Smartphone Samsung GT I8160 Galaxy Ace II: reviews and specifications. How smartphones age! Screen resolution samsung galaxy ace 2
Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 GT-i8160 - How smartphones age!
10.04.2014
introduction
Have you ever, after purchasing an incredibly interesting gadget, found yourself bitten by the fact that just a month after your lucky purchase, an even more impressive new product comes out?! Or maybe the price of a cherished product, which just recently was unaffordable, drops so much that it’s simply impossible not to buy it, but it’s too late, because the wallet-friendly new thing is already serving you faithfully. To be honest, this happens to me all the time, but the situation did not push me to take decisive action. I was never in a hurry to get rid of a still fresh device in favor of a more interesting one. Many do the same, consoling themselves, saying, well, the current device hasn’t turned into a pumpkin! The argument, of course, is ironclad, but in the long term, your modern acquisition, which seemed just yesterday, is, alas, aging and becoming not as stunning as it was before. What kind of aging is it: physical, moral or something else?! I want to talk about this today using the example of Samsung Galaxy Ace 2.
I was going to start writing my review for Helpix a damn dozen times, no less, but every time something stopped me. The desire first appeared after a couple of months of getting to know the smartphone, in the summer of 2012. But at that time, the number of reviews and opinions about for a worthy Samsung budget employee, it was, as they say, off the charts. Therefore, I decided to wait six months and write a detailed operating experience. But then a more or less real time frame for updating the firmware from Android loomed, and, horrifyingly, 2.3 to 4.1. After which the Korean manufacturer desperately fed the owners of the second Ace “breakfast”, and I, of course, waited. Only in the summer of last year (2013) , finally, the official Jelly Bean was installed on my device. The most important thing is that the update did not come over the air, but through the Samsung Kies synchronization program.
Ace's evolution
Mentions in the press about Samsung and its mobile technology are almost always accompanied by the postscript “Galaxy”. Over the course of several years, the line of Android smartphones of the Korean giant has grown so much that many people who are not very keen on technology simply do not know that the world-famous company has some other, non-Galaxy phones. All this pushes the manufacturer to create various sub-lines in a huge family in order to somehow streamline the marketing names of the products. Last year's situation with the S4 is an excellent confirmation of this, how many smartphones designated by this letter and number turned out to be on the shelves?! - Four gadgets completely separate from each other.
With budget Aces, the situation is somewhat different, however, the third generation of phones has already acquired the name of a tennis serve. It all started with a device similar to the fourth iPhone, which demonstrated a living example that a device from Samsung with acceptable characteristics can be affordable. Many people were waiting for the continuation of the banquet, and after strange experiments with Ace Plus and Ace Duos, a full-fledged sequel finally saw the light of day and did not disappoint, including me. After a short acquaintance with the device in the store, I purchased it for a little more than ten thousand rubles (2012).
Expected results
Some smartphones are aging in appearance: scratches and abrasions appear on the body, the plastic tends to crack, and in some cases, fade. Others are aging, rather, morally: firmware updates are not released, they stop coping with even simple tasks. Still others are becoming a thing of the past due to the fault of the manufacturer. We could close our eyes and resign ourselves to a camera failure or lack of memory, but daily, and indeed repeated, reboots and freezes again take us somewhere into the past, when smartphones were not yet so daring and similar things could happen with the stability of their operation. embarrassment.
As a result, we are dealing with a typical representative of the budget segment. The magic of the Ace family that I imagined for myself turned out to be nothing more than a fantasy. Constantly monitor the amount of music, photos, installed programs, do not rely on the camera in those moments when you caught a successful shot, and be prepared that the smartphone will later starting the next video, you will have to reload - does this mean you will not be deprived of anything?! Not at all, this is not so.
Advantages:
Flaws:
Rating: satisfactory (6/10).
Denis Pervukhin
The middle class of mobile devices is in considerable demand. Released in 2012, the Ace 2 device attracted the attention of many buyers. And even after several years, the smartphone looks pretty good.
Design
The buyer will most likely not pay attention to the discreet Galaxy Ace 2 phone. The appearance of the device is quite classic for Samsung and is probably borrowed from the W model from the same series. Nowadays this design is more reminiscent of a “state employee”, but in 2012 this type of device was very respectable.
Korean craftsmen have made the Galaxy Ace 2 as convenient as possible. Adults and children will be equally comfortable working with the device. The phone doesn't try to slip out of your hand. The dimensions are small, which is quite expected from a device with a diagonal of 3.8 inches. Although for such a size the weight of 122 grams is daunting.
In addition to plastic, metal was also used in the case. Of course, there is not much of it, but it definitely affected the weight of the device. As with all Samsung products, there is no point in talking about the build quality. All parts fit perfectly, there are no creaks or gaps.
The design of the device will appeal to the buyer due to its simplicity, but it is not without its drawbacks. The smartphone is available in only one color option, namely black with a small silver edging. Of course, the designers' decision is quite typical for 2012, but I would like more.
Functional elements
The front part is divided between a small screen, a speaker, sensors and, of course, a front camera. Under the display, the company placed two touch buttons and one mechanical one. The back of the Galaxy Ace 2 houses the main camera, flash, speaker and Samsung logo.
On the right side, on the side, there is a power button. The opposite side was allocated for the volume control and a connector for a flash card. The nest is closed with a plate. The 3.5 jack for the headset is located at the top end. At the top you can see a small gap intended for removing the back cover. The USB connector and conversational microphone are located at the bottom end.
The arrangement of the elements is quite familiar. The power button and are located in user-friendly places. There is no side overload, which is often found in mid-range devices.
Screen
In the Galaxy Ace 2 GT-i8160, the manufacturer installed a small, 3.8-inch display. The diagonal is not the largest, but it is enough for work. The resolution of 800 by 480 pixels fits perfectly into the specifications. It will be difficult to notice imperfections in the image with the naked eye, since the phone has 245 ppi.
The most surprising thing is the multi-touch. The screen supports as many as 10 touches, which was a rarity even in top devices of that year. Although Ace 2 would be quite enough with 5 points.
The manufacturer installed its TouchWiz 4.0 shell on top of the native system. The interface has not undergone any significant changes. The user still has access to seven desktops, weather information and other little things.
Of interest is the ability to mute the sound during a call by simply turning the device over. The company even added a voice assistant. Otherwise there are no fundamental differences. The user will receive a standard set of programs and several applications from Yandex.
Connection
Galaxy Ace 2 GT supports working with popular GSM and WCDMA networks. There is also standard navigation, for which regular Google maps are used. Finding a location is not the fastest process. The first launch will take approximately 2-5 minutes. Then the smartphone will be able to determine the coordinates in 30-40 seconds.
Navigation in the device is very “gluttonous”. This concerns not only battery charge, but also consumed traffic. However, the function is fully justified. The phone is capable of displaying not only the route, but also the traffic situation. The route map is calculated in several ways.
There were also standard functions. The company equipped the device with GPRS, EDGE, Bluetooth version 3.0 and the quite expected Wi-Fi 802.11.
Price
Just arriving on store shelves, the new product cost about 9 thousand rubles. Now the price has dropped significantly, given that the device is outdated. Today you can become the owner of Ace 2 for 3-4 thousand rubles. Although the price corresponds to a modern “state budget” model, the characteristics are noticeably inferior to the new products.
Equipment
In addition to Ace 2, the set includes a proprietary headset, an AC adapter, a USB cable, documentation, and a battery. Considering the plastic case, it would be useful to supplement the kit with a cover. There is also an urgent need for more memory. The user will be forced to purchase a flash card.
Positive reviews
Despite the fact that a similar design has already been seen in the company’s devices, the appearance is a definite plus of the Ace 2. The high-quality plastic of the case can withstand a fair blow. The assembly of the device is also not satisfactory. The only gap that can be seen is at the top and is intended for removing the cover. Unfortunately, many buyers are upset by the poor selection of colors.
A well-implemented screen is one of the advantages of the Galaxy Ace 2. The characteristics of the small display were to the taste of almost all users. Although the device uses a TFT matrix, this only played a positive role. The image attracts with warm and rich tones. Naturally, due to the matrix, the screen’s behavior in the sun is not the best, and the viewing angles are low. Although the maximum brightness is enough to smooth out almost all sharp corners.
Users also appreciated the opportunity to switch to a more recent system. Almost all owners rushed to replace their Android 2.3 with 4.1. The system really turned out to be much better than the factory one.
Owners of Ace 2 speak very positively about the sound of the phone. Of course, there are minor crackles, but only at maximum volume. I was pleased with the smartphone and the presence of a built-in equalizer with many settings and adjustments. Things are much better with headphones. Using the headset, the user receives clear sound with rich low frequencies.
A definite plus is the battery. I’m especially pleased that the battery is removable and can be replaced with a larger capacity one. The battery power fully matches the characteristics of the device. The phone will work for a day without additional charging.
The device's camera is ideal for everyday use. The 5 megapixel matrix does not inspire confidence at first. The owners of the device appreciated the sharpness and bright colors of the images.
Negative reviews
What confuses users most about a device is the processor. Previously released phones based on NovaThor of a similar version had two cores, each of which was one gigabyte. The decrease in performance is puzzling, although it does not affect the operation of the device.
In addition to the processor, there is a more noticeable drawback. We are talking about the amount of built-in memory. Only 1.1 GB is available to the user. There is definitely not enough memory even for the most necessary applications and functions. What saves the device is the ability to install a card with additional capacity.
The smartphone has good navigation capabilities. However, judging by the reviews, working with the applications is tedious. Programs take a very long time to process data, sometimes up to several minutes of waiting.
Bottom line
At one time, Ace 2 caused a real sensation. The device was able to compete even with the flagships of some companies. Despite many minor shortcomings, the device attracted the interest of fans.
Information about the make, model, and alternative names of the specific device, if available.
Design
Information about the dimensions and weight of the device, presented in different units of measurement. Materials used, colors offered, certificates.
| Width Width information - refers to the horizontal side of the device in its standard orientation during use. | 62.2 mm (millimeters) 6.22 cm (centimeters) 0.2 ft (feet) 2.45 in (inches) |
| Height Height information - refers to the vertical side of the device in its standard orientation during use. | 118.3 mm (millimeters) 11.83 cm (centimeters) 0.39 ft (feet) 4.66 in (inches) |
| Thickness Information about the thickness of the device in different units of measurement. | 10.5 mm (millimeters) 1.05 cm (centimeters) 0.03 ft (feet) 0.41 in (inches) |
| Weight Information about the weight of the device in different units of measurement. | 122 g (grams) 0.27 lbs 4.3 oz (ounces) |
| Volume The approximate volume of the device, calculated based on the dimensions provided by the manufacturer. Refers to devices with the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. | 77.26 cm³ (cubic centimeters) 4.69 in³ (cubic inches) |
SIM card
The SIM card is used in mobile devices to store data that certifies the authenticity of mobile service subscribers.
Mobile networks
A mobile network is a radio system that allows multiple mobile devices to communicate with each other.
Mobile communication technologies and data transfer speeds
Communication between devices on mobile networks is carried out using technologies that provide different data transfer rates.
Operating system
An operating system is a system software that manages and coordinates the operation of hardware components in a device.
SoC (System on Chip)
A system on a chip (SoC) includes all the most important hardware components of a mobile device on one chip.
| SoC (System on Chip) A system on a chip (SoC) integrates various hardware components, such as a processor, graphics processor, memory, peripherals, interfaces, etc., as well as the software necessary for their operation. | ST-Ericsson NovaThor U8500 |
| Technological process Information about the technological process by which the chip is manufactured. Nanometers measure half the distance between elements in the processor. | 45 nm (nanometers) |
| Processor (CPU) The primary function of a mobile device's processor (CPU) is to interpret and execute instructions contained in software applications. | ARM Cortex-A9 |
| Processor size The size (in bits) of a processor is determined by the size (in bits) of the registers, address buses, and data buses. 64-bit processors have higher performance compared to 32-bit processors, which in turn are more powerful than 16-bit processors. | 32 bit |
| Instruction Set Architecture Instructions are commands with which the software sets/controls the operation of the processor. Information about the instruction set (ISA) that the processor can execute. | ARMv7 |
| Number of processor cores The processor core executes software instructions. There are processors with one, two or more cores. Having more cores increases performance by allowing multiple instructions to be executed in parallel. | 2 |
| CPU clock speed The clock speed of a processor describes its speed in terms of cycles per second. It is measured in megahertz (MHz) or gigahertz (GHz). | 800 MHz (megahertz) |
| Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) The Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) handles calculations for various 2D/3D graphics applications. In mobile devices, it is most often used by games, consumer interfaces, video applications, etc. | ARM Mali-400 MP1 |
| Number of GPU cores Like a CPU, a GPU is made up of several working parts called cores. They handle graphics calculations for various applications. | 1 |
| Amount of random access memory (RAM) Random access memory (RAM) is used by the operating system and all installed applications. Data stored in RAM is lost after the device is turned off or restarted. | 768 MB (megabytes) |
| Type of random access memory (RAM) Information about the type of random access memory (RAM) used by the device. | LPDDR2 |
Built-in memory
Each mobile device has built-in (non-removable) memory with a fixed capacity.
Memory cards
Memory cards are used in mobile devices to increase the storage capacity for storing data.
Screen
The screen of a mobile device is characterized by its technology, resolution, pixel density, diagonal length, color depth, etc.
| Type/technology One of the main characteristics of the screen is the technology by which it is made and on which the quality of the information image directly depends. | PLS |
| Diagonal For mobile devices, screen size is expressed by the length of its diagonal, measured in inches. | 3.8 in (inches) 96.52 mm (millimeters) 9.65 cm (centimeters) |
| Width Approximate screen width | 1.96 in (inches) 49.66 mm (millimeters) 4.97 cm (centimeters) |
| Height Approximate screen height | 3.26 in (inches) 82.77 mm (millimeters) 8.28 cm (centimeters) |
| Aspect Ratio The ratio of the dimensions of the long side of the screen to its short side | 1.667:1 5:3 |
| Permission Screen resolution shows the number of pixels vertically and horizontally on the screen. Higher resolution means clearer image detail. | 480 x 800 pixels |
| Pixel Density Information about the number of pixels per centimeter or inch of the screen. Higher density allows information to be displayed on the screen with clearer detail. | 246 ppi (pixels per inch) 96 ppcm (pixels per centimeter) |
| Color depth Screen color depth reflects the total number of bits used for color components in one pixel. Information about the maximum number of colors that the screen can display. | 24 bit 16777216 flowers |
| Screen area Approximate percentage of screen area occupied by the screen on the front of the device. | 56.04% (percent) |
| Other characteristics Information about other screen features and characteristics. | Capacitive Multi-touch |
Sensors
Different sensors perform different quantitative measurements and convert physical indicators into signals that a mobile device can recognize.
Main camera
The main camera of a mobile device is usually located on the back of the body and is used for taking photos and videos.
| Diaphragm Aperture (f-number) is the size of the aperture opening that controls the amount of light reaching the photosensor. A lower f-number means the aperture opening is larger. | f/2.8 |
| Flash type The most common types of flashes in mobile device cameras are LED and xenon flashes. LED flashes produce softer light and, unlike brighter xenon flashes, are also used for video shooting. | LED |
| Image Resolution One of the main characteristics of mobile device cameras is their resolution, which shows the number of horizontal and vertical pixels in the image. | 2592 x 1944 pixels 5.04 MP (megapixels) |
| Video resolution Information about the maximum supported resolution when shooting video with the device. | 1280 x 720 pixels 0.92 MP (megapixels) |
| Video - frame rate/frames per second. Information about the maximum number of frames per second (fps) supported by the device when shooting video at the maximum resolution. Some of the main standard video shooting and playback speeds are 24p, 25p, 30p, 60p. | 30fps (frames per second) |
| Characteristics Information about other software and hardware features related to the main camera and improving its functionality. | Autofocus Continuous shooting Geographical tags Panoramic photography Touch Focus Scene Selection Mode |
Additional camera
Additional cameras are usually mounted above the device screen and are used mainly for video conversations, gesture recognition, etc.
Audio
Information about the type of speakers and audio technologies supported by the device.
Radio
The radio of the mobile device is a built-in FM receiver.
Location determination
Information about the navigation and location technologies supported by your device.
WiFi
Wi-Fi is a technology that provides wireless communication for transmitting data over close distances between various devices.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a standard for secure wireless data transfer between various devices of different types over short distances.
| Version There are several versions of Bluetooth, with each subsequent one improving communication speed, coverage, and making devices easier to discover and connect. Information about the Bluetooth version of the device. | 3.0 |
| Characteristics Bluetooth uses different profiles and protocols that provide faster data transfer, energy savings, improved device discovery, etc. Some of these profiles and protocols that the device supports are shown here. | A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) AVCTP (Audio/Video Control Transport Protocol) AVDTP (Audio/Video Distribution Transport Protocol) AVRCP (Audio/Visual Remote Control Profile) GAVDP (Generic Audio/Video Distribution Profile) GAP (Generic Access Profile) HFP (Hands-Free Profile) HID (Human Interface Profile) HSP (Headset Profile) MAP (Message Access Profile) OPP (Object Push Profile) PBAP/PAB (Phone Book Access Profile) SPP (Serial Port Protocol) SDP (Service Discovery Protocol) |
USB
USB (Universal Serial Bus) is an industry standard that allows different electronic devices to exchange data.
Headphone jack
This is an audio connector, also called an audio jack. The most widely used standard in mobile devices is the 3.5mm headphone jack.
Connecting devices
Information about other important connection technologies supported by your device.
Browser
A web browser is a software application for accessing and viewing information on the Internet.
Video file formats/codecs
Mobile devices support different video file formats and codecs, which respectively store and encode/decode digital video data.
Battery
Mobile device batteries differ from each other in their capacity and technology. They provide the electrical charge necessary for their functioning.
| Capacity A battery's capacity indicates the maximum charge it can hold, measured in milliamp-hours. | 1500 mAh (milliamp-hours) |
| Type The type of battery is determined by its structure and, more precisely, the chemicals used. There are different types of batteries, with lithium-ion and lithium-ion polymer batteries being the most commonly used batteries in mobile devices. | Li-Ion (Lithium-ion) |
| 2G talk time 2G talk time is the period of time during which the battery charge is completely discharged during a continuous conversation on a 2G network. | 16 hours 20 minutes 16.3 h (hours) 979.8 min (minutes) 0.7 days |
| 2G latency 2G standby time is the period of time during which the battery charge is completely discharged when the device is in stand-by mode and connected to a 2G network. | 670 h (hours) 40200 min (minutes) 27.9 days |
| 3G talk time 3G talk time is the period of time during which the battery charge is completely discharged during a continuous conversation on a 3G network. | 7 hours 30 minutes 7.5 h (hours) 450 min (minutes) 0.3 days |
| 3G latency 3G standby time is the period of time during which the battery charge is completely discharged when the device is in stand-by mode and connected to a 3G network. | 640 h (hours) 38400 min (minutes) 26.7 days |
| Characteristics Information about some additional characteristics of the device's battery. | Removable |
Now it's time to update the lineup, so a fresh solution will come in handy. At the time, its predecessor became a real sales hit; the model turned out to be successful both in its design, imitating the Apple style, and in its filling. All this was offered at an attractive price, which ensured people's love for the smartphone.
During this time, the market has become filled with models with similar characteristics; there are also many offers from Samsung. You can remember the Galaxy W smartphones - the first is cheaper, the others are more expensive than the new Galaxy Ace 2. In any case, you can choose among the rich range of one manufacturer and find the optimal solution for yourself.
Contents of delivery
- Smartphone
- Battery
- Cable
- 2 GB microSD memory card
- Stereo headset
- Charger
Design
Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 is reminiscent of the company’s previously released models, and it’s easy to find common features between them. The body contours are similar to the Galaxy W, and the new product also inherits similar plastic from the latter. The case is without metal, matte plastic predominates here, fortunately, there is no gloss here, everything is assembled with high quality and monolithically.
The plastic behaves well, but over time, small abrasions may form on the back cover if you carry the smartphone in your pocket with other items.
Tightly fitting parts eliminate play or squeaks; this also applies to the positive qualities of the smartphone.
On the front panel there is a set of proximity sensors and a camera for video calls. Unfortunately, there is no sensor for automatic backlight brightness adjustment. The earpiece is hidden under a decorative silver mesh.
At the bottom, in the center, there is a large Home key, which rises above the body. It's flat to make it easier to feel, and has a silver edge that helps you feel the key blindly. The button is mechanical, the clicks are clear, the travel is small. By holding it down for a few seconds, you can display a list of running applications.
On either side of it are two other functional controls for the phone. There are symbols on the left and right of the touch panel: these are the Menu button and the Return key. Due to the fact that they are given a large enough space to press them accurately and avoid erroneous or inaccurate presses, they are convenient to use. The buttons are backlit and are activated when you touch one of the touch zones. Subsequently they go out, despite the working screen. Their operation is configured in the menu, so if desired, the backlight can be completely turned off or, conversely, activated for a longer time.
At the bottom there is a small microphone hole and a port
microUSB
There is a 3.5 mm headphone jack at the top end.
On the left side there is a paired volume key. It is embossed, easy to feel and pleasant to press. There is also a slot for microSD memory cards. Access to it is free, you do not need to remove the battery to change the flash drive, hot-swappable is supported, you just need to fold the protective cover to the side.
On the right side there is a small button to turn off the device, which also functions as a screen lock. It also has a comfortable shape.
The back cover is covered with a barely noticeable pattern. This mesh allows you to hold your smartphone more confidently in your hand. At the bottom there is a small protrusion, familiar from the company’s models. It adds originality to the appearance of the smartphone, and also helps to hold the device in your hand more confidently.
The dimensions of the smartphone fall within the usual framework: 118.3x62.3x10.5 mm, weight 118 g. Not the largest, not the heaviest device for its class. It fits well in your pocket or hand, in general, it is convenient for everyone.
In the center is a 5-megapixel camera lens, which is decorated with a silver rim. Below it is an LED flash. To the right is the speaker hole.
Inside there is a battery and a SIM card slot.
Screen
The smartphone has a 3.8-inch display with a resolution of 480x800 pixels, which is a significant step forward compared to its predecessor. In general, the screen is good for its class both in terms of picture and pixel density. The display is capacitive, supports 5-point multi-touch, and displays up to 16 million colors. The new type of PLS screen is distinguished by moderate brightness, color reproduction closer to natural colors, differing in this regard from SuperAMOLED.
The device responds perfectly to touches, the sensor is sensitive and accurately responds to touches. The protective layer is made of Gorilla Glass and protects the surface from damage. The screen's behavior in the sun is average; data fades and is difficult to read unless you manually set the maximum backlight level.
Platform
The smartphone has a dual-core U8500 Nova Thor processor with a frequency of 800 MHz, a Mali-400 graphics accelerator, and 768 MB of RAM. 4 GB of internal memory is offered for storing applications, of which about 1.5 GB is used for installing software. The card slot allows you to expand the usable space up to 32 GB inclusive. The smartphone worked well with the maximum size card. The operating system is Android 2.3.6 Gingerbread and the proprietary TouchWiz 4.0 shell.
Interface
The proprietary TouchWiz 4.0 interface is used as the shell. At the top of the screen there is a service line, where the time, battery charge, and signal reception level indicator are displayed. Active connections and other data are also displayed there. By clicking on it, you can find out in more detail about what programs were downloaded, what messages and letters were received, or what files were received. The inclusion of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, silent mode and GPS is highlighted in a separate line.
You can use both standard widgets for Android and original elements from Samsung. For widgets, seven desktops are allocated, on which you can place additional functional elements at your discretion.
When you add a new widget to your desktop, a new panel may appear along with it. If desired, you can remove any part of the interface that has become unnecessary.
You can add application shortcuts to the desktop, create folders and change the background image, using both animated images on the desktop and installing static images from the gallery. Sets the image to the lock screen.
When the phone screen is locked, it displays the date and time, as well as service information. To unlock, you need to pull the top layer covering the desktop. If there were missed calls or SMS, they will be displayed on the screen with a separate icon on the left or right. The picture is set on the lock screen, the location for the clock is changed. There are several font styles to choose from.
The menu is presented in the form of 4x4 icons, and an option in the form of a vertical list is also available. If desired, you can move icons to other tables, add them to folders, thus organizing applications to your taste.
When you add new programs, they are automatically placed on the screen. They can be deleted directly from the menu; you just need to go into edit mode. But you can only delete programs that you added yourself; those installed by the manufacturer are not subject to such an operation. Folders for applications are created in the menu.
If you hold down the menu button, a pop-up window will open, showing shortcuts to six recently launched applications.
Phone book
The general list shows stored contacts both in the phone memory and SIM card, as well as data from your Google account. You can choose among them by setting the ability to display subscribers only from the selected memory type. In the settings, you select your preferred method for sorting names.
By clicking the field reserved for the subscriber's picture, you can make a call, send him a message or email, and also view information about him. There are many fields provided for additional data. It includes various types of telephone numbers, email addresses, instant communication tools, residential addresses and other information.
If the subscriber is assigned an image, it will be displayed on the screen. To simplify the search, you can use the vertical line on which the alphabet is depicted. Thus, by sliding your finger over it, the letters pop up and you can quickly find your way around. Of course, there is also a standard search function among contacts. There is a quick call to 8 selected subscribers. Contacts can be divided into different groups, which are assigned an individual signal.
From the phone book, you can quickly call or write an SMS to a person - you just need to swipe your finger left (call) or right (message) on the line with the subscriber's name. By clicking on the space reserved for the subscriber's picture, a quick menu is called up, with which you can send a message, mail, or make a phone call to the selected person.
Call log
You can access the call log directly from the phone book; it is highlighted in a separate tab. There the dialed numbers are sorted by date. But they are not the only ones who appear. It also contains information about messages. If desired, the amount of displayed data can be reduced to a minimum or, conversely, the most complete informational list of events of recent days can be obtained.
Having selected a subscriber, you can see which calls were made and how many times - such a collapsed list is much more convenient than a long string of dialed numbers of the same type. However, in the general list of calls there is a duplication of identical numbers, which overloads the log with identical data. The smartphone can display frequently used numbers in a separate group, which is convenient.
The number is dialed using a virtual keyboard, and when entering numbers, the smartphone automatically displays on the screen contacts stored in the device’s memory with similar initial numbers in the number.
Messages
For SMS and MMS there is a common folder where received messages go. When sending, by adding various objects to the text, you can automatically transform it into a multimedia message. When sending a message, the phone can display the last used numbers, thereby greatly simplifying the search for the recipient. A message can be sent simultaneously to several subscribers or to a group created in the smartphone’s memory. There is a set of funny android emoticons.
The device combines correspondence with subscribers into dialogues. The smartphone can automatically delete old SMS if there is no desire to store thousands of archives on the device. As you type text, you can cut, copy, and paste it. Entering text is convenient. It offers not only the Samsung keyboard option, but also the Swype function. Its essence is that you just need to move your finger along the layout with signs. The device will independently generate words based on which characters were touched by the user’s hand. For clarity, during such input, a blue bar is displayed on the screen, which allows you to avoid confusion when typing text.
The function is very convenient, it automatically places spaces between words, selects words well, and most importantly, you can type text very quickly. If the word is short and a combination of several possible options is possible, then the phone will display them, then you need to choose between them yourself. You can add new words to her vocabulary.
To work with email, the mailbox is automatically configured (if it is not Gmail, which connects immediately after the email address was entered during the initial activation of the phone). It includes entering basic information (login, password). The phone perfectly understands various encodings, supports loading attachments (you must insert a memory card, otherwise this function will not work) in familiar formats.
When creating a letter, you can also attach various files from the device memory to it. The function of copying text and automatically checking the mailbox works (the interval is set manually). Sorting mail by date, subject, sender and size works.
Gallery
Photos and videos stored in the smartphone's memory are displayed here. The gallery works in both vertical and horizontal orientation. Working with files is accompanied by nice animation effects. Working with files is fast, image previews are generated without delay. Pictures are displayed in a 2x3 or 3x2 grid, depending on the position of the device.
The preview folders contain smaller pictures, so that not 3, but 4 pictures can be placed vertically. The image opens in full screen, scaling works using multi-touch. Files can be sent via email, Bluetooth, SMS or hosted on Picasa. You can assign images as desktop wallpaper or assign them to a contact. It supports rotating pictures, reducing their size, and also displays additional information about a specific file, and also shows the place where the picture was taken if geotagging is working.
Images are shown both in folders (for example, received via Bluetooth, photo section) and ordered by date. This makes it very convenient to view photos - there are several sections in the same folder. You can scroll either using the bar displayed at the bottom of the screen or by simply touching the screen with your fingers anywhere on it.
The built-in photo image editor will help you add various effects to your pictures.
Player
The player's interface is simple and intuitive. A general list displays all the songs in the smartphone’s memory. There are also additional columns. Playlists of several types, albums, artists, genres, composers, years. While music is playing, the cover specified in the file tags is displayed on the screen; if there is none, there will be a multi-colored picture instead.
The volume can be changed both from the player menu using the vertical adjustment scale, and by using the side volume keys. The screen displays the name of the artist, the name of the album and the song being played. Tracks can be put on repeat (song, album, all songs) or listened to in shuffle mode.
Virtual keys are used for navigation (forward, backward and pause), and you can also switch between songs by flipping through the file cover image. While listening, you can set your favorite song as a ringtone, contact or alarm.
The user has access to numerous equalizer settings: auto, normal, pop, rock, jazz, dance, classical, live sound, other. You can select the audio effect: normal, wide range, concert hall, music clarity, bass boost, externalization. There is a visualization function, but it does not go well with album covers, so it is more interesting to use it if they are not specified in the file properties.
When the keyboard is locked, the player control line is displayed at the top of the screen, which contains navigation keys, information about the song being played, and cover art.
The sound quality is at the level of the Galaxy W model. That is, not bad, but not the best for its class. In my opinion, Sony Xperia Sola or HTC One V are more interesting as a music source if high-quality headphones are used in conjunction with the device.
Radio
The receiver supports RDS, can work in the background and turn off after a set time period (30 minutes, 1 or 2 hours). The automatic search function for radio stations works. You can display 6 of your favorite radio stations on your desktop and quickly switch between them.
As with the player, there is a pop-up window at the top of the screen for quick navigation between stations. To end the radio broadcast, a separate “stop” key is provided.
Video
The smartphone has full support for DivX and XviD codecs. Therefore, it can be used to watch unconverted videos. Here, videos are launched in 720p quality if desired, although due to the limited display resolution, HD quality will not fully manifest itself.
The video library is displayed in the form of a list with a small preview image of the film, its name and duration are also indicated. During viewing, controls may be displayed on the screen, including rewind and pause keys. A scroll bar appears, allowing you to quickly navigate through the movie being played. Using the lock key on the side of the phone, you can protect yourself from accidental presses while watching a movie.
Camera
The smartphone's camera is 5 megapixel, with autofocus and flash. Shooting starts exclusively from the smartphone menu. The interface is well designed. The shutter button is located on the right, the rest of the space is reserved for the viewfinder and two small zones for service options. The shortcut menu located on the left is customizable. The most necessary functions are placed there for quick access. Focusing on any point on the screen is implemented; you just need to touch the desired place.
Camera settings:
Self-portrait.
White Balance: Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Incandescent, Fluorescent.
Flash.
Shooting mode: one shot, smile, panorama, in motion, cartoon.
Shooting conditions: Portrait, Landscape, Night, Sports, Party, Beach\Snow, Sunset, Dawn, Autumn colors, Fireworks, Text, Twilight, Backlight.
Exposition.
Focus: auto, macro.
Timer: 2, 5, 10 seconds.
Effects: Normal, Negative, Black and White, Sepia.
Photo size: 5M (2560x1920), 3.2M (2048x1536), 2M (1600x1200), 0.3M (640x480 pixels).
ISO: Auto, 100, 200, 400, 800.
Metering: Center-weighted, Spot metering, Matrix.
The shooting quality is very good, the smartphone will not disappoint with the results, especially in clear weather. Taking pictures of texts is also not a problem; there is autofocus and a macro mode, so the device can also take a photo of a document or a note on a sheet of paper without difficulty.
 Organizer The calendar in the device is made in a traditional style; the display of information for a whole month, a week or a specific day can be configured. You can set the alert type and tone for recorded events and meetings. There is a division of information by storage location, each option has its own color label.
When creating a new record, it is given a name, period and location. You can specify which calendar it will be synchronized with, and you can send invitations to contacts from your address book. The repetition period is set (every day, weekly, monthly, yearly). A reminder will help you not to lose sight of the recording - the alarm will go off in advance. Additionally, the alert type is set.
Watch The smartphone allows you to save several alarms in memory. The repeat can be set either once or every day, only on weekdays or weekly. You can also set specific days. The signal melody is set, you can add a vibration alert and a text file to it. The period for the signal to be triggered again is set.
There is also a pre-alarm function. It boils down to the fact that the phone begins to make quiet sounds in advance, gradually forcing the owner of the phone to wake up. A pleasant soundtrack of nature sounds has a pleasant effect and helps you wake up in a welcoming mood.
The smartphone displays time in different time zones.
There is a stopwatch.
There is a timer.
The voice recorder is simple and convenient; it saves recordings both in the phone memory and on a card. The recording time is user-defined, so you can take small notes that fit in an MMS.
Designed as a wooden board with a sheet of paper attached, notes allow you to create notes.
The calculator works in both portrait and landscape orientation. In the latter case, more functions are available.
YouTube, a standard application for most modern devices, allows you to view videos and search among them. The application runs in full screen mode.
The File Manager allows you to work with folders and the data stored in them. You can organize them by different types and delete contents.
Mini diary will help you create a note by adding a picture to it.
Polaris Office allows you to view documents on your phone screen. The program will detect data not only in the device’s memory, but also on a remote server.
Shows weather forecast and news.
Tasks are created with a priority and a reminder signal.
Google Talk chat starts.
Voice control helps you control your smartphone's functions. It does not recognize the Russian language, but it recognized commands in English normally. Therefore, you can call a friend, search for information in the browser, or open the messages menu without using the touchscreen.
Browser A convenient application is used for Internet surfing. A navigation bar is displayed at the top of the screen, and to the right of it there is a shortcut that allows you to bookmark the page. The phone remembers the most visited pages and has a log of pages viewed. You can keep several windows open at the same time.
There is a search for words on the page, text selection, as well as a practical function for changing the screen brightness directly from the browser. The font size changes, saving passwords works. In this application you can adjust the brightness level. The browser is convenient, it’s comfortable to use, it supports full-fledged Adobe Flash, so there will be no restrictions on the sites.
GPS navigation Google Maps is used for navigation. The only drawback is that the program requires constant network activity, which affects the amount of traffic consumed by the device. Traffic jams are displayed, so the application has become fully functional and convenient not only for pedestrians, but also for car owners.
There is a function for determining the current location, calculating the route from the starting point to the ending point, and specifying the method of movement: by car, on foot or public transport. The route is laid out on the map, and key places are indicated in the form of text messages, which are displayed on the screen in the form of a column; you can switch between them: view the route in advance or vice versa, go back and plot another path. Scaling works using multi-touch or virtual buttons.
Applications The Play Store will provide access to a variety of applications; here it is easy to choose the necessary set of programs for yourself. There is a convenient search function, as well as dividing programs into categories, which greatly simplifies browsing. You can look at the reviews, evaluate the rating and express your opinion about the software.
Each application is provided with a brief description and images for greater clarity. Purchased applications are displayed in a separate list, which is convenient: if you purchased a new phone, you can immediately install those programs that were previously purchased.
Connections The phone operates in the frequencies 850/900/1800/1900/2100 MHz. There is support for HSDPA - 7.2 Mbit/s and HSUPA - 5.76 Mbit/s, and a front VGA camera is used for video calls. The device has Bluetooth 3.0, which is characterized by high data transfer speeds (of course, with A2DP support). The Wi-Fi module with b/g/n support works great. DLNA support allows you to view photos and videos wirelessly from compatible devices. Wi-FI Direct supported. The microUSB connector, which has become a standard, allows data transfer via USB 2.0. Kies Air is convenient for synchronizing your device and computer. The smartphone connects via Wi-Fi, forming a connection with the PC. You can work with phone data through a browser. Everything is simple and convenient. The main advantage is that you do not need to install additional applications.
Working hours A 1500 mAh lithium-ion battery will allow the smartphone to operate up to 570 hours in standby mode and up to 1070 minutes in talk time. In video playback mode at maximum screen brightness and Wi-Fi turned on, the smartphone lasted a little less than 5 hours. On average, it turns out to be about one day of working with the Internet, photos, music and calls; there are no differences here from models of a similar level. MicroUSB charging is supported when connected to a PC. Conclusion The speaker for conversations is loud and of high quality, with a good sound reserve. The vibration alert is average in strength. The melody is reproduced clearly, rather at an average level, maybe a little higher, but in a noisy place the call is not always clearly audible. Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 has already gone on sale, it started at 12,000 rubles. This is a very reasonable price for a phone with such a set of characteristics. A good screen and camera, speed and the ability to watch 720p video without conversion, a slot for a memory card and decent battery life will be the important qualities that every buyer pays attention to. Maybe in some categories the Galaxy Ace 2 is inferior to its competitors. For example, it has a metal body, while it has a more original design. There is no NFC or a very beautiful shell, but overall the smartphone is balanced and easy to use. Samsung has released another popular and necessary model, it will be very popular. There are all the makings and necessary qualities for this.
© Alexander Pobyvanets, Test laboratory |
The exterior of the new product will not surprise the advanced gadget lover. The shapes reveal the features of another popular middle-class smartphone - the Samsung Galaxy W. We will not discuss the design from the point of view of originality, there is nothing to catch the eye, and the general features of the model are nothing more than traditional. However, the device does not evoke negative emotions, and mass-produced products rarely get spectacular contours. If the flagship Galaxy S III did not come out of the designer’s pen as the most original, then it remains to be said about the more modest version. The dimensions of the gadget are chosen to be as comfortable as possible; the smartphone is medium in size, so it will appeal to both adults and children. You can carry it with you in any clothes, it does not burden your pockets. The dimensions are: 118.3 x 62.3 x 10.5 mm, weight 118 g.
The front surface is covered with a fiberglass layer that protects the 3.8-inch display. Above the display there is a proximity sensor, a camera for video calls and a speaker slot. In this case, a PLS matrix with a resolution of 480 x 800 is used. The display is made using capacitive technology, and 5-point multi-touch operates. The display is attractive with rich colors and fairly good viewing angles. The picture is bright and juicy, 16 million shades are displayed. In the sun, the screen fades, but remains readable, but for this you will have to set the maximum brightness in the menu. The model does not have a light sensor, and therefore will not be able to adapt to changing lighting conditions. A proximity sensor is responsible for locking the screen during a call; the built-in accelerometer allows you to adjust the data on the display depending on the position of the device in space. For unknown reasons, the smartphone lacks a sensor for automatic brightness adjustment. Therefore, you have to change this parameter manually in some cases. At the bottom there is a single mechanical button to return to the main screen. On either side of it are two touch keys: Menu and Back. They have sufficient area for error-free clicks and comfortable use. In the menu you can set the milky white backlight time. The backlight is activated when touched; the rest of the time, only markings indicating the purpose of the buttons are visible.
The 3.5 mm headphone jack is located at the top end. A standard microUSB port is located at the bottom, and there is also a microphone hole located here.
There are buttons on both sides: on the left side there is a volume rocker, and on the right side there is a power key. The buttons have a soft stroke and are convenient for everyday use. Also on the right is a compartment for microSD memory cards, closed with a special plug.
The back of the device is made of standard plastic with a barely noticeable texture. The surface is distinguished by the fact that it allows you to confidently hold your smartphone in your hand without fear of either dropping the device or scratching it. At the same time, various types of fingerprints and other traces from everyday use of the device are excluded. In the center there is a 5-megapixel camera lens, next to which there is a flash and a speaker.
Software features
The smartphone uses the Touch Wiz 4 shell. Getting to know the device begins with the lock screen. The time and date are displayed there, as well as information about unattended events. They can be messages or calls. By pulling one of the shortcuts, you can immediately go to the call or SMS log. To unlock the screen, you need to slide the translucent layer in any direction.
Above the main screen there is a status bar that promptly notifies you of various actions using visual icons. The drop-down menu consists of a string that combines 5 clear characters. This is to disable the wireless module, sound, GPS and auto-rotate screen. All display space is reserved for widgets and auxiliary elements. These include folders and application shortcuts. There are 7 zones allocated for them, each allowing you to place several widgets. Of course, size also plays a role: sometimes a beautiful virtual detail takes up the entire screen. At the bottom there is a line of 4 icons that you can set at your discretion.
To add new items to the screen, you can hold your finger on the display for a few seconds, after which the auxiliary menu will open at the bottom of the screen. It is called in another way, through a function key. Here you need to choose what exactly you want to replace or supplement. Widgets are displayed in one line of 4 icons, which must be scrolled to access new ones. There are not only standard ones for Android, but also branded ones from Samsung. If you wish, you can replenish the assortment of widgets through the Samsung Apps application.
Not only static wallpapers from Samsung are used as background images, but also animated background pictures that colorfully highlight the bright colors of the display. Fans of laconic design can remove unnecessary details at their discretion. The menu has become a little stricter. This is all thanks to the lack of a multi-colored outline for the icons, which not everyone liked. Instead of a boring black background, the background is a translucent pattern of the main screen. The icons are ordered by name, arranged in a 4x4 matrix on three zones. They scroll cyclically with a simple finger movement to the side. You can display all the data in a single list or arrange it as you wish. Icons are transferred to folders that everyone creates independently, dividing icons into groups.
The built-in accelerometer not only allows you to change the position of data on the display, but also supports gesture control. By turning your smartphone screen down, you can interrupt music playback or turn off the ringtone of an incoming call. Holding the Menu button will open a list of running applications.
Samsung Galaxy Ace 2:: Review:: Phone book and call service
To dial a number, large keys are used, where only Latin characters are printed. This suggests that automatic search of names from the phone book in Russian is impossible. However, the smartphone can analyze the order of the entered numbers and show the appropriate numbers. To some extent, this compensates for the limitation of the search system. The call list combines the history of not only telephone conversations, but also includes messages. All data is displayed in a long list, which is divided by day. Calls to the same number are not grouped, so the list of numbers becomes unnecessarily long.
The picture assigned to the contact is displayed on the left. On the same line the name of the caller is indicated, as well as his number. A clear icon displays the type of call: incoming, outgoing or missed. By selecting one of the items in the list, an additional window will open, which will display the complete history of calls to a specific number, indicating the time and date. From here you can add a number to your phone book, creating a new contact or adding to an existing one. The blacklist function will eliminate unnecessary calls.
There is a tab with a separate list of the most needed numbers, which are highlighted in the Favorites group. It includes not only contacts added by the user independently, but also the most frequently used numbers. This list is generated automatically.
The phone book is presented as a list that allows you to store an unlimited number of contacts in the device’s memory. It is complemented by kinetic scrolling, as well as a quick search bar. By touching it with your finger, it is easy to select the desired letter of the alphabet and select the desired recipient. When viewing information about a contact, you can see not only the general data that is assigned to it, but also some additional information. These include the history of calls and messages, as well as correspondence on social networks. By swiping to the left, you can send a message to a contact; a similar swipe to the right will allow you to make calls directly from this menu without performing any additional actions.
A new contact automatically receives many fields that will allow you to save the most complete information about the subscriber. The first step is to select memory for storing data. It can be a SIM card, the phone itself, or Google account data, without which using the device is impossible in principle. Here you can find speed dials for 8 numbers, as well as several ways to organize names. The operating system settings allow you to select the necessary contacts for display, hiding the unnecessary ones.
As for the information itself that can be entered, it is as follows. First name, patronymic, surname, family prefix, nominal suffix, phonetic name, phonetic patronymic, phonetic surname
Samsung Galaxy Ace 2:: Review:: Organizer, office
An animated gallery is used to view photos and other images. Here all contents are divided into folders, if they were originally created on the memory card or in the device itself. Pictures are transferred from the phone in various ways, including MMS and email, you can use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Uploading to various social networks is provided. The gallery operates not only in portrait, but also in landscape view. There is a built-in photo editor that will help you make a collage, crop a frame, or make additional changes to it.
When creating a new alarm, you can select the days to be triggered again, the volume of the melody, and the type of notification: a combination of sound and vibration. In addition, there is an interesting pre-tone function, which is accompanied by one of six pleasant audio effects. Sets the period during which the alarm will sound until it is turned off.
The calendar displays scheduled events for a month, a week, a day, or a general list. Here the weekday is indicated in white, Saturday is indicated in blue, and Sunday is highlighted in red. The week number of the year is highlighted on the left. The current date is highlighted with a blue cursor. If you point it at the day where an event will take place, information about it will be displayed at the bottom of the display. When you create a new calendar entry, it is assigned various information: date, time, location, participants, recurrence period, reminder, and description. In the application settings, the default view and the first day of the week are set. In addition, the type of notification for various events changes.
Samsung Galaxy Ace 2:: Review:: Tasks
Various kinds of reminders are entered in this section, which is designed in the form of a leather diary. Enter the name of the task, its deadline, priority, reminder and a text note with additional data. The list is organized by several categories, including: due date, status, priority.
Mini Diary can combine images, geotags and text into small notes. Here you can see the date the post was created, the tag assigned to it, and the photo is the assigned picture. Simple text entries are added to notes. They can then be sent in various ways to other devices.
The calculator turns out to be not as simple as it seems. If you turn the phone on its side, an additional panel with various mathematical functions will open on the screen.
To clarify the weather forecast, there is a built-in application that will predict weather conditions for a week in advance. Another tab in this program opens the news feed headlines menu. By clicking on one of them, a browser opens where you can read the entire content of the article.
Viewing various types of documents on the large screen of a smartphone is very convenient. As an aid, Polaris Office is used, which opens files of various types. In addition to viewing the contents of the file system, the application allows you to edit them.
Samsung Galaxy Ace 2:: Review:: Communications
The smartphone supports 2G (850/900/1800/1900) and 3G (900/2100) networks. Speed HSDPA – up to 14.4 Mbit/s, HSUPA – up to 5.76 Mbit/s.
The Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n wireless module works well, no failures were noticed. The device remembers passwords and automatically connects to networks if it is within their range. Works with WEP/WPA/WPA2 encrypted networks. To synchronize with a computer, not only the USB 2.0 protocol is used, but also a wireless connection via Wi-Fi through the Kies application. The Allshare app allows you to share content over Wi-Fi. Bluetooth 3.0 with EDR and A2DP support ensures stable data transmission. The smartphone can work as an access point for other devices. At the same time, we can note the presence of a front camera, which will become one of the aids for communication.
Samsung Galaxy Ace 2:: Review:: GPS
To determine coordinates on the ground, Google Maps is used, which receive regular updates and an increasing number of functions. The first launch takes no more than 2 minutes, subsequently this task will require even less time - about 20-30 seconds. A feature of the program is the need to download data, which affects traffic consumption. At the same time, maps can display the traffic situation, displaying information about street congestion. The application is capable of calculating driving directions in various ways.
Samsung Galaxy Ace 2:: Review:: Browser
The application for viewing network resources has full support for Adobe Flash technology, which allows you to view videos and listen to music directly in the browser, as well as see banners on Internet portals. As befits a modern communicator, it supports simultaneous operation with several windows. Moreover, you can open an additional tab either through the functional menu or with a simple pinch, pulling the page from different sides to the center. This action only emphasizes the convenience of multi-touch, which makes it easier to scale data on the screen. Separate bookmarks highlight the history of viewed pages and a list of resources saved in memory. You can download data directly through the browser, saving files in the smartphone's memory. An additional menu with settings will help optimize your experience when viewing pages. The screen diagonal is sufficient for comfortable Internet surfing, and the high speed of the device will not upset the owner when working with the global network.
Samsung Galaxy Ace 2:: Review:: Camera
The smartphone has two cameras. The first is located on the front side, it will allow you to make video calls and take self-portraits. The main 5-megapixel module is located on the back. The application is launched exclusively from the menu; a separate key would obviously not be superfluous. The screen serves as a viewfinder, only small areas on the sides perform functional functions. There is a shutter button and various auxiliary icons. A separate lever allows you to switch between photo and video shooting. The interface adapts depending on the position of the smartphone; it can be either vertical or horizontal.
The following settings are available:
Video settings:
In order to evaluate the quality of shooting, you can look at examples. The smartphone takes good pictures, the resume regarding shooting will be extremely positive. Galaxy Ace 2 produces exactly the results that we would like to get from a device with a declared 5-megapixel module without any shortcomings. I liked the camera's quality of color rendering; objects look vibrant and natural.
Samsung Galaxy Ace 2:: Review:: Applications
Additional software is installed through Google Play or the Samsung Apps store. We receive a huge assortment of different kinds of programs, among which there are both free versions and those that need to be purchased in order to use the full version of the application. The content is divided into categories, among which a group of previously purchased utilities stands out. This helps you immediately find previously purchased software for your smartphone. There are built-in stores for purchasing music and games. Accordingly, they are called Music Hub, Game Hub.
The file browser will show the folder structure, allow you to create new directories and help you perform various operations with files. You can delete, copy, and organize in a variety of ways. Viewing content posted on YouTube is possible thanks to the application of the same name.
Voice control makes working with the device easier to some extent. However, the smartphone only recognizes English. Thus, a lot of functions are carried out: you can get directions, type a message or turn off the player. You need to press a button, the smartphone will record the command, after which you need to confirm the action. The device will then carry out the verbal command given to it.
Samsung Galaxy Ace 2:: Review:: Multimedia capabilities
The music player has retained its division into categories. Among them there are tabs with albums, artists, playlists and a general list of all songs. In this case, a separate menu is responsible for the categories displayed on the screen, which allows you to select only the most necessary ones.
The general list of tracks displays the cover assigned to the album, the title of the song itself, and the name of the artist. The search bar will allow you to quickly navigate through the extensive music library and find the tunes you need. Once you start listening to music, a large album cover will appear on the screen. Above it is information, including information about the author of the track, the album and its title. The button on the left allows you to enable 5.1 sound emulation, and the right one is responsible for calling up the volume control scale. In addition, the sound level is changed using individual keys on the side of the smartphone. At the bottom there is a scale indicating the duration of song playback. The shuffle and repeat mode is immediately activated. It is enabled for both one song and the entire album. The three highlighted keys at the bottom are responsible for controlling the player. These are standard rewind and pause buttons.
Directly from the player, you can set a melody as a signal or transfer it in various ways. From here you can start streaming music to wireless headphones. In addition, it is quite simple to create playlists here. The equalizer allows you to use the following settings: normal, pop, rock, jazz, dance, dance, classical, live sound. There is a manual settings mode. Sound effects allow you to simulate the environment: normal, wide range, concert hall, music clarity, bass boost, externalization. The proprietary shell allows you to open the player control menu even when the screen is locked, eliminating the need to unlock the screen.
The sound quality is at an average level; even when using expensive headphones, the Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 will not be able to please an audiophile with excellent sound. From the point of view of the mass consumer, the audio path in the model deserves approval; the smartphone should appeal to most buyers.
The FM receiver stores more than 30 stations in the smartphone’s memory and has RDS support, displaying a variety of information on the screen during the broadcast. The auto search function will simplify the process of filling out cells. There is a line on the screen where the most popular and favorite frequencies are stored, which are added there during the listening process. The timer function will allow you to fall asleep listening to your favorite wave, and controlling the radio when the screen is locked is completely similar to the player. There is also a function for switching between stations.
The voice recorder allows you to record data into the memory of the phone itself or onto a card. In this case, you can limit the file size to send it via MMS.
Samsung Galaxy Ace 2:: Review:: Video
Thanks to support for XviD and DivX codecs, it is convenient to watch movies here without the need for conversion. The vast majority of tested videos in AVI and MKV launched without problems. The only limitation will be the file system, which will not allow you to copy videos larger than 4 GB, which excludes viewing “heavy” HD videos. The smartphone remembers the place where playback stopped. Thus, allowing you to watch several different films in turn without having to rewind to the desired point.
Samsung Galaxy Ace 2:: Review:: Hardware capabilities
The phone runs Android version 2.3.6. The dual-core NovaThor 8500 processor with a frequency of 800 MHz and 768 MB of RAM provide the smartphone with normal operating speed. The user has 4 GB of internal memory available to store application data. Traditionally, the volume can be increased by installing a microSD memory card; media with a capacity of up to 32 GB are supported. We hope that the manufacturer will not forget about this device and in the future will update it to Android Ice Cream Sandwich, giving users the latest version of the software.
Samsung Galaxy Ace 2:: Review:: Impressions and conclusions
The capacity of the included lithium-ion battery is 1500 mAh. Up to 670 minutes of talk time and up to 16 hours of standby time are stated. On average, you need to charge your phone once a day. Like other Android devices, it is quickly depleted in data transfer mode, that is, when mobile Internet is needed. If you do not use social networks and occasionally go online, the battery capacity will last for one and a half or even two days.
The speaker is good and loud, allowing you to communicate calmly in various conditions. The vibration alert is average in strength and is not felt in all cases. The ringing speaker is not the loudest, but most often the melody can be heard normally.
Sales started at 12,000 rubles. This is a good offer for those who choose a functional smartphone for themselves, but are not ready to overpay. Most of the popular functions are implemented in a high-quality manner: camera, video viewing, performance at a decent level, the Galaxy Ace 2 will please its owner. A somewhat mediocre design in a simple shell, however, may not appeal to everyone, in which case you can pay attention to the Sony Xperia Sola or HTC One V, which will become its main rivals.
Currently, Samsung has a wide range of models in the middle class. This will include the Galaxy W, Galaxy S Plus, Galaxy Ace 2, Galaxy R and Galaxy S Advance. Not every manufacturer can offer such an assortment. Among these devices, Galaxy Ace 2 turns out to be the latest smartphone, and with a very attractive price tag. We strongly recommend that you take a closer look at this device; it is worthy of attention and will be an excellent purchase for your money.
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