The TECNO Camon 40 Premier 5G: A Feature-Rich Midrange Gem
Introducing the TECNO Camon 40 Premier 5G, the newest member of TECNO’s expanding line of smartphones that aspire to offer flagship-like features at a more budget-friendly price. Debuting at MWC 2025, this device is crafted to captivate with its AI functionalities, robust hardware, and versatile camera—while keeping expenses within reach. Although it may not be accessible in North America, it is set to create a significant presence in markets across Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
Design and Display
The Camon 40 Premier features a stunning 6.67-inch OLED screen with a 1.5K resolution (1260 x 2800) and an incredibly smooth 144Hz refresh rate. This ensures an engaging visual experience, whether for gaming, streaming, or navigating social media. The display is safeguarded by Gorilla Glass 7i, and the device’s IP68/69 ratings provide excellent protection against dust and water.
Nonetheless, the design has its pros and cons. While the phone boasts a sleek and lightweight feel at 193g, the back panel comes across as somewhat plastic, which diminishes the overall premium impression. Thankfully, TECNO packages a case within the box to boost grip and visual appeal.
Performance and Software
Under its exterior, the Camon 40 Premier is equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 8520 Ultimate chipset, along with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of non-expandable storage. This setup offers superb performance for day-to-day activities, multitasking, and even resource-intensive games like Honkai: Star Rail, which operates seamlessly even on high graphics settings.
The phone is powered by HiOS 15, based on Android 15, and commits to three major OS upgrades and five years of security updates. HiOS is loaded with distinctive features, including a smart panel for multitasking and a Dynamic Port, TECNO’s counterpart to Apple’s Dynamic Island.
AI Features
A highlight of the Camon 40 Premier is its extensive AI suite, labeled TECNO AI. From summarizing documents and facilitating real-time translations to creating AI art and intelligent photo enhancements, this phone is brimming with capabilities aimed at boosting both productivity and creativity.
At the heart of this AI functionality is Ella, TECNO’s AI assistant. Although Ella accommodates multiple local languages and connects with Google’s Gemini, it appears less refined compared to other assistants, often presenting slower responses and less instinctive outputs. Users also have the choice to activate DeepSeek R1, a Chinese AI model, though privacy-minded individuals might lean towards Gemini instead.
Camera Capabilities
The Camon 40 Premier boasts a triple 50MP rear camera configuration: a wide-angle lens featuring Sony’s LYT-701 sensor and OIS, an ultrawide lens, and a periscope telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The front-facing camera is also a 50MP unit, perfect for capturing high-quality selfies and video calls.
Daylight photos are sharp and vivid, while the phone also excels in low-light scenarios thanks to AI optimizations. Features like FlashSnap enable users to photograph fast-moving subjects with minimal blur, and AI Scene Detection guarantees the best settings for various environments.
Battery and Charging
Battery performance is another strong suit of the Camon 40 Premier. The 5,100mAh battery reliably endures a full day of intensive use, yielding over 7 hours of screen time. For recharging, the 70W wired charging can take the device from 1% to 100% in slightly over 30 minutes. However, the absence of wireless charging is a significant drawback, though understandable at this price level.
User Experience and Extras
The device includes a customizable One-Tap Button, akin to Apple’s Action Button, which can be programmed for swift access to specific apps or functions. The in-display fingerprint sensor operates quickly and accurately; however, its low positioning could pose a challenge for some users.
One negative aspect is the presence of bloatware. Users may find themselves occupied with uninstalling unnecessary pre-installed applications. Nevertheless, the overall software experience remains smooth and responsive.
Price and Availability
While TECNO has yet to officially announce the pricing, it is anticipated to fall within the sub-$400 bracket, similar to its predecessor, the Camon 30 Premier. The phone comes in Galaxy Black and Emerald Lake Green and will be available in various markets globally, excluding North America.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Outstanding battery life and rapid 70W charging
– Bright and smooth 144Hz OLED display
– Strong performance for gaming and multitasking
– Versatile 50MP triple camera array
– Extensive and user-friendly AI features
– Customizable One-Tap Button enhances convenience
Cons:
– Back panel has a plasticky feel
– Ella AI assistant seems underdeveloped
– Fingerprint sensor is awkwardly placed
