ZTE’s Latest Flagship Smartphone Provides Insight Into the iPhone’s Future
ZTE has recently introduced its newest flagship device, the Nubia Z70S Ultra — and unlike many of the company’s earlier models, this one is set to launch in the U.S. market. While that’s noteworthy by itself, the real significance lies in how this smartphone could preview what Apple has in store for its forthcoming iPhone 18.
ZTE has a history of delivering impressive smartphones, although many haven’t reached U.S. retail outlets. The Nubia Z70S Ultra exemplifies the brand’s expertise. It runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 “Elite” processor, accompanied by either 12GB or 16GB of RAM. On the rear, it features a robust triple-camera configuration: a 50MP wide-angle camera, a 50MP ultra-wide/macro camera, and a 64MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom. This setup is powered by a substantial 6,600mAh battery — significantly larger than the batteries of most premium smartphones available today.
As reported by Android Police, the Nubia Z70S Ultra will be available not just in the U.S., but also across Europe and various international markets. Aesthetically, the phone resembles a compact digital camera, and ZTE provides an optional Retro Kit that enhances this visual appeal with physical camera controls — appealing to photography fans.
However, the phone’s most eye-catching aspect is its display. The Z70S Ultra features a 6.85-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 2,688 x 1,216 pixels and an impressively smooth 144Hz refresh rate. What truly distinguishes it is the absence of any camera cutouts — no notches, punch-holes, or dynamic islands. The display delivers a genuine edge-to-edge experience, thanks to an under-display 16MP front camera. This technology has been in existence for several years but is yet to gain widespread adoption.
That may change in the near future. Reports indicate that Apple is developing an under-display Face ID system for its iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models, which could facilitate a similarly uninterrupted display. If you’re curious about the feel of an all-screen iPhone, the Nubia Z70S Ultra provides a fascinating preview.
Another significant attraction? The price. The Z70S Ultra starts at an affordable $780 (€770 in Europe), making it considerably less expensive than Apple’s premium devices. Additionally, if you pre-order before May 28, you can enjoy an extra $40/€40 discount.
In conclusion, the ZTE Nubia Z70S Ultra is not only a powerful and stylish smartphone — it might also serve as a glimpse into the future of the iPhone.