Can AI be the secret sauce for selling a smartphone? Tecno seems to think so, packing its Pova 6 Neo with a suite of AI-driven features. We put it to the test to find out if it's the affordable 5G powerhouse you've been waiting for. From performance to AI features, we'll dive deep into the Tecno Pova 6 Neo to see if it's the perfect fit for your pocket.
Tecno Pova 6 Neo Pricing
The Tecno Pova 6 Neo is available in two configurations: the 6GB + 128GB model starting at just ₹12,999, or the more spacious 8GB + 256GB version available from ₹13,999.
Tecno Pova 6 Neo Software
Let’s start things with the software because it is jam packed with AI. The Tecno Pova 6 Neo runs on HiOS based on Android 14, delivering a range of AI features right out of the box.
This phone is designed to leverage AI capabilities, offering tools like AI Magic Eraser, which removes unwanted objects from your photos. We've found it incredibly effective at removing unwanted elements.
With AI Cut Out, you can create fun stickers by extracting elements from images. We created some stickers of our teammates and shared them on WhatsApp.
Another standout feature is AI Wallpaper 2.0, which generates unique wallpapers from text. However, it didn’t work that well, but still, it can make some good AI wallpapers.
While the HiOS interface is user-friendly, it might not win everyone over. It includes some bloatware, but the good news is that you can uninstall the apps you don’t want.
Tecno Pova 6 Neo Design
Let’s talk about a phone that’s grabbing attention with its design. The matte finish keeps fingerprints away, making it easy to maintain. It comes in a marble finish called "Aurora Cloud," which gives it a unique look. The frame and back are made of plastic, and the boxy design features a prominent camera module on the rear.
There’s a slight wobble when you lay it down flat due to the camera setup, but the included cover helps with that. Holding the phone feels comfortable, though its 192g weight can become noticeable after some time.
One interesting thing we saw is the IR blaster, positioned on the camera module, which we haven’t seen before, and with the help of it, we were easily able to control our AC. The stereo speakers deliver sound primarily from the bottom, and the haptics are decent too.
At the bottom, there’s a headphone jack for easy audio connections. The button placements are user-friendly, and the fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button works smoothly.
With an IP54 rating for dust and splash resistance, you can take it out without worry. It also supports NFC for payments. However, the large bezels, especially the chin, can be distracting, especially when watching videos.
Tecno Pova 6 Neo Display
This phone features a 6.67-inch HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The colours are vibrant, but the viewing angles leave something to be desired. The 120Hz refresh rate provides smooth and responsive navigation, enhancing the overall experience.
However, using this phone in direct sunlight can be challenging, as the brightness is limited to 480 nits. When it comes to video, you can stream up to 2K on YouTube, but keep in mind that there’s no HDR support.
Tecno Pova 6 Neo Performance
When it comes to performance, the Tecno Pova 6 Neo holds its ground nicely for its price. Equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor, this phone smoothly handles everyday tasks like scrolling through social media, streaming videos, and general browsing.
We tried downloading BGMI to see how it handles gaming, but after an hour, we barely saw 1% complete, so we couldn’t dive into that experience. That said, it should be good for casual gaming if you’re not looking for anything too demanding.
The model we tested has 6GB of LPDDR4x RAM paired with 128GB of UFS 2.2 storage, but there's also an option for 8GB RAM and 256GB of storage if you need more space. Plus, you can expand storage up to a 1TB using a microSD card, which is a nice bonus for anyone who loves to keep their media close.
Tecno Pova 6 Neo Camera
The Techno Aurora Cloud is equipped with a 108MP main camera and an 8MP selfie camera. The 108MP shooter performs well for daylight photography, capturing vibrant colours and sharp details. However, it tends to brighten skin tones, which might not be to everyone’s liking.
You can take 3x lossless images, and the results are impressive. Portrait shots offer good edge detection, although the background blur could use some enhancement. The camera interface includes some AI features, such as the AIGC Portrait mode, which captures four images and processes them to create unique avatars.
One downside is the lack of an ultra-wide-angle lens, which feels like a missed opportunity. Additionally, video recording is limited to 2K at 30fps, which may not satisfy users looking for more advanced video options.
Tecno Pova 6 Neo Battery
The Tecno Pova 6 Neo is powered by a 5000mAh battery that easily lasts over a full day with light usage. This means you can go about your day without constantly searching for a charger. It supports 18W charging, and the best part? You’ll find the adapter included in the box.
Tecno Pova 6 Neo Verdict
The Tecno Pova 6 Neo positions itself as an accessible AI powerhouse, aiming to bring smart features to everyone. If you're in the market for a phone that leverages AI technology, this model stands out.
At ₹12,999, it offers decent performance, a solid 5000mAh battery, and a range of AI features that enhance your photography and user experience.
With its smooth display and good camera capabilities it’s a solid choice for anyone with a budget under ₹15,000. Overall, if you’re looking for an AI-focused device that delivers reliable performance without breaking the bank, the Tecno Pova 6 Neo is worth considering.
