The PRO 6 Plus has a minimal metal design that draws on elements of other more widely known handsets. It looks like a blend of Apple’s iPhone and recent Samsung devices. A shiny metal frame runs around the edge of the phone, accenting the otherwise unbroken design.
Meizu has opted for a 5.7-inch display with a 2560×1440 resolution. The size means the PRO 6 Plus falls firmly into the phablet category. It could be popular with power users but uncomfortable for people unacquainted with larger phones. It includes “3D Press” pressure-sensing functionality that’s similar to Apple’s 3D Touch.
The PRO 6 Plus is powered by an octa-core Samsung Exynos 8890 processor. There’s 4GB of LPDDR memory and 64GB or 128GB of storage. Meizu has used a UFS 2.0 flash memory system to provide 1.4GB/s bandwidth to the storage modules, making app launching and multitasking faster. There’s also a 32-bit audio DAC that provides more detailed sound than most smartphones can offer.
The rest of the PRO 6 Plus’ hardware is typical of other modern high-end handsets. There’s a 12-megapixel camera, USB Type-C, USB 3.1 and support for fast charging. The battery has a large 3,400mAh capacity which Meizu claims can last for over 900 charging cycles before noticeably deteriorating.
With the PRO 6 Plus, Meizu has concentrated on the software as much as what’s underneath. The device is the first to launch with the company’s new Flyme 6 operating system. It’s a customised version of Android that includes several exclusive capabilities. Meizu has added over 400 new features to Flyme 6, improving its Android skin significantly in the process.
The interface has been revised with a new emphasis on simplicity and minimalism. The updated palette is based on eight “elegant” colours designed to put content first and remove annoyances and frustrations from using the phone. According to Meizu, it helps the user to fully immerse themselves in what’s on the screen.
The PRO 6 Plus also comes with One Mind, Meizu’s new artificial intelligence engine that helps to keep the phone running smoothly. One Mind intelligently adjusts system performance to suit the running apps. It can identify when one of the user’s favourite apps is running and assign additional resources as required.
“Flyme 6 is our largest system update ever. It is more powerful, secure and reliable with over 400 new features and a self-developed artificial intelligence system service, One Mind,” said Meizu. Both products are milestones for Meizu’s technological development and we’re looking forward to creating a more surprising experience for those who embrace imagination.”
The Meizu PRO 6 Plus is yet another capable flagship phablet to emerge in the past few months. Meizu is evidently aiming to attract customers who would have bought Samsung’s now recalled Galaxy Note 7. The PRO 6 Plus has the same form factor, premium performance and a unique selection of features.
“PRO 6 Plus integrates Meizu’s delicate design and top-notch hardware configurations and ensures an exquisite user experience,” said Aber Bai, president of Meizu. “We believe it is a great product in all aspects and we look forward to it becoming popular in the market.”
The PRO 6 Plus will cost around $435 in its 64GB configuration. The 128GB version will be priced slightly higher at $479. It will be available in gray, champagne gold and silver in select regions worldwide. The phone will not be offered in the U.S.
