International ZUK Z1 will be powered by Cyanogen OS, features USB-C and USB 3.1

Earlier this month we reported on the ZUK Z1, a new smartphone from a Lenovo-backed company that is attempting to challenge established players in the “affordable yet powerful” smartphone space. At the time, all we knew for sure was that the phone would debut in China. As it turns out, an international model is also in the works and, unlike the Chinese Z1, it will run Lollipop-based Cyanogen OS 12.1 right out of the box.

Just like the standard model, the ZUK Z1 is powered by a Snapdragon 801 quad-core processor, which the company says they chose over a newer-gen Snapdragon due to the reliability of this particular chipset when compared to chips like the Snapdragon 810. Other specs include 3GB RAM, a 5.5-inch 1080p display, 64GB storage, a 13MP main cam, 8MP front cam, a fingerprint scanner, and a hefty 4100 mAh battery. The Z1 also stands out as one of the first phones with a Type-C USB port, and – unlike the OP2 – it also features the speedy USB 3.1 standard.

Not much is known about what markets the ZUK Z1 plans to hit with its international model, though we wouldn’t be shocked if it made its way to other parts of Asia, as well as Europe. A North American launch would be interesting but we’d say it is a bit less likely, though you never know. Pricing is also uncertain, though the Chinese version is expected to cost around $280, so we wouldn’t be too surprised if the price tag stays about the same.

Thankfully, we don’t have to wait long before hearing more details. ZUK will officially reveal its full international plans at a special event in Shenzhen tomorrow, August 21st. If the Cyanogen-equipped ZUK Z1 makes it to your market and costs under $300, would you consider it?