 onwards
48,998 onwards
45,775 omwards
59,999 onwards
Model
Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
www.mymobileindia.com
16GB,64GB,128GB/ No 16GB,64GB,128GB/ No 32GB/128GB/256GB 32GB/128GB/256GB
DECEMBER 2017 I 129
MYGUIDE RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
MODELS
RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
APPLE
PARAMETERS
ASUS
BLACKBERRY
8
8 Plus
Zenfone Zoom
Zenfone 3 Deluxe
ZenFone AR
DTEK 60
KEYone
4.7/750 x 1334
5.5/1080x1920
5.5/1080 x 1920
5.7/(1920x1080)
5.7/1440x2560
5.5/2560x1440
4.5/1080 x 1620
Dimension (mm)
138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3
158.4 x 78.1 x 7.5
158.9 x 78.8 x 11.95
156.4x74.4x7.5
158.7 x 77.7 x 9
153.9x75.4x7
149.1 x 72.4 x 9.4
Weight (grams)
148
200
185
172
170
165
180
Processor/RAM
A11 Bionic
A11 Bionic
IA Z3590/4GB
QS 820,821/6GB
QS 821/8GB
QS 820/4GB
QS625/3GB/4GB
iOS 11
iOS 11
Android 5.0
Android 6.0
Android 7.0
Android 6.0
Android 7.1
2GB/64GB/256GB
3GB/64GB/256GB
128GB/ 128GB
256GB/128GB
64/256GB
32GB/2TB
32GB/64GB/256GB
12MP/7MP
12MP/12MP/7MP
13MP/5MP
23MP/8MP
23MP/8MP
21MP/8MP
12MP/8MP
1,821
2,691
3,000
3,000
3,300
2,610
3,505
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes
Yes
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
September, 2017
September, 2017
January, 2016
September,2016
August, 2017
November,2016
August, 2017
61,990
70,800
26,999
25,999
49,990
29,999
39,990
Model Display (inches/res)
Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
MODELS
RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
PARAMETERS
Model Display (inches/res) Dimension (mm)
HUAWEI
HTC
Pixel
Pixel XL
Nexus 6P
P9
One A9
10
HTC U Play/Ultra
5/1920x1080
5.5/2560x1440
5.7/1440 x 2560
5.2/1920x1080
5.0/1080 x 1920
5.2/ 2560X1440
5.2/1080X1920/ 5.7/2560X1440
143.8x69.5x8.5
154.7x75.7x8.5
159.3 x 77.8 x 7.3
145x70.9x6.95
145.75 x 70.8 x 7.26
145.9 x 71.9x 9.0
162.41X79.79X7.99
178
144
143
161
145/175
Weight (grams) Processor/RAM
QS 821/4GB
QS 821/4GB
QS810 /3GB
Kirin 955/3GB,4GB
QS 617/3GB
QS 820/4GB
MediaTek/QS821
Operating system
Android 7.1
Android 7.1
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
android 6.0
Android 6/Android 7
32GB,128GB/ No
32GB,128GB/ No
32GB,64GB/No
32GB,64GB,/128GB
32GB/2TB
32GB/2TB
12.3MP/8MP
12.3MP/8MP
12.3MP/8MP
12MP,12MP/8MP
13MP/4MP
12MP/5MP
32GB/256GB/64GB/ 2TB 16MP/16MP/16MP/ 12MP
2,770
3,450
3,450
3,000
2,150
3,000
2500/3000
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
October,2016
October,2016
October, 2015
August,2016
December, 2015
May,2016
February, 2017
35,000 onwards
39,999
34,999/ 39,999
39,999
25,990
34,999
29,999/53,999
Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
130 I DECEMBER 2017
MYMOBILE
MYGUIDE RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
MODELS
RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
HTC
PARAMETERS
LG
MOTOROLA
ONEPLUS
HTC U11
G4 Dual SIM
G5
V20
Moto X Force
Moto Z
3T
5.5/2560X1440
5.5/1440 x 2560
5.3/ 2560x1440
5.7/2560x1440
5.4/1440 x 2560
5.5/2560x1440
5.5/1920x1080
Dimension (mm)
153.9 x 75.9 x 7.9
148.9 x 76.1 x 8.9
149.4x73.9x7.3
159.5x77.9x7.6
149.8 x 78 x 9.2
153.3x75.3x5.19
152.7x74.5x7.35
Weight (grams)
169
155
159
174
169
136
158
Processor/RAM
QS 835
QS 808 /3GB
QS 820/4GB
QS 820/4GB
QS 810 /3GB
QS 820/4GB
QS 821/6GB
Operating system
Android 7.0
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 7.0
Android 5.1.1
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Storage/Expandable
64GB/128GB
32GB/2TB
32GB/100GB
64GB/2TB
32GB,64GB/2TB
64GB/2TB
128GB
Rear/Front Camera
16MO/12MP
16MP/8MP
16MP/8MP
16MP,8MP/5MP
21MP/5MP
13MP/5MP
16MP/16MP
3,000
3,000
2,800
3,200
3,760
2,600
3,400
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
July, 2017
May, 2015
April,2016
December,2016
November, 2015
October,2016
December.2016
47,999
34,800
25,999 onwards
54,999
25,990
39,999
25,990
Model Display (inches/res)
Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
MODELS
RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
SAMSUNG
PARAMETERS
Galaxy S6
Galaxy S6 Edge
Galaxy A9 Pro
Galaxy Note 5
Display (inches/res)
5.1/ 1440 x 2560
5.1/ 1440 x 2560
6/1920x1080
5.7/1440 x 2560
5.1/2560 X 1440
5.5/2560 X 1440
5.8/6.2/2960X1440
Dimension (mm)
143.4 x 70.5 x 6.8
142.1 x 70.1 x 7
161.7x80.9x7.9
153.2 x 76.1 x 7.6
69.6x142.4x7.9
72.6 x 150.9 x 7.7
148.9 x 68.1 x 8.0/159.5 x 73.4 x 8.1
Weight (grams)
138
132
210
171
152
157
155/173
Processor/RAM
Octa core /3GB
Octa core /3GB
octa-core/4GB
Quad core /4GB
Exynos 8890/4GB
Exynos 8890/4GB
Exynos 8896
Android 5.0.2
Android 5.0.2
Android 6.0
Android 5.1.1
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 7.0
Storage/Expandable
32GB,/No
32GB/No
32GB/256GB
32GB/No
32GB/200GB
32GB/200GB
64/256GB
Rear/Front Camera
16MP/5MP
16MP/5MP
16MP/8MP
16MP/5MP
12MP/5MP
12MP/5MP
12MP/8MP
2,550
2,600
5,000
3,000
3,000
3,600
3000/3500
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
No
No
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
No
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
Yes/-
Yes/-
Yes
March, 2015
April, 2015
September,2016
August, 2015
March, 2016
March, 2016
April, 2017
26,990
34,900
32,490
40,900/43,900
32,900
38,900
53,00/58,900
Model
Operating system
Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
www.mymobileindia.com
Galaxy S7
Galaxy S7 Edge
Galaxy S8/Plus
DECEMBER 2017 I 131
MYGUIDE RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
TABLETS
MODELS
RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE
PARAMETERS
SAMSUNG
SONY
APPLE
Note 8
Xperia Z5 Dual
Xperia X
Xperia Z5 Premium
Xperia XZ
iPad Mini 2
iPad Mini 4
Display (inches/res)
6.3/1440 x 2960
5.2/1080 x 1920
5/1920x1080
5.5/ 2160 x 3840
5.2/1920x1080
7.9/1536 x 2048
7.9/1536 x 2048
Dimension (mm)
162.5 x 74.8 x 8.6
146 x 72 x 7.3
143 x 69 x 7.7
154.4 x 76 x 7.8
146x72x8.1
200 x 134.7 x 7.5
203.2 x 134.8 x 6.1
Weight (grams)
195
156.5g
152
181
161
331
298.8/304
Processor/RAM
Exynos 8895/6GB
QS 810/3GB
QS 650/ 3GB
QS 810/3GB
QS 820/3GB
A7,M7/1GB
A8,M8/2GB
Android 7.1.1
Android 5.1
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
Android 6.0
iOS 8
iOS 9
64GB/128GB/256GB
32GB/200GB
64GB/ 200GB
32GB/200GB
64GB/256GB
16,32GB/No
16GB,64GB,128GB/No
12MP/12MP/8MP
23MP/5MP
23MP/13MP
23MP/5MP
23MP/13MP
5MP/1.2MP
8MP/1.2MP
3,300
2,900
2,620
3,430
2,900
23.8w
19.1W
2G/3G/4G
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/No
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
Yes/No
Yes/-
Yes/-
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/No
Yes/No
September, 2017
November, 2015
July, 2016
November, 2015
October,2016
November, 2015
Spetember, 2015
67,900
37,000
38,990
47,990
49,990
28,460 onwards
44,500
Model
Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
TABLETS
TABLETS
MODELS
TABLETS
APPLE
ASUS
MICROMAX
iPad Pro 9.7-inch iPad Pro 12.9-inch iPad Air 2 with Wi-Fi WiFi/ Wi-Fi + Cellular WiFi/ WiFi + Cellular
ZenPad 8
LapTab
Galaxy Tab S3 9.7
Tab A
PARAMETERS
Model
SAMSUNG
9.7/2048x1536
9.7/1536 x 2048
12.9/2732 x 2048
8.0/1280 x 800
10.1/1280X800
9.7/ 1536 x 2048
8/800 x 1280
Dimension (mm)
240 x 169.5 x 6.1
240 x 169.5 x 6.1
305.7 x 220.6 x 6.9
209 x 123 x 8.5
259.2 x 175.4 x 9.2
237.3 x 169 x 6
212.1 x 124.1 x 8.9
Weight (grams)
437
1
713/ 723
350
1.1kg
429
364
Processor/RAM
A8X,M8/1GB
A9X,M9/2GB
"A9X,M9 /4GB"
QS MSM8929/2GB
Intel 4 Gen/2GB
QS 820/3GB
QS425/2GB
iOS 9
iOS 9.3
iOS 9
Android 5.0
Windows 10
Android 7.0
Android 7.1
16GB, 64GB/No
32GB,128GB,256GB/ No
32GB/No
16GB/-
32GB/64GB
32GB/256GB
16GB/256GB
8MP/1.2MP
12MP/5MP
8MP/1.2MP
8MP/2MP
2MP/2MP
13MP/5MP
8MP/5MP
27.3W
27.9 W
38.5W
4,000
7,700
6,000
5,000
2G/3G/4G
-
Yes/Yes/Yes
-
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes/Yes
Dual SIM
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/No
October, 2014
March, 2016
November, 2015
July, 2015
2,015
June, 2017
October, 2017
38,000
49,900 Onwards/ 61,900 onwards
65,900 nwards/ 85,900 onwards
12,496
10,999
47,990
17,990
Display (inches/res)
Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)
Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.
132 I DECEMBER 2017
MYMOBILE
face to face “We are planning to start power adapters for set top boxes, modems and routers, LED power, LED monitor” HGD or Hong Guang De Technology India Private Limited is a major supplier of chargers to various OEMs like Xolo, Lava, Intex, Micromax, itel, Foxconn, Swipe and many more. Rakesh Yadav, Director of HGD India shared the company’s game plan for the time ahead with Haider Ali Khan.Excerpts: Tell us about the portfolio you have as well as the new domain you would love to venture into? Hong Guang De Technology India Pvt. Ltd.(HGD India) is a joint venture of Shenzhen Hong Guang De Technology Co. LTD. (HGD China). HGD is the leading mobile charger manufacturing unit in India. It is a professional mobile phone charger manufacturer specialized in development, manufacturing, sales, and service. We have trained and qualified engineers as well as staff, who are capable enough to achieve their targets.HGD is a professional power supply company with research & development, production, marketing, and service. Our management group and R&D
quality products are always recognized by
active and continuously keeps updating our
group have more than 10 years of experience
the customers; soon we will acquire the
products according to the latest technology
in power supply field.
biggest market share in the market.
available in these segments. We always
We are currently manufacturing high
discuss on the latest innovations going on
efficiency phone chargers for different
How many quality tests are being done on
in this field. We always remain on the top of our customers.
Indian and as well as Chinese phone
the products that you have? Our quality
manufacturers in 0.5Amp,0.7Amp, 1Amp,
department leaves no stone unturned in
1.5Amp, 2Amp. In single USB, wire, Double
testing the products, so that the quality
How do you fit HGD into the world of cordless
USB, all our chargers pass through 6 types
product reaches our customers. Altogether
chargers? We know NFC Technology is in
of quality checks. We have unmatchable
our chargers go through 6 types of quality
demand these days, Our R&D Team is
safety standards.
checks. Following are the types of tests our
working on it, and soon we will release the
chargers go through before reaching our
news on it. Hope we will capture the biggest
ultimate customers.
market share in this segment also.
Are you mulling the export option from here
When we talk about Quick Charge, it comes
Which are the prominent clients you have in
to other countries? HGD China has their
with heat. What are the improvements have
the Indian market? We are OEM Suppliers
good customers’ base in Egypt, Russia,
you done to overcome such problems?
of some well-known brands like Xolo, Lava,
Indonesia, & neighbouring countries, we
Yes, with day to day smartphones getting
Intex, Micromax, itel, Foxconn – InFocus,
are well known brand in many countries.
advanced, they need best quality chargers,
Lemon, Celkon, i-Smart, Swipe, etc.
Our product is also exported to other
which can handle the pressure of charging
countries through our customers, as per
the smartphone quickly. We use OCP (over
their requirements.
current Protection Technology). Our chargers
In future we are planning to start power adapters for set top boxes, modems and routers, LED power, LED monitor/TV.
Our marketing team is promptly spreading our tie ups with new companies. One by one, we are becoming first choice
are highly tested in different conditions to
of many companies because of our quality
How would the technology behave in next few
& commitment for in time delivery. Good
years in this segment? Our R&D team is very
www.mymobileindia.com
handle heating issues. n haider@mymobile.co.in
december 2017 | 134
Gadget Corner
add-ons Netis WF2409E 300Mbps Wireless Router For fast and reliable internet connection
E
njoy fast connection with Netis Router WF22409E. Connect to you computers, smartphones, wireless cameras, and other Wi-Fi devices with 300Mbps.
Bundled with three 5dBi high gain antennas, it ensures a better wireless coverage and allows you to enjoy the wireless freedom anywhere around your home and is ideal faster downloading, Internet calling and HD Video Streaming. Netis has incredible wireless high speed of upto 300 Mbps, great for faster downloading, Internet Calling, and HD video streaming. MIMO high gain 5dBi antenna provides maximum range and stable connections, Dual Operations mode- Router Bridge. The router comes with various WAN connection types Access, WISP, Multiple Wireless Modes- AP, Repeater, AP+WDS, WDS, Client. Multi-SSID providing upto 3 additional separate networks for guests and friends. Netis Router WF2409E has easy wireless security setup at a push of the WPS button. It has the intelligent bandwidth control to manage the bandwidth usage for each computer reasonably. Internet Access Control- IP filtering, Mac filtering, Domain filtering based on time, Quick setup and many fore features are available. n
Travel Charger by Ping Telematics A reliable travel companion
P
ing Telematics has made a name for itself as a quality and state-of-the-art manufacturer of plastic moulding
, sheet metal parts and mobile accessories. It has manufacturing units in three locations including Noida, Haridwar and Himanchal Pradesh and the company firmly believes that quality is paramount to its long term strategy in being a leading manufacturer and supplier of premium quality goods. They recently introduced 2Ampere travel charger which promises to be your long lasting essential accessory. n
Specifications: • 2 Ampere Travel Charger • Input: 100-300 vac • 50/60Hz • Output 5V-2000ma • Type: USB
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 135
Gadget Corner
add-ons Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM Speaker Blasts freakishly amazing 360-degree sound
L
ogitech’s sub-brand Ultimate Ears has expanded its line-up of multi award-winning mobile speakers with
MEGABOOM in India. The new product is the next-generation portable wireless speaker that delivers more power, more sound, more bass and more mayhem than the users have ever experienced before in a portable speaker. Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM lets the users bring the party
anywhere and everywhere they go – from dusty music festival grounds and summer pool bashes to tailgates and every spurof-the-moment party in between, with sound that can only be defined as epic. Building on the unprecedented success of Ultimate Ears BOOM, the next generation UE MEGABOOM blasts freakishly amazing 360-degree sound with deep, heart-pounding bass. It has a waterproof (IPX7 certified) grab-and-go shape that is shockingly light. Users can take advantage of its long battery life and extended wireless range to start a party wherever, whenever they want to. Moreover, the speaker also comes with the option of downloading the free UE MEGABOOM app for iOS or Android to unlock an expanding set of cool features, such as a musical alarm, fully customizable sound and remote On/ Off. And now, for the first time ever, updates can be made to the speakers over the air. n
Price: INR 19,995
136 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
add-ons
Cadyce HDMI Cable Good news for Apple users
N
etworking and lifestyle brand Cadyce has announced the launch of its new
high speed HDMI cables with Ethernet in India. Enjoy and share movies, music and even view presentation at your own ease. With the Cadyce Ethernet cable interface, the laptop or PC and mobile phones can get connected to a big screen display monitor for better picture and sound quality. This high-speed HDMI cable uses 24k gold-plated connectors which are corrosion resistant. This ensures high picture and sound quality with no signal loss. You can even view 3D videos up to 4k resolution. The Cadyce HDMI cable has an audio return channel, which eliminates the need for a separate audio cable interface. It also uses the HDMI Ethernet Channel technology which combines data streams, audio, and video into a single
Price: INR 4,793
HDMI cable. The distance between the source and the display varies. In order to cater to your distance requirements, the Cadyce HDMI Ethernet cable is designed in 3 sizes – 10m, 15m, and 20m. n
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 137
Gadget Corner
add-ons
Price: INR 15,490
Daiwa Smart Android TV D32C4S Suits Indian power consumption
D
aiwa committed to bring the latest technology to
Sound Bar or AV receiver through HDMI cable with the help
India at budgeted prices, announced the launch of
of ARC function, and play host for movie nights and cricket
its newest 32 inch Smart TV “D32C4S� equipped with a
matches with friends and family. You also get an option to
host of functionalities, impressive pictures and a super
choose between five different music modes to get clearer,
slim design that not only upgrades your living room but
more powerful sound.
demands to be admired. Add more vibrant colors to life
Extensive options for Connectivity: Hosting extensive
with more power, more performance and more beauty at
connectivity options ensures you surpass smart android
the best budgeted prices.
TV experience. With 2HDMI, 2USB and CO-AX output port,
Clear and Detailed view: With its display resolution of 1366x768, the HD ready TV delivers breathtakingly real
you can easily connect your media devices for a top notch viewing experience.
and immersive viewing experiences, enhancing colour and
In-Built mouse Remote: Incorporating pioneering features,
contrast for the crystal-clear view. Enjoy everything with
the TV is tagged with the remote, with an inbuilt mouse,
refined image quality.
which makes navigating through the television easier and
Whose Smart now: Delivering a stable deeply integrated
quicker.
Android support, the TV runs on an optimized enhanced
Lastly, its screen Mirroring Technology enables you
dual core processor with 1GB RAM + 8GB internal storage
to preview the tabs of your phone in your TV, at one go.
that brings the seamless experience because of its quick
Equipped with several features and energy efficiency
response time. Giving you easy access to Internet with
programs, the Power saving mode automatically adjusts
built-in WIFI support, the television is pre-loaded with
the backlight and brightness of your TV, which also helps
several apps namely Netflix, You Tube etc. The TV also
reduce the stress and fatigue to your eyes while viewing TV
shuts the applications running in the backdrop when not
in dim or darker rooms.
in use, which not only frees your RAM but also enhances your TV performance. Superior Audio Precision: Boasting 2x10W powerful inbuilt box speakers, you can also connect your LED TV with
138 | december 2017
The TV, made in India, comes with an option of two years warranty and is available with leading online stores with Amazon, Flipkart, Paytm, Shopclues, Snapdeal and Ebay. n
MYMOBILE
Timex Blink Activity Tracker Keep your style quotient up, to be fashion and fitness ready
A
ccelerating its journey by enhancing the technology in
with busy schedule keep a track of their fitness without
timekeeping, Timex, one of the world’s largest watch
compromising on their style quotient. It is an activity
manufacturers, in collaboration with an Indian consumer
tracker which uses Bluetooth technology to connect with
technology start-up Blink, has brought yet another device
your phone and track all day activities – steps, distance,
under the connected style segment – Timex | Blink, a result
calories, sleep and gives the battery back-up of 10 days.
of Timex’s 160 years of watchmaking experience and
The USP of the watch is the ability to send instant mail,
Blink’s technological innovation. Targeted towards fitness
SMS and save emergency contacts with the user’s GPS
enthusiasts and stylish consumers who are always on the
location in case of an emergency. n
Gadget Corner
add-ons
go, Timex | Blink is an activity tracker which combines signature elements of a contemporary traditional watch with sophisticated modern technology for tracking your daily activities. Timex | Blink will join the much appreciated and well received earlier launches in this segment - Timex Metropolitan+ and Timex IQ+ which has been well received in the Indian market. With a shared vision of creating contemporary wrist-wearables, Timex and Blink partnered together to co-develop the SOS technology in the watches which is specifically made for this market. Timex | Blink is a smart beauty designed to help people
Price: INR 4,495
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 139
Gadget Corner
add-ons Huawei Band 2, Band 2 Pro & Huawei Fit Get fit in style with new smart wearable devices
H
uawei India has come up with three smart, trendy
run without a phone, performs more accurate distance
fitness wearables – Huawei Band 2, Band 2 Pro
and speed calculations and what’s more – it records the
and Huawei Fit – designed to motivate even the most
running track which you can share with your friends. Wear
hardened couch potatoes to hit the road to fitness. They
a Huawei Band 2 to get the equivalent of a personal
are available across all major cities in traditional watch
training experience.
retail stores as well as multi-brand electronic outlets.
Improve your daytime efficiency through the Advanced
Additionally to ensure wider reach, these products are
Sleep Tracking feature in Huawei Band 2, which not only
available on popular e-commerce portals as well. The
analyses your sleep quality but goes one step further to
chic Huawei Fit, which works well as an entry-level watch,
give the user personalized advice for sleep improvement
is so versatile that it virtually acts as a personal coach
based on current sleep data. n
while the Band 2 and its variant, the Band 2 Pro with its standalone GPS are super smart and efficient in monitoring your fitness routine. The Huawei Fit with its elegant, slim watch dial comes in two sizes and three premium colours – Black, Blue & Orange. With an easy to charge band, the Huawei Fit incorporates several top-of-the-line features. The Huawei Band 2 has been launched in a market space that has huge potential as more and more Indians seek to pursue an active, fit lifestyle. Available in smart black and bold red, the Huawei Band 2 Pro with its standalone GPS lets you
Price: INR 4,599 (Huawei Band 2); INR 6,999 (Band 2 Pro); INR 9,999 (Huawei Fit)
140 | december 2017
MYMOBILE
PTron Magg Earphone Designed to provide ultimate audio experience
P
Price: INR 499
Tron recently unveiled Magg, a wired earphone
with magnetic attraction. The PTron Magg is a refined, elegant looking and ergonomically designed earphone. With the
The PTron Magg is a combination of revolutionary
launch of this product, PTron extended its range of wired
acoustic engineering and craftsmanship to provide
in-ear earphones in the audio segment. This is in line with
ultimate audio experience. With a built-in microphone
the brand’s strategy of continuously introducing unique
and call control features, the Magg gives complete control
feature earphones to dominate the mid-market earphone
over music and phone calls. It is exclusively available on
segment.
LatestOne.com. n
Gadget Corner
add-ons
Amkette Evo PC Gamepad Elite Gaming will never be the same again
A
fter having already changed the mobile gaming experience, Amkette is back to enhance your PC
gaming experience with the Gamepad Elite. With a rugged look and affordable pricing, the Evo PC Gamepad Elite is sure to make your get-togethers super exciting. A revolutionary 3-in-1 support for PCs, PS3s, mobile phones and tablets, the gamepad supports Xinput and Dinput so that you can play thousands of games. The gamepad also ensures precision for elite gamers. The precise positioning of directions and specific
Price: INR 2,299 (for wireless version); INR 1,299 (for wired version)
buttons results in absolute accuracy. The wireless version of Evo PC Gamepad, works up to 10 hours on a single recharge with zero lag connectivity. The wired version is equipped with a micro USB for OTG supported smart phone gaming, a multiconnector and a USB for PC gaming. The gamepad has an innovative dual-vibration rumble effect that promises a realistic gaming experience. n
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 141
Gadget Corner
add-ons MoArmouz Lightning Audio Jack Charge Adapter A must-have accessory for the users of the latest iPhone versions
Price: INR 3,999
M
oArmouz has just announced a key enhancement
allows users to seamlessly connect their lightning devices
of their impressive range of electronic accessories
to accessories equipped with 3.5 mm audio plug/charge.
with the nationwide launch of the new Lightning to 3.5
Using this multifunctional adapter, it becomes a breeze
mm Audio Jack Charge Adapter. Founded in 2014, the
to charge the device and enjoy music at the same time.
company has already carved a niche in the domestic
This functionality of the product will be particularly
as well as international markets with their highly rated
useful for the users of the recently released iPhone X as
USB-C Hubs, adapters, cables, Apple MFI certified
the highly sophisticated device comes without an audio
cables/adapters, Qualcomm certified car chargers,
jack.
HDMI-certified cables, wireless speakers, and much
The adapter comes with three function buttons- one
more. The new product from MoArmouz is a must-have
to play and pause while listening to the music and to
accessory for the users of the latest iPhone versions,
answer and disconnect the call. The other two buttons
including iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7,
are for increasing and decreasing the volume levels. Its
and iPhone 7 Plus.
male port is highly compatible with headphone while the
The new Audio Jack Charge Adapter from MoArmouz
142 | december 2017
female port supports charging and data transmission. n
MYMOBILE
Astrum AL150 - Smart Security Bluetooth Lock Your phone is now a smart key
A
strum, one of the leading ‘new technology’ brands known for its innovation and intelligent
solutions, has announced the launch of smart Bluetooth based lock in India that turns any Android or iOS device into a smart key. Astrum AL150 – Smart Security Bluetooth Lock enables control of home or office with the help of a smartphone. It supports one touch pairing and 128-bit enterprise-level
Gadget Corner
add-ons
encryption for safeguarding from hackers. Forget the age-old Keys or the combos for good. With the Bluetooth AL150 Lock, your phone is now a smart key. The AL150
Price: INR 6,690
sports sturdy and heavy look. It is perfect for indoor and outdoor purposes as it is crafted all round from top grade alloy zinc material giving it a tough and resilient look. The Smart Security Lock has its own 128-bit enterprise level hacker proof encryption which leaves no room for fear of losing your valuables. Simply one touch pairing button to quickly pair to your gadgets which enables full security control of your homes and offices. The smart lock comes with two CR2032 batteries i.e. 2 x 225mAh. Smart Security Lock AL 150 is the ‘go to lock’ system in a world where everything is easy and electronics giving us the opportunity to enjoy technology at its best. The app can be downloaded from Google Play store/App Store. The product is available at leading retail stores across India. n
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 143
Gadget Corner
add-ons FIIL Diva Pro Headphones Combining serious technology within a design that subtly speaks volumes
F
IIL, a designer and manufacturer of finely crafted audio
the wireless voice call technology. Further with motion
products has just launched DIVA PRO headphones
sensor technology, when users put on their headphone
in India. What’s interesting about this product is that it
the music will continue where it paused. And the noise
is a CES 2017 Innovation Awards Honoree. The company
reduction mode will resume. Once they take off their
has claimed that with sleek and stylish design along
headphone, the music will pause automatically. And
with amazing sound performance, DIVA PRO provides
the noise cancellation feature disabled while the power-
an on-ear headphone experience that’s as unique as the
saving mode is activated.
user’s taste in music. The headphones combine serious
Further, the headphones come with Bluetooth 4.1 and
technology within a design that subtly speaks volumes.
a transmission distance of 100 meters or up to 330ft.
The headphones offer HD-audio storage for up to
The device supports connection of up to two Bluetooth
1,000 songs with full playback controls and as per the
devices simultaneously with ApT-X coding technology.
company DIVA PRO gives users the freedom to be as
The company has said that the headphones will provide
connected or device-free as they want. Besides, the
32 hours of playback, 48-day standby, 3.6 hrs playtime
headphones come with noise cancellation, monitor,
on a 10-minute charge. The device has built-in 580mAh
wind and open My Audio Filter (MAF) ambient filters
rechargeable Li-polymer battery. The product is available
that enable users to choose how and what they hear.
on Amazon.in and Paytm. The headphones are available
FIIL + APP lets users customize their sound experience
in three assorted colours- Black, White, and Red. n
and optimize their headphone. DIVA PRO is Hi-Res Audio certified for accurate playback of every note and every song. It provides ear cup touch control for phonefree song, sound and call management. It also has
144 | december 2017
Price: INR 27,999
MYMOBILE
Gadget Corner
add-ons
Price: INR 7,500
Beyerdynamic DT 240 PRO Monitor Headphones Ideal for musicians, podcasters and filmmakers
A
udio product manufacturer beyerdynamic has
come with sound insulation and tightly fitted ear pads.
expanded its product portfolio with the launch of
The device features a compact over-ear design and come
professional monitor headphones DT 240 in India. It
with detachable coiled cable and replaceable ear pads. The
comes in matte black colour option. The customers can
headphones weigh 196 grams and its SPL ranges from 99
purchase the device from the company’s online store.
dB Nominal to 119 dB max SPL.
The beyerdynamic DT 240 is specially designed for
Earlier this year, beyerdynamic launched Byron
filmmakers, musicians and podcasters. The company claims
earphones and Byron BTA Bluetooth headset, priced at
that the headphones offer deep bass, lively mids and defined
Rs 3,650 and Rs 15,350 respectively in India. Both are
highs. The headphones works on the same studio mixers as
available exclusively on Amazon India. The Byron and
on the laptop because of its low-ohm acoustic transducers
Byron BTA are equipped with Qualcomm aptX support and
(34 ohms). They come with the frequency response of
have a solid aluminium housing. The former also includes
5Hz to 35,000 Hz and rated at 32 ohms impedance. The
three different-sized eartips for a comfortable fit. The wired
company also claims that the headphones will deliver same
earphones include an inline remote for music and volume
kind of performance even in loud environments as they
control. n
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 145
Gadget Corner
add-ons BenQ W1700 4K UHD Home Cinema projector Designed for modern families
B
enQ, world’s renowned and globally number one DLP projector brand, recently unveiled CineHome W1700
DLP projector bringing the magic of big-screen 4K digital cinema to the broader audience. W1700 comes in a
further enhanced by proprietary CinemaMaster Video+
compact size, fully equipped with a 4K UHD true cinema
and CinemaMaster Audio+ 2 technologies, turning even
experience, true 8.3 million megapixels, and projection-
modest spaces into world-class cinema auditoriums with
optimized HDR for stunning true-to-life image quality.
motion-adaptive edge pixel enhancement, sophisticated
Stunning 4K Visuals Brought to Life: Producing 8.3 million
color algorithms, and beautiful flesh tone rendition as well
distinct pixels for true 4K UHD performance, W1700
as dramatic audio processing for resonant bass and soaring
utilizes revolutionary 0.47” single-DMD DLP technology
high notes.
to minimize the projector’s sleek, compact profile for
Contemporary Lifestyle Design and Easy Setup: Blending
modern lifestyles, and pure 4K-optimized optical system
beautiful aesthetics with flawless function, W1700’s
for ultimate image precision and color accuracy without
lightweight design, sleek profile, and compact footprint
artifacts that can plague LCD projectors.
blend perfectly into any decor. Comprehensively equipped
W1700’s pristine 4K video quality is supercharged by
with auto keystone correction and powerful 1.2X big zoom
High Dynamic Range (HDR10) support, offering greater
to accommodate any space, W1700 sets up without
brightness and contrast range with auto image optimization
complicated installation hassles to host 4K movie nights
to bring out every lifelike detail for cinema enjoyment.
at a snap.
W1700 delivers breathtaking realism to the living room big
Simple and modern, W1700 easily becomes a smart
screen in addition to full support for the latest HDCP 2.2
projector by connecting an HDMI dongle such as Google
copy protection that lets users enjoy all the fast-growing
Chromecast or Amazon Fire TV Stick to instantly stream
choices of 4K content.
TV shows, movies, sports, and even video games to the
Advanced CinematicColor Accuracy and Audiovisual
big screen. Powered by ultimately durable Digital Light
Enhancement: Evoking genuine emotions by preserving
Processing, the 2015 Academy Award of Merit Oscar
authentic cinematic colors, W1700 employs exclusive
winning technology used in 90 per cent of the world’s
BenQ CinematicColor technology and RGBRGB color
digital cinemas, the W1700 delivers long-lasting picture
wheel to meet the film industry’s highest standards of color
quality with precise colors and razor-sharp clarity without
accuracy. With over 96 per cent coverage of Rec. 709
maintenance or degradation.
color gamut with precise Delta E<3 performance, W1700 faithfully reproduces exactly what filmmakers intended. W1700’s astounding audiovisual performance is
146 | december 2017
The BenQ W1700 4K UHD Home Cinema projector will be available from January 2018. n
Price: INR 2.25 lakhs
MYMOBILE
Sony Alpha 7R III Interchangeable Lens Camera Innovative full-frame mirrorless model that delivers the ultimate combination of resolution and speed
S
ony has come up with an impressive addition to their
separate still image / movie recording, relay recording
full-frame mirrorless camera line-up, the Alpha 7R III.
and more. Battery life has been greatly extended as well,
Thanks to an evolutionary leap in image processing power
as the new camera utilises Sonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Z series battery that
and efficiency, the new camera combines a high-resolution
have approximately 2.2 times the capacity of the W series
42.4 MP1 back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor
battery utilised in the Alpha 7R II.
with impressive shooting speeds at up to 10 fps2 with full
The camera allows for convenient transfer of files to
AF/AE tracking, as well as beautiful image and 4K6 video
a smartphone, tablet, computer or FTP server via Wi-Fi,
quality, wide 15-stop8 dynamic range, high sensitivity with
while also including a sync terminal, enabling external flash
noise reduction of almost a full stop4 and more. With
units and cables to be connected directly for convenient
these immense capabilities and a compact, lightweight
flash sync. A SuperSpeed USB (USB 3.1 Gen 1) USB
body, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an extremely versatile tool for photographers,
Type-C Terminal is also available for increased flexibility
videographers, multi-media creators and all other types
in power supply or connected accessories. n
of professionals that demand reliability, flexibility and versatility. The camera is equipped with a variety of enhanced capabilities that give
Gadget Corner
add-ons
Price: INR 2,64,990 team@mymobile.co.in
it a true professional operational style. These include dual media slots, with support in one slot for UHS-II type SD memory cards. Users have a variety of options for storing their content, including separate JPEG / R AW
recording,
www.mymobileindia.com
december 2017 | 147
Vantage Point
Exclusive
The Two Second Canon Two second is all marketers have to wow consumers; so dress your product well!
F
By Divya Virmani irst impressions determine the future and
The packaging at this point has an aim to make and
“Font selection is love at first sight seals the fate. At the raise the sales. equally important as the risk of sounding shallow, looks are Time to span the copy and have our message. What you say is everything when you have only consumers informed. Our buyer at this point understood best when said with the two seconds on the aisle in competition with has questions and the content in print is right typography. Just like colors, font several other brands. Poor presentation required to answer all the queries like, styles evoke different moods. The copy is not an option and you need to have a “Why should I buy it? Why is it better than is at work expressing everything that is working design that entices, attracts, and the other choices available here? What are within the packaging so it needs to relay make the consumer fall in love. Image the benefits? Is it worth the price? Does the experience in words, the is vital in those numbered moments and the quality meet my expectations?” All the taste, feel, flavor and the overall essentially what catches the eye. details are best crammed at the side panels impact on an individual’s lifestyle” If the competition is going down the leaving the Principal Display Panel clean and right track then you have to catch your train from the opposite direction. Design a surprise, the unexpected
simple. Follow this hierarchy and allow the viewer to find what
and unique grab the limelight. Simple brand name and clean
is required in an order. Name of the product, flavor, callouts
informative panel allows the consumer to retain the details easily
(important/marketing facts), branding, romance copy (product
and longer.
description complete with attributes) and size. Have each flavor
Color is a strong emotional connector so choose your palette
differentiated from the other with clarity, commonly used are
with care. Again, color selection in contradiction to competition
different colors to accomplish this goal. Callout is in-specific
will help grab the attention. If most products in your category are
certification and worthy of PDP (Principal Display Panel) presence.
dressed in bright colors then tone down your choice to pastels.
The branding is a lot many times kept in priority but our consumer
Font selection is equally important as the message. What you
is in need of the product and placing that over and above the
say is understood best when said with the right typography. Just
brand name is recommended. Font size is crucial in determining
like colors, font styles evoke different moods. The copy is at work
the reading order.
expressing everything that is within the packaging so it needs to
All the elements in the packaging design need to form a balance
relay the experience in words, the taste, feel, flavor and the overall
and come together in harmony for the consumer to stop and a
impact on an individual’s lifestyle.
package that does a good job of informing is more likely to build trust in the consumer and is therefore more likely to sell. n
All the above are meaningless if the consumer leaves without understanding the product benefits! Hence, the packaging is effective only when the attention span is held for longer than two seconds into a “stop in your track to study the product before making a purchasing decision”. Your package has won the first round of grabbing the consumer attention but the product is yet to reach the finishing line and the sale is yet to be concluded. Next step in effective product packaging is to engage your consumer into picking the product.
148 | december 2017
The author is an established graphic designer managing commercial print packaging and labeling for top brands with global recognition and has achieved acclaim for her work in India, London and New York. She earlier worked with J. Walter Thompson where she spearheaded design campaigns for marketing Kingfisher and Levis brands with accolades awarded at Cannes and Goafest. She currently manages creative design for Gourmet Guru which is now part of UNFI, the biggest natural food distribution company in the USA.
MYMOBILE
RNI REG NO./DELENG/2005/15033 DL (ND) - 11/6100/2015-16-17 (Posting Date 26-27 of every month) Publishing Date- 22-11-17
FOR THE PERFECT NIGHT SHOT
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