Tecno has recently launched the Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G in India, adding to its popular Pova Series. This new smartphone is designed for budget-conscious users and introduces AI features for the first time in a device under ₹15,000. With impressive specifications, including a powerful processor and a high-resolution camera, it aims to make a mark in a competitive market. Let’s take a closer look at what this smartphone has to offer.

Pricing and Variants

The Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G is available in two storage options:

6GB RAM + 128GB storage for ₹12,999

8GB RAM + 256GB storage for ₹13,999

You can find it in three attractive colors: Aurora Cloud, Midnight Shadow, and Azure Sky. It’s available for purchase on the Amazon India website.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G blends practicality with style. Its boxy shape and rounded corners make it easy to hold. Weighing just 192 grams and measuring 7.8mm in thickness, it feels lightweight and sleek.

Color and Finish

I got to check out the Aurora Cloud variant, which features a matte finish that gives it a marble-like look. The back panel is made of plastic, but it effectively resists fingerprints and dust. The Tecno logo is located at the bottom, while the camera module is positioned at the top, featuring two camera lenses and an LED flash.

Camera Module Design

The camera module has a square design and slightly protrudes from the back, but it adds to the phone’s overall aesthetic. The glossy finish of the camera module contrasts nicely with the matte back, providing a touch of elegance.

Ports and Features

At the bottom of the phone, you’ll find a USB-C port, a speaker grille, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The right side has the volume buttons and the power button, while the left side features the SIM tray. The top edge also has an additional speaker, enhancing the audio experience.

Water and Dust Resistance

A standout feature of the Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G is its IP54 rating for dust and splash resistance. This is quite rare for smartphones priced below ₹15,000, giving users more confidence to use it outdoors. However, the large bezels around the display can be distracting, especially when watching videos.

Display Quality

The Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G has a 6.67-inch HD+ IPS LCD display with a central punch-hole for the selfie camera. The resolution is 720 x 1600 pixels, which is decent for everyday tasks but can feel a bit low for media consumption.

Refresh Rate and Brightness

One of the key features of this display is the 120Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling smooth and responsive. However, the maximum brightness of 580 nits can make it difficult to read the screen in direct sunlight, which I found frustrating at times.

Viewing Experience

While the color accuracy is decent, the contrast ratio leaves something to be desired. The thick bezels around the display are noticeable and can detract from the viewing experience, especially during video playback.

Operating System and Software

The Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G runs on Android 14 with HiOS 14.5 pre-installed. However, upon starting the device, I noticed it comes with over 40 pre-installed apps, which can be quite overwhelming. While some of these apps can be uninstalled, others are fixed and take up valuable storage space. Tecno has committed to providing security patches for two years but hasn’t promised major operating system updates.

AI Features

One of the highlights of this smartphone is its six AI features:

AIGC Portraits: Creates AI-generated profile pictures from selfies.

AI Cutout: Removes unwanted objects from photos.

AI Wallpaper 2.0: Offers unique wallpaper options.

AI Eraser: Allows you to erase unwanted people or items in pictures.

AI Artboard: A creative feature for users.

Ask AI: Provides AI-driven assistance.

These features add a modern touch to the smartphone, making it appealing to younger users.

Performance

The Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, which provides reliable performance for everyday tasks. Whether you are making calls, browsing social media, or streaming videos, this smartphone can handle it all smoothly.

RAM and Storage

With options of 8GB RAM and 256GB internal storage, the device supports efficient multitasking and quick app transitions. This makes it a practical choice for users who need a dependable smartphone without breaking the bank.

Camera Performance

The Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G comes with a 108MP main camera, which is impressive for a budget phone. The camera performs well in good lighting, capturing sharp and detailed images. The additional lenses enhance photography options, making it suitable for casual photographers.

AI Features in Photography

The AI features for photography, like AIGC portraits and AI Eraser, add to the functionality of the camera. While the AIGC portraits can create impressive avatar-like images, the AI Eraser might need some improvement, as the results can sometimes look less than seamless.

Battery Life

With a 5000mAh battery, the Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G offers excellent battery life. Users can expect a full day of usage without needing to recharge, making it perfect for those who are always on the go.

Final Thoughts

The Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G is a solid addition to the budget smartphone market. With its attractive design, decent performance, and innovative AI features, it stands out as a practical option for users looking for a reliable smartphone under ₹15,000. However, the thick bezels, limited OS updates, and some bloatware may be drawbacks for some users.

Overall, if you’re in the market for a budget-friendly smartphone that doesn’t compromise on essential features, the Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G could be worth considering. With its balance of style, performance, and affordability, it aims to meet the needs of both young and professional users alike.

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