Firstly, before I continue with the review of the iNQ Mini 3G, let me state first that this is not a smartphone. Therefore the expectation on this phone will be lower compared to a smartphone.
The iNQ Mini 3G is a candy bar feature phone with lots of social networking feature, especially facebook integration. It’s a pretty small and light phone. 4.58 x 1.28 x 10.29 cm and 90g. The screen is 2.2 inch and in case you are wondering, non-touch screen. 2.0 Megapixel camera without autofocus, 100MB memory, MicroSD card slot, Bluetooth 2.0 and HSDPA 3.6Mbps. The iNQ Mini 3G is running on iNQ’s proprietary operating system, BREW 4.0 plus INQ System 1 extensions.
The best part about the iNQ Mini 3G is the facebook integration. To begin with, you can upload your photos to facebook directly from your gallery. You can also link your address book with the contacts on your facebook. Once linked, the contacts on your address book will display the facebook avatar. If your friend set a status on their facebook, the status will also be shown on your phone’s address book. Pretty neat feature. You can also check out your facebook messages and pokes from the phone’s messaging function instead of going into the facebook apps.
And this phone can actually multi-task. There is a switcher button on the side for you to switch from one application to another.
Although the facebook integration is nicely done, the same cannot be said for the Twitter application. The features on the Twitter application is rather limited. One feature that is strangely missing on the Twitter application is the ability to see your @replies. And I was surprised that the Twitter application can do RT (Re-Tweet), something that many Twitter clients still can’t do.
Apart from Facebook and Twitter, the iNQ Mini 3G also have applications for Instant Messenger and Skype. There is a iNQ Hub where you can download more applications for the iNQ Mini 3G. (Although the last time I checked, the collections is still very limited) And if you bought the iNQ Mini 3G from Singtel, you will also get Singtel AMPed which gives you unlimited music download with no data charges. There is also no data charges from Singtel when you are using the Instant Messenger application. I’m not sure if there is similar arrangement with other telcos elsewhere in the world.
One thing I don’t really like about the iNQ Mini 3G is the MiniUSB slot. Although MiniUSB port cables are still very common, most phones are moving towards the new standard, MicroUSB port. And the lack of 3.5mm earphone jack will be a huge turn off to music lovers.
One interesting thing about the iNQ Mini 3G is the packaging design. It must be one of the most beautifully designed handphone box around. Even the manuals are beautifully made. Check out the unpacking video on Tech65.
The iNQ Mini 3G also comes with beautifully designed wallpapers. Even the menu looks great. And those who are into customizing their phones can purchase new battery covers that comes in a range of colours and patterns.
I know some of you might say that your smartphone can do all these, and more. Yeap, you are right. Most smartphones can do all these and more. But does your smartphone cost $0? Yeap, Singtel is selling the iNQ Mini 3G at $0 with a 2 year contract. And its currently exclusive to Singtel only.
In Short:
A low budget feature phone with facebook integration
Likes:
Facebook integration
Dislike:
Mini USB port
Primitive Twitter Apps
No 3.5mm earphone jack
on Oct 7th, 2009 at 4:19 PM
I thought this was a nifty phone. Tried to buy it at full price (S$48) no contract, but was denied. Singtel says must get new 2-year contract!
on Oct 7th, 2009 at 4:23 PM
Camemberu: I’m not surprised that Singtel will only sell the phone with contract. It’s currently exclusive to Singtel in Singapore.
on Oct 7th, 2009 at 5:35 PM
It’s like a Flip isn’t it – the emergence of ‘good enough’ tech.
on Oct 8th, 2009 at 4:27 AM
its available in the uk now at three stores! saw it for £59.99, but i will be waiting for the inq chat!
on Oct 8th, 2009 at 8:23 AM
ssumin: You got a point there. But I’m not sure if the Singapore market is into “good enough” tech. As you know, we are known for getting specs that far exceed our needs.
tofii: The chat looks pretty impressive. Can’t wait to get my hands on it
on Oct 14th, 2009 at 11:02 AM
[...] Reviews | Guides – Tech65: Freetalk Everyman USB Skype Headset – The Neo Dimension: Sony’s thinnest and lightest VAIO takes performance and design to the extreme – Dee Kay Dot As Gee: Review: iNQ Mini 3G [...]
on Oct 18th, 2009 at 10:16 PM
Does the phone have radio access? Can you access gmail?
on Oct 19th, 2009 at 2:14 PM
Janice: I did not see any dedicated Gmail apps. But they have an email client which should allows you to check your Gmail. You can also access your Gmail using the web browser.
There is no FM radio.
on Dec 3rd, 2009 at 7:31 PM
You can’t expect a perfect phone at this price, but the INQ Mini 3G will appeal to people on the go who need a cheap fix for their social-networking habit
on Feb 27th, 2010 at 12:25 AM
I hate the fhone i need to sell it so i can get another one
starting with $30