Mobilawy

itel S23+ Unveiling Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Release Date
2023, September 19
Camera
50MP
Battery
5000mAh
Battery Type
18W
Processor
Unisoc Tiger T616
Screen
6.78"
Storage
128GB/256GB
Ram
4/8GB RAM
Operating System
Android 13, itel OS 13

Overview

The itel S23+ is a budget-friendly smartphone that was announced on September 19, 2023. It has quickly gained attention for offering a blend of modern features at an affordable price. Ideal for users looking for a cost-effective device, the itel S23+ is packed with decent specifications suitable for everyday use.

Design and Build

The itel S23+ sports a sleek design with a 7.9 mm thickness and a weight of just 178 grams (6.28 ounces), which makes it relatively lightweight and easy to handle. The device features a glass front, plastic frame, and plastic back, typical of phones in this price range. It supports dual SIM functionality with Nano-SIM slots operating on a dual stand-by mode.

Display

The display of the itel S23+ is one of its notable aspects. It features a 6.78-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a 20:9 aspect ratio, offering a pixel density of approximately 388 ppi. This ensures crisp and clear visuals, making the device a good choice for media consumption. The display is also protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5, adding a layer of durability against scratches and minor impacts.

Performance

Under the hood, the itel S23+ is powered by the Unisoc Tiger T616 chipset, built on the 12nm process. The CPU configuration consists of an octa-core processor with 2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 cores and 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. For graphics, it relies on the Mali-G57 MP1 GPU. This setup is adequate for handling day-to-day tasks and some light gaming, although it might not excel in high-end gaming performance.

Memory and Storage

The phone comes in two variants depending on memory and storage needs: one with 4GB RAM and 128GB internal storage, and another with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. However, it is important to note that itel S23+ does not support expandable storage as there is no card slot available in the device.

Camera

The camera setup on the itel S23+ is sufficient for social media sharing and casual photography. The rear camera module features a 50 MP, f/1.6 wide lens equipped with autofocus, along with a 0.08 MP auxiliary lens. The main camera supports 1080p video recording at 30fps. For selfies, the device has a 32 MP, f/2.0 front camera, also capable of recording videos at 1080p@30fps. A notable feature is the LED flash, which aids in low-light photography.

Software

Running on Android 13 with itel's custom OS 13, the itel S23+ offers a straightforward software experience with potential for optimized updates and tweaks to enhance user interaction. It aims to deliver a user-friendly experience while maximizing the capabilities of Android 13.

Battery and Charging

The phone is equipped with a 5000mAh non-removable battery, promising extended usage durations, from web browsing and media consumption to light gaming activities. Charging is facilitated by an 18W wired charger, which should provide reasonable charging speeds considering the size of the battery.

Connectivity and Other Features

In terms of connectivity, the itel S23+ includes Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac with dual-band support, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, and USB Type-C 2.0 with OTG capabilities. Some versions of the phone may support NFC, depending on the market or region. However, there is no mention of FM radio support. The device lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack, which could be a consideration for those who rely on wired audio devices.

Security and Sensors

Security is enhanced by an under-display optical fingerprint sensor, providing a convenient and secure way to unlock the device. Additional sensors include an accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, and compass, which can enhance the usability and functionality of various apps and features on the phone.

Price and Availability

The itel S23+ was launched at a price of about 110 EUR, making it a highly competitive option in its segment. It is available in two color options: Black and Cyan, giving users a choice in terms of aesthetics.

Conclusion

In summary, the itel S23+ stands out as an affordable smartphone with a decent feature set. With its large AMOLED display, adequate performance, and solid battery life, it caters well to users looking for fundamental smartphone features without the high price tag. While it may not compete with flagship models in terms of high-end specifications and features, it offers a balance of functionality, design, and performance for budget-conscious consumers.

Key Features of itel S23+

  • AMOLED display with 500 nits peak brightness
  • Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection
  • Thin profile with 7.9 mm thickness and lightweight at 178 g
  • Powered by Unisoc Tiger T616 (12 nm) chipset
  • High-resolution cameras: 50 MP main camera and 32 MP selfie camera
  • Ample internal storage options: 128GB with 4GB RAM or 256GB with 8GB RAM
  • Dual SIM capability with 4G LTE support
  • Fingerprint sensor under display for security
  • Long-lasting 5000 mAh battery with 18W wired charging
  • USB Type-C 2.0, OTG support
  • Available in Black and Cyan colors
  • Affordable price - about 110 EUR

Disadvantages of itel S23+

  • No support for 5G networks, limited to 4G LTE.
  • Plastic frame and back may not provide the premium feel or durability of metal or glass.
  • No expandable storage; lacks a microSD card slot for additional memory.
  • Lack of 3.5mm headphone jack, which might be inconvenient for users relying on wired audio devices.
  • Radio feature unspecified, which could be a downside for users who frequently use FM radio.
  • The auxiliary lens on the main camera at 0.08 MP seems less useful without clear purpose or features.
  • 18W charging may be considered slow compared to other current models with faster charging options.
  • NFC functionality is market/region dependent, potentially missing for some users.
Network
Technology GSM / HSPA / LTE
2G bands GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2
3G bands HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100
4G bands 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41
Speed HSPA, LTE
Launch
Announced 2023, September 19
Status Available. Released 2023, September 19
Body
Dimensions 7.9 mm thickness
Weight 178 g (6.28 oz)
Build Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back
SIM Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)
Display
Type AMOLED, 500 nits (peak)
Size 6.78 inches, 111.0 cm2
Resolution 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~388 ppi density)
Protection Corning Gorilla Glass 5
Platform
OS Android 13, itel OS 13
Chipset Unisoc Tiger T616 (12 nm)
CPU Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPU Mali-G57 MP1
Memory
Card slot No
Internal 128GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM
Main Camera
Single 50 MP, f/1.6, (wide), AF 0.08 MP (auxiliary lens)
Features LED flash
Video 1080p@30fps
Selfie camera
Single 32 MP, f/2.0
Video 1080p@30fps
Sound
Loudspeaker Yes
3.5mm jack No
Comms
WLAN Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct
Bluetooth 5.0, A2DP, LE
Positioning GPS
NFC Yes (market/region dependent)
Radio Unspecified
USB USB Type-C 2.0, OTG
Features
Sensors Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass
Battery
Type 5000 mAh, non-removable
Charging 18W wired
Misc
Colors Black, Cyan
Models S681LN
Price About 110 EUR

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