realme’s latest entry into the local smartphone market isn’t just another budget device — it’s a battle-ready AI powerhouse. The realme C75 has landed in South Africa, promising flagship-level AI smarts, an ultra-rugged build, and a price tag that won’t make your wallet cry. Available from Vodacom for R5,999 or R349 per month on a three-year contract, this phone is built for young users who need a device that can keep up.
AI that actually does something
Most budget phones slap “AI” on their spec sheet and call it a day, but the realme C75 actually puts it to work. AI Clear Face enhances facial clarity in photos, making your selfies pop without looking artificial, while AI Smart Loop predicts what you’re about to do next and offers shortcuts to make your life easier. It’s the kind of AI that feels useful, not just a gimmick.
Built like a tank (but way prettier)
Here’s where things get interesting. The realme C75 isn’t just another glass sandwich that shatters if you breathe on it too hard. It comes with TÜV Rheinland certification, meaning it’s officially the world’s first rugged smartphone to get that stamp of approval. The phone boasts IP69, IP68, and IP66 ratings, which is a fancy way of saying it can handle dust, water, and the occasional drop. ArmorShell Glass keeps the display from cracking under pressure, making it a legit option for anyone with a chaotic lifestyle.
Specs that don’t suck
Under the hood, you’ll find a Helio G92 Max chipset, a 5,828mAh battery that supports 45W fast charging, and even 6.5W reverse charging — so you can juice up your earbuds or your friend’s dead phone. The 6.72-inch 90Hz FHD display keeps scrolling smooth, while a 50MP AI camera and 8MP selfie shooter make sure your photos don’t look like they were taken with a potato.
realme wants you to take it everywhere
According to Jace Chen, realme’s Country Manager for South Africa, the C75 is designed with young South Africans in mind: “The realme C75 marks an important step forward in making the most advanced technology accessible to more young people. This smartphone embodies our commitment to bridging the technological divide and empowering more people with access to AI.”
Whether you’re hiking in the Drakensberg, grinding through your workday in Joburg, or filming TikToks at the beach, the C75 is built to handle it all. It’s not just another budget phone — it’s a durable, AI-enhanced sidekick.
The bottom line
For R5,999, the realme C75 delivers AI features that aren’t just marketing fluff, a rugged design that can take a hit, and solid battery life.