Author: Anushka Verma
Published on: 28 September 2025
Introduction
The world of smartphones is evolving faster than ever, with brands constantly pushing the limits of technology, design, and user experience. In this competitive market, Asus has built a reputation for creating devices that are powerful, durable, and packed with innovations. With the launch of the Asus Zenfone 12 Ultra, the company has once again delivered a smartphone that sets new benchmarks in the flagship category.
Equipped with a 6.78-inch 144Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, gimbal-stabilized triple camera setup, and a massive 5500mAh battery with 65W fast charging, the Zenfone 12 Ultra is more than just another premium device—it’s a statement of what the future of smartphones looks like.
In this in-depth review, we will analyze every aspect of the Zenfone 12 Ultra, from its premium design and display to its camera system, performance, battery life, and overall value. By the end, you’ll know whether this flagship deserves a place in your pocket.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED, 144Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, 2500 nits brightness |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite (3nm architecture) |
| RAM & Storage Options | 12GB + 256GB / 16GB + 512GB |
| Main Camera | 50MP (Gimbal OIS) + 32MP Telephoto + 13MP Ultra-wide |
| Front Camera | 32MP |
| Battery | 5500mAh with 65W wired, 15W wireless, 10W reverse charging |
| Build & Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus 2, IP68 rating |
| Software | Android 15 with promised major updates |
| Audio | Hi-Res stereo speakers, 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, 5G, in-display fingerprint sensor |
| Colors | Ebony Black, Sakura White, Sage Green |
| Price in India | ₹69,999 (12GB+256GB), ₹79,999 (16GB+512GB) |
Premium Design and Build Quality
The first impression of the Zenfone 12 Ultra is undeniably premium. With its glass sandwich design, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection, and IP68 dust and water resistance, the phone is engineered for durability while maintaining elegance.
At 220 grams, the device feels slightly heavy, but that weight translates to sturdiness. The curved edges, matte-finish back, and slim bezels add to its comfort. The symmetrical design, available in Ebony Black, Sakura White, and Sage Green, appeals to users who value sophistication.
Unlike many flagships that prioritize thinness at the cost of battery life, Asus has struck a balance, giving the Zenfone 12 Ultra a solid build without compromising usability. The tactile metal frame ensures grip, while the precision-machined buttons provide satisfying feedback.
Asus has designed this device to not just look good but also withstand everyday accidents. Whether it’s slipping from a desk or facing occasional splashes, this smartphone is built for real-world durability.
Display: A Visual Masterpiece
Smartphone displays have become the centerpiece of user interaction, and Asus leaves no stone unturned here. The 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED panel is a true delight, offering 144Hz adaptive refresh rate that adjusts based on content—saving battery when reading, while ensuring ultra-smooth visuals when gaming or scrolling.
The display supports HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, delivering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and realistic contrasts. With a peak brightness of 2500 nits, the Zenfone 12 Ultra remains legible even under direct sunlight—a crucial factor for Indian users who face bright outdoor conditions.
Whether you’re streaming 4K HDR content on Netflix, editing photos, or engaging in competitive gaming, the display adapts to provide the best visual experience. The LTPO technology ensures power efficiency, dynamically switching refresh rates between 1Hz and 144Hz.
Compared to its rivals—Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max—the Zenfone 12 Ultra’s panel holds its own, delivering sharpness, responsiveness, and smoothness that enthusiasts will appreciate.
Performance: Powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite
At the heart of the Zenfone 12 Ultra is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite, a powerhouse chipset built on the 3nm process. This processor not only enhances raw performance but also improves power efficiency, ensuring longer battery life.
In day-to-day usage, the phone handles multitasking with ease. Whether it’s juggling heavy apps, running multiple social media accounts, or switching between games and productivity tools, the Zenfone 12 Ultra remains butter-smooth.
Gaming Performance
For gamers, the combination of the Adreno GPU and 144Hz display is a dream. High-demand titles like Genshin Impact, Call of Duty Mobile, and PUBG New State run at max settings without frame drops. Asus’s thermal management system ensures that the device stays cooler for longer sessions.
Benchmark Scores
On synthetic benchmarks, the Zenfone 12 Ultra consistently ranks among the top performers:
- AnTuTu Score: ~1.9 million
- Geekbench 6: 2100 (single-core), 6700 (multi-core)
- 3DMark Wild Life Extreme: Smooth frame rates even under stress
Clearly, this smartphone is designed for power users who demand speed and stability.
Camera: Professional Photography on the Go
The triple-camera setup is one of the highlights of the Zenfone 12 Ultra. Asus has gone beyond megapixel counts to focus on stabilization, versatility, and low-light performance.
- 50MP Primary Sensor with Gimbal OIS: This feature alone sets it apart. Unlike regular OIS, the gimbal system provides exceptional stabilization, making handheld night shots and moving videos remarkably smooth.
- 32MP Telephoto Lens: Delivers crisp 3x optical zoom and up to 30x hybrid zoom without losing much detail.
- 13MP Ultra-Wide Lens: Expands the frame without heavy distortion, making it perfect for landscapes and group shots.
Video Recording
The Zenfone 12 Ultra can record up to 8K video at 30fps, with gimbal OIS ensuring cinematic stability. For creators, it includes Pro Video Mode, wind noise reduction, and HDR video capture.
Front Camera
The 32MP selfie shooter captures sharp, social media-ready images. Thanks to AI enhancements, portrait selfies have natural skin tones and refined background blur.
Overall, whether you’re a casual photographer or a content creator, this phone offers tools to elevate your shots.
Battery and Charging: Built for All-Day Power
With a 5500mAh battery, the Zenfone 12 Ultra is built for endurance. Even under heavy usage—gaming, video streaming, navigation—the phone easily lasts a full day.
The inclusion of 65W wired charging means you can charge from 0 to 100% in just around 45 minutes. For convenience, 15W wireless charging and 10W reverse charging make it versatile.
Asus has also integrated battery health features that slow charging overnight to extend longevity, a thoughtful addition for long-term users.
Audio & Multimedia Experience
Unlike many flagships that have ditched the headphone jack, Asus retains the 3.5mm port—a major plus for audiophiles. The Hi-Res stereo speakers with Dirac tuning provide rich sound, while support for LDAC and AptX Adaptive ensures lossless audio over Bluetooth.
Watching movies or playing games is an immersive experience, thanks to loud, distortion-free speakers and the expansive AMOLED display.
Software: Android 15 with Asus Enhancements
The phone runs on Android 15 with Asus’s Zen UI, which remains clean and close to stock Android. Unlike some competitors, Asus avoids bloatware, focusing instead on useful customizations like:
- Game Genie Mode for gaming optimizations
- Battery Care tools for charging cycles
- Edge toolbars for quick shortcuts
Asus has promised two major Android upgrades and four years of security patches, which adds confidence for long-term buyers.
Connectivity and Smart Features
The Zenfone 12 Ultra is packed with future-ready connectivity:
- Wi-Fi 7 for lightning-fast internet
- Bluetooth 5.4 for stable connections with accessories
- NFC for payments
- 5G support across Indian and global bands
- In-display fingerprint sensor + face unlock for security
For professionals, dual SIM support and eSIM functionality ensure flexibility.
Price and Availability
The Asus Zenfone 12 Ultra is available in two variants in India:
- 12GB RAM + 256GB storage → ₹69,999
- 16GB RAM + 512GB storage → ₹79,999
Available colors include Ebony Black, Sakura White, and Sage Green. The phone is sold via Asus’s official website, major e-commerce platforms, and select offline stores.
Launch offers include:
- No-cost EMI options up to 12 months
- Exchange discounts on old devices
- Free 6-month subscription to Asus Premium Care
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stunning 144Hz AMOLED display with HDR10+
- Powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset
- Gimbal OIS for pro-level photography
- Big 5500mAh battery with fast + wireless charging
- Retains 3.5mm headphone jack
- Clean Android 15 experience
Cons:
- Slightly bulky at 220 grams
- Only two Android version upgrades promised
- Pricey compared to some Chinese competitors
Final Verdict
The Asus Zenfone 12 Ultra is more than just a smartphone—it’s a premium lifestyle device built for those who refuse to compromise on performance, display quality, or photography. With its 144Hz AMOLED screen, flagship Snapdragon processor, professional-grade cameras, and long-lasting battery, it competes head-on with Samsung and Apple’s top models.
While its slightly bulky design and limited update policy may deter some users, the Zenfone 12 Ultra remains an excellent all-rounder for gamers, photographers, and power users alike.
At ₹69,999, it’s not cheap, but it delivers exceptional value for its feature set. If you’re looking for a flagship that combines innovation, durability, and elegance, the Zenfone 12 Ultra is one of the best options in 2025.
