Unboxing the itel A100C: First impressions from the box

There’s something inherently exciting about unboxing a new smartphone— that moment when the seal breaks, and a world of potential unfolds from a simple cardboard box, especially when it’s tailored for Uganda’s dynamic market. For the itel A100C, the unboxing experience is no different.

At a street price of UGX 245,000, expectations might be tempered, but this device delivers a premium-feeling reveal that belies its cost, resonating with first-time owners in Kampala or upcountry traders. As someone who’s torn open countless gadget packages, I can say the A100C’s unboxing stands out for its thoughtful packaging and immediate “wow” factor, especially in design and build suited to local lifestyles.  

itel A100C key specifications 

• Display: 6.6-inch HD+ IPS LCD (720 x 1612 pixels, ~267 ppi), 90Hz refresh rate, 400 nits brightness, punch-hole notch
• Processor: Unisoc T7100 octa-core (up to 1.8 GHz), PowerVR GE8322 GPU
• Memory & Storage: 2GB/3GB/4GB RAM options (with virtual RAM extension); 64GB/128GB internal storage; expandable up to 1TB via microSDXC (dedicated slot)
• Cameras: Rear – 8MP single sensor with LED flash (1080p@30fps video); Front – 5MP for selfies and video calls
• Battery: 5,000mAh non-removable; 10W fast charging via USB-C (full charge ~2.5 hours)
• Software: Android 15 (Go edition) with itel OS 15; features like UltraLink (offline calls) and Freelink (device pairing)
• Build & Durability: 190g weight, 8.5mm thick; MIL-STD-810H military-grade (1.2m drop resistance); IP64 dust/splash resistance; colors: Pure Black, Titanium Gold, Blaze Blue, Silk Green
• Connectivity: 4G LTE (no 5G), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, IR blaster (universal remote), FM radio, 3.5mm jack, dual nano-SIM
• Security & Sensors: Side-mounted fingerprint scanner, face unlock, accelerometer
• Audio: DTS-tuned loudspeaker

Lifting the inner tray, the A100C sits snugly in a soft velvet pouch, cradled in molded foam. First touch: premium. The back panel has a subtle pearlescent finish that catches the light without fingerprints screaming for attention though a screen protector is included to keep it pristine against Uganda’s dusty air.

- Advertisement -

At 190g and 8.5mm thick, it feels solid, not flimsy—the flat-edged aluminum frame gives it a flagship-like grip, echoing the iPhone 16 Pro’s aesthetics but without the heft, perfect for slipping into a jeans pocket. The squared-off camera module protrudes just enough for stability on a table, housing the 8MP single lens and LED flash.

Beneath the phone, the accessories compartment unfolds like a treasure chest. First out: the 10W USB-C charger, a compact white brick with a 1.2m cable that’s braided for tangle resistance—nothing fancy, but reliable. Next, the SIM ejector tool, a simple metal pin etched with “itel,” tucked into a slot. Then, the real gems: a transparent TPU case that snaps on effortlessly, offering basic drop protection up to 1m, and a pre-applied tempered glass screen protector already on the display (removable if you prefer your own); plus wired earphones in the box.  

Powering on for the first time is where the magic happens. Holding the side button, the boot animation—a swirling itel logo with AI motifs—fades in under 10 seconds. The 6.6-inch HD+ IPS screen bursts to life with the 90Hz refresh rate immediately noticeable: scrolling through the welcome carousel feels buttery smooth, even on the lightweight Android 15 Go edition.

Initial setup is a breeze—Google’s streamlined wizard detects the SIM (dual nano-SIM tray pops out easily for SIM cards), prompts for Wi-Fi, and suggests apps like WhatsApp and YouTube Go. The fingerprint sensor on the power button registers in one try, quick and accurate. Face unlock via the 5MP front cam adds a secondary layer, though it’s software-based and less secure in dim light like evening power cuts.

Hands-on first impressions? 

The display’s 400 nits brightness handles indoor use well, with vibrant colors for a budget panel—watching a TikTok reel on Ugandan trends, the 20:9 ratio immerses without bezel distractions. The Unisoc T7100 chipset hums along during the setup, no lags, and the extended RAM (up to 8GB virtual on higher variants) promises multitasking chops for juggling M-Pesa and Facebook.

Flipping to the back, the IP64 rating means I can rinse it under the tap without worry, and the military-grade cert (MIL-STD-810H) inspires confidence—itel claims it withstands vibrations, temps from -20°C to 55°C, and 1.2m drops. Testing the IR blaster right away, it controls my living room TV flawlessly, turning channel surfing into a phone perk for family evenings.

Audio-wise, the DTS-tuned speaker blasts clear mids for calls and music, though bass is light—pair it with the included case for better handling on bumpy roads. The 5,000mAh battery starts at 100%, and a quick 10% drain test (browsing and calls) shows efficiency, vital for off-grid days. Unique touches like UltraLink demo in settings lets me simulate offline calls via Bluetooth, a lifesaver for spotty networks in remote villages.

By the end of the unbox, the A100C feels like a steal—premium vibes in a pauper’s package, now available at itel stores or Take Now outlets with easy installments.