Problems, limitations, and disadvantages of the Cherry Mobile Superion Navigator

Have you tried a generic or lesser known electronics product? If yes, what is your experience on said devices?

Cherry Mobile is a local mobile device brand here in the Philippines. Some say that they produce and manufacture their own products, while there are those that claims they simply choose and re-brand international lesser known portable gadgets / devices.

Whichever it may be, Cherry Mobile gained traction and captured a decent customer base when they released the Cherry Mobile Titan and Flare.

I actually own a CM Titan and initially thought that it would only last a few months as a budget phone. However, it has been two years already and never experienced any major issues with the device.

The introductory photo is the actual box of the Cherry Mobile Superion Navigator. I bought one since it is relatively cheap.

Since it is cheap, I wouldn't be too conscious on handling and using it - compared to when I'm using the more expensive iPad mini.

Anyway, the right side photo are the technical specifications of the CM Superion as can be seen on the box.

Now let's go to the juicy part - the problems, limitations, and disadvantages

First of is the battery as it is quite puzzling and can be perceived as a limitation

Personally, I can watch two full 2-hour movies with the Superion Navigator on a fully charged battery. However, the battery seemingly discharges even though when it is not in use.

For instance, I don't bring the unit when I go to work. But still, after 3-days of non-usage, the unit will run out of battery (something that I don’t encounter with my other mobile phones)

Additional information about the battery of the Cherry Mobile Superion Navigator:

• FYI please that the charging time of the device from a fully drain state to full batt is more than two hours.
• Just like most other tablets, the battery of the Cherry Mobile Superion Navigator is non removable (Yours truly think that this can be a disadvantage and even a problem in the next few years when the battery becomes bloated or reached its limit)

• Apps stored on SD card is not retained on homepage during restart. I have to manually place a shortcut every time I reboot or after turning ON
• Icons (and just about everything else) looks bigger even display settings is configured to smallest setting
• Color is totally whack
• Charging indicator no longer moves. It only shows a lightning icon
• Some apps are no longer working properly after upgrading to KitKat
• After upgrading to KitKat using OTA, all apps were not transitioned properly. Have tried re-downloading the apps but it's a no-go! Was actually forced to factory reset the unit
• USB connectivity now became MTP or PTP mode
• 3G (H or H+) is really slow except for Globe
• Signal lost occurs more frequently than before

Am not really sure if the unit comes with a proximity sensor. Here’s thinking that all modern tablets are equipped with one. But for some strange reason, proximity apps does not seem to work with my CM Superion device.

If the unit indeed does not have a proximity sensor, this is an obvious limitation and disadvantage.

Additionally, the unit does not apparently have a compass functionality. Not really that big of a concern but some might be discourage by it.

Another problem about my CM Navigator unit is that there seems to be one or two spots where the touchscreen is not as responsive.

Maybe it is just my unit my overly cautious way of handling new things, but I have to press relatively harder on said portions for the function to register.

This can be a disadvantage for OCD people or might be a sign that these areas of the screen is where problem might arise.

And the last disadvantage of having a lesser known brand / unit like the Cherry Mobile Navigator is the lack of appropriate accessories.

Even though it has the 8-inch screen display and the rear camera is on the upper right corner, looking for a fitted carrying case or cover is quite difficult. I have visited numerous mobile shops and stores but unable to find a suitable one.

Excellent price

For a tablet pegged at such a low price, it is totally worth it.

Powerful Specifications

I also own a Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 and I tell you, the difference in speed and performance is easily noticeable. The Cherry Mobile Superion Navigator handles processes better and lags that I experienced using on some apps at the Galaxy Tab 3 is non-existent on the CM Navigator.

Physical Advantages

The physical characteristics of this Cherry Mobile tablet is also a plus. It is thinner, lighter, and the back portion has somewhat of a rugged, anti-slip, and scratch-proof feel.

Plus, it also comes with its own screen protector – just how cool is that.

Connectivity Options

Another advantage of the CM Superion Navigator is its connectivity options. Aside from the universal USB connector, it has a mini-HDMI port.

It also has dual SIM functionality which is perfect for people who uses two separate mobile devices.

The dual SIM is also GSM capable which means that it can be used for voice calls, text messages, and data services (for areas that does not offer free or shady wifi access).