Amidst the glam and glitter of phones loaded with every possible newest technology, emerges the simple yet functionary device from Olive Telecommunication. With the company unveiling several devices for the Indian market, we got our hands on the Olivemsgr V-G8000. This GSM phone strives to bring in the QWERTY keypad for an on-swing typing performance to the common man at an affordable price point.
At a glance, the V-G8000 looked like it has just hopped out of the BlackBerry closet. Exploring it further, the device comes minus all those hi-fi functions, sporting as a simple and easy-to-use device. Yes, it’s a very basic device vouching good looks (not original though), simplicity and affordability. At 102 grams, the device is sleek and lightweight with a full QWERTY keypad and a 2.2-inch TFT screen. Below the display lies a circular navigation button flanked by Call answer and Call end buttons, and also minuscule circular buttons, Menu and shortcuts to Messaging, Phonebook and Radio.
Users can pick among Black, Blue and Orange colors. The OliveMsgr we received adorned a glossy black front finish while the backside adorns a matte black surface, ensuring good looks as well as a firm grip. The backside also equips the speakers while the lower edge is integrated with a dual purpose mini USB port that serves for charging and also connects the headset. We could also access texting, date and time settings, volume and contacts with the D-pad (circular navigation button). The Back button doubles as a shortcut to Radio when on the homescreen.
As aforementioned, the device has been designed for basic usage, so the features incorporated are really mediocre. So, no memory expandable, dual SIM, music player or likewise, the word is simple “basic”. The phones that have recently reached our desks showed off multi-screen Menu as well as Homepage but the ones proffering the good ol’ simple devices would like this snappy one with a simple, single page Menu. The Menu reveals Phonebook, Messages, Calls, Settings, FM Radio, Organizer, Games, Alarm and STK.
Well, this device primarily aims at better messaging so the QWERTY packed in is quite comfortable. The backlit keypad has considerably smaller keys but once you get the hang of the protruding keys, it’s quite smooth. Absurdly, each time we typed a key the screen would blink back. The screen viewing is quite comfortable as well, while shortcuts add to the ease-of-use. We didn’t particularly find a flaw in the display and the font was large enough for the screen size.
The network reception was satisfactory. The caller faced a few difficulties hearing while on the go. We also had to keep the volume at maximum for better audibility while traveling. The handsfree mode works well but again the voice isn’t clear. The device also brings in a good battery life. Yes, the 1500mAH battery delivered more than a day of juice with average usage. Well, a longer battery life is something that the company must be yenning to deliver with a simple spec sheet for better usage.
Surprisingly, the V-G8000 comes minus a camera as well. While several manufacturers are trying to push the 3.2 megapixel camera integrated in a phone to 5MP and 8MP. This device sits without an integrated camera to snap on those precious moments. Well, we are sure it’s a blessing in disguise for BPO employees and other firms which do not recommend phones with cameras. The other non-inclusive attributes are GPRS, Bluetooth and support for music, videos and other applications. Getting a QWERTY at a lower price point has probably compromised on several features.
Compromising on music is a hassle for some of us, music being the sole mode of entertainment while traveling. Gladly, the company outs the device with integrated FM and the FM reception was good. Well, among its simple spec sheet features is the Organizer function which includes Calculator and Calendar while users can wake up (of course not to their favorite tune) with the three alarms that can be set.
Now, the alarm tones are terribly quirky and loud, apt to spring up the lazy bones like some of us from the bed. However, the blessing may turn into a curse with their call and SMS ringtones. It kept us thinking to choose a subtle, publicly accepting ringtone. Well, it does not come with an option to add new tones and one has to get in terms with the 16 polyphonic ringtones. The STK function enables options like Cricket, News, What’s new, Masala Chat and more. The phonebook entries limit to 100 and SMS storage to 250.
Yes, the device could have been much better with bucket-loaded improvements. However, it is intended towards providing users basic functions in an improved package. Considering this, the device aims low-end users longing for a device with stylish looks, sleek design that perfectly fits into their pocket even in terms of budget. In fact, the limitation of functionalities supposedly enables a quicker response of the UI. The Settings option lets users tweak the display with Idle display and Backlight options alongside other usual features like Sounds, Network settings and Factory Default. The phone is also loaded with games, Docker and Minesweeper.
All in all, for the price tag it carries, the device is quite good. It’s strongly built and is quite sturdy. It looks appealing, mimicking a smartphone minus functionalities. A decent battery life adds to the advantage for those looking for simplicity. Aiming at basic function which definitely involves messaging, the device seems yet another option among the several other entry-level handsets (offering more functions at a similar price but not the looks) available for the growing Indian phone market.
Overall, those looking for a simple phone just for calls and other basic use can opt for the OliveMsgr V-G8000. It has managed to gain a rating of 7 on 10 as a basic entry-level phone with an affordable price tag. It is now available in India at a pocket-friendly price of Rs. 2,299.
