Cherry Mobile outs yet another bizarre budget smartphone – the Cherry Mobile Iris.
The device, just like the Cherry Mobile FB100, is in the budget category. However, despite the cheap asking price, the company was still able to add some spice on this economical device. The FB100 is a witty, Facebook-themed device, while the one we have here has something in terms of security (or gimmick).
As what the name suggests, this smartphone has a built-in Iris scanner. This feature might sound unfamiliar and new, but this isn’t actually the first device to have one. The Samsung Galaxy Note 7 (may it rest in peace) was among the first devices that was equipped with the capability to scan eyes for security verification.
I’m pretty excited to check this feature out considering how brand new it is in the market. But before that, let me tease you with our quick unboxing and first impressions about the device.
Cherry Mobile might have set a default packaging to its new budget smartphones. Just like the FB100, the Iris is safely secured in a slide-out box.
The Cherry Mobile Iris sits at the top wrapped in plastic. While beneath the cardboard that it’s resting on reveals the included accessories, which is surprisingly unabridged. We have the 2300mAh battery, earphones, microUSB cable, wall adapter, and manuals.
The look and build of the device are really familiar for a budget smartphone. However, there’s something about it that makes it far different to its competitors. It’s possibly the lightweight body, the ergonomic back and sides that feel so pleasing in the hands, or the fake edge-to-edge screen look.
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Also, the face of the device is filled with artifacts. This is obviously the hardware used for Iris Scanning, which is something I’m really excited about as I test this device for our full review.
Another thing that struck me at first glance is the bright and sharp display. The device only has a 5-inch 720p display, but there’s something about its performance that really impressed me which I’ll have to investigate in the coming days.
Cherry Mobile Iris Specs
- Android 6.0 Marshmallow
- Dual SIM, Dual Standby
- 5-inch HD IPS Display, 1280 x 720 pixel resolution
- 1.3GHz MediaTek MT6580 quad-core processor
- 1GB RAM
- 8GB internal storage, expandable via microSD up to 32GB
- 3G, HSPA+
- Wi-Fi
- 8-megapixel rear camera with autofocus and LED flash
- 5-megapixel front camera
- GPS, A-GPS
- Bluetooth
- Iris scanner
- 2300mAh battery
Well, that’s it for now. Make sure you stay tuned for our full review of the Cherry Mobile Iris which will be out soon. Cherry Mobile Iris is now available on all Cherry Mobile stores, kiosks, and resellers nationwide for a price of only Php3,499.