itel Zeno 5G: itel launched the Zeno 5G as its new budget 5G smartphone for first-time buyers. It has been priced at an unbelievable ₹9,299 discounted price and is a future-proof phone with some amazing features, such as AI software and good build quality. I spent time with it, and here’s how it performed.
Slim Design and Premium Finish
The itel Zeno 5G impresses the moment you lay eyes on it with its thin 7.8mm design and light weight. The matte finish on the Calx Titanium model I used feels sleek and contemporary, and the other color options, such as Shadow Black and Wave Green, are equally attractive. Not a budget phone in terms of features, it also offers IP54 certification for resistance against water splashes and dust, and comes with Panda glass protection. Itel says it’s drop-tested more than 300 times, and the phone does indeed feel robust in hand.
Display That Punches Above Its Price
The Zeno 5G has a 6.67-inch HD+ IPS LCD screen, which is notable due to its 120Hz refresh rate and 240Hz touch sampling rate. These features ensure that scrolling and app usage feel much smoother than they would on a sub-₹10K phone. Although the color accuracy is not class-leading, the refresh rate by itself upgrades the experience considerably.
Powerful Performance with MediaTek Dimensity
Behind the scenes, the phone uses the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, a solid performer in this category. It features 8GB of RAM (4GB physical + 4GB virtual) and 128GB UFS 2.2 storage, which can be expanded up to 1TB. For day-to-day chores and light gaming, performance was smooth with minimal lag during my usage.
Battery and Charging Experience
The 5,000mAh battery in the Zeno 5G provides a day’s use comfortably. While it does have 18W fast charging, only a 10W charger is included in the box. One feature that proves useful is AI charging protection, which assists with battery well-being over time, unusual at this rate.
Camera with AI Additions
On the camera side, there’s a single 50MP rear sensor (Samsung S5KJN1) and an 8MP front-facing camera, both assisted by LED flash. The rear module appears to be triple-camera in nature at first glance, but it’s a single sensor. Initial daylight photos look great, but nighttime capabilities will require further testing.
AI Features and Software Experience
Running Android 14, the phone comes with the Aviana AI assistant, which supports voice commands such as calling, alarm setting, screenshot capturing, and more. The other AI features, such as Hindi translation, grammar check, content summarization, and AI writing, are present as well. There’s also FM radio, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and even an IR blaster thrown in.
Verdict: A Solid 5G Starter with Smart Additions
For under ₹10,000, the itel Zeno 5G ticks many boxes: a smooth screen, good performance, good connectivity, and AI features that feel helpful. Throw in perks such as a complimentary screen replacement in 100 days and a protective case with corners that can take a beating, and it is a serious contender in the entry-level space. For new 5G buyers or gifting a new-age smartphone, this is a value choice that won’t go wrong.