[highlights]

• OPPO has raised prices of the K14x, K14, A6c, A6 and A6 Pro in its latest India price revision.
• The OPPO K14x now starts at Rs 17,999, while the A6 Pro now starts at Rs 32,999, up from its launch price of Rs 21,999.
• The OPPO A6c, a 4G phone, now starts over Rs 15,000.

[/highlights]

In the latest round of industry-wide price rises, OPPO has increased the prices of several smartphones in India by up to Rs 2,000 in this round, pushing some of its budget and mid-range models into more expensive segments. The revised prices affect the K14x, K14, A6c, A6 and A6 Pro, with increases ranging from Rs 1,000 to as high as Rs 11,000 depending on the variant and model.

The difference is particularly noticeable for the OPPO A6 and A6 Pro, which now sit in significantly higher price brackets despite retaining the same core hardware.

OPPO phones new prices

The OPPO K14x 5G now starts at Rs 17,999 for 4GB + 64GB, up from Rs 16,999. Its 4GB + 128GB variant rises from Rs 18,999 to Rs 19,999, while the 6GB + 128GB model gets the biggest increase, moving from Rs 20,999 to Rs 22,999.

The OPPO K14 5G now costs Rs 23,999 for 6GB + 128GB, Rs 25,999 for 6GB + 256GB and Rs 28,999 for 8GB + 256GB. These are increases of Rs 2,000, Rs 1,000 and Rs 1,000, respectively.

The A6c 4G has moved to Rs 16,999 for 4GB + 64GB and Rs 18,999 for 4GB + 128GB. The A6 5G now starts at Rs 26,999 for 4GB + 128GB, going up to Rs 31,999 for 6GB + 256GB. The A6 Pro 5G is now priced at Rs 32,999 for 8GB + 128GB and Rs 35,999 for 8GB/256GB.

Should you buy the phones now?

This seems like a rhetorical question considering how high the prices are now compared to the launch ones, and the value proposition has taken a deep hit. However, for ColorOS fans, the K14x remains relevant who prioritise battery life, thanks to its 6,500mAh battery and dependable everyday performance. However, its HD+ LCD display, mono speaker and average camera performance become harder to overlook at Rs 17,999 and above.

The same applies to the A6 and A6 Pro. Their large 7,000mAh batteries remain useful, but the higher prices put them against phones offering sharper displays, faster processors or stronger camera hardware.

The 4GB + 64GB K14x at Rs 17,999 is particularly difficult to overlook as a pricing shift. The configuration would have been a budget option earlier, but now sits close to phones with more RAM and storage. Same is the case for the OPPO A6c, which is a 4G option at over Rs 15,000. Buyers should therefore compare alternatives before purchasing. For existing OPPO fans, the revised models can still make sense if battery life, brand preference and availability are priorities. For everyone else, defer any sort of purchases unless absolutely necessary and buy phones for longevity.

[highlights]

• The Boat CineHead F1 Series features Official Google TV 5.0, native 1080p resolution and Dolby Audio.
• The CineHead F1 Pro is priced at Rs 32,999 with 500 ANSI lumens, a 10W speaker and auto-focus.
• The CineHead F1 will launch later this month.

[/highlights]

Boat is expanding beyond audio and wearables with its first smart projectors in India. The company has launched the CineHead F1 Series, comprising the CineHead F1 and F1 Pro, with both models offering 1080p Full HD native resolution, Official Google TV and projection sizes of up to 120 inches.

Boat smart projector price and availability

The Boat CineHead F1 Pro is priced at Rs 32,999 as an introductory offer and is available through Boat's website, Amazon, Flipkart and select retail stores. The standard CineHead F1 is scheduled to launch later this month, with its price and availability to be announced closer to launch.

The launch comes as projectors become a more flexible alternative to large-screen TVs for consumers who want bigger displays for OTT content, sports and gaming without permanently dedicating space to a large television. Boat is also pitching the CineHead range as a Made-in-India product line.

Features

The CineHead F1 Pro offers 500 ANSI lumens brightness, native 1080p resolution with support for 4K content and a 10W speaker with Dolby Audio. The standard F1 drops brightness to 300 ANSI lumens and uses a 6W speaker, while retaining native 1080p resolution and 4K support.

Both models can project images from 40 to 120 inches and run Official Google TV 5.0, giving users access to more than 10,000 apps through the Google Play Store, along with certified apps such as Netflix and YouTube. Google Assistant, multiple profiles, Kids Mode and wireless screen mirroring are also supported. Both projectors use a MediaTek processor with 2GB RAM and 32GB storage and support low-latency gaming.

Setup is designed to be largely automatic, with autofocus, auto keystone correction and obstacle avoidance. The F1 also gets a sealed dust-proof optical engine rated for up to 30,000 hours of lamp life. Connectivity includes dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.1, HDMI, USB and AUX, as well as HDMI ARC and eARC.

For buyers, the F1 Pro's 500 ANSI lumens and Full HD output make it the more relevant option for larger-screen viewing, but projector brightness remains important when using the device in rooms with ambient light. At Rs. 32,999, its value will therefore depend on whether buyers prioritise a 120-inch-plus viewing experience and portability over a conventional large-screen TV. The standard F1 could be interesting if Boat prices it substantially below the Pro when it launches later this month.

At Rs 32,999, the Boat CineHead F1 Pro competes with the XGIMI Elfin Mini, BenQ GV31, Wanbo Mozart 1 and Portronics Beem 430. Its combination of native 1080p resolution, 500 ANSI lumens and Official Google TV 5.0 gives it a balanced feature set, although some rivals offer higher brightness or more powerful audio. The CineHead F1 Pro's stronger pitch is its certified Google TV experience, automatic setup and Full HD resolution. At this price, it makes the most sense for buyers who value ease of use and streaming features, while those prioritising brightness or audio can find better-equipped alternatives.

[highlights]

• Redmi 17 is expected to sit in the budget segment.
• Xiaomi 18 Pro series is tipped to feature a secondary display.
• Xiaomi hasn't confirmed any of these dates. 

[/highlights]

Xiaomi appears to have a packed second half of 2026 planned for India, with new Redmi phones and its next flagship lineup reportedly arriving within the next few months. Starting with the Redmi 17 in September, followed by the Redmi Note 17 Pro series, and even the flagship Xiaomi 18 Pro series tipped to arrive in India by the end of this year. Here's what to expect from Xiaomi in India.

Redmi 17 series, Redmi Note 17 Pro India launch tipped

According to tipster Abhishek, the Redmi 17 series could launch in India on September 5th, while the Redmi Note 17 Pro series may follow on September 18th or September 20th. The tipster also claims that the Xiaomi 18 Pro series could arrive in India by December. Xiaomi has not officially confirmed any of these launch dates yet.

The Redmi Note 17 is already available in India. The Redmi 17 and Redmi Note 17 Pro would be the next phones to join, as both have already been launched in China, giving us an idea of what to expect from the upcoming Indian models.

The Redmi 17 5G is positioned as a more affordable, battery-focused smartphone. It features a 6.9-inch HD+ LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate and is powered by the 6nm Unisoc T8300 chipset, paired with up to 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. The phone also gets a 13MP rear camera, 8MP selfie camera, and a 6,300mAh battery with 15W charging support. More features include microSD expansion, HyperOS 3, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

The Redmi Note 17 Pro is the more premium option here with a 6.83-inch 1.5K 120Hz OLED display and up to 3,500 nits peak brightness. It uses Qualcomm's Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 chipset, with up to 12GB RAM and 512GB storage. Its biggest highlight is a huge 9,000mAh battery, backed by 67W fast charging and 22.5W reverse charging. This would be a major upgrade over the Redmi Note 15 Pro's 6,580mAhbattery. The phone also carries IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K ratings, along with stereo speakers and an in-display fingerprint sensor.

The two phones target different buyers. The Redmi 17 could appeal to users prioritising battery life and a large display at a lower price, while the Note 17 Pro is the more interesting option for those wanting a better screen, faster charging, and stronger overall hardware. If you're in the market for a budget phone, waiting until September for the Redmi 17 could be worthwhile for its large battery. However, those using a Redmi Note 15 series phone may want to wait and compare the upgrades. 

The biggest headline, however, could be the Xiaomi 18 Pro. The upcoming flagship is reportedly headed to India by December and is expected to feature a small secondary display on the rear. The Xiaomi 17 Pro series stood out for its secondary display design; however, it never made it to India. This could change with the rumoured Xiaomi 18 Pro as the brand gets more competitive in the flagship segment.

With the Redmi 17, Note 17 Pro, and Xiaomi 18 Pro potentially arriving within months of each other, buyers may have plenty of new Xiaomi options to consider before the year ends. 

[highlights]

• The iQOO 16T is rumoured to feature a 200MP main camera with a larger 1/1.28-inch sensor.
• The phone may use a hybrid liquid-and-air cooling system, possibly with a built-in fan.

[/highlights]

Some new details about the iQOO 16T have appeared in a new Weibo post, revealing some information about the phone's possible hardware. According to the post, iQOO may be testing a 200MP main camera along with a cooling system that combines liquid cooling and air cooling. Let's check it out in detail below. 

iQOO 16T: leaked specifications, features

The information comes from Smart Pikachu, a well-known Weibo tipster, who in a recent post said that the upcoming iQOO 16T, is being tested with both liquid and air cooling. The post also mentions a 200MP main camera and says the phone may not include a periscope telephoto camera.

[gallery link="file" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" columns="2" ids="711182,711183"]

The post does not reveal many details about the cooling system, but the mention of both liquid and air cooling suggests that iQOO could be working on a more advanced setup for managing heat.

Earlier leaks had also pointed to a built-in cooling fan, although it is not clear if that fan is part of the same system or if the design has changed during testing. In the comments, Smart Pikachu added that the 200MP camera could use a 1/1.28-inch sensor, which would make it larger than the sensor used on the iQOO 15T.

The lack of a periscope camera could disappoint users who expected a more complete camera setup, especially if iQOO keeps the 200MP main camera mainly for high-resolution photos and cropping.

An earlier report claimed that iQOO was testing an iQOO 16T prototype with Qualcomm's upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 chipset. The company was also reportedly testing another version with MediaTek's Dimensity 9600 chip, a built-in cooling fan, and a flat 2K Samsung display.

The earlier leak also suggested that iQOO was designing the 16T for demanding gaming and heavy workloads. That fits nicely with the latest report about liquid and air cooling, as well as the possible 200MP main camera.  

With multiple leaks now pointing to the same features, these rumours could turn out to be accurate. If that happens, the iQOO 16T could follow in the footsteps of the iQOO 15T as a performance-first phone, with its cooling system and powerful chipset aimed at gamers and users who want strong sustained performance.

Should you wait for the iQOO 16T?

For buyers in India, waiting for the iQOO 16T may not make much sense. iQOO last launched a T-series phone in India in 2022 with the iQOO 9T. The company launched the newer iQOO 15T in China last year but did not bring it to India. There is currently no official word about an Indian launch for the iQOO 16T either, so the phone appears more likely to remain a China-focused model, at least for now.

The ongoing memory shortage also makes an Indian launch harder to predict. If iQOO brings the 16T to India, its powerful chipset, high-speed memory, large storage, and advanced cooling system could make it much more expensive than what's expected. 

[highlights]

• This offer could end soon, so it's best to act quickly.
• Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 18 series next month.
• It is rumoured that Apple will soon jack up the prices of the iPhone 17 Pro series.

[/highlights]

Launched in September last year, the iPhone 17 series is among the only few lineups that haven't received a price hike, at least yet, due to the industry-wide memory crisis. However, with rumours looming around that Apple's current generation of iPhones could soon see a price increase, it's a wise move to grab the devices right now if you've been longing to get one. The iPhone 17 Pro is currently selling at a discounted price on multiple online retailers, such as Croma and Flipkart. On that note, here's the breakdown of the deal:

iPhone 17 Pro deal on Flipkart and Croma

Starting with Flipkart, as part of the Freedom Sale, the iPhone 17 Pro (256GB) has been discounted to Rs 1,26,900 from its usual price of Rs 1,34,900. On top of this, users of Flipkart Axis and Flipkart SBI credit cards can avail an additional Rs 8,000 off, bringing the effective price down to Rs 1,18,900.

On Croma's online store, the iPhone 17 Pro is selling for Rs 1,29,490, with SBI, ICICI and Axis Bank credit cardholders having the opportunity to further get an instant Rs 6,000 off using low-cost and non-EMI transactions. This makes the final deal price Rs 1,23,490.

Should you buy the iPhone 17 Pro or wait for the iPhone 18 series?

With the Apple iPhone 17 Pro going for as low as Rs 1,18,900, it sure looks like a great deal for those seeking a full-fledged flagship smartphone or those upgrading from older iPhones. Featuring the Apple A19 Pro processor, the iPhone 17 Pro will be supported for years to come with software updates, while its daily performance paired with 120Hz ProMotion remains top-notch.

For photographers, there are triple 48MP cameras comprising a primary lens, an ultrawide, and a telephoto camera with 4x optical zoom. Videographers can take advantage of the phone's ProRes RAW format to shoot videos in clear detail and colour grade later, while photos take advantage of Apple's advanced algorithms for reliable results.

Furthermore, with the iOS 27 update just around the corner, users will finally gain access to Siri AI, along with a slew of earlier promised Apple Intelligence features to aid in their daily workflow. As for whether you should grab the iPhone 17 Pro right now or wait for the iPhone 18 Pro series, reports suggest the upcoming Pro iPhones will be a marginal upgrade over the 17 Pro series, with advancements in performance and improved cameras, while seeing a noticeable price increase. Therefore, if you're not willing to pay over Rs 1,50,000 for a new iPhone, the stated iPhone 17 Pro deal could be the best time to bag the phone.

[highlights]

• Motorola Edge 70 Neo will be the brand's compact offering.
• Its leaked images reveal four colour options.
• The handset is expected to house a 200MP camera. 

[/highlights]

Motorola's next compact Edge phone may be closer to launch than expected. A new set of leaked renders of what's said to be the Motorola Edge 70 Neo has surfaced online. It gives us the first clear look at the Edge 70 Neo, a device that was recently exposed through Motorola's own beta-testing channels.

Motorola Edge 70 Neo design and colours leaked

The leaked images show the Motorola Edge 70 Neo in four finishes: pink, dark green, light green, and light blue. All feature matte-finished frames, while the pink version appears to use a different rear-panel pattern. The phone also carries a curved-edge display, keeping it visually aligned with the broader Edge 70 family.

The rear camera setup is particularly interesting. The renders show three cameras, with the primary sensor labeled 200MP. This would be an upgrade over the Edge 60 Neo's 50MP primary camera, suggesting better photos from the Edge 70 Neo. However, image processing, sensor size, and stabilisation will ultimately determine how the camera performs.

The Edge 70 Neo would slot below Motorola's existing Edge 70 models, including the Edge 70, Edge 70 Fusion, Edge 70 Pro, Edge 70 Pro+, and Edge 70 Max. Historically, the Neo badge has also meant a smaller form factor. The Edge 60 Neo featured a 6.36-inch screen, while the Edge 50 Neo used a 6.4-inch panel. A similarly compact display is expected on the Edge 70 Neo, too, making it an interesting alternative to increasingly large smartphones.

There is another clue pointing to an imminent launch. A Lenovo forum post from a Senior Moto Agent, Kevin, invited users to test an Android 17 beta specifically for the previously unannounced Edge 70 Neo. The sign-up page referenced India, although Motorola has not confirmed availability or a launch date.

The upcoming Edge 70 Neo could be worth watching if you want a smaller phone without giving up a premium-looking curved display. But we still have to wait for Motorola to reveal pricing, processor, battery, and camera specifications before choosing it over the Edge 70 or competing compact phones.

[highlights]

• The iQOO Neo 11 Ultra has a 9,100mAh battery and the Z11S a 10,000mAh battery.
• The iQOO Neo 11 Ultra gets a 6.83-inch 2K display and is tipped to feature a customised Dimensity 9500.
• The iQOO Z11S will feature a 6.83-inch 144Hz display with eye-care features.

[/highlights]

iQOO is expanding its China lineup with two phones with massive batteries, one of them with the largest ever in an iQOO phone. The iQOO Neo 11 Ultra and iQOO Z11S will launch in China on August 18th, with the former positioned as a performance-focused flagship and the latter becoming iQOO's first phone with a 10,000mAh battery.

The launch also marks a naming shift for the Neo series, with the Neo 11 Ultra becoming the first model in the family to use the "Ultra" suffix. Previously, high-end Neo phones, including the Neo 9 Pro and Neo 8 Pro, used the Pro branding.

iQOO Neo 11 Ultra

The iQOO Neo 11 Ultra is confirmed to feature a 6.83-inch flat 2K display and a 9,100mAh battery. iQOO says this is the largest battery yet for a Neo-series phone. The device is also expected to support 100W wired charging, while tipped specifications include IP68 and IP69 ratings and a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint sensor. The phone will have a horizontal dual-camera module with the two sensors positioned side by side. It will be available in Light White, Shadow Black and Wind Chaser finishes. The iQOO Neo 11 Ultra is tipped to use a customised version of the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 with an 11-core Mali G1-Ultra GPU. Reported memory configurations include up to 16GB RAM and 512GB storage. 

The new Ultra branding also appears to give iQOO more room to separate its most aggressively-speced Neo models from other devices in the series. A 9,100mAh battery combined with a flagship-class chipset would put the Neo 11 Ultra closer to the extreme end of the performance segment rather than simply being another upper-mid-range Neo phone.

iQOO Z11S

The iQOO will come with a 10,000mAh cell that makes it iQOO's first smartphone in this category joining Honor, Realme, Vivo and OPPO in the list. The phone will feature a 6.83-inch display with a 144Hz refresh rate and eye-care features including full-brightness DC-like dimming and 2160Hz high-frequency PWM dimming. The phone will have a vertically arranged dual-camera module and will come in White, Black and pale Green finishes.

Some specifications remain unconfirmed. The iQOO Z11S could be the V2603A model previously spotted on Geekbench with a Dimensity 7500, 12GB RAM and Android 16, while a 44W charger has appeared in its 3C certification. These details have not yet been confirmed by iQOO.

The iQOO Z11S joins an ever-increasing lineup which already includes the Z11 Lite, Z11x, Z11 and Z11 Turbo. The Z11x, for example, pairs a 7,200mAh battery with 44W charging, while the Z11 pushes battery capacity beyond 8,000mAh. The Z11 Turbo, which is currently only exclusive to China, is at the top-end of the lineup with the sub-flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset.

The appeal of the two new models will depend on more than battery capacity. The Neo 11 Ultra's combination of a 2K display and flagship performance should make it the more interesting option for gaming and demanding workloads, while the Z11S could appeal to users who prioritise endurance above all else. However, buyers in India need not delay their purchasing decisions as it's unlikely the phones will make it to the country any time soon, as even the Neo 11 hasn't launched here yet.

The POCO M8 Power and Realme P4 Power (review) both target buyers who want a phone with a large battery and a big AMOLED display. Both phones also offer 5G, Android 16, and dual rear cameras, so they appeal to target a similar group of users. However, the Realme P4 Power costs around Rs 5,000 more than the POCO M8 Power 5G.

That makes for an interesting question: does the Realme phone offer enough extra hardware to justify its higher price, or does the POCO phone provide better value with its lower cost? In this comparison, we look at the specifications of both phones across design, display, cameras, performance, software, and battery.

POCO M8 Power vs Realme P4 Power: price, variants

POCO M8 Power vs Realme P4 Power: design

The POCO M8 Power and Realme P4 Power take different approaches to design. The POCO has a flat, simple body with a large camera bar, a matte plastic back, and a plastic frame. At 225 grams and around 8.4mm thick, it feels big and slightly chunky in hand, but the weight is well distributed.

The Realme P4 Power looks more eye-catching with its curved display and matte back design, which adds patterns and details around the camera area. It is slightly lighter at around 215–219 grams, although the body is thicker at 9.1mm.

The Realme P4 Power also offers much stronger protection in terms of specifications. Both phones use Gorilla Glass 7i on the front, but the POCO only has an IP65 rating, which protects it from dust and splashes.

The Realme P4 Power comes with IP66, IP68, and IP69 ratings, along with claimed MIL-STD-810H shock resistance. This gives it an advantage if you often use your phone outdoors or around water, while the POCO's build should be enough for regular daily use.

POCO M8 Power vs Realme P4 Power: performance

The POCO M8 Power and realme P4 Power sit in different performance classes. The POCO uses the Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 with up to 8GB RAM and UFS 2.2 storage. It should handle calls, social media, streaming, and regular multitasking without much trouble, but it is not built for demanding use cases.

The realme P4 Power is much better suited to heavier use. Its Dimensity 7400 Ultra chip, up to 12GB RAM, and 256GB UFS 3.1 storage give it a clear advantage in app loading, gaming, and multitasking performance. In simple terms, the POCO is enough for basic daily use, while the realme offers more performance headroom and should stay comfortable with demanding apps for longer.

POCO M8 Power vs Realme P4 Power: cameras

The POCO M8 Power keeps things simple with a single 50MP rear camera and an 8MP selfie camera, both limited to 1080p video at 30fps. There's no ultrawide or telephoto here, and you don't get 4K recording or OIS, so this setup is clearly meant for basic photos, social media shots, and video calls rather than serious shooting. A comprehensive review later will share more concrete details about the phone's camera performance. 

The Realme P4 Power is much more ambitious on the camera side. It has a dual rear setup with a 50MP Sony IMX882 main sensor with OIS and an 8MP ultrawide, plus a 16MP selfie camera on the front. Here's a look at some camera samples:

[smartslider3 slider="2047"]

The main sensor is larger and has a bigger aperture that can shoot up to 4K30 video, while the ultrawide gives you more flexibility for landscapes and group shots. On paper, that gives the P4 Power a clear advantage in versatility and potential image quality, especially for people who care about video, ultrawide shots, and more stable low‑light photos.

POCO M8 Power vs Realme P4 Power: software

The POCO M8 Power comes with HyperOS 3, based on Android 16 which offers features such as Hyper Island, Circle to Search, and Gemini Live. POCO has also promised 4 Android version updates and 6 years of security patches, which is a great commitment for a phone in this price range. 

[comparative-benchmark type="3000" products="42300,41761,,," pias="73,60,,,"][/comparative-benchmark]

The realme P4 Power runs realme UI 7.0, also based on Android 16. The interface is fairly clean and offers the usual realme customisation tools, AI features, and multitasking options. It is expected to receive 3 Android version updates and 4 years of security patches, which is shorter than POCO's support period. So, while the two phones offer a similar software base, POCO has the edge for long-term updates.

POCO M8 Power vs Realme P4 Power: battery

Battery life is the main reason to consider either phone, but the realme P4 Power takes the whole "big-battery" concept even further. It packs a 10,001mAh silicon-carbon battery, compared with the POCO M8 Power's still-large 8,000mAh cell. Both phones support reverse wired charging, but realme offers a higher 27W output compared with the POCO's 22.5W.

The realme also charges faster, with 80W while the POCO uses 45W charging support. Both phones include their chargers in the box, so you don't need to spend extra on a compatible adapter. Overall, the realme has the advantage in battery capacity and charging speed, while the POCO still offers good endurance for its price.

Conclusion

The POCO M8 Power and Realme P4 Power (review) are built around large batteries, but they take different routes to get there. The POCO keeps things simpler with a flat design, modest performance, a basic camera setup, and an 8,000mAh battery. It should suit users who mainly want a large screen, long battery life, and a phone for everyday tasks without spending too much.

The realme P4 Power has a clear advantage here, but the launch timing for both phones is also important to note. Realme launched the phone in January, when the memory shortage was in its early stage and RAM and storage costs were still more manageable. The POCO M8 Power arrives at a much tougher time, with memory and high-speed storage prices rising sharply because of demand from AI companies. 

This does not change the fact that the realme P4 Power offers better value right now. It has a faster processor, better cameras, better durability, and a much larger battery. The POCO phone does offer longer software support, but its 8GB RAM and 128GB storage starting point could become limiting over time, especially as apps and games continue to get larger. So, the POCO makes sense as a more affordable battery-focused phone, while the realme remains the better long-term buy if your budget allows it.

[highlights]

• Vivo X300 FE now starts at Rs 89,999.
• It will reportedly get a new memory variant.
• The handset launched at Rs 79,999. 

[/highlights]

Vivo has increased the price of the X300 FE by Rs 3,000. The Vivo X300 FE now starts at Rs 89,999, which is Rs 10,000 more than its original launch price in May this year. This price adjustment by Vivo reflects a wider industry trend where manufacturers are grappling with rising production costs, leading to price increases across various segments. Vivo is also reportedly introducing a new variant of the X300 FE, which will be the most affordable option in the lineup. 

Vivo X300 FE price hike 

The Vivo X300 FE (review) base variant, with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, is now priced at Rs 89,999, following a Rs 3,000 increase. The 12GB + 512GB variant, which was earlier priced at Rs 96,999. 

According to tipster Sanju, Vivo is launching a new variant of the X300 FE with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. This variant of the X300 FE will be priced at Rs 84,999, making it the most affordable option in the lineup. 

Vivo X300 FE specifications

The Vivo X300 FE features a compact 6.31-inch LTPO 1.5K AMOLED display with a dynamic 1Hz–120Hz refresh rate. The handset is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 SoC, and packs a 6,500mAh battery with 90W wired FlashCharge and 40W wireless FlashCharge. It features a Zeiss-backed triple-camera setup with a 50MP primary sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 50MP Sony IMX882 3x periscope telephoto unit. 

The Vivo X300 FE offers a well-balanced experience with its flagship-grade hardware. It has a compact design, versatile cameras, and support for the telephoto extender kit, like its more expensive flagship siblings. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 also delivers flagship-level performance, although there are alternatives like the OnePlus 15, with faster chipsets. The Vivo X300 FE's 6,500mAh battery is more than enough, especially for its compact size. This phone is ideal for users who prioritise one-handed use and high-quality photography.

That said, the price hike does put the X300 FE in a more competitive space with more powerful rivals. It would be wise to compare properly with existing options before going ahead and making a buying decision. If you're considering the X300 FE, the new 8GB variant offers a compelling entry point, but it's crucial to weigh its value against rivals like the OnePlus 15 or OPPO Find X9, which offer bigger batteries and faster chipsets at a similar price.

[highlights]

• The Realme 16x will launch in India on August 12th at 12 noon.
• It will be available in Endurance Brown and Glory White finishes.
• The Realme 16x is tipped to start at Rs 25,999 in India.

[/highlights]

Realme is set to launch the Realme 16x in India on August 12th, and its reported pricing suggests a significant step up from last year's Realme 15x. According to a tipster, the Realme 16x could start at Rs 25,999 for the 4GB + 128GB storage variant. The reported starting price is Rs 9,000 higher than the Realme 15x's launch price of Rs 16,999. Notably, some of the newer model's specifications appear to be unchanged or even lower on paper.

Realme 16x India price

According to tipster Sanju Choudhary, the Realme 16x will be available in three configurations:

• 4GB + 128GB: Rs 25,999
• 6GB + 128GB: Rs 27,999
• 6GB + 256GB: Rs 30,999

A previous leak by the same tipster suggested the phone will have a box price of Rs 54,999 and be sold around the Rs 30,000 price point. The new information positions the phone lower, but nowhere close to what traditional 4GB RAM phones commanded hardly a year ago. Realme hasn't officially disclosed any price range yet but has confirmed that the phone will be sold through Flipkart, its official website and mainline retail stores, pointing to an offline-focused positioning.

The reported pricing puts the Realme 16x against options like the OnePlus N6, which starts at Rs 22,999 for its 4GB RAM variant. The Moto G77 Power is also priced from Rs 25,999, but comes with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage.

Specifications

The Realme 16x will feature a 6.8-inch HD+ LCD display with a 144Hz refresh rate and up to 1,200 nits of peak brightness. It will be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, paired with LPDDR4X RAM and UFS 2.2 storage. Storage options will go up to 256GB, with support for up to 14GB of Dynamic RAM. The 7,000mAh battery supports 45W fast charging, bypass charging and reverse charging. Realme claims up to two days of usage and says the battery can retain its health for up to six years.

The rear camera setup includes a 50MP primary sensor, supported by features such as AI Eraser, AI Ultra Clarity, Motion Photo and Dual-View Video. Other features include Realme's GT Boost gaming optimisation and a 5,300 sq mm AirFlow VC cooling system. The phone also gets an IP65 rating and military-grade shock resistance.

However, the Realme 16x does not represent a major upgrade over the 15x on specifications. The leaked details point to a 5MP front camera instead of the 15x's 50MP selfie camera, 45W charging instead of 60W, and IP65 protection instead of IP69. The Dimensity 6300 chipset and 7,000mAh battery remain unchanged.

The comparison is also relevant at the reported Rs 25,999 starting price. The Moto G77 Power offers a 6.72-inch FHD+ 120Hz display, Dimensity 6400 chipset, 8GB RAM, a 50MP Sony LYT-600 main camera and 32MP front camera. For buyers, the Realme 16x's large battery and 144Hz refresh rate may be appealing, but the higher price means its launch offers will matter if it is to stand out against better-equipped alternatives.

[highlights]

• Moto G Max will launch in India on August 14th with a 6.72-inch FHD+ 120Hz LCD display and Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 chipset.
• The Moto G Max shares specifications with the 2025 Moto G57 Power.
• The phone packs a 7,000mAh battery with Motorola claiming three days of battery life.

[/highlights]

Shortly after reports surfaced Motorola was launching a new budget phone in India around the Independence Day sales, the company has confirmed the device. Motorola is bringing another battery-focsed smartphone to India, with the Moto G Max set to launch on August 14th. The new phone shares several specifications with the Moto G57 Power, which launched in India last year, including the Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 chipset, a 6.72-inch display and a 7,000mAh battery.

Moto G Max India launch and confirmed features

The company has confirmed the Moto G Max's availability, saying it will be sold through Motorola's website, Flipkart and offline stores following its August 14th launch. As is the case with all Motorola phones, it will come in three Pantone-curated finishes: Pantone Stargazer, Pantone Malaga and Pantone Alaskan Blue, with a Luxury Satin Finish.

Motorola has also confirmed the specifications of the device. The phone gets a 6.72-inch FHD+ LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate, while Corning Gorilla Glass 7i is used for protection. Motorola is also highlighting durability, with the phone carrying MIL-STD-810H certification and high-level dust and water resistance.

The Moto G Max is powered by the Snapdragon 6s Gen 4, paired with 6GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage. The same chipset was used in the Moto G57 Power, although that phone's Indian version came with 8GB LPDDR4X RAM. At the back is a 50MP Sony LYT-600 primary camera, with Motorola focusing on improved daylight and low-light photography through sensor and software tuning.

The biggest highlight remains the 7,000mAh battery, which Motorola claims can deliver up to three days of usage on a single charge under standard usage conditions. The phone also gets stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, Motorola's Smart Connect feature and Android 16. Motorola has promised two Android OS upgrades and three years of security updates.

The specifications suggest that the Moto G Max is sort of an evolution of the G57 Power. The latter launched in India at Rs 14,999 for the 8GB + 128GB variant in November 2025, although its current listed price is Rs 21,999 after hikes. The G57 Power also offers a 50MP Sony LYT-600 main camera, 7,000mAh battery, 120Hz FHD+ display and MIL-STD-810H durability. It additionally has an 8MP ultrawide camera and 30W charging. A Moto G Max launched in Brazil in June 2026 but that was a bit up the ladder compared to this one as it came with a triple-camera setup including a 200MP primary camera. 

A previous leak suggested the phone could start at around Rs 30,000 in India. Buyers looking for maximum battery life may find the new phone compelling if Motorola prices it competitively against other 7,000mAh phones, but the G57 Power could remain the better choice if it receives aggressive discounts or offers a stronger camera setup for similar money. The overlap makes the Moto G Max an interesting addition to Motorola's mid-range lineup, although its pricing will ultimately determine how much sense it makes alongside the G57 Power and other phones in the segment.

[highlights]

• iQOO Z11 will feature a large 6.8-inch display.
• The handset offers up to 5,000 nits peak brightness.
• It's also confirmed to debut with the MediaTek Dimensity 7500 Turbo chipset.

[/highlights]

The iQOO Z11 is set to launch in India on August 20th. Ahead of the launch, the brand has been teasing the handset, revealing key details about it. Just last week, the iQOO Z11's chipset details were announced, and now, we know more about the handset's display specifications. 

iQOO Z11 display specifications

The iQOO Z11 is confirmed to feature a 6.8-inch 1.5K 3D curved AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and 5,000 nits peak brightness. The display also supports 2,000 nits high brightness mode and 3,000 nits local peak brightness. It also comes with eye-care features designed to make scrolling and streaming comfortable on the iQOO Z11. This is not only brighter and bigger than the iQOO Z10, but the refresh rate and resolution are also upgrades. 

The 3D curved screen has very thin bezels, which should help deliver an immersive experience while watching videos. The large size and resolution should also appeal to users who prefer streaming shows and movies on their phone. 

iQOO Z11: what to expect

iQOO has already confirmed that the Z11 will be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7500 Turbo chipset. It will be the first phone to launch in India with this chipset. It's expected to deliver better gains than its previous generations, including the Dimensity 7400 and Dimensity 7300. iQOO also claims the chipset has scored over 1.2 million on the AnTuTu benchmark, suggesting capable mid-range performance. 

The new iQOO handset will be available in Aurora Green and Celestial Blue colour options, featuring a new Skyline Camera Module, which is a metallic horizontal camera bar housing two sensors and an LED ring light. 

As for the rest of its specifications, the iQOO Z11 is expected to house a 7,000mAh to 8,000mAh battery with 90W fast charging support. It's tipped to feature a 50MP primary camera with OIS, and a 32MP front camera. The handset is also expected to come with IP68 and IP69 dust and water resistance. 

Based on what we know so far, the iQOO Z11 is expected to launch in the upper mid-range segment under Rs 40,000. It will most likely compete with phones like the Redmi Turbo 5 and Motorola Edge 70 Pro in the same price segment. The handset could stand out for its large and bright display, performance, and stylish design. If you're someone who wants a phone for multimedia usage and gaming, the iQOO Z11 could be worth waiting for. For users currently on an older iQOO Z series, the display and chipset upgrades make the Z11 a compelling upgrade, especially if multimedia and performance are priorities. 

Google is all set to unveil its next-generation Pixel smartphones at its upcoming Made by Google event. As many as four smartphones, namely Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and Pixel 11 Pro Fold, are expected. Alongside the smartphones, Google is also tipped to introduce the Pixel Watch 5 and new Pixel Buds. Over the past few weeks, several leaks and official teasers have revealed key details about the Pixel 11 series, including their design, colour options, expected pricing, battery upgrades, storage variants, and new AI-powered features.

Here's a complete roundup of everything we know about the Google Pixel 11 series so far.

Pixel 11 series launch date

Google has confirmed that its next Made by Google hardware event will take place on August 12th, where the Pixel 11 series is expected to debut globally. The event is also likely to see the unveiling of the Pixel Watch 5, Pixel Buds, and the latest version of Android.

Google Pixel 11 series models and design

The company appears to be continuing the same lineup introduced with the previous generation. Four smartphones are expected, which will succeed last year's Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold. The upcoming Pixel smartphones will be dubbed accordingly:

• Google Pixel 11
• Google Pixel 11 Pro
• Google Pixel 11 Pro XL
• Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold

It seems the Pixel 11 series will carry forward the design from its predecessor. Google has already teased the Pixel 11 Pro, revealing a familiar design language with a horizontal camera bar and flat frame. The Pixel 11 Pro Fold has also been officially teased, confirming Google's continued focus on foldable smartphones. However, to stand out, Google seems to have added Pixel Glow around the camera visor at the back that will possibly glow for notifications, calls, messages, and more. 

Furthermore, leaked renders suggest that the Pixel 11 will be introduced with refreshed colour options and subtle refinements to the camera module and rear panel finish.

Google Pixel 11 series colour options, price info

While the design may not be entirely different, Google is reportedly differentiating the Pixel 11 with more vibrant colours like Fuchsia and Moss, while reserving more muted, premium-looking finishes such as Dune, Pine, and Light Fog for the Pro models.

Here are all the colour options that are rumoured for the Pixel 11 series:

• Google Pixel 11: Light Sterling (soft blue-grey/lavender), Fuchsia (bright pink), Midnight Haze (dark grey, black), Moss (olive green)
• Google Pixel 11 Pro: Light Fog (pale mint/silver), Pine (deep green), Midnight Haze (dark grey, black), Dune (coral-copper finish with gold accents)
• Google Pixel 11 Pro XL: Light Fog (pale mint/silver), Pine (deep green), Midnight Haze (dark grey, black), Dune (coral-copper finish with gold accents)
• Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold: Pine (deep green), Midnight Haze (dark grey, black)

While the exact pricing details remain under wraps, Google has confirmed that the Pixel 11 series is due for a hike. This isn't surprising considering how the entire industry has been reacting over the past year due to a global RAM supply crunch. Per the leaked reports, the Google Pixel 11 could start at EUR 999 (Around Rs 1.08 lakh), while the Pixel 11 Pro series may cost EUR 1,199 (Around Rs 1.3 lakh). The Pixel 11 Pro Fold will undoubtedly remain the most expensive in the lineup with a rumoured starting price of EUR 1,999 (around Rs 2.17 lakh).

Apart from the price hike, the smartphones may also undergo changes in storage configurations for select markets. To offset rising memory costs, Android will be more efficient so future Pixel phones can deliver the same smooth performance while using less RAM, said the company.

Google Pixel 11 series specifications

Leaks and reports suggest that the Pixel 11 series will be launched with a few incremental upgrades. As always, the biggest focus will be AI-powered features, which have been a trademark of Pixel smartphones. The upcoming lineup is also expected to offer enhanced battery life and overall performance rather than a major hardware redesign.

At the core of the Pixel 11 series will reportedly lie Google's next-generation Tensor G6 chipset, paired with the new 2nm Titan M3 security chip. The new processor is tipped to offer better on-device AI capabilities, improved efficiency, and faster performance for features such as image editing, live translation, voice processing, and other Gemini-powered experiences.

On the display front, the standard Pixel 11 is expected to feature a flat 6.3-inch OLED panel, while the Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL could retain Google's LTPO OLED displays with dynamic refresh rates of up to 120Hz. The Pixel 11 Pro XL is likely to ship with a 6.8-inch display as opposed to 6.3 inches on the Pixel 11 Pro. The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is expected to continue with a large foldable 8-inch inner display alongside a conventional outer screen, with improvements to brightness and durability.

The camera setup is likely to remain largely unchanged. All four models will deliver a versatile setup, comprising wide, ultra-wide, and periscope telephoto sensors, backed by Google's computational photography algorithms. Leak reveals that the Pixel 11 Pro series could come with improved 120x zoom.

As for battery, leaks indicate that Google may equip the Pixel 11 series with larger batteries than their predecessors. The vanilla Pixel smartphone may sport a 4,985mAh battery, while the Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL could house 4,850mAh and 5,115mAh batteries, respectively. This, combined with the more efficient Tensor G6 chipset and software optimisations, could result in better overall battery life. The Pixel 11 series will most likely be backed by up to 30W fast wired and Qi2 wireless charging features.

The Pixel 11 series could also be the first to run the latest Android 17 out of the box. It will be backed by several new on-device AI-powered features, which will leverage the new Tensor chipset to deliver faster and more capable experiences without relying heavily on cloud processing.

Overall, the Pixel 11 series is shaping up to be an evolutionary upgrade, with improvements centred on AI, performance, battery life, software, and camera enhancements, while largely retaining the familiar design language introduced with the previous generation. Alongside the smartphones, Google is also expected to launch the all-new Pixel 5 smartwatch and Pixel Buds for the best ecosystem experience.

If you're on a Pixel 8 or older and prioritise AI advancements, waiting for the Pixel 11 could be worthwhile.

[highlights]

• Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, Galaxy Z Flip8, Galaxy Watch Ultra2, and Galaxy Watch9 are now on sale in India.
• The devices launched at Unpacked last month and have registered record pre-orders.
• The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra starts at Rs 1,99,999, while the wide Galaxy Z Fold8 starts at Rs 1,79,999.

[/highlights]

Samsung's latest foldables and smartwatches are now available for purchase in India. The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, Galaxy Z Flip8, Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Galaxy Watch9 went on sale today across online and offline channels, following a strong start to pre-orders. The company says it received 2.7 lakh pre-orders within 72 hours of unveiling the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Flip8, signalling increased interest in the premium foldables despite their flagship pricing.

Pricing and features

The new Galaxy devices are available through Samsung.com, Amazon, Flipkart and retail stores across India.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra2 starts at Rs 64,999 for the LTE model, while the Galaxy Watch9 is priced from Rs 37,999 for the 40 mm Bluetooth variant. The smartwatch lineup is available in multiple Bluetooth and LTE configurations.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra is Samsung's slimmest Fold yet at 4.1 mm when unfolded and features an 8-inch main display, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chipset, a 200MP primary camera, a new 50MP ultrawide camera, and a 5,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging.

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Fold8 focuses on portability with a weight of 201 gms. It has a redesigned Flex Titanium display structure for a "creaseless" display, up to 3,000 nits peak brightness, dual 50MP rear cameras, and a 4,800mAh battery. The Galaxy Z Flip8 weighs 180 gms and brings a slimmer design, a 50MP primary camera, and camera features such as Flex Mode, FlipShot and Cover Screen Mirror.

On the wearable side, the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 is aimed at outdoor enthusiasts, with features like Trail Run tracking, diving support, and Nutrition Alert, while the Galaxy Watch9 focuses on everyday fitness and health tracking with brighter displays and updated Qualcomm Snapdragon Elite processors.

Launch offers

Samsung is offering multiple launch benefits across the new lineup. Buyers of the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Flip8 can choose from upgrade bonuses, bank cashback offers, and no-cost EMI options depending on the purchase platform and payment method.

For the smartwatches, the company is offering multi-buy discounts of up to Rs 9,500 on the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and up to Rs 6,500 on the Galaxy Watch9. Alternatively, buyers can opt for bank cashback offers of up to Rs 6,500 along with no-cost EMI for up to 24 months.

With foldables becoming competitive, Samsung is aiming to strengthen its lead in the premium segment against rivals such as Vivo, OPPO and Google. Buyers looking for the most advanced hardware may gravitate towards the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, while the Galaxy Z Fold8 offers a lighter design at a lower price. The Galaxy Z Flip8, on the other hand, remains Samsung's option for those who prefer a more compact foldable without stepping up to the larger book-style form factor. Samsung's continued push for a 'creaseless' display on the Z Fold8 shows their commitment to refining the foldable experience.

[highlights]

• The global variant of the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max has appeared on Geekbench, confirming the Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 chipset.
• The same model recently received NBTC certification, suggesting the global launch could be approaching.
• The Chinese Note 17 Pro Max could come with different specifications.

[/highlights]

Redmi appears to be preparing to expand its Note 17 lineup beyond the Redmi Note 17 and Note 17 Pro. After reports suggested that the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max is in development, the global variant has now surfaced on Geekbench, revealing its chipset, memory configuration, and software details ahead of an official announcement.

The benchmark listing comes shortly after the phone was spotted on Thailand's NBTC certification website, indicating that Xiaomi is moving closer to launching the device in global markets.

Redmi Note 17 Pro Max Geekbench listing

The Redmi Note 17 Pro Max has appeared on Geekbench 7 with the model number 2609FRA74G, where the "G" suffix indicates the global variant. The same model number was recently linked to the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max through NBTC certification. According to the listing, the phone is powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 chipset (SM6850). It features four performance cores clocked at up to 2.61GHz, four efficiency cores running at 2.02GHz, and an Adreno 812 GPU.

The benchmark also confirms 8GB of RAM and Android 16. In Geekbench 7, the phone scored 924 points in the single-core test and 2,923 points in the multi-core test. As with all benchmark listings, these scores should be viewed as an early indication of performance.

Notably, there was no "Pro Max" model in last year's Redmi Note 15 series as Xiaomi has traditionally kept the Pro+ as the top tier model. However, this year, it seems to have taken a liking to the moniker initially popularised by Apple for the iPhone, as multiple phones from the OEM, including the POCO X8 Pro Max, Redmi K90 Pro Max and Xiaomi 17 Pro Max carry the branding.

The predecessor, the Redmi Note 15 Pro+, packed the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset, which was more powerful compared to the 6 Gen 5 in the Note 17 Pro Max. Xiaomi is doing exactly what every manufacturer has done to counter the memory components price rise - give a downgraded chipset to keep the costs in check. However, despite that strategy, OEMs are still raising prices and we can expect similar treatment for the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max.

Expected specifications

Recent leaks suggest the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max could feature a 6.83-inch AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, up to 3,500 nits peak brightness, and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection. The phone is also tipped to be available with up to 12GB LPDDR5x RAM and 256GB UFS 4.0 storage, although the 128GB variant is said to use UFS 2.1 storage. Other rumoured specifications include a 9,200mAh battery with 100W fast charging, a 50MP primary camera with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide camera, and a 32MP selfie camera. Additional features are expected to include an in-display fingerprint scanner, IP68/IP69K dust and water resistance, eSIM support, and HyperOS 3 based on Android 16.

Interestingly, reports suggest the Chinese version may differ significantly from the global model, with a MediaTek Dimensity 7500 chipset, a 200MP main camera, and a larger 10,000mAh battery.

If the leaked specifications are true, the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max could stand out for its large battery and premium display, even though the Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 is aimed more at the upper mid-range segment than flagship-killer performance. That could put it in competition with phones from the POCO X7 Pro series, Realme 16 series, and the OnePlus Nord 6. The Note series is traditionally known for its "flagship killer" status, offering competitive specs at aggressive pricing, but that positioning could take a backseat as Xiaomi competes on battery and endurance.

[highlights]

• The Huawei MatePad SE 11 and MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte Edition are available for purchase in India
• The MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte Edition features an 11.5-inch 2.5K 120Hz display, a 10,100mAh battery, and comes with a keyboard at Rs 45,999.
• The MatePad SE 11 offers an 11-inch Eye Comfort display, quad speakers, M-Pen Lite support, and a 7,700mAh battery for Rs 25,999.

[/highlights]

The MatePad SE 11 and MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte Edition in India are available for purchase exclusively on Flipkart, starting today. The MatePad SE 11 is priced at Rs 25,999, while the MatePad 11.5 with keyboard costs Rs 45,999. These tablets target students, professionals, and everyday users who seek options focused on productivity and entertainment at different price ranges.

MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte Edition: the flagship of the two

The MatePad 11.5 features Huawei's PaperMatte Display, an 11.5-inch 2.5K 120Hz FullView panel. This display uses circular polarisation technology, which is said to reduce glare and visual fatigue during long reading and writing sessions. The paper-like writing experience is ideal for students and note-takers who spend a lot of time on screens. It comes with the upgraded HUAWEI Notes application for annotating documents and capturing ideas.

The battery has a capacity of 10,100mAh and supports 40W HUAWEI SuperCharge for all-day use. The keyboard bundle, priced at Rs 45,999, turns it into a more complete productivity package for users wanting a laptop-like setup on the go.

MatePad SE 11: versatile everyday option

The MatePad SE 11 offers a more affordable choice at Rs 25,999. Its 11-inch Eye Comfort FullView display focuses on visual comfort during extended use. A quad-speaker system powered by Huawei Histen 9.0 provides immersive audio for entertainment and video calls. The M-Pen lite stylus adds a note-taking and creative option, while the 7,700mAh battery, along with 22.5W fast charging, supports all-day use for most users.

At Rs 25,999, the MatePad SE 11 enters a competitive mainstream tablet market with the Xiaomi Pad 7 and Realme Pad 2. For buyers in this range, the Eye Comfort display and quad-speaker setup make it a strong option for entertainment and learning. The M-Pen Lite support adds value for students who take handwritten notes.

Meanwhile, the MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte Edition, priced at Rs 45,999 with the keyboard, competes directly with the ASUS Pad and Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE in the mid-premium market. The PaperMatte display's anti-glare features and 2.5K resolution set it apart at this price.

This becomes important for those who read and write for long periods and want a display that minimises eye strain without losing visual quality. The 10,100mAh battery and keyboard bundle reinforce its appeal as a productivity-focused tablet in a market where many alternatives lean more toward entertainment. Both tablets are now available on Flipkart.

[highlights]

• iQOO Z11 will feature a curved display and edges.
• It will debut the MediaTek Dimensity 7500 Turbo chipset in India.
• The chipset is claimed to have scored over 1.2 million on the AnTuTu benchmark. 

[/highlights]

iQOO recently confirmed that the iQOO Z11 will launch in India on August 24th. Now, the company has revealed that the smartphone will be the first in the country to feature the new MediaTek Dimensity 7500 Turbo chipset. The company is positioning the processor as a major upgrade for AI-powered features, smoother multitasking, and sustained performance under heavy workloads. This is the third phone in the series to launch in India after the iQOO Z11 Lite and Z11x. 

iQOO Z11 chipset details 

The MediaTek Dimensity 7500 Turbo chipset is an advanced 4nm octa-core processor built on the Dimensity 7500 architecture. It's equipped with the MediaTek NPU 850, designed to deliver more than double the AI performance of prior generations for on-device generative AI tools. It's expected to deliver better gains than its previous generations, including the Dimensity 7400 and Dimensity 7300. The chipset is claimed to have a score of over 1.2 million on the AnTuTu benchmark, suggesting capable mid-range performance. 

iQOO had previously teased the Z11's design and colour options. The handset will be available in Aurora Green and Celestial Blue colour options, featuring a new Skyline Camera Module with a horizontally aligned pill-shaped camera island, two prominent camera rings, a third sensor, and a circular LED ring light. The phone also appears to have a slim profile, a curved rear panel, and a quad-curved display with narrow bezels.

Leaks suggest the iQOO Z11 will pack a 1.5K 144Hz OLED display, a 7,000mAh to 8,000mAh battery with 90W fast charging, a 50MP primary camera with OIS, a 32MP front camera, an in-display fingerprint scanner, IP68 and IP69 dust and water resistance, and up to 12GB RAM. This combination could be a game-changer for iQOO in the fiercely competitive mid-premium segment, if priced aggressively. It's expected to compete with phones like the Redmi Turbo 5 and Motorola Edge 70 Pro. 

If these specifications prove accurate, the iQOO Z11 could stand out in the mid-premium segment by combining a high-refresh-rate OLED display, a large battery, and a capable chipset in a single package. Buyers planning to upgrade for gaming, multimedia, or long battery life may want to wait for the official launch for more details.

[highlights]

• Google will begin removing Google Assistant from Android devices on September 4th, with the rollout taking place gradually.
• The change applies to Android phones, tablets, Wear OS smartwatches, headphones, and Android Auto projected from a phone.
• Once the transition is complete, users will no longer be able to switch back to Google Assistant, as Gemini becomes the default assistant.

[/highlights]

Google has confirmed that it will begin shutting down Google Assistant on Android devices from September 4th, marking the next phase of its transition to Gemini as the company's default AI assistant. The move was expected after Google announced earlier this year that Assistant would be retired in 2026, but the company has now shared a concrete timeline for existing users.

Once the rollout begins, users will no longer be able to access or switch back to Google Assistant on supported Android devices. The change will happen gradually over several weeks.

Google Assistant to be phased out from Android devices

In an email (via) sent to existing users, Google said Google Assistant is "being discontinued" on mobile devices and that Gemini is now the default assistant experience on Android. The deprecation covers Android phones and tablets, Wear OS smartwatches, headphones, and vehicles running Android Auto projected from a user's phone. Once the transition reaches a device, Google Assistant will no longer be available as an option.

However, not every platform is affected immediately. Google says cars with Google built-in will continue using Google Assistant beyond September 4th. The announcement also does not apply to Google TV devices, Google Home speakers, or smart displays yet, although Gemini is expected to arrive on those products in the future. It also remains unclear when Google's docked Pixel Tablet will make the switch.

Interestingly, the Gemini app still includes a "Switch to Google Assistant" option for now, but that choice will disappear once the phased rollout reaches users.

Google has spent the past year steadily replacing Assistant with Gemini across its ecosystem, calling the newer AI-powered assistant as a more capable tool for conversations, content creation, and productivity tasks. The company had originally planned to retire Assistant by the end of 2025 before extending the timeline to 2026.

For most users, the transition is unlikely to require any action if they have already switched to Gemini. However, those who still rely on Google Assistant's familiar voice commands or prefer its simpler interface will need to adapt once the change reaches their devices. Companies including Google, Apple, Samsung, and Amazon increasingly replacing traditional voice assistants with generative AI experiences. While Gemini offers more advanced AI capabilities, users who mainly use an assistant for quick tasks such as setting alarms, controlling smart home devices, or checking the weather may want to compare its day-to-day performance before fully embracing the transition.

[highlights]

• Xiaomi has introduced Mijia by Xiaomi as its dedicated home and lifestyle brand in India.
• The brand will cover existing home categories such as air purifiers and expand into large appliances.
• Mijia will form part of Xiaomi's Human × Car × Home ecosystem, connecting home products through Xiaomi's software and devices.

[/highlights]

Xiaomi has introduced Mijia by Xiaomi in India as its dedicated home and lifestyle brand. The move comes as the company marks 12 years in the country and looks to expand its range of connected home products beyond smartphones, TVs, tablets, and AIoT devices.

Mijia, which means "Mi Home", will bring Xiaomi's home and lifestyle products under a separate name in India. The brand will continue to follow Xiaomi's focus on connected devices, smart features, and easy control across products.

Mijia will focus on home products

Xiaomi already sells products such as air purifiers, smart TVs, security cameras, and other connected devices in India. Under the new Mijia branding, the company plans to strengthen these categories and also enter the large appliances segment.

Pleased to announce the introduction of the mijia by Xiaomi sub-brand in India.

It will be our lifestyle and home sub-brand that will sit alongside Xiaomi, REDMI and POCO.

In H1, we have focused on the Human side of our ecosystem, we're prepping to go deeper on the Home side. pic.twitter.com/JmgQvxwtlC

— Sandeep Sarma (@sandeep9sarma) August 7, 2026

The company has not yet shared details about the first large appliances that will launch under Mijia in India. However, the new brand could eventually include products such as refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, and other home appliances, depending on Xiaomi's plans for the market.

Xiaomi says these products will work as part of a connected home setup. This means users should be able to manage different devices through Xiaomi's software and ecosystem, instead of treating each product as a separate appliance.

The launch of Mijia is linked to Xiaomi's Human × Car × Home strategy, which the company introduced globally in 2023. The idea is to connect personal devices, cars, and home products through Xiaomi HyperOS.

In India, Xiaomi has already built a large "Human" portfolio with smartphones, tablets, TVs, and other personal technology products. The company is now putting more focus on the "Home" part of this plan with Mijia.

Xiaomi will continue to use its own name for flagship products, while Redmi and POCO will remain separate brands within the company's portfolio. Home and lifestyle products will now carry the Mijia by Xiaomi branding.

Xiaomi expands beyond smartphones

Xiaomi entered India in 2014 as a smartphone brand, but it has since expanded into several consumer technology categories. The company now sells products across smartphones, televisions, tablets, smart home devices, and accessories.

The introduction of Mijia gives Xiaomi a clearer identity for its home products. It also shows that the company wants to compete more seriously in India's home appliance market, where brands such as LG, Samsung, Haier, Panasonic, and newer smart home companies already have a strong presence.

For consumers, the main change will likely be the branding on future home and lifestyle products. Xiaomi says Mijia products will continue to follow the group's existing standards for innovation and quality

The brand will have to do more than offer connected features to truly stand out in India. Competitive pricing, reliable after-sales service, and smooth integration between devices will be important if Xiaomi wants Indian consumers to trust Mijia with larger and more expensive home appliances.

[highlights]

• Pixel users running Android 17 are reporting parts of the display becoming unresponsive while gaming or using certain full-screen apps.
• The issue appears to be software-related, as users can often still use navigation gestures and the notification shade.
• Google hasn't acknowledged the issue as a bug or announced a fix.

[/highlights]

Google's Android 17 update introduced several new features and refinements for Pixel phones, but some users say it has also brought back touchscreen issues. Nearly two months after the stable rollout, multiple Pixel owners are reporting (via) that parts of the display become unresponsive while using certain apps, particularly games and full-screen content.

The reports appear to describe a different issue from the touchscreen bug that surfaced shortly after Android 17 was released, suggesting Google may still have some software-related issues to iron out.

Pixel 17 touchscreen issues

According to posts on Reddit and Google's community forums, the problem mainly appears when an app takes up the entire display. Several users say they've encountered it while gaming, while others report similar behaviour when watching videos in full-screen mode on apps like YouTube.

The severity appears to vary between devices. Some users say only a small portion of the display, often a corner, stops responding to touch, while others claim the issue affects much larger areas of the screen. Interestingly, most affected users say they can still pull down the notification shade or use navigation gestures, suggesting the display itself is still detecting touch input outside the app.

One user also noted that the unresponsive area changes position when the phone is rotated, adding weight to the theory that this is a software bug rather than a hardware fault. Some community members have speculated that the issue could be linked to Android's back gesture buffer zones, although there is no evidence to confirm this.

Google hasn't confirmed a fix yet

Google hasn't officially acknowledged the issue as a bug or shared details about a fix. In responses on the Pixel Community forums, the company's support team has instead asked affected users to check whether the problem persists after restarting their phone in Safe Mode. Some users also report that a normal reboot temporarily restores touchscreen functionality, although the issue may return later.

For Pixel owners who haven't updated to Android 17 yet, there's no immediate reason to delay the upgrade based on these reports alone, as the issue doesn't appear to affect every device. However, if you regularly play games or spend a lot of time in full-screen apps, it may be worth keeping an eye on user reports over the next few weeks. Google has a track record of addressing software bugs through monthly Pixel updates, so affected users will likely be hoping for an official fix in an upcoming release.

[highlights]

• Redmi K100 Pro Max will launch alongside the K100 Pro.
• The handset will feature a 5x telephoto camera.
• It's confirmed to house a 9,070mAh battery. 

[/highlights]

Redmi is steadily revealing more about the Redmi K100 Pro Max ahead of its China launch on August 11th, with the latest teasers focusing on two of the phone's biggest highlights: its massive battery and next-generation display. The smartphone will join the Redmi K100 Pro as part of the brand's latest performance-focused flagship lineup. 

Redmi K100 Pro Max key specs revealed

Redmi has confirmed that the K100 Pro Max will feature a 9,070mAh battery, making it one of the largest batteries to appear in a mainstream flagship smartphone. This 9,070mAh battery dwarfs the 7,560mAh found in last year's K90 Pro Max and most flagships in the market right now. Despite the large capacity, Redmi is pairing it with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging, while also offering 27W wired reverse charging and 22.5W wireless reverse charging, allowing the phone to double as a power bank for other devices. 

On the display front, the Redmi K100 Pro Max is confirmed to feature a massive 6.9-inch AMOLED panel with a 185Hz refresh rate and 4,500 nits peak brightness. The upcoming OnePlus 16 is also expected to feature a 185Hz display. Redmi also claims the panel is 20 percent more power-efficient than previous generations, thanks to improved luminous efficiency and a full RGB lossless pixel arrangement. The Redmi K100 Pro's screen is also claimed to deliver sharper visuals than a conventional 2K display while consuming less power than a typical 1.5K panel, although these claims will need real-world testing.

The Redmi K100 Pro Max is also confirmed to house a 200MP ultra-clear main camera paired with a 5x periscope telephoto camera, and a 50MP ultra-wide camera. This camera setup is well-equipped, and the 5x optical zoom is sure to interest photography enthusiasts. 

The company has also showcased the K100 Pro Max in a new Gold White finish. Redmi has already confirmed the phone will be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and feature a Bose-tuned speaker system. 

With a combination of a huge battery, high-end display, flagship chipset, and fast charging, the Redmi K100 Pro Max appears to be aimed at power users and mobile gamers. If you currently own a K90 Pro Max, the battery and display upgrades alone might justify an upgrade, especially if you're a heavy user. Buyers looking for a premium Android flagship may want to wait for the official launch, where Redmi will reveal pricing, availability, and the remaining specifications.

[highlights]

• The Vivo X200T features the MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ and 50MP triple rear cameras.
• It's among the only few phones to feature a 50MP periscope lens in its price range.
• The Flipkart Freedom sale begins tonight for Plus and VIP members.

[/highlights]

Launched earlier this year, the Vivo X200T (review) is the company's high-end smartphone, sitting between the Vivo V70 Elite and Vivo X300, providing a great balance of camera optics, flagship-level performance, and practical battery endurance for everyday use. While the X200T's base 12GB + 256GB storage variant is no longer available, the 12GB + 512GB variant will sell for Rs 62,999, down from Rs 69,999 during the Flipkart Freedom Sale.

Vivo X200T deal for Flipkart Freedom Sale

The Flipkart Freedom Sale is set to begin tonight at midnight for Flipkart Plus and VIP members, while others can have access to the sale starting tomorrow, i.e. August 8th. As for the deal, the Vivo X200T (512GB) is currently listed for Rs 69,999, which can be grabbed at Rs 62,999 using bank offers, such as an SBI Bank credit card, during the sale.

If you've placed 15 orders in the last one year, you would already have been given a Flipkart Plus membership. Paying Rs 399 for the BLACK membership upgrades your profile to VIP membership.

Is the Vivo X200T worth buying during the Flipkart sale?

If you've been seeking a near-flagship smartphone, you can't go wrong with the Vivo X200T, especially at its offer price of Rs 62,999. Powered by the Dimensity 9400+, it should offer a similar level of performance to the Snapdragon 8 Elite, found on phones like the OnePlus 13 and iQOO 13.

Achieving over 28,00,000 on the AnTuTu benchmark in our in-house tests, the Vivo X200T should be able to handle anything thrown at it, including high-end gaming, recording 4K videos for long durations without stutters, or editing and rendering high-resolution videos. On to the optics, it's among the only few phones under Rs 70,000 this year to feature a periscope lens and 50MP triple rear cameras. What sets the 50MP 3x periscope apart is its ability to capture true macro shots, thanks to a short minimum focus distance.

Running on Android 16-based OriginOS 6 software, the phone runs smoothly without hiccups while rendering animations and blur details in an appealing manner. The X200T is promised five OS upgrades, faring better than the likes of the OnePlus 15R, which is set to receive four Android updates. While it should easily offer a day's worth of battery backup, the 6,200mAh battery falls short of the competition, as batteries of at least 6,500mAh have become common in the Android camp.

Overall, the Vivo X200T is an excellent grab for the offer price for all kinds of users, whether you're a heavy multitasker, gamer, photographer, or a working professional wanting a reliable no-nonsense smartphone.

Spending the better part of two decades arguing that flagship picture quality shouldn't need a flagship price tag, Vu's newest television, the Glo Mini-LED, makes that case more sharply than anything the brand has shipped before. It brings QD Mini-LED backlighting with Full Array Local Dimming, the exact technology most cinephiles look for in a high-quality display and assume that they'll be paying an OLED premium for, but the new Glo range starts at Rs 42,500!

Panel discussion

Local dimming zones let a panel control brightness independently across different sections of the screen, delivering much deeper black levels and tighter contrast compared to edge-lit LEDs. Vu claims up to 600 nits of HDR brightness, with Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG on board, while processing comes from a new VuON AI chip handling upscaling, colour, and contrast in real time, backed by modest G52 graphics, 2GB RAM, and 16GB storage. The standard GloLED series tops out at 400 nits on a conventional panel with no zone dimming. Only the Masterpiece Glo QLED flagship has had local dimming until now, and even that uses a coarser Full Array backlight rather than Mini-LED, at a claimed 800 nits. The new set sits deliberately between the two but with finer dimming granularity than even the flagship, at under half the flagship's price!

Sonically speaking

Audio is handled by a 50W 2.2-channel VuFX system featuring two full-range drivers plus two dedicated woofers. Dolby Atmos, a dialogue enhancer and a surround mode comfortably beat most sub-Rs 50,000 sets in terms of sonic enhancements. Gamers will appreciate the better 120Hz refresh rate, VRR, ALLM, and a dedicated game mode, arriving on an entry Glo set for the first time. It runs on Google TV, so set-up should be a doddle, and it comes with Chromecast, AirPlay, and HomeKit built in.

Buy one, get one free!

Interestingly, two Bluetooth voice remotes ship in the box as standard, a decision Vu frames as practical rather than promotional. "We ship this TV with two remotes so the customer can have a trouble-free viewing experience even years after the initial purchase because the remote control is one of the most likely components to develop a fault caused by mishandling or wear and tear," said Raj Saraf, Group Founder, Vu Televisions.

Pricing for the people

Finally, on the design front, its three-sided bezel-less build, single-wire installation, Charcoal Grey finish, and a Personalised Photo Frame mode turn the idle screen into rotating digital art. The Glo Mini-LED goes on sale August 7 via Amazon and Vu's retail network, across four sizes priced from Rs 42,500 for the 43-inch model, Rs 47,200 for the 50-inch, Rs 53,000 for the 55-inch, and Rs 66,600 for the 65-inch model.

• Realme 16x is set to launch in India on August 12th.
• The Realme 16x 6GB+128GB variant is tipped to carry a box MRP of Rs 54,999.
• The phone is confirmed to feature a 6.8-inch 144Hz display, MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset and 7,000mAh battery.

[/highlights]

Realme is set to expand its budget smartphone portfolio in India with the launch of the Realme 16x later this month. While the company has already confirmed several key specifications, a new leak from tipster Sanju Choudhary now hints at the phone's box price and selling price, giving a better idea of what to expect.

Realme 16x India price and launch details

According to the tipster, the Realme 16x with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage will carry a box MRP of Rs 54,999 when it launches on August 12th at 12 noon. However, the actual selling price is expected to be much lower. Since the Realme 16x is positioned as an offline-focused model, the tipster says it could go for under Rs 30,000. The phone will succeed the Realme 15x, which debuted in India last October at a starting price of Rs 16,999. that's quite a jump for the series, but not surprising considering almost all successors have up-segmented this year without a magnanimous change in specs.

Realme has confirmed that the phone will be available via Flipkart, the company's official website, and mainline retail stores. The phone will be offered in Endurance Brown and Glory White colour options, both featuring a patterned rear panel, a vertically aligned camera module, and an LED ring below the camera sensors.

Specifications

The leaked specifications also suggest that the Realme 16x is largely based on the Realme P4R, although it is said to feature a smaller 7,000mAh battery instead of the larger unit found on that model. The Realme 16x is confirmed to feature a 6.8-inch HD+ LCD display with a 144Hz refresh rate and up to 1,200 nits peak brightness. It will be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset paired with LPDDR4X RAM and UFS 2.2 storage. Realme has also confirmed support for up to 14GB Dynamic RAM and up to 256GB internal storage. The chipset has traditionally been found in budget 5G phones but lately Realme gave it in the Realme 16T which is priced just under Rs 30,000 currently.

The Realme 16x packs a 7,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging, bypass charging, and reverse charging support. The company claims the battery can offer up to two days of usage and retain its health for up to six years. For most users, the large battery should comfortably last a full day or more between charges.

For gaming, the phone will include Realme's GT Boost optimisation engine and a 5,300 sq mm AirFlow VC cooling system, which should help deliver more stable performance during extended gaming sessions.

On the camera front, the Realme 16x is confirmed to feature a 50MP primary rear camera with AI-powered features such as AI Eraser, AI Ultra Clarity, Motion Photo, and Dual-View Video. The phone will also offer an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance, along with military-grade shock resistance.

Based on the confirmed specifications, the Realme 16x is likely to compete with phones such as the Redmi Note 17, Moto G77 Power and other battery-focused devices in the sub-Rs 30,000 segment. The 7,000mAh battery, 144Hz display, and 45W charging are standout features in this segment and should appeal to heavy users. However, the Dimensity 6300 is still a mid-range chipset, and the camera setup is fairly basic compared to some rivals. So overall, it looks promising for users who prioritise battery life, smooth display performance, and durability, but not necessarily for those expecting high-end gaming or flagship-level photography. Buyers should still wait for the final pricing to see how well it really stacks up against competitors.

[highlights]

• iQOO Neo 11 Ultra is set to launch as the next Neo series smartphone.
• It's tipped to house a 9,000mAh battery.
• The handset has been officially teased to launch next week. 

[/highlights]

Following earlier speculations that the iQOO Neo 11S would launch soon as the next Neo smartphone, the brand has now officially confirmed that its next Neo-series smartphone will be called the iQOO Neo 11 Ultra. The handset is scheduled to debut in China on August 10th. While iQOO has only revealed the name and launch date, previous certifications and leaks have already painted a fairly detailed picture of what to expect.

iQOO Neo 11 Ultra China launch

The iQOO Neo 11 Ultra launch has been teased in China, with a brand executive suggesting the handset will offer upgrades in the screen, battery life, and gaming experience. 

The smartphone, believed to have the model number V2545A, recently appeared on Geekbench with Android 16, 16GB of RAM, and a MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset. Reports suggest it could use a customised version of the processor, potentially offering performance tweaks over the standard chip. A separate 3C certification also points to 100W fast charging support. The iQOO Neo 11 Ultra could compete with the upcoming Redmi K100 series. 

The Neo 11 Ultra is tipped to feature a 6.83-inch flat OLED display with a 2K resolution and an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner, positioning it as a premium gaming and multimedia-focused device. The biggest highlight, however, could be its rumoured 9,000mAh battery, which would make it the largest battery ever fitted inside an iQOO Neo-series smartphone. If accurate, it would be a significant jump over previous Neo models and could appeal to gamers and power users looking for extended battery life without frequent charging.

The phone is also expected to feature a metal frame and an IP68 rating, bringing improved durability to the Neo lineup. Storage options are tipped to include 12GB + 256GB, 12GB + 512GB, 16GB + 256GB, and 16GB + 512GB, with Light White, Shadow Black, and Wind Chaser colour variants.

With the launch just days away, buyers may want to wait before picking up a performance-focused flagship. If the leaks hold, the Neo 11 Ultra could emerge as one of the most compelling premium smartphones in its segment, especially for users prioritising battery life and flagship-grade performance.