• Realme Buds T500 Pro launched in India earlier this year.
• The Harry Potter Edition will get dedicated branding from the franchise.
• Realme has yet to reveal the design of the TWS. 

[/highlights]

Realme has announced the launch of another Harry Potter Edition product in India. The Realme Buds T500 Pro Harry Potter Edition is set to launch in India alongside the Realme 16 Pro smartphone with the same branding. The announcement comes shortly after the Realme 16 Pro Harry Potter Edition was teased to launch in India. Both devices will come with the official branding and themes from the popular franchise. 

Realme Buds T500 Pro Harry Potter Edition India launch

The Realme Buds T500 Harry Potter Edition is confirmed to launch in India on September 21st. Since the smartphone will be available via Flipkart, we expect the TWS to also go on sale through the same platform. 

Realme has shared a teaser image for the Buds T500 Harry Potter Edition, but without revealing much about the design. What we can expect are Harry Potter motifs on the case and earbuds. The Realme 16 Pro has been showcased, so we can expect a similar design. 

The Realme Buds T500 Pro launched in India earlier this year, so we can expect the same hardware for the Harry Potter Edition as well. The TWS is equipped with 12.4mm drivers for deep bass and an open soundstage, along with support for Hi-Res Audio and the LHDC 5.0 codec. These enable higher-bitrate audio transmission over Bluetooth. The Realme Buds T500 Pro also comes with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) rated at up to 50dB, which is quite standard for this price segment.

In terms of battery life, the Realme Buds T500 Pro is said to deliver up to 56 hours of total playback with the charging case. With ANC on, the TWS should run for around 8 hours and 33 hours with the case. The Buds T500 Pro also come with 45ms ultra-low latency for lag-free audio while gaming. 

The Realme Buds T500 Pro is priced at Rs 3,199 in India. The Harry Potter Edition would carry a higher price tag than the regular version. While the core specs remain solid, the true appeal here will undoubtedly be the detailed Harry Potter aesthetics. 

Since this is a special edition, it's likely to appeal to Harry Potter fans. As for those who aren't interested in the branding, they can go for the regular version, which also comes in yellow, black, and silver colours. 

• iQOO Pad Ultra will come with dedicated gaming hardware.
• It's designed to be lightweight with a compact form factor.
• iQOO Pad Ultra will get gaming accessories too. 

[/highlights]

iQOO has confirmed the launch of a new gaming tablet alongside its flagship smartphone, the iQOO 16. The iQOO Pad Ultra is being positioned as a new kind of e-sports tablet with dedicated features and hardware for gaming. It's a compact tablet with the idea of offering something in between a smartphone and a traditional tablet, which iQOO believes will provide the perfect form factor for a gaming enthusiast. 

iQOO Pad Ultra: what to expect

The iQOO Pad Ultra will feature a compact 8.8-inch display in a lightweight 298g body, and it will measure 5.74mm thick, giving it a slim form factor too. The reason behind the compact design, as iQOO says, is to achieve the perfect balance for a gaming device. It argued that while a smartphone is portable enough, its small screen size has limitations. Whereas a traditional tablet offers a larger screen but it's not comfortable to hold and play games on it.

That's where the 8.8-inch compact size comes in and provides a comfortable form factor. This 8.8-inch form factor could be a game-changer for mobile e-sports, offering a sweet spot many have been craving.

The iQOO Pad Ultra is said to run on the same flagship chip and self-developed e-sports chip as the iQOO 16. While this hasn't been officially revealed, the Pad Ultra could use the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 chipset, as seen on a recent Geekbench listing. This is an upcoming flagship chipset from Qualcomm expected to launch soon. iQOO has also equipped the Pad Ultra with the largest active cooling fan for heat dissipation along with dual X-axis linear motors and refined speakers for the ultimate gaming experience. 

The tablet will also come with a stretchable game controller and a back grip to make holding it more comfortable during extended gaming sessions. It might also get a 9,000mAh battery. 

Based on what has been revealed so far, the iQOO Pad Ultra should appeal to serious gamers who want a dedicated tablet for gaming. Since it has flagship hardware, the Pad Ultra would also be ideal for intensive tasks. Its compact form factor also gives it an advantage as users who like reading or studying might prefer it. If these are your requirements then you might want to hold off on buying a new tablet and wait for the iQOO Pad Ultra. 

The iQOO Pad Ultra is set to launch in China on September 29th. It will be available in two colour options: Black and Silver. 

• Samsung's Galaxy Forever programme reduces the monthly EMI for the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Z Fold8 Ultra by 25 percent over 24 months.
• Customers pay 60 percent of the device price through EMIs, with the remaining 40 percent deferred as a bullet payment after two years.
• The programme includes assured buyback and Samsung Care+, giving users the option to upgrade, retain or return the foldable at the end of the tenure.

[/highlights]

Samsung has introduced a new payment option under its Galaxy Forever programme for the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra in India. The two-year plan reduces the monthly EMI by 25 percent by deferring 40 percent of the device price to a bullet payment at the end of the 24-month tenure.

Galaxy Forever EMI plan

Under the new plan, customers pay 60 percent of the phone's price, along with the Galaxy Forever programme fee, through 24 EMIs. The monthly EMI for the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra drops from Rs 9,417 to Rs 6,997, while the Galaxy Z Fold8 EMI falls from Rs 8,584 to Rs 6,416.

After 24 months, customers can choose to upgrade to a newer Galaxy device and return the existing one, pay the remaining 40 percent and retain it, or return the phone and exit the programme. Samsung also allows earlier returns or upgrades, with assured buyback values of up to 55 percent after 10-11 months, 50 percent after 12-13 months, 45 percent after 14-18 months and 40 percent after 19-25 months.

The programme includes Samsung Care+, covering accidental and liquid damage without claim processing fees. That means buyers do not have to purchase the protection plan separately. The structure is similar to the broader trend of manufacturers using upgrade and buyback programmes to make expensive smartphones easier to purchase. However, buyers should look beyond the lower monthly EMI as the remaining 40 percent is still payable if they choose to keep the device.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 and Fold8 Ultra prices

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 starts at Rs 1,79,999 in India, while the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra starts at Rs 1,99,999. The 512GB variants cost Rs 1,99,999 and Rs 2,19,999, respectively, while the 1TB models are priced at Rs 2,39,999 and Rs 2,59,999.

The Z Fold8 Ultra has an 8-inch main display, a 200MP primary camera and 50MP ultrawide camera. It weighs 215g and is 4.1mm thick when unfolded, with a 5,000mAh battery and 45W charging. The Z Fold8 weighs 201 gms and has a 4,800mAh battery, a 3,000-nit main display and dual 50MP cameras.

Galaxy Forever makes more sense for those who expect to upgrade regularly and value included protection. Those planning to keep the foldable for several years should factor in the 40 percent bullet payment before comparing the programme with a conventional purchase or other financing options.

• The update features multiple interactivity and design enhancements.
• OPPO, OnePlus, and Realme have announced the ColorOS 17 rollout schedule for devices in China.
• OPPO Find X10 series and OnePlus 16 will feature ColorOS 17 out of the box.

[/highlights]

After much waiting, OPPO officially introduced ColorOS 17 in India today at the OPPO Developer Conference (ODC), where the company detailed the software's design, AI enhancements, new features, and rollout schedule for OPPO, OnePlus, and Realme smartphones. Based on Android 17, the update will start rolling out to the OPPO Find X9 series, OnePlus 15, and Realme GT 8 Pro on October 8th, while the Find X10 series, releasing on September 22nd in China, and OnePlus 16 will ship with the skin preinstalled.

ColorOS 17 also marks the unification of OxygenOS and Realme UI into ColorOS, as they've combined resources, resulting in faster, more stable update rollouts.

ColorOS 17 key features, design changes, improvements

While over-the-top ColorOS 17 looks identical to ColorOS 16, the updated Fluid Design drastically enhances the UI's interactivity and cohesiveness. The latest iteration of ColorOS features vibrant lighting effects, fluid motion dynamics, and snappy tactile responses. The Polar Light Engine powers the system, engineered to slash app startup and RAM usage by 25 percent while trimming rendering demands by 30 percent.

Performance and speed improvements

• Tidal Engine: Custom-allocates system resources to keep background apps alive, boosting retention stability by 55.6 percent.
  
• Speed enhancements: Delivers 50 percent faster scrolling and load times in third-party apps, 30 percent quicker mini-program launches, and 15 percent faster app toggling.
  
• Longevity: ColorOS 17 guarantees up to six years of lag-free operation on eligible devices.

Next-gen imaging and AI photography

• AI Photo Editor: Unifies image cleanup, blur correction, and colour grading into a single suite, complemented by native 2K ProXDR rendering.
  
• Reference Image Replication: Matches and applies the visual tone of an aesthetic sample directly onto your photos.
  
• Da Vinci Engine: Leverages six specialised models dedicated to framing, lighting, colour theory, subject detail, exposure, and image crispness.

Productivity and system intelligence

• AI Notes: Features instant summary cards, a new "Inspiration Moment" memory feed, and simultaneous multi-input capture (audio, text, and photos) for live event recording.
  
• Smart Screen Reading & Security: Accurately reads on-screen copy out loud, alongside an AI anti-fraud shield that uses behavioural pattern matching to block scam attempts.
  
• Xiaobu Assistant (China Market): Expanded to cover 700+ proactive service scenarios, featuring task management via Xiaobu Space, travel handoffs, airport pickup alerts, and smart memory reminders.

Ecosystem continuity and accessibility

These features are likely to remain exclusive to China due to the presence of a multitude of ColorOS-supported devices there apart from smartphones:

• Cross-device sync: ColorOS 17 pairs your phone with smart cars (for seamless foot-navigation handoffs), cameras, earphones (real-time conversation translation), and wearables for added functionality.
• Fitness Integration: Tracks FatMax zones on smartwatches and instantly casts real-time workout telemetry across tablets and phones.
• Care Mode: Activates essential safety features and high-visibility accessibility presets with one touch.

ColorOS 17 rollout schedule (China)

While OPPO, OnePlus, and Realme will release the update schedule later for the global market, here's when ColorOS 17 will roll out to devices in China:

Batch 1 (October 8th)

OPPO Find N6, Find N6 Satellite Communication Edition, Find X9 Ultra, Find X9 Ultra Satellite Communication Edition, Find X9s Pro, Find X9 Pro, Find X9 Pro Satellite Communication Edition, Find X9, OnePlus 15, OnePlus 15T, Realme GT8 Pro, and GT8 Pro Aston Martin F1 Limited Edition

Batch 2 (October 16th)

OPPO Find N5, Find X8 series, OPPO Pad 5 Pro, OPPO Pad Mini, OnePlus 13, OnePlus 13T, OnePlus Pad 3 Pro, Realme GT7 Pro, GT7 Pro Racing Edition, Realme GT8, Realme Neo8

Batch 3 (October 20th)

OPPO Watch X3 series, OnePlus Ace 6 series

Batch 4 (October 22nd)

OPPO Reno16 Pro, Reno16

Batch 5 (October 30th)

OPPO Watch X2 series

Batch 6 (November)

OPPO Find N3 series, Find X7 series, Reno15 series, Reno14 series, OnePlus 12, Ace 5 series, Turbo 6 series, OnePlus Pad 2 series, Realme GT series, Neo series, Realme 15 series

Batch 7 (December)

OPPO Find series, Reno series, K series, Pad models, OnePlus 11, Ace 3 series, Turbo 6X series, Pad devices, Realme GT6, GT Neo6, Neo7x, Realme 14 series, V70 series

Batch 8 (Q1 2027)

OPPO Find N2, Find N2 Flip

As for the India launch, currently, the OPPO Find X9 Pro, Reno 15 Pro, Reno 15 Pro mini, OnePlus 15, OnePlus 15R, and Realme GT 8 Pro are undergoing ColorOS 17 closed beta testing. Now that the China schedule has been announced, it shouldn't be long before the companies announce the update for India and global markets.

Redmi Note 17 Pro vs Redmi Note 15 Pro: price in India

Redmi Note 17 Pro starts at Rs 36,999 for the variant with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage. It also comes in a 256GB variant, priced at Rs 39,999. The Redmi Note 15 Pro starts at Rs 31,999 for the 8GB + 128GB variant. Its 8GB + 256GB variant costs Rs 34,999. If we compare, the Redmi Note 15 Pro is more affordable, but we'll have to see how much value it offers compared to the Note 17 Pro. 

Redmi Note 17 Pro vs Redmi Note 15 Pro: design, display

Design is a big change between the two phones. The Redmi Note 17 Pro brings a slightly more minimalist design with a smaller camera module housing two sensors and an LED flash. The handset also features cloud patterns on the Cloud Blue variant. It comes in Purple Vibe and Stealth Black colours. The handset still comes in a flat design with a durable build (IP66 + IP68 + IP69 + IP69K ratings), same as the Note 15 Pro. 

Coming to the Note 15 Pro's design, it has a large squircle camera module located at the center that stands out. The phone comes in Carbon Black, Silver Ash, and Mirage Blue colours. If we had to consider only the design aspect, the Redmi Note 17 Pro is more for users who prefer a cleaner look, while the Note 15 Pro manages to stand out in the crowd.

Display specs are largely similar on the Redmi Note 17 Pro and Note 15 Pro. Both phones feature a large 6.83-inch (2772 × 1280 pixels) 1.5K AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection. The Note 15 Pro offers the same display but with a slightly lower 3,200 nits peak brightness as compared to 3,500 nits on the Note 17 Pro. This shouldn't make a noticeable difference in real-world scenarios, though. 

Redmi Note 17 Pro vs Redmi Note 15 Pro: processor

Redmi Note 17 Pro is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 chipset paired with LPDDR4X RAM and UFS 3.1 (256GB)/UFS 2.2 (128GB) storage. In comparison, the Redmi Note 15 Pro comes with MediaTek Dimensity 7400-Ultra, LPDDR4X RAM, and UFS 2.2 storage.

On paper, the Dimensity 7400-Ultra has slightly higher clock speeds, which would result in better benchmark scores and performance. It could also achieve higher peak frame rates, thanks to the Mali-G615 MP2 GPU. While we can't say how much of a difference the chipsets would make in real-world performance, the Dimensity 7400-Ultra still seems better prepared for intensive tasks due to its stronger architecture. 

That said, both the Redmi Note 17 Pro and Note 15 Pro should be more than capable of handling everyday tasks, gaming titles like COD Mobile and BGMI, and multitasking. 

Redmi Note 17 Pro vs Redmi Note 15 Pro: cameras

Cameras are where the Redmi Note 17 Pro may seem like a slight downgrade in comparison to the Note 15 Pro. It comes with a dual-camera setup, featuring a 50MP primary camera, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 20MP front camera. For selfies, you get a 16MP front camera. 

In comparison, the Redmi Note 15 Pro houses a 200MP primary camera, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 20MP front camera. So not only does the Note 15 Pro offer a stronger raw megapixel count for the primary camera, but it also comes with a superior selfie camera. This might lead to better overall photography results on the Note 15 Pro. Both phones offer video recording up to 4K at 30fps. 

We're yet to see how the hardware differences show in actual results, but the Note 15 Pro might hold a slight advantage here. 

Redmi Note 17 Pro vs Redmi Note 15 Pro: battery, charging

The Redmi Note 17 Pro has a clear lead here with its massive 9,000mAh battery. This is not only a major upgrade over the Note 15 Pro's 6,580mAh battery, but one of the largest capacities in its price segment as well. In terms of usage, Redmi claims the Note 17 Pro can deliver 3.5+ days on one charge. With this battery capacity, multi-day usage should be a breeze, but whether it does last almost four days on a single charge is something we can determine after testing it. 

The Note 15 Pro should also be able to deliver enough power to last an entire day and more. But if we're talking about endurance, the Redmi Note 17 Pro is the more reliable choice here. It gets faster charging too at 67W, while the Note 15 Pro caps at 45W. Both devices offer reverse wired charging at 22.5W (Note 17 Pro) and 15W (Note 15 Pro). 

Redmi Note 17 Pro vs Redmi Note 15 Pro: software

The Redmi Note 17 Pro runs HyperOS 3 with Android 16 out of the box. The handset will get 4 OS upgrades and six years of security patches. This means that the Note 17 Pro will be updated to Android 20 and you'll still get two more years of security updates. The Note 15 Pro gets the same software support, but since it launched with HyperOS 2 based on Android 15, it's a generation behind in terms of software support. It's worth mentioning, though, that the Redmi Note 15 Pro has been updated to HyperOS 3. Also, 4+6 software support is quite good for this segment. 

HyperOS 3 introduced some major design changes, including over 100 refined animations, giving the UI a more fluid look. Xiaomi introduced 'HyperIsland', a notification pill that shows updates for charging, timer, reminders, and more features. HyperOS 3 also offers AI Cinematic Lock Screen and Dynamic Wallpapers, and a redesigned home screen with new icons.

Both phones will offer a largely similar software experience, but if we're thinking long-term usage, the Note 17 Pro has a slight advantage over the Note 15 Pro. 

Summing up

The notable upgrades that the Redmi Note 17 Pro offers in comparison to the Note 15 Pro are the battery capacity and software updates. The chipset and cameras are expected to be similar or slightly better on the Note 15 Pro. Unless battery endurance and longer software support are a priority, you might be okay sticking to the Note 15 Pro. But if you're someone who constantly needs reliable battery life, the Note 17 Pro will be the safer choice here. 

• OnePlus has teased the OnePlus 16 in China and confirmed a system-wide 165Hz refresh rate, along with Android 17-based ColorOS 17.
• A OnePlus phone believed to be the OnePlus 16 has appeared on China's 3C certification database with support for 100W wired charging.
• The OnePlus 16 is tipped to bring a 200MP camera, 9,000mAh battery and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro.

[/highlights]

It's Techtember officially. The iPhones are here, OPPO and Vivo are launching their flagships post September 20th and OnePlus has now joined the brigade. The company has officially teased the OnePlus 16 in China, confirming some of the key features after weeks of leaks and speculation. The company has officially revealed that the OnePlus 16 will support a 165Hz refresh rate system-wide and run Android 17-based ColorOS 17 in China.

OnePlus hasn't announced a launch date yet, although an earlier leak suggested that the OnePlus 16 could be unveiled in October. The company has also not confirmed most of the other specifications currently being reported.

OnePlus 16 features

The 165Hz refresh rate is not entirely new to the OnePlus lineup. The OnePlus 15 already supports a maximum 165Hz refresh rate, but its display uses a 1Hz-120Hz adaptive range for general use, with 165Hz available in supported games. The OnePlus 16 is expected to extend 165Hz support to more system and application scenarios, potentially making scrolling, animations and touch interactions smoother outside gaming.

The display could receive other upgrades as well. Tipster Digital Chat Station has previously tipped the OnePlus 16 could use a new-generation BOE Oriental Screen with X4 light-emitting material jointly developed by OnePlus and BOE. OnePlus has previously claimed that this material performed better than Samsung's M-series material in its internal testing, while also targeting lower power consumption and longer panel life.

The company has separately confirmed three gaming technologies for the new flagship: Wind Chaser Gaming Core, high-refresh-rate technology and an E-Sports Triple Chip system. These are expected to build on the gaming-focused hardware introduced with the OnePlus 15, which also featured a 165Hz 1.5K LTPO display and a 3,200Hz instantaneous touch sampling rate.

Another recent leak claims the phone could reach 185Hz in supported games, although this remains unconfirmed. Other leaked specifications include a 200MP primary camera with a 1/1.4-inch sensor, a 50MP ultrawide camera and a 50MP 3.5x periscope telephoto camera. A 50MP autofocus selfie camera has also been tipped. The phone is also expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset and a 9,000mAh battery. A OnePlus device believed to be the OnePlus 16 has also appeared on China's 3C certification database, suggesting support for 100W wired charging.

This would bring a camera upgrade over the OnePlus 15, particularly with the larger main sensor and higher-resolution telephoto camera. The OnePlus 15's camera system received criticism in comparisons with some competing flagships, so the reported hardware could signal emphasis on photography with the next generation.

For the OnePlus 16, the more important display change may not be the 165Hz figure itself but how widely the refresh rate works and how efficiently the panel operates as iQOO has already confirmed it's offering a 2k display with 165Hz refresh rate for the iQOO 16. Higher refresh rates can increase power consumption, making the reported display efficiency improvements relevant alongside the phone's large battery.

OnePlus 16 India availability and launch

There is uncertainty around the OnePlus 16's availability in India. A tipster has claimed that the standard OnePlus 16 could skip India, with the OnePlus 16R becoming the company's flagship in the country. Another tipster had previously made a similar claim that the standard model would remain exclusive to China. OnePlus hasn't confirmed either report.

The reports also come after OnePlus confirmed in July that it would stop launching new phones in North America and Europe. OnePlus India has said its business in the country continues as usual. For buyers planning a premium OnePlus purchase, the India strategy is therefore worth watching before making a decision. The OnePlus 15 remains an option for those upgrading now, while buyers willing to wait can see whether the 16R arrives with the reported flagship-level cameras and performance. OnePlus will also need to clarify whether the system-wide 165Hz implementation, 100W charging and other reported upgrades make it to the Indian model.

• Nothing CEO Carl Pei has denied that the Phone 4b was a repurposed CMF smartphone, saying it is the successor to the Phone 3a Lite.
• CMF had been working on a Phone 2 Pro successor before cancelling it due to rising memory and storage costs.
• The Nothing Phone 4b launched in India at Rs 34,999 and now starts at Rs 39,999

[/highlights]

Nothing co-founder and CEO Carl Pei has denied speculation that their latest launch, the Nothing Phone 4b, was originally a CMF smartphone that was moved under the Nothing brand. In a reaction video on Nothing's official YouTube channel, Pei said the Phone 4b is instead the direct successor to the Phone 3a Lite, with Nothing simplifying its naming as it expands the number of phones in its lineup.

"It's not like a CMF product redirected," Pei said while responding to the theory. He also clarified that the 'b' in Phone 4b does not specifically stand for "budget", but was chosen as a simpler way to create a tier below the standard and 'a' series.

No CMF phone this year

The speculation gained traction after CMF confirmed that it would not launch a successor to the CMF Phone 2 Pro in 2026. Nothing and CMF co-founder Akis Evangelidis said the company had been working on a successor but cancelled it because rising RAM and storage costs made it difficult to deliver a meaningful upgrade without significantly increasing the price.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zoOOXPATKMY&t=361s

The timing left questions about how Nothing would fill the gap at the more affordable end of its smartphone lineup. However, the definition of affordable now is another story. The Nothing Phone 4b launched in India in July at Rs 34,999 and now starts at Rs 39,999, while the Nothing Phone 4a starts at Rs 44,999 after launching at Rs 31,999.

There is some evidence behind Pei's description of the 4b as a Phone 3a Lite successor. The Phone 3a Lite launched in India in November 2025 at Rs 20,999 and featured a 6.77-inch display. The newer model retains that screen size while bringing a Super AMOLED panel, a larger 6,000mAh battery compared with the older phone's 5,000mAh unit, and longer software support.

However, the upgrade is not that straightforward. The Phone 3a Lite used the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Pro, with a higher maximum clock speed of 2.5GHz, while the Phone 4b uses the Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 clocked at up to 2.3GHz. The newer phone drops the 2MP macro camera from the older triple-camera setup and instead focuses on its 50MP main and 8MP ultrawide cameras.

The price difference is also significant. The Phone 4b's current Rs 39,999 starting price is almost twice the Phone 3a Lite's original Rs 20,999 price, although rising component costs and changes to the hardware and software support make a direct price comparison less meaningful.

Our first impressions of the Phone 4b also noted it being designed as a Nothing product. It uses a transparent camera island with Glyph lights and takes design cues from the Phone 4a Pro and Phone 3a. The polycarbonate frame and a small circular indentation on the rear may have contributed to comparisons with CMF, but the overall design follows Nothing's established visual language.

However, with many price hikes, the Phone 4b now sits close to the Nothing Phone 4a in price, making the differences between the two more important. The 4b's larger battery is a key advantage, while the Phone 4a offers a telephoto camera and higher-end hardware. The hardware changes and its place in Nothing's lineup support Pei's description of the Phone 4b as the successor to the Phone 3a Lite, although the near-doubling of the launch price means it is not a like-for-like replacement. Pei also says the new phone is selling strongly, with early sales tracking at roughly twice Nothing's internal targets.

• Samsung has raised the Galaxy S26 price in India by Rs 12,000, with the 12GB + 256GB variant now costing Rs 99,999.
• The revised Galaxy S26 prices take effect from September 20th, while the phone is already unavailable on Amazon and has limited stock on Flipkart.
• The price hike comes shortly after Apple increased the iPhone 17's India price to Rs 99,900.

[/highlights]

Samsung has increased the price of the Galaxy S26 in India, marking the first price hike for the flagship since its launch earlier this year. Both the variants of the phone are now Rs 12,000 more expensive than their launch prices, with the base model touching the Rs 1 lakh mark. Notably, the hike comes shortly after Apple raised the price of the iPhone 17 in India following the launch of the iPhone 18 Pro models and the iPhone Duo.

The revised prices will take effect from September 20th. There have been reports of price increases of up to Rs 20,000 for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, but there is currently no further information on whether or when those prices will change.

Samsung Galaxy S26 new price

The timing of the hike is interesting. Apple raised the price of the iPhone 17 in India from Rs 82,900 to Rs 99,900 following the launch of the iPhone 18 Pro series. That puts the two standard flagship models at almost exactly the same price, whereas the Galaxy S26 had launched Rs 5,099 above the iPhone 17. Apple and Samsung are among the last OEMs to raise prices of their current flagships, as other Chinese manufacturers have already done so multiple times in the past.

Samsung Galaxy S26 specifications

The Samsung Galaxy S26 has a 6.3-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and up to 2,600 nits peak brightness. It is powered by the Exynos 2600 in some markets, while other regions get a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy. India gets the Exynos version while the US gets the Qualcomm chipset. The phone comes with 12GB RAM and 256GB or 512GB storage, along with a 4,300mAh battery, 25W wired charging and wireless charging. Its triple rear camera setup includes a 50MP primary camera, 12MP ultrawide camera and 10MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. Other features include Android 16 with One UI, Gorilla Glass Victus 2, an Armor Aluminum frame and IP68 water and dust resistance.

Just like the iPhone, India is not the cheapest market for the Galaxy S26. At launch, the US price started at USD 899.99, which was roughly Rs 82,000 when converted, while the UK and European prices were higher. The UAE was closer to India's pricing. The latest hike further widens the gap with the US, although direct currency conversion does not account for taxes, duties, warranty coverage or regional pricing strategies.

The price increase changes the value equation. At Rs 87,999, the 12GB + 256GB Galaxy S26 sat below the new Rs 99,900 starting price of the iPhone 17. At Rs 99,999, Samsung's phone is now effectively competing head-on with Apple's standard flagship. The Galaxy S26 is already unavailable on Amazon, while Flipkart has limited stock at the time of writing, making the current pricing worth considering for buyers who were already planning to purchase Samsung's compact flagship.

Buyers who have already decided on the Galaxy S26 and can find stock at the current price may therefore want to complete the purchase before September 20th.

• Galaxy A18 4G has been launched in select European markets.
• The handset comes with a notch display.
• It will get six years of OS upgrades and security updates. 

[/highlights]

Samsung has launched a new budget smartphone with 4G connectivity as part of its Galaxy A-series. The new Galaxy A18 4G has been launched in Europe in select markets, including France, Norway, and Sweden. There's no word on whether Samsung plans to expand the Galaxy A18 4G to more global markets yet. However, a 5G variant of the phone is expected to launch soon.

Samsung Galaxy A18 4G pricing, availability

The Galaxy A18 4G is available in France for €280 (Rs 30,900 approx). The handset comes in a single 4GB RAM + 128GB storage variant. It's available in Gray, Light Blue, and Black. In Norway and Sweden, the Galaxy A18 4G comes in a 256GB variant as well, but the smartphone isn't available for purchase yet. 

Samsung Galaxy A18 4G specifications

The Galaxy A18 4G features a 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate. The screen comes with a notch, which might feel dated aesthetically, but the FHD+ AMOLED panel gives it an edge over rivals in the budget segment. The smartphone is powered by the Exynos 1610 processor, which is expected to deliver capable everyday performance. It also comes with an IP64 rating for dust and splash resistance.

Powering the Galaxy A18 4G is a 5,000mAh battery with 25W wired fast charging, claimed to reach 50 percent within 30 minutes. The battery capacity should be enough for a day's usage, but users who rely on longer endurance might want to consider alternatives. Its predecessor, the Galaxy A16 4G, comes with the same battery specs.

For photography, there's a 50MP primary camera, a 5MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP macro camera. You also get a 13MP front camera for selfies on the Galaxy A18 4G. This camera setup is quite versatile for a budget phone. 

On the software front, the Galaxy A18 4G runs Android 17 with One UI 9 out of the box. This is the latest software version available for Samsung phones. The device is also getting 6 OS upgrades and six years of security updates, one of the longest software support periods in this segment.

The Galaxy A18 4G could be a good choice for those looking for a budget phone that offers a good display, reliable chipset, battery life, and versatile cameras. If you want a budget daily driver that can run for years, the Galaxy A18 4G makes for a good purchase. However if you want a 5G phone, then you might want to wait for the Galaxy A18 5G.

• Jio is offering eligible users up to 12 months of Canva premium plans for free.
• Rs 399 Jio users get Canva Pro, while Rs 349 and eligible lower plans get Pro Lite.
• The Canva offer can be claimed through the MyJio app from September 16.

[/highlights]

Jio has partnered with Canva to give eligible users up to 12 months of Canva Pro or Canva Pro Lite for free. The bundle brings Canva's premium design tools and AI-powered features to Jio subscribers like students, creators, professionals and small businesses looking to create visual content without paying for a separate subscription.

The offer will start rolling out from September 16, 2026, with the Canva plan depending on the user's Jio recharge. Here's how the new partnership works.

Jio's Canva offer: who gets what?

The new partnership gives eligible Jio users 12 months of Canva premium access at no extra cost, with the plan depending on their existing recharge. Users on the Rs 399 plan will get Canva Pro, while those on the Rs 349 plan and eligible 2GB/day plans priced above Rs 349 will receive Canva Pro Lite.

Both plans provide access to Canva's premium templates, photos, videos and fonts, along with tools such as Background Remover, Magic Resize, Magic Eraser and print-ready exports. This gives users access to several of Canva's premium design tools without having to pay separately for them.

The main difference comes with Canva Pro, which adds features for users who create content more regularly. It includes Content Planner, Canva AI, higher AI usage limits and a larger Brand Kit, while Pro Lite limits itself to the core design features with limited AI access (same as the free tier).

Jio says eligible users can claim the offer through the MyJio app by opening the Canva offer and activating it. The 12-month benefit will start rolling out from September 16, 2026, with no additional charge for the Canva subscription during the offer period.

Is the Jio Canva offer worth it?

The Canva partnership is not surprising and is a core part of Jio's strategy. The brand continues to bundle popular third-party digital services with its mobile plans. Jio has already offered Google's Gemini Pro to eligible users, and the addition of Canva gives subscribers another premium service without requiring a separate subscription.

For existing eligible Jio users, the Canva offer is a no-brainer. They can access premium design tools for a year at no additional cost, while users on lower-priced plans who regularly use Canva may also have a reason to consider moving to an eligible higher-tier recharge to access the benefit. The offer is especially relevant for students, creators and small businesses that already use Canva for their daily work.

We can also think of it as a means to retain its consumer base. Telecom operators have raised tariffs repeatedly in recent years, which has made subscribers more conscious of what they get for their monthly recharge. Bundling services such as Gemini and Canva gives Jio an additional way to add value to its plans and encourage users to stay within its ecosystem.

From Jio's perspective, it is a relatively simple model: the company can make its higher-value plans more appealing without directly cutting recharge prices, while users get access to services they may otherwise have to pay for separately. For subscribers who can or actively use Canva's premium tools, this is a valuable perk.

Launch Offer & Financing

A limited-period launch offer provides 2 years extended warranty plus 3 years of accidental damage protection (worth Rs 5,599) for Rs 99. Financing is supported via ASUS Easy Pay No Cost EMI and Low-Cost EMI options.

Lineup Breakdown

• Vivobook S14 (S5452MA) & S16 (S5652MA): Powered by up to Intel Core 7 Series 3 processors with a 17 TOPS NPU. Features all-metal construction, MIL-STD-810H durability, and 16:10 FHD+ 100% sRGB IPS displays. Delivers over 20 hours of battery life on S14 and 15+ hours on S16. Includes bundled Microsoft Office Home 2024 and 1 year of Microsoft 365 Basic with 100GB cloud storage.
• Vivobook 14 Flip (TP3407AA): 360-degree all-metal convertible featuring an FHD+ ASUS OLED touchscreen with stylus support. Powered by up to Intel Core Ultra 7 Series 3 355 processor with a 49 TOPS NPU. Offers up to 38 hours of battery life, Thunderbolt 4, microSD card reader, TPM 2.0, and an AI camera with webcam shield.
• Vivobook S14 Flip (TP5408QA): Convertible 360-degree design with FHD+ ASUS OLED touchscreen and stylus support. Powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon X processor with 45 TOPS NPU. Delivers up to 30 hours of battery life, MIL-STD-810H durability, AI FHD IR camera, TPM 2.0, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports, and HDMI 2.1.
• Vivobook 16 (X1652XA): Entry model powered by AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS with 10 TOPS AI acceleration. Features an FHD+ 16:10 IPS display with an 89% screen-to-body ratio, an FHD AI camera with facial recognition, and bundled Microsoft productivity tools with 100GB cloud storage.
• Vivobook S14 (S5408QA) & S16 (S5608QA): Launching in October 2026, powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors with a 45 TOPS NPU, up to 30 hours of battery life, and Type-C fast charging. The S16 features up to an FHD+ ASUS OLED display, while the S14 features a 16:10 FHD+ IPS display. Pricing will be announced closer to availability towards the end of October.
• ASUS Wireless Silent Mouse MW103: Ambidextrous 2.4GHz wireless mouse with silent click switches, adjustable DPI (1000, 1200, 1600), and plug-and-play RF dongle. Available in Green, Pink, and Blue.

For buyers who want maximum battery life and AI performance in a flip form factor, the Vivobook 14 Flip at Rs 1,79,990 is the most capable option in the lineup, with the highest NPU TOPS count and Thunderbolt 4. Those who want similar versatility at a lower price should consider the Vivobook S14 Flip at Rs 1,09,990, which trades Thunderbolt 4 and the higher-spec Intel chip for Snapdragon's efficiency advantages and a Rs 70,000 price difference.

For straightforward clamshell productivity laptops, the Vivobook S14 and S16 are solid picks with Intel Core 7 Series 3 and strong battery life. The Vivobook 16 at Rs 89,990 is the value option. AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS is a capable processor, though the 10 TOPS AI figure is lower than every other model in the range, which matters if on-device AI features are a priority.

Buyers who can wait until October should consider the Snapdragon S14 and S16 models, which are likely to offer competitive pricing alongside strong battery life and Copilot+ PC capabilities ahead of Diwali.

• Sony INZONE H6 Air launches in India with an ultra-light 199g design.
• The gaming headset features an open-back design and 360 Spatial Sound.
• The Sony INZONE H6 Air is priced at Rs 17,990 in India.

[/highlights]

The new Sony INZONE H6 Air gaming headset has launched in India for players who want immersive audio, a lightweight design and comfortable long-session gaming. It is the lightest headset in Sony's INZONE lineup at 199g, while also introducing an open-back acoustic design aimed at improving spatial awareness during gameplay.

The headset supports multiple connection options and is designed for use with PCs, smartphones and the PS5 ecosystem. Here's all you need to know about it.

Sony INZONE H6 Air price and availability

The Sony INZONE H6 Air is priced at Rs 17,990 in India and is available in a black colour option. Sony says the headset will be available through Amazon and ShopatSC, giving buyers multiple options to purchase it.

Sony INZONE H6 Air: specifications, features

The big change with the INZONE H6 Air is its open-back acoustic structure, which Sony says creates a wider and more natural sound field. This can help players pick up directional audio more clearly, which is particularly useful in competitive games where footsteps, gunfire and other sound cues can reveal an opponent's position.

The headset supports 360 spatial sound for improved positional audio, while an RPG/adventure equaliser profile developed with Sony Interactive Entertainment is designed to add more depth to games where immersion is the core idea.

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At 199g without the microphone and cable, the H6 Air also claims to be Sony's lightest INZONE headset. The lightweight construction and low side pressure should make it easier to wear for several hours at a time, while the adjustable headband and slider mechanism help provide a secure fit.

Sony has used an aluminium housing to keep the headset lightweight. The open-back design also uses a hole pattern on the outer housing, which forms part of the headset's overall acoustic design.

Connectivity is handled through both 3.5mm and USB Type-C. The USB Type-C audio box allows PC users to access additional controls through Sony's INZONE HUB software, while the 3.5mm connection offers straightforward compatibility with devices such as PS5 controllers and smartphones.

Should you buy the Sony INZONE H6 Air?

The INZONE H6 Air is a relatively premium gaming headset and is a viable option for enthusiasts or users who are willing and able to spend more for a more refined gaming experience. It does not introduce a particularly new or revolutionary feature, but its lightweight 199g design and focus on long-session comfort give it a clear advantage for players who spend several hours gaming at a time.

That extra comfort does come at a price, though. At Rs 17,990, the H6 Air is asking buyers to pay a premium for a more refined design and acoustic experience rather than a major change in what a gaming headset can do. For users who simply want a capable gaming headset, there are more affordable options that cover the basics. The H6 Air is therefore better suited to premium buyers who value comfort, build quality and immersive audio and are willing to pay extra for those refinements.

• One UI 9 is based on the latest Android 17 version.
• It comes with subtle visual changes and improvements.
• It's available first to users in South Korea. 

[/highlights]

Samsung has started rolling out the official One UI 9.0 update for the Galaxy S26 series. The beta program was launched in May this year, and now the stable release has been made available. The latest One UI 9.0 update is based on Android 17 and comes with subtle visual changes and improvements. The Galaxy Z Fold8 series launched as the first Samsung devices with One UI 9 out of the box. The recently launched Galaxy S26 FE also comes with the same software version. 

One UI 9.0 update for the Galaxy S26 series 

The stable One UI 9.0 update with firmware version S94xNKSU4BZ16 has started rolling out to the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26+, and the Galaxy S26 Ultra in South Korea. The latest update brings the September 2026 security patch to the Galaxy S26 series. 

One UI 9 brings small but useful changes to Samsung phones. The music player now shows the music wavelength, which appears in the Now Bar. You can expand it to see a bigger version of it with the same visual changes. One UI 9 also shows a smoother transition during instances like tapping the search bar within the app drawer, opening folders, and selecting the widgets picker menu.

Samsung has also added more customisation by allowing users to resize the toggles in the quick settings panel. The media player, which is small by default, can now be expanded and resized according to your preference. Another notable change is the brightness and volume sliders, which are thicker now for easier scrolling. While One UI 9 doesn't reinvent the wheel, its focus on refining core interactions, like the smoother transitions and more intuitive sliders, demonstrates Samsung's commitment to user experience polish.

Galaxy S26 users in South Korea should be able to update their devices to One UI 9 now. The update should arrive through a notification, and if you have auto-downloads turned on, then it should be automatically downloaded on your phone. Since Samsung has started rolling out the update, we expect it to reach more Galaxy S26 users in more countries, including India. 

• Amazon has launched Alexa+ in India with support for English, Hindi, and Hinglish.
• Alexa+ is available under Early Access for free on eligible Echo, Fire TV devices, and the Alexa app.
• After Early Access, Alexa+ will remain free for Prime members, while other users can access it through Prime or a standalone Rs 2,000/month subscription.

[/highlights]

Amazon has launched Alexa+ in India, bringing its generative AI-powered assistant to eligible Echo speakers, smart displays, Fire TV devices and the Alexa mobile app. The new version is designed to handle more natural conversations, remember user preferences and take actions across connected services, rather than being limited to answering questions or executing individual voice commands.

Alexa+ is available in Early Access from September 16th and is free for eligible customers during this period. It supports English, Hindi and Hinglish at launch, with more Indian languages planned.

Alexa+ features

One of the bigger changes is the ability to have a continuous conversation without repeating "Alexa" before every request. Users can also switch between topics and languages while retaining context. Amazon says Alexa+ understands Indian expressions, measurements and family relationships, as well as references to Bollywood, cricket and local festivals. It can also combine multiple actions. For example, users can ask Alexa+ to adjust several smart-home devices at once or create routines using natural language. Supported smart-home brands include Atomberg, Qubo, Dreame and Wipro.

Amazon is also expanding Alexa beyond the home. Alexa+ can help with shopping lists, product comparisons, review summaries and delivery tracking. Support for EazyDiner, Swiggy, District by Zomato, MakeMyTrip, Home Triangle and TripAdvisor is coming soon, while Amazon Now will eventually allow users to order groceries and daily essentials through voice.

This puts Alexa+ in a more direct conversation with AI assistants such as Gemini and Siri AI, which have also gained more natural conversations and personal context. Google has expanded Gemini's personal intelligence features to India, while Apple's new Siri AI can use information across apps such as Messages, Photos and Mail.

Alexa+ has a more specific advantage in connected homes, however, since Amazon is tying its AI assistant directly to Echo, Fire TV and compatible smart-home devices.

Alexa+ pricing and supported devices

Alexa+ is currently free during Early Access. Once Early Access ends, Prime members will continue to get Alexa+ at no additional cost. Prime Lite, Prime Shopping Edition and non-Prime users will need either a Prime plan or a standalone Alexa+ subscription costing Rs 2,000 per month.

The service works across eligible Echo and Fire TV devices and the Alexa app, with browser access coming soon. Amazon is also introducing the Echo Show 8, Echo Show 11, Echo Dot Max and Echo Studio with hardware designed specifically for Alexa+, including additional processing power, memory and sensors.

For existing Echo or Fire TV owners, the free Early Access period makes Alexa+ relatively easy to try without buying new hardware. Buyers considering a new Alexa device, meanwhile, may want to check compatibility first rather than paying extra specifically for Alexa+ features that are already available on supported existing devices.

• Vivo X500 series has reportedly appeared on Geekbench with MediaTek's Dimensity 9600M ahead of its September 21st launch.
• The alleged listing records 2,832 single-core and 7,925 multi-core points on Geekbench 6.7.1.
• Vivo X500 Pro and X500 Pro Max will be the first phones officially announced with the Dimensity 9600 Pro.

[/highlights]

The Vivo X500 Pro has reportedly appeared on Geekbench with MediaTek's newly announced Dimensity 9600M, giving an early look at the performance of the chipset. The listing comes as Vivo prepares to launch the Vivo X500 Pro and X500 Pro Max in China on September 21st, making them the first smartphones to be officially announced with MediaTek's new flagship Dimensity 9600 Pro chip.

Vivo has also confirmed several camera and AI features for the upcoming series, while the OPPO Find X10 Pro Max is scheduled to launch a day later.

Vivo X500 series phone on Geekbench

The alleged Vivo X500 series phone, identified by model number V2609A, scored 2,832 points in single-core and 7,925 points in multi-core on Geekbench 6.7.1. The listing shows Android 17, around 11GB of usable RAM and a MediaTek MT6993 processor, with a 4+3+1 CPU configuration that aligns with the Dimensity 9600M. The chip's GPU is listed as Mali-G1-Ultra MC12. The RAM could be marketed as 12GB.

The scores are below the earlier iQOO 16 result of 3,434 in single-core and 9,334 in multi-core, and even below the Vivo X300 Pro's in-house scores. The iQOO 16 and Vivo X500 Pro results are from Geekbench 6.7.1, making this a more meaningful comparison than putting them against newer Geekbench 7 results. The Dimensity 9600M recently appeared with the OPPO Find X10 on Geekbench with lower scores. As per a tipster, the Dimensity 9600M is nothing but a renamed Dimensity 9500 for newer phones.

For context, the Xiaomi 18 Pro, meanwhile, scored 3,619 in single-core and 11,842 in multi-core on Geekbench 7. Its results cannot be directly compared with the Vivo scores because Geekbench 7 uses a different scoring system. The Xiaomi 18 Pro Max result of 3,582 and 12,247 was also initially attributed to the phone, but the listing was subsequently identified as a Qualcomm reference device. It is therefore more useful as an early indication of Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro performance than as a Xiaomi phone benchmark.

Vivo X500 Pro series to debut MediaTek's 2nm flagship chipset

Meanwhile, the Dimensity 9600 Pro (first look) which debuted yesterday, is MediaTek's first smartphone SoC built on TSMC's 2nm process. It uses two C2 Ultra Prime cores at up to 4.55GHz, three C2 Pro cores at 4.35GHz and three efficiency cores at 3.1GHz, alongside a 12-core Mali G2 Ultra NX GPU. MediaTek's testing showed around 18 percent higher single-core and 16 percent higher multi-core performance than the Dimensity 9500 in Geekbench 6.

Vivo says the X500 Pro series will support 4K 120fps 10-bit Log recording, 60fps autofocus through its imaging NPU 2.0, and 4K Dolby Vision portrait video through a self-developed imaging chip. The phones will also feature a new high-performance AI processor.

For buyers watching the next flagship cycle, the X500 series will be an early real-world test of MediaTek's new platform. The Geekbench result is worth noting, but final retail performance, thermals, battery life and camera processing will provide a more useful picture than an early benchmark alone.

• Meta One combines all these platforms under one umbrella plan. 
• There are individual plans and dedicated plans for businesses and creators. 
• Meta One subscription plans in India start at Rs 549 per month. 

[/highlights]

Meta has launched a single subscription plan combining all its platforms under one plan. These include WhatsApp Plus, Instagram Plus, and Facebook Plus, which are available as individual plans offering users exclusive features. Meta One aims to offer features already available with these individual plans, along with more AI benefits. This move signals Meta's aggressive push into subscription revenue, a significant shift from its ad-centric past. It's also similar to other tech giants offering bundled plans like Google One and Apple One.

Meta One subscription plan: price in India

Meta One subscription plan starts at Rs 549 per month for Core, while the Premium plan costs Rs 1,960. There are plans for businesses and creators too. Starting with the Meta One Essential bundle plan, priced at Rs 639 per month, and the Advanced bundle plan at Rs 2,099 per month. More expensive plans include Expert, priced at Rs 6,399 per month, and Max at Rs 20,990 per month. Meta's aggressive pricing strategy for businesses suggests a strong belief in the value of these advanced tools, but it remains to be seen if the market will respond positively.

Meta One Core and Premium plans

With the Meta One Core plan, users get to restyle more Stories on Instagram, use voice effects and creative tools more, and generate more images and videos with Meta AI. As mentioned above, this plan already covers Instagram Plus, WhatsApp Plus, and Facebook Plus. 

Meta One Premium gives you everything available with Core but with more room to create content with Meta AI. 

Meta One creator and business plans

Meta One Essential plan is designed to help build your brand with verification, impersonation protection, and customer support tools. Advanced offers professional features like scheduling, post links, analytics, team access, and more WhatsApp tools. Expert and Max Meta One plans are for businesses that need higher limits and more advanced tools to manage and scale their presence.

With the latest Meta One plans, users have more options to go for bundled subscriptions instead of the individual plans. This, however, depends on your usage and requirements. If you're someone who relies only on one platform, it's better to go for the individual plan. But for those who use all three platforms and might want to benefit more, the Meta Core or Premium plans make sense. As for businesses and creators who want their brand to grow more, they could opt for the bigger plans.

• OriginOS 7 is based on Android 17 and will bring several interface changes.
• The program is reserved for 500 users on a first-come, first-served basis.
• The stable OriginOS 7 update could roll out within the next few weeks.

[/highlights]

While Vivo is set to officially unveil OriginOS 7 in China today, i.e., September 16th, Vivo and iQOO have opened up the Preview Program for the Vivo X300 Pro and iQOO 15 starting today. This programme, limited to 500 spots each, will let users test OriginOS 7 before it officially rolls out in stable form in the next few weeks. Applicants can also share feedback or issues they encounter with the beta build to help refine and stabilise the firmware.

In other news, Vivo's global X handle has confirmed that OriginOS 7 will make its international debut on September 21st, when we should get a wider picture of what the skin has to offer on its Android 17-based platform.

OriginOS 7 Preview Program registration details

To register and experience OriginOS 7 in beta, interested Vivo X300 Pro and iQOO 15 users must ensure they're running software version 16.0.25.4 and 16.0.24.1, respectively, or above. The registration application is open from September 16th to September 20th. With that out of the way, here's the procedure to register for the update:

Step 1: Firstly, open the Settings app

Step 2: Head over to the System Update section

Step 3: Now tap the two-button menu in the top-right corner and select "Version trial"

Step 4: From here, select Closed Beta Sign-Up and then tap View Details

Step 5: A registration form will appear with the "Sign up now" button, in which you'll have to carefully answer all the questions in order to be eligible for the OriginOS 7 Preview Program

Once registered, your application will be reviewed, and accordingly, the selected users will be notified of the next steps. Also note that since the update is limited to 500 spots per device, registering for the program does not guarantee selection. This may help create a focused feedback loop for Vivo and iQOO, which is a smart move for refining a major OS update.

Also, there's no information on when the update will roll out to selected users. So you'll have to wait patiently for the update to arrive, even if you've been selected.

If you want to experience the latest features and interface on OriginOS 7 on your Vivo X300 Pro or iQOO 15, make sure you back up your data to avoid the risk of data loss during the upgrade. Also, since the beta update may include bugs, glitches, or unexpected battery drain, it's best not to update your primary device unless you're okay with occasional issues that may arise during the preview program.

What to expect on OriginOS 7

OriginOS 7 is said to bring a major design overhaul to most elements present in the software. The software will adopt a Liquid Glass-like design, along with interactive lighting effects that adapt to the taps and scrolling movements. It will also introduce a range of new clock styles and icon-theming support.

The promised 'Liquid Glass-like design' sounds like a compelling visual refresh, potentially setting a new bar for Android aesthetics and giving competition to other Android skins, such as ColorOS, HyperOS, and MagicOS, that also deploy advanced-level effects and elements.

Some of the productivity features include Atomic Workbench, in which users will be able to open multiple apps in a side panel and switch between them at will, something similar to Stage Manager found on macOS. Under-the-hood improvements include a 14 per cent uplift in rendering efficiency, a 19 per cent improvement in page-switching response speed, and up to a 12 per cent improvement in application startup speed.

• OPPO K14 Lite has launched in India with a big battery and 120Hz display.
• The smartphone starts at Rs 16,999, with an effective price of Rs 15,999.
• OPPO K14 Lite targets budget buyers with its large battery, durability, and everyday AI features.

[/highlights]

OPPO has launched the K14 Lite in India, bringing a large 7,000mAh battery, 120Hz display and a durability-focused design to its K series. The phone is for users who prioritise long battery life and dependable everyday performance at an affordable price point. Here is everything you need to know about the new smartphone.

OPPO K14 Lite price and availability

The OPPO K14 Lite starts at Rs 16,999 for the 4GB + 64GB variant. Buyers can get an Rs 1,000 instant discount through select bank offers, bringing the effective price down to Rs 15,999. OPPO is also offering a three-month no-cost EMI option.

The phone is available to purchase from September 16 through the OPPO e-store and Flipkart. It comes in the Feather Purple and Stone Brown colour options.

OPPO K14 Lite specifications and features

The K14 Lite's biggest highlight is its 7,000mAh battery, which should comfortably handle long periods of video streaming, navigation, gaming and calls. The battery also claims to retain more than 80 percent of its original capacity after 1,800 charge cycles, which should prove useful for long-term users. 

You get a 15W wired charging support, with OPPO claiming a full charge in roughly 2 hours and 52 minutes. The phone also supports reverse wired charging, allowing it to share power with other compatible devices.

The phone runs on the Unisoc T7250 processor with 4GB LPDDR4X RAM and 64GB UFS 2.2 storage. A large graphite cooling area is designed to help manage heat during longer sessions, although the entry-level chipset is best for basic 3D titles and less demanding games. 

At the front you get a 6.75-inch HD+ LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 900 nits peak brightness. The higher refresh rate should make scrolling and animations feel smoother, while Splash Touch, Oily-Hand Touch and Glove Touch are designed to keep the screen responsive in different conditions. The phone comes with an IP64 rating for protection against dust and water splashes. 

For cameras, the K14 Lite gets a 13MP rear camera with autofocus and a 5MP front camera. The software includes Portrait, Night and Time-Lapse modes, along with AI tools such as AI Eraser, AI Clear Face and AI Smart Image Matting 2.0. Google Lens and Gemini.

Should you buy the OPPO K14 Lite?

The OPPO K14 Lite gets a decent entry point at Rs 15,999 with the bank offer, especially for a 4G smartphone. Its 7,000mAh battery, 120Hz display and IP64 rating make it a practical package for users who prioritise battery life and everyday reliability in the current market conditions.

There is competition, though, and it is the Realme C100x (review), which follows a similar formula but offers an 8,000mAh battery, while starting at Rs 16,999. That gives Realme an advantage for buyers who want maximum battery endurance.

At the moment, the OPPO K14 Lite is the better deal only because of its effective Rs 15,999 price. The difference is small, but it could matter to very price-sensitive buyers who are working with a strict budget. For those willing to spend a little more, the Realme C100x's larger battery makes it the better deal. 

Through this list, we have identified boAt's current TWS lineup covers every budget from ₹1,099 to ₹3,199, and every pair here actually delivers on what matters most for its price: the right blend of sound quality, call performance, battery life, and the features that actually get used day to day. It's irrelevant whether you're a student looking for the most feature-packed earbuds under ₹2,000, a professional who spends hours on calls and needs reliable noise suppression, or someone who simply wants the best sound money can buy from boAt without going flagship, there's a pick here for you.

Best boAt TWS Earbuds at a Glance

What to Look for in TWS Earbuds Before Buying

Before jumping to the list, here are the things that actually matter when comparing earbuds, not the numbers that look good on a box.

• ANC strength and type matter more than the dB figure alone: Active Noise Cancellation works by using microphones to pick up ambient sound and generating an opposing sound wave to cancel it out. Hybrid ANC, which uses both inward and outward-facing mics, is more effective than single-mic ANC because it handles noise coming from both outside and inside the ear canal. A 50dB hybrid ANC spec genuinely outperforms a 40dB single-mic system, but a 32dB hybrid can still outperform a poorly implemented higher number.
• Battery life needs context: Most brands quote total battery life, which includes the charging case. If a pair claims 50 hours total, check the per-charge figure for the earbuds themselves. 8 hours per charge with a case that tops up four times is a very different experience from 24 hours per charge with a case that tops up once.
• Driver size is not the same as sound quality: A 13mm driver tuned poorly will sound worse than an 8mm driver tuned well. Driver size tells you the potential for bass response, but the tuning determines whether that potential is realised. Always look at whether a pair has been tuned for a specific sound signature.
• ENx technology and mic count affect call quality. Environmental Noise Exclusion (ENx) is boAt's AI-driven call noise cancellation system. More mics generally means better directional audio pickup and more precise noise isolation, which matters if calls are a significant part of how the earbuds get used.
• Latency is only relevant for gaming and video: For music, latency is irrelevant. If gaming or watching video is the use case, look for a dedicated low-latency mode, what boAt calls BEAST Mode, with figures around 50-60ms. Anything above 100ms will create a noticeable lip-sync gap.
• Multipoint connectivity is a practical necessity: Being connected to both a phone and a laptop simultaneously, and having audio route intelligently between them, is something most people use every day without realising it. Any pair missing this feature will cause friction the moment a phone call comes in while working on a laptop.

1. boAt Nirvana Zenith Pro

Price: ₹3,199

Amazon | Flipkart | boAt

Key Specs:

• 50dB Hybrid Adaptive ANC
• Hi-Res Audio via LDAC codec
• 12mm drivers with boAt Signature Sound
• boAt Spatial Audio
• 80-hour total playtime
• ASAP Charge: 250 minutes from 10-minute charge
• 6 mics with AI-ENx Technology
• Adaptive EQ by Mimi

The Nirvana Zenith Pro is the clearest argument boAt has made for what a premium TWS earbud should feel like. The 50dB Hybrid Adaptive ANC cancels noise and continuously adjusts based on what's happening around you, reducing noise more aggressively in loud environments and easing off when things quiet down. This prevents the pressure buildup that fixed-level ANC often causes during long listening sessions, which makes it genuinely comfortable to wear for hours.

LDAC is the headline audio feature because standard Bluetooth compresses audio to around 320kbps. LDAC transmits at up to 990kbps, meaning the earbuds actually receive the audio detail that's in the file rather than a compressed approximation of it. If you stream at high quality or use lossless formats, this is the codec that makes those choices audible rather than theoretical. Paired with 12mm drivers and Adaptive EQ by Mimi, which calibrates the sound output to your individual hearing profile through a quick test, the Zenith Pro offers a personalised listening experience that factory presets can't replicate.

Six microphones working with AI-ENx means call quality holds up in genuinely difficult environments, not just quiet rooms. boAt Spatial Audio adds directional sound for movies and music. The 80-hour total battery and ASAP Charge mean 10 minutes in the case delivers over four hours of listening, which covers most forgotten-to-charge scenarios.

Best for: Someone who takes audio seriously, listens at high quality, wears earbuds for long stretches, and wants a pair that earns the price tag through listening rather than just spec comparisons.

2. boAt Airdopes Prime 701 ANC

Price: ₹2,199

Amazon | Flipkart | boAt

Key Specs:

• 46dB Hybrid ANC
• 24-bit boAt Spatial Audio
• 50-hour total playtime
• ASAP Charge: 180 minutes from 10-minute charge
• 4 mics with AI-ENx Technology
• Multipoint Connectivity
• CREST AI with built-in Google Gemini
• Real-time translation across 25 languages

The Airdopes Prime 701 ANC sits at the mid-range but doesn't behave like one. The 46dB Hybrid ANC is competitive at this price, and 24-bit Spatial Audio puts content from streaming platforms in a noticeably wider and more immersive soundstage than standard stereo playback. The 50-hour total battery with ASAP Charge means a full week of commuting from a single case charge is a realistic expectation rather than a marketing number.

What genuinely separates this pair from everything else in the ₹2,000-₹3,000 bracket is CREST AI with Google Gemini built in. Real-time face-to-face translation across 25 languages isn't a feature most buyers expect at this price, and it works directly through the earbuds without a separate app open. For anyone who travels, works in multilingual environments, or simply wants AI assistance without pulling out a phone, this changes how useful the earbuds are beyond just audio. The four-mic AI-ENx setup handles call quality in crowded spaces, and Multipoint Connectivity keeps both a phone and laptop connected simultaneously.

Best for: A working professional, frequent traveller, or student who wants strong ANC, solid battery, spatial audio, and an AI layer that actually adds daily utility rather than existing as a marketing checkbox.

3. boAt Airdopes Prime 800D

Price: ₹1,599

Amazon | Flipkart | boAt

Key Specs:

• Dolby Audio Cinematic Surround Sound
• 11mm drivers with boAt Signature Sound
• 45-hour total playtime
• 4 mics with AI-ENx Technology
• Multipoint Connectivity

Under ₹2,000, Dolby Audio is a rarity, and the Airdopes Prime 800D leads with it. Dolby Audio restructures the way sound travels through the ear canal, creating a multi-directional soundstage that makes film and concert audio feel spatially wider and more enveloping than standard stereo. The 11mm drivers, tuned for deep and punchy low-end response, give the bass enough presence without turning it into the only thing you hear, which is a common tuning failure at this price.

The 45-hour total battery removes the need to charge mid-week for most listening habits, and the four-mic AI-ENx setup keeps call quality usable in ambient noise. Multipoint handles two simultaneous device connections, so audio routes automatically between a laptop and phone as needed. This pair doesn't have ANC, and that's a fair trade at ₹1,599 in exchange for Dolby Audio and a battery that comfortably outlasts most alternatives in the segment.

Best for: Someone who primarily uses earbuds for movies, music, and calls, wants Dolby Audio and long battery without paying for ANC they may not need, and is spending under ₹2,000.

4. boAt Nirvana Ion ANC

Price: ₹1,999

Amazon | boAt 

Key Specs:

• Up to 32dB ANC
• 120-hour total playtime (24 hours per earbud charge)
• Crystal Bionic Sound with HiFi DSP
• 10mm drivers
• Dual EQ Modes: boAt Signature Sound + boAt Balanced Sound
• 4 mics with ENx Technology
• BEAST Mode: 60ms latency
• In-Ear Detection
• Multipoint Connectivity
• IPX4 water resistance
• Bluetooth v5.2

At ₹1,999, the Nirvana Ion ANC is doing something most earbuds at this price don't attempt: putting real ANC, 120 hours of battery, in-ear detection, and dual EQ modes in the same pair. The 32dB ANC will edge off ambient noise enough to make a genuine difference to the listening experience in everyday environments like offices, cafes, and commutes.

The 120-hour total battery figure deserves unpacking: each earbud delivers 24 hours on a single charge. That means going five to six days between case charges under normal use, which is a fundamentally different relationship with the charging routine than most budget earbuds offer. Crystal Bionic Sound powered by HiFi DSP adds audio processing to the 10mm drivers, and the two EQ modes let users choose between boAt Signature Sound for a punchy, bass-forward profile or Balanced Sound for a flatter, more neutral response depending on what they're listening to. In-ear detection automatically pauses when the earbuds come out and resumes when they go back in. BEAST Mode at 60ms handles gaming and video sync cleanly.

Best for: A student or first-time ANC buyer who wants a week of battery life, usable noise cancellation, and a versatile sound profile, all under ₹2,000.

5. boAt Airdopes Plus 222

Price: ₹1,099

Amazon | boAt

Key Specs:

• 13mm drivers tuned for deep bass
• Spatial Audio
• 60-hour total playtime
• BEAST Mode: 55ms latency
• Dual Pairing Multipoint Connectivity
• boAt Hearables App: EQ, gesture remapping, Ring My Buds, firmware updates
• Voice Assistant support: Siri and Google Assistant

The Airdopes Plus 222 makes an unambiguous case for a specific kind of buyer. The 13mm drivers, the largest on this list, are tuned specifically for deep, thumping bass, which means genres like hip-hop, EDM, and high-energy workout playlists land with the kind of physical weight that smaller drivers simply can't produce. Spatial Audio adds a 360-degree directional layer for film and gaming content on top of that.

The 60-hour total battery edges out every other pair on this list for raw endurance, and BEAST Mode at 55ms is the lowest gaming latency here, making it the cleanest option for competitive gaming or fast-paced video where audio sync matters. The boAt Hearables App gives genuine customisation depth, including a parametric EQ, touch gesture remapping, firmware updates, and the Ring My Buds feature that locates a misplaced earbud through the app. Dual Pairing Multipoint handles two simultaneous device connections, and Voice Assistant support gives one-touch access to Siri or Google Assistant.

Best for: Someone who wants the most bass, the longest battery, and the sharpest gaming latency under ₹1,000 - ₹1,200 , and values app-based customisation over ANC.

FAQs on TWS Earbuds

1. What is the difference between ANC and ENx technology in boAt earbuds?

ANC, or Active Noise Cancellation, uses microphones to capture ambient sound and generates an opposing signal to cancel it before it reaches the ear. ENx, or Environmental Noise Exclusion, is specifically designed for call quality: it isolates the user's voice and filters out background noise so the person on the other end of the call hears speech clearly. Both technologies exist on the same earbud, serving different purposes. ANC improves the listening experience for the wearer; ENx improves the call experience for the person being spoken to.

2. Is a higher driver size always better in TWS earbuds?

Not necessarily. Driver size determines the physical surface area pushing air to create sound, and larger drivers have more potential for deep bass response. However, how that driver is tuned by the manufacturer determines the actual sound quality. A 13mm driver tuned primarily for bass will sound worse for vocals or acoustic music than a 10mm driver with a well-balanced tuning. Driver size is one data point, not a complete picture.

3. Does the boAt Nirvana Ion ANC's 120-hour battery actually last that long in real use?

The 120-hour figure covers total battery life across the earbuds and case combined. Each earbud delivers 24 hours per charge, and the case holds enough charge for multiple top-ups to reach that total. In practice, a user who listens for four to six hours a day can realistically go five to six days without needing to plug the case in. The per-earbud figure is what matters for daily use, and 24 hours is genuinely high for this price bracket.

4. What does CREST AI with Google Gemini on the boAt Airdopes Prime 701 ANC actually do?

CREST AI is boAt's AI engine built into the Airdopes Prime 701 ANC. With Google Gemini integrated, it enables real-time face-to-face language translation across up to 25 languages directly through the earbuds. It also supports natural language queries, brainstorming, and device control through voice, functioning as a hands-free AI assistant without needing to open a phone app. For travellers or multilingual professionals, it reduces friction significantly across daily interactions.

5. Which boAt TWS earbuds are best for gaming under ₹2,000?

Both the Nirvana Ion ANC and the Airdopes Plus 222 sit under ₹2,000 and include a dedicated BEAST Mode for low-latency gaming: 60ms on the Ion ANC and 55ms on the Airdopes Plus 222. The Airdopes Plus 222 has the edge on raw latency and the bass response that makes gaming audio feel more physical. The Ion ANC wins if call quality during gaming sessions and ANC between matches matter more. Both handle the latency gap well enough that audio sync in fast-paced games is not an issue.

• OPPO Find X10 Pro Max will launch as one of the first phones with this chipset.
• The smartphone's global debut has also been officially confirmed.
• It's launching first in China on September 22nd. 

[/highlights]

The OPPO Find X10 series is scheduled to launch in China on September 22nd. The lineup will introduce OPPO's latest flagship phones: the OPPO Find X10, Find X10 Pro Max, and Find X10E. OPPO has been steadily revealing key details about the upcoming Find X10 series, and it has now confirmed the Find X10 Pro Max's global debut. It will launch as one of the first phones with the MediaTek Dimensity 9600 Pro chipset. 

OPPO Find X10 Pro Max x Dimensity 9600 Pro

OPPO, in a press release, announced that the Find X10 Pro Max will launch as one of the first smartphones to feature the flagship MediaTek Dimensity 9600 Pro. It also confirmed the Find X10 Pro Max's launch for the international market. With this chipset, the Find X10 Pro Max would directly compete with rivals like the iPhone 18 Pro and upcoming phones like the OnePlus 16 powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro. 

MediaTek announced the new Dimensity 9600 Pro just yesterday as the latest chipset for flagship smartphones. The chipset is built on TSMC's 2nm N2P process and is claimed to deliver an overall performance improvement of 17 percent. The chipset is also said to deliver around 27 percent higher graphics performance than the previous generation.

The Find X10 Pro Max will also debut the OPPO Laminar Flow Engine, jointly developed by OPPO and MediaTek. This new technology is designed to help achieve a better balance between ultra-smooth system responsiveness and low power consumption, while accelerating app launches and maintaining smooth performance during scenarios like rapid photo browsing.

It looks like OPPO is going all-in with the Find X10 Pro Max. The handset is confirmed to feature a triple 200MP rear camera setup, which would be a first in the industry. It will also house an 8,000mAh battery, one of the largest capacities for a flagship phone. 

With a global launch confirmed, the OPPO Find X10 Pro Max would be the flagship phone to watch out for. If you're in the market for a flagship camera phone with peak hardware, the Find X10 Pro Max might be a top contender for you to consider. We'd still advise waiting for more details and comparing it with other upcoming flagships as well. 

• Xiaomi 18 Pro has surfaced on Geekbench with the unannounced Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro and 16GB RAM.
• The phone reportedly scored 3,619 in single-core and 11,842 in multi-core testing on Geekbench 7.
• Xiaomi has teased a rear display integrated into the camera module, with the phone set to launch in China this month.

[/highlights]

Xiaomi's next flagship, the Xiaomi 18 Pro, has surfaced on Geekbench with Qualcomm's next top-tier processor, giving us an indication of what to expect from the company's upcoming premium smartphone. The listing comes a day after Xiaomi officially teased the phone's rear display, confirming that the novel feature from the Xiaomi 17 Pro series will return on its successor.

The Geekbench appearance also comes as Xiaomi prepares to launch the Xiaomi 18 series in China this month. While the company has confirmed the launch and shown off the rear-screen design, most hardware details are still to be officially announced.

Xiaomi 18 Pro benchmarks

According to tipster Abhishek Yadav, the Xiaomi 18 Pro is listed on Geekbench 7 under model number M154FF with Qualcomm's SM8975 processor, expected to be called the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro. The listing shows 16GB RAM and Android 17, with the phone scoring 3,619 points in single-core and 11,842 points in multi-core. The processor is listed with an eight-core configuration comprising two cores clocked at up to 5.01GHz, three at 4.03GHz and three at 3.74GHz. Graphics are handled by the Adreno 850 GPU.

There are already other early results for the same Qualcomm chip. A phone identified as the Vivo V2606A, believed to be the iQOO 16, previously appeared on Geekbench with 16GB RAM, scoring 3,434 in single-core and 9,334 in multi-core. The Xiaomi 18 Pro's reported multi-core result is therefore substantially higher. The Xiaomi 18 Pro Max also appeared with the SM8975, recording 3,582 points in single-core and 12,247 in multi-core. Its listing showed 12GB RAM, alongside OpenCL and Vulkan scores of 26,210 and 29,934.

These results are useful as an early reference, but they are not a reliable measure of final retail performance. Engineering devices can use unfinished software and different thermal and power configurations.

The new Qualcomm chip will also face competition from MediaTek's Dimensity 9600 series, which launched yesterday and will power several flagship phones including the OPPO Find X10 series and Vivo X500 series launching later this year. Results from final retail devices will give a clearer picture of how the two platforms compare.

Xiaomi 18 Pro rear display teased

The rear display is the more distinctive part of the Xiaomi 18 Pro. The company teased the feature yesterday, showing a secondary screen built directly into the horizontal Leica camera module. The setup looks similar to the Xiaomi 17 Pro, although Xiaomi appears to be preparing new use cases for the screen.

The teaser displays the word "Generating", which could point towards AI-generated content being created for the rear screen. The Xiaomi 17 Pro already allowed users to use the display for wallpapers, notifications, music controls and interactive tools. The feature also gives Xiaomi a differentiator against phones such as Nothing's recent models, where the Glyph Interface and Glyph Matrix focus on notifications and smaller interactive functions.

For potential buyers, the important question will be whether Xiaomi can make the rear display useful beyond the initial novelty. The "Generating" teaser suggests there is more to come, but the actual features have not been detailed yet. Xiaomi has confirmed a China launch this month, while India availability and pricing remain unannounced. Given these are early benchmarks and the rear display's full potential is yet to be revealed, users prioritising performance might consider waiting for full reviews. Those drawn to innovative design and potential AI features might find this a compelling device to watch.

• Flipkart Big Billion Days Sale starts in the second week of October.
• The sale will begin a day earlier for Flipkart VIP and Black members.
• Expect discounts on Apple iPhones, Samsung flagship phones, and Google Pixel phones during the sale.

[/highlights]

Flipkart is bringing back what many consider the biggest sale event of the year on the e-commerce platform: the Big Billion Days Sale 2026. Set to kick off on October 9th, the sale will offer products across categories, especially smartphones, appliances, and electronics, at discounted prices. On top of that, buyers will be able to avail bank discounts using multiple cards to grab products at more aggressive price points.

Flipkart Big Billion Days Sale 2026 date is here

The Flipkart Big Billion Days Sale will begin this year on October 9th, as teased on a microsite. As with most previous sales, users with Flipkart VIP, Flipkart Black, and Flipkart credit card membership will get early access to the sale on October 8th, giving them a head start to buy their wishlisted items before others.

[caption id="attachment_715215" align="alignnone" width="690"] Flipkart Big Billion Day 2026 banner[/caption]

While the sale's end date has not been revealed yet, one can expect the event to last at least a week. However, interested buyers should make purchases as early as possible to get the best prices, since product prices may rise once Flipkart starts running out of supply.

Flipkart Big Billion Days Sale deals, bank offers

Coming to the bank offers, users with Axis and ICICI Bank cards can get up to 10 percent discount, while Flipkart Axis Bank credit cardholders can also get a similar discount on purchases made during the sale on select items. UPI and other payment gateways will also be available for payments.

As part of the event, Flipkart will also run certain events that will allow users to grab more deals and discounts, such as Price Crash, BBD Specials, Tick Tock Deals, Brand Hours, Double Discount, and Rush Hours. Details on these events are expected to be revealed closer to the sale date.

While the e-commerce platform hasn't teased the deals, buyers aiming for iPhones can consider waiting for the sale. As in previous years, base iPhones could see a good discount, and the iPhone 17 could follow suit, even though Apple has officially raised its price to Rs 99,900 from Rs 82,900. Meanwhile, Samsung flagship smartphones such as the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S26 series could also see price drops, while the Pixel 10 could be a standout deal.

Availability

Both models are scheduled for availability through GIGABYTE's authorised retailers. Pricing has not been confirmed.

Cooling performance

The coolers feature a 3,200 RPM pump paired with three PWM fans for steady airflow and controlled acoustics. GIGABYTE describes the series as offering "ample thermal headroom" for the latest Intel and AMD processors. However, specific TDP ratings and noise levels were not disclosed in the announcement. Independent testing will be needed to confirm real-world thermal and acoustic performance.

Builder-friendly features

Three installation-focused additions are worth noting. Fans come pre-installed on the radiator with simplified cabling to reduce build time and keep routing clean. The pump head features a magnetic EAGLE Accent Cover that you can supposedly remove and rotate without tools for logo alignment across different build orientations. A single universal mounting bracket covers both Intel and AMD socket compatibility without platform-specific hardware.

Aesthetics

Both models include RGB lighting on the pump head and fans, compatible with GIGABYTE's ecosystem for synchronised lighting. The ICE variant's all-white finish caters to white-themed builds, where matching component colourways has become a popular builder priority.

The 360mm AIO segment is well-populated. Arctic's Liquid Freezer III 360 is widely regarded as the thermal performance benchmark at this radiator size, consistently delivering strong cooling with minimal noise at a competitive price. Corsair's iCUE H150i Elite and the be quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX 360 are strong alternatives with polished software ecosystems and robust fan controls. Meanwhile, the Noctua's NH-D15 and DeepCool's LT720 also compete at this tier.

Where the GIGABYTE EAGLE 360 differentiates is ecosystem cohesion. Builders already running EAGLE motherboards and GPUs gain a visually and functionally integrated cooler without sourcing from a third party. The magnetic logo alignment and pre-installed fan setup are also practical differentiators for builders who prioritise clean, hassle-free assembly. On pure thermal performance, however, the EAGLE 360 will need independent benchmark validation before it can be confidently placed against established alternatives like the Arctic Liquid Freezer III, which currently sets a high bar at this radiator size.

• Vivo V80 could feature a 7,200mAh battery.
• It's teased to launch with camera-centric AI features.
• Vivo S2 FE is also expected to launch in India soon.

[/highlights]

Vivo V80 has been officially teased to launch in India soon. The announcement comes shortly after it was spotted on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification platform, alongside another Vivo smartphone, speculated to be the Vivo S2 FE. Vivo V80 would launch as the successor to the V70, while the Vivo S2 FE is expected to arrive as an affordable alternative to the Vivo S2. 

Vivo V80 specifications (expected)

The Vivo V80 is tipped to launch in the first week of October. It's tipped to offer camera-centric features, which have usually been the focus for Vivo's V series phones. The Vivo V80 could launch with an AI Creative Camera mode, offering over 30 AI effects, and a Live Sticker Collage feature, possibly for creating collages using Live Photos and stickers. Another highlight for the Vivo V80 could be that it will run on OriginOS 7-based Android 17 out of the box. This would make it the first Vivo phone with this software.

The Vivo V80 is also expected to house a 7,200mAh battery, which would be a notable upgrade over the V70's 6,500mAh battery. This means we can expect stronger battery endurance on the V80. 

Vivo hasn't revealed any details about the V80 yet, but it has teased the phone to offer AI camera features, upgraded low-light photography, the biggest battery in a V-series phone, and the smoothest display yet. The smartphone's design has also been teased, which shows a large camera plateau at the back and Zeiss branding. 

As for the Vivo S2 FE, it's speculated that the phone could launch as a rebranded Vivo V80 Lite. If so, then we can expect a 10,000mAh battery with 44W fast charging support. This would be the largest battery capacity on a Vivo phone in India. It could also launch with a 6.84-inch 1.5K 120Hz AMOLED display, the MediaTek Dimensity 7300e chipset, a 50MP rear camera, and a 32MP front camera. The rumored 10,000mAh battery for the S2 FE is an aggressive move that could truly set it apart in the mid-range segment.

Based on what we know so far, the Vivo V80 will sit in the more premium segment, catering to buyers who want a camera-focused phone with AI features. If you're currently using a V-series phone older than the V70 and prioritize camera and battery, the V80 could be a significant upgrade worth waiting for. The Vivo S2 FE could appeal more to those who want a large battery on a mid-range device. It's still early to determine what each phone offers, so it's best to wait for official details before making a buying decision. 

• Lava Virat Curve will launch in India on September 21st at 12 noon and will be sold via Flipkart.
• It brings a rear Mini Display, curved vegan leather design, Dimensity 7100 chipset, and a 6,000mAh battery.
• The phone will be available in Heritage Indigo and Makrana Ivory colour options.

[/highlights]

Lava has confirmed that the Lava Virat Curve will launch in India on September 21st at 12 PM IST as the fourth smartphone in its new Virat lineup. The upcoming model joins the Virat V1 4G, Virat V1 5G, and Virat V1 Pro 5G, while introducing a more premium-looking curved design and a rear display element that sets it apart from the rest of the series. 

Lava Virat Curve specifications and features

Lava has revealed the key hardware specifications ahead of launch. The Virat Curve will feature a 6.67-inch 3D curved AMOLED display with Full-HD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, 1.07 billion colours, 100 percent DCI-P3 colour gamut, and up to 1,100 nits peak brightness. Powering the phone will be the MediaTek Dimensity 7100 processor paired with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. It will run Android 16 out of the box, with Lava promising two years of OS updates and three years of security updates.

For photography, the phone gets a 50MP Sony IMX752 primary camera with f/1.8 aperture and support for up to 2K 30fps video recording. Completing the package is a sizeable 6,000mAh battery with 45W wired fast charging, making it one of the more battery-focused offerings in its segment.

The phone features curved front and rear panels with a vegan leather finish, a rectangular camera module, IP64 dust and splash resistance, and a USB Type-C port alongside the speaker grille and SIM tray. It will be available through Flipkart in Heritage Indigo and Makrana Ivory colour options.

Lava Virat Curve Mini Display

The biggest talking point is the Mini Display embedded within the rear camera island. Rather than being purely decorative, Lava says it can display the company's logo, battery percentage, volume level, time, emojis, custom text messages, and notifications. This puts the Virat Curve among a growing number of smartphones experimenting with secondary rear interfaces.

In the segment, Infinix recently introduced its Active Matrix Display on the Infinix Hot 70 Pro, which also uses the rear panel to communicate alerts and visual information, while Nothing has built an entire identity around its Glyph Interface and newer Glyph Matrix, offering notifications, timers, volume indicators, progress tracking, and interactive utilities through programmable lights and matrix-style displays. Lava's Mini Display appears to focus more on glanceable information and personalisation than the broader interactive ecosystem offered by Nothing's Glyph platform. Among Lava phones, the Lava Agni 3 in 2024 itself came with a rear secondary display that acted as a camera viewfinder, gave you quick music controls and showed notifications and the time.

The Lava Virat series starts at Rs 9,999 for the Lava Virat V1 4G. The Curve is expected to be the top model of the series considering its feature set and should cross the Rs 20,000 price point, as per our estimation. While the curved AMOLED screen, large battery, and rear Mini Display give the Virat Curve a distinctive identity, pricing will ultimately determine its competitiveness. Buyers considering phones from brands like Nothing or Infinix may find Lava's rear display an interesting alternative, especially if they want notification and customisation features without moving into a higher price bracket.