Key Takeaways
1. Itel’s City 100 is a budget-friendly smartphone designed for emerging markets in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, priced under $100.
2. The device features an 8-core Unisoc T7250 CPU, a 6.75-inch LCD screen with a 90 Hz refresh rate, and operates on Pure 14.5 OS (a modified Android 14).
3. The City 100 offers various memory configurations, with up to 24 GB of usable RAM and storage options of 128 GB or 256 GB, starting at approximately $85.
4. It is equipped with a 5,200 mAh battery, 18-watt fast charging, an IP64 rating for dust and water resistance, and includes a 13 MP rear camera and an 8 MP front camera.
5. Unique features include DeepSeek R1 AI for touch-free functionalities, an infrared remote control for home devices, and a promotional offer of free Itel MagSpeakers with purchase.
Itel has recently introduced the City 100, a budget-friendly smartphone that is loaded with features, specifically designed for markets in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
Market Position
Transsion, a Chinese smartphone manufacturer, focuses on emerging markets with affordable devices priced below $100 under the Itel brand. In 2024, the company achieved the rank of fourth in global smartphone sales, having dispatched 106.7 million units.
Specs and Performance
The City 100 is equipped with an 8-core Unisoc T7250 CPU, which delivers performance similar to that of Snapdragon 680, and operates on the Pure 14.5 OS, a modified version of Android 14. While the Unisoc processor isn’t the quickest, it is adequate for everyday activities like browsing the web and using social media. The smartphone features a 6.75-inch LCD screen, which, despite its lackluster resolution of 1,600 x 720, can achieve a brightness of 700 nits and supports a 90 Hz refresh rate.
Memory and Storage Options
Offered in several configurations, the City 100 comes with 4, 6, or 8 GB of physical RAM, with additional virtual RAM providing a total of 12, 18, or 24 GB of usable RAM, respectively. Storage options include 128 GB or 256 GB. The model with 24 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage in colors like fairy purple, pure titanium, or navy blue has a suggested retail price of 1,399,000 Indonesian Rupiah (approximately $85).
Battery and Features
Packed with many common features, the City 100 has a large 5,200 mAh battery that supports 18-watt fast charging. It also boasts an IP64 rating for dust and water resistance, can withstand drops from 1.5 meters (4.9 feet), and has a sleek body measuring just 7.65 mm thick. Other features include a rear magnetic mount, a 13 MP rear camera, and an 8 MP front camera.
Unique Functionalities
One of the standout features of the City 100 is its DeepSeek R1 AI, integrated into a one-touch access button located on the side of the phone. This enables various functionalities like text translation, image-to-text OCR, and assistance with writing and shopping. Users can also manage apps, calls, and music through touch-free hand gestures.
Additional Perks
In a rarity for modern smartphones, the City 100 includes an infrared (IR) remote control feature, allowing users to switch TV channels, modify AC settings, and adjust other IR-controlled devices. As an added bonus, a limited number of Itel MagSpeakers will be offered for free with each purchase while supplies last.
Readers in America should note that Itel does not distribute its phones there, meaning they will have to explore budget Nokia smartphones available on Amazon instead.
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