The budget smartphone market just got more interesting. Itel launched their latest model, the Zeno 20. The price might actually make you take a second look.
Starting at just INR 5,999 ($72/€62), this phone follows up on the earlier Zeno 10 model. But don’t let that tiny price tag fool you. The Zeno 20 actually brings some decent specs to the table.
The device features a 6.6-inch IPS LCD display with HD resolution. What’s cool is the 90Hz refresh rate – not something you usually see at this price point. The display runs on Unisoc’s Tiger T7100 chipset, which should handle basic tasks just fine.
You get two memory options here. Its lower variant comes with 3GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, whereas the higher variant is upgraded with 4GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage. Both of these versions can expand storage with microSD card, always great to have.
Camera-wise, things stay pretty simple. There’s a single 13MP shooter on the back and an 8MP front camera for selfies. Nothing fancy, but it should cover your basic photo needs.
The 5,000mAh battery is actually pretty generous for this price range. The phone ships with Android 14 Go Edition, which makes sense for an entry-level device – it’s designed to run smoothly on lower-end hardware.
Here’s where things get interesting though. The Zeno 20 includes IP54 protection against dust and water. That’s not common in budget phones. Plus, there’s a voice assistant called Aivana 2.0 that understands Hindi commands. Itel even throws in DTS sound enhancement and offers one free screen replacement.
The phone will be available in three shades: Starlit Black, Space Titanium, and Aurora Blue. You can only buy it on Amazon India, and sales start tomorrow, August 25th.
The 3GB/64GB model costs INR 5,999 with early bird pricing (regular price adds INR 250). 4GB/128GB one will only cost INR 6,899 (regular pricing INR 300 more). This comes to approximately $72-83, depending on which option you choose.
For someone looking for their first smartphone or needing a basic backup device, the Zeno 20 seems to hit the right notes. The combination of a decent-sized screen, all-day battery, and that IP54 rating makes it stand out in the crowded budget segment.
