Mobile device sales grew by 9.7% in the 4th quarter of last year, with a grand total of 403 million units sold. Experts said that rise in ownership of low-cost smartphones in emerging markets has become one of the driving factors for such growth.
However, some manufacturers have upped their game by offering low-range handsets with powerful specifications. Samsung has been reportedly infusing some of their premium features to their low- and mid-range smartphones, such as their propriety mobile payment solution, to make it “more alluring” and has helped them expand their reach to even more users. Currently, one of their popular low-range smartphone is the Galaxy J5. According to O2, this handset comes with impressive features, which includes its 13MP snapper with flash, ability to store images on Google Photos, two power saving modes and quick camera launcher. All of these are featured on their low-range smartphone.
Unfortunately, most affordable handsets still lack the prowess of their premium counterparts. But is there a way to make the most out of these affordable devices? In short, yes. Here are some tips to fully maximize your low-range handset:
Get accessories
Just because you bought a cheap device, doesn’t mean it has to look that way, too. There are accessories that can transform the most affordable smartphone to a premium looking handset. Invest in low-cost yet reliable mobile accessories, such as the Logitech Bluetooth speakers that you can buy for around $15 to $20. For gamers, there is also a Bluetooth game controller that you can hook up to your smartphone that recreates the feeling of playing on a console. Lastly, smartphone cases are the most common way to dress up your handset. Get a case that is sturdy-enough to protect your smartphone from bumps and chips, and works as a wallet, too. It’s a 2-in-1 purpose that isn’t too bulky.
Always keep it updated
Similar to your personal computers, your smartphones also need regular updates, especially concerning various operating systems. Upgrades usually include changes in the interface, additional built-in apps and functionalities, and added security layers. Google and Apple do not provide OS updates for nothing, however. Often, they come with helpful features, apart from tweaking some bugs that slow down your smartphone’s loading time. Don’t worry though; many app developers also quickly update their apps’ software requirements to cater for the new mobile OS.
Boost the power
Although there are ways on how to conserve smartphone batteries, it remains a significant problem with many mobile devices today. Most mobile devices can’t last a whole day of continued usage, and not everyone has a nearby power outlet to plug their smartphones in to recharge them. Thankfully, on-the-go power sources are now available for mobile users that allow them to easily plug their devices in even when it’s inside their bags. However, make sure to invest in reliable powerbanks rather than a cheap one version. Although nothing has been authenticated, different stories about powerbanks exploding have gone viral. It’s still safe to trust the branded ones for safety purposes though, hence staying away from the cheaper models on the market.
Expand the memory
Do you need more space for files or apps? Not a problem, as you can easily extend the memory of the device to give it more space to run seamlessly. Usually, manufacturers cut costs by placing a small memory capacity in cheaper handsets (2GB to 16GB at most), which limits how many applications you can install. Although the capability of smartphones to carry microSD differs, some handsets are capable of running as much as 200GB of storage, which is similar to the microSD capability of most premium flagships today.
Although your smartphone might be considered in the low-range category, it doesn’t necessarily mean it has to perform poorly. Hopefully, these tips presented above can give you an idea on how to make the most of your affordable device. If you have any other tips to improve the performance or the aesthetics of handsets, please leave your comments below.