As the market for foldable phones becomes increasingly crowded, standing out from the competition is more challenging than ever. However, Tecno’s Phantom V Fold 2 manages to make a bold statement with its standout feature: a massive 5,750 mAh battery, the largest of any foldable phone on the market. This battery capacity surpasses that of popular competitors such as the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Pixel Fold 9 Pro, and Honor Magic V3. With the promise of a full charge in just 49 minutes, Tecno is setting the bar high for battery life in foldable devices.
But battery capacity is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to determining a phone’s overall longevity on a single charge. Factors such as the processor, display, and software optimization also play crucial roles in this equation. Tecno’s decision to utilize the Mediatek Dimensity 9000+ chipset, which is two years old, may raise eyebrows among tech enthusiasts who expected a more cutting-edge processor in the V Fold 2.
In addition to its impressive battery, the Phantom V Fold 2 boasts a total of four cameras – three on the rear and one on the inner display. While some competing foldable phones offer more cameras, the V Fold 2’s camera setup is still capable of delivering solid performance in various lighting conditions. However, the front-facing camera may be a weak point, as early testing revealed issues with accuracy and detail in selfie shots.
Doesn’t this look like a regular phone from the front?
While the V Fold 2 may lack certain premium features such as an IP rating for water and dust resistance and extended Android OS upgrade support, it makes up for it with AI-enabled functionality and stylus support. Tecno’s commitment to affordability is evident in the expected pricing, which is anticipated to be lower than competitors in the foldable phone space.
Tecno’s strategic positioning in the smartphone market has allowed the brand to carve out a niche for itself, despite not being as well-known as industry giants like Apple or Samsung. With a focus on innovation, Tecno continues to push boundaries with standout devices like the Phantom V Fold 2. This commitment to differentiation was showcased recently with the introduction of a concept trifoldable phone featuring a 10.2-inch screen.
Design
The design of the Phantom V Fold 2 reflects a fresh approach, with a rectangular camera module replacing the previous circular design. Collaborations with luxury brands like Loewe have influenced the aesthetic of the device, resulting in a sleek and modern appearance. Despite its lightweight construction, the V Fold 2 feels substantial in hand, offering a comfortable grip and a familiar experience when navigating the device with just the cover screen.
![phantom-v-fold-2-6977](https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/2139145e5929361ebe1f60fec8e1ddf7b0759a86/hub/2024/09/13/82862284-f95c-4016-b1ad-357ba125c7cc/phantom-v-fold-2-6977.jpg?auto=webp&width=1200)
Close up of said camera bump, which houses three cameras.
Camera
The camera setup on the Phantom V Fold 2 includes a 50-megapixel main camera, a 50-megapixel ultrawide camera, and a 12-megapixel telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom capability. In testing, the main camera produced color-accurate and sharp images across a range of lighting scenarios. However, the selfie camera struggled to capture accurate and detailed shots, particularly in well-lit conditions.
![hong kong buildings and scenery](https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/f648340c926c168e506504d31c408e51a329111a/hub/2024/09/13/b5eadc15-05c3-4d0e-a318-088614e8bac0/img-20240909-180749-663.jpg?auto=webp&width=1200)
Ultra-wide example
Foldable phones face challenges in camera performance due to space constraints, which can impact image sensor size and lens quality. While the V Fold 2’s camera array may not match the specs of some competitors, it manages to deliver respectable results overall. However, improvements to the selfie camera may be necessary to compete with flagship devices.
Early Thoughts
Overall, the Tecno Phantom V Fold 2 presents a compelling option in the foldable phone market, with its standout features and strategic positioning. While it may not boast all the premium bells and whistles of top-tier devices, it offers a balance of performance and affordability that could appeal to a wide range of consumers. As Tecno continues to innovate and expand its presence in the global smartphone landscape, the Phantom V Fold 2 serves as a testament to the brand’s commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo.
Phantom V Fold 2 vs. Competing Foldables
Cover display size, tech, resolution, refresh rate6.42-inch OLED, FHD+ resolution6.3-inch AMOLED; 2,376×968 pixels; 1-120Hz variable refresh rate6.3-inch OLED; 2,424 x 1,080 pixels; 60-120 Hz variable refresh rate6.31-inch OLED; 2,484×1,116 pixels; 10-120Hz variable refresh rate
Internal display size, tech, resolution, refresh rate7.85-inch OLED, 2K+, supports stylus7.6-inch AMOLED; 2,160×1,856 pixels;1-120Hz variable refresh rate8-inch OLED; 2,152 x 2,076 pixels, 1-120 Hz variable refresh rate (LTPO)7.82-inch OLED; 2,440 x 2,268 pixels; 1-120Hz variable refresh rate
Pixel density N/A
Cover: 410 ppi; Internal: 374 ppiCover: 422 ppi; Internal: 373 ppiCover: 431 ppi; Internal: 426 ppi
Dimensions (inches)Open: 6.04×5.21 x0.22 in; Closed: 6.04×2.68×0.48 inOpen: 6.1 x 5.9 x 0.2 in; Closed: 6.1 x 3 x 0.4 inOpen: 6.04 x 5.63 x 0.23 in; Closed: 6.04 x 2.89 x 0.47 inDimensions (millimeters) Open: 140.35 x 159 x 5.52mm Closed: 72.16 x 159 x 11.78 mmOpen: 153.5×132.5×5.6mm; Closed: 153.5×68.1×12.1mmOpen: 155 x 150 x 5.1 mm; Closed: 155 x 76.2 x 10.16 mm
Weight (grams, ounces)249g239g (8.43 oz)257g (9.1 oz)Voyager black: 239g (8.43 oz ); emerald green: 245g (8.64 oz)
Mobile softwareAndroid 14Android 14Android 14Android 13
Camera50-megapixel (main), 50-megapixel (ultra-wide), 12-megapixel (telephoto)50-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultrawide), 10-megapixel (3x telephoto)48-megapixel (wide), 10.5-megapixel (ultrawide), 10.8-megapixel (5x telephoto)48-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 64-megapixel (3x telephoto)
Front-facing camera32-megapixel4-megapixel (inner screen under-display); 10-megapixel (cover screen) 10-megapixel (inner screen); 10-megapixel (cover screen)20-megapixel (inner screen); 32-megapixel (cover screen)
Video capture8K4K4K
ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 9000+Snapdragon 8 Gen 3Tensor G4Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
RAM/storage12GB + 256GB12GB + 256GB, 512GB, 1TB16GB + 256GB, 512GB16GB + 512GB
Expandable storageNoneNoneNoneNone
Battery5,750 mAh4,400 mAh4,650 mAh4,805 mAh
Fingerprint sensorSideSideSideSide
ConnectorUSB-CUSB-CUSB-CUSB-C
Headphone jackNoneNoneNoneNone
Special features70W wired charging, 15W wireless, Wi-Fi 6, stylus supportIP48 rating, 25W wired charging, wireless charging + powershare, 3x optical zoom (up to 10x digital and 30x Space Zoom with AI Super Resolution tech)IPX8 rating, 7 years of OS, security and Pixel Drop updates, Satellite SOS, Wi-Fi 7, ultra wideband chip, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 cover and back glass, cover screen peek brightness 2,700 nits, internal screen peek brightness 2,700 nits, 45W wired fast charging (Charger not included), Qi-certified, free Google VPN, Super Res Zoom, Add Me, Face Unblur, Made You Look, Magic Editor, Magic Eraser, Best Take, Video Boost, 5G (sub-6 only), alert slider, IPX4 rating, IR blaster, 67W fast wired charging with charger included in the boxUS price starts at N/A$1,900 (256GB)$1,799 (256GB)$1,700 (512GB)
In conclusion, the Tecno Phantom V Fold 2 represents a compelling option in the foldable phone market, offering a unique combination of features and affordability. While it may not be the most cutting-edge device on the market, it succeeds in delivering a solid user experience at a more accessible price point. As Tecno continues to innovate and expand its product lineup, the Phantom V Fold 2 serves as a promising indicator of the brand’s potential to disrupt the smartphone industry.
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