OPPO A96

The OPPO A96 is available in Qatar in two main variants. The 8GB RAM + 128GB storage model is priced at QAR 749, while the 8GB RAM + 256GB storage version costs QAR 1,149.

These prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions.

OPPO A96 Specifications

Feature	Specification
Display	6.59″ IPS LCD, 90Hz refresh rate
Resolution	1080 x 2412 pixels (Full HD+)
Processor	Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G
RAM	8GB
Storage	128GB / 256GB (expandable via microSD)
Main Camera	50MP Wide + 2MP Depth
Front Camera	16MP
Battery	5000mAh
Charging	33W SuperVOOC fast charging
Operating System	ColorOS 11.1 based on Android 11
5G	No (4G LTE support)
Fingerprint Sensor	Side-mounted
Water Resistance	IP5X (dust), IPX4 (water splashes)

 

The OPPO A96 was officially released on March 16, 2022, making it a relatively recent addition to the mid-range smartphone market. This device aims to provide a balance between performance, camera capabilities, and battery life at an affordable price point.

Design and Display

The OPPO A96 features a sleek and modern design that’s sure to catch the eye. With dimensions of 164.4 x 75.7 x 8.4 mm and weighing 191 grams, it strikes a good balance between screen size and portability. The phone’s body is made of plastic with a glass front, giving it a premium feel while keeping costs down.

The 6.59-inch IPS LCD display is one of the standout features of the OPPO A96. With a resolution of 1080 x 2412 pixels and a 20:9 aspect ratio, it offers crisp and clear visuals for all your content. The 90Hz refresh rate provides smoother scrolling and more fluid animations compared to standard 60Hz displays, enhancing the overall user experience.

Performance and Storage

Under the hood, the OPPO A96 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G chipset. This octa-core processor, built on a 6nm process, offers a good balance between performance and energy efficiency. With four Kryo 265 Gold cores clocked at 2.4 GHz and four Kryo 265 Silver cores at 1.9 GHz, it can handle everyday tasks with ease and even manage some light gaming.

The device comes with 8GB of RAM, which is generous for a mid-range smartphone and ensures smooth multitasking. In terms of storage, you have the choice between 128GB and 256GB variants. If that’s not enough, the OPPO A96 also supports expandable storage via a dedicated microSD card slot, allowing you to add up to 1TB of additional space.

Camera Capabilities

Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the camera setup on the OPPO A96. The main camera system consists of a 50MP wide-angle lens with an f/1.8 aperture, accompanied by a 2MP depth sensor. This combination allows for detailed photos in various lighting conditions and the ability to capture portrait shots with a pleasing bokeh effect.

On the front, there’s a 16MP selfie camera with an f/2.0 aperture. It’s capable of taking clear and vibrant self-portraits, perfect for social media sharing. Both the rear and front cameras can record 1080p video at 30 frames per second, suitable for casual video capture.

Battery Life and Charging

One of the most impressive features of the OPPO A96 is its large 5000mAh battery. This capacity ensures that the phone can easily last through a full day of heavy use, and potentially even stretch to two days with more conservative usage.

When it’s time to recharge, the 33W SuperVOOC fast charging technology comes into play, capable of charging the device from 0 to 50% in just 26 minutes.

Software and Additional Features

The OPPO A96 runs on ColorOS 11.1, which is based on Android 11. While it’s not the latest version of Android, it still offers a smooth and feature-rich user experience. ColorOS includes various customization options and useful features like Game Space for optimizing gaming performance.

Other notable features include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for quick and secure unlocking, dual SIM support, and a 3.5mm headphone jack – a rarity in many modern smartphones. The device also boasts IP5X dust resistance and IPX4 water resistance, providing some protection against the elements.

Connectivity and Network

While the OPPO A96 doesn’t support 5G networks, it offers comprehensive 4G LTE connectivity that should be sufficient for most users. It supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.0, and GPS for navigation. The inclusion of NFC (market dependent) allows for contactless payments and quick device pairing.

OPPO A96 vs. Competitors

When comparing the OPPO A96 to its predecessor, the OPPO A95, we see several improvements. The A96 offers a higher refresh rate display (90Hz vs. 60Hz), a more powerful processor (Snapdragon 680 vs. Snapdragon 662), and slightly better water resistance. However, the A95 does have an AMOLED display, which some users might prefer for its deeper blacks and more vibrant colors.

Looking at more recent OPPO models like the A79 5G and A78 5G, the main difference is the inclusion of 5G connectivity. These newer models also feature more recent processors and updated software. However, the A96 still holds its own with its large battery, fast charging, and competitive price point.

Compared to other brands in the same price range, such as the Samsung Galaxy A33 5G or the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro, the OPPO A96 offers a good balance of features. While it may lack 5G connectivity, it compensates with a large display, ample storage, and fast charging capabilities. The choice between these devices often comes down to personal preference in design, brand loyalty, and specific feature priorities.

In the mid-range smartphone market in Qatar, the OPPO A96 faces competition from devices like the Huawei Nova Y90, vivo V25e, and realme 9 Pro. Each of these phones has its own strengths, such as 5G support, higher resolution cameras, or unique design elements. However, the OPPO A96 stands out with its combination of a large battery, fast charging, and a smooth 90Hz display.

For consumers looking for a reliable mid-range smartphone with a focus on battery life and display quality, the OPPO A96 presents a compelling option. Its competitive pricing in the Qatari market, coupled with OPPO’s reputation for quality and after-sales support, makes it a worthy contender in the crowded mid-range smartphone segment.

Where to Buy the OPPO A96 in Qatar

The OPPO A96 is widely available across Qatar through various retail channels. Major electronics stores like Lulu Hypermarket, Carrefour, and Jumbo Electronics often stock this model. For those who prefer online shopping, websites like AlaneesQatar.qa and Amazon.ae (which ships to Qatar) offer the OPPO A96 with home delivery options.

It’s also worth checking OPPO’s official website for Qatar, as they sometimes offer exclusive deals or bundles that aren’t available through other retailers. Additionally, telecom providers like Ooredoo and Vodafone Qatar may offer the OPPO A96 as part of their postpaid plans, which could be a good option for those looking to spread out the cost of the device.

When purchasing, be sure to check the warranty terms and after-sales support offered by the retailer. OPPO typically provides a one-year warranty on their smartphones in Qatar, covering manufacturing defects and hardware issues.

Tips for Buying the OPPO A96

1. Compare Prices: Don’t settle for the first price you see. Check multiple retailers to find the best deal.
2. Look for Bundles: Some stores offer bundle deals that include accessories like cases, screen protectors, or earphones.
3. Check for Promotions: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales or special promotions that could save you money.
4. Consider Storage Needs: Decide whether the 128GB or 256GB version better suits your needs.
5. Verify Warranty: Ensure you’re getting a genuine OPPO product with a valid warranty for Qatar.
6. Test in Store: If possible, try the phone in person to get a feel for its size and interface.
7. Read Reviews: Look up user reviews and expert opinions to get a well-rounded view of the device’s performance in real-world conditions.

OPPO A96: Is It Worth Buying in 2024?

As we approach the end of 2024, it’s important to consider whether the OPPO A96 is still a good purchase. While it’s not the newest model in OPPO’s lineup, it still offers solid value for its price point. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

• Large 5000mAh battery with fast charging
• Smooth 90Hz display
• Ample RAM for multitasking
• Expandable storage
• Decent camera performance for its class

Cons:

• No 5G support
• Running on an older version of Android
• IPS LCD display instead of AMOLED

For users who prioritize battery life, smooth display performance, and don’t need 5G connectivity, the OPPO A96 remains a viable option. However, if you’re looking for the latest features and 5G support, you might want to consider more recent models or alternatives from other brands.