We were able to catch a glimpse of the Chinese smartphone maker Tecno's push for the flip phone market: the new Phantom V Flip 5G. And it certainly has its charm. 

The only problem? We're not sure if it's ever coming here. Tecno weren't keen to say anything beyond that India is the first confirmed market. Anyhoo, let's see if this is even worth keeping in mind to begin with. 

At the heart of the Phantom V Flip 5G lies a powerful 64MP+13MP+32MP camera system, where the highlight is the 64MP RGBW Ultra Sensitive camera sensor with 1.6μm (4in1) pixels.

The sensor supposedly allows for 60 per cent more light intake, reduced noise, and impeccable colour accuracy. Aside from the relatively rare pixel format, this is also the highest-resolution camera on the market for flip phones. 

On top of that, the main camera has an f/1.7 aperture and is imbued with PDAF, ISOCELL Pixel Isolation and Pixel Fusion Algorithm tech. Tecno says it enables the phone to perform well even in the darkest environments. Flip phones are typically a rung below for camera performance, so perhaps this might be the push needed to kick things up a notch.

Complementing the main camera is a 13MP Ultra-Wide Angle Camera and a 32MP Dual-flash Autofocus Front Camera with an integrated Micro-slit Dual-flash. Coupled with a Super Flashlight algorithm and Automatic Eye-focus, the selfie camera can accurately track subjects and light them with the correct exposure.

There's also an interesting sounding feature where the main and wide-angle camera output are combined for a wide-angled shot with excellent centre sharpness and detail.

And just like its peers, the Phantom V Flip 5G can also be angled; in this case, it can operate from 30-150˚ for more creative shots. The camera can also be controlled via gestures and voice control.

Catches the eye-and captivates the nose?

The Phantom V Flip 5G sports what Tecno calls a cosmic-inspired aesthetic: "The Planet" round cover screen is designed to evoke the mysteries of outer space. At the same time, the "Asteroid Belt"-shaped camera module is integrated into the screen.

It sounds really sci-fi, but the lychee-pattern classic leather trim changes everything. You get a luxurious feel and more of a fashion vibe, thanks in part to the colours: Mystic Dawn (blue) and Iconic Black.

Tecno also showed off a variety of case housings to emphasise the potential for accessorise. Compared to the other flip phones released this year, the Phantom V Flip 5G is undoubtedly the flashiest, and it's also pretty tasteful.

The phone is a smidge larger than the Flip 5, but for all intents and purposes, they have a similar form factor. The cover screen is miles apart, though-whereas the Samsung Flip 5 Oppo Find N2 Flip embraced larger secondary displays, Tecno has opted to go with a striking, centrally placed 1.32" AMOLED screen, designed to be controlled with the thumb. The display can also showcase customisable emojis and 3D interactive pets that can deliver notifications.

The phone measures 6.9" across when fully open, and Tecno claims a creaseless design with its drop-shaped hinge, which has been tested up to 200,000 folds with less than 0.11 mm crease appearing. And it certainly does look decent enough.

But in a rather unusual move that defies convention, Tecno will introduce fragranced protective cases for the Phantom V Flip 5G. Fragrant microcapsules are integrated into the leather during the production process and will release a subtle scent through pressure, friction, or natural diffusion.

Scents range from Rose to Sea Shore and Cologne and are a nice touch for those who love a little bit of elegance. The aromas are said to last over a year under everyday use. 

How's the hardware

The Phantom V Flip 5G uses a Dimensity 8050 5G SoC, which is somewhat similar to a Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G. In terms of battery, the 4000mAh battery is reasonably sized for a Flip phone; the phone also supports a 45W quick charge.

The stock configuration is 8GB RAM and 256GB ROM, and the phone supports memory expansion of up to 8 GB (essentially 8GB + 8GB).

It uses the new HiOS 13.5 operating system based on Android 13 and is optimised for flip phones. It also has a chatbot personal assistant — ELLAGPT — built-in.

As mentioned, it's currently only confirmed for India at a price of INR49,999 (S$821/RM2,817) — I guess they want to see global reaction before deciding their next move.

This isn't a bad phone, given the specs, and the price alone will undoubtedly appeal to those who want to get their feet wet diving into the realm of flip phones.

ALSO READ: iPhone 15 and 15 Plus: New camera and Dynamic Island feature

This article was first published in Potions.sg.