Great news for budget smartphone fans: Oppo’s latest release, the Reno 12 Pro 5G, is set to challenge the Google Pixel 8a for the title of the best affordable AI phone of 2024.
Announced at Oppo’s A.Island event in Ibiza on June 18, the Reno 12 Pro 5G offers advanced AI features in a sleek design for £499. Priced similarly to the Pixel 8a, the Reno 12 Pro 5G adds unique design and AI capabilities, making it a strong contender in the mid-range phone market.
The Oppo Reno 12 Pro 5G
The Reno 12 Pro 5G stands out with its “Infinite View Screen” — a 6.7-inch AMOLED display that subtly wraps around all four sides of the device. This design merges the immersive experience of a curved screen with the practicality and durability of a flat one.
Protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, the same material used on premium phones like the Samsung Galaxy S24, this display is built to last. The phone also features IP65 dust and water resistance.
Powerful Specs
Under the hood, the Reno 12 Pro 5G is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset and a 5,000mAh battery, ensuring it can handle demanding tasks and stay powered throughout the day.
The camera setup is impressive too, with a 50MP main camera, a 50MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, and a 50MP selfie camera. This versatile array of cameras is designed to deliver high-quality photos in various settings.
AI Features: Advanced Technology for All
What truly sets the Reno 12 Pro 5G apart is its AI features. Oppo is on a mission to make advanced AI accessible to everyone. These features are available subscription-free, bringing high-end technology to a broader audience.
The AI Eraser lets users remove unwanted objects or people from photos with a simple tap. The AI Clear Face feature enhances facial features and removes blemishes automatically.
AI Best Face can detect closed eyes in photos and “reopen” them for a perfect shot. AI Studio allows users to apply various artistic styles, such as manga or cartoon filters, to their photos using generative AI.
Productivity Boost with Google Gemini
For productivity, the Reno 12 Pro 5G includes Google Gemini-based assistive features like AI Write, AI Speak, and AI Summary. These tools use Google’s advanced language models to understand on-screen content and suggest useful features.
Whether rephrasing an email or summarizing a voice recording, these AI capabilities are designed to simplify daily tasks.
Comparing with the Google Pixel 8a
The Google Pixel 8a, also priced at £499, has been a strong contender in the affordable AI phone market with its solid performance and impressive camera quality. However, the Reno 12 Pro 5G brings a fresh perspective with its innovative design and a wider range of AI features, which might give it an edge over the Pixel 8a.
Design and Build Quality
The Pixel 8a follows a more traditional design approach, whereas the Reno 12 Pro 5G stands out with its Infinite View Screen, providing an almost bezel-less experience. Combined with its sturdy build quality and premium materials like Gorilla Glass Victus 2, the Reno 12 Pro 5G is both visually appealing and durable.
AI Features in Depth
The AI capabilities of the Reno 12 Pro 5G are extensive. AI Eraser and AI Clear Face offer advanced photo-editing tools that make enhancing images quick and easy. AI Studio’s artistic filters open up new creative possibilities, allowing users to transform their photos seamlessly.
The productivity features powered by Google Gemini, such as AI Write and AI Summary, streamline daily tasks, making the Reno 12 Pro 5G a powerful tool for both personal and professional use.
Practical Implications
The release of the Reno 12 Pro 5G highlights Oppo’s commitment to making advanced technology accessible. By offering these AI features without a subscription fee, Oppo ensures that users can enjoy cutting-edge technology without breaking the bank.
This approach is likely to appeal to a wide range of consumers, from tech enthusiasts to everyday users looking for a reliable and feature-rich smartphone.
Market Impact
As the Reno 12 Pro 5G enters the market, it poses a significant challenge to the Google Pixel 8a. With its competitive pricing and extensive feature set, it has the potential to attract users looking for a high-performing, affordable smartphone with advanced AI capabilities.
This could increase competition in the budget phone segment, ultimately benefiting consumers with more choices and better features at lower prices.
Conclusion
The Oppo Reno 12 Pro 5G is set to make a significant impact in the affordable AI phone market. Its combination of innovative design, powerful specifications, and extensive AI features offers a compelling alternative to the Google Pixel 8a.
By making advanced technology accessible and affordable, Oppo positions the Reno 12 Pro 5G as a strong contender for the best cheap AI phone of 2024.
We’re currently testing the Reno 12 Pro 5G, and our full review will provide a deeper dive into its performance and features. If you’re eager to experience this innovative handset for yourself, pre-orders are now open on Oppo.com, with shipping starting on June 28, 2024.
Although it won’t be available in the US, the Reno 12 Pro 5G is set to make waves in other markets, offering a fresh and exciting option for budget-conscious consumers looking for a powerful, AI-driven smartphone.