A little-known Chinese OEM called Vernee just launched another cheap powerhouse, introducing its latest Apollo Lite smartphone.
It was only a few months ago when this virtually unknown OEM started to draw attention with its Vernee Apollo, which debuted back in March with impressive specs all around. The handset packed a deca-core processor, 6 GB of RAM, a 21 megapixel main camera, a QHD Force Touch display and plenty of other high-end specs, all wrapped up in a beautiful metal design.
The company is now back with a new smartphone called the Apollo Lite, which, as the name suggests, is basically a light version of the Vernee Apollo. Although less powerful, the Lite variant still packs quite a punch.
The new Vernee Apollo Lite features a 5.5-inch full HD (1080p) display with Sharp IGZO technology and Gorilla Glass 3 protection. The handset has a screen-to-body ratio of 72 percent and has an ergonomically-curved back, as well as slightly arched corners on the front.
The volume rocker and power key are located on the right side, while a fingerprint scanner is mounted on its rear.
In terms of hardware specs, the Vernee Apollo Lite packs a MediaTek Helio X20 deca-core processor, with the cores split into three clusters. This Tri-Cluster technology aims to ensure a fast and smooth performance by having each cluster cater to a different kind of workload.
Other specs include 4 GB of RAM, 32 GB of internal locker space, microSD support of up to 128 GB and a USB Type-C port with digital audio output. The Apollo Lite further sports a Samsung-made 16 megapixel rear camera with 4K video recording capabilities, Isocell technology, dual-tone LED flash, phase-detection autofocus and an f/2.0 aperture. On the front, the handset features a 5 megapixel Samsung camera for selfies and video calls.
Keeping things up and running is a 3,180 mAh removable battery with MediaTek's Pump Express 3 quick charging technology, which allows for a rapid charge of up to 50 percent in just 30 minutes.
On the software side, the Vernee Apollo Lite runs a "raw and clean" version of Android 6.0 Marshmallow, but customers will also be able to download Vernee's own VOS operating system if they so prefer.
When it comes to pricing and availability, the Vernee Apollo Lite is already available for global pre-sales at just $229.99, coming in two color options: Space Grey and Moonlight Silver. The product page for the smartphone may look awfully familiar, and that's because it bears an uncanny resemblance to Apple's website.
Lastly, Vernee is also offering a $30 discount coupon if you share the company's page to sign up for a giveaway. Those who preorder the Apollo Lite should receive the handset on July 20.
