Asus Zenfone AR Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Unveiled

Overview

The Asus Zenfone AR ZS571KL is a remarkable smartphone that was officially announced in January 2017 and released in June of the same year. This device stands out primarily for its advanced augmented reality (AR) capabilities, which were quite ahead of their time. Besides AR, the phone supports Google Tango and Daydream, making it a versatile device for VR experiences as well. Here, we delve into the detailed specifications and features of the Asus Zenfone AR ZS571KL to understand what makes it unique among its contemporaries.

Design and Build

The Asus Zenfone AR is built with a combination of high-quality materials that enhances its durability and aesthetic appeal. With dimensions of 158.7 x 77.7 x 9 mm and a weight of 170 grams, the smartphone feels sturdy yet comfortable to hold. The hybrid dual SIM offers flexibility for users who rely on multiple networks or need extra storage via a microSD card. Its sleek black finish adds to its elegant look, making it attractive to users who appreciate style as much as functionality.

Display

Featuring a 5.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 1440 x 2560 pixels, the Asus Zenfone AR delivers vibrant and sharp visuals. The screen-to-body ratio of approximately 72.6% ensures a broad and immersive viewing experience. Additionally, the Corning Gorilla Glass 4 protection enhances durability, safeguarding the screen against scratches and minor impacts.

Performance

At the heart of the Zenfone AR is the Qualcomm MSM8996 Snapdragon 821 chipset, a powerful processor catering well to high-end smartphone demands. The quad-core CPU (2x2.35 GHz Kryo & 2x1.6 GHz Kryo) and Adreno 530 GPU enable smooth multitasking and gaming experiences. This hardware configuration is complemented by options for 6GB or 8GB RAM, which are plentiful for handling demanding applications and AR technologies that the device is known for.

Storage

The device offers multiple internal storage options: 64GB, 128GB, and a generous 256GB variant, catering to a variety of storage needs. Furthermore, the microSDXC card slot allows for storage expansion, using a shared SIM slot, providing the flexibility to increase storage space as needed.

Camera Capabilities

One of the standout features of the Asus Zenfone AR is its camera system. The main camera is a 23 MP sensor with an f/2.0 aperture, equipped with phase detection autofocus (PDAF), a 4-axis Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), and depth & motion tracking sensors. These features enhance the shooting experience by allowing sharper and more stable images. The camera also supports 4K video recording at 24fps and 1080p at 30fps, catering to video enthusiasts.

The front camera features an 8 MP sensor with an f/2.0 aperture for vibrant and clear selfies, also capable of recording 1080p videos at 30fps. Both cameras come with a range of features including dual-LED dual-tone flash, HDR, and panorama mode, broadening the scope of photographic possibilities.

Battery Life

Powering the Zenfone AR is a 3300 mAh non-removable Li-Ion battery. It supports 18W wired charging with Quick Charge 3.0 technology that can charge up to 60% in just 39 minutes, reducing downtime and allowing more usage time. Additionally, the device supports 7.5W reverse wired charging, adding a layer of convenience for users who might need to charge their other devices on the go.

Network and Connectivity

The Asus Zenfone AR supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE network technologies, with a wide range of supported bands (1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 18, 19, 20, 26, 28, 38, 40, 41 globally) to ensure reliable connections across various regions. It also features Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac with dual-band and Wi-Fi Direct capabilities, Bluetooth 4.2 with A2DP and LE, and GPS with GLONASS and BDS for enhanced location accuracy. While NFC is not included, the device has an FM radio and USB Type-C 2.0 with OTG support.

Software

Running on Android 7 (Nougat) with Asus's ZenUI 3, the software offers a user-friendly and customizable interface that aligns with the diverse needs of users. The UI includes unique features tailored to enhance productivity and usability, making it an appealing choice for tech enthusiasts and everyday users alike.

Additional Features

For security, the Zenfone AR is equipped with a front-mounted fingerprint sensor that adds a layer of security while offering quick unlock capabilities. It also includes a range of other sensors: accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, and barometer, enriching the user's interaction with apps and enhancing the device's capabilities in activities such as navigation and fitness tracking.

Conclusion

The Asus Zenfone AR ZS571KL is an innovative smartphone that provides a seamless blend of performance, design, and advanced AR capabilities. Its detailed camera system, robust performance credentials, and supportive features for virtual and augmented reality position it as a frontrunner among its peers in the high-end smartphone market. Despite some limitations, such as the absence of NFC, it manages to deliver a comprehensive and satisfying user experience that caters to both tech-savvy individuals and average consumers.