Even before the smartphone screens screamed high-definition, phones for over $700 came with at least a double dose of the cores, to provide more power for apps and games. Now, handset maker Huawei is looking at delivering true bang for your buck, with a well-spec’d phone that comes in at a just under half a grand.
Originally launched at Mobile World Congress earlier this year, Huawei’s Ascent D Quad boasts a Huawei-made quad-core processor, a chip that will compete against the widely used Nvidia Tegra 3 seen in the HTC One X and Samsung’s own quad-core Exynos used in both the Galaxy S3 and Galaxy Note II handsets.
“The Ascend D1 quad is Huawei’s most powerful smartphone ever released in Australia, delivering the most advanced quad-core processor technology while actually increasing energy efficiency,” said Huawei’s Australian Marketing Manager, Poh-Lee Koh. “This device utilises Huawei’s own in-house chipset integrated with Huawei’s own power management technology, leading to significant improvements in media consumption, multi-tasking and productivity.”
Outside of the processor, expect parts that normally make up high-end smartphones, including a high definition 720p IPS+ screen sitting at 4.5 inches, 8 megapixel camera with backside illuminated sensor and dual LED flash, Android 4.0 “Ice Cream Sandwich,” and a thickness of 8.9mm.
Huawei is also hoping for good things in the battery performance area, with a 1800mAh battery being assisted by Huawei’s own proprietary power management systems that look to assist in battery life.
Price is one area where Huawei plans to compete, offering the unlocked quad-core phone for $499 RRP at JB HiFi stores across the country, well under what competing quad-core smartphones cost outright.
We’ll be getting one in for review shortly, but keen customers will find it on shelves form November 23.
