The smartphone market is about to welcome another premium flagship as ASUS prepares to unveil its latest offering in the Ultra series. Following the company's shift from compact designs to larger premium devices, the upcoming launch represents ASUS's continued evolution in the flagship smartphone segment.
Launch Timeline and Strategic Positioning
ASUS has officially announced the Zenfone 12 Ultra's debut for February 6, 2025, positioning it strategically after the Galaxy S25 series launch. This timing marks a significant shift from their previous launch pattern, arriving over a month earlier than its predecessor's March release window.
AI and Camera Capabilities
The Zenfone 12 Ultra is set to showcase advanced AI integration, particularly in its photography features. A standout capability is the device's ability to maintain locked focus during 4K video recording, pushing beyond the typical Full HD limitation seen in many Android devices. ASUS is heavily emphasizing the AI-powered mobile photography experience, suggesting significant improvements in computational photography.
Technical Specifications and Hardware
Drawing from its gaming-focused sibling, the ROG Phone 9, the Zenfone 12 Ultra is expected to feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. The device will sport a 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display, complemented by a robust 5,800mAh battery. The camera system comprises a 50MP primary sensor, accompanied by 13MP ultrawide and 5MP macro lenses.
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| The ASUS Zenfone with a sleek design, reflecting the anticipated features of the Zenfone 12 Ultra |
Software and Support Considerations
The device will launch with Android 15, incorporating various AI features. However, a point of concern remains ASUS's software support policy, which currently stands at two years of Android updates. This falls short of industry standards, where competitors offer more extended support periods.
Market Availability and Pricing
Expected to be priced similarly to the ROG Phone 9, starting around USD 1,000, the Zenfone 12 Ultra will maintain limited carrier compatibility in the US market. The device will support T-Mobile, AT&T, and select MVNOs, though Verizon support remains notably absent.