Cherry Mobile Fusion Air Price Php 2,999 : Cheap 7-inch Android Tablet for Every Juan?

For the past few days, Cherry Mobile - through its social network accounts - has been releasing rather intriguing teasers about its newest product offering.

cherry mobile fusion air

Like me, some of you might have thought of a different brand when you saw this message. Merely mentioning the word 'One' brings to mind images of HTC's current flagship smartphone, which is known for its premium industrial design and aluminum build. Suffice it to say, I expected CM to churn out a high-end smartphone that can take on the Taiwanese company's top-of-the-line release. (But then again, that's just me.)

Earlier today (July 8, 2013), however, when Cherry Mobile officially announced 'The One' device that they've been hyping, I realized that - maybe - I expected far too much from the company. (And frankly, I felt a bit misled.)

cherry mobile fusion air

Instead of releasing a premium product, the company pursued a different direction -- one that's more in line with its objective of bringing mobile technology closer to more Filipinos by offering them at considerably low prices. Cherry Mobile Fusion Air, which has yet to be seen in the flesh, sells for only PhP 2,999, and yet it already comes with specifications that should be good enough for most entry-level users or those who will be getting their tablet for the first time.
  • 7-inch screen with 5point touch interface.
  • Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
  • 1 GHz processor
  • Wi-Fi Connectivity
  • G-sensor
  • 4GB internal storage
  • 2,200maH Battery
Some of you may think that Cherry Mobile Fusion Air is nothing special. But personally, I believe this is a very significant release from local electronics giant. Just imagine the number of Pinoy consumers - previously alienated by the high price of Android tablets - who will benefit from it?

Mark of TP: Based on a study done in 2012, the Philippines is the fastest growing market for mobile devices in the Asia Pacific region. Well, if that's the case, it should be easy to assume that a lot Pinoys are making more than enough money to purchase electronics. And yet, interestingly, I still regularly get messages and emails from users who wish that smartphones and tablets were far more affordable so they can get one for themselves and their loved ones. I really think that Cherry Mobile - along with other local gadget companies - is really doing this country a big favor by keeping the prices of their devices ultra-low so more Pinoys can get their hands on them. I can only hope these companies are also making sure that the quality of their releases is also up to par as the Filipino gadget consumer deserves nothing but the best from all players in this market.

Despite its limitations in terms of internal specifications, I think Cherry Mobile Fusion Air should be able to handle basic Android tablet functions such as internet browsing, e-book reading, and playing non-3D games, among others.

I actually see a great potential in this device. If the slate delivers a more than decent 'actual' performance - in spite of its lackluster processor and small battery - think that the Filipino masses will embrace it. Also, whereas before - with Php 3,000, one could only buy a borderline brand-less Android tablet in Greenhills or Divisoria that you can expect to breakdown after a few month or two; This one, at least, comes with 1-year warranty.

About the author: TP Correspondent Mon Arguelles is a graduate of Environmental Management, a joint program of the Ateneo De Manila University and University of San Francisco.