Early software and questionable build quality have us wondering what the future holds for this huge phone
ZTE has taken the wraps off of the second generation of its large device, the Grand Memo II LTE, here at MWC in Barcelona and we’ve had an opportunity for some quick hands-on time at the show. This device is definitely large, even in this world where 5-inch screens seem normal, with a full 6-inch 720 x 1280 display. ZTE mitigates some of the size issues with very small bezels around all sides and a 7.2mm thick body, but in the end it’s still mildly unwieldy at best. While it feels pretty solid in the hand and isn’t overly angular even with the lack of thickness, the build quality was really lacking on all of the units we had a chance to touch.
As a quick refresher, for specs we’re looking at a Snapdragon 400 processor (although the confusion of whether or not it will eventually have an S800 still stands), paired up with 2GB of RAM, 3200mAh battery and a pair of cameras at 13MP and 5MP. The display looks pretty good to our eyes — it’s an IPS panel — at the distance you usually hold large devices, although we do find the colors and brightness to be a bit lacking, at least in the trade show lighting scenario.
The software on the Grand Memo II LTE seems to follow pretty much in lock step with the previous version, even with the press conference indicating that the MiFavor 2.3 UI was a solid departure from the past. The devices on show here at MWC weren’t using the Play Store or Google services, though, so we’re thinking the software is still early. For what it’s worth, the software shown off in demos and press materials looks far better to our eyes — we’re withholding judgment until it’s all final.
