itel S13 Review: The itel S13 which costs UGX 290,000 ($76) comes hot on the heels of its predecessor, the itel S12. As far as reincarnations go, the S13 is undoubtedly an exciting upgrade on so many levels. The S13 cuts away most of the baby fat on the S12, shaving off the bezels to fit a 5.5-inch full-screen display in a tiny device.
Much as the itel S13 is a self-styled selfie camera phone, the 13MP camera is rivalled by the 5MP dual camera shooters. This is not to say the S13 is all about the camera. Let’s have a comprehensive look at the sum of the parts.
itel S13 review: Display and Build
At first blush, the itel S13 might remind will remind you less of the itel S12 and more of a Google Pixel . Especially the rough band at the head where the dual cameras and LED flash reside at the back.
That the S13 comes with a Fingerprint sensor shows how ubiquitous this technology has become. Of late, I can’t see myself using a phone without a fingerprint sensor. What’s even better is that it’s well placed at the back for almost mindless unlocking of your device. To finish this off, a single speaker calls the bottom home.
The front features a 5.5-inch Full-screen display which is impressive for its 480 x 960-pixel density. Don’t let my big hands fool you, the S13 fits snug as a cat in your favorite chair.
Topside is the 13MP Selfie Camera and a single LED flash. The body of the itel S13 is made of a cheap polycarbonate build. It has a non-premium feel perhaps given its size and weight. The back cover is removable and so is the battery therein. The dual SIM slots are hidden in there, as is the microSD card slot for expandable memory.
Performance
Antutu Benchmark: 21960
The itel S13 runs a MediaTek MT6580 Quad-core 1.3GHz, ARM Cortex-A7 Processor alongside a Mali-400 MP Graphics (GPU) Processor. As far as we can tell, this defacto processor is now an industry standard for entry-level Android Go devices. The likes of Tecno Spark, itel A32P, itel P32 all run MediaTek MT6580 under the hood. In all likelihood, the performance should be similar.
Expect satisfactorily moderate performance. Apps load in about a second and won’t lag or stutter to any noticeable degree. The usual games i.e Temple Run and Candy Crush run just fine. You don’t do any performance gymnastics though.
You will be able to open multiple apps and switch between them almost instantly. Keep in mind though that we are running a moderate 1GB of RAM, so there’s only so much you can do before performance takes a nose-dive.
Surprisingly, the itel S13 performs comparably better on Antutu Benchmark than its cousin, the itel P32. Where the P32 garners a score of 20521, the S13 marginally beats it to get 21960. Let’s pretend for one second that we understand what exactly those scores mean. In doing so, it appears that the S13 does have a slight comparative advantage over its cousin, although that’s only performance-wise.
Related:
- Meet the Itel S13, itel’s latest selfie smartphone. Here are the specs, price and 4 things you will love about it.
- Itel S12 Review: The affordable, impressive dual selfie camera and entry leve l smartphone
Camera
A little while back, we reviewed the itel P32 which marked the first time we witnessed a budget phone with a dual rear camera ensemble. The camera output was short of remarkable for a device in that price bracket. The itel S13 follows in those shoes to bring us the exact same arrangement.
The 5MP dual rear cameras have autofocus and shoot at a resolution of 2560 x 1920 pixels. On that point, we couldn’t verify if both rear cameras are 5MP or if it’s just one. Also, we don’t know what special effect particular cameras bring to the table and how it factors into the end product.
The 13MP front Selfie camera packs a few more pixels than the rear. That said, the resolution remains constant at 2560 x 1920 pixels. There’s a lot of emphasis on the itel S13 Selfie camera which goes by the slogan “Clearer Selfie.” There’s not much in way of camera settings. The modes you get comprise Lowlight, Pano [rama], Pro and Portrait. The other thing you get is Masks which might or might not be to your liking. Can’t please everybody, no?
The output is much better than you would expect. The white balance, aperture and exposure is spot-on. The colors are vibrant and alive. We even managed to get a few shots in pitch black. With ample light, the effect is decent overall.
Battery
By any market standard, a removable 2400mAh Li-Ion battery isn’t much to write home about. Perhaps it is. It’s been so long since I last saw a removable smartphone battery, that it looks like a technological advancement all on its on.
What this means is that you can buy a new battery if and when the one you have stops keeping charge. Or you can buy extra batteries and swap them out when they run out.
Moderate usage should take you through the day and that’s as much as we can hope for. Android Go coupled with other performance and power tweaks are optimised to consume as little battery as possible. On standby, a 30% battery has gone 8 days straight with no noticeable battery changes.
For that matter, we had to put a stop to our testing due to time constraints although the itel S13 didn’t disappoint. Consider this a testament to itel’s intelligent power saver mode. Don’t expect Quick Charge though. Charging will take you a few hours using the included charger.
Itel S13 Specifications
Announced: 2018, August Available: 2018, September Model: itel S13 Colours: Champagne Gold, Elegant Black, City Blue SIM: Dual Micro-SIM OS: Android™ 8.1.0 (32 bit Go Edition) Network: GSM, WCDMA, GPRS, EDGE Display: 5.5-inch 480 x 960px IPS, multi-touch touchscreen, 16M colors CPU: MediaTek MT6580 Quad-core 1.3GHz, ARM Cortex-A7 Mali-400 MP Processor Memory: 8GB ROM, 1GB RAM, microSD, up to 32 GB (dedicated slot) Camera: 5 MP (2560 x 1920) + 5MP (2560 x 1920) dual rear cameras, auto-focus, dual-LED flash, 13MP (2560 x 1920) front Camera with LED flash Sensors: Accelerometer, Ambient Light, Proximity, Fingerprint Battery: Removable Li-Ion 2400 mAh battery.
itel S13 review: Final Verdict
Compared to the S12, the itel S13 packs a bigger screen, a better resolution, a better camera and overall design. The battery horsepower, however, is the same. But don’t let that fool you.
Also, unlike the itel S12, the S13 runs optimised Android Oreo Go Edition. Android Go comes with performance and battery improvements, periodical system upgrades and a few extras sprinkled here and there. At the end of the day, the itel S13 is an entirely new device worth the cost.
Sydney Mugerwa is a seasoned consumer tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with a passion for reviewing the latest gadgets and smart devices. From smartphones and wearables to smart home products and cameras, Sydney breaks down the complexities of consumer tech, making it easy to understand through detailed reviews and how-to guides. His mission is to simplify tech jargon and help readers make informed decisions in the ever-evolving world of technology.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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