Alcatel unveiled their unlocked and value-packed IDOL 4S at MWC earlier this year; it’s the follow-up to their IDOL 3 which was largely considered one of the best smartphone values of 2015. What sets the IDOL 4 apart from its predecessor is a whole new level of features and accessories.
The IDOL 4S includes a Qualcomm® SnapdragonTM 652 processor, 3.6-watt JBL certified speakers with Waves Audio, and Synaptics’ fingerprint sensor technology. “IDOL 4S also comes packaged with an industry first with the world’s first VR goggle packaging bundle, as well as Alcatel’s exclusive Boom Key which brings a variety of experience enhancements with just one push of the Boom Key button.”
The IDOL 4S has a 5.5-inch Quad-HD AMOLED display, even better power consumption than before, with easy to read viewing angles — even in direct sunlight. Because the IDOL 4S IS powered by the Snapdragon 652 processor, making multitasking a breeze, “empowering immersive experiences like 4K video capture, enhanced gaming, and improved graphics processing.”
The IDOL 4S features best-in-class audio, with dual 3.6-watt JBL certified speakers that feature Waves Audio technology so you’ll always “have the best settings for listening to music or watching movies.” The IDOL 4S has improved cameras, “including a 16 megapixel main camera with f/2.0 aperture, featuring a Sony sensor, 0.1-second phase detection autofocus and 0.6-second instant shot. And thanks to having the unique camera application, FYUSE, built into this feature-packed smartphone’s camera software, you can also capture images in full 360 degrees. No need for a selfie stick with IDOL 4S either, thanks to the 84-degree wide-angle lens on its 8 megapixel front-facing camera.” The IDOL 4S has 3GB RAM + 32GB storage (with MicroSD support up to 200GB with adaptable storage), and it offers “easy user customization with Android M (6.0.1) OS”; it will support future Android N OS upgrade, too. Lest I forget, I should mention that the IDOL 4S has Dual SIM and LTE Cat4 (B2/4/5/7/12/17) support with VoLTE, as well as NFC for making payments, listening to music, and other applications.
Perhaps best of all, the IDOL 4S has a 3000mAh battery which includes Qualcomm® Quick Charge — when you need to charge, you’ll be able to do it quickly!
You’ll be able to pre-order the IDOL 4S bundle through Alcatel’s website beginning 8:00am PDT on July 15 for $349.99; pre-sale orders will ship in early August. If you purchase during the pre-sale period, you’ll receive the standard IDOL 4S and VR goggle bundle, a 2.5D tempered glass screen protector, JBL headphones, and an IDOL 4S protective case from their accessory partner, Incipio. You’ll also get free shipping!
The IDOL 4S bundle officially goes on sale for $399.99 on August 3, with free standard shipping included. It is compatible with all GSM wireless providers in North America, and there’s even an option to finance your purchase through Alcatel for as low as $37 per month.
For more information, check out Alcatel’s website.
I’ve got the IDOL 4S bundle in hand, and I’ll have the review ready soon.