Google has just launched Android One handsets for the India market. There are three handsets which carry similar specs with a guaranteed promise for the OS updates.
We are going to check the Micromax Canvas A1, which carry the Android One logo and manufactured by Micromax.
This is the entry level offering from google and it will run in parallel with Nexus program and receive same treatment in terms of update.
Lets start with the basics by taking the phone out of the box.
[youtube src=”_3a3TCpSTiE” title=”Unboxing Of Micromax Cavas A1″ duration=”07M22S” thumbnail=”” description=””]
[youtube src=”UtmDue5Mbmc” title=”Micromax Canvas A1 Detail Review” duration=”09M30S” thumbnail=”” description=””]
Design
Micromax went with two standard colors – Magnetic Black and Serene White. I think its a safe bet, considering the love for white in India.
Both carry the similar black front which make white looks little out of place. I prefer black as it goes well with the front design.
The bottom contains the USB charging point and microphone, 3.5mm earphone point on the top and power, volume button on the side.
The only thing which looks out of place, is the ring on the back camera, though it is of back color but it little protruding. The phone does not wobble while lying on the back, but it can create some issues while putting and taking the phone out of pocket.
The smooth finish plastic back looks good and gives a good feeling while holding the phone.
Specifications
Micromax Canvas A1 Specs:
Micromax Canvas A1 carry the similar specs as other Android One handsets.
- Android 4.4.4
- 1.3 GHz Mediatek Quad Core Processor
- 4.5 inch LCD (480 x 854 pixels)
- 1 GB RAM
- 4 GB Internal Storage
- SD Card support up to 32GB
- 1700 mAh Battery
- 5 MP Rear Camera with 1080p recording
- 2 MP front Camera
This is a good specifications considering the price tag of Rs. 6499 ($100).
There are handsets which are in the market and carry the similar specifications, but most of them does not have pure android feel. This should provide improved performance of user experience.
Also with the Google’s promise of timely updates for next two years, users can keep the handset in the similar way. The only issue is that people buying this range of handsets might not be too much worried about these updates.
Should they care about it? – Yes, we should get as much value as we can for our money. Also being up to date in terms of OS updates will give a preferred feeling in this segment and think user will start recognizing it.
Software
This phone runs on pure Android version 4.4.4 and carry the similar feeling is Nexus.
It has Google Luncher installed as default and has “OK Google” voice command activated on the home screen. It has been activated with English (India) language, which is not available to any other device other then Nexus handsets.
The phone comes with almost minimal bloatware, only extra applications which are installed is Amazon (as it getting sold exclusively on Amazon), Hike Messenger and Mlive.
The only issue is available user memory, phone has only 1.54 GB internal memory available to users for application install. This might be little lower considering the normal application sizes in Play Store.
It does support application transfer to SD card and you can add additional 32GB memory as a SD card, which will provide a little help.
Camera
This phone comes with 5MP back camera with Autofocus and 2 MP front facing camera. Phone has a capability to record video in 1080p from rear camera and 720p from front camera.
It has internal memory but you can not use camera without the additional SD-card (totally unnecessary restriction).
Now lets check the camera performance in different condition:
1. Outdoor
2. Indoor
3. Low light with flash
Performance
Now lets talk about most important thing, performance of the handset. Being a pure Android device, it is expected to bring a good, snappy experience for the users.
While using the device for regular applications, it works really good. I am able to open 6 apps in parallel and able to jump between those without getting screen refreshed.
The only issue comes while playing games or graphics intensive applications, you will see some screen shuttering and jerks. The phone handles some of the common tasks like navigations, music and videos very effectively.
Last Words
Micromax Canvas A1 Android one is a very capable entry level handsets. If you are wondering about the performance, it can handle multiple apps very effectively. The only place you will notice any lag is graphics intensive applications.
It is a very good way to keep up to date with the latest technology in a very reasonable price.
