Overview of Plum Check Plus

The Plum Check Plus was released in May 2014 and since then, it has carved a niche for itself in the smartphone industry, particularly among budget-conscious consumers. Despite its discontinuation, the device still remains relevant due to its unique blend of features that cater to the basic needs of users.

Network Capabilities

The device supports GSM and HSPA networks, enabling it to connect with a wide range of 2G and 3G bands. Specifically, the Plum Check Plus works on GSM 850, 900, 1800, and 1900 bands for both SIM slots, and HSDPA 850 and 1900 bands for 3G connectivity. With HSPA speeds reaching up to 21.1/5.76 Mbps, the device offers reliable internet surfing capabilities.

Launch Details

Announced and released in May 2014, the Plum Check Plus saw a moderate reception. However, it has since been discontinued, making it a collector's item for those interested in older phone models.

Build and Design

The Plum Check Plus embraces a compact form factor with dimensions measuring 130 x 63.4 x 9.2 mm. It weighs 142 grams, providing a balanced feel in the hand. The dual-SIM feature is particularly beneficial for users who need to separate personal and professional calls without carrying multiple devices.

Display Features

Fitted with a 4.5-inch IPS LCD screen, the Plum Check Plus offers a resolution of 480 x 854 pixels and a 16:9 aspect ratio, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 218 ppi. While not the most advanced screen technology, the IPS LCD provides satisfactory color reproduction and viewing angles for an entry-level smartphone.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the Plum Check Plus is powered by a Mediatek MT6572M chipset built on the 28 nm process. It features a dual-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU coupled with a Mali-400 GPU. Although not designed for high-performance tasks, this configuration is adequate for everyday applications, basic multitasking, and light gaming.

Memory and Storage

The device offers 4GB of internal storage paired with 512MB of RAM, which was standard for many entry-level phones of its time. For users requiring additional storage, the device includes a microSDXC card slot, allowing for expandable storage solutions.

Camera Systems

Plum Check Plus is equipped with a 5 MP autofocus main camera, accompanied by features like LED flash, panorama, and HDR capabilities. It supports video recording at 720p@30fps, which suffices for basic video capturing needs. The front-facing 2 MP camera, although minimalistic, serves for simple selfies and video calls.

Audio and Connectivity

The device includes a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm audio jack, offering traditional audio playback options. Connectivity is facilitated by Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, and microUSB 2.0 for charging and data transfer. It also includes an FM radio, a feature cherished by many for offline music and news.

Sensors and User Interface

On the sensory front, the phone includes an accelerometer, gyro, and proximity sensor, contributing to the device's interactive and responsive user interface, which is based on the Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean operating system.

Battery Life

The Plum Check Plus houses a removable Li-Ion 1500 mAh battery. It promises a stand-by time of up to 750 hours on a 2G network and up to 650 hours on 3G. The talk time extends up to 17 hours on 2G and 14 hours on 3G, ensuring all-day connectivity.

Design Variations

This device was available in multiple color combinations, including White/Blue, White/Red, Black/Black, Black/Lime, and Black/Red, providing users with a range of options to suit their personal style.

Conclusion

While the Plum Check Plus may not match the performance and features of modern smartphones, its foundational offerings, combined with a practical design and economic price point, make it a valuable device for basic use and as a backup phone. Its simplicity and straightforward operational capabilities have captured the interest of a niche audience, highlighting its significance in the timeline of smartphone development.