Chinese mobile phones started flooding the Indian subcontinent in early 2007. And as an average Indian consumer I look for lots of features at low prices, these China Phones seemed almost like a boon.
But in reality these phones were cheap replicas of the most popular mainstream handsets from companies such as Nokia, Samsung and others. It certainly does amuse you with its look, though! But then this brings you to the most important question: Are Chinese mobiles any good?
The answer to that is not a simple one. Really. These phones, popularly known as ‘China mobiles’ across India, offer you unmatched features and is an amazingly low prices mobile phone, but with a catch. The catch is that there is no warranty on these phones and neither are spares available in any stores usually.
So, if this china mobile phone hardware gets faulty, you may find no way to get the phone repaired.
Moreover, there can also be problems with the phone software and there is no way to get it reinstalled either. But if you consider the cost-benefit proposition, Chinese mobiles have no competition! They are the best mobile phones for us!
After all where can you get an accurate replica of the Apple iPhone for INR 8000? The original Apple product (the iPhone 3GS) costs upwards of INR 32000. So, it is not cheap by any stretch of imagination. But a Chinese mobile handset with the same build and similar features can be yours for just 25% of the original price. Amazing isn’t it?
Also China handsets sold in India can be good for you if you change handsets very frequently. New technology is always emerging and so, if you have a fetish for the latest mobile handsets, Chinese mobiles are a good way to satisfy your craving for phones packed with latest features, without going bankrupt. However, this is only possible if you can live with the fact that the gizmo in your pocket is not the original thing!
In India, fake gadgets can attract a lot of raised eyebrows and sniggers, so beware of the fact that you may be making a wrong impression on people when you whip out that China mobile in style.
Another argument which works in favor of Chinese mobiles is that people rarely hold on to one particular handset for more than two years. Even the best of Nokia handsets start losing battery life by that time, particularly if the phone has been used a lot. If your Chinese handset lasts for two years (with a bit of luck) then you can easily change over to a new handset without feeling the pocket pinch.
Thus, Chinese mobile phones in India are good only if you are willing to gamble on longevity and reliability of your phone to save money!