Vertu has been around for a long time making mobile phones that are more about style and excess than performance and usability. In the past, the company has unveiled a Vertu Signature Touch smartphone that sold for around $10,000. Vertu has now rolled out a new smartphone running Android called the Aster.
The Vertu Aster has a 4.7-inch screen with 1080 x 1920 resolution. It offers LTE connectivity, NFC, a 2MP front camera, and a 13MP rear camera. Under the hood, the smartphone has a Snapdragon quad-core processor, 2GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage. You might expect at least twice that internal storage for a smartphone in the $10,000 range where we assume this one will be.
Premium Materials and Design
The Aster is made out of premium materials like titanium alloy and leather, which contribute to its luxurious feel and durability. Titanium alloy is known for its strength and lightweight properties, making it an excellent choice for a high-end device. The leather used in the Aster is sourced from some of the finest tanneries in Europe, ensuring that each phone has a unique and sophisticated appearance. The phone will weigh in at 195 grams, which is relatively heavy compared to other smartphones, but this weight adds to the premium feel of the device.
Software and User Interface
The operating system under the hood is Android 4.4 KitKat with Vertu’s own UI over the top. Vertu’s custom UI is designed to provide a seamless and luxurious user experience, with exclusive features and services that are not available on other Android devices. For instance, Vertu offers a concierge service that provides personalized assistance to its users, ranging from booking reservations at exclusive restaurants to arranging private jet travel. This service is available 24/7 and is one of the key selling points of Vertu’s smartphones.
The Aster also comes with Vertu Life, a suite of exclusive services and content that includes access to private members’ clubs, invitation-only events, and bespoke experiences. Additionally, the phone features Vertu Certainty, which provides enhanced security and privacy features to protect the user’s data and communications.
Performance and Usability
While the Aster’s hardware specifications may not be groundbreaking compared to other high-end smartphones, its performance is more than adequate for everyday use. The Snapdragon quad-core processor and 2GB of RAM ensure smooth multitasking and app performance, while the 64GB of internal storage provides ample space for apps, photos, and media. However, it is worth noting that the lack of expandable storage may be a drawback for some users, especially considering the high price point of the device.
The 4.7-inch screen with 1080 x 1920 resolution offers crisp and vibrant visuals, making it ideal for watching videos, browsing the web, and playing games. The 13MP rear camera is capable of capturing high-quality photos and videos, while the 2MP front camera is suitable for video calls and selfies. The inclusion of LTE connectivity and NFC ensures that the Aster is compatible with the latest mobile networks and payment systems.
The official price of the Vertu Aster hasn’t been announced, but it is presumed to be in the same range that the Signature Touch sold for, which was around $10,000. The Aster did pass through the FCC recently and has the certifications it needs to launch in the US.
The Vertu Aster is a luxury smartphone that combines premium materials, exclusive services, and adequate performance to cater to a niche market of affluent users. While it may not offer the latest hardware specifications, its unique design and bespoke features make it a desirable device for those who value style and exclusivity over raw performance.
via PhoneArena
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