Ulefone Armor 28 Ultra Headed to MWC 2025 with 1-Inch Imaging Sensor

Rugged smartphones are built to survive extreme conditions, but they rarely make headlines for cutting-edge camera technology. Ulefone is looking to change that with the Armor 28 Ultra, a rugged phone featuring the first-ever 1-inch imaging sensor in this category. Set to be unveiled at MWC 2025, this device combines durability with high-end photography, a combination rarely seen in rugged smartphones.

A 1-Inch Camera Sensor in a Rugged Device

Most rugged phones stick to basic camera setups, prioritizing durability over image quality. The Armor 28 Ultra breaks this trend by integrating a 50MP Sony IMX989 1-inch sensor, the same type used in premium flagship smartphones. A larger sensor means:

• Better low-light performance
• Improved dynamic range
• Sharper details and more natural bokeh effects
• Up to 8K video recording

Beyond the main sensor, the phone is equipped with:

• 64MP Night Vision Camera – Uses infrared technology for complete darkness photography.
• 50MP Ultrawide Camera (117° FOV) – Captures wider scenes.
• Thermal Imaging Camera (ThermoVue T2, 640x512 px) – Useful for industrial and outdoor applications.

With 8K video recording at 30fps and gyro-EIS stabilization, this is one of the most advanced camera systems seen in a rugged phone.

Durability and Rugged Build

As expected, the Armor 28 Ultra is built to withstand extreme environments. It comes with:

• IP68/IP69K certification – Resistant to dust, high-pressure water jets, and submersion (up to 2m for 30 minutes).
• MIL-STD-810H compliance – Ensures durability against drops, shocks, and harsh conditions.
• Drop-resistant up to 2m – Designed for fieldwork and outdoor use.
• Accessory Connector – Supports Ulefone’s endoscope and microscope attachments.

At 450g, the device is heavier than most smartphones, but that’s the trade-off for added durability and a massive battery.

Hardware and Performance

Unlike most rugged devices that rely on mid-range hardware, Ulefone is packing flagship-tier specs into the Armor 28 Ultra. It features:

• MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ (4nm) chipset – A high-performance processor built for AI-based tasks and gaming.
• 16GB RAM + 1TB UFS 4.0 storage – Ensures smooth multitasking and fast data access.
• Android 15 out of the box – Comes with the latest software features and security updates.

Powering the device is a 10,600mAh battery, which supports:

• 120W wired charging (40% charge in 10 minutes)
• 50W wireless charging (35% charge in 30 minutes)
• Reverse wireless charging for other devices

Display and Secondary Screen

The 6.67-inch AMOLED display offers a 120Hz refresh rate and 2200 nits peak brightness, making it ideal for outdoor use. Gorilla Glass Victus protection ensures scratch and impact resistance.

A 1.04-inch secondary AMOLED display on the back provides quick access to notifications and other features. While small, it could be useful for quick interactions without unlocking the main screen.

With an official release date set for March 17, 2025, more details on pricing and availability should emerge soon. Whether the Armor 28 Ultra will truly deliver on its promises will depend on real-world performance, but it’s already one of the most interesting rugged phones headed to MWC 2025.