X
CNET logo Why You Can Trust CNET

Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement

Back to the future with ZTE's stubby Sonata 4G (pictures)

We haven't seen a thick, 4-inch screen phone in years, yet here's a modern take on the 'classic' look for Aio Wireless.

Jessica Dolcourt
Jessica Dolcourt is a passionate content strategist and veteran leader of CNET coverage. As Senior Director of Commerce & Content Operations, she leads a number of teams, including Commerce, How-To and Performance Optimization. Her CNET career began in 2006, testing desktop and mobile software for Download.com and CNET, including the first iPhone and Android apps and operating systems. She continued to review, report on and write a wide range of commentary and analysis on all things phones, with an emphasis on iPhone and Samsung. Jessica was one of the first people in the world to test, review and report on foldable phones and 5G wireless speeds. Jessica began leading CNET's How-To section for tips and FAQs in 2019, guiding coverage of topics ranging from personal finance to phones and home. She holds an MA with Distinction from the University of Warwick (UK).
Jessica Dolcourt
35833802-ZTE-Sonata-4G-6.jpg
1 of 5 Lynn La/CNET

Aio Wireless calls on ZTE for the Sonata 4G

When AT&T prepaid arm Aio Wireless asks for a 4-inch HSPA+ phone, you hop to it. And hence came the ZTE Sonata 4G.
35833802-ZTE-Sonata-4G-4.jpg
2 of 5 Lynn La/CNET

Entry-level beyond a doubt

With its more basic specs, the Sonata is definitely a smartphone for first-timers, from the Android 4.1 operating system to the 5-megapixel front-facing camera. The 1.2GHz dual-core processor isn't the fastest available by far, but it fits in with the rest of the device.
35833802-ZTE-Sonata-4G-3.jpg
3 of 5 Lynn La/CNET

Design and build

The Sonata isn't the ultimate in phone design or construction quality. Note the dull silver side stripe and clunky feel in the palm.
35833802-ZTE-Sonata-4G-2.jpg
4 of 5 Lynn La/CNET

Storage space

If you can pry off the tight back cover and dig beneath the battery, you'll find a microSD card slot to expand the otherwise feeble 4GB of storage.
35833802-ZTE-Sonata-4G-7.jpg
5 of 5 Lynn La/CNET

Top view

The plastic power button and headset jack sit up top. For even more details, check out my hands-on impressions, and who this phone is for.

More Galleries

My Favorite Shots From the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Camera
A houseplant

My Favorite Shots From the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Camera

20 Photos
Honor's Magic V2 Foldable Is Lighter Than Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra
magic-v2-2024-foldable-1383

Honor's Magic V2 Foldable Is Lighter Than Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra

10 Photos
The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus Looks Sweet in Aluminum
Samsung Galaxy S24

The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus Looks Sweet in Aluminum

23 Photos
Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Has a Titanium Design
The Galaxy S24 Ultra in multiple colors

Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Has a Titanium Design

23 Photos
I Took 600+ Photos With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Look at My Favorites
img-0368.jpg

I Took 600+ Photos With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Look at My Favorites

34 Photos
17 Hidden iOS 17 Features You Should Definitely Know About
Invitation for the Apple September iPhone 15 event

17 Hidden iOS 17 Features You Should Definitely Know About

18 Photos
AI or Not AI: Can You Spot the Real Photos?
img-1599-2.jpg

AI or Not AI: Can You Spot the Real Photos?

17 Photos