Summary
The Xiaomi Redmi 4A is a good performance mid range device from Vodafone Uganda. It comes with 2GB RAM/16GB ROM, a crisp front and rear camera, a 3120 mAh high endurance battery and fluid operating system (the MIUI 8) that makes using the device so much fun.
The Redmi 4A MIUI comes preloaded with a couple of apps and tricks like gesture control, Mi-Remote, Second Space, that you will love
Redmi 4AUnboxing
The Xiaomi Redmi 4A comes in a neat white minimalist rectangular packaging. Nothing flashy. There’s a huge “4” on the top, some words in Chinese and the Xiaomi logo on the sides.
In the box is the device itself, a little pouch with what seems to be a manual and some documentation. There is also a lollipop SIM card ejector. When you lift the pouch, you have access to the USB charger cable and the 2 pin charger head which will need an adapter to fit some sockets locally. We didn’t find earphones or any other accessories other than those mentioned.
Xiaomi Redmi 4A Specifications
Announced: 2016, Nov Available: 2016, Nov Colors: Gold, Rose Gold, Dark Gray SIM: Dual SIM (Nano-SIM/ Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) OS: MIUI 8 based on Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow) Network: 4G / 3G / 2G 4G LTE Bands: LTE band 1(2100), 3(1800), 4(1700/2100), 5(850), 7(2600), 20(800), 38(2600), 40(2300) Dimensions: 139.9 x 70.4 x 8.5 mm Weight: 131.5 g Display: 5 inch 720 x 1280 pixels HD display. IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen, 16M colors (296 ppi) CPU: Quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 Memory: 16/32 GB, 2 GB RAM Camera: 13 MP, f/2.2, auto-focus, LED flash; 5 MP, f/2.2 Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot, Bluetooth 4.1, A2DP, LE Sensors: Accelerometer, gyro, proximity Battery: Non-removable Li-Ion 3120 mAh battery
Our experience
- Redmi 4A Design
The Redmi 4A is a 5 inch device weighing only 131 grams with a screen to body ratio of 69%. It has hard printed navigation buttons at the front bottom side and the ear piece, proximity sensor and front camera at the upper front. The power and volume buttons are located on the right, the SIM card tray on the left, while the earphone jack and infra-red blaster are at the top. The USB charging port and microphone are at the bottom.
On the backside is the camera and flash on the top left. The Speaker is located at the rear bottom center with the Xiaomi logo just above it. On first sight, the Redmi 4A looks slightly bulky but you get used to it really quickly.
The fact that it is 5 inch makes the device easily fit in your hands. It was very comfortable to hold and use (This would work perfectly well for those with small hands or fingers). There is nothing fancy about the Redmi 4A’s design except it is functional.
- Redmi 4A Camera
The Redmi 4A camera is interesting for multiple reasons. The 13MP rear camera is quite crisp with a good enough color rendering to give you vibrant and clear pictures for your SWIFT (Snapchat – Whatsapp – Instagram – Facebook and Twitter)
It is not the best camera on the market (For this price, you wouldn’t expect a DSLR for a smartphone camera) but it is way above average and better than many smartphone camera’s I have used. We noticed a quick focus and fast shutter that makes taking images were faster with the possibility of taking blurry images reduced.
We also noticed a higher ability to focus on close range than other smartphone cameras. The 4A’s macro ability will get photo enthusiasts crazy about its camera. The selfie camera has a feature that helps you dramatically increase brightness when taking selfies in low light. We found this quite impressive.
- Redmi 4A Battery
The battery take between 60 – 90 minutes to fully charge and based on our first impressions and the few days we had it, the battery takes you a whole with average usage. But if you are a power user, you will need to adopt a couple of juicing techniques to stay powered up.
We didn’t do a battery strain test to see how far the battery can go but preliminary tests show good performance. Overall, we like the battery endurance of Redmi 4A
- Redmi 4A MIUI
The MIUI is Xiaomi’s skin or call it a theme that runs on top of Google’s Android OS. It is their version of what Android should look like. There are certain custom apps from Xiaomi that make using the Redmi 4A fun and enjoyable.
Apps: Mi Drop lets you transfer files wirelessly, Second space lets you run dual accounts of almost any app including the phone. Imagine have your account and your daughter’s account on the same phone while seamlessly switching in between. In built scanner app for QR codes, documents etc, Mi Remote and Mi TV – Unfortunately these work best with compatible Xiaomi devices.
Features: Gesture controls like 3 finger swipe to take a screen shot, Double tap to wake or put the screen to sleep, Lite Mode; gives you a simplified version of your phone taking away all the clutter. Quick Ball; gives you access to quick setting from any screen. One handed Mode; shrinks the display to fit use with one hand. App lock lets you lock particular apps that you do not want people to access on your phone without a password. Mirror cast; allows you to wirelessly cast your display to another bigger or compatible display like a smart TV for instance.
- Redmi 4A Overall performance
One of the best things about the Redmi 4A is the MiUI 8 and how responsive the phone is. It makes for an excellent user experience. We didn’t have long periods with the device but for the time we had it, It was smooth and fluid with no lags or crashing.
We didn’t like the fact the device comes with no earphones, screen protector or phone case, but the general experience with call quality, user experience, battery endurance, and above average camera, we definitely loved the Xiaomi Redmi 4A
Xiaomi Redmi 4APrice and where to buy
The Xiaomi Redmi 4A is being sold exclusively by Vodafone Uganda and can be found at all Vodafone Care shops at only Ugx 550,000. Here is a complete list of all Vodafone Care shops in case you need to find them. You can also choose to order the device online from Vodafone Uganda
What we liked
- Xiaomi MiUI 8 experience was fluid and pleasant
- The Camera
- Lasting battery
- Good overall performance
What we didn’t like
- Accessories not readily available on the market
- Price is slightly high
- Plastic back makes it look cheap
Bottom Line
Xiaomi is an amazing brand that is hard to find in Africa. They have top end affordable devices majorly for the Asian market. Thanks to Vodafone, we can also now easily access Xiaomi phones in Africa. If you are looking for a good experience on a budget, a good first smartphone, or are looking for a temporary replacement for a lost phone, the Xiaomi Redmi 4A is your best shot.
As a mid-range device, it comes with 16GB memory, 2GB of RAM and that is more like the minimum standard for a good experience on any smartphone. If you held this as your smartphone, you will have set the bar for yourself a little too high because after here, you will have to do a little hard work to find a device that beats the Redmi 4A performance and feel on a budget.
About Onyait Odeke
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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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