Galaxy-branded, Android-filled smartphones, Samsung has reignited its
Galaxy Ace sub-franchise with the Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 tackling the
space between the collection of dedicated entry-level and mid-market
handsets.
With a price point that is neither overtly friendly on
the wallet or aspirationally expensive, the Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 bridges
the defined boundaries of the smartphone market, featuring a number of
notable improvements over its predecessor whilst failing to match the
collection of ground-breaking and genre defining specs as its Galaxy S3 branded sibling.
Joining the likes of the Orange San Diego, HTC One V and Nokia Lumia 710
in this no-mans-land of the mobile market, the Galaxy Ace 2 has got a
lot to do if it's to stand out from the crowd. It's now available for
£160 on a number of PAYG deals, making it an attractive proposition for
many.
However, it's still facing competition from its ultra-cheap predecessor, so is there enough technology on offer here? A
well rounded, impressive little handset, the Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 plays
host to a largely appealing 3.8-inch WVGA TFT capacitive touchscreen
display with an 800 x 480 image resolution that is pleasant on the eye
despite failing to set the device apart from a number of its upper-end
competitors.
Slotting this display into an aesthetically pleasing,
albeit largely plastic, design, the second-generation Galaxy Ace has
slimmed down with a strong construction that makes the device as
impressive in the hand as it is on the eye. Disappointingly, despite being unveiled and coming to market long after the arrival of Android 4.0, Samsung has opted to omit the use of Google's Ice Cream Sandwich
OS in favour of the heavily tried and repeatedly tested Android 2.3
Gingerbread offering that featured on the handset's now dated prelude,
the original Samsung Galaxy Ace.
Whilst
the use of a repeatedly replaced operating system shows that the Galaxy
Ace 2 is far from the perfect smartphone offering, the compact device
plays host to a number of spec updates that help it on the road to
redemption and which give it an edge over a number of devices that sport
far loftier price tags.
And here's some even better news: the
Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 is going to be one of the range of phones that the
Korean brand is going to be updating to Android 4.1.2, or Android Jelly Bean to you and me.
This
means an improved camera, faster innards and an improved user interface
are all on the way, and will placate those hoards of users that took
umbrage at being told they were never going to get their hands on the
Ice Cream Sandwich update.
The new version of Android won't be
launching until at least Q1 2013, and we'll fully update this review
when we get our hands on the new version of the software... but at least
you can buy it confident in the knowledge it's not going to be left out
in the cold. Coming
for a general all-round overhaul, the Galaxy Ace 2 has been bumped to
an 800MHz dual-core processor from a similar speed single-core offering
whilst the handset's RAM offering has made the jump from 278MB to a far
more respectable 768MB.
As fun as it is functional, the Ace 2 is
far from bereft of redeeming qualities on an entertainment front as the
handset sees Samsung pair a 5-megapixel rear-mounted camera with
autofocus capabilities and integrated LED flash features. On
top of this, the device plays host to improved, 720p HD video recording
capabilities that see the handset settled firmly in the mid-market
sector. A second, VGA, snapper also feature's on the device's fore.
Lining
up at a comfortable 122g in weight and just 10.5mm thick, the latest
addition to the Galaxy range of Samsung smartphones sees 4GB of internal
storage expanded via microSD compatibility, whilst the standard
collection of 3G, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity options are further
bolstered by GPS and HSDPA offerings. As
impressive in reality as it is on paper, those looking to make use of
the Ace 2 will be further pleased by the device's appealing price tag
with the handset available now for free on a selection of pay monthly
contracts.
Those looking to pick the handset up on a SIM-free
pay-as-you-go basis will be able to do so for a now-fair-whack-under the
£200 marker, a price that sees the Ace 2 easy trump a number of its
rivals on the cost front. Despite
the Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 increasing in screen size over the
first-generation model, making the jump from 3.5-inches to 3.8-inches,
the Ace 2 is impressively 1mm slimmer than its counterpart, dropping
down to a relatively svelte 10.5mm at its thickest point.
Although
the handset features a largely plastic construct, the Galaxy Ace 2 is a
surprising sturdy and well put together device, offering little
unwanted flex or creaking when placed under considerable amounts of
stress. As
pleasing as the Ace 2's design is, it is far from unique, sharing a
number of characteristics with many of Samsung's most recent Android
powered devices with a large, rectangular home button dominating the
device's face.
These familiarities aren't necessarily a bad thing;
however, with the Ace 2's smoothly curved edges and slim form factor
creating a device that is extremely comfortable in the hand as well as
remaining of an eye-catching nature. One
design feature that has unfortunately made the jump to the Ace 2 is the
Samsung Galaxy standard flimsy and fragile back panel. Offering little
reassurance when being removed, the scarily thin component leaves you
nervous of snapping when being removed to access the SIM, microSD and
battery.
As well as increasing in size, the Galaxy Ace 2 has added
weight when compared to its predecessor, although only marginally.
Despite adding 9g of weight compared with the original Galaxy Ace model,
the Ace 2, which weighs a reasonable 122g, is a reassuring device to
hold, not so heavy as to feel uncomfortable but sturdy enough to act as a
confidence boosting weight in the hand. With
a rounded-edged finish, the Ace 2 is ergonomically designed to fit
comfortably in the hand with the slightly textured back panel offering a
small, but hugely reassuring amount of additional grip that will stave
off accidental drops and slips.
With little to take away from the
handset's seamless and curvaceous form factor, the near mid-market
device features just three physical controls with the standard sleep
turn power button lining up alongside the equally familiar volume up and
volume down options. Although
the volume controls are located in an area prone to accidental presses
from errant fingers and thumbs when held in either a standard right and
left handed manner, the buttons are reassuringly stiff enough so as not
to cause concern.
Further maintaining the handset's untarnished
form, the essential microUSB charging dock connector and 3.5mm audio
jack port are the only blemishes on an otherwise impeccable finish.
Far
from anything ground-breaking, the Galaxy Ace 2 features Samsung's now
standard combination of Google's Android 2.3 Gingerbread OS and the
Korean company's own TouchWiz 4.0 UI.
The same combination of
software that has featured on many past Samsung Galaxy devices, the
Android, TouchWiz pairing is intuitive to use and offers a number of
features, shortcuts and characteristics that will appeal to first time
smartphone users and hardened handset fans alike.
As we mentioned
above, this will be getting an Android Jelly Bean update in 2013, and
we'll update the review when we get our hands on a new phone running the
platform.
Offering quick-fire instant access to the most
frequently required settings options, a widget-based settings menu lines
up on one of the handset's seven available homescreens allowing users
to quickly alter a bevy of options from Wi-Fi network settings and
Bluetooth connectivity options to the screen's brightness and timeout
periods.
Although
not the most unique software setup, the Samsung Galaxy Ace 2's pairing
of Google's 2.3 Gingerbread OS and the Samsung TouchWiz 4.0 user
interface is one that will appeal to accustomed smartphone owners and
first-time smartphone users alike, creating a device that is completely
intuitive to use with a centralised menu offering instant one-click
access to the full arrange of preinstalled and downloaded applications
and services.
Thanks to the handset's 800MHz dual-core processor,
the Ace 2's user interface is a nippy affair with the CPU combining well
with a highly responsive 3.8-inch WVGA multitouch display for screen
transitions that are smooth and zippy with little infuriating lag or
performance depleting stuttering.
Allowing for quicker access to
key handset details and messaging alerts, the Android standard pull-down
notification menu offers speedy shortcuts to the most vital data,
helping to keep the Ace follow-on running along smoothly.
Although
this feature is available on all of the handset's Android filler
rivals, it is a service that doesn't fail to disappoint.
Contacts and calling
Tackling the space between the entry- and mid-market handsets
With
the intuitive yet uninspiring combination of Google's Android 2.3 OS
and Sammy's TouchWiz 4.0 UI running the show, the Ace 2's contacts
features are much of the same with the generic Android fair offering a
simple, intuitive collection of features that allow for ease of use but
fail to set the device apart from an of its rivals.
With the
handset's contact options accessible via a dedicated application
shortcut that can be found in the centralised apps menu or pinned to one
of the device's seven available homescreens, the Ace 2 sees the
standard alphabetical sorting system list all stored contacts in a
simple to navigate, well laid out manner.
Further enhancing the usability of the device, users can view communications histories for individual contacts.
Although
it is possible to port contacts from social streams such as Facebook to
create a centralised port of communication between all friends,
colleagues, family and general acquaintances, doing so annoyingly
creates duplicates of contacts brought across from the SIM card and the
assigned Google account meaning a time-consuming period of joining
contacts is necessary to ensure a clean, efficient and user friendly
contacts store is available.
Whilst it is simple to pair these
duplicated contents, it is an annoyance that should be avoided and which
will see a selection of replicated content and communication options
remain despite a lengthy period of amends.
Somewhat easier is the
process required to add a new contact with a simplistic, easy to follow
entry form offering a fool proof method of input for intuitive use.
Calling
Despite
a number of recent entry-level and mid-range smartphone offerings
overlooking the basic calling aspects of the handset in favour of more
advanced bells and whistles, the Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 partners a broad
collection of impressive hardware features with an impressive base
function.
Featuring strong signal and clear audio during calls,
the Ace 2's calling features are let down only by the handset's lack of
noise isolation characteristics that can result in background noises on
occasion leaking through to calls and become overwhelming.
This
was especially noticeable when the person on the other end of the line
is in an area of busy, fast moving traffic or where it is windy. The
basic Android dial features for call making away from the dedicated
contacts list.
et another example of the handset benefitting from its simple to
follow, easy to master Android innards, the latest addition to the
Samsung Galaxy line of smartphones plays host to the standard collection
of messaging options with SMS and email options proving easy to setup
and even easier to use to craft and send communications.
Unlike
many touchscreen based handsets on the market, the Samsung Galaxy Ace
2's digitally rendered full QWERTY keyboard is surprisingly strong and
easy to use with well sized keys reducing the risk of accidental presses
and unwanted typos.
Switch the handset from the standard portrait
stance to a widescreen landscape form and an even more pleasing QWERTY
offering is available with individual keys increasing in size and spaces
between buttons becoming more defined.
For those not appeased by
the impressive standard tap-to-enter method of input, thanks to the
handset's Samsung flavoured TouchWiz 4.0 user interface the Ace 2 plays
host to Swype technologies allowing you to seamlessly swipe your finger
between keys to spell out desired words.
Fast
and functional, Swype methods of input further enhance the handset's
messaging abilities with text based communications, in all their forms,
benefitting from the speedy input option.
Whilst it is quick and
simple to select desired recipients for text and emails based messages,
accessing friend's communications details via the contacts book opens a
broad selection of new messaging abilities with users able to send the
likes of Facebook messages direct from the contact storage system.
For
those looking to spice up their standard stoic SMS text messages with a
bit of added content, be it picture, video or audio based, users can
utilise the Samsung device's MMS features simply by clicking the paper
clip shaped icon that accompanies all text input screens to select the
desired content to be attached to the message.
Internet
Whilst
on most fronts running tried and tested Android fare means strong,
well-rounded results, when it comes to smartphones' browsers, the
Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 gets little in terms of benefits from the standard,
pre-installed generic Android and TouchWiz UI browser.
Far
from spectacular, and with a limited collection of features, none of
which set the device apart from its closest rivals that feature largely
similar offerings, those not taken with the basic Android browser can
download one of many improvements from the Google Play Store with the
likes of Mozilla Firefox lining up for potential inclusion.
Whilst
web pages are loaded in the blink of an eye when accessed over Wi-Fi
means, using the handset's 3G capabilities to browse the web offers a
slightly more jilted, albeit still impressive experience with pages
loading in fits and bursts as opposed to in a single, smooth flowing
motion. Although
the handset's pre-installed browser has omitted user friendly text
reflow functionality, in its place the Ace 2 renders text and images in
double quick time when zooming in meaning you won't be stuck waiting for
grainy content to clarify itself.
A
slight problem when zoomed in on a large section of text, however, is
that scrolling through a web page or online article can prove slightly
troublesome with the Ace 2's interface zipping through a page at such a
rate of knots that it is all too easy to miss desired sections of
content.
Making the browser a little more manageable and user
friendly, users can access eight individually tabbed webpages
simultaneously whilst the bookmarking system, available via a simple tap
of the dedicated onscreen button next to the URL input bar, is
efficient and easy to use.
As well as allowing you to bookmark
your favourite pages, instant access to your most frequently visited
sites and browser history is also available from the tabbed option.
Swype
input features further assist in the appeasing user experience allowing
you to enter URLs and search terms in a speedy, error free manner.
Camera
Exceeding
the expectations laid out by its on-paper specs, the 5-megapixel
rear-mounted camera found on Galaxy Ace 2 offers hugely impressive
results with the integrated autofocus features, inbuilt LED flash and
smile detection shooting further bolstering the handset's impressive bag
of tricks and allowing for simple image capturing in all conditions.
With
a shutter speed that can live up to more static panoramic shots, an
attribute that is errant from a number of smartphone integrated cameras,
users can also opt to activate the camera's autofocusing abilities
simply by tapping on a desired area of the screen, a handy feature that
works well to ensure your desired content is always in focus. Although
the handset struggles with Macro shooting, not liking exceedingly close
focal lengths, a strong collection of shooting modes counteract this
niggle as the standard collection of scene modes (portrait, landscape,
night, sports, fireworks, etc) are joined by the more advanced, an
entry-level market breeching shooting modes.
Whilst the 'cartoon'
option offers little in terms of impressive results, the Ace 2's
'panorama' features are some of the best on the market despite not
functioning well off a steep incline, stitching images together
perfectly to form impressive, expansive shots. For
those wanting even more control over their handset's photographic
capabilities, simplistic alterations can be made to the device's white
balance, exposure value and ISO settings. Although only small
customising changes can be made, it is easy to do and requires little
faff or fuss.
Whilst shooting from dark into light can have
mixed results, the Ace 2's integrated 5-megapixel camera is largely
impressive with its light management skills with indoor use of the
integrated LED flash not proving over powerful and simple whiting out
snaps. The Galaxy Ace 2 manages to produce vivid coloursClick here to see the full resolution image The camera can cope with detail in the foreground and distanceClick here to see the full resolution image Lovely landscape shots a totally possible hereClick here to see the full resolution image Panorama works well, stitching images together perfectly to form impressive shotsClick here to see the full resolution image The Galaxy Ace 2 struggles a little in macro modeClick here to see the full resolution image The Galaxy Ace 2 can take decent landscape shotsClick here to see the full resolution image Although the 'cartoon' option offers little in terms of impressive resultsClick here to see the full resolution image Even in uneven light the Ace 2 manages to cope okClick here to see the full resolution image
Video
Surprising
for a handset with such an appealing price point and less than
revolutionary collection of specs, the video recording capabilities of
the Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 are nothing to be sniffed at with strong
recording rates, colour management and customisable features on offer.
Capable
of shooting 720p HD video recording content at an impressive
30-frames-per-second, the Galaxy Ace 2's integrated video recorder
produces strong video content with concerns of heavy pixelisation,
motion blur and weak audio all forgotten following the first use that
see's the middle of the road Samsung handset gain a foothold on a number
of its competitors. Further
bolstering the handset's video abilities, the device's inbuilt LED
flash can be used to illuminate dark shooting areas whilst a selection
of effects allow you to adopt the classic array of grayscale, sepia and
negative shooting stances.
Despite the handset's strengths, the
video capabilities of the Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 are not without fault.
Lacking the contrast ratios and depth of colours of a selection of its
high-end rivals, the Ace 2's video recorder produces results that are of
largely block colours with content occasionally coming across more
segmented than in real life.
On the plus side, however, the Ace
2's inbuilt microphone is surprisingly strong and capable of picking up a
selection of background noises that add depth and atmosphere to videos
whilst not detracting from the main subject matter.
As with
virtually all smartphone-based video recorders, however, in areas of
high winds, distortion to the captured content's audio can become a
nuisance with no noise isolation to block it out.
Official gallery
Verdict
A notable improvement on its predecessor on all fronts, the Samsung
Galaxy Ace 2 is an impressive device that challenges a number of its
more illustrious rivals and pushes the expectations of a sub £200
handset.
It is, however, not without flaws; most notably its lack of Google's Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich
operating system. As we've noted, this is being skipped in favour of
Android Jelly Bean soon, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't consider
the fact you'll need to spend at least a short amount of time on an
outdated OS.
With a sleek, stylish design that is closer to the build quality and appealing feel of the former market leading Samsung Galaxy S2 than the budget likes of the Galaxy Y, the Ace 2 impresses from the off with a curvaceous finish that leads the way to an impressive collection of features.
As
the 800MHz dual-core processor runs the show with reality ease, the
handset's inbuilt 5-megapixel camera is a surprising hit equally capable
of producing high-end stills as it is impressive 720p HD video content.
On top of this, the device is easy to use and intuitive to master.
We disliked
Although
this ease of use is appealing, it is hard not to be disappointed in
Samsung's decision to fill the Ace 2 with the now dated Android 2.3 OS.
Although not a bad setup, the lack of ICS innards makes the device feel
dated before it is in full flow, and you'll have to wait for Jelly Bean.
A
largely impressive handset for the price, the Ace 2 could benefit from
slightly speedier charge times and although microSD expansion is
available, the internal storage capacity could be higher.
Verdict
A
warning signal to its handset competitors, Samsung's reign of power is
quickly moving away from the one-off flagship Galaxy S devices, with the
Ace 2 firmly rooting itself as a mid-market challenger with a near
budget price point that will appeal to many, and that price has become
even more palatable with recent drops bringing it close to £150.
Not
the most media savvy of devices on the market, the Ace 2 makes up for
small niggles and limited features by mastering what it offers.
Exceeding expectation on multiple fronts, the second-generation would be
a wise buy for any first time or returning smartphone owner.
Product Type
Smartphone
Network Band
Quad Band
Number of Screens
1
Service Provider
Orange
Wi-Fi
Yes
Effective Camera Resolution
5 Megapixel
USB
Yes
Built-in Flash
Yes
Main Screen Resolution
480 x 800
Main Screen Size
9.7 cm (3.8")
Cellular Data Connectivity Technology
HSDPA
GPS Receiver
Yes
Dual SIM Supported
Yes
Secondary Camera
Yes
Integrated TV Tuner
No
Product Family
Galaxy Ace 2
Cellular Generation
3G
Cellular Network Supported
GSM 1900
Memory Card Supported
microSD
Phone Style
Bar
Colour
Black
Brand Name
Samsung
Battery Talk Time
16.30 Hour
Weight (Approximate)
119.0 g
Touchscreen
Yes
Bluetooth
Yes
Maximum Memory Card Size Supported
32 GB
Built-in Memory
4 GB
Operating System Version
Android 2.3 Gingerbread
Main Screen Type
LCD
Realtone
Yes
Radio Tuner Type
FM
Call Features
Call Log
Multi-touch Screen
Yes
Height
118.0 mm
Width
62.0 mm
Depth
10.5 mm
Operating System
Android
Manufacturer
Samsung
Product Name
Galaxy Ace 2
Product Line
Galaxy Ace 2
Manufacturer Part Number
ORGGALAXYACE2BLK
Manufacturer Website Address
www.samsung.com/uk/
Marketing Information
Samsung GALAXY Ace 2
GALAXY
Ace 2 showcases upgraded smartphone features and premium usabilities in
a highly desirable device with massive appeal. Powerful dual core
processor and faster HSPA-driven downloading facilitate higher
performance to satisfy multimedia / web users and social networkers
alike. Large 3.8" display and slim form factor in a stylishly
minimalist, comfortably portable design. Huge 4GB memory capacity and
powerful battery also support extensive and extended usage. Outfitted
with Full TouchWiz 4.0 UI including Motion UX, GPS / GLONASS combo for
full global coverage navigation and smart NFC-enabled contactless
transactions - incredibly cutting edge but entirely accessible.
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