Pinoy Techno Guide

Affordable 3G and Dual Core

If you're looking for an affordable Android Jelly Bean smartphone and 3G connectivity is very important for you, Cherry Mobile Amber is the perfect choice.

Aside from its 3G capability, Cherry Mobile Amber also has a dual core processor so that you can play your favorite games and use your favorite apps.

Here's how Cherry Mobile Amber looks like:

Cherry Mobile Amber - 3G Android Jelly Bean Smartphone

Cherry Mobile Amber comes in black and white with a nice design on its back cover. Photo posted on Cherry Mobile Titan Facebook Group.

Cherry Mobile Amber Features

Looking at the photo of Cherry Mobile Amber above, I can't help but like its design. It's another affordable Jelly Bean smartphone with a 4 inch display which is perfect for most Pinoys and Pinays who have cute fingers.

There's a 5 Megapixel camera at the back with a single LED flash and a VGA front camera.

Cherry Mobile hasn't provided the full specs of Amber yet so all we know about its internals is that it has 4GB of internal storage and a slot for a 32GB micro SD card. We'll update this post when new information comes out.

Here's the Partial Specs of Cherry Mobile Amber

1.2GHz Dual Core Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
4 Inch Capacitive Display with 800x480 Pixel Resolution or 233 PPI
5 Megapixel Main Camera with LED Flash
VGA Front Camera
4 GB Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via Micro SD
Dual Sim/Dual Standby
3G, EDGE and GPRS Mobile Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth
GPS
FM Radio
3.5mm Audio Jack

Cherry Mobile Amber Price and Availability

Amber is part of Cherry Mobile's 12 Cherrys of Christmas. It appeared in the poster with a ₱2,999 price tag and comes with a free bag tag.

Amber will soon be available in Cherry Mobile outlets including online stores in the coming weeks. It will go toe to toe with MyPhone's Rain 3G and even other Cherry Mobile phones in the same price level.

Facebook formally announced today that it will roll out a redesigned Like and Share buttons. These buttons, viewed over 22 billion times daily across more than 7.5 million websites are important drivers of Facebook referral traffic according to Ray He of Facebook.

The new buttons are bluer than what we used to see and without the thumbs up icon. Instead, the thumbs up icon is placed in beside the count in the box above the buttons. The icon is also in a dark gray monotone color instead of blue and white.

Redesigned Facebook Like and Share Buttons Bluer with Darker Thumbs Up

The new Facebook Like and Share buttons in different formats. Screenshot by Daniel Gubalane.

The move aims to optimize the buttons for high resolution display according to Peter Yang.

However, I noticed that the new Like and Share buttons pop out more in websites. Someone reading an article here might be more attracted to click the buttons as a result of its bluer hue.

The Share button is also new. It replaces the Send button because it is confusing for many readers.

The new design of the two buttons will roll out by user in the coming days.

First Update Since the Super Typhoon

If you were following this blog, you'd notice that there was no update since November 8 - the fateful day when typhoon Yolanda hit the Philippines. That's because I live in Ormoc City which is one of the badly affected places in Leyte.

Thankfully, several tech companies provided help to us. If not for Globe Telecom, I won't be able to post this. They installed three free charging stations in Ormoc City which are constantly full of people juicing up their phones, flash lights and other gadgets.

Free charging station of Globe in Ormoc City.

Other tech companies that helped included Smart Telecommunications with their free call and charging station, Cherry Mobile that distributed some relief goods in Samar and MyPhone with their benefit concert called One Heart, One Beat, One Voice.

By the way, I'm fine. We suffered major damage of our house but we already fixed the main part of it. We've also received some relief goods from DSWD and other private organizations.

My main problem now is the black out of the whole region 8! The authorities said that their target is to restore the electric power by the first week of December. That's from the geothermal plant up to the city of Ormoc only.

See you then... :)

Affordable Starmobile Diamond D1

Starmobile's newest phablet seems to target budget conscious consumers with its affordable price of ₱7,990.00.

Although that's not really cheap, you'll already get a 5-inch phablet with quad core processor from MediaTek, high capacity battery and BSI cameras.

Here's how Starmobile Diamond D1 looks like:

Starmobile Diamond D1

Starmobile Diamond D1 Performance

A peculiar detail on Starmobile Diamond D1's specs is its use of MediaTek MT6589M chipset which is a low cost alternative of the more powerful MT6589T.

However, Starmobile Diamond D1 gets a high score as a result of its battery with 3,000 mAh capacity. This is very important due to its large display which will consume a lot of battery juice.

Stamobile Diamond D1 Design, Display and Camera

Starmobile Diamond D1's design seems attractive for me and the bezels look thin. However, you'll surely be discouraged with its low screen resolution - 480 x 854 Pixels only but with a scratch resistant Dragontrail layer.

For the camera, Starmobile Diamond D1 offers a good pair of BSI rear and front cameras. There's a 12MP main shooter with LED flash and an 8MP front camera for your selfies.

Starmobile Diamond D1 Official Specs

1.2GHz Quad Core MT6589M Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean
5 Inch Capacitive Display with 480x854 Pixel Resolution or 195 PPI
Dragontrail Scratch Resistant Glass Layer
PowerVR SGX544MP GPU
12 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with LED Flash and BSI
8 Megapixel Front Camera with BSI
1GB of RAM
4GB Internal Storage
Dual Sim/Dual Standby
3G, EDGE, GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth
GPS
FM Radio
3,000 mAh Li-ion Battery

Starmobile Diamond D1 Availability

Starmobile already released Starmobile Diamond D1 in Metro Manila. It will slowly be available in stores nationwide for ₱7,990.00.

Are you going to get one for your self? Tell us your thoughts.

Better than the Big Brother

MyPhone is offering the first ever “mini” version of a flagship phone among the local brands – MyPhone Agua Iceberg Mini.

However, MyPhone Iceberg Mini seems to pack better specs and features than the original MyPhone Iceberg except for its smaller screen size.

Here’s how MyPhone Iceberg Mini looks like:

MyPhone Iceberg Mini Specs, Price and Features: Full HD 5 Inch Display with Turbo Quad Core Processor and 2GB of RAM

MyPhone Agua Iceberg Mini rendered based on the rumor that it is a re-branded Micromax Canvas Turbo.

MyPhone Iceberg Mini Performance

MyPhone Iceberg Mini teaser photo
posted on the MyPhone Iceberg Facebook group.

Oh man, this minified MyPhone Iceberg sports the powerful 1.5GHz MT6589T (T for Turbo) processor – the high performance version of the famous low cost quad core chipset from MediaTek.

Since MyPhone Iceberg Mini is similar to Micromax Canvas Turbo, it will also run apps with 2GB of RAM resulting into very, very smooth Android experience.

The downside might be the battery life which is said to be at 7 hours with its 2,000 mAh Li-ion battery.

MyPhone Iceberg Mini Design, Display and Camera

MyPhone Iceberg Mini features a smaller but more comfortable to grip size with a 5 inch display. What’s better is its Full High Definition (FHD) or 1020p resolution making texts crisper, photos more vivid and videos clearer.

It also has a nice pair of cameras both with Backside Illuminated (BSI) sensors. Its main camera is 13 Megapixels with a dual LED flash and its front camera is 5 Megapixels which is good for selfies.

MyPhone Iceberg Mini Networks and Connectivity

Just like the original Iceberg, MyPhone Iceberg Mini can also connect to 3G networks at HSDPA speeds ensuring high quality calls and faster mobile internet speed.

It also has USB-OTG which will come handy if you want extra storage space since it lacks a micro SD slot. Don’t worry, MyPhone Iceberg Mini has 16GB of internal storage with 12.47 GB free for your photos, music, videos and other files.

MyPhone Iceberg Mini Full Specs

1.5GHz Quad Core MT6589T Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
5 Inch Full HD IPS Display at 1920x1080 Pixels
Continuous Grain Silicon Glass
PowerVR GPU
13 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with Dual LED Flash and BSI
5 Megapixel Front Camera
2GB of RAM
16GB of Internal Storage (12.47 Free)
Dual Sim/Dual Standby
Regular Sim + Micro-Sim
3G(HSDPA), EDGE and GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth v4.0
GPS with A-GPS
Ambient Light Light Sensor
Motion Sensor
Proximity Sensor
Magnetic Sensor
Gyroscope
FM Radio
3.5mm Audio Jack
2,000 mAh Li-ion Battery

MyPhone Iceberg Mini Price and Availability

MyPhone Iceberg Mini first leaked through a poster and then a photo was posted on Facebook with the same specs but without its name.

It might sell for a little more than 12,000 and will surely be a hit this Christmas season.

S for Style

Starmobile expanded its Diamond series with Android phones that focus on style – that’s what the S in Starmobile Diamond S1 stands for.

First on the list of three is Starmobile Diamond S1 with a screen that “tapers nicely into the matte black rear cover" as Starmobile describes it.

Look closely at Starmobile Diamond S1’s curved edge display

Starmobile Diamond S1

Starmobile Diamond S1 Processor, RAM and Storage

Unlike most quad core phones from the local brands, Starmobiel Diamond S1 runs on a slightly faster 1.3GHz MT6582M processor from MediaTek coupled with Mali 400MP graphics processor. This combination will give you a very smooth Android Jelly Bean experience especially that its screen isn't HD.

Don't worry about multitasking with Starmobile Diamond S1 because it has 1GB of RAM for running more apps. Just bu a 32GB microSD card if you're a hard core gamer since it only has 4GB of internal storage.

Starmobile Diamond S1 Design, Display and Camera

Aside from the scratch resistant curved-edge display, Starmobile Diamond S1's matte back cover is also tapered on the sides making it look thinner and sleeker.

Even if its screen has a resolution of 960 x 540 Pixels only (not HD), it still display high quality graphics that seems to be right at your finger tips when you touch the icons because it has One Glass Screen (OGS).

The main camera is a 12 Megapixel shooter with autofocus, flash and BSI sensor while the front camera is a mere 3 Megapixel one.

Starmobile Diamond S1 Network, Connectivity and Battery

Starmobile Diamond S1 has all the usual connectivity features plus a faster than usual 3G mobile internet speed. However, it lacks USB On the Go (OTG) function.

Battery life won't be a problem too. Starmobile Diamond S1 ha a 2000 mAh Lithium-Polymer battery that can last up to 250 hours on standby according to Starmobile's comment on Facebook.

Starmobile Diamond S1 Complete Specs

1.3 GHz MediaTek MT6582M Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean
5 Inch OGS Display with qHD (960 x 540 Pixels) Resolution or 220 PPI
Scratch Resistant Asahi Dragontrail Glass
Curved Edge Glass
Mali 400MP GPU
12 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with LED Flash and BSI Sensor
3 Megapixel Front Camera with BSI Sensor
1GB of RAM
4GB Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via MicroSD
Dual Sim/Dual Standby
3G (HSPA+), EDGE and GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth
GPS with A-GPS
FM-Radio
Ambient Light Sensor
Motion Sensor
Proximity Sensor
2000 mAh Li-Po Battery

Starmobile Diamond S1 Price and Availability

Starmobile Diamond S1 is now available at Starmobile outlets for ₱8,990.00 - a very good choice at this price level.

Many people are eyeing Starmobile Diamond S1 for the Christmas season. Are you one of them?

The Best Choice

Looking for the most affordable Android Jelly Bean smartphone in the country with the best specs and quality? MyPhone Agua Storm might be what you are looking for.

It's almost similar to MyPhone Rain 3G but with a larger screen size, faster processor and longer battery life.

Here's how MyPhone Agua Storm looks like:

MyPhone Agua Storm

MyPhone Agua Storm Complete Specs

1.3 GHz Dual Core MT6572 Processor
Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean OS
4 Inch Capacitive Display
3.2 Megapixel Main Camera
VGA Front Camera
256MB of RAM
512MB Internal Storage
Dual Sim/Dual Standby
3G, EDGE and GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth
GPS
FM Radio
Motion Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor
Proximity Sensor
1,600 mAh Li-ion Battery
₱2,988 SRP

Affordable Wireless Display

Cherry Mobile Sonic 2.0 piqued my interest when its wireless display capability using Miracast was revealed together with GLONASS navigation and USB OTG.

What's better (as always with Cherry Mobile phones) is the price - ₱3,999 only! But before you lose yourself in excitement, check out the rest of its specs first.

Cherry Mobile Sonic 2.0 comes with a free jelly case - Cherry Mobile

What’s good with Cherry Mobile Sonic 2.0?

Aside from the faster lock in of your position using GLONASS satellites and USB OTG function, Cherry Mobile Sonic also has a quad core processor from Broadcom. It’s relatively new to locally branded Android phones but it should run apps smoothly too.

The screen size is very manageable with one hand at 4 inches and runs Android 4.2 Jelly Bean. If you’re still worried for lags, there’s 1GB of RAM to prevent that while using a lot of apps or a really resource intensive one.

Cherry Mobile Sonic 2.0 also boasts low energy Bluetooth 4.0 and can pair with a Miracast TV or dongle even while surfing the internet.

Cherry Mobile Sonic 2.0 Complete Specs

1.2GHz Quad Core Broadcom 23550 Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
4 Inch Capacitive Display at 800x480 Pixel Resolution
5 Megapixel Main Camera with LED Flash
VGA Front Camera
1GB of RAM
4GB of Internal Storage
Dual Sim/Dual Standby
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Miracast Wireless Display
GPS/GLONASS
Bluetooth 4.0
USB OTG
1,400 mAh Li-ion Battery

What’s not so good with Cherry Mobile Sonic 2.0?

Just like many Cherry Mobile phones, Cherry Mobile Sonic 2.0 also suffers from low battery capacity – 1,400 mAh only. That’s surely going to be a problem so you better look for a power bank too.

If you’re willing to compromise that, you’ll be rewarded with a feature packed phone for a very affordable price.

Why the price?

It’s not a very fast processor or an ultra-high end camera that makes Vertu Constellation this expensive. Instead, it’s the luxurious materials, exclusive features and the fact that it is hand made in England.

Vertu Constellation is made up of a Titanium body, genuine calf leather back cover and a sapphire crystal display. This makes it almost 30 times more expensive than the gold iPhone 5S!

Vertu Constellation in orange. It is also available in black, cappuccino, mocha and raspberry.

Vertu Costellation in orange. It is also available in black, cappuccino, mocha and raspberry. Photo by Vertu.

Vertu Constellation Design

Vertu Constellation has an unmistakable design signature of a triangular lower side. It looks even tougher with its titanium body which is usually used in aerospace industry due to its strength and lightness.

At the back is a luxurious calf leather panel and the group of its camera, flash and speakers in a metallic structure.

Vertu Constellation Display and Camera

Diamond is the only material that can scratch Vertu Constellation’s sapphire crystal display. That’s how tough it is but also contributes a lot to its high price.

The display is a 4.3 inches with a resolution of 720 x 1280 Pixels or 324 Pixels per Inch.
The camera at the back is 13 Megapixels with autofocus and dual LED flash while the camera at the front is 1.3 Megapixels only.

Vertu Constellation Performance and Memory

Vertu Constellation is powered by a speedier than usual 1.7GHz dual core Snapdragon processor from Qualcomm. There’s no word on the RAM yet but it has 32GB of internal storage and lacks a microSd slot.

The battery is a disappointing 1,800 mAh Li-ion cell but Vertu is claiming that it can last up to 14 hours and 30 minutes of 3G talk time.

Vertu Constellation Specs

1.7GHz Dual Core Snapdragon Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
4.3 Inch HD Capacitive Display
Sapphire Crystal Scratch Resistant Glass
Titanium Body
Calf Leather Back Cover
32GB Internal Storage
Single Sim
3G (HSDPA 42Mbps), EDGE and GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth 4.0 LE with A2DP
GPS with A-GPS and GLONASS Support
NFC
3.5mm Audio Jack
1,800 mAh Li-ion Battery
₱297,000 Price

Where to buy Vertu Constellation in the Philippines?

If you have loads of cash that you can afford Vertu Constellation without hurting your budget, send us some of it. Just kidding.

You can buy Vertu Constellation at the east wing of Shangri-La Plaza Mall.

“We give you our best work yet.”

O+ seems to have lost its taste for low priced Android phones entirely with its O+ Imagine. This latest flagship phone from the American company costs ₱18,995 and made available just before Christmas.

Does O+ Imagine offer enough features to sell at this price level? At first glance, it’s a yes. O+ Imagine has a very sleek design and runs on very powerful components.

“We give you our best work yet. O+ Imagine” – O+ USA

O+ Imagine Performance

O+ Imagine Poster

O+ Imagine is one of the most powerful phones in the Philippines today that sells for less than 20k. It is powered by a 1.5GHz quad core processor and 2GB of RAM. Any app or game will run smoothly on O+ Imagine and you will surely not experience any lags.

It has It has 32GB of internal storage already – enough for your needs may it be for storing movies, a lot of pictures or installing games with high quality graphics.

Just one hiccup – the battery. O+ Imagine is powered by a 2,000 mAh Lithium-Polymer battery only. It even looks non removable.

O+ Imagine Design, Display and Camera

O+ Imagine is remarkably thin– just 7.8 mm in thickness. What makes it more gorgeous is the glass back panel. The metal body is effectively sandwich between two layers of glass.

The display is even stunning with a full HD resolution. It’s just the right size for me at 5 inches with 5-point multi-touch capacity and IPS technology.

O+ Imagine has a high quality pair of cameras both with backside illuminated sensors. The main is a 13 Megapixel autofocus camera with LED flash while the front is a 5 Megapixel camera.

O+ Imagine Network and Connectivity

Thinking LTE? Sorry to disappoint but O+ Imagine has 3G HSDPA speed of up to 42Mbps only. It’s still fast but not lightning fast like LTE.

There’s also the usual connectivity features like WiFi, Bluetooth (although just version .0), GPS and microUSB. What’s better is its promise of Over-the-Air software update which opens up the possibility for an Android 4.4 Kitkat or higher. USB-OTG is also present.

O+ Imagine Specs

1.5GHz Quad Core MediaTek MT6589T Processor
Android 4.2.1 Jelly Bean OS
5 Inch Full HD IPS Display
Scratch Resistant Glass - Front and Back
PowerVR SGX544 GPU
13 Megapixel Main Camera with LED Flash and BSI
5 Megapixel Front Camera
2GB of RAM
32GB Internal Storage
Single Sim
3G (HSDPA 42Mbps), EDGE and GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth 3.0
GPS with A-GPS
USB OTG
OTA Software Update
3.5 mm Audio Jack
Air Shuffle (Gesture Control)
Proximity Sensor
Motion Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor
2,000 mAh Li-Po Battery

O+ Imagine Price, Freebies, Promo and Availability

For December, 2013, O+ Imagine will only sell for ₱16,995 instead of ₱18,995 – a ₱2,000 in savings. You’ll also get a free Sennheiser Earphones for each unit.

I still think that O+ Imagine is too expensive but it has very good features except for the battery. If you want to buy one, head to any O+ outlet near you and come back here and have your opinion in the comments below.

"Awesome but without 3G."

Cherry Mobile Gem is a nice pick if you want a dual core Android phone with a 4 inch screen. It's even faster than others with a 1.3GHz processor from MediaTek.

However, you'll only enjoy surfing the net or using the Facebook app if you're connected to a WiFi network because Cherry Mobile Gem doesn't have 3G network connectivity.

Cherry Mobile Gem looks better in white. Agree?

Here's Cherry Mobile Gem Full Specs:

1.3GHz Dual Core MediaTek MT6572 Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
4 Inch IPS Display @ 800x480 Pixels
5 Megapixel Main Camera with LED Flash
2 Megapixel Front Camera
512MB of RAM
4GB of Internal Storage
Expandable Up to 32GB via MicroSD
Dual Sim/Dual Standby
EDGE and GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth v 3.0
GPS
FM Radio
3.5mm Audio Jack
MicroUSB
1,500 mAh Li-ion Battery
₱2,999 SRP

What Makes Cherry Mobile Amber Better

There are a lot of affordable dual core Android phones right now. But, Cherry Mobile Amber has an IPS display that gives a wider angle of viewing without distorting the brightness and colors of the graphics.

Cherry Mobile Amber also has a good enough RAM, internal storage and a microSD slot.

Finally, there's a disagreement between what's posted on Cherry Mobile's website and it's Facebook page. Gem's battery can either be 1,400 mAh or 1,500 mAh.

"Say cheese!"

MyPhone definitely invests on exclusive software features for their smartphones. Aside from the usual Clever Motion feature, MyPhone Cyclone now features voice command for its camera.

If you're looking for a good quad core Android phone, MyPhone Cyclone is perfect. You should hurry though so that you can avail of the ₱6,988 introductory price (until December 2013 only).

MyPhone Agua Cyclone

MyPhone Cyclone Performance and Memory

MyPhone Cyclone packs a combination of a 1.3GHz quad core processor from MediaTek and 1GB of RAM. This should be enough for running most apps and games.

It only has the usual amount of memory though - 4GB internal storage and a slot for up to 32GB microSD. Not much but enough.

Just like most MyPhone Android phones, MyPhone Cyclone also has a 2,000 mAh Li-ion battery. Again, it's enough.

MyPhone Cyclone Design, Display and Camera

MyPhone Cyclone doesn't have a very high resolution display but at least it's an IPS panel. Don't expect it to be scratch resistant too. I thin there's a free screen protector though.

The camera becomes interesting with its voice command. You can say "Cheese" or "Capture" to take a picture instead of tapping the capture button. It prevents blurry photos since you don't have to touch your phone to capture.

However, MyPhone Cyclone's main camera is only 8 Megapixels with a single LED flash and the front camera is 2 Megapixels.

MyPhone Cyclone Full Specs

1.3GHz MediaTek MT6589 Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
5 Inch IPS Display @ 540x960 Pixel Resolution or 220 PPI
Mali-400 GPU
8 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with LED Flash
2 Megapixel Front Camera
1 GB of RAM
4 GB of Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via MicroSD
Dual Sim/Dual Standby
3G, EDGE and GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth
GPS
USB-OTG Feature
Clever Motion
Voice Capture
2,000 mAh Li-ion Battery
₱8,988 SRP

MyPhone Cyclone Price and Availability

MyPhoe Cyclone is now available nationwide for ₱6,988. This price will only last until December 2013. After that, the suggested retail price of ₱8,988 will be implemented.

I know that MyPhone Cyclone isn't the best that MyPhone has to offer, there's MyPhone Iceberg and Iceberg Mini but Cyclone is a good choice if your budget isn't enough for a 12k smartphone.

2014: Year of Octa-Core

Starmobile is the first local mobile phone brand to announce an octa-core Android phone - the Starmobile Diamond X1. It will be available on January 2014 an will set the new standards with their competitors.

The full specs is not yet available but we already know that it will have the MT6592 octa-core processor from MediaTek. It will also have a huge 6 inch display and the same sought after camera specs of other Starmobile phones.

Here's how Starmobile Diamond X1 looks like:

Starmobile Diamond X1 - the first octa-core Android phone from Starmobile.

Starmobile Diamond X1 Specs

1.7 - 2 GHz MediaTek MT6592 Octa-Core Processor
6 Inch Display
ARM Mali450-MP4 GPU
18MP Main Camera (to be confirmed)
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth
GPS

This post will be updated as soon as we get the full specs of Starmobile Diamond X1.

IP67 Certified

Cherry Mobile introduced another first among the local mobile phone brands - waterproof and dustproof phones. They call it the Cherry Mobile U series.

Both Cherry Mobile U1 and U2 are IP67 certified. This means that they are totally protected against dust and can survive being submerged up to 1 meter under water for 30 minutes.

Here's how Cherry Mobile U1 and U2 looks like:

Cherry Mobile U1 and U2 both feature hard shell housing that makes them not just tough but look cool too. Photo by Cherry Mobile North EDSA and Dan Cervantes.

Here are the specs of Cherry Mobile U1

Water and Dust Proof
Hardshell Housing
Quad-Band
Micro-SD up 16GB
Dual-SIM
Camera
Php1,999

...and here are the specs of Cherry Mobile U2

Water and Dust Proof
Floats on Water
IP67 Compliant
Hardshell Housing
Micro-SD up 16GB
Dual-SIM
Camera
Php2,399

Basic Phones Only

Cherry Mobile surely understands that these features are perfect for our lifestyle.

Sadly though, these are only basic phones, not Android smartphones. If these units performs well with us who are constantly threatened with the elements, IP67 certified smartphones will surely follow from Cherry Mobile.

Large Screen, Small Price

MyPhone's first offer for 2014 is a budget phablet named MyPhone Agua Hail. It's a 5-inch phablet for a very affordable price of ₱4,598 only.

Of course, you can't expect MyPhone Hail to be a powerhouse for running your favorite apps and games. There are sacrifices to meet this price level. Let's check if it's worth it!

Here's how MyPhone Agua Hail looks like:

MyPhone Agua Hail 'Budget Phablet' Specs, Price and Features

MyPhone Agua Hail follows the typical MyPhone smartphone design, icons and other graphics.

MyPhone Agua Hail Performance and Memory

To start with, MyPhone Agua Hail isn't a quad core Android phone. It runs on a dual core MT6572 processor from MediaTek.

But, it's a 1.3GHz processor coupled with 512MB of RAM - a combination that still runs most apps smoothly.

There's enough battery juice from a 2,000 mAh cell to last a whole day plus 4GB of internal memory with a microSD slot.

MyPhone Agua Hail Design, Display and Camera

Hmmn.. MyPhone Agua Hail looks like a typical MyPhone smartphone - unlike the very successful MyPhone Iceberg.

It's display is the main attraction of MyPhone Agua Hail. However, it's just a large screen but not HD. Its resolution is just 854x480 Pixels or about 196 pixels per inch.

You think MyPhone Agua Hail has better cameras? Think again. Its main camera is a fixed focus 5 Megapixel shooter with a VGA front camera.

MyPhone Agua Hail Full Specs

1.3GHz Dual Core MediaTekMT6572 Processor
Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean OS
5 Inch Capacitive Display @ 854x480 Pixels or 196 PPI
5 Megapixel Fixed Focus Main Camera with LED Flash
VGA Front Camera
512MB of RAM
4GB of Internal Storage
Expandable Up to 32GB via MicroSD
Dual Sim/Dual Standby
EDGE and GPRS Networks (No 3G)
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth
GPS
Motion Sensor
2,000 mAh Li-ion Battery

New Flare!

Cherry Mobile’s very successful FLARE models are taking the Philippine smartphone market by storm once again. This time, it’s packed with a high definition screen and better optics!

Cherry Mobile Flare HD is the fifth installment of the series. We previously enjoyed the original Flare, then Flare 2.0 followed by Flare 2X and finally, Flare S.

Here’s how Cherry Mobile Flare HD looks like:

Cherry Mobile HD is dubbed as 'HD ng Bayan' after the first Flare lived up to its 'Dual Core ng Bayan' tagline.

Cherry Mobile Flare Design, Display and Camera

I normally start with the performance specs but since Cherry Mobile Flare HD focuses on screen and camera, let’s tackle those first.

Cherry Mobile Flare HD’s design stays similar to first Cherry Mobile Flare, although bigger. What stands out most is the stunning graphics on its 4.3 inch high definition display. It even features a different lockscreen app called Start.

The cameras on Flare HD got an upgrade too. Many users of the original Flare weren’t contented with the 5MP camera. But now, they’ll be overwhelmed with the 12MP main camera and 5MP front cam both with BSI sensors (Cherry Mobile calls it OmniBSI).

Cherry Mobile Performance (Processor, Memory and Battery)

If you’re a hard core gamer, Cherry Mobile Flare HD is perfect for you and your budget. It already runs on a 1.2GHz quad core processor from MediaTek plus 1GB of RAM. This combination will run almost all apps and games smoothly.

Just like the previous Flare models, Cherry Mobile Flare HD is limited to 4GB in internal storage. You’ll have to use a microSD card for additional memory for your photos, music and game files.

The battery has been a constant issue with Cherry Mobile Flare models. This time, Cherry Mobile fitted Flare HD with a 1,800mAh battery. I wish this will be enough but I’m not keeping my hopes too high.

Cherry Mobile Flare HD Networks and Connectivity Features

Cherry Mobile Flare HD has all the essential connectivity features. It has dual sim slots and can connect to 3G networks for faster mobile internet. It also has WiFi and WiFi hotspot for connecting and sharing your internet connection.

I’m a bit disappointed that there’s still no word with USB On the Go feature yet. This fifth installment of the Flare series deserves USB OTG feature. Anyway, the complete list of specs follows below.

Cherry Mobile Flare HD Specs

1.2GHz Quad Core MediaTek MT6589 (possibly the Turbo version) Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
4.3 Inch HD IPS Display @ 1280x720 Pixels
12 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with BSI sensor and LED Flash
5 Megapixel Front Camera with BSI sensor
1GB of RAM
4GB of Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via MicroSD
Dual Sim/Dual Standby
3G, 2G EDGE and 2G GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth 4.0
GPS with A-GPS
FM Radio
3.5mm Audio Jack
Motion Sensor
Proximity Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor
1,800mAh Li-ion Battery

Cherry Mobile Flare HD Price and Availability

Cherry Mobile Flare models won the hearts of Pinoys and Pinays with its affordable price of less than Php4,000.00. However, Cherry Mobile Flare HD will say goodbye to that as it is priced at Php5,499.00.

This is inevitable because better hardware like the HD screen and 12MP camera are expensive too. We’ll just have to adjust to afford one.

Cherry Mobile Flare HD will hit the stores in the coming days to weeks in the provinces. If you got or planning to get one, hit the comments section below.

Interesting features

The first thing you’ll notice with Cherry Mobile Titan 2.0 is its resemblance with Sony’s Xperia series. This form factor makes Titan 2.0 sleeker and more interesting.

One such feature of Cherry Mobile Titan 2.0 is its ability to act as a powerbank. That means you can re-charge other phones using Titan 2.0 via a USB OTG connection!

Here’s how Cherry Mobile Titan 2.0 looks like:

Cherry Mobile Titan 2.0 acting as a powerbank. Photo by CM

Cherry Mobile Titan 2.0 Performance (Processor, Memory and Battery)

When the 12 Cherrys of Christmas poster leaked online revealing Cherry Mobile Titan 2.0, many thought that it will be powered by the quad core processor from MediaTek. However, it turns out that it runs using the less powerful quad core processor from Qualcomm.

Don’t worry too much though. It still has Adreno 203 for graphics processing and 1GB of RAM. There’s 4GB of internal storage and a slot for a 32GB microSD memory card.

Cherry Mobile Titan 2.0’s battery is power packed at 3,000 mAh to a point that it can re-charge other phones!

Cherry Mobile Titan 2.0 Design, Display and Camera

Cherry Mobile’s decision to fit a 3,000mAh battery on Titan 2.0 instead of a mighty 6,000mAh on its OEM device resulted into a thinner profile and lesser weight.

Its 5 inch high definition screen displays stunning graphics thanks to OGS technology where the display feels closer to the touch than ever.

There are two cameras with OmniBSI (all with backside illuminated) sensor. The main one comes with 12 Megapixels while the front has a 5 Megapixel shooter.

Cherry Mobile Titan 2.0 Network and Connectivity

Except for 4G LTE, Titan 2.0 is complete in terms of connectivity features. It can connect to 3.5G cellular networks for fast mobile internet and automatically switch to EDGE or GPRS when you’re not in a 3G area.

Cherry Mobile Titan 2.0 has WiFi and WiFi hotspot, Bluetooth, GPS and of course, USB OTG. The last one enables you to connect USB devices to a Titan 2.0 and copy files or share battery juice.

Cherry Mobile Titan 2.0 Specs

1.2GHz Quad Core Qualcomm MSM8225Q Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
5 Inch HD IPS OGS Display @ 1280x720 Pixels
Adreno 203 GPU
12 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with LED Flash and BSI Sensor
5 Megapixel Front Camera with BSI Sensor
1GB of RAM
4GB of Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via MicroSD
3.5G, EDGE and GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth
GPS with A-GPS
FM Radio
USB-OTG
Motion Sensor
Proximity Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor
3.5mm Audio Jack
3,000 mAh Li-ion Battery

Cherry Mobile Titan 2.0 Price and Availability

Cherry Mobile Titan 2.0 is now available nationwide for Php8,999.00 and comes with a free 4GB microSD memory card.

Some say that Cherry Mobile Titan 2.0 isn’t that great since it uses the MSM8225Q processor only and has a lower battery capacity than the Cloudefone Thrill 400 QX with an interesting feature too. Why do you think these assumptions are wrong?

Smart Telecommunications Inc. officially announced the availability of Google Nexus 5 smartphone in their postpaid plans. Many waited for this as Nexus 5 runs on the latest version of Android - Android Kitkat!

The lowest plan that gives you Google Nexus 5 for free is Smart's LTE or Unlisurf Plan 1500. It offers 120 texts to all networks, 60 minutes call time to all networks and unlimited mobile internet with a lock in period of 30 months.

Google Nexus 5 Now Available for Free at Smart Plan 1500

Smart offers Google Nexus 5 in its Unlisurf Plan 1500.

Google Nexus 5 Specs

If you're not yet familiar with Nexus 5, here's a list of its key specs:

2.3GHz Quad Core Krait 400 Chipset
Android 4.4 Kitkat OS (with 4.4.2 upgrade)
4.95 Inch Display @ 1080 x 1920 Pixels or 445 PPI
2GB of RAM
8 MP Camera with Optical Image Stabilization
2,300 mAh Li-Po Battery

More Google Nexus 5 Plans

Of course, you have several choices for what plan you're going to enroll. There's the cheapest All in Plan 500 where you only have to pay Php500.00 per month for 2 years but you have to make a one time payment of Php19,000.00 for the Google Nexus 5 unit.

You can also choose Unlisurf Plan 2000 where you can own a Google Nexus 5 for free with a monthly fee of Php2,000 but with more perks and 24 months lock in period only.

Finally, Smart also offers the Google Nexus 5 without any monthly fee - that means you have to reload it via prepaid. The price? Php22,000. This is not bad actually.

A SmartWatch worth having

When SmartWatches start rolling in from Samsung, Toq and with Apple and Microsoft developing their own too, Pebble already shipped out units of its Pebble SmartWatch.

One main flaw with these SmartWatches is their design. They just look ugly like Samsung's Galaxy Gear. However, Pebble's new Pebble Steel SmartWatch will change all that with its new design. Just take a look!

Here's how Pebble Steel looks like:

Pebble Steel comes with straps in leather, black matte metal and brushed stainless steel.

Pebble Steel Features

If you're not yet familiar with Peeble, its just a bluetooth device that connects to your Android phone or iPhone and displays notifications, runs some apps and of course,shows you the time.

Pebble Steel is a huge improvement over the original Pebble SmartWatch in terms of design and durability. it now uses milled stainless steel and Corning® Gorilla® Glass making its display scratch and shatter resistant.

It is also waterproof rated at 5ATM - half of most waterproof watches. Nevertheless, you can swim, take a shower and wash the dishes with your Pebble Steel on.

Pebble Steel Price and Availability

Peeble Steel is now available at its website for $249 with free shipping worldwide. That's around Php11,100 with the current exchange rate.

If you order one, Pebble will ship your unit on January 28, 2013. You can still order the original Pebble SmartWatch at $150 which will ship the next day.

More Choices

Cherry Mobile gives us a lot of choices for the perfect mobile phone that suits our budget and also has the features that we want.

This list will help you decide which Cherry Mobile phone to choose from their latest collection. Take note that we only include the most interesting and latest Cherry Mobile phones here. You can check the 2013 price list for other models.

Cherry Mobile Flare HD - ₱5,499

HD ng Bayan

1.2GHz Quad Core MediaTek MT6589 Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
4.3 Inch HD IPS Display @ 1280x720 Pixels
12 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with BSI sensor and LED Flash
5 Megapixel Front Camera with BSI sensor
1GB of RAM
4GB of Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via MicroSD
Dual Sim/Dual Standby
3G, 2G EDGE and 2G GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth 4.0
GPS with A-GPS
FM Radio
3.5mm Audio Jack
Motion Sensor
Proximity Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor
1,800mAh Li-ion Battery
Read more

Cherry Mobile Titan 2.0 - ₱8,999

Powerbank Smartphone

1.2GHz Quad Core Qualcomm MSM8225Q Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
5 Inch HD IPS OGS Display @ 1280x720 Pixels
Adreno 203 GPU
12 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with LED Flash and BSI Sensor
5 Megapixel Front Camera with BSI Sensor
1GB of RAM
4GB of Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via MicroSD
3.5G, EDGE and GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth
GPS with A-GPS
FM Radio
USB-OTG
Motion Sensor
Proximity Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor
3.5mm Audio Jack
3,000 mAh Li-ion Battery
Read More

Cherry Mobile U2 - ₱2,399

Waterproof and Dustproof Phone

Water and Dust Proof
Floats on Water
IP67 Compliant
Hardshell Housing
Micro-SD up 16GB
Dual-SIM
Camera
3.5mm Audio Jack
Read more

Cherry Mobile W900LTE - ₱11,499

Affordable LTE Android Phone

1.5GHz Dual Core Qualcomm Snapdragon Processor
Android Jelly Bean
4.3 Inch OGS HD Display at 1280 x 720 Pixels or 342 PPI
10 Point Muti-touch
Adreno 225 GPU (to be confirmed)
12 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with LED Flash and BSI Sensor
1 GB of RAM
8 GB Internal Storage
Single Sim
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
4G LTE, 3G HSPA+, EDGE, GPRS and GSM Networks
Bluetooth
GPS
3.5mm Audio Jack
Read more