A Compact Flagship: The Small Wonder with Big Potential
The newest model in the highly coveted series of smartphones has been critiqued for its apparent lack of innovation. Despite being touted as a flagship model, there doesn't seem to be much difference between this phone and its predecessor.
With a price increase of $100 from the previous model, consumers may wonder what exactly they're getting for the extra money. The camera hardware remains the same, the charging speeds haven't improved, and it still lacks the durable protective coating found in the more premium models.
The Winning Factor: Size Matters
Despite these critiques, there's one aspect where this model continues to outshine its competitors—the size. This is the smartphone's shining quality which makes it an attractive option for a particular group of users.
This model is one of the few flagship phones that actually feels compact. It weighs a mere 167 grams and is only 7.2 mm thick, making it feel significantly different from its heavier and bulkier rivals. It's a compact phone that doesn't compromise on a big screen, boasting a 6.3-inch display packed into a body that's pocket-friendly and comfortable to hold all day.
Compromises and Missed Opportunities
That said, this model does come with its share of drawbacks. The camera system, for instance, doesn't quite match up to the expectations of a 2026 flagship phone with a $900 price tag. The 50 MP main, 12 MP ultra-wide, and 10 MP 3x telephoto setup might have been impressive a few years ago, but not today.
While improvements in processing have resulted in better exposure and more realistic colors, the hardware is still lagging. The charging speeds are also disappointing. With 25 W wired speeds, it is one of the slowest charging flagship phones currently on the market.
Even the display, while of excellent quality, lacks the best anti-reflective coating and the durable protective covering found in more premium models.
Why It Still Works
In spite of these drawbacks, this smartphone has managed to hold its own. Its compact size, which is becoming increasingly rare in the market, makes it stand out. Most phones these days are larger and heavier, focusing on battery size and camera hardware. This model is the exception, providing flagship-level performance, strong battery life, long software support, and a refined software experience in a compact form.
It's a phone that fits comfortably in one hand and slips easily into your pocket, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer smaller phones without compromising on performance.
A Call for More Ambition
While it may not match the excitement of the pricier models, this phone still has a place in the market. With a little more ambition and aggressive upgrading, it could have easily been one of the best phones of the year.
As it is, it's likely to be eclipsed by the more upgraded models. But for those who value compactness and convenience, this model remains a strong contender in an increasingly oversized market.