Tag: #EMPORIA

emporia TOUCHsmart.3 Review

The emporia TOUCHsmart.3 is not a flagship smartphone, nor is it a basic “talk and text” feature phone. It carves out a unique and necessary niche: a clamshell (flip) phone that combines the simplicity and tactile feel of a physical keyboard with the modern connectivity required today, primarily instant messaging and flip phones are back with a bang and this one looks nice and is well built only the front display could have had some use but not this time.

It is clearly targeted at the senior market or those seeking a “dumbphone” experience who still need essential smart features like WhatsApp which is like other massaging apps more commonly used now and a growing trend with senior users of smartphones.

The TOUCHsmart.3 is built around a “best-of-both-worlds” design philosophy, blending hardware and software elements for maximum accessibility.

The most distinguishing factor is the flip design coupled with dual input:

  1. Physical Keypad: Features large, clearly labeled keys that are easy to press, making dialing and basic texting straightforward.
  2. Touchscreen: The internal 3.47-inch display is a full touchscreen, allowing users to navigate apps like WhatsApp and maps just like a small smartphone, you would be forgiven to forget it is actually a touch screen which I forgot several times but its cool and you should avail of it.

This combination addresses the common frustration of needing a full keyboard for dialing but a touchscreen for modern app interaction. Flipping open the phone also automatically answers a call like the good oul days with flip phones.

Unlike many basic feature phones, the TOUCHsmart.3 supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 5.0. Crucially, it runs on a simplified Android OS, giving it the power to run essential modern communication apps.

Emporia highlights the dedicated shortcut key for messaging (WhatsApp, Signal, or Telegram), recognizing that staying in touch often means more than just SMS and voice calls.

Yays

  • Ease of Use: The large buttons and the charging cradle are highly praised by the target audience (seniors).
  • SOS Function: The dedicated emergency button offers peace of mind by contacting up to five designated contacts instantly which is a key USP with emporia devices all round
  • Build Quality: It has an IP44 rating and generally feels sturdy and well-built.
  • Accessibility: Hearing aid compatibility (M4/T4) is a thoughtful inclusion.

Nays

  • Performance: The hardware (2GB RAM, MediaTek P35) can lead to some lagging especially when using complex apps or trying to multitask but this device is not targetted at such a user but tested anyway.
  • Battery Life: The 1,400 mAh battery capacity is relatively small for an Android-based device, possibly needing to charge it daily, particularly if using messaging apps frequently.
  • Limited Customization: Being an adapted Android device, it can be restrictive in accessing deeper settings or using alternative launchers.
  • Internal Storage: The 16GB internal memory is limited, although it is expandable up to 64GB via MicroSD.
  • Camera Quality: The 8 MP main camera is functional but delivers only basic photo quality, which is typical for a device in this segment but perfoms well in daytime scenarios.

The emporia TOUCHsmart.3 is an excellent choice for a very specific user: someone who values the tangible simplicity of a flip phone and physical buttons but cannot live without a key messaging app like WhatsApp to stay connected with family.

It’s the ultimate compromise phone—less complex than a full smartphone, but far more connected than a standard feature phone.

If your priority is simplicity, ease of calling/texting, safety, and a dedicated WhatsApp button, the TOUCHsmart.3 is a highly recommendable device.

However, if you require a phone for heavy internet browsing, demanding apps, long-lasting battery life without daily charging, or taking high-quality photos, you might find the performance and battery limitations frustrating but previous flip phone users of old will feel comfortable as they where the same before and again aimed at a targt demographic.

 

Image and Video samples day and night front and rear cameras

 

Features

  • Simple and Convenient: With pre-installed WhatsApp, you can easily chat with family and friends, share photos or send voice messages – without any complicated settings. Stay in touch with your loved ones with ease.
  • Your Everyday Smart Companion: Large physical keys, a bright color touchscreen, and intuitive navigation make it extremely easy to use – perfect for those looking for a hassle-free mobile experience.
  • One-Touch Security: The built-in emergency button allows up to five contacts to be alerted with a single press – for quick and efficient assistance when needed.
  • Exceptional Sound Quality: Extra-loud ringtone, loud speakers, and hearing aid compatibility ensure you won’t miss a call and hear every conversation clearly.
  • Convenient Charging – No More Bulky Cables: The included charging dock makes charging a breeze – just put the phone on its stand, and it charges automatically. No more fiddling with cables.

BUY

Unboxing and walkthrough

Other emporia reviews 

 

emporia SMART.ME7 Review

The Emporia Smart ME7 is positioned as a safety-focused, durable smartphone developed for practicality over flashy specs. Weighing in at 173 grams, it feels noticeably heavier in hand than most mainstream models, but the robust build quality delivers confidence in everyday use. The rear of the device features a physical Panic button and a fingerprint sensor for quick access and enhanced security – a unique combination for those seeking peace of mind.

Emporia states: “The emporia 7 series is all about safety and durability: a fully equipped Android smartphone with a comprehensive security package, ongoing security patches and the tried-and-tested Panic button.”

Key Features & Specification Table

Feature Details & Notes
Display 5.45-inch touchscreen, comfortable size
Build IP54-rated protection: splash resistant, not waterproof
Weight 173 g – heavier than typical, adds solid feel
Battery Replaceable, rated for 1000+ cycles, up to 8 days standby
Operating System Android 15; Emporia Easy Mode option for simplified UI
Processor MT6765X Octa-Core: entry-level, smooth for everyday tasks but not for gaming
RAM/Storage 6 GB RAM / 128 GB ROM, expandable up to 256 GB microSD
Cameras Main: Triple lens (13+0.3+2 MP); Front: 8 MP
Connectivity 2G / 3G / 4G (no 5G), NFC for contactless payments
Durability Spare parts ordering allowed, incl. battery replacements
Extras Hearing aid compatibility (M4/T4), torch, camera shortcuts via Panic button
Warranty 1 year standard

 

 

Safety, Spares & Support

Emporia’s decision to fit a dedicated Panic button offers tangible safety for older users or those with medical needs. The Panic button can trigger calls,  with customisation options for rapid help. Unlike most manufacturers, Emporia supports direct user ordering of spares, such as batteries (priced around €18), via their website. This approach improves long-term ownership and reduces dependence on service centres, which often charge premium rates for repairs.

Usability & Practicality

Emporia positions its devices for seniors, those less familiar with touchscreens, or anyone seeking longevity without unnecessary complexity.. The printed manual with QR codes and clear instructions stands out as refreshingly user friendly in a landscape dominated by online-only guides.

Performance & Weaknesses

The MT6765X Octa-Core processor is strictly entry-level – adequate for calls, web, and social apps, but does not support 5G networks and will struggle with gaming and graphics-intensive apps. Screen transitions aren’t as fluid as on mid-range or high-end devices, so power users may notice lag. Battery life, however, is excellent for its class, and the customisability of the hardware (spare parts, manual battery replacement) gives the Smart ME7 an edge for those who value reliability over raw horsepower.

The camera setup, typical for value-focused phones, delivers passable results for snapshots and video calls but won’t compete with flagship handsets. The IP54 rating gives basic splash resistance but is not suitable for prolonged outdoor use in rain or direct water.

Brand Background

Techbuzz Ireland has reviewed a variety of  Emporia releases over the past decade, including the SMART.6 lite, emporia 313, JOY-LTE, WATCHjoy Smartwatch, TOUCHsmart.3, and others. Emporia was founded in Austria in 1991 and develops products for the UK, Ireland, and Europe, with a design presence in Austria and Germany and manufacturing based in Shenzhen, China.

Final Verdict

The Emporia Smart ME7 delivers excellent battery life, unique safety features, and practical support options, truly aligning with the brand’s focus on simplicity and reliability. While the lack of 5G and the entry-level processor set real limits for gaming or heavy multitasking, these are honest trade-offs for a phone designed with real-world durability and user-friendliness in mind. The honest addition of spares ordering, a physical manual, and the Panic button make the ME7 stand out in a crowded market.

Recommended for: Seniors, first-time smartphone users, or anyone seeking a robust, uncomplicated handset with strong support for repairs and maintenance.

Other emporia reviews

Unboxing and Walkthrough

https://www.emporiamobile.com/en-ie/products/smart-me7

Video Review 

emporia TOUCHsmart.3 unboxing and first look

Intelligent solutions impress with their simplicity. This is also the case with this mobile phone for seniors, which comes pre-installed with WhatsApp, Signal and Telegram. emporia have also combined a touchscreen with buttons, making it even easier to use. This makes the emporiaTOUCHsmart.3 the most intelligent flip phone on the market. Along with other models we have from the brand we will be also testing this one out over the coming weeks check the unboxing below and the full review at a later date and if you have any questions feel free to ask.

emporia have also brought back the shortcut button. Thanks to these buttons on your senior mobile phone, you can launch your favourite app (WhatsApp, Telegram or Signal) directly and immediately start communicating with your loved ones. The phone is also equipped with a voice assistant, LED torch, alarm clock with snooze function, radio, calendar, etc. Safety in operation and use is also ensured by the patented emporia emergency button, IP44 dust and splash protection, M4/T4 hearing aid compatibility and automatic call acceptance when the phone is opened.

The model also has two cameras (8 MP back camera and 2 MP selfie camera), supports VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and is equipped with the Android OS operating system.

Features

  • Shortcut button for WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram
  • Touchscreen and keyboard in one device
  • Hotspotfunction for internet access
  • emporia emergency call function
  • Automatic call acceptance when the device is opened
  • IP44 protection against dust and splash water

BUY

See our other emporia reviews

Unboxing

emporia Smart7.Lite and Smart.ME7 First Look

Each new 7 Series model – the Smart7.Lite, and Smart.ME7 – comes with a user-replaceable battery with a standby time of almost 10 days. The battery has been tested for at least 1,000 charging cycles and the charging capacity can be limited to 80 per cent to ensure longevity and we will be taking two of the models for a test over the coming weeks and will have a full review soon so check the unboxing below and if you need anything answered you know what to do..

In addition, spare parts for the 7 Series are guaranteed to be available for at least seven years, plus there is a guaranteed five-generation Android upgrade path. The three models will ship with Android 15, with an update to the newly announced Android 16 due in early 2026.

“Our customers are not mobile phone hoppers who buy a new smartphone every year or two, which is why we have designed the new 7 series with durability in mind”, explains emporia marketing director, Karin Schaumberger.

Security in mind

Thanks to NFC and a fingerprint sensor, users don’t have to worry when banking online or logging into digital government services. emporia also prioritizes the implementation of Android security patches; 7 Series smartphones will be automatically updated to the latest security level.

“Security is a key selling point for our customers, and there can be no compromises in this regard,” explains Karin Schaumberger.

With personal security in mind, 7 Series smartphones feature emporia’s signature ‘No Panic’ button – an external, directly accessible button so you can more easily call for help in an emergency. The button can alternatively be configured as a shortcut to a favourite function – for example, offering instant access to the Google Gemini voice assistant.

Enhanced usability

The new 7 Series can be used in standard Android mode or with the streamlined emporia interface, which makes it easier to find and use core functionality including calls, emails and favourite apps. The emporia Info Centre collates all notifications from multiple sources – from emails and WhatsApp messages to calendar or voicemail alerts – so you can catch up with a single glance.

Also on board is the new Flash Notification option, which means you’ll never miss a call or message again when your phone is on silent. Incoming calls and messages are signalled by both the screen and backlight flashing.

To help simplify things further still, the free emporiaCOACH app helps digital newcomers and switchers to quickly familiarise themselves with their smartphone.

Compact format

The 7 Series comes in a pocket-friendly 5.45in format; there will be no 6.6in option as in previous ranges.  Each model features a triple-lens camera plus selfie camera.

“The demand for more manageable smartphones remains strong, and the feedback from our customers is clear,” explains Karin Schaumberger.

Model differences – all about the extras

All new 7 Series models include the core functionality detailed above. The difference come in the extras supplied with each model.

Smart7.Lite  – £250/€250 The bestseller comes as standard with emporia’s patented Smartcover, which allows key functions to be used even while closed. It offers slimline protection for both screen and casing. It also comes with a handy docking cradle, which cuts cable-clutter when charging but also provides a nicely angled hands-free calling hub.

Smart7.Mini  – £200/€200 Comes with the docking cradle as standard, but not the Smartcover.

Smart.ME7 – £200/€200 Supports full Android mainstream; no extras supplied as standard.

Availability

The emporia 7 Series will be available to buy this month, from stockists including Amazon.

See our emporia reviews

First look video

emporia launches 7 Series the Smart7.Lite, Smart7.Mini and Smart.ME7

European smartphone innovator, emporia has launched its 7 Series – affordable, accessible smartphones engineered to last.  The three new models are designed to offer years of simple, secure usability in a pocket-friendly format. Prices start at just £200.

Each new 7 Series model – the Smart7.Lite, Smart7.Mini and Smart.ME7 – comes with a user-replaceable battery with a standby time of almost 10 days. The battery has been tested for at least 1,000 charging cycles and the charging capacity can be limited to 80 per cent to ensure longevity.

In addition, spare parts for the 7 Series are guaranteed to be available for at least seven years, plus there is a guaranteed five-generation Android upgrade path. The three models will ship with Android 15, with an update to the newly announced Android 16 due in early 2026.

“Our customers are not mobile phone hoppers who buy a new smartphone every year or two, which is why we have designed the new 7 series with durability in mind”, explains emporia marketing director, Karin Schaumberger.

Security in mind

Thanks to NFC and a fingerprint sensor, users don’t have to worry when banking online or logging into digital government services. emporia also prioritizes the implementation of Android security patches; 7 Series smartphones will be automatically updated to the latest security level.

“Security is a key selling point for our customers, and there can be no compromises in this regard,” explains Karin Schaumberger.

With personal security in mind, 7 Series smartphones feature emporia’s signature ‘No Panic’ button – an external, directly accessible button so you can more easily call for help in an emergency. The button can alternatively be configured as a shortcut to a favourite function – for example, offering instant access to the Google Gemini voice assistant.

Enhanced usability

The new 7 Series can be used in standard Android mode or with the streamlined emporia interface, which makes it easier to find and use core functionality including calls, emails and favourite apps. The emporia Info Centre collates all notifications from multiple sources – from emails and WhatsApp messages to calendar or voicemail alerts – so you can catch up with a single glance.

Also on board is the new Flash Notification option, which means you’ll never miss a call or message again when your phone is on silent. Incoming calls and messages are signalled by both the screen and backlight flashing.

To help simplify things further still, the free emporiaCOACH app helps digital newcomers and switchers to quickly familiarise themselves with their smartphone.

Compact format

The 7 Series comes in a pocket-friendly 5.45in format; there will be no 6.6in option as in previous ranges.  Each model features a triple-lens camera plus selfie camera.

“The demand for more manageable smartphones remains strong, and the feedback from our customers is clear,” explains Karin Schaumberger.

Model differences – all about the extras

All new 7 Series models include the core functionality detailed above. The difference come in the extras supplied with each model.

Smart7.Lite  – £250/€250 The bestseller comes as standard with emporia’s patented Smartcover, which allows key functions to be used even while closed. It offers slimline protection for both screen and casing. It also comes with a handy docking cradle, which cuts cable-clutter when charging but also provides a nicely angled hands-free calling hub.

Smart7.Mini  – £200/€200 Comes with the docking cradle as standard, but not the Smartcover.

Smart.ME7 – £200/€200 Supports full Android mainstream; no extras supplied as standard.

Availability

The emporia 7 Series will be available to buy this month, from stockists including Amazon.

See our emporia reviews

BUY

emporia WATCHjoy Smartwatch Review

The emporia WATCHjoy Smartwatch is the companies latest wearable on offer and is ideal for seniors and any one less being honest if you want a simple to use smartwatch not laden with complicated menus and UI.

Having tested this watch now for some time for me it is a smartwatch the gets the job done and gives you more than the basics in similarity priced offerings.

This watch looks more on the premium side and would easily pass the price you would expect to pay and is robust too with a good strap and again easy to swap out ones a that.

The display is bright and big enough to read anything on board and the app to go with it is familiar to me as I have used before several times on other entry level priced watches and the app is quite good in fairness and allows you to monitor important statistics over time as you will see below and in the video review.

You can take calls on the watch and the speaker is loud enough you can read your emails and text however no way to respond tho them which for me is not a huge deal as I hardly ever did in the first place it is a way to keep you off your phone however and check back in later on.

For those who want more you get more the the FitCloud app with an endless lit of sports and much more, there is also an endless gallery of watch faces to make it your own or upload your own creations where possible.

Battery life here is also excellent and depending on how much you have synced to the app you can easily get up to seven days on one charge unlike me with all going to it you can get up to 4 days and for a smartwatch that is good. Accuracy is also another point to note and has been fairly consistent with another watch during the test period.

Overall this is a really solid product for emporia to have in their portfolio and for me a watch i still wear today and would easily recommend if you are on a budget.

FitCloudPro App

 

 

Features

  • Screen size: 1.43-inch AMOLED display
  • Screen resolution 466×466 pixels
  • Battery capacity: 380 mAh
  • Stand-by time: 30 days
  • Runtime: 5-10 days

Practical functions such as training recording, heart rate measurement, high heart rate warning, blood oxygen measurement, sleep monitoring, weather forecast, music control, stopwatch, timer and many more make this smartwatch the ideal everyday companion!

 

  • Chipset: Realtek8763EW-VP
  • Memory: Flash 128 MB
  • Sensors: HX3605
  • The watch strap is removable
  • Can be connected to Android and IOS
  • Companion app for the smartwatch, Infowear available in the Google Play Store and the App Store
  • Gesture control possible
  • Reminder to exercise if you don’t move enough
  • Multi-sport mode for all kinds of outdoor sports such as running, cycling, walking and many more
  • Mobile phone search function to find the misplaced mobile phone
  • Notification of phone calls and messages
  • Do not disturb mode available
  • Bluetooth 5.0

BUY

See our emporia reviews

Video Review

First Look emporia WATCHjoy Smartwatch

The emporia WATCHjoy Smartwatch is their latest product to hit their portfolio of elder friendly devices and good to see them building a nice ecosystem of products

Not that this is just for those who are already entrenched in their ecosystem anyone can use this watch and can be used with both Android and iOS devices via FitCloudPro app which for me is a familiar simple to use app with no complicated menu structures to endure which is akin to their mobile phones we are also familiar with.

Presentation is nice here and again a simple one but making a statement at the same time, out of the box I like the design and build quality of the Smartwatch and it looks good to in both flavours on offer, for now we will be taking a quick first look and if you have any  questions over the next few weeks feel free to ask and come back for the full hands on review. Check out the unboxing below.

Features

  • Screen size: 1.43-inch AMOLED display
  • Screen resolution 466×466 pixels
  • Battery capacity: 380 mAh
  • Stand-by time: 30 days
  • Runtime: 5-10 days

Practical functions such as training recording, heart rate measurement, high heart rate warning, blood oxygen measurement, sleep monitoring, weather forecast, music control, stopwatch, timer and many more make this smartwatch the ideal everyday companion!

 

  • Chipset: Realtek8763EW-VP
  • Memory: Flash 128 MB
  • Sensors: HX3605
  • The watch strap is removable
  • Can be connected to Android and IOS
  • Companion app for the smartwatch, Infowear available in the Google Play Store and the App Store
  • Gesture control possible
  • Reminder to exercise if you don’t move enough
  • Multi-sport mode for all kinds of outdoor sports such as running, cycling, walking and many more
  • Mobile phone search function to find the misplaced mobile phone
  • Notification of phone calls and messages
  • Do not disturb mode available
  • Bluetooth 5.0

BUY

See our emporia reviews

Unboxing video

Emporia Mobile Black Friday Deals – now live

Black Friday is here and there is deals all across the web and if you need a new phone to purchase for the elders in your life who want to dabble with a new smartphone without the fuss Emporia have a full range of devices for your to pick from.

From simple button phones to entry level mid tier and higher tiered smartphones that stand out alone just with their looks you have plenty to pick from with their latest deals.

Having tested most of their range with real hands on reviews and demos there is something for all here be it a simple button phone or a smartphone without the convoluted mess you find with menus check out the sale now on at Expert Electrical and see if you can pick up a device for a loved one in your Family this weekend or even for the Christmas season.

emporia offer a wide range of products at all price points delivering a simpler experience when it comes to using smartphones for the elders in our lives without the fuss and embracing technology for those who want to learn some more even at the older stage in their life.

See our wide range of reviews here and check out the sale on Expert Electrical here.

emporia SMART.6 lite smartphone review

The emporia SMART.6 lite smartphone is one of their latest devices to their portfolio of simple to use phones for the older generation amongst us which is great as technology is now being embraced by such and not only that some situations in life now require such devices at hand to do certain things.

emporia have been leaders in this area with smartphones offering a variety of easy to use devices in which takes away the convoluted mess people have to go through for setting up and more and making it simple to use and set up to each individual’s requirements without the hassle of too many settings and sub-menus.

They do however have a newer model which is the ME.6 which needs to be mentioned for a more seasoned elderly user that allows both the true Android user experience and not only that reverts to the simple menu emporia are renowned for and this device is again a simpler version of the SMART.6

Now I am fortunate enough to get to test the best phones on the market costing up to two grand and more and even for a seasoned poweruser all year round with several devices in use at one time or on rotation I often get frustrated with such phones with all the menus and sub menus and finding things people need and have to look for but with emporia phones this is not the case with this and other models.

I would put the SMART6.Lite in the mid range with the pricing and specs here overall it has all the features you would expect on any other smartphone but simplified to a simple menu structure and again comes with a cool leather cover case with a visible screen and 4 main keys and once you open the cover you have 4 options present which of course can be changed by pressing and holding to select whatever suits you better and do check the emporia coach app which needs to be installed.

On the homescreen you will see a settings icon swipe left for contacts and emergency options and swipe right for your favourite apps and swipe right for you full list of favourites now these can be changed when you add your own apps and on the bottom right you can see and all apps folder and then these can be used as shortcuts.

The smartcover can be changed to functions/favourites or turned off but I highly suggest it is used even at default settings and it is going with the company’s ethos keeping it simple and you should look at the accessibility menu here for more.

The triple lens camera has a 13MP main camera with depth of field and macro for fantastic photos using the easy camera App, or you can use the Pro-Camera App . The 8mp selfie camera on the front brings fun snaps every day and is ready for WhatsApp video calls.The camera is ok in mostly yielding better results on outdoor settings in the daytime you can see samples taken by me below on the best settings if you are one that still likes to take photos which would be the case for family gatherings and so on for the older gen these days and from a typical user the camera is fine but will not win awards for the usual expectations you would see on more expensive devices which is fine as in my experience these days with the older folk including my father is not to pushed on taking photos but just looking at them online or what has been sent to him on WhatsApp and so on.

Image and video samples

There is a One touch Panic button on the back in the camera array which you will add a number to on the homescreen by swiping left as mentioned above and can be used to keep you safe at night or used as a quick access key for your camera or the handy torch.

 

Overall for me this is a well built device offering the basics and more for the older generation keeping things simple you are not getting the bells and whistles you may find on other phones here but this is not intended for that market and it can easily do your daily tasks and more.

As a long time user of emporia products and putting them to real world testing loaded with my app collection multitasking and more these are the best devices on offer for those wanting more and going forward will need more for certain tasks in life and my own father has switched some time ago from his much loved Nokia phones to an emporia device I gave to him and to be fair he has not much patience with smartphones but I get it like his friends and neighbours they just want things kept simple and empora is the way forward if you are moving up from a dumbphone or feature phone for the first time.

Specs

 

  • 4G smartphone with 5.45″ HD screen
  • Award winning emporia easy to use interface (switchable to standard android)
  • Smart cover with 4 interactive buttons for key features (including use of Camera / calls & torch)
  • Easy charging cradle included
  • NFC for contactless payments and real-time blood glucose monitoring
  • Finger print reader for biometric security
  • Physical panic button for personal security
  • 6GB RAM & 128GB RAM (Expandable with micro SD card)
  • Octa-core 1.8GHz processor processor
  • Triple lense 13MP main camera with 8mp selfie camera
  • Height: 147 mm Depth 9mm

BUY 

Other emporia reviews

Unboxing and UI walkthrough