Lenovo A269i InDepth Review Specs and Pricing

Overview

The Lenovo A269i is a budget-friendly smartphone that was released in September 2013. It targets users looking for basic smartphone functionality without the hefty price tag. With modest specifications and features, it represents an entry-level option for those new to the smartphone market or individuals requiring a secondary device.

Design and Build

Weighing in at just 112 grams, the Lenovo A269i is designed with portability in mind. Its compact size, with a 3.5-inch TFT display, makes it easy to hold and operate with one hand. The black color scheme gives it a sleek and professional look, although it is evident that the emphasis was on function over form. The phone sports a durable plastic body that is both lightweight and resilient to everyday wear and tear. It includes a dual SIM slot, allowing users to manage two numbers simultaneously, a feature especially useful for those who toggle between personal and professional calls.

Display

The device features a 3.5-inch display with a resolution of 320 x 480 pixels. While the display quality might not compare with modern high-resolution screens, it is adequate for basic tasks such as browsing, texting, and calling. The display technology is based on TFT, which provides decent color reproduction and brightness levels sufficient for indoor use. However, it might struggle under direct sunlight due to limited maximum brightness.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the Lenovo A269i is powered by a Mediatek MT6572 chipset with a dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU. This is paired with a Mali-400 GPU. While this setup will not support heavy gaming or multitasking, it is adequate for basic operations like calls, messaging, and using simple applications. The device comes with 512MB of internal storage and 256MB of RAM, making it a challenge to run newer applications smoothly. However, it offers a microSDHC slot, allowing users to expand storage capacity for additional media and apps.

The smartphone runs on Android 2.3 Gingerbread, an older version of the Android operating system. Although this limits access to newer applications and features, Gingerbread is lightweight and sufficient for basic smartphone needs.

Camera

Equipped with a 2 MP main camera, the Lenovo A269i is not designed for those interested in photography. It lacks a front-facing selfie camera, which might be a drawback for users who enjoy video calls or selfies. The camera is capable of capturing basic photos and videos, but will not meet the standards of today’s high-definition demands.

Battery Life

The phone is powered by a removable Li-Po 1300 mAh battery, which is modest by today’s standards but adequate given the device’s hardware configuration and power requirements. It offers a standby time of up to 504 hours and a talk time of up to 19 hours, making it serviceable for users who need a reliable phone for calls and messages throughout the day without frequent recharging.

Connectivity

In terms of network capabilities, the Lenovo A269i supports GSM and HSPA technologies. It offers Wi-Fi connectivity with support for 802.11 b/g/n and functions as a Wi-Fi hotspot. The phone also features Bluetooth 2.0, microUSB 2.0 for charging and data transfer, and an FM radio. However, it does not support GPS navigation or NFC, limiting its use for location-based services.

Sound and Multimedia

The Lenovo A269i comes with a standard 3.5mm audio jack, allowing users to connect earphones or headphones for audio playback. It also includes a loudspeaker, providing basic sound output for calls and media. The audio quality is basic, fitting its budget profile and targeting everyday multimedia needs rather than audiophile standards.

Sensors and Additional Features

The device is equipped with an accelerometer and proximity sensor. These provide basic functions such as auto-rotate for display orientation and call handling features. Being an entry-level device, it lacks advanced sensors like gyroscopes or fingerprint scanners found in more expensive models.

Market Position and Pricing

Initially launched at around 70 EUR, the Lenovo A269i targeted budget-conscious consumers seeking essential smartphone features without additional frills. The device is now discontinued, having been superseded by more advanced models. Nonetheless, it serves as a reminder of the era when basic, affordable smartphones made mobile technology accessible to a broader audience.

Conclusion

The Lenovo A269i is a straightforward, economical smartphone aimed at users who require core functionalities without the cost of high-end features. While its specifications may seem outdated today, it provides the fundamental aspects of a smartphone experience, making it a viable option for individuals seeking minimal smartphone capabilities. Its durability, dual SIM functionality, and long-lasting battery life are standout features, although modern expectations for speed, display quality, and multimedia may not be met.