The year is winding down, but there’s still time for new product launches, including smartphones that could be potential gifts. While many recent releases focus on everyday use, gaming phones remain a notable category. Nubia, a prominent brand in this market, is introducing its latest RedMagic model with a slightly updated design. The phone retains key features that fans appreciate, whether or not they seem practical.

Gaming smartphones stand out not just for their high performance but also for a distinctive aesthetic that appeals to a specific audience. This includes abundant RGB lighting, geometric shapes, and futuristic details. The nubia RedMagic 9 Pro maintains this gamer-oriented design tradition but with some tweaks that enhance its overall appearance.

A notable change is the relocation of the cameras from the center to the side, a common feature in many smartphones. The camera bump is eliminated, and the lenses are now flush with the entire back. This design choice results in a slightly thicker phone compared to others of its kind, but this is typical for a heavy-duty gaming device. Interestingly, only two of the three large circles on the back are actual cameras, with the third discreetly housing the cooling fan. The third camera, positioned to the side, has a 2MP depth sensor, which is relatively insignificant.

The RedMagic 9 Pro maintains a similar aesthetic to its predecessor, featuring lines and shapes on the back that resemble panels on futuristic machines. The design gives a nod to ships, robots, and similar themes. For those who prefer a more understated look, the Sleek model resembles typical black smartphones, offering a more discreet appearance. The front retains an under-display camera, ensuring a seamless and unbroken look for the large screen.

The phone still features a small cooling fan, a unique addition intended to prevent performance throttling by keeping the device cool. While it can be effective to some extent, it comes at the cost of lacking a guarantee for dust or water resistance. With the introduction of a more efficient Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and an updated “ICE 13 Multi-Dimensional” cooling system, the need for the fan may diminish, making it more of a drawback than a selling point in the long term.