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Vivo X Fold 3 Pro Foldable Phone Review: Putting the Competition on Notice

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PROS:


  • Elegant, thin, and light design

  • Impressive photography performance

  • Premium specs, including a high-capacity battery

CONS:


  • Lack of dust protection might cause concerns

  • A bit pricey

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

With premium features wrapped in a thin and premium design, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro is worth its equally premium price tag.
award-icon

The foldable phone market has diversified over the past years, no longer a rat race between two giants. Many brands have jumped into the fray, each adding their own piece to complete the puzzle. Whether it’s imaging or durability, new foldables are addressing the concerns and doubts that consumers have about the viability of this kind of product. One thing that hasn’t exactly changed for the better is the price tag attached to these foldable phones, even years after rumors of cheaper options, at least of the non-clamshell kind. Rather than downgrade the experience to also push down the price, however, it might be more effective to offer a design that makes sense for a four-digit figure. That seems to be the premise behind the “pro-foldable” Vivo X Fold 3 Pro, so we take it for a good spin to see if it’s truly worth its weight in gold.

Designer: Vivo

Aesthetics

There is a certain elegance to the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro’s simple design. Gone are the extraneous lines and shapes, leaving only the essential elements of a stylish phone. By no means is it boring or plain, especially given the visual texture on the Solar White and Eclipse Black colorways, just that the design doesn’t distract you beyond the first brush nor does it hold your attention hostage.

The phone is incredibly thin and, as we’ll see later, light, especially when unfolded flat at only 5.2mm thick, disregarding the equally thick camera bump. When folded, it does reach 11.20mm, though that’s not that far from the dimensions of regular slabs of metal and glass. In other words, you no longer look like you’re hiding two phones in the same pocket.

That aforementioned camera design, however, will be a bit divisive. On the one hand, it doesn’t look that awkward with a centrally positioned large circle that seems to mimic the lens of a traditional camera. On the other hand, it is still a very large circle on the back of the phone, which has some repercussions when it comes to handling the phone. Some would also consider such a large design element an eyesore, though it thankfully offers some significant benefit to its unavoidable presence.

Ergonomics

At only 236g light, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro is pretty much on par with many premium flagships of the non-foldable kind, especially with “ultra,” “pro,” or “max” in their names. That makes this foldable phone feel comfortable to hold, especially when you consider how large their screens are. The external screen, in particular, has a 21:9 aspect ratio, which also puts it closer to regular candy bar designs. It’s still tall and narrow, though not as narrow as Samsung’s notorious design.

While the weight and shape of the phone lend it well for convenient and comfortable handling, there are a few features that may trip up a few users. Primary is that camera bump that could hinder the movement of your fingers on the back. Conversely, it also creates a protrusion that rests on your finger, helping avoid accidental drops. Either way, expect the phone to wobble on a desk when unfolded and lying flat on it. The alert slider, which gives a quick physical way to mute or unmute the phone, is also placed close to the top, which means you can’t easily reach it using the same hand you’re holding the phone with. They’re not huge deal-breakers, just small nitpicks that, when taken together, could take out the enjoyment of using the phone every day.

Performance

Vivo definitely didn’t pull punches when it came to making sure the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro could match other flagships this year. In some ways, it might even surpass them. Running on the current-gen Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and paired with a generous 16GB of RAM, it can handle anything you throw at it with aplomb. In synthetic benchmarks, it can stand head-to-head with the Galaxy S24 Ultra, and it might even surpass the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 6 if Samsung continues to keep memory down to 12GB max.

Battery is another department where Vivo is leading the race, cramming an unbelievable 5700mAh capacity inside such a thin and light device. This phone is guaranteed to last half a day, at least on “regular” and mixed usage, and thanks to 100W charging, it will only take an hour to get it back to full. There’s also fast 50W wireless charging, but you’ll need Vivo’s special charger to achieve that speed.

Both the external 6.53-inch 2748×1172 and internal 8.03-inch 2480×2200 screens are at the top of their class, showing vivid colors and exceptional brightness that make the phone a joy to use outdoors on either side of the fold. Thanks to Vivo’s engineering, the crease on the internal foldable display is barely visible. That hinge allows the fold to hover between 60 to 180 degrees without collapsing, creating that tiny laptop-like experience that you may or may not love. Vivo does have a “flex mode” to take advantage of that angle, as well as other features that only make sense for foldable phones. Quickly folding and then unfolding the phone again triggers the split screen feature where you can pick a second app to open side-by-side with the current one. It’s a bit gimmicky and probably won’t make owners feel comfortable about the longevity of that hinge.

The large bump on the back of the Vivo X Fold 3 is easily justified by the rather beefy sensors it houses there. Leading the pack is a 50MP wide sensor with autofocus and OIS, and it is joined by a 64MP telescope camera with a periscope lens, also with AF and OIS. The 50MP ultra-wide shooter sadly drops the optical image stabilization but still manages to perform well.

All in all, the foldable delivers impressive photos and videos, especially with the Vivo V3 dedicated imaging chip in action. Details are rich and colors are accurate, and you can also pick the mode of vividness that best conveys the message you want the photo to send. The camera system is also co-engineered with ZEISS, which not only means the famed ZEISS T* coating but also different presets that mimic the output of the optics maker’s most famous lenses. It’s definitely great to see foldable phone cameras finally stepping up to the challenge, though the price in design and literal cost will be something people will need to consider before making a purchase decision.

Sustainability

Vivo is one of the few smartphone manufacturers that are taking big steps in going green, though that is sadly not directly seen nor felt on the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro. Instead, we can only look to the company’s wider sustainability efforts, particularly in running its business on green energy and doing its part in replenishing the planet’s greenery.

What it does promise with its newest foldable, however, is that it’s not going to end up in the trash or even recycling centers quickly. Durability has been one of the biggest concerns consumers have with foldables, so it’s not surprising that Vivo spent a lot of resources on ensuring the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro will be as reliable as more traditional smartphones. Those measures include a light yet ultra-durable carbon fiber hinge, protective Armor Glass for the cover display, and glass-like UPE fiber for the back panel. The phone is also rated IPX8, which is great for water protection but not so much for dust, raising worries that these tiny particles could inflict fatal damage on the sensitive internals of the phone.

Value

It’s pretty clear that Vivo spared no effort in equipping the X Fold 3 Pro with the best of the best in smartphone technologies this year. On normal smartphones, that would be a given, but such features on a foldable raise the stakes and the prices higher. At around $1,600 to $1,900, depending on where you get it, it’s not exactly an easily accessible product, especially when you consider it’s not available in some global markets.

The Vivo X Fold 3 doesn’t exist in a vacuum, however, and when you consider that its peers ask for nearly the same figure, you begin to see some of the advantages the foldable phone has. It’s definitely not lacking much, and it cuts quite a striking figure with its slim profile and lightweight body. Suffice it to say, there’s a reason it has “Pro” in its name, and it’s that same reason you’ll need to pay a premium for it.

Verdict

Samsung and Huawei kicked off the foldable phone race, and although almost six years have passed, the prices for these products have barely gone down. What makes matters worse is that in some cases, the prices have remained the same or even increased but have very little to show for it. If you’re going to charge a premium for a product, you should be making sure the product is actually premium.

That’s the kind of promise that the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro offers, cutting almost no corners in the name of delivering the best foldable experience with current industry technologies, not those from two or three years ago. It’s not an easy promise to make, especially when you consider the need to also make the design slimmer and lighter, but Vivo seems to have actually pulled it off. For that feat alone, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro definitely deserves your consideration, even with that hefty price tag.

The post Vivo X Fold 3 Pro Foldable Phone Review: Putting the Competition on Notice first appeared on Yanko Design.

Why the Vivo X Fold3 Pro Is the Best Foldable Phone of 2024

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Vivo has launched the X Fold3 Pro in India and Indonesia, setting a new standard in the foldable smartphone market. This phone combines a sleek, lightweight design with high-performance capabilities without compromising durability or battery life. Whether snapping photos, binge-watching shows, or working on the go, the X Fold3 Pro is designed to make life easier and more enjoyable.

Designer: Vivo

This latest model combines style and substance, ensuring an immersive mobile experience. The X Fold3 Pro offers an advanced camera system and robust battery technology. Let’s dive into the details and see why the X Fold3 Pro is set to redefine expectations for foldable smartphones.

Sleek and Durable Design

The X Fold3 Pro is incredibly portable, weighing only 236 grams and measuring 11.2 mm when folded. It’s just 5.2 mm thick when opened, making it one of the slimmest foldables. Despite its slim profile, this phone is built tough. Vivo’s Armor Architecture provides all-around protection and earned an SGS five-star drop resistance certification.

VIVO X Fold3 Pro

The cover screen is protected by Armor Glass, which is up to 11 times more drop-resistant than regular reinforced glass. The back cover uses glass fiber and UPE fiber for heavy-duty protection without adding extra weight. The carbon fiber ultra-durable hinge, certified for 500,000 folds, allows the phone to flex between 60 and 120 degrees, making it versatile. Plus, it’s water-resistant with an IPX8 rating.

Design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about functionality and durability, too. The X Fold3 Pro seamlessly combines these elements. Its slim profile and lightweight build make it easy to carry around, while the robust construction ensures it can withstand daily wear and tear. The innovative hinge design adds to the phone’s durability and provides flexibility in how you use the device. Whether using it as a phone or a mini-tablet, the X Fold3 Pro adapts to your needs.

All-Day Battery Life

One of the standout features of the X Fold3 Pro is its impressive battery life. Using next-generation battery technology, like second-generation silicon anodes and semi-solid battery technology, it packs a powerful 5,700 mAh battery. This ensures extended usage and supports 100W Dual-Cell FlashCharge and 50W Wireless FlashCharge for quick recharging. Battery life is further optimized with a power-saving main display and a V Frame Rate Management system for precise power control and improved efficiency.

With such a large battery capacity, the X Fold3 Pro can easily last a full day of heavy usage. Whether streaming videos, playing games or working on multiple apps, you won’t have to worry about running out of power. When you need to recharge, the fast-charging capabilities ensure you’re back up and running in no time. The power-saving features also help extend battery life, making the X Fold3 Pro a reliable companion for work and play.

The combination of advanced materials and intelligent power management systems ensures the battery performs optimally, even under heavy loads. This means you can enjoy all the features of your phone without constantly checking the battery percentage.

Camera Capabilities with Zeiss

If you’re into photography, the X Fold3 Pro is a dream come true. Co-engineered with Zeiss, it features a VCS True Color main camera, Zeiss telephoto camera, and ultra wide-angle camera. The main camera has a large 1/1.3-inch sensor and uses the next-generation Vivo Camera-Bionic Spectrum for increased light intake, resulting in superior image quality with realistic and vivid colors. The Zeiss telephoto camera has an f/2.57 aperture and offers up to 3x optical zoom and 100x digital zoom, allowing you to capture creative shots from a distance.

Vivo X Fold3 Pro

The X Fold3 Pro excels in telephoto photography. You can capture natural solar scenes with Telephoto Sunshot or explore the microscopic world with the powerful Telephoto Macro, supporting a minimum focus distance of 0.15 meters and a magnification ratio of 1:1. For nighttime photography, AI Night View and Vivo Origin Imaging Engine work together to capture rich and delicate colors even in complex nightscape lighting.

The camera capabilities of the X Fold3 Pro go beyond just taking great photos. The collaboration with Zeiss ensures that every shot you take is of professional quality. The range of focal lengths and advanced imaging technology allows you to get creative with your photography, whether you’re shooting landscapes, portraits, or close-ups. The AI-enhanced features also help you get the best possible shots in any lighting condition.

In addition to the main and telephoto cameras, the X Fold3 Pro also includes an ultra wide-angle camera, allowing you to capture more of the scene in your shots. This is perfect for landscape photography or group photos where you want to fit everyone into the frame. The advanced imaging software ensures that the colors and details are vibrant and accurate, making your photos look stunning every time.

Multifocal and Portrait Photography

In collaboration with Zeiss, the X Fold3 Pro introduces a full range of focal lengths for mobile photography. Zeiss Multifocal Portrait allows professional-grade portraits, supporting focal lengths of 24 mm, 35 mm, 50 mm, 85 mm, and 100 mm. Users can also rely on the signature Zeiss Style Portrait, which includes six iconic portrait style bokeh effects, such as Zeiss Distagon Style Bokeh, Zeiss B-Speed Style Bokeh, and Zeiss Cine-flare Portrait. The Zeiss B-Speed Style Bokeh creates a distinctive arc-triangle bokeh ball, emulating a lens style seen in vintage films.

The 6nm Vivo V3 chip ensures higher energy efficiency, allowing users to shoot 4K cinematic portrait videos. Whether capturing everyday moments or special occasions, this feature turns videos into cinematic masterpieces. When folded at an angle, the X Fold3 Pro can activate the tripod mode, perfect for 4K time-lapse, astrophotography, selfies, or any scenario requiring long exposure. The 1/1.3-inch sensor enhances light sensitivity, and combined with split-type stabilization control technology, users can capture professional-level photos in just a few seconds.

Immersive Viewing Experience and Performance

Despite its thin profile, the X Fold3 Pro delivers uncompromising flagship performance with immersive displays and a powerful chipset. The main screen features a 2K+ E7 immersive display with a peak brightness of 4,500 nits, offering an exceptional viewing experience. The main and cover displays support a 120Hz refresh rate and include HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and XDR Engine, providing rich colors and deep contrasts.

The display is SGS eye protection certified to ensure comfort during extended use. The upgraded V Frame Rate Management System provides smooth and efficient performance, while 3D ultrasonic dual-screen fingerprint scanning offers easy access on either display. The advanced display technology in the X Fold3 Pro isn’t just about looking good—it’s about providing an immersive experience that draws you in. The high refresh rate and advanced HDR support make everything from gaming to watching movies more enjoyable. The eye protection features also ensure you can use the phone for extended periods without straining your eyes.

The X Fold3 Pro’s performance is equally impressive. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform and combined with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage, the phone easily handles even the most demanding tasks. Whether multitasking, playing graphically intensive games, or running productivity apps, the X Fold3 Pro delivers smooth and responsive performance. An ultra-wide intelligent cooling system integrates a super-thin vapor chamber and multi-layer graphite with a heat dissipation area of over 20,000 mm², ensuring peak performance during demanding operations.

Advanced AI Tools for Productivity

The X Fold3 Pro integrates advanced AI tools from Google’s Gemini family on the Vertex AI platform to boost productivity. AI Note Assist helps with note-taking by automatically generating clear and concise layouts, extracting key information, and creating to-do lists. AI Global Translation breaks language barriers by translating content directly on the current page. AI Transcript Assist converts recordings into text quickly and accurately, making accessing and analyzing information from meetings easier.

These AI tools make the X Fold3 Pro invaluable for professionals and students. Taking detailed notes, translating content on the fly, and converting audio recordings into text saves time and enhances productivity. Whether in a meeting, a lecture, or working on a project, the AI features help you stay organized and efficient.

The AI capabilities of the X Fold3 Pro aren’t just about making your life easier—they’re about enhancing the way you work and communicate. The seamless integration of AI tools into the operating system ensures that you can access these features whenever needed without switching between apps or interrupting your workflow.

Enhanced Privacy and Security

For privacy and security, the X Fold3 Pro includes a built-in security chip, providing chip-level encryption for sensitive data such as fingerprints, facial data and lock screen passwords. This significantly reduces the risk of data breaches and malicious attacks. The device also introduces features like Private Call, which uses algorithms to control sound directionality, ensuring confidential conversations in public spaces. The Owner Privacy Protection feature hides floating notifications and incoming call details when the phone detects others nearby.

The X Fold3 Pro’s security features give users peace of mind, knowing that their data is protected. The advanced encryption ensures that personal information remains secure, while the privacy features help maintain confidentiality in public spaces. Whether making a call, sharing your screen or using your phone in a crowded area, the X Fold3 Pro has you covered.

The combination of hardware and software security features makes the X Fold3 Pro one of the most secure smartphones on the market. The built-in security chip and advanced algorithms protect data and privacy, allowing users to use their phones confidently.

Pricing and Availability

The Vivo X Fold3 Pro, available in a stunning Celestial Black colorway, will be launched in India and Indonesia. Specific availability, pricing, and specifications may vary based on local market conditions.

X Fold2 vs. X Fold3: A Comparative Analysis

The Vivo X Fold3 Pro brings several significant upgrades over its predecessor, the Vivo X Fold2, enhancing its appeal in various aspects. One of the most noticeable improvements is in its design and build. The X Fold3 Pro is slightly slimmer, measuring 11.2 mm when folded and 5.2 mm when unfolded, compared to the Fold 2’s 12.9 mm and 6.3 mm, respectively. Additionally, the X Fold3 Pro is lighter at 236 grams, making it more portable than the Fold2.

Vivo X Fold3 Dimensions

Regarding durability, the X Fold3 Pro features Vivo’s innovative Armor Architecture with an SGS five-star drop resistance certification, a significant upgrade from the Fold2, which lacked formal durability certification. The new Carbon Fiber Ultra Durable Hinge in the X Fold3 Pro, certified for 500,000 folds by TÜV Rheinland, also marks an improvement over the Fold2’s hinge, enhancing its longevity and usability.

Battery life has also seen a notable enhancement. The X Fold3 Pro boasts a 5,700 mAh battery with 100W Dual-Cell FlashCharge and 50W Wireless FlashCharge, compared to the Fold2’s 4,800 mAh battery and 120W ultra-fast charging. The Fold3 Pro’s battery technology, including second-generation silicon anodes and semi-solid battery technology, offers better efficiency and longevity.

Vivo X Fold2

Display quality has improved dramatically with the X Fold3 Pro’s 2K+ E7 Immersive Display, which offers a peak brightness of 4,500 nits and supports HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and XDR Engine. In contrast, while impressive, the Fold2’s display had a lower pixel density and lacked these advanced features. The improved display technology in the Fold3 Pro ensures a more immersive and visually stunning experience.

Camera capabilities have been significantly upgraded in the X Fold3 Pro. Co-engineered with Zeiss, it features a VCS True Color main camera, Zeiss telephoto camera, and ultra wide-angle camera. The Fold2’s camera system, while decent, missed out on the enhanced imaging capabilities and Zeiss collaboration found in the Fold3 Pro. This collaboration ensures superior image quality with realistic and vivid colors, improved telephoto performance, and advanced AI-enhanced photography features.

The X Fold3 Pro also integrates advanced AI tools from Google’s Gemini family on the Vertex AI platform, offering features like AI Note Assist, AI Global Translation, and AI Transcript Assist to enhance productivity. These tools are more advanced than those available on the Fold2, providing a more seamless and efficient user experience.

Privacy and security have been enhanced with the X Fold3 Pro’s built-in security chip, providing chip-level encryption and features like Private Call and Owner Privacy Protection. These security features significantly improve over the Fold2, ensuring better personal data protection and privacy in public spaces.

Overall, the Vivo X Fold3 Pro offers substantial improvements over the Fold2 in design, durability, battery life, display quality, camera capabilities, and advanced productivity and security features. It represents a significant upgrade, making it a compelling choice for those looking for the latest foldable smartphone technology.

The post Why the Vivo X Fold3 Pro Is the Best Foldable Phone of 2024 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Vivo V30 Pro Review: Putting The Focus Where It Counts

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PROS:


  • Thin, lightweight, and beautiful design

  • 50MP wide-angle selfie camera with autofocus

  • Impressive triple 50MP camera system

  • Long-lasting, fast-charging battery

CONS:


  • No stereo speakers

  • Thin edges make it difficult to grip and pick up

  • Limited global availability

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

With breath-taking elegance and ZEISS-tuned Triple Main Cameras, the Vivo V30 Pro offers unbeatable value to mobile shutterbugs and design-conscious buyers alike.

It’s really difficult these days to pin a phone down to a specific market tier or device range, especially since brands tend to advertise every single model as the best in its class. Technology has advanced to a point that what some might consider mid-range due to one or two features might surpass flagship models in other aspects. That seems to be the case with the Vivo V30 Pro, arriving on the heels of the Vivo V30 that we reviewed just last month. The “Pro” in its name is pretty telling, promising a higher level of experience while still staying faithful to the spirit, not to mention the design, of the base model. In what ways does the Vivo V30 Pro actually improve on the Vivo V30, and are those enough to warrant giving this pricier version a serious look? We give it a whirl to find out.

Designer: Vivo

Aesthetics

Something can be beautiful without being too flashy. A flower’s charm, for example, often comes from its simplicity and the pleasing way it combines shapes and colors in a way that only Mother Nature can really accomplish. The Vivo V30 Pro tries to capture that spirit almost literally, combining subtle details and minimalist aesthetics in a composition that delights the eyes without being distracting. It’s no coincidence that Vivo’s designs for the V30 Pro are clearly patterned from nature, and it definitely pulls this feat off with aplomb.

It’s not just a matter of painting patterns on the phone either. Our Bloom White review unit, for example, looks like it has flowers pressed on its back. This “3D Petal Pattern” was accomplished by 3D engraving 13 million tangent lines on the material’s surface using photolithography. The greenish-blue Waving Aqua, on the other hand, employs thousands of tiny magnetic particles to create the illusion of rippling waters. The visual effects are subtle, almost invisible unless you take a second look, but they definitely add to the Vivo 30 Pro’s elegance.

Coupled with its thin profile and lightweight body, the Vivo V30 Pro exudes class and beauty without being overbearing. The process and cost of such designs might sound overkill for what would be classified as a mid-range phone, but these designs not only demonstrate Vivo’s manufacturing prowess, they also reflect the evolving tastes of smartphone owners today who want an attractive phone they won’t need or even want to cover up with a case.

Ergonomics

Despite the large 6.78-inch screen, Vivo manages to make the impossible possible with a thin and lightweight handset. Only 7.45mm thin and 188g light, the Vivo V30 Pro is comfortable and pleasurable to hold, even after long periods of time. That thinness is very accentuated by the curved edges of both the screen and the rear panel, a trend that is slowly dying and being pushed out by flat edges. Some defend that this design is gentler on your palms, but others criticize it for also reducing the phone’s grip, making it more likely to slip from your grasp.

If there is one drawback to the Vivo V30 Pro’s very thin edges, it’s that it makes it a bit tricky to pick it up from a table or any solid flat surface. There’s very little area for your fingers to grip the edges and you might find the phone slipping or sliding before you can have a solid hold on it. The included clear case adds some thickness and texture to fix that, but it also puts a less premium layer of material between you and your phone, no matter how transparent it is.

Performance

Gone are the days when you could easily predict a phone’s performance by simply looking at its specs, especially the processor. The time when MediaTek’s silicon was considered cheap and underpowered is long over as well, and the Vivo V30 Pro is living proof of that. Granted, the 4nm Dimensity 8200 processor it’s using is actually last year’s generation, but it’s hardly any slouch. In fact, it manages to beat Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7 series from the same generation in some benchmarks, which is quite telling.

What all this means in practice is that the Vivo V30 Pro can handle everyday tasks without breaking a sweat. Sure, you shouldn’t expect it to run toe-to-toe with high-end and more expensive smartphones, but setting graphics settings to medium is sure to still satisfy your gaming needs. The cooling system is effective, though not exactly stellar, so expect your hands to feel some heat after prolonged gaming. The best part of its performance, however, is the generous 5,000 mAh battery that’s guaranteed to last you more than a day of average use. With the included 80W charger, you don’t even need to wait long to get it from zero to full, just a little under 50 minutes, in fact.

The large 6.78-inch 120Hz AMOLED display mirrors the phone’s back in providing a beautiful sight, though it’s naturally flashier and more eye-catching. The panel is bright and the colors are vibrant, though they tend to lean more towards being very saturated by default. While the visual experience is superb, the same can’t be said of the audio aspect. There’s a single bottom-firing speaker that is very basic. You’ll be hard-pressed to detect much bass, for example, and the quality degrades noticeably at maximum volume. You might be better off connecting Bluetooth speakers if you really want to spread your tunes around.

Smartphones these days almost feel like cameras that just happen to have phone functionality because of the heavy emphasis put on mobile photography. The Vivo V30 Pro is no exception and, in fact, celebrates it and takes it to the next level. It challenges the status quo of using different sensors for different cameras and comes bearing 50MP cameras for primary wide, ultra-wide, and 2x telephoto. In fact, it even uses a 50MP sensor for the front-facing camera, complete with a wide-angle lens and autofocus.

For its camera system, Vivo enlisted the expertise of optics experts ZEISS, and the results definitely speak for themselves. The output of the main camera is clear, highly detailed, accurate, and just gorgeous. That is true even at night, with Vivo’s special night mode kicking in. The 2x optical zoom of the dedicated telephoto, while not that far in reach, is still better than relying on digital zoom and cropping the way the Vivo V30 does. The ultra-wide camera, while decent, isn’t as impressive as these other two, but you’ll still get clear and detailed images from it, regardless of the lighting condition.

One special feature of the Vivo V30 series, which can be seen from the unusual design of the phone’s camera bump, is the square Aura Light that sits below the cameras. If you’re familiar with the effect of ring lights in diffusing a gentler glow on your face, then you’ll know how this feature works. Instead of a focused light like a typical LED flash, it spread the light around more evenly, making it the perfect illumination for portrait photos. Even better, the Aura Light can automatically change its intensity and warmth depending on ambient lighting, all thanks to AI, of course. Now if only Vivo could do the same for the front-facing camera, then it would really be able to leave its competition in the dust.

Sustainability

Despite the Vivo V30 Pro’s nature-inspired design, the phone itself isn’t exactly that environment-friendly, at least as far as its build materials go. It’s not exactly an outlier in this regard and it merely follows the industry status quo. Sadly, it’s also an opportunity for Vivo to rise above the rest and set a new industry standard, but we’ll probably have to wait a bit longer for the company to really take its sustainability efforts to the next level.

At least the Vivo V30 Pro is designed to last long, especially with an official IP54 dust and water protection rating. It’s far from being the highest and is, in fact, the bare minimum for waterproof devices, but it’s also something that’s usually missing from most smartphones on this tier. When accidents do happen, however, you have very little option other than to send it to Vivo or its authorized repair centers for servicing. Self-repair is just not a thing in this space yet.

Value

Truth be told, it’s hard to find any fault with the Vivo V30 Pro. Yes, it doesn’t max out all the potential that more powerful hardware can provide, but it also doesn’t tax buyers for features they may never use in the first place. It has a pretty good balance of features and tends to perform well in areas that matter the most, such as mobile photography and battery life. Plus, it looks stylish and classy, so you’ll probably fall in love with it quickly.

The expected $500 price tag brings a bit of uncertainty, though. It’s definitely higher than its sub-$400 peers, but it offers features you won’t find on more expensive handsets either. The biggest deal-breaker, however, is its availability. The Vivo V30 Pro will only be sold in select markets in Asia, at least for now, so all that beautiful design and impressive cameras will be out of reach for many people around the world.

Verdict

Smartphones are no longer just tools for communication or even for staying connected to the Internet. They have become irreplaceable partners in creating and preserving memories, as well as extensions of our personalities and aspirations. Smartphone designs have matured over the years, shedding off flashy and gimmicky features for reliable functionality and appealing aesthetics. This trend has trickled down even to the so-called mid-tier market, as embodied by the Vivo V30 Pro.

Inspired by nature, the Vivo V30 Pro’s beauty is subtle yet impactful, employing innovative manufacturing techniques to create more natural designs that catch the eye and soothe the soul. It’s no racehorse, but what the phone lacks in raw processing power it makes up for in reliability and value, offering a more balanced product. At the same time, its Triple 50MP Main Camera system and 50MP front-facing camera challenge the status quo and prove beyond reasonable doubt what is possible even on this tier. All-in-all, the Vivo V30 Pro is a well-rounded contender that you’ll want to consider for your next phone purchase, presuming it’s even available in your area.

The post Vivo V30 Pro Review: Putting The Focus Where It Counts first appeared on Yanko Design.

Vivo X100 Pro Review: A strong contendar for the best camera phone of 2024

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PROS:


  • Exceptional imaging capabilities

  • Great display

  • Snappy performance

CONS:


  • Front facing video is capped at 1080p

  • Limited market availability

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Vivo X100 Pro currently stands as one of the best camera phone on the market, transforming even the most maudane scene into form of artistic expression.

In the landscape of mobile phone space, making a significant impact can be challenging unless you belong to the elite trio of Apple, Google, and Samsung. The task becomes even more formidable for an underdog like Vivo. If you are not familiar with Vivo, the company was founded in 2009 and has since become a significant player in the mobile phone industry with a strong presence in Asia and the Middle East with its footprint extended to certain regions in Europe. The company is known for offering devices with innovative features, and its X-series flagship, in particular, has gained attention for its impressive mobile imaging performance, through continual collaboration with the renowned lens manufacturer Zeiss. Vivo’s new flagship X100 Pro, which was launched in China on December 19th last year, is yet another Vivo device with outstanding camera capabilities.

We’ll explore how Vivo continues to push boundaries in the realm of mobile photography and invocation. From its sleek aesthetics to the powerful internals, the X100 Pro promises an immersive user experience. Join us as we uncover the nuances of its design, performance, and unique features, providing you with a comprehensive insight into what makes this smartphone a noteworthy contender in the ever-evolving world of mobile phones.

Designer: Vivo

Aesthetics

A large, circular camera module proudly graces the top of the device and rightly commands attention. Aside from the massive camera module, Vivo does not shy away from splashing X100 Pro’s camera capabilities. At the center of the camera module, the Zeiss logo gleams, accompanied by the red letter T* beneath it to indicate the anti-reflective coating that significantly increases light transmittance and helps accurately reproduce colors, according to Vivo. Made of aerospace-grade stainless steel, the “Sun Halo” or “Moon Halo” Ring surrounds the camera module with lens specs on the ring. Underneath the camera module, you’ll find “Xtreme Imagination” Vivo Zeiss Co-engineering branding. On the bottom, you’ll find big, but subtle Vivo branding. If all these texts on the back of the device are not enough for you, look at the top of the phone, and you’ll find a “Professional photography” sign.

A bit cluttered with texts aside, the X100 Pro is a sleek-looking device. It is available in two color options: Asteroid Black and Startrail Blue. We received the Asteroid Black variant which has a glass back panel with a matte finish, resembling sandblasting. The Startrail Blue variant also boasts a glass back panel but distinguishes itself with patterns that emulate the streaks of light created in the night sky.

Ergonomics

Vivo X100 Pro measures 164.05 x 75.28 x 8.91 mm and weighs 225 g. The display features slightly curved side edges. The side edges of the back panel are also slightly curved. The device fits nicely in the hand and thanks to the curved edges, it does not bite into the palm. In the Asteroid Black variant, the glass back panel offers a velvety touch that is quite pleasing but tends to be a bit slippery. Luckily the textured gray case came with the phone to provide a nice grip, though it tends to show scratches easily.

Like numerous other smartphones with an in-display fingerprint scanner, the positioning of the scanner near the bottom edge of the display can present a challenge for swift unlocking and seamless navigation with one hand. Fortunately, the fingerprint proves to be fast and accurate. The arrangement of the physical buttons and SIM tray is also similar to other phones, with the volume control button situated on the right side, and below it, the power button. At the bottom, you’ll find a SIM tray, primary microphone, USB-C port, and speaker. Meanwhile, on the top, there is a secondary microphone and an IR emitter.

Performance

There is absolutely no doubt that the main attraction of the Vivo X100 Pro is its upgraded ZEISS co-engineered imaging system. Before delving into the details, I’ll spill the beans – it is phenomenal. X100 Pro boasts a triple camera setup. The main 50MP camera uses a Sony 1-inch IMX989 sensor with an aperture of f/1.75. However, the true standout in the triple camera setup is the Zeiss APO floating telephoto camera with an aperture of f/2.5. The telephoto camera features an innovative periscope group structure called the Floating Elements Design, enabling sharp focus both up close and at a distance, by allowing individual lens elements to move freely. Both the main and telephoto cameras support OIS. Rounding up the triple camera setting is a 50MP ultra-wide with an aperture of f/2.0.

The main camera produces excellent images with plenty of details and a wide dynamic range. The photos are sharp and color rendering is realistic. The 2x zoom photos, captured with the main camera, are great as well.

The ultra-wide does its job well, and the photos captured are equally impressive as those taken by the main camera. However, it’s not very wide (119-degree field-of-view) compared to some other phones.

Both the main and ultra-wide cameras are also very capable in low-light conditions, capturing images with the right level of exposure, excellent dynamic range, and substantial details even in dark areas.

However, as stated before, 4.3x Telephoto is hands down the star of the triple camera setup, delivering superb photos in nearly every lighting scenario. Even in low-light settings, the handset takes photos with plenty of details, balanced exposure, and minimal noise. With the 100mm equivalent focal length, you can get close to your subject and snap the photos with a nice bokeh, and if you need to get even closer to the subject, the device is capable of digitally zooming up to 100x.

I took the Vivo X100 Pro to Ed Sheeran’s show in Osaka, Japan, and captured many photos and videos using mainly telephoto throughout the show. My seat was located on the first floor of the baseball stadium, which had been transformed into a concert venue with a capacity of 36,447. I was very impressed with the photos and videos I snapped at the show where lighting was constantly changing and tricky.

Given that this is an imaging-focused mobile handset, the device offers an array of shooting modes and styles to cater to your creative vision. There are Snapshot mode, Night mode, and Portrait to name a few. In Photo mode, the users can select from three distinct color treatments: Vivid, Natural, and Zeiss. The Portrait mode offers various styles to choose from, with my personal favorite being Vintage, delivering a film-like output.

With photos captured in Portrait mode, you have the flexibility to adjust the focus point and aperture after the fact, allowing you to customize the desired focal point and level of bokeh.

I usually don’t find much interest in Macro mode as the photos produced are subpar. However, the X100 Pro proves to be an exception. It produces sharp images with a pleasing bokeh effect, as you can see in the sample photo below.

Vivo X100 Pro’s excellent capability does not stop at taking photos. The device takes great videos as well. The phone is capable of taking up to 8K 30fps video with its main camera. The telephoto and ultra-wide cameras can record videos up to 4K at 60fps. Unfortunately, the front-facing camera is maxed out at 1080p at 30fps. Stabilization works very well in well-lit conditions but struggles a bit under low-light conditions.

There is a 4k Cinematic Portrait mode that offers automatic focus switching, similar to Apple’s Cinematic Mode. While its performance can be inconsistent, it takes artistic videos when it gets right.

Powered by MediaTek’s latest and most powerful Dimensity 9300, the device offers a seamless experience whether you are playing graphically demanding games or multi-tasking with numerous apps opened. Despite the phone’s responsiveness and speed, the battery performance can be somewhat underwhelming depending on what you do on the phone. Equipped with an enhanced 5,400mAh battery, the phone provides ample power for normal daily use. If you take tons of photos and videos(which with the phone this good, you will be inclined to do so), topping up during the day might be required. Fortunately, it supports 100W FlashCharge and 50W wireless FlashCharge.

Vivo X100 Pro sports a 6.78-inch AMOLED screen with 2,800 x 1,260 resolution, a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, and is equipped with LTPO technology for dynamically adjusting the refresh rate while saving the battery. With a local peak brightness of 3,000 nits, the screen is ample bright even under direct sunlight. It delivers smooth images with vibrant colors.

Running on Funtouch OS 14 on Android 14, the photo provides smooth performance. There are many customization options for things like lock screen styles and useful features like split-screen and small windows. Another welcoming change is having less bloatware.

Sustainability/Repairability

With its exceptional ability to capture high-quality photos in diverse situations, the likelihood of reaching for the Vivo X100 Pro to snap moments becomes a natural inclination. Considering the exposure to elements like water and dust, it’s comforting to know that the device has an IP68 rating, meaning it can endure submersion up to a depth of 1.5 meters for a duration of up to 30 minutes.

Vivo does not specify the use of sustainable materials for the phone. However, the material used for the ring around the camera module is crafted from aerospace-grade stainless steel, known for its resistance to wear, high temperature, and corrosion, ensuring durability.

Value

Vivo X100 Pro X was launched in China with a price tag of 5,499 CNY (about 770 USD)for the 16GB RAM/ 512GB storage variant. Since then the company has gradually rolled out the device into other Asian markets including India, Malaysia, and Thailand. It has finally reached some European markets. It’s worth noting that the price is higher than anticipated, at 1,199 Euros (about 1230 USD). However, given the phone’s quality, particularly its exceptional and versatile imaging capabilities, it is not excessively expensive.

Verdict

If mobile photography is your priority when choosing a phone, the Vivo X100 Pro currently stands as one of the best camera phones on the market. Whether capturing moments with friends and family, street scenes, or exploring the intricacies of subjects like flowers and bugs in macro mode, this device has the remarkable ability to transform even the most mundane scene into a form of artistic expression, thanks to its exceptional camera features. The images captured by the telephoto camera are just another level, setting the new standard for mobile photography. Beyond its impressive camera capabilities, the Vivo X100 Pro is a solid device with a vibrant and sharp display, responsive software, great build quality, and fast wired and wireless charge capabilities. The handset also offers a well-rounded and high-performing smartphone experience.

The post Vivo X100 Pro Review: A strong contendar for the best camera phone of 2024 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Foldable Phone Designs are about to get more interesting but also less diverse

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The number of foldable phones launching each year is slowly rising, suggesting that these former novelty items are here to stay. To manufacturers’ credit, the phones are getting more reliable and attractive, even if their prices are still prohibitive for most people. With more players in the market, it’s bound to become a somewhat livelier place, with brands putting their own spins or changing designs to match or challenge their rivals. It now seems, however, that the still niche foldable phone category is about to enter another tumultuous phase with new designs that could shake up the market and some companies throwing in the towel, leaving only a few designs to stick and stagnate.

Triple Folding Phones

The biggest and perhaps only reason for a foldable phone would be to provide a device that can be used as a regular phone when wanted but can transform into a tablet when you want more screen real estate. The current crop of foldable phones does meet those requirements, though almost barely. As tablets, they’re painfully tiny even compared to the already small iPad mini and some 7-inch slates. As phones, some designs make them awkward to use because of their narrow and tall external screens.

One possible solution would be to have a large screen that can fold in three parts, turning into a phone-sized slab, albeit probably a bit thicker than even today’s foldable phones. Samsung has, in fact, been working on such a design for years and it finally showed off a prototype two years ago. It turns out that it might even launch its first tri-fold phone slash tablet later this year.

Designer: Samsung

This timeline is reportedly due to one of Samsung’s biggest rivals trying to make a move first. Huawei, who is rebuilding its empire in some markets, is rumored to be launching a foldable phone that transforms into a 10-inch tablet. Just for the title of being the “world’s first,” Samsung could be taking a big risk and making a leap of faith to get that triple foldable phone out the door quickly, even if it means repeating the mistakes of the first Galaxy Fold.

Stylus Support Inside and Out

One of the biggest draws of foldable phones is, of course, their big screens. They’re not just perfect for showing more content, but they’re also great for actually creating content. With tablets now being seen as productivity and creativity tools thanks to the iPad Pro, these foldable phones are truly powerful laptops you can fit in your pocket, at least in theory. Ironically, very few of the brands actually support such a use case with the right accessories. Even Samsung forces you to buy the S Pen Fold Edition if you want to scribble and doodle on your foldable phone like a notebook.

The newly launched mouthful that is the Honor Magic V2 RSR Porsche Design bucks the trend by actually including a stylus inside the box. Granted, the price of this limited edition would make you think it should include such an item, but you’re also paying for other luxuries at the same time. For example, you get two charging bricks instead of one. Some foldable phones other than Samsung don’t even advertise support for a stylus even if they’re capable of supporting one.

Designer: Honor

More interesting, however, is how the Honor Magic V2 RSR Porsche Design actually supports that active stylus not only on the large internal screen but also on the smaller cover screen. That one-ups even Samsung who is famed for its stylus-enabled Galaxy Note phablets, now sold under the Galaxy S Ultra brand. Honor is showing that such a set of features is possible, and it could lead to a long-overdue trend in the foldable smartphone market, presuming there’s still one in the next few years.

Design Monoculture

One of the reasons why the foldable phone market seems to have stabilized a bit is because of the number of players now in the ring. Of course, you have Samsung and Huawei leading the charge, but now you also have Xiaomi, OPPO, Vivo, Tecno, OnePlus, and Honor in the running. Unfortunately, there are whispers that two of these are bowing out of the race, and their absence could actually have an indirect though significant negative impact on foldable phones as a whole.

Those rumors claim that both OPPO and vivo are calling it quits in the foldable market. The cited reason is not exactly surprising, with both brands suffering significant losses in foldable phone sales last year and they don’t believe they can throw in more resources to recover. It’s unknown at this point whether OnePlus will also be following its cousins, though there’s a real possibility that these manufacturers will pull out sooner rather than later.

Designer: OPPO

While that indeed sounds like a win for Samsung and Huawei (and Honor), it might not actually be good for the entire market in the long run. Competition often breeds innovation, with these brands pushing each other to develop new designs and features at every turn. With only two contenders, each with their own separate kingdoms, there might not be enough incentive to push the boundaries, leading to stagnation and eventual death of the market.

Designer: Vivo

Uncertain Tomorrow

Of course, there’s still no confirmation that OPPO and Vivo are indeed making an exit strategy, but it does paint a picture that isn’t as rosy as these brands try to paint. Even with the popularity of clamshell-style foldables and with new models coming out year after year, actual sales might actually reveal a very different and less encouraging situation. Given the way technology is developing, foldable and rollable displays will eventually be a staple of tomorrow’s devices, but that doesn’t mean the market won’t experience a few flops first along the way.

The post Foldable Phone Designs are about to get more interesting but also less diverse first appeared on Yanko Design.

Vivo V30 Review: Slim, Stylish, Simple

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PROS:


  • Thin profile and lightweight body

  • Beautiful and subtle water ripple design (Waving Aqua)

  • 50MP wide front camera with autofocus

  • AI-powered Aura Light for studio-quality portrait photos

CONS:


  • No telephoto camera

  • Decent but unimpressive camera output

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

With an incredibly thin profile and a simple yet elegant design, the Vivo V30 is like a breath of fresh air, presenting a familiar face and offering a well-rounded set of features that speak to the hearts of a selfie-loving generation.

Design in the mobile market never sits still, although we are now seeing certain brands leave their design DNA on their phones for longer periods of time. Most of those designs involve cramming everything but the kitchen sink, turning smartphones into a display of technological marvels more than anything else. That’s great for specs and features, but not always for the overall user experience, especially when it comes to aesthetics and usability. Amidst a sea of thick slabs of glass and metal and bulging camera bumps, the Vivo V30 arrives with a more familiar yet still enchanting face. But is it just a pretty face or does it offer something more inside its incredibly slim physique? We take it for a spin to find out.

Designer: Vivo

Aesthetics

The Vivo V30 will immediately strike you as a very different beast from its peers, and that’s even before you pay close attention to the rather graceful patterns on its back, which we’ll get to later. Even before you hold it in your hand, you can already get an impression of how thin it is, a trait that seems to be quickly disappearing even among premium smartphones. Yes, it’s probably because of that curved glass back and “3D curved screen,” a design that some consider to be no longer fashionable these days, but at just the right angles and with the right play of light, it’s hard to deny how sleek and slim it makes the phone look.

The camera bump is similarly distinctive and unique as far as conventional camera designs go. It’s a single raised rectangle with rounded corners that catches your attention not with an obnoxious size but with a pleasant combination of form, color, and finish. The black rounded square of the camera lenses contrasts and complements the similarly shaped Aura Light ring below it. The “2.5D” curved edges of this raised “One-Piece Cloud Step” design are surrounded by a polished metal bezel refined using a diamond cutting technique, providing not just protection for the cameras but also adding a sleek look to anyone looking at those cameras.

The real design highlight, however, is the subtle patterns that give each Vivo V30 model a unique personality. The greenish-blue Waving Aqua review unit we received employs tens of thousands of tiny magnetic particles integrated into a flowing resin material, creating the illusion of ripples that may conjure up images of beaches, lakes, or rivers, all giving a serene and peaceful vibe. The other designs are no less stunning, with Bloom White’s 3D Petal Pattern, created by engraving 13 million tangent lines into the surface using photolithography, or the color-changing Lush Green that turns into tranquil Blue when exposed to UV light. Even Noble Black, with a typical Fluorite AG Glass back, sparkles like a starry night sky thanks to an etching liquid process that transforms the microscopic crystals on the glass surface into prism-like structures.

All in all, the Vivo V30’s slim profile, minimalist aesthetic, and subtle yet elegant design make it easily stand out from the rest of the crowd, especially at its price point. Yes, some might say that its curves make it a bit dated, but that’s exactly why it also feels rather refreshing to take a break from that current trend, especially when the end result is definitely just as beautiful, if not more so.

Ergonomics

There is still some debate on which predominant smartphone design is actually more ergonomic. Fans of curves claim that their preferred design is more comfortable and gentler on the hand, while advocates of flat edges criticize how it doesn’t provide a confident and solid grip. The Vivo V30 is obviously on the former camp so your mileage may vary, but there’s one aspect that puts all those debates to rest: its weight.

At only 186g, the Vivo V30 is easily one of the lightest smartphones on the market, making it comfortable to hold for long periods of time. That’s even more impressive when you find out that it hides a 5,000mAh battery, also one of the largest among smartphones, which should have weighed the phone down significantly, not to mention adding to its bulk. Thanks to a new “One-Piece Encapsulation Technique,” that large battery can become unbelievably thin, and a “Comprehensive Cushioning Structure” is credited for not just the phone’s aesthetics but also its durability.

Performance

The lines between traditional smartphone market tiers are continually blurring as hardware becomes more diversified yet also more powerful. In the old days, a phone like the Vivo V30 would be classified as a mid-range device because of its Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, but that distinction barely holds today. With 12GB of RAM (plus 12GB Extended memory), the Vivo V30 can handle pretty much anything you can throw at it, with moderation, of course. Mobile gaming is no sweat, especially if you turn down the settings a bit, and the large vapor cooling chamber inside ensures your hands won’t burn when you do so.

The large 6.78-inch AMOLED screen boasts 2800 nits of brightness and a fast 120Hz refresh right. The display is definitely bright and vibrant enough to make your content pop, though it’s not exactly something that will blow your mind either. Audio is a bit so-so, decent enough to let you enjoy music, videos, and games without having to reach for wireless earphones, but more discerning users will prefer higher-quality sound anyway. As mentioned, the 5,000 mAh battery is a major highlight for this unbelievably thin phone, and the 80W charger makes sure you can fully top off in a little just 50 minutes or so.

Like any smartphone these days, a lot of focus is placed on the Vivo V30’s cameras, no pun intended. Truth be told, it’s a rather mixed bag for Vivo’s 2024 V-Series frontrunner, checking a few boxes in some areas while missing out on others. For example, there is no dedicated telephoto camera, which means you’ll have to rely on digital zoom and in-sensor cropping for those closeups. Instead, Vivo puts two co-equal 50MP cameras on the V30’s back, one for the main shooter and the other for ultra-wide panoramic or group shots. In fact, group shots are a big thing for the Vivo V30, but we’ll get to that later.

The main 50MP camera advertises a “True Color” Camera-Bionic-Spectrum VCS technology that is supposed to produce color-accurate images that are close to how our eyes see. While the resulting photos do look vibrant and colorful, they still tend to lean more towards oversaturation rather than the more natural and realistic tones. A highlight of the Vivo V30’s camera system is the latest iteration of its Aura Light, basically a mini Ring Light that’s popular among live streamers and influencers. Used for portrait shots, it offers a softer and more distributed light than what a single LED flash can give. It’s even guided by AI so it can automatically adjust its intensity and temperature depending on the distance from the subject and ambient light.

Vivo positions the V series as a line that targets a more youthful crowd, and nowhere is that more evident than with the selfie camera and its whopping 50MP sensor, complete with autofocus and a 92-degree field of view. Just like the 50MP ultra-wide on its back, this camera was made for taking Group Selfies, ensuring that your friends won’t be left out of those Insta-worthy shots. That said, you don’t have the advantage of the Aura Light with this selfie camera, something Vivo might want to look into for future iterations.

Sustainability

It’s going to be hard to deny that the Vivo V30 isn’t exactly a premium device, at least not with the specs above. Most of the phones on this tier skimp on a few features to meet a certain low price point. In most cases, some corners are cut when it comes to durability, but not this beautiful phone. The V30 boasts an IP54 rating, which is modest but sufficient to protect the phone from dust and water accidents. Given who the phone was made for, those accidents are often the norm rather than the exception.

When it comes to materials, however, the phone doesn’t exactly have anything to boast. It uses quite a variety of special materials and processes to make those intricate patterns on its back, none of which can be said to be sustainable or environment-friendly. The V30 doesn’t stray from the beaten path in this aspect, but hopefully, trends will change and even the young will start demanding for more responsibly made smartphones to put inside their pockets.

Value

Given its target audience, it wouldn’t be a surprise if Vivo prices the V30 very competitively. It’s still playing coy about exact figures, but it should start somewhere around $300 upward, depending on the configuration. It’s something that those with very tight budgets would be able to afford, but it’s almost too easy to say you will also get what you pay for. In reality, however, you’re actually getting a solid deal.

Vivo chose its battles wisely and focused on the things that matter most to its core customer base. The phone is light, easy to hold, and easy to take out of or slip into your pocket. Its design adds a bit of glam to the device, and its cameras, though lacking one member, are made for a generation that loves to take selfies, either alone or with others. With gaming performance the only consideration, the Vivo V30 actually offers a well-rounded set of features wrapped in an elegant aesthetic and matched with an accessible price tag.

Verdict

The market is overflowing with smartphones and, despite all the analysts’ warnings, there doesn’t seem to be any sign of slowing down. Designs are also ever-changing, though the trend seems to be moving towards bigger, thicker, and flatter smartphones. Against this backdrop, the Vivo V30 arrives like a breath of fresh air, offering a face that is both familiar and striking. It’s not going to win benchmarks or photo contests, but its features have been carefully selected to really address the needs and desires of its target market: people who just love taking selfies and holding their phones almost all day.

The post Vivo V30 Review: Slim, Stylish, Simple first appeared on Yanko Design.

iQOO 12 Review: Checking Most of the Right Boxes, No More, No Less

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PROS:


  • Impressive camera output

  • Outstanding hardware performance

  • Distinctive BMW "Legend" Edition design (not the review unit)

CONS:


  • Low IP64 water resistance

  • Mediocre 16MP front camera

  • Limited global availability

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

Designed for mobile photography and games, the iQOO 12 delivers a solid performance without much fuss or fanfare.

The year is almost over, but it’s never too late to announce new flagship smartphones, especially when there’s a new mobile processor available. Riding on Qualcomm’s momentum, a few phone makers have almost simultaneously revealed their newest wares in a race to be the first and the best. Of course, just because you’re using the latest hardware available in the market doesn’t immediately mean you’re able to deliver the best overall user experience. There are a lot of ingredients that make up the perfect smartphone dish, so we’re taking the new iQOO 12 for a taste test to see if it managed to get the perfect mix or if it just had too much on its plate to leave a positive impression.

Designer: iQOO

Aesthetics

The moment you see the iQOO 12, you will immediately appreciate its elegant design. After that first impression, however, you might suddenly feel like you’ve seen it before, especially with the black “Alpha” edition that we received for this review. Aside from the large and unconventional camera island, the phone’s Fluorite AG glass is quite common. Yes, it has a sandblasted finish that makes it sparkle when viewed from certain angles, but that, too, has been done before. It’s pretty, yes, but nothing to write home about.

On the other hand, the BMW “Legend” Edition is a bit more interesting from a design perspective. It uses a Porcelain Enamel Glass that gives it a unique texture, while the clean white motif endows it with a stylish classic appearance. The engraved signature BMW M Motorsport stripes are tastefully done, clearly marking its identity without being flashy. It has the right balance of branding and minimalism that paints a picture of a truly special design.

Although almost opposite in their appearances, both Alpha and Legend editions share a common design element that you won’t find on any other smartphone. Rather than a square or a circle, the iQOO 12 employs a “squircle” shape that the company describes as a nod to ship portholes that let light in and give a dramatic view of the outside world from within a ship. Of course, it stretches the camera metaphor quite a bit, but its unusual shape still gives the phone a distinctive appearance.

The iQOO 12 Alpha carries a simple and elegant design that gives it an air of being a premium phone. Unfortunately, that doesn’t exactly help it stand out from its peers, especially if you find the “porthole” camera design less appealing. The design won’t win fans, but it probably won’t attract haters either.

Ergonomics

Fluorite AG glass has become a favorite material for smartphones because of how it’s able to avoid smudges. Some are even able to pull off matte textures using it, or at least some semblance of matte texture. In practice, however, it’s still glass and the iQOO 12 feels quite slippery in the hand, regardless of what the marketing material tells you. If you’re not confident with your grip, you’ll probably want to put on the included clear case just for peace of mind.

The iQOO 12 is by no means a thin phone at 8.1mm, nor is it that lightweight at almost 204g. It’s a large slab of metal and glass and you can definitely feel it the moment you hold it in your hand. That means you’ll have to try and grip it harder to ensure a more stable hold, but that also means putting more strain on your hand in the long run. The phone is also a bit top-heavy, which isn’t surprising considering all the parts located there, though that means the position of the fingerprint scanner near the bottom of the screen makes it a little bit precarious to hold.

Performance

The iQOO 12 definitely has all the makings of a high-end smartphone. It is one of if not the first to launch with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and that is paired with fast 16GB LPDDR5X memory and an equally fast 512GB UFS 4.0 storage. Those alone already mean that it can handle any task you throw at it with aplomb. The bright and vibrant 6.78-inch 2800×1260 AMOLED screen with 144Hz refresh rate is great for viewing moving content, both videos as well as games. It’s an all-around powerful workhorse, but it also has a trick up its sleeve.

While some brands have custom processors for photography or AI, iQOO’s Supercomputing Chip Q1 focuses on enhancing display performance without taxing the main Qualcomm processor. Its biggest achievement is boosting frame rates to 144fps to match the screen’s native 144Hz refresh rate for a smoother and more fluid visual experience. Even under all the stress, the phone gets only lightly warm and never too hot, all thanks to a new four-zone vapor cooling chamber.

On the software side, the iQOO 12 runs the latest FuntouchOS 14 that’s already based on the current Android 14 release, and it’s promised to still get three years of Android updates. There is surprisingly little bloatware, although it still exists, and the user experience almost resembles vanilla Android while still offering plenty of customization options. The UI is smooth and responsive, though that should be expected given all the hardware driving it.

1x

1x Night

10x

The phone’s triple camera system is living proof that you shouldn’t judge hardware by their brand. Eschewing the usual Samsung or Sony sensors (except for one), the iQOO 12 was made in collaboration with and showcases the best of what OmniVision has to offer, particularly with the 50MP OV50H main camera and 64MP OV64B telephoto camera with a periscope-style lens. The latter is able to achieve 3x optical zoom and 10x lossless zoom, though iQOO is advertising a 100x digital zoom that, in practice, isn’t really going to wow anyone. The third camera is a 50MP Samsung sensor for ultra-wide shots.

1x

1x Portrait

1x Portrait

10x Night

What all these translate to in practice are impressive images, both during the day and at night. Details are rich and colors are quite vibrant, though they tend to be a bit more saturated by default, as expected. The 10x lossless (a.k.a. hybrid) zoom is surprisingly good, though with the expected loss of detail. Combined with Night Mode, it even makes decent nighttime photos, though that largely depends on the subject as well. Thanks to that same periscope telephoto camera, bokeh or Portrait Mode comes out with pleasing blurs and accurate separation of foreground and background elements. All in all, the iQOO 12 delivers an excellent mobile photography experience, except for the 16MP front camera that brings only the bare minimum to the table.

Ultrawide

1x

3x

10x

Sustainability

The iQOO 12, unfortunately, doesn’t grade well when it comes to sustainable design and longevity. It has your usual assortment of unsustainable materials, and the brand isn’t as aggressive in promoting its eco-friendly strategies as its rivals (unless you consider its parent company, vivo). The phone is also only IP64 rated, which means it has very weak defenses against water and other liquids. Sure, it’s better than nothing, but you’d expect a much better guarantee from a premium phone such as this.

Value

From a holistic perspective, the iQOO 12 is quite a splendid high-end phone. It has the chops to cater to both photography and gaming enthusiasts and has a design that, while simple, is still stylish enough to not look cheap or dated. But no phone exists in isolation, and the iQOO 12’s value will largely depend on the competition.

At the moment, there are very few phones running on the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, but that’s about to change in a month’s time or so. But even now, those few devices, the iQOO 12 included, have very limited availability in the first place. The $600 price tag is tempting but pointless if you can’t buy one that is 100% guaranteed to work on your country’s cellular networks. There’s also the fact that the design, while pleasant, doesn’t have enough pull to make it stand out from the crowd unless you’re able to get the BMW Legend Edition. It’s definitely a strong contender, but not one that might leave a strong, lasting impression.

Verdict

The iQOO 12 feels like it has almost everything. It has the latest specs that breeze through the toughest demands, especially gaming. The cameras are generally impressive under the majority of situations, except for that disappointing 16MP selfie cam. It’s clearly iQOO’s best work yet, but it also feels like it lacks that final punch to knock everyone else out of the ring.

Despite its pleasant minimalist aesthetic, the Alpha Edition’s design is honestly a bit underwhelming. The porthole-inspired camera bump is new to our eyes and ears, but it’s simply just another take on the same old design. In terms of both style and materials, the BMW Legend Edition is far more interesting, though possibly also more limited in supply. Then again, not everyone will be buying phones just for their looks, and the iQOO 12 does make an enticing offer, but soon there will be others that will easily grab the spotlight from it.

The post iQOO 12 Review: Checking Most of the Right Boxes, No More, No Less first appeared on Yanko Design.