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igital India and Make in India are monumental and complimentary programs, one aimed at democratizing the governance and access to information by leveraging the power of technology

EDITORIA L

while the other seeks to leverage the inherent capabilities

Pankaj Mohindroo |

to enhance domestic manufacturing prowess, employment

Shelley Vishwajeet | Editor

creation and income growth. And mobile happens to be the biggest bridge between the two programs. Mobile and

Editor-in-Chief

Gagandeep Kaur | Contributing Editor

components are one field where manufacturing potential is

Ramesh Kumar Raja | Assistant Editor

humungous and government has been rolling out policies

Haider Ali Khan | Senior Correspondent

to give it a big push and there have been very encouraging

Vanshika Malhotra | Reporter

results so far though further actions are definitely required. The policy is also a very fair one which creates a level playing field among domestic and foreign manufactures. It does not seek to be selective based on geography or nationality. If it was not so, India would not be seeing manufacturers and brands from nearly half a dozen countries

DE S I G N Ajit Kumar Parashar | Sr. Graphic Designer

M AR K ETIN G

doing a great business here. That’s why a report appearing

Puja Mohindroo | Manager - Business

in a China’s official daily stating that “China would be

Sandeep Kumar | Sr. Manager – Marketing

forced to undertake retaliatory measures if India resorts to protectionism” comes as a shock, is alarmist in nature and has the potential to create bilateral rift. The worst impact

O P ERATION S

of such hysterical news is always on business environment,

K. Rajagopalan | Advisor-Legal, Accounts & Administration

thus maturity in action and response needs to be adhered

Deepak Kohli | Manager – Accounts

to in such matters. I being a stakeholder and one of the flag-

Varun Lama | Sr. Manager – Human Resources

bearers of the ‘Make in India’ program, especially in mobile phone space, can only assure that India would always foster a path which encourages fair competition but is in sync with our national interest. The fervor in mobile market is back. In the last one month, we have witnessed many device launches, costing above Rs 50,000 to barely a thousand, reflecting wide space and opportunity available for all kinds of devices and players here. It’s a healthy scenario. We have also put many new devices under the fire and you will get to know them inside out in our sought after section – The Burntest. We have also started bringing you the best research and studies to give you a deeper insight into the industry, market

B. G. Mathur | Manager- Production

CIRC U L ATION Bhupender Singh Bisht | Manager – Circulation

AD V I S ORY B OARD Bejon Misra Rajan Mathews S.D. Saxena Subhash Chandra Sunil Dutt Sonu Bhasin Uvaraj Natarajan

and business trends while top industry representatives share their own penned articles on important issues and developments. The content is richer, highly informative and

G ET IN TO U CH

at the same time highly readable too which I am positive you

Editorial : shelley@mymobile.co.in

will enjoy completely!

Marketing : sandeep@mymobile.co.in Circulation : bhupender@mymobile.co.in

Happy Reading! n

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.

Pankaj Mohindroo editor-in-chief

04 | may 2017

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 IV, may 2017

MYMOBILE

contents

62 46

49 Style Notes 10 letters 12 Cell Speak 14 Rumor Mill 16 NEWS 20 big NEWS 111 My Guide 26 just in Get a close look at new mobile devices now in the market

India Takes the Lead in IoT

Adoption

Industry Insight 44 Digital to Drive Business & Profitability

Indian Server Market

Consolidates

Business Insight 46 Digital Platforms Emerging as a Critical Business Building Block

38 In Focus Mobile Rockstars of First Quarter

Consumer Insight 40 Indians’ App Consumption Pattern

Consumers Willing to Pay

Premium for Quality Devices

06 | may 2017

Snapshot 60 Samsung Galaxy S8 & S8 Plus 78 Sony Xperia XZs

Burn Tests 65 66

68 70 72 76

Samsung Galaxy A5 (2017) Coolpad Note 5 Lite HTC U Ultra Samsung Galaxy C9 Pro

80 Bazaar Bargain Four phones which are smart buy today

Special Feature 82 Entertainment with Education: The Ideal Summer Apps for Children

104

The Best Yoga Apps

Face to Face: Interviews with business/industry leaders

Will Yang – Brand Director,

Oppo India

Lava Connect M1 4G

Vivo Y66

Co-Founder, WittyFeed

Vinay Singhal – CEO &

MYMOBILE

What's Inside

contents 88

Pradipto Chakrabarty – Regional

Director, CompTIA India

By Invitation Where business leaders share

Bluetooth speakers to gaming pads

Chiranjib Sarkar – National Sales their thoughts

Head, Ziox Mobiles

Very Bright – Ameen Khwaja,

Sachin Arora – Country Manager

Future of Mobile Accessories is

(Electronics Business), AGC

CEO & Founder, LatestOne.com

India

132

Shishir Gupta, Co-Founder,

Pankaj Rana – Business Head

Building a Smart Home –

(Mobility Division), Panasonic

Oakter

India

134

100

Experience – Harsh Shah,

Anuraag Nalwaya – MD &

The Upsurge of Mobile Accessories – Manish Gupta, Business Head, Mobile Accessories, Intex Technologies

134

Co-Founder, Fynd

Founder, Integratedmobi Tech

How AI Influences Consumer

146 Vantage Point

137 Add Ons The latest and the best of gadgets and accessories, from

Total number of pages = 148

104

08 | may 2017

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10 | may 2017

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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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cellspeak

Quotes

“India is on the cusp of a digital revolution. More than one billion Indians have a unique identity number with a biometric identifier which is unique in its own way… The Aadhaar card initiative is a watershed event in the development story of India”

— Pranab Mukherjee, President of India, at an event in New Delh

“Google’s ultimate goal is a billion broadband users (Indians), each using 10GB a month. And to do that, contributions have to come from the internet world, telcos, content players and the government”

— Gulzar Azad, Country Head (Connectivity) at Google India, in an interaction with Indian media

“India is evidently on the path of data revolution. Data is a goldmine that operators are sitting on. We are already witnessing a rapid migration from Voice to Data”

— Jay Chen, CEO, Huawei India, in an interview with ET Telecom

“This website (Bharat ke Veer) has been made exactly in two and a half months. About three months, this idea came in my mind, while watching a documentary film on terrorists, which showed how terror leaders financially support the families of the terrorist who carry out terror acts”

— Akshay Kumar, Bollywood Actor, on the occasion of Shaurya Diwas

12 | may 2017

“Aadhaar as a platform is completely safe and secure and respects completely the privacy element… The world is today appreciating Aadhaar and in a very short period of time, it has established its utility for good governance” — Ravi Shankar Prasad, Union Minister for Electronics and IT, in an interview with a leading newspaper MYMOBILE

Rumour Mill

Talk

OnePlus 5 may launch with 8GB RAM and Snapdragon 835 chipset Chinese firm OnePlus’ next flagship smartphone is likely to be named OnePlus 5 and not OnePlus 4. The company is reportedly jumping to number 5 due to Chinese belief that number 4 brings bad luck. If rumours are to be believed, OnePlus seems to be preparing another flagship killer to take on the likes of Samsung’s Galaxy S8 and S8+. As per reports, the upcoming OnePlus device will feature Snapdragon 835 chipset, the processor powering Samsung’s latest Galaxy flagship. The smartphone is rumoured to feature a sleeker design and most rumours point at OnePlus joining the bezel-less smartphone bandwagon. The smartphone is also tipped to offer improved display which might suggest a Quad HD panel. In terms of specifications, OnePlus 5 is rumoured to offer up to 8GB RAM with 6GB being standard among variants. The rumour mill also hints at OnePlus 5 sporting dual rear camera setup, again a theme among most Chinese smartphone makers.

14 | may 2017

in Tech Corners

Phonemakers battling over Google Pixel 3 production contract As Google prepares the successor to the Pixel and Pixel XL due for release later this year, the battle has apparently already begun over who will get to manufacture the third iteration of the flagship Android phone. Although HTC is once again in the running, along with LG, current Blackeberry producer TCL, and Coolpad, Google’s existing contract with HTC will expire after the release of the Pixel 2, hence opening up an opportunity for other hardware companies. LG is reportedly leading the race. Since September, HTC has reportedly shipped more than 2.1 million Pixel devices, but Google may be looking to ramp output up to 5 million in time for the Pixel 3. Meanwhile, most variants of the original Pixel — especially the XL — remain out of stock about six months after the phone’s launch, as HTC continues to struggle to fill orders quickly enough. Google is said to be more confident in LG’s manufacturing capabilities,

given that the companies have worked together on multiple Nexus phones in the past.

Nokia 9 to launch by Q3, tipped to cost Rs 44,999 Nokia-branded phones from HMD Global might not have hit the Indian market yet, but speculation about the flagship Nokia 9 device has already started. According to reports, Nokia 9 will launch globally in Q3, which could be around August, and it will be priced at 749 Euros or USD 699, but it seems the India pricing will be Rs 44,999. Even though the company has not yet officially confirmed whether it will be launching a flagship device, reports say Nokia 9 will have a 5.5-inch QHD OLED display, and could sport Nokia’s own OZO audio system. Rumours claim that the phone will feature a Carl Zeiss-based 22MP dualcamera lens on the back and a 12MP front camera as well as an Iris scanner. It is also expected to run the Qualcomm 835 processor. n

team@mymobile.co.in

MYMOBILE

What’s Up

newsbits Shruti Haasan, Diljit Dosanjh and Dulquer Salmaan signed up as Gionee brand ambassadors

In order to penetrate deeper into regional markets in India, Chinese smartphone maker Gionee has signed up three celebrities — Shruti Haasan, Diljit Dosanjh and Dulquer Salmaan — as brand ambassadors. Gionee, which already has Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli and Bollywood actor Alia Bhatt endorsing the brand, has been on a drive establishing customer connect across India. Haasan is a popular actor and singer who works in Telugu, Tamil and Hindi films. Salmaan acts in Malayalam movies, while Dosanjh is a Punjabi actor and singer who also acted in the 2017 Bollywood release ‘Phillauri’. Like other Chinese smartphone players, Gionee is also targeting the core audience by aligning with the two biggest Indian religions: movies and cricket. The company is also targeting its audience through cricket by sponsoring Kolkata Knight Riders, among the popular teams in the Indian Premier League. UC News gets 100 million active users in India, Indonesia

Alibaba Group’s news app UC News has crossed 100 million monthly active users in India and Indonesia. UC News was launched in June 2016 and since then it has grown rapidly in the Indian and Indonesian markets. “We are experiencing a fast rise in the average time spent on UC News. As of this quarter, an average user spends over 23 minutes on UC News. Users are embracing

16 | may 2017

diverse digital content,” said Jack Huang, President-Overseas Business, Alibaba Mobile Business Group. The company said it is targeting more diversified and localised content on its platform by the end of 2017 to make the local content ecosystem stronger. According to leading web analytics firm StatCounter, UC Browser is now the most popular browser in India in terms of internet usage across all platforms combined with a market share at 43.31 per cent followed by Chrome at 36.07 per cent and Opera at 8.34 per cent. Indus OS raises Series A2 funding

India’s second largest operating system Indus OS raised undisclosed amount of funds from VenturEast and JSW Ventures, along with existing investor Omidyar Network, in a Series A2 financing round. The company said the funds will be used to hire talent, develop product and further invest in language technology to cover all Indian languages. “We are already in talks with international and Chinese smartphone brands for the launch of our next version Indus OS 3.0, which we believe will revolutionize the Indian smartphone industry,” he added. Indus OS also announced that Sunil Lalvani, ex-Head of Qualcomm and BlackBerry in India has recently joined the company as an advisor. The company will soon be opening an office in China to further its efforts to partner with international smartphone brands. Ericsson, IIT Delhi team up to launch ‘5G for India’ Telecom equipment manufacturer Ericsson and the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) have signed a MoU to jointly roll out a ‘5G for India’ program, conceptualized

to fast-track realization of Digital India initiatives and aid application development for Indian start-ups and industries. Under the partnership, Ericsson will set up a Center of Excellence with a 5G test bed and incubation center at IIT Delhi and use this facility to drive the development of the country’s 5G ecosystem. In addition to hosting the Center of Excellence, IIT Delhi will conduct research and development to explore how some of the country’s challenges can be addressed with mobile technologies. The first series of tests under this program are due to begin in the second half of 2017 and will place India on par with other developed countries in terms of 5G network and application deployment. Spreadtrum powers Lava’s 4G-enabled feature phone

Spreadtrum Communications, a leading fabless semiconductor company with advanced technology in 2G, 3G, and 4G wireless communication standards, recently announced that its LTE SoC platform, SC9820 has been adopted by Lava for India’s first 4G-enabled feature phone, Lava Connect M1. The pocket-friendly 4G mobile handset has already been launched in the Indian market. Lava Connect M1 is powered by Spreadtrum’s 28nm 1.2GHz dual-core ARM Cortex-A7 LTE platform SC9820, supporting VoLTE and dual SIM function. It

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features a 512 MB RAM/4GB ROM storage, a microSD slot up to 32GB and comes preinstalled with Facebook Lite, providing feature phone users a perfect smart experience. It is proficient to further support up to 5MP rear/front camera, 720P video display, FWVGA screen and VoLTE HD video service, thus improving the feature phone user experience. YouTube Go app launched in India to beat spotty internet signals

YouTube is making the beta version of its ‘YouTube Go’ app available for download on the Google Play Store in India. The company in a statement said that it has worked hard on refining the features for the app. The new features would include making the home screen fresher and more relevant for users, allowing users to find videos easily. The app offers preview before watch, choose your resolution and sharing with friends nearby features, among other features. People can download the beta from Google Play Store and can also sign up at youtubego.com/ signup if they wish to know when the app would be fully ready. Analysts have been forecasting a surge in video consumption in India since Reliance Jio, the telecom unit of Reliance Industries Ltd, upended the industry last year with cheap data plans that have prodded rivals to lower prices. Silicon Valley has long regarded India, with its population of 1.3 billion people and poor connectivity, as a prime place to test products for emerging markets. LatestOne.com crosses 2.5 million shipments Mobile and tech accessories e-tailer LatestOne.com retains its position as India’s largest online retailer for mobile and tech accessories, by crossing the 2.5 million

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mark, in terms of number of orders shipped. LatestOne.com being the first player focused on mobile and tech accessories

vertical in the country is processing more than 5,000 orders per day on an average. The site has also crossed a milestone of 50 million unique visitors and 3.0 million customer registrations in a span of 2.5 years. LatestOne.com has shipped these orders to its valued customers from the company’s fulfillment centers in New Delhi and Mumbai. LatestOne.com shipped 37% orders to south zone, 26% to north zone, 20% to west zone, 12% to east zone and 5% orders to central zone of the country for FY 16-17. The company has received only 1.5% returns/refunds since commencement of operations. LatestOne.com receives 25% of orders from repeat customers. Nazara Games to launch IPL mobile game starring Virat Kohli

Mobile gaming firm Nazara Games has signed a three-year deal with IPL team Royal Challengers Bangalore to launch an IPL cricket mobile game that will feature Virat Kohli, among other cricketers from the team. The game, which will focus on monetisation through in-app purchases, is targeting five million downloads in the first one year. “Deftouch Design is the external developer that we headhunted, around the same time RCB wanted to get into a gaming partnership plan. There are 60 levels in the game. We have taken 10 celebrations of RCB in IPL and we have selected six innings of Virat from each IPL and created 60 levels which is the career progression mode,” said Manish Agarwal, CEO, Nazara Games.

Grab ties up with Airtel, Reliance Jio for home delivery and activation of SIM cards

What’s Up

newsbits

Last mile delivery service firm Grab has entered into a partnership with telecom operators Airtel and Reliance Jio to offer customers home delivery and activation of SIM cards. With this, an individual can place a request on Jio or Airtel’s platforms for a SIM card and get delivery as per his/ her availability. Grab provides the customer access to real-time availability data of riders around his/her locality or a future dynamic time slot to choose from, said Pratish Sanghvi, Director and Co-founder. Currently, Grab has made the Jio SIM service available in 10 cities. However, since Jio offers home delivery of SIM cards across more than 600 cities in India, Grab has entered into a subscription arrangement that allows Jio to use its own riders in other cities but avail of Grab’s technology and rider app platform for a fee. “Grab is also in advanced talks with other telecom and wallet companies to provide a similar set of services,” he added. Sachin Tendulkar goes digital, launches ‘100MB Cricket’ app for Android, iOS

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar recently started his digital innings as a mobile phone

may 2017 | 17

What’s Up

newsbits app dedicated to him, 100MB Cricket, was launched in Mumbai. 100MB Cricket is now available for Android via Google Play, and for iOS via the App Store. The app is conceptualised and developed by JetSynthesys and has been envisioned by Sachin himself. “Many of you and my friends have asked me what are you going to do in your second innings of life. The first innings went on for 24 years. There are number of things which I am involved in, but something which I am looking forward to starting soon, in fact now, is the digital innings,” Sachin said. Among other things, all social media updates of Sachin will be available through the app.

New Zealand, South East Asia,” says Subin Subaiah, CEO, Spuul Global. Sports engagement platform Rooter raises seed round of funding from Intex Technologies Rooter, the world’s first digital platform that connects, engages and helps sports audiences interact with each other on a realmake suggestions on screen such as, frequently contacted phone numbers and SNS users, applications, Wi-Fi, volume, etc., settings and connection with IoT devices. In addition, it features a user interface that displays icons in a circular, radial fashion, enabling single-handed, intuitive operation.

Spuul partners with Ooredoo to launch in Maldives

Spuul, the popular Indian digital video-ondemand (VOD) platform for Bollywood and regional content will now be available in Maldives through its partnership with Ooredoo Maldives, the leading mobile phone operator. Through this affiliation, viewers can access Spuul’s premium version, which has a vast library of over 10,000 hours of Bollywood and Indian regional movies. Viewers can also easily stream their favorite movies on multiple devices including smart TV apps, Amazon Fire, Airplay and Chromecast. Upon subscription to the premium version, viewers will be able to experience the full benefits of Spuul besides an unlimited access to their Premium catalogue; downloads on phone and tablet; and no advertisements. “Through partnerships and syndications such as Ooredoo, we aim to expand our footprints across countries such as UK, USA, Middle East, Australia and

18 | may 2017

time basis during sports events, has raised an undisclosed amount of funds from Intex, one of India’s fastest growing consumer electronic goods and accessories manufacturers. The sports social engagement app earlier successfully raised funds from Dhruv Chitgopekar and Prantik Dasgupta. It also holds the distinction of being the first venture that Bollywood star, Boman Irani, has invested in as an angel investor. The freshly infused capital will be utilized to strengthen the tech team at Rooter, all the while maintaining a lean structure. It aims to also add more numbers to its Sales and Marketing team as well as to the content division to bolster the vernacular versions of the app. Panasonic develops Arbo, a new AI embedded UI software for smartphones Panasonic India has developed Arbo, a software for Android phones that brings to life simple smartphone operation utilizing AI and a new user interface. This software will be available on the Eluga Ray Max series smartphones that hit the market recently, and will also be available on the Eluga Pulse X, designed for the Middle East and African markets. The software will analyse user’s behavior based on time and location. Then, according to the time or location, it will automatically display and

iRobot India takes next step in Connected Home with Clean Map Reports and Amazon Alexa Integration

iRobot, a leader in consumer home robotics, announced updates to the iRobot HOME App that expand the value of connected Roomba vacuuming robots within the smart home for their customer base in India. New Clean Map reports provide visual postcleaning maps that display information about the robot’s cleaning performance, such as the dirtiest floor areas and total space cleaned, while the integration of Amazon Alexa voice activated control will make communicating with a Roomba vacuuming robot a breeze. “iRobot is aggressively pursuing opportunities within the connected home to improve our customers’ experience with our cleaning robots,” said Colin Angle, chairman and CEO of iRobot. The latest updates for the iRobot HOME App make cleaning with an

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iRobot Roomba vacuuming robot even more user friendly, with voice-activated commands, enhanced mapping features and useful post-cleaning reports. nexGTv acquires global broadcast rights for 170-plus BBC videos

Red Dot Product Design Award in Computer and Information Technology for the Logitech K780 Multi-Device Wireless Keyboard. The “Best of the Best” is the top Red Dot Award for groundbreaking design reserved for the best product in each category. “We’ve taken an integrated approach to design, and these awards from Red Dot further validate our mission to foster world-class design capability,” said Alastair Curtis, Logitech Chief Design Officer. “Our obsession with the consumer has worked its way into the heart of Logitech,” he added. CogniCor becomes the first Indian startup to mark its entry in SixThirty’s investment portfolio

patient’s health and clinical data at the touch of a button. The startup aims to use AI and big data to improve productivity and care quality of doctors and help patients manage their health and existing ailments better. Commenting on the funding, QorQl’s Sanjay Singh said, “QorQL is pursuing the vision to democratise healthcare access. Our connected health applications are leveraging AI and big data to collect, integrate and interpret data for all users. This not only helps us solve tough problems but also helps our users stay healthy.” Sudhanshu Gupta, Vice President - Paytm said, “We are impressed by QorQl’s vision and the team’s ability to solve complex use cases and are happy to be a part of their journey.”

What’s Up

newsbits

China shuts down 18 illegal live streaming apps Giving a constant dose of entertainment to its users across the globe, nexGTv, India’s largest subscription-led video entertainment app, has acquired from BBC World Service India the global broadcast rights of over 170 videos produced by BBC Hindi and BBC Tamil. The released videos will also be featured in the VOD section of the platform under the respective categories on both nexGTv and nexGTv News apps. The newly released videos from the BBC’s Hindi and Tamil services are aimed at delivering a vibrant entertainment experience to nexGTv’s fast-paced international audience. Meanwhile, targeting Indians across the globe who are keen to stay updated with all the latest news and developments, nexGTv has acquired the global broadcast rights of ABP News Network’s four channels. Logitech awarded nine Red Dot 2017 Product Design Awards

Etching the nation’s technological superiority across international fora, CogniCor, one of the leading global AI-based platforms that offers cognitive virtual assistant solutions, has become the first Indian start-up to be picked up by global fintech accelerator based in St Louis, SixThirty. CogniCor was chosen as one of the five start-ups by SixThirty from a total of 167 entries in fintech and insurtech sector from over 30 countries. CogniCor provides adaptable SaaS-based cloud-driven enterprise grade cognitive AI system to corporate organisations and businesses. With its regional offices in USA, Spain and India, CogniCor’s solutions have been deployed across six countries in North America, Europe, and Asia. At present, the platform caters to a total of 13 clients, including TATA Capital, ICICI Lombard and Federal Bank, across multiple industry verticals. Paytm invests in healthcare startup QorQl

Logitech has been recognized by Red Dot for excellence in product design, taking home nine Red Dot 2017 Product Design Awards. This is the fifth consecutive year that Red Dot has recognized Logitech, and this year’s total wins ties Logitech’s company record set last year. This year’s recognition includes a prestigious “Best of the Best”

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Mobile payments major Paytm has invested an undisclosed amount in healthcare startup QorQI. The company offers a solution that gives doctors access to

China has closed 18 live streaming apps for disseminating illegal content. Some app operators were punished for the lack of a mechanism to censor content and some anchors used the platforms to spread illegal content, dressed in military or police uniforms or were scantily dressed and acted flirtatiously, the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) said. Some anchors publicised their WeChat or QQ accounts during live streaming to induce fans to engage in prostitution. “The online behaviour of the anchors violated relevant Internet information service or live streaming laws and regulations, offended socialist core values, and brought negative impact to the healthy growth of the young and teenagers,” CAC said. The administration vowed to step up inspection and law enforcement, state-run Xinhua news agency reported. n team@mymobile.co.in

may 2017 | 19

What’s Up

bignews

Airtel launches ‘Internet TV’ for digital homes

n yet another industry first from India’s largest telco, Airtel Digital TV, the DTH arm of Bharti Airtel, recently launched ‘Internet TV’ – India’s first hybrid STB, powered by Android TV, which brings the best of online content to the TV screen along with a bouquet of over 500 plus satellite TV channels. Airtel ‘Internet TV’ transforms any TV into a Smart TV and enables users to switch seamlessly between online and linear TV content with a single device. With consumption of online content within Indian homes increasing rapidly, Airtel ‘Internet TV’ will offer customers a superior experience by enabling them to enjoy their favourite content on the biggest screen in their homes. Customers can now stream and cast their favourite content directly on to their TV as well as download their favourite apps and play games. Sunil Taldar, CEO and Director – DTH, Bharti Airtel said, “Growing broadband penetration is driving the popularity of online content, particularly in urban homes, and with Airtel ‘Internet TV’ we are bringing world-class content from the web and much more to the TV screen. This latest innovation has been designed keeping in mind the needs of Indian homes and it bridges the gap between online and offline worlds to enable an end to end entertainment experience with the convenience of a single device. We will continue to add exciting content platforms to Airtel ‘Internet TV’ and invite customers to experience this innovative offering.” The Internet TV comes preloaded with Netflix, YouTube, Google Play Music, Google Play Games, Airtel Movies and more. It also comes with access to Google Play Store that allows users to download their favourite apps, content and games on to their TV. “India is one of the most important and vibrant countries in the world and we are delighted to be teaming up with Airtel to make it

20 | may 2017

much easier for consumers to enjoy Netflix,” said Reed Hastings, Co-founder and CEO of Netflix. “In the months and years to come, we look forward to bringing our Indian members more compelling stories from all over the world, an ever-improving viewing experience and incredible joy.” The Internet TV comes with inbuilt-Wi-Fi receiver, Bluetooth based remote control and is integrated with Google voice search feature. Customers can discover their favourite content by simply telling the remote and choose from a variety of content sources. Offering a clutter-free and intuitive interface, the sleek Airtel ‘Internet TV’ STB is 4K content ready and enables LIVE TV shows to be paused, recorded or even rewind. It also supports content via USB (external HD) and Bluetooth. Customers can also cast, mirror content from mobile devices, tablets and laptops on to the TV screen with Airtel ‘Internet TV’. Gaming enthusiasts can make the most of the Internet TV with the best of gaming apps for an experience that is truly larger than life. Gamers can use physical game controllers, or even their smartphones as a game pad with Internet TV. The latest innovation requires a broadband or a 4G hotspot connection with a minimum recommended speed of 4 Mbps for a smooth online experience. A regular Airtel Digital TV dish antenna will also be a part of the installation. Existing Airtel Digital TV customers can also upgrade their existing STBs to ‘Internet TV’ STB. The Internet TV is priced at Rs 4999 with 3 month Digital TV subscription. Also, as limited period offer customers can pay Rs 7999 and get the Airtel Internet TV with one year subscription. It is available exclusively on Amazon India and will be available via Airtel Digital TV touch points - retail stores/website/contact centers soon. n

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Truecaller’s Big Ring – Goes in for whopping brand and service expansion T

ruecaller, the global leader in caller identification and safer communication, recently announced its largest ever brand and product expansion. It has entered into digital payment space with the launch of ‘Truecaller Pay’ in partnership with ICICI Bank which will enable Android users to digitally receive and send money, has joined hands with Airtel to bring Truecaller caller ID to Airtel users, and will start video calling service in association with Google. Speaking at the company’s first annual “Stay ahead” event, founders and key partners Alan Mamedi, CEO and Co-founder, Truecaller said, “We have been able to build a mobile identity platform and ecosystem that more and more people are relying on a daily basis to build safe and meaningful services on top of it – and today we’re finally able to showcase the true potential of Truecaller. While the Truecaller journey is full of new features to help you solve your daily communication needs, for the first time, we are venturing into a territory that goes beyond knowing who is calling, but once again, it’s an adventure that touches millions of users.” Truecaller-ICICI Digital Foray: By using ‘Trucaller Pay’, Truecaller users will be able to create their unique Virtual Payment Address (VPA) in the app, and can instantly send or receive money using any Unified Payments Interface (UPI) supported bank. In addition, users can also do prepaid and postpaid recharges. This feature will be available to the ICICI and non ICICI users as well. The service powered by ICICI bank is absolutely secure and follows 2-factor authentication as per RBI guidelines. All the banking and transactional data of the customers is securely handled by ICICI bank conforming to NPCI and RBI guidelines. Truecaller will not park any money or handle sensitive data such as account details, credit/debit card information of its users. Truecaller-Airtel Tie Up: Truecaller’s big leap forward to help serve the underserved with Airtel is by introducing “Airtel Truecaller ID” for millions of Airtel users in India which extends the caller ID feature of Truecaller to Airtel’s non-data users using feature phones, and will be delivered to users via Flash SMS before the call hits the users mobile. All feature phone users with Airtel mobile service can now use “Airtel Truecaller ID” to see who’s

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calling. The first of its kind service is set to provide online experience to offline users, helping them take the right call and to make their communication safer and more efficient. This is a subscription based service that will ease a user’s life from unwanted spam calls without having to subscribe to data service or buy a smartphone.

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Truecaller-Google Video Partnership: In another significant partnership, Truecaller and Google have come together to improve video calling for millions. Truecaller announced a strategic agreement to integrate Google Duo, a high quality video calling service, within the Truecaller app. This will add a crucial communications layer that strengthens the value of Truecaller’s wildly popular dialer, caller ID, and spam blocking app already used by more than 250 million users globally. Truecaller integration with Google Duo will be available in the coming months for Android and iOS as a permission-based service, where users will be able to opt-in and out at any time. “Video calling should work for everybody, regardless of what platform they are on. Our aim is to make video calling simple, fast, and available to everyone,” said Amit Fulay, Head of Duo at Google. “With this Truecaller integration, we’re able to bring a better video calling experience to millions of new users.” n may 2017 | 21

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A solution to stop hackers from stealing private data over unsecured Wi-Fi

orton by Symantec recently launched Norton Wi-Fi Privacy in India, a powerful, yet easy-to-use solution for Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone and iPad devices that helps shield consumers’ information from hackers snooping on unsecured wireless (Wi-Fi) networks. According to the 2016 Norton Cyber Security Insights Report, more than one fourth of Indians (27 per cent) claim that they regularly use public Wi-Fi and in general, 70 per cent of Indians say public Wi-Fi is useful for checking emails, sending documents and logging into accounts on the go. While most Indians are aware of the risks, with 59 per cent acknowledging that they would not enter financial information online while connected to a public Wi-Fi, only 56 per cent are unable to determine if the Wi-Fi network they are using is secure. Only 45 per cent use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). “Consumers are often overly complacent when it comes to using public Wi-Fi networks, believing that nothing will happen to them,” said Ritesh Chopra, Country Manager, Consumer Business Unit, Symantec India. “Norton Wi-Fi Privacy helps protect information, such as passwords and credit card numbers, and denies access to hackers who may be eavesdropping on the same network,” added Chopra.

Can you really trust your hotspot? What turns people into easy targets is confusion about the security of public Wi-Fi networks. Most people assume that all Wi-Fi networks available in public places like airports, hotels and cafes have security

22 | may 2017

built-in. That’s not always the case. When consumers log onto an unsecure network, hackers can steal information as it travels across the web, sell it on the dark web for profit or even use the information to drain consumer bank accounts. Another common tactic, known as the rogue access point attack, is for cybercriminals can set up their own public Wi-Fi network and trick users into joining it. Users may end up supplying their information to the cybercriminal, and once they are on the spoofed hotspot, they may be redirected to other fraudulent or virus-laden websites, or even be tricked into providing credit card numbers or other identifying information. To combat this, Norton Wi-Fi Privacy uses sophisticated encryption technology and scrambles consumer information to help protect their information and identity online.

Consumers unaware of the risk Nearly half (45 per cent) of consumers connect to a Wi-Fi network using VPN regularly; others can potentially allow a hacker to steal data as it travels on the network. One in four Indian consumers (27 per cent) use public Wi-Fi connections, yet only 56 per cent think they know how to determine whether the Wi-Fi network they are using is secure. Consumers are still willing to click on links from senders they don’t know or open malicious attachments. When presented with a fraudulent and legitimate email, one in three (33 per cent) cannot identify a phishing email. n

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New Opera Mini brings faster access to cricket scores and alerts

pera has rolled out Opera Cricket to keep users in India on top of this cricket season. The new feature provides cricket scores, commentary, video and notifications when on the move and will also allow users to keep track of their favourite teams and players in one place. Opera Cricket services are available inside the Opera Mini browser for Android phones. After upgrading to the latest version of Opera Mini, users will see a “Get Started” banner to activate this feature. Then, they can start tracking scores, stats, and watching videos immediately without the need to download other apps. Opera Cricket has a ‘What’s on’ category that keeps users updated during on-going matches, and provides final scores by leveraging Opera Mini’s cloud technology. Additionally, there will be live ball-by-ball commentary for select big games. Users can subscribe to each upcoming match to get a notification when the game begins. Opera Cricket window displays latest live scores of T20 matches, Test matches along with scorecards of players. It shows users videos with match highlights. “We Indians live and breathe cricket, and we don’t want to miss out any match. Opera Cricket embedded inside the new Opera Mini browser offers instant access to all the cricket updates. This is the

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fastest way for millions of Opera Mini cricket fans to stay on the top during this cricket season,” said Sunil Kamath, VP of South East Asia Pacific, Opera Software. Further, Opera Mini has used compression technology to reduce the size of heavy webpages and videos so that they load faster. The company has integrated AI-powered newsfeed, download manager for easy download, and a new Facebook notification bar to its browser as well. n

Iris integrated mobile devices to address Aadhaar authentication failures

elta ID Inc., a leader in consumer-grade iris scanning technology for mobile devices, believes the high failure rates in Aadhaar biometric authentication, as recently reported in MGNREGA tests in Telangana, will be addressed in a cost-effective way with the iris integrated mobile devices. “The UIDAI and the worldwide biometric community have tested and found iris to have better reliability. We are confident the failure rates will be drastically lower once the cheaper iris integrated mobile devices are adopted in the market,” said Dr Salil Prabhakar, President and CEO of Delta ID Inc.

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With the government mandating the use of Aadhaar biometric authentication in more social and other programs, the need for a biometric modality that works reliably is critical. Unlike fingerprints that are being reported to show high failure rates due to wear and tear, the iris, being a protected internal organ, is expected to be significantly more reliable. Additionally, since the iris is not affected with age, it works reliably across all age groups. One of the key impediments in wide-scale roll out of iris for Aadhaar has been the high cost of iris devices. This is being addressed with the rollout of iris integrated mobile devices. Samsung partnered with Delta ID to launch India’s first iris integrated tablet in May 2016. The technology is arriving in smartphones too, and not only in high end devices such as Samsung Galaxy S8, but also in low cost smartphones from Indian manufacturers. Delta ID has made remarkable advances in bringing iris technology to consumer mobile devices and applications. Delta ID’s ActiveIRIS technology has passed STQC’s FRR test with better than 99% accuracy, and has been certified by the STQC. ActiveIRIS and a combination of STQC certified hardware components can be integrated by any mobile device to expeditiously introduce iris integrated mobile devices in the market. n

may 2017 | 23

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bignews DoT in favour of regulating Facebook, WhatsApp

he Centre informed the Supreme Court recently that it would soon formulate a regulatory regime, similar to one existing for all telecom operators, for Over-The-Top (OTT) services like WhatsApp, Facebook, Skype, WeChat and Google Talk. The department of telecom’s main argument was that OTTs use the network of telecom service providers to reach customers, offer App-based products as well as compete by offering messaging and telephone facilities, yet are not subjected to any regulatory mechanism. This assertion came in response to WhatsApp’s affidavit in the SC taking a stand that the petition filed by Karmanya Singh Sareen questioning its privacy policy was not maintainable as “OTT services are governed in some respect by the provisions of Information Technology Act, 2000 and are not subject to the same regulatory mechanism that is enforced on conventional voice and messaging services provided by telecom service providers”. With the privacy issue being strongly argued by the petitioner and the Centre converging on it, the bench referred the issue to a five-judge bench, despite opposition from OTT service providers. Senior advocates Kapil Sibal and K K Venugopal, who appeared

for WhatsApp and other OTT service providers, said there was no issue of privacy involved in the controversy raised by the petitioner as it is a matter of contract between the user and OTT service provider. But, the petitioner’s advocate Madhavi Divan said the lack of privacy in private messages over WhatsApp not only violated the right to privacy, which is intrinsically linked to right to life guaranteed under Article 21, but also stifled right of free speech, guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a), in conversations between two private individuals. Sibal countered this by saying there was no privacy violation as messages sent on WhatsApp were end to end encrypted preventing even WhatsApp to read them. n

Huawei plans big on mid-range smartphones in India

martphone manufacturer Huawei has plans to increase focus on devices in the price range of Rs 10,000-20,000 in the Indian market. “We have seen maximum growth in India taking place in Rs 10,000-20,000 range. Huawei will increase focus in this segment in India. Having said that we will not compromise on quality and get into specification game. Huawei will continue to focus on users’ experience,” reports quoted Huawei India Consumer Business Group President Peter Zhai as saying. In 2016, Huawei shipped 139 million smartphones globally and reported 44 per cent annual revenue growth in its Consumer Business Group at USD 25.9 billion. As per SinoMarket research, Huawei Consumer Business Group had led the Chinese market with 18.85 per

24 | may 2017

cent market share in February 2017. “Our exponential growth trajectory in the global market is the testament to our well-crafted strategy and we are looking at replicating it in the Indian market. We have all the right ingredients to be successful in India as Huawei is a company that goes across an ecosystem of devices,” Zhai was quoted as saying. Huawei has set a target to be among the top five smartphone companies in India by the end of this year. According to industry experts, Huawei is estimated to have doubled its sales in India but numbers are still less compared to its competitors in the smarphone segment. “Huawei sales are estimated to have doubled between first quarter of 2016 and 2017 but the numbers are very small compared to its rivals Oppo and Vivo. However, we believe Huawei is the only brand that can challenge big players in India,” Counterpoint Research Associate Director Tarun Pathak said. n

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Digital payments made through UPI see huge jump

n a big boost to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s digitisation drive, digital payments made through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), the mobile-based national payment system, continue to surge even after the end of demonetisation-induced cash shortage, shows the latest data from Reserve Bank of India. UPI-based transactions jumped almost 20% to Rs 2,000 crore in March, up from Rs 1,660 crore in January. According to industry experts, the growth in UPIbased transactions is driven majorly by the government-promoted BHIM (Bharat Interface for Money) and non-bank payment apps such as PhonePe and Trupay. Supporters of digital payments believe

that it may be just the beginning as the government appears determined to push digital transactions. While 90% of transactions on UPI are coming from peer to peer modes of payments and remittances, the share of merchant transactions is expected to go up sharply after the full scale rollout of BharatQR — a common QR code developed by all major card payment companies to enable digital payments without card swiping machines — and UPI@PoS — or, point-of-sale machines configured to enable payment through UPI interface without swiping cards. While banks have launched their own UPI apps, industry observers said a major chunk of transactions are coming from non-bank apps such as Trupay and PhonePe that have gone live on UPI through a sponsor bank. The digital payment surge since demonetisation is, however, not helping mobile wallets or prepaid instruments. RBI data shows that mobile wallets have not been able to pick up in the merchant payment space, with less than Rs 1,800 crore worth of transactions reported in March, down from Rs 2,100 crore in January. As per RBI data, the average wallet transaction is worth less than Rs 250 while average UPI transaction amount is around Rs 4,000. n

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Reliance Jio becomes fifth-largest telco, 72 million paid subscribers credit positive

redit ratings agency Moody’s Investors Service has said that Reliance Jio Infocomm racking up 72 million paid subscribers, which has made the teleco the fifth largest in the country by user base, is credit positive but the new entrant will continue to be a drag on parent Reliance Industries’ cash flows for at least two years. “This (subscriber additions) is credit positive as the subscriber enrolment reduces cash flow uncertainty of the telecom business, on which RIL has spent over Rs 1.7 lakh crore over the last six years,” the agencey said in a statement recently. It said that even if Jio were to generate revenue of about Rs 20,000 crore, it will not be sufficient to generate free cash flows as the company’s spending on capex, which is expected to be at least Rs 15,000 crore per year, will be significantly higher than its earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation. The ratings agency said that Jio Infocomm is trailing its nearest rival, state-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd., which has 100 million customers, and Tata Teleservices, which has 50 million subscribers. The combined Vodafone India-Idea Cellular entity leads the mark with close to 400 million users, while Bharti Airtel, including Telenor,

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is No. 2 with more than 300 million users. Moody’s said it expects a “significant portion, of the 72 million Jio Prime subscribers to opt for its 303 Plan, given that is the minimum plan that gives complimentary services for three months. “Assuming all 72 million subscribers pay Rs 303 per 28 days for July 2017 to March 2018,

Jio will be able to generate revenue of about Rs 21,300 crore for the fiscal year ending March 2018. In comparison, Bharti Airtel Limited’s (Baa3 stable) Indian mobile services generated revenue of Rs 43,600 crore for the nine months ended 31December 2016,” Moody’s said. n

may 2017 | 25

What’s Up

bignews PM Narendra Modi launches BHIM-Aadhaar Pay app

rime Minister Narendra Modi recently launched BHIM-Aadhar platform - a biometric-based payment system - in Nagpur. BHIM-Aadhaar Pay app will allow users to make payments through the fingerprint scanner, by authenticating the biometric details of a user with Aadhaar database. BHIM, also known as Bharat Interface for Money, was launched by the PM three months ago to provide a tool that can be a one-stop solution for all digital payments. The app, which will be available for download to merchants across the country, will link your Aadhaar number and biometic fingerprint to complete a transaction. To enable the transactions through BHIM-Aadhar, merchants will have to purchase fingerprint scanners. With more than 1.8 crore downloads of the app which is available both on the Google Play Store and the iOS App store, the PM also launched two new offers to reward BHIM users. These two schemes are: BHIM Referral Bonus Scheme (For Individuals): The Referral Bonus scheme will incentivize existing BHIM users for bringing new users on the BHIM platform and encouraging the new users to do transactions with others using BHIM or by referring new users on BHIM. Hence, the bonus will be paid to both the referrer and the new user of BHIM (referee). The referral will be considered successful only after three unique successful financial transactions

have been completed by the new user. BHIM Merchant Cashback Scheme: The scheme incentivizes not just one-time adoption of BHIM by merchants, but will also encourage transactions via BHIM mode (either QR code or VPA or Mobile number or ‘Pay to Aadhaar’). The cashback to the merchant can be up to Rs 300 per month, with each merchant eligible to win up to Rs 1800 in six months. n

Govt likely to waive bank guarantees for mobile component imports

f all goes well, the handset makers may get some respite as the government is expected to ease bank guarantee norms for import of components at concessional duty rates for local manufacturing. As per reports quoting sources, the PMO convened a joint meeting with industry and inter-ministerial officers recently to look into the impediments being faced by mobile makers in India. Industry players raised concerns over huge capital getting blocked in bank guarantees given as assurance to customs that the items imported by them on concessional duty rates will not be retailed in the market and will be used solely for making mobile phones. “The PMO has assured that it has noted concerns of mobile manufacturers on IGCR and will take it up so that at least the formalities of bank guarantee is waived for companies with good track record,” a source who attended the meeting was

26 | may 2017

quoted as saying. Bank guarantees of as much as Rs 29,000 crore have been furnished by companies. “The accounting period of bank guarantees is three months for IGCR (Import of goods at concessional rate of duty for manufacture of excisable goods). A company cannot free the bank guarantee if the imported goods have been exhausted even in five days so the capital remains block for long period,” said a representative of a mobile company. Indian Cellular Association (ICA) National President Pankaj Mohindroo lauded the PMO’s support. “The Task Force is committed to achieving the target of manufacturing 500 million mobile phones in the country by 2019. We have already achieved 40 per cent of this target. The PMO and Meity, we feel, is completely committed to enhance ease of doing business while ensuring revenue safeguards. This move will surely ease the path of mobile industry,” he said. n

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Your neighbourhood stores may soon sell Xiaomi, Huawei smartphones

ith the goods and services tax (GST) expected to be rolled out on July 1 likely to erode the difference in pricing of smartphones online and offline, handset makers Asus, InFocus, Xiaomi, Motorola, ZTE and Huawei are streamlining strategy to intensify expansion into brick-and-mortar retail. According to reports quoting senior industry executives, these brands have drawn up fresh strategies such as direct distribution, partnership with large-format retail, creation of separate models for offline, setting up own stores and increasing marketing spend. Online sellers currently sell from low VAT markets like Bengaluru and Hyderabad where VAT on smartphones is 5% while it is much higher in most other markets, with the national average at around 10-12%, whereby they have a pricing advantage to sell at such low prices. With GST, the taxes will become uniform. As per reports, Xiaomi has rejigged its distribution replicating the online model into offline space where distributors sell directly to retail stores cutting-down layers to ensure common pricing across platforms. It has also partnered with four big retail chains — Sangeetha, Poorvika, BigC and LOT — and is in talks with others. Also on the cards are plans to set up company-owned Mi

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Home stores in India. Asus India country manager Peter Chang said the company is focusing right from metros to tier II offline markets. InFocus too is re-launching its offline business and building a portfolio of models. The Foxconn-owned brand has plans to invest big money in offline trade and marketing replicating the strategy of Chinese rivals, Oppo and Vivo. ZTE too is going to offline retail in a big way, including expansion into smaller towns. Huawei India consumer business group director of product centre, Allen Wang, said the dual channel strategy for Huawei and Honor helps it to reach out to wider consumers. n

Apple mulls bidding for big stake in Toshiba’s chip business

n the latest twist in the sale of the world’s second-biggest flash memory chipmaker, Apple Inc. is considering teaming up with its supplier Foxconn to bid for Toshiba Corp’s semiconductor business. According to a report by Japan’s public broadcaster NHK, the US technology giant is considering investing at least several billion dollars to take a stake of more than 20 per cent in a plan that would have Toshiba maintain a partial holding to keep the business under US and Japanese control. The proposal is aimed at allaying the Japanese government’s concerns over any transfer of sensitive

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technology to investors it deems a risk to national security, the report said. Foxconn, which participated in the first round of the auction, has been considered such a risk due to its deep ties with China. The bulk of Apple’s iPhones are manufactured at Foxconn’s extensive manufacturing base there. NHK said Apple wants the Taiwan firm to own a stake of around 30 per cent of Toshiba’s chip business. Although there is no official word from Apple and Foxconn, an investment by Apple would be its first direct stake in a major global memory chipmaker as it seeks to secure a stable supply of key components. Samsung is the biggest maker of flash memory chips, followed by Toshiba, SK Hynix, and the US-based Micron Technology Inc. The report comes as Western Digital Corp, Toshiba’s partner and one of the bidders of its chip business, warned this week that the Japanese firm is violating a joint venture contract in plans to sell to its chip unit, and urged that it be given exclusive negotiating rights. The auction of the prized asset is essential to Toshiba’s plans to cover multibillion writedowns at US nuclear unit Westinghouse that have plunged it into crisis. n team@mymobile.co.in

may 2017 | 27

First Look

justin lephone W7 Yet another budget smartphone

hinese smartphone maker lephone recently introduced lephone W7, a new entrant to the

On the camera front, the five-inch smartphone

entry-level 4G VoLTE budget smartphone in India.

features a 2MP front snapper for selfies and video

The phone supports 22 different regional

calling with 5MP AF rear-camera including an

languages and multiple international languages.

LED flash. The dual-SIM device is topped with

Talking about its technical specifications, the

connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS/

lephone W7 is equipped with 1.3GHz quad core

28 | may 2017

runs on Android 6.0 Marshmallow.

AGPS, FM and a 3.5mm jack.

processor coupled with 1GB RAM and 8GB of

Priced at Rs 4,599, the lephone W7 is

inbuilt storage which can be expanded up to

available in Black, White and Golden colour

32GB using a microSD card. The smartphone

variants. n

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justin

Gionee A1 Super selfie and super battery for a super experience

hinese handset maker Gionee recently launched its first

complexions, giving users a natural glow and rosiness. Gionee’s

flagship of the year, A1, in India. The brand new A1 boasts of

independent facial enhancement algorithm automatically detects

a full metal body made out of A6000 aircraft grade material that

a user’s face and applies custom beauty settings. Powered by 4-cell

is used in making premium cars and aircrafts.

technology, the front camera captures more light than before

The Gionee A1 runs on an octa-core 64 bit processor that gives

resulting clearer and more beautiful selfies.

better performance and less power consumption. Powered by a

The A1 is equipped with the fastest fingerprint sensor, unlocking

4GB RAM, the A1 enables smooth multitasking and easy operation,

the phone in just 0.2 seconds, for top-notch safety. For the humid

while 64GB internal storage (expandable up to 256GB) provides

Indian conditions, the sensor unlocks the device even with moist

ample storage space. It is based on the up-to-date Android 7.0 and

fingers. The finger print sensor also activates ‘Edgebar’ allowing

comes with the improved Amigo OS for a holistic and satisfying

users a hub for quicker access to their favorite apps. The 4G and

smartphone experience. The phone comes with a powerful 4010

VoLTE enabled smartphone also offers a host of amazing features

mAh battery along with Ultrafast dual charge.

such as Split Screen, Maxx Audio, Virus detection amongst other

In the terms of optics, the A1 features a 16MP front camera along with a customized selfie flash to spread light onto faces more evenly and softly. The soft lighting effect is able to enhance facial

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key features. The phone is priced at Rs 19,999 and will be available in three stunning colours- Gray, Black and Gold. n

may 2017 | 29

First Look

justin itel Wish A41 Key to a smarter life

trengthening its 4G portfolio, itel Mobile, part of

the SmartKey feature enables them to conveniently

Chinese mobile manufacturer Transsion Holdings,

perform functions such as taking screenshots and taking

recently launched 4G VoLTE-enabled smartphone Wish

pictures with a single click.

A41 in India. The device features ‘Multiple Account’ apps

The itel Wish A41 is a dual-SIM (Micro-SIM) smartphone

and ‘SmartKey’. While the Multiple Account allows users

that runs Android 6.0 Marshmallow. It sports a 5-inch

to log in with two different accounts on popular social

FWVGA (480x854 pixels) display and is powered by a

media apps such as WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram,

1.3GHz quad-core SoC coupled with 1GB of RAM. It features a 5MP primary camera on the rear and a 2MP front-facing camera. The smartphone packs 8GB of inbuilt storage that can be expanded via microSD card (up to 32GB). Connectivity options on the itel Wish A41 include Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth, USB OTG, FM, and 4G VoLTE. It is powered by a 2400mAh removable battery. The SOS feature on itel Wish A41, upon activation, captures pictures from both rear and front camera and 5-sec video and automatically sends it to the user’s emergency contacts. The budget smartphone is priced at Rs 5,840 and will be available in the market in three colour variants including - Champagne, Calx, and Rose Gold. n

30 | may 2017

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Samsung Galaxy C7 Pro Stunningly slim and powerful

amsung recently launched the Galaxy C7 Pro smartphone, which is exclusively available on Amazon India. The device

packs powerful features in a premium slim design, making it an extremely powerful smartphone in its category. At 7mm, the slim Galaxy C7 Pro gives the consumer a

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comfortable grip. The device is crafted with a full metal unibody and a 2.5D Gorilla Glass that make it very durable. It also sports a 5.7â&#x20AC;? FHD Super AMOLED display that provides an immersive and enriching viewing experience. In terms of technical specifications, the Galaxy C7 Pro comes equipped with a powerful 2.2 GHz octacore processor and 4GB RAM. This ensures that the smartphone handles any task with ease, for a faster and smoother multi-tasking experience. It has an inbuilt memory of 64GB which is expandable up to 256GB. It has a powerful 3,300mAh battery, with fast charging capabilities to charge the phone completely in just 100 min. Camera-wise, the smartphone features a 16MP front and rear camera with an f1.9 aperture lens for taking great pictures even in low light conditions. The rear camera comes equipped with Phase Detection Auto-Focus and Dual LED flash features, which allow users to capture clear and bright photographs. The front camera offers an upgraded selfie experience with its pre-installed beautifying effects. The floating camera button in Galaxy C7 Pro enables users to take the best shots at ease with single hand. The newly-launched phone comes in two colour options of Navy Blue and Gold in India and is priced at Rs 27,990. n

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may 2017 | 31

First Look

justin

Micromax Dual 5 Premium smartphone with three good cameras

icromax recently launched Dual 5, the company’s and India’s first phone to come

with vertical dual rear cameras. It sports a 5.5inch FHD display protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3. The Micromax Dual 5 comes powered with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 653 processor fused with 4GB of RAM. The Android 6.0 Marshmallowrunning Dual 5 comes with 128GB of internal storage expandable up to 128GB. In the camera department, the Micromax Dual 5 sports two 13MP Sony IMX258 sensors on the back -- one for monochrome light and the other for RGB (colour) featuring an f/1.8 aperture. On the front, the device features another 13MP camera, with a 1.12-micron pixel Sony IMX258 sensor. It bears an f/2.0 aperture and features a soft selfie flash module. Other front camera features include an integrated SmartBeauty mode, gesture control, and a GIF maker. The flagship smartphone draws power from a 3200 mAh battery that supports Quick Charge. It comes with a fingerprint sensor and a dedicated customisable key for quick actions. Micromax claimed that only 10 minutes of charging the phone will give it juice for 4 hours. In terms of security, the phone comes with a military grade independent security chip for safer passwords. The device comes with a secure vault where the user can store his or her private files. Other features incldude an IR blaster, app freezer to restrict background apps and VoLTE support. The company’s first dual camera series smartphone retails at a price of Rs 24,999 and only be available in Gold colour for now. n

32 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

Sansui Horizon 1 A budget smartphone with amazing design and utility-led features

apanese technology giant Sansui recently launched its flagship valuefor-money smartphone Horizon 1, which would be exclusively

available at Flipkart, Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest e-commerce marketplace. The big highlight of the low-priced smartphone is its 4G VoLTE support and

First Look

justin

2000mAh battery. Talking about the technical specifications, the Horizon 1 runs on Android 6.0 Marshmallow supported by 1.3 GHz quad-core processor to multitask better and faster on 4G. The device comes with 1GB RAM and 8GB ROM (expandable up to 64 GB) internal storage backed by 2000mAh battery for a power packed multitasking experience. In terms of optics, the Sansui Horizon 1 offers a 5MP S5K5E8 rear sensor with autofocus, and 30fps video recording. The camera app comes with features like face detection (number of faces), HDR, panorama, continuous shots (3/6/10), night mode, GIF camera and slow motion recording. At the front, there is 3.2MP sensor for video chats and selfies. The newly-launched device comes preinstalled with the Panic Button feature which helps the user to send an alert to their family and friends at the time of an emergency. Connectivity options include 4G VoLTE, Bluetooth 4.0, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, and GPS. Priced at Rs 3,999, the Sansui Horizon 1 is available in Black and Golden colour options. n

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 33

First Look

justin Motorola Moto G5 Small is beautiful

ollowing the release of the Moto G5 Plus in March, Lenovo-

owned Motorola has come up with Moto G5 smartphone

in India. Said to be a smaller version of the G5 Plus, the Moto G5 features a metal build along with the signature â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mâ&#x20AC;? logo below the Moto Z-like circular camera housing on the back. It has a fingerprint sensor on the front within a capacitive button. The Moto G5 sports a 5-inch FHD display and is powered by a 1.4GHz Snapdragon 430 processor, paired with 3GB RAM and 16GB of native storage. There is also an option to expand further via a microSD card slot (up to 128GB). The recently-launched device packs a 2800mAh removable battery with support for fast charging. The phone runs Android Nougat plus it comes with a number of Motorola-exclusive features such as Moto Display, Actions, twist gesture, among others. On the camera front, the Moto G5 sports a 13MP rear-facing camera with PDAF, f/2.0 aperture, and dual-LED flash, and on the front there is a 5MP wide-angle front camera for selfies and video calling. The Moto G5 costs Rs 11,999 and will be exclusively available on Amazon. n

34 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

First Look

justin

Nokia 150 The comeback story begins

MD Global has launched its first Nokia-branded feature phone,

Nokia 150, in India in partnership with ecommerce firms Amazon and

Flipkart. The Nokia 150 Dual SIM features a polycarbonate shell and comes equipped with a 2.4-inch QVGA (240x320 pixels) display. The feature phone runs on Nokia Series 30+ operating system, and comes equipped with an expandable storage via microSD card (up to 32GB). The Nokia 150 Dual SIM is powered by a 1020mAh battery which can offer up to 22 hours of battery life with a standby time of up to 25 days. The phone measures 117x50x13mm and weighs around 82 grams. The device comes with an MP3 player, FM radio, Bluetooth v3.0 with SLAM, and a VGA camera with an LED flash. It is also likely to come pre-loaded with Snake Xenzia. The Nokia 150 is priced at Rs 2,059 and is available in Black and White colour options. n

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 35

First Look

justin

Ziox QUIQ Flash 4G Speaks your language

iox Mobiles has come up with a new smartphone- QUIQ Flash 4G in an exclusive tie up with shopclues.com for its sale. The

USP of the smartphone is the VoLTE support along with additional support of 21 indic languages. The smartphone features 5-inch FWVGA display with Asahi

Dragon-trail glass touch board, which is touted as six times stronger than the other regular glass. Also it makes the screen resistant to scratches and wreck in case of any accidental drop. The smartphone is supported by a 2450mAh battery. QUIQ Flash 4G is powered by a 1.3 GHZ quad core processor which is coupled with 1GB RAM and 8GB of inbuilt storage which is expandable up to 32GB via microSD card. In the camera department, the smartphone sports a 5MP rear camera with auto-focus and flash and on the front sits a 2MP camera for selfies. The connectivity options on board are Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Micro-USB, and GPS. The smartphone is available in Black and Champagne colours and will cost Rs 4,444 to its buyers. n

36 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

Micromax Evok Note, Evok Power Future disruptions

ndia’s leading handset player Micromax has launched the Evok

camera, the new smartphone takes the selfie game to a whole new

series – Evok Note & Evok Power – in an exclusive partnership

level for selfie aficionados. The consumers can keep their precious

with e-commerce firm Flipkart.

memories safe and enjoy on-the-go access to files, music and

The Evok Note smartphone houses 1.3GHz Mediatek octa core

pictures with 32GB ROM. The metal Back finish and stylish curve

processor MT6753 coupled with a powerful 3GB RAM offering

ensures that the device looks nothing less than a masterpiece.

seamless multitasking. It is powered through the day with

The smartphone is priced at Rs 9,499.

4000mAh battery. The phone is equipped with a 5.5-inch FHD

The Evok Power, on the other hand, has 1.3 GHz quad core

display offering dynamic contrast and colour vibrancy. With 2.5D

processor coupled with 2GB RAM that redefines power with hassle

Cover Glass, the screen has 400.53ppi and is a visual banquet

free functioning. The device features the long lasting 4000 mAh

with 16M colours splashed across the exquisite display breathing

battery. The new smartphone comes with Smart Power Play

life into graphics.

feature as you can optimize the battery usage of the smartphone

It captures rich photographs in low light as well with 13MP AF

without a sweat. The device brings Fingerprint sensor that makes

rear camera featuring 5P Largan Lens for enhanced performance

your life simple on one go. The 4G VoLTE smartphone is priced at

in low light conditions. The larger aperture means the camera can

Rs 6,999 n

capture more detail and light. With wide angle lens for front

www.mymobileindia.com

First Look

justin

team@mymobile.co.in

may 2017 | 37

Spotlight

in focus

Rockstars of First Quarter Even as 2017 is said to be fairly special for the smartphone market in India, the first three months of the year has already seen quite a few exciting handset launches, most of which were unique in their USPs. While international brands delivered their bests till date in terms of specs and prices, homegrown companies such as Micromax did not shy away from launching their flagships. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve brought to you some of the most amazing phones launched during the first quarter of the year. Ramesh Kumar Raja

Cat S60

eaturing a thermal camera, Cat S60 is one of the most unusual smartphones in recent times in

India. The military-grade rugged handset, which comes from Caterpillar, a US-based construction machinery manufacturing company, features a 4.7-inch HD display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 617 processor, 3GB RAM, 32GB internal storage, 13MP rear camera, 5MP front-facing camera and 3,800mAh battery. The waterresistant smartphone is priced at Rs 64,999. n

Moto G5 Plus

his is the first all-metal smartphone in the Moto G series offering a premium design in

affordable price. The handsetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design resembles the high-end Moto Z series. The Moto G5 Plus packs

a 5.2-inch Full HD screen, Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 processor, 12MP rear camera, 5MP selfie shooter and a 3,000mAh battery. The Lenovo-owned Motorola device costs Rs 14,999 onwards and has received positive reviews from all quarters. n

38 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

Samsung Galaxy C9 Pro

amsung had a surprise in the first quarter with the Galaxy C9 Pro which is the first smartphone from the South Korean electronics

major to have 6GB of RAM. The flagship handset sports 6-inch full-HD display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 653 SoC, 16MP rear camera, 16MP front-facing camera and 4,000mAh battery. Priced at Rs 39,990, the feature-rich premium smartphone is here to take on the OnePlus 3T and Huawei P9. n

Micromax Dual 5

ndia’s largest handset maker Micromax made a comeback in the market with the launch of Micromax

Spotlight

in focus

Huawei Honor 6X

Dual 5, its most premium smartphone till date. Micromax

Dual 5 is also the company’s first to feature a dual-rear camera setup. Priced at Rs 24,999, the smartphone features a dual 13MP camera at the back with dual-LED flash. The front camera too is 13MP with soft LED flash for selfies. Other specifications include

his is one of the

cheapest

smartphones with a dual-rear camera setup in India. The Honor 6X comes with a 5.5inch full-HD display,

5.5-inch fullHD AMOLED display,

octa-core Kirin 655

octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon

SoC, 12MP and 2MP

652 SoC, 4GB of RAM, 128GB

rear cameras, 8MP

of expandable storage and 3,200

selfie-shooter and

mAh battery. Although it’s said

3,340mAh battery.

to be a rebranded Qiku Q5, the

Having a price tag of

homegrown company openly

Rs 12,999, it has the

waged war in the premium

features to compete

smartphone category. n

with the OnePlus 3T, in terms of price, but offers a better camera setup and a unique design. n

Xiaomi Redmi Note 4

he Redmi Note 4 is among the cheapest smartphones to boast of rich specifications the company is known for. The key specs

include 5.5-inch full-HD display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 processor with 2GB/3GB/4GB RAM, 32GB expandable storage, 13MP rear camera, 5MP front camera and a 4,100mAh battery.

Available at a starting price of Rs 9,999, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 offers bang for the buck and is undoubtedly one of the top-selling smartphones of this year with flash sales running out of stock in no time. n

www.mymobileindia.com

ramesh@mymobile.co.in

anuj@mymobile.co.in

may 2017 | 39

Trendz

Consumer insight

Indians’ love affair with apps continues unabated Latest Yahoo Flurry report shows app usage in India growing at 43% YoY, though down from last year but impressive nonetheless, while phablets continue to rule the roost.

By Shelley Vishwajeet

ell, Indians continue

between 5” and 6.9”) now have a market

to remain hooked to

share of 61%, outpacing growth in the US

their mobile and you

where it has 48% market share! These

can safely blame it on

findings have revealed by latest Yahoo

apps. From messaging to music to media,

Flurry Analytics report, titled “State of the

the apps have cast a spell on the Indian

App Nation in India”. The study uncovers

mobile users helped by the large screen

insights around mobile app activity and

smartphones – Phablets! India’s app usage

their usage, emerging growth categories

grew 43% YoY in 2016 as compared to

and device adoption trends in India and

while growth of news and magazine apps

92% during the same period in 2015. But

also the world.

has declined, rather gone into negative

Phablet is most preferred mobile device with 61% market share in India

Music, Media and Entertainment applications saw the biggest usage increase at 188%

Time-spent in Messaging and Social apps grew by 52%

given the number of mobile users in India,

The interesting aspect is that Indians’

growth zone, it continues to do well in India

the growth is humungous by any standard.

apps preference has a distinct pattern as

with 14% growth over the last year. Another

And phablets (devices with screens

compared to global trends. For example,

stark trend is that while music, media and

Local View : 2016 India Session Trends (Year-over-year Session Growth and Decline)

Source : Flurry Analytics, 2016

40 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

Trends

consumer insight

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 37

Trendz

Consumer insight entertainment are barely growing the world

India’s Mobile Prime Time at Night Hourly Sessions Over 24-Hours

over and no longer even among the top five favourite categories of apps, in India they are a huge favourite and number one apps having grown at a phenomenal 188% over the last year. But in certain matters we no different from others too. For example, like most of our global cousins, we are also night owls when it comes to using apps. Out peak usage rolling in comes around 9PM while we are generally slower to turn to our phones in the morning but quickly scale usage throughout the later morning hours.

Source : Flurry Analytics, 2016

Commenting on the trend, Christopher Klotzbach, Director, Flurry from Yahoo told My Mobile that the app

trend is quite distinctive in India and in

India’s app usage grew 43% YoY: The India app usage grew at 92% during the same period last year (2015).

globally. In India, phablets have a market

Indian mobile consumers are phablet lovers, with the form factor size securing 61% of the market share in India. This footprint is also the driving force behind global adoption figures.

looking into the mobile usage in India,

certain respects has taken a very different evolutionary path as compared to most parts of the world.

42 | may 2017

6.9”) is the fastest growing mobile device share of 61%, outpacing growth in the

– Christopher Klotzbach, Director, Yahoo Flurry

(devices with screens between 5” and

Asia and India are leading the phablet revolution.

“As smartphones celebrate their first decade; the mobile app industry has grown into a dog-eat-dog world. The decelerating rate of global growth could signal market maturity, saturation or simply the end of the app gold rush”

the phablet revolution. The phablet

US which has 48% market share. When one major trend emerged: India’s mobile usage looks a lot like global usage did six months ago, still ascending on the growth curve but not at the rate we saw the year prior. “As smartphones celebrate their first decade; the mobile app industry has grown

The ‘State of the App Nation in India’

into a dog-eat-dog world. The decelerating

study is backed by data gleaned from over

rate of global growth could signal market

940,000 applications, across 2.1 billion

maturity, saturation or simply the end of

global devices from across the world,

the app gold rush,” says Klotzbach.

and the 58,000 apps, across 147 million

Klotzbach also believes that this is a

devices from India, that use Flurry. The

great time for app developing community

trends show Asia and India leading

to leverage the humungous opportunity

APAC Phablets : Drives Global Adoption Year-Over-Year From Factor Distribution

Source : Flurry Analytics, 2015-2016

MYMOBILE

Apps: Winners Music, Media and Entertainment followed by Business and Finance apps, and Utilities and Productivity apps are the top 3 app growth categories in India.

Top Global Trends n

Music, Media and Entertainment applications saw the biggest usage increase at 188% YOY, which can be attributed to rise of phablet devices and better Internet connectivity in India.

The burgeoning trend of ‘Communitainment’ (or, social sharing of media) is driving mobile consumers to spend more than 2 hours/day on Social and Messaging apps.

The average mobile consumer spends just under 5 hours a day on their smartphones.

Shopping applications saw over 17 billion sessions in 2016; effectively changing retail window shoppers into mobile impulse buyers.

Compared to 2015, global app usage grew by 11% in 2016. In previous years, we’ve seen all app categories grow in tandem; however, for 2016 year the story is different. In 2016 mobile apps started eating their own, with session and time-spent growth in some app categories occurring at the expense of others. While Messaging and Social apps use rose year-over-year by 44%, Personalization apps (like emoji keyboards) declined by 46%.

Business and Finance apps grew 176% YoY.

Utilities and Productivity apps grew 99% YoY.

Trendz

consumer insight

Losers Personalization apps see decline: Much like the global trends, Personalization apps saw the biggest usage decrease at -32%. This decrease is due to operating systems integrating the functionality of these apps natively.

Gaming, the app category known as “the darling of the mobile industry,” saw time-spent decline by 4% globally and a small growth in India of just 8%.

The favourites Messaging and social apps remain one of the most engaged categories in Asia and India: Timespent in Messaging and Social apps grew by an impressive 52% in India and 44% globally.

In 2016, shopping apps continued to gain popularity, growing 31% globally and 12% in India.

Sticky apps tied to daily habits: Some of the most successful app categories throughout the years have tapped into the mobile addict population. They’re also apps that rely on live data, such as Business and Finance (up 43% globally in time-spent; up 176% in India). Interestingly in India, this trend is best seen in Health and Fitness app usage (up 27% locally). These apps see high hourly engagement throughout the day, as users turn to their mobile and wearable devices to track their fitness goals and progress.”

www.mymobileindia.com

which has been presented by mobile users’ penchant for apps. “Going back to India’s sixmonth mobile trend delay, there’s no better time for local developers to innovate, and lessen or possibly stop a local industry pause. We are excited to see what app developers do in the next decade and watch which industry they choose to disrupt, again.” n shelley@mymobile.co.in

may 2017 | 43

Trendz

Industry insight

Go Digital Digital march will drive business growth while enhancing environmental governance

n India, adoption of advanced

employees in SMBs with advanced digital

products, new markets) by digitizing their

business digital technologies can

engagement are 8.7 times more likely to

core operations and supply chains, adds

lead to increase in revenues by up

collaborate than offline businesses, noted

the joint study.

to 27%, increase in employment

the study, titled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Digital India: Unlocking

by up to 84% and enhanced access to

the Trillion Dollar opportunityâ&#x20AC;?.

The vision and initiatives towards Digital India is expected to boost investment in the

international markets by up to 65% for

The government has taken several

digital space in the short-term and lead to

small and medium business (SMBs),

measures to improve ease of doing

rise in digital innovation, efficiency and

according to Assocham-Deloitte joint

business in India. Consequently, India has

productivity in the long-term. Currently, a

study.

seen an improvement in the global ranking

number of domestic and global companies

Digital infrastructure can also help

for ease of doing business. Services such

have announced investments in the digital

leveraging technologies like telepresence

as eBiz portal, KYC and other e-governance

space in India.

that can reduce the need for business

initiatives have started to contribute to the

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Digital India is likely to have a

travel and result in cost savings. Increased

improvement in ease of doing business and

significant impact on the profitability and

levels of digital technology-use under

this is expected to further improve.

operations of business. Through adoption

can improve employee satisfaction and

Availability of digital infrastructure

of digital technologies, companies can

collaboration, leading to a more productive

will help companies drive significant

consolidate documentation, automate

workforce. In India, it is estimated that

efficiencies, reduce time to market (new

processes and have access to efficient and

India is the fifth-largest producer of e-waste, discarding approximately 1.8 million tons of e-waste each year. Under Digital India adoption of ICT solutions such as waste collection automation and waste management information and prognostics are expected to considerably reduce e-waste.

44 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

Trends

Industry insight

cheaper ICT capabilities,” said Mr Sandeep

of the business travel, leading to reduction

Jajodia, President Assocham.

e-waste.

in carbon emissions by 1.08 million tons

Using Digital infrastructure that is

India has pledged to decrease its

globally. Use of cloud storage for documents

developed under the digital India program,

carbon emissions by 33% to 35% relative

will significantly reduce the consumption

city municipalities will be able to better

to its GDP from 2005 levels by 2030. The

of natural resources like paper.

manage the collection and disposal of

Digital India program is likely to have a

India is the fifth-largest producer of

solid waste and sewage. Several cities have

positive contribution towards achieving

e-waste, discarding approximately 1.8

started the deployment of pilot solutions

these goals. Wide spread implementation

million tons of e-waste each year. Under

for waste management in cities.

of telepresence and cloud computing

Digital India adoption of ICT solutions such

Digital India can prevent deforestation

technology under Digital India will lead

as waste collection automation and waste

by increasing the use of digital solutions in

to reduction in carbon emissions. For

management information and prognostics

the coming few years. For example, Google

example, telepresence can eliminate 20%

are expected to considerably reduce

in collaboration with University of Maryland and the UN Environment has developed

“Digital India is likely to have a significant impact on the profitability and operations of business. Through adoption of digital technologies, companies can consolidate documentation, automate processes and have access to efficient and cheaper ICT capabilities” –Sandeep Jajodia, President Assocham

www.mymobileindia.com

Global Forest Watch 2.0 to prevent deforestation. This tool uses satellite technology, data sharing and human networks to better manage forests. Availability of digital infrastructure across various locations along with sensors and customized applications will help provide better information related to environmental challenges like pollution, climate change, weather monitoring etc. This can help local governments react to local issues (like traffic congestions, high levels of pollution etc.) in real time. n team@mymobile.co.in

may 2017 | 45

Trendz

Business insight

Digital Platforms Emerging as a Critical Business Building Block Gartner says that by 2018, half of EA business architecture initiatives will focus on defining and enabling digital business platform strategies

46 | may 2017

y 2018, half of enterprise architecture

The results of Gartner’s annual global CIO

(EA) business architecture initiatives

survey support this development. The responses

will focus on defining and enabling

show that, of CIOs in organizations participating

digital business platform strategies,

in a digital ecosystem (n = 841), on average, the

according to world’s leading information

number of ecosystem partners they had two years

technology research and advisory company

ago was 22. Today, it is 42, and two years from

Gartner Inc.

now, Gartner estimates that it will have risen to 86.

“We’ve always said that business architecture

In other words, CIOs in organizations participating

is a required and integral part of EA efforts,”

in a digital ecosystem are seeing, and expecting to

points out Betsy Burton, vice president and

see, their digital ecosystem partners increase by

distinguished analyst at Gartner. “The increasing

approximately 100 percent every two years.

focus of EA practitioners and CIOs on their

“EA practitioners must focus their business

business ecosystems will drive organizations

architecture efforts on defining their business

further toward supporting and integrating business

strategy, which includes outlining their digital

architecture. This is to ensure that investments

business platform’s strategy, particularly relative

support a business ecosystem strategy that

to a platform business model,” added Burton. In

involves customers, partners, organizations and

addition, EA practitioners will increasingly focus

technology.”

on the business and technology opportunities

MYMOBILE

Trends

consumer insight

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 37

Trendz

Business insight and challenges by integrating with another organizations’ digital platforms and/or by defining their own innovative digital platforms. Design-Driven Architecture is Essential to Build and Evolve Platform Ecosystems: Digital innovation continues to transform itself, and EA needs to continuously evolve to keep pace with digital. Building on the base of business-outcome-driven EA, which emphasizes the business and the execution of the business, enterprise architects are increasingly focusing on the design side of architecture — which is at the forefront of digital innovation. Gartner predicts that by 2018, 40

“A digital platform is a business-driven framework that allows a community of partners, providers and customers to share and enhance digital processes and capabilities, or to extend them for mutual benefit. This business- and technology-based framework allows for different combinations of business models, leadership, talent, delivery and IT infrastructure platforms that power digital business ecosystems” – percent of enterprise architects will focus on design-driven architecture. “It allows organizations to understand the ecosystem and its actors, gaining insight into them and their behavior and developing and evolving the services they need,” said Marcus Blosch, research vice president at Gartner. “Many leading platform companies, such as Airbnb and Dropbox, use design-driven approaches such as ‘design thinking’ to build and evolve their platforms. Going forward, design-driven and business-outcome-driven approaches

“EA practitioners must focus their business architecture efforts on defining their business strategy, which includes outlining their digital business platform’s strategy, particularly relative to a platform business model” – Betsy Burton, Vice President and Distinguished Analyst at Gartner

48 | may 2017

are set to define leading EA practice.” However, the move to design-driven architecture has implications for people, tools and services. “We recommend that enterprise architects develop the design knowledge, skills and competencies of the EA team,” concluded Blosch. “They also need to educate the business on designdriven architecture and identify an area where they can start with a design-driven architect, to not only develop innovation but also to learn, as an organization, how to do design.” Businesses can learn more in the reports: “Predicts 2017: Architect the Digital Business Platform,” and “The 2017 CIO Agenda: Seize the Digital Ecosystem Opportunity.” Gartner analysts

“Many leading platform companies use designdriven approaches such as ‘design thinking’ to build and evolve their platforms. Going forward, design-driven and business-outcomedriven approaches are set to define leading EA practice” – Marcus Blosch, Research Vice President at Gartner

will further discuss how to master digital business platform complexity at the Gartner

on May 31 – June 1 in Orlando, Florida

Enterprise Architecture & Technology

and June 14-15 in London. n

Innovation Summits 2017, taking place

team@mymobile.co.in

MYMOBILE

Trends

Industry insight

Indian Server Market Consolidates Despite overall shipment decline, digital consolidation is driving up the revenue

erver market in India declined by

By Ramesh Kumar Raja

sales of high-density servers.

design manufacturers (ODMs) and white

16.8 per cent quarter-on-quarter

According to the IDC report, enterprise

box players. Amidst all these industry

in Q4 2016, with 30,501 units

initiative towards digital transformation,

concerns, the enterprise resource planning

shipped in Q4 2016 as against

analytics, cloud, Business Intelligence

(ERP) upgradation in manufacturing and

36,668 units in Q3 2016, said an

(BI) and datacentre consolidation are

tech refreshes in banking were the major

International Data Corporation (IDC) report

the key trends observed in Indian server

contributors for server market demand

recently. In terms of revenue, there was a

market. Pricing and tailor-made solutions

during Q4 2016.

4.2 per cent quarter-on-quarter growth

have become crucial for the vendors as

The non x86 server market declined by

registered in Q4 2016, majorly due to the

they are frequently challenged by original

31.0 per cent quarter-on-quarter in terms of

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 49

Study

Industry insight unit shipments and 34.7 per cent in terms of revenue in Q4 2016, said the report. Banking, manufacturing and telecommunication verticals were the major contributors to the non-x86 market. IBM dominated the market in terms of revenue with the share of 62 per cent, at end Q4 2016. According to Harshal Udatewar, Server Market Analyst, IDC India, “The market corrected itself, owing to the absence of large multi-million dollar deals. Growing SMB’s, IT investments from enterprises towards datacentre consolidation are boosting the growth of the server market. Deals from Government towards digitalization, e-governance, smart city and surveillance projects are in pipeline that would fuel the growth of Indian server market in the coming quarters.”

In India x86 market, Hewlett Packard Enterprise maintained its leading position in Q4 2016 with 35% market share in terms of unit shipment, followed by Dell with 27 % market share. Lenovo’s market share dropped from 12 % to 9% year-on year. Cisco’s market share increased by 13.6% year-on-year, while Huawei and Acer accounted for the market share of 3.3 and 2.7% respectively, at end Q4 2016.

MYMOBILE

India : X86 Server Vendor Market Share in Units - Q4 2016 36% 35% Q4 2015

Q4 2016

27%

Study

industry insight

24% 21% 16% 12% 9% 5%

7% 1%

HPE

Dell

Lenovo

Cisco

Huawei

Acer Group

Others

Source : IDC APeJ Server Tracker Q4 2016

Indian server market witnessed a difficult quarter, as organizations continue to consolidate their prevailing workloads on fewer servers. We are also seeing increased acceptance of cloud among the Server Message Blocks (SMBs), resulting in new buyer segments and demand for third party data centres.”

“Deals from Government towards digitalization, e-governance, smart city and surveillance projects are in pipeline that would fuel the growth of Indian server market in the coming quarters” –Server Market Analyst, IDC India

Major Vendors In India x86 market, Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) maintained its leading position in Q4 2016 with 35 per cent market share in terms of unit shipment, followed by Dell with a market share of 27 per cent. Lenovo’s market share dropped from 12 per cent to 9 per cent year-on year. Cisco’s market share increased by 13.6 per cent year-on-year, while Huawei and Acer accounted for the market share of 3.3 and 2.7 per cent respectively, at end Q4 2016. On the revenue front, HPE led with 38 per cent market share, followed by Dell at 31 per cent market share. Cisco registered market share of 10 per cent overtaking Lenovo who accounts for 6 per cent of market share by revenues during

As per Rishu Sharma, Associate Manager, Enterprise Infrastructure, “The

www.mymobileindia.com

Q4 2016. n ramesh@mymobile.co.in

may 2017 | 51

Study

Consumer insight

The Good News and the Not So Good News! Consumers are now willing to pay a premium and end-user spending on mobile phones is growing but device shipment to remain flat this year!

ike life, business is also a

end-user spending will increase by 2 per

mixed bag! Good news is that

cent in 2017 to nearly USD 600 billion

consumers the world over are

in current US dollars. Spending on mobile

willing to pay premium for

phones will represent 67 per cent of that

better devices while end-user spending

figure. (Pl See Table 1)

on mobile phones is growing but they

ASPs for computing devices and

unlikely to buy more of devices. This has

mobile phones will increase for two main

been revealed by a study conducted by

reasons. First, component price increases

Gartner Inc, the world’s leading information

are continuing into 2017 (mainly for PCs

technology research and advisory company.

but also to some extent for phones), which

According to Gartner, worldwide end-user

is resulting in more expensive products.

spending on devices is set to grow 2 per

Second, users’ interest in value and higher

cent in 2017 but unit shipments is likely

quality phones is increasingly overriding

to remain flat.

their desire for low prices.

Study reveals that users of PCs, ultra-

“Across the world, the device market

mobiles and mobile phones are buying new

is becoming less price-sensitive,” said

devices at higher average selling prices

Ranjit Atwal, research director at Gartner.

(ASPs), resulting in growth in end-user

“Consumers and businesses are seeking

spending in 2017. Gartner estimates that

better products that suit their lifestyles,

“Across the world, the device market is becoming less pricesensitive. Consumers and businesses are seeking better products that suit their lifestyles, rather than just opting for the cheapest products” – Ranjit Atwal, Research Director at Gartner rather than just opting for the cheapest products.” End-user spending on mobile phones is growing: End-user spending on mobile phones is on track to reach nearly $400 billion in 2017, an increase of 4.3 per cent from 2016. “The increased ASP for

52 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

Worldwide End-User Spending by Device Type, 2016-2019 (Millions of Current U.S. Dollars) Device Type

2016

2017

2018

2019

Traditional PCs (Desk-Based, 163,906 Ultramobile Premium and Notebook)

163,351

166,259

169,192

Mobile Phones

382,859

399,497

408,170

423,558

Ultramobiles (Basic and Utility)

40,436

36,286

35,171

34,411

Total Device Market

587,201

599,134

609,601

627,161

mobile phones was driven by users across

better-quality and more feature-rich basic

Shipments of PCs, ultramobiles and

the board,” said Annette Zimmermann,

phones, due to improved product portfolios

mobile phones are projected to total 2.3

research vice president at Gartner. “They

from rising vendors such as Huawei and

billion units in 2017 — achieving flat

are replacing their basic phones with

Oppo. In emerging markets, the majority

growth from 2016 (see Table 2).

Study

consumer insight

Worldwide Device Shipments by Device Type, 2016-2019 (Millions of Units) Device Type

2016

2017

2018

2019

220

205

196

191

PC Market

270

265

268

273

Ultramobiles (Basic and Utility)

169

161

158

157

Computing Device Market

439

426

430

Mobile Phones

1,893

1,910

1,920

1,954

Total Device Market

2,332

2,336

2,346

2,384

Traditional PCs (Desk-Based and Notebook)

Ultramobiles (Premium)

“In emerging markets, the majority of users are upgrading to better basic phones as the leap to premium phones remains out of reach for most. We expect users to continue to look for higher-value phones this year, which will lead to another rise in ASP” – Annette Zimmermann, Research Vice President at Gartner www.mymobileindia.com

of users are upgrading to better basic

Desk-Based and Notebook PC ASP Will

phones as the leap to premium phones

Increase by 1.4 Per cent in 2017: The PC

remains out of reach for most.”

exodus has reached its peak, but near-term

Greater availability of basic phones from

growth of PC sales will be hampered by

Chinese vendors such as Oppo, BBK and

increasing component costs. Component

Huawei increased the basic-phone ASP by

costs, especially for DRAM, have doubled

13.5 per cent in 2016. It is on track to rise

since June 2016. “As a result, PC providers

by 4 per cent in 2017. “We expect users

will increase the prices of PCs toward the

to continue to look for higher-value phones

end of the year. We expect the overall ASP

this year, which will lead to another rise

for PCs to increase by 1.4 per cent in

in ASP,” added Ms Zimmermann.” “The

current U.S. dollars,” said Mr. Atwal.

high-end smartphone ASP will continue

More detailed analysis is available

to soar, given the announcement of the

to clients in the reports “Forecast:

Samsung Galaxy 8 and the release of the

PCs, Ultramobiles and Mobile Phones,

tenth-anniversary Apple iPhone later this

Worldwide, 2015-2021, 1Q17 Update”

year. We expect the premium-phone ASP

and “Gartner Market Databook 1Q17

to increase by 4 per cent in North America

Update.” n

in 2017.”

team@mymobile.co.in

may 2017 | 53

Trends

Consumer insight

IoT Adoptionâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;

India takes the lead India ahead of several markets in adopting Internet of Things to improve customer experience

By Ramesh Kumar Raja

ndia ranks the second highest,

offers insights into how companies in

compared to other markets in the region.

behind China, in IoT-enabled

APAC perceive Internet of Things (IoT) and

Close to 80 per cent of respondents cited

customer maturity compared with

to what extent companies are adopting

IoT as a neutral or somewhat important

other Asia Pacific (APAC) markets,

it to enhance customer experience. The

priority compared to other CX initiatives,

revealed a new study commissioned by

research examined the way organisations

and almost 40 per cent of businesses

Genesys, a global leader in customer

view IoT as a key enabler in enhancing

said they are thinking about how to

experience and contact centre solutions,

CX and their readiness to take advantage

incorporate IoT.

in partnership with Frost & Sullivan, an

of this emerging technology.

IoT and technology research firm.

research

found

the

Across India, the research revealed

overwhelming majority of respondents

study, titled IoT-Enabled

organisations see high value in

across APAC believe customer lifetime

Customer Experience (CX) Report 2016,

integrating IoT into their CX initiatives

value is the most significant business

The

54 | may 2017

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our

MYMOBILE

benefit delivered by an effective customer experience strategy,” said Keith Budge, Senior Vice President, APAC at Genesys.

IOT- Enabled CX: The IOT-CXI (IOT-Enabled Customer Experience Index), Asia-Pacific, 2016

“Indian organisations are open to implementing new technologies and have

Study

consumer insight

an optimistic view of IoT as a key enabler of sophisticated customer experiences. Most organisations in India are not bogged down by having to integrate IoT into existing legacy infrastructure and as a consequence, this market was ahead of the region when it comes to the adoption of IoT-enabled CX solutions.”

Gap between awareness and implementation An IoT-enabled customer experience drives

Source : Frost&Sullivan 2016 IOT-Enabled Customer Experience (CX) Report

“Indian organisations are open to implementing new technologies and have an optimistic view of IoT as a key enabler of sophisticated customer experiences” – Keith Budge, Senior Vice President, APAC at Genesys

www.mymobileindia.com

the convergence of customer journeys

hence, truly realise the potential of IoT to

across digital and physical environments,

improve CX.”

in turn enabling organisations to consistently deliver personalised,

Benefits of implementation

predictive and productive experiences for

Of those that have deployed IoT to deliver

their customers.

better CX, more than 70 per cent said their

Overall, the report reveals 83 per cent of

IoT solution enables them to influence

respondents across APAC have some level

their customers’ buying and engagement

of familiarity with IoT and nearly 50 per

decisions. More than a third of surveyed

cent believe IoT is important in enhancing

organisations recognised the very high

CX. Despite this, only 15 per cent of

impact IoT had on enhancing customer

respondents across APAC have already

satisfaction.

implemented IoT.

Other benefits cited by respondents

Budge said, “The findings underscore

include positive impacts on brand equity

the role of technology providers such as

(33 per cent), improvements in operational

Genesys in helping APAC companies roll

efficiency (33 per cent) and an increase in

out successful implementations and,

employee productivity (35 per cent).

may 2017 | 55

Trends

Consumer insight

Across APAC, the study found businesses are realising the wide reaching benefits of implementing IoT. More than half (60 per cent) of respondents indicate at least having a starting point for their IoT

Of those that have deployed IoT to deliver better CX, more than 70 per cent said their IoT solution enables them to influence their customers’ buying and engagement journey, with 16 per cent decisions. More than a third of surveyed looking to incorporate IoT in to their organisation organisations recognised the very within the year. A further 29 high impact IoT had on enhancing per cent hope to accomplish this within the next two years. customer satisfaction. Barriers preventing adoption Surprisingly, more mature economies – including Australia and New Zealand – are less likely to have immediate plans to incorporate IoT in their organisation to enhance their CX. The report identified a number of challenges preventing businesses from deploying IoT for CX, including a significant

“The success of an organisation hinges on its ability to understand what customers want in order to deliver differentiated services” – Krishna Baidya, Associate Director, Digital Transformation Practice at Frost & Sullivan

56 | may 2017

issue with organisations “understanding of IoT value proposition.” A low level of C-suite awareness about the importance or value of IoT-enabled CX solutions was also commonly cited.

Other key findings from the report 1. There is a strong correlation between IoT deployment and higher Net Promoter Scores (NPS). 2. The perception of benefits provided by IoT-enabled CX was the lowest among C-level respondents 3. More than 70 per cent of respondents that have implemented IoT believe it has a positive impact on the

development of new disruptive business models 4. The three industry sectors at the forefront of IoT-enabled CX adoption are communication service providers; logistics, transportation and automotive; and retail, travel and hospitality “This research helps put to rest the misconception that IoT is not ready or too difficult to build into customer experience solutions,” Budge said. “The success of an organisation hinges on its ability to understand what customers want in order to deliver differentiated services,” said Krishna Baidya, Associate Director of Frost & Sullivan’s Digital Transformation Practice for Asia Pacific. “Using behavioural data made available to organisations through IoT solutions, organisations can proactively engage customers in ways that are more personalised, convenient, and deliver more value.” n ramesh@mymobile.co.in

MYMOBILE

In Conversation

face to face

“We always strive to offer our consumers a complete package both in terms of hardware and software” Like most of its country cousins, Oppo Mobiles has been quite aggressive in the Indian market gaining market share rapidly. And capturing mindshare via high profile associations with Bollywood stars and cricket has been its preferred tool to climb up the ladder of popularity chart. Nonetheless, in an interaction with Haider Ali Khan, Oppo’s Brand Director for India Will Yang insisted that the quality product offerings in sync with its preferred target segment i.e youth, will remain the driving force of its product strategy while high visibility promotional associations was critical to gain mindshare. Excerpts from the interview… OPPO has been investing heavily in celebrity

driven audience for its smartphones. So, will

selfie technology featured by delicately

endorsements and now has become the official

selfie capability remain the focus of your

designed high quality phones for the

sponsor of the Indian cricket team. What is

smartphones to draw on the consumers and

youthful consumers.

the idea behind such associations and huge

gain market share? We launched the Selfie

investment? Does it also mean that more than

Expert F1 series in 2016 since we found in

After Vivo started the front dual technology,

product credentials and innovations, the focus

the survey conducted in 2015 that although

OPPO joined the race. Is it a part of any strategy

will be on visibility and gaining mindshare

people love taking selfie, the satisfaction of

which Chinese companies, especially BBK

through such associations to drive the volume?

front camera is only 59% in this industry in

Electronics, is working on? Selfie is not an

First of all, in OPPO, we always believe that

India. And now we launched F3 Plus with

unknown trend. And, our Selfie Expert OPPO

product itself is the best marketing. Thus,

dual front camera, with a wider-angle lens

F1 series launched in 2016 have received

it’s our priority to provide consumers high

for perfect group selfie because we found

great acceptance from the consumers and

quality product with expert technology and

that 66% of the consumers think the biggest

has led the selfie trend in this industry.This

innovation to meet their real demand and

problem they face in taking selfie is to fit all

trend is constantly growing and evolving.

give the best user experience. Besides this,

friends in one frame. And we can see that

We launched the new Selfie Expert F3

we also work on a 360-degree integrated

the selfie expert series has met consumers

Plus this year with dual camera, because in

marketing to connect with the youth, which

demand thus the growth in market share

the different survey we conducted last year,

is our focus, across all platforms. Visibility

follows naturally. We’ll constantly learn from

we all found that people take more group

and gaining mindshare is also important for

our consumers, to provide best products

selfie than the selfie with only himself, and

brand. In India, Cricket and Bollywood are

that cater to their real demand.

the biggest problem consumers are facing

two of the most popular platforms to touch

OPPO’s strategy is “Simple and

when take group selfie is to fit all people in

our consumers, especially the youth. We as a

Focussed”. Investing in constructing

one frame. This is the reason why we use

brand feel proud to have partnered with the

premium products and focusing company

this dual camera design in F3 Plus.

Indian Cricket team and many celebrities

resources on creating the best experience to

Do you think that the companies are focused

with whom have the same enthusiasm and

its consumers is what we strive for. The three

too much on cameras while compromising on

spirit of pursuit of perfection as OPPO.

main directions we focus on is Photography,

the hardware part of the phone? Brands today

Battery Solutions and Design. In India now

are constantly focusing on the growing

we are focussing on photography especially

trends such as selfie, but that does not

OPPO has been successful in creating a selfie-

58 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

face to face on the other aspects of the phone. We always strive to offer our consumers a complete package both in terms of hardware and software, for a perfect user experience. For instances, the F3 Plus comes with dual selfie camera for a perfect selfie and group selfie, meanwhile it has powerful hardware. It features VOOC Flash Charge, 4000mAh big battery, 4GB RAM, 64GB ROM (Support extension to 256GB), Octa-core processor, together with optimized ColorOS 3.0 operating system for a flawless operation. What are the new innovations which OPPO is planning to bring in its phones? At OPPO we are currently and constantly working on developing on technology that focuses on mobile Photography, Battery Solution and Design that is aimed to give our consumer a unique experience. We’ll keep you updated when we have some new breakthrough to share. What prompted you to move offline too? OPPO always has both online and offline stores to provide our consumer the

In Conversation

mean that we as an evolving technology brand compromise

most convenience in the purchasing process. So far in India, we focus more on offline market.Offline presence is important at it raises and captures the consumer’s trust as they can experience the product physically and then decide on about making a purchase or not. It has been helping us in offering the best services both in the purchasing process and after sale services to our local customers. What are expansion and manufacturing plans in India? Do you have any plan to enter other verticals of electronics market? OPPO’s strategy is “Simple and Focussed”. So currently we are focusing on camera phones. All the products sold in Indian market are made in India. Once we have more information to share, we’ll keep you updated. Some market watchers believe that OPPO and Vivo combine has the potential to overthrow Samsung from leadership position in the Indian market as they did to Apple in China. Your views please! The corporate culture of OPPO is “Benfen”, which has several meanings and the most important one is to do the right thing, isolating external pressure and temptations. We believe the right thing we should do is to provide our consumers the best product that cater to their real demand. We would not like to comment on any competition, and we believe the most important thing is to do our best, with true innovation to help make your life more beautiful. Thus, we’ll continue to provide our consumer the best camera phone, especially selfie expert, to help them catch every cherished moment easily. n haider@mymobile.co.in

www.mymobileindia.com

march 2017 | 87

In focus

snap shot

Samsung Galaxy S8, Galaxy S8 Plus

1 2 3 4 5 6 60 | may 2017

Samsung Galaxy S8 features a 5.8-inch QHD+ (1440x2960 pixels) Super AMOLED display while the Galaxy S8+ sports a 6.2inch QHD+ (1440x2960 pixels) Super AMOLED display.

Both the handsets bear Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection. Both pack 4GB of RAM and come with 64GB inbuilt storage while also supporting expandable storage via microSD card (up to 256GB).

Powered by Samsung’s Exynos 8895 processor built using the latest 10nm processor, the phones run Android 7.0 Nougat with Samsung’s improved TouchWiz UI.

The Galaxy S8 measures 148.9x68.1x8mm and weighs 155 grams, while the Galaxy S8+ measures 159.5x73.4x8.1mm and weighs 173 grams.

Both the smartphones sport 12MP ‘Dual Pixel’ rear cameras with optical image stabilisation and an f/1.7 aperture, while there are 8MP front cameras with autofocus on board as well, also featuring an f/1.7 aperture.

The devices support wireless charging as well as fast charging. The Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ pack 3000mAh and 3500mAh batteries respectively.

MYMOBILE

Samsung has come up with the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ smartphones in India. Both the devices are identical, with the only difference being dimensions, battery capacity, and screen size of what the company calls the Infinity Display - featuring dual-edge curved display, minimal bezels on the top and bottom, and 18.5:9 aspect ratio. The two flagships will determine how the

In focus

snap shot

public perceives the brand after the fateful debacle of Samsung Galaxy Note 7.

7 8 9 10 11

Connectivity options on the Samsung Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ include 4G LTE (Cat. 16), Wi-Fi 802.11ac (2.4GHz, 5GHz), Bluetooth v5.0, USB Type-C, NFC, and GPS.

Sensors on board include an accelerometer, ambient light sensor, barometer, gyroscope, heart rate sensor, magnetometer, and proximity sensor.

Both the phones come loaded with Bixby, the Samsungâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s virtual assistant which can serve you over text, voice, and even pictures.

They have five unlock mechanism including fingerprint scanner, iris scanner, face recognition, besides standard PIn and Pattern unlock.

Both the premium smartphones come integrated with Samsung P a y, w i t h N F C a n d M S T connectivity.

ramesh@mymobile.co.in

may 2017 | 61

In Conversation

face to face

â&#x20AC;&#x153;WittyFeed is a content company to the world and a technology company at heartâ&#x20AC;?

88 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

Going by the number of page visits, WittyFeed today is world’s second largest and India’s largest viral content company which likes to call itself a ‘charticle’ and a ‘listicle’ platform and not just another website. The site has clocked more than 2 billion visits in the last two years! WittyFeed also brings together content creators, publishers and consumers on one platform. Shelley Vishwajeet interacted with WittyFeed’s Co-Founder & CEO Vinay Singhal to talk about its amazing journey and future plans. Mr Singhal along with cofounder Shashank Vishnav hit upon the idea of WittyFeed when both of them were buddies in the same college. WittyFeed is their most successful offering from their firm called Vatsana Technologies. And yes till date Vatsana Technologies has never taken any money from the investors or market – it is a 100% self-funded, self-reliant indigenous company. Wittyfeed.com is currently valued at USD30

In Conversation

face to face

million and growing. Excerpts from the interview… How did you get the idea of WittyFeed and

India and 60% non-India; and out of the

how has been the journey so far? It is about

60%, 30% is North America and 30% is

the time when we had a Facebook page

Europe and Australia. So 40% India means

called Amazing Things in the World. We

now we have around 40-45 million Indian

built this property in the early days, and it

users in a month on the platform.

had grown to have 4.2 Million followers. We then realized that it was time for us

When it comes to content aggregation, what

to monetize this audience. So we built

are the critical points/ factors you keep in

a website and put ad sense and started

mind to ensure that the visitor or audience

our journey. Later we realized that it was

gets the most relevant content? WittyFeed is

a common problem. A lot of other pages

a very technology-driven content company.

had the audience, but no content, and

Everything we do here, technology is at

that is why we came up with the idea of

the heart of it. We have built tools which

starting a platform that would content in a

help us aggregate the most viral content

myriad of categories. And that gave birth

across the internet. It also helps us find

to WittyFeed.

the first-hand content that can go viral.

WittyFeed was started in September

Our technology can help us predict on

2014 with a Facebook page, which we

which day of the week we should write on

started way back in 2012. That page led

a particular keyword to make sure it goes

to a website and the website basically is a

viral on a particular day. Almost 2 billion

content platform that provides interactive

visits on our website in last 2 years and

content as well as social learning. It’s a

30,000 stories on WittyFeed, this is a huge

totally technology driven place where you

amount of data that helps us figure out

can pick and choose content that you and

what exactly user wants and what works!

your audiences like. Initially, we were very North America

Are you also into original content creation?

focused website. But now we are 40%

Yes, we are. Actually, more than 50% of

www.mymobileindia.com

“WittyFeed is a very technology-driven content company. Our technology can help us predict on which day of the week we should write on a particular keyword to make sure it goes viral on a particular day”

may 2017 | 63

In Conversation

face to face our content is original. For example, if you

unique offering to each one of them -

is the latest technology to help you deliver

search for a keyword “Ever Wondered Why”

(a) Creators - Publishers and Bloggers

app like experience on Mobile web. Users

you will find more than 200 stories on

(b) Distributors - Influencers and People

spend 2 mins and more on an average on

WittyFeed which are all originally created.

with Digital Audience 3. Readers - End

This is our original series. There are much

consumers

more like this.

On top of that, we are building something

How do you plan to monetize your property/

our website per session.

Similarly, our latest initiative called

which is completely non- existent at

platform? What are the major revenue streams

FoodMate which is aabout video recepies,

this moment. We want to make content

currently?We want to help brands go viral

1-2 mins going viral all over the Facebook

marketing trackable and so building a

through content. We want to tell stories

and YouTube. We have something

platform for brands to login and plan their

on behalf of brands and make our money

called #GharKaKhana there where have

whole content marketing from there.

there. As mentioned above, the platform

launched India’s first Facebook live show

The USP of our business is that we

we are building for brands will help content

in Food Category. InnerVoice By WittyFeed

understand that it is content that is

marketing available for a much broader

is another great initiative you would find

consumed by the people but its technology

set of brands and will also bring a huge

interesting. It is a platform for teenagers

that is the power of content. Nobody is the

amount of transparency to the table. We

to express themselves.

father of content. Nobody can predict what

expect more than 60% of our revenue to be coming from the platform by the end of 2018. Last year, the total revenue of the company was Rs 26 crores. In this fiscal, the total revenue was Rs 35 crores and almost all of the revenue, as of now, comes from display ads as the company has recently started the branded/content marketing for brands. The company has started to get traction from the branded/ content marketing initiatives and hope to have a significant contribution to revenues

“Mobile is where our users love our site. 85% of our users access WittyFeed from a mobile device and so we decided to build a different version for mobile” Please delve into some of the USPs of your site vis-à-vis competition. WittyFeed is a modern day blogging platform for everyone who loves to express and explore stories. Technology makes us unique. We are truly the only content exchange in the world where we offer a platform for every stockholder in the ecosystem of content providing a

64 | may 2017

from here in the next fiscal. How WittyFeed is winning the mobile consumer market? We already have. 85% of users are from mobile devices. Also, will go viral. So, it’s important to

WittyFeed has one of the largest user

have technology at the heart of it. It

base for browser notification subscribers

is technology that powers everything

in the world. We have 1.5 Million browser

around you. In a nutshell, WittyFeed

notification subscribers. Our mobile

is a content company to the world and

strategy is mobile web first instead of app

a technology company at heart.

first.

What is currently a visitor or reader’s

What are the future value additions/

favourite mode of accessing your site –

expansions you are looking at? Our focus

via desktop or mobile? And apart from the

is primarily on Videos and the platform

number of visitors, what is the average time

we are building for the brands. All of our

spent on your site?

recently introduced properties are video

Mobile is where our users love our site.

first properties. Classification comes out

85% of our users access WittyFeed from a

of the idea to expand the offerings for the

mobile device and so we decided to build

brand and make it a little more brand-

a different version for mobile. Our mobile

centric. n

site is a PWA (Progressive Web App) which

shelley@mymobile.co.in

MYMOBILE

Lava Connect M1 4G VoLTE Feature Phone

Looks

07 /10

Cameras

09 /10

Performance

07 /10

Battery

09 /10

to re-open the escaped app.

Double the average smartphone

The phone comes in-built with

Value For Money

08 /10

OVERALL

80%

Yoda of feature phones - May the 4G be with you!

hoever

the phone houses a micro USB

be toggled on and off as per

contended

port along with a headphone

need. It supports multi-tasking

the

jack. The top features an LED

but there is no dedicated

monologue,

torch light for jittery situations

button and users will have to

in the dark.

navigate to the home screen

“it’s not crazy if it works” for the first time might not have

verdict Bold colours, design attempting to be contemporary You can’t ask for more Challenging for smartphone users, real potential hidden away

lean on the edge of craziness

Mighty weight on puny shoulders

to this extent. But, here we

Under the removable rear

USB tethering to use your 4G

are witnessing a period when

shutter lies a 1,750mAh

connection on your computer

Lava has married two facets of

battery which lasts well up

using a cable or vice-versa.

technology so wide apart to be

to 2 days with continuously

practically imagined together.

relaying 4G network. WiFi is

Conclusion

This is India’s first feature

absent on the device. Beneath

The idea of this handset is

phone and it is as attractive as

the battery are slots for two

crystal clear. It is to empower

flinching. Let’s find out more

SIM cards (2G+4G) and a

those who are hesitant towards

below!

microSD card slot for storage

a touch smartphone. But the

expansion up to 32GB in

price of Rs 3,599 is what

support of the pre-existing

makes this deal sound slightly

4G. The Connect M1 runs a

(strong emphasis!) delirious.

skinned version of Android

This cozy and snug device will

First of all, the Connect M1

Marshmallow, which the

feed all your internet needs

attempts to woo prospective

company calls MocorDroid.

and may prove to be a strategic

architecture and network

users through a bold black

There is no Menu and all

tool for digital empowerment

support. n

and red persona, with a

the options are laid out in

of rural India, given we can

contemporary pattern on the

form of tiles in a total of five

ensure a robust 4G VoLTE

removable back. The front

homescreens. It suppers on a

is poised with standard T9

1.2GHz processor along with

alphanumeric numpad and

512MB of RAM.

imagined that Lava would

Decorated with out-of-the-league features

four dedicated keys in the FM, and Music Player. The

The resistance of power

keys have a short period of

There is no App Store pre-

backlight. It features a 2.4-

installed but a little inquisition

inch non-touch screen with a

into the phone reveals that it

resolution of 320 x 240. The

supports side-loading of APK

rear face is home to a VGA

files. We installed Whatsapp,

camera which is capable of

Ookla Speedtest, Paytm on the

snapping decent pictures if

phone and all apps seem to

there is sufficient light as well

work justifiably well - if you can

as recording videos at 720p.

deal with the low resolution.

Adjacent to the camera is

Being Android devoid of touch

powerful speaker ceded under

support, the Connect M1 has

a plastic grille. The bottom of

a Mouse function which can

top row for Camera, Internet,

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Wireless FM and supports

May qualm buyers, priced close to entry-level smartphones

PROS

Cons

4G with VoLTE, APK Sideloading supported

Compromised functionality due to lack of touch and small screen

Tried & Tested

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(For detailed specifications, please refer to My Guide)

tushar@mymobile.co.in

may 2017 | 65

Tried & Tested

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Vivo Y66

A mid-ranger with good cameras

hile on a

of the others in the vivo family,

majorly appealing with the

is decent as far as the looks

road trip

is selfie-centric, and aims to

customary design essence

department is concerned.

or for that

capture best in-class selfies.

to it, much like other vivo

It’s comfortable to use and

matter,

However, with the exceeding

smartphones. The design

hold, however lacks a hint of

during any outing, what’s

number of camera-focused

inspiration list also includes

innovation and immediately

become inevitable for a

smartphones making their

the recently launched

reminds of the vivo V5 Plus at

regular person to do is

entry into the tech world,

OPPO A57, with both the

first glance.

clicking a selfie. It’s difficult

is this 16-megapixel front

smartphones sharing certain

to not fall into the cobwebs

camera toting mid-ranger

resemblance. Starting with the

Cameras

of exponentially growing

equipped with enough to take

front of the device, there are

The smartphone has its

social media platforms. As an

on the competition? Let’s find

three capacitive keys present

primary highlight in the

attempt to stay ahead in the

out.

on the chin of the smartphone.

form of its cameras; the

On the head, you’ll find the

front camera sensor more

USP of the smartphone- its

specifically. The camera

selfie-game, Chinese company vivo added a new mid-range

Design

smartphone, dubbed the

First thing I noticed when the

front camera, alongside which

configuration includes a

vivo Y66, in its Y series. The

device initially came to my

there is an earpiece, an LED

13-megapixel rear shooter

smartphone, much like most

sight was that it had nothing

flash, and an assortment of

featuring LED flash, and

regular sensors including the

with a higher megapixel

ambient light sensor and the proximity sensor. Sandwiched between these horizontal arrays of buttons and sensors is the 5.5-inch display. At the back lies the primary camera module, the ‘vivo-ly’ aligned antenna bands, and the company’s branding in the centre. The bottom edge of the smartphone houses a 3.5mm audio jack, a microUSB port and a speaker grille, while the top edge remains bare. On the left rim there is a hybrid SIM card slot, while

verdict Looks

07 /10

Cameras

08 /10

Performance

08 /10

Battery

08 /10

Value For Money

08 /10

Comfy to hold, but nothing distinctive Good for selfies Performed pretty fine Runs a day on single charge For camera fanatics it can be a good option

OVERALL

78%

on the right hand you will spot the power on/off key and a volume rocker. The device

Cons

PROS 16MP selfie camera, is a muilti-tasker

Lack of fingerprint scanner

(For detailed specifications, please refer to My Guide)

66 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

count, the 16MP secondary camera, which comes with soft flash. Starting with my experience with the front

while adding just the right amount of contrast and exposure to

clocked

deliver a more uniform play of

at 1.5GHz, along

charges fully in approximately

lights, shadows, and colours.

with Mali T860 GPU. The

an hour.

The shutter speed of the

smartphone, with its decent

The smartphone runs Android

device is average. Low-light

specifications, proved to be

6.0 Marshmallow with the

photography results, in the

a good daily driver during

company’s own operating

case of back camera, too

my review period, however a

system- FunTouch OS 2.3.8 on

More often than not I enjoyed

appeared slightly grainy.

Qualcomm Snapdragon 625

top of it. The user experience

nicely detailed pictures. In

Display

chipset might have accelerated

was smooth, and despite the

camera, it is accompanied by the company’s proprietary features- Moonlight Glow, and Face Beauty, for further beautifying selfies. However, the front camera seemed to overexpose the output slightly.

my opinion, the front shooter right from capturing good quality images flooded with details, performs similar to the one on the vivo V5 Plus. Unfortunately, you won’t find the Bokeh Effect feature for DSLR-like selfies. The front shooter performed average in low-light conditions and the output produced was a bit grainy. In a nutshell, the vivo Y66 is ideal for all selfie lovers who fancy updating their Snapchat and Instagram Stories every minute, seizing each precious moment. Coming to the rear camera, the device was successful in clicking good quality pictures in almost every shooting condition. The default camera app offers various shooting modes including Night mode, Ultra HD mode, PPT mode, Professional mode, Slow mode and Time lapse as well. I tested the camera both in the HDR and the normal mode. While the natural output of the primary shooter was nicely detailed, the overall tones tended more towards the warmer spectrum. The HDR mode corrected the colours

www.mymobileindia.com

the performance. It didn’t

UI skin on top, device was

The display of the vivo Y66

stutter while using multiple

snappy to use. There was no

spans 5.5 inches sporting

apps. Be it Snapchatting, or

bloatware included either.

HD screen resolution,

scrolling through the Facebook

and is covered by a 2.5D

newsfeed, posting instant

Conclusion

curved glass. The screen

updates on Instagram, or

Even though the smartphone,

emits adequate amount of

streaming my favourite web

like any other device, has its

brightness, and the icons and

series, the device performed

share of pros and cons, the

text on the display were sharp

decently throughout regular

vivo Y66 for a price tag of Rs

enough. I was pleased with

use. Slight heating issues

15,999, comes across as a

the viewing angles as well,

emerged while multi-tasking,

decent daily driver with its

however, while tilting slight

but that didn’t take a toll on

comfy and trending design,

tones of red were visible. The

the overall performance of

good cameras, and good

screen was a bit reflective too.

the smartphone. Among other

overall specs. The vivo Y66

Just like the vivo V5 Plus, the

things, the audio quality was

stands against the likes of

screen brightness can be auto-

just average. Something which

the OPPO A57, 4GB RAM

adjusted, and you also get the

I badly missed in the device

variant of the Xiaomi Redmi

Global Eye Protection option,

was the fingerprint scanner,

Note 4, and 3GB RAM variant

which reduces the blues in the

which could have have been

of the Moto G5 Plus, in the

screen to avoid strain in the

placed somewhere at the back,

battleground. All these devices

eyes. While watching videos,

given the fact that many mid-

offer fingerprint scanners, thus

the colours appeared rich, in

range smartphones such as

having a slight edge over the

cumulation, the smartphone

the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4, and

Y66. The Moto G5 Plus and

scores well in this department.

the OPPO A57 boast of this

the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 get

feature.

better processors, and some

In terms of the battery, the

rather impressive primary

device gets its fuel from a

cameras. However, the vivo

Hardware Specifications and Performance

3,000mAh module which

Y66 is a great selfie shooter.

The smartphone packs in

had its juice last for a about

While you might want to

3GB of RAM and 32GB of

a day with mixed use. This is

consider the aforementioned

internal storage, which has

decent for a user who doesn’t

competitors if you’re looking

the expandability option of

grill the device too often.

for an all-rounder, for selfie

up to 256GB via a memory

The smartphone, however,

freaks with a budget of around

card. The smartphone gets

brought forth heating issues

Rs 15,000, I recommend the

energy to carry out tasks from a

while charging. The charging

vivo Y66. n

MediaTek MT6750 processor

time was decent; the vivo Y66

Tried & Tested

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may 2017 | 67

Tried & Tested

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Samsung galaxy A5 (2017) An eye candy with monumental performance

“H

ey, which

seed provocative thoughts

phone

(only quite metaphorically).

is that?”

Priced nearly half as Samsung’s

rings

flagship devices, the A5 fulfills

bells of Nokia times, when

your expectations of a high-end

each model had a visually

device, in the price segment

distinctive identity. Consumers

dominated by Chinese flagships

are served with tech-delicacies

and flagship killers.

which bob up nearly identical -

The A5 sits astute and snug

and this is what Samsung has

in small to average sized palms.

been accused of exercising

You will plead guilty to picking

with almost all its dishes, until

up the phone just for admiring

lately. But, the gamechanger

its beauty more often than for

A-series can, in fact, spell

using it. Both, the front and

heyday for Samsung.

the back, brace glass faces

Guise of an angel, boldness of a panther

which are highly reflective. The surfaces’ fondness towards fingerprints and smudges is a detriment of the beautiful

The Samsung A5

build. The phone carries IP68

has the persona of a

certification which attests its

phone, alien from the

resistance to water and dust.

conventional Samsung

Thus, shallow water photography

smartphone. During

can turn into a reality for

any phenomenon, it

adrenaline junkies.

prompts the expression, “black beauty” due to

The walkaround

its compelling looks.

A 5.2-inch screen neighbours

Sumptuously curved

the primary earpiece, a 16-

glass faces on both

megapixel front camera, light

front as well as the rear, flanked by a matte-glazed metal frame, are bound to

& proximity sensors on the upper chin, while a Samsung trademark physical Home button sits below the screen with capacitive keys back and recents are placed on either side of it. This surface shimmers under strong light. The rear has a prominent company logo along with another 16-megapixel snapper. The rear camera is assisted by a single LED flash. The A5 has 2 different card trays - one on the left edge and another on the top. While the

68 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

former permits a single SIM, the latter allows secondary SIM and a microSD card through differently identifiable slots. The left edge also houses two severed keys for volume

verdict Looks

Slick glass faces and stimulating design

Cameras

is where the secondary noise

Ideal selfies for cheerful faces, lowlight compromises detail

cancellation microphone is

Performance

up and down, while the top

placed, surrounded by two antenna bands. The right edge has the grille over a

Battery

Charger would just be job obligation

power button. This prevents

Value For Money

palm grip. The bottom has the primary microphone along with a Type-C charging port and a

08 /10

09 /10

Voyage but not a chase

mono speaker along with the scuffling of audio under users’

10/10

Suggested for technology informed users

OVERALL

10 /10 09 /10

Powering the phone on, we see a 5.2-inch Samsung Super AMOLED display graced with a full HD resolution. The size

simultaneous power-seeking

92%

Battery is a keeper

are addressed by the means of

The 3,000mAh battery is

Mali-T830 GPU and visually

efficient to perform through

demanding games such as

daily exertion. With dual SIM

Vector 2, Beach Buggy, Alto’s

active, WiFi sprinting, and GPS

Adventure, Badland 2 run

occasionally deployed, the

lag-free while power-hungry

battery puts a good 30 hours

Asphalt 8 faces no challenge

of backup with nearly 5 hours

either.

of screen usage. It can be

Fingerprint sensor, placed

IP68 Water & Dust Resistance

brimmed back in less than 90

under the home button, is

minutes thanks to Samsung’s

a little stubborn and misses

Fast Charging. Battery in this

nearly one-third of unlock

phone is truly a keeper.

fastest either and don’t match

Samsung Pay

up to competitors in terms of

The A5 is empowered with

agility.

Samsung Pay technology

The pair of earphones

PROS

of 4K video or Slo-mo capture.

apps. Graphic requirements

prompts. Unlocks aren’t the

3.5mm headphone jack.

Interface which compels admiration

under the load of many

which works by Magnetic

Cons

bundled along with the device

Secure Transmission (MST),

Lack of 4K Video

are nothing short of stunning.

a technology which forges the

Each and every note rings

effect of card-swipe by simply

vividly in your ear, while the EQ

emitting magnetic waves. This

is favourably balanced. These

can, thus, be used at any PoS

can evidently match up to the

machine and is a great push to

quality of OnePlus Icons we

India’s march towards realizing a cashless economy.

(For detailed specifications, please refer to My Guide)

in union with the display technology transcribes a

interfaces. The settings

review in the last issue. The

rejoice in terms of battery. A

menu is highly detailed and

physical speaker is however

cherry of delight tops the sugar

interactive, rendering curious

not very clear and does ample

Conclusion

business when we notice that

users a lot of power. Yes! An

yet not an impressive job.

The A5 (2017) is priced

screen can remain “Always

app drawer is available and

On” to display notifications

users can sort and group apps

and can also be used with

in folders with the app drawer.

Camera impresses; appeases Not!

a glove, and even with wet

The phone features in-built

Both front and rear snappers

A5 shall delight users who

hands. The fingerprint under

RAM and storage optimization

are 16MP sensors with

prefer complete control of

the home button gives

apps, with seeming inspiration

apertures of f/1.9. While

their devices without delving

a passage to Samsung’s

from Chinese ROMs.

daylight photography is

into the hassles of rooting or

enticing, night shots are ailing

pre-customization research.

with visible graininess. Focus

The beauty of this device as

TouchWizUser Interface.

at Rs 28,990 and morally competes against Vivo V5 Plus and OnePlus 3T. The

enhanced as compared to

A ballad of perfection

is subject to decent lighting.

well its interface negotiate

stock Android, the UI runs

The performance forte is

Selfies are convincingly

space in the eyes of any

atop Marshmallow 6.0 and

guarded by Samsung’s

sharp. Long range shots from

beholder. Samsung has paid

follows the design philosophy,

proprietary Exynos 7870 octa-

rear camera lack detail. The

lavish amount of attention to

an amalgamation of optically

core SoC which is comparable

camera app offers standard

perfecting this device from

suggestive icons and

to the Qualcomm Snapdragon

features including pro mode,

each angle possible and

energizing colours, appealingly

625, assisted by a 3GB RAM.

night shutter, and live preview

has succeeded with flying

contrary to Samsung’s

Multitasking is a breeze on this

filters. The shutter is not the

colours. n

previous generation of woeful

device and it rarely smothers

fastest and we miss the option

Highly customized and visually

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tushar@mymobile.co.in

may 2017 | 69

Tried & Tested

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70 | may 2017

Coolpad Note 5 Lite

A budget performer which more than meets the eye

t its best, the

boiling segment of the market

specifications with compelling

5-inch HD display, which sits

brisk assimilation

has emerged in the mobile

numbers. We evaluate how it

beside primary microphone, a

of Reliance Jio

industry of India dominated

stands up to our expectations

8-megapixel selfie shooter as

in the lives of the

by players like Lenovo and

from these digits.

well as a selfie flash above the

consumers has galvanized

Xiaomi.

screen, and capacitive buttons

early to appraise the tangibility

version of the Coolpad Note

Immersing in the (budget) limelight

of government initiatives

5 as suggestive by the name,

The Note 5 Lite is a metal-

of the front face of the device.

such as Digital India, we

also finds itself in the very

clad device, company claims,

The capacitive keys are not lit

have definitely witnessed a

category - comprising of

with a screen smaller than

and one is liable to lapse from

shift in preferences of the

models aggressively priced

its parent model. Due to

accuracy in the initial days of

consumers in favour of faster

between Rs 8,000 and Rs

a smaller size, the device

getting used to.

and better connectivity, and

10,000. To survive among

weighs nearly 25g lesser. The

a secure supervision. Thus, a

competitors, Note 5 Lite offers

front is complimented by a

a movement. While it is too

Note 5 Lite, a subordinate

for recents, home, and back in this order on the lower chin

Proximity and ambient sensors go camouflaged

MYMOBILE

under the black of the screen, but are visible under bright lights. To stay abreast in the competition, Note 5 Lite features a fingerprint sensor on the rear face, alongside a 13MP shooter and LED flash. Secondary noise cancellation microphone and a timid speaker grille find their way

verdict Looks

Erratic meld of plastic and metal

Cameras

Camera suffices, but doesnt suprise

Performance

Strong and spirited

Battery

on the back panel, as well.

Long enough to clock a complete day

Chrome antenna bands at the

Value For Money

back run parallel to the upper and lower edges of the phone.

For those seeking or expanding exposure to the internet

08 /10 08 /10 09 /10 09 /10 09 /10

striking numbers with this

nearly 22 hours in our daily

device. The primary camera

strenuous use with WiFi and

carries a 13-megapixel sensor

4G running interchangeably.

while the front is an 8MP

The battery is non-removable.

shooter. Both the snappers

The phone has no surprises

are augmented by LED

for music enthusiasts. The

flashlights, making low-light

speaker placed on the rear

photography somewhat of

face is often muffled under the

a lesser tussle. The camera

palm and is not satisfyingly

app is neat and offers basic

loud enough. Any decent pair

features including HDR, Night,

of earphones will suffice your

and Beauty enhancement

needs but may not propitiate

modes. The quality of the

them.

camera is incidental to the while day light shots are more

Security is a serious business

along its perimeter, render

or less crisp, pictures in low

The fingerprint can be aligned

the device a confident stance.

light struggle to retain focus.

with various tasks besides

Images cannot be dubbed

unlocking the phone. Several

excellent but are justifiable for

gestures can be used to trigger

the price.

actions such as launching an

A firm metal frame, braced with chrome lines running

This frame has been sparsely populated and the left edge houses just a volume rocker, while the right one reserves a power button and the dual SIM Hybrid slot. The bottom simply has a microUSB port with 2

OVERALL

PROS

86%

Cons

4G with VoLTE, Screen with low colour fingerprint saturation scanner (For detailed specifications, please refer to My Guide)

amount of illumination and

Prodigy performer in the segment

app, or changing a setting or even locking the screen. This fingerprint is very accurate and

Against the Snapdragon

and mostly at par with, and

617 chipset in the Note 5, a

sometimes even better than,

primary microphone slightly

through settings. Sincerely

Mediatek MT6735 quad-core

the Samsung A5 (2017) also

adrift. The top edge features

Chinese, the interface omits

processor, clocked at 1GHz,

reviewed in this issue.

simply a 3.5mm headphone

an app drawer and new

saves grace on the Note 5 Lite.

jack. The screen is curved at

installations are stacked on

This is further aided by 3GB

Conclusion

2.5D but there is no talk of a

new screens.

of RAM and 16GB of internal

Coolpad seems to be wary

storage, expandable up to

of its competition and has

down from the top most bar,

256GB via microSD card. The

focussed on the right areas,

quick settings can be accessed

interface is mostly lucid and

leaving sparse room to

via an upwards swipe from the

fluid, but the low saturation of

complain. Available for Rs

screws on either side, and the

protective covering on it by the company.

The mainland UI fever

While notifications drop

bottom of the screen. Minimal

the LCD display may dampen

8,199 on Amazon India, it is

The interface is a mixture

icons brace up the quick

the taste of enjoyment. Games

for everyone who wants their

of visual elements inspired

settings menu for the widest

such as Altoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Adventure,

multimedia experience to be

by several Chinese ROMs

possible range of controls.

Badland, Stick Cricket, and

enriching, but are restricted

including those offered by

From the interface, it is evident

Mekorama run lag-free and

by a budget. Coolpad Note 5

Vivo, Xiaomi, and Lenovo,

that Coolpad has focussed an

this grade of performance is

Lite faces tough competition

yet the UI feels very nimble

audience which may include

very delighting.

from a score of Motorola,

and swift, thanks to near

first time smartphone users

minimal animations. It runs

and it wants to make their

standard connectivity options

especially Redmi 3S Prime

Android 6.0. The UI elements,

primary experience replete

including 4G with VoLTE

and can be good buy for those

including settings like

with rejoice.

support, WiFi, A-GPS, and

who desire to not stay away

USB OTG.

from the hassles of flash sales

fingerprint, have visible icons right on the home screens to avoid unnecessary browsing

Better cheese than sorry At the price, Coolpad offers

www.mymobileindia.com

The device features

The 2,500mAh battery stands strong against most multimedia usage and lasted

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Xiaomi, and Lenovo devices,

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HTC U Ultra camera A smartphone camera on steroids

72 | may 2017

ome might believe

However, I hold strong to

long. That said, in a market

to hefty DSLRs in certain

we’re inching closer

my skepticism around that

which now is a jargon galore

situations. One such device

to pocket-sized

statement and would prefer

when it comes to smartphone

is the recently launched HTC

DSLRs with the help

carrying a professional camera

cameras, once in a while,

U Ultra. With a hefty price tag

of growing innovation in the

wherever I can, if it’s an

I do come across devices

of Rs 52,990, the device sets

field of mobile photography.

occasion I’d like to cherish for

which are worthy substitutes

the expectations bar high.

MYMOBILE

Following is the breakdown of

kept minimal. Opening the

an average user doing that.

exposure. There was a subtle

my photography experience

app, you’ll find the bottom of

The overall image quality was

brightening in the areas of

with the HTC U Ultra.

the viewfinder being flanked

decent.

light and shadows alike, while

Camera Specifications

by the virtual shutter key,

While clicking some

the contrast wasn’t affected

video, and front camera

long shots, I played with

resulting in a slightly washed

toggles, while above, the HDR

the HDR mode as well. The

out image. However, only a

Talking numbers, the HTC U

and flash controls can be

shooting mode does little

keen eye will manage to spot

Ultra features a 12MP primary

seen with a drop down toggle

in terms of evening out the

that difference.

camera assisted by a two-tone

sandwiched in between. The

LED flash module. The sensor,

drop down menu allows you

which is back illuminated,

to choose between a bunch of

utilises HTC’s proprietary

shooting modes such as Pro,

UltraPixel 2 technology and

Panorama, Zoe camera which

offers a pixel size of 1.55

captures live photos, Selfie

micron. You get optical image

Panorama, Hyperlapse videos,

stabilisation to avoid shaky

and Slow motion videos.

pictures, and to help focus

Among general things, the

in a jiffy, the primary camera

shutter speed of the primary

comes equipped with phase

camera on the HTC U Ultra

detection autofocus and laser

was good, but I did have a

autofocus technologies. The

hard time focusing. The laser

primary shooter can capture

autofocus sensor on the back

images in RAW, and record 4K

of the smartphone is prone to

videos with high-res audio.

getting smudged and the U

Catering to the millennials

Ultra simply doesn’t focus on

suffering with an arguably

its own even if there’s so much

narcissistic addiction, the

as a speckle of dust on the

HTC U Ultra boasts a 16MP

laser autofocus module.

selfie-shooter, with the It must be noted that the

Primary Camera Performance

smartphone’s primary shooter

Beginning with landscape

gets a bigger pixel size in its

photography, the U Ultra

sensor, while the secondary

doesn’t leave much to

shooter only makes use of the

complain about in terms of

UltraPixel image processing

colours reproduction. More

tech. The front camera does

often than not, the camera

not feature any LED flash,

captures natural colours.

however, does sport a BSI

However, there were instances

sensor for improved low-light

when the overall colour profile

performance. You can shoot

tended towards the warmer

full HD videos with the front

side of the spectrum. The

cam, as well.

output looked sharp in broad

UltraPixel shooting mode.

Camera App Interface

Landscape Shot

daylight, at least on the phone’s screen. There was slight blurring of the edges

The default camera app on the

when the pictures were

smartphone is quite loaded,

viewed in full resolution,

while the overall UI has been

but there are lean chances of

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Tried & Tested

burntest Macro photography was a Macro Shot

and the ones clicked in Pro

delight on the HTC U Ultra.

mode. If shot perfectly, your

You can either choose to

close ups captured in the Pro

click a close up in the Photo

mode should pass for images

mode, which locks focus on

clicks with a DSLR.

the subject automatically,

The Pro mode in the HTC

or you can go ahead and

U Ultra gives the liberty of

tweak settings in the Pro

adjusting the white balance,

mode. This allows one to

ISO, exposure, shutter

adjust the focus to capture

speed, and focus. If you are

a stunningly sharp subject

acquainted with the basics of

amidst a beautifully bokehed

photography, I would suggest

background. As mentioned

playing around with the Pro

earlier, autofocusing might

mode in the HTC U Ultra.

be inconvenient due the

Slight tweaks here and there

aforementioned issue.

managed to create remarkable

The macro shots I

difference in the pictures I

clicked had almost natural

clicked, in terms of colours,

colours. The object in focus

sharpness, and overall image

was sharp, with the details

quality. You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t regret

remaining intact even after

taking that extra minute to

zooming in. The extent of

compose and click an image.

blur in the background varied

The HTC U Ultra promises

significantly between the

better low light performance

images clicked in auto mode

with its UltraPixel tech and

HDR Shot

Indoor, Pro-mode Shot

MYMOBILE

70 | april 2017 Non-HDR Shot

Indoor Auto Shot

Tried & Tested

burntest

Low-Light Auto-mode Shot

Indoor Shot

the presence of a BSI sensor.

mode were relatively more

During indoor photography,

detailed, I found the overall

while the colours looked

output a little noisy. That

slightly dull, the details

said, you should be able to

captured were impressive.

click great selfies in broad

I didn’t come across any

daylight. The ‘Live Makeup’

muddy textures, and the

mode on the HTC U Ultra

edges remained crisp despite

is understated compared to

zooming in significantly.

beautification modes on other

In extremely dim lit

device, which I appreciate

Low-Light Night-mode Shot

conditions, you can either let

greatly. While I did see some

the shooter decide, or tweak

evident smoothening of the

The HTC U Ultra runs Android

phone offers HTC’s USonic,

the ISO and aperture settings

skin, the beautification mode

Nougat out of the box, and

and Boomsound Hi-Fi edition

in the Pro mode. I noticed the

on the HTC U Ultra does not

gets its fuel from a 3,000mAh

audio tech.

images were more evenly lit

make your face look white and

battery with Quick Charge 3.0.

yet lacked detail when I chose

warped, and neither do your

Connectivity options include

Verdict

auto mode in low lighting.

eyes become the size of table

NFC, Bluetooth v4.2, Wi-Fi

The HTC U Ultra is a loaded

Whereas, the default ‘Night’

tennis balls.

802.11 b/g/n/ac, and a USB

smartphone. The device

type-C port. The HTC U Ultra

does not cut corners in any

sports a secondary display

department, however, with

right above the huge 5.7-inch

a price tag of Rs 52,990,

settings in the Pro mode of 200) allowed the camera to

HTC U Ultra Specifications

focus more on the prominent

The HTC U Ultra is a 5.7-

screen, that displays all your

it targets niche audience.

light source in the scene,

inch device with Quad HD

notifications, reminders, date,

As far as the optics are

creating a relatively dimly light

resolution, and gets a layer

time, weather, quick settings

concerned, the HTC U Ultra

output with sharper details.

of Corning Gorilla Glass 5 on

toggles and more. The bar

is one of the better shooters

top of the display. Under the

provides easy access to a

I’ve come across lately. While

hood, you get a Qualcomm

bunch of feature, adding to

the autofocusing issue might

(shutter speed of 1/4, and ISO

Secondary Camera Performance

Snapdragon 821 chipset,

the smartness of the device.

be troublesome for few, the

The 16MP front camera on

aided by 4GB of RAM. The

The device also boasts HTC’s

refined Pro mode in the HTC U

the HTC U Ultra captures rich

inbuilt storage is rated at

Sense Companion- company’s

Ultra’s default camera app can

colours. However, I wasn’t as

64GB, and you can slide

AI tech which equips the

create endless picturesque

pleased with the details. While

in a microSD card in the

device to provide suggestions

possibilities if one’s willing to

the selfies clicked at 16MP

secondary SIM slot to top up

basis a consumer’s usage.

indulge. n

without the use of UltraPixel

the storage by another 2TB.

For impressive sound, the

www.mymobileindia.com

deeksha@mymobile.co.in

may 2017 | 75

Tried & Tested

burntest

Samsung Galaxy C9 Pro A feature rich premium phone

amsung recently

body ratio (75%) and that it’s

megapixel rear camera with

performer even in challenging

launched its

just 6.9 mm thick. Despite

f/1.9 aperture and dual LED

light. Coming to image

powerhouse

the large screen, it doesn’t

flash. The camera launcher

quality, the phone is capable

smartphone,

feel as large as it is, thanks

is quick to launch especially

of capturing great shots. Be it

the Galaxy C9 Pro, its first

to Samsung’s craftsmanship.

with the ‘shortcut’ double-

bright daylight or indoors, the

device to pack 6GB RAM.

It features a curved Corning

press of the home button.

C9 Pro performs well. It also

It’s a 6-inch phablet phone

Gorilla Glass protection that

It features phase detection

does just acceptable job in

which feels like a toned down

prevents the display from

autofocus (PDAF) that lets

low-light conditions.

version of Galaxy Note 7 and

scratches. The smartphone

the phone focus quickly. In

In our review the

brings back memories of the

is equipped with ‘Blue light

the outdoors, the camera

smartphone gets the job done

flapped device. It’s also the

filter’ mode that checks blue

showed itself to be a capable

most of the times and not

first Samsung smartphone

light to protect

all the times. Though, it’s is

to feature USB type C Port.

vision and

able to bring up the details

prevents eye

processors, for an immediate

strain.

capacity boost, the C9 Pro is available in India in two

other Samsung

colours.

phones, C9 Pro

Design

but provided the price range, it

optimize the color range, saturation and sharpness

curves at the sides and a 2.5D

of the display by switching to

glass at the front give the C9

screen modes like- adaptive

Pro an exellent look. Hold

display, AMOLED cinema,

it up and you’ll appreciate

AMOLED photo and Basic. Fortunately, the Galaxy

make you fall in love with

C9 Pro comes with two

the device. The build quality

separate trays one for SIM

offers better grip over the

cards and one for micro SD

phone and gives the device

card. Both trays are placed

a premium look. It comes

next to the power button on

with 6 inch full HD super

the right side. The phone

AMOLED display with a pixel

offers support for dual micro

resolution of 1920 x 1080

SIM. You will find two keys

and a pixel density of around

for volume control on the

367 PPI. The display has

left side. At the bottom

great viewing angles as you

edge, there is a USB Type-C

will expect from a premium

port, bottom-firing speaker,

Samsung smartphone. It’s

headphone jack and the

crisp and sharp and perfectly

primary microphone.

visible even in direct sunlight.

the color information

gives users options to

The all-metal unibody design,

the phone’s design that will

76 | may 2017

Like in

and shadow and preserve

Things, that work for the

Camera

phone are its high screen-to-

C9 Pro has a 16-

MYMOBILE

could’ve performed better. Images appear sharp even after zooming in and the skin tone and colors remain accurate. Pro Camera mode offers a variety of manual controls over settings such as ISO and shutter speed. It can record videos at 1080p full HD resolution at 30 fps but lack slow motion and 4K video recording. Overall the picture quality is quite satisfactory. The 16-megapixel frontfacing camera with f/1.9 aperture is capable shooter and will make sure your selfie game is always on point.

verdict

Performance Coming to software, the phone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 653 octa-core processor with maximum clock speed of 1.95GHz and houses 6GB of RAM to ensure that the Galaxy C9 Pro offers fast performance at all times. With these specifications, the phone delivers commendable performance but tends to heat up during prolonged gaming sessions and while

Looks

08 /10

Slim and attractive

08 /10

transfer.

Performance

07 /10

Battery

08 /10

with a long lasting 4,000

Pretty good Effortlessly nice

Battery

Easily lasts a day

on when we can expect Nougat update. The phone comes with 64 GB of storage on-board,

Samsung Galaxy C9 Pro comes mAh battery along with fast

Value For Money

08 /10

Could be new experience

charging technology, to enable avid gamers and multi-media users to do more. It lasts for

OVERALL

78%

a day even with heavy use such as 4G, gaming, video playback, camera usage and video recording. It can lasts

efficiently most of the time.

of the box, with no firm word

The device supports USB

Cameras

handles multitasking quite

with Android Marshmallow out

light sensor and Gyroscope. Type-C that offers a faster data

charging. The C9 Pro

Unfortunately, phone comes

Accelerometer, Ambient

Tried & Tested

burntest

for 2 days with average use.

PROS The size and sleekness wins the race

Cons Heats while charging and prolonged usage

(For detailed specifications, please refer to My Guide)

Moveover, it comes with Samsung’s Power saving mode and ultra-power saving mode lets you extend the battery life. The fast charging technology lets you charge the battery fully in about 90 minutes.

Conclusion which can be expanded up to 256GB via a microSD

C9 Pro, you talk of the

card. It uses Samsung’s

smartphones that sports

custom Touchwiz UI,

a 6-inch screen, 6 GB of

which is surprisingly fast.

RAM, 16MP front and rear

A secure folder allows you to

cameras, and a 4,000mAh

not only keep personal stuff

battery. On papers, what more

private, but also a separate

you need? The design, build

WhatsApp account. It also

quality, display and features

has multi-window feature to

have a premium feel, and the

run two apps at a time. The

specifications make sure that a

smartphone weighs 189

mid-range budget device offers

grams and has a fingerprint

a flagship-like experience.

scanner on the physical home

Having said this, the Galaxy C9

button in the front which is

Pro has its task very well cut

very responsive. Basic sensors

out when compared to other

provided on the phone include

premium devices. Price: Rs

Compass Magnetometer, Proximity sensor,

www.mymobileindia.com

When you talk about Galaxy

36,900. n haider@mymobile.co.in

may 2017 | 77

In focus

snap shot

SONY XPERIA XZs:

Bundled with innovative offerings

After unveiling it at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona in February this year, Sony recently launched the Xperia XZs in India. The flagship device is integrated with the brand new Motion Eye Camera making the photography experience immensely creative. The Motion Eye camera is packed with the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first super slow motion video recording at 960 FPS in a smartphone and a unique capturing technique of Predictive Capture. The premium smartphone is the successor of Xperia XZ which was launched last year, with the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first 5 Axis Image Stabilisation and triple imaging sensor technology. Price: Rs 49,990

78 | may 2017

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Designed for aesthetic perfection, the new Xperia XZs sports the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first Motion Eye camera on top of the existing camera tech introduced with XZ series. This Motion Eye camera makes XZs camera capable of recording images at a Super Slow Motion of 960 Frames per second and makes your shots even more creative with the added unique technology of Predictive Capture.

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Xperia XZ features 19MP rear camera and improved low light capturing technology.

It comes with Water Resistant IP 65/68, which makes the Xperia XZs capable of withstanding the splashes that are part of our everyday life.

In focus

snap shot

The flagship phone flaunts premium loop design with the exclusive ALKALEIDO metal.

Xperia XZs has a 2900mAh battery and 64GB of built-in storage, which is expandable using a microSD card of up to 256GB.

It possesses Qnovoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ground-breaking adaptive charging technology, which constantly monitors battery conditions, adjusting the charging currents to minimise damage and maximise lifespan.

Xperia XZs comes with quick charger, UCH-12, bundled with the phones as supplied accessory. With QC-3.0 charging, the phone can be charged 60% in 45 minutes.

The latest and most updated version of Android OS is available out of the box in Xperia XZs.

Xperia XZs is PS4 Remote Play enabled letting the gamers lose themselves in gameplay anywhere in the home. It lets the user get a full gaming experience away from the console. Game Control Mount GCM10 (optional accessory) is designed to hold the Xperia securely.

Xperia XZs is capable of playing back Hi-Res Audio and the file formats supported are LPCM, FLAC, ALAC and DSD.

team@mymobile.co.in

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 79

Great Deals

mobilesensex

bazaar bargain Vivo V3 The Vivo V3 runs the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Funtouch OS 2.5 based on Android 5.1 Lollipop. It features a 5-inch (720x1280 pixels) display, and is powered by an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 616 SoC coupled with 3GB of RAM. The smartphone bears a 13MP rear camera, and an 8MP front-facing camera. It packs 32GB of inbuilt storage thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expandable via microSD card (up to 128GB). It offers the standard connectivity features, including 4G LTE support in India and also supports VoLTE. It runs on a 2550mAh battery. n

Launched at: Rs 51,990 Current Price: Rs 41,990

Sony Xperia XZ

Launched at: Rs 17,980 Current Price: Rs 14,980

80 | may 2017

The Xperia XZ features a 5.2-inch Full HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It runs Android 6.0 Marshmallow and is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor, paired with 3GB RAM, 64GB of internal storage and microSD suppport (up to 256GB). It has a 23MP rear-facing camera with f/2.0 aperture and 24mm wide-angle lens. On the front, it has a 13MP shooter with f/2.0 aperture from low-light selfies. The premium smartphone draws power from a 2,900mAh battery. It bears an IP68 rating, making it water-and dust-resistant. n

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Great Deals

mobilesensex

ZTE Blade V6 The phone comes with a 5-inch display with a resolution of 720 pixels by 1280 pixels. It is powered by 1.3GHz quad-core MediaTek MT6735 processor and comes with 2GB RAM. The phone packs 16GB of internal storage that can be expanded up to 128GB via a microSD card. The ZTE Blade V6 packs a 13MP primary camera on the rear and a 5MP front shooter for selfies. It runs Android 5.0.2 and is powered by a 2200mAh nonremovable battery. It measures 142.00 x 69.50 x 6.80 (height x width x thickness) and weighs 122.00 grams. n

Launched at: Rs 10,499 Current Price: Rs 9,499

Lava X81 The Lava X81sports a 5-inch touchscreen display with a resolution of 720 pixels by 1280 pixels at a PPI of 294 pixels per inch. It is powered by 1.3GHz quad-core processor and comes with 3GB RAM. The phone packs 16GB of internal storage that can be expanded up to 64GB via a microSD card. The smartphone packs a 13MP primary camera on the rear and a 5MP front shooter for selfies. It runs Android 6.0 and is powered by a 2700mAh non removable battery. It measures 142.60 x 73.40 x 8.40 (height x width x thickness). n team@mymobile.co.in Launched at: Rs 9,999 Current Price: Rs 6,499

www.mymobileindia.com

(Note: Prices are those available at prominent dealers, online and/or offline. They may not reflect official price reductions)

may 2017 | 81

Software

Special feature

82 | may 2017

Kids getting bored â&#x20AC;&#x201C; here are the apps that entertain and educate too!

MYMOBILE

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the time of the year when parents are a worried lot about how to engage their kids during free time in summer vacation. Although some schools offer summer camps and there are neighbourhood institutions offering hobby classes, the long break during this season is not enough to satisfy their desire in leisurely activities at home. Even the parents restrict their little ones from going out, as the Sun is over the top which may not be good for their health.In such a situation, storytelling apps or those imparting moral and educational values to children could be of great help to todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents who are mostly living in nuclear families. These apps can be best pastime for children getting bored indoors. With technology fast becoming an integral part of life from a very early age, we suggest you to download childrenfriendly apps on your phone/tablet and give the device to them for a pre-decided time slot after switching off the Internet. Here is a list of some most popular apps available for iOS, Android and Windows devices.

Software In Focus

Specialfeature special Report

By Ramesh Kumar Raja

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 83

Software

Special feature Bulbul Apps

ulbul Apps, founded in 2014 by filmmaker Prakash Dantuluri, so that his daughter could be familiarized with traditional and regional stories of India, offers a variety of interactive stories and rhymes

that are animated and illustrated. The bedtime stories with moral lessons are user-friendly and children find them attractive. There are stories from all around the world and the app is updated regularly with new books and stories. The central character in many of the stories is ‘Bulbul’, the bird “curious and constantly in pursuit of discovering new things”. The app library has something for every kid aged up to eight. The ‘What is it’ series, for example, helps children learn about animal sounds and names, while the ‘Baby Bath Time’ story has a baby going for a bath in the tub on her own for the first time. There is this ‘Potty Potty’ story that has infant Tommy in a fix when his mom runs out of diapers and asks him to start using the potty. In ‘Baby’s First Zoo’, the dad takes the kid to the zoo to answer all her questions about different animals, birds and insects. ‘Mowgli and Bulbul’ series has Mowgli, the little boy raised in the jungle by a bunch of wolves, and his ‘best friend Bulbul’ set out on their adventures in the jungle. Bulbul Apps has interpreted the The Jungle Book classic in a modern way, designing it in the form of an interactive ebook application. It has also introduced the digital natives to Indian mythology with its ‘Adventures of Krishna’ series, which is already a hit with children. The segment is dedicated to the stories of little Krishna and his adventures in Vrindavan. It also has a Tuk-Tuk series, a ‘travel app for kids’ that helps them discover a city in an interactive manner. While ‘Tuk-Tuk Goes To Mumbai’ happens to be the first product of the series, ‘Tuk-Tuk Goes To Hyderabad’ was launched last year. The children can explore more cities of the world riding the colourful three-wheeler through this app, in future. The Bulbul Apps library also has famous fairytales and other bedtime stories, such as ‘Cinderella’, ‘Snow White’ and ‘Pinocchio’, in animation format. The size of an average story is 20MB, with the developers currently working on bringing it down further to 10MB. Bulbul Apps has over 50 apps in its library at present, and the number is growing. Currently available in English, Hindi and Telugu, the content will be available on all major Indian languages in the days to come, according to the developers. Price: Free/Paid n

84 | may 2017

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Software

Specialfeature

AppyStore

ffering variety for children, Appystore is India’s first

The app is easy to use and provides ample space for

comprehensive learning app for kids aged up to

kids to watch and learn new things. With 5,000 videos

eight years. It keeps your little ones’ engaged and

classified across 18 learning areas, it enables children to

provides holistic learning through productive edutainment.

improve their logical thinking with fun puzzles, to learn the

Apart from popular fairytales, the app has an ‘Indian

importance of physical fitness, to get involved in outdoor

Superheroes’ segment featuring inspiring tales of bravery

activities and to imbibe good socio-emotional values. The

and wisdom of some great Indian icons, such as Rani

app allows parents to keep a check on their child’s progress

Laxmibai, Chhatrapati Shivaji, Rajpur warrior kings, and

in various learning areas based on the number of videos

other freedom fighters. The section also has interesting

viewed. Also, the app offers no ads, pop-ups or redirects to

and informative stories, such as the history of Indian

other websites or portals. That makes it totally safe to use

Rupee and Indus Valley Civilisation, catering to children

for kids, who would require no additional supervision.

aged 5-8. The AppyStore library also has a collection of

The app works on a subscription-based payment model

rhymes, colouring and alphabet apps for pre-schoolers.

and currently offers three-, six- and nine-month plans. The

An interesting feature is the Karaoke Rhymes section that

app, with videos, can be accessed through the Appystore

allows children and parents to sing along. Every song has

web-portal – http://www.appystore.in/

the first half with voice, and the second half repeating the

Price: Paid n

rhyme without voice for kids to sing along and practice.

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 85

Software

Special feature

FunDooDaa Books

his is said to be t h e c o u n t r y â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s f i r s t multilingual story

app which was launched

last year by Chie Media Pvt. Ltd. FunDooDaa Books is an e-library of stories and is meant to impart learning through stories. This app is suitable for kids aged between 2 and 8. FunDooDaa Books app is available in different languages and has stories in English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Gujarati, Marathi and Bengali. Also, there are stories that will inculcate the Indian culture and heritage among kids such as Naana & Naani, Royal Tales & Legends, etc. The app is aimed to entertain kids and also make them learn and communicate in their mother tongue. The app gives special emphasis over improving the reading skills, vocabulary, and observational skills of the kids. Price: Free n

86 | may 2017

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Software

Specialfeature

Amar Chitra Katha

his is for children of all ages. Dubbed

or urinating in public places. Higher fines

as ACK Comics, the app offers more

were imposed for doing the same near

than 300 titles on personalities such as

temples, the royal palace or a water reservoir.

Akbar, Chanakya, Jawaharlal Nehru and JRD

In the first elaborate story on the traditions

Tata to users. The app has been developed by

of cleanliness in the country, story-telling

App9 Digital Studio, the digital division of

‘uncle Anant’ narrates to kids how in Vedas,

Ninestars Information Technologies Pvt. Ltd.

the relation between diseases and poor

The digital comic is available in a flip-book

hygiene was highlighted and Manusmriti

mode as well as panel-by-panel mode which

prescribed the need for a clean body for

is convenient for smaller devices. Users can

a clean mind and clean community. The

download and read their comics on multiple

publication also includes true stories about

devices using a single user account. Amar

elaborate systems for ensuring sanitation as

Chitra Katha is one of India’s oldest and

early as 2,500 years ago during the Indus

most loved comic series.

Valley Civilisation.

Storyteller to generations of Indians, the

The ACK is also working with game

ACK in collaboration with the Ministry of

developers to tell stories that are in tune with

Urban Development last year came out with

the times, in an interactive fashion.

a special edition of a comic book focusing

Price: Free/Paid n

on Swachh Bharat Mission. The 36-page edition based on a story telling format

ramesh@mymobile.co.in

having five narratives also refers to how Chandragupta Maurya’s trusted minister Chanakya had a list of fines for crimes that included defecating

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 87

In Conversation

face to face

“Heartening to see that the Government has prioritized discussions around cyber security across all ministries” Since India is sitting on the cusp of a digital revolution where mobile technologies hold the key from surfing the Internet to managing one’s bank account, what worries one and all is the country’s preparedness to combat the menace of cyber security threats that loom large across the world. Although steps are being taken by the government on a priority basis to improve cyber resilience at all levels of governance, there is an urgent need to evolve a mechanism which can be practically implemented in case of a cyber breach besides spreading alertness about possible threats. Ramesh Kumar Raja talked to Pradipto Chakrabarty, the Regional Director of CompTIA India, to know more about the issue, potential challenges, literacy programs, government initiatives and information security trends, which could be of great benefits to the mankind. CompTIA, the world’s leading information technology (IT) association, analyzes and identifies the global trends in cyber security and creates programs aimed to develop skills of people at multiple levels. Excerpts: Since data security is as crucial as the

by individuals. Hackers are constantly on

national security, how do you look at its

the lookout for this extremely susceptible

mobile based platforms. However, one

current situation in India especially when

entry point to gain access to enterprise and

of the major challenges is that of data

mobile phones are there in every hand?

government networks containing sensitive

theft and cyber intrusions. Most people

The evolution of mobile phones into

information.

using mobile platforms for cashless

smartphones with increasing computing

in cashless transaction especially on

transactions are not fully aware of simple

capabilities and connectivity to the internet

What are the potential challenges especially

and doable security best practices.

has dramatically increased the threat

when the country is moving towards

There is a growing concern of mass scale

surface of intrusion presented to attackers.

the goal of a cashless economy? The

hacking with the most prone sections

Mobile devices are now the most common

stride towards cashless economy has

being the user community who are

entry points. This is primarily because of

enormous benefits to citizens of the country.

vulnerable to being hacked. Easy access

two key reasons (a) the growing use of

It has the potential to erase corruption

to users’ personal details not only

mobile devices for access of enterprise

and malpractices in financial transaction

jeopardizes themselves, but also

data and applications and (b) growing use

in the long run. Post demonetization,

hackers can get access to banking

of mobile apps for financial transactions

we are already observing a huge growth

systems. Let us accept this fact and work

88 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

face to face

In Conversation

towards spreading awareness among users on how to securely use their mobile and other electronic platforms while making e-transactions. How is India gearing up to combat cyber threats which most of the people are unaware of? It is heartening to see that the current Government has prioritized discussions around cyber security across all ministries, most importantly the Ministry of Defence. This was elucidated in the union budget with proposals such as strengthening of the CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team) and allocating Rs 1000 crore for setting up a cyber security R&D

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The key towards creating a cyber safe India is to train and increase awareness on cyber security best practices among common citizens. I would love to see an all-round campaign on cyber security through programs, policies and utilization of social media to spread the wordâ&#x20AC;?

fund. The indication that the Government is extremely cautious on cyber security is evident from the fact that this initiative will be under the purview of the National Security Advisor and NSCS (National Security Council Secretariat). The most critical aspect of preparedness in this area will be to create a sustainable awareness drive across the user community on a mass scale. Also, there is

our Honorable Prime Minister is

have active participation from industry

a growing debate on creating a functional

communicating on cyber security as a

as well. The key towards creating a cyber

data privacy law keeping in view the larger

national priority across public forums

safe India is to train and increase awareness

interest of national security.

and media, we are yet to see specific

on cyber security best practices among

campaigns on user awareness and training

common citizens. I would love to see an

Is the government doing enough to spread

programs. In fact this responsibility not

all-round campaign on cyber security

its awareness? While the Government and

only lies with our governments but should

through programs, policies and utilization

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 89

face to face dominate the market in 2017? The rise

of social media to spread the word. Data security is fast becoming a promising career option. How is CompTIA involved in tapping the opportunity? There is no doubt that information and cyber security is and will be the most sought after career options within the industry now and in near future. It is mandatory that every IT professional have security knowledge since all IT domains including new technologies such as IoT, cloud, mobility and social media have element of security embedded in them. Over the past few years, CompTIA has worked towards creating a solid certification pathway for the security professionals. Today, we have four programs in this domain: n

CompTIA CyberSecure: This is a basic awareness program which is aimed towards training users on security best practices. It is an effective tool for enterprises and governments to train employees and common users on some useful tips to remain cyber safe.

CompTIA Security+: The CompTIA Security+ training and certification is the industry leading program for IT workforce who wants to develop a career in information security.

CompTIA Cyber Security Analyst (CSA+): CompTIA has just recently

“Long gone are the days when a firewall truly demarcated your perimeter. The cloud has changed all of that. It is very difficult to script an intrusion detection device or configure antivirus or a firewall to thwart attacks. Also, the “end point” has radically changed in the last 10 years. It is no longer really a PC. The “end point” is now the sensors on many personal items, thanks to IoT and the many devices we now own and carry around”

launched this certification in response to the industry’s demand of creating benchmarked skills for security professional who are responsible for defending networks and systems from attack. The program teaches professionals on both attack and defence with more focus on the latter. It also teaches how to use behavioral and vulnerability analytics to predict threat

90 | may 2017

social networking is now a standard part of business today. Clearly, due to these technological disruptions the threat surface has increased dramatically. The network perimeter is continually dissolving. Long gone are the days when a firewall truly demarcated your perimeter. The cloud has changed all of that. It is very difficult to script an intrusion detection device or configure antivirus or a firewall to thwart attacks. Also, the “end point” has radically changed in the last 10 years. It is no longer really a PC. The “end point” is now the sensors on many personal items, thanks to IoT and the many devices we now own and carry around. As a result, attacks are increasing, because there is now a massively large attack surface which becomes a sitting duck for the hacker. Going forward, the challenge will be to prevent the menace of APTs (Advance Persistent Threats) which are more resilient, often highly coordinated or having state sponsors and a constant lurking of bad actors on systems and networks. This makes APT virtually impossible to detect in time. Therefore, organizations need to move away from traditional firewall driven methodologies to incorporate data driven and an “asynchronous” cyber posture. Behavioral analytics to detect network

towards creating skills for the highest level of workforce who are responsible for enterprise security management and implementation of Information Security Management Systems. As you can see from the above, CompTIA is committed towards creating a pool of industry standard cyber security workforce right from the user level to an advance

anomalies should be an integral part of skill requirements. The industry needs trained professionals who are capable of threat management, vulnerability management, cyber incident response and security architecture tool sets. Hacking has become extremely pervasive and easy to execute. Thus, the need of the hour is to create a pool

professional level.

of workforce who are skilled in defensive

CompTIA CASP (Advanced Security

Being an expert in this field, can you tell

testing. n

Practitioner): This program is aimed

us what information security trends will

situations. n

of mobile, advent of the Cloud, IoT and

methods rather than mere penetration ramesh@mymobile.co.in

MYMOBILE

“Ziox Mobiles has received a tremendous response from across India” Although a relatively new entrant in the happening Indian mobile market space, Ziox Mobiles, A part of New Delhi headquartered Sun Airvoice Pvt Ltd, has been able to make quite an impression both in terms of sales and product quality.

In Conversation

face to face

Perhaps much of the success has to do with the company’s philosophy of making technologically superior products at affordable prices without any compromise on quality. My Mobile interacted with Chiranjib Sarkar, National Sales Head, Ziox Mobiles to find out company’s future growth strategy and other plans. Indian mobile phone market is a happening

How has been the journey so far in terms

but already a cluttered place and relatively

of sales, brand recognition, customers’

We have received an impressive

speaking you are a late entrant! What gave

response etc? Ziox Mobiles has received

response from Indian consumers as well

you the confidence that you could make

a tremendous response from across

as our channel partners for our phones.

a success of it? Indian Mobile phone

India. In the last fiscal year, we have

This was marked by a dramatic increase

industry is such a segment where every

sold 3 million+ handsets and we are

in its demand. One of the reasons for

player either established or newcomer is

aiming around 10 million phones by the

this tremendous change is because the

end of 2017-18.

seeking the opportunity. This is the reason

approach that we have adopted has

you can see other than existing players

innovative solutions that adhere to our

many new and well-known names are

ever-evolving audience.

“Ziox Mobiles joining this segment. has received a tremendous There are two parameters response from across India. In on which a Ziox device will be picked by consumers, one- strict the last fiscal year, we have sold 3 quality assurance, and twomillion+ handsets and we are uncomplicated. In a market flooded with devices which are aiming around 10 million neither quality assured nor easy to phones by the end of use, we are sure that consumers will make the right choice in going for a Ziox 2017-18” device.

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Feature phone or smartphone – what would be your prime focus? Any plan to launch 4G feature phones (if not done already)? We have received an overwhelming response to both our feature phones and smartphones. Our feature phones which are not only pocket friendly but also feature rich, have been a huge hit especially in the Tier 2 and Tier 3 Cities. When it comes to

may 2017 | 91

In Conversation

face to face

92 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

the smartphone our products, resonate

also launched its 111 Days Replacement

the brand philosophy of empowering

Policy for our feature phones. This policy

consumers with Technology at best prices.

is applicable from the day of activation

Currently, we have an upper hand when

or Purchase (whichever one is first).

it comes to our feature phones. Our ratio

This unique policy allows us to build

of Sales is 90:10 and we aim to increase

stronger connect with our customers

the smartphone share to drive value and

and will assure them that we stand

feature phones would continue to drive

for best quality products & service

volumes. Things are changing quite fast

in the cluttered Mobile market.

in technology; these basic feature phones

Started in selective states, we plan

are getting smarter as well, it would not

on extending it to a pan India level.

be wrong to predict Ziox will come up with 4G Feature phones in near future.

In addition to this, we have an

“A celebrity endorsement is also on cards and by the end of 2nd Quarter, we will launch a 360-degree campaign to engage with our target group”

Assured 10 Day Service policy wherein we will close on any issue faced by our

How do you plan to create a distinct brand

consumers at a maximum of 10 days.

identity? Where will the focus be – on

However, in rare cases, when we are

product, price or service? Ziox Mobiles are

unable to address the issue, we will

very distinctive as compared to the other

replace the device on the 11th day of complaint login.

“We are one of the fastest growing mobile phones brand in the country with a reach to 35000+ retail stores and counting”

What is going to be your marketing and promotional strategy, now that established brands are spending huge and going in for high profile associations with Bollywood and cricket stars? We have adopted two types of marketing strategies to highlight our mobile phones - Trade marketing – Strengthening relations with channel partners with interactions on regular interval, incentivization in the form of schemes etc. Consumer Marketing - we have laid out a strategic plan for BTL activities

brands in the market and offer the perfect blend of features in budgeted prices. Our brand is also preferable as we make sure there is no compromise in product quality. To ensure our quality, our products go through rigorous quality checks before they hit the market shelves which assure maximum reliability to the consumers against the market flooded with devices which are neither quality assured nor easy to use. The brand recently has

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across India. We will organize more offline marketing strategies to intensify product adoption. We are also strongly focusing on PR & Social media platforms for promotions. A celebrity endorsement is also on cards and by the end of 2nd Quarter; we will launch a 360-degree campaign to engage with our target group. What’s your preferred sales platform – online or offline or a combination of both? We worked hard to expand our offline distribution to cover width and breadth of mammoth nation by appointing 700+

Distributors and the tally goes on. We are one of the fastest growing mobile phones brand in the country with a reach to 35000+ retail stores and counting.

In Conversation

face to face

We also realized online platform too is very important and recently we have launched “QUIQ” series exclusively for online channel and the first phone of this series “QUIQ flash 4G” is exclusively available on Shopclues.com. You are also into accessories with powerbanks. Any plan for broadening your product portfolio? Ziox very recently has entered the Mobile Accessories Category; we have launched two Power Banks with ‘Selfie function’ and ‘Superfast charging’. Mobile phones & Mobile accessories are just the beginning, we are here to stay longer and closely monitoring the industry scenario, we are keen to add consumer durables (Purifiers, LED TVs, etc.) to our product lines in near future. Please tell us about the Ziox’s manufacturing aspects. Ziox Mobiles are manufactured in India and sells only ‘Made in India’ products. The company is assembled in the capital city Delhi and holds the capacity to roll out around 8 lakhs units per Month. We are also planning to add two more manufacturing units in near future. n

shelley@mymobile.co.in

may 2017 | 93

by Invitation

Guest Column

On a High Trajectory Indian mobile accessories market is all set to enter the intense growth phase

By Ameen Khwaja

n the present time, mobile phone

People prefer mobile phone accessories

because there is only growth possibility for

has certainly become a major

because it allows you to make mobile

the accessories in future due to constantly

part of our lives and it will not be

devices much more convenient to use.

increasing demand by consumers.

an exaggeration if we say that we

With the increased demand of mobile

The market size of mobile phone

cannot imagine our personal or business

phone accessoriesÂ¸ there has been so

accessories in India is estimated to reach a

life without the mobile phone and the same

many changes and reflexes in the market of

value of approximately USD 3,545 million

goes with the mobile phone accessories.

mobile phone accessories. According to a

by the end of the year 2026! Additionally,

survey, there are no possibilities of decline

the possibilities of development and improvement are still endless that makes the scope area too large to evaluate.

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MYMOBILE

in the mobile accessories market because of expanding interest of smart phones and mobile accessories.

“The quick expansion of smartphones and other mobile phones with a network of strong and solid According to a report of mobile phone distribution has prodded the accessories market, the ever increasing use of smartphone users in India will mobile accessories market clearly give a boost to the consumption universally” of mobile phone accessories in the market which will increase the product demand to the higher level. smartphones and other mobile phones with a network of strong and solid distribution

To give the most accurate and detailed

has prodded the mobile accessories market

analysis of the market structure with

universally. The expanding disposal income

a forecast of the different fragments

and rising urbanization in all regions, for

and sub-sections of the global mobile

example, Latin America or Asia-Pacific

accessories market.

has fueled the market of mobile devices

To give bits of knowledge about variables

influencing the market development.

and accessories. The demand for mobile accessories is expanding because of the

To examine the mobile accessories

high utilization of smart phone in rising

showcase on the basis of different

economies, for example, China, India and

elements such as Porter’s five force

Brazil etc.

analysis and supply chain analysis etc.

Mobile phone or smart phone

To give authentic and forecast revenue of

accessories incorporate defensive cases,

the market fragments and sub-sections

earphones or headphones, batteries, power

concerning four major geographies and

bank chargers, memory cards and compact

their nations - North America, Asia,

speakers. The request of defensive

Europe and Rest of the World (ROW).

accessories, for example, tempered

Territorial Analysis: Asia-Pacific is

glasses or screen guard for smart phone

commanding the market of mobile

is expanding to shield cell phones from

accessories because of the high number

physical harm. The developing interest

of smart phones and other handheld

for wireless smart phone accessories, for

gadgets in locales, for example, China

example, Bluetooth headsets and remote

and India. Increasing smart phone users

charger is one of the crucial trends in

and web based exercises, for example,

mobile accessories market that drives the

internet shopping in this area is likewise

market of mobile accessories in the present

contributing in the development of mobile

time. The expanding implementation of

accessories market. North America is

E-banking and E-commerce has triggered

the second biggest mobile accessories

the interest for smart phones worldwide

market because of the high selection

that is further doing the contribution to

of smart phone clients and web based

the development of mobile accessories

administrations in this area. Europe is

showcase.

considered to enlist a healthy development

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clients such as Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Cooked Research Report (CRR), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), Raw Research Reports (3R) and Market Research and Consulting Services etc. With the help of advanced technology, companies can step ahead in the market and utilize best strategy for best scope analysis and strategy development for Indian market.

Objectives of Mobile Accessories Market:

Market Scenario: The quick expansion of

Presently, companies take the assistance of various tools and services for

Guest Column

by invitation

Future Potential: Products such as protective smart phone or mobile phone cases and audio gear such as earphones and headphones will continue to be the top-selling product in the range of mobile phone accessories in India. As we talk about mobile accessories then we cannot ignore the presence of portable technology in the market that drives customer crazy about accessories. Portable accessories like speakers as well as batteries are also expected to gain higher level traction in India’s mobile phone accessories market. In my opinion, there are unlimited opportunities that can be witnessed in the future as a part of mobile phone accessories technology development. As the demand of mobile phone accessories grows with time, market will become more competitive and LatestOne.com will adopt better and improved product selling and customer satisfaction strategy to sustain. Undoubtedly, it is quite possible that the future of mobile phone accessories market will show huge scope to register healthy growth and there will be many more surprises for us awaiting that will make our lives simpler and much more convenient. n The author is CEO & Founder, LatestOne.com which is India’s leading e-tailer specializing in tech and mobile accessories and stocks over 10,000 different products in its inventory. LatestOne.com is owned by a subsidiary of Palred Technologies Ltd (PTL), a listed BSE & NSE company.

may 2017 | 95

In Conversation

face to face

“Our Quality is our Forte” Asahi Glass Co or AGC, as it is commonly called, is world’s largest glass manufacturing company and happens to be one of the main Mitsubishi companies. In India too, AGC is the leader in overall glass market and has become a very well recognized brand. In fact, AGC has carved a special niche when it comes to specialty glass solutions and created a distinct brand identity. Nonetheless, AGC was a late entrant into the mobile glass segment but all that changed with the launch of Dragontrail in 2011 as it went on to capture a big market share soon while becoming a serious competitor to Gorilla Glass from Corning’s and Xensation from Schott AG. Shelley Vishwajeet interacted with Sachin Arora, Country Manager (Electronics Business), AGC India to talk about company’s future growth plans and innovations. Excerpts from the interview… Though a late entrant in the mobile glass

glass outside India and now almost all

exciting and there have been challenges

segment, Asahi has been able to make

Indian brands have adopted DT Glass in

too but we are positive that the journey

quite an impression with Dragontrail.

order to join the future path for cover glass

ahead will be more fruitful for AGC India.

What would you attribute this success to

along with their global & Chinese brands.

In this happening market, AGC would

and how do you see the journey ahead

So despite being a late entrant AGC caught

like to expand the business to capture

for Dragontrail? AGC has many experiences

up with competitors and established the

customer’s needs flexibility.

in various glass businesses that are

leadership status in mobile glass segment

for Architecture, Auto mobile, FPD and so

too with using the various experience.

on. AGC is holding majority share of mobile

The journey so far has been quite

Please let us know about some major brands and mobile models where Dragontrail is being

Dragontrail: A Runaway Success Ever since its launch in 2011, Dragontrail series, a specialty glass used as protective cover glass in smartphones and tablets and other electronic devices, has been a runaway success being an integral face of over 350 smartphones, 30 tablets, 20 PC/Laptops and over 20 other products. It goes without saying that a large and growing number of major brands worldwide have chosen Dragontrail series to protect their devices. The product was named “Dragontrail” in line with the company’s expectations that it will develop together with cutting-edge electronic devices and tools.

96 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

used or likely to be used. DT has been used

lot of R&D and it requires lot of resources

compared to previous years and will keep

for almost all Global, Chinese & Indian

due to which it is currently not viable to

growing further in coming future. And being

brands. But we cannot disclose their

do manufacturing of DT Glass at present

a Japanese company, which is synonymous

details due to non-disclosure agreement.

in India.

with the best quality globally we are

What would be Dragontrail’s market share

In terms of brand value and mindshare, how

will realize the importance of AGC who is

in India in premium mobile glass segment or

would you compare yourself with your prime

contributing not only to their business but

overall mobile glass segment? Please also

competitor – Gorilla Glass from Corning?

also to enriching their lives and our society

share the revenue figure for this product

As company policy we cannot comment

as a whole. At this moment we are satisfied

segment. As company policy revenue

on specific competitor & other players

with the stature of being the “Brand behind

comes under non-disclosure, hence we

operating in same segment. But we strongly

the Brands” and we are happy to run the

cannot comment on revenue figures but

feel that the brand value of AGC’s products

show from the down curtains. n

yes we can tell that AGC is world top level

has increased gradually in this market as

confident that very soon our customers

maker in Mobile Glass segment. Apart from mobile device, which are the other electronic / digital devices such as smartwatches where we can see Dragontrail? Glass is used in many more products/devices beyond our imaginations & expectations.

shelley@mymobile.co.in

In Conversation

face to face

But when it comes to electronics/digital devices apart from mobile, DT has already adopted in some renowned/global PC and TV Brands & in near future we can expect it will be adopted in other electronic devices which will change the future of our exiting devices. Could you please share some future innovations in the mobile / gadgets glass segment that we can see from Asahi in the coming months? AGC is world leader in glass manufacturing base on its R&D capabilities and technical knowledge that it shares with the complete eco-system. When it comes to future innovations in mobile we can expect wireless battery charger, 5G communication, bendable display, 3D cover glass and more. Having said that AGC has developed new stronger glass, easy processing glass & very soon we expect some global brands using our new products in their many models. Are you manufacturing or have any plan to manufacture Dragontrail in India? Glass manufacturing is an art & DT Glass is very different than normal glass. Behind this our team has done

www.mymobileindia.com

march 2017 | 87

In Conversation

face to face

“Virtual assistants are poised to become the new digital assistant” A couple of weeks back, Panasonic launched its own inbuilt artificial intelligence based virtual assistant – Arbo - on its new handsets, Panasonic Eluga Ray Max and Eluga Ray X. Arbo means a framework that supports climbing plants. Nijhum Rudra spoke to Pankaj Rana, Business Head, Mobility Division, Panasonic India, to understand the future of Virtual Assistants in India and how technology like Arbo is going to play a pivotal role among the Indian consumers. What are the various technologies used in designing Arbo? Also, please elucidate the functionality of Arbo on handsets. Artificial assistant “Arbo,” a software for Panasonic phones brings to life simple smartphone operations utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) thereby, introducing a new user interface. This software will be available on the Eluga Ray series smartphones. The newly developed software - Arbo is quick (up to 3 actions) and easy (single-hand) to operate. As a virtual assistant Arbo learns user behavior

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“We are a late entrant in the smartphone segment but have the necessary fuel of differentiation. In fact, we have already started the pioneering work in the AI space and strongly believe that Arbo can offer a practical solution in the connected world” based on time and location and basis

have the requisite experience, technology

ourselves with the needs of the consumer.

that it automatically displays and make

and expertise to leverage artificial

This willingness further led to our

suggestions on screen such as frequently

intelligence. In fact, we have already

development of ‘Arbo’, a software that

contacted phone numbers and SNS

started the pioneering work in the AI

brings to life simple smartphone operation

users, applications, Wi-Fi, volume, etc.

space and strongly believe that Arbo can

utilizing AI and a new user interface

settings and connection with IoT devices

offer a practical solution in the connected

(Bluetooth device etc). In addition, Arbo

world.

features a user interface that displays

Can Arbo be used in various applications of IoT along with other smart devices, especially

icons in a circular, radial fashion, enabling

Technology is evolving at a fast pace in

the ones manufactured by Panasonic? What

single-handed, intuitive operation (patent

India, but do you think we are ready to

is Panasonic’s future roadmap for Arbo (or,

pending design).

deploy Virtual Assistants in our daily lives,

VA in general) in India? Keeping up with

especially in semi-urban and rural areas of

the dynamic environment and changing

Can you please describe how Virtual

India? What are the various criteria needed

needs of the people, manufacturers have

Assistants are capable of playing a pivotal

for this development? The consumer is

started looking into how to improve existing

role among Indian consumers? Do you

well aware of the new developments in

products and introduce a new smart range

think that in the coming few years, it would

the industry and they are exploring the

which will improve our quality of life, our

be a decisive factor while purchasing

new technology to make their lives easier.

energy usage and our time management.

smartphones? The Virtual assistant is a

With the increased penetration of

With introduction of IoT, consumer expects

self-learning technology that understands

technology in our lives, IoT will transform

their devices to be packed with smart

the user behavior and then maps our

our everyday objects into an ecosystem of

features and innovations which are more

daily activities for us accordingly. For

information that will help us communicate,

energy efficient, time efficient and make

instance, if a user makes personal call to

sense or interact with the environment

household chores less dread inducing.

a particular time, on a regular basis, Arbo

and enrich our lives. Moreover, customers

The introduction of Arbo can be one of

will track the pattern and prompt you to

are upgrading their lifestyle and with

the connecting features for IoT, which will

make that call. Moreover, it keeps a track

the rise in disposable income and

make our day to day lives easier. The new

of all the applications functioning on the

improvement in standard of living the

AI assistant software will be available in

smartphone, gathers detailed information

next wave of growth will be from semi-

the Eluga Ray series smartphones and will

on their habits and informs them about

urban and rural areas. With the advent

also become available on the Eluga Pulse X

it accordingly. In the near future artificial

of smartphone, rural India comprising

designed for the Middle East and African

assistant will be one of the deciding factors

of about 850 million consumers is

markets. Panasonic India will continue to

for the buyers to select their smartphone

rapidly accepting technology offering a

update this software, to expand the scope

and virtual assistants are poised to become

tremendous opportunity here.

of automatic displays and suggestions, to

the new digital assistant.

further evolve the user interface, and to Arbo is made up of various top-notch

enhance usability. Moreover, by combining

How do you see the future of Arbo amidst

technologies. Do you think Arbo/VA can play

India’s prowess in software development

Amazon’s Alexa, Apple’s Siri, Microsoft’s

a crucial role in helping the intelligence

and Panasonic’s strengths in product

Cortana, and Samsung’s Bixby? We are a late

departments across the globe cull terrorism

design, we will continue to introduce

entrant in the smartphone segment but

and other criminal activities? Our recent

products and services that offer new value

have the necessary fuel of differentiation.

foray into artificial intelligence is a

to customers. n

With a legacy of a 99 year old brand, we

testament of our willingness to adapt

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In Conversation

face to face

nijhum@mymobile.co.in

may 2017 | 99

In Conversation

face to face

“Quality and innovation are the major driving forces that keep me excited every day” Entrepreneurs are rising in every part of India and even in the remote corners where earlier people were reluctant to take the plunge into manufacturing. This is certainly a good news for “Make in India” and particularly for mobile components and accessories manufacturing eco-system in the country. Integratedmobi Tech Pvt Ltd, in Chittorgarh is one such stateof-the-art venture which is into manufacturing of absolutely international class mobile batteries. My Mobile got in touch with Anuraag Nalwaya, the dynamic Founder and Managing Director of Integratedmobi Tech to find out his motivations, unit’s technological capabilities and future plans. excerpts: What motivated you to start Integratedmobi

authority too, BIS.

Tech and what gave you the confidence

The location of our plant is in fact

is being imported now is sourced from

that it would be a successful venture

advantageous to us as Chittorgarh

vendors who already have a great track

especially because your plant is located in

is very well connected through both

record and have the same vision as us in

a slightly off beat place? We, as a group,

Golden Quadrilateral and East West

terms of quality. International production

have been into mobile distribution and

Corridor which makes delivery time

standards are being followed right from

retail for over a decade now. So when

shorter to anywhere in India. Since it

sourcing of material to production to the

our Prime Minister declared the Make

is a hub for marble and cement as well,

final dispatch of goods. All our batteries

in India programme, we were really

lot of connectivity and infrastructure in

are BIS certified.

excited and wanted to be a part of it

terms of logistics as well as labour is

immediately. Our company’s mission is

already present.

What is the current production capacity of your unit and what are the plans for

to contribute to this phenomenal Indian

100 | may 2017

manufacturing. The raw material that

growth story by being a direct employer

Currently, you are producing mobile

expansion? We have already built a state

to at least 100K people by 2027.

handset batteries. When it comes to

of the art factory that can produce over

The experience of also running a

product performance, can we say that

2 million batteries per month. Once we

packaged drinking water (bottled water)

it can be compared to the best products

achieve that capacity utilisation, we

manufacturing unit for past eight years

available in the market, whether imported

plan to backward integrate the process

successfully not only brings confidence

or domestically manufactured? Quality

and start component manufacturing

but also lot of synergy as both industries

and Innovation are the major driving

which is sort of in line with the Phase

have similar machines in terms of

forces that keep me excited every day.

Programme laid down by the MIETY. In

plastic injections, mouldings etc. Both

We are probably India’s only factory

fact, that is why our company is named

are governed by the same regulatory

that has fully automated line for battery

as Integrated.

MYMOBILE

In Conversation

face to face

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face to face technical and commercial teams for our factory visit. Similar talks are on with two major Chinese cell suppliers who also want a serious hold in this market. How do you plan to promote your products? At this point of time, we want to consolidate our position in B2B space only and hence are looking for options to target very few selected customers only. Going forward, I feel that E commerce will play a vital role

“We are probably India’s only factory that has fully automated line for battery manufacturing. International production standards are being followed right from sourcing of material to production to the final dispatch of goods” in every company’s marketing strategies and hence we will start to invest some percentage of our time and energy in those domains also. Please also tell us something about in-house R&D and how you plan to upscale your technology. Our testing facility is very swell equipped with all modern testing equipment to ensure the quality of our products and Have you become OEM supplier to any mobile

are going on and we hope to close the deal

manufacturing company? Or are your batteries

with them also soon.

being used by any mobile manufacturer? We have been sampling our products to

Are you looking at product expansion

various mobile manufacturing companies

within the mobile eco-system? Well, as we

for technological approvals. We are very

discussed earlier, we are definitely looking

pleased to share that we already have got

to integrate our operations within the mobile

the approvals from Karbonn and Videocon.

eco system. One of the Taiwanese major

We hope to start supply of the materials to

component suppliers has approached

them very shortly. Talks with some other

us regarding their India expansion plans.

manufacturers both Indian and Chinese

Schedules have already been fixed for their

102 | may 2017

supported by a dedicated team of highly qualified engineers. Currently, we are into research mode for Lithium Polymer Batteries which have started to grow their share in the market due to wide demand for slimmer 4G smart phones. We plan to start manufacturing them soon here. We are also keeping a close watch on recent developments in batteries where lot of alternate material is being tried instead of the conventional Lithium metal. n haider@mymobile.co.in

MYMOBILE

ONLINE MEDIA PARTNER

Software

Special feature

App Your Way to Yoga Yoga originated in India and due to its manifold physical, psychological and spiritual benefits this form of ancient exercise gained tremendous worldwide recognition. But finding a good Yoga guru who can train you as per your convenience remains a challenge. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry? With the advent of scientific technology, this ancient art of physical, mental and spiritual discipline can be practiced as effectively with the help of niche apps and online tutorial videos. So here is a list of some of the most popular yoga apps that can help you gain a better health and guide you to a positive and healthy lifestyle. Best part is that these apps also help you to track your workouts and even count calories you burn.

By Ramesh Kumar Raja

104 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

Software In Focus

Specialfeature special Report

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 105

Software

Special feature

Yoga Studio

magine having the ability to practice yoga wherever you

are at and whenever you have a free minute, at your level of ability, and with the flow you want â&#x20AC;&#x201D; now you can. With Yoga

Studio, you decide when you want to practice, for how long, and what you want to get out of it. Practicing yoga has never been easier. At only $4 for your iOS or Android, you can enjoy 65 ready-made yoga classes, all at varying lengths and difficulty levels. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a simple and easy-to-use app, and the workouts are incredibly effective! n

Office Yoga

or those stuck with a sedentary work profile, the free for Android Office Yoga app by Guru Inc. offers simple, 10minute yoga workout lessons which can be done midday or

in between breaks. There is a cute little monkey who demonstrates the easy-to-do stretches and poses which will help you keep fit even at work without disturbing your colleagues. You will need to first install the free Yoga Guru app to access this plugin. n

106 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

Software

Specialfeature

Pocket Yoga

ith Pocket Yoga you can keep up with your practice at your own pace in the comforts of your own home. Simply roll out your mat, place your device in front, and Pocket Yoga will guide you through

your entire session. Available for both Android and iOS at $3, this yoga app will definitely have you breaking a sweat! With a selection of fast-paced sequences that vary by level and length of time, this app make you feel both more mindful and like you just left a cardio class. n

NexGTvâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Yoga App

f you have ever thought of learning yoga from the experts and doing it like a pro, then

look no further! nexGTv, Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest subscription-led app, has announced the launch of the nexGTv Yoga app. The app will allow nexGTv users around the world to learn yoga techniques and practices on-the-go through videos by expert practitioners such as Baba Ramdev and Mukul

Dev, as well as celeb coaches such as Shilpa Shetty and Bipasha Basu. n

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 107

Software

Special feature

Daily Yoga

aily Yoga offers a big library of more than 50 yoga classes and 400-plus workouts. The app includes HD videos having soulful background music for an even better user

experience. Daily Yoga comes with seven yoga plans geared

towards beginners, and various other exercises duration and intensity based exercises too. The app also provides an advanced module. n

Pranayama

oga focuses quite a lot on breathing patterns. And the Universal Breathing app is intended to help users master the same. It offers various

exercises designed around the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Pranayamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; method of breath control. The app includes structured courses with short exercises that come with a timer and an animated guide. Users can also track their progress and learn more about Pranayama. n

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MYMOBILE

Software

Specialfeature

5-minute Yoga

he Yoga tools from Sadhguru app for Android and iOS will make sure you no longer give the excuse of not having enough time to dedicate practicing Yoga. Designed by Sadhguru, this app is based on the

science of Upa-Yoga which is focused on physical and psychological

benefits derived from the discipline. All you got to do is take out only five minutes every day to practice from a set of seven 5-minute Upa-Yoga practices. The app also offers guidelines and explanatory videos to help you do the asanas right. n

FitStar Yoga

hether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re new to yoga or have been practicing for years, Fitstar Yoga has the perfect session for you.

With poses and sequences that evolve as you progress, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll always be challenged and get a great stretch. Available free for iOS, this was created by the pros at Fitbit who teamed up with yoga expert, Tara Stiles. You can unlock all the classes available for a monthly or yearly cost, or use the available classes for free. n ramesh@mymobile.co.in

may 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 April 22, 2017)

Disclaimer : The prices quoted in My Guide are the Best Buy prices quoted by the respective companies, 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

Pride 350

IS-102

IS-100L Selfie

IS-209

IS-207 Klick

IS-210

Smart Selfie it2180

2.8/-

1.8/128 x 160

2.4/ 240 x 320

1.77/ 240 x 320

Dimension (mm)

131 x 58 x 10.2

112 x 48.5 x 13

112 x 46.5 x 13.5

118 x 51.7 x 9.9

122.5 x 52 x 15.6

127.5 x 53 x 14.2

114.5 x 49.3 x 14.2

Weight (grams)

100

110

Processor/RAM

ST 6531DA/NA

NA/No

260MHz/32Mb

Nucleus

32+32MB/-

NA/8GB

NA/16GB

32Mb/32GB

Digital camera/No

Digital Camera/ Digital Camera

1.3 MP/No

0.08MP/0.08MP

Model Display (inches/res)

Operating system Storage/Expandable

Digital Camera/ Digital Camera

Rear/Front Camera

1.3 MP/NA

Digital camera/No

Battery (mAh)

1800 mAh

850

1,000

1,800

3,000

1,000

2G/3G/4G

Yes/No/No

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes

Oct, 2016

July, 2016

Sept, 2016

Aug, 2016

April, 2016

1,549

730

780

1,299

1,110

1,380

949

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

UP TO RS. 2,499

MODELS

UP TO RS. 2,499

ITEL

PARAMETERS

Model

LEPHONE

Smart Power it5600 Smart Selfie it5231

ZIOX

K1P

Z 214i

Display (inches/res)

1.77/ 240 x 320

2.4/ 240 x 320

1.8

2.4/ 240 x 320

Dimension (mm)

116.6 x 50 x 15.8

124.5 x 54 x 11.4

112*46.5*13.9

123*51.5*13.5

123*51.8*14.9

121x51x12.1

124.2*53*11.3

Weight (grams)

102

Processor/RAM

260MHz/32Mb

360MHz/64Mb

312MHz /32MB

312Mhz/32MB

MOCOR

32MB/32GB

64MB/32GB

32MB / 32GB

NA/16GB

Digital Camera

Digital camera/No

Operating system Storage/Expandable

0.08MP

0.08MP/0.3MP

Digital Camera

Digital Camera/ Digital Camera

2500

1900

1000

1,450

2,500

1,450

1,400

2G/3G/4G

Yes/No/No

Dual SIM

Yes

YES

Yes

Yes/Yes

YES

Yes/Yes-WFM

April, 2016

May, 2016

August '2016

OCTOBER' 2016

August '2016

June, 2016

899

1,335

674

899

999

1,499

1,343

Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

112 I MAY 2017

MYMOBILE

MYGUIDE UP TO RS. 2,499

UP TO RS. 2,499

MODELS

UP TO RS. 2,499

ZIOX

PARAMETERS

Z 13

Z X304

Z 33

Z 314

Z 23

Z 304 mini

Z 38

2.4/ 240 x 320

1.8/128 x 160

2.4/ 240 x 320

Dimension (mm)

124*52*12

125 x 53 x 14.4

125 x 52.5 x 13.6

121 x 52 x 13.45

113 x 49.6 x 14.95

111.2 x 46.5 x 14.2

125 x 53 x 13.6

Weight (grams)

Processor/RAM

312Mhz/32MB

Operating system

MOCOR

Storage/Expandable

NA/16GB

Model Display (inches/res)

Rear/Front Camera

Digital camera/No Digital camera/No Digital camera/No Digital camera/No Digital camera/No Digital camera/No Digital camera/No 1,000

1,750

1,800

1,700

1,800

1,000

1,750

2G/3G/4G

Yes/No/No

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes-WFM

Yes/Yes

Yes/Yes-WFM

Yes/Yes

Yes/Yes-WFM

May, 2016

April, 2016

May, 2016

July, 2016

Aug, 2016

1,593

1,690

1,733

1,443

1,093

1,233

1,553

Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999

MODELS

UP TO RS. 2,499

ZIOX

HONOR

Z 39

Honor Bee

Amaze S9

Air A8

Bingo 10 (M415)

Bingo 21 (M 430)

Aqua Fish

Display (inches/res)

2.4/ 240 x 320

4.5/ 854 x 480

4.5 /-

5.0/ 540 x 960

4.5/ 480 x 854

4.5/ 854 x 480

5/720x1280

Dimension (mm)

125 x 53 x 13.6

134.3 x 66.7 X 10

140 x 66.88 x 9.65

Weight (grams)

170

150

Processor/RAM

312Mhz/32MB

ST SC 7732/1GB

Operating system

MOCOR

Storage/Expandable

PARAMETERS

Model

HITECH

IN-FOCUS

INTEX

140.2 x 72.4 x 8.8 135.65 x 67.38 x 10.43 136.8 x 67 x 10.95

142.4x72x9.6

152

140

152

150

ST 7731/512MB

ST 7731/1GB

MT 6580A/1GB

ST Shark/2GB

Quad core/2GB

Android OS, v4.4

5.1 Lollipop

5.2 Lollipop

Android OS, 6.0

Android 5.1

Sailfish 2.0

NA/16GB

8GB/32GB

4GB/32GB

8GB/32GB

16GB/32GB

Digital camera/No

8MP/2MP

5MP/2MP

8MP/2MP

5MP/5MP

8MP/5MP

8MP/2MP

1,750

1,730

1,400

2,000

2,300

2500

2G/3G/4G

Yes/No/No

Yes/Yes/No

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes-WFM

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

July, 2016

May, 2015

April, 2016

March, 2016

February,2016

1,503

4,999

2,999

4,999

4,399

5,499

Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

www.mymobileindia.com

MAY 2017 I 113

MYGUIDE Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999

Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999

MODELS

Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999

INTEX

PARAMETERS

ITEL

Model

Cloud Glory 4G

Cloud String HD

Aqua Classic 2

Power Pro it1410

Wish it1507

Wish it1407

Display (inches/res)

4.5/ 480 x 854

5/ 720 x 1280

5/480/854

4/480/800

4/ 800 x 480

5/854 x 480

4/WVGA/TN

Dimension (mm)

134.2 x 68 x 9

144.5 x 72.5 x 8.7

145.2x72.6x10.9

124.1x64.2x9.8

124x64.7x12.2

144.4 x 73 x 8.5

125x64.3x10.9mm

Weight (grams)

120

150

136

Quad core, 1.2 GHz/512MB

MT 6735M/ 1GB

SC 9832A/ 1GB

qcta-core/1GB

quad-core/1GB

Dual core, 1.3 GHz/512MB

Operating system

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

Android4.4

Android 5.1

Storage/Expandable

8GB/ 32GB

8GB/32GB

Rear/Front Camera

5MP/2MP

8MP/2MP

5MP/2MP

2MP/2MP

2.0MP/0.3MP

5.0MP/2.0MP

2.0MP/0.3MP

1,800

2,200

2200

1800

2,800

2,400

1500mAh, Li-ion

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Yes/Yes/No

Yes/Yes/yes

Yes/Yes/No

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes

June, 2016

May, 2016

April, 2016

April.2016

3,999

5,599

3,339

5,063

2,989

Processor/RAM

Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

4,600

Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999

MODELS

Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999

3,333

LEPHONE

PARAMETERS

LYF

MICROMAX

W7+

Flame 1

Wind 7i

Canvas Juice 3 Q393

Canvas Spark 3

Display (inches/res)

4.5/ 854x480

5.0/ 854x480

5.0 /854x480

"4.5/854 x 480"

5/1280x720

5.0/720 x 1280

5.5/720x1280

Dimension (mm)

134.5x68x10.2

143.5x72.6x9.6

143.5x72x8.

132.6 x 66.2 x 9.3

143.5x72x8.7

Weight (grams)

126

162

148

138

156

1.5GHz,/ 1 GB

1.5GHz, / GB

1.5GHz, Quadcore/ 1 GB

QS 210/1GB

MT6580/2GB

quad-core/1GB

Operating system

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Storage/Expandable

8 GB/ 32 GB

8GB/128GB

8GB/32GB

Rear/Front Camera

2 MP

5 MP / 2 MP

5MP/5MP

8MP/5MP

8MP/2MP

8MP/5MP

Battery (mAh)

1,300

1,800

2,000

2,250

4,000

2,500

2G/3G/4G

YES

Yes/Yes/Yes

Yes/Yes/No

Dual SIM

YES

Yes

Music Player/FM

YES

Yes/Yes

OCTOBER' 2016

February, 2015

March, 2016

4,699

5,399

5,999

5,499

4,171

4,848

Model

Processor/RAM

Launch Price Rs.

114 I MAY 2017

4,999

MYMOBILE

MYGUIDE RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

MODELS

Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 5,999

PARAMETERS

MICROMAX

VIDEOCON

ASUS

CELKON

COOLPAD

Zenfone Max

Zenfone C ZC451CG

Q550

Note 3 Lite

Canvas Bolt Selfie

Delite11

Zenfone 2 Laser ZE550KL

4.5/854x480

5/1280x720

5.5/720 x 1280

5.5/ 720 x 1280

4.5/480 x 854

5.0/720 x 1280

Dimension (mm)

146.66X74.3X10.52

152.5 x 77.2 x 3.9

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

Weight (grams)

151

170

202

150

149

141

Processor/RAM

MTK6735/1GB

Quad-core/1GB

QS 410/2GB

QS 615/ 2GB, 3GB

IA Z2520/ 1GB

Broadcom/2GB

MT6735/3GB

Operating system

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

Android 5.0

Android 6.0

Android 4.4

Android Kitkat 4.4.2

Android 5.1

Storage/Expandable

8GB/32GB

16GB/128GB

16GB/32GB, 64GB

8GB/64GB

16GB/32GB

Rear/Front Camera

5MP/5MP

5MP/2MP

13MP/5MP

5MP/0.3MP

8MP/2MP

13MP/5MP

1,750

3,000

5,000

2,100

2,500

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Yes/Yes/No

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

May, 2016

August, 2015

May, 2016

January, 2015

2,014

January, 2016

4,849

5,840

9,299

9,325/ 12,999

5,499

7,499

6,999

Model Display (inches/res)

Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

MODELS

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

COOLPAD

PARAMETERS

GIONEE

Mega 2.5D

Note 3 Plus

Mega 3

Note 3

Note 3s

5.5/720x1280

5.5/1080x1920

5.5/1280x720

5.5/720 x 1280

5.5/1920x1080

5/1280X970

5.0/720x1280

Dimension (mm)

153x77x8

151.9 x 77 x 9.3

154.4x76.8x8.35

152 x 77 x 9

154.5x77x8.6

145.3X72.3X8.7

Weight (grams)

141

168

171

150

167

148

Processor/RAM

Quad core/3GB

MT6753/3GB

octa-core/2GB

MT6753/3GB

octa-core/3GB

MT6735/3GB

Quad-core/2GB

Operating system

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Android6.0

Android 6.0

Storage/Expandable

16GB/32GB

16GB/64GB

32GB/32GB

16GB

8MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

8MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

13MP/8MP

8MP/5MP

2,500

3,000

3,050

3,000

2,500

2,300

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes

Yes/-

Yes/Yes

August, 2016

May, 2016

November,2016

October, 2015

November,2016

March, 2017

December,2016

6,999

8,999

6,999

8,999

9,999

8,199

9,999

Model Display (inches/res)

Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

www.mymobileindia.com

Note 5 Lite

NEW

MAY 2017 I 115

MYGUIDE RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

MODELS

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

HONOR

PARAMETERS

HITECH

IN-FOCUS

INTEX

Model

Honor Holly 3

Honor Holly 2 Plus

Air A9

M 350 (16GB)

M680

M810

Aqua S7

Display (inches/res)

5.5/1920x1080

4.8/720 x 1280

5.0-inch, 720 x 1280

5.0/720 x 1280

5.5/720x1280

5.5/1080x1920

5/720x1280

Dimension (mm)

143.1 x 71.8 x 9.7

140.2 x 72.4 x 8.8

151 x 71.5 x 10.6

Weight (grams)

160

152

146

158

155

150

Processor/RAM

Kirin 620/2GB

MT6735P /2GB

MT 3735M/2GB

MT6732/2GB

MT 6753/2GB

QS 801/ 2GB

Quad core/3GB

Operating system

Android 6.0

Android 5.1.1

Android 5.1

Android 4.4.2

Android 5.1

Android 5.0

Android 6.0

Storage/Expandable

16GB/128GB

16GB/32GB

16GB/64GB

16GB/32GB

16GB/64GB

13MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

13MP/8MP

8MP/8MP

13MP/13MP

13MP/5MP

3,100

4,000

3,500

2,500

2,600

3,200

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Music Player/FM

Yes/-

Yes/Yes

Yes

October, 2016

February, 2016

June, 2015

December, 2015

July, 2015

September, 2016

9,999

8,499

6,999

8,999

9,999

9,499

Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Launch Price Rs.

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

142.5x72.5x8.7

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

MODELS

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

156 x 76.8 x 7.25 153.70 x 76.20 x 6.99

INTEX

PARAMETERS

I-SMART

ITEL Wish it1512

Power Pro it1553

Selfie Pro it1511

5.0-inch/480 x 854 5.0-inch/720 x 1280

5/FWVGA/TN

5.5)

5.0/1280 x 720

146.72 x 72.85 x 8.73 143.54 x 71.55 x 8.52

143x72x8.65

138.5x69.5x9.8

170

Quad Core/1 GB

Quad core/1GB

Android 5.1

Android 4.4.2

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

8GB/ 32GB

16GB/ 32GB

8GB/64GB

8GB/32GB

16GB/32GB

8GB/32GB

5MP/ 2MP

8MP/5MP

8.0MP/3.2MP

5.0MP/2.0MP

8.0MP/2.0MP

1,900

2,200

2,100

2,500

5,050

2,500

2G/3G/4G

Yes/ Yes/ Yes

Yes/Yes/Yes

Yes/Yes/No

Yes/Yes/Yes

Yes/Yes/No

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes

May, 2016

June, 2016

September, 2016

September, 2015

June, 2016

April, 2016

6,499

8,999

6,499

6,999

6,000

7,290

6,999

Model

Aqua Secure

Aqua View

Display (inches/res)

4.5/ 480 x 854

5/ 720 x 1280

Dimension (mm)

133.5 x 66.5 x 9.4

124 x 64 x 10.3

Weight (grams)

130

146

155

Processor/RAM

MTK6735M/ 1GB

MTK6735P/ 1GB

Operating system

Android 5.1

Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

116 I MAY 2017

IS-57i

IS-56i HD Mercury V6

MYMOBILE

MYGUIDE RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

MODELS

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

LAVA

PARAMETERS

LEECO

LEPHONE

LENOVO

Pixel V2

X10

X50+

Le 1s (Eco)

Vibe P1m

5.0/ 720 x 1280

5.5/1280x720

5.5/1920 x 1080

5.0 /854x480

5/ 720 x 1280

5.0/720 x 1280

Dimension (mm)

141.6 x 70.8 x 7.6

142 x 70.8 x 7.9

155x71.8x8.85

74.2x151.1x7.6

143x70.8x8.6

142 x 71 x 7.99

141 x 71.8 x 9.3

Weight (grams)

128

133

155

179

161

142

148

Processor/RAM

Quad Core/ 2GB

Quad core /3GB

quad-core/2GB

MT Helio X10/3GB

1.5GHz,/ 1 GB

QS 415/ 2GB

MT6735P /2GB

Operating system

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

Android 5.0.2

Android 5.1

Storage/Expandable

16GB/32GB

32GB/32GB

8 GB/ 32 GB

16GB/ Yes

16GB/32GB

Rear/Front Camera

13MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

8MP/5MP

13MP/5MP

5 MP / 2 MP

13MP/ 5MP

8MP/5MP

2,500

2,900

2,800

3,000

1,800

2,750

4,000

2G/3G/4G

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

September, 2015

November, 2015

May,2016

OCTOBER' 2016

June, 2016

September, 2015

8,499

9,999

6,599

6,999

7,499

Model Display (inches/res)

Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

9,199

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

MODELS

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

LENOVO

PARAMETERS

LYF

MICROMAX

K5 Plus

K3 Note

K6 Power

Wind 5

Canvas Unite 4

Canvas Amaze 2

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

5/ 720 x 1280

Dimension (mm)

142 x 71 x 8.2

152.6 x 76.2 x 8

141.9x70.3x9.3

Weight (grams)

142

150

145

Model Display (inches/res)

144.6 x 72.8 x 8.45 143.6 x 72.5 x 8.95 137

MTK 6735P/1GB

QS415/ 2GB

Processor/RAM

QS616/2GB

MT6752 /2GB

QS 430/3GB

MT6735P/ 1GB

1.1GHz Quad Core/ 1.5GB

Operating system

Android 5.1

Android 5.0

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Android 5.0

Android 6.0

Android 5.0.2

Storage/Expandable

16GB/32GB

32GB/128GB

8GB/ 32GB

8GB/32GB

8GB/64GB

8GB/ 32GB

Rear/Front Camera

13MP/5MP

13MP/8MP

8MP/ 5MP

5MP/5MP

8MP/5MP

13MP/ 5MP

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

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes/Yes

Yes/Yes

April, 2016

March, 2015

November,2016

June, 2016

January, 2016

June, 2016

8,499

9,999

6,599

8,690

6,999

7,499

Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

www.mymobileindia.com

MAY 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

PANASONIC

Model

Canvas XP 4G

Canvas 5

Canvas Unite 4 Pro

Canvas Sliver 5

Moto G4 Play

Moto E3 Power

Eluga Tapp

Display (inches/res)

5.0/720 x 1280

5.2/1080 x 1920

5.0/ 1280 x 720

4.8/720 x 1280

5/720x1280

5/1280x720

Dimension (mm)

5.1mm thick

144.4x72x9.9

148.3x71.6x9.55

142x70x8.6

Weight (grams)

137

153

138

Processor/RAM

MT6735P/3GB

MT6753/3GB

Quad core/ 2GB

QS 410 /2GB

QS 410/2GB

MTK6735P/2GB

MTK6737V/2GB

Operating system

Android 5.1

Android 5.0.2

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Storage/Expandable

16GB/32GB

16GB/64GB

16GB/32GB

16GB/No

16GB/128GB

16GB/32GB

8MP/2MP

13MP/5MP

8MP/5MP

2,000

2,900

3,900

2,000

2,800

3,500

2,800

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/-

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

May, 2016

November, 2015

June, 2016

2,015

September, 2016

7,499

9,999

7,499

8,387

8,999

7,999

Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

MODELS

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

8,189

SAMSUNG

PARAMETERS

TCL

Model

Galaxy J1 4G

Galaxy On5

Galaxy On 5 Pro

Display (inches/res)

4.3/480x800

5.0/720 x 1280

5.0/ 1280 x 720

Dimension (mm)

129x68.2x8.9

142.3 x 72.1 x 8.5

Weight (grams)

131

149

Processor/RAM

Quad-core/1GB

TCL 560

TCL 562

5/720x1280

5.5/ 1280x720

5.5/1920x1080

142.4 x 71.1 x 8.0

142.4x71.1x8

152x77x8

149

138

156

150

Quad-core/1.5GB

Quad core/ 2GB

Quad core/ 1.5GB

Quad core/2GB

QS 210/2GB

MT6755M/3GB

Android 4.4 KitKat

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

4GB/256GB

8GB/128GB

16GB/128GB

8GB/128GB

16GB/128GB

16GB/32GB

32GB/64GB

5MP/2MP

8MP/5MP

13MP/5MP

2,050

2,600

2,500

2,960

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

Januray 2017

October, 2015

July, 2016

July,2016

July, 2016

July,2016

6,890

7,490

7,990

9,750

9,490

6,999

9,999

Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

118 I MAY 2017

Galaxy J2 (2016) Galaxy J2 Pro (2016)

MYMOBILE

MYGUIDE RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

MODELS

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

XIAOMI

PARAMETERS

Model

Redmi 2 Prime

Display (inches/res)

4.7/720 x 1280

Dimension (mm)

Redmi Note 3

Redmi 3s Plus

Redemi Note 4

Graphite2

5.5/720 x 1280

5.5/1080 x 1920

5/1280x720

5.5/1080X1920

4.5/1280x720

154 x 78.7 x 9.45

150 x 76 x 8.65

139.3x69.6x8.5

151X76X8.3

137.55X70.28X10

Redmi 3S/ 3s Prime Redmi Note Prime 5/ 1280X720

134.00 x 67.20 x 9.4 139.4 X 69.7 X 8.5

VIDEOCON

Weight (grams)

133

144

185

164

144

165

129

Processor/RAM

QS 410/2GB

QS 430/ 2GB, 3GB

QS 410/2GB

QS 650/2GB,3GB

QS 430/2GB

QS625/2GB,3GB,4GB

Quad-core/1GB

Operating system

Android 4.4

Android 6.0

Android 4.4

Android 5.0.2

Android 6.0

Storage/Expandable

16GB/32GB

16GB, 32GB/128GB

16GB/32GB

16GB,32GB/32GB

32GB/128GB

32GB/64GB

8GB/64GB

8MP/2MP

13MP/5MP

16MP/5MP

13MP/5MP

5MP/2MP

2,200

4,100

3,100

4,000

4000/4100

4,100

2,000

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes (Hybrid)

Yes

Yes/Yes

Yes/-

Yes/Yes

Yes/Yees

Yes/Yes

August, 2015

August, 2016

December, 2015

March, 2016

October,2016

January, 2017

6,999

6,999/ 8,999

7,999

9,999/ 11,999

9,499

9,999

6,299

Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

MODELS

RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

VIDEOCON

PARAMETERS

Graphite1

Delite21

Krypton3

Ultra30

Ultra50

Yunique

Yuphoria

Display (inches/res)

4.5/1280x720

5/1280x720

5/1920X1080

4.7/720x1280

5.0/720x1280

Dimension (mm)

136.76X69X10

146.66X74.3X10.52

144.5X73.14X9.74

144.31X73X10

148.24X72.56X11.44

Weight (grams)

127

151

153

186

128

143

Processor/RAM

Quad-core/1GB

Quad-core/2GB

Quad-core/3GB

QS 410 / 1GB

Quad core / 2GB

Operating system

Android 6.0

Android 5.1.

Android 5.1.1

Storage/Expandable

8GB/64GB

16GB/32GB

32GB/64GB

8GB/32GB

16GB/32GB

Rear/Front Camera

5MP/2MP

8MP/2MP

13MP/5MP

8MP/2MP

8MP/5MP

2,000

3,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

2,230

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes

September, 2015

May, 2015

6,499

7,200

7,999

9,990

6,300

6,499

Model

Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

www.mymobileindia.com

134.5 x 67.5 x 8.3 142.4 x 73 x 8.2-9.35

MAY 2017 I 119

MYGUIDE RS. 6,000 – RS. 9,999

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

MODELS

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

PARAMETERS

Model Display (inches/res)

ZEN

ZOPO

ZTE

ASUS

Cinemax 3

ZP331

Blade V6

ZenFone 2 (2GB/4GB)

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

Dimension (mm)

Zenfone Selfie

Zenfone 3 lazer

Zenfone 3 Max(ZC520TL)

5.5/1080 x 1920

5.5/1920x1080

5.2/1280x720

149x76x7.9

149x73.7x8.55

152.5 x 77.2 x 10.9 156.5 x 77.2 x 10.8

Weight (grams)

August,2016

113

122

170

Processor/RAM

Quad core/2GB

Quad core/1GB

MTK 6735/2GB

IA Z3560 /2GB

QS615 /2GB,3GB

QS 430.4GB

Quad-core/3GB

Operating system

Android 5.1

Android 5.0

Android 6.0

Storage/Expandable

16GB/32GB

8 GB/64 GB

16GB/128GB

32GB/128GB

32GB/32GB

Rear/Front Camera

5MP/3.2MP

5 MP/2 MP

13MP/5MP

13MP/13MP

13MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

2,900

1,700

2,500

3,000

4,100

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/No

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes

Yes/-

Yes/Yes/Yes

Yes/No

August, 2016

July, 2016

March, 2015

August, 2015

October,2016

November,2016

6,999

7,500

9,999

13,999, 18,999

10,999/ 16,999

18,999

12,999

Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

MODELS

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

16GB,32GB/128GB 16GB,32GB/128GB

148

PARAMETERS

ASUS

COOLPAD

GIONEE

HONOR

Model

ZenFone 3 Max (ZC520TL) NEW

Coolpad Note 5

Cool 1

F 103 Pro

Marathon M5 Lite

Honor 5C

Honor 5X

Display (inches/res)

5.2/1280X720

5.5/1920x1080

5.50/1080x1920

5.0/ 1280 x 720

5.0/720 x 1280

5.2/ 1920 x 1080

5.5/ 1080 x 1920

Dimension (mm)

149x73.7x8.55

143 x 69.9 x 8.5

147.1 x 73.8 x 8.3

151.3 x 76.3 x 8.15

152.00 x 74.80 x 8.20 145.3 x 70.5 x 8.5

173

142

182

156

158

Octa-core/3GB

QS 617/4GB

1.4GHz octa-core

Quad core/ 3GB

Quad Core/3GB

Kirin 650/ 2GB

QS 616 /2GB

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

Android 5.1.1

32GB2TB

32GB/64GB

32GB

16GB/128GB

32GB/128GB

16GB/128GB

13MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

8MP/5MP

13MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

5,000

4,010

4,000

2,400

4,000

3,000

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

Yes/-

feb 20917

October, 2016

January, 2017

July, 2016

December, 2015

June, 2016

January, 2016

14,999

10,999

13,999

11,999

13,000

10,999

12,999

Weight (grams) Processor/RAM Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

120 I MAY 2017

MYMOBILE

MYGUIDE RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

MODELS

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

HONOR

HTC

INFOCUS

LAVA

Desire 630

Epic 1

Le 1S

Le 2

Phab 2

Display (inches/res)

5.5/1080X1920

5.0/ 1280 x 720

5.5/1920x1080

5.5/720x1280

5.5/1080x1920

5.5/ 1920 x 1080

6.4/1920x1080

Dimension (mm)

150.9X76.2X8.2

146.9 x 70.9 x 8.3

153x76x8.4

151.1 x 74.2 x 7.7

175x89.5x6.89

Weight (grams)

162

140

Processor/RAM

Kirin 655

QS 400/2GB

Operating system

Android 6.0

Storage/Expandable

PARAMETERS

Model

LEECO

151.9 x 94.7 x 8.3 151.9 x 74.2 x 7.6

LENOVO

153

169

153

225

Decca-core/3GB

Quad core/3GB

"MT H X10/3GB"

QS 652/ 3GB

MTK8735/3GB

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

32GB/64GB

16GB/2TB

32GB/128GB

16GB/32GB

32GB/No

32GB/128GB

12 and 2MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

16MP/8MP

13MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

16MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

3,340

2,200

3,000

4,050

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Yes/Yes/yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes

Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

Jnauray 2017

February, 2016

November,2016

January, 2016

June, 2016

December,2016

12,999

14,990

12,999

11,299

10,999

11,999

Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

MODELS

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

LENOVO

PARAMETERS

LYF

Model

Vibe K4 Note

Vibe S1

Phab Plus

Vibe K5 Note

Phab 2 Plus

Water 7

Display (inches/res)

5.5/1080x1920

5.0/1080x1920

6.8/1080 x 1920

5.5/1920x1080

6.4/1920x1080

5.5/ 1080 x 1920

5.5/1920x1080

186.6 x 96.6 x 7.6

152x75.7x8.49

174x88x5.5

155.3 x 77.2 x 8.55

155.5x77.6x7.9

Dimension (mm)

153.67 X 76.45 X 9.14 143.3 x 70.8 x 7.8

Weight (grams)

158

132

229

165

218

160

153

Processor/RAM

MT 6753/3GB

MT6752/3GB

QS 615 /2GB

Helio P10/4GB

MT/3GB

QS 615/ 2GB

QS 617/3GB

Operating system

Android 5.1.

Android 5.0

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

Storage/Expandable

16GB/128GB

32GB/128GB

32GB/64GB

32GB/128GB

16GB/128GB

32GB/128GB

13MP/5MP

13MP/8 MP + 2 MP

13MP/5MP

13MP.8MP

13MP,13MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

16MP/8MP

3,300

2,420

3,500

4,050

3,000

3,200

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes/Yes

Yes

Yes/Yes

Yes/-

Yes/Yes

January, 2016

November, 2015

October, 2015

Jaunuary,2016

November,2016

June, 2016

October,2016

11,999

12,999

14,999

13,499

14,999

12,999

13,099

Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

www.mymobileindia.com

MAY 2017 I 121

MYGUIDE RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

MODELS

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

PARAMETERS

MICROMAX

MOTOROLA

K 10

X Screen

G4 Stylus

Canvas 6

Canvas 6 Pro

Moto G Turbo Edition

Display (inches/res)

5.3/ 1280 x 720

4.93/ 1280x720

5.7/ 720 x 1280

5.5/1920 x 1080

5.0/720 x 1280

5.5/ 1920 x 1080

Dimension (mm)

146.6x74.8x8.8

142.6 x 71.8 x 7.1

154.4 x 79.2 x 9.4

142.1 x 72.4 x 11.6

153 x 76.6 x 7.9

Weight (grams)

140

120

163

155

Processor/RAM

QS 410/2GB

QS 400 /1GB

MT6753/3GB

Helio x10/4GB

QS 615 /2GB

QS 617/2GB

Operating system

Android 5.0

Android 6.0

Android 5.0

Android 5.1

Android 5.1.1

Android 6.0.1

Storage/Expandable

16GB/32GB

16GB/128GB

16GB/32GB

32GB/128GB

Yes/Yes

16GB/32GB

16GB/128GB

Rear/Front Camera

13MP/5MP

13MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

13MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

2,300

3,000

2,470

3,000

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes

Yes/-

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

January, 2016

July, 2016

May, 2015

May, 2016

2,015

May, 2016

12,999

12,990

13,869

13,999

9,999

12,499

Model

Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

MODELS

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

Moto G4

MOTOROLA

PARAMETERS

Model

Moto G4 Plus

NUBIA

G5 Plus

NEW

PANASONIC

Z11 Mini

Eluga Note

Eluga Arc

Eluga Pulse X

NEW

5.5/ 1920X1080

5.2/1980X1080

5/1920x1080

5.5/1920x1080

5.5/ 1920 x 1080

4.7/720x1280

5.5/1280X720

Dimension (mm)

153X76.6X9.8

153X76X9.6

141.4x70x8

150.9x79x8.9

146.00x74.50x8.10

139 x 67 x 8.10

Weight (grams)

155

138

190

142

130

152

Processor/RAM

QS 617/2GB,3GB

QS 625 Octa-core

QS/3GB

MTK P10/3GB

Octa Core/3GB

QS 410/2GB

Quad-core/3GB

Android 6.1

Android 7.0

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

16GB, 32GB/128GB

16GB/32GB

32GB/200GB

32GB/128GB

32GB/32GB

16GB/32GB

16GB/128GB

16MP/5MP

12MP/5MP

16MP/8MP

13MP/13MP

16MP/5MP

8MP/5MP

13MP/5MP

3,000

2,800

5,000

3,000

1,800

3,000

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Yes/Yes/yes

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

yes

Yes

Music Player/FM

Yes

Yes/Yes

Yes

May,2016

March, 2017

October,2016

December,2016

July, 2016

April,2016

March, 2017

13,499/ 14,999

14,999

12,999

11,999

13,290

12,490

10,990

Display (inches/res)

Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Launch Price Rs.

122 I MAY 2017

MYMOBILE

MYGUIDE RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

MODELS

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

PARAMETERS

MOTOROLA

SAMSUNG

Moto X (2nd Gen)

Galaxy On7

Galaxy J5

Galaxy J Max

Galaxy J5 (2016)

Galaxy J7

J5 Prime

Display (inches/res)

5.2/1080 x 1920

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

Dimension (mm)

140.8 x 72.4 x 9.9

77.5x151.8x8.2

145.7 x 72.3 x 8.1

152.2 x 78.6 x 7.5

142.8x69.5x8.1

Weight (grams)

144

171

146

158

171

143

Processor/RAM

QS801 /2GB

Quad-core/1.5GB

Quad core/1.5GB

QS 410/2GB

Octa Core/1.5GB

Quad-core/2GB

Operating system

Android 4.4.4

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

16GB, 32GB/64GB

8GB/128GB

8GB/200GB

16GB/128GB

16GB/256GB

13MP/2MP

13MP/5MP

8MP/2MP

13MP/5MP

2,300

3,000

2,600

4,000

3,100

3,000

2,400

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

2,015

October, 2015

June, 2015

July, 2016

May, 2016

2,015

September,2016

16✌999/ 17,999

11,990

11,390

13,400

13,990

14,250

14,790

Model

Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

142.1 x 71.8 x 7.9 186.9 x 108.8 x 8.7

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

MODELS

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

PARAMETERS

SAMSUNG

XIAOMI

VIDEOCON

VIVO

Model

Galaxy On7 Pro

Mi 4i

Mi Max

Cube3

Y51L

Y55L

Display (inches/res)

5.5/1280 x 720

5.0/1080 x 1920

6.44/1920x1080

5/1280x720

5.0/ 540x960

5.2/1280x720

Dimension (mm)

151.8 x 77.5 x 8.2

138.1 x 69.6 x 7.8

173.1x88.3x7.5

147.9x72.9x7.5

Weight (grams)

171

130

203

152.5

157

142

Processor/RAM

Quad core/ 2GB

QS 615/2GB

QS 650,652/3GB,4GB

Quad-core/3GB

QS 410/2GB

QS 430/2GB

QS 425/3GB

Operating system

Android 6.0

Android 5.0

Android 6.0

Android 5.0.2

Android 6.0

Storage/Expandable

16GB/128GB

16GB,32GB/No

32GB,128GB/128GB

32GB/64GB

16GB/128GB

16GB/256GB

8MP/5MP

13MP/5MP

16MP/5MP

13MP/5MP

8MP/5MP

13MP/5MP

3,000

3,120

4,850

3000

2,350

2,650

2,730

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Yes/Yes/yes

Yes/Yes/No

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

Yes/yes

Yes

July, 2016

April, 2015

June,2016

January, 2016

October,2016

March, 2017

11,190

11,999/ 14,999

14,999

10,490

10,700

11,980

12,490

Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

www.mymobileindia.com

144.5X73.14X9.74 143.80 x 71.70 x 7.52

Y55S

NEW

MAY 2017 I 123

MYGUIDE RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

MODELS

RS. 10,000 – RS. 14,999

PARAMETERS

ZOPO

ZUK

Yureka Plus (YU5510A,YU5510 )

Yunicorn

Yureka Note

ZP350

ZP370

Hero 1

5.5/1080x1920

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

Dimension (mm)

155 x 78 x 9

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

Weight (grams)

154

172

137

167

136

175

Processor/RAM

QS 615/2GB

MT Helio P10/4GB

MTK6753T/3GB

Quad-core/1GB

Ouad-core/1GB

Quad-core/2GB

QS 801/3GB

Operating system

Android 4.4.4

Androis 5.1.1

Android 5.1.1

Android 5.1

Android 5.1.1

Storage/Expandable

16GB/32GB

32GB/128GB

16GB/Yes

8GB/64GB

16 GB/64 GB

64GB/No

Rear/Front Camera

13MP/5MP

13MP/8MP

8.0MP/2.0MP

13.2 MP/5.0MP

13MP/8MP

2,500

4,000

2,100

3,000

2,500

4,100

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

yes/yes/yes

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

yes

Yes

Yes/Yes

yes

Yes/Yes

Yes/-

July, 2015

May,2016

April, 2016

May, 2016

8,999

12,999

13,499

10,000

11,000

14,500

13,499

Model Display (inches/res)

Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999

MODELS

RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999

ASUS

PARAMETERS

CREO

GIONEE

HTC

Model

Zenfone 2 Laser ZE601KL

Zenfone 3 Max (ZC553KL)

Mark 1

Marathon M5

S6s

Desire 728 LTE

Display (inches/res)

6.0/ 1080 x 1920

5.5/1920x1080

5.5/ 1440x2560

5.5/ 720 x 1280

5.5/1920x1080

5.5/ 720 x 1280

Dimension (mm)

164.6 x 84 x 10.6

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

Weight (grams)

190

175

190

211

147

166

153 MT6753/2GB

Processor/RAM

QS 616/3GB

QS 430/3GB

Helio X10 /3GB

MT6735/3GB

MT6753T /3GB

1.3GHZ OCTA CORE/3GB

Operating system

Android 5.0

Android 6.0

Android 5.1.1

Android 5.1

Android 5.1.1

Android 6.0

Android 5.1.1

Storage/Expandable

32GB/128GB

32GB/-

32GB/128GB

32gb/128gb

16GB/200GB

13MP/5MP

16MP/8MP

21MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

13MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

3,000

4,100

3,100

6,020

3,150

3,159

2,800

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

December, 2015

November,2016

April,2016

November,2015

November, 2015

August,2016

November, 2015

16,499

17,999

19,999

17,500

19,999

17, 999

15,500

Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

124 I MAY 2017

MYMOBILE

MYGUIDE RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999

RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999

MODELS

RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999

HTC

PARAMETERS

LENOVO

Desire 828

Desire 825

HTC 10 Lifestyle

Vibe P1

Vibe Shot

Vibe X3

Z2 Plus

5.5/720 x 1280

5.5/ 1280 x 720

5.5/1920x1080

5.5/1080x1920

5.0/1080 x 1920

5.5/1080x1920

5/1920x1080

Dimension (mm)

157.9 x 77.8 x 7.89

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

Weight (grams)

148

155

187

145

175

150

Processor/RAM

MT6753/1.5GB

QS 400/2GB

QS 400/3GB

QS615 /2GB

QS 615/3GB

QS 808 /3GB

QS 820/3GB,4GB

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

Storage/Expandable

16GB/2TB

32GB/2TB

32GB/128GB

32GB,64GB/128GB

Rear/Front Camera

13MP/5MP

16MP/8MP

21MP/8MP

13MP/8MP

2,800

2,700

5,000

3,000

3,500

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/No

Yes/Yes/Yes

Yes/Yes/yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

Yes/-

Yes/Yes

November, 2015

February, 2016

September,2016

October, 2015

June, 2015

December, 2015

September,2016

18,700

14,490

15,990

15,499

18,500

19,999

Model Display (inches/res)

Operating system

Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999

MODELS

RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999

LYF

PARAMETERS

MOTOROLA

NEXTBIT

OPPO

SAMSUNG

Earth 1

Earth 2

Moto X Play

Robin

F1 S

Galaxy J7 (2016)

Galaxy On8

5.5/1080x1920

5/1920x1080

5.5/1080 x 1920

5.2/ 1080 x 1920

5.5/1280x720

5.5/1920x1080

Dimension (mm)

154 x 76.6 x 7.25

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

Weight (grams)

162.5.

140

169

160

169

Processor/RAM

QS 615/3GB

QS615 /2GB

QS 808/3GB

MTK 6750/3GB

Exynos 7870/2GB

Octa-core/3GB

Operating system

Android 5.1.1

Android 5.1

Android 5.1.1

Android 6.0

Android 5.1.1

Android 6.0

32GB/32GB

32GB/64GB

16GB,32GB/128GB

32GB/ 100GB

32GB/128GB

16GB/128GB

13MP + 2MP/5MP

13MP/13MP

21MP/5MP

13MP/5MP

13MP/16MP

13MP/5MP

3,500

2500

3,630

2,680

3,075

3,300

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Yes/yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

Yes/yes

Sept, 2015

May, 2016

August, 2016

May, 2016

September,2016

19,999

16,999/ 17,999

19,999

17,990

15,990

15,900

Model Display (inches/res)

Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

January, 2016 19,499

www.mymobileindia.com

MAY 2017 I 125

MYGUIDE RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999

RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999

MODELS

RS. 15,000 – RS. 19,999

SAMSUNG

PARAMETERS

VIVO

ZOPO

APPLE

On Nxt

J7 Prime

SPEED 7

SPEED 7 PLUS

iPhone 5S

5.5/1920x1080

5.0/1280×720

5.5/1280x720

5.0/1920 x 1080

5.5/ 1920 x 1080

4.0/640 x 1136

Dimension (mm)

151.7x75x8

143.6 x 71 x 7.5

153.8x75.5x7.55

153.6 x 76.5 x 8.8

123.8 x 58.6 x 7.6

Weight (grams)

167

138

154

164

112

Processor/RAM

Octa-core/3GB

QS 616/3GB

octa-core/4GB

Octa-core/3GB

Octa-core /3GB

Dual-core/1GB

Operating system

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

iOS 9.2.1

Storage/Expandable

32GB/256GB

16MP/256GB

32GB/128GB

16 GB/64 GB

16GB,32GB,64GB/No

13MP/8MP

13MP/20MP

13 MP/5.0MP

8MP/1.2MP

3,300

2,550

3,000

2,500

3,000

1,560

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes

Yes/-

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

October,2016

September,2016

May, 2016

November,2016

September, 2013

18,490

18,790

17,980

18,288

15,500

17,500

23,000 onwards

Model Display (inches/res)

Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

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

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)

146.87x 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 5.1

Android 6.0

32GB,64GB/2TB

64GB/128GB

16GB/2TB

64GB/128GB

64GB/256GB

32GB/128GB

16MP/8MP

23MP/8MP

13MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

13MP/8MP

12MP,12MP/8MP

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

Dual SIM

Yes

yes

Yes

Music Player/FM

Yes

Yes/Yes

yes

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

August,2016

August, 2016

November,2016

May, 2016

October,2016

October, 2016

21,999/ 27,999

29,999

21,990

24,999

27,000

21,130

29,000

Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Launch Price Rs.

126 I MAY 2017

MYMOBILE

MYGUIDE RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999

RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999

MODELS

RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999

PARAMETERS

HONOR

HTC

LEECO

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

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

2,700

2G/3G/4G

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/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.

RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999

MODELS

RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999

MOTOROLA

PARAMETERS

NUBIA

ONEPLUS

SAMSUNG

Moto X Style

Moto Z Play

Z11

Galaxy A7

5.7/ 1440 x 2560

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

151.8x72.3x7.5

151.8x74.9x9.85

152.7X74.7X7.35

152.7x74.5x7.35

151 x 76.2 x 6.3

Weight (grams)

179

165

162

175

158

141

Processor/RAM

QS 808/3GB

QS 625/3GB

QS 820/6GB

QS 810/3GB&4GB

QS 820/6GB

QS 821/6GB

Octa Core/2GB

Operating system

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Android 6.1

Android 6.0

Android 5.0.2

16GB,32GB/128GB

32GB/2TB

64GB/2TB

64GB

16GB/64GB

21MP/5MP

16MP/5MP

16MP/8MP

13MP/5MP

16MP/8MP

16MP/16MP

13MP/5MP

3,000

3,510

3000

3,300

3,000

3400

2,600

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

September, 2015

October,2016

December,2016

July, 2015

June, 2016

December.2016

February, 2015

26,999/ 28,999

24,999

29,999

22,999

27,999

29,999

22,900

Model Display (inches/res)

Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

www.mymobileindia.com

MAY 2017 I 127

MYGUIDE RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999

RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999

MODELS

RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999

SAMSUNG

PARAMETERS

Galaxy A5 (2016)

Model Display (inches/res)

SMARTRON

Galaxy A7 (2016) Galaxy A5/A7 (2017) NEW

5.2/1080 x 1920

t phone

SONY Xperia C4

NEW

Xperia XA

Xperia Z3+

5.5/ 1080 x 1920

5.2/5.5/1080X1920

5.5/1920x1080

5.5/1080 x 1920

5.0/1280 x 720

5.2/ 1080 x 1920

158.2x78.2x6.98

150.3 x 77.4 x 7.9

143.6 x 66.8 x 7.9

146.3 x 71.9 x 6.9

Dimension (mm)

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)

153

169

157/I86

149

147

137

144

Processor/RAM

Octa Core/2GB

Octa Core/3GB

Octa Core/2GB/3GB

QS 810/4GB

MT6752/2GB

MTK H P10/2GB

QS 810 /3GB

Operating system

Android 5.1.1

Android 6.0

Android 5.0

Android 6.0

Android 5.0

Storage/Expandable

16GB/128GB

32GB/256GB

64GB/128GB

16GB/200GB

32GB/128GB

13MP/5MP

16MP/16MP/16MP/16MP

13MP/4MP

13MP/5MP

20.7MP/5MP

2,900

3,300

3000/3600

3,000

2,600

2,300

2,930

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes

Yes/yYes

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

April, 2016

December, 2015

March, 2017

July,2016

June, 2015

May, 2016

June, 2015

21,900

25,900

28,990/33,490

22,999

20,800

20,990

26,990

Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999

MODELS

RS. 20,000 – RS. 29,999

SONY

PARAMETERS

XIAOMI

VIVO

Xperia C5 Ultra Dual

Xperia M5 Dual

Xperia XA Ultra

Mi 5

X5 Pro

V3 Max

V5 Plus

Display (inches/res)

6.0/1080 x 1920

5/ 1080 x 1920

6/1920x1080

5.15/1080 x 1920

5.2/ 1080 x 1920

5.5/1080 x 1920

5.5/1080X1920

Dimension (mm)

164.2 x 79.6 x 8.2

145 x 72 x 7.6

164x79x8.4

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)

187

143

202

129

151

168

159

Processor/RAM

MTK6752/2GB

MT H X10/3GB

MT6755/3GB

QS 820/3GB

QS 615/2GB

QS 652/4GB

Operating system

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

Android 5.0

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

Storage/Expandable

16GB/200GB

32GB/No

16GB/128GB

32GB/128GB

64GB

Rear/Front Camera

13MP/13MP

21.5MP/13MP

21.5MP/16MP

16MP/4MP

13MP/8MP

12MP and 8MP/16 MP

2,930

2,600

2,700

3,000

2,450

3,000

3,160

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

August, 2015

September, 2015

July,2016

April, 2016

June, 2015

April, 2016

27,799

27,990

29,990

24,999

21,400

23,980

Model

Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

128 I MAY 2017

42,736/27,980

MYMOBILE

MYGUIDE 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

A9,M9/2GB

iOS 9

iOS 9.3

iOS 9

16GB,64GB/No

8MP/1.2MP

12MP/1.2MP

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

Dual SIM

Yes/No

September,2014

March, 2016

September,2015

October,2016

0ctober,2016

27,990/45,990

48,500/57,000

30,990/44,000

Model

Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

iOS 10

16GB,64GB,128GB/ No 16GB,64GB,128GB/ No 32GB/128GB/256GB 32GB/128GB/256GB

43,000/ 58,000/ 67,000 53,000/68,000/77,000 55,000/65,000/80,000 72,000/82,000/92,000

RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE

MODELS

RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE

A10 Fusion, M10/2GB A10Fusion, M10/3GB

ASUS

PARAMETERS

BLACKBERRY

GOOGLE

HUAWEI

Model

Zenfone Zoom

Zenfone 3 Deluxe

Priv

DTEK 60

Pixel

Pixel XL

Nexus 6P

Display (inches/res)

5.5/1080 x 1920

5.7/(1920x1080)

5.4/1440 x 2560

5.5/2560x1440

5/1920x1080

5.5/2560x1440

5.7/1440 x 2560

Dimension (mm)

158.9 x 78.8 x 11.95

156.4x74.4x7.5

147 x 77.2 x 9.4

153.9x75.4x7

143.8x69.5x8.5

154.7x75.7x8.5

159.3 x 77.8 x 7.3

Weight (grams)

185

172

192

165

Processor/RAM

IA Z3590/4GB

QS 820,821/6GB

QS 808/3GB

QS 820/4GB

QS 821/4GB

QS810 /3GB

Android 5.0

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

Android 7.1

Android 6.0

128GB/ 128GB

256GB/128GB

32GB/2TB

32GB,128GB/ No

32GB,64GB/No

13MP/5MP

23MP/8MP

18MP/2MP

21MP/8MP

12.3MP/8MP

3,000

3,410

2,610

2,770

3,450

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/No

Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

January, 2016

September,2016

October, 2015

November,2016

October,2016

October, 2015

37,999

49,999

34,999

46,990

57,000/66,000

67,000/76,000

34,999/ 39,999

Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

www.mymobileindia.com

178

MAY 2017 I 129

MYGUIDE RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE

RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE

MODELS

RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE

PARAMETERS

HUAWEI

HTC

Model

One A9

LEECO

HTC U Play/Ultra

Le Max

G4 Dual SIM

6.33/2560 x 1440

5.5/1440 x 2560

5.3/ 2560x1440

Display (inches/res)

5.2/1920x1080

5.0/1080 x 1920

5.2/ 2560X1440

5.2/1080X1920/ 5.7/2560X1440

Dimension (mm)

145x70.9x6.95

145.75 x 70.8 x 7.26

145.9 x 71.9x 9.0

162.41X79.79X7.99

83.5x167.1x8.95

148.9 x 76.1 x 8.9

149.4x73.9x7.3

Weight (grams)

144

143

161

145/175

204

155

159

Processor/RAM

Kirin 955/3GB,4GB

QS 617/3GB

QS 820/4GB

MediaTek/QS821

QS 810 /4GB

QS 808 /3GB

QS 820/4GB

Android 6.0

android 6.0

Android 6/Android 7

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

64GB,128GB/No

32GB/2TB

32GB/100GB

21MP/4UP

16MP/8MP

Operating system

32GB/256GB/64GB/ 2TB 16MP/16MP/16MP/ 12MP

32GB,64GB,/128GB

32GB/2TB

12MP,12MP/8MP

13MP/4MP

12MP/5MP

3,000

2,150

3,000

2500/3000

3,400

3,000

2,800

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

August,2016

December, 2015

May,2016

February, 2017

January, 2016

May, 2015

April,2016

39,999

31,990

52,460

39,990/59990

32,999/ 36,999

34,800

52,990

Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE

MODELS

RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE

PARAMETERS

MOTOROLA

ONEPLUS

SAMSUNG

V20

Moto X Force

Moto Z

Galaxy S6

Galaxy S6 Edge

Galaxy A9 Pro

Display (inches/res)

5.7/2560x1440

5.4/1440 x 2560

5.5/2560x1440

5.5/1920x1080

5.1/ 1440 x 2560

6/1920x1080

Dimension (mm)

159.5x77.9x7.6

149.8 x 78 x 9.2

153.3x75.3x5.19

152.7x74.5x7.35

143.4 x 70.5 x 6.8

142.1 x 70.1 x 7

161.7x80.9x7.9

Weight (grams)

174

169

136

158

138

132

210

Processor/RAM

QS 820/4GB

QS 810 /3GB

QS 820/4GB

QS 821/6GB

Octa core /3GB

octa-core/4GB

Operating system

Android 7.0

Android 5.1.1

Android 6.0

Android 5.0.2

Android 6.0

64GB/2TB

32GB,64GB/2TB

64GB/2TB

128GB

32GB,/No

32GB/No

32GB/256GB

16MP,8MP/5MP

21MP/5MP

13MP/5MP

16MP/16MP

16MP/5MP

16MP/8MP

3,200

3,760

2,600

3,400

2,550

2,600

5,000

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

Yes/No

Yes/Yes

December,2016

November, 2015

October,2016

December.2016

March, 2015

April, 2015

September,2016

54,999

34,999/ 37,999

39,999

34,999

33,900

34,900

32,490

Model

Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

130 I MAY 2017

MYMOBILE

MYGUIDE RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE

RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE

MODELS

RS. 30,000 AND ABOVE

SAMSUNG

PARAMETERS

SONY

Model

Samsung Galaxy Note 5

Galaxy S7

Galaxy S7 Edge

Xperia Z5 Dual

Xperia X

Xperia Z5 Premium

Xperia XZ

Display (inches/res)

5.7/1440 x 2560

5.1/2560 X 1440

5.5/2560 X 1440

5.2/1080 x 1920

5/1920x1080

5.5/ 2160 x 3840

5.2/1920x1080

Dimension (mm)

153.2 x 76.1 x 7.6

69.6x142.4x7.9

72.6 x 150.9 x 7.7

146 x 72 x 7.3

143 x 69 x 7.7

154.4 x 76 x 7.8

146x72x8.1

Weight (grams)

171

152

157

156.5g

152

181

161

Processor/RAM

Quad core /4GB

Exynos 8890/4GB

QS 810/3GB

QS 650/ 3GB

QS 810/3GB

QS 820/3GB

Android 5.1.1

Android 6.0

Android 5.1

Android 6.0

32GB/No

32GB/200GB

64GB/ 200GB

32GB/200GB

64GB/256GB

16MP/5MP

12MP/5MP

23MP/5MP

23MP/13MP

23MP/5MP

23MP/13MP

3,000

3,600

2,900

2,620

3,430

2,900

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes

Yes/No

Yes/-

Yes/Yes

Launch

August, 2015

March, 2016

November, 2015

July, 2016

November, 2015

October,2016

Price Rs.

40,900/43,900

43,400

50,900

37,000

38,990

47,990

49,990

Operating system Storage/Expandable Rear/Front Camera Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM

TABLETS

MODELS

TABLETS

APPLE

PARAMETERS

iPad Pro 12.9-inch iPad Pro 9.7-inch iPad Air 2 with Wi-Fi WiFi/ Wi-Fi + Cellular WiFi/ WiFi + Cellular

ASUS

SAMSUNG

ZenPad 8

Galaxy Tab S2 9.7

iPad Mini 2

iPad Mini 4

Display (inches/res)

7.9/1536 x 2048

9.7/2048x1536

9.7/1536 x 2048

12.9/2732 x 2048

8.0/1280 x 800

9.7/ 1536 x 2048

Dimension (mm)

200 x 134.7 x 7.5

203.2 x 134.8 x 6.1

240 x 169.5 x 6.1

305.7 x 220.6 x 6.9

209 x 123 x 8.5

237.3 x 169 x 5.6

Weight (grams)

331

298.8/304

437

713/ 723

350

392

Processor/RAM

A7,M7/1GB

A8,M8/2GB

A8X,M8/1GB

A9X,M9/2GB

"A9X,M9 /4GB"

QS MSM8929/2GB

Octa core/3GB

iOS 8

iOS 9

iOS 9.3

iOS 9

Android 5.0

Android 5.0.2

32GB/No

16GB/-

32GB/128GB

Model

Operating system Storage/Expandable

16,32GB/No

16GB,64GB,128GB/No

16GB, 64GB/No

32GB,128GB,256GB/ No

Rear/Front Camera

5MP/1.2MP

8MP/1.2MP

12MP/5MP

8MP/1.2MP

8MP/2MP

8MP/2.1MP

23.8w

19.1W

27.3W

27.9 W

38.5W

4,000

5,870

2G/3G/4G

Yes/Yes/No

Yes/Yes/Yes

Dual SIM

Yes/No

November, 2015

Spetember, 2015

October, 2014

March, 2016

November, 2015

July, 2015

September, 2015

38,000

49,900 Onwards/ 61,900 onwards

65,900 nwards/ 85,900 onwards

12,496

38,500

Battery (mAh)

Music Player/FM Launch Price Rs.

17949 onwards

www.mymobileindia.com

28,500

MAY 2017 I 131

by Invitation

Guest Column

Building A Smart Home Any home can be turned into a smart home now with advances in IOT enabled devices and solutions

By Shishir Gupta

ot long time ago, during the

Despite Delhi’s burning summer time,

residential towers on the Greater Noida

sweltering summer of 2013,

the journey was much milder than one

Expressway.

I and my friends decided to

expected as we generally frequented the

The purpose was to undertake a survey

roam around the areas of

most privileged areas – from Colonial

among home automation customers to

the city referred by locals as Delhi-NCR.

bungalows and bylanes at Lutyen’s Delhi

understand their lifestyle. I expected

to modern homes of Defence Colony; from

to be enthralled. However, I discovered

new hotspots in Gurugaon to fast upcoming

something new that a home automation user needed to be brave. They need to be

132 | april 2017

MYMOBILE

brave on at least one of the two fronts. Either

matter how much time and effort is spent

of products. Hence if someone built their

brave to adjust their lifestyle according

in this initial planning, once family actually

home after 2005 AD then it did not require

to the product installed in their homes

moves in they see the need for improvements

them to have wired system. However the

or brave enough to follow up with their

and changes they want to do in their new

myth supported by eager home automation

expensive vendor to adjust the product

home. So, the furniture moves around,

vendors & technology fearing architects

according to their likings. A large number

some new things come in, few things are

has resulted in the need of bravery.

from our survey sample refused to be brave

moved out. Experts help the family so that

Myth & Reality: To be fair in 2005 there

on either front and ended up deactivating

these changes could be accommodated

was some substance to the myth. It’s

the home automation system. Many who

in future. Most of the items like furniture,

only in 2010 that another technological

got the system pre-installed by builder in

white goods, partitions can be modified

advancement has made home automation

their homes never activated the system.

or procured. However few things like

truly fluidic. Technology of Internet of

Those who were brave enough to use the

beams, columns, electrical wiring conduit,

Things (IoT), which arrived in 2010 is

system, had few things that they wanted

building material cannot be changed. They

the final frontier when it comes to fluidity

to change. Some light they wanted to add

are hence designed in a way that even if

of home automation systems. All home

on a switch, some AC that they wanted

things change in future they would not be

devices get connected to internet and they

to include in the system etc. They asked

required to change. Home automation falls

operate via mobile app. Advent of wireless

me if I could solve their particular issue,

into a category that is required to be fluidic

internet and mobile phone has made it

unfortunately I could not.

based on lifestyle, usage of a room and

possible to seamlessly upgrade the devices

In retrospect, as I analyse those

even weather. However, since traditional

using over the air mobile app upgrades and

interactions, the core reason for need

home automation is wired-in along with

firmware upgrades. It’s only now that user

of bravery is due to a myth associated

wall sockets and plugs, it becomes very

can automate only few devices in home

with home automation – the myth that

difficult to change it. So a system that is

and easily expand your experience by

home automation shall be planned and

adding more devices to same mobile app.

implemented during the construction

It is now that home automation companies,

stage. When someone is building a

which are essentially software companies,

new home, that family is imagining

upgrade their system on monthly basis

a new lifestyle and comfort that they want to experience in their new adobe. According to those imaginations they are planning the home with the help of experts such as architect and designers. No

“The core technology for home automation has gone through a transformational change with advances in wireless communication. Wireless communication has become so robust that wiring is not required today”

Guest Column

by invitation

without any extra cost to customer. If enough of user request are received by these software companies then they will surely incorporate that in their next upgrade, not because they are more customer conscious companies, but because it’s much less costly to do these frequent upgrades. Modern home automation systems are not tied to a home; if you change home you can unplug the system like your refrigerator and take it with you to your new home to get the same coolness. Doing a retrofit installation

required to change frequently and mould itself according to varying parameter is fundamentally designed otherwise. The core technology for home automation has gone through a transformational change with advances in wireless communication. Wireless communication has become so robust that wiring is not required. All traditional home automation companies have developed wireless range

www.mymobileindia.com

of home automation system is much more cost effective and provides a much better customer experience than that which is implemented during the construction stage. Still most of the home automation decisions are taken at construction stage since the myth is strong. n The author is Co-Founder of Oakter - India’s leading smart home solutions company and manufacturer of smart switches and a hub for home device automation!

may 2017 | 133

by Invitation

Guest Column

Three ways Artificial Intelligence is influencing customer experience on e-commerce By Harsh Shah

134 | may 2017

-commerce is today one

an automated system is best equipped to

of the most competitive

respond to phone calls, messages, emails

AI works with already existent

industries in the world.

and social media comments faster than

information in the cyberspace and applies

Online retailers are

humans and replicate human functions.

it in the best possible way. Actionable

competing with other online sellers as

This leaves room to utilize human talent

sales intelligence helps companies

well as brick-and-mortar businesses, not

in other areas.But how is it changing

gain access to extremely useful

to mention the entire Internet. We are the

e-commerce?

insights into customer

customer.

generation of consumers with the least

Personalized Customer Experience:

attention span – very few people still wait

It seems like a paradox that artificial

and following a

more than five seconds for a website or

intelligence – a completely algorithm-

purchase. This

app to load and abandon a shopping cart

based technology – can create a more

enables the

almost 70 per cent of the time. It’s hard

personalized experience for customers.

creation

to find an e-commerce site that is not

As absurd as it sounds, it is a veritable fact

of a more

struggling to engage more customers and

that the application of AI in e-commerce

increase the volume of sales. Artificial

is a major strategy to improve the overall

intelligence (AI), having proven its value

experience of online shopping. AI

across industries like healthcare, finance

can analyze vast data sets much more

and marketing, is now out to leave its

efficiently than a human being. Simply

mark on e-commerce.

put, it can identify clusters and patterns

As per a report by Gartner, 85 per cent

in the information sets – similar patterns

of customer interactions will be handled

between customers, purchasing history,

without a human by 2020 and chatbots

behaviour, etc. Thus, AI can analyze

are expected to become the most popular

millions of transactions in the shortest

application of AI in the consumer-facing

amount of time and help design offers

realm. Well, there’s no surprises here since

and suggestionsfor each individual

behaviour preceding

MYMOBILE

Guest Column

by invitation

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 135

Guest Column

by Invitation personalized experience and higher forms

integrating artificial intelligence to their

of intelligent customer engagement at

sales and marketing processes for direct

every point of contact.

engagement with customers.

North Face is one of the best examples of a company that is at the top of their

Predictive marketing companies

Making the sales process more efficient:

game with the adoption of AI for better

provide AI-based solutions to e-commerce

Sales and marketing, before the internet

procurement of customer information and

businesses across sales, marketing and

and before artificial intelligence, involved

enablement of customized solutions. The

customer relationship management (CRM)

the use of largely unproductive methods;

company, with a little help from IBM’s

systems through predictive intelligence

searching for customers and clients from

Watson helps online shoppers find that

and contextual sales messages. By

the telephone directory and cold-calling

perfect jacket for their next adventure.

empowering sales teams with large sets

them or showing up at their doorstep

How does it do that? Watson asks

of information, e-commerce companies

offering products they have no need of

customers questions through voice input,

can help sellers on their platforms engage

were just some of them.

such as where and when they will wear

prospective customers at the right time

the jacket. It scans over 350 products to

with the right message.

locate the best jacket with the best fit on

the basis of inputs provided as well as its “It seems like a international AI software company, own research. paradox that artificial through its research, found One of the major factors contributing intelligence – a completely that of all marketing leads, to the integration of artificial at least one third are not intelligence with e-commerce is algorithm-based technology – followed up by the sales that the audiences are open to can create a more personalized team. Which means that it. In India itself, a large number pre-qualified potential of millennials say that they experience for customers. As absurd buyers interested in your are ready to go to a specific as it sounds, it is a veritable fact that product fall through the brand if it uses AI technology cracks. Furthermore, to offer better products suited the application of AI in e-commerce there are several to them. The technology as is a major strategy to improve the companies which despite well as the market exists for collecting large volumes of retailers to thrive. By leveraging AI, overall experience of customer data fail to put it to e-commerce companies can make online shopping” any real use. Proper application of shopping experiences more personal Targeting prospective customers: An

AI along with the assimilation of data

for each customer. It is not only large

can drastically improve the sales process

online retailers that can benefit from

and cycle for e-commerce companies. The use of facial recognition by scanning images on CCTV cameras in retailing to discourage shoplifters is a significant example of the application of AI. Facial recognition even records a customer’s ‘dwell time’ – the amount of time they spend with a specific product and stores this information to be used on their next visit. With the development and improvement of AI technology, customers may soon come across special offers on their computer or mobile screens based on such information obtained from their dwell-time at the retail store. This way, omnichannel retailers are rapidly increasing their competence by

136 | may 2017

functions at once.

Several brands want to customize their offerings to drive the most differentiated customer experience. By integrating AI into their CRM, companies can create specific sales messages targeting individual customers and reaching them on the right platform at the right time. AI systems like Siri or Alexa, that are capable of providing voice inputs and learning languages can be served as a more advanced CRM system that answers questions from customers, provides tailored solutions and even identifies potential sales opportunities. A well-developed and programmed AI system can do be a much better and evolved customer relationship manager

such tools but also the brick-and-mortar retailers who desperately need to reinvent themselves in this age of personalisation. The options are plenty for e-commerce brands, whether large or small to leverage AI to break down compartments, develop intelligent personalization capabilities, and monetize information and products. n The author is Co-founder, Fynd, the unique fashion e-commerce portal which brings the latest in-store fashion online. Mr Shah has a keen interest in consumer-facing technology in the retail sector and specialises in management consulting. At Fynd, Mr Shah brings his valuable experience in technology and entrepreneurship to the table, and oversees the supply side of operations, including managing partnering brands and stores.

than humans, multitasking several

MYMOBILE

Panasonic Lumix GH5 A worthy professional camera for both stills and video

anasonic has launched its latest flagship model-

of 2017.

LUMIX GH5 which is capable of recording smooth,

When it comes to stills, the newly added 6K PHOTO

high precision 4k 60p/50p video and 4:2:2 10-bit 4K

makes it possible to capture unmissable moments at 30

30p/25p internal video for the first time in the world. Like

fps by extracting the frame with the best timing out of the

its predecessor LUMIX GH4, the Panasonic GH5 is aimed

6K burst file (in 4:3 or 3:2 aspects) to save as an approx.

at photography enthusiasts and professional photographers

18-megapixel equivalent high-resolution photo.

and videographers.

The GH5 is equipped with a double SD Memory Card

Blurring the lines between stills and video, the LUMIX

slot, compatible with the high-speed, high-capacity UHS-II

GH5 camera boasts exceptionally high performance, a

for the first time ever in a LUMIX digital camera. Users

result of best R&D practices for video capability. Equipped

can flexibly choose the recording method from Relay

with the VFR (Variable Frame Rate), the Panasonic GH5

Recording, Backup Recording or Allocation Recording.

allows the user to record over-cranked/under-cranked

For connectivity, it includes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to offer

video in 4K (60 fps, maximum 2.5x slower) and Full HD

a more flexible shooting experience and instant image

(180 fps, maximum 7.5x slower), making it a treat for the

sharing with easy operation.

videographers. The LUMIX GH5 upgrades to a 20.3-megapixel Digital

Gadget Corner

add-ons

The photography enthusiasts and professionals can grab their unit from Panasonic stores across the country. n

Live MOS Sensor without low-pass filter which combines with the new Venus Engine, achieving the highest-ever picture quality in resolution, colour reproduction and noise reduction. The Venus Engine further empowers DFD (Depth from Defocus) technology, making it capable of ultra-high-speed digital signal processing at a maximum of 480 fps. Moreover, the focus areas are increased from 49 to 225 areas on the GH5 in addition to the conventional Face/Eye Recognition resulting in more precise focusing. It will be compatible with 400-Mbps 4:2:2 10-bit AllIntra video recording in 4K 30p/25p/24p and 200-Mbps All-Intra Full-HD in the second half

Price: The DC-GH5 Body is priced at Rs 1,43,990 and DC-GH5 Kit with 12-60 mm F2.8-4.0 will be available for Rs 1,88,990. www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 137

Gadget Corner

add-ons

ASUS ZenBook UX330 Premium ultrabook with a full body aluminium design

aiwanese electronics giant ASUS recently launched the ZenBook UX330, the latest

addition to its popular ZenBook series. The premium ultrabook is crafted with a full body aluminium design. Weighing only 1.2kg, it is also one of the slimmest and lightest 13.3-inch clamshell notebooks with an Intel Core i series performance processor in the market. It has a gorgeous, ultrasleek full aluminum chassis yet weighs just 1.2kg and is incredibly

Price: Starts at Rs 76,990

thin at just 13.5mm. The laptop boasts of a powerful 7thGen Intel Core i processor (i7-7500/ i5-7200), 13.3-inch QHD+ 3200x1800 display powered by ASUSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; proprietary Splendid Display Technology, reliable Backlit Keyboard and NextGen USB 3.1 Type C connectivity. It features a long lasting 12 hours battery life, which is one of the longest for any 13.3-inch display notebooks and comes with the standard two years global warranty. Its QHD+ 3200x1800 display has one of the highest resolutions of any notebook with a 13.3-inch display, with 40% more pixels than any other brand in the market. The device comes with a 802.11ac Wi-Fi Bluetooth 4.1, up to 8GB of high speed 1866MHz memory and a 512GB SSD. It also boasts of the ASUS SonicMaster Audio System developed to deliver the best possible audio, and overcome the challenging size constraints of notebook PCs. The notebooks can be purchased from all online retailers and channel partners at a starting price of Rs 76,990 and is available in two exclusive colours â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Rose Gold and Quartz Gray. n

138 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

Ambrane PQ-800 Qualcomm Power Bank For real superfast charging

mbrane India, one of the leading IT brands in computer peripherals, mobile accessories and

power banks, has announced its first ‘Qualcomm Quick Charging Power Bank – PQ800’with super intelligent fast charging technology that lets you experience up to 75% faster charging than traditional solutions. It is also BIS Certified, has a conversion rate of up to 80%, comes loaded with

Key Features: • Qualcomm quick charging Power Bank. • 75% faster charging • USB Type C port • Conversion rate of 80 percent • Li-Polymer Batteries • BIS Certified

Li-Polymer batteries and Type C charging and yes it is Made in India. The power bank has a USB Type C port that can charge devices and can also be used to charge the power bank itself. PQ-800 has been designed to deliver superfast charging

Gadget Corner

add-ons

with 8000mAh power bank which means drastic reduction in being plug in period. The power bank’s high power capacity makes it great for charging devices especially considering its 1 USB charging port. The device with its blazing speed offers conversion rate of 80 per cent. The PQ 800 comes with dual input of 5V/2A (Micro + Type C) and single output of 5V/3A , 9V/2A , 12V/1.5A which it adjusts automatically based on the device. The large capacity of power is sufficiently enabled for talk time and support with multimedia devices, along with 500 + power cycles in its lifetime beginning a new battle in Power! With charging efficiency as high as 75% , PQ800 can charge the latest android device 2 times while your iPhone 7,3 + times once the power bank is fully charged. Fabricated with Lithium Polymer batteries, the power bank equips a multitude of advanced safety features - Short Circuit Protection, Over-charge Protection, Over Discharge Protection & Over Voltage Protection that assures maximum usage and device safety all the time. To make sure that you never run out of charge again, Plush PQ800 has a clear LED display that accurately denotes the percentage of charge left in the power bank precisely letting you know when to charge the power bank again. The power bank comes with premium metallic glossy surface finish, designed to impress not just

Price: Rs 3,499

with its mighty power but good looks. It is available in shades of black, white and rose gold. The product is available in leading online and retail stores. n

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 139

Gadget Corner

add-ons Hengja, Hooka and Truss Smart headphone hangers from Brainwavz

eading accessories brand Brainwavz has launched three headphone hangers and what we really like

apart from their practicality and smartness are their funky names– Hengja, Hooka and Truss! Hengja is a practical headphone desk hanger that is suitable for large or small headphones of almost any weight. Its all metal construction allows the Hengja to be both sturdy and stylish, with no chances of it bending even when the heaviest of headphones are placed on it. Built and designed as a strong, durable, reliable headphone accessory, the Brainwavz Hengja allows headphones to sit comfortably on its stand as its clamped to your desk, table or

Hengja Features: • Horizontal use on desks, tables and shelves • Vertical use on shelving units Specifications: • Weight : 112g • Clamp Depth : 40 mm • Plate Depth : 50 mm • Plate Width : 45 mm • Max Clamp Size : ~40 mm • Min Clamp Size : ~14 mm • Material: All-Metal

shelving unit. The Hengja can be placed either horizontally (i.e. table top) or can be rotated to fit on vertical surfaces (i.e. table leg). Hooka on the other hand is a compact, multipurpose hanger, made from die-cast aluminum and designed to fit headphones of any weight. A solid construction means the Hooka won’t lose shape and form whilst holding even the heaviest of headphones. The specially designed seat on the Hooka can accommodate both small and large headbands, whilst the raised tip will stop headphones falling off. Solid and dependable, the Hooka attaches to a surface using 3M VHB, a strong double-sided acrylic foam tape that can hold the heaviest of loads. The Hooka’s simple design and durability makes it a handy solution for your headphone storage needs. The Truss is a headphone hanger specifically designed to hang not one, but two headphones with ease, comfort

140 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

Gadget Corner

add-ons

Hooka Features: Truss Features: • Strong 3M VHB™ adhesive tape • For use under desks, tables and shelves • Dual Headphone Support • Mounting Method: 3M VHB™ adhesive tape • Material: All-Metal, Die-Cast Aluminium • Overall Dimensions: 162 x 45 x 60 mm • Headband Plate Dimensions: 45 x 50 mm each • Weight: 135 g

• Headphone hanger for vertical surfaces • Holds headphones of any weight without bending or losing its shape • Made with die cast aluminum • Wide seat fits small to large headbands easily Specifications: • Weight : 125g • Dimensions : 102 mm x 46 mm x 58 mm • Plate Length : 78 mm • Plate Width : 46 mm • Material: All-Metal die-cast Aluminum and convenience. The Truss allows users to store and protect multiple headphones in a neat and comfortable manner. Solid and dependable, it affixes under any desk or surface with a 3M VHB adhesive tape. Made with solid all metal aluminum, the Truss maintains its shape and form whilst holding the heaviest of headphones, making this handy little headphones hanger a cut above the rest. All three products are covered by a 2 year warranty and are available at Brainwavzaudio.in and at Amazon. in n

Price: Hengja: Rs 1299, Hooka: Rs 1499; Truss: Rs 1599

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 141

Gadget Corner

add-ons Predator G1 & Aspire VX 15 Exciting powerful gaming notebooks from Acer After impressive success of Acer’s unified gaming series “Predator”, Acer continues to

innovate

and

delight

the gaming fans with new

Aspire VX 15 Features

he Acer Aspire VX 15 is loaded with the latest 7th Gen Intel Core i7 processors and powered by the latest NVIDIA GeForce

GTX 1050 graphics card. It has an aggressive gaming design with iron red backlit keyboard. Dual fans boost up the thermal system for smooth gameplay which enhances the experience

products and upgrading the

in every intense battle along with Dolby Audio premium & Acer

Predator series while lowering

TrueHarmony. With bold aggressive designs powerful graphics and dynamic

the price. Acer’s new top-of-

cooling solution, the Aspire VX 15 delivers a sharp, sleek, and

the-line Predator 15 G9- 593

high-performance gaming experience. The trapezoidal profile

and 17 G9-793 Notebooks

gives an energetic and aggressive impression. The concrete angle

feature aggressive new looks, latest graphics and cooling features, deliberated to maximize gamers’ experience. Acer, one of the largest PC vendors in the world, has also launched VX

desktop,

budget

version but equally exciting gaming notebook. Aspire VX 15 budget gaming Notebook is

engineered

de l i v er

and great notable physical tapered edges creates a super sharp visual effect, surely piquing users’ curiosity. The new Aspire VX 15 comes with 1TB of hard drive storage and 128 GB M.2 SSD, allowing one to store more multimedia files and enjoy faster speed. All essential ports are available and designed to keep connected cables out of your way. The I/O ports are placed well on the both sides. It is neat and easy to let user connect various peripherals. A display with IPS technology* provides a wide viewing angle up to 170º allowing you to share content simply and easily with those around you. You can see game worlds with consistent, brilliant color and a full viewing experience from any perspective. Products will be available online on FlipKart and through Acer retail stores.

h i gh

performance and the an

flexibility

unmatched

price range. While, Acer’s

Predator

G1compact desktop

brings

an overwhelming gaming power and performance with higher portability.

142 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

Gadget Corner

add-ons

Price: Acer Predator 17 (G9-793): Rs 1, 59,999 Acer Aspire VX 15: Rs 87,999

Acer Predator 15 (G9-593) & 17 (G9-793)

ith its IPS Full HD (1920×1080) antiglare G-SYNC

laptop enhances the cooling power and efficiency of the

VR ready screen, impressive graphics and seamless

thermal system to keep your gaming performance at the

performance, the upgraded Predator series super-sizes

top.

the gaming experience! Equipped with powerful NVIDIA

Experience is enhanced with Predator ProZone keyboard

Pascal GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card and the 7th Gen

and PredatorSense with programmable keys and real-time

Intel Core i7 processors, the device offers power beyond

info amplified by SoundPound4.2 + Dolby audio. One can

expectation. The Notebook is engineered with FrostCore,

connect up to 3 monitors to surround oneself in the game

the swappable fan design that injects the powerful gaming

with immersive super-wide setup. On the connectivity front,

rig with extra fan to keep temperature down and boost

the Predator laptop provides HDMI 2.0 connection, USB

performance up. Housed with world’s thinnest metal fan

3.1 (Type-C) 3 and Thunderbolt as well as DoubleShort

blade–Aero Blade along with Predator DustDefender, the

Killer Pro for optimum internet connectivity. n

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 143

Gadget Corner

add-ons

Muve Acoustics A-Star & A-Plus Portable Bluetooth Speakers Distinct design with powerful bass

ong Kong based Zeeva Electronics, after successfully launching its ‘Drive in-ear

earphones’ in India, has now rolled out its portable speakers for music lovers. MuveAcoustics A-Star and A-Plus speakers are a veritable treat for those who like to keep high-quality speakers handy with them and enjoy lilting tunes whenever possible. The distinctive style speakers are crafted to suit all your entertainment needs. n

Features of A-Star: • Wireless audio experience via Bluetooth streaming • Powerful bass • Durable body construction including IPX-6 water resistance rating and integrated rotary strap for full mobility • User-friendly design with intuitive interface • Long-lasting rechargeable battery that gives up to 6 hours of play time

Features of A-Plus: • Wireless audio via Bluetooth streaming • Deep bass • Compact body equipped with an industrial grade nylon strap • Long-lasting rechargeable battery that gives up to 7 hours of play time • Connector Type: Bluetooth, Aux-In The products are exclusively available on Amazon & Croma.

Price: Rs 2,999 & Rs 3,999

144 | may 2017

MYMOBILE

Skullcandy Method Wireless Earbuds

Cool and classy

he Method Wireless comes packed with features, including a flexible and

lightweight FlexSport collar. Because the collar enables reduced part count in the earbuds, the buds themselves are lightweight, stable and comfortable in ear. DualLock technology provides added stability and supports a comfortable noise-isolating fit for longer workouts. Pureclean technology is blended into the eargel to keep them clean. Method Wireless, which also comes in a womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s model, includes up to 8 hours

Price: Rs 5,299

Gadget Corner

add-ons

of battery life, and sweat-resistance as well as built-in microphone and call, track and volume controls within easy reach. n

www.mymobileindia.com

may 2017 | 145

Exclusive

Vantage Point

The Upsurge of Mobile Accessories The era of high mobile phone growth may be drawing to a close, but accessories segment is in for an exciting time By Manish Gupta

o other personal device has had the same societal impact

of end-use among consumers.

as the cell phone. So while the usage may be nearing

Technological advancements are openhandedly welcomed

a plateau, relentless innovation will continue to drive

by Indian consumers, triggering an opportunity for sales of

features and functionalities. And one such innovation evolving

other mobile phone accessories such as keyboard attachments,

around mobiles are the accessories – which are getting better

cameras, dongles, selfie sticks, thermal imaging cameras, VR

and better with each passing day and look set for an exciting time

headsets, protective screens and wireless ear buds, among others.

growth and innovation time. The need to bring smart accessories is

With surge in sales of other related products, the mobile phone

one of the key drivers that will impel the prospects for growth in this

accessories market in India is likely to generate over $150 million

market. According to the market

revenues.Multi-brand stores are

analysts at Technavio, the global

trending as the most-preferred

mobile phone accessories market

distribution channel for buying

is expected to grow at a CAGR of

mobile phone accessories in India.

more than 6% by 2020.

States in North India will continue

Better Living with Smart

to dominate by accounting for over

Accessories: Huge upsurge in

30% of the market revenues, while

smartphone popularity will also

states in South and West India will

drive the accessories market and

collectively account for half of

innovation. In India, accessories,

India’s mobile phone accessories

particularly bigger batteries are

revenues in the span of next ten

likely to see widespread adoption

years.

as compared to the others. The

With these emerging trends,

focus is now shifting towards

companies are bound to innovate

bigger batteries which can act as

and disrupt the mobile accessories

power banks, selfie cameras, larger

industry, which will automatically

speakers to give a surround sound

lead to its growth by leaps and

feel and the like.

bounds, if not exponentially.

In another category of phones

Retailing channels: Indian

that has been regaining relevance

consumers will continue to look at

in recent time i.e ‘feature phone’.

both online and offline channels to

It’s interesting to note that India’s

in the case of mobiles. Both channels are complimentary to a

phone installed base. It had the majority share, 56 per cent, by

consumer even if they are competitors from the other end. The

shipments, which are phones reaching retailers for sale, in the

large number of retail outlets per consumers has given rise to the

quarter through June 2016, up from 55 per cent three months

growing online-to-offine (O2O) space to address the pressing need

earlier. Hence, offering feature phones with newer accessories is

of building a bridge between the e-commerce and retail spaces.

taking a huge heap in innovation.

O2O seems to be the new buzzword in the digital space, which

According to a report by Future Market Insights, in the span

is essentially all about leveraging the digital and mobile medium

of next ten years, sales of power banks in India will account for

to drive sales through the offline platforms. This trend has also

over USD 350 million in terms of revenues. Buying power banks

created opportunities for consumers to make online purchases.

that could charge multiple devices in a go, is trending in the

Consumers are tech and online-savvy now and explore multiple

market. Demand for modular smartphones and mobile phones

channels before making their crucial purchase decisions. The

are likely to increase, providing an opportune scope for mobile

ready access to comprehensive data about vendors, products,

phone accessories that are limited to compatibility with specific

ratings and reviews makes a well-informed and demanding

device connectors. Furthermore, various products sold as mobile

consumer. n

phone accessories in India have been able to attain compatibility with computers and laptops and vice-a-versa, broadening scope 146 | may 2017

shop for accessories too as they do

feature phone market is about 65 per cent of the total mobile

The author is Business Head, Mobile Accessories, Intex Technologies (India) Ltd.

MYMOBILE

RNI REG NO./DELENG/2005/15033 DL (ND) - 11/6100/2015-16-17 (Posting Date 26-27 of every month) Publishing Date- 22-04-17