Spice XLife 512

With the entry-level segment gaining traction, we're starting to see manufacturers offering tailored product lines in this category. Micromax has already done so with its Bolt line, which are priced at under 5,000. Now Spice Mobiles is getting into the action with the launch of its X line of devices, which are aimed at first-time buyers looking to get their hands on an Android handset.

The Indian vendor launched four devices in the series, with the XLife 512 being the premium offering in the line. Available for 4,499, the device comes with a large screen that is ideal for those looking to consume media on the go. That said, the screen resolution isn't anything to write home about, with the device boasting a 854 x 480 display.

Rounding off the rest of the specs, the XLife 512 comes with a dual-core 1GHz CPU, 512MB RAM, 4GB internal memory, dual-SIM functionality with both SIMs compatible with 3G networks, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, 8MP camera at the back, 2MP front shooter and a 2,000mAh battery. On the software front, the device runs Android 4.4 KitKat. Those concerned about build quality will like the sandstone back finish along with the metal trim that runs along the sides of the XLife 512.

The XLife 512 underscores the strides made by manufacturers in this segment. Up until a year ago, the entry-level category was rife with devices that lacked 3G connectivity, and now we have a device that has 3G on both SIM card slots. However, there still needs to be a few areas, mostly to do with memory, that needs to be looked into. Devices with 1GB RAM cost slightly more, but if a vendor were to launch a phone in this segment that offers more RAM and storage, they'll have a winner on their hands.