Cherry Mobile One G1 Hands On Review: The Android One That We Deserve

Back when the original Cherry Mobile One was launched, it was met with mixed reactions. Sure, it had the advantage of timely software updates from none other than Google itself, but it was also quite under-powered compared to a few other phones in its price range. Fast forward to today and it appears that the newly announced successor, the Cherry Mobile One G1 might have a better shot against the competition.

The Hardware

The Cherry Mobile One G1 is much-improved over its predecessors, sporting a larger 5 inch HD screen, while being powered by a 64-bit 1.2GHz quad core Snapdragon 410 processor. In addition, you’re also getting 2GB of RAM for smoother multitasking, as well as 16GB of storage, which is slowly becoming the norm at this price point. Finally, the 4G/LTE support is a nice addition, making super fast browsing and downloading a reality for even more Pinoy consumers.

The Design

Although I’ve become accustomed to generic aesthetics at this price point, the Cherry Mobile One G1 is actually a nice surprise. Sure, it’s a bit similar to the Flare X due to its curved back and matte finish. However, the metal frame is a noticeable touch that adds a fair amount of character to the phone. The camera module also draws a bit of attention to itself due to the metal trim that surrounds it.

The Software

The Cherry Mobile One G1 comes with attractive specs, but there are other phones in its price point that offer the same features. This is where the phone differentiates itself from the competition. While other smartphones are only just coming out with Lollipop 5.0, the G1 already comes with Lollipop 5.1 out of the box. What’s more is that Google promises to provide timely updates to the G1 and other Android One smartphones.

So Should You Buy the Cherry Mobile One G1?

At just Php5,999, the Cherry Mobile One G1 is already quite an attractive option, especially if you put a premium on getting the latest Android updates as soon as possible. not even Cherry Mobile’s other inexpensive options can promise that kind of support. This time around, there may be a few phones that can compete with the G1 in terms of specs, the value-added software updates should give consumers more reason to go with the G1 instead.

Interested in picking up the G1? Rollout should start after 2 weeks, and if you get it within the first 2 weeks of it going on sale, you’ll get a free tempered glass screen protector and Pyxis Bluetooth shutter!

Cherry Mobile One G1 Specs

• 5″ HD IPS display (720 x 1280 resolution, 294ppi)
• 64-bit 1.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 quad core processor
• Adreno 306 GPU
• Android 5.1 Lollipop
• 2GB RAM
• 16GB internal storage, expandable up to 64GB via microSD
• 13mp BSI autofocus rear-facing camera with LED flash
• 5mp BSI front camera
• 4G/LTE
• WiFi
• Bluetooth
• GPS with A-GPS
• 2,500mAh battery
• Price: Php5,999