Boost MAX hands-on and first impressions

ZTE announced the Iconic Phablet during CES, and more recently, the handset has been announced for Boost Mobile. The name has been changed to the Boost MAX, however the specs are the same as we saw back in early-January. Basically, we are looking at a device with a 5.7-inch HD IPS display and powered by a dual-core 1.2GHz processor. Anyway, ZTE has been kind enough to send over a review unit, and what follows is our initial hands-on and first impressions.

One thing here is certain — the Boost MAX is on the larger side. The display, at 5.7-inches is in the same ballpark as the Galaxy Note 3. But while the display size may match, the phone is bigger overall. Measurements for the Boost MAX are as follows; 6.5 (H) x 3.25 (W) x 0.4 (D) inches. The weight is 6.87 ounces.

The handset will make use of the growing Boost Mobile LTE network and otherwise, has specs to include a 3200 mAh battery along with 1GB of RAM, 8GB of internal storage, a 1 megapixel front-facing camera and an 8 megapixel rear-facing camera. Users will also find a microSD memory card slot and Dolby Digital Plus sound.

We are going to reserve full judgement until we spend a bit more time with the handset, but one initial disappointment comes in the version of Android, which is 4.1. Otherwise, there are some software specifics that take advantage of the larger display. ZTE has the Boost MAX loaded with the Smart Viewer software, which means multi-tasking (with select apps). Sitting below is a gallery with various shots of the Boost MAX.

As far as some first impression thoughts — aside from the large size, the handset feels a bit on the heavy side. Again, looking towards the Note 3 for comparison, Samsung has that one weighing in at 5.83 grams, versus the 6.87 ounces for the MAX. Perhaps more important though, the Boost MAX feels sturdy and solid and for that we can handle a bit more in terms of weight.

The display appears to be crisp and clear. And while we certainly need to spend more hands-on time with the device, it appears to be running nice and smooth. That is to say the apps launch quick and scrolling is smooth. Anyway, make sure to check out the image gallery sitting above, as well as the initial hands-on video sitting below. Also, a full review will follow.