Some people argue that modern smartphones are starting to lack innovation, but the Ulefone RugOne Xsnap 7 suggests otherwise. One of its most unusual features is a rear camera that can be detached and used as a standalone action camera.
The phone was recently showcased at MWC 2026 and is expected to launch around the middle of the year. According to early information, it will come with a 6.67-inch AMOLED display, powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8400 5G processor, along with 12GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage.
Although the removable camera likely won’t match dedicated action cameras in terms of size or video performance, the concept is still appealing. Users can detach the camera module and use the phone itself as a remote control and viewfinder. After recording, the camera can be attached back to the phone to recharge and transfer the footage.
This design naturally makes the phone bulkier, but that seems intentional. The RugOne Xsnap 7 also packs a massive 9,000mAh battery, which should provide excellent battery life.
The exact specifications of the detachable camera haven’t been revealed yet. However, Ulefone says the phone will also include a 50MP main camera and a 64MP night-vision camera on the back, plus a 32MP front-facing camera for selfies.
According to the company, the device is designed for adventurers who want to capture moments anywhere. It combines the capabilities of a rugged smartphone with the flexibility of an action camera.
Having both a detachable action camera and a standard smartphone camera could prove genuinely useful rather than just a novelty. It will be interesting to see the final version of the device when it officially launches, especially its price.
Recently, Honor also introduced a phone featuring a gimbal camera mounted on a robotic arm, showing that manufacturers are experimenting with new camera designs. The RugOne Xsnap 7’s removable camera might even signal a return of modular smartphone ideas.
