Micromax A116 Pricing Unveiled; Booking opens tomorrow at 14k

Micromax A116, aka the Canvas HD is probably the most awaited smartphone of this year, at least in India. Never before a phone a local phone has created such a hype even before its release. Micromax plans to sweep the market with its new installment in the Canvas series. Micromax has started sending out emails to people and have finally unveiled the pricing of the smartphone. Yes, you may have known it by the title itself though, but let me repeat that again, the phone will start selling at INR 13,999. For more information about the booking, you can jump directly to the last stanza. If you are interested in knowing my views about the pricing of the phone, then continue with everything below.

Why I see an upcoming price drop:

This price might not be too tempting for many, as phones with similar, or even better specs, come at much lower prices than this. But still, due to the hype the phone has already created, I think that Micromax will be able to make it a hit, just as they did Micromax Canvas 2. And if the initial impressions aren't as big as Micromax might have expected, they might end up lowering the price of this model really soon. Moreover, as they had told on the day they announced Canvas HD, that they will be announcing new Canvas device every two months, so that also indicates a considerable price drop that might follow this phone within 1 or two months.

Alternatives, anyone?

Many of you might be expecting A116 to launch for around 12-13 k, just like me. So, if the pricing of Micromax A116 has let you down and you want alternatives, there are many. Even some good branded phones can land in your pocket when you decide to shell out up to 14 k for your next mobile. Sony Xperia Sola is one such phone, which comes with a dual core processor at about INR 14.3k. You can also get Karbonn S1, with a MRP of INR 11k, is just one feature short of the Canvas HD. Karbonn S1 has a 540x960 res screen, while Canvas HD enjoys a better 1280x720. Umi X1 is a pure chinese phone, and if you don't care about poor customer service, then you can give that one a go. Umi X1 has 1.2 GHz Quad Core processor, based on MT6589 chipset, just like A116. X1 also enjoys 1 GB of RAM and a 720p 4.5" screen.

How do I book a Canvas HD?

Head over to Micromax's official website and wait till the booking is open. The phone is expected to reach you within 5-7 days of order. And for the first time, Micromax will be selling the phone through its own website, and I expect the phone to remain Micromax-exclusive for the upcoming week at least.
Update: Micromax has teamed up with Snapdeal to sell the Micromax A116 online. Here is the Micromax A116 page on Snapdeal.