A New Contender in the Canadian Smartphone Market

Amid the turbulence of the U.S.-Canada trade war, many consumers are eager to support Canadian products. But when it comes to smartphones, most options have been dominated by American brands, with many devices produced overseas. Enter the Ahlo 1 smartphone from Bell, proudly marketed as "designed in Canada"—but what exactly does that mean?

Affordable Pricing: A Deceptive Deal?

If you decide to purchase the Ahlo 1 on a two-year contract with Bell or Virgin Plus, you'll find it incredibly affordable at just $1 a month for 24 months, or a one-time cost of $24. However, if you want to buy it outright, it retails for $270.

Hands-On Insights from Our Tech Expert

Our tech reviewer, Brad Bennett, took the Ahlo 1 for a spin and has some mixed feelings. While he indicates that the phone is decent for its price point, he advises potential buyers to consider waiting for sales or opting for a pre-owned device from a trusted brand. The catch? To get the advertised $1 price, you’ll need to sign up for pricier plans that could negate the savings compared to simpler, used phone options.

Camera Quality and Battery Life: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

On the performance front, the Ahlo 1 does come with a few highlights, including a massive 5,000mAh battery, a microSD card slot for expanded storage, and yes, a headphone jack—features that hardcore smartphone fans will appreciate. However, the camera isn’t quite up to par and can feel a bit sluggish, leaving something to be desired in a world dominated by high-performing devices.

Should You Buy the Ahlo 1?

While there’s a certain pride in purchasing a product designed in Canada, Brad concludes that the Ahlo 1 might not be the right fit for everyone. So, is this smartphone worth your investment? Would you take the plunge on the Ahlo 1 smartphone, or do you think you're better off with a different option? Share your thoughts!