Itel A50C: An In-Depth Analysis of Common Issues, Problems, and Bugs – Should You Consider This Budget Device?
The Itel A50C is marketed as an affordable smartphone designed to meet essential needs without the premium price tag. It attracts users who need basic functionality in a reliable device. However, despite its appeal as a budget-friendly option, the A50C isn’t without issues. In this article, we’ll cover the common issues and bugs users encounter with the Itel A50C, provide tips to troubleshoot them, and conclude with an evaluation on whether the Itel A50C is worth buying or if better alternatives exist at this price point.
1. Performance Issues: Lagging and Slow Response
Given the modest specs of the Itel A50C, performance issues are not uncommon. Users report slow response times when opening apps, switching between tasks, and performing basic operations. This is especially noticeable when the device’s storage is nearly full.
Symptoms:
- Apps take several seconds to open.
- Lag and stuttering when switching between apps.
- Noticeable delays during typing or while scrolling through apps and web pages.
Possible Fixes:
- Free Up Storage: Go to Settings > Storage and delete unused apps, large files, or unnecessary media to improve performance.
- Clear Cache Regularly: Apps store temporary data that can slow down the device. Clear cache in Settings > Apps for individual apps.
- Limit Background Processes: In Developer Options (unlocked by tapping Build Number multiple times in About Phone), you can limit background processes to free up RAM.
- Avoid Resource-Heavy Apps: Stick to lighter versions of social media and other apps (e.g., Facebook Lite) to reduce processing load.
Note: Performance on the Itel A50C is expected to be more basic due to its limited hardware specifications, so managing resources can help optimize speed.
2. Battery Drain and Overheating
Although the Itel A50C’s battery is designed for average daily use, some users have encountered rapid battery drain and overheating during tasks such as video streaming, gaming, or prolonged calls. The smaller battery capacity on this device can struggle with sustained usage.
Common Battery-Related Issues:
- Quick battery drain, even with minimal use.
- Device heats up during charging or extended use, particularly while multitasking.
Possible Fixes:
- Use Battery Saver Mode: Go to Settings > Battery and turn on Battery Saver to help extend battery life.
- Turn Off Unnecessary Connectivity: Disable Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data when not in use, as they consume battery in the background.
- Avoid Using the Device While Charging: Using the phone while it charges increases heat and can slow down charging times.
- Limit Background Data for Apps: Restrict background data usage for power-hungry apps to prevent them from draining the battery.
Pro Tip: Turning on Airplane Mode while charging can reduce the amount of power the device needs to manage, allowing it to charge faster and stay cooler.
3. Display Sensitivity and Brightness Concerns
The display on the Itel A50C is basic but sufficient for general use. However, some users report inconsistent touch sensitivity, especially along the edges of the screen, and low brightness levels that make it hard to view content in direct sunlight.
Common Display Issues:
- Touch input sometimes goes unregistered, especially near screen edges.
- Difficulties with visibility in bright outdoor environments due to low brightness levels.
- Slight lag or delay when scrolling or swiping.
Possible Fixes:
- Increase Sensitivity: Go to Settings > Display and ensure the sensitivity settings are appropriate. Unfortunately, advanced touch sensitivity options may be limited on this model.
- Avoid Using Tempered Glass or Thick Screen Protectors: Some screen protectors can interfere with touch response.
- Adjust Display Settings: Increase brightness manually as the adaptive brightness setting may not be effective. Alternatively, try using dark mode to make the screen easier to read.
User Tip: For better screen visibility outdoors, a matte screen protector may help reduce glare, although it won't improve brightness directly.
4. Connectivity Problems: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Mobile Network Issues
Budget devices like the Itel A50C often face issues with Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth pairing, and weak network reception, especially in low-signal areas.
Common Connectivity Issues:
- Wi-Fi disconnects frequently, even in close proximity to the router.
- Bluetooth connections drop or don’t connect properly to external devices.
- Cellular network reception is weak or inconsistent.
Possible Fixes:
- Reset Network Settings: Go to Settings > System > Reset Options > Reset Wi-Fi, Mobile & Bluetooth to refresh all network configurations.
- Toggle Airplane Mode: This can help re-establish connections. Toggle Airplane Mode on, wait a few seconds, then turn it off.
- Update Software: Ensure that the latest firmware is installed by checking for updates under Settings > System Updates.
- Forget Wi-Fi Networks and Reconnect: Sometimes, re-establishing a Wi-Fi connection can resolve dropouts.
Tip: If connectivity issues persist, try restarting the router or checking if other devices in the vicinity have similar problems.
5. Audio Quality and Call Clarity Issues
Audio quality on the Itel A50C is basic, which is expected for a budget smartphone. However, some users report low in-call volume, distorted sound through the speaker, and inconsistent call quality.
Audio Issues Reported by Users:
- Low speaker output and weak sound clarity during calls.
- Distortion at high volume levels when using the speaker.
- Microphone issues, with the person on the other end struggling to hear the user clearly.
Possible Fixes:
- Use Earphones for Better Sound Quality: Earphones or headphones often deliver clearer sound and can improve call clarity.
- Clean Speaker Grills: Dust or debris in the speaker grill can reduce sound clarity. Carefully clean with a soft brush.
- Increase Volume Settings: Make sure the volume is at an appropriate level in Settings > Sound.
- Test in a Quiet Environment: Background noise can impact microphone performance on budget devices.
User Tip: For clearer calls, try using messaging apps with voice calls as these sometimes offer better sound quality than traditional calls on lower-end devices.
6. Camera Quality and Shutter Speed
The Itel A50C has a basic camera setup that’s adequate for quick snaps, but users may find slower shutter speeds, poor low-light performance, and lack of detail in photos compared to higher-end devices.
Camera Limitations:
- Slow shutter response, leading to blurry images, especially for moving subjects.
- Grainy or noisy photos in low light.
- Limited camera settings that restrict photo quality customization.
Possible Fixes:
- Use HDR Mode: HDR can improve quality in high-contrast situations.
- Avoid Low-Light Photography: For better image clarity, try to capture photos in good lighting.
- Hold Steady During Capture: The A50C lacks advanced stabilization, so keeping the device steady while snapping photos is essential for clarity.
Conclusion: Is the Itel A50C Worth It?
The Itel A50C delivers a basic smartphone experience aimed at users who prioritize affordability over performance. For simple tasks like calling, messaging, and occasional web browsing, the A50C is adequate. However, the device has noticeable limitations in performance, display quality, and connectivity, which may not satisfy users who require smooth multitasking or reliable connectivity.
If you’re considering the Itel A50C, here’s a quick summary:
- Pros: Affordable, functional for basic tasks, compact and lightweight.
- Cons: Performance lag, limited camera quality, connectivity issues, and poor display brightness.
Alternative Recommendations:
For a small additional cost, similar budget phones offer better performance and fewer issues:
- Samsung Galaxy A03 Core: Offers better display quality, a more reliable performance, and improved software stability.
- Realme C11: Known for its better battery life, smoother performance, and higher-quality display for the price.
- Nokia C21 Plus: Delivers a more robust build quality, superior call clarity, and smoother software experience with fewer bugs.
Final Verdict:
If affordability is your top priority and you need only basic functionality, the Itel A50C may be a good fit. However, users looking for a more reliable experience with fewer bugs might find greater satisfaction in similar budget alternatives that come with better displays, connectivity, and general performance.