Mode 1 Retro II by P-UP World blends retro design with modern Android functionality
Italiano market watchers aside, the Japanese company P-UP World has introduced a new take on the feature phone form factor with the Mode 1 Retro II. This device embraces a classic clamshell shell while delivering the everyday conveniences of a contemporary smartphone powered by Android. It feels like a nod to the past that still keeps pace with today’s tech needs, offering a tactile experience that many users remember while enjoying modern software and connectivity.
The exterior cover houses a compact 3.5 inch touchscreen with an HD+ resolution. A practical push button control unit sits alongside, complemented by two cameras that cover both core photography needs: a main rear camera rated at 48 megapixels and a front camera at 13 megapixels for selfies and video calls. An auxiliary external display provides quick glimpses of the time and incoming notifications, a thoughtful touch for users who value quick status checks without fully opening the device. Specific feature details beyond this are not disclosed by the maker, inviting curiosity about how the secondary screen integrates into everyday use.
Inside, the Mode 1 Retro II is powered by an eight core MediaTek Helio G85 processor. It ships with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal storage, a configuration that ensures smooth casual multitasking and enough room for typical apps, photos, and music. The device also includes a fingerprint scanner for biometric security and a 2500 mAh battery to support a full day of moderate usage. Fast charging is supported via a USB Type-C port, allowing quicker turnaround times between charges. Running Android 13 with pre installed Google services, the handset positions itself as a practical bridge between retro aesthetics and current software ecosystems, all while keeping weight light at a reported 145 grams for comfortable daily carry.
Pricing is set at 29.8 thousand yen, which translates to roughly 19.3 thousand rubles, signaling a focus on value within its home Japanese market. As of the latest updates, there is no public announcement about availability outside Japan, suggesting that this model is tailored for domestic consumers who appreciate a compact, easy to use device with familiar hardware and software underpinnings. The device’s design language and feature set align with a growing trend of revived flip and fold styles that emphasize simplicity and a nostalgic tactile experience without sacrificing modern capabilities.
In related coverage, DxOMark has previously recognized the Google Pixel 8 Pro for delivering a premier display experience, underscoring how display quality remains a key differentiator in high end smartphones. Such comparisons help frame where a device like the Mode 1 Retro II sits within the broader market, appealing to users who want a distinctive form factor paired with capable components and reliable software. The focus on a capable camera system, a biometric security option, and a compact form factor mirrors consumer interests in portable, easy to use devices that still offer solid performance and day to day reliability. [Source attribution: DxOMark]