TECNO Phantom V Fold 2 Evaluation: A More Budget-Friendly, Enhanced, and High-Performance Foldable

TECNO Phantom V Fold 2 Evaluation: A More Budget-Friendly, Enhanced, and High-Performance Foldable

TECNO Phantom V Fold 2 Evaluation: A More Budget-Friendly, Enhanced, and High-Performance Foldable


# TECNO Phantom V Fold 2: An Affordable Foldable with Remarkable Features

Foldable smartphones have typically been tied to high price points, often rendering them out of reach for many buyers. Nevertheless, TECNO is shifting the paradigm with the **Phantom V Fold 2**, an expansive foldable device that combines affordability, impressive features, and reliable performance. In this review, we will explore what distinguishes the Phantom V Fold 2, its advantages and disadvantages, and how it compares to others in the market.

## TECNO Phantom V Fold 2: Android Central Rating

**Score: 4 out of 5 stars**

TECNO is making a convincing argument for budget-friendly foldable devices with the Phantom V Fold 2. The hardware is commendable, although the hinge doesn’t seem as upscale as in other foldables. The dual OLED screens are vibrant, fluid, and more visually comfortable than those from Samsung. The triple 50MP rear camera setup is unexpectedly impressive, and multitasking is delightful due to a user-friendly interface and abundant power. However, TECNO’s software does not display the refinement of rivals like Google or Samsung, and there are a few glitches with notifications on wearable devices.

### **Pros:**
– The most affordable large foldable available.
– 120Hz LTPO OLED displays.
– Integrated AI functionalities.
– Support for active stylus.
– Massive 5750mAh battery with 70W rapid charging.
– Thinner than the Galaxy Z Fold 6.

### **Cons:**
– Software lacks visual refinement.
– The hinge feels less premium compared to other foldables.
– Notification problems on wearables.
– Camera zoom performance could improve.

## Pricing and Release Information

The TECNO Phantom V Fold 2 is set to launch in major areas including Africa, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. Its initial release will occur in Africa on **September 23, 2024**, with additional regions following throughout September and October.

The starting price is approximately **$1099 USD**, positioning it as the most economical large foldable on the market. Inside the box, you will find the device, a 70W charger, a USB cable, a vegan leather cover with a kickstand, and the usual collection of documentation. TECNO also guarantees **2 Android OS upgrades** and **3 years of security patches**.

## What I Appreciate About the Phantom V Fold 2

### **Effortless Multitasking**
As soon as I unlocked the Phantom V Fold 2, I was struck by the ease of multitasking on the expansive screen. TECNO’s user interface is straightforward and efficient, allowing users to run apps side-by-side or have floating windows. The dedicated home bar at the bottom provides quick access to applications, and recently accessed apps appear as thumbnails, thus enhancing multitasking efficiency.

### **Performance and Battery Endurance**
Equipped with **512GB of storage**, **12GB of RAM**, and a processor akin to the **Google Tensor G4**, the Phantom V Fold 2 manages everything from gaming to multitasking seamlessly. The **5750mAh battery**, the largest of any foldable, coupled with **70W rapid charging** and **15W wireless charging**, alleviates concerns about battery life.

### **Sleek Design**
In spite of its substantial battery, the Phantom V Fold 2 is **0.32mm thinner than the Galaxy Z Fold 6**. The curved edges facilitate opening, and the centered camera array ensures the device remains stable on flat surfaces.

### **Display Excellence**
Both the exterior and interior OLED displays are bright, fluid, and provide a **120Hz refresh rate**. The outer display even boasts a **2160Hz PWM rate**, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. While the inner display has a lower **360Hz PWM rate**, it is still more visually soothing than Samsung’s foldable models.

### **Rich AI Features**
TECNO has infused the Phantom V Fold 2 with AI functionalities, including **AI-generated artwork**, **AI text editing**, and **call summaries**. The **Ella assistant**, fueled by ChatGPT, provides features like two-way call translation and AI-driven photo editing, giving the phone an impressive AI edge.

## Areas for Improvement

### **Notification Issues on Wearables**
One of the most irritating problems I faced was with notifications on wearables. Whether I was using the **Google Pixel Watch 3** or the **Amazfit T-Rex 3**, notifications would inexplicably stop during the day. Despite trying multiple fixes, the problem persisted, and I hope TECNO will resolve this in a forthcoming update.

### **Software Needs Refinement**
While TECNO’s HiOS is rich in features, it lacks the sleekness of competitors like Google or Samsung. The UI feels somewhat outdated, and locating specific features can be challenging.