Celkon A98 Comprehensive Review of Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Introduction

The Celkon A98, released in 2013, was a budget-friendly smartphone designed to meet the essential needs of consumers looking for a reliable device at an affordable price. Despite being discontinued, it remains an interesting piece of technology from its time. This article delves into the comprehensive details of the Celkon A98, highlighting its specifications, features, and overall performance.

Design and Display

The Celkon A98 came with a compact design that was typical of smartphones from the early 2010s. While the exact dimensions and weight were not specified, it provided a comfortable grip with its substantial build. It featured a 4.0 inches TFT display with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels and a pixel density of approximately 233 ppi. This made it adequate for basic media consumption and regular usage, delivering colors with acceptable sharpness and clarity for the device’s category.

Performance and Operating System

Under the hood, the Celkon A98 was powered by a 1.0 GHz processor. This single-core CPU was sufficient for handling light tasks such as calling, texting, and browsing. It ran on Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, which, at the time, offered users a modern interface and access to a wide range of applications. The simplicity of the OS complemented the hardware capabilities of the Celkon A98, making it a user-friendly device for those new to smartphones.

Camera Capabilities

The device was equipped with a single 3.15 MP main camera which allowed for basic photography. Although it lacked the advanced photography features seen in more modern devices, it fulfilled the fundamental functions of capturing moments. The presence of a front camera enabled users to engage in video calls, contributing to its social connectivity aspects, though specific resolution details were not provided for the front camera.

Memory and Storage Options

Storage was an essential consideration for the Celkon A98, which supported expandable memory through a dedicated microSDHC slot. This was a crucial feature, allowing users to augment storage capacity to meet personal needs, especially as internal storage specifications were not clearly detailed. The flexibility provided by microSDHC support was beneficial in managing media files and applications without the constraint of limited space.

Battery Life

The Celkon A98 included a Li-Ion 1800 mAh battery that promised up to 180 hours of standby time and up to 6 hours of talk time. This was relatively standard for its era, enabling users to get through a day of moderate use without constantly searching for a power outlet. The efficiency of the battery contributed positively to the user experience, providing sufficient energy for everyday tasks.

Network and Connectivity

The device supported GSM and HSPA network technologies, with 2G and 3G bands that allowed for decent mobile connectivity. It featured dual SIM (Mini-SIM) capabilities, catering to users requiring separate lines for personal and professional use. In terms of wireless connectivity, it enabled Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n connections and included Bluetooth for pairing devices. An FM radio added to its multimedia features, though it lacked advanced positioning services like GPS and connectivity options such as NFC.

Audio and Additional Features

For audio enthusiasts, the Celkon A98 provided a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack – a standard at the time – which ensured compatibility with a wide range of audio accessories. Sensors like the accelerometer facilitated auto-rotation and helped enhance interactive apps and games, contributing to its usability.

Conclusion

Although the Celkon A98 has been discontinued, it represents an era where smartphones were becoming increasingly accessible to a broader audience. Its specifications catered well to users looking for an entry-level device offering essential smartphone capabilities. Despite technological advancements that make current devices significantly more powerful, the Celkon A98 remains a testament to the design philosophies and user requirements of its time.