HUAWEI MatePad 12 X (2026) Review
We’ve got another Mini on our hands, and this time it’s Alcatel One Touch Idol Mini. Head past the break for our full review of this budget-centric dual-SIM smartphone.
Unlike other Minis we’ve seen in the past, there isn’t much of a let down on the AOTIM in terms of specs and build quality. In fact, except from the screen size, this phone is near-identical to the One Touch Idol which we reviewed back in April.
Alcatel still went for the no-frill design scheme that they implemented with the One Touch Idol. From the uncluttered front panel, down to the non-removable back cover with a faux-brushed-aluminum finish, the AOTIM looks exactly like its big brother.
We have nothing but praises for the AOTIM’s design; it’s thin, lightweight and that back panel gives a bit of distinction from the other handsets on the same league.
If there’s one thing that we didn’t like about it though, it will probably be the pair of SIM card slots on its right flank. I don’t know if it’s just me, but these slots have given me all sorts of trouble; from popping the uber-tiny flaps, to inserting the Micro-SIM cards to its respective slots and the worst removing the cards.
So a friendly advice should you decide to go for the AOTIM: pop your two SIM cards and be done with it. Otherwise, keep a spare SIM card handy; you’re gonna need it to help you inserting/removing your SIM.
Albeit the smaller display, the Idol Mini’s screen is outfitted with almost the same amount of pixels as its bigger sibling; resulting into a relatively good display output sans the noticeable pixelation. Moreover, the IPS panel does a good job of providing decent viewing angle at any angle.
Brightness level is also commendable, as well as the outdoor legibility. It also responds well to touches for most of the time, even on the edges and corners. And those rare times when the touch seems to be not registering, it’s more a performance-related concern rather than the screen acting up.
Speaking of performance, it is not the AOTIM’s strongest suit. This is not to say that the handset is terribly slow, because if it is, then it would somewhat reflect on the benchmark test results.
We can’t exactly put our fingers on what’s hindering it from providing consistent performance output, but our best guess will have to that the firmware (not to mention the custom UI that’s laid on top of it) isn’t fully optimize for its engine; resulting into an inconsistent and sometimes sluggish performance.
For better or worse, the AOTIM runs on a skinned version of Android Jelly bean which has the similar toy-ish appeal of Cherry Mobile’s custom UI. I know most of you would prefer to have a Vanilla Android experience any given day, but Alcatel’s skin doesn’t bode well for you, you can always opt for a downloadable third-party UI.
Most of the core Android apps, like the Messaging and Dialer, still functions the same way as on stock Android. By default though, the system makes use of a TouchPal keyboard instead of the usual Android keyboard. Again, if you don’t like this third-party keyboard, you can always switch back to the default Android keyboard.
Another gripe that we have with this phone has to do with its camera. It’s bad enough that it only takes 5MP snaps, what’s worse, the autofocus mechanism seems to be busted as it failed to give us any sharp images even though the subject was stationary.
To top it all up, the colors are washed out and the details (or lack thereof) is nothing but a mushy mess.
[fancygallery id=”60″ album=”63″]
The autofocus issue we mentioned earlier is particularly noticeable during this sample video that we took with the AOTIM.
Well at least, the battery life isn’t that bad. On a regular use, the phone lasts an entire day before we reached out for its charger. With the data connection/Wi-Fi turned on, we got an average of around 9-11 hours of mileage with its 1,700mAh power source.
The screenshot below shows how many hours the phone lasted when we played a 720p video on a loop while the phone is on Airplane Mode.
Conclusion
In this tightly contested (and congested) dual-SIM market, making a budget-friendly phone standout among its peers is a tall task for any company. While most manufacturers/re-branders chose to blind their prospects with “quad-core processors” or gazillion megapixel cameras, Alcatel opted instead for an eye-pleasing design with the One Touch Idol Mini.
Alcatel proves that affordable smartphones doesn’t have to be an ugly piece of plastic. Sadly though, the AOTIM is a good example of style over substance as it failed to deliver a satisfactory performance, making a tough pick for specs-oriented crowd.
The Alcatel One Touch Idol Mini is now available locally and currently retails for Php6,990.
What we liked about it:
What we didn’t like about it:
Apple, Asus, Cherry Mobile, Huawei, LG, Nokia, Oppo, Samsung, Sony, Vivo, Xiaomi, Lenovo, Infinix Mobile, Pocophone, Honor, iPhone, OnePlus, Tecno, Realme, HTC, Gionee, Kata, IQ00, Redmi, Razer, CloudFone, Motorola, Panasonic, TCL, Wiko
Best Android smartphones between PHP 20,000 - 25,000
Smartphones under PHP 10,000 in the Philippines
Smartphones under PHP 12K Philippines
Best smartphones for kids under PHP 7,000
Smartphones under PHP 15,000 in the Philippines
Best Android smartphones between PHP 15,000 - 20,000
Smartphones under PHP 20,000 in the Philippines
Most affordable 5G phones in the Philippines under PHP 20K
5G smartphones in the Philippines under PHP 16K
Zobel says:
🥉 Bronze🏆2
Buhay pa tong brand na to? They should go the way of old yeller. The world will be the better for it.
Ben says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
quote “Toy-ish UI complete with CM-looking square icons”
Hahaha!!! :P
Justin says:
💎 Platinum🏆2
Sumakit ang ulo ko sa video. Ganun ba talaga yon? It seems the camera keeps focusing and re-focusing on the subject.
snowden says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
just calling it mini is totally uncool…hey alcatel, lose your fixation to Apple and come with an different moniker…
Aln123 says:
🥉 Rookie🏆1
Alcatel has fallen behind Lenovo and Huawei recently. Its product introduction is often slow and delayed. It seems like it doesn’t know what to do when the other Chinese brands are aggressively outing products for different segments of the market. TCL better wake up fast or Alcatel will lose it’s already small market share even more.
sites de rencontre says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
It’s an amazing paragraph designed for all the online
viewers; they will obtain benefit from it I
am sure.
maui advertising says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
What’s up, everything is going well here and ofcourse every
one is sharing data, that’s in fact good, keep up writing.
UaN39FH5000 says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
I’m not sur why but this blog is loaading extremely
slow for me. Is anyone else having this issue
or is it a issue on my end? I’ll check back later and see if thhe problm still exists.
KL says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Tried this in the mall yesterday.. I like it.. well maybe its just me, that I am loving Alcatel. I have an Alcatel Glory 2 as a free phone and I am waiting to replace it because it got soaked.. the display of the Idol Mini is great, bright & sharp, and it’s very thin and lightweight. I run through the apps and it was pretty fast.. the downside is it’s just 8gb, not expandable.. when I checked the available memory it’s roughly 4gb with the installed apps.. I am waiting for the Idol Mini 2 which is better.. All in all, good value phone.. a cheaper alternative.
Cleon says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
How about `ung emoticons niya? Paano?
get rid of says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Wow, this paragraph is fastidious, my sister
is analyzing these things, so I am going to inform her.
Katrice says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
You have a large choice at our site and you will be pleased with your choices.
In past times it’s distressed resulting from various devout in addition to psychic thoughts plus beliefs.
The process of converting raw diamonds into gem-stones or
industrial diamonds is a very specialized one and it’s a fact that a diamond
crosses at least four continents before becoming a finished product.
Battle run s2 hack says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Upload from other devices – Set whether or not to accept the upload from other devices.
3) LITTLE CHILDREN – Todd Field’s second directorial effort (after 2001’s Oscar nominated “In The Bedroom”) takes a look at the lives of
several people in a typical suburban town in America.
The Evo is well known for being able to run heavy weight widgets and the fact that it carries
up to seven home screens is something to note.
France (Country) says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Further the Bliss Sheath can give us salvation (Moksha). Strange beliefs have cropped
up like weeds, regarding salvation or Moksha. The rep signs up because he was sold a fantasy
of fast cash and never see a dime.
tampa fl apartments says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Hello there, I found your web site by way of Google at the same time as searching for a comparable matter,
your site came up, it seems good. I’ve bookmarked it
in my google bookmarks.
Hello there, just changed into aware of your blog thru Google, and found that it’s truly informative.
I am gonna be careful for brussels. I’ll be grateful in the event you continue this in future.
Lots of folks can be benefited out of your writing.
Cheers!
anchor1 says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Attractive part of content. I just stumbled upon your website and in accession capital to claim
that I get actually enjoyed account your blog posts. Any way
I will be subscribing for your feeds or even I success you get right of entry to consistently fast.
comment gagner de l' says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
What’s up, its good post concerning media print, we all be familiar with media is a impressive source of
information.
work at home says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
This is a topic which is near to my heart…
Take care! Exactly where are your contact details though?
Extreme Pie Voucher says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Asking questions are actually pleasant thing if you
are not understanding anything fully, but this paragraph presents nice understanding
yet.
www.youtube.com says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
You made some decent points there. I checked on the
web for additional information about the izsue and found most individuals will go along with your views on this website.
panzergeneralwindows says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Wow, awesome blog layout! How long have you been blogging for?
you made blogging look easy. The overall look of your website is great, let alone
the content!
tentang judi says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
This post provides clear idea designed for the new users of
blogging, that really how to do blogging.
Glasses Spot coupon says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Today, I went to the beach with my children. I found a sea shell and gave it to my 4 year old daughter and
said “You can hear the ocean if you put this to your ear.” She
placed the shell to her ear and screamed. There was a hermit crab
inside and it pinched her ear. She never wants
to go back! LoL I know this is completely off topic but I had to tell someone!
Adoption Network says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Adopting a child is an important decision that requires careful consideration.
Their concern is that in fully adopting
IFRS GAAP, this will result to more costs than benefits,
although dependent on the nature and the size of the business.
Both steps are integral in helping the professionals and the adoption agency determine if you are ready to adopt.
Doreen says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
What’s up, I check your blog like every week. Your writing style is awesome, keep up the good work!
Mireya says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Thank you for some other informative website. Where
else could I am getting that type of information written in such an ideal means?
I’ve a undertaking that I’m just now working on, and I have been on the
look out for such information.
buy garcinia says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Actyive ingredients present in this acts on brain and
targets reducing hunger cravings. Article Source:
out how to look feel and be be better just read Garcinia Cambogia
and also the fifty shades of grey. Mike litrally shares his weight-loss experience in his first
two weeks of taking a Premium Garcinia Cambobia Supplement.
bioquestinc.com says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Active ingredients present in this acts on brain and targets reducing hunger cravings.
Serotonin is a chemical element or natural chemical which influencess our state of minds and
emotional states, just what this means is that with the
aid of the Hydroxycitric acid’s effect on raising the serotonin,
it will certainly minimize sadness triggering, advertising sensations of happiness
and well-being. There are numerous cboices in the marketplace for
people seeking to take advantage of the weight loss powers of
Garcinia Cambogia.
ognakan.info says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Either a placebo or a caffeine-ephedrine mixture (300 mg of caffeine
and 30 mg of ephedrine daily forr those under 80 kg; and a 600 mg-60 mg
combination daily for those over 80 kg) was givven to the
adolescents for 20 weeks. Unfortunately, though, as much as $ 6
billion being spent on fraudulent and ineffective
weight loss products. What you need is a
clear guide that helps you from day 1 to day you reach your goal.
pure garcinia says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
It is actually noted that about 500 mg with the extract is protected and best for a successful weight loss.
Both varieties of ginseng (Panax and Siberian ginseng) have a solid reputation for
energy enhancement. Certain kind of fiber like psyllium husks can absorb extra
fat from the food we eat and keeping that fat out of
our body before it is absorbed.
Marquis says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Hello, Neat post. There’s an issue with your web site in web explorer, would test this?
IE still is the market leader and a good section of people will pass over
your magnificent writing due to this problem.
pure garcinia says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
It is actually noted that about 500 mg with the extract is protected and best for a successful weight loss.
Article Source: out how to look feel and be be better just
read Garcinia Cambogia and also the fifty shades of grey.
One of these items is garcinia cambogia fat burning supplement.
Skip Hire says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Hi, I do believe this is an excellent site. I stumbledupon it ;) I may revisit yet again since
i have saved as a favorite it. Money and freedom is
the gdeatest way too change, may you be rich and continue to guide other people.
clash of clans says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Hi jjust wannted to give you a quick heades up and let you know a
few of the pictures aren’t loadinbg correctly. I’m not sure why but I think
its a linking issue. I’ve tried it in two different internet browsers and both show the same results.
valet de parking says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Hello just wanted to give you a quick heads
up. The words in your post seem to be running off the screen in Ie.
I’m not sure if this is a formatting issue or something
to do with web browser compatibility but I
figured I’d post to let you know. The design and style look great
though! Hope you get the problem resolved soon. Thanks
magnetic screen says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
I do not even know how I ended up here, but I thought this
post was great. I do not know who you are but certainly you’re going to a
famous blogger if you aren’t already ;) Cheers!
Best New Roof Miami says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
You actually make it seem so easy with your presentation but I find this topic to be really
something which I think I would never understand. It seems too complex and
extremely broad for me. I am looking forward for your next post, I’ll
try to get the hang of it!
drift rc Cars says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
People have different hobbies and it comes in different forms.
Black Ops is a downgrade to previoius installments of the series in many ways.
For more information please visit or call 1-978-646-8980.
drift rc cars says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Many of thuese clubs have organized competitions where you can showcas not only your latest model, but also your
driving prowess and talents. This article aims to share with you basic tips with regard to these two features of RC for you to make a more informed decision.
You can choose from trucks, sedans, buggies, popular car models, and even stock cars.
taggyncecologic says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
What’s up, yes this post is in fact nice and I have learned lot of things from it regarding blogging.
thanks.
tonserio triangle says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
If you wish for to grow your experience simply keep visiting this
web page and be updated with the latest gossip posted here.
tagvitamega says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Howdy! Quick question that’s completely off topic.
Do you know how to make your site mobile friendly? My weblog looks weird when browsing from
my iphone. I’m trying to find a theme or plugin that might be able to correct
this issue. If you have any recommendations, please share. Thanks!
nanomed breast says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Thank you a bunch for sharing this with all of us you really realize what you’re talking about!
Bookmarked. Kindly additionally seek advice from
my web site =). We could have a hyperlink alternate contract between
us
ann bernabe says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
does alcatel one touch idol mini have an external memory that is expandable?
kitchen remodel map says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
I ?eall? like it ?henever people get together and share thoughts.
?reat site, continue the good work!
dibumfix.tumblr.com says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
News that can be read on newspapers or seen on televisions often contains
car accidents. She notices the sets of realistic false teeth on his shelf,
and gets the inkling of an idea that Sandy might not be all
he says he is. Hoo causes a scene by confessing to
stealing various items around Sunset Towers in order to pay for
a trip to China.
vimax indonesia says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
It’s not my first time to go to see this web page, i am visiting
this website dailly and get fastidious information from here every day.
importance of says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Heya i’m for the primary time here. I found this board and I to find It really useful & it helped me
out much. I hope to present one thing again and aid
others such as you aided me.
dieta kopenchadzka says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
Pretty section of content. I just stumbled upon your website
and in accession capital to assert that I gett in fact enjoyed account your blkg posts.
Any way I’ll be subscribing too your feeds and even I achievement you access consistently fast.
simpatikus says:
🌱 Noobs🏆1
My brother recommended I maay like this website. He was totally right.
This put up truly made my day. Yoou can nott imagine simply hhow much tikme I
had spent for this info! Thank you!