With 64-bit ARM processors now coming from the likes of Qualcomm and NVIDIA, it’s no surprise that people are picking up this new technology to be used in their devices. Here comes Lenovo with their 64-bit smartphone of IFA 2014 and while it’s not the most exciting 64-bit smartphone we’ve seen so far, it’s still a good option for those that would rather spend less on a smartphone, but without compromising on performance. This 5.5-inch Vibe Z2 is the successor to the original Vibe Z and we’re sure Lenovo is pretty proud of what they’ve managed to put together, so let’s take a look.
It’s clear right from the get-go that the Vibe Z2 is meant to be a mid-range device and the specs really spell it out. The 5.5-inch display has a resolution of 1280 x 720 and the 64-bit CPU under-the-hood here is a Snapdragon 401 clocked at 1.4 Ghz backed up with 1GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. At just 7.8mm thin, Lenovo is aiming at those in the market for a good-looking device rather than a high-end powerhouse. Still, Lenovo is keen to point out that the 520 nits display is one of the brightest on the market and the 3,000 mAh battery should keep things chugging along nicely all day and then some. The Snapdragon 401 here supports 4G LTE and there’s dual SIM support here which will please those in emerging markets and Asia.
Where Lenovo is hoping the Z2 will stand out is through its imaging prowess, it features a 13-megapixel Sony Exmor RS sensor around the back and an 8-megapixel OIS front-facing camera. They’ve also given the Vibe Z2 some interesting new software features, like the ability to take a photo without touching a button. Lenovo reps have told us that this included winking at the camera to initiate the timer or holding up a V sign among other things and yes, you can just smile at it.
As with the Vibe X2, the Vibe Z2 will be available starting October in China, with the Asia Pacific, Eastern Europe and the Middle East in “countries where Lenovo smartphones are currently sold”, as for the price, the Vibe Z2 will retail for $429 US.
