As a substitute of zoom ranges, Nubia lists the focal size (the gap at which the lens and sensor converge) measured in millimeters, with smaller numbers which means a wider area of view and depth of area. The Flip 5G digicam offers you a 50mm or 26mm possibility. There is no such thing as a telephoto lens, so zooming tends to blur out particulars. Processing is commonly troublesome, generally taking a second or two, leading to an oil portray impact.
A lot of the non-compulsory modes, together with portrait, are poor and the ensuing images by no means look pure, however you may obtain an inexpensive bokeh impact with a daily digicam. Depend on computerized settings and you will be dissatisfied repeatedly. It really works greatest for those who flip off the AI, and it is best for those who’re prepared to fiddle with Professional mode, however the digicam app has plenty of methods up its sleeve. There is not a lot use for the 16MP front-facing digicam exterior of video calling, however it may be completed.
Software program issues
The Nubia Flip 5G is off to a poor begin on the software program entrance, operating the already outdated MyOS 13 on high of Android 13. It is fairly near inventory Android, however there are some bugs and pointless shortcuts to obtain apps and video games you virtually definitely don’t need.
It is very important word that the quilt display doesn’t assist third-party purposes. It might probably show notifications, music controls, climate, your calendar, pedometer, stopwatch, or voice recorder, and allows you to take selfies with the principle digicam, however that is about it. The “interactive” pets are very cute (my daughter cherished the cat), however they aren’t very interactive; it is simply an animated wallpaper.
Nubia has a foul replace report. After I requested the corporate for clarification, it was unable to supply an actual timeline for Android 14 or subsequent updates. Based mostly on previous telephones, you may be fortunate to get three years, which is gloomy contemplating Google provides seven years for the equally priced Pixel 8A.
Photograph: Simon Hill
The closest competitor is the Motorola Razr (2023), and sadly, Motorola can also be unhealthy at software program updates. Other than completely different designs, there may be little that separates them. I favor the look of the Nubia Flip 5G. It expenses quicker and has extra reminiscence. However the Razr helps wi-fi charging and is IP52 rated. A closing consideration that will have an effect on Motorola is community compatibility. The Flip 5G ought to be principally effective with T-Cellular or AT&T within the States, however examine together with your service to see what bands are supported before you purchase.
For those who can dwell and not using a bezel, go for one thing higher than the most effective low-cost telephones. For those who’re within the temper for a foldable cellphone, attempt shelling out the additional $200 or so for one thing just like the Motorola Razr+ (7/10, WIRED recommends) or the Samsung Z Flip5, each of which provide a extra helpful cowl. Ultimately, I loved utilizing the Nubia Flip 5G, and it is cute sufficient that my 11-year-old daughter requested to commerce it in for her Pixel 6.