Meizu Goes Two Ways, Hongqi Phone Arrives: Can a Flagship and Entry-Level Duo Revive the Brand?

Meizu Goes Two Ways, Hongqi Phone Arrives: Can a Flagship and Entry-Level Duo Revive the Brand?Meizu has long been praised by users for its smooth Flyme system experience, excellent sound quality, and extreme pursuit of design aesthetics. However, in recent years, Meizu's development pace has not met expectations

Meizu Goes Two Ways, Hongqi Phone Arrives: Can a Flagship and Entry-Level Duo Revive the Brand?

Meizu has long been praised by users for its smooth Flyme system experience, excellent sound quality, and extreme pursuit of design aesthetics. However, in recent years, Meizu's development pace has not met expectations. Particularly in the second half of 2024, while competitors were actively releasing new phones, Meizu seemed to be rather quiet. However, Meizu previously pushed several system updates, which increased brand awareness to a certain extent.

Recently, there have been rumors in the market that Meizu is starting to make a comeback, and two new phones have already been listed for network access: the M431Q, targeting the mid-to-low-end, and the Hongqi phone M481R, focusing on the high-end market.

M431Q: A Powerhouse of Battery Life, Targeting the Entry-Level Market

Despite being positioned in the mid-to-low-end market, the Meizu M431Q demonstrates impressive battery life. It is said to be equipped with a 6000mAh large battery, able to meet users' needs for long battery life, easily lasting a day on a single charge. While it uses 33W fast charging technology, considering the product's positioning, this charging speed is still practical.

The launch of the M431Q enriches Meizu's product line and reflects Meizu's precise positioning and differentiation strategy in different market segments. However, whether this new phone will be positioned as a new Meizu Blue phone or a derivative version of the Meizu Number X series remains unknown. Further official information is needed for confirmation.

Hongqi Phone M481R: Meizu and Hongqi Join Forces, Exploring New Boundaries in Smart Travel

The Hongqi phone M481R is a cross-border collaboration between Meizu and Hongqi, a symbolic brand in China's automotive industry. Hongqi is loved by consumers for its high-end and luxurious brand image. Meanwhile, Meizu has a broad user base in the smartphone field, known for its unique design aesthetics, excellent system experience, and deep technical accumulation. In this collaboration, both sides integrate their respective advantages to jointly explore new boundaries in smart travel.

According to leaks, the Hongqi phone M481R has been listed for network access, with the manufacturer being Meizu. Combining various sources, it seems that the Hongqi phone is about to be released. As a "copycat" model, the Hongqi phone M481R shares similar product details with the Meizu 21 Pro but features customized designs in brand identification and boot animation, adopting the Hongqi logo and a customized Hongqi boot animation, respectively.

As a smartphone designed specifically for car owners, the biggest highlight of the Hongqi phone M481R is its deep integration with Hongqi cars. Through innovative functions like FlymeLink phone domain technology, the Meizu Flyme system can seamlessly connect with the Hongqi car system, making it a crucial area of focus for Flyme.

The Hongqi phone M481R also boasts many remarkable hardware features. It boasts a 6.79-inch 2K+ ultra-clear screen, delivering exceptional visual effects. The 21:9 golden ratio, 74mm ultra-narrow body, 120Hz LTPO adaptive refresh rate, and 2160Hz high-frequency PWM dimming technology make it difficult for the Hongqi phone M481R to be challenged in terms of screen quality.

In terms of core configuration, the Hongqi phone M481R is equipped with the third-generation Snapdragon 8 processor and offers a maximum of 16GB+1TB storage combination, satisfying users' needs for large storage capacity. In terms of battery life, the 5050mAh large battery, paired with 80W wired and 50W wireless charging technology, can meet daily usage needs. Moreover, the Hongqi phone M481R will be equipped with full-featured NFC, infrared remote control, dual speakers, X-axis linear motor, and ultrasonic fingerprint unlocking.

However, it is unclear whether the Hongqi phone M481R's system will have the same update pace as the Meizu phone's Flyme. If they can maintain consistent update speeds, it will undoubtedly be a strong attraction for users. It's worth noting that the Hongqi phone M481R is unlikely to be sold widely like ordinary models. It is expected to be gifted to users who purchase Hongqi cars at a preferential price, stimulating consumer choice.

Dual Phone Launch, Meeting Diverse User Needs

Meizu's two-pronged strategy allows both flagship users seeking the ultimate experience and entry-level consumers prioritizing cost-effectiveness to find a suitable option within the Meizu product line. The launch of the M431Q completes Meizu's product lineup in the entry-level market, while the Hongqi phone M481R represents Meizu's new attempt in the high-end market.

So, which product are you looking forward to more? Share your thoughts in the comments!