OPPO R17 Pro a smartphone for photography lovers

Once again the battle of the smartphones ramps up a notch, as the OPPO unveils the upcoming launch of the OPPO R17 Pro in New Zealand next week.

OPPO has clearly seen the value of producing reasonably high-specced smartphone cameras: The R17 is staking its marketing claims on 'redefining the limit of smartphone cameras'.

The 25MP front-facing camera uses 'AI Selfie Beautification' technology (so you presumably look your 'best self', or maybe use all manner of cute filters).

The rear 12MP camera has Smart Aperture technology, which means it can capture low-light images on larger F1.5 aperture and deeper greater focal depth in smaller F2.4 aperture.

One of the most notable features is a TOF-Ready 3D camera for night shooting. The camera produces 'nanosecond bursts of infrared light to gather information of the surroundings. Apps can then be developed that utilise this information to create new possibilities for the 3D camera'.

Meanwhile, the AI engine can detect the best shooting settings. It can put in place features such as long exposure, anti-shake, noise removal, and highlight suppression. There is also a secondary 20MP camera for all shooting conditions.

"We are excited to bring the R17 Pro's Ultra Night Mode and TOF 3D camera capabilities to New Zealand," says OPPO New Zealand managing director Kevin Cho.

"Using the latest smartphone camera technology, OPPO will help its customers seize the night and take advantage of new and exciting camera applications as they come to market. OPPO is excited to be at the forefront of this technology in New Zealand," Cho continues.

The R17 Pro will feature SuperVOOC Flash Charging, touted as the world's fastest charging technology.  That will certainly helped the device's two 1850mAH batteries and bi-cell design.

"Customers will be ready to go in a flash, with the R17 Pro capable of reaching 40% charge in just 10 minutes," OPPO claims.

In addition to the 6.4" screen's Corning Gorilla Glass 6, the R17 Pro is able to tolerate one-metre drops onto rough surfaces up to 15 times.

The device will feature 6GB RAM, 128GB storage, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 710 chipset, and OPPO's ColorOS 5.2 operating system which is based on Android 8.1.

Keen buyers can choose from two colours: Radiant Mist or Emerald Green.

The OPPO R17 Pro at a glance:

• Improved camera technology - enhanced with AI and a new Sony sensor allowing for premium features such as Ultra Night Mode and the revolutionary TOF 3D Photography
• SuperVOOC Flash Charge - the world's fastest charging tech, capable of charging up to 40% in just 10 minutes
• 6.4inch FHD+ Waterdrop inspired screen - which will stay protected thanks to its Corning Gorilla Glass 6

The OPPO R17 Pro will be available from JB Hi-Fi, Noel Leeming, PB Tech and Smiths City from November 16, 2018. 2degrees will also offer mobile plans for the R17 Pro.