[highlights]

• Samsung's Galaxy S26 FE has surfaced on UL Demko certification, and the listing points to 45W wired charging support.
• Earlier Geekbench leaks suggest the phone may ship with Android 17, 8GB RAM and an Exynos 2500 chipset.
• The FE line has followed Samsung's "flagship-lite" formula before, so the S26 FE is expected to balance performance, battery and long-term support.

[/highlights]

The upcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 FE has now surfaced on UL Demko certification, and the listing points to 45W wired charging support. That gives us a look at one of the key specifications of the phone, and it lines up with earlier leaks that already hinted at the device's broader specifications. Let's look at it below.

Samsung Galaxy S26 FE: what we know so far

The UL listing shows Samsung as the manufacturer and lists the model family as SM-S741W, SM-S741U1, SM-S741U, SM-S741B/DS, SM-S741B and SM-S741N. Under the charging ratings, it shows 15.0V at 3.0A or 10.0V at 4.5A, which works out to 45W wired charging support. From an earlier listing, we know the Galaxy S26 FE corresponds to SM-S741U model.

Before this certification, the Galaxy S26 FE had already appeared on Geekbench with model number SM-S741U. The Geekbench listing revealed details like Android 17, 8GB RAM and a 10-core chipset. Those benchmark leaks also pointed to Exynos 2500 processor, with scores of 2,426 in single-core and 8,004 in multi-core testing.

While 45W charging is certainly a welcome addition, it is also not something new for 2026's premium segment, which has now changed significantly with phone prices jumping due to memory shortages.

The listing, if proven true, suggests that Samsung is playing it safe rather than trying anything radically new with the FE lineup. The Exynos 2500, which is likely to be the final chip based on previous launch patterns, will be the real test of Samsung's in-house silicon strategy. The company has long been working to match its rivals on everyday consistency, and improving with each iteration.

Should you wait for the Galaxy S26 FE?

Samsung has not confirmed the phone yet, so the chipset and final charging setup should still be treated as leaks. Even so, the UL certification makes the 45W claim look much more credible than a standalone rumour.

The FE series has consistently stayed close to the flagship formula on design and usability. The Galaxy S25 FE came in at 190g, used a 6.7-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, and carried a 4,900mAh battery with 45W wired charging, so Samsung is likely to extend that same balance of performance and practicality to the S26 FE as well.

Once Samsung officially announces it, buyers will likely want to weigh the final price against the Exynos 2500's performance and how well 45W charging translates into battery life and day-to-day convenience. With memory shortages pushing component costs higher, the S26 FE could also land at a higher price than last year's model, possibly by 30 percent or more, which will make competitor comparison even more important.

[highlights]

• Realme P4s Lite could soon join the Realme P4 Lite and P4 Lite 5G.
• The smartphone could be offered with up to 128GB of storage.
• Realme P4s Lite is likely to be priced under Rs 20,000.

[/highlights]

Realme could soon add another yet another member to its ever-evolving P4 lineup. After debuting the Realme P4R a few weeks back in India, 91mobiles has learned exclusively from industry sources that the company could soon release the 'Realme P4s Lite'. Set to come in various colourways and storage options, we believe the P4s Lite is expected to sit under the Rs 20,000 segment, joining the Realme P4 Lite 4G and P4 Lite 5G.

Realme P4s Lite model number, memory and colour options

Per the source, the Realme P4s Lite will feature two storage configurations: 4GB RAM + 64GB storage and 4GB RAM + 128GB storage. As for the colourways, it could sport Moonlight Silver and Nebula Black shades.

Moving on, the Realme P4s Lite could carry the model number RMX5398 IN, with the 'IN' suffix indicating an India release. That's all the information we've received so far regarding Realme's upcoming purported budget smartphone.

For the uninitiated, the Realme P4 Lite sported a considerable-sized 6,300mAh battery, the Unisoc T7250 4G-only processor, a 6.74-inch HD+ LCD display, and an IP54-rated build. The Realme P4S Lite could pack a similar set of specifications, unless it's a variant of the Realme P4 Lite 5G, which gets the much more capable MediaTek Dimensity 6300 and a larger 7,000mAh battery.

Realme P4s Lite positioning and availability

From the information in hand, the Realme P4s Lite could be yet another budget smartphone made to cater to the sub-Rs 20,000 category. Given the 's' abbreviation, it could likely be presented as either a stripped-down or enhanced version of the Realme P4 Lite, which we reviewed a few months back.

Realme's latest P-series release, the Realme P4R, currently retails for Rs 19,999. Given the naming, the Realme P4s Lite could certainly sit below it. Moving on, since all the Realme P-series smartphones sell exclusively on Flipkart, the P4s Lite could also be positioned as an online-only device. While this could help the company price the phone more aggressively, with memory prices still high, don't expect it to carry an affordable price tag like last year's Realme devices.

That said, if you're considering a budget smartphone in the near future, it might be worth waiting for the official launch of the P4s Lite to compare its final specs and pricing against current market options.

[highlights]

• The Samsung Galaxy S27 Pro and Galaxy S27 Ultra are tipped to feature 5,200mAh and up to 5,800mAh batteries respectively.
• Samsung is reportedly planning to adopt silicon-carbon battery technology for the Galaxy S27 series.
• Samsung's recent foldables, the Galaxy Z Fold8, Fold8 Ultra and Flip8 have Si-C batteries.

[/highlights]

Samsung's next flagship Galaxy S series is still several months away, but fresh leaks are already offering a glimpse at one of the upgrades buyers may notice the most. A new report suggests the upcoming Galaxy S27 Pro and Galaxy S27 Ultra could pack larger batteries than their predecessors, with Samsung also tipped to adopt silicon-carbon battery technology for the first time in its flagship lineup.

Anticipated specifications and upgrades

According to Dutch publication GalaxyClub, the Galaxy S27 Pro will feature a battery with a rated capacity of 5,087mAh, which is expected to be marketed as a 5,200mAh typical capacity. Earlier leaks had pointed to a 5,000mAh battery, making this an upgrade if the latest report is accurate.

The bigger change could come with the Galaxy S27 Ultra, which is tipped to feature a 5,534mAh rated battery. Samsung could market it as a 5,700mAh battery, with the report adding that the company may even advertise it as a 5,800mAh cell. For comparison, the Galaxy S26 Ultra launched with a 5,000mAh battery, alongside 60W wired and 25W wireless charging. Battery details for the standard Galaxy S27 and Galaxy S27+ remain unknown.

The reported increase is believed to be possible because Samsung may finally switch to silicon-carbon battery technology. Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries, silicon-carbon cells offer higher energy density, allowing manufacturers to fit larger batteries into similarly sized devices. Several Chinese brands, including Honor, OnePlus, Xiaomi and Vivo, have already adopted the technology in recent phones.

The Galaxy S27 Pro, recently spotted in the GSMA database, is expected to become a new premium tier positioned between the Plus and Ultra models. Reports suggest it will offer flagship-grade performance and camera hardware in a more compact body, while omitting the S Pen to maintain a smaller form factor. The phone is tipped to use the Exynos 2700 in markets such as Europe and South Korea, while the US may receive a Snapdragon variant. The Galaxy S27 Ultra, meanwhile, is expected to feature a custom Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 for Galaxy chipset globally.

For buyers, a larger battery alone is unlikely to be the deciding factor, but Samsung adopting silicon-carbon technology would be a good upgrade. If the company can deliver longer battery life without increasing the phone's size or weight, the Galaxy S27 series could be a compelling buy and worth waiting for.

Samsung has added a new foldable into its lineup, calling it the Galaxy Z Fold 8 (first impressions). It seems to serve as the hero product in the company's latest-generation foldable lineup, which has also led to a change in the naming convention. While the successor to the Galaxy Z Flip 7 is straightforwardly named the Galaxy Z Flip 8, the OEM is calling the Galaxy Z Fold 7's successor the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. This has been done to accommodate the latest foldable in the lineup, the Galaxy Z Fold 8, which will target a new set of users.

What's so new about the Galaxy Z Fold 8?

[caption id="attachment_709080" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra (L), Flip 8 (centre), Fold 8 (right)[/caption]

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 is positioned between the Galaxy Z Flip 8 and the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra. The new addition not only bridges the gap between the two models in terms of pricing but also form factor. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 has a slightly larger footprint than the Flip-style foldable, while remaining more compact than the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. Like its Ultra sibling, it adopts a book-style design with a vertically folding hinge, rather than the horizontal hinge found on Flip-style foldables.

To put the Galaxy Z Fold 8's size and design into perspective, it is roughly the size of a wallet and slips easily into a shirt pocket. However, the comparison that best captures its dimensions is a passport, as the phone closely matches one in both thickness and overall form factor.

[comparative-benchmark type="1000" products="42129,41701,42221,," ][/comparative-benchmark]

While the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 may not be the world's first in the form factor, it is certainly one of a kind in India and could inspire several other manufacturers.

Upcoming passport-style foldables in India (rumoured)

Apple iPhone Ultra

[caption id="attachment_693549" align="aligncenter" width="2140"] iPhone Ultra (alleged)[/caption]

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 is likely to inspire the long-rumoured iPhone Ultra. The first-ever foldable from Apple is expected to debut in the same passport-style foldable as the Samsung offering later this year. In fact, it's being reported that Samsung is the sole manufacturer of the foldable displays for the Cupertino-based company. It's possible that the upcoming iPhone Ultra could use the same Flex Titanium display tech found on the latest Galaxy Z Fold 8.

Samsung's latest innovation uses a titanium support plate to create a thinner, more durable display structure that is designed to better withstand drops while also reducing the visibility of the display crease. As a result, the displays on the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Galaxy Z Flip 8 feel like a single, seamless panel, with a crease that is barely visible and almost imperceptible to the touch.

OPPO Find N7

Within hours of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, it was leaked that OPPO is also working on a similar-style foldable, called the Find N7 Wide. If it does, it won't be the first time OPPO will launch a passport-style foldable. The original OPPO Find N was launched with a similar form factor; however, it wasn't launched in India. Hopefully, the OEM could introduce its rumoured next-gen OPPO Find N7 Wide in the country.

What the new, wide foldable form factor solves

[caption id="attachment_709225" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra[/caption]

For starters, the Galaxy Z Fold8's new passport-style form factor is aimed at users who want the benefits of a book-style foldable in a more compact package. The handset is easier to slip into a pocket and more comfortable to hold in one hand than a traditional book-style foldable.

The design also caters to multimedia enthusiasts who spend a lot of time watching movies and TV shows on their smartphones. Its passport-style proportions offer a larger viewing area than a regular/ clamshell smartphone, while making better use of the display than a traditional book-style foldable. This reduces the black bars that often appear when streaming content, resulting in a more immersive viewing experience.

Furthermore, the aspect ratio of the passport-style foldable's cover display matches those of the social media apps, making them more optimised for this form factor. When folded, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8's cover screen measures 10:16, making it familiar and comfortable for short moments, such as messaging, social updates, browsing and short-form video, per the company. When unfolded, the 4:3 main display creates a larger canvas that helps users lose themselves in games and films.

Samsung also believes the main display on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is more reader-friendly. "The same display ratio becomes naturally suited to reading, giving users a more comfortable way to settle into articles, e-books and long-form content without carrying another device," claims the OEM.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is the kind of product that makes you rethink what a foldable can be. It's more pocketable, more media-friendly, and more approachable than anything Samsung has put out in this category before, and it arrives at a moment when Apple and OPPO are reportedly circling the same form factor. If those launches materialise, the passport-style foldable could quietly become the next big shift in how we think about smartphones. Samsung got here first, and with the Galaxy Z Fold 8, it has set a benchmark that will be hard to ignore.

On the sidelines of the Samsung Unpacked event that saw the launch of the Galaxy Z8 series, I was part of a roundtable in London with JB Park, CEO and President of Samsung Southwest Asia, where a group of Indian journalists got more room to push on business strategy, including pricing, the ongoing memory crisis, foldable adoption in India, Galaxy AI's monetisation path, and where Samsung's R&D centres in Noida and Bengaluru actually fit into the bigger picture. Park, unsurprisingly, had an answer for almost everything thrown at him.

Defining foldable success, eight generations in

Asked how Samsung measures success in the foldable category after eight generations, Park pointed to adoption rather than raw sales numbers: more than 20 percent of Samsung's flagship sales in India now come from foldables, a share that's grown steadily since 2019, when the category was so unfamiliar that Park said even his own neighbours were surprised the phone could fold at all. He expects the consumer base transitioning to foldables to keep expanding as the category matures.

Park said 65 percent of Samsung's flagship device sales in India now come from tier 2, tier 3, and rural markets, with rural sales growing faster than metro sales in percentage terms. He credited this to distribution depth, as Samsung ships to 18,000 postal codes and works through more than 80,000 mom-and-pop stores backed by roughly 20,000 in-store promoters. He said the company is investing heavily in educating these markets about premium devices, a shift from the voice-and-feature-phone era Samsung used to sell into in the same towns.

The memory crisis, and who absorbs the cost

Rising memory and component prices were the single most-asked-about topic in the room, and Park didn't dodge it. He confirmed that device prices are rising industry-wide and called the current memory price spike a situation that will likely keep pushing prices up for another year or two.

On whether Samsung would protect margins or absorb the hit, Park was direct: "Samsung has been absorbing more of the cost increase than competitors over the past eight months", framing it as a philosophical stance rather than a market-share play. A smartphone, he argued, is a three-year investment for a customer and shouldn't be repriced like volatile commodities. On EMIs specifically, he said Samsung bears the interest component on flagship devices for 24 to 30 months in India's open market (where, unlike the US or Europe, there's no operator subsidy), and pointed to the Galaxy Forever programme — no-cost EMI plus a no-questions-asked upgrade or return with an assured buyback value — as the company's broader answer to easing the up-front burden on consumers.

Will foldables ever go mass-market, or get an FE model?

Pushed on whether foldables in India are still more of a price story or an awareness-and-use-case problem, Park leaned toward awareness: with 20 percent of flagship sales already foldables, he thinks the bigger barrier is that many buyers still don't see a clear reason to choose the form factor over a conventional flagship. He expects more competition entering the foldable segment to actually help Samsung here, by raising overall category awareness.

On whether an affordable Fan Edition foldable is coming to unlock tier 2 and tier 3 markets the way the S-series FE has, Park didn't rule it out but wouldn't commit either. Samsung, he said, is watching consumer feedback and industry response, and would consider a more affordable "FE" foldable if and when the category is ready for it.

When asked about Chinese OEMs undercutting on price, Park argued that pure price undercutting isn't a sustainable strategy in the current environment, given every brand is under the same memory-cost pressure. He positioned Samsung's foldable differentiation as sitting in things that are harder to copy than slimness or weight — crease reduction, hinge durability, and years of OS-level optimisation work with its software partner to make apps actually usable on foldable aspect ratios.

Galaxy AI: free today, hybrid tomorrow?

On where Galaxy AI monetisation is headed, Park described the current model as largely on-device and bundled into the cost of the device, but said Samsung is increasingly leaning into a hybrid model — some cloud-based AI features delivered through partners, where heavier, professional-grade usage (his example: architects or engineers using pro-level AI tools) could eventually sit behind a partner subscription, while the baseline AI experience for everyday consumers stays free. He was clear that any such subscription would sit with the AI partner's platform, not as a new Samsung Galaxy AI paywall.

Asked about the long-term cost of keeping AI features free given how compute-intensive they are, Park acknowledged the computing cost is real and growing, particularly for heavy users of features like photo and video editing, and said Samsung's approach is to keep absorbing that cost for the majority of users while reserving any future paid tier for a smaller base of power users.

On differentiation as AI features converge across brands, Park pointed to Samsung's broader ecosystem — phones, watches, tablets, and home appliances and displays all linked together, with the phone acting as a control hub — plus its commitment to seven years of OS upgrades, as the harder-to-replicate advantages over AI capability alone.

Why the TriFold doesn't need to be profitable

One of the more candid moments of the session came when Park was asked directly about the economics of expensive new technology — titanium hinges, silicon carbon batteries, the TriFold — landing at a moment when component costs are already spiking. Park didn't dispute that leading on new technology comes at a cost premium; his argument was that being first is itself the strategy. He pointed to the TriFold specifically as a product that doesn't make economic sense today, but exists to demonstrate technology leadership, with the expectation that costs come down over time as "fast followers" enter the category and component suppliers scale up. He suggested more affordable rollable or TriFold-style devices could follow once the underlying component economics catch up.

India's role: software and persona research, not hardware design

On what Samsung's Noida and Bengaluru R&D centres actually contribute to devices sold globally, Park was fairly specific about the boundary: hardware architecture and design still originate largely out of Korea, while India's centres focus on software, AI, and persona research on Indian consumers that feeds back into product decisions made in Korea. As an example, he cited a Now Brief feature, Pay Now, built by Indian engineers off local insight, that lets users get reminders and make bill payments through Samsung Wallet, and which will launch exclusively for Indian consumers on the new foldables.

Park said Samsung's priority for India isn't just headcount growth in these centres but growing the intellectual property that originates there, positioning Samsung's existing global lead in patents as something India's engineering talent is well placed to contribute to, provided the centres are trusted with more creative problems rather than routine technical work.

Health, wearables, and staying open

Asked about the shift toward screen-less, purist fitness wearables, Park framed preventive health as a long-term direction for Samsung's wearable strategy, name-checking future non-invasive tracking (blood sugar monitoring without skin penetration, as an example) as the kind of capability the industry is heading toward, alongside continued work on ring and watch form factors.

Responding to a direct question from 91mobiles on why advanced Galaxy Watch features like ECG and blood pressure monitoring are gated to Samsung phones, Park clarified this is a hardware-enablement issue rather than a deliberate software lock-in — a Galaxy Watch paired with the Samsung Health app will work on other Android devices or iOS, he said, with no platform barrier beyond installing the app and linking the watch.

Chips and the rest of the business

On whether Samsung's willingness to absorb rising costs is being subsidised internally by its semiconductor division, Park was unambiguous that the two sides of the business — Device Experience (DX) and Device Solutions (DS) — operate independently and compete for the same component allocation and pricing as any other customer would, describing an internal wall between the two units that, if anything, is getting higher.

On the non-mobile business, Park acknowledged consumer electronics profitability is under real pressure from the volume of competition in categories like air conditioners and appliances, drawing a direct parallel to what the mobile business faced roughly a decade ago, while saying Samsung still aims to hold its top position in displays and home appliances through the current cycle.

Disclosure: This writer attended Samsung Unpacked in London on Samsung India's invitation

[highlights]

• Honor has confirmed the Robot Phone will feature a 200MP main camera, 200MP periscope telephoto and 50MP ultrawide camera.
• The phone also comes with a new in-house Yuguang H1 imaging chip.
• Honor will launch the Robot Phone in China on August 12th

[/highlights]

Honor has officially detailed the camera technology behind its upcoming Honor Robot Phone ahead of its launch in China on August 12th, giving a clear look at what could become one of the year's most unconventional smartphones. Alongside confirming the hardware, the company also announced a partnership with German cinema equipment maker ARRI, signalling a stronger push towards professional-grade mobile videography.

The Robot Phone has attracted attention ever since Spain defender Eric Garcia was seen using it during the FIFA World Cup 2026 celebrations. Now, Honor is hoping the device's camera system and not just its unusual design becomes its biggest talking point.

Camera and gimbal system

The main feature is a 200MP primary camera mounted on a motorised three-axis gimbal, accompanied by a 50MP ultrawide and a 200MP periscope telephoto camera. Rather than simply relying on larger sensors or AI processing, Honor is trying a different approach by giving the camera physical movement.

According to the company, sliding open the camera cover deploys a titanium-alloy robotic arm in 0.8 seconds, allowing the camera to rotate and tilt through 360 degrees to keep subjects in frame. Combined with AI-powered tracking, the system is designed to let users record themselves hands-free without constantly repositioning the phone.

The company has also introduced its first in-house imaging chip, the Honor Yuguang H1, which processes tasks such as exposure, white balance, glare reduction and detail enhancement directly on the device. Honor says the accompanying gimbal motor is 65 percent smaller and delivers 35 percent higher torque density than conventional smartphone gimbal motors, while the overall imaging system is backed by more than 100 patents.

Honor's partnership with ARRI also reinforces its creator-first strategy. The Robot Phone supports Log-C video encoding, LUT colour profiles and manual controls for focus, exposure and white balance - features more commonly associated with professional cinema cameras than smartphones. While these tools will likely appeal to a niche audience, they could help Honor differentiate itself as smartphone cameras become increasingly similar on paper. That makes the Robot Phone stand apart from rivals such as the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, Vivo X300 Ultra and OPPO Find X9 Ultra, which compete primarily on sensor size, optics and computational photography.

Performance and hardware

Honor has not confirmed the remaining specifications, but previous reports suggest the Robot Phone will feature a 6.3-inch to 6.4-inch 1.5K flat display, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, a 6,000mAh battery, and 120W fast charging. The phone is also expected to launch in Moon Shadow Gray and Star Trail Silver, with 12GB + 512GB and 16GB + 1TB configurations.

The Honor Robot Phone is more of a specialised device aimed at content creators. If the robotic gimbal proves genuinely useful for solo filming and tracking moving subjects, it could offer something few rivals currently do.

[highlights]

• Nothing is reportedly developing its first smartwatch, with a tipster claiming it could launch in September.
• It will reportedly be priced under USD 300.
• The smartwatch would be the first under the main Nothing brand.

[/highlights]

Nothing could soon expand its product ecosystem beyond smartphones, earbuds and CMF wearables. According to tipster Yogesh Brar, the company is working on its first smartwatch under the main Nothing brand, with a launch reportedly planned for September. 

Nothing smartwatch price tipped

Brar claims the smartwatch will carry Nothing's signature transparent-inspired design language, cost under USD 300 (around Rs 29,000), and initially launch in select markets. No specifications or launch markets have been revealed yet, although the tipster says more details will be shared soon.

If the report turns out to be correct, the smartwatch would fill one of the biggest gaps in Nothing's product portfolio. While the company has steadily expanded into smartphones, audio products and accessories, it has so far left smartwatches to its budget-focused sub-brand, CMF by Nothing.

CMF currently offers twi smartwatches in India. The CMF Watch Pro 2 retails at Rs 4,999 or Rs 5,499, depending on the colour option. The CMF Watch 3 Pro (review) recently launched in India and starts at Rs 7,999. Across the lineup, CMF focuses on value-oriented features such as AMOLED displays, built-in GPS, Bluetooth calling and battery life of up to 13 days.

A Nothing-branded smartwatch, however, would likely target a different audience. With a reported price below USD 300, it would move into a more premium segment, competing more directly with devices such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch series and Google's Pixel Watch lineup. Nothing may focus on design, software integration and its growing ecosystem to differentiate.

The timing of the report is interesting as it arrives shortly after claims that Nothing was planning to exit more than a dozen global markets and reduce its global workforce. The company has since denied those reports, with co-founder Akis Evangelidis saying the company is "reorganising its operations into regional hubs and new business units." Launching a premium smartwatch would fit that strategy. Expanding the main Nothing ecosystem with another flagship-category product could help strengthen customer retention while giving existing Phone users another reason to stay within the brand's ecosystem.

There's little reason for buyers to hold off on a smartwatch purchase just yet, as details remain scarce. However, those already invested in Nothing's smartphones or earbuds may want to wait and see what the company's first smartwatch brings, particularly if seamless ecosystem features become a key part of the experience.

[highlights]

• Redmi Note 17 will launch as the first model from the latest Note series.
• It will be the standard model in the lineup. 
• Redmi Note 17 has been confirmed to feature an 8,000mAh battery.

[/highlights]

Shortly after teasing the Redmi Note 17, the brand has officially revealed the India launch date. This will be the first smartphone from the new Redmi Note 17 series, which debuted in China recently. It was launched alongside the Redmi Note 17 Pro, but there's no confirmation on this model arriving in India yet. In China, the Redmi Note 17 stands out with a large 7-inch display and a massive 8,000mAh battery.

Redmi Note 17 India launch date

The Redmi Note 17 is confirmed to launch in India on August 6th. The brand announced the launch through its X handle. The smartphone is confirmed to be sold via Amazon India and most likely through more platforms like Redmi's online store and retail outlets. 

Redmi has also confirmed the battery capacity for the Note 17. The smartphone will launch with a large 8,000mAh battery. This is the same battery capacity as the Chinese variant of the Redmi Note 17. With an 8,000mAh cell, the Redmi Note 17 would be offering one of the largest batteries in its segment. It would translate to multi-day usage in real-world scenarios. The Chinese variant also comes with 45W fast charging and 22.5W reverse wired charging support, allowing it to charge other devices. 

The Redmi Note 17 5G is tipped to start at Rs 30,000 for the 6GB + 128GB variant, while the 8GB + 128GB model could be priced at Rs 33,000. If accurate, this would mark a significant price hike for the Redmi Note series in India. For context, the Redmi Note 15 debuted at Rs 22,999 in January 2026, suggesting the new model could arrive with a starting price that's roughly Rs 7,000 higher.

The increase was expected considering the ongoing price hikes in the smartphone industry due to rising memory costs and high demand. It also repositions the Note lineup into a more premium segment.

The Redmi Note 17 could be worth considering if a large battery is one of your priorities. The handset may also launch with a massive 7-inch display, so this could appeal to users who like consuming content on their phone. If you currently own a Note 15 or older, the battery life alone might be a compelling upgrade, but wait for detailed reviews.

[highlights]

• Vi has launched a new Rs 200 prepaid pack that bundles 20 OTT platforms, live TV and mobile data into one recharge.
• The 28-day plan includes 30GB of high-speed data, Unlimited 5G for eligible users, and support for up to four devices.

[/highlights]

Vodafone Idea has launched a new prepaid entertainment pack that bundles OTT streaming, live TV and mobile data into one recharge. The Rs 200 Vi Movies & TV plan targets users who want entertainment and connectivity together without managing multiple subscriptions.

Offer details

The new plan is valid for 28 days and includes access to 20 OTT platforms, more than 200 live TV channels and 30GB of high-speed data. Eligible users will also get Unlimited 5G benefits, and the pack can be used on up to four devices with two-screen concurrent streaming across supported apps.

The OTT lineup includes services such as JioHotstar, SonyLIV, ZEE5, Lionsgate Play, ShemarooMe and ManoramaMAX. Vi is positioning this pack as a simpler and cheaper alternative to juggling separate OTT subscriptions and a mobile data recharge. The bundle might also appeal to users who want a broader mix of regional and national content under one plan.

Should you choose this plan?

This plan is ideal for you if you already stream often on mobile and want access to multiple OTT apps. It is especially handy for prepaid users who value the entry-level price and do not want to commit to separate OTT bills.

If you mainly use one or two streaming apps, or already have another primary data plan, the value may be less compelling. For users who want variety, convenience and short-term entertainment value, Vi's new Rs 200 pack is a pretty decent option to consider.

[highlights]

• The Plus model in Samsung's tablet lineup is making a comeback with the Galaxy Tab S12+.
• It could be joined by an Ultra model.
• Both the Galaxy Tab S12+ and Ultra have been certified on BIS.

[/highlights]

Samsung's next premium Android tablet appears to be inching closer to launch. 91mobiles has now spotted the upcoming Galaxy Tab S12+ on the US FCC certification database, suggesting that its official debut in the country could be just around the corner. The tablet has also recently surfaced on South Korea's Safety Korea certification platform, while both the Galaxy Tab S12+ and Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra have been listed on the BIS database, pointing to an India launch in the near future.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S12+ FCC listing

The FCC listing identifies the tablet with model number SM-X848U, where the "U" suffix typically denotes the US variant. While the certification doesn't reveal the complete specifications, its appearance strongly suggests that Samsung is planning to launch the Galaxy Tab S12+ soon.

[gallery link="file" size="full" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="709678,709679"]

The Galaxy Tab S12+ is expected to sit between the standard Galaxy Tab S12 and the flagship Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra. Interestingly, this would mark the return of Samsung's 'Plus' tablet after skipping the variant in the Galaxy Tab S11 lineup. Some reports also speculate that the Tab S12+ could effectively serve as the standard premium model this year, although Samsung has yet to confirm its final lineup.

Galaxy Tab S12+: what to expect

If recent leaks are accurate, the Galaxy Tab S12+ will feature a 12.4-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, continuing Samsung's reputation for offering some of the best display panels in the Android tablet segment. It is also tipped to be powered by MediaTek's 3nm Dimensity 9500 flagship chipset, paired with 12GB of RAM and at least 256GB of storage, making it a generational upgrade over the Galaxy Tab S11 series, which debuted with the Dimensity 9400+. It will compete directly with Apple's iPad Pro lineup, particularly for users looking for a premium Android tablet for productivity, entertainment, and creative workloads.

Battery life could also see an upgrade, with rumours pointing to a 10,500mAh or 10,600mAh battery. The tablet could also feature a 12MP front camera capable of 4K video recording, catering to video conferencing, online classes, and content creators.

On the software front, Samsung is expected to ship the Galaxy Tab S12 series with Android 17-based One UI 9.0. If Samsung extends its current software commitment, it will most likely offer seven Android OS upgrades and seven years of security updates, making it one of the longest-supported Android tablets available.

The Galaxy Tab S12+ could emerge as Samsung's sweet spot in the lineup. Those who want flagship performance and a large AMOLED display without stepping up to the likely pricier Ultra model may find it to be the better value. If you're currently on a Tab S9 or older and value long-term software support, this could be a compelling upgrade, but waiting for official pricing will be key.

[highlights]

• Apple, Samsung, and Motorola will offer some of the top smartphone deals.
• SBI credit card holders can avail additional discount during the sale.
• Flipkart Plus and VIP members can access the sale 24 hours earlier.

[/highlights]

With Independence Day nearing, Flipkart has started preparations for its next major sale event, the Freedom Sale 2026. Set to kick off on August 8th, the e-commerce platform has already started teasing a few deals that'll be up for grabs during the sale period. While Flipkart Plus and VIP members will have access to the sale 24 hours earlier, customers will also be able to avail bank offers and discounts across categories to further sweeten the deal.

Flipkart Freedom Sale dates, bank offers

While there is currently no information on how many days the Freedom Sale will last, Flipkart has officially teased that the sale is set to begin on Saturday, August 8. Users with a Flipkart Plus or VIP membership can grab the deals on offer starting August 7th itself. This is a great perk Flipkart offers to its Plus or VIP subscribers that directly benefits them.

Coming to the bank offers, which can be applied on top of the discounted sale prices across all products, SBI credit card holders are eligible for a 10 percent instant discount on non-EMI and EMI transactions. The teaser page also reveals extra exchange value, meaning Flipkart will offer an additional discount when exchanging your old products for a new one.

On the other hand, Amazon is also hosting a sale dedicated to Independence Day called Great Freedom Sale starting August 7th. It'll be worth checking out exclusive smartphone deals from there if you wish to purchase a OnePlus, iQOO, Realme Narzo, or Galaxy M smartphone.

Flipkart Freedom Sale deals to expect

While Flipkart hasn't revealed the deal prices yet, the event's webpage displays the iPhone 17 and the Samsung Galaxy S25 as the top upcoming deals. Meaning, buyers can expect good discounts on these smartphones. The Galaxy S25, in particular, went as low as Rs 50,000 just last week, so it'll be worth seeing whether the Freedom Sale can match that price.

Apart from that, Moto Edge 70 Fusion is also highlighted as a top deal, which is a well-rounded midrange smartphone sporting sleek looks, a curved display, a large 7,000mAh battery, and respectable camera hardware in the form of a 50MP Sony LYT710 primary and a 13MP ultrawide lens. Similarly, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+ could also fetch a discount, making it suitable for students and professionals for working on the go.

Samsung will also offer several TVs and Galaxy Books (laptops) at discounted prices, so if you've been aiming to get either of these, the Freedom Sale could be it. As for whether you should wait for the sale to purchase smartphones and laptops, considering that every now and then the prices are jacked up due to the memory crisis, it'll be worth waiting for the sale if you're eyeing older releases, such as the Galaxy S25, OPPO K13 Turbo series, Realme P3 Ultra, etc. You can also add newer smartphones to your wishlist to ease the burden of paying high prices.

[highlights]

• The Redmi Note 17 launched recently in China, starting at at CNY 1,299 (around Rs 18,450).
• The Redmi Note 17 is tipped to launch on August 6th in India, though the company hasn't revealed it yet.
• The microsites are already live on Amazon and the Xiaomi website.

[/highlights]

Xiaomi has started teasing the arrival of a new Note series phone in India, and all fingers point to it being the new Redmi Note 17, which debuted in China recently. While the official launch date hasn't been revealed yet, a new leak has now revealed the pricing of the standard Note 17 5G. If the leaked pricing is to be believed, it would mark a jump in pricing for the vanilla Redmi Note lineup, placing it in a higher mid-range segment without any significant upgrade in the spec sheet.

Redmi Note 17 India price

Tipster Abhishek Yadav claims the Redmi Note 17 5G will start at Rs 30,000 for the 6GB + 128GB variant, while the 8GB + 128GB model could cost Rs 33,000. The tipster had earlier said the phone is expected to launch in India on August 6th, with sales beginning on August 11th. Xiaomi has already started teasing the phone in India through microsites on its website and Amazon, although it hasn't named the device.

If the tipped pricing is true, it would represent a notable segment jump for the series. The Redmi Note 15 launched in India in January 2026 at Rs 22,999 and came with a Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset and a 108MP primary camera. Going further back, the Redmi Note 14 debuted in December 2024 starting at Rs 18,999. While the Redmi Note 17 is expected to move to Qualcomm's newer 4nm Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 chip from the 6nm processor used in the Note 14, it would also carry a price increase of around Rs 12,000 over two generations. All thanks to the rising component costs, particularly ongoing DRAM price increases.

Specifications tipped for the Indian model match the Chinese variant and include an 8,000mAh battery, 50MP rear camera, 8MP selfie camera, HyperOS 3 based on Android 16, and four Android OS updates with five years of security patches. Interestingly, the chipset would be a step down from the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 used in the Redmi Note 15, suggesting Xiaomi may be prioritising battery capacity and software support while optimising costs.

At around Rs 30,000, the Redmi Note 17 would compete with devices such as the Samsung Galaxy A27, which starts at Rs 31,999 but with higher 8GB RAM, and the Realme 16T, priced from Rs 29,999 for its 6GB variant.

Redmi Note 17 expected global pricing

Separately, a leak has revealed alleged European pricing for the Redmi Note 17 lineup. According to the report, the Redmi Note 17 4G could start at EUR 250 (around Rs 27,200) for the 4GB + 128GB variant, while the 6GB + 256GB version may cost EUR 300 (around Rs 32,600). The Redmi Note 17 5G is tipped to be priced at EUR 400 (around Rs 43,500) for the 6GB + 256GB model, followed by the Redmi Note 17 Pro 5G at EUR 500 (around Rs 54,400) and the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max 5G at EUR 600 (around Rs 65,300). This is a much bigger lineup than the one expected in India at the moment.

The same source also claims the global Redmi Note 17 could feature a 108MP primary camera and launch in black, blue and purple colour options. However, it remains unclear whether these details apply to the 4G or 5G model, but if it's 5G, it'll differ from the Indian and China variants. Notably, the Redmi Note 17 starts at CNY 1,299 (around Rs 18,450) in China, highlighting the substantial premium the Indian model could command if the latest leak proves true.

The leaked pricing makes the Redmi Note 17 a phone worth watching. If battery life and long software support are your priorities, it could emerge as an attractive option. However, those looking for stronger performance may want to wait for full reviews or compare it against similarly priced alternatives before making a decision.

[highlights]The 

• Redmi K100 series is expected to debut in August.
• The lineup could launch globally under the POCO brand.
• There could be three phones joining the Redmi K100 series. 

[/highlights]

Redmi has confirmed that it will showcase its "annual heavyweight product" at ChinaJoy 2026 on July 31st, strongly hinting that the long-rumoured Redmi K100 series is finally ready to break cover. The product name hasn't been officially revealed, but recent leaks suggest it will be part of the Redmi K100 lineup. This isn't the launch but more likely the first public showcase of the Redmi K100 series. 

Redmi K100 series teased

The showcase will take place at Qualcomm Snapdragon's N5-02 booth in Shanghai, suggesting the company could also highlight its next-generation flagship chipset partnership. The event is expected to offer the first official look at the K100 series before its anticipated debut in China, scheduled for sometime in August.

Redmi K100 series: what to expect

The Redmi K100 family is tipped to include three models: the Redmi K100, Redmi K100 Pro, and Redmi K100 Pro Max. However, reports suggest Redmi may initially launch only the Pro and Pro Max variants, with the standard model arriving later. Redmi has yet to officially confirm how many models it plans to introduce under the K100 lineup. 

The upcoming Redmi K100 series will launch as successors to the Redmi K90 lineup. The phones are expected to feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, with the Pro models reportedly adopting a dual-chip architecture. With this chipset, users can expect flagship performance on the Redmi K100 lineup. 

The Redmi K100 series could also launch with a 185Hz LTPO flat display, suggesting a smooth scrolling experience and animations. More rumoured specifications include a 200MP primary camera, a 50MP periscope telephoto sensor with telephoto macro capabilities, an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, IP68/IP69 certification, and premium metal-and-glass construction. The Pro Max is also tipped to retain an exclusive triple-speaker 2.1 audio setup.

Battery capacity could be another major differentiator. While earlier reports suggested batteries exceeding 8,000mAh, newer leaks claim Redmi is testing a massive 10,000mAh battery alongside 100W wired and 50W wireless charging support. This is becoming a trend even in the flagship segment for brands to focus heavily on large batteries. 

Based on the leaked specifications, the Redmi K100 series could appeal to those looking for a powerful Android flagship smartphone that delivers on performance, battery life, and offers reliable cameras. If you're in the market for a new flagship, these rumored specs suggest it might be worth holding off on a purchase until August. 'For current Redmi K90 users, the jump to a 185Hz display, 200MP camera, and especially the rumored 10,000mAh battery could be a compelling reason to upgrade, particularly if battery life is a priority.

[highlights]

• Apple is now offering up to Rs 15,000 cashback on the 14-inch MacBook Pro M5 and up to Rs 9,000 on the 13-inch MacBook Air M5 via select bank cards.
• With these offers, the effective entry price for the MacBook Pro M5 drops to around Rs 2,24,900 and the MacBook Air M5 to about Rs 1,40,900 for eligible buyers.
• Students and teachers can get the MacBook Air M5 for roughly Rs 1,37,900 under Apple's education pricing scheme. 

[/highlights]

Apple is now offering bank-based discounts on its MacBook Pro and MacBook Air lineup in India, as the company's recent price hikes left buyers unhappy. The offers are tied to eligible bank cards rather than flat price cuts, which makes them useful but not exactly accessible. Let's take a look at the offers in detail below.

Apple Macbook discount offer details

The 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M5 chip gets up to Rs 15,000 cashback, while the 13-inch MacBook Air with the M5 chip gets up to Rs 9,000 cashback on select bank cards. Apple is also extending education pricing on the MacBook Air, which brings the effective price down a little further for students and teachers.

This is Apple doing what Apple does best, which is keeping prices high and then softening the blow with card-linked offers. The discounts in this instance are there, but the base prices are still steep enough that the deals feel more like damage control at this point than a true bargain.

The other side of this is timing. Memory prices are still showing no real correction, and that means further price hikes on electronics cannot be ruled out. Waiting for a bigger sale could pay off, but if Apple raises prices again, the savings may not fully offset the higher base price. Companies will always protect profits first, and it would be unwise to expect Apple to be any different. 

This is really a call based on need. If you are in a hurry to upgrade, the current offers provide you a decent window to buy before any possible price increase. But if you do not urgently need a new MacBook and can comfortably wait a year or longer, waiting still looks like the more prudent move. 

[highlights]

• iQOO Z11 will be the third phone from the lineup to launch in India.
• The handset is said to feature a 3D curved display.
• It is also tipped to launch as the first phone with the Dimensity 7500 Turbo chipset in India. 

[/highlights]

iQOO is reportedly planning to expand its Z11 lineup in India once again. After introducing the iQOO Z11x 5G and the recently launched Z11 Lite, the Vivo sub-brand is now preparing to bring the standard iQOO Z11 to the country. As the name suggests, the iQOO Z11 will sit above the Z11x and Z11, offering a more premium experience and hardware. 

iQOO Z11 India launch tipped

The iQOO Z11 is expected to debut in August, according to a report by Gadgets360. The handset is also tipped to arrive with the new MediaTek Dimensity 7500 Turbo chipset, making it the first smartphone in India to use the platform. This could be the main difference between the iQOO Z11 in China and India. The iQOO Z11 launched in China with the MediaTek Dimensity 8500 processor. The handset is also expected to feature a 3D curved display, which would be different from the flat panel on the Z11 Chinese variant. 

iQOO Z11 specifications (expected)

If iQOO retains most of the Chinese hardware, then we can expect a 6.83-inch 1.5K (2800x1260 pixels) AMOLED display with a 165Hz refresh rate and HDR support. The phone also packs a massive 9,020mAh battery with 90W fast charging support, a 50MP primary camera with OIS, a 2MP depth sensor, and a 16MP selfie camera.

The Chinese variant starts at CNY 2,299 (Rs 32,600 approx) for the 8GB + 256GB model.  India pricing remains under wraps, though the device is expected to compete in the upper mid-range segment.

The upcoming Z11 could appeal to users looking for long battery life, fast charging, and a smooth high-refresh-rate display in the mid-range segment. However, you may want to wait for the official India launch to confirm pricing, software features, and whether the battery and camera specifications remain unchanged from the Chinese model.

[highlights]

• OPPO has officially teased the A7 Pro Max, revealing its rear design and confirming a 10,000mAh battery.
• The phone is expected to feature a 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED display, Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 chipset and support for 80W fast charging.
• The A7 Pro Max will be OPPO's first smartphone with a 10,000mAh battery.

[/highlights]

Battery capacity is fast becoming the next battleground in the smartphone industry, and OPPO appears ready to make its biggest statement yet. The company has officially teased the upcoming OPPO A7 Pro Max, confirming that the phone will pack a 10,000mAh battery, which would be the largest ever on an OPPO smartphone.

While the company hasn't announced a launch date yet, the teaser offers the first official look at the phone's design. It also marks OPPO's entry into a growing list of Chinese brands pushing battery capacities well beyond what was considered practical just a year ago.

OPPO A7 Pro Max specifications and features

The teaser (via) reveals the A7 Pro Max in a glossy white finish with a rectangular camera island that houses two prominent camera lenses alongside two smaller circular elements and an LED flash. Apart from confirming the 10,000mAh battery, OPPO has kept the rest of the specifications under wraps. Although OPPO is yet to detail the hardware officially, previous leaks suggest the A7 Pro Max will centre around endurance rather than performance.

The phone is expected to feature a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate and an in-display fingerprint scanner. It could be powered by Qualcomm's newly launched Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 chipset with up to 12GB RAM and 512GB storage. If true, it would be the first phone with the processor, that launched in May.

Despite accommodating a 10,000mAh silicon-carbon battery with 80W fast charging, the phone is tipped to measure only 8.47 mm thick. That's just slightly more than the Honor Win, which incidentally was the first phone to launch with a 10,000mAh battery. These thin form factors have been made possible due to Si-C battery tech, which enables OEMs to increase capacities without making the phones bulky.

The camera setup, meanwhile, is expected to include a 50MP primary sensor, a 2MP secondary camera and a 50MP front camera, indicating OPPO is targeting everyday users who value battery life over flagship imaging capabilities.

The 'Pro Max' phones in China

The branding is representing an interesting industry trend. Commonly associated with Apple's iPhone lineup, the "Pro Max" suffix is now increasingly prevalent across Chinese Android brands. Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO have all adopted the naming convention in recent launches, and OPPO appears to be doing the same with the A-series.

The A7 Pro Max looks set to appeal to users who spend long hours away from a charger or simply want a phone that can comfortably last multiple days. That said, the leaked Snapdragon 4-series chipset suggests OPPO is prioritising battery endurance and efficiency over flagship-level gaming or camera performance. If battery life tops your wishlist, this could be one of the most interesting mid-range phones to watch. However, there's no word yet on the India availability of the phone.

[highlights]

• The update is rolling out to those who signed up for the beta update.
• The update comes with a size of 4.91GB.
• Android 17 beta has already rolled out to Motorola Signature, Edge 70, Edge 70 Fusion, and others.

[/highlights]

Lately, Motorola has been on a roll by becoming one of the fastest Android OEMs to release the Android 17 beta update, right after Google and Samsung. Currently being pushed out to registered users, the Moto Edge 60 Pro is the latest device in its portfolio to receive the beta firmware. Previously, the company had pushed out the beta update to its flagship, Motorola Signature, Moto Edge 70, Moto Edge 70 Fusion, Moto G57 Power, and others.

Android 17 beta update for Moto Edge 60 Pro: what's new

Featuring the firmware version A171VVH.16, the Android 17 beta update is currently rolling out to the Moto Edge 60 Pro in India and Brazil, per multiple X and Reddit posts. Interestingly, the changelog just notes the July 2026 security patch; however, the update weighs a hefty 4.91GB.

This particular update is being received by users who previously registered for the beta update through Motorola forums. On a side note, you can also check whether the Android 17 beta update has been released for your Motorola smartphone through the forum.

Motorola Android 17 changes, features, improvements, and more

Upon glancing over the screenshots and posts by users on Android 17, here's what the update has to offer:

Revamped status bar icons: The status bar icons have been redesigned to look more like Pixel UI, meaning the battery icon is now horizontal with the option to place the percentage within it, while the WiFi and cellular network icons also appear different.

Cleaner settings app: The Settings app features colours for each menu, while the menu/feature status under each setting has been removed.

New Live Updates style: On Android 16, newly released Motorola smartphones featured a One UI-like left-aligned pill on the status bar to display key updates, such as music, directions for the map, sound recording, etc. Now the same pill has been moved to the centre.

New volume panel design: In line with Material 3 Expressive, the volume panel layout has been updated to sport a more rectangular look. 

QiraAI: Recently debuted on the Moto Edge 70 Max, Moto AI has been rebranded to QiraAI, where all the AI features will reside.

All app icons support tinted colours: Motorola has gone ahead and given tinted icons to all the apps available on the phone. This results in a more cohesive and clean look, something which ColorOS also delivered with its Android update.

Has Motorola finally caught up with the competition on software updates?

Since no brand other than Google, Samsung, and Xiaomi has released Android 17 yet, Motorola joining them is a strong sign that the company is finally taking software updates seriously. Previously, slow updates were a major complaint among Motorola users, and it looks like that is finally changing.

As for whether you should install the Android 17 beta on your Moto Edge 60 Pro, we recommend waiting for the stable version. However, if it's not your primary device, you can try the beta. With the update season in full swing, brands like OPPO, Vivo, OnePlus, and others are also expected to roll out their closed Android 17 betas soon.

[highlights]

• The Vivo T5e has launched in India at Rs 13,999 for the 4GB + 64GB configuration. 
• The phone offers military-grade durability and a 6.74-inch 90Hz HD+ display.
• The device runs on OriginOS based on Android 16. 

[/highlights]

The new Vivo T5e has launched in India as a budget smartphone that targets value-conscious buyers, students and everyday users. It focuses on aspects like a strong battery life, durability and useful day-to-day features at an affordable price. Let's take a deeper look at its specifications, pricing and if the device is worth your investment.  

Vivo T5e: price in India

The device is available for purchase starting at Rs 13,999 and comes in a single 4GB + 64GB configuration. You can purchase it through the official vivo webstore, Flipkart and other retail partners. 

Vivo T5e: specifications, features

Vivo is positioning the T5e as an all-day companion for entertainment, communication and productivity, with a design and feature set built around reliability. The phone packs a 5,500mAh battery with 15W charging and support for reverse charging.

Vivo claims the battery is tuned for long usage, including up to 18 hours of online video playback, 47 hours of music playback, 13.5 hours of social media use and 28 hours of voice calls.

Design-wise, the phone arrives in Shadow Grey and Aero Blue with a matte frame and a minimalist camera module. The T5e also gets an IP64 rating, military-grade durability, wet-hand and greasy-hand touch support, and a reinforced cushioning structure for added protection. On the front, it has a 6.74-inch HD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate, while software duties are handled by OriginOS 6 based on Android 16.

Under the hood, the phone uses the UNISOC T7225 processor, paired with up to 4GB RAM, 64GB internal storage, and expandable up to 2TB. That makes it more suitable for casual multitasking and day-to-day apps, and you should temper expectations for its gaming abilities.

Vivo has also included AI tools that summarise, translate and rewrite content, along with vivo DocMaster for document handling. These are useful additions and help the phone feel more complete on a day-to-day basis. There's no word on the software support for this device yet. 

The camera setup is a bit modest, with an 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera. You can expect a basic point-and-shoot experience but cameras are not a strong aspect of this device. 

Should you buy?

The vivo T5e makes sense if you want a durable, battery-focused budget phone for calls, browsing and light app use, its 4GB RAM limit is a bit hard to ignore. It will handle everyday basics, yet it is not a phone you should expect to multitask heavily on.

That limitation is due to the current market conditions, where rising memory prices have made it harder for brands to slot more RAM into low-cost phones without pushing up prices.

Compared with the Infinix Smart 20 (review), which also comes with 4GB RAM but offers a 120Hz display and a slightly more capable chipset, Vivo's device has an advantage in terms of battery and durability. If you want smoother visuals, the Infinix is better, but if you want a tougher phone with a bigger battery, the Vivo T5e makes more sense. 

[highlights]

• Honor has confirmed that the Honor Robot Phone will launch in China on August 12th.
• An alleged unboxing video suggest the phone will feature a motorised 200MP gimbal camera.
• The phone was earlier showcased at MWC 2026 in March in Barcelona.

[/highlights]

The unreleased Honor Robot Phone first grabbed global attention during the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, when Spain defender Eric Garcia was seen using it to record his team's title celebrations. Since then, the unconventional smartphone has remained one of the most talked-about upcoming devices, even though Honor has been showcasing it in prototype form since January and at MWC 2026. Now, the company has finally confirmed when it will make its official debut.

The company has announced that the Honor Robot Phone will launch in China on August 12th. Ahead of the unveiling, the company will hold a dedicated showcase on July 28th to demonstrate the handset's imaging capabilities. Honor has also confirmed that the device has been developed in collaboration with Munich-based cinema equipment maker ARRI, hinting at a strong focus on professional-grade photography and videography.

Meanwhile, fresh leaks have revealed the phone's colour options, storage variants and even an alleged unboxing video, offering the clearest look yet at the device before launch.

Key innovative features

Unlike conventional camera-centric flagships, the Honor Robot Phone aims to blur the line between a smartphone and a robotic companion. Its standout feature is a motorised 4D gimbal camera housed beneath a protective glass cover. Sliding open the camera cover reportedly deploys a titanium-alloy robotic arm in just 0.8 seconds, allowing the camera to physically tilt and rotate through 360 degrees to keep subjects in frame.

[caption id="attachment_709579" align="alignnone" width="824"] The Honor Robot Phone spotted in the FIFA WC 2026 final[/caption]

Honor is also expected to equip the phone with AI-powered object tracking and automated framing features for hands-free video recording, along with AI animations that let the phone nod, shake its head or even "dance" in response to user interactions. Through its partnership with ARRI, the handset is also tipped to support LogC RAW workflows and DaVinci Resolve LUTs, features typically associated with professional filmmaking equipment rather than smartphones.

Expected hardware specifications

The Honor Robot Phone is expected to feature a 6.3-inch to 6.4-inch 1.5K flat display powered by the flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. For photography, leaks suggest a 200MP primary camera mounted on the motorised gimbal, paired with a 200MP periscope telephoto and a 50MP ultrawide camera. The phone is also tipped to house a 6,000mAh battery with 120W fast charging. These are 'Ultra' flagship-level features, and with the robotic gimbal in tow, they're expected to give the Honor Robot Phone a competitive advantage over models like the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, Vivo X300 Ultra and OPPO Find X9 Ultra.

According to reports, the phone has already appeared on JD.com for pre-orders in China. It is expected to be offered in Moon Shadow Gray and Star Trail Silver colour options, with 12GB + 512GB and 16GB + 1TB configurations. A leaked unboxing video also shows the phone's motorised camera in action and suggests the retail box could include a 120W charger, USB Type-C cable and protective case.

Rather than competing on specifications alone, Honor appears to be positioning the Robot Phone as a showcase of what AI-powered smartphone photography could look like in the future. For buyers, the Honor Robot Phone is unlikely to be a mainstream purchase. Instead, it appears aimed at early adopters, content creators and photography enthusiasts looking for a genuinely different camera experience rather than incremental hardware upgrades. Whether the robotic camera proves to be a meaningful innovation or simply a technological showcase will become clearer once the phone is unveiled on August 12th.

[highlights]

• OnePlus N6x is confirmed to house a 7,000mAh battery.
• The handset is claimed to last for 2.5 days.
• It's also getting a 120Hz display.

[/highlights]

Ahead of its July 31st launch in India, OnePlus has revealed another key specification of its upcoming N6x smartphone. After previously teasing up to 2.5 days of battery life on a single charge, the company has now confirmed that the device will pack a large 7,000mAh battery. The OnePlus N6x is also revealed to feature a display with a 120Hz refresh rate. 

OnePlus N6x battery details 

It's worth noting that the N6x doesn't quite match the battery size of the OnePlus N6, which features an even larger 8,000mAh unit. Even so, a 7,000mAh battery should still comfortably outperform the typical 5,000mAh to 6,000mAh batteries found in most budget smartphones. 

According to OnePlus' promotional claims on Amazon India, the N6x's battery is capable of delivering up to 20.56 hours of video playback, up to 133.56 hours of music playback, up to 25.04 hours of social media browsing, and up to 11.26 hours of continuous video recording. These figures suggest the phone is aimed at users who prioritise endurance and use their phone primarily for watching videos, movies, and social media browsing. Frequent travelers, students, and heavy media consumers are likely to benefit the most from the extended battery life.

OnePlus has yet to reveal the charging speed of the N6x. The N6 supports 45W wired fast charging, so there's hope the new model will retain the same charging capability. A slower charging solution could somewhat offset the advantage of the large battery, since bigger cells naturally take longer to refill.

If battery life is your top priority and you're shopping in the budget segment, the N6x is shaping up to be a compelling option. However, buyers should wait for the complete picture before making a decision. Charging speeds, chipset performance, camera quality, software support, and pricing will ultimately determine how competitive the N6x is against rivals.

With the official launch scheduled for July 31st, OnePlus is expected to reveal the remaining specifications, including the processor, cameras, display, charging speed, and pricing, over the coming days.

[highlights]

• Vivo has officially confirmed the Vivo S2's India debut, with an Amazon microsite revealing its design.
• The phone is tipped to launch on August 6th.
• The phone is expected to feature a Dimensity 7360 chipset, a 50MP Sony rear camera and 4K video recording.

[/highlights]

Following days of leaks surrounding its design, expected price range, launch timeline and even dummy units, Vivo has finally confirmed that it is reviving the S-series in India with the Vivo S2. The company has put up an Amazon microsite, offering the first official look at the smartphone's design, which closely matches earlier leaks.

The microsite showcases the phone in what appears to be the "Silk White" colour option. It features a pearlescent finish with a pill-shaped rear camera module housing two prominent camera rings and a smaller circular element, likely for the flash. The clean rear panel, curved edges and minimalist layout closely resemble both the promotional material and dummy units that surfaced online over the past few days, suggesting the earlier leaks were largely accurate.

Expected specifications and launch details

While Vivo has only confirmed that the handset is "coming soon", tipster Abhishek Yadav earlier claimed the Vivo S2 will launch in India on August 6th. The company is yet to officially announce the launch date. The Vivo S2 is expected to focus on design, with Vivo already teasing a "flagship-level design" and camera module. The phone is tipped to feature a 3D curved display with curved front and rear panels for a more premium in-hand feel.

We already reported that the phone will be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7360 chipset, the same processor found in the Vivo V70 FE and Vivo V60e. Based on our review of the Vivo V70 FE, the chipset delivers a smooth everyday experience for tasks such as browsing, messaging and social media, but it isn't aimed at users looking for flagship-grade gaming or sustained heavy workloads. The Vivo S2 is also expected to feature a 50MP Sony rear camera, along with 4K video recording on both the front and rear cameras. Other specifications remain under wraps.

Estimated pricing

The S2 marks the return of Vivo's S-series in India after the Vivo S1 lineup debuted in 2019. However, unlike its predecessor, the new model appears to be targeting the upper mid-range segment, where design is likely to be one of its differentiators. According to leaks, the Vivo S2 could be offered in 8GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB storage variants, and arrive in Regal Bronze, Sapphire Blue and Silk White colour options.

Internal retail listings shared by a tipster reportedly show demo units priced at Rs 38,000 and Rs 42,000, while the 8GB + 128GB variant is internally listed at Rs 43,000. These are said to be internal reference prices rather than the final retail price, so the official pricing could differ at launch.

If the reported pricing is correct, the Vivo S2 would represent quite a jump for the S-series, moving well above the Vivo S1, which started at Rs 17,999. The S2 is expected to compete with devices such as the OnePlus Nord 6, Motorola Edge 70 Pro, Realme 16 Pro series and Vivo's own V70 FE. For buyers, the Vivo S2 appears to be shaping up as a design-first smartphone aimed at users who prioritise premium aesthetics, curved displays and camera features over raw performance. However, those seeking stronger gaming performance may find similarly priced alternatives with more powerful chipsets better suited to their needs.

[highlights]

• POCO M8 Power is the second smartphone in the company's M8 lineup.
• The handset is confirmed to offer up to 3 days of battery life and feature an AMOLED display.
• POCO M8 Power will be sold via Flipkart across India.

[/highlights]

After teasing the device last week, POCO has now confirmed the India launch date of the POCO M8 Power. The upcoming M-series smartphone will succeed the POCO M7, which debuted in the country last year. It will also be the second M8-series offering in India after the vanilla POCO M8, which launched earlier this year. Ahead of its debut, the company has confirmed several key specifications of the POCO M8 Power, including a massive 8,000mAh battery and an AMOLED display.

POCO M8 Power launch date in India

The POCO M8 Power will break its cover in India on August 4th at 12 pm local time. The company confirmed in a social media post on X, with the tagline 'More Power, More Entertainment, More Binge.'

This confirms that the handset will cater to multimedia enthusiasts with impressive battery backup. The POCO M8 Power is confirmed to be available across India via Flipkart.

POCO M8 Power specifications

The POCO M8 Power's official render confirms the phone will be available in an orange colourway, with flat edges and a large rear camera module. The module houses two prominent circular rings, one appearing to accommodate the camera sensor, while the other seems to integrate the LED flash. There is also '50MP' text etched on the module, which could be the phone's primary sensor.

POCO claims that the smartphone, with its 8,000mAh battery, will last up to three days between charges. Furthermore, its AMOLED display will offer an immersive, vibrant and cinematic experience. The display size and other details of the smartphone currently remain under wraps.

However, rumours suggest that the POCO M8 Power could be a rebranded Redmi Note 17, which is also teased to launch in India soon. That said, the Redmi Note 17 has been launched in China, where it offers mid-range specifications such as a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, MediaTek Dimensity 7400 Ultra chipset, up to 12GB of RAM, up to 512GB of onboard storage, 50MP dual rear cameras, and a 20MP front-facing camera.

The Redmi Note 17 also houses an 8,000mAh battery with support for 45W wired fast charging. It remains to be seen if the POCO M8 Power will debut in India with identical hardware. Until then, take the rumours with a grain of salt.

Given the current smartphone market, where rising component costs have pushed prices higher across the board, don't expect the POCO M8 Power to come cheap. If POCO manages to price it competitively, the handset could be worth buying if display and battery life are your priority.

[highlights]

• Apple could unveil its first AI-powered smart glasses at WWDC 2027, with a commercial launch later that year.
• The company is said to be prioritising privacy by testing camera-free designs and AI-only camera systems that don't allow photos or videos.
• Apple is also reportedly testing Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 models.

[/highlights]

Apple's long-rumoured smart glasses may finally have a launch window. After years of speculation and shifting timelines, the company is now reportedly planning to unveil its first AI-powered smart glasses at WWDC 2027, giving developers an early look before a commercial launch later that year.

The latest information comes from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, a reliable Apple analyst, who says the company is targeting its annual developer conference in June 2027 for the reveal. If that timeline holds, the strategy would mirror the Vision Pro launch in 2023, where Apple introduced both the hardware and software platform months before the product reached consumers.  Announcing the glasses at WWDC would allow developers to build apps for the new form factor, potentially enabling better integration with third-party apps instead of limiting AI features to Apple's own services.

Core rumoured features

Apple's smart glasses, internally codenamed N50, are expected to focus on AI while taking a different route from existing products such as Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses. According to the report, Apple is still deciding how cameras will work on the device. The company has reportedly tested multiple approaches, including a version without cameras and another where the cameras are used only for AI-powered visual intelligence, such as recognising objects and places, without allowing users to capture photos or videos.

Privacy is said to be a major reason behind the product's delayed launch. Apple is reportedly working on new privacy-focused hardware and software features, while also planning to process more data on-device, avoid facial recognition, and not use customer recordings to train AI models. The company is also said to be steering clear of features similar to Meta's "super-sensing" mode, which continuously analyses a user's surroundings.

Apple appears to be positioning privacy and ecosystem integration as its biggest strengths in a category that is expected to become competitive over the next two years. Unlike Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses, which prioritise hands-free photography, AI assistance and content creation, or Samsung's recently announced Intelligent Eyewear built around Gemini, Apple's reported strategy appears to focus on making AI useful without compromising user privacy.

Apple's smart glasses remain at least a year away, making existing products from Meta and Samsung the only realistic options if you're looking to enter the category soon. However, those willing to wait could see a different take on AI eyewear. Rather than competing on camera features, Apple as usual appears to be betting on tighter integration with its ecosystem and a stronger emphasis on privacy. If successful, that product could appeal to iPhone users who have been hesitant about camera-equipped smart glasses due to privacy concerns.

[highlights]

• OnePlus 16 is expected to feature the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro SoC.
• Its bezels could measure less than 1mm.
• The flagship phone might not come to India this time. 

[/highlights]

OnePlus 16 is anticipated to launch later this year as one of the first Android flagships. There have been multiple rumours around the OnePlus 16, discussing its specifications, design, and other features. A new leak now adds to the speculation that the OnePlus 16 will launch in China this October. As for the OnePlus 16's India launch, rumours are saying that it might not arrive here this time. 

OnePlus 16 launch timeline (expected)

Tipster Digital Chat Station has given an update on an upcoming Android flagship, believed to be the OnePlus 16. The handset is said to continue with the OnePlus design language and no major changes, which means we'll most likely get to see the OnePlus 16 in a familiar look. The OnePlus 16 is also tipped to feature a 6.87-inch flat LIPO display with very thin bezels and use the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro flagship chipset. It's speculated that the bezels will measure less than 1mm, which would mean a highly immersive viewing experience. Moreover, the OnePlus 16's display is expected to feature up to a 185Hz refresh rate, so the scrolling experience and animations would be ultra-smooth. 

More importantly, the OnePlus 16 is tipped to launch in October. This is the same timeline as the OnePlus 15 launch in China last year. 

The tipster, through a comment on the post, also reiterated that the OnePlus 16 will house a battery size of around 9,000mAh with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging. If true, this would be the biggest on a OnePlus phone yet. More rumoured specs include a new 200MP primary camera, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a 50MP periscope telephoto camera. 

With a launch tipped for October, we're only two to three months away from the OnePlus 16 launch. This Android flagship could be worth waiting for as the hardware seems quite promising. You're getting a premium display with ultra-thin bezels, a flagship chipset, reliable cameras, and one of the largest batteries. OnePlus 16 could turn out to be the ultimate flagship phone without any compromises in key areas. 

[highlights]

• iQOO 15 Ultra has been spotted on the EEC certification website after debuting in China earlier this year.
• The listing suggests a European rollout but offers no indication of an India launch.
• The iQOO 15 Ultra comes with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, 7,400mAh battery and a 50MP triple camera setup.

[/highlights]

Back in February 2026, iQOO surprised many by launching its first-ever Ultra flagship in China. Until then, the brand had largely kept its premium lineup straightforward, relying on a single numbered flagship each year instead of expanding into Ultra variants. Now, about six months later, the iQOO 15 Ultra could finally be preparing to step beyond its home market.

The flagship has reportedly surfaced on the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) certification website, a development that often signals an upcoming launch in European markets. While the listing doesn't reveal any hardware details, it suggests iQOO may soon introduce the phone outside China. Tipster Anvin spotted the certification, which lists the iQOO 15 Ultra under model numbers V2546A and I2603. The former is associated with the Chinese variant.

Key specifications

The iQOO 15 Ultra packs the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and features a 6.85-inch 2K Samsung M14 8T LTPO AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate. The camera system includes three 50MP sensors covering wide, periscope telephoto and ultrawide photography, while selfies are handled by a 32MP front camera. One of its biggest highlights is the  battery, which is among the larger ones on mainstream flagship smartphone. It also supports 100W wired and 40W wireless charging. The iQOO 15 Ultra upgrades the standard iQOO 15 with a built-in active cooling fan, dedicated pressure-sensitive shoulder triggers, a larger 7,400mAh battery (vs 7,000mAh), and up to 24GB RAM option.

Availability and pricing

The iQOO 15 Ultra debuted in China at CNY 5,699 (around Rs 74,000) for the 16GB + 256GB variant. For now, the EEC listing only points towards a possible European launch and offers no clues about an India debut. In fact, recent reports suggest the opposite - iQOO is scaling back its India smartphone strategy, with the iQOO 16 also reportedly unlikely to launch here this year. A tipster says the company may only launch budget Z-series models here.

For buyers outside China, a global launch would bring another flagship into a segment where Samsung, Xiaomi, Vivo and OPPO compete with their Ultra models.. Even if the iQOO 15 Ultra doesn't arrive in every market, expanding its availability could give enthusiasts more choice at the ultra-premium end. For iQOO, the move is notable given the current industry climate. With memory costs rising and several brands passing those increases on to consumers, introducing its highest-end model globally suggests the company still sees value in competing for the premium flagship buyer.