In the ever-evolving high-end smartphone market, the Poco F8 Ultra stands out with a bold combination of technological innovation and prestigious partnership. While giants like Samsung maintain a dominant position thanks to feature-rich devices, Xiaomi, through its sub-brand Poco, continuously challenges the norms. The Poco F8 Ultra particularly attracts attention by integrating the most powerful Android chip currently available — the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 — while revolutionizing the audio experience through an exclusive collaboration with Bose. This smartphone thus offers an unprecedented mobile experience by merging raw power and superior sound quality, all at a very competitive price. This strategy could well shake up the market hierarchy and pose a serious threat to Samsung, which is often criticized for its high prices. The Poco F8 Ultra offers unprecedented computing power, an immersive multimedia platform, and considerable battery life, reinforcing its credibility as a new major rival in the Android universe.
In 2025, mobile performance and technological innovations are more crucial than ever to attract a demanding audience, whether gamers, photography enthusiasts, or music lovers. The Poco F8 Ultra offers impressive specifications, combining a chip tailored for the most intensive uses with an unprecedented sound system featuring a genuine subwoofer signed by Bose. This acoustic dimension brings a sound depth never before seen on a smartphone, surpassing the usual standards of classic stereo speakers, promising a unique immersive experience. Beyond sound, Poco adopts a comprehensive approach by pairing a brilliant AMOLED display with a massive battery capable of supporting extended sessions. Let’s explore in detail the strengths, innovations, and some limitations of this smartphone that aims to establish itself as a formidable competitor against the Korean leader.
- 1 A powerful Android chip: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 at the heart of the Poco F8 Ultra
- 2 Integrated Bose sound: superior audio innovation in a high-end smartphone
- 3 A large format AMOLED screen with exceptional visual quality
- 4 Photo and video: a 50 MP triple sensor paying tribute to versatility
- 5 Battery life and charging: the XXL battery to go the distance
- 6 Design and build: robustness and aesthetics in the spotlight
- 7 Limits of the Poco F8 Ultra: drawbacks to consider
- 8 The Poco F8 Ultra versus the Samsung competitor: a real threat?
A powerful Android chip: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 at the heart of the Poco F8 Ultra
At the core of the Poco F8 Ultra’s power lies the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, Qualcomm’s latest generation mobile processor, manufactured using 3 nm technology. This chip relies exclusively on high-performance cores, optimized to handle demanding tasks such as augmented reality gaming, complex professional applications, and intensive multitasking. Unlike previous hybrid architectures that balanced performance and energy efficiency, this new chipset offers maximum power, making the Poco F8 Ultra one of the most advanced Android smartphones currently available.
This processor impresses with its ability to maintain high performance over time thanks to a state-of-the-art cooling system, the 6700 mm² LiquidCool IceLoop 3D. This innovative technology effectively limits overheating, ensuring a smooth experience even during prolonged gaming sessions or heavy video processing. Additionally, users report remarkable responsiveness on the HyperOS interface based on Android 15, optimized to fully leverage hardware resources.
List of advantages of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in the Poco F8 Ultra:
- High-end graphics and CPU performance: perfect for 3D games and demanding applications.
- Advanced thermal management thanks to the LiquidCool IceLoop 3D system.
- Compatibility with the latest technological standards, including WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.
- Optimal support for computational photography, facilitating the use of high-resolution sensors.
- Controlled energy consumption for better autonomy despite the power.
This level of performance positions the Poco F8 Ultra above many Android competitors, including recent Samsung models, and rivals some more expensive flagships. For users seeking a smartphone capable of supporting intensive uses while maintaining exemplary fluidity, the Poco F8 Ultra fully meets these expectations.
| Characteristic | Detail | Key advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, 3 nm process | Maximum power & energy efficiency |
| Cooling system | LiquidCool IceLoop 3D, 6700 mm² | Maintains long-term performance |
| RAM | 16 GB LPDDR5X | Intensive multitasking without slowdowns |
| Storage | 512 GB UFS 4.0 | Fast loading and massive storage |
Integrated Bose sound: superior audio innovation in a high-end smartphone
By combining its expertise with that of Bose, globally recognized for audio excellence, Poco achieved a feat by integrating a real bass speaker — or subwoofer — into a smartphone. This approach is particularly unprecedented since no other smartphone offers a true physical subwoofer capable of delivering deep and impactful bass. The assembly of an innovative 2.1 channel audio system places the Poco F8 Ultra in an entirely new category.
The sound setup consists of two symmetrical stereo speakers for balanced left-right spatialization, accompanied by a third miniature speaker exclusively dedicated to low frequencies. This subwoofer, although extremely compact, manages to deliver acoustic power that radically transforms auditory immersion. Whether for gaming, music, or video, the experience becomes simply incomparable.
Two audio profiles adapted to all uses:
- Dynamic Profile: designed for music lovers who appreciate enhanced bass, ideal for music styles such as hip-hop, electro, or pop.
- Balanced Profile: oriented towards a neutral sound with clear voices, perfect for podcasts, interviews, and films.
This collaboration with Bose marks a turning point in smartphone technology, where hardware integration replaces the usual purely software optimizations. This technical choice will certainly appeal to audiophiles wanting to enjoy high-fidelity sound without external accessories. The Poco F8 Ultra is thus the only smartphone to offer this sound innovation, bringing a definite competitive advantage against Samsung and other industry players.
| Audio Element | Description | Impact on User Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Symmetrical stereo speakers | Two speakers for a wide soundstage | Enhanced spatial immersion and clarity |
| Integrated Bose subwoofer | Miniature physical bass speaker | Deep, impactful, and powerful bass |
| Audio profiles | Dynamic and Balanced | Sound experience customization |
| 2.1 channel technology | Advanced sound mixing and management | Superior audio quality compared to standards |
A large format AMOLED screen with exceptional visual quality
To accompany raw performance and sound excellence, the Poco F8 Ultra offers a 6.9-inch AMOLED display that stands out for its brightness and smoothness. With a peak brightness reaching 3500 nits, the device guarantees optimal visibility even in full sunlight, thus surpassing many of its direct competitors on this point. The 120 Hz refresh rate ensures smooth navigation without stuttering, much appreciated during video games or fast scrolling on social networks.
In addition to these qualities, the screen includes a DC dimming adjustment aimed at reducing eye strain, especially during prolonged use in low-light environments. This technology filters invisible flickering, which can cause headaches with certain OLED panels. The ultrasonic fingerprint sensor is notably fast, installed directly under the screen to combine aesthetics and security.
Key features of the Poco F8 Ultra’s screen:
- 6.9-inch AMOLED screen with high resolution for sharp and vibrant images.
- Peak brightness of 3500 nits for optimal comfort outdoors.
- 120 Hz frequency for improved fluidity during intensive use.
- DC dimming adjustment to protect eyes and reduce fatigue.
- Ultrasonic fingerprint sensor responsive and secure.
| Attribute | Description | User Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Screen type | AMOLED | High contrast and vivid colors |
| Size | 6.9 inches | Enhanced visual immersion |
| Frequency | 120 Hz | Smooth navigation |
| Eye protection | DC dimming | Extended visual comfort |
| Biometric sensor | Ultrasonic fingerprint | Security and convenience |
Photo and video: a 50 MP triple sensor paying tribute to versatility
In the mobile photography field, the Poco F8 Ultra does not just rely on its power and design. It houses a complete photo module with three sensors of 50 megapixels each. This uniformity per sensor offers consistent processing and remarkable image quality, regardless of the focal length used.
The main sensor stands out with a large Light Fusion 950 sensor and bright f/1.67 optics, allowing it to capture more light and achieve sharp shots even in low-light conditions. The ultra-wide angle covers an 18 mm focal length, ideal for panoramic or architectural shots, while the periscope telephoto offers true 5x optical zoom, complemented by digital zoom up to 20x for detailed distant shots.
Photographic advantages of the Poco F8 Ultra:
- 50 MP triple sensor ensuring consistent and professional quality.
- True 5x periscope zoom for capturing distant subjects.
- 18 mm ultra-wide angle for wide and immersive scenes.
- 32 MP selfie camera for detailed and natural portraits.
- Light Fusion 950 technology for better brightness in low light.
| Photo module | Characteristic | User benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Main sensor | 50 MP, Light Fusion 950, f/1.67 aperture | Clear photos even at night |
| Periscope telephoto | 5x optical zoom, 20x digital zoom | Close-up shots without quality loss |
| Ultra-wide angle | 18 mm | Panoramic shots |
| Selfie camera | 32 MP | Sharp and natural portraits |
Battery life and charging: the XXL battery to go the distance
The Poco F8 Ultra also impresses with its generous 6500 mAh battery, the largest ever integrated into a Poco flagship. This capacity ensures extended battery life, even for the most demanding users juggling games, streaming, and professional applications.
The smartphone supports ultra-fast wired charging at 100 W, capable of filling the battery in just 38 minutes, a major advantage for those often short on time to recharge their device. It also offers 50 W wireless charging, a rare feature at this price range, and a 22.5 W reverse charging function, allowing it to power other compatible devices.
List of strong points of the Poco F8 Ultra’s battery life:
- 6500 mAh battery for prolonged use without worries.
- 100 W fast wired charging, avoiding long wait times.
- 50 W wireless charging, a rare luxury at this price point.
- 22.5 W reverse charging to power other gadgets.
- IP68 certification, assuring waterproof and dustproof phone.
| Aspect | Specification | Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 6500 mAh | Extended battery life |
| Wired charging | 100 W | Fast charging |
| Wireless charging | 50 W | Convenience and speed |
| Reverse charging | 22.5 W | Support for other devices |
| Certification | IP68 | Water and dust resistance |
Design and build: robustness and aesthetics in the spotlight
The Poco F8 Ultra adopts a design approach that combines robustness and originality. Its denim back cover gives a unique and pleasant touch, clearly standing out from the usual glass and metal. This original texture not only provides a distinctive style but also helps limit fingerprints and improves grip.
The smartphone features a POCO Shield reinforced glass, known for its resistance to scratches and shocks, while its frame is made of aluminum, ensuring both lightness and durability. This choice of premium materials clearly reflects the high-end positioning of the device. Moreover, IP68 certification guarantees effective protection against water and dust, essential for daily use without constraints.
List of design and build features:
- Denim denim back offering originality and good grip.
- POCO Shield reinforced glass resistant to scratches and impacts.
- Aluminum frame light and sturdy.
- IP68 certification for water and dust resistance.
- Large 6.9-inch screen format for full visual immersion.
| Aspect | Description | Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Back material | Denim denim | Unique and comfortable aesthetic |
| Screen protection | POCO Shield reinforced glass | Optimal durability |
| Chassis | Aluminum | Lightweight and resistant |
| Certification | IP68 | Safe use even in humid environments |
Limits of the Poco F8 Ultra: drawbacks to consider
Despite its many qualities, the Poco F8 Ultra has some weaknesses. Its HyperOS interface, although based on Android 15, still includes several unwanted preinstalled apps that can bother users seeking a cleaner experience. Regarding updates, even if the brand plans regular updates, these are historically shorter and less secure than those from Google or Samsung, which requires some caution.
The imposing design with its 6.9-inch screen won’t suit everyone, especially users with small hands or who prefer one-handed operation. Furthermore, the initial marketing of this device remains limited to certain markets, which may delay its arrival in other regions. Despite this, the quality/price ratio remains high, constituting a real competitive advantage against the often higher prices practiced by Samsung or Apple in the high-end segment.
List of main drawbacks:
- Annoying preinstalled apps that weigh down the interface.
- Shorter and less guaranteed Android updates than some competitors.
- Imposing format not well suited for small hands.
- Limited availability in certain markets at launch.
| Drawback | Potential impact | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Preinstalled apps, less assured updates | Less ergonomic and lower potential security |
| Design | Large format difficult to handle with one hand | May deter some users |
| Distribution | Limited availability at launch | Restricted access in some markets |
The Poco F8 Ultra versus the Samsung competitor: a real threat?
By targeting segments traditionally occupied by Samsung, the Poco F8 Ultra reshuffles the cards of the high-end Android smartphone market. Its pricing, around $729 for the base version, offers a very serious alternative to the Galaxy S25, frequently priced over 1,000 euros. This price difference, combined with a very advanced specification sheet, puts Samsung under pressure and can convince an audience keen on power and innovation without paying a premium.
Beyond the numbers, the exclusive audio technology with Bose and the integrated bass speaker, combined with the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, gives the Poco F8 Ultra a significant lead. The device specifically targets gamers and multimedia content enthusiasts looking for a complete premium experience, a sector where Samsung tends to dominate but also justify its high prices.
- Aggressive pricing compared to equivalent Samsung models.
- Unique audio innovation thanks to the Bose partnership.
- Cutting-edge mobile performance with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.
- Robust and original design with premium materials.
- Superior battery life and ultra-fast charging.
| Aspect | Poco F8 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S25 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 | Recent Exynos/Snapdragon | Poco performance |
| Audio system | Bose 2.1 channel subwoofer | Classic stereo speakers | Poco innovation |
| Base price | $729 | ≥ 1000 € | Poco cost advantage |
| Battery | 6500 mAh, 100 W charging | Varies by model | Poco autonomy |
| Screen | 6.9″ AMOLED 120 Hz 3500 nits | 6.1–6.8″ AMOLED 120 Hz | Comparable |
