Poco, initially launched as Xiaomi's sub-brand for affordable mid-range smartphones, is now making a bold foray into the premium smartphone market with the introduction of its flagship devices, the F8 Ultra and F8 Pro. The unveiling event took place in Bali, and the brand aims to differentiate itself in a competitive landscape through unique sound design and aesthetics.
The F8 series benefits from a partnership with Bose, renowned for its audio technology. The collaboration has led to stereo speakers that have been fine-tuned by Bose, particularly enhancing the listening experience. The F8 Ultra model steps up this innovation by incorporating a built-in subwoofer, a relatively rare feature even among high-end smartphones. This addition aims to deliver deeper bass and enhanced sound quality, catering to users who enjoy gaming, streaming shows, and listening to music on their devices without requiring external speakers.
When it comes to hardware, the Poco F8 Ultra shines with a 6.9-inch OLED display and runs on Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, the latest in flagship chip technology. Enhancements also include Poco's VisionBoost D8 chipset, which utilizes AI Super Resolution, alongside the new HyperRGB display technology that optimally utilizes red, green, and blue subpixels for improved image clarity. The device sports a triple-camera setup featuring 50-megapixel sensors, reinforcing its position among high-tier smartphones, while supporting wireless charging technology.
One of the F8 Ultra's notable attributes is its large 6500 mAh battery, the biggest ever seen in a Poco F series device. This specification is designed for users who engage in extensive gaming sessions or streaming activities without frequent battery depletion. The design aspect of Poco's flagship embraces a more playful approach. The standout Denim version of the F8 Ultra creates an illusion of denim fabric on the back, utilizing a unique nanotech material by Xiaomi that mimics the visual effects of jeans without the disadvantages of real fabric wear and tear.
The Poco F8 Pro, positioned just below its Ultra counterpart, still aims to deliver a flagship experience. Featuring a 6.59-inch display with a softer micro-curved design, it uses last year's Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, suitable for daily use and gaming but not as high-performing as the Ultra. The Pro model houses a 6210 mAh battery capable of lasting up to 16 hours of use, emphasizing battery longevity as a critical feature.
Both models maintain core features, including IP68 ratings for dust and water resistance, and operate on Xiaomi’s HyperOS 3, ensuring a seamless user experience for those familiar with Xiaomi or Poco products. Additionally, both phones benefit from Bose-tuned stereo speakers, notwithstanding the F8 Ultra's enhanced audio capabilities with its built-in subwoofer.
Pricing reflects Poco's strategy to balance its value-oriented origins with ambitions in the premium market segment. The F8 Pro starts at USD 579 for the 12 GB + 256 GB model and peaks at USD 629 for the 12 GB + 512 GB variant. Meanwhile, the F8 Ultra begins at USD 729 for the 12 GB + 256 GB version, going up to USD 799 for the highest spec model. Early bird offers are available, lowering the prices to USD 529 for the F8 Pro and USD 679 for the F8 Ultra.
In summary, the launch of the F8 Ultra and F8 Pro marks a significant evolution for Poco as it pivots from being known as a budget-focused brand to a contender in the premium smartphone arena. With its innovative audio collaboration, distinctive design, and an emphasis on performance, Poco is poised to carve out a niche while maintaining its commitment to value.