Asus Taking Preorders for $499 Smartphone With DTS Sound, Sony Imagers

Asus is taking preorders for the ZenFone 5Z, said the company Monday. Features include a Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor and dual Sony IMX363 cameras offering automatic scene detection, real-time portrait effects, 4K video, artificial intelligence photo learning and “real-time beautification,” said the company. AI Charging is said to maximize battery life by monitoring the user’s charging habits and slowing the battery's aging process. The phone supports Hi-Res Audio files up to 24-bit/192 kHz and DTS Headphone:X for 7.1-channel virtual surround, said Asus. The five-magnet stereo speakers are driven by smart amplifiers said to ensure maximum volume while protecting the speakers from damage. The $499 phone will be available Aug. 6 from Amazon, the Asus Store, B&H Photo and Newegg.