Price and specifications of Asus Fonepad 7 FE171CG advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Introduction

The Asus Fonepad 7 FE171CG, announced and released in January 2015, is a distinguished tablet known for its versatile functionality, integrating both smartphone and tablet features into a single device. As a member of the Fonepad series, it offers a unique blend of communication and computing capabilities, aimed at consumers who appreciate larger displays without compromising on portability.

Build and Design

The Fonepad 7 showcases a sleek design with dimensions measuring 196 x 110.6 x 7.9 mm and a weight of 280 grams, making it comfortable to hold and portable. Its slim profile and lightweight build allow users to carry it around effortlessly, while the build quality ensures durability. The tablet features a dual SIM slot (Micro-SIM, dual standby), catering to users who require multiple networks for personal and professional use. Available in colors like Black, White, Gold, and Red, it appeals to a variety of style preferences.

Display

The display is one of the key features of the Fonepad 7. It is equipped with a 7.0-inch IPS LCD screen, delivering a resolution of 600 x 1024 pixels, which translates to a 16:9 aspect ratio and roughly 170 pixels per inch (ppi). While the resolution is not high by modern standards, it is sufficient for basic tasks and media consumption. The screen includes an oleophobic coating that helps resist fingerprints, maintaining the display clearer for longer use.

Performance

Under the hood, the Fonepad 7 runs on an Intel Atom Z2520 chipset, featuring a dual-core processor clocked at 1.2 GHz. While this may seem moderate, it is adequate for handling daily tasks like browsing, video playback, and light gaming. The PowerVR SGX544MP2 GPU complements the CPU, enabling decent graphics performance for multimedia applications.

Memory and Storage

Memory and storage options for the Fonepad 7 include configurations of 1GB RAM with 8GB internal storage and 2GB RAM with 16GB internal storage. Both options support expansion via a dedicated microSDXC card slot, allowing users to increase storage capability for apps, media, and files.

Camera and Imaging

Asus equipped the Fonepad 7 with a primary camera available in two variants: a 5 MP or an 8 MP version, both accompanied by autofocus and an LED flash for better low-light photography. The rear camera supports video recording at 1080p@30fps, ensuring good quality footage for casual use. On the front, a 2 MP selfie camera is provided, capable of recording 720p videos, appropriate for video calls and basic selfies.

Operating System and Software

Out of the box, the Fonepad 7 operates on Android 4.4 KitKat. Even though this version of Android is outdated, at the time of release, it provided a stable and user-friendly interface, supporting a broad range of apps and functionalities, enhanced by Asus's software features.

Connectivity

The device supports GSM/HSPA technology, facilitating connectivity with 2G and 3G networks, with download speeds reaching up to 42.2/5.76 Mbps on HSPA. Wireless communication is supported through Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, along with Bluetooth 4.0 for connectivity with other devices. Locational services are available via GPS and GLONASS, although NFC and radio features are absent. For physical connection, the microUSB 2.0 port is utilized for charging and data transfer.

Battery Life

The Fonepad 7 is powered by a non-removable Li-Po 3950 mAh battery, which offers substantial power for routine use. According to Asus, it promises up to 11 hours and 30 minutes of talk time on 2G and up to 34 hours on 3G, allowing all-day usage without the need for frequent recharging, making it ideal for on-the-go productivity and entertainment.

Audio and Multimedia

The Fonepad 7 includes a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm audio jack, catering to audio playback preferences. These audio options ensure that users can enjoy music and videos either loudly through the speaker or privately via headphones. The multimedia experience is augmented by the decent display and additional storage capabilities that allow carrying substantial amounts of media content.

Sensors and Additional Features

Equipped with an accelerometer, the Fonepad 7 supports screen orientation changes as per the usage scenario—ideal for adjusting from portrait to landscape modes during video playback or reading. The combination of software and sensor capabilities ensures a smoother user experience.

Market Position and Pricing

Priced around 160 EUR at the time of release, the Fonepad 7 was positioned as a mid-range device offering substantial features at an affordable price point. Its value proposition lay in combining phone and tablet capabilities, targeting consumers who sought dual functionality without the need for separate devices.

Conclusion

The Asus Fonepad 7 FE171CG is a capable device that catered to a specific market need upon its release—providing phablet features with reasonable performance, decent display, and sufficient battery life, all packaged in a sleek, portable design. While it might not stand against high-end tablets by today's standards, it remains a relic of tech evolution where integrating communication features with larger displays was becoming the norm.