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Unboxing the Zenfone 12 Ultra: A Hands-on Review

Feb 06, 2025

Author: ASUS    Reading time: 5 minutes

a man holding an ASUS Zenfone 12 Ultra (Sage Green), standing in front of a bookshelf.

Feb 06, 2025

The Zenfone 12 Ultra has landed, promising cutting-edge features, a sleek design, and unparalleled performance. Here’s a detailed hands-on review to uncover what makes this flagship smartphones a standout.

First Impressions

From the moment you open the box, the Zenfone 12 Ultra makes an impression. ASUS has embraced eco-friendly packaging, using FSC-certified materials — a small but meaningful step toward sustainability. Inside, everything is neatly arranged: the sleek phones, a USB-C cable, a protective case, and documentation.

The phones itself is sleek. Its silky matte glass back and ultra-narrow bezels scream elegance, while the ergonomic design makes it feel like it belongs in your hand. The colors — Sage Green, Ebony Black, and Sakura White — add personality, whether you’re after sophistication or something playful. It’s light yet solid, a device you’ll want to show off.

Zenfone 12 Ultra Design and Build Quality

The Zenfone 12 Ultra isn’t just pretty to look at; it’s also built to last. Its IP68 water and dust resistance offers peace of mind, whether you’re caught in the rain or dealing with life’s inevitable spills. The use of recycled aluminum for the frame and 22% recycled glass for the screen is a win for both durability and the environment.

That matte finish on the back? It’s not just for looks. It’s fingerprint-resistant and feels luxurious. The camera module blends seamlessly into the back design, avoiding the awkward bump that plagues many smartphoness. Rounded corners and ultra-narrow bezels complete the modern, sophisticated look.

Zenfone 12 Ultra Display and Audio

a man’s hand holding an ASUS Zenfone 12 Ultra, while looking at the display which depicts a bonfire at a beach

The 6.78-inch AMOLED display is jaw-dropping. With a peak brightness of 2500 nits, it’s effortlessly readable even in direct sunlight. Whether you’re scrolling, or binge-watching your favorite shows, the buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rate (144Hz for gaming) ensures every motion is flawless.

Colors pop with 107% DCI-P3 color gamut support — perfect for anyone who edits photos or videos on their phones. Pair that with dual stereo speakers tuned by Dirac Virtuo™ and OZO Audio™, and you’ve got a portable cinema in your pocket. For audiophiles, the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphones jack and support for Hi-Res Wireless Audio are thoughtful touches that feel like a warm hug from ASUS.

Zenfone 12 Ultra Performance and Software

This phones doesn’t just look good; it’s a powerhouse. At its core is the Qualcomm® Snapdragon® 8 Elite processor, offering a 40% boost in AI capabilities. Whether you’re gaming, multitasking, or editing, the Zenfone 12 Ultra keeps up without breaking a sweat.

The up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage ensure there’s plenty of room for your apps, photos, and files. ZenUI, ASUS’s custom interface based on androids, is intuitive and brimming with features that make everyday tasks easier. From real-time transcription to document summarization, the AI-driven tools are like having a personal assistant at your fingertips.

To know more about the device’s AI capabilities, check out: AI phones Transforming Daily Life Like Never Before.

Zenfone 12 Ultra Camera Review

a woman holding an ASUS Zenfone 12 while running after her dog to capture his antics on video

If you’re interested in photography, the Zenfone 12 Ultra is your dream companion. The main 50MP Sony Lytia® 700 sensors, paired with a 6-Axis Hybrid Gimbal Stabilizer 4.0, delivers stunningly stable shots even when you’re on the move. It’s a game-changer for vloggers and action shots.

The 32MP telephoto lens offers 3x optical zoom, and the AI HyperClarity feature ensures your close-ups are crisp and detailed. The 13MP ultra-wide lens captures expansive scenes with ease, while the 32MP front camera ensures your selfies shine — even in low light.

Here are some standout camera features:

  • AI Tracking: Keeps your subject perfectly framed, whether it’s a pet, a child, or a street performer.
  • AI Portrait Video 2.0: Adds dramatic bokeh effects, turning everyday moments into cinematic gems.
  • AI Magic Fill: Removes distractions from your photos seamlessly.
  • AI Unblur: Restores clarity to blurry shots, making memories sharper.
  • AI HyperClarity: Elevates zoomed-in shots with unparalleled detail.

The ASUS Zenfone 12 Ultra can also be your ideal travel companion. Click on the following article to learn more: Zenfone 12 Ultra AI Camera Capturing Stunning Travel.

Zenfone 12 Ultra Battery Life and Charging

a man smiling and looking at his ASUS Zenfone 12 Ultra (Sage Green)

The Zenfone 12 Ultra’s 5500mAh battery is a beast. Whether you’re glued to social media, streaming movies, or gaming, it’ll last all day. ASUS’s 65W HyperCharge tech gets you from 0% to 70% in just 30 minutes — perfect for busy mornings. Plus, the 15W wireless charging and reverse charging options make it as versatile as you are.

Want specifics? The battery powers up to 22.6 hours of social media browsing, 21.1 hours of streaming, or 14.1 hours of web surfing. Impressive, right?

Zenfone 12 Ultra 5G Connectivity and Features

Fast internet? Check. The Zenfone 12 Ultra supports Wi-Fi 7 and 5G, ensuring you stay connected wherever you go. eSIM support adds flexibility for travelers, while PC integration features like Microsoft® phones Link and Qualcomm® Seamless Experience make it easy to switch between work and play.

Conclusion

The Zenfone 12 Ultra is more than a phones; it’s a statement. From its stunning design to its powerhouse performance, it feels like ASUS has thought of everything. The eco-friendly materials, AI-driven tools, and robust battery life make it a perfect companion for modern life.

Whether you’re a creator capturing your next masterpiece, a professional needing productivity on the go, or just someone who loves a beautiful, reliable phones, the Zenfone 12 Ultra has something for everyone. It’s not just a flagship smartphones — it’s the benchmark for what a flagship should be. If you’re in the market for a device that excels in every category, this one deserves a place in your pocket.

Discover the ASUS Zenfone 12 Ultra