Poco C81 Pro certification reveals entry-level specs and Android 15 launch

The Poco C81 Pro has been officially certified for sale in Thailand by the NBTC, confirming the existence of this upcoming entry-level smartphone. The device, carrying model number 25128PC17G, was also previously certified in Indonesia by SDPPI in January under the Poco C81 name before gaining its "Pro" suffix.

According to the certification, the Poco C81 Pro will be a 4G-only device, positioning it firmly in the budget segment of Poco's C-series lineup. This lack of 5G support aligns with the phone's expected positioning as an affordable option for price-conscious consumers.

Interestingly, the Poco C81 Pro is expected to be rebranded as the Redmi A7 Pro in certain markets, suggesting Xiaomi's strategy of leveraging both its Poco and Redmi sub-brands to maximize market reach. This dual branding approach allows Xiaomi to target different consumer segments while maintaining cost efficiencies in production.

Based on information from certification documents and leaks, the Poco C81 Pro is shaping up to be a feature-rich budget device with the following specifications:

• Display: 6.9-inch HD+ screen with 120Hz refresh rate
• Processor: Unisoc T7250 SoC
• Memory: 4GB RAM
• Storage: 64GB/128GB options
• Rear Camera: 50MP main sensor
• Front Camera: 13MP selfie camera
• Battery: 6,000 mAh capacity with 15W wired charging support

The inclusion of a 120Hz refresh rate display at this price point is particularly noteworthy, as it's typically found on more expensive mid-range devices. This feature could make the C81 Pro stand out in the crowded budget smartphone market.

However, potential buyers might be disappointed to learn that the device is expected to launch with Android 15 out of the box, despite Android 16 having been available since June 2024. This means users will miss out on the latest Android features and improvements available in the newer version.

The Poco C81 Pro appears to be targeting the same market segment as other recent budget offerings, competing with devices that offer similar specifications at competitive price points. The combination of a large battery, high refresh rate display, and capable camera system could make it an attractive option for users seeking a reliable daily driver without breaking the bank.

The certification process typically precedes a device's official announcement by several weeks or months, so interested consumers should expect the Poco C81 Pro to hit the market in the coming months. Pricing details remain unknown, but given its specifications and positioning, it's likely to be competitively priced in the entry-level segment.

As with many Xiaomi devices, regional availability and pricing will vary, with the rebranded Redmi A7 Pro version potentially offering different features or specifications tailored to specific markets. Consumers should watch for official announcements from Poco and Redmi for complete details on availability and pricing in their regions.