Lenovo S856 Unveiled Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Design and Build

The Lenovo S856 is a device that boasts a modern design, synonymous with the smartphones released in its era. Measuring 151 x 77.8 x 9 mm and weighing 175 grams, it offers a balanced mix of portability and functionality. The dual SIM capacity, utilizing Mini-SIMs, allows for flexibility in network usage. Despite its relatively modest weight, the phone feels robust and solid in hand, with an exterior finished in a sleek silver that gives it a contemporary touch. Although it has been discontinued, the design remains a testament to Lenovo's attention to user-friendly aesthetics and durable build quality.

Display

The device showcases a 5.5-inch IPS LCD screen, with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels. This translates to a pixel density of approximately 267 ppi. The choice of an IPS LCD assures users of broad viewing angles and natural color reproduction, making it suitable for media consumption. With about 71% screen-to-body ratio, users can enjoy a fairly immersive viewing experience for both work and play.

Performance

Under the hood, the Lenovo S856 is powered by the Qualcomm MSM8926 Snapdragon 400 chipset partnered with a quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU and an Adreno 305 GPU. Although it might not compete with modern devices in terms of raw processing power, during its release, this setup was adequate for handling everyday tasks smoothly. Android 4.4.2 KitKat is the operating system of choice, providing a user-friendly interface and access to a plethora of apps via the Google Play Store.

Memory and Storage

The device comes with 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage. While the internal storage might appear minimal by today's standards, the expandable storage option through a microSDHC card slot up to 32GB compensates for this shortfall, providing users with additional space for apps, photos, and media files.

Camera Capabilities

Photography on the Lenovo S856 is facilitated by an 8MP autofocus main camera, accompanied by an LED flash to support low-light conditions. The camera ensures decent photo quality and video capabilities, allowing capture of memorable moments. On the front, a 1.6 MP selfie camera allows for basic video calls and selfies. Though modest in specification, the camera setup is functional for casual use.

Battery Life

The phone is powered by a removable Li-Po 2500 mAh battery which, at the time of release, provided a good balance between performance and longevity. The battery is rated to last up to 456 hours on standby (2G), 312 hours on 3G, and can deliver up to 24 hours of talk time (2G) and 25 hours on 3G networks, making it a reliable companion for day-long communication and media applications.

Connectivity and Communication

The Lenovo S856 is equipped to handle GSM, HSPA, and LTE network technologies. With a variety of bands supported, it ensures that users have access to fast mobile data speeds, with LTE capable of reaching up to 100 Mbps and HSPA up to 21.1 Mbps. Additional connectivity options include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n with hotspot capability, Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP, and GPS. The phone also features FM radio and a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfer, although it does not support NFC.

Sound

Sound on the S856 is delivered through a built-in loudspeaker and a standard 3.5mm audio jack, accommodating the needs of audio enthusiasts who prefer wired headsets. The quality suffices for regular usage, be it notifications, calls, or media playback.

Sensors and Features

The device is equipped with necessary sensors such as an accelerometer and proximity sensor, which support various functionalities like auto-rotate and screen dimming during calls, enhancing the phone's usability and user experience. Despite its basic configuration, the phone manages to provide essential smartphone features without excessive frills.

Conclusion

In summary, the Lenovo S856 was a commendable budget smartphone in its time, offering a balanced package with its larger display, adequate performance capabilities, and functional design. While it does not meet the high-performance standards expected of current-generation smartphones, especially in terms of RAM and internal storage, it serves as a reliable communications device with enduring battery life and decent camera performance. The well-engineered build, along with essential connectivity features, made it a popular choice in markets where affordability and practicality were preferred. Though it has been phased out, the Lenovo S856 embodies a practical and straightforward approach to smartphone design, standing resilient against the test of time.