Lenovo has unwrapped a buffet of new affordable smartphones in Malaysia yesterday – its next generation A- and S-series. The highly-specced S860 spearhead the pack, alongside S650, S660, A859, A680 and A526, a range that includes sleek design, longer battery life and performance to boot.
Both series of smartphones are equipped with quad-core processors from MediaTek and run Android 4.2 Jelly Bean. The devices also pack dual-SIM capability, up to 8MP sharp-shooting rear cameras and include Lenovo’s handy suite of DOit apps.
The new range seeks to meet the demands of today’s consumers across multiple price points and lifestyles.
S860, premium affordability
Amongst the lot, the S860 exudes the most premium feel with its brushed metal exterior and large 5.3-inch HD screen. It takes some design cues from the Vibe Z, minus the price tag. Battery life is an impressive 40 day of standby, and up to 24 hours of talktime on 3G.
It’s packed with 2GB RAM, 16GB of storage and is powered by MediaTek’s MT6582 quad-core processors running at 1.3Ghz.
The 8MP main snapper and 5MP front camera should satisfy snap-friendly consumers.
S650, stylish workshorse
The S650 is a stylish pocketable device with a 4.7-inch HD display, and a laser-etched fabric-feel rear cover. Storage is 8GB, with 5MP and 2MP rear and front cameras respectively.
S660, stylish workhorse+
The S660 is identical to the S650 in every way except that it features expandable storage – up to 32GB with microSD card. It features a snazzy brushed metal design, long battery life and budget-friendly price.
A859, high-performance all-rounder
On top of the value A-series is the A859. A great all-rounder with a 5-inch HD IPS screen, quad-core performance, 8MP rear camera and 8GB storage.
A680, affordable performer
The A680 features 24 hours of talktime, dual-SIM capability, rear and front cameras and quad-core performance.
A526, back to basics
A 4.5-inch HD screen to satisfy your basic smartphone needs, with good battery life and front and rear cameras.
Pricing and availability
Lenovo S860: RM1169.00
Lenovo S650: RM699.00
Lenovo S660: RM749.00
Lenovo A859: RM719.00
Lenovo A680: RM499.00
Lenovo A526 will be available in mid-May 2014, price to be revealed soon.
Initial impressions
Lenovo is doing what it’s best at. Packing performance and spec into an affordable package. If you’re confused with the model numbers, I was too. But don’t be. There are two winners among the lot. The S860 wins my vote in terms of price/performance, offering quite outstanding value for the price.
For those will slightly shallower pockers, the excellent A859 could be a viable choice.
