The ZTE S30 Pro is the world's latest 144Hz display smartphone

Considering Xiaomi held the second half of its bumper product launch today (March 30, 2021), showcasing the blockbuster Mi Mix Fold in the process, one would think no other smartphone OEM would think of doing the same. However, ZTE has indeed found the confidence to do just that in introducing its new S30 line.

These devices are new entrants in the increasingly crowded premium mid-range to mid-range 5G arena. They also all have the same 6.67-inch FHD+ front panel, complete with central piunch-holes. However, the S30 Pro is the only one with a 144Hz refresh rate and a 360Hz touch-sampling rate.

The ZTE S30 has a 90Hz version of this display, whereas the S30 SE makes do with a standard 60Hz rate. It does, however, get the same 240Hz touch-response rate as the vanilla variant. It is also the only triple-camera device of the series, with a 48MP main sensor. The SE also has the only new line's 6,000mAh battery, as opposed to 4,200mAh and 4,000mAh in the S30 Pro and S30 respectively.

ZTE has also unveiled a new Android 11-based skin alongside the S30s. Called MyOS, it replaces the frankly oddly-named MiFavor UI, and comes with a re-desiged interface and new wallpapers. The S30 Pro will cost 2.998 yuan (~US$456) for its single 8GB RAM/256GB SKU on its April 3, 2021 release, whereas the S30 gets 8GB RAM units with 128 to 256GB, priced at 2,198 yuan (~$334) and 2,398 yuan (~$265) respectively.

The S30 SE has only 1 6/128GB SKU, set at 1,698 yuan (~$258). It and its new siblings have debuted alongside a selection of additional offerings from their OEM, including the ZTE Watch GT, new TWS earbuds and a Wi-Fi router.

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