Bell Launches ahlo 2 Budget Smartphone with Enhanced Features

The ahlo 2 features a larger 6.9-inch display, an upgraded 50 MP camera system, and a 5,200 mAh battery, which Bell claims can last up to a day and a half under typical usage. An e-reader mode allows for up to seven days of standby time, while fast charging can bring the battery from zero to 50 percent in approximately 38 minutes. The device operates on Android 16.

Steve Karan, Vice President of Wireless Product & Logistics at Bell, described the ahlo 2 as a significant advancement in design and performance, offering features typically seen in higher-priced smartphones at a more accessible price point.

Upon a brief hands-on, the ahlo 2 presented itself as a straightforward Android smartphone with a matte NXTPAPER display by TCL. While the device does not have standout features, it serves as a basic, functional Android phone suitable for budget-conscious users. The design aligns with that of TCL’s NXTPAPER 70 Pro, as the specifications match closely.

Bell is also offering a custom protective case and a 30W fast charger bundle for $39.99 CAD.

The original ahlo was introduced in April 2025 at a price of $270 CAD. Compared to its predecessor, the ahlo 2 increases both the screen size and battery capacity while raising the outright price by $65 CAD, maintaining its budget status in light of carrier plan costs as of October.

Key specifications for the ahlo 2 include:

- Display: 6.9-inch IPS LCD with TCL NXTPAPER 4.0 matte technology, resolution of 1080 x 2340 (FHD+), and a refresh rate of 120Hz.

- Chipset: MediaTek Dimensity 7300

- RAM: 8 GB

- Storage: 128 GB, expandable via microSD (up to 128 GB)

- Rear Cameras: 50 MP main (with OIS) + 8 MP ultra-wide

- Front Camera: 32 MP

- Battery: 5,200 mAh

- Fast Charging: 0 to 50 percent in about 38 minutes

- Operating System: Android 16

- Network: 5G+

- Security Features: Fingerprint sensor and face unlock

- Water Resistance: Yes (rating not specified)

- Dimensions: 169.4 x 80.05 x 7.98 mm

- Weight: 207 g

- Color: Stellar Blue

- Warranty: 2 years

At $335 CAD, the ahlo 2 is priced well below flagship models, and is available on a network that was recently rated top by PCMag in their 2026 Canadian network tests. Its exclusivity as a device available only through Bell and its affiliates may limit shopping options for consumers.

The ahlo 2 is aimed at users who may not prioritize having the latest technology. It seems well-suited for less tech-savvy individuals, such as seniors who wish to stay connected on social media. According to Bell’s SmartPay program, consumers can finance at $10 CAD monthly, but this requires an $85/month plan, which may lead to more cost-effective options through other budget carriers.