subject: Mini E72 Nokia Like Miniaturized Shanzhai Phone – Reviewed [print this page] Mini E72 Nokia Like Miniaturized Shanzhai Phone Reviewed
Attempting to look like better known branded mobile phones, shanzhai (aka copies) phones are becoming a very common site. Joining in this ongoing movement, the Mini E72 bases itself on Nokia's E72 and adds its own twists to grab attention. So does it have anything to offer besides its design?
Comparing a real Nokia E72 with the Mini E72, a user should indeed notice that this phone is significantly smaller than its forbearer. Despite the size though, the well thought out Nokia design (comfortable shape and well designed QWERTY keyboard) are all still there. Its operating system and capabilities (or lack thereof) are where this Mini E72 really starts to depart from the original. So basically this phone sacrifices some of the functionality, and in return offers a much lower price and familiar design modified to tempt people who love mini phones.
These are a few of the Mini E72's specs.
CE standard PCP plastic has been used in the phone's construction.
It lacks a touchscreen, but is built with a QWERTY keyboard with individualized raised keys for easier typing.
Shortcut keys as well as the QWERTY keys are used to navigate the phone's menus and options.
The total weight is a light 80 grams.
The phone's measurements L98xW51xH10 (length x width x height).
It comes with a resolution of 240x320 displaying on a 2.2 inch TFT screen.
Dual SIM ports (meaning 2 SIMs can be inserted simultaneously) with dual standby are built into the phone.
A non standard earphone jack is built in meaning that users will have to use the earphone that comes with the phone or order a new one.
The phone comes quad band, unlocked from any carrier, and can be used anywhere in the world.
Internet access is limited to only WAP 2.0 and GPRS.
The battery life when the phone is on standby will last more than 60 hours .
Abilities the phone has include PDA tools (to do list, calendar, ect), installable java applets, a FM radio as well as an analog TV player, a MP3 and MP4 player, and a digital camcorder and camera.
A couple of the pros and cons the Mini E72 users may notice might include.
Pros
Easy and fast to use, the QWERTY keyboard is not hampered by the small size of the phone.
The 1.3MP camera may seem a bit underpowered, but was able to take very decent pictures.
It is much cheaper than Nokia's E72, yet still keeps many of the design features as well as having a very sturdy build quality.
Cons
Compared to the original E72, the Mini E72 is lacking in its user interface, its internet connection, and in overall swankiness of being a Nokia.
Lacking a standard 3.5mm earphone jack is a great annoyance.
If shanzhai is your thing, the Mini E72 sheds some functionality for looks and price, and is not a bad option.
