Just when we thought the vertical folding phone could not get any cheaper with the PHANTOM V Flip, ZTE Corporation launched a new flip phone called Libero Flip for an even more impossible price: 39,800 yen, which is around US$269 according to the current going rate. US$269! A folding phone! Imagine that! But obviously, there is going to be a catch.
The price is after a 37% pre-order [JP] discount which means the original price is 63,000 yen, or about US$426, which is still cheaper than the PHANTOM V Flip, btw. There is another catch. But before you get all ga-ga, thinking you can finally afford a folding phone, you ought to know it is a Japan exclusive. Plus, the price is valid only with a contract plan.
The ZTE Libero Flip [JP] is a 5G foldable smartphone available through SoftBank’s Y!Mobile [JP]. It was launched on February 29, 2024, in Japan but the pre-order campaign started way before on February 19. To celebrate the launch, a special campaign offers a free ring-equipped case from over 2,000 designs to all buyers who apply through a dedicated page.
The Libero Flip is not a flagship device by any means but it is no slouch in the specs either. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 chip albeit with a modest storage of just 128 GB.
Like a device of this nature, it features a compact design that fits in the palm of your hand but opens up to a large 6.9-inch display screen. At a glance, it does look a little like the PHANTOM V Flip but it has squared-off sides, and a smaller and offset circular second display bump which is home to a dual camera system.
The secondary display is a 1.43-inch screen that allows users to check notifications and answer calls when folded. The phone boasts high-quality cameras: a dual-camera setup with approximately 50 MP and 2 MP, and a 16 MP front camera, enabling high-definition photo and video captures.
As with most vertical fold phones, it can stand on its own when folded halfway for easy shooting and supports gesture controls for timer shots, making it convenient for selfies and group photos. However, there is a limitation on the opening angles. The camera’s bending angle is designed to be between 60 and 110 degrees. Additionally, you can launch the camera from the sub-display when folded.
The Libero Flip includes convenient and secure features such as mobile wallet (FeliCa) compatibility, 33W fast charging, and a call recording function to warn and record during calls for scam and nuisance call prevention. It also supports a Simple Mode for easy access to frequently used numbers and apps.
A little note about the charging… while it does support quick charging, supporting Quick Charge 4+ and USB Power Delivery 3.0 (up to 33W), it will require a compatible charger and cable. That means it does not come with a power adapter and neither is there a cable. But hey, it is affordable, isn’t it? And so…
Images: ZTE [JP].
via Hardwarezone.
