Speaking of last year, the publication highlights how similar in model number the "Phone 9 FE" is to the ROG Phone 8 Pro. That phone was still pricey when it launched; however, ASUS could use the device as a base before fleshing out the FE phone.

The Asus ROG Phone 9 with a Snapdragon 8 Elite chip is a performance powerhouse, but it can't match other $1,000 phones in ways that matter.

ASUS is now rumored to be working on a cheaper ROG Phone 9 variant that would give gamers the benefits of the newly announced model of the phone while paying a lower official price point. If you’re unfamiliar with the ROG Phone series,