Every time a new phone launches, it feels like we're getting the same design again and again. A punch-hole in the middle, a punch-hole in the corner, or sometimes a notch. That's it.
Then I remember my favorite phone, the OnePlus 7 Pro.
That phone felt years ahead of its time. A true edge-to-edge display with no notch, no punch-hole, no distractions. Watching movies, gaming, and even everyday scrolling felt so much more immersive. The pop-up camera wasn't just a gimmick, it made the phone feel futuristic.
I understand why companies moved away from it. Water resistance, durability, cost, and thinner designs all played a role. But I still feel like we lost something special.
Now almost every smartphone looks identical from the front. The excitement and uniqueness are gone.
If a brand released a modern flagship with:
- A reliable pop-up selfie camera
- Latest Snapdragon flagship processor
- Excellent cameras
- Big battery with fast charging
- IP rating
I'd buy it without thinking twice.
Am I just being nostalgic, or are there still people who'd choose a pop-up camera over a punch-hole display today?
What's your favorite pop-up camera phone? Mine is still the OnePlus 7 Pro.