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The first thought that struck me after hearing the name Micromax Canvas 3D, also known as the A115, was does one need special 3D glasses to use it? Thankfully, one doesn’t. And, the fact that it offers a 3D experience at a reasonable price is the phone’s USP.
Though Micromax is not a pioneer of 3D smartphones, it has an edge in this segment — it is priced at only Rs 9,999. HTC and LG, too, have 3D smartphone offerings, but these products aren't very popular thanks to the premium they command in terms of price.
For a 3D-addict, the Canvas 3D is a treat, though one has to watch it from a particular angle. In terms of looks, it is similar to the LG Optimus 3D. Though black, the phone looks dull. But the shiny Micromax logo on the back compensates to an extent.
At 12.7 cm, the size of the screen is much bigger than in the LG and HTC 3D variants. Also, the clarity in 3D display is much better. The fact that the phone has just two keys — for power and volume — gives it a clean look. The applications can be easily accessed by a touch on the screen.
The phone is powered by a dual-core 1.2 GHz processor, with 512 MB RAM and 4GB of onboard memory and a microSD card slot. The Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean makes things fast and smooth, and one can load apps quickly. The interface, too, is very responsive — one doesn’t have to try too hard in shifting between apps and menus.
All the 3D-enabled applications are available on the same screen. The phone has only one 3D game; that, too, a trial version. But one can download 3D content and games — the 3D display takes games to new heights. However, the content isn’t detailed very well. The phone can convert photos to 3D, though for videos, this isn’t the case, unlike the case with the LG Optimus 3D.
The Canvas 3D has a five-megapixel (2560 x 1920 pixels resolution) auto-focus camera, with dual flash light at the back. But given one has the scope to convert and create 3D content, the quality of the camera disappoints. The front camera, rated at 0.3 megapixels, is just about good enough for video calls.
The audio volume is slightly low, though the quality, through headphones, is decent. For clarity, the equaliser can be tweaked.
Strangely, despite a 12.7-cm screen, 3D content and the option of high-powered games, the battery back-up is superb. The phone also offers the option to distribute battery usage, for a longer life.
The call experience is decent. And the fact that one can use two SIM cards to take advantage of lower call rates on one and browsing charges on the other is an added advantage.
The Micromax Canvas 3D is a good buy. I don’t think any company, in the near future, would offer a 3D smartphone at this price. For 3D addicts and game lovers, the phone would be a huge draw, as these days, there’s plenty of 3D content available on the internet. So, download, play and enjoy. And, if you have the time and passion, create your 3D own content and share. But you might get a stiff neck watching all the 3D stuff at an angle. Don't tell me then that I didn't warn you!
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Price: Rs 9,999
Screen: 5 inch
OS: Android Jelly Bean
RAM: 512 MB
Processor: 1GHz dual core
Memory: 4 GB onboard, expandable via microSD (up to 32 GB cards supported)
Camera (rear/front): 5MP/0.3MP
Battery: 2,000 mAh
