1With Scratch’s $99 Coolpad Arise Phone, There’s No Hefty Service Bill
By Todd R. Weiss
2Buy a $99 Phone, Never Get a Bill for Service
The Coolpad Arise smartphone from Scratch Wireless features a 4-inch touch-screen FWVGA display with 480-by-800 resolution, a dual-core 1.2GHz processor, 512MB of memory and 4GB of data storage, which can be expanded by installing a microSD card of up to 32GB.
3Android for OS, Sprint for 3G Service When Desired
The Arise runs on the Android 4.4 KitKat operating system, giving users access to the full breadth of Google services, including the Google Play store, Google Maps and more. When desired, users can get cellular services, which are provided through Sprint’s 3G network.
4Buy Talk and Data Only If and When You Need It
Users can buy voice allotments for $1.99 for unlimited minutes in 24 hours, $6.99 for 100 minutes in 30 days or $14.99 for unlimited minutes in 30 days. Data passes sell for $1.99 for 24 hours of unlimited use, $14.99 for 500MB in 30 days or $24.99 for unlimited use for 30 days.
5Scratch Wireless’s WiFi First Approach
The Scratch Wireless service is based on the idea that since there are so many WiFi access points available today that most people can use a Coolpad phone for free. About two-thirds of the company’s customers only use free WiFi services each month, according to the company.
6Slender Design, Great Connectivity
In addition to built-in WiFi connectivity, the Coolpad Arise includes Bluetooth connectivity for additional flexibility. The phone is compatible with Sprint’s CDMA cellular network.
7Rear 2MP Camera, but No Selfie Camera
The Coolpad includes a 2-megapixel rear camera that can also take videos, but it is lacking a front selfie camera. The smartphone also includes a 1,600mAh battery that has a 240-hour standby rating.
8A Coolpad Primer
The handset’s manufacturer, Coolpad, is China’s third largest smartphone maker and sells its products in many other markets around the world. A Coolpad Arise can be preordered through the Scratch Wireless Website with shipments and availability starting on June 10.