Armor Mini 5: This compact phone features Android, physical buttons and a touchscreen

The Ulefone Armor Mini 5 is technically a new smartphone, although in practice it is likely somewhere between a feature phone and a smartphone. It runs Android 11, and additional apps can be installed. There is also a 2.8-inch touchscreen. However, it only has a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, which means more demanding smartphone apps are likely less suitable. Ulefone puts particular emphasis on WhatsApp use. Whether the Ulefone Armor Mini 5 combines the best of both worlds or, conversely, the drawbacks of both platforms, will likely depend heavily on actual use.

The Ulefone Armor Mini 5 uses the rather ancient MediaTek MT6739, an SoC introduced in 2017, which is paired with just 1GB RAM. Internal storage is very limited at 8 GB, but can be expanded by up to 64GB with a memory card. There are also two additional card slots, making it possible to use two cellular networks and two phone numbers. 5G networks are not supported, but LTE can be used.

There is both a front and rear camera, though both sensors have a resolution of just 0.3 MP. That is likely very close to the limit of practical usability, and perhaps almost gives it a certain retro charm again. The removable 2,500 mAh battery is said to enable a standby time of up to 311 hours. Compliance with IP68, IP69K and MIL-STD-810H requirements is listed. The smartphone is available from the manufacturer for $99.