Ethan Carter
In 2026, RugOne stands out as a pioneer against the prevalent black, elongated smartphone design dominating the market. A subsidiary of Ulefon, RugOne has been creating rugged smartphones for several years. Their latest offering, the Xsnap 7 Pro, not only boasts rugged features but also includes a magnetic, detachable camera unit that functions similarly to an action camera.
The concept of a removable camera certainly piqued my interest. Unfortunately, I received my review unit while covering IFA 2026 in Berlin. I will update this article once I have the opportunity to test the device in person later this week. The camera module, which resembles a near-cube shape, weighs 39 grams and is capable of recording video in up to 2.7K resolution at 30 frames per second, though it isn’t quite ready to compete with the latest GoPro models.
According to RugOne, this camera module provides up to 40 minutes of recording time on a full charge and comes equipped with 64GB of internal storage. It can transmit a live preview feed to the RugOne companion app from a distance of up to 50 meters. Several software features enhance its functionality, including distortion correction, horizon lock, and a Freeframe shooting mode that utilizes the entire sensor area, allowing users the flexibility to crop footage for vertical or horizontal formats as desired.
Built to withstand the elements, the camera is waterproof up to five meters without needing additional protective cases. RugOne also includes a magnet pendant, allowing users to wear the camera for hands-free capture. The module is compatible with third-party accessories that support universal mounting.
The Xsnap 7 Pro features a robust 50-megapixel “AI main camera” paired with optical image stabilization. it includes a 64MP infrared night-vision camera equipped with IR LEDs to deliver clear black-and-white images during nighttime wildlife photography, a feature suggested by RugOne.
Let’s remember that the Xsnap 7 Pro is still a smartphone. It boasts a 6.67-inch display with a peak brightness of 1,700 nits and supports refresh rates of up to 120Hz. Under the hood, it runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 8400 processor and is designed for durability. It carries an IP68 and IP69K rating, allowing it to endure submersion in water up to two meters deep for 30 minutes and withstand drops from heights of 1.5 meters onto concrete.
After being teased as a prototype at MWC 2026 a few months back, the Xsnap 7 Pro is officially launching at IFA. Early-bird sales will begin on Kickstarter on September 7, offering a discounted preorder price of 799 euros (approximately $930). Following this, the phone will be available globally next month through Amazon and RugOne’s online store, retailing for $999 in two color options: Sand Dune and Classic Black.
Daniel Mercer
