The Asus Zenfone 12 Ultra has made its grand entrance, solidifying the unfortunate demise of compact smartphones. Previously, Asus stood as the beacon for high-quality small devices that could effortlessly slide into your front jeans pocket – not the oversized ones favored by today’s youth.
With the absence of an Asus Zenfone 11 release last year, our dreams of a successor to the Asus Zenfone 10 were shattered. The unveiling of the Asus Zenfone 12 Ultra has extinguished any remaining flicker of hope for a compact revival.
Although Asus remained tight-lipped about a compact Zenfone 12, let’s shift our focus to what this latest flagship smartphone brings to the table. Sporting a sizable 6.78-inch FHD+ LTPO AMOLED display with a speedy 144Hz refresh rate, compactness isn’t in its vocabulary.
Weighing 220g and measuring 8.9mm thick, the Asus Zenfone 12 Ultra is undeniably hefty, especially when compared to devices like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus. However, its substantial build accommodates a robust 5500mAh battery, albeit slightly bulkier than its competitors.
Featuring Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, this smartphone promises top-tier performance. While its camera setup remains similar to its predecessor, notable additions include an updated 6-Axis Hybrid Gimbal Stabilizer 4.0 for smoother shots and videos.
The Asus Zenfone 12 Ultra’s AI-driven features, such as AI Tracking and AI Portrait Video 2.0, contribute to an enhanced user experience. Running on Android 15, this device guarantees at least two major updates and five years of security support.
Priced at €1,099.99 for the 16/512GB variant, the Asus Zenfone 12 Ultra is available in Ebony Black, Sakura White, and Sage Green. Although UK and US pricing details are pending, a potential price increase from its predecessor’s £869.99 launch price is anticipated.
In conclusion, the Asus Zenfone 12 Ultra stands as a formidable flagship device, continuing the legacy of its forerunner. Yet, amidst its excellence, the longing for a more compact offering persists. Will we ever see a return to the era of pocket-friendly smartphones? Only time will tell.