OPPO next gen A77 – more of everything (first look)

As seems usual for OPPO lovers the front camera is more highly specified than the rear – it is a 16MP, f/2.0 with large 1.12 µm pixels and a substantial update to “Beautify 4.0” to help users make silk purses out of sow’s ears.

Seriously the Beautify software can do what other beauty products can’t – reduce visible signs of ageing, remove wrinkles, and produce a smoother complexion. As a man with a great face for radio, I should know!

OPPO Australia Executive Director, Michael Tran, says high-end photographic capabilities are becoming essential for consumers and hence a key focus for OPPO. “We know a picture is worth a thousand words, so we want to give our customers the best technology to tell their story. What we’ve managed to pack inside this phone, at the price point it will retail at, is exceptional.”

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While reviewers, me included, get turned on by uber high specifications, it is timely to pinch one’s self and realise that fewer than 10% of the population can afford a flagship and that is where OPPO has capitalised so well.

It is now the largest smartphone maker in China experiencing 122% year on year growth in that market. In Q1, 2017 it and BBK sibling vivo had a combined Chinese market share of 32.3% (33.5 million units) with Huawei at 20.8 million units. Worldwide it has 12.6% compared to Samsung at 22.8%, Apple at 14.9% and Huawei at 9.8%.

OPPO has done it on the A and R series and a laser focus on camera and build quality.

Specifications – OPPO A77

 Summary

A good mid-range phone with an emphasis on the selfie camera – and why not?