Celkon A87 Comprehensive Review Specs & Pricing

Overview of Celkon A87

The Celkon A87 was introduced to the market in January 2013, marking its presence in the budget smartphone segment. Known for its affordability, it offers a range of features that cater to users seeking essential smartphone functions without a hefty price tag. Although the device has been discontinued, it remains noteworthy for its combination of functionality and cost-effectiveness at the time of its release.

Design and Build

Celkon A87 comes with a traditional design that was prevalent in the early 2010s. The device features a 4.0-inch TFT display, which provides adequate screen real estate for basic smartphone tasks. With a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels and an approximate pixel density of 233 ppi, the display delivers clear text and images, making it suitable for everyday use such as browsing and texting.

The phone supports dual SIM functionality, allowing users to switch between two numbers seamlessly. This feature is particularly useful for those who balance personal and professional contacts without the need for carrying multiple devices. The weight and dimensions of the device, although unspecified, ensure it’s lightweight and portable, as is typical for phones of that era.

Performance

Under the hood, the Celkon A87 is powered by a Spreadtrum 6820 chipset, complemented by a 1.0 GHz CPU. This configuration offers basic processing power suitable for handling simple apps and tasks. Although not built for gaming or heavy multitasking, the device is capable of running the Android 2.3.6 (Gingerbread) operating system smoothly, an OS known for its user-friendly interface.

With 512MB of RAM and the same amount of internal storage, users might find the device's memory capabilities limited. Fortunately, the phone includes a microSDHC card slot, enabling users to expand storage as required for additional media and applications.

Camera Features

The Celkon A87 is equipped with a 5MP rear camera, featuring autofocus for sharper images. While not particularly high-end by modern standards, it provided adequate photographic capabilities at the time, allowing users to capture moments with reasonable quality. A VGA front camera is also present for basic video calling needs. Video recording is supported on the main camera, a bonus for users wanting to capture motion.

Battery Life

The device comes with a Li-Ion 1450 mAh battery, which offers a standby time of up to 220 hours and a talk time of up to 3 hours. This capacity is aligned with the phone's efficient power usage and was typical among budget smartphones during its release. Users can expect a day’s use on a full charge if activities are limited to basic tasks such as calling, messaging, and occasional web browsing.

Network and Connectivity

Operating on GSM technology, the Celkon A87 supports 2G network bands, adequate for calls and texts but limited in faster mobile internet access. For wireless connectivity, the device is Wi-Fi enabled supporting b/g/n standards and includes the functionality to act as a mobile hotspot.

Bluetooth support ensures compatibility with various wireless accessories, while an FM radio provides entertainment on-the-go. Unlike more modern devices, the A87 lacks GPS positioning and NFC capabilities, largely limiting its navigation and contactless payment functions. Connectivity via USB relies on a proprietary port, typical before the standardization of micro-USB and USB-C interfaces.

Audio and Sensors

Audio output is facilitated through a built-in loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing users to enjoy music and audio content. The Celkon A87's sound capabilities, while basic, cater to casual listening needs. An accelerometer is included for orientation-based applications and motion control, adding a layer of interactivity to app experiences.

Price and Availability

Upon release, the Celkon A87 was priced at approximately 70 EUR, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. Available in black and white color options, it appealed to those seeking simplicity and functionality over premium features.

Since the device is discontinued, contemporary buyers are unlikely to find new models on the market. However, the Celkon A87 serves as a reminder of the rapid evolution of smartphone technology and how affordable devices have shaped mobile accessibility for a global audience.

Conclusion

Overall, the Celkon A87 stands as an example of early 2010s smartphone innovation aimed at making mobile technology accessible to a wider range of consumers. While its features and specifications may not compete with today's advanced smartphones, it remains a significant milestone in the transition of mobile technology from luxury to necessity.