There aren’t too many products available running Microsoft’s Windows Phone OS. Part of the reason for this is the somewhat strict system requirements for such smartphones. So the Samsung Focus 2, which runs Windows Phone 7.5 Mango by default, is almost guaranteed to perform well and give a great overall experience. And it actually does, based on comments from users and professional device reviews. It’s tagged as one of the most impressive smartphones with Windows Phone 7 released to date. And it’s affordable, too.
The Focus 2 is available at a cheaper price than the old Nokia flagship with Windows Phone 7, the Lumia 900. Despite being cheaper, it ships with similar specs, only with a slightly smaller screen, less internal storage, and a less impressive camera. But it has a few advantages of its own, which include a great processor and RAM combination, 4G LTE network support, and a removable battery. These make the Focus 2 more than capable of easily handling the Windows Phone 7 OS.
Speaking of the OS, the Focus 2 won’t be getting an upgrade to Windows Phone 8 any time soon. In fact, it will be stuck with Windows Phone 7 until the end of time. If you can look past this potential deal breaker, the Focus 2 stands to offer plenty of bang for your buck. Just don’t expect its app selection to be as good or as extensive as the one on iOS and Android, and you’ll be fine.
Need to Know: Samsung Focus 2
1. Ships with high-end features that include speedy processor and 4G LTE. (The Good)
2. User-replaceable removable battery. (The Good)
3. Won’t be upgraded to Windows Phone 8. (The Bad)
4. Uses an old design and looks boring. (The Bad)
What the Critics Are Saying...
- Grant Hatchimonji, BrighthandThe Samsung Focus 2 is definitely a solid phone, one that offers performance a small step above what you would expect for $50. It's certainly a good deal for an entry-level phone (with the not-so-entry-level luxury of 4G LTE), but bearing that in mind, if you're willing to shell out another $50 you...
- Sam Kieldsen, Pocket-lintWhile the Samsung Focus 2 may appear to be just another mid-to-high level smartphone, it’s actually an impressive Windows Phone 7 handset that gives the pricier Nokia Lumia 900 a run for its money.Don’t take that to mean it’s as good as the 900 - the 8GB of non-upgradeable storage is disappointing,...
- Michael Crider, SlashGearThe Samsung Focus 2 is a very tidy device, and currently the cheapest phone on AT&T to combine LTE and Windows Phone 7. Anyone who purchases it won’t be disappointed, especially those who require long battery life. That said, if a great camera or a big, high-res screen are in your list of must-haves...
- Sherri L. Smith, Laptop MagFor $49, the Samsung Focus 2 is a pretty good deal, offering a slick interface, solid performance and 4G LTE speeds. The Focus 2 is a solid choice for shoppers looking for a compact smartphone that's easy to use, but there's nothing here that really stands out.
- Alexandra Chang, WiredThe Samsung Focus 2 gets you access to AT&T’s 4G LTE in a compact, appealing, and most importantly, cheap device. Don’t get me wrong, this definitely isn’t a better phone than the Nokia Lumia 900. It doesn’t have the same curb appeal and falls short in comparative specs like the onboard camera and a...
Prices (Where to Buy)
Common Questions
We've got you covered! Download a free PDF copy of the Samsung Focus 2 user manual here.
Samsung backs up the Focus 2 with a 1 Year parts & labour warranty.
If your Focus 2 has problems and is still within its warranty period, you could contact Samsung support or the retailer you purchased the phone from. You'll find Samsung's contact information here. If your phone is off warranty and needs repair for a physical problem such as a broken screen or bad battery, you should visit an authorized service centre or a local phone repair shop. You can also connect with others in The Informr Community Forum to find and share answers to questions.
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Resources
Manuals / User Guides
- Samsung Focus 2 Manual (PDF)
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