Realme 9i

The Realme 9i is available at QAR 629 for the 4GB/64GB variant and QAR 729 for the 6GB/128GB model.

Specifications

Feature	Specification
Display	6.6″ IPS LCD, 90Hz Refresh Rate
Resolution	2412 x 1080 pixels (FHD+)
Protection	Dragontrail Pro Glass
Processor	Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 6nm
GPU	Adreno 610
RAM	4GB/6GB LPDDR4X
Storage	64GB/128GB UFS 2.2
Expandable Storage	Up to 1TB via microSD
Main Camera System	50MP Primary (f/1.8) 2MP Macro (f/2.4) 2MP B&W Portrait (f/2.4)
Front Camera	16MP Selfie (f/2.1)
Battery	5000mAh
Charging	33W Dart Charge
Operating System	Android 11 with Realme UI 2.0
Biometrics	Side-mounted Fingerprint Scanner
Colors	Prism Blue, Prism Black

 

Design and Build Quality

The Realme 9i showcases a modern design philosophy with its sleek profile and attention to detail. The device features a premium-looking plastic back panel with a unique prism effect that creates stunning light patterns when viewed from different angles. Available in Prism Blue and Prism Black color options, the smartphone maintains a professional yet stylish appearance suitable for all age groups.

The device’s build quality is robust, with a comfortable grip thanks to its curved edges and ergonomic design. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor doubles as the power button, providing quick and reliable access to the device. At 8.4mm thickness and weighing 190 grams, the Realme 9i strikes a perfect balance between durability and portability.

Display Technology

The Realme 9i boasts a 6.6-inch IPS LCD panel with FHD+ resolution, offering crisp visuals and vibrant colors. The 90Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and enhanced gaming experience, while the 180Hz touch sampling rate provides responsive touch inputs. The screen features a peak brightness of 480 nits, making it readable even under bright sunlight.

The display is protected by Dragontrail Pro Glass, offering decent protection against scratches and minor drops. The screen-to-body ratio of 90.8% provides an immersive viewing experience, with minimal bezels and a small punch-hole camera cutout that doesn’t interfere with content consumption.

Performance and Gaming

Under the hood, the Realme 9i is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 processor, built on a 6nm manufacturing process. This efficient chipset delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks and casual gaming. The Adreno 610 GPU handles graphics processing, capable of running popular mobile games at medium settings.

The device comes with either 4GB or 6GB of LPDDR4X RAM, complemented by Dynamic RAM Expansion technology that can utilize up to 5GB of storage as virtual RAM. Storage options include 64GB and 128GB variants, both using UFS 2.2 technology for faster data transfer speeds. The dedicated microSD card slot supports expansion up to 1TB, ensuring ample storage for apps, media, and documents.

Camera System and Photography

The Realme 9i features a versatile triple camera setup led by a 50MP primary sensor with an f/1.8 aperture. This main camera captures detailed photos in various lighting conditions, supported by AI enhancement features. The 2MP macro lens allows for close-up shots up to 4cm away, while the 2MP portrait lens assists in creating natural background blur effects.

For selfies, the 16MP front camera delivers sharp self-portraits and supports various beautification features. The camera app includes multiple modes such as Night Mode, Ultra Macro, AI Scene Recognition, and Portrait Mode. Video recording capabilities include 1080p at 30fps from both front and rear cameras, with electronic image stabilization for smoother footage.

Battery Life and Charging

One of the standout features of the Realme 9i is its large 5000mAh battery, which provides exceptional endurance. Under typical usage patterns, the device can easily last through a day and a half to two days. The efficient processor and optimized software contribute to the impressive battery life.

The device supports 33W Dart Charge technology, capable of charging the phone from 0 to 50% in approximately 30 minutes. The included charger provides consistent fast charging speeds while maintaining battery health through intelligent charging algorithms.

Software and User Experience

The Realme 9i runs on Realme UI 2.0 based on Android 11, offering a clean and customizable user interface. The software includes useful features such as Dark Mode, Digital Wellbeing tools, and various privacy options.

The UI is optimized for smooth performance and includes features like App Lock, Private Safe, and Kids Space.

Connectivity and Additional Features

The device supports dual SIM functionality with 4G VoLTE connectivity. Other connectivity options include dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, and USB Type-C port.

The 3.5mm headphone jack is retained for traditional audio accessories, while the bottom-firing speaker provides decent audio output.

Comparison with Competitors

When compared to other devices in its price range, the Realme 9i holds its ground well.

The Samsung Galaxy A23 offers similar specifications but at a higher price point. The POCO M4 Pro provides comparable performance but lacks the refined software experience of Realme UI. The OPPO A76 shares similar hardware but comes with a smaller battery capacity.

Realme 9 Series Comparison

Within the Realme 9 family, each model serves a specific purpose:

Realme 9i: Focuses on battery life and everyday performance at an affordable price point.

Realme 9: Offers an AMOLED display and 108MP camera for photography enthusiasts.

Realme 9 Pro: Provides 5G connectivity and enhanced performance for power users.

Realme 9 Pro +: Features a flagship-grade camera system and premium build quality.

Value Proposition

The Realme 9i represents excellent value for money in the Qatari market. Its combination of reliable performance, long battery life, and versatile camera system makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. The device particularly appeals to students, young professionals, and anyone seeking a dependable smartphone without breaking the bank.

Release and Availability

The Realme 9i was released in Qatar in January 2022 and is widely available through major retailers and online platforms. The device comes with a standard one-year warranty and after-sales support through authorized service centers across Qatar.

Future Updates and Support

Realme has committed to providing regular security updates and has promised at least one major Android version upgrade for the 9i. This ensures the device remains secure and feature-rich throughout its lifecycle.

Conclusion

The Realme 9i emerges as a compelling option in Qatar’s mid-range smartphone segment. It successfully balances performance, battery life, and camera capabilities while maintaining an attractive price point.

While it may not boast the most powerful specifications or premium features of its higher-end siblings, it delivers a reliable and satisfying smartphone experience for its target audience.

The combination of practical features, modern design, and competitive pricing makes the Realme 9i a worthy consideration for anyone seeking a capable smartphone under QAR 800.