Phab Plus: An oversized phone or a tablet that makes calls?

The design is fairly simple, with the volume rocker and power button on the right, and the camera embedded in the speaker, and spread across its width on the upper portion of the rear.

I would like to reiterate what I tweeted when I first saw the Lenovo Phab Plus: it will make any of your already big phones look like a grape.
Here's exploring the huge device to find out exactly what the Chinese firm was thinking when they decided to create this.
During my talk with Lenovo, they gave a fairly simple explanation: in a survey they conducted, phone calls ranked behind functions such as using social networks, web browsing, playing games and listening to music. It led them to create this 6.8" monster and join the super-sized mobile phone wars, allowing you to enjoy content and work on more digital real estate.
The design is fairly simple, with the volume rocker and power button on the right, and the camera embedded in the speaker, and spread across its width on the upper portion of the rear. A panel on the left reveals a tray with two slots: one for a micro-SIM, and the other for a nano-SIM or a micro-SD card - the latter complements the already-generous 32GB of built-in storage.
The humongous screen is decently bright. For the convenience of those who find it difficult to operate with one hand, it has certain gestures - draw a "C" or the reverse of it on the screen - and it can shrink the screen to the size of a 5" phone, and it shifts to suit both left- and right-handedness.
It works fairly efficiently, although I noticed that there are lags after starting it up from power-off mode; there is also a tiny bit of a pause when you fire up apps, though it may be negligible. As for the 13MP camera, it works well but has some grainy issues when presented with low-light situations. Selfies - even in not-so-bright conditions - were pleasantly nice, though.
AND SO...

The specs of the Lenovo Phab Plus are good, but there is something even better: its price. I reckon this is Lenovo's strategy; this particular device may well serve as a first good look on what they have to offer in the future in the segment. However, I believe that there must be some more innovations - extra functionalities on the display's edges, maybe, tailored to make full use of its large screen in order to dispel the notion that it's just an oversized phone [on the box, it's technically listed as a "portable tablet computer" (that makes calls)]. At least, it still fits in your pocket.
 GAME ON
CALL OF DUTY: BLACK OPS 3
(PlayStation 4)
The sequel to the highly-acclaimed 2012 hit Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 offers new and returning CoD players an explosive experience on next-generation hardware that is filled to the brim with fun and action - not to mention, decimating your foes.

Treyarch delivers on all fronts with this instalment that includes an action-packed campaign, fast-paced multiplayer and the familiar "Zombies" mode that features an all-star cast, including Jeff Goldblum and Ron Perlman. To familiarise players with the experience, the campaign includes an extensive tutorial to perfect the use of new machinery - since the game is set in 2065.
One delightful feature was being able to create your own character. You can choose between a male or female protagonist, rather than following in the bloodline of the previous characters in the Black Ops series. The lengthy plot allows for an immersive experience and gripping storyline, which ensures greater playability, as you can now invite others to join the game.
What sets the Zombie mode apart from its predecessor is its emphasis on cooperative play and the highly-detailed theme of the mid-century along with distinct characters. Make sure to enter this mode with a few buddies, as it is difficult to play on your own. The mode that shines the brightest is multiplayer yet again.
Rohma Sadaqat
alvin@khaleejtimes.com

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