Realme U1 smartphone
realme

Realme U1

December 2018 7/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The Realme U1 is a selfie-focused smartphone launched in late 2018, notable for being the first device globally to feature the MediaTek Helio P70 processor. It boasts a 25MP AI selfie camera and a 6.3-inch "Dewdrop" display, aiming to provide strong performance and camera capabilities in the budget segment.
Display6.3" FHD+ IPS LCD Dewdrop display
ChipsetMediaTek Helio P70
Main CameraDual 13MP + 2MP
Battery3500 mAh

💰 Realme U1 Price

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📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeIPS LCD
Size6.3 inches
Resolution1080 x 2340 pixels, FHD+, 19.5:9 ratio (~409 ppi density)
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass 3
FeaturesCapacitive, Multi-touch, Scratch resistant, Dewdrop Full Screen with 90.8% screen-to-body ratio

Platform

OSAndroid 8.1 (Oreo), upgradable to Android 9.0 (Pie), ColorOS 5.2 (upgradable to ColorOS 6)
ChipsetMediaTek Helio P70 (12nm)
CPUOcta-core (4x 2.1 GHz ARM Cortex-A73 & 4x 1.95 GHz ARM Cortex-A53)
GPUARM Mali-G72 MP3 (900 MHz)

Memory

Card slotmicroSDXC (dedicated slot), up to 256GB
Internal32GB, 64GB
RAM3GB, 4GB

Main Camera

Dual13 MP, f/2.2, AF (primary) + 2 MP, f/2.4, depth sensor
FeaturesLED flash, HDR, panorama, AI Scene Detection, Portrait Lighting, Bokeh Effect
Video1080p@30fps

Selfie Camera

Single25 MP, f/2.0 (Sony IMX576 sensor)
FeaturesAI Beauty, HDR, 1.8µm Large Pixel (4-in-1 pixels), Multi-frame Noise Reduction
Video1080p@30fps

Battery

TypeLi-Po 3500 mAh, non-removable
Charging10W wired

Body

Dimensions157 x 74 x 8 mm (6.18 x 2.91 x 0.31 in)
Weight168g
BuildGlass front (Gorilla Glass 3), plastic back, plastic frame
SIMDual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, 2.4GHz, hotspot
Bluetooth4.2, A2DP, LE
GPSYes, with A-GPS, GLONASS
NFCNo
RadioFM Radio
USBmicroUSB 2.0, USB On-The-Go

Launch

Announced2018, November
StatusReleased 2018, December

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Powerful MediaTek Helio P70 processor for its segment
  • Excellent 25MP AI selfie camera
  • Attractive "Dewdrop" full-screen design
  • Dedicated microSD card slot for storage expansion
  • Good battery life (3500mAh)
  • Includes case and screen protector in the box

Cons

  • MicroUSB port instead of modern USB-C
  • Launched with older Android 8.1 (Oreo)
  • Rear camera performance could be better in some conditions
  • Plastic back build
★ Our Verdict

The Realme U1 offers a strong selfie camera and a capable processor for its price point, though some aspects like the rear camera and MicroUSB port are average.

The Realme U1, while an older model from late 2018, was a compelling option for selfie enthusiasts and users seeking solid performance on a budget. Its MediaTek Helio P70 chipset still offers decent power for everyday tasks and light gaming. The standout feature remains its 25MP AI selfie camera, which was a major highlight at its launch. If you can find it at a significantly reduced price today and prioritize a strong front camera and a dedicated microSD slot, it might still serve as a basic secondary device. However, for primary use, newer phones in a similar price bracket will offer more modern features like USB-C, better software support, and potentially improved overall camera systems. Consider its age and the availability of software updates before purchasing.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • Realme U1 Handset
  • 10W Power Adapter
  • MicroUSB Data Cable
  • SIM Ejector Tool
  • Protective Silicone Case
  • Pre-applied Screen Protector

Realme typically offers a standard 1-year manufacturer's warranty on its phones, covering manufacturing defects.

❓ Questions & Answers

What is the main highlight of the Realme U1?

The Realme U1 was the first smartphone globally to be powered by the MediaTek Helio P70 processor and featured a prominent 25MP AI selfie camera.

When was the Realme U1 released?

The Realme U1 was announced in November 2018 and released in December 2018.

Does the Realme U1 support expandable storage?

Yes, the Realme U1 has a dedicated microSDXC card slot, allowing for storage expansion up to 256GB.

What kind of display does the Realme U1 have?

It features a 6.3-inch Full HD+ IPS LCD "Dewdrop" display with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection.

What are the camera specifications of the Realme U1?

The Realme U1 comes with a dual rear camera setup (13MP primary + 2MP depth sensor) and a high-resolution 25MP AI selfie camera.

What operating system does the Realme U1 run?

It launched with Android 8.1 (Oreo) with ColorOS 5.2, and was upgradable to Android 9.0 (Pie) and ColorOS 6.