Those who were looking for phone functionality on a low priced tablet here is an option in BeeTabz Ashni+. You might expect the Ashni+ to be more advanced than the BeeTabz Ashni version, well the answer is yes and no.
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The Ashni+ can be used for making calls and this tab does come with a SIM slot wherein you can insert a 2G SIM. Only 2G SIM is supported, I guess if you insert a 3G SIM it will still use the 2G technology (Will need to confirm this). Anyway even with 2G you can make phone calls, send SMS’s and MMS’s. (not sure if you can use the GPRS or EDGE networks). 3G is also supported but only via external dongle. So in all you can use the 2G SIM for phone functionality and an external 3G dongle for high speed internet.
Tablet Design
This tablet looks a bit different from the Ashni version. There is a power and volume rocker buttons on the top side and on the right side there are the various port options. On the bottom side there is a slot for the SIM card just near the reset button. The front side is touchscreen display with VGA camera in the center (portrait) with the single navigation button on the opposite side as seen in the image below.
Processor, OS and Display
The tablet is slightly underpowered by an 800 MHz processor (VIA 8650) as compared with the 1 GHz on the Ashni version. The Ashni+ comes with 256 MB RAM and runs on Android 2.3 OS. The display screen is 7 inches but again it is with a resistive touch technology which spoils the fun. The resolution supported is 800 by 480 pixels.
Connectivity
You can use 2G phone features by inserting the 2G SIM card and also get access to 3G via USB dongle. Other options are through the built in Wi-Fi.
Memory
The BeeTabz Ashni+ comes with 4 GB internal memory and does supports microSD card up to 32 GB.
Ports
There is 1 mini USB port, a microSD slot (up to 32 GB), 3.5 mm audio jack, SIM slot and power slot. There is no HDMI port.
Other features
There is built in speakers and microphone. A 1.2 MP camera is placed in the front that can be used for video calling via Skype only. And video calling via phone feature, I don’t think it’s possible. What is missing, is a Bluetooth and GPS.
Battery
This tab comes with a 3200 mAh battery (Li-Polymer) same as on the Ashni model. Not sure about the standby and talktime.
BeeTabz Ashni+ price in India is Rs. 6,500 with 1 year warranty.
BeeTabz Ashni+ Specifications
Processor : VIA 8650 clocked at 800 MHz.
RAM : 256 MB
Internal Memory : 4 GB – MicroSD also supported
OS : Android 2.3 (Gingerbread)
Missing : Bluetooth, HDMI port and GPS
Screen : 7 inch resistive touchscreen with 800 x 480 pixels resolution
Camera : 1.2 MP front facing
Battery : 3200 mAh
Should you buy this tablet?
The main advantage is that this low cost tablet comes with 2G phone feature, you can use the tablet as a phone however, the other features are not that impressive. Let me explain it.
Now when you have the phone feature I was expecting a Bluetooth option but sadly that is missing. In other words you will be using the built in mic and speaker which again may cause echo problems or you will need to use a headset.
There no GPS which is ok for a low cost tab. Overall the tab is good but with Bluetooth missing it may sound weird carrying a 7 inch tablet (or should I say phone) all the time. Another thing is that there is no GPU so you will have access to limited (low graphics) games. At Rs. 6,500 I don’t think the tab is worth it especially when it comes with a resistive touchscreen. Before ordering this tab please read the comments.
Note: I would suggest you to keep away from Beelabz, if you still want to buy from them do it at your own risk.