• The OnePlus 16 could reportedly get a 200MP main camera and a larger 1/1.4-inch sensor, but may not launch in India.
• The OnePlus 16R is tipped to become the brand's flagship in India, with Nord and N series phones covering lower price segments.
• OnePlus already exited North America and Europe in July this year.

[/highlights]

OnePlus could change its smartphone strategy in India next year, with the OnePlus 16 reportedly missing the country and the OnePlus 16R taking its place at the top of the lineup. Tipster Yogesh Brar claims the 16R will likely be OnePlus's flagship in India, followed by the Nord series in the mid-range and N-series in the affordable segment.

The claim is significant because another tipster in the past has said that the standard OnePlus 16 would not launch in India and would remain exclusive to China. OnePlus has not confirmed either claim, but together they suggest the company could be considering a very different lineup for the Indian market.

OnePlus 16 could be a China-only flagship

The reported change would be a departure from OnePlus' recent strategy. The OnePlus 15 launched in China in October 2025 and reached India a month later, making a China-only successor a notable shift. The rumour about OnePlus 16 not coming to India comes after OnePlus confirmed that it will no longer launch new phones in North America and Europe in July, while parent company OPPO will continue its operations in Europe. OnePlus India has repeatedly said that its business is operating as usual in the country. OnePlus is definitely not exiting India but this new tip could suggest the company is possibly changing which phones it chooses to sell here.

OnePlus 16 leaks

The OnePlus 16 has already been the subject of several leaks. According to Digital Chat Station, it could feature a 200MP main camera with a larger 1/1.4-inch sensor, a 50MP 3x periscope camera with a 1/1.95-inch Sony sensor and a new 50MP ultrawide camera. A 50MP autofocus selfie camera has also been tipped. Other reported specifications include the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro, a 9,000mAh battery a system-wide 165Hz display and tri-chip gaming hardware.

If true, OnePlus fans in India could be missing out on a promising package if the OnePlus 16 remains China-exclusive. The larger camera sensors in particular would suggest that OnePlus is putting more emphasis on photography after the OnePlus 15's camera system took a beating compared to that of some rivals.

If the reported strategy is accurate, the OnePlus 16R would have a lot to do that simply fill a naming gap. It could become the phone responsible for representing OnePlus against premium rivals from Samsung, Xiaomi and Vivo in India. The Nord series would continue competing with phones in the mid-range market, while the N series would target budget buyers.

OnePlus has started teasing the OnePlus N6 Lite in India, which is expected to sit below the N6x and potentially target the sub-Rs 20,000 segment. For buyers, this makes the next OnePlus launches worth watching. Existing users can continue using their phones without concern based on these unconfirmed reports. Those planning a premium purchase next year should wait to see whether the 16R gets flagship-level cameras and performance and whether OnePlus prices it accordingly.

• You can now make your tagged posts appear in your main grid.
• There's a dedicated section just for tagged posts.
• You can choose which posts appear on your profile. 

[/highlights]

Instagram is giving users more control over how their profiles look with a new feature that lets them add posts they are tagged in directly to their main profile grid. The feature is rolling out globally and could be particularly useful for users who want to showcase group photos, collaborations, or other posts without having to upload them themselves.

Until now, posts that you're tagged in appear in the dedicated Tagged section of your profile, but they would not be part of your main grid. With the new option, users can choose which tagged posts deserve a spot alongside their own uploads.

How to add tagged posts to your Instagram grid

Instagram offers three ways to add a tagged post to the main profile grid. Users can do so directly from the DM notification they receive when someone tags them, through the three-dot menu on a tagged post, or by pressing and holding a post from the Tagged tab.

Once added, the post will appear on the main profile grid in reverse-chronological order by default. However, users who have rearranged their grid can continue to maintain their preferred layout. A tagged post can also be removed from the main grid at any time without deleting the original post or removing it from the Tagged section.

The latest feature is part of Instagram's broader push to make profile customisation more flexible. The platform recently introduced the ability to rearrange posts on the profile grid, allowing users to change the order of content without deleting and reposting it. Users can also add multiple captions to carousel posts, and the platform has introduced an option to change the audio on posts.

These features offer users a more customisable space where users have greater control over what their profile looks like. The latest move also highlights Instagram's continued effort to empower creators, a critical strategy in today's competitive social media landscape.

• The Xiaomi 18 Pro Max has appeared on Geekbench with the unannounced Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro and 12GB RAM.
• The phone scored 3,582 in single-core and 12,247 in multi-core testing, while GPU tests reached 29,934 on Vulkan.
• The global Xiaomi 18 could support 100W charging, IP68 protection and up to 512GB storage.

[/highlights]

The Xiaomi 18 Pro Max has appeared on Geekbench, offering an early look at the performance of Qualcomm's next flagship mobile platform. The Chinese model, identified as M1544F, is listed with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro, although the name of the chipset hasn't been officially confirmed.

Xiaomi 18 Pro Max Geekbench performance

The Xiaomi 18 Pro Max recorded 3,582 points in single-core and 12,247 points in multi-core testing on Geekbench 7. It also appeared in the platform's GPU tests, scoring 26,210 in OpenCL and 29,934 in Vulkan. The listing shows 12GB of RAM and Android 17, which is expected to run with Xiaomi's HyperOS 4.

The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro is listed under Qualcomm's internal SM8975 designation. It has eight CPU cores, with three running at 3.74GHz, three at 4.03GHz and two reaching 5.11GHz. Graphics are handled by the Adreno 850 GPU.

There is already another early result for the same chipset. In August, a phone identified as Vivo V2606A, believed to be the iQOO 16, appeared on Geekbench with the same SM8975 processor and 16GB of RAM. It scored 3,434 in single-core and 9,334 in multi-core testing. The Xiaomi 18 Pro Max has higher scores in both tests, particularly in multi-core performance. However, the iQOO 16's results were also below the iQOO 15's scores from our in-house test, where the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5-powered phone managed 3,621 in single-core and 10,579 in multi-core.

That is a reminder not to treat either the Xiaomi or iQOO results as final. Early engineering builds can have unfinished software, thermal tuning and other limitations that affect benchmark performance.

Qualcomm's upcoming chip will also compete with MediaTek's Dimensity 9600 series, which is expected to power several flagship phones launching later this year. The Vivo X500 Pro Max and OPPO Find X10 Pro Max have already appeared in benchmark listings with Dimensity 9600-series hardware. Retail versions of these phones will provide a better comparison once the processors and devices are officially released.

For buyers considering a flagship upgrade, it makes sense to wait for those final tests rather than choosing based on Geekbench numbers alone. Sustained performance, battery life, cooling and camera performance will be just as important.

Xiaomi 18 specs revealed

Meanwhile, the global Xiaomi 18 has appeared on Taiwan's NCC certification platform with model number 2611FPNFAG. The phone is listed with 256GB and 512GB storage options, an IP68 rating and a charger that has been linked to 100W wired charging through its TUV Rheinland certification.

The Xiaomi 17 appeared on the same certification platform in late October 2025 before its international launch in February 2026. The earlier appearance of the Xiaomi 18 could point to a faster global rollout this time.

Reports suggest Xiaomi may launch the 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max in China first, with the standard Xiaomi 18 and Xiaomi 18 Ultra potentially arriving later. Until the launch schedule and final specifications are confirmed, buyers would be better off treating the current benchmark and certification details as early indications. Xiaomi's early appearance on benchmarks with the top-tier Snapdragon chip signals its ambition to challenge premium flagships from Samsung and Apple.

• AMD has launched the Ryzen 5 7500 for the AM5 platform and Ryzen 5 5500F for AM4, both with six cores and 12 threads.
• The Ryzen 5 7500 offers Zen 4 architecture, up to 5GHz boost speeds and built-in Radeon graphics.
• The Ryzen 5 5500F supports DDR4-based AM4 systems, making it an interesting option amid rising DDR5 prices.

[/highlights]

AMD has expanded its Ryzen 5 desktop processor lineup with two new models for different platforms. The Ryzen 5 7500 is for users building or upgrading to the newer AM5 platform, while the Ryzen 5 5500F adds another entry-level option for the older AM4 platform. Let's check it out in more detail below.

AMD Ryzen 5 7500 and Ryzen 5 5500F: specifications and features

The Ryzen 5 7500 is the more modern of the two processors, using AMD's Zen 4 architecture and the AM5 socket. It features six cores and 12 threads, with a boost clock of up to 5GHz and a base clock of 3.7GHz. It also gets 6MB of L2 cache and 32MB of L3 cache, along with support for AMD EXPO memory overclocking and Precision Boost Overdrive. Most importantly, it comes with built-in Radeon Graphics, so users don't necessarily need a dedicated graphics card for basic display output.

The Ryzen 5 5500F, meanwhile, is based on the older Zen 3 architecture and uses the AM4 socket. It also has six cores and 12 threads but reaches up to 4.4GHz with a 3GHz base clock and gets 3MB of L2 cache and 16MB of L3 cache. Unlike the Ryzen 5 7500, it does not include integrated graphics, so a discrete GPU is required. It does, however, support overclocking and works with a wide range of AM4 chipsets, including B450, B550, A520 and X570.

Both processors have a 65W TDP, support Precision Boost 2 and come with AMD's Wraith Stealth thermal solution. The main difference is therefore the platform they target: the Ryzen 5 7500 is designed for newer AM5 systems, while the Ryzen 5 5500F gives existing AM4 users another affordable upgrade option without requiring a move to a new platform.

Should you buy the new Ryzen processors?

The timing of these new Ryzen processors is no coincidence, given how volatile the PC component market has become. The ongoing DDR5 RAM shortage has pushed memory prices up significantly, making newer AM5 builds more expensive than they were previously. For users who specifically want to move to the AM5 platform, the Ryzen 5 7500 looks like a decent mainstream option, especially with its Zen 4 architecture and built-in Radeon graphics.

However, the Ryzen 5 5500F is arguably the more promising launch right now. It gives users another AM4 option and, importantly, allows them to continue using DDR4 RAM. DDR4 prices have also increased substantially, but availability is somewhat better and prices are generally more palatable than their DDR5 counterparts. This could make the Ryzen 5 5500F a decent choice for someone building an affordable PC or upgrading an existing AM4 system without having to spend heavily on a new motherboard and DDR5 memory.

AMD has not revealed pricing for either processor yet, so it is difficult to judge their value right now. The India pricing will likely appear through official retailers and online stores at a later date, so users planning a new build should keep an eye out for the final prices before making a decision.

• OPPO K14 Lite will feature a 7,000mAh battery.
• The handset will launch in two colour variants.
• OPPO has also teased a durable design for the K14 Lite. 

[/highlights]

OPPO has announced the launch of a new K14 series smartphone in India. The budget phone's highlight will be its battery capacity, which is confirmed to be 7,000mAh. OPPO has also revealed the design and colour options of the K14 Lite. This will be the third phone in the lineup after the OPPO K14 and K14x. It's also expected to launch as the most affordable model in the lineup. With the K14 Lite, OPPO seems to be expanding its presence in the budget segment by giving buyers more options to choose from.

OPPO K14 Lite India launch date

The OPPO K14 Lite is confirmed to launch in India on September 16th at 12:00 pm. The smartphone will be available via Flipkart. It will most likely go on sale via OPPO's online store and retail outlets. OPPO has teased "long-lasting battery life, smooth performance, and a durable design" for the K14 Lite. 

OPPO has confirmed the K14 Lite will feature a 7,000mAh battery. With this battery capacity, one should be able to enjoy an entire day's power and a little more. It's also expected to offer six years of battery life, judging by the teaser. Most phones in the budget segment now offer 7,000mAh and even more, so it remains to be seen how the K14 Lite will stand out in terms of hardware and pricing. 

The K14 Lite also has a stylish design with a patterned finish on the lavender variant. It will launch in brown too. The camera module has a large rectangular border, giving it a design that stands out in the budget segment. OPPO's design choice for the camera module could appeal to budget buyers looking for a distinct aesthetic.

There's nothing else about the K14 Lite that has been revealed officially. We expect OPPO to reveal more details before the official launch. 

The OPPO K14 Lite is expected to sit in the budget segment, possibly under Rs 20,000. It's still not confirmed, though, whether the K14 Lite will be more expensive or more affordable than the K14x, which is currently priced at Rs 17,999. For now, the OPPO K14 Lite is an upcoming budget option with a focus on battery life and durable design. If you're looking for a budget phone with a reliable battery life and stylish design, the K14 Lite might be worth waiting for. 

• Nothing OS 5.0 is based on Android 17.
• The update brings new features and improvements across customisation, productivity, and AI.
• The company says the new firmware includes over 80 changes.

[/highlights]

After announcing Nothing OS 5.0 at the end of August, Nothing swiftly rolled out the Open Beta update for its flagship Phone (3). As promised earlier, Nothing Phone (4a) Pro owners can now get their hands on Nothing OS 5.0, as the company has begun seeding the beta firmware. Said to be the company's biggest software release yet, the Android 17-based software brings new features and improvements across customisation, productivity, and AI, while maintaining its unique design philosophy.

How to download Nothing OS 5.0 Open Beta on Phone (4a) Pro

Before updating to Nothing OS 5.0 Open Beta, make sure your Phone (4a) Pro is running the latest Android 16 firmware, i.e., Nothing OS 4.1. That said, here's the procedure to download and install NOS 5.0 beta:

Step 1: Download the Nothing Beta Hub V2.0 APK from Nothing's website. The download link can be found at the bottom of this webpage.

Step 2: Now, go to the Downloads folder on your phone and install the Nothing Beta Hub APK. Enable the "Install unknown apps" option in Settings beforehand so the APK installs successfully.

Step 3: Now go to the Settings app > System > Nothing Beta Hub and check the version

Step 4: Tap the Join Beta button to register for the update

Step 5: Once done, wait for five to six minutes Open Beta update will be seeded to your device, after which you can tap Go to initiate the update

The Nothing OS 5.0 beta installs like any regular local update and should take just a few minutes for your phone to reboot. You may occasionally see an error saying that joining the beta has failed. For the Phone (3), Nothing has confirmed this is usually caused by server overload when too many users try to access the open beta at the same time. If this happens, simply wait a few hours and try again on your Phone (4a) Pro.

If you run into bugs or find the beta unstable, you can request a rollback through the Nothing Beta Hub in Settings.

What's new on Nothing OS 5.0?

Nothing OS 5.0 brings two new lock screen clocks (Gooey and Micrographics), wallpaper-adaptive clock colours, new widgets (Collector, Away Time, Glyph Timer), and a translucent Lucent theme. The new clocks add a welcome touch of personalisation. While the update brings new customisation features, it continues to distinct itself with its unique design approach in multiple areas, be it fonts, widget design or clock styles.

It adds a dedicated Glyph app, multi-app drag-and-drop on the home screen, a split Quick Settings option, torch intensity control, the Geist font, refreshed icons, and tighter Settings spacing. If you've been looking for a slightly refreshed interface, Nothing OS 5.0 delivers.

Essential AI gets faster voice transcription, Smart Collections, and easier AI app creation. Performance improves across the board, and Android 17 features like 3D emojis, a better Dark Theme, and iPhone Quick Share support are included. Since we've covered Nothing OS 5.0 in-depth, feel free to check out our hands-on review story to get a full picture of what you can expect with the new update.

Since this is a beta, we recommend installing it only if you're an enthusiast comfortable with potential bugs, or if you have a secondary device. For your primary phone, it might be wiser to wait for the stable Nothing OS 5.0 release, which should arrive in early November, per Nothing.

• Moto Buds 2 Fusion will launch in India on September 15th with 12.4mm titanium-coated dynamic drivers.
• The TWS earphones offer up to 55dB Dynamic ANC, Bluetooth 6.0 and up to 53 hours of total battery life.
• The buds will be sold through Flipkart.

[/highlights]

Motorola has confirmed the India launch date for the Moto Buds 2 Fusion. The new true wireless stereo earphones will launch on September 15th and will be sold through Flipkart. Motorola and Flipkart have already listed the product, revealing its design, colours and key specifications ahead of the launch.

The Moto Buds 2 Fusion will be available in Pantone Tap Shoe, Pantone Laurel and Pantone Surf The Web colour options. Pricing hasn't been announced yet.

Moto Buds 2 Fusion features

The Moto Buds 2 Fusion feature 12.4mm titanium-coated dynamic drivers, paired with Motorola's proprietary audio tuning. The earphones support Dynamic Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) of up to 55dB, along with a Transparency Mode and Spatial Audio. For calls, each earbud has three microphones, giving the pair six microphones in total. Motorola's CrystalTalk AI technology is used for noise reduction during calls.

Connectivity includes Bluetooth 6.0, with AAC and SBC codec support. The earbuds also support multipoint-style automatic switching between devices, Wear Detection and an Earbud Fit Test. Compatible Motorola devices can additionally use Moto AI and Motorola Qira features. The earbuds carry an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, while the charging case has an IPX2 rating. That makes them suitable for workouts and everyday outdoor use, although the case is less protected against water than the earbuds themselves.

Each Moto Buds 2 Fusion earbud has a 62mAh battery, while the charging case houses a 530mAh cell. Motorola claims up to 13 hours of playback from the earbuds alone and up to 53 hours with the case. A 10-minute charge is said to provide up to three hours of playback.

The battery figure puts Motorola directly against the OnePlus Nord Buds 4, which claims up to 54 hours with its case and up to 52dB ANC. It also uses 12mm titanium-coated drivers, making it one of the closest rivals to the Moto Buds 2 Fusion on paper. The Nothing Ear is another alternative, although it sits higher in the market with up to 45dB ANC and 40.5 hours of claimed battery life.

The Moto Buds 2 Fusion could be worth considering if Motorola prices them competitively. On specifications alone, 55dB ANC, 12.4mm drivers, six microphones and 53-hour battery life give them a strong feature set. However, the OnePlus Nord Buds 4 already offers similar hardware and 54-hour battery life, so price will be important. Buyers should wait for Motorola to announce the price on September 15th before deciding. The Moto Buds 2 Fusion will make more sense if it undercuts or clearly differentiates itself from the OnePlus option rather than simply matching its specifications.

• The POCO X8 and X8 Power are now on sale in India, starting at an effective price of Rs 26,999.
• The POCO X8 Power packs a 10,000mAh battery with 100W HyperCharge, while the X8 gets a 9,000mAh battery with 67W charging.
• Both phones feature 1.5K 120Hz AMOLED displays, Snapdragon processors and four years of Android updates.

[/highlights]

The POCO X8 and POCO X8 Power are now officially on sale in India, following their launch earlier this week. Both smartphones focus heavily on battery life, with the X8 packing a 9,000mAh battery and the X8 Power going even further with a 10,000mAh cell. 

The two phones also feature 1.5K AMOLED displays, Snapdragon processors and long-term software support. Here's everything you need to know about the POCO X8 series, including their prices, specifications and current offers.

POCO X8 and X8 Power: Price and availability

The POCO X8 is priced at Rs 29,999, while the POCO X8 Power costs Rs 35,999. With the current launch offers, buyers can get a Rs 2,000 coupon discount along with a Rs 1,000 bank offer or exchange bonus, bringing the effective prices down to Rs 26,999 and Rs 32,999, respectively.

Both smartphones go on their first sale today, September 11, at 12 noon, exclusively through Flipkart. POCO is also offering 12-month no-cost EMI options, starting at Rs 2,250 per month for the X8 and Rs 2,750 per month for the X8 Power.

POCO X8 Power, X8: specifications and features

The POCO X8 Power is the more interesting of the two if battery life is your priority. It packs a massive 10,000mAh silicon-carbon battery with support for 100W HyperCharge and up to 27W wired reverse charging. The large battery does add some bulk, with the phone weighing 229g and measuring 8.65mm in thickness.

This isn't just another launch day alert. It's your cue to make a power move. ⚡

The POCO X8 Series goes live with First Day Offers on 11th September, 12 PM.

Be there. Make the move. Get ready to PowerMAXX.#POCO #POCOX8Series #PowerMaxxing #POCOIndia pic.twitter.com/8RmdZY74WN

— POCO India (@IndiaPOCO) September 10, 2026

The phone features a 6.83-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, up to 3,500 nits peak brightness, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision support. It also gets Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection, stereo speakers and an in-display fingerprint sensor. For performance, the X8 Power uses the Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 processor, paired with up to 12GB LPDDR5X RAM and 256GB storage. The higher storage variant also gets faster UFS 4.1 storage.

POCO has also focused on durability, with the X8 Power carrying IP66, IP68, IP69 and IP69K ratings. It runs Xiaomi HyperOS 3 based on Android 16 and will receive four Android OS upgrades and six years of security updates.

The POCO X8 shares several features with its more expensive sibling, including the 1.5K AMOLED display, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection, stereo speakers and the same IP ratings. It gets a slightly smaller 9,000mAh silicon-carbon battery with 67W HyperCharge and 22.5W wired reverse charging, while weighing 226g and measuring 8.6mm thick.

The X8 uses the Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 processor with 8GB LPDDR4X RAM and up to 256GB storage. The 256GB variant gets UFS 3.1 storage, while the 128GB model uses UFS 2.2. For cameras, it has a 50MP main sensor with OIS, a 2MP depth sensor and a 16MP front camera. Like the X8 Power, it runs Xiaomi HyperOS 3 and gets four OS upgrades and six years of security updates

Should you buy the POCO X8 series?

Both the POCO X8 and X8 Power make a strong case for users who want a phone with a large display and battery. The 1.5K AMOLED panels should work well for watching videos and gaming, while the large silicon-carbon batteries should easily last through a full day and potentially much longer. The Snapdragon 6 series chips should also be capable enough for everyday use and casual gaming.

The POCO X8 Power faces competition from the OnePlus Nord CE6 (review), which packs an 8,000mAh battery and a more powerful Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 processor. However, the POCO costs roughly Rs 3,000 less at its effective price, making it a more appealing option if battery life and value are your main priorities.

The POCO X8, meanwhile, is an interesting option at its effective price of Rs 26,999. It combines a large 9,000mAh battery with a 1.5K AMOLED display and a capable Snapdragon processor, making it a well-rounded choice for multimedia and everyday use under Rs 30,000

• OPPO Find X10 will feature a dual 200MP camera system.
• The Find X10 is also getting several technical improvements for photography.
• The handset will also offer the slimmest bezels yet. 

[/highlights]

The OPPO Find X10 series is slated to launch in China later this month. This time, three phones are launching as part of the flagship lineup: the OPPO Find X10, Find X10 Pro Max, and Find X10E. OPPO has been steadily revealing key details about its upcoming flagship series. Now, the company has shared the Find X10's camera and display details. All three phones are also up for pre-order in China, suggesting the launch is close by.  

OPPO Find X10 key specifications

OPPO Find X10 will feature two 200MP cameras, which will be part of a triple-camera setup. One of the 200MP cameras is the primary sensor, while the other is a telephoto lens. This gives the OPPO Find X10 strong camera capabilities on a standard flagship model. The Find X10 will also come with the Hasselblad Ultra-Clear Original Camera with a second-generation Danxia color restoration lens.

The handset is also equipped with OPPO's LUMO native light and shadow engine, which should help produce realistic skin tones. All this combined, the OPPO Find X10 is poised to push smartphone camera standards. OPPO is already known to offer one of the best camera setups on its flagship lineup so it's interesting to see how much further it pushes with the upcoming lineup. 

OPPO has also confirmed that the Find X10 will feature 0.99mm slim bezels, allowing for a more expansive display. This is a notable reduction from the 1.15mm bezels on the Find X9 and 1.45mm on the Find X8, highlighting OPPO's continued efforts to slim down the bezels with each generation. The smartphone is also confirmed to pack an 8,000mAh battery, much larger than the Find X9's 7,025 mAh battery. 

The Find X10 is already shaping up to be a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the Find X9. OPPO appears to have focused on key areas such as the cameras and battery, with notable hardware improvements expected on the upcoming flagship. Based on what we know so far, the Find X10 could be worth waiting for if you're looking for a flagship that combines capable camera hardware with a large battery. If you're upgrading from an older flagship model, you can consider the Find X9 as your next purchase, especially for its cameras and battery capacity.

• Vivo X500 gets a redesigned rear camera layout with a large circular module inside a wide rectangular camera plateau.
• The Vivo X500 will come in black, light gray, light pink and a gradient finish.
• The Vivo X500 Pro Max keeps a large circular camera island similar to the X300 Ultra.

[/highlights]

Vivo has revealed the design of the standard Vivo X500 ahead of the flagship series' September 21st launch in China. The new images show a substantial change from the Vivo X300, particularly around the rear camera, while also making the X500 look noticeably different from the more expensive Vivo X500 Pro Max, whose design was revealed a few days ago.

The Vivo X500 series will consist of three models in China. Pricing and availability will be announced at the September 21st event, while international launch details haven't been confirmed yet.

Vivo X500 design

The Vivo X500 moves away from the Vivo X300's large, standalone circular camera island. The new phone has a raised rectangular camera plateau that stretches across much of the upper width of the rear panel. A large circular camera section sits within this plateau, while the LED flash is placed outside the circular area.

The design is also more horizontal and layered than the Vivo X300's. In the X300, the circular black camera island sits directly on the rear panel and contains the camera hardware in a much more self-contained arrangement. The X500 instead combines the circular camera section with a larger rectangular platform, giving the rear a more distinctive shape. The X500 will be available in black, light gray, light pink and a fourth colour with a gradient finish. The light-coloured variants also give the camera plateau a more prominent visual contrast against the rear panel.

Vivo has separately confirmed that the X500 will use the same main and telephoto sensors as the X300 Pro. That makes the standard model more interesting for buyers who care about photography but do not necessarily want to pay for the highest-end version.

On the other hand, the Vivo X500 Pro Max follows a different design language. Based on Vivo's official images, it has a large circular camera island that dominates the rear, with three camera sensors arranged inside it. Visually, it is much closer to the X300 Ultra than to the standard X500. That creates a clear hierarchy between the new models. The X500 has a rectangular camera plateau wrapped around a circular camera section, while the Pro Max uses a much larger standalone circular island. The X300 sits between these designs, with its own large circular camera module but a simpler rear layout than the new X500.

The Pro Max's camera hardware is obviously at the top end of the series. Its new Sony Lytia L910 main sensor uses LOFIC technology and is claimed to offer up to 17 stops of dynamic range, while the 200MP telephoto camera carries over from the X300 Ultra. The phone also supports up to 4K 240fps slow-motion recording.

For buyers considering the X500 series, the standard model could be the more interesting option if it delivers flagship-level camera hardware at a lower price. Its use of the X300 Pro's main and telephoto sensors gives it a stronger photography proposition than a typical base model. The X500 Pro Max, meanwhile, is the one to watch for buyers who want the most capable camera system and do not mind a larger, more prominent camera module.

• iQOO 16 gets a design makeover.
• The overall design gives off a futuristic look.
• iQOO 16 will launch in two colours. 

[/highlights]

The iQOO 16 is launching in China on September 14th as the brand's latest flagship smartphone. The smartphone is getting a revamp in terms of design, which looks like the most ambitious one so far. The iQOO 16 looks quite futuristic in terms of the camera design and is unlike anything we've seen on previous iQOO flagships. The rear panel also uses holographic technology. It looks like iQOO is going all in for its latest flagship smartphone. 

iQOO 16 design, camera details 

The iQOO 16's camera design is quite distinct, showing three sensors tucked in a square border but arranged in a connected triangular layout. According to iQOO, the camera module draws inspiration from a spacecraft porthole, with its three cameras arranged within a mechanical-looking structure. The setup forms a navigation-marker-inspired design, while the camera island sits against a hexagonal technical pattern. Transparent glass elements complete the overall look.

Official first look of the iQOO 16 is OUT!

iQOO has officially revealed its next flagship and confirmed that it will launch in China by the end of September.

⚡ Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro
📸 Triple-camera setup with 100X zoom
⚪ White-colored back with subtle iridescent lines… pic.twitter.com/fQosjTBop8

— Abhishek Yadav (@yabhishekhd) September 11, 2026

The rear panel also has visible geometric patterns and a holographic design. The phone introduces what iQOO calls an industry-first laser holographic imaging finish designed to create a more dynamic look. It uses four precision techniques to produce a 3D light effect, with red holographic patterns and blue light appearing to flow across the back panel. The effect changes as the phone is tilted or viewed from different angles, giving the design a constantly shifting look.

This is for the 'Chasing Light' variant of the iQOO 16. The handset is also expected to launch in 'Track and Legend', which has been an ongoing trend for iQOO phones.

The camera design also confirms 100x zoom, which would be digital zoom. The iQOO 16 is expected to feature a 50MP periscope telephoto lens in addition to a 50MP primary sensor and a 50MP ultra-wide sensor. The iQOO 16 is also expected to be the first phone to use the upcoming Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset, which could give it an advantage over upcoming rival flagships in terms of raw performance. 

Based on what we know so far, the iQOO 16 is shaping up to be a powerful flagship with dedicated gaming hardware. Like the previous models, the iQOO 16 will once again appeal to power users and gamers or anyone who wants a powerful flagship. If these are your requirements, the iQOO 16 could be worth waiting for. 

• The iPhone 18 Pro has a 4,056mAh battery in the EU, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max gets a 5,391mAh cell.
• Early Geekbench results suggest the A20 Pro is around 21-23 percent faster than the iPhone 17 Pro generation.
• The new chip moves to a 2nm process and gets upgraded cooling.

[/highlights]

Apple has revealed a spec for its new iPhones it typically leaves out of its launch announcements. The company's iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max battery capacities have now been made public, which is something Apple never does for its new launches. This is thanks to new EU regulations which require their EU Energy Labels to display all info.

Meanwhile, early Geekbench results also offer a first look at how much faster the new A20 Pro chip is than the previous generation. The figures also give buyers a better idea of what separates the two Pro models, particularly when it comes to battery life and sustained performance.

iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max battery capacities

According to the EU Energy Labels, the iPhone 18 Pro has a 4,056mAh battery, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max packs a 5,391mAh cell. That represents a modest 1.45 percent increase for the smaller Pro compared with the iPhone 17 Pro, while the 18 Pro Max gets an 11.8 percent larger battery than the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

There is an important regional difference, however. The EU models retain a physical SIM slot, which takes up additional internal space. iPhone 18 Pro models sold in markets like the US where Apple uses eSIM-only designs can therefore have larger batteries. Buyers should keep that distinction in mind when comparing battery figures from different regions.

The Energy Labels also give both phones an A overall energy rating, a B rating for drop resistance and a C repairability rating. Both are IP68-rated for dust and water resistance, while Apple says their batteries should retain at least 80 percent of their original capacity after 1,000 charge cycles.

Apple's own battery estimates put the Pro Max ahead, as expected. For eSIM-only models, the company claims up to 36 hours of video playback on the iPhone 18 Pro and up to 45 hours on the Pro Max. Under its newer real-world usage measure, the figures are up to 24 and 30 hours respectively.

Both models also support faster wired charging, reaching 50 percent in around 15 minutes, while five minutes of charging can reportedly deliver around six hours of video playback.

iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max Geekbench

The performance details (via) of the A20 Pro chip come from Geekbench. Two devices identified as iPhone 19,2 and iPhone 19,3 have appeared on Geekbench 6.7, posting single-core scores of 4,719 and 4,612 and multi-core scores of 12,677 and 11,819. Averaged together, that works out to roughly 4,665 in single-core and 12,248 in multi-core performance. Compared with average Geekbench results from the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, these preliminary scores suggest a roughly 21-23 percent improvement in both areas.

The A20 Pro also brings a 2nm manufacturing process, a six-core CPU with two performance-focused Supercores and four efficiency cores, and a seven-core GPU. Apple claims up to 20 percent faster CPU performance and up to 40 percent faster GPU performance than the previous generation. The chip also adds a second Neural Engine, taking the total to 32 cores, while memory bandwidth is up by 50 percent. That should benefit demanding on-device AI tasks and games as much as traditional benchmark workloads.

Apple has also redesigned the chip packaging and added a larger vapour chamber. The new cooling system has three times the surface area of the one in the iPhone 17 Pro, with Apple claiming up to 40 [ercent higher sustained performance than that model. This could be more important in everyday use than a short Geekbench run. A phone that can maintain high performance during long gaming sessions, video processing or local AI workloads has a practical advantage over one that only produces a higher peak score.

A prototype using MediaTek's upcoming Dimensity 9600 has reportedly reached 4,139 in single-core and 13,285 in multi-core testing. That would put it behind the A20 Pro in single-core performance but ahead in multi-core. However, these are prototype results, and the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 results currently circulating are also inconsistent. It's too early to declare a clear winner between Apple's chip and the next generation of Android processors.

For buyers deciding between the two new Pro models, the iPhone 18 Pro Max remains the obvious choice if battery life is the priority. Its larger battery and longer claimed runtime make it better suited to heavy users, although its larger size and likely higher price remain trade-offs. The iPhone 18 Pro is more interesting for buyers who want a smaller phone without giving up the A20 Pro's performance. Apple claims its battery efficiency allows it to match the iPhone 17 Pro Max's all-day battery life despite its smaller body.

• Apple's first foldable iPhone has an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.
• Apple warns that the resistance can decrease over time with normal wear, similar to Google's Pixel Fold.
• The iPhone Duo is eSIM-only worldwide and does not support physical SIM cards.

[/highlights]

Apple's first foldable iPhone has arrived with two notable changes that could matter long after the launch-day excitement wears off. The iPhone Duo gets an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, putting it ahead of Samsung's latest foldables on dust protection. However, Apple also makes clear that this resistance is not permanent and can diminish with normal wear and tear.

The other major change is less visible but potentially more important for buyers. The iPhone Duo is eSIM-only worldwide, with no physical SIM card slot. Apple says removing the physical SIM helps free up internal space for the battery.

iPhone Duo gets IP68, but it won't last forever

Apple says the iPhone Duo has been tested under controlled laboratory conditions and carries an IP68 rating under IEC standard 60529, including resistance at a maximum depth of 6 metres for up to 30 minutes. There is an important qualification, however. Apple states that splash, water and dust resistance are not permanent conditions and that resistance may decrease as a result of normal wear.

That caveat is relevant on a foldable because the device has moving parts and a hinge. While water resistance on a conventional smartphone can also deteriorate after damage or wear, a foldable has more components that need to maintain their protection over time. Google has a similar disclaimer for its Pixel 11 Pro Fold, which also carries an IP68 rating. Honor also warns that the protective performance of its Magic V6's IP68/IP69 rating can decrease with daily wear and tear.

Samsung takes a different position on dust protection. Its latest Galaxy foldables carry an IP48 rating, meaning they have water resistance but don't offer the same level of protection against dust as the iPhone Duo and Pixel foldables. For buyers, IP68 is still a welcome addition, but it shouldn't be interpreted as making the Duo waterproof. The rating is based on controlled testing, and Apple specifically warns against treating the protection as permanent.

iPhone Duo is eSIM-only worldwide

The more significant change for some buyers could be the lack of a physical SIM slot. Apple says the iPhone Duo uses an eSIM-only design worldwide, unlike some previous iPhones that retained physical SIM support in certain markets. Apple's reasoning is that removing the SIM hardware saves internal space, which can instead be used to maximise battery capacity. The company also says eSIM provides greater flexibility and security than a traditional physical SIM.

The Duo supports two active eSIMs at the same time and can store eight or more eSIM profiles. This means users can have two numbers active simultaneously, while additional eSIM profiles can remain stored on the phone and be activated when needed.

For most users who already use eSIM, the change should have little practical impact. It can also be useful for frequent travellers who switch between multiple carrier profiles without physically swapping SIM cards. However, eSIM-only connectivity is worth checking before buying, particularly in markets or situations where physical SIM support remains useful. Buyers should confirm that their carrier supports eSIM and that the specific services they rely on can be activated without a physical SIM.

• The Galaxy S26 refurbished unit starts at Rs 74,799.
• The Galaxy S26 Ultra is available for Rs 12,000 less than the new model.
• Both phones can be purchased starting today. 

[/highlights]

The Galaxy S26 Ultra and Galaxy S26 are now available under the Samsung Certified Re-Newed programme (CRN). These are refurbished models, which Samsung says are in like-new condition and at a great value. With this scheme, more interested buyers can get their hands on the flagship lineup at more accessible prices. The refurbished Galaxy S26 Ultra and Galaxy S26 are also available at up to 85 percent of the launch price. 

Galaxy S26 Ultra, Galaxy S26 refurbished prices

The Galaxy S26 Ultra (review) under the Samsung Certified Re-Newed programme (CRN) starts at Rs 1,18,999 for the 256GB variant. This is Rs 12,000 less than the new model, which is available at Rs 1,30,999 for the same memory variant. The 256GB variant, which originally costs Rs 1,50,999, is available at Rs 1,35,999 for the renewed model. 

As for the Galaxy S26 (review), you can get the renewed model for Rs 74,799 for the 256GB, which otherwise costs Rs 79,999. The Galaxy S26 512GB variant is available at Rs 91,799, which is Rs 8,200 less than the new model, priced at Rs 99,999.

Samsung says that every device under this program is "inspected, cleaned, refurbished and tested through a Samsung-certified renewal process to meet Samsung's standards for quality, performance and reliability." Samsung also replaces parts whenever required with genuine parts from the company. These devices are also equipped with a Samsung-certified battery that meets Samsung's quality standards. 

These devices are reset and updated to the latest software update before shipping them out. You also get a one-year company warranty on the refurbished units. This way, you're getting a somewhat new phone at a more affordable price than the original one. Also, since it's coming directly from Samsung with an in-house warranty, you can pretty much trust it. 

With the rapid increase in smartphone prices, it might just make sense to go for these refurbished phones if you still want to invest in a Samsung flagship. If you're upgrading from an older flagship, the Galaxy S26 makes sense, as it costs the same as last year's Galaxy S25 and offers more storage. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is the latest model and the most advanced for Samsung, so there's nothing like it if you can afford it. 

• Vivo has launched its first TWS earbuds in India, priced at Rs 1,999.
• The Vivo Buds offer up to 50 hours of total battery life, spatial audio and a 10-band customisable EQ.
• The earbuds support Bluetooth 6.1, multipoint connectivity and AI-powered call noise cancellation.

[/highlights]

Vivo has launched its new Vivo Buds in India, marking the company's entry into the IoT space in the country. The new TWS earbuds are aimed at everyday users, with Vivo focusing on sound, battery life, calls and connectivity in a lightweight design. Here's everything you need to know about Vivo's first TWS earbuds in the country.

Vivo buds: price and availability

The Vivo Buds are priced at Rs 1,999 in India, making them a relatively affordable option for users looking for a feature-rich pair of TWS earbuds. They are available from September 10 through the Vivo India e-store, Flipkart and leading retail outlets across the country. The earbuds come in Nilgiri Green and Basalt Black colour options. 

Vivo Buds: features and specifications

The Vivo Buds come with a 10mm high-resolution speaker driver, which claims to deliver clearer vocals, detailed highs and better bass. Users can also customise the sound using the 10-band EQ, while built-in sound effects include Mega Bass, Clear Voice and Clear High Pitch. The earbuds also support spatial audio on compatible Vivo smartphones.

The earbuds offer up to 12 hours of playback on a single charge and up to 50 hours with the charging case, so battery life is definitely one of their key highlights. A 10-minute charge can provide up to four hours of music playback. For calls, Vivo has added Dual-Mic AI Call Noise Cancellation, which is designed to reduce background sounds such as traffic and wind and make voices easier to hear.

The earbuds weigh around 3.8g each and have an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance. They use Bluetooth 6.1 and support Multipoint Connection, allowing them to stay connected to two devices at the same time. Vivo smartphone users also get features such as Instant Pairing, Find My Vivo Buds and Remote Camera Control, while the earbuds remain compatible with other smartphone ecosystems.

Should you buy the Vivo Buds?

At Rs 1,999, the Vivo Buds face immense competition, and the CMF Buds Neo are one of the closest alternatives. In our review, the CMF earbuds proved to offer good audio, surprisingly effective ANC and reliable call quality. The Vivo Buds don't offer active noise cancellation, which gives the CMF Buds Neo an advantage if ANC is an important feature for you.

The Vivo Buds do, however, claim up to 50 hours of total battery life, along with a 10-band EQ, Spatial Audio and Bluetooth 6.1 with multipoint connectivity. They also offer a lightweight design and several useful features for Vivo phone users. If you already use a Vivo smartphone, the additional ecosystem features make the Vivo Buds a more capable option. For everyone else, the CMF Buds Neo remain a decent alternative, particularly if ANC is a core requirement. 

• The revised prices are already live on Samsung India's website.
• The Samsung Galaxy M47 and Galaxy F70 Pro are promised six OS upgrades.
• These Samsung phones now rival the likes of Realme P4s and iQOO Z11.

[/highlights]

After increasing the prices of its latest Galaxy A series phones, the Galaxy A37 and Galaxy A57, just a few days ago, Samsung has now raised the prices of the online-centric Galaxy M47 and Galaxy F70 Pro. The new prices are already reflected on Samsung's website, while the phones are still available on Amazon and Flipkart at their old prices.

Samsung Galaxy M47, Galaxy F70 Pro revised prices

Here's a detailed look at the new prices of the Samsung smartphones:

Most smartphone brands are struggling to keep up with rising memory costs, as production capacity for storage and NAND components is being largely taken up by companies operating in the AI sector. This has forced brands like Samsung and others to procure storage components at higher prices, with the added cost passed on to buyers, even for devices already on the market.

How do the Galaxy M47, Galaxy F70 Pro fare against the competition after the price hike?

The Samsung Galaxy M47 and Galaxy F70 Pro feature an identical 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, along with a Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ protective layer on top. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor powers the devices, while the camera system includes a 50MP primary camera, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP unit for macro shots. Up front, there's a 12MP selfie shooter. Lastly, a 6,000mAh battery runs the show on the Galaxy M47 and F70 Pro.

Now starting at Rs 35,999, the Samsung smartphones compete against newly released phones, such as the iQOO Z11 and Realme P4s. While both iQOO and Realme handsets should boast better performance and battery life on paper, thanks to their advanced MediaTek Dimensity chipsets and massive battery capacities, the Galaxy M47 and F70 Pro still have an advantage in terms of software functionality and longevity, as the phones are promised six OS upgrades.

That said, if you value a mature, refined software experience, the Galaxy M47 and Galaxy F70 Pro may still be worth considering for users with casual workflows. Also, while the phones are still selling at their older prices on e-commerce platforms, it might be wise to purchase them as soon as possible if you were planning to get them.

iPhone 18 Pro series vs iPhone 17 Pro series India prices compared

The iPhone 18 Pro has been launched in India with a starting price of Rs 1,64,900 for the base 256GB storage variant. The handset comes with up to 2TB of storage, which costs Rs 3,14,900. The iPhone 18 Pro Max, meanwhile, has been priced at Rs 1,79,900 for the base variant, while the top-end variant costs Rs 3,29,900.

The pricing is significantly higher than that of the now-discontinued iPhone 17 Pro lineup, which started at Rs 1,34,900. Check out the table below for a quick side-by-side comparison of how Apple's Pro models have been priced a year apart.

Specs at a glance

Identical design, new colour options

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max design remains unchanged from its predecessor, featuring the same large camera plateau and flat edges. Dimensions remain unchanged, but the latest iPhones are a notch heavier. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max weighed 206 and 231 grams, respectively. In comparison, the iPhone 18 Pro tips the scales at 211 grams, while the Pro Max weighs 249 grams.

[twenty20 img1="https://static.hub.91mobiles.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2026/09/iPhone-18-Pro.png" img2="https://static.hub.91mobiles.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2026/09/iPhone-17-Pro.png" offset="0.5" before="iPhone 18 Pro series" after="iPhone 17 Pro series"]

However, the major visual differentiators between the newer and older Pro models are the colour options. Apple has introduced two new shades, Burgundy and Glacier, with the iPhone 18 Pro series, while discontinuing the flashy Cosmic Orange and subtler Deep Blue variants seen on the iPhone 17 Pro models.

The standard silver and black colour options continue with the latest lineup.

Display and battery backup

The display on the iPhone 18 Pro models also remains unchanged from its predecessors. The regular Pro gets the 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR ProMotion OLED display, while the Pro Max features a larger 6.9-inch display. However, the smartphones deliver relatively more screen real estate than ever before, thanks to the 35 percent narrower Dynamic Island notch than the iPhone 17 Pro models.

That's the only difference between the two phones. Other aspects, such as resolution, pixels per inch (PPI), Wide Colour (P3), HDR support, and contrast ratio, remain unchanged, ensuring a nearly identical viewing experience.

As usual, Apple hasn't revealed the battery capacities of its new iPhones - a teardown video will tell us the exact capacities later. For now, the iPhone 18 Pro (eSIM-only model) is said to deliver up to 36 hours of video playback on a single charge. This is up from the 33 hours of claimed playback from the iPhone 17 Pro's 3,988mAh battery.

Similarly, the iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to deliver up to 45 hours of video playback between charges - an increase of six hours from its predecessor, which packs a 4,823mAh battery. Furthermore, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are rated to provide 24 hours and 30 hours of regular usage on a full charge.

Speaking of charging, both handsets should be able to recharge up to 50 percent in about 15 minutes via the USB Type-C port. Without specifying the wattage, Apple claims the smartphones support faster wired charging that can provide 6 hours of video playback in just 5 minutes.

Performance and software

At the core of the iPhone 18 Pro models is the latest A20 Pro chipset, which Apple claims delivers snappier performance than the A19 Pro SoC powering the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. While benchmark and real-world tests are still awaited, Apple claims that the new SoC delivers up to 20 percent faster performance for everyday tasks and up to 40 percent better performance for graphically demanding tasks such as gaming, AI, photo editing, and more. The SoC is also claimed to double neural compute performance, enabling more capable on-device AI, while offering up to 40 percent better sustained performance.

The iPhone 18 Pro series runs iOS 27 out of the box, while the iPhone 17 Pro received the latest software from Apple via OTA update. This is going to make the overall experience is nearly identical on both smartphones, with similar sets of features such as advanced Apple intelligence, Siri AI, Liquid Glass precision slider, and more. You can read all about the new iOS 27 features in our beta roundup copy, which we covered back in July.

Cameras

The cameras also get a subtle but important upgrade. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max feature the same-resolution rear cameras as the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max: a 48MP main camera, a 48MP f/2.2 ultrawide camera, and a 48MP 3x telephoto camera. They also retain the 18MP Centre Stage camera on the front.

However, the main sensor on the iPhone 18 Pro models has been refreshed with a DSLR-like variable aperture system. This allows the lens to open and close to different f-stops, f/1.48, f/1.8, f/2.8, and f/4.0, instead of the fixed f/1.78 aperture on the previous models. A lower f-number means a wider aperture, allowing the camera to capture more light and, in turn, retain more detail across different lighting conditions.

A real-world test will show how capable the new main lens on the iPhone 18 Pro models is.

Verdict

It's a typical Apple playbook. The iPhone 18 Pro series delivers minor, incremental upgrades over its predecessor. However, the catch here is the significantly higher price tag. Instead of a modest price adjustment, the latest iPhones are much costlier, driven by higher RAM, storage, and other component prices. This makes upgrading to the latest iPhones harder than ever to justify, at least on paper.

The biggest improvements in the iPhone 18 Pro series come from the new A20 Pro chipset, longer battery life, and a variable-aperture main camera. However, these are still marginal upgrades over the previous generation. So, unless you're an Apple fan who likes to own the latest tech as soon as it arrives, existing iPhone 17 Pro series users can comfortably sit this one out.

• Redmi 17 price in India starts at Rs 23,999.
• The handset comes in three colour options.
• It's available in two memory variants. 

[/highlights]

Redmi 17 was launched in India last week as a new budget offering in the sub-Rs 25,000 segment. The handset is an affordable alternative to the Redmi Note 17 and comes with a large 6.9-inch display and a massive 7,900mAh battery. The Redmi 17 is designed for entertainment and multimedia, with a reliable battery life to back it up. The smartphone is now on sale, so here's all you need to know about purchasing it. 

Redmi 17 sale details

The Redmi 17 price in India starts at Rs 23,999 for the base variant with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. The 8GB + 128GB variant is priced at Rs 26,999. The smartphone comes in Absolute Black, Endless Blue, and Eternal Orange, with the latter featuring a vegan leather finish. The sale for the Redmi 17 is now live, and it can be purchased via mi.com, Amazon India, and Xiaomi Retail stores.

Redmi 17 specifications

The Redmi 17 features a large 6.9-inch HD+ LCD panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, 825 nits peak brightness, and Gorilla Glass 7i protection. The large display makes it a good option for consuming content and gaming. However, the HD+ resolution and brightness level might affect the user experience for those who prioritise these things. Powering the phone is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 processor, which should be good for everyday tasks and light gaming. 

The smartphone's highlight is its 7,900mAh battery with 45W fast charging and 22.5W reverse wired charging to power other devices. This battery capacity should comfortably offer multi-day usage. It can also double as a power bank, thanks to its reverse charging feature.

For optics, the Redmi 17 5G gets a 50MP primary camera with an auxiliary lens and an 8MP selfie camera. The setup is quite basic and standard for this price segment. On the software front, the Redmi 17 runs Android 16-based HyperOS 3 out of the box. You also get a 3.5mm headphone jack and a microSD card for storage expansion up to 2TB on the Redmi 17. 

The Redmi 17 also features a Dynamic RGB Light system that displays different colours for calls, charging, gaming, and app alerts. It's located as an LED ring just next to the camera sensors. 

For its price and hardware, the Redmi 17 is best suited for buyers who want a phone mainly for multimedia. Its large display, reliable battery life, and dual stereo speakers make it a good option for those who regularly watch TV shows and movies on their phone. If these are requirements, then the Redmi 17 could make for a good purchase. It's also a more affordable option compared to rivals like the OnePlus N6. 

But the price looks very different depending on where you buy it. In the US, the same base model starts at USD 1,999, or roughly around Rs 1.9 lakh. That is a gap of more than Rs 1 lakh, enough money to make international price comparisons a spreadsheet exercise.

Where is the iPhone Duo cheapest in the world?

The US has the lowest listed price among the markets compared, followed by Canada, Hong Kong and the UAE. India sits at the other end of the table.

The US figure comes with a footnote. The USD 1,999 price excludes state sales tax, so the final amount depends on where the phone is purchased. Even after accounting for that, however, the difference with India remains substantial. The UAE is also worth noting because eligible tourists can claim a refund on VAT when leaving the country. That can make its already lower listed price more attractive, although the actual saving will depend on the applicable refund.

The iPhone Duo starts at Rs 2,99,900 for 256GB in India. The 512GB version costs Rs 3,24,900, while the 1TB and 2TB variants are priced at Rs 3,74,900 and Rs 4,49,900 respectively. That is a serious amount of money for any smartphone, regardless of how many times it folds.

Apple hasn't provided a specific explanation for the Indian pricing. GST, import-related costs, currency movements and Apple's local pricing structure can all influence the final price, but there is no official breakdown showing how much each factor contributes. Obviously, the premium that Apple charges in India for being Apple is also there. The company is charging nearly 58 percent more for the iPhone Duo in India than the US, based on the converted US price, compared to the 45 percent premium for the iPhone 18 Pro. Mind you, this is lower than the 60 percent-plus premium that Apple used to charge back in the day for the iPhone 11 Pro, but compared to last year's iPhone 17 Pro models where the premium was around 35 percent, it has risen. Why, we can't say.

Read: How much EMI you'll have to pay to own the iPhone Duo in India

At approximately Rs 1.9 lakh, the US price is about Rs 1.1 lakh below the Indian starting price. For context, that difference is itself enough to buy a fairly capable Android flagship in India. The Duo is also significantly more expensive than rival foldables available in India. The Samsung Galaxy Fold 8 Ultra starts at Rs 1,99,999, while the Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold costs Rs 1,86,999. That puts Apple's foldable roughly Rs 1 lakh above Samsung's and more than Rs 1.1 lakh above Google's at the starting price.

Interestingly, Japan is listed at approximately Rs 2.27 lakh in the comparison. A round-trip flight from India to Japan can cost anywhere between Rs 37,000 to Rs 80,000 per person. So if someone already wants to travel to Japan, the saving on a high-storage Duo can make for some amusing math. You can travel to Japan, buy the iPhone Duo, make a holiday out of it and still pay less than what you would have in India. Same case for Dubai. Go, holiday, buy the iPhone, come back.

For Indian buyers, the Duo is clearly a luxury purchase which would require PAN disclosure and no all-cash spending. At Rs 2,99,900, it's substantially more expensive than Samsung and Google's competing foldables. If you specifically want Apple's first foldable and are already invested in the company's ecosystem, there might be a case for paying the premium. But if the priority is simply getting a good foldable phone, Samsung and Google offer considerably cheaper alternatives. For anyone already travelling to one of those markets, checking the local price makes sense.

Ultimately, Rs 2,99,900 is a new psychological line for Apple's iPhone lineup in India. And at Rs 4,49,900 for 2TB, the iPhone Duo has reached the point where asking "Do I really need 2TB?" may be replaced by a much more important question - "Do I really need an iPhone?"

• Redmi Note 17 Pro series is teased to launch with four IP ratings.
• The Note 17 Pro Max gets a Secret Sunrise variant with colour-changing material.
• Redmi has already confirmed the Note 17 Pro series will feature a 10,000mAh battery. 

[/highlights]

The Redmi Note 17 Pro series is launching in India on September 15th. It will join the standard Redmi Note 17, which launched in India in early August. The Redmi Note 17 Pro series will feature two models, including the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max. Redmi has been teasing the lineup with a 10,000mAh battery as the highlight, which is most likely to launch on the Pro Max model. With this lineup and the Redmi Note 17 too, the company appears to be focusing heavily on battery capacity.

Ahead of the launch, Redmi has also given us more details of the Note 17 Pro series design and build. 

Redmi Note 17 Pro series design, durability

The Redmi Note 17 Pro series initial teaser features two phones with similar designs but a small detail differentiating them. In the updated microsite on Amazon, we get a better look at what's most likely the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max in Secret Sunrise colour. This variant has a photochromic, colour-changing material on the rear design featuring clouds and portraying a sunrise. 

Redmi has also confirmed the Note 17 Pro series will come with TÜV SÜD 5-star Titan quality certification, which is said to be the first in the industry. The lineup is also expected to launch with IP66/IP68/IP69/IP69K ratings based on the teaser and the global variant's specifications. 

Based on what we know so far, the Redmi Note 17 Pro series' highlight will be the massive 10,000mAh battery. With this battery capacity, you should be able to get multi-day usage whether you're a regular or power user. While the 10,000mAh battery is undeniably impressive, we're curious to see if Redmi has optimised the phone for reliable endurance. The global variant of the Redmi Note 17 packs an 8,340mAh battery, which is also massive in terms of capacity. So both phones would be targeting users who prioritise battery endurance over everything. The Redmi Note 17 Pro series will compete with rivals from brands like Realme and OnePlus, which are known to offer massive batteries ranging from 9,000mAh to 10,000mAh.

If you've been looking for a phone, or the Redmi Note series in particular, with a massive battery, the upcoming Note 17 Pro lineup could be worth waiting for. However, you should still wait for the complete specifications to see what the Redmi Note 17 Pro phones offer in comparison to their rivals. 

• Vivo has confirmed that the X500 series will launch in China on September 21.
• The X500 Pro Max is expected to feature a 200MP telephoto camera and support a telephoto extender.
• The phone could feature MediaTek's upcoming Dimensity 9600 Pro chipset and a 2K display.

[/highlights]

Vivo is preparing to launch its next flagship smartphone series, and the company has now started teasing the upcoming X500 lineup. Ahead of the official launch, a senior Vivo executive has shared a new Weibo post that gives us a closer look at what the company has planned for its next-generation flagship phones.

The vivo X500 series will officially launch in China on September 21, with the X500 Pro Max expected to sit at the top of the lineup. Here's everything the latest teaser reveals about the upcoming phone.

Vivo X500 Pro Max design teased

Huang Tao's new Weibo post gives us our first clear look at the vivo X500 Pro Max's design. The phone appears to follow a similar design language to the X300 Ultra, with a large circular camera island housing three camera sensors on the rear. This suggests Vivo continues to put photography at the centre of its flagship design.

[caption id="attachment_714626" align="aligncenter" width="742"] English Translation [/caption]

The post also shows the phone in at least two colour options, orange and silver. Vivo has not revealed the full list of colours yet, so there could be more options when the phone launches. 

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The X500 Pro Max will also support Vivo's camera accessories, including the camera grip and second-generation telephoto extender. The latter was introduced with the X300 Ultra and can extend the focal range to a 400mm equivalent, or roughly 17x zoom. This could make the X500 Pro Max especially relevant for users who want better zoom capabilities from a smartphone camera.

Vivo X500 Pro Max: what we know so far

The Vivo X500 Pro Max, like its predecessors, is a camera-focused flagship. Some previous leaks point to a 200MP telephoto camera alongside a 50MP main and 50MP ultra-wide sensor. The phone is also expected to feature a 6.83-inch 2K display and MediaTek's upcoming Dimensity 9600 Pro chipset.

It has already appeared on Geekbench, although the early engineering sample results could prove to be different from the final product. A previous leak also claimed that the X500 Pro Max could come with up to an 8,000mAh battery, which is substantially higher than the 6,510mAh in the Vivo X300 Pro. 

For Indian buyers, the X500 Pro Max could become a good option if cameras are a priority. The phone will support Vivo's camera grip and second-generation telephoto extender, which we saw in the X300 Ultra. Vivo has confirmed that the X500 series will launch in China on September 21, but an India launch has not been announced yet.

Vivo usually launches its X series models in India in late October or early November, so if you're planning to buy a flagship soon and don't need an immediate upgrade, it makes sense to wait and see what Vivo brings to India. 

• The upcoming Moto Razr could sport a similar display aspect ratio to the iPhone Duo and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8.
• Motorola has hinted that the device could launch soon.
• The teaser showcases a silhouette of a wide-style foldable smartphone.

[/highlights]

After much anticipation and reporting, Apple has unveiled its first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, with promising hardware and an exorbitantly high price tag. Following its launch, Motorola's global Instagram handle posted a reel that takes a dig at Apple for joining the foldable bandwagon so late, while hinting at a wide Razr Fold towards the end.

Moto Razr wide form factor foldable smartphone teased

As seen in the reel on Motorola's Instagram post, the video cycles through most Razr phones the brand has released, including the iconic Razr V3, the first Razr with a flexible display from 2019, modern Razr phones with a flip form factor, like the Razr 2022, Razr 40, Razr 50, and the recently released Razr Fold.

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Right before the video ends, a silhouette appears of what looks like a foldable smartphone with a wide form factor, like the iPhone Duo, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8, and Xiaomi 18 Fold. Furthermore, the post's caption states, "Some are just discovering it. We've been making it even better.⁣ Just wait for our next move.", indicating a new device, most likely a wide-style Razr Fold, could be on the horizon.

How will Moto's wide Razr Fold differ from current Razr Fold?

While there have been no leaks or reports of a wide-style foldable phone from Motorola, it only makes sense for the company to jump on this trend, especially since it has been making flexible foldables for over eight years. That said, the most obvious difference between the wide-style Moto Razr and the Moto Razr Fold would be the aspect ratios of their inner and outer displays. The wide-style foldable's inner screen could feature an aspect ratio close to 4:3, similar to the iPhone Duo, while the Razr Fold opens to an 8:7.2 aspect ratio, giving it a nearly square appearance.

As experienced on the Galaxy Z Fold8 (review), the inner screen's 4:3 aspect ratio removes unnecessary top black bars when viewing all sorts of content on YouTube or OTT apps, while the outer display's shorter height lets you reach the top elements with one hand. As for the Moto Razr, it behaves like a standard slab phone when closed, making it more ideal for users who want a traditional smartphone experience.

If the rest of the hardware is to remain the same as the Razr Fold, the wide-style Razr Fold could feature the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, which won't be surprising since the brand has utilised this chipset on multiple smartphones this year, including the Moto Signature, Razr Fold, and Edge 70 Max. If executed well, this form factor could make Motorola a strong contender in the premium foldable space beyond its niche flip phones. Pricing will also play a big role in the device's success, so it could be a great alternative to the iPhone Duo if priced lower.

On the software front, expect multiple multitasking and AI capabilities to streamline users' workflow.

• OPPO Find X10 series is launching in China later this month.
• The lineup will feature three phones, including a Find X10E.
• OPPO has also confirmed the battery capacities of the Find X10 series.

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The OPPO Find X10 series is set to launch in China later this month, and tipped to arrive in India in late October. This time, there are three phones launching as part of the flagship lineup: OPPO Find X10, Find X10 Pro Max and Find X10E. It looks like OPPO is switching up the launch strategy with the new 'Pro Max' branding, replacing the Pro model, and introducing an X10E model. 

OPPO has also opened pre-orders for the Find X10 series in China. Some pre-order perks include an exclusive triple warranty worth CNY 557, a new product launch gift box, 24-month interest-free installments, trade-in subsidies of up to CNY 1,400, and more. 

OPPO Find X10 series: what to expect

OPPO has been revealing key details about the Find X10 series as we get closer to its debut. The OPPO Find X10 and Find X10 Pro Max are confirmed to pack an 8,000mAh battery. This would be a major upgrade over the OPPO Find X9's 7,025mAh battery, which should result in longer endurance for regular and power users alike. The Find X10 lineup could come with 80W wired and 50W wireless charging support, although this hasn't been confirmed yet. 

The Find X10 Pro Max is confirmed to feature a triple 200MP rear camera setup, which would be a first in the industry. The regular Find X10 will be no less, as it will offer a dual 200MP camera setup. The Find X10 series cameras have been co-developed with Hasselblad and are designed to produce more natural colours, sharper details, and more realistic lighting and shadows. The Find X10 series will most likely compete with the upcoming Vivo X500 series, which is also teased to offer some serious camera upgrades. 

As for the Find X10E, we don't have any details regarding this handset. It will most likely sit below the Find X10 and Find X10 Pro. This handset could also launch as a successor to the Find X9s, which is currently the affordable alternative to the flagship Find X9 series. 

With the launch expected to take place soon, we should know the complete details of the Find X10 series. If you're looking out for a camera flagship, the Find X10 and Find X10 Pro would be worth waiting for. You can still compare them with upcoming rivals like the Vivo X500 series to see which one offers the best value. 

• AirPods 5 start at Rs 14,900 in India, while the Wireless Charging Case version costs Rs 17,900.
• Apple says the new earbuds offer up to 50 percent more noise reduction than AirPods 4 with ANC.
• Siri AI and Live Translation add new hands-free features for users with compatible Apple devices.

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Apple has brought Active Noise Cancellation to its most affordable AirPods with the launch of AirPods 5 in India. Priced under Rs 15,000, the new open-ear earbuds combine ANC with improved sound, longer battery life and a set of hands-free features powered by Apple's newer Siri AI capabilities. Apple is also adding Live Translation, allowing users to hear translated conversations through the earbuds. The company says AirPods 5 can remove up to 50 percent more external noise than AirPods 4 with ANC. Pre-orders have started, with sales beginning September 18th.

AirPods 5 price and features

The AirPods 5 are priced at Rs 14,900 in India, while AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case cost Rs 17,900. Both models will be available from September 18th.

Apple says the new earbuds use an all-new multiport acoustic architecture and next-generation Adaptive EQ for improved sound. The ANC system is claimed to reduce up to 50 percent more external noise than AirPods 4 with ANC. Transparency mode has also been updated to make nearby voices and sounds feel more natural. Adaptive Audio can automatically blend ANC and Transparency mode based on the surroundings.

The Rs 17,900 version adds a Wireless Charging Case and stem-based volume controls. Users can swipe up or down on the stem to adjust volume. Battery life also improves, with Apple claiming up to five hours of playback with ANC enabled on a single charge, compared with four hours for AirPods 4 with ANC. The case takes total listening time with ANC to up to 22 hours and supports Apple Watch chargers, Qi-compatible chargers and USB-C.

Siri AI is one of the more significant additions to AirPods 5. When paired with an Apple Intelligence-supported iPhone, the earbuds can give users hands-free access to Apple's more capable Siri experience. Apple says Siri AI can understand personal context across information such as messages, emails and photos, while also providing broader world knowledge and taking actions inside apps. This means users can ask Siri to perform tasks based on information already on their iPhone. For example, Apple says Siri can play a song mentioned in a friend's message or help navigate to a dinner reservation using information from an email.

AirPods 5 also support Siri Interactions, allowing users to respond without speaking. A nod of the head can indicate "yes", while shaking the head can indicate "no". This could be useful when users want to interact with Siri discreetly in public.

Siri AI is rolling out as a beta with iOS 27 and initially supports English, with French, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese and Spanish support coming in October. Availability also depends on having a compatible Apple Intelligence-enabled device.

AirPods 5 can also be used for Live Translation, powered by Apple Intelligence. After setting up the feature in the Translate app and downloading the required languages, users can start a translation by pressing both AirPods stems, asking Siri to start Live Translation or using the Action button on an iPhone. The feature lets users hear a conversation in their preferred language, although Apple notes that Live Translation is not available in all languages or regions.

At Rs 14,900, AirPods 5 are made for buyers who want Apple's ecosystem features without paying AirPods Pro prices. The combination of an open-ear fit, ANC and Siri AI makes them more interesting than a routine AirPods refresh. However, buyers who prioritise maximum noise isolation should still consider sealed in-ear earbuds, as the open-ear design is intended to keep users more connected to their surroundings. The Rs 3,000 premium for the Wireless Charging Case version is easier to justify if you want longer ANC battery life and stem-based volume controls. The Siri AI and Live Translation features also make the most sense for people already using compatible Apple hardware. They are not standalone features that work equally across all phones, and Apple says several capabilities depend on supported devices, languages and regions.

• The iOS 27 update will be available for iPhones as old as the iPhone 11.
• The update boasts major performance improvements and Liquid Glass design refinements.
• Siri has been upgraded to perform multiple tasks across system-level apps.

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While millions of people worldwide have their eyes on the newly unveiled iPhone 18 Pro series and iPhone Duo, existing iPhone users not planning to buy the new devices also have something to be excited about: iOS 27. As announced during today's Apple Event, iOS 27 is now available to download as a release candidate, while the official stable rollout begins September 14 for all eligible iPhones.

iOS 27 key features and improvements to look out for

Siri AI: Siri has been overhauled into a much more capable, conversational AI assistant powered by the next generation of Apple Intelligence. It understands personal context across your apps and data, can see and act on what's currently on your screen, maintain ongoing multi-turn conversations, and handle complex multi-app tasks.

After updating to iOS 27, you'll find a dedicated Siri app on your iPhone that stores conversation history, and you can also customise its voice pacing and expressiveness. Then there's a new "Siri mode" within the camera app to ask questions based on what's in the viewfinder.

Liquid Glass design refinements: iOS 27 adds a transparency/opacity slider so you can fine-tune how glassy or solid Liquid Glass elements appear, from ultra-clear to more tinted. App icons, toolbars, and controls also get sharper refraction and improved readability.

Performance boosts across the system: Apple claims that iOS 27 launches apps up to 30 percent faster, photos appear in the library up to 70 percent quicker, while AirDrop transfer speeds have been boosted by up to 80 per cent. Network switching between Wi-Fi and cellular is also smoother, reducing dropped connections during transitions.

Advanced Photos editing tools: iOS 27 adds and updates major editing tools, now all powered by Apple Intelligence. The Clean Up tool removes complex distractions with more natural results, the new Extend tool intelligently expands a photo beyond its original borders, and Spatial Reframing lets you adjust the camera position or composition after you capture the shot.

Smarter Safari: Safari can automatically group open tabs into topic-based collections. Also, the Notify Me feature sends alerts when an open webpage is updated with new information. This can come in handy for users keeping an eye out for a price discount on a product listing on an e-commerce website.

AirPods Custom EQ: One of the most requested AirPods features for years, Apple finally delivers a system-wide EQ in iOS 27 that lets you boost or cut three frequency ranges, including lows, mids, and highs.

Improved Image Playground: The Image Playground has been upgraded to output more detailed, precise, and relevant images.

Three live activities in Dynamic Island: Exclusive to the iPhone 18 Pro series, the Dynamic Island can now show up to three live activities, thanks to the smaller size of the Dynamic Island pill. For instance, you can run a timer, play music, and view delivery status at the same time.

iPhone Handoff: This feature allows users to use the same mobile number and receive phone calls and messages on two iPhones. However, in the initial release, the feature is supported only on T-Mobile in the U.S. and Telekom Germany in Germany.

Other improvements: Enhanced AI-powered Flyover in Maps has been added for more detailed aerial views of select cities, improved iCloud Shared Albums with full-resolution sharing and easier access for Android/Windows users, native custom pass creation in Wallet, refined parental controls and child safety features, and various accessibility upgrades are on board as well.

How to download and install iOS 27 through the release candidate

Apple will push the iOS 27 release candidate to users who've already signed up for the iOS 27 Public Beta.

Step 1: Open any browser on your iPhone and visit beta.apple.com

Step 2: Sign in with your Apple ID

Step 3: Once done, you'll have to sign up for the iOS 27 public beta. To do this, ‘Under Get Started', select 'Enrol your iOS device'

Step 4: Now on your iPhone, go to the Settings app > General > Software Update
> Beta Updates. Choose iOS 27 Public Beta

Step 5: Now go to the Software Update section within the General menu

Step 6: The iOS 27 release candidate update should appear. Simply tap ‘Download and Install', and you're good to go

A release candidate is the final update pushed out to public beta users, and traditionally, it's the same update that arrives in the stable form, unless a problematic issue is found.

How to download and install stable iOS 27 through OTA

If you don't wish to install the iOS 27 release candidate update and haven't enabled the Automatic Updates setting, here's what you need to do to download the firmware on your iPhone when it rolls out:

Step 1: When the update rolls out on September 14, Open Settings and tap the General section

Step 2: Now select the Software Update menu.

Step 3: The next screen will display the installed version of iOS and prompt you to install iOS 27 if it is rolled out for your device

Step 4: If the update is available, tap Download and Install

Step 5: Agree to the terms and conditions, and the iOS 27 update will begin downloading

Step 6: After it's downloaded, you can proceed with the installation, which will require the phone to restart before booting into iOS 27

List of iPhones eligible for iOS 27

The iOS 27 update will start rolling out to the following iPhones through OTA on September 14. Users willing to get a glimpse of the software early on can fetch and install the update right away through the release candidate:

• iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air, iPhone 17e
• iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max
• iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2020), iPhone SE (2022)

The iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Duo come with iOS 27 out of the box.