Gadget review: The HTC 526G+ could have a better keyboard

Despite packing up impressive hardware, HTC fails to pay attention to a few key details like keyboard and the UI in its latest budget phone, the 526G+

HTC has managed to pack in decent hardware in its recent budget smartphone the 52G+, especially when we look at the 1.7GHz quad core processor. But it misses on a few tiny but crucial elements that could have made it another great budget device.

What we liked
The 526G+ offers good hardware, starting with the 1.7Ghz quad core processor backed by 1GB RAM and 16GB internal storage. We had no problem even with high-on-graphic apps like the Asphalt 8 or GT Racing. These ran smoothly without any lag or crashes for hours.

The 4.7-inch screen with screen resolution of 540 x 960 pixels (though not the best in this price range) manages to get the job done too.

The cameras (2MP on the front; and 8MP on the back, with auto focus and flash) are one of the best in this price range and offer geo-tagging. The rear camera can record 1080p videos at 30fps, though it looks a bit up-scaled.

With its looks and design, the 526G+ does look cute, especially in the white version with its sky blue lining on the side. The device has two sets of speakers on the top as well as the bottom, enhancing the audio experience.

In terms of connectivity, this dual-SIM phone gets 2G and 3G, Wi-Fi b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, A-GPS and most importantly FM Radio to keep you entertained on the go. The external storage support is available up to 32GB.

Not bad, right? We thought so too, till we had to reply to messages, send emails or type a story on the phone.

What we didn’t like
We found that the HTC 526G+ has the worst keyboard we have seen lately. The keys appear elongated and are placed very close, thus making typing on them a painfully frustrating experience.

The User Interface (UI) is equally bad. It seems as if the OS was imported into the device without keeping in mind the unusually taller screen of the 526G+, thus making everything appear elongated.

It was only after we replaced the in-built launcher with Google Now and the keyboard with Google Keyboard (both available on the Play Store) that we were able to type things properly on the phone. But even then, the UI elements were a bit elongated. Now, considering the OS is still the old Android Kitkat 4.4.2, this wasn’t expected.

Another disappointment was the battery. Despite the fact that it’s a 2,000mAH, it struggles to last an entire day, on normal usage. However, turning the in-built battery saver mode can elongate the usage period.

Overall, if you don’t mind a mismatching UI, and know how to tweak it with the Play Store apps, the HTC 526G+ is worth a buy within the 12k range.

Price: Rs 11,400
Available on: Snapdeal.com
Rating: 6 / 10

ith its looks and design, the 526G+ does look cute, especially in the white version with its sky blue lining on the side. The device has two sets of speakers on the top as well as the bottom, enhancing the audio experience.
In terms of connectivity, this dual-SIM phone gets 2G and 3G, Wi-Fi b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, A-GPS and most importantly FM Radio to keep you entertained on the go. The external storage support is available up to 32GB.
Not bad, right? We thought so too, till we had to reply to messages, send emails or type a story on
the phone.
What we didn’t like
We found that the HTC 526G+ has the worst keyboard we have seen lately. The keys appear elongated and are placed very close, thus making typing on them a painfully frustrating experience.
The User Interface (UI) is equally bad. It seems as if the OS was imported into the device without keeping in mind the unusually taller screen of the 526G+, thus making everything appear elongated.
It was only after we replaced the in-built launcher with Google Now and the keyboard with Google Keyboard (both available on the Play Store) that we were able to type things properly on the phone. But even then, the UI elements were a bit elongated. Now, considering the OS is still the old Android Kitkat 4.4.2, this wasn’t expected.
Another disappointment was the battery. Despite the fact that it’s a 2,000mAH, it struggles to last an entire day, on normal usage. However, turning the in-built battery saver mode can elongate the usage period.
Overall, if you don’t mind a mismatching UI, and know how to tweak it with the Play Store apps, the HTC 526G+ is worth a buy within the 12k range.

PRICE '11,400
Available on Snapdeal.com

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!