Lenovo PHAB Plus Review

Introduction

When we sat down with Lenovo way back during MWC 2015 earlier in the year, they managed to pique our attention when they teased to us an early prototype of this phablet-esque device they were developing. Despite it being non-functional, the chassis alone got us intrigued because of its premium construction and svelte footprint. That prototype, nevertheless, turned out to be the Lenovo PHAB Plus – a 6.8-inch phablet monster that’s priced inexpensively. Now that it’s here in the flesh, can it still deliver the same level of intrigue?

The package contains:

• Lenovo PHAB Plus
• microUSB cable
• Wall charger

Design

You’d think it’s an iPhone 6 Plus clone based on its uncanny resemblance.

Using it as a daily driver, its size is what draws the most attention when we’re using it deliberately or inconspicuously in public. It certainly doesn’t have any issue commanding attention, primarily because of its sturdy metal chassis, skinny profile, and relatively substantial build quality. For a phone with a 6.8-inch screen, Lenovo does reasonably to trim off as much of the fat as they can – though, it’s still wide in the hand.

Another thing worth pointing out is just its uncanny resemblance to the iPhone 6 Plus. From the two screws flanking the microUSB port, to the positioning of the antenna bands on the back, and just the overall resemblance of the phone, there’s no denying it’s almost a clone! Regardless of that, it’s just incredible how much attention it’s able to stir up with its design. Undoubtedly, it’s the kind of thing that’s always a conversation starter when you’re with a group of friends and decide to whip it out.

Looking around the PHAB Plus, the power and volume controls are placed on the right edge of the phone, offering good feedback when they’re pressed. Their positioning is standard, but we feel it might have been smarter if Lenovo moved them a bit lower down the edge, making it easier to reach them on such a large phone. The 3.5mm headphone jack is positioned on the top left corner, while the microUSB port and microphone are found on the bottom. As for the speaker, it occupies a good chunk of space along the top section of the back.