Budget smartphone manufacturer itel’s latest smartphone, the S42, a successor to the itel S41, is an 18:9 screen device that aims to take on Xiaomi’s recently launched Redmi 5. The selfie-centric smartphone, priced at Rs 8,499, comes with a set of accessories, such as a pair of headphones, screen protector and a phone protector case. The S42 has a look and feel that puts it in line with other budget smartphones. On the back, the metallic build with curved edges lends it strong endurance and a plush look. The front is dominated by a 2.5D curved glass with a 5.65-inch 18:9 aspect ratio screen placed beneath it. Like other ultra-wide screen devices, the bezels are minimal and, therefore, the phone uses software-based navigation keys.At the bottom, there is a micro USB charging port surrounded by six-holes grille on each side – one with a speaker mounted underneath and the other with a microphone. Although the design is satisfactory, the holes are prone to accumulating dust. The S42 is more equal than its equals. It packs the punch for its price tag. And, it comes with a 100-day replacement guarantee and a 12-month warranty. itel has done well to improvise on its S41 which had a lesser resolution (720x1280), weaker battery (2700 mAh) and 8 MP cameras, but carried a price tag that is similar. So, it is definitely a thumbs-up to the maker for pushing the boundary and yet keeping the price low.

Budget smartphone manufacturer itel’s latest smartphone, the S42, a successor to the itel S41, is an 18:9 screen device that aims to take on Xiaomi’s recently launched Redmi 5. The selfie-centric smartphone, priced at Rs 8,499, comes with a set of accessories, such as a pair of headphones, screen protector and a phone protector case. The S42 has a look and feel that puts it in line with other budget smartphones. On the back, the metallic build with curved edges lends it strong endurance and a plush look. The front is dominated by a 2.5D curved glass with a 5.65-inch 18:9 aspect ratio screen placed beneath it. Like other ultra-wide screen devices, the bezels are minimal and, therefore, the phone uses software-based navigation keys.At the bottom, there is a micro USB charging port surrounded by six-holes grille on each side – one with a speaker mounted underneath and the other with a microphone. Although the design is satisfactory, the holes are prone to accumulating dust. The S42 is more equal than its equals. It packs the punch for its price tag. And, it comes with a 100-day replacement guarantee and a 12-month warranty. itel has done well to improvise on its S41 which had a lesser resolution (720x1280), weaker battery (2700 mAh) and 8 MP cameras, but carried a price tag that is similar. So, it is definitely a thumbs-up to the maker for pushing the boundary and yet keeping the price low.