Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra Review: Advanced AI Features & Camera Stabilization

The Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra emerges into the competitive realm of big Android phones, drawing attention not only for its performance but also for bringing back a beloved feature – the headphone jack. Amidst a sea of smartphones abandoning this classic feature, the Zenfone 11 Ultra stands out, proudly displaying its headphone jack against a vibrant yellow backdrop. This move by Asus not only nods to nostalgia but also caters to a segment of users yearning for the convenience of wired audio without the need for adapters or Bluetooth connectivity.

Table of Contents

The Aesthetic and Practicality of Design

Upon closer inspection, the Zenfone 11 Ultra presents a mix of design choices. Its sleek, slightly matte back panel contrasts with the black edges and camera bump, creating a visual dichotomy that might not appeal to everyone. However, it’s the phone’s weight and density that prove to be more than a minor inconvenience. The hefty build has led to numerous unintended drops into tight spaces, highlighting a potential compromise between durability and comfort.

Innovations in AI: Enhancing User Experience

Asus has integrated several AI features into the Zenfone 11 Ultra, aiming to streamline and enhance user experiences. Among these, the call translation feature mirrors functionality found in Samsung devices, providing a convenient tool for real-time language translation. More impressive, however, is the AI noise cancellation for calls, a feature that cleans up audio for both the caller and receiver. This advanced noise cancellation technology promises clearer communication, setting a new standard for call quality in noisy environments.

A Closer Look at Camera Capabilities

When it comes to smartphone features, the camera often takes center stage. The Zenfone 11 Ultra boasts gimbal-like stabilization for video recording, a feature that significantly reduces shakes and bumps, providing smooth footage that rivals professional cameras. The inclusion of a HyperSteady mode further elevates video quality, offering enhanced stability even under vigorous movement.

Despite its prowess in video stabilization, the Zenfone 11 Ultra’s camera system exhibits some inconsistency in still photography. Users might notice variable auto white balance and occasional overexposure, leading to photos that lack uniformity in quality. While the device captures sharp images with commendable portrait mode cutouts, the fluctuating performance could deter photography enthusiasts seeking reliability in their shots.

Big Android Phone Season: Standing Out in a Crowded Market

The release of the Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra coincides with the launch of several other large Android phones, including the Samsung Galaxy S24 series and the OnePlus 12. These devices share similar chipsets and boast large screens, creating a competitive landscape where standout features become crucial differentiators. While the Zenfone 11 Ultra presents unique attributes such as its headphone jack and advanced video stabilization, its overall appeal might be muddled by the design and camera inconsistencies.

Conclusion: A Mixed Bag of Innovation and Design Choices

The Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra represents a blend of forward-thinking technology and homage to traditional features, embodied in its preservation of the headphone jack. With advancements in AI and video stabilization, it offers compelling reasons for users to consider it against its contemporaries. However, the device’s bulkiness and inconsistent camera performance may give potential buyers pause. In the bustling season of big Android phones, the Zenfone 11 Ultra faces the challenge of distinguishing itself not just through its features, but also in delivering a cohesive and reliable user experience.

Specifications

Specification	Detail
Design & Build	Sleek, slightly matte back panel with a noticeable camera bump and black edges. Heavy and dense build.
Display	Assumed to be large, likely above 6.7 inches, given the trend among competitors.
Processor	Not specified, but likely a high-end chipset comparable to competitors in the same release period.
Headphone Jack	Yes
AI Features	Call translation similar to Samsung’s. AI noise cancellation for calls, enhancing audio for both listener and speaker.
Camera	Main camera with gimbal-like stabilization. HyperSteady mode for video. Inconsistent auto white balance and exposure in still photography.
Video Recording	Supports gimbal-like stabilization and HyperSteady mode for enhanced smoothness.
Operating System	Not specified, but likely the latest Android version available at launch.
Storage Options	Not specified, but typically ranges from 128GB to 512GB in high-end models.
RAM	Not specified, but expected to be substantial to support advanced AI features and multitasking, likely 8GB or more.
Battery Life	Not mentioned, but high-end models usually feature a battery capable of all-day use.
Connectivity	5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and possibly others not specified.
Color Options	Not mentioned, but typically includes multiple options for high-end smartphones.
Weight	Described as heavy and dense, specifics not provided.
Additional Features	Advanced noise cancellation technology, potentially other AI-driven functionalities not detailed.