ASUS launches the ZenFone Max Plus (M1), a big phone in every way

ASUS just announced a new phone at CES 2018 in Las Vegas. The ZenFone Max Plus (M1) isn’t the flashiest thing around, but it’s not meant to turn any heads. Everything about it is made with longevity in mind. There’s a big display for entertainment, two rear cameras for clear shots, and a massive battery for less time spent charing. Only a few underwhelming qualities are preventing the ZenFone Max Plus (M1) from being worth your attention right out of the gate.

As it’s made from metal, the phone looks like it’ll be comfortable to hold. And don’t be discouraged by its larger display. ASUS implemented an all-screen front where the top and bottom bezels are on the slim side. But the design overall isn’t very inspired. The ZenFone Max Plus (M1) heavily resembles the OnePlus 5 and OnePlus 5T.

The ZenFone Max Plus (M1) features a 5.7-inch Full HD+ (2160×1080) IPS LCD display with 18:9 aspect ratio, a MediaTek Mt6750T processor, up to 4GB of RAM, up to 64GB of internal storage, 16MP and 8MP cameras on the back, a 16MP front-facing camera, a 4130mAh battery, a fingerprint scanner, and Android 7.0 Nougat with ZenUI.

Software, too, received attention beyond just putting a skin atop Android. ASUS also threw in a facial recognition feature for seamless authentication as well as PowerMaster for optimizing battery life.

Those specifications aren’t bad, but they’re not exactly what we want. MediaTek’s processors can be hit-or-miss, and there’s no reason for ASUS to be shipping this phone with Nougat rather than Oreo. Also, the micro-USB port is dead. ASUS should be all-in on USB-C for phones as it is for computers. But, for anyone wanting modern qualities like an all-screen front and a dual-camera setup on a phone with a big battery, the ZenFone Max Plus (M1) is a good fit.

Availability wasn’t detailed, so we’ll have to wait for anything more on this phone. ASUS, however, did confirm it’ll be sold in North America for $229.