The Wall Street Journal called “‘Phablets’ and Fonepads the New Tech Lexicon.” The Atlantic Wire says, “The Future of Phablets Cannot be Denied.” So, what is a phablet anyway? Well, it is essentially a cross between a tablet and a smartphone. Their screens range in size between 5- to 6.9-inches, and their purpose is to eliminate the need for two mobile devices.
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Recent studies show that consumers are spending more time on social media, and less time talking, or using their phones, which means the phablet may make sense. And, all major smartphone manufacturers are and will be producing their own versions soon, including Apple. Here are a few things to consider:
Pros:
1. Because the screens are larger, websites can be displayed better and seen more clearly. There is also more space available for apps. This will lower the need for scrolling.
2. Phablets can help to decrease eye strain because larger fonts and images are used.
3. A phablet can fit in your hand, or a small bag. You don’t need to purchase a separate carrier just for your phablet.
4. It reconciles two technologies. Instead of having a smartphone and a tablet, you can carry just one device
Cons:
1. A phablet can’t fit into your pockets. While the larger screen does have its benefits, phablets are too large to fit in clothing pockets, unless you’re wearing a coat or jacket.
2. You may not need a phablet if you have a smartphone and a laptop.
3. Phablets may cause some strain, when using it as a phone, due to their various sizes.
Analysts predict that, by the end of 2016, over 400 million phablets will be shipped worldwide. Whatever you decide, it looks like phablets aren’t going anywhere. Will you be buying one, or do you already have one? Let us know in the comments section below!
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Shane Albertell
I get the idea of the phablet. I’ll probably buy one eventually. I’m just going to need bigger pockets. It’ll be better than lugging around three devices though!
Sam Hain
I hear Samsung’s phablet is the one to get.
Mike
I own a Galaxy Note 3 and a Galaxy Note before that, and I’ve have yet to find a pocket that my phablet couldn’t fit in.
Ryan
5.7 inch note 3 fits all my pockets except “short shorts”
Matthew
I don’t like these. Too big to make calls on or fit in a pocket. Too small to replace even a small tablet like an iPad mini for doing work. They are just not a good size, period.
Neo Chai
Great article, Katrina.
I have just bought a phablet two days ago which is Oppo N1 with 5.9″ screen and 1080 x 1920 resolution. Previously I was not attracted by any kind of Android smartphone or tablet but this Oppo N1 really makes me switch over from iPhone 4s which now I think the screen is a little too small. Well, I do own an iPad 3 which is a fantastic device as well. Now I think this new Phablet will save me from bringing 2 devices out daily.