• Motorola Signature 27 was first unveiled at the Snapdragon Summit.
• It's confirmed to launch in India this month.
• This is Motorola's first full-fledged non-foldable flagship.

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Motorola Signature 27 has been officially launched after it was unveiled at the Snapdragon Summit in September. There, Motorola had debuted the phone with its design and key specifications revealed. The smartphone has now been officially launched with its complete details and pricing. Motorola Signature 27 is confirmed to launch in India this month, but the launch date hasn't been revealed yet. 

Motorola Signature 27 price and availability

Motorola Signature 27 is priced at $1,599 (Rs 1,51,100 approx) for the base variant with 12GB RAM and 512GB storage. It will be available on November 16th in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, and on November 26th in the US. Pricing differs for each market. The handset comes in Pantone Coal Smoke and Pantone Capulet Green colour options. 

In terms of design, the Motorola Signature 27 features a large camera plateau housing four sensors and an LED flash. It features an aluminium silhouette with contoured edges, which is said to be 'elegantly thin'. The camera panel also uses ceramic and brushed aluminum. For durability, the Signature 27 has Gorilla Glass Ceramic 3, IP68/IP69 ratings, and MIL-STD-810H compliance. 

Motorola Signature 27 specifications

The Motorola Signature 27 features a 6.8-inch Extreme AMOLED Duo display with a 120Hz refresh rate and an LTPO panel. The Signature 27 uses a Tandem OLED display, which should deliver a more vibrant screen with better colours. It also stands out for its max brightness, which goes up to 12,000 nits, which means the phone should be more than sufficiently bright outdoors. 

The smartphone is powered by the new Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 flagship chipset, which means it will be among the most powerful handsets in terms of performance. The smartphone also features Motorola's ArcticMesh cooling system, which uses a new diamond-infused thermal gel, liquid metal, copper mesh, and a redesigned 3D vapor chamber for better heat dissipation during AI use, gaming, and video performance. It's also 40 percent larger than the previous generation, so this should result in better heat dissipation. 

For optics, the Motorola Signature 27 houses a 50MP Lytia 910 main camera, a 200MP periscope telephoto lens, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a dedicated action sensor for motion capture improvement. It also features Motorola's Video Enhancement Engine powered by AI, designed to create a real-time intelligence layer that automatically adjusts colour tones by analysing the scene before and during recording.

On the software front, the Signature 27 runs Android 17 out of the box. The smartphone is also getting seven years of OS upgrades, the same as the Motorola Signature. Google's Gemini is also deeply integrated into the Motorola Signature 27. Users can turn a prompt, photos, or existing footage into a polished video with Gemini Omni, or generate music and soundtracks using Lyria.

Motorola Signature 27 packs a 7,000mAh battery with 90W wired and 50W wireless charging support. It also supports 5W reverse wireless and 4.5W reverse wired charging. In comparison, the Motorola Signature offers a 5,200mAh battery, which is one of its weaker points. Motorola Signature 27 is also the company's first phone to feature Audio by B&O.

For what it offers, the Motorola Signature 27 is a powerful Android flagship you can consider for performance, display, cameras, and software. If you're on the lookout for a new flagship, the Signature 27 is a strong contender. But since it carries a high price, you might want to compare the phone with other flagships to see which one gives the best value. 

• Honor 700 Pro is tipped to feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, while the standard model could get the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4.
• The series could bring 9,000mAh batteries, 200MP cameras and support for an external telephoto extender.
• The Honor 700 lineup is expected to debut in China this month.

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Honor appears to be preparing a more performance-focused upgrade for its number series. The upcoming Honor 700 lineup is expected to debut in China this month, with the Honor 700 Pro tipped to get a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor. This could put it in a different performance bracket from some of its upcoming rivals, including the OPPO Reno 17 and Vivo S70 series. The latter two are also expected to arrive around the same time.

Honor 700 series specifications

According to tipster Digital Chat Station (via), the standard Honor 700 will use the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4, while the Pro model will feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5. The tipster describes this as a dual 8-chip strategy, giving both phones Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8-series platforms but reserving the more powerful option for the Pro.

For context, the predecessor, the Honor 600 Pro, uses the Snapdragon 8 Elite, a flagship-tier chipset, so the move to the newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 shouldn't automatically be treated as a performance upgrade. The two platforms occupy different positions in Qualcomm's lineup, and benchmarks will be needed to establish how they compare in sustained performance and gaming. The standard Honor 700, meanwhile, could get a more obvious generational step up over the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4-powered standard Honor 600.

The leaked chipset choices could give Honor an advantage over OPPO's upcoming lineup. The standard Reno 17 is tipped to use the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4, while the Reno 17 Pro could feature the Dimensity 8500 Super. The Vivo S70, on the other hand, is expected to use the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4, putting it closer to the standard Honor 700. OPPO has confirmed a November 9th China launch for the Reno 17 series, while Vivo's launch is also expected this month.

The Honor 700 series could also make a strong case on cameras and battery life. Previous leaks point to a 6.57-inch 1.5K OLED display and a 1.72-inch secondary screen on the back. The Pro may feature a 200MP primary camera and a 50MP periscope telephoto camera, with both models reportedly supporting a 200mm telephoto extender. Battery capacities could reach around 9,000mAh, while 3C certification listings point to up to 80W wired charging across the lineup. The Pro is also tipped to support 50W wireless charging. The Honor 600 Pro already offered a 200MP main camera, a 50MP 3.5x periscope camera, a 7,000mAh battery and 50W wireless charging. The 700 Pro's biggest potential upgrades, then, are its larger battery and external zoom accessory rather than a completely new camera approach.

Honor has yet to confirm the specifications or an India launch. The Honor 600 Pro was launched in select global markets but never officially arrived in India. Buyers looking for a camera-focused premium phone may want to watch the 700 series, but those prioritising proven performance should wait for independent chipset comparisons and confirmed pricing.

• Samsung Display could increase OLED panel prices by USD 10 - USD 20 (around Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,900) in 2027, according to a supply chain report.
• BOE, LG Display, TCL CSOT and other Chinese suppliers offer alternatives, but replacing Samsung panels may not be straightforward.
• The memory shortage could continue until 2029 or 2030, adding to the cost pressure on smartphone manufacturers.

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Smartphone buyers have already had to contend with higher prices this year as the AI boom puts pressure on memory supplies. Now, another component could add to manufacturers' costs. Samsung Display is reportedly planning to increase OLED panel prices by USD 10 -  USD 20 (around Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,900) in 2027, although it remains unclear whether the proposed hike applies to only smartphone displays. If it does, phone makers could face another round of cost increases just as they try to manage an ongoing memory shortage.

Samsung OLED panels could become more expensive in 2027

According to Chinese supply chain source ChannelGate, Samsung Display has informed its partners that OLED panel supply prices could increase by around USD 10 - USD 20 next year. As reported by ITHome, the proposed hike is reportedly not driven by higher manufacturing costs. Instead, Samsung wants to regain control over OLED pricing, which it considers "chaotic" amid aggressive price competition.

Tipster Digital Chat Station has also pointed to shortages of OLED driver ICs, which control how pixels are activated on a display. These shortages could make the cost pressure more pronounced in 2027, with some smartphone manufacturers reportedly stocking up on panels to protect themselves against potential price increases.

There is an important caveat, however. Samsung Display hasn't confirmed the reported hike, and the original report doesn't specify which OLED panels are affected. Display industry publication OLED-Info has suggested that the report could actually concern QD-OLED monitor panels, where Samsung and LG have a more concentrated supplier base. It would therefore be premature to treat this as a confirmed price increase for smartphone displays.

However, Samsung Display isn't the only company supplying OLED panels to smartphone manufacturers. South Korea's LG Display and Chinese manufacturers such as BOE, TCL CSOT, Tianma and Visionox are competing for orders, giving brands alternatives when negotiating panel prices.

According to UBI Research's Q3 2026 shipment analysis, Samsung Display accounted for 46.9 percent of global smartphone and foldable OLED panel shipments. Chinese manufacturers collectively held 41.3 percent, while LG Display accounted for 11.8 percent. BOE was the largest Chinese supplier, shipping 29.85 million panels during the quarter, followed by Tianma, Visionox and TCL CSOT.

This competition could limit Samsung's pricing power, particularly as Chinese suppliers expand their OLED manufacturing capabilities. However, manufacturers cannot simply replace one supplier with another. Panel quality, brightness, refresh rates, power efficiency and production capacity all matter, especially for premium phones. Brands may also need to qualify alternative panels for individual devices before using them.

RAM shortage could continue until 2029 or 2030

The potential display cost increase comes amid an already difficult component supply situation. Rising demand for AI data centres has diverted memory production towards high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and server DRAM, leaving less capacity available for consumer electronics. Deloitte expects the memory shortage to persist until 2029 or 2030, as additional manufacturing capacity will take time to come online. The impact is already visible in smartphone pricing. Counterpoint Research estimates that smartphone retail prices increased by 15 percent globally in 2026, with India recording a steeper 21 percent rise. Manufacturers have responded with price increases, fewer discounts and compromises on specifications, including memory and storage configurations.

For consumers, another round of component-driven price increases could make upgrading less attractive, especially for those buying in the budget and mid-range segments. Those whose existing phones still meet their needs may want to delay an upgrade. Buyers who need a new device can also consider previous-generation flagships or certified refurbished models instead of paying a premium for the latest launches.

• ASUS Zenbook 14 launched in India with Intel Core Ultra 9, AMD Ryzen AI 7 and Snapdragon X processor options
• The laptop features up to a 14-inch 3K 120Hz OLED touchscreen and 16GB RAM
• Prices start at Rs 1,36,990, with three distinct colour options 

[/highlights]

ASUS has launched the new Zenbook 14 laptop lineup in India, with three configurations powered by Intel, AMD and Qualcomm processors. The premium laptop features a lightweight design with a Ceraluminum finish, OLED display options and up to 50 TOPS of NPU performance for AI workloads. Let's check it out in more detail below. 

ASUS Zenbook 14 price in India, availability

The ASUS Zenbook 14 is available in three variants, with prices as follows:

• ASUS Zenbook 14 UX3480AA (Intel Core Ultra 9): Rs 1,67,990
• ASUS Zenbook 14 UX3480KA (AMD Ryzen AI 7): Rs 1,56,990
• ASUS Zenbook 14 UX3480QA (Snapdragon X): Rs 1,36,990

The laptop is available through ASUS Exclusive Stores, the ASUS E-shop, Amazon, Croma, Reliance Digital, Vijay Sales and authorised retail partners. The laptop is available in three colour options: Arctic Blue, Komodo Coral and Zabriskie Beige. This gives buyers a little more choice in how their everyday machine looks, rather than limiting them to conventional laptop finishes.

ASUS Zenbook 14: Features and specifications

The ASUS Zenbook 14 focuses on portability, with a slim profile and a starting weight of 1.1kg. This should make it convenient for students and working professionals who frequently carry their laptops between home, office and other locations. The Ceraluminum finish, the brand claims, is designed to resist scratches, shocks, smudges and everyday wear and is MIL-STD-810H military-grade tested.

The three configurations cater to slightly different needs. The Intel Core Ultra 9 386H variant gets the most capable display in the lineup, with a 3K OLED touchscreen and 120Hz refresh rate. This should make it the most appealing option for users who frequently work with visual content, watch videos or simply prefer a sharper and smoother display.

The AMD Ryzen AI 7 345 variant also gets an OLED touchscreen, with stylus support that could be useful for taking notes and making annotations. The more affordable Snapdragon X version uses an FHD+ OLED display and weighs just 1.1kg, making it a practical option for users who prioritise portability.

All three variants come with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, which should be adequate for everyday productivity, multitasking and general use. They also offer dedicated NPUs for on-device AI workloads, although their capabilities vary by processor. ASUS claims the laptop can deliver up to 33 hours of battery life, while USB-C fast charging can replenish the battery to 50 per cent in 30 minutes. Actual battery life will depend on the configuration and usage.

Should you buy the new Zenbook 14?

The ASUS Zenbook 14 lineup is worth considering if you want a premium lightweight laptop with an OLED display, long battery life and on-device AI features. The choice of processors also means ASUS could cater to different users. The Snapdragon X variant is for students and professionals who mainly need a laptop for productivity and a battery that lasts throughout the day on a single charge. 

The AMD Ryzen AI option is ideal for users looking for a balance of everyday performance and multitasking, while the Intel Core Ultra 9 Series 3 version is worth watching for those who need more processing power and battery efficiency for demanding workloads. If you regularly handle such workloads and want a premium, lightweight machine as your daily driver, this launch is worth waiting for.

• ColorOS 17 brings luminous and glass-like UI elements throughout the system.
• OnePlus 12, the company's 2024 flagship, is set to receive ColorOS 17 on November 17th.
• Several budget and midrange Realme smartphones will get the latest ColorOS version this month.

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While OPPO unveiled a full-fledged ColorOS 17 release schedule for OnePlus, Realme, and its own devices during the global launch on October 13th, November's release plan is now out. Usually, with major Android upgrades, OPPO, along with others, don't release a date-wise rollout schedule for its devices due to uncertainty from multiple factors, such as a phased rollout based on country or carriers. However, this appears to be changing with the ColorOS 17 rollout, giving users a clearer idea of when the update will hit their devices.

Date-wise ColorOS 17 rollout schedule for OPPO, OnePlus, Realme devices

The November release plan for the stable ColorOS 17 update is as follows: 

How to check for the ColorOS 17 update

While the update will be released to every eligible device on or just after the stated date, you can manually check for the ColorOS 17 update. Here's how:

Step 1: Go ahead and open the Settings app on your OPPO, OnePlus, or Realme device

Step 2: Scroll down and select 'System & update'

Step 3: On the next screen, tap 'Software update'

Step 4: The device will scan for the update. Once the firmware appears, tap the 'Download & install' button

Step 5: Your device will boot into ColorOS 17 shortly after

Upon updating to ColorOS 17, the first major change you'll notice is the luminous and glass effects scattered throughout the system, such as quick settings panels, menus, first-party apps, and more. Beyond that, the update strongly emphasises seamless transitions between pages, while the fluidity and software experience have also improved, as noted in our in-depth ColorOS 17 hands-on story.

Overall, while ColorOS 17 isn't a major update, it builds on what's already there in ColorOS 16 and delivers a smooth, flowing, highly responsive software experience. Users worried about stability or battery-draining issues can hold off and wait for initial feedback from others. That said, if your device isn't slated to receive the update this month, you can check out the complete ColorOS 17 rollout plan for OPPO, OnePlus, and Realme devices here.

• The COLORFUL MEOW-G gaming PC launched in India at Rs 1.9 lakh
• Features AMD Ryzen 5 9600X, RTX 5060 GPU and 32GB DDR5 RAM
• Gets a cat-themed design, 270-degree panoramic cabinet and 360mm liquid cooling

[/highlights]

COLORFUL has launched the MEOW-G Gaming PC Set in India. It is a pre-built PC which features a cat-inspired design with a white-and-orange finish and a 270-degree panoramic layout that shows off the components inside. The product targets gamers, PC enthusiasts  who want a distinctive-looking setup. Let's check it out in detail below. 

COLORFUL MEOW-G Gaming PC Set: price, features

The COLORFUL MEOW-G Gaming PC Set costs Rs 1,90,000 in India, including all taxes. StudBudPC is the sole seller in the country and will provide warranty and after-sales support.

The COLORFUL MEOW-G combines an AMD Ryzen 5 processor with an NVIDIA RTX 5060 graphics card. It also uses matching components from COLORFIRE and XPG to carry its cat-themed design across the system.

The system uses a white-and-orange colour scheme with cat-themed graphics and COLORFIRE's Bobi mascot. Its cabinet offers a 270-degree panoramic view of the internal components, while the matching graphics card, motherboard, liquid cooler and fans help maintain the same look throughout the build.

The PC also uses a 360mm liquid cooler and matching orange case fans. Its motherboard supports Wi-Fi 7, while the cabinet supports Micro-ATX motherboards. The setup is designed to make the components visible rather than hide them inside a conventional gaming cabinet.

Here are the key specifications:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 9600X
• Graphics card: COLORFIRE RTX 5060 MEOW-ORG 8GB GDDR7
• Motherboard: COLORFIRE B850M-MEOW WiFi 7 V14
• RAM: 32GB XPG Lancer Blade DDR5-5600
• Storage: 1TB XPG Gammix S60 Gen 4 M.2 SSD
• CPU cooler: COLORFIRE BELCED II 360 Lite liquid cooler
• Power supply: DeepCool PL650D 650W

Should you buy the MEOW-G Gaming PC Set?

The COLORFUL MEOW-G is different from conventional pre-built gaming PCs because of its design. Its cat-themed cabinet and matching components give it a distinct look, which could appeal to PC enthusiasts who enjoy custom builds. 

Even the core hardware, like the Ryzen 5 9600X processor and RTX 5060 graphics card are not unusual for a PC at this price. However, its Rs 1.9 lakh price tag puts it in a competitive segment. Buyers with a similar budget can also consider the Lenovo Legion Tower 5 Gen 10, which offers similar core specifications but comes with 16GB RAM. The MEOW-G therefore gives buyers more memory out of the box, along with a coordinated custom design and liquid cooling.

Building a PC individually is also worth considering, as the main components in the MEOW-G add up to around Rs 1.68 lakh, excluding the cabinet, liquid cooler and matching fans. A custom build could offer better value with more affordable component choices, while giving buyers greater flexibility.

The MEOW-G is best suited to buyers who value design as much as gaming performance. Its 32GB RAM and distinctive looks make it an interesting ready-to-use option, but those prioritising value should also consider the Lenovo Legion Tower 5 Gen 10 and custom builds.

According to Sunil Grewal, Director and Country Head, GIGABYTE Technology (India) Pvt. Ltd., the next wave of PC growth will be driven by the increasing need for computing capabilities that can handle AI workloads. The company is also betting on the concept of the personal AI PC, where users can train their systems around specific requirements and access more relevant, contextual information.

"Forty years is about reliability and performance. We continue to create components that deliver on both these aspects, but at the same time, we are doing a lot in AI. We have AI PCs, AI TOP systems and, through Giga Computing, we are also involved in AI servers," says Grewal.

For GIGABYTE, this shift represents an opportunity to move beyond being a components-led brand and become a more comprehensive technology provider.

The future belongs to the personal AI PC

While cloud-based AI services have made artificial intelligence accessible to a much wider audience, Grewal believes that local AI computing will become increasingly important. He points to two factors that will drive this transition: data security and the need for more personalised results.

Grewal believes that a personal AI PC will allow users to feed their own information, knowledge and domain-specific data into their systems. This would enable the computer to provide responses that are more relevant to their individual requirements, rather than relying entirely on information available through general-purpose cloud services. He illustrates this with an example of how cloud AI systems can sometimes provide incomplete answers because the information they rely on may not be publicly available.

"The future is about getting an answer that is clear, crisp, and relevant to what you actually need. With your personal AI PC, you will be able to teach your computer about the area you work in, feed it the data you have, and get more specific answers to your queries. At GIGABYTE, we believe the future is the personal AI PC," he explains.

However, educating consumers and channel partners about these capabilities remains an important part of the journey. Grewal says GIGABYTE has conducted more than 20 training sessions over the preceding six months, helping channel partners understand AI and communicate its practical benefits to consumers.

Could AI trigger India's next PC upgrade cycle?

The increasing adoption of AI could also create a fresh opportunity for the PC hardware industry, particularly in India, where a significant number of users continue to work with older-generation machines.

Grewal believes the Indian DIY PC market needs to be viewed through two distinct segments. The first comprises consumers building newer systems with more recent-generation processors, while the second includes users relying on older, refurbished PCs, often based on sixth- or seventh-generation processors.

He believes that AI adoption could encourage users in the latter category to upgrade, as their existing systems may not have the computing capabilities required for newer AI workloads.

Education could be another important demand driver. Grewal points out that several older-generation PCs eventually find their way into educational institutions. As awareness of AI increases among students, parents and educational institutions, there could be greater demand for machines capable of handling AI-related workloads.

"The future is still great for the Indian market. When people understand AI and recognise that children need to be familiar with it, colleges and schools will also have to look at deploying PCs that can handle AI workloads," he says.

Grewal estimates that the newer-generation DIY segment, which he refers to as N+1, currently stands at around one million units. He expects this market to potentially grow to 1.5-1.7 million units over the next three years.

For GIGABYTE, this represents an important opportunity to build on its existing strengths in the components business. Grewal says the company has continued to grow despite concerns about a slowdown in the broader DIY market.

GIGABYTE wants to win over India's creators

While GIGABYTE's AORUS brand has established recognition in the PC components and gaming hardware segments, its laptop business is still in the process of expanding its presence in India.

Grewal acknowledges that the laptop market is highly competitive and that GIGABYTE is taking a measured approach to building its business. Rather than immediately targeting the high-volume entry-level segment, the company is focusing on performance-oriented laptops aimed at professionals, content creators and gamers.

He also believes that the Indian graphics card market has traditionally been driven by professional workloads as much as gaming. Video editing and content creation, for instance, remain important use cases for high-performance graphics cards.

"India has never really been just a gaming market. It has always been a professional market. When we look at how graphics cards are being used in India, a significant application is editing and content creation. Adobe applications are among the most prominent use cases," he says.

This understanding is influencing GIGABYTE's laptop strategy. The company intends to concentrate on the performance segment rather than compete immediately in the entry-level category, which accounts for a significant share of laptop volumes in India.

Grewal says the company has ambitious plans for its laptop business, targeting around fivefold growth. It also intends to increase consumer outreach and channel engagement, with further plans lined up for 2027.

"We understand our strengths, and we will continue to work on them. Over the next three years, GIGABYTE will be investing in this business, focusing on our channel partners as well as consumers. We want people to understand what GIGABYTE brings to the table," he says.

India to remain a key investment market

Beyond expanding its product portfolio, GIGABYTE is also looking at strengthening its presence through investments in local operations, infrastructure, manufacturing relationships and after-sales services.

Grewal says India will be one of the company's focus markets, and that GIGABYTE is willing to invest in building a stronger business here. He points to the company's local relationships and initiatives across motherboard manufacturing, monitors and laptops as part of this effort.

"India is going to be one of the focus markets for GIGABYTE. We are investing in the country, and we want to grow our market share, particularly in laptops. We will be investing in operations, infrastructure, manufacturing and, of course, after-sales services," he says.

For a brand that has built its reputation over four decades through PC components, expanding into adjacent categories will require sustained investments in marketing, consumer education and service infrastructure. Grewal acknowledges that succeeding in India requires both a strong product proposition and a willingness to invest in building the market.

As GIGABYTE marks its 40th anniversary, its ENTER INFINITY campaign in India is also an attempt to bring the celebration closer to its community of gamers and PC builders. Running from November 1 to December 31, 2026, the campaign features three initiatives: Build a Rig, Play a Run and Share Your Story, with rewards including Amazon gift vouchers, AORUS merchandise and GIGABYTE products.

For GIGABYTE, the anniversary is therefore not just about looking back at its journey from motherboards to AI computing. It is also about laying the groundwork for its next chapter in India, with AI, performance computing and a stronger laptop business at the centre of its ambitions.

• Vivo has officially teased the X500 series, Zeiss Telephoto Extender Gen 2 Ultra and Watch GT 2 for India.
• The lineup will include the Vivo X500, X500 Pro and X500 Pro Max, with a tentative November 25th launch date.
• The 400mm telephoto extender is exclusive to the X500 Pro Max, while the Watch GT 2 will be sold separately.

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Vivo is preparing a bigger premium product launch in India this time, with its upcoming flagship smartphones set to arrive alongside camera accessories and a smartwatch. The company has officially started teasing the X500 series in the country, showing the phones with a Zeiss telephoto extender and a rectangular smartwatch. The fine print at the bottom of the teaser explicitly identifies the wearable as the Vivo Watch GT 2, leaving little doubt about which model is headed to India.

Vivo X500 series India launch details

The Vivo X500 series India launch is tentatively expected on November 25th, although Vivo hasn't announced a date yet. The series will comprise three models: the X500, X500 Pro and X500 Pro Max. All three have received BIS certification in India, with model numbers V2619, V2621 and V2610, respectively. The series debuted in China in September before its global launch in October.

The standard Vivo X500 features a 6.59-inch 1.5K 144Hz OLED display, Dimensity 9600M chipset and a 7,500mAh battery. The X500 Pro gets a smaller 6.36-inch 1.5K 144Hz LTPO OLED display, the 2nm Dimensity 9600 Pro processor and a 6,510mAh battery. Both phones have 50MP primary cameras and dedicated telephoto sensors.

The X500 Pro Max sits at the top with a 6.85-inch 2K 144Hz display, the Dimensity 9600 Pro chipset and an 8,000mAh battery in China. Its 200MP Samsung HP0 periscope camera with Zeiss APO optics is the biggest imaging upgrade. The Pro Max also introduces a new tier in Vivo's flagship lineup without replacing the Ultra model, which is expected to arrive separately.

What else to expect at the Vivo X500 series launch event?

The Zeiss telephoto accessories could be a major attraction for mobile photography enthusiasts. Vivo is bringing the Telephoto Extender Gen 2 and Gen 2 Ultra to India, offering 200mm and 400mm equivalent focal lengths, respectively. The 200mm version supports the X500 and X500 Pro, while the 400mm Gen 2 Ultra is exclusively compatible with the X500 Pro Max. Both accessories need to be purchased separately.

The teaser also confirms the Vivo Watch GT 2 for India, after leaks earlier speculated Vivo could be entering the smartwatch segment in India This identification is not just based on the smartwatch's rectangular design, but the fine print at the bottom of the promo explicitly states that the "Vivo Watch GT 2 is not included with the X500 series and must be purchased separately". The smartwatch launched in China in October 2025 alongside the X300 series. It features a 2.07-inch AMOLED display, BlueOS 3.0, GPS, Bluetooth calling and up to 25 days of advertised battery life in its global Bluetooth variant.

Vivo X500 series India price: what to expect

For context, the Vivo X300 launched in India at Rs 75,999, while the X300 Pro started at Rs 1,09,999. The X500 series is likely to command a higher premium, particularly the Pro Max. Its closest competition will be the OPPO Find X10 series, which starts at Rs 1,39,999 in India and goes up to Rs 1,99,999 for the Pro Max.

Vivo will need competitive pricing to take on OPPO's camera-focused flagships. The X500 Pro Max could appeal to buyers interested in long-range photography, especially with its optional 400mm extender, while the smaller X500 Pro offers a more compact alternative. Buyers considering the accessories should also factor in their additional cost, as neither telephoto extender is included with the phones.

• The iQOO 16s has appeared on Malaysia's SIRIM certification database with model number I2606.
• The same model number has previously been associated with the iQOO 16R through international certifications and IMEI listings.
• The iQOO 16 is tipped to launch in India in December.

[/highlights]

We knew that the iQOO 16R, the successor to iQOO's sub-flagship, the iQOO 15R, was in the works. However, we've now come across a very interesting moniker also associated with the iQOO 16 series, one that we haven't really come across since the China-exclusive iQOO 11S in 2023.

Listed as the iQOO 16s, the device carries model number I2606, which has previously been linked to the iQOO 16R through other certification listings. This raises the possibility that iQOO could use different branding for the same smartphone in Malaysia. The listing also adds to the evidence of an upcoming international launch.

iQOO 16R/16s certifications

The Malaysian listing shows an approval date of November 5th and confirms the I2606 model number as the 'iQOO 16s'. The I2606 model number has previously appeared on the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) certification database and the GSMA IMEI database, where it was associated with the iQOO 16R. It also surfaced on Indonesia's TKDN certification database. However, only the latest Malaysian listing identifies it as the iQOO 16s.

Interestingly, there was no iQOO 15s in Malaysia, with the company introducing only the iQOO 15R in the market. The new naming could therefore be a branding decision for the Malaysian market rather than an entirely different device. The shared model number lends weight to this possibility, although iQOO has yet to confirm it.

The iQOO 15R launched in India in February 2026 with a starting price of Rs 44,999 for its 8GB + 256GB variant. The smartphone went on sale in early March and brought flagship-grade performance to the sub-Rs 50,000 segment, but now is sold above that price point, thanks to multiple hikes. It features a 6.59-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, 50MP Sony LYT-700V primary camera, 8MP ultrawide camera and a 32MP front camera. A 7,600mAh battery with 100W charging rounds off the package.

Meanwhile, the iQOO 16R is said to be a rebrand of China's iQOO Z12 Turbo with a potential Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 or Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Pro chipset. Neither of these have been released by Qualcomm yet, and could be the same processor, till the moniker is confirmed. Additionally, as per leaks, the display is expected to be bumped up to 165Hz, from the native 120Hz on the iQOO 15R, which goes up to 144Hz on supported games.

While there is no confirmation of an iQOO 16R/iQOO 16s launch yet, it remains a possibility in India given the 15R's reception. The Neo series has also stopped receiving new models in the country, leaving room for the R series to take up that performance-focused segment. However, the latest filing in Malaysia suggests we might soon see an 's' sub-flagship phone there. There's been no spotting on BIS so far, so we'll keep you updated on that. Those on the hunt for a performance-focused sub-flagship should hold off their purchase, till we gather more information.

• OPPO's latest lineup could include the Reno 17 and Reno 17 Pro.
• The OPPO Pad Air 6 and Watch 5 are also launching alongside the phones.
• The Reno 17 is said to sport a 6.5-inch display.

[/highlights]

OPPO recently teased the Reno 17 series in China, and now it has revealed the official launch date. The lineup is expected to include two phones: the Reno 17 and Reno 17 Pro. More models might join the two, including the Reno 17F and Reno 17c. OPPO has been teasing the new phone, confirming the colour options and some camera features. Leaks have also revealed key specifications of the Reno 17 and Reno 17 Pro, giving us an idea of what to expect. 

OPPO Reno 17 series China launch date

The OPPO Reno 17 series is confirmed to launch in China on November 9th. The teaser image doesn't reveal much about the phone other than mentioning the Reno 17 moniker with a cat and some glitter. This could be a hint for the phone's design, which might have some cute pet elements and a glittery finish. The Reno 15 and Reno 16 series are both known to offer a similar aesthetic. OPPO's Reno series is known to offer one of the most premium and stylish designs in the mid-range segment. 

OPPO's Zhang Ruoxing also teased the Reno 17 with a small tub of glitter, indicating the phone will feature a glittery or shimmery design. Ruoxing's latest posts on Weibo hint at the colour options for the Reno 17: light blue, white, and brown.

The Reno 17 is also teased to feature the industry's first six-second-long live videos. In addition to this, you'll be able to add stickers to live videos, which can move with the people and objects in the scene. You can also make personalised stickers out of things like the milk tea you drank or the music you listened to, and turn your photos into your own digital diary. The Reno 17 uses AI to recognise the subject of the scene so you can freely adjust the sticker layers. These features could appeal to social media creators and Gen Z users.

OPPO hasn't revealed the specifications of the Reno 17 series yet, but the teasers suggest we will get creative camera and editing features. The Reno 17 series could be worth waiting for if you want a good-looking phone with versatile cameras in the premium mid-range segment. Reno 15 or Reno 16 users might want to reconsider, though, as leaks suggest the Reno 17 series might not offer major upgrades. We should still wait for official details, though, as the specifications are all speculation now. 

• Huawei's rumoured Xingmang sub-brand will reportedly be called Osta, with two phones planned for its debut.
• The Osta O1 Pro could feature a 6.39-inch 1.5K wide display and up to 16GB of RAM with 1TB of storage.
• The Osta O1 is tipped to feature a quad-curved display and a circular rear camera module.

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Huawei's upcoming smartphone sub-brand appears to be taking shape, with new leaks revealing its English name and the first two phones in its lineup. Previously referred to as Xingmang, loosely translated as Starlight or Starburst, the brand will reportedly launch as Osta. Its first products are said to be the Osta O1 and O1 Pro, both said to be in the flagship segment rather than the mid-range category suggested by earlier reports.

IT Home reports citing tipster Digital Chat Station that the brand will be called Osta. The tipster shared a partial image of the O1 Pro's retail box, showing the packaging carrying the Osta branding and identifying a 16GB RAM and 1TB storage configuration. Huawei hasn't officially confirmed the new sub-brand, with the company directing queries about the reports to its official announcements.

Osta O1 series specifications

The Osta O1 Pro is expected to be the more distinctive of the two phones. It's tipped to feature a 6.39-inch flat LTPS display with 1.5K resolution and a 16:9.5 aspect ratio. This is considerably wider than the 19.5:9 or 20:9 screens common on smartphones today. The display is also said to have narrow bezels measuring around 1.05 mm on all four sides, while the rear could feature a horizontal camera strip.

The reported screen proportions are similar to those on Huawei's Pura X View, which went on sale in China in September. Huawei therefore introduced this wide-screen format on its mainline range before OPPO's reported plans for a similar non-folding phone. Xiaomi is also exploring wider-screen designs, including its recent wide foldable and also a non-folding model. The Osta model would give Huawei another way to build on the format without making it exclusive to its flagship lineup.

The O1 Pro is reportedly planned in four configurations: 12GB + 256GB, 12GB + 512GB, 16GB + 512GB and 16GB + 1TB. Its hardware and pricing are said to be comparable to Huawei's flagship phones. Some leaks have also pointed to a Kirin 9-series processor, possibly the Kirin 9025, and HarmonyOS 7, but neither detail is confirmed. The reported colour options include Starry Sky Black, Nebula White and Starlight Purple.

The standard Osta O1 is tipped to feature a display curved on all four sides and a large circular camera module on the back. This would give it a more conventional premium-phone design compared with the O1 Pro's wider, flat screen. Details such as its display size, chipset, cameras and battery remain unknown.

If the leaks are true, Osta may not necessarily be a more affordable alternative to Huawei's flagship phones. Buyers will need to see how its pricing, software support and camera hardware compare with the main Huawei range before judging its value. 

• The upcoming OPPO smartphone is said to carry the model number PNC110.
• The phone could potentially sit under the OPPO A series.
• The 12,000mAh OPPO phone has been certified in China.

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With the introduction of silicon-carbon technology and continued innovation in smartphone battery technology, most phones released recently have carried massive batteries of up to 10,000mAh. While OPPO also jumped on the high-capacity battery bandwagon last year, along with releasing the OPPO A7 Pro Max with a 10,000mAh cell a few weeks back globally, the brand isn't done yet. A new report suggests that OPPO may be working on a smartphone with a 12,000mAh battery, likely a midrange one that could sit under the A series.

OPPO smartphone with 12,000mAh battery gets MIIT certification

As reported by XpertPick, an unnamed OPPO smartphone with the model number PNC110 recently bagged China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) certification. The ministry mandates that devices released in China that connect to China's public telecommunications networks must obtain this certification. Therefore, it's certain that said device will initially launch in China.

On to the important data, the certification listing's metadata shows the device is equipped with a 11,460mAh battery. As this is the rated capacity, the typical capacity is expected to be marketed at around 12,000mAh. Beyond that, the certification doesn't reveal details like the smartphone's processor, display, or camera.

Given the PNC110 model number, the upcoming OPPO smartphone could fall under the A7 series, likely as an advanced version of the OPPO A7 Pro Max. This is an assumption based on the fact that the OPPO A6c featured the model number PMC110, but had a smaller 6,500mAh battery.

Do we really need 12,000mAh batteries on phones?

With 10,000mAh batteries already becoming the norm, it's no surprise that brands are pushing the boundaries even further. While anything under 8,000mAh already delivers excellent endurance, as we've tested on phones like the OPPO K14 Plus in our review, higher capacity figures primarily help manufacturers stand out through marketing.

That's not to say larger batteries lack real-world benefits, but beyond a certain point the extra capacity can start to feel like overkill. On the other hand, as RAM and flash storage prices rise, upgrading camera hardware or the display can substantially increase production costs. Investing in a bigger battery therefore makes more sense for brands looking to highlight clear upgrades on paper.

• Redmi Turbo 6 Max is tipped to house an 11,000mAh battery.
• The handset could feature a large 7-inch display.
• Redmi has yet to officially confirm the Turbo 6 Max. 

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Redmi Turbo 6 Max is tipped to launch as the brand's large-screened phone, similar to a phablet. It could feature a 7-inch display, making it the largest on a Xiaomi phone yet. A new leak now suggests the Redmi Turbo 6 Max's battery capacity. If the leak is accurate, it would be the largest battery yet on a Redmi phone. 

Redmi Turbo 6 Max battery capacity (expected)

Redmi Turbo 6 Max is tipped to feature a massive 11,000mAh battery, according to tipster Digital Chat Station. The smartphone was already tipped to house a battery capacity exceeding 10,000mAh. The new leak gives a more precise number. Even so, the Redmi Turbo 6 Max would be offering the largest battery we've seen on a Xiaomi/Redmi phone yet. The tipster adds that this battery capacity is rated at 40.72Wh. With an 11,000mAh battery, the Redmi Turbo 6 Max would be more than capable of providing multi-day usage to power users and gamers alike. It's also an upgrade over its predecessor, the Redmi Turbo 5 Max, which packs a large 9,000mAh battery. 

Although DCS hasn't mentioned the phone's name, the comments suggest it's the Redmi Turbo 6 Max. The details are also aligned with the rumoured specifications of the Turbo 6 Max. 

The Redmi Turbo 6 Max is also expected to feature a 7-inch 2K display with a 185Hz refresh rate, LTPS OLED panel, and ultra-slim bezels. This display would make for a great gaming and multitasking device. The smartphone is tipped to use the Dimensity 9500 or Dimensity 9500M chipset. For optics, you might get a 50MP main camera with OIS and an ultra-wide lens. The Turbo 6 Max is also rumoured to feature a metal frame, horizontal camera module, an IP69 rating, and an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor. 

It looks like big-screen phones will soon become a trend, as DCS predicts we'll see more of them from the end of this year to the first half of next year. We can expect a 7-inch mid-range phone with equal depth and four equal sides, a 7-inch mid-range performance phone, a 7-inch slim and lightweight near-flagship phone with a curved display, a 7-inch performance phone with a 2K resolution, and a 7-inch flagship phone with a 2K resolution. All these phones are also said to offer a large battery exceeding 10,000mAh. 

If a large screen and massive battery fit your vibe, we'd suggest waiting for the Redmi Turbo 6 Max or the rumoured 7-inch phones. However, those who don't prefer a regular size or compact form factor might not be interested. 

• Jio's unlimited 5G pack is available across India.
• Users get access to unlimited 5G data for 24 hours.
• With this launch, Jio is the only telco to offer this data pack. 

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Reliance Jio has launched a new unlimited 5G data pack for only Rs 15. This data pack gives users access to unlimited 5G for 24 hours. The telco says that its Truly Unlimited 5G data pack provides 24 hours of "unrestricted high-speed 5G connectivity". The unlimited 5G pack is now live for all Jio users across India. 

Jio's truly unlimited 5G pack

The unlimited 5G pack is priced at Rs 15 and is available as a data booster for when you need lots of data for a short period of time. Jio has listed some of the use cases for its new unlimited 5G pack. Some of these include binge-watching HD movies, streaming live sports, and 4K content without any buffering or interruptions. Jio also assures users can enjoy lag-free gaming with ultra-low ping rates. 

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Jio users can also use the unlimited 5G data pack to upload heavy device backups, massive work folders, and high-resolution videos to the cloud. At the same time, users can also download large-sized movies, games, or videos with the unlimited 5G pack. Lastly, and most importantly, with the 5G pack, your phone can turn into a hotspot for other devices. 

Do note that you would need a 5G phone and available 5G connectivity to be able to use this unlimited data pack. With the latest launch, Jio offers the most affordable unlimited 5G data booster among telcos in India. In comparison, Airtel offers unlimited data for 24 hours at Rs 49, but this is for 4G data and not unlimited 5G. Vi doesn't have any equivalent data packs. 

That said, all three telcos bundle unlimited 5G with select recharge plans for their subscribers. Jio's new Rs 15 unlimited 5G data pack is more of a booster for users who don't have an active 5G plan and want to use or need high-speed connectivity for a limited time.

Does this mean you should switch to Jio? Based on the available plans, all three telcos offer similarly priced recharge plans with unlimited data, but Jio offers the highest daily data allowance at the entry level. The ultimate decision should still lie in where you're staying and which telco's 5G connectivity is the best in that area. You can also check the various benefits offered by each telco to see which one suits your needs the best. 

• Nothing CEO Carl Pei has confirmed that the company's first AI-native product will ship in December.
• The screen-less device is being marketed as a productivity tool, although its functionality remains under wraps.
• Pei hints at a productivity-focused tool that could help AI capture more context from users' everyday lives.

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Nothing CEO Carl Pei has confirmed that the company will launch its first AI-native product in December. The device will have no screen and, according to Pei, is something that "couldn't have been an app". While he hasn't revealed what it does, a teaser image offers a first glimpse of the hardware. It shows a closeup of a black object with a broad, flat surface, a rounded corner and a textured edge, though its form factor is difficult to make out.

In an essay titled Toolmakers, Pei describes the upcoming product as a productivity tool built with the "personality and care" associated with Nothing products. He also outlines why he believes productivity, rather than a new consumer gadget, is where AI hardware should focus first.

What could Nothing's first AI product do?

Pei argues that AI models are already capable, but lack enough information about users' everyday lives to be truly useful. He calls this the "context gap". People routinely connect their inboxes and calendars or share screenshots to give AI assistants the necessary background, but useful information from conversations often never reaches these models.

Pei gives the example of someone sharing an idea over coffee or making a useful remark during a meeting. Reaching for a phone to record it can interrupt the moment, while not saving it means the information may be forgotten. "The intelligence is already here, and the context is what's missing," he writes. This points towards an always-available capture device, potentially an AI recorder or note-taking tool that can save conversations and feed them to an AI assistant. However, this is only a possibility based on Pei's essay, and Nothing hasn't confirmed the device's purpose.

The idea would build on the company's existing software. The Nothing Phone (3a) series introduced the Essential Key, which lets users save voice notes, screenshots and other information to Essential Space. The platform can transcribe recordings and organise saved content into summaries and tasks. Dedicated hardware could take this further by removing the need to reach for a phone to capture information.

Pei believes AI will become useful at work before it finds its defining consumer device. He compares this with PCs, which gained traction through spreadsheets and word processing, and mobile phones, which initially served people who needed to stay connected while working. He is sceptical of the industry's search for an "iPhone moment" through pins, pendants and smart glasses, arguing that the more immediate opportunity lies in tools that help people get real work done.

There are already products exploring this space. Plaud sells dedicated AI recording devices, while India's NeoSapien offers a wearable note-taker that captures conversations and generates summaries. Nothing will need to show why its hardware offers an advantage over these products and smartphone-based recording apps.

Pei also says Nothing has tens of millions of devices in people's "pockets and ears". Its experience building hardware and software together could help it integrate a new AI tool with its existing ecosystem. However, the company hasn't said whether the December product will work exclusively with Nothing devices.

For now, its identity and capabilities remain unknown. The teaser image doesn't establish whether it is wearable, portable or designed for a desk. Interestingly, Nothing also teased the Pokemon Kingdra on its community page last week, with a "Coming Soon" message, although there's no confirmed link between Kingdra and the upcoming AI device. Whether the two teasers point to the same launch remains to be seen. Nothing should reveal more about its mysterious new product in the coming weeks.

• Xiaomi could be testing a wide-screen phone.
• The handset will reportedly feature a side fingerprint sensor.
• OPPO is also rumoured to be working on a similar device. 

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Wide-screen smartphones could be the new trend as more brands are experimenting with this design. 2026 saw the rise of wide-screen foldables with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8, iPhone Duo, and Xiaomi 18 Fold. This form factor could soon become mainstream, judging by the recent leaks. Xiaomi appears to be one of those brands experimenting with a wide-screen slab smartphone. 

Xiaomi tests wide-screen phone

A new post by tipster Digital Chat Station on Weibo talks about an Android smartphone with a wide, straight design being tested. This smartphone is also said to feature a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. DCS doesn't reveal which brand it is, but comments suggest the tipster is talking about Xiaomi. 

A wide-screen smartphone would be different from the regular ones, as the aspect ratio would be wider. It would be more boxy too in terms of design, as opposed to the tall form factor we're used to seeing. This form factor would be similar to wide foldables like the Xiaomi 18 Fold, but on a slab smartphone. The wider display design makes it easier to multitask, type, read, and more. 

Huawei already has the Pura X View, which is the perfect example of a wide-screen phone. It has a wide, compact form factor with the display featuring a 16:9.5 aspect ratio. However, the Huawei Pura X View's availability is limited to China. Since Xiaomi is quite active globally, especially in India, it would have an advantage with a bigger market. 

Not just Xiaomi, OPPO is also rumoured to be working on a wide-screen smartphone with a 16:9 or 16:10 aspect ratio. This means that we might be seeing wide-screen phones as the latest trend in the smartphone industry going forward. 

DCS has only leaked early information, with no details on the phone's specifications. We would have to wait for more leaks to understand what Xiaomi is planning for its wide-screen phone. But if this form factor is something that interests you, it could be worth waiting for. 

• The Samsung Galaxy S27 Pro and S27 Ultra are tipped to get an upgraded Privacy Display, which originally debuted on the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
• The Galaxy S27 Pro could become the first non-Ultra Samsung flagship to feature the technology.
• The standard Galaxy S27 and S27+ will reportedly miss out on the feature.

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When the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra launched earlier this year with a built-in Privacy Display feature, our review called it a potential "game-changer" and a feature that we never knew we needed until we had it. It allowed users to limit screen visibility from side angles without attaching a separate privacy screen protector. Now, Samsung appears to be preparing to take one of its more interesting display innovations beyond its Ultra flagships. The Privacy Display feature could trickle down to the upcoming Galaxy S27 Pro, giving buyers another reason to consider the new addition to Samsung's flagship lineup.

According to SamMobile, Samsung plans to equip both the Galaxy S27 Pro and Galaxy S27 Ultra with an improved version of the technology. The publication claims to have exclusive information but hasn't cited its sources, so the report should be treated as an early leak. The standard Galaxy S27 and S27+ are reportedly missing out on the feature.

Samsung Galaxy S27 Pro features

The Galaxy S27 series could be the first time we have a 'Pro' variant in the series. Samsung is reportedly introducing the S27 Pro as a more compact and slightly more affordable alternative to the Ultra, rather than simply offering another screen-size option. The phone is tipped to feature a 6.4-inch AMOLED display, compared to the Ultra's 6.9-inch panel. Earlier reports also point to a smaller 5,200mAh battery against the Ultra's rumoured 5,700mAh unit. The Ultra is expected to retain S Pen support, which could be another reason for buyers to choose the top-end model.

The upgraded Privacy Display could also offer more flexibility. Earlier leaks have suggested that Samsung is working on a split-screen implementation, allowing users to restrict visibility in only part of the display while keeping the rest visible. This would be useful when viewing sensitive notifications or entering payment details without hiding everything else on the screen.

Samsung's Privacy Display on the Galaxy S26 Ultra uses its Flex Magic Pixel OLED technology to control how light travels from the display. When activated, the panel limits visibility from side angles while keeping content clear for the person looking directly at it. Users can also configure it to activate for specific apps, passwords and notifications.

Privacy Display in other Android phones

Samsung is no longer alone in this space. Xiaomi has introduced its own hardware-based Smart Privacy Display on the Xiaomi 18 Pro series. Its implementation goes further with selective privacy controls for apps, notifications and split-screen content, alongside automatic activation based on certain conditions. This puts pressure on Samsung to make the upgraded version genuinely more useful rather than simply expanding its availability.

For buyers, the Galaxy S27 Pro could be an interesting option if they want Ultra-level display features without carrying a large phone. However, those who value the S Pen, a larger display and more advanced camera hardware may still prefer the Ultra. Samsung's final implementation of Privacy Display, particularly its selective-screen controls, will be worth watching.

• OPPO launched the F35 Pro with ColorOS 16.5 on Android 17.
• ColorOS 17 promises several privacy and security improvements.
• The update brings ColorOS Smoothness Boost, exclusive to the OPPO F-series, for enhanced responsiveness.

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With ColorOS 17 officially out for several high-end and mid-range OPPO, OnePlus, and Realme smartphones in India, the OPPO F35 Pro is next in line to receive the update. The update promises seamless navigation between menus, more customisation options, and intelligent AI tools to simplify everyday tasks. For enhanced interactions, the update brings ColorOS Smoothness Boost, exclusive to the OPPO F-series, to further optimise system responsiveness for a fluid experience over time.

ColorOS 17 released for OPPO F35 Pro: what's new

Smoothness and responsiveness improvements

Since ColorOS has always emphasised a smooth, responsive experience, it only makes sense for ColorOS 17 to raise the bar further. Therefore, the Laminar Flow Engine optimises foreground and background tasks for responsive performance and efficient resource use.

As a result, app launch stability has been improved by 55 percent, while thumbnails in Gallery load up to 50 percent faster compared to ColorOS 16. Similarly, the Luminous Rendering Engine reduces rendering load by up to 30 percent and RAM usage for rendering by up to 25 percent in key scenarios, supporting richer visuals without sacrificing fluidity.

Privacy and security upgrades

AI Call Guard has been introduced on ColorOS 17 and uses on-device AI to monitor calls and video interactions in real time, alerting users to potential fraud involving synthetic (AI-generated) voices or AI-manipulated faces/deepfakes.

From ColorOS 16, Private Computing Cloud (PCC) strengthens data protection with end-to-end encryption, ensuring personal data remains private and inaccessible to third parties, including OPPO itself. To tackle the rise in digital theft and phishing, this improvement could go a long way toward helping users avoid potential scams.

Cosmetic design changes

As noted in our review, since the OPPO F35 Pro already ran Android 17 with ColorOS 16.5, the UI shared many similarities with ColorOS 17. Therefore, you may not find many cosmetic changes compared to ColorOS 16.5, which came out of the box on the OPPO F35 Pro. As for the actual changes compared to ColorOS 16, the smartphone brings a couple of new lockscreen clock fonts, a redesigned bottom navigation bar in first-party apps, and the introduction of Live Space, a pill-shaped UI element at the bottom of the lockscreen.

Beyond that, ColorOS 17 builds on the OPPO F35 Pro's strengths in imaging, battery endurance, and everyday performance with refined software optimisations. If you haven't received the update via OTA, head to Settings > System & update > Software update > Download and install once the update pops up.

For a more detailed look at ColorOS 17, we've covered the skin in depth in our hands-on story, which covers multiple aspects, such as UI changes, AI enhancements, customisation options, and more.

As for whether you should upgrade your OPPO F35 Pro to ColorOS 17, the improvements make it worth updating to the latest skin for a smoother software experience and better stability.

• The Vivo Watch GT 2 could launch in India alongside the upcoming X500 series, which is expected to released around November 25th.
• The watch launched in China in October 2025 and is available in select global markets including Malaysia and UAE.
• This would be the first watch from Vivo to launch in India, if it debuts.

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Vivo recently expanded its smartwatch lineup in China with the launch of its flagship wearable, the Vivo Watch 6, in September. Six years after entering the smartwatch market, word's spreading that the company could finally bring its smartwatch portfolio to India. However, it's not going to be the flagship Watch 6, but probably the lifestyle-focused option, the Vivo Watch GT 2, which debuted in China last year. Tipster Sanju Choudhary claims Vivo will launch the Watch GT 2 in India alongside the flagship X500 series, which is said to debut around November 25th in the country.

Vivo Watch GT 2 features and price

The Vivo Watch GT 2 broke cover in October 2025 in China when the preceding flagships, the Vivo X300 series, was unveiled. It subsequently began its global rollout in mid-2026, launching in Malaysia in May this year and later on in Europe.

The Vivo Watch GT 2 has a rectangular design with an aluminium alloy frame and a 2.07-inch AMOLED display. The panel offers a 432 x 514 pixels resolution, a 60Hz refresh rate and up to 2,400 nits of local peak brightness. It runs BlueOS 3.0 and works with both Android and iOS smartphones.

The global version also brings some changes for international users, including Google Maps integration. Its Bluetooth variant packs a 580mAh rated battery which is advertised to last up to 25 days, with 14 days of typical use. This is lower than the 33-day maximum battery life claimed for the Chinese version under power-saving conditions. Other features include Bluetooth calling, GPS, NFC, heart rate and blood oxygen monitoring, sleep and stress tracking, and over 100 sports modes. Vivo also sells an eSIM variant in select markets, although its availability in India remains unclear.

The Watch GT 2 launched in Europe at EUR 149 (around Rs 16,000) and is available in Malaysia for RM 499 (around Rs 12,000), while its UAE price is AED 399 (around Rs 11,000). We have no details on the expected Indian pricing yet.

What to expect from the Vivo Watch GT 2 in India

An India launch would be an important addition to Vivo's growing product ecosystem. The company has expanded its premium smartphone portfolio through the X series and foldables, but its wearable offerings haven't had the same official presence. Bringing smartwatches to India would give Vivo another way to retain customers beyond their smartphone purchases, much like Samsung and Apple do with their connected devices.

The Watch GT 2 would enter a segment that includes Amazfit, Redmi, OnePlus and Samsung. Its combination of a large AMOLED display, Google Maps integration and multi-day battery life could help it appeal to users who want more than basic fitness tracking without having to charge their watch every couple of days. However, the competition offers different strengths. Amazfit focuses on battery endurance and fitness tracking, while OnePlus and Samsung offer more extensive app ecosystems through Wear OS. Vivo's BlueOS 3.0 sits somewhere in between, with useful smart features but a more limited selection of third-party apps.

The optional eSIM variant could also help differentiate the Watch GT 2, especially if Vivo brings cellular connectivity to India at a competitive price. However, the company will need to clarify compatibility with Indian telecom operators.

Vivo has built one of India's largest smartphone businesses and was the country's leading brand by shipments for several consecutive quarters before Samsung reclaimed the top spot in Q3 2026. This gives it a sizeable existing customer base to tap as it looks to expand beyond smartphones. The Watch GT 2 could appeal to Vivo X-series and other phone owners looking for a companion smartwatch with long battery life and connected features.

• HP OmniBook 5 launched in India starting at Rs 1,09,999
• HP ProBook 4 G2iS is priced starting at Rs 1,27,499 
• Both laptops feature lightweight designs, Intel processors and integrated NPUs for AI workloads

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HP has launched two new laptops in India, the OmniBook 5 and ProBook 4 G2iS, targeting students and business users, respectively. The laptops focus on portability and AI-ready performance, with OLED displays, lightweight designs and newer Intel processors. Here's what the two laptops offer and how they differ.

HP OmniBook 5 and ProBook 4 G2iS: price in India

The HP OmniBook 5 14 starts at Rs 1,09,999, with a net effective price down to Rs 79,999 with applicable offers. HP is accepting pre-bookings until November 10 through its online store and HP World stores, with regular sales starting on the same date.

The HP ProBook 4 G2iS 14 starts at Rs 1,24,499 with an effective price of Rs 99,990 with applicable discounts. HP will begin selling the Mist Silver variant on November 6, with select configurations already available to order through its online store. The Atmospheric Blue and Eclipse Grey options will be available by the end of December.

HP OmniBook 5: features and specifications

The HP OmniBook 5 is designed for students and everyday users who need a lightweight laptop for studying, work and entertainment. While HP's launch announcement mentions configurations with up to an Intel Core 7 processor, the models currently listed on its India store use the Intel Core 5 320. This six-core, six-thread chip runs at up to 4.6GHz and includes an integrated NPU rated at 16 TOPS for supported AI workloads, alongside Intel integrated graphics.

Current configurations offer 8GB or 16GB of onboard LPDDR5 memory and 512GB of SSD storage. Since the memory is soldered and cannot be upgraded, buyers should consider the 16GB variants to future-proof their purchase if the budget allows. 

The laptop features a 14-inch OLED display with a 1920 x 1200 resolution, 300 nits of brightness and 100 per cent DCI-P3 colour coverage. It also has a 16:10 aspect ratio, Gorilla Glass 3 protection, a touch-screen option, and a low-blue-light mode. The panel should deliver rich colours and deep contrast, but its brightness may be limiting in brightly lit environments.

The OmniBook 5 measures 11.77mm in thickness and weighs 1.16kg. It has an aluminium chassis, a 180-degree hinge, two USB-C ports with DisplayPort support and an HDMI 2.1 port. Other features include a 1080p FHD IR webcam, Poly Studio-tuned dual speakers with DTS Ultra, and a compact 65W USB-C GaN charger.

The laptop packs a 60Wh battery with fast charging support, which HP claims can take it to 50 per cent in around 30 minutes. HP also claims up to 42 hours of local video playback on a single charge, although actual battery life will vary with usage. The OmniBook 5 comes in Smoke Silver, Starlit Blue, Peony Pink and Soft Honeydew colour options.

HP ProBook 4 G2iS: features and specifications

The HP ProBook 4 G2iS targets small businesses and professionals who need a portable laptop for office work and hybrid setups. It features an aluminium chassis that measures 12mm in thickness and weighs as little as 1.18kg. It comes in three colours: Mist Silver, Atmospheric Blue and Eclipse Gray.

The laptop runs on up to Intel Core 7 processors with an integrated NPU that delivers up to 17 TOPS of AI performance. Buyers can configure it with up to 32GB of memory and 1TB of SSD storage, while the 14-inch 2.8K OLED display offers a sharper viewing experience for work and entertainment.

The ProBook 4 G2iS also packs a 70Wh battery and is MIL-STD durability certified. For video calls, it includes an FHD HDR camera with an IR sensor and dual microphones. HP's AI-based noise reduction can also filter background sounds to make calls clearer.

Since HP designed this laptop for business users, it includes additional security features such as a physical camera privacy shutter, HP Drive Lock and HP Secure Erase. These tools give businesses more ways to protect user privacy and sensitive data.

Should you buy the HP OmniBook 5 and ProBook 4?

The HP OmniBook 5 is worth considering if you want a lightweight everyday laptop with an OLED display. The models currently listed on HP's India store, however, use the Intel Core 5 320, while the Core 7 configurations mentioned in the launch announcement are yet to appear. The processor should handle routine productivity and multitasking, but this is not a laptop aimed at demanding workloads. We would recommend opting for a 16GB variant, as the memory is soldered and cannot be upgraded later.

At an effective price of around Rs 79,999 with eligible bank offers, the OmniBook 5 competes with the Dell 14S which launched recently, which also starts with an Intel Core 5 320. HP's main advantage is its OLED display and lighter design, while Dell offers a brighter, higher-refresh-rate screen in its more expensive configuration. The OmniBook 5 makes more sense for buyers who prioritise display quality and portability. Users with iPhones may find Apple MacBook Neo a good alternative at a similar price. 

The HP ProBook 4 G2iS, meanwhile, is for professionals who need a portable machine for work. Its higher starting price of Rs 86,000 plus taxes is accompanied by business-focused features such as HP Drive Lock, Secure Erase and a physical camera shutter, as well as MIL-STD durability testing. The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 7 is a suitable alternative for the ProBook, starting at Rs 1,33,990. It offers a more traditional business laptop experience, although its WUXGA IPS display options are less premium than the ProBook's 2.8K OLED panel. 

• The Moto Edge 70 Max and Signature are powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor
• The Moto G37 Power is available at just Rs 14,999.
• The Flipkart Big Bang Diwali sale is already live.

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With Flipkart's Big Billion Days Sale concluding just a few weeks ago, the e-commerce giant is now hosting the Big Bang Diwali sale, offering discounts and price cuts across smartphone brands. As part of the sale, Motorola has unveiled offers on the Signature, Edge and G series smartphones, giving buyers the chance to grab the devices at lower rates just before Diwali.

Flipkart Big Bang Diwali sale deals on Motorola phones

The Flipkart Big Bang Diwali sale is already live with no confirmed end date. So, if you're planning to buy a smartphone, acting quickly may be a wise choice to avoid missing out on the deals.

Motorola Signature

The only flagship that hasn't seen a price hike this year in India, the Motorola Signature (review) is an excellent high-end pick for those seeking flagship-grade cameras, a sleek build, and an expansive display experience under Rs 60,000. With an offer price of Rs 57,499, the Signature's Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor should deliver strong performance numbers across tasks, while the 50MP 1/1.28-inch primary camera, the same one found on the OPPO Find X9 Pro and Vivo X300 Pro, is capable of capturing detailed, clear images.

The only concern with the Motorola Signature could be its relatively small 5,200mAh battery, given that most flagship smartphones now feature at least a 7,000mAh cell.

Moto Edge 70 Max

For Rs 51,999, the Moto Edge 70 Max (review) is a strong, affordable alternative to other performance-focused high-end smartphones, such as the OnePlus 15R and iQOO 15R. With the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, a 7,100mAh battery, and a 6.82-inch 2K AMOLED display, the Edge 70 Max can deliver a well-rounded gaming and entertainment experience. However, users seeking a flexible camera setup which includes a telephoto lens may have to look at more expensive options.

Moto Edge 70 Pro, Edge 70 Pro+

The Moto Edge 70 Pro (review) and Edge 70 Pro+ (review) make strong sense if you want a sleek, well-balanced upper mid-range phone. Both offer an impressively slim and light design, a bright 6.8-inch 144Hz 1.5K AMOLED display that peaks at 5,200 nits, and a large 6,500 mAh battery with 90W charging.

The Dimensity 8500 Extreme chipset powers performance, wrapped in solid IP68/IP69 and MIL-STD-810H durability with relatively clean Android software. The Edge 70 Pro at Rs 36,999 delivers excellent everyday value at a lower price, while the Pro+ at Rs 44,999 adds a useful 3.5x periscope telephoto camera and 15W wireless charging for those who prioritise zoom photography and convenience.

Moto G37 Power, G77 Power

Both use the Dimensity 6400, but the Moto G77 Power (review) adds a 1080p display over the G37 Power's 720p panel and gains an additional 8MP ultrawide lens. So, if you want a crisper display and a more flexible camera setup, the Moto G77 Power is worth the extra cost, while the G37 Power (review) suits users who are happy with a 720p panel.

• New leak suggests a 14,000mAh-15,000mAh battery phone is being tested.
• The brand hasn't been revealed, but it's speculated to be Honor.
• Honor is known for offering large battery phones. 

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Smartphone batteries have jumped significantly over the past year, with brands offering 8,000mAh and even 10,000mAh in mid-range phones. It looks like this will only go further, as a new leak says a 14,000mAh to 15,000mAh battery is now being tested, which could provide power for about a week. While the leak doesn't mention the specific brand, it's speculated that it could be Honor. 

Honor testing 14,000mAh, 15,000mAh smartphone battery

According to a post on Weibo by Digital Chat Station (DCS), a 14,000mAh-15,000mAh large-capacity battery is currently being tested, and this prototype can last for an entire week. DCS hasn't revealed the brand's name, but replies to the post suggest it could be Honor. Some argue that it's not Honor, but GizmoChina also suggests it's Honor. 

Also, this isn't the first we're hearing about this, as it was tipped earlier this year that Honor is working on a 14,000mAh battery phone. Honor is also known for offering large battery phones like the recently launched Win RT 2 and Win Turbo 2 phones, which offer 12,070mAh batteries. 

Fitting a 14,000mAh or 15,000mAh battery in a phone might result in bulkiness, but DCS adds that the thickness won't be excessive since it's a high-density battery. Smartphone companies have been using silicon-carbon batteries that are large in terms of capacity but still help the phone maintain a slim and light design. Honor will most likely follow this approach too. 

If this phone ever does commercialise, it's expected to offer the best battery life, which will last for an entire week. This would make the device highly suitable for gamers, power users, or those who have to be outdoors for long periods and don't have easy access to charging stations. If you're someone who really wants a phone that can last days without needing a charge, you might want to wait for this rumoured device. 

Seeing how ambitious and experimental Honor is, we might just see the brand launch a 14,000mAh or 15,000mAh battery phone soon. Availability might be limited to China or select markets, but it's still interesting to see how far smartphone technology can go in terms of battery life. 

• The ASUS ProArt P16 starts at Rs 4,99,990, while the ProArt P14 starts at Rs 3,29,990.
• The ProArt P16 offers up to 128GB unified memory and a 16-inch 4K OLED touchscreen.
• The new ProArt lineup is designed to support local AI workloads.

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ASUS has launched the new ProArt P16 and ProArt P14 laptops in India, powered by NVIDIA RTX Spark N1X and aimed at creators, AI developers and creative professionals. The new laptops focus on running demanding AI workloads locally while offering high-resolution OLED displays and portable designs. Let's take a closer look at these products below. 

ASUS ProArt P16 and P14: price in India 

The ASUS ProArt P16 and P14 come in the following configurations:

ASUS will sell both laptops through its exclusive stores, Croma, Reliance Digital, Flipkart, Amazon and its official online store.

ASUS ProArt P16 and P14: features and specifications

The ASUS ProArt P16 and P14 use NVIDIA RTX Spark N1X processors, combining Grace CPUs with Blackwell RTX graphics and unified memory. The P16 features a 20-core CPU and up to a 6,144-core GPU, while the more compact P14 uses an 18-core CPU and a 5,120-core GPU. The P16 supports up to 128GB of unified memory, while the P14 comes with 24GB.

This setup allows creators and developers to run demanding AI models and applications directly on their laptops rather than relying entirely on cloud services. ASUS says the machines support over 1,000 AI-accelerated applications, including Adobe's creative tools, Blender and ComfyUI. This could be useful for developers working with local AI models, as well as creators who handle demanding video editing and 3D rendering workloads.

The P16 features a 16-inch 4K ASUS Lumina Pro OLED touchscreen, while the P14 gets a smaller 14-inch 3K OLED touchscreen. Both displays support a 120Hz refresh rate and come with Pantone validation for colour accuracy. The P16 weighs approximately 1.77kg and measures 1.29cm thin, while the P14 weighs around 1.48kg and measures 1.39cm. They also pack large batteries, with capacities of 99.9Wh and 90Wh, respectively.

Both laptops include an ASUS HapticPad for precise input and ProArt Creator Hub software to help users manage and customise their creative workflows.

Should you buy the new ASUS ProArt series?

The latest ProArt laptops are best suited to developers, AI engineers and creators who regularly run demanding AI workloads. Running AI models locally could help them reduce cloud usage and save on token costs, while NVIDIA's CUDA tools and RTX graphics can support AI development, video editing and 3D rendering. Gaming is also an added benefit for users who want one machine for both productivity and entertainment.

The main alternatives include Apple's 14-inch MacBook Pro with M5 Pro, starting at Rs 2,49,900. For users who need higher memory configurations, the MacBook Pro with M5 Max and 128GB unified memory costs around Rs 6,19,900. This puts it quite close to the 128GB ProArt P16, making it a direct comparison for buyers at this price point.

The ProArt RTX Spark models are worth considering for buyers who need local AI development, powerful graphics and a Windows-based system. Their biggest advantage is access to NVIDIA's CUDA and RTX software ecosystem, which supports a wide range of AI and creative applications. They also offer a more established PC gaming experience, something MacBook users may find limited by the smaller library of supported games.

The ProArt series makes sense for users who specifically need these capabilities, while Apple's MacBook Pro remains a great alternative for those who prioritise CPU performance and macOS development ecosystem.

• The Samsung Galaxy A38 could move beyond the 5,000mAh battery used by the A3x series since 2020.
• The phone is tipped to feature a 6,000mAh battery with 45W charging.
• The camera setup may remain unchanged from the Galaxy A37's triple rear setup.

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Samsung has been sticking to 5,000mAh batteries for its Galaxy A3x smartphones since 2020, even as rivals have moved to larger capacities. That could finally change with the Galaxy A38. A new leak suggests the upcoming mid-ranger will get a 6,000mAh battery, bringing the series in line with phones that have offered this capacity for some time.

Samsung Galaxy A38 battery capacity leaked

According to Dutch publication GalaxyClub, the Samsung Galaxy A38's battery has a rated capacity of 5,882mAh. Samsung is likely to advertise it as a 6,000mAh typical-capacity unit, which would be a 20 percent increase over the Galaxy A37. The Galaxy A31 was the first phone in the series to feature a 5,000mAh battery back in 2020. Every subsequent generation has stuck with it, including the Galaxy A37 launched earlier this year. Samsung may finally be ready to break that pattern, although it doesn't appear to be making a similar change to charging speeds.

The Galaxy A38 is expected to retain 45W wired charging, matching its predecessor. This hasn't been confirmed yet, but there's little indication of a faster charging solution. There's also no word on whether Samsung will use silicon-carbon battery technology. That would be interesting, as it could help accommodate the larger capacity without adding much to the phone's thickness.

Samsung, incidentally, already offers 6,000mAh batteries in more affordable phones. The Galaxy M47, for instance, pairs the larger battery with 45W charging. The A38's potential upgrade would therefore bring the A3x series closer to what Samsung already offers elsewhere.

The battery may be getting an upgrade, but the cameras apparently won't. Earlier leaks have suggested the Galaxy A38 will retain the Galaxy A37's 50MP primary, 8MP ultrawide and 5MP macro rear cameras, along with a 12MP selfie camera. For context, the Galaxy A37 arrived in India in March 2026, starting at Rs 41,999. It features a 6.7-inch Full HD+ 120Hz Super AMOLED display, an Exynos 1480 chipset and IP68 protection.

A larger battery could make the Galaxy A38 a more compelling option for those who prioritise battery life. Ultimately, the chipset, battery endurance and pricing will determine how useful the new model is.

• Xiaomi first announced HyperOS 4 in China in August 2026.
• The update emphasises a heavy UI redesign with a soft, light glass design.
• The Xiaomi 17 series will receive HyperOS 4 in the next few days.

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Based on Android 17, HyperOS 4 builds on HyperOS 3 with design upgrades, seamless transitions, and several performance improvements, among other additions. While Xiaomi unveiled the skin in China in August, it has now released the full HyperOS 4 rollout schedule for Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO devices in global markets. Per the schedule, several flagship, Redmi Note, and POCO F series devices will receive the update this month, with the rollout set to be completed by the end of December 2026.

HyperOS 4 update global release schedule is now out

With Xiaomi unveiling the HyperOS 4 update release schedule for global markets, the release doesn't specify which regions will receive the update first. As for the India-specific rollout, the Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO smartphones and tablets selling in India should receive the HyperOS 4 update at the same time as their global counterparts:

While major HyperOS updates are automatically received via OTA, in case you wish to check for the update manually, go ahead and open the Settings app, select the 'About Phone' section, and then tap the large HyperOS logo. On the next page, the device will manually fetch the update from the server. Once available, go ahead and install the HyperOS 4 update.

What to expect on HyperOS 4

Here's a quick rundown of what's new and what to expect with HyperOS 4:

• Soft Light Glass design – HyperOS 4 introduces a new translucent "glass" UI with dynamic light effects, layered cards, and smoother visual depth with hints of lighting effects when pressing and holding on certain elements, such as home screen folders.
• Better customisation – On top of the already vast lockscreen customisation options, HyperOS 4 offers more flexible ways to alter the look of the lock screen by bringing more clock styles and advanced resizable capabilities. On homescreen, stack widgets like ColorOS debut.

• Smoother performance – The improved HyperCore engine reduces instruction load, speeds up app launches, improves memory management, and reduces frame drops.
• Improved multitasking – The update also brings smoother floating windows, better portrait/landscape transitions, and enhanced cross-device features. This should result in a smoother software experience while minimising wait times for transitions to complete.
• AI improvements - In the Recorder app, the system can now create intelligent outlines and summaries, highlight important details, and automatically skip silent sections of a recording, while AI Voice Notes lets users add images to their notes and automatically pull out key conclusions and actionable to-do items. With OriginOS 7 and ColorOS 17 also bringing AI advancements, it's good to see Xiaomi not holding back.
• Faster system apps – Xiaomi claims there are noticeable speed boosts in Gallery (up to 90% faster photo scanning/scrolling), Camera (quicker HDR processing and cold starts), and overall system responsiveness.

Overall, HyperOS 4 focuses on a more premium look, smoother everyday experience, and deeper AI integration rather than radical new features.