Asus continues to refine its smartphone strategy. They offer clear lines for different audiences. The ROG Phone series targets hardcore gamers. The Zenfone family aims for wider appeal. The latest example is the Asus Zenfone 12 Ultra. It attests to this philosophy. It packs flagship-level hardware and refined design. However, Asus's software support policy remains a consideration.
Following last year's Zenfone 11 Ultra, and with no non-Ultra model this time, the Zenfone 12 Ultra presents a convincing package. It appeals to those seeking performance and premium aesthetics outside of the gaming-centric realm.
Design and Build: A Refined Aesthetic
One key highlight of the Zenfone 12 Ultra is its design refresh. Clutter is gone. Asus has adopted a cleaner, more sophisticated look compared to its predecessor. Key design elements include:
- Streamlined Camera Island: A smaller, less pronounced camera module on the rear.
- Matte Glass Back: Ditching geometric patterns for a silky smooth, fingerprint-resistant finish.
- Recycled Materials: Frame made from 100% recycled aluminum, and screen using 22% recycled glass.
- Color Options: Available in Sage Green, Ebony Black, and Sakura White.
- IP68 Rating: Continuing dust and water resistance.
The flat frame design remains. It offers a modern and comfortable in-hand feel. The use of recycled materials is a welcome touch, aligning with environmental consciousness.
Display and Performance: Top-Tier Specs
The Zenfone 12 Ultra does not compromise on internal specifications. It boasts impressive features in line with other 2025 flagships:
- Display: 6.78-inch FHD+ Samsung AMOLED LTPO panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, up to 144Hz for gaming, and 2,500 nits peak brightness.
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite – guaranteeing peak performance and efficiency.
- Memory and Storage: 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB fast UFS 4.0 storage.
This configuration should result in flawless performance. It is capable of running demanding tasks and graphically heavy games with ease.
Camera System: Familiar Territory
The Zenfone 12 Ultra houses a multi-capable camera. It echoes the previous generation's layout:
- Main Camera: 50MP Sony Lytia 700 sensor, with Asus's 6-axis hybrid gimbal stabilization (version 4.0).
- Ultrawide Camera: 13MP sensor, with a 120° field of view.
- Telephoto Camera: 32MP sensor w/ OIS and 3x optical zoom.
- Front Camera: 32MP RGBW sensor for selfies and video calls.
The hardware is capable. However, the camera upgrades from the previous generation are not substantial.
Software and AI: Promising Features, Lingering Concerns
The Zenfone 12 Ultra launches with Android 15. It integrates on-device AI features, powered by the Meta Llama 3 8B language model. Asus emphasizes local operation for data privacy. Software support remains a concern. Asus offers only two OS upgrades. Security updates are promised well into 2030. This short-term OS upgrade commitment is a disadvantage compared to competitors offering longer software support cycles.
Battery, Connectivity, and Pricing
The Zenfone 12 Ultra also features:
- Battery: 5,500mAh with 65W fast wired charging and Qi 1.3 wireless charging. (Charger likely not included).
- Connectivity: Audio jack, stereo speakers, dual nano-SIM slots, and Wi-Fi 7.
- Price: €1,099 starting price in Europe (€100 launch discount until February 28th).
