It seems that ASUS will retain the flip-camera design on one of its ZenFone 8 variants. The model could be launched as the ZenFone 8 Pro or, more aptly, be called the ZenFone 8 Flip. The flip-camera allows users to keep a consistent picture quality when it comes to selfies. The base ZenFone 8 is scheduled for release on May 12th, 2021.
The ZenFone 8 Flip Is One of the Last Flagships to Use a Flip-Camera
Considering that no other major manufacturer includes a flip up camera design on its flagships, the ASUS ZenFone 8 could very well be one of the last smartphones to feature one. ASUS had previously used the flip-camera module on the ZenFone 7 and ZenFone 6Z.
According to a report by 91Mobiles, renders of the ZenFone 8 Flip reveal that it will house the same 180 degree flip mechanism using ASUS' "powerful stepper motor." Just like the ZenFone 7, the ZenFone 8 Flip will probably include an angle sensor for a more precise control over the flip angle.
Due to the flip-camera design, the ZenFone 8 Flip will have an edge-to-edge display without a notch. This will definitely add to the visual appeal of the smartphone as there will be no obstruction on the display whatsoever.
Coming to the actual camera, the ZenFone 8 Flip features a 64MP main sensor, an 8MP telephoto lens, and a 12MP macro lens. The report doesn't divulge any other details about the actual camera except the fact that it may support 8K recording features.
The ZenFone 8 Flip Comes With a 90Hz Display
Considering it's a flagship, the ZenFone 8 Flip will come with a 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED display. The refresh rate will be 90Hz which, when compared to other flagships in the market, does seem a little underwhelming.
Powering the phone is a 5000 mAh battery with 30W fast charging. Under its hood, the ASUS ZenFone 8 packs a Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 SoC, and it will have 8 GB RAM with 256 GB of internal memory. While the report doesn't mention it, it is highly likely that users will be able to choose between different storage sizes.
At 230 grams, the weight is a bit on the higher side, but that can be attributed to the additional hardware required for the flip-camera.
The ASUS ZenFone 8 Will Feature a Traditional Camera
ASUS plans to launch two models of the ZenFone 8, one being the base model and the other the Flip model.
In addition to housing a traditional camera design, the base ZenFone 8 is also much smaller than the ZenFone 8 Flip. It will reportedly rock a 5.92 FHD+ display with likely the same 90Hz refresh rate. Due to its smaller dimensions and the absence of a flip-camera, it also weighs much less, at 170 grams.
The chipset, however, remains the same—a Snapdragon 888. This will be paired with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage. The dual camera at the back will have a 12MP macro sensor along with a 64MP primary sensor.
While many users will appreciate the flip-camera design, the weight trade off could put off some people. In addition, users who prefer smaller phones will definitely go with the base ZenFone 8.