NIO Phone Review: Why shouldn’t you buy it?

Unveiling a groundbreaking paradigm shift in the realm of smartphones, the Nio Phone, officially announced on September 21, 2023, and swiftly released on the same day, stands as a pinnacle of technological ingenuity and design finesse. Representing a fusion of cutting-edge innovation and exquisite craftsmanship, this flagship device from an undisclosed manufacturer redefines the expectations we hold for contemporary mobile technology.

Design and Build

The Nio Phone boasts a design that reflects sophistication and durability. It embraces a sleek and compact profile. The device is equipped with dual SIM capability (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by) and an impressive IP68 dust/water resistance rating, allowing it to withstand submersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.

Display

The Nio Phone features a stunning 6.81-inch LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and support for HDR10+, delivering vibrant visuals and smooth user interactions. With a resolution of 1440 x 3088 pixels and a 19.3:9 ratio (~500 ppi density), the display ensures a delightful viewing experience. The peak brightness of 1800 nits enhances visibility even in challenging lighting conditions.

Performance and Operating System

Powered by the Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset (4 nm), the Nio Phone delivers exceptional performance. The octa-core CPU, consisting of Cortex-X3, Cortex-A715, Cortex-A710, and Cortex-A510 cores, is complemented by the Adreno 740 GPU, ensuring seamless multitasking and impressive graphics performance. Running on the innovative SkyUI, the phone promises a user-friendly and intuitive interface.

Storage and Memory

The Nio Phone eliminates the need for external storage with its generous internal options. Users can choose from configurations of 512GB storage with 12GB RAM, or opt for the expansive 1TB storage with either 12GB or 16GB RAM, all utilizing the high-speed UFS 4.0 technology.

Camera System

The triple-camera setup on the rear of the Nio Phone is a photography powerhouse. It includes a 50 MP wide lens, a 50 MP periscope telephoto lens with 2.8x optical zoom, and a 50 MP ultrawide lens capturing wide-angle shots. The features such as Ring-LED flash, HDR, and panorama enhance the photography experience. The device supports 4K video recording at 30/60fps and 1080p at 30/60/120fps with gyro-EIS for smooth footage.

Selfie Camera

While details about the selfie camera are limited, its presence ensures users can capture high-quality self-portraits and engage in video calls with clarity.

Audio and Connectivity

The Nio Phone is equipped with a powerful loudspeaker for an immersive audio experience. However, it omits the 3.5mm jack. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and an infrared port, covering a wide range of communication and connectivity needs.

Battery and Charging

A robust 5200 mAh non-removable Li-Po battery powers the Nio Phone. The device supports 66W wired charging with PD3.0 and QC4, ensuring a swift charging experience. Additionally, the phone supports 50W wireless charging and 10W reverse wired charging, offering users flexibility in their charging preferences.

Additional Features

The Nio Phone includes a range of sensors such as an under-display optical fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, proximity sensor, gyro, and compass, contributing to a comprehensive user experience.

Color Variants

The Nio Phone is available in a palette of elegant colors, including Black, Gray, Pink, Gold, Green, Blue, and Dark Blue, catering to diverse style preferences.

Pros

  • Display Quality:
    • Pro: LTPO OLED with 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ ensures a stunning and smooth visual experience.
    • Pro: High peak brightness of 1800 nits enhances outdoor visibility.
  • Performance:
    • Pro: Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, providing robust performance for multitasking and demanding applications.
  • Storage Options:
    • Pro: Ample internal storage options of 512GB with 12GB RAM and 1TB with 12GB/16GB RAM cater to users with high storage needs.
  • Camera System:
    • Pro: Advanced triple-camera setup with three 50 MP lenses, including a periscope telephoto lens, promises high-quality and versatile photography.
    • Pro: 4K video recording at 30/60fps and various video recording options provide flexibility for capturing content.
  • Build and Durability:
    • Pro: IP68 dust/water resistance ensures protection against dust and water exposure.
  • Battery and Charging:
    • Pro: Large 5200 mAh battery capacity for extended usage.
    • Pro: Fast charging capabilities with 66W wired and 50W wireless charging options.
  • Connectivity:
    • Pro: Comprehensive connectivity options, including 5G support, NFC, and multiple positioning systems (GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS).
  • Design:
    • Pro: Sleek and modern design with a variety of color options.

Cons

  • Display Size:
    • Con: Some users may find the 6.81-inch display size large and less comfortable for one-handed use.
  • No Expandable Storage:
    • Con: Lack of a card slot for expandable storage may be a limitation for users who prefer additional storage flexibility.
  • No 3.5mm Jack:
    • Con: Absence of a 3.5mm headphone jack might inconvenience users who prefer wired audio devices.
  • Software:
    • Con: Limited information about the SkyUI operating system may raise questions about software features and updates.
  • Weight:
    • Con: The weight of the device is not specified, and it might be heavier due to the large battery.
  • No Radio:
    • Con: The absence of an FM radio might disappoint users who enjoy listening to radio broadcasts.

In summary, the Nio Phone emerges as a flagship device that seamlessly integrates advanced technology, an impressive camera system, and a stylish design. Whether you are capturing life’s moments, enjoying multimedia content, or simply staying connected, the Nio Phone appears poised to redefine the smartphone experience.

Related Articles