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# ANDROID PHONES: THE TREND OF SMALLER MODELS CONTINUES WITH ASUS ZENFONE 10
**Introduction**
For several years now, Android phones have been known for their large sizes. However, the release of a new Asus Zenfone each summer has been a treat for small phone enthusiasts. Continuing the tradition, the Zenfone 10 offers flagship-grade specifications in a compact package, with its 5.9-inch screen being considered small in today’s context.
**Wireless Charging and Compatibility**
Unlike previous models, this year’s Zenfone finally features wireless charging. However, due to its small size, compatibility with certain stand-style chargers can be tricky. While it works well with the Pixel Stand (2nd gen) when aligned properly, a pad-style charger is likely the more practical choice.
**Impressive Features and Performance**
The Zenfone 10 boasts an IP68 rating, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, and a headphone jack, which is a feature that many users still appreciate. Its 1080p screen resolution, combined with a 120Hz refresh rate, provides a smooth viewing experience. Although there is a 144Hz mode for gaming, the 120Hz rate is more than sufficient for everyday use. Additionally, its 4,300mAh battery offers enough power to last through a day of moderate usage.
**Design and Build Quality**
Featuring Gorilla Glass Victus on the front panel, aluminum side rails, and a textured polycarbonate plastic back panel, the Zenfone 10 exhibits a sturdy yet modern design. The review unit, in its striking eclipse red color, demonstrates Asus’s commitment to offering various color options to customers in the United States. Unfortunately, the phone is only compatible with AT&T and T-Mobile networks, leaving Verizon users out.
**Camera and Stabilization**
The Zenfone 10 retains last year’s 50-megapixel main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS) and adds a 13-megapixel ultrawide lens. The selfie camera has also received an upgrade, now with a 32-megapixel pixel-binning sensor. Moreover, the gimbal-like stabilization system introduced in the previous model now includes a new mode that dynamically adjusts the level of shake correction to match the conditions.
**Convenient Camera Shortcut**
A notable feature of the Zenfone 10 is the new shortcut that allows users to access the camera app directly from the lock screen. With this shortcut, users can quickly capture a burst of three images without needing to tap the shutter button, making it ideal for capturing spontaneous moments, especially with children.
**Software and Support**
Asus assures customers that the Zenfone 10 will receive two operating system updates and four years of security patches. This is a welcome improvement over the Zenfone 9, which only received two years of security support. The phone will be available for purchase in Europe first, priced at €799, the same as the Zenfone 9. It is expected to arrive in the United States in the third quarter of this year.
**A Niche Device and Customer-Oriented Approach**
Although the Zenfone 10 may be considered a niche device due to the preference for larger phones among most consumers, Asus deserves credit for sticking with this smaller form factor. Moreover, the company has shown its commitment to listening to customer feedback by including a setting to speed up animations, which was previously only accessible in developer mode, in the standard software. This level of attention to detail is commendable and sets the Zenfone 10 apart.
**In Conclusion**
Photography by Allison Johnson / The Verge
