TECNO POVA 7 Ultra 5G: Top 3 standout features that deserve the hype

TECNO has cooked up something new with its next major smartphone release, and this one comes with an ‘Ultra’ moniker. Meet the TECNO POVA 7 Ultra 5G, and it’s something you might mistake for a premium mid-range device, but spoiler alert: it doesn’t even go past the Php20,000 mark.

Its unveiling is scheduled for the next few days, and while we wait, here are some of the most exciting features to expect from the new TECNO POVA 7 Ultra 5G.

Futuristic yet subtle design

First, let’s talk about that gorgeous design. The POVA 7 Ultra has a more subtle design language, almost sporting a transparent and industrial look. This is what TECNO calls the “Interstellar Spaceschip Design” and it definitely looks futuristic while not really screaming for attention.

I must say, it still has that familiar gaming aesthetic that we are used to with previous POVA releases, it’s just not as loud this time around.

Taking a closer look, you can appreciate the transparent glass design. Decorative lines and shapes, along with subtle patterns and design accents, are nicely spread across the back, harmonizing well with the overall futuristic look. It’s surely well-crafted and offers a level of premium feel in the hand.

Of course, you can’t miss the triangular camera island that stands out thanks to its mini-LED status light, which we’ll talk about next.

Fancy mini-LED Status Light

While we’ve already seen the triangular camera module design from the POVA 7 that recently went official in June, TECNO takes this design to the next level by incorporating mini-LED Status Light. As the name implies, it dynamically lights up to notifications and other certain operations.

So, it’s not just for aesthetics, it’s quite functional as well. For example, if you set a timer in-app, the Status Light acts as a progress bar, and it also serves as a volume and charging indicator. What I find really impressive are the smooth animations that the Status Light offers.

There are several notification sounds and ringtones to choose from with each having its own slick animation. So, that’s a nice utility for this phone. Interestingly, when playing PUBG Mobile, the Status Light flickers in sync with every gunshot, creating a surprisingly immersive effect.

Upgraded software experience

The next big thing to be excited about is the amount of improvements that TECNO made with its software skin. The POVA 7 Ultra is powered by HiOS 15 for POVA and from how it looks, this one stands out from the rest of TECNO’s offerings, at least in my opinion.

First thing to notice are the new app icons that go really well with the phone’s exterior, providing a seamless experience in terms design—both on the hardware and software level. TECNO says there are over 300 custom icons which a first in the POVA lineup.

These icons look well-designed, and despite the monochrome effect, I could easily tell which app is which, thanks to the effective use of orange accents. Aside from that, you can appreciate the snappy animations throughout the system.

From the new Dynamic Wallpapers to simple app launching and switching, everything feels buttery smooth.

Of course, there’s also a suite of AI-powered tools available thanks to TECNO AI. A quick rundown of key AI features includes Ask Ella (the phone’s own voice assistant in addition to Google Gemini), AI Studio, AI Writing, and Circle to Search.

Combine all that with a 144Hz display and a powerful MediaTek Dimensity chipset, and you’ve got a phone that performs exceptionally well in its class.

Up next: TECNO POVA 7 Ultra 5G Review

That’s about it for now. We have much else to talk about and we’re gonna reserve that in our full review.

Wrapping this up, the TECNO POVA 7 Ultra 5G promises to be one of the most value-packed smartphones out there for under Php20,000. It also turns heads with its trendy design that perfectly suits the new generation of Filipinos who seek both style and functionality without breaking the bank.

You’ll hear more about the POVA 7 Ultra once it officially launches in the Philippines very soon. Stay tuned!