Cricket's new entry-level phone has a 3.5mm jack unlike more expensive models

Around this time of the year when the latest Apple iPhone models are about to greet the light of day, there are rumors about the latest Pixel handsets (although Google seems to be disseminating most of the news this year), and new mobile devices are being introduced at IFA, it is easy to lose sight of a lone entry-level handset launching on a pre-paid carrier. So we should let you know that AT&T-owned Cricket Wireless has just added the LG Escape Plus to its lineup.

The LG Escape Plus features a 5.45-inch FullVision display with a resolution of 720 x 1440 (HD+) and a modern aspect ratio of 18:9. Powering the device is the Snapdragon 425 chipset (with a quad-core processor) and the phone is equipped with 2GB of memory along with 32GB of expandable storage. Those seeking additional storage can access the 32GB capacity microSD slot on the device.

The rear camera weighs in at 8MP and the 5MP front-facing selfie snapper includes a Portrait mode. You can take a GIF utilizing the phone's Flash Jump-Cut feature that takes four pictures in three-second intervals and activate the shutter using a hand gesture or a wave. With Quick Share, your photo will be uploaded and posted on your favorite social media sites in a jiff.

Keeping the lights on is a 3000mAh battery, and Android 9 is pre-installed. Cricket is selling the LG Escape Plus in Platinum Gray for $119.99. And the phone has something that even the latest iPhones and Samsung Galaxy Note 10 handsets don't have: a 3.5mm earphone jack.

However, for just $50 more if you port over your number or $80 more for existing customers, Cricket will sell you the LG Stylo 5 with its 6.2-inch FullVision screen (1080 x 2160 resolution), Snapdragon 450 chipset (carrying an octa-core processor), a 3500mAh battery and 13MP rear camera. This model does come with a stylus, which seems to be a real selling point for many buyers.