Pinoy Techno Guide

Specs from a Mypad 4 Owner

Three days ago, we posted an article about the leaked photo and partial specs of MyPhone’s latest Android tablet, the MyPad 4.

After seeing the post on the Pinoy Techno Guide Facebook page, a PTG reader named Samuel told us that he already owns a MyPad 4! He then posted photos showing its specs.

Take a look at MyPhone’s MyPad 4:

MyPhone MyPad 4 Android tablet.

MyPhone MyPad 4 Features

MyPhone probably thought that not all people like the large 10 inch MyPad 3. MyPad 4 has a smaller but more manageable 7.85 inch display.

If you are a hard core gamer, MyPad 4 is up for resource intensive games with its quad core processor and 1GB of RAM.

We don’t usually highlight a tablet’s camera but MyPad 4’s 8MP main camera and 5MP front camera are surely very attractive!

What we really look at when it comes to tablets are the connectivity features. MyPad 4 has USB OTG capability for connecting any USB device, Bluetooth version 4.0, GPS, 3G, Wi-Fi and a magnetic sensor.

See also: Starmobile Engage 9i is the company's first intel powered tablet.

MyPhone MyPad 4 Complete Specs

1.2GHz Quad Core Processor (Probably from MediaTek)
Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean OS
7.85 Inch IPS Display @ 1024 x 768 Pixels or 163 PPI
8.0 Megapixel Autofocus Rear Camera with LED Flash
5.0 Megapixel Front Camera
1GB of RAM
8GB Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via Micro SD
3G (HSPA+), EDGE and GPRS Networks
Wi-Fi, Wireless Display and Wi-Fi Hotspot
Bluetooth 4.0
GPS
USB On the Go
MicroUSB Port
3.5mm Audio Jack
Gygroscope
Magnetic Sensor
4,500 mAh Battery

MyPad 4 Availability - Where to Buy?

MyPhone hasn’t officially announced the MyPad 4 yet. However, there are already stocks in SM Center Valenzuela and other MyPhone outlets.

There is also a sale of MyPhone tablets at the SMX Convention Center on Feb. 27 – March 1, 2014.

‘Perfect for Camping’

Unlike its two predecessors, Cherry Mobile U3 doesn't just offer a rugged built and features but also the additional functionality of a hand-held radio or ‘walkie-talkie’.

This is particularly useful for those who are going on camping or patrolling the neighborhood. We’re just not yet sure with the range of this feature.

Here’s a cool photo of Cherry Mobile U3:

Cherry Mobile U3 - a very cool and useful phone for rescuers, campers and hobbyists.

Cherry Mobile U3 Specs

Waterproof up to 1 meter for 30 minutes
Dust Proof
IP67 Compliant
Push to Talk Function
Hardshell Housing
Micro-SD up 16GB
Dual-SIM
Camera

Cherry Mobile U3 Price and Where to Buy

Some say that Cherry Mobile U3 costs Php4,999 but Cherry Mobile hasn’t confirmed this yet. We’re hoping for the SRP to be lower though.

By the way, the antenna of U3 is detachable :) We’re guessing that that will disable the push to talk function.

Infinite Features and Performance?

MyPhone has finally introduced its first octa core Android phone named MyPhone Agua Infinity. Will it live up to its name?

MyPhone Infinity excites us not just with its performance but also with its TRUE 16 MP camera, full HD display and sleek design.

Here’s how MyPhone Infinity looks like:

We created this image of MyPhone Infinity based on its OEM and the photos taken during the MyPhone Youth Tech Congress.

MyPhone Infinity Processor, Memory and Battery

Just like the octa core Android phones from other local brands, MyPhone Infinity is also powered by MediaTek’s MT6592 processor. That’s a 1.7GHz chip coupled with Mali 450 for graphics and 2GB of RAM for multitasking.

Based on its Antutu benchmark score, MyPhone Infinity performs better than Cherry Mobile Z2 but lower than Starmobile Diamond X1. This is due to X1’s lower resolution display.

However, MyPhone Infinity doesn't have a micro SD slot to expand the 16GB internal storage. It’s non-removable 2,350 mAh battery is also a disappointment.

MyPhone Infinity Design and Display

White version of MyPhone Infinity with its gold-colored corners - Photo by Miyer Bernabe.

MyPhone Infinity has the same OEM as Micromax Canvas Knight of India and Wiko Highway of Spain. It’s remarkably thin at 7.7mm and features golden corners (white version only) which add to its premium effect.

Its screen is a high definition panel with a very high pixel density – 441 pixels per inch! That means that texts, photos and other graphics look sharp and stunning since you can’t discern the individual pixels of the screen.

MyPhone Infinity Camera

One of the best features of MyPhone Infinity is its 16 Megapixel camera with a REAL 16 MP sensor. Other brands have resorted into 13MP sensors coupled with software interpolation to produce 18MP images.

However, the camera’s large sensor has taken its toll on MyPhone Infinity. The camera module is so large that it sticks out the back cover uncomfortably. MyPhone already knows this that’s why they give a free flip cover for every MyPhone Infinity unit.

MyPhone Infinity Networks and Connectivity

MyPhone Infinity comes with complete connectivity features including 3G at HSPA+ speeds, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth version 4.0, A-GPS and the usual 3.5mm audio jack.

We’re not yet sure if MyPhone Infinity has USB On the Go feature. It needs this to add more storage space since there is no micro SD slot. Some people are still not contented with the 16GB on board storage.

MyPhone Infinity Specs

1.7GHz Octa Core MediaTek MT6592 Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean
5 Inch Full HD IPS Display @ 1080 x 1920 Pixels or 441 PPI
Mali 450 GPU
16 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with LED Flash
5 Megapixel Front Camera
2GB of RAM
16GB Internal Storage (2GB for apps)
Dual SIM/Dual Standby (to be confirmed)
3G (HSPA+), EDGE and GPRS Networks
Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Hotspot
Bluetooth 4.0
GPS with A-GPS
3.5mm Audio Jack
Motion Sensor
Proximity Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor
2350 mAh Li-Po Battery

MyPhone Infinity Price and Availability

MyPhone Infinity was first introduced during the MyPhone Youth Tech Congress at the SMX Convention Center. However, it was a pre-production unit.

Hence, MyPhone Infinity won’t be up for sale until around the last week of March or first week of April. The price hasn't been revealed too but we’re guessing it to be around Php14,000.

'Premium Looks'

Along with MyPhone Infinity, MyPhone announced another premium looking smartphone during its first ever Youth Tech Congress - the MyPhone Ocean Elite.

MyPhone Ocean Elite leads the Ocean series with a 1.3GHz quad core processor, HD display, 13MP camera and a super slim design.

Here's how MyPhone Ocean Elite looks like:

MyPhone Ocean Elite - Photo by Bam Amor.

MyPhone Ocean Elite Processor, Memory and Battery

Even if MyPhone Ocean Elite doesn't pack an octa core processor like MyPhone Infinity, it still is more powerful than most smartphones from the local brands. Its MT6582 processor is coupled with a Mali 400 graphics processor and 1GB of RAM.

However, MyPhone Ocean Elite seems to have to micro SD slot. You'll have to live with the 16GB of on board storage for your files and photos.

Its battery is fine at 2,000 mAh.

MyPhone Ocean Elite Design, Display and Camera

MyPhone Ocean Elite - Photo by Bam Amor.

We don't have the exact measurements yet but MyPhone Ocean Elite surely looks sleek due to its thin body and metallic frame.

Its screen is a 5 inch high definition IPS LCD panel that should be enough to provide high quality graphics.

For the camera, there's a 13 Megapixel snapper at the back and a 5 Megapixel one on the front.

MyPhone Ocean Elite Spec

1.3Ghz Quad Core MediaTek MT6582 Processor
5 Inch HD IPS Display @ 1280 x 720 Pixels
Mali 400 GPU
13 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with LED Flash
5 Megapixel Front Camera
1GB of RAM
16GB Internal Storage
Dual SIM/Dual Standby
3G (HSPA+), EDGE and GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth 4.0
GPS with A-GPS
FM Radio
3.5mm Audio Jack
Gyro
Ambient Light Sensor
Proximity Sensor
2,000 mAh Battery

MyPhone Ocean Elite Price and Availability

We're expecting MyPhone Ocean Elite to be available on the stores by April. It will sell at around Php9,000 and will be a nice pick if you want a powerful phone with a nice design.

Share your thoughts about MyPhone Ocean Elite below.

Save 2K for Iceberg

MyPhone Agua Iceberg is one of the best smartphones from a local brand in 2013. If you've been wanting to own this phone, now's your chance to save up to Php2,000!

This is MyPhone's way of saying thank you for their customers who made them garner more than a million Likes on Facebook. This huge discount will start on March 15 and end on March 31, 2014.

MyPhone Iceberg HUGE Sale - Get it for Php8,988!

MyPhone says thanks to its over a million Facebook fans!

MyPhone Iceberg Specs and Features

MyPhone Iceberg is a 5.7 inch phablet powered by a quad core processor and 1GB or RAM. It also features a 12 MP main camera and 5MP front camera.

Here's the complete specs of MyPhone Iceberg.

You can also check out our hands on review of MyPhone Iceberg.

MyPhone Iceberg Sale Participating Outlets

To avail of this promo, you must print this photo and bring it to a MyPhone outlet in any of the following places:

Manila:
SM Manila
Robinsons Manila
SM San Lazaro
Puregold Tayuman
SM Sta. Mesa

Quezon City:
SM North Edsa
SM Fairview
Robinsons Galleria
Eastwood City Mall (Automatic Centre)
Puregold QI

Makati City:
Cash N' Carry
Rockwell Powerplant Mall (AVID)

Mandaluyong City:
SM Megamall

Pasig City:
SM Hypermart

Taguig City:
Market Market

Muntinlupa City:
SM Muntinlupa
Festival Mall

Valenzuela City:
Puregold Valenzuela
Puregold Paseo Del Blas

Rizal:
SM Taytay

Paranaque City:
SM Bicutan
SM BF Parañaque
Puregold BF Southpark
Puregold Multinational

Las Piñas City:
SM Center Las Piñas
SM Southmall

Marikina City:
SM Marikina

Pasay City:
SM MOA

Caloocan City:
Victory Mall

Antipolo City:
SM Masinag

NORTH LUZON
Olongapo:
SM Olongapo

Cabanatuan:
NE Pacific Mall

Bulacan:
Robinsons Malolos

Pampanga:
SM City San Fernando

Baguio:
SM Baguio

SOUTH LUZON
Batangas:
SM Batangas
Robinsons Mall Lipa

Cavite:
SM Dasmariñas
SM Bacoor
SM Rosario

Laguna:
SM Calamba
SM Sta. Rosa
Paseo De Santa Rosa

Bicol:
SM Naga (P. ALDANA)

VISAYAS
Cebu:
SM Cebu

Iloilo:
SM Iloilo

Bacolod:
SM Bacolod

Dumaguete:
Super Lee Plaza

Tacloban:
Robinsons Mall

MINDANAO

Davao:
G-Mall

Cagayan De Oro:
Limketkai Mall

Zamboanga:
EMC Mall

General Santos:
KCC Mall

Iligan:
Gaisano City Super Mall

Tagum:
NCCC Mall

Nokia Android Phone

Nokia just launched their first ever Android phone in the Philippines – the Nokia X! You can now buy a green, white, black or red Nokia X in select Nokia stores for Php5,990.

Nokia X runs a customized Android Jelly Bean operating system that features a Windows Phone like user interface. It is powered by a Snapdragon processor and features a 4 inch screen.

Nokia X's suggested retail price is very attractive at Php5,990 only!

In-App Payment Using Cellphone Load

Most of us find it hard to purchase items in our favorite Android game. Nokia X aims to fix that by using your load.

For example, you can buy more Powerups in Plants vs Zombies 2 without the need for a credit card. You'll just have to buy regular cellphone load from the nearest sari-sari store.

his will set Nokia X apart from the rest of Android phones in the market right now.

Nokia X Specs

1 GHz Dual Core Qualcomm MSM8225Q Snapdragon 200 Processor
Nokia X 1.0 Software OS (Customized Android)
4 Inch Capacitive Display @ 480 x 854 Pixels or 245 PPI
Adreno 203 GPU
3 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera (no Flash)
512MB of RAM
4GB Internal Storage
Dual SIM/Dual Standby
3G HSDPA, EDGE and GPRS Networks
Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Hotspot
Bluetooth v4.0 with A2DP
Proximity Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor
Accelerometer
3.5mm Audio Jack
1,500 mAh Li-ion Battery

When MyPhone announced that MyPhone Iceberg will feature a wireless display feature, we were very excited.

However, it's only now that the company released the necessary wireless display dongle needed for the feature to work. You can now buy this accessory for Php2,500.

Here's how MyPhone's Wireless Display Dongle Works:

Displaying Plants vs Zombies 2 on a TV from a MyPhone smartphone using MyPhone's Wireless Display Dongle.
Photo by Dan Villarba Buenaventura and Ryan Mejia.

In order to make this wireless display dongle work, you have to plug it into your TV's HDMI port. It will then give off a Wi-Fi signal that you need to connect with.

Photo by Dan Villarba Buenaventura.

Whatever you see on your phone gets mirrored on your TV.

Smartwatch with Premium Design

Motorola joined the ranks of Samsung and Pebble in the wearable tech market with its Moto 360 Smartwatch.

Unlike Samsung's Gear, Moto 360 features a rounded face and design that looks and feels like a normal wristwatch.

Motorola Moto 360 Smartwatch. Photo by Motorola.

Motorola Moto 360 Features

Since Moto 360 is powered by Google's modified Anroid OS for wearables called Android Wear, it responds to you when you say "Okay Google".

You can say "Okay Google, when will my flight leave?" and it will answer you with the correct answer. You can even send a text message!

The best I've seen so far is when you use Moto 360 when traveling and using Google Maps.

Using Google Maps on Motorola Moto 360 Smartwatch. Photo by Motorola.

Motorola Moto 360 Design

We don't have the spec of Moto 360 yet. Motorola will hold a Google Hangout on March 20 to announce the specifics of the device.

Nevertheless, we already know that Moto 360 can have a metal or leather strap. The metal one looks better though.

Motorola Moto 360 Price and Availability

The official suggested retail price of Moto 360 hasn't been revealed but it will be available starting June 2014 initially in the US.

'A Premium Octa Core Phone'

Starmobile’s second octa core smartphone – Starmobile Octa– lies on the very borderline of premium smartphones with an SRP of ₱16,990.

It has several hardware perks like wireless charging (the charger comes free), NFC, micro USB to HDMI (connect to TV), 32GB of internal storage and a whopping 28,375 Antutu benchmark score (yeah!).

Here's how the Red Starmobile Octa looks like:

Starmobile Octa on display during its launching event. Photo by Trixie Reyna on Instagram.

Starmobile Octa Processor and Memory

Starmobile Octa is still powered by the usual MediaTek 6592 octa core processor clocked at 1.7GHz. It is coupled with a Mali-450MP graphics processor clocked at 650MHz. This combination should give you a very smooth Android experience.

On top of its processor and GPU, Starmobile Octa has 2GB of RAM which will prevent lags when opening a lot of games or playing complex games.

If you worry about storage space, Starmobile Octa’s answer to your needs is 32GB of internal storage and a slot for a 64GB micro SD card.

Starmobile Octa Design and Display

Starmobile conducted a promo where its Facebook fans guess the name of Starmobile Octa.

At 9.7mm, Starmobile Octa won’t win any award for being slim. However, the thin bezels and unique design of the capacitive buttons make up for it.

Turning on the Starmobile Octa greets you with its 5 inch full HD display – that’s a stunning 1080p resolution with 440 pixels per inch!

The display is also covered with a layer of scratch resistant Asahi Glass and benefits from One Glass Solution technology that makes icons appear closer to your fingers when you tap the screen.

Starmobile Octa Camera

Starmobile Octa Sample Photo taken by Raffy Pedrajita.

It’s not yet clear if the camera of Starmobile Octa uses software interpolation to increase the resolution of the photos that the phone captures. Nevertheless, a photo from a fellow tech blog Digital Spidey shows a high quality photo taken using Starmobile Octa.

Starmobile rates the camera of Starmobile Octa at 18 Megapixels while the front camera is rated at 8 Megapixels. Both benefit from BSI for taking photos in low light situations and LED flash (yeah, its front camera has an LED flash too!).

Starmobile Octa NFC and Wireless Charging

NFC is wireless technology similar to Bluetooth but with simpler methods and faster speeds. It enables file transfer, wireless speakers and mobile payment by just tapping two NFC devices together.

I know, NFC sounds boring since only few of use it. On the other hand, wireless charging is something very exciting since it will make out life easier and less messy.

Starmobile Octa comes with a free wireless charger. Plug it on an electric socket, put your Starmobile Octa on top and it will start charging.

The charger also doubles as a Bluetooth speaker and costs ₱2,490 is you buy it separately.

Starmobile Octa Networks and Connectivity

If you were expecting for LTE connectivity, sorry to disappoint you but Starmobile Octa is still using 3G at HSPA+ speeds. That’s already fast, okay? Unless you want to download movies in less than 30 minutes!

Most Android phones just use its micro USB port for transferring files or charging. That’s about to change with Starmobile Octa’s MHL capability.

It means that you can display what’s on your phone to your TV by connecting the phone’s micro USB port to your TV’s HDMI port.

Starmobile Octa Specs

1.7GHz Octa Core MediaTek MT6592 Processor
Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean OS
5 Inch Full HD IPS Display @ 1920 x 1080 Pixels or 440 PPI
Asahi Scratch Resistant Glass and OGS Screen
MHL Support (microUSB to HDMI)
Mali 450MP @ 650MHz GPU
18 Megapixel Main Camera with Dual LED Flash and BSI Sensor
8 Megapixel Front Camera with LED Flash and BSI Sensor
2GB of RAM
32GB of Internal Storage
Expandable up to 64GB via MicroSD
Dual SIM/Dual Standby
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
NFC Enabled
Bluetooth 4.0 (Low Energy)
GPS with A-GPS Support
Wireless Charging
FM Radio
Accelerometer
Proximity Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor
2,300 mAh Li-ion Battery

Starmobile Octa Price and Where to Buy

You might see the Starmobile Octa as too expensive with its₱16,990 price tag. But with all the features that it offers, I think the price is just reasonable. Gone are the days when local brands just offer low end smartphones.

Starmobile Octa will be available at the Starmobile concept store in SM Noth EDSA starting March 24, 2014. If you are outside NCR, Starmobile Octa will probably be available in your area by April 2014.

Are you going to line up for Starmobile Octa on March 24? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Why is it so expensive?

When Starmobile announced that Starmobile Octa costs ₱16,990, I was shocked!

Local gadget brands aren't supposed to be on this price level. They are supposed to offer affordable smartphones and tablets.

Then I checked the features and specs of Starmobile Octa. That’s when I said to myself, “kaya naman pala”.

Starmobile Octa rocks the local smartphone market with its price and features.

Wireless Charging

Starmobile Octa Wireless Charging

Starmobile Octa is the first locally branded smartphone to feature wireless charging. Only international brands like Nokia and Samsung offer this technology.

There’s a free wireless charger that comes with the unit. You just put the smartphone on top of the charger to re-charge it.

Wireless charging makes it more convenient to re-charge your phone. Starmobile even goes further by making the wireless charger function as a Bluetooth speaker too!

Wireless Display and MHL or Micro USB to HDMI Display

Starmobile Octa with a 2-in-1 flash drive. Photo by Joey Uy.

Wireless Display using Miracast technology is already common with most flagship devices from the local brands. MyPhone already sells wireless display dongles for this purpose.

However, displaying what’s on your phone to your TV monitor using MHL hasn’t been offered yet. MHL is the technology that connects the micro USB port on your phone to the HDMI port of your TV.

NFC

Near Field Communication (NFC) is one of the most underused technologies in smartphones. It allows faster (near instant) file sharing without much hassle, one tap payment, wireless multimedia connection among others.

Hopefully, Starmobile Octa can convince people to use NFC more often if it is available. Most Samsung phones have NFC and use it for S-Beam.

Monster Specs

As a premium octa core smartphone, Starmobile Octa packs an awesome lineup of specs. It runs Android Jelly Bean on a 1.7GHz octa core processor, 2GB of RAM and Mali-450MP graphics processor.

It’s full HD 5 inch IPS OGS display is protected by a layer of Asahi scratch resistant glass but Starmobile still includes a screen protector attached to each unit.
The cameras are 18MP and 8MP for the rear and front respectively with both having BSI sensors and LED flash.

Starmobile Octa Pricing

If we consult the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) device of Starmbile Octa – the i-mobile IQX Octo, we’ll find out that Starmobile Octa is actually cheaper. i-mobile IQX Octo costs ₱17,485 in Thailand.

Of course, Starmobile makes it easier for you to own a Starmobile Octa. If you buy one at their concept store in SM North EDSA, you can avail of the zero interest rate installment plan. You need a VISA or Mastercard credit card where you’ll be billed ₱1,415.83 per month for 12 months.

OR, you can also watch out for promos on their Facebook page and hope that you’ll win.

'Clever Features'

Chinese brand Oppo wants to enter the Philippine smartphone market with a bang. To do that, they’re bringing a smartphone with several tricks that could entice you.

Oppo will launch the Oppo Find 7 on April 11 here in the Philippines. It can shoot up to 50MP pictures, runs on a 2.5GHz Snapdragon processor with LTE and flaunts a 534ppi screen!

Take a look at Oppo Find 7:

Oppo Find 7 is available in Midnight Black and White.

Oppo Find 7 Design

Oppo Find 7 might look like just a black slab but when you receive a text message, you’ll be amazed with what Oppo calls Skyline Notification. Sony Xperia ZL has something similar but the one on Oppo Find 7 looks better.

At 9.2mm thickness, Oppo Find 7 balanced aesthetics with function because it has a removable battery! That’s something we rarely see with flagship phones nowadays.

Aside from those aluminum stripes on its sides, 5 layers of thermal protective coating protects the Oppo Find 7 from overheating. Isn’t that cool?

Oppo Find 7 Screen, OS and User Interface

Samsung Galaxy S5 disappointed us by sticking to the 1080p screen resolution. Thankfully, Oppo Find 7 is here to show us how a 1440p screen resolution.

Oppo Find 7 flaunts a 5.5 inch screen with a pixel density of 534 per inch – this is referred to as 2K resolution. On top of that is a protective layer of Corning Gorilla Glass 3 that makes it scratch resistant.

Powering on the device and it will greet you with a different flavor of Android called Color OS. It’s based on Android 4.3 Jelly Bean but looks livelier and more (of course!) colorful.

Oppo Find 7 Performance

Unlike most smartphones from local brands, Oppo used Snapdragon 801 from Qualcomm to power the Oppo Find 7. The choice makes it a quad core only device but also brings LTE and a faster speed – 2.5GHz.

The processor is backed up by Adreno 330 for graphics processing and 3GB of RAM for running multiple apps consecutively.

It’s also worth noting that Oppo Find 7 has 32GB of on board storage space that can be expanded up to 128GB via a micro SD card.

Lastly, Oppo Find 7 uses VOOC technology that re-charges the phone from zero to 75% battery juice in just 30 minutes!

Oppo Find 7 Camera

Oppo Find 7 uses software techniques to create 50MP photos.

Here comes one of the most interesting features of Oppo Find 7 – its camera.

Okay, it’s just a usual 13 Megapixel snapper with a Sony CMOS sensor, autofocus and LED flash. But, Oppo’s engineers created a clever method of using this camera to create large photos.

The feature is called Super Zoom. It basically takes 10 pictures in just a press of a button and combines the best four these to create a 50 Megapixel image.

Not what you expected? Well, you can also shoot 4K videos and create GIF animated pictures with it.

Oppo Find 7 Specs

2.5GHz Quad Core Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 Processor
Color OS – Based on Android 4.3 Jelly Bean
5.5 Inch IPS Display @ 1440 x 2560 Pixels or 534 Pixels per Inch
Gorilla Glass 3 Scratch Resistant
Adreno 330 GPU
13 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with Dual LED Flash and Super Zoom Feature
5 Megapixel Front Camera
3GB of RAM
32GB Internal Storage
Expandable up to 128GB via microSD
LTE, 3G HSDPA, EDGE and GPRS Networks
Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Hotspot, Wi-Fi Direct and DLNA
NFC
Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP
GPS with A-GPS Support
Accelerometer
Gyro
Proximity
Compass
3,000 mAh Li-Po Battery (Removable)

Oppo Find 7 Price and Where to Buy

Oppo Find 7 sells for ₱27,000 internationally. If that’s too much, you might want to consider the Oppo Find 7a which costs lower but with a 1080p screen and 2GB or RAM only.

We’ll update this article with new details from Oppo on the launch date here in the Philippines – ~~April 11, 2014~~ April 10, 2014.

'Budget Smartphone'

Cherry Mobile outs another affordable Jelly Bean smartphone called Cherry Mobile Amethyst at a very affordable SRP of ₱2,299.

The screen is just 3.5 inches, camera at 2MP and RAM at 256MB. However, Cherry Mobile urges you to try Cherry Mobile Amethyst and you might find treasures.

Here's the Cherry Mobile Amethyst:

Cherry Mobile Amethyst looks nice, doesn't it?

Cherry Mobile Amethyst Features

Cherry Mobile Amethyst uses a dual core processor clocked at 1GHz to run apps and games. Combined with the 256MB of RAM, it can run the most commonly used apps like Facebook and Flappy Bird.

However, you shouldn't expect too much with Cherry Mobile Amethyst when it comes to gaming.

There's a 2MP camera at the back with an LED flash and a VGA snapper at the front so you can still enjoy video calls.

Cherry Mobile Amethyst Specs

1GHz Dual Core Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
3.5 Inch Capacitive Display @ 320 x 480 Pixels or 165 PPI
Mali 400 GPU
2MP Main Camera with LED Flash
VGA Front Camera
256MB of RAM
2GB Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via Micro SD
Dual SIM/Dual Standby
3G (HSPA+), EDGE and GPRS Networks
Bluetooth 4.0
Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Hotspot
1,200 mAh Battery

Cherry Mobile Amethyst is now available at SM North EDSA. Photo shared by Cherry Mobile SM North EDSA.

Are you interested or are you looking for something with better specs?

‘As in KRAKEN?’

SKK has jumped into the octa core bandwagon and unveiled its first octa core smartphone called SKK Kraken.

Despite its monstrous name, SKK Kraken comes with lower specs than the octa core offering of other local brands like Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2, Starmobile Octa and MyPhone Infinity.

Here’s the Official Photo of SKK Kraken:

SKK Kraken. Notice the Samsung inspired design and stretched out display.

SKK Kraken Processor, Memory and Battery

Just like most octa core smartphones, SKK Kraken is powered by the 1.7GHz MediaTek 6592 processor coupled with Mali-450 graphics processor.

This combination would have been great if the amount of RAM was set to 2GB like its competitors. However, SKK opted for only 1GB of RAM. This brings down the cost of the device but will also make it suffer from occasional lags.

There’s no word yet on the battery capacity.

SKK Kraken Design, Display and Camera

Seriously, can't they find a better symbol for octa core?

As what the caption above says, SKK Kraken is too similar to the design of Samsung smartphones. Hopefully, it will do justice to its design by performing well.

SKK Kraken flaunts a 5 inch IPS screen with FWVGA resolution. That’s 854 x 480 Pixels or 196 pixels per inch.

Most flagship devices now feature 13MP cameras or higher but SKK dared to go with an 8MP snapper for SKK Kraken. Hopefully, it still takes high quality pictures and videos.

SKK Kraken Specs

1.7GHz Octa Core MediaTek MT6592 Processor
Android 4.2.1 Jelly Bean OS
5 Inch IPS Display @ 854 x 480 Pixels or 196 PPI
Mali-450 GPU
8 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with LED Flash
5 Megapixel Front Camera
1GB of RAM
8GB Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via Micro SD
Dual SIM/Dual Standby
3G, EDGE and GPRS Networks
Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Hotspot
Bluetooth
GPS
3.5mm Audio Jack
FM Radio
Ambient Light Sensor
Proximity Sensor
Motion Sensor

SKK Kraken Price Estimate

Except for its octa core processor, SKK Kraken’s specs seem disappointing if compared with other octa core offerings from local brands. However, SKK stands out by providing the lowest possible price for its smartphones.

We won’t be surprised if SKK Kraken will have a suggested retail price between ₱8,000 – ₱9,000. Just remember that SKK users have mixed reviews with their units. Some say SKK phones are durable while others suffer from factory defects.

'Very Affordable 2G Jelly Bean Smartphone'

MyPhone has formally made its Ocean series of smartphones available starting with an entry level but very affordable MyPhone Ocean Mini.

For ₱1,999, you can already enjoy the perks of a Jelly Bean smartphone with a 1GHz dual core processor and browse the net using Wi-Fi on a 3.5 inch display.

MyPhone Ocean Mini Photo:

Do you like this blue MyPhone Ocean Mini?

MyPhone Ocean Mini Specs

1GHz Dual Core MediaTek MT6572M Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
3.5 Inch Capacitive Display @ 320 x 480 Pixels or 165 PPI
Mali-400 GPU
1.3 Fixed Focus Main Camera
Expandable Memory up to 32GB via Micro SD
Dual SIM/Dual Standby
EDGE and GPRS Networks
Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Hotspot
Bluetooth
GPS with A-GPS Support
FM Radio
3.5mm Audio Jack
Motion Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor
Proximity Sensor

Is MyPhone Ocean Mini Worth It?

If you want to own a Jelly Bean smartphone but you have a limited budget, MyPhone Ocean Mini might be the right choice for you.

Just remember that you need Wi-Fi to enjoy browsing and using social media apps because its mobile internet connection is only 2G.

Are you going to buy a MyPhone Ocean Mini for yourself or a special someone perhaps?

‘Affordable Jelly Bean Smartphone with Larger Screen’

If you want an affordable smartphone with a larger display than the MyPhone Ocean Mini, MyPhone Ocean Lite is for you.

It has the same dual core processor with a 4 inch capacitive display, 3.2 Megapixel camera and four color choices – blue, red, white and black.

Take a look at MyPhone Ocean Lite:

MyPhone Ocean Lite in different colors.

MyPhone Ocean Lite Specs

1GHz Dual Core MediaTek MT6572M Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
4 Inch Capacitive Display @ 800 x 480 Pixels or 233 PPI
Mali-400 GPU
3.2 Fixed Focus Main Camera with LED Flash
VGA Front Camera
Expandable Memory up to 32GB via MicroSD
Dual SIM/Dual Standby
EDGE and GPRS Networks
(No 3G to be confirmed)
Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Hotspot
Bluetooth
GPS with A-GPS Support
FM Radio
3.5mm Audio Jack
Motion Sensor
Proximity Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor

Take note that MyPhone hasn’t yet revealed the amount of RAM and battery capacity of MyPhone Ocean Lite and Mini. If these are given high numbers, the two will be set apart from MyPhone’s other offerings.

‘The Philippines is In!’

It’s 10:18 am of March 29, 1994, Dr. John Brule demonstrated ‘live chat’ at the University of San Carlos in Cebu with his son in Syracuse, New York.

“We’re in!”, he announced as he connected and a cheer went up from the audience. It was a 64K serial link from the Philippines to SprintLink’s router at Stockton California.

A Cisco 7000 router was used for the Philippines’ first live connection to the internet.

First Live Connection

Earlier that day, at 1:15 am, Benjie Tan activated the first ever live internet connection in the Philippines. It was a Cisco 7000 router in Makati that opened the internet gateway for Filipinos.

Another Cisco 4000 router was used to connect using PLDT’s services from Cebu for the formal announcement during the conference at USC.

Before this fateful day, only very few Filipinos can connect to the internet using not permanent dial up connection.

Father of Philippine Internet

Dr. William Torres and Benjie Tan - two pioneers of internet in the Philippines.

Even though Benjie Tan was credited for making activating the actual connection, the Philippines wouldn't have a live internet connection if not for Dr. William "Bill" Torres.

He was the first Filipino to earn a PhD in Computer Science and initiated the first informal negotiations with the US National Science Foundation to establish a live internet connection in the Philippines.

His efforts extended into looking for financial support from the private sector because the government had very little money back then.

Future of Internet in the Philippines

In the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the internet in the Philippines, Dr. William said that there is a need for a new government body called Department of Information and Communications Technology.

He said that the department should “bring ICT to the mainstream. In the same way that we think of water, electricity, and other utilities as essential, so too must we also think of ICT in the long-term.”

Many of us now enjoy the benefits of the internet but people in the rural area are still out of reach of these benefits.

‘Made for Shooting’

Gionee has brought the elegant and powerful Gionee Elife E7 here in the Philippines aiming to take a larger part of the country’s smartphone market.

To do that, Gionee Elife E7 boasts a ‘professional’ camera sensor and user interface along with a Snapdragon 800 processor and a customized Android 4.2 called Amigo OS.

Take a look at Gionee Elife E7:

Gionee Elife E7 just looks gorgeous specially in white.

Gionee Elife E7 Design and Display

Gionee Elife E7 is beautifully designed especially the white version. There are seven available colors of its polycarbonate body to choose from though.

Geonee Elife E7 in blue and pink. Notice the curved body.

At only 150 grams, it’s incredibly light even though it measures 9.5mm at its thickest and 6.5mm at the sides. On the other hand, the thinnest smartphone in the world as of this writing – the Gionee Elife S5.5– is just 5.5mm!

Upon powering on the Gionee Elife E7, a gorgeous 5.5 inch full HD display with 401 pixels per inch and a neat user interface greets you. There’s also a layer of Gorilla Glass 3 on top of it for scratch protection.

Gionee Elife E7 Processor, Memory and Battery

Even if Gionee Elife E7 is only a quad core smartphone, it still rocks benchmarks due to its 2.2GHz processor from Qualcomm, 2GB of RAM and an Adreno 330 graphics processor.

There are two versions of Gionee Elife E7 – a 16GB version and a 32GB one that also comes with 3GB of RAM. The bad news is that there’s no micro SD slot on either models.

Another worrying detail is its non-removable 2500 mAh Lithium Polymer battery. However, it showed very good performance in several benchmarks and Gionee claims that it can last up to 22 hours on 3G calls, 10 hours of video playback or 7 hours of surfing the internet.

Gionee Elife E7 Camera

This is the most exciting feature of Gionee Elife E7. As its tagline goes – it is ‘made for shooting’.

Gionee Elife E7 sample photo taken by Kishor Berde.

The power of Gionee Elife E7’s camera comes from its OmniVision sensor that has larger pixel size than that on Nokia Lumia 1020’s camera sensor by almost 20%!

The larger pixel size produces clearer pictures. This becomes evident when the picture is zoomed and you find very little noise (those random colored dots). However, Nokia Lumia 1020 still produces larger images because it has a 40MP sensor while Gionee Elife E7 has 16MP only.

The camera software of Gionee Elife E7 also includes a professional panel that displays options for professional photographers to fiddle. But for the usual users, a more compact interface is also available.

Gionee Elife E7 Networks and Connectivity

If you want LTE connectivity, you should choose the 32GB LTE version of Gionee Elife E7. Otherwise, the 3G version will do because it will provide you with HSDPA+ mobile internet.

There’s the usual connectivity features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS with several sensors like Gyro and E-Compass. You can also attach USB devices with USB on the Go.

The single SIM slot might be an issue for some though.

Gionee Elife E7 Full Specs

2.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 Processor
Amigo 2.0 (Android 4.2 Jelly Bean Based) OS
5.5 Inch Full HD IPS Display @ 1080 x 1920 Pixels or 401 PPI
Gorilla Glass 3 Scratch Resistant
Adreno 330 GPU
16 Megapixel Autofocus Camera with LED Flash and OmniVision BSI-2 Sensor
8 Megapixel Front Camera
2GB or 3GB of RAM
16GB or 32GB Internal Storage
Single SIM
4G LTE for the 32GB Version
3G (HSPA+), EDGE and GPRS Networks
Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Display, Wi-Fi Direct and Wi-Fi Hotspot
Bluetooth 4.0
GPS
USB OTG Support
Gyro
Ambient Light Sensor
Accelerometer
Proximity Sensor
Compass and E-Compass
150.6 x 75 x 9.5 mm @ 150 grams
2,500 mAh Li-Po Battery

Gionee Elife E7 Price and Where to Buy in the Philippines

Gionee Elife E7 was formally unveiled in the Philippines on March 30, 2014. The 3G version should now be available in malls and other Gionee outlets while the LTE version will be available by next month.

Gionee priced the Gionee Elife E7 at₱24,500– that’s a premium price for a smartphone. If you decide to buy one, you should ask for a test of the device when you go to their outlets so you can experience the feel of it.

Gionee is one of the new players in the electronic gadgets market in the Philippines. Do you think they've ‘wowed’ you with Gionee Elife E7?

'The little brother'

The success of CloudFone Excite 400 QX last year has prompted CloudFone to release a more affordable smartphone with interchangeable batteries too.

CloudFone Excite 400DX caters to those who want long battery life on a smartphone with just the right price. Thankfully, CloudFone managed to include good specs for its ₱2,999 SRP.

Here's the CloudFone Excite 400DX:

Meet the CloudFone Excite 400DX.

CloudFone Excite 400DX Performance

What powers the CloudFone Excite 400DX is the combination of the 1.2GHz dual core processor from MediaTek and 512MB of RAM.

There's 4GB of internal storage which equates to about 2.5GB for files like photos and mp3's and a slot for a 32GB micro SD card.

CloudFone claims that the 3000 mAh Lithium-ion battery for Excite 400DX can last up to 3 days of regular use while the additional 1400 mAh one can serve as a backup.

CloudFone Excite 400DX Design, Display and Camera

Two batteries for CloudFone Excite 400DX.

Aside from serving as a backup, the 1500mAh battery can make the CloudFone Excite 400DX 12.4mm thick instead of the 15.2mm thickness when the larger battery is used.

One thing that I think CloudFone can improve on the next iteration of their phones with interchangeable batteries is to make the back cover and battery into a single piece so that we won't be looking for the correct back cover to go with the battery.

The 4 inch display will serve your needs with its 800 x 480 Pixel resolution while a 5MP camera can take care of your basic photography needs.

CloudFone Excite 400DX Full Specs

1.2GHz Dual Core MediaTek MT6572 Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
4 Inch Capacitive Display @ 800 x 480 Pixels or 233 PPI
5 Megapixel Main Camera
VGA Front Camera
512MB of RAM
4GB Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via Micro SD
Dual SIM/Dual Standby
3G (HSPA+), EDGE and GPRS Networks
Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Hotspot
Bluetooth 4.0
GPS
FM Radio
3.5mm Audio Jack
1,400 mAh Li-ion Battery
3,000 mAh Li-ion Battery

CloudFone Excite 400DX: What we think of it...

As always, CloudFone managed to excite us with this latest offering. Battery life is definitely one of the biggest concerns buyers have when choosing an Android phone.

If you travel a lot and need a basic smartphone that will not let you down, then CloudFone Excite 400DX is the most affordable choice.

But if you need better specs, you can also check out the Cloudfone Thrill 400 QX which has interchangeable batteries too.

‘Most Awaited from MyPhone’

MyPhone Rio is probably the most awaited smartphone from this company since it leaked few weeks ago.

Now, those who patiently waited for MyPhone Rio can finally get their hands on the cheapest quad core smartphone in the Philippines – ₱4,999 each only!

Take a look at MyPhone Agua RIO:

Aside from yellow, MyPhone Rio is also available in blue, green, orange, red, white and black.

MyPhone Rio Design and Display

MyPhone Rio features a compact design complimented by different colors of matte poly-carbonate back cover. This is one of the features of MyPhone Rio since people can choose their favorite color instead of the usual black and white.

By powering on a MyPhone Rio, you’ll be greeted by a 5 inch IPS display at HD resolution.

MyPhone Rio operates using Android 4.2 Jelly Bean with custom icons and several tweaks to match the MyPhone design.

MyPhone Rio Performance

MyPhone Rio uses the 1.3GHz quad core processor from MediaTek called MT6582 with a Mali-400 graphics processor. This is a very good combination considering the price of Rio. However, there might be few lags here and there due to the high definition screen.

Opening a lot of apps or using 3D games won’t be much of a problem for RIO since it has 1GB of RAM. Only very few smartphones at this price level has 1GB of RAM.

There’s only 4GB of internal storage but thankfully, a slot for a 32GB micro SD card is present.

MyPhone Rio Camera

The main camera of MyPhone Rio isn’t the best with its 8 Megapixel sensor but it’s already good for basic photography needs even when taking group photos.

We have no sample photos from MyPhone Rio yet but if you have used a MyPhone A919, they should have the same picture quality.

MyPhone Rio Specs

1.3GHz Quad Core MediaTek MT6582 Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
5 Inch HD IPS Display @ 1280 x 720 Pixels or 294 PPI
Mali-400 GPU
8 Megapixel Main Camera with LED Flash
2 Megapixel Front Camera
1GB of RAM
4GB Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via Micro SD
Dual SIM/Dual Standby
3G (HSPA+), EDGE and GPRS Networks
Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Hotspot
Bluetooth 4.0
GPS with A-GPS Support
FM Radio
Ambient Light Sensor
Proximity Sensor
Gyro
Magnetic Sensor
2,000 mAh Battery

MyPhone Rio: Where to buy?

MyPhone Rio is now available in different MyPhone kiosks in Metro Manila and several provinces. However, the ₱4,999 is rumored to be just an introductory price. Rio will later sell for ₱7,999.

So, which color of MyPhone Rio do you like?

Update: The photo we posted here earlier seems to be an upcoming version of RIO called MyPhone Rio Fun.

'A Status Symbol'

When Porsche Design and Blackberry told us about the P’9982, one thing instantly became apparent – this smartphone is a status symbol for the rich and famous.

Porsche Design P’9982 is similar to Blackberry Z10 in specs but with premium materials for its built, slightly different design, upgraded OS and a very limited supply.

This might be your boss’ next smartphone:

Porsche Design P’9982 is exclusively designed by Porsche Design and BlackBerry.

Porshe Design P’9982 Design

The Porshe Design logo at the top of Porshe Design P’9982 immediately sets it apart from the usual Blackberry Z10. There is still the Blackberry logo at the bottom but the more angular corners again mark the difference.

Flip the phone and you’ll see the hand-wrapped Italian genuine leather back cover or the one above with the crocodile leather if you can get one of the 500 units.

See also: Vertu Constellation sells for ₱297,000!

Porshe Design P’9982 Performance

A 1.5GHz dual core Snapdragon processor powers the Porshe Design P’9982 together with Adreno 225 graphics processor and 2GB of RAM.

You can say that these specs are somewhat mediocre given that most smartphone makers are now striving for octa core models.

However, Porshe Design P’9982 runs on Blackberry 10.2 OS which isn’t very resource intensive like Android.

Porshe Design P’9982 Display and Camera and LTE

Some of the features of Porsche Design P’9982.

Porshe Design P’9982 is designed for single hand operation. Thus, it only has a 4.2 inch display but with a high definition resolution of 768 x 1280 pixels.

For photography, Porshe Design P’9982 has an 8MP snapper at the back with all the perks of Blackberry 10.2 camera software.

What’s more is the ability of Porshe Design P’9982 to utilize LTE networks from Globe and Smart for ultra-fast mobile internet connection.

Porshe Design P’9982 Specs

1.5GHz Dual Core Qualcomm Snapdragon Processor
BlackBerry 10.2 OS
4.2 Inch Capacitive Display @ 768 x 1280 Pixels or 355 PPI
Adreno 225 GPU
8 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with LED Flash
2 Megapixel Front Camera
2GB of RAM
64GB Internal Storage
Expandable up to 64GB via Micro SD
LTE (Smart and Globe), 3G (HSPA+), EDGE and GPRS Networks
Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Hotspot
NFC
Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP
GPS with A-GPS Support
Accelerometer
Gyro
Proximity Sensor
Compass
1800 mAh Battery

Porshe Design P’9982 Availability and Exclusive Features

Porshe Design P’9982 is now available at the Porshe Design stores in Resorts World Manila and Shangri-la Plaza Mall in Mandaluyong City.

If you can afford the ₱99,990 of Porshe Design P’9982, you will also receive VIP status for Porshe Design which will give you several perks like discounts and exclusive invites to their events.

Pinoy Techno Guide usually feature affordable smartphones but there are some who crave for a smartphone that defines their social status like the Porshe Design P’9982.