Acer Allegro

The Acer Allegro is not designed to be a top-end smartphone, but rather a lower-cost option that offers smartphone capability, and as such is does a good job.

Acer's Allegro phone's specs are never going to blow anyone away; it comes with a 3.6-inch WVGA (800 x 480) display, 1GHz single-core Qualcomm MSM8255 CPU, 8GB internal storage, 5MP rear camera and a 1,300mAh battery.

The Windows 7.5 Mango operating system and user interface is a bit clunky to use to start with, but becomes easier once you get used to scrolling across to access the majority of the phone's settings and apps.

The ability to incorporate friends' Facebook data and updates with the address book is a handy feature and allows users to text, call, and contact someone on social networking from their profile on the phone and it is very simple to use. 

Windows Marketplace does not have a huge range of apps, so users may find their favourite ones are not available, but the Xbox Live capacity does allow access to a variety of fun games for gaming enthusiasts.

The Allegro's body is largely made of plastic, but feels quite solid, however, having a screen protector is a must as it quickly gets covered in smears and fingerprints.

The device measures 11.6 x 5.9 x 13mm in size and weighs 126 grams, meaning it is pocket friendly. The camera is 5MP and does an adequate job of taking pictures, but camera shake and blur is noticeable if you try to take shots in a hurry. There is no LED flash either, which makes taking pictures in low light or at night nearly impossible.

The touchscreen is very responsive and the screen clarity is good for a low-cost phone and battery life was impressive, lasting over eight hours with moderate usage.

I have noticed in other Acer models that it is almost impossible to insert and remove the SIM card, this phone is no different.

Acer's Allegro is priced at AED1,699 and is available at all leading electronics retailers.