Testing the new Meizu MX4 Ubuntu Edition

The Technology

Operations inside the phone are performed on an octa-core processor from MediaTek. One set of four Cortex A17 processor cores runs at up to 2.2Ghz. The other set of Cortex A7 cores only runs at up to 1.7GHz. This technology has been dubbed "big.LITTLE" and is an attempt to distribute compute-intensive tasks to the higher performance cores and to relegate the background activities to the weaker, battery-saving CPU. The graphics processor consists of the PowerVR G6200 from Imagination Technologies, formerly VideoLogic. This processor also works with four cores and offers generous amounts of computing power. Consequently, the technology behind the MX4 offers significantly more performance than the two Aquaris siblings from BQ. However, it would be a mistake to assume that Ubuntu runs more fluidly on the Meizu phone. The animations are stuttery in spite of the powerful processors. The cause is said to be the graphics card driver. Hopefully, Canonical and Meizu can get this issue under control for the future. Overall, there is some quirkiness to this phone in spite of the excellent technical data. This prevents user enjoyment of what should be a smooth-running Ubuntu phone (see the "Update to OTA-5" box for more info.)

There is a 2GB working memory and a battery with a capacity of 3100mAh. The battery is clearly visible under the removable plate but – wonder of wonders – the battery itself cannot be removed and exchanged (Figure 2). The large battery capacity becomes noticeable in everyday use. It lasts quite a bit longer than the battery for the Aquaris E4.5 in spite of the bright, high-resolution, 5-inch display with 1920x1152 pixels. With average use, the device we tested was plugged in to an electrical outlet about every two nights. The Aquaris on the other hand gave out after one day.

Figure 2: Although appearances would suggest otherwise, the battery for the Meizu MX4 cannot be removed.

Great Sound, Dim Camera

With the help of high-end, over-ear headphones, the phone impresses with powerful and flawless sound. The speech quality is also excellent during calls. Reactions to the camera, however, are mixed. The 20.7 megapixels look good on paper, but the images are definitely muddy. Photos can only be taken with 2560x1440 pixel resolution. There is no option for setting the resolution higher or lower. The hardware supports video with 4K, but again there is a fixed setting for 1920x1440 resolution even in the most recent version.

The delivery contents include a charger cable and an adapter and, in our case, also an adapter for the UK. Earphones are not included, although a space has been delegated for them in the packaging. This appears for now to be a place holder. The packaging, the directions, and all other documentation all still refer to Meizu's Android Flyme OS. Meizu sends a note along to apologize for the ongoing delay in changing everything over to the Ubuntu Edition of the Meizu MX4.