• OnePlus 16 is tipped to feature a BOE X4 display with a 165Hz system-wide refresh rate.
• The OnePlus 15 featured a 165Hz gaming-focused mode.
• The OnePlus 16 is tipped to launch in China around October with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro.

[/highlights]

OnePlus may have announced an exit from the global scene but it appears to be doubling down on its next flagship while it operates in China and India. After the OnePlus 16 was tipped to feature a new BOE X4-based panel, further information has revealed it will be capable of running at 165Hz across more system and app scenarios, while supported games could reportedly push the refresh rate to 185Hz. The company has already confirmed that the OnePlus 16 will get upgrades to its gaming-focused technologies, although most of the display details remain based on leaks.

OnePlus 16 display features

According to tipster Digital Chat Station (via), the OnePlus 16 will use a new-generation BOE Oriental Screen featuring an X4 light-emitting material jointly developed by OnePlus and BOE. OnePlus has previously claimed that its new material performed better than Samsung's M-series material in internal testing, while also targeting lower power consumption and a longer lifespan.

The bigger change could be how the 165Hz refresh rate is used. The OnePlus 15 already supports up to 165Hz, but its official specifications list 1-120Hz adaptive refresh for general use and 165Hz as the maximum in gaming. The OnePlus 16 is tipped to extend 165Hz support across more system and application scenarios, potentially making scrolling, animations and touch interactions feel smoother.

The panel is also expected to retain a flat design with very narrow, symmetrical bezels. For gaming, the phone could reportedly reach 185Hz in supported titles. OnePlus has separately confirmed major upgrades to its Fengchi Gaming Core, high-refresh-rate technology and e-sports triple-chip system on the next flagship.

Other leaked specifications include a 200MP main camera with a 1/1.4-inch sensor, 50MP ultrawide camera and 50MP 3.5x periscope telephoto camera. The phone is also tipped to use Qualcomm's upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset and run ColorOS 17 in China.

The display strategy is an incremental but notable evolution of what OnePlus introduced with the OnePlus 15. That phone already combines a 165Hz 1.5K LTPO display with a 7,300mAh battery and dedicated gaming hardware, including a 3,200Hz instantaneous touch sampling rate. That means the OnePlus 16's biggest display upgrade may not be the headline 165Hz figure itself, but how widely the refresh rate can be used and how efficiently the panel operates. Higher refresh rates can consume more power, so the reported efficiency improvements could be important during extended gaming sessions.

For buyers considering a flagship upgrade, there is little reason to rush based on the display alone. The OnePlus 15 already offers one of the highest refresh rates available on a mainstream flagship. However, gamers who want higher frame rates and the latest performance hardware may find it worthwhile to wait for the OnePlus 16, which is expected to launch in China around October. India availability and pricing have not yet been confirmed.

• The Samsung Galaxy S25 256GB and 512GB variants have now received price hikes.
• The 128GB variant is still available for Rs 74,999.
• The price hikes are live on Samsung's website.

[/highlights]

Samsung has increased the price of the Galaxy S25 in India by up to Rs 12,000, with the revision affecting its 256GB and 512GB variants. The price change takes effect from August 19th i.e today. The move comes as smartphone makers contend with rising memory component costs. The price revision was shared by a tipster who posted Samsung's retailer communication which did not cite a reason for the price increase.

Samsung Galaxy S25 new prices

According to the Samsung communication shared by tipster Abhishek Yadav, the 12GB + 256GB Galaxy S25 now has a recommended list price of Rs 84,999, up from Rs 80,999. The 12GB + 512GB version has seen a larger Rs 12,000 increase, taking its price from Rs 92,999 to Rs 1,04,999.

The 12GB + 128GB Galaxy S25 remains priced at Rs 74,999. This variant arrived in India later through select retail channels after the phone's global launch, and is not included in the latest price revision.

The hike comes after several Android smartphone brands have raised prices across their portfolios amid higher memory costs. Samsung, along with Apple and Google, had largely held off on similar increases to their flagship phones, but that has now changed with the S25 price revision.

Should you buy the Galaxy S25?

Being a generation older does not take away from the Galaxy S25's flagship hardware. The compact phone has a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, 12GB RAM and a triple rear camera setup comprising a 50MP main camera, 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom and 12MP ultrawide camera.

The 4,000mAh battery and 25W charging are relatively modest compared with newer Android phones that increasingly use batteries above 6,000mAh. However, the S25's compact form factor, flagship performance and dedicated telephoto camera continue to give it a distinct place in Samsung's lineup. Our review noted, "The Samsung Galaxy S25 is a promising flagship smartphone that delivers on most counts. Powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite, the handset's performance outshines the iPhone 16, whereas its versatile camera system, featuring a dedicated telephoto lens, captures vibrant and detailed photos. The display is a visual treat, and extended software support is enhanced by practical AI-driven upgrades."

Samsung also promises seven generations of major Android OS upgrades and seven years of security updates for the Galaxy S25 series, taking software support through 2032. Even though the price has been hiked on the official page, the S25's discounted street price across retailers like Amazon makes sense for buyers, particularly for those looking for a compact flagship with long-term software support.

• Samsung Galaxy was originally launched at Rs 1,39,999.
• Flipkart is offering instant Rs 9,300 off on Galaxy S26 Ultra using SuperCoin.
• Flipkart hasn't revealed how long the deal will be valid for.

[/highlights]

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra was launched at R 1,39,999 back in February. Just six months later, the Galaxy flagship is now up for Rs 1,11,699 on Flipkart through upfront price cuts, bank offers, and SuperCoins. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, the S26 Ultra is the first phone to introduce Privacy Display and an upgraded 200MP quad-camera system. Even though the battery capacity remains at 5,000mAh as in previous models, if you've been seeking an all-out flagship for a while, this deal could be worth checking out.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Flipkart deal breakdown

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is already selling at a discounted price of Rs 1,24,999 on Flipkart, down from Rs 1,39,999. From the device's listing, one can redeem 1 SuperCoin to avail an instant Rs 9,300 discount. Furthermore, users with the Flipkart Axis Credit Card can reduce the price by Rs 4,000, bringing the final deal price to Rs 1,11,699.

Since Flipkart hasn't stated how long the deal will be valid, buyers interested in the phone may have to act soon to avoid missing out on the low price.

How good of a smartphone is Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra for deal price?

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra (review) currently stands as the most well-rounded Android flagship available in India. Per our in-house testing, it either topped or matched the competition across camera flexibility, long-term performance consistency, screen quality, and overall software dependability.

The four-lens setup, built around a 200MP main sensor, consistently delivered crisp and naturally coloured images in bright conditions, dim lighting, portrait shots, and zoomed-in scenarios. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, the phone posted class-leading benchmark numbers and kept temperatures in check even during prolonged gaming. Adding to its appeal, Samsung's promise of seven years of OS updates positions the S26 Ultra as a reliable choice for buyers who value extended software support.

Then comes the Privacy Display feature, unique to the Galaxy S26 Ultra; it prevents others from viewing the phone's display from side angles, ensuring your content stays safe from peeping eyes. While it excels in most aspects, the 5,000mAh battery could prove a shortcoming for power users and heavy users who take a lot of photos or engage in intensive gaming.

• OpenAI has introduced ChatGPT for Teens for users aged 13 to 17.
• ChatGPT for Teens adds learning tools, parental controls and stronger safeguards.
• The new experience includes Study Mode, safety features and healthier-use reminders.

[/highlights]

OpenAI has introduced ChatGPT for Teens, a dedicated experience designed for users aged 13 to 17. The new version focuses on learning, critical thinking and responsible AI use, while adding stronger safety protections and additional controls for parents. OpenAI will automatically place users into the ChatGPT for Teens experience when it identifies them as under 18 or when they state that they are between 13 and 17.

ChatGPT for Teens focuses on learning

OpenAI has built the teen experience around learning, with tools designed to help students understand concepts rather than simply provide answers. It includes Study Mode, which guides students through problems step by step, along with quizzes and learning visualisations to help them practise and understand difficult concepts. A new Responsible Homework Reminder can recognise when a student appears to be trying to shortcut an assignment and redirect them towards Study Mode instead.

[caption id="attachment_712169" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Source: OpenAI[/caption]

OpenAI is also adding Study Hours, which allows teens or their parents to set times when Study Mode remains on by default. The company says the feature is intended to help turn better study habits into a routine. The goal is to give teenagers access to AI support outside the classroom while keeping them involved in the learning process.

Stronger safeguards for teen users

Safety is another major focus of ChatGPT for Teens and OpenAI says protections will be enabled by default for users under 18. The company will employ age-appropriate safeguards to reduce exposure to harmful or developmentally inappropriate content.

[caption id="attachment_712168" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Source: OpenAI[/caption]

These protections cover areas including self-harm, eating disorders, violence, dangerous activities and explicit sexual or graphic content. OpenAI says the safeguards are based on its under-18 principles and guidance from developmental science and experts.

OpenAI launches Parents' Guide in India

Alongside the launch, OpenAI has also introduced its Parents' Guide to Learning with ChatGPT in India. The practical guide is designed to help parents understand ChatGPT for Teens, set up parental controls, support learning and encourage healthier AI habits at home.

Pragya Misra, Head of Strategy & Global Affairs, India, OpenAI, said parents and educators have an important role to play as young people learn and explore AI. She added that the company wants adults to stay involved, encourage critical thinking and establish age-appropriate boundaries around AI use.

OpenAI also hosted Open Dialogues on Youth Safety and AI in India, bringing together parents, educators and public voices to discuss how young people can use AI safely and responsibly.

Parents who plan to let their teens use ChatGPT can link their accounts to access additional controls, including Quiet Hours, selected settings and limited safety notifications. OpenAI is also adding teen-specific onboarding and reminders around sensitive image sharing, giving parents more visibility and control over how younger users interact with the chatbot.

ChatGPT for Teens offers a more controlled experience than standard ChatGPT, with age-specific safeguards, parental controls and learning-focused features. This could make it useful for busy parents who want to give their children additional support with schoolwork without having to be available for every question or topic.

The experience could prove particularly useful for students who need help understanding difficult topics or practising outside the classroom, with Study Mode designed to guide them through problems rather than simply provide answers. Parents should still review the available controls and discuss responsible AI use with their teens, as these safeguards are designed to reduce risks but do not replace parental oversight.

OpenAI wants to encourage healthier AI use

OpenAI is also adding features to encourage healthier AI habits among teens, including break reminders and clearer cues that ChatGPT is an AI. Its updated under-18 safeguards also prevent romantic language or behaviour that could encourage emotional dependence, alongside sensitive-image reminders and teen-specific onboarding protocols.

OpenAI says teens are already using AI to learn new skills and build projects beyond schoolwork, and ChatGPT for Teens is designed to support these uses while keeping safety in focus. OpenAI is also partnering with CodeAI to help students and educators better understand how AI works and use it responsibly.

This latest move reflects that the company plans to adapt its products for younger users, rather than treating them as a smaller version of the general audience. While the added safeguards are a step in that direction, their effectiveness will ultimately depend on how well they work in real-world use.

• POCO M8x 5G will launch in India on August 21st with a Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 chipset.
• It packs a 7,900mAh battery with 45W charging and 22.5W reverse charging.
• The phone gets IP64 protection, Gorilla Glass 7i, and four Android updates with six years of software support.

[/highlights]

POCO is putting battery life and long-term support as its major selling points for its next M-series phone. Ahead of its India launch on August 21st, the POCO M8x has now been detailed on its Flipkart microsite, revealing its design, Snapdragon chipset, 7,900mAh battery, charging speeds and software update commitment.

The POCO M8x 5G is confirmed to launch in India on August 21st at 12 noon and will be sold through Flipkart. 

Specifications and features

Ahead of the launch, POCO is revealing details via the Flipkart microsite. After detailing the chipset, the company has now shared more information on the design, colour options and other specifications of the phone. The POCO M8x is shown in Blue, Black and Leather Green finishes, with the latter featuring a textured rear panel and metallic-finish frame.

The biggest highlight is the 7,900mAh battery, which POCO claims can deliver up to three days of use. The company quotes up to 35 hours of social media scrolling, 27 days of messaging, 13 hours of navigation and around 13 hours of uninterrupted gaming. It supports 45W wired charging, with a claimed day's charge in 30 minutes, and 22.5W reverse charging.

The phone is India's first to use Qualcomm's Snapdragon 4 Gen 5, built on a 4nm process. POCO claims a 6,50,000-plus AnTuTu score and 43 percent faster app launches compared with the previous generation. It gets up to 12GB of RAM, including 6GB of virtual RAM, with LPDDR4X memory and UFS 2.2 storage. For sustained performance, the M8x uses a triple cooling system comprising a 12,439 sq mm graphite layer, 1,924 sq mm copper foil and 3.5W thermal gel. POCO says the phone is optimised for 48 months of lag-free use.

The phone has a quad-curved back design, IP64 dust and water resistance, Wet Touch 2.0 technology and Corning Gorilla Glass 7i for display protection. It also promises four generations of Android updates and six years of software updates, which is longer than what many budget and mid-range phones offer.

Expected pricing

POCO has not revealed the price yet, although the M8x should be positioned close to the POCO M8 Power, which launched at Rs 24,999. The M8 Power has the Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 chipset, and the Gen 5 is a minor upgrade over that processor. The M8 Power also has a marginally larger battery with a capacity of 8,000mAh. The M8x, like all mid-rangers these days, is aimed at users who prioritise battery endurance, performance and longevity rather than the highest camera or display specifications in the segment. That's because with the advent of Si-C technology, bigger batteries are more economical to pack in phones rather than fancy camera sensors or sharp screens.

A tipster had suggested the POCO M8x could be priced below Rs 20,000 but that's highly unlikely as the chipset is new and an evolution over the one used in the M8 Power. The latter already starts at Rs 24,999, so undercutting wouldn't make sense. If POCO manages to keep the price competitive with launch offers, the phone will appeal to endurance chasers because of its battery life and extended software policy.

• Google Pixel 11 ads show an unidentified screen-equipped fitness tracker alongside the Pixel 11 and Pixel Watch 5.
• The tracker resembles the screen-less Fitbit Air in shape but has a design closer to the Fitbit Charge series.
• The Fitbit Air is confirmed to launch in India in October.

[/highlights]

Google appears to have slipped an unfamiliar fitness tracker into two Pixel 11 advertisements, raising questions about whether the company is preparing another wearable alongside the Pixel Watch 5 and Fitbit Air. The small device has a display and resembles a cross between Fitbit's existing trackers, but Google hasn't confirmed what it is.

New Google fitness tracker

The two Pixel 11 ads, which have appeared on YouTube for some users with screenshots posted on Reddit, showcase Google's refreshed hardware lineup. One features two Pixel 11 phones alongside the Pixel Watch 5 in Fog finishes, while another highlights the range of green finishes across this year's devices. In both ads, however, a small screen-equipped tracker can be seen alongside the Pixel products. It has an oblong display showing what appears to be a condensed version of the Pixel Watch 5's interface.

The device shares the basic pebble-like shape of the Fitbit Air, Google's screen-less fitness tracker, but its appearance is closer to a Fitbit Charge tracker because of the display. Screenshots shared by a Reddit user show the same device appearing in multiple ads, and another user has reportedly seen it as well. That makes an accidental one-off rendering or AI-generated image less likely, although there is still no confirmation that the product is real.

Could this be a new Fitbit Charge?

The obvious possibility is a new screen-equipped Fitbit fitness tracker. The Fitbit Charge 6 launched in 2023, meaning the series is now around three years old. Google hasn't revealed a Charge 7, however, and there have been no concrete leaks pointing to one. The timing would make a new tracker likely, even as Google has positioned Fitbit as its dedicated fitness hardware brand while its software efforts have moved under Google Health.

Screen-equipped trackers such as the Charge series offer a middle ground between basic fitness bands and full smartwatches, while screen-less devices are gaining attention for users who want simpler, less distracting wearables. A new Charge could therefore complement rather than replace the Fitbit Air.

The Fitbit Air as of now remains the more relevant option for someone specifically looking for a screen-less tracker, while the Pixel Watch 5 is the better fit for users who want a fuller smartwatch experience. The mysterious device could eventually fill the gap between them, but until Google confirms what appeared in the Pixel 11 ads, it is best treated as an intriguing clue rather than a confirmed product. Meanwhile, the Fitbit Air is confirmed to launch in India in October, so those interested in a screen-less tracker in the country have something to look forward to.

• Realme P4s will feature an 8,000mAh battery.
• The handset is confirmed to feature the Dimensity 7400 Ultra chipset.
• It will be the fifth model to join the Realme P4 series. 

[/highlights]

After a series of leaks, the Realme P4s has officially been confirmed by the brand. It will be the fifth model to join the lineup after the Realme P4, P4 Pro, P4x, P4 Power, and P4 Lite. With another addition to the series, Realme could be aiming to gain more market presence and capture another price segment. The Realme P4s has been teased to feature an 8,000mAh battery, a 1.5K Samsung display, and more. Realme has revealed quite a lot about the upcoming P4s.

Realme P4s India launch date, availability

The Realme P4s is scheduled to launch in India on August 26th at 12 pm. The smartphone will be sold via realme.com and Flipkart. There's a dedicated microsite for the Realme P4s on Flipkart where the phone's features and specs have been showcased. 

The teasers reveal the Realme P4s's design and colours. The smartphone can be seen in a metallic turquoise colour and a light golden shade as well. The rear camera design stands out with a square-shaped module and some elements that are similar to the Realme P4 Power. 

Realme P4s specifications

Realme P4s is confirmed to feature the MediaTek Dimensity 7400 Ultra 5G chipset and HyperVision+ AI Chip. This is the same chipset powering the Realme P4 Power, which means that we can expect similar performance on both phones. The handset is also getting a 7,000mm2 vapour chamber for cooling while doing heavy tasks or extensive gaming. 

Its standout feature could be its 8000mAh battery with 80W fast charging support. Realme claims up to 3 days of use on a single charge. This is something we can only confirm after reviewing the device, but the battery should be able to deliver multi-day usage. Realme also says the P4s will have 6-year battery health and 120fps BGMI gameplay for 8 hours. Since the Realme P4s' battery will be one of its highlights, it could compete with phones like the OnePlus Nord CE6, which also has an 8,000mAh battery. 

The Realme P4s' display specs are also one to brag about. It's a 1.5K display (1272 × 2772 pixels) with up to 6,500 nits of brightness and a 144Hz refresh rate. The display uses Samsung M14 light-emitting material and comes with HDR10+ certification, Netflix HDR support, 26 percent improved luminous efficiency, 50 percent extended screen lifespan, and near-lossless 2K video playback.

More features confirmed for the Realme P4s include  IP69, IP68, and IP66 ratings for dust and water resistance, a 50MP AI camera, and AI Gaming Partner. We should get to know more about the Realme P4s as we get closer to the launch.

Based on everything that's been revealed so far, the Realme P4s could appeal to buyers who want a mid-range phone with a large battery, good display, and durable build. How Realme prices the phone will ultimately decide where the P4s actually stands. If you currently own a phone with a smaller battery and prioritise screen quality, the P4s might be worth waiting for.

• The base variants of Samsung Galaxy M17, Galaxy M17e, Galaxy F17, and Galaxy F70e could see a Rs 1,000 price hike.
• All these Samsung smartphones were promised six OS upgrades at launch.
• This is the second time Samsung has hiked the prices of its smartphones in the last six months.

[/highlights]

Amid the constant price revisions by smartphone brands across price segments, Samsung could be the latest to raise prices on several of its budget smartphones. Per a tip on X, the online-centric Galaxy M17, Galaxy F17, Galaxy M17e, and Galaxy F70e could see prices increase by up to Rs 3,000. While the new prices were expected to go live yesterday, they aren't being reflected on Samsung's online store or on Amazon and Flipkart, at least as of the time of drafting this story.

Revised pricing of Samsung's budget smartphones

According to Debayan Roy (@Gadgetsdata) on X, all base variants of the Samsung Galaxy M17, Galaxy M17e, Galaxy F17, and Galaxy F70e will see a Rs 1,000 price hike. Similarly, the top-end variant of the Galaxy M17 with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage could see a price increase of Rs 3,000.

The expected price revision could be linked to the ongoing memory crisis, which has led brands to jack up smartphone prices to offset higher memory procurement costs.

Are these smartphones still worth considering?

Samsung Galaxy M17 and Galaxy F17

The Galaxy M17 could start at Rs 18,999, while the Galaxy F17 may be priced at Rs 22,999, with both seeing an increase of Rs 1,000 each. Powered by the Exynos 1330, these smartphones' performance is on par with most MediaTek Dimensity 6300-based phones selling under Rs 25,000. These include the Realme P4R and OnePlus N6 (Dimensity 6360 Apex).

However, what sets the Galaxy M17 and Galaxy F17 apart from others is the addition of a 6.7-inch FullHD+ AMOLED display, whereas others are limited to HD+ resolution and LCD technology. AMOLED panels tend to produce vibrant, richer colours, while the higher resolution should ensure crisp viewing of content. On top of this, these smartphones were promised six OS upgrades at launch, making them far superior to rivals in terms of software longevity.

If you're seeking a reliable smartphone for daily tasks, especially for viewing content, the Galaxy M17 and F17, even at their higher prices, make for a solid purchase over the competition.

Galaxy M17e and Galaxy F70e

Possibly starting at Rs 17,499, the Galaxy M17e and Galaxy F70e with the Dimensity 6300 have an edge over the competition, since phones from Realme, OPPO, Vivo, and others with the same processor start at around Rs 20,000. Meaning, these Samsung devices could still offer the same level of performance as others at a lower price point.

Furthermore, with six OS upgrades on board, both phones are ahead of others in terms of software support.

• Vivo T5 Pro now starts at Rs 41,999.
• The smartphone launched at Rs 29,999 in April.
• Vivo T5 Pro has a massive 9,020mAh battery. 

[/highlights]

The Vivo T5 Pro has received yet another price hike. It launched in India earlier this year, in April, at a starting price of Rs 29,999, and now it costs Rs 41,999. This is within four months of the phone's launch in India, suggesting how deep the crisis is in the smartphone industry right now, as rising memory costs affect OEMs. 

Vivo T5 Pro price hike 

The Vivo T5 Pro now costs Rs 41,999 for the base variant with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage. This is after a hike of Rs 6,000 from its last price, which was Rs 35,999. The 8GB + 256GB variant, which was priced at Rs 39,999, now costs Rs 46,999. This puts the Vivo T5 Pro in a different pricing category altogether. It now sits among rivals like the Redmi Turbo 5.

Vivo T5 Pro: what's on offer?

The Vivo T5 Pro's highlight is its massive 9,020mAh battery, which easily lasts for two days. The handset also comes with 90W FlashCharge support and bypass charging, which helps keep the phone cooler when you are gaming while plugged in. This makes the Vivo T5 Pro a good option for power users and gamers. 

Powering the Vivo T5 Pro is the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4, which is a capable mid-range chipset but not the most powerful in the segment. It's underwhelming compared to phones like the Redmi Turbo 5, which use a faster MediaTek Dimensity 8500-Ultra chipset. The Vivo T5 Pro is still good for regular usage, and you get a 7000mm2 large vapour chamber cooling system for heat dissipation. Up front is a large 6.83-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 5,000 nits.

For photography, you get a 50MP primary camera and a 2MP depth sensor at the back, and a 32MP front camera for selfies. This camera setup is quite basic, making it useful for casual photography but does feel lacking with no ultra-wide or telephoto lens. On the software front, the Vivo T5 Pro runs OriginOS 6 based on Android 16 out of the box with 3 OS upgrades and 5 years of security patches. 

At its new price, the Vivo T5 Pro is still a viable option for its battery life, large and bright display, and dependable performance. However, if you want a chipset that's faster or more versatile cameras, then you might want to check out alternatives like the Redmi Turbo 5 or the Motorola Edge 70 Pro. 

• iQOO Neo11 Ultra and Z11S have launched in China, priced from CNY 3,399 and CNY 1,799, respectively.
• The Neo11 Ultra features a Dimensity 9500M, 2K 144Hz AMOLED display and 9,100mAh battery with 100W charging.
• The iQOO Z11S gets a Dimensity 7500 and 10,000mAh battery with 44W charging.

[/highlights]

While iQOO preps to expand the Z11 series in India, it has launched the iQOO Neo11 Ultra and Z11S in China, bringing large silicon-carbon batteries, 144Hz AMOLED displays and MediaTek Dimensity chipsets to two different price segments. While the Neo11 Ultra is positioned as a performance-focused model, the iQOO Z11S takes a more affordable route with a 10,000mAh battery.

Price and availability

The iQOO Neo11 Ultra starts at CNY 3,399 (around Rs. 48,300) for the 12GB + 256GB storage variant. The 16GB + 256GB model costs CNY 3,799 (around Rs 54,000), while the 12GB + 512GB and 16GB + 512GB versions are priced at CNY 3,999 (Around Rs 57,000) and CNY 4,399 (around Rs 62,500), respectively.

The iQOO Z11S starts at CNY 1,799 (around Rs 25,500) and comes in four variants, going up to CNY 2,899 (around Rs 42,000) for the 12GB + 512GB variant. Both phones are already available in China through the official online store.

Specifications and features

The iQOO Neo11 Ultra is the more ambitious of the two, featuring the MediaTek Dimensity 9500M processor, up to 16GB LPDDR5X Ultra RAM and 512GB UFS 4.1 storage. It also gets iQOO's Q2 gaming chip and an 8K Ice Dome 3D VC liquid-cooling system, which should make it better suited to sustained gaming than the Z11S. Its 6.83-inch 2K+ LTPS AMOLED display runs at up to 144Hz. Meanwhile the Z11S uses a 2,800x1,260-pixel 144Hz AMOLED panel with the MediaTek Dimensity 7500 processor running the show. For RAM, there are 8GB and 12GB LPDDR4X options with 128GB/256GB/512GB UFS 3.1 storage.

Battery life is a major selling point. The Neo11 Ultra packs a 9,100mAh silicon-carbon battery with 100W charging, while the Z11S goes further with a 10,000mAh cell but drops charging to 44W. That gives the Z11S an advantage in capacity, although the Ultra should be more convenient to top up.

The cameras also clearly separate the two. The iQOO Neo11 Ultra gets a 50MP Sony LYT700V main sensor with OIS and an 8MP ultrawide camera, along with a 16MP selfie camera. The Z11S has a 50MP main camera with a smaller sensor and an 8MP front camera. Both phones run OriginOS 6 based on Android 16. Both phones have in-display fingerprint scanners and IP68/IP69 protection.

There is no word yet on an international launch for the Neo11 Ultra or Z11S. This is particularly relevant for India, where iQOO is preparing to launch the iQOO Z11 (roundup) on August 20th. The Indian Z11 uses the same Dimensity 7500 family and 6.83-inch 144Hz AMOLED display, but differs from the Chinese Z11S in design, with a curved display instead of a flat panel. The Indian model is expected to be priced below Rs 40,000.

The Neo series has also followed a different path in India. iQOO skipped the Neo11 in the country and instead introduced the iQOO 15R below Rs 50,000, while positioning the iQOO 15 higher in its flagship lineup. For buyers looking at the Indian Z11, the Chinese Z11S will show what iQOO can do with the Dimensity 7500 platform, but the Ultra is the more interesting option for those prioritising gaming, display resolution, cameras and faster charging. Its biggest question for Indian buyers, however, is whether iQOO eventually brings it to the country.

• Moto Pad 70 is the third tablet in the lineup.
• It's also the most affordable one.
• The tablet comes bundled with a keyboard and pen.

[/highlights]

Motorola has been launching its Pad 70 series in India, with the Pad 70 Pro and Pad 70 Groove tablets. Now, the slim and light Moto Pad 70 has been made available in the country. It's also the most affordable tablet in the lineup. The Moto Pad 70 stands out for its design, which Motorola claims is the slimmest and lightest among tablets in this segment. 

Moto Pad 70 India price, availability

The Moto Pad 70 is priced at Rs 33,999 on Flipkart for the 8GB + 256GB variant. This variant comes with Wi-Fi+5G support. The Moto Pad 70 on the Motorola India website is listed for Rs 36,999, and you get a keyboard and pen bundled with the tablet. It comes in a single Pantone Sea Angel colour. There's an 8GB + 128GB variant of the Pad 70 listed on the Motorola website, but it's not clear how much it costs.

Moto Pad 70 specifications and features

The Moto Pad 70 features a 12.1-inch 2.5K (2560x1600 pixels) IPS display with 600nits typical and 800nits (HBM) brightness level, and a 90Hz refresh rate. The Moto Pad 70 Groove has the same screen but with a 120Hz refresh rate. Under the hood of the tablet runs the MediaTek Dimensity 6400 SoC, which is commonly seen in budget to lower mid-range phones. The tablet comes with 8GB LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB/256GB UFS 2.2 storage.

Powering the Moto Pad 70 is a large 10,200mAh battery with 45W TurboPower charging support. This should ensure multi-day battery life depending on your usage. The tablet also comes with a 13MP rear camera and an 8MP front camera, which will most likely be used for video calls. The Moto Pad 70 gets a quad-speaker setup with Dolby Atmos, making it a good option for multimedia. You also get an IP52 rating for dust and water resistance on the new Motorola tablet. 

The Moto Pad 70 runs Android 16 out of the box, and it comes with AI-powered writing tools such as AI Rewrite and AI Summary, AI Continue Writing, Circle to Search, and Google Gemini. The tablet measures 6.29 mm thick and weighs 530g. 

The Moto Pad 70 looks like a good option for those who want a mid-range tablet with a large display and reliable battery life. Since it comes with a keyboard and pen, it would be a good choice for productivity as well. You can still consider options like the Redmi Pad Pro 2, which offers similar hardware at a similar price. So, it's best to do a proper comparison before making a buying decision. If the Moto Pad 70 fits your requirements, then you can go ahead and get it.

• Infinix Hot 70 Pro 5G is tipped to launch in India in the first week of September in four colour options.
• It's expected to feature the Dimensity 7100 chipset, up to 8GB RAM and 256GB storage.
• The phone could compete with the Infinix Note Edge, which uses the same chipset.

[/highlights]

Infinix could be preparing to bring another Hot series smartphone to India. The Infinix Hot 70 Pro 5G is tipped to launch in the country in the first week of September, following its debut in select global markets in July. A new leak has also revealed the phone's likely India colour options and hands-on images, including a closer look at its distinctive Active Matrix Cube display.

Infinix Hot 70 Pro specifications and features

According to tipster Sudhanshu Ambhore, the Infinix Hot 70 Pro 5G will be available in India in Dive Blue, Mirage Green, Silk Glow Purple and Thermo Orange. These are also among the colour options offered in global markets. The hands-on images show a vertically arranged triple-camera-style layout, although the third section houses Infinix's Active Matrix Cube rather than a conventional camera. The small customisable display can show notifications, status alerts and animations. The Thermo Orange and other finishes also use different visual effects, including colour-changing and light-reactive textures depending on the variant.

[gallery link="file" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="712082,712083"]

The global model features a 6.76-inch IPS LCD display and is powered by the 6nm MediaTek Dimensity 7100 chipset. It comes with up to 8GB RAM and 256GB storage, while the battery capacity varies between 5,600mAh and 6,000mAh depending on the market. Other specifications include 45W charging, a 50MP rear camera, an 8MP selfie camera and IP68-rated dust and water resistance. If the India variant gets the same battery, buyers could be underwhelmed as phones in the segment offer an average 7,000mAh battery, with some even going up tp 10,000mAh.

The Dimensity 7100 is also used in the Infinix Note Edge. The latter offers a sharper 6.78-inch 1.5K curved AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a larger 6,500mAh silicon-carbon battery, 13MP selfie camera and 7.2mm slim profile. It also runs Android 16-based XOS 16 and has dual JBL-tuned speakers, although its IP65 rating is lower than the Hot 70 Pro's. That puts the Hot 70 Pro in an interesting position if it launches close to the Note Edge's current price. The Note Edge launched in India at Rs 21,999 in February but is now available for Rs 28,999.

Infinix has not confirmed the Hot 70 Pro's India launch or pricing yet. For context, the Infinix Hot 60 5G+, the latest Hot series model officially launched in India, starts at Rs 17,999 and features a 120Hz display, Dimensity 7020 chipset, 50MP camera and 5,200mAh battery with 18W charging.

The Hot 70 Pro should offer a more capable package, but buyers may want to wait for its India price before choosing between it and the Note Edge. If priced aggressively, the Active Matrix Cube and IP68 protection could help the Hot 70 Pro stand out in the crowded sub-Rs 25,000 segment.

• In this programme, users will have to pay around Rs 8,584 per month for the Galaxy Z Fold 8, while Rs 9,417 per month for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra.
• The programme makes ownership more approachable for buyers who prefer flexibility or annual upgrades.
• Galaxy Forever scheme is accessible via Samsung.com, over 1,500 Samsung Experience Stores across India

[/highlights]

Samsung has officially expanded its Galaxy Forever ownership programme in India to cover its latest flagship foldables, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. Much like the scheme introduced for the Galaxy S series, Galaxy Forever allows tech enthusiasts and power users to purchase Samsung's current-generation foldable devices without paying the full amount upfront. The scheme combines flexible financing, device protection, and a structured upgrade/return path.

What the Galaxy Forever programme offers

Samsung Galaxy Forever lets you own a Galaxy Z Fold 8 or Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra by spreading the cost over 24 no-cost EMIs. A monthly programme fee is added on top, which covers Samsung Care+ protection. After the initial period, you can return the device for an assured buyback, keep it by paying the balance, or upgrade to a newer Galaxy flagship with minimal hassle. Monthly payouts under the scheme:

• Galaxy Z Fold 8: Around Rs 8,584 per month (approx. Rs 7,500 device EMI + Rs 1,084 programme fee)
• Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra: Around Rs 9,417 per month (approx. Rs 8,334 device EMI + Rs 1,083 programme fee)

The programme fee includes Samsung Care+ covering accidental and liquid damage with zero deductibles. Protection can be used once per year for two years.

Galaxy Forever payment and upgrade breakdown

You can initiate a return or upgrade between the 10th and 25th months. The assured buyback value (as a percentage of the invoice value) works as follows:

The return is designed to be straightforward (no-questions-asked under Care+ terms), provided the device powers on, has a verifiable IMEI, and shows no unauthorised tampering.

The Galaxy Forever scheme is accessible via Samsung.com, over 1,500 Samsung Experience Stores across India, and partner financial channels including Samsung Finance+. Special pricing tiers are also extended to eligible corporate employees and students through the Corporate+ and Student+ platforms.

Why has Samsung introduced the Galaxy Forever programme for Galaxy Z Fold 8 series?

Flagship foldables already command premium prices. With component costs elevated across the industry, programmes like Galaxy Forever lower the entry barrier by spreading payments and offering a clear exit or upgrade path. It allows Samsung to maintain its pricing while making ownership more approachable for buyers who prefer flexibility or annual upgrades.

With Samsung Care+ bundled, it also covers full damage coverage and addresses durability anxieties that first-time foldable buyers often have. Besides that, the programme allows users to upgrade to a new foldable without paying a huge sum.

What this means for you

If the asking price of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 or Z Fold 8 Ultra is an obstacle to purchasing the devices, Galaxy Forever makes monthly payments more manageable while adding robust protection. The built-in buyback and upgrade options are particularly useful if you like switching to the latest model regularly. That said, the programme fee adds a noticeable amount over 24 months, so if you plan to keep the device long-term, a standard no-cost EMI plan without the fee may work out cheaper. Galaxy Forever is best suited for those who value flexibility and protection alongside ownership.

• Xiaomi will launch the Mijia Air Purifier 6 and Air Purifier 4 Compact in India soon.
• The two new Mijia air purifiers will launch on August 25, 2026.
• The Air Purifier 6 features PM1 detection, UVC sterilisation and 50sqm coverage.

[/highlights]

Xiaomi is bringing its Mijia sub-brand to India's air purifier segment, with two new models confirmed to launch in the country on August 25. The Mijia Air Purifier 6 and Mijia Air Purifier 4 Compact will be the first Mijia products to launch in India, following Xiaomi's recent introduction of the smart home-focused sub-brand.

Mijia Air Purifiers key features

The Mijia Air Purifier 6 is more capable of the two models and was the device tipped in earlier reports. It is already available in global markets and brings several upgrades over Xiaomi's older Smart Air Purifier 4. The Air Purifier 6 can deliver a clean air delivery rate of up to 443m³/h for dust and smoke and 218m³/h for formaldehyde, with coverage for rooms of up to 50 square metres.

Imagine breathing the crisp, untouched air of mountain peaks right in your living room.

Presenting the all-new #MijiaAirPurifier6 and #MijiaAirPurifier4Compact. Pure, clean air made accessible for every Indian home.

Launching on 25th August, 2026. #MijiaByXiaomi

Get Notified:… pic.twitter.com/H630etV2IJ

— Xiaomi India (@XiaomiIndia) August 18, 2026

One of its biggest upgrades is a five-sensor system that includes a PM1 sensor alongside PM2.5, pollen, temperature and humidity monitoring. The PM1 sensor allows the purifier to detect smaller airborne particles than the standard PM2.5 sensor.

The purifier also uses a multi-layer filtration system and includes UVC light and negative ionisation features. Xiaomi says its Sleep Mode can operate at around 32dB, making it quieter during nighttime use.

The Mijia Air Purifier 4 Compact will launch alongside the Air Purifier 6 as the more compact option. Xiaomi has not yet revealed its India-specific pricing or specifications, but the model is already available in global markets. Its inclusion gives Xiaomi a second option for buyers who may not need the larger Air Purifier 6, particularly those looking to use an air purifier in smaller rooms.

Should you wait for the new Mijia air purifiers?

Air purifiers have become very popular across the consumer base, particularly those living in North Western Indian states, Delhi NCR and other metro cities which end up engulfed in extremely polluted air during the winters. 

The Mijia Air Purifier 6 seems to be the more interesting option for buyers who want additional air-quality monitoring features. Its PM1 detection, higher purification performance and wider coverage could make it a worthwhile upgrade over Xiaomi's older Air Purifier 4, provided Xiaomi keeps the India price competitive. 

The Air Purifier 4 Compact, meanwhile, could appeal more to buyers who need a smaller and more affordable purifier. It could prove to be a good option for students and young professionals living in smaller spaces.  With both models launching on August 25, buyers looking for a new air purifier may want to wait before making a purchase and compare it against options currently available in the market.

The new devices are likely to come at a high price point initially, but the brand is likely to offer good introductory offers to attract buyers. 

[highlights]

• This is the third time the Xiaomi Pad 8 has received a price hike in India.
• The hike is likely linked to the ongoing memory crisis in the tech industry.
• The Xiaomi Pad 8's highest variant has now crossed the Rs 50,000 mark.

[/highlights]

The Xiaomi Pad 8 (review) was initially launched at Rs 33,999 back in March. Today, its price has been revised again, and the tablet now starts at Rs 38,999 for the standard variant, which features 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The new prices have already gone live on Xiaomi's online store without any prior notice, which has been the case for most devices receiving price hikes as of late.

Xiaomi Pad 8 revised pricing

Here's how the Xiaomi Pad 8's new pricing fares against its old pricing.

While the base 8GB + 128GB variant has seen a Rs 1,000 increase, the other four variants have been hiked by Rs 3,000. The hike is likely linked to the ongoing memory crisis, which has affected all smartphones, laptops, and tablets in the recent past, forcing brands to jack up their prices to offset high memory procurement costs.

Is the Xiaomi Pad 8 still worth considering?

Despite the Xiaomi Pad 8's pricing now touching Rs 40,000, at least for the base variant, it still remains one of the strongest contenders in the segment. Since the Apple iPad 11th Generation retails for Rs 49,900 after the recent price hike, which affected most non-iPhone products in Apple's current portfolio, the Pad 8 offers superior performance gains over the current competition.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 on board, the tablet delivers significantly superior performance to the likes of the Lenovo Idea Tab Pro and Samsung Galaxy Tab A11 Plus, which are powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8300 and Exynos 1380, respectively. Per our in-house testing, the Xiaomi Pad 8 scores over 2.3 million on AnTuTu, indicating strong performance across a range of tasks, be it heavy app multitasking, video editing and rendering, or playing games at high graphics settings.

The Redmi Pad 2 Pro, on the other hand, stands as a great alternative to the Xiaomi Pad 8. However, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 processor won't offer as great a performance as the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4. Fortunately, it should easily suffice for medium-use cases, such as reading books, watching videos, and taking notes.

[highlights]

• boAt has launched eight new PartyPal speakers for parties and karaoke.
• The PartyPal range features Karaoke ProTuner, DJ controls and RGB lighting.
• Prices for the new boAt PartyPal speakers start at Rs 9,499.

[/highlights]

boAt has launched its new PartyPal speaker series in India, which includes eight models for everything from house parties and karaoke nights to larger gatherings. The lineup brings together boAt Signature Sound, karaoke features, DJ controls, RGB lighting and multiple connectivity options, with prices starting at Rs 9,499 and going up to Rs 24,999. Let's check it out in more detail below.

The BoAt PartyPal series brings karaoke and DJ features

The new range includes the PartyPal 650, PartyPal 600 Plus, PartyPal 500, PartyPal 390 Plus, PartyPal 230, PartyPal Boom, PartyPal Ultra and PartyPal Rumbl. Despite differences in size and output, boAt has designed the range around interactive features rather than audio playback alone.

A key feature across the lineup is Karaoke ProTuner, which claims to automatically adjust vocals in real time during karaoke sessions. The speakers also offer features such as RGB lighting, DJ controls, microphone support and guitar connectivity, depending on the model.

The company has designed the speakers for different types of gatherings, with wired and wireless connectivity options across the range.

PartyPal 650 is the flagship model

The PartyPal 650 sits at the top of the new lineup and delivers 300W of audio output. It comes with Karaoke ProTuner and two UHF wireless microphones, making it the most feature-packed option in the range.

The speaker also gets built-in DJ tracks and a dedicated Bass Drop Pad for adding sound effects, while its RGB lighting can sync with music. Users can customise sound and lighting settings through the boAt Hearables app.

For connectivity, the PartyPal 650 supports Bluetooth 5.3, TWS, AUX, USB and TF card playback, along with guitar and wired microphone inputs. It also has built-in wheels for easier portability and offers up to five hours of playback.

Should you buy the boAt PartyPal series?

The eight speakers are priced between Rs 9,499 and Rs 24,999 in India. The full lineup is available through the boAt website, Amazon India, Flipkart and leading retail outlets across the country. The PartyPal 650 is the most expensive model in the range, while the remaining speakers are positioned at lower price points for buyers looking for a more affordable party speaker.

The PartyPal range is for buyers who want more than a conventional Bluetooth speaker, particularly those interested in karaoke, lighting and party-focused users. However, the value heavily depends on the specific model and its sound performance. At the higher end, the PartyPal 650 is in a segment with several established brands, so its 300W output and extra features will need to offer enough of an advantage over rivals to justify the price.

For buyers who mainly want a speaker for music playback, a conventional Bluetooth speaker may offer better value. The PartyPal lineup is more niche and suited to users who want an all-in-one entertainment system for parties and group gatherings. 

[highlights]

• CMF had earlier teased a new pair of earbuds with a white stem, metallic silver body and orange silicone ear tip.
• The earbuds, called the CMF Buds Neo, will be the company's entry point in their lineup.
• The current CMF Buds 2 series starts at Rs 2,699 in India and offers features such as ANC, Bluetooth 5.4 and IP55 protection.

[/highlights]

CMF's decision to skip a new smartphone this year due to rising memory prices had left the Nothing sub-brand with a different focus for 2026. After confirming that it would not launch a successor to the CMF Phone 2 Pro, CMF has now teased its next product, the CMF Buds Neo, which will launch in India on August 20th at 12 noon IST. The teaser gives us an early look at the earbuds, including three possible colour options: blue, orange and black.

The teaser follows an earlier close-up image posted by CMF with the tagline "A hint of what's next", which showed a single earbud without revealing its name or launch date. CMF has now confirmed that the product is the Buds Neo and described it as the "most accessible entry point" to the CMF ecosystem.

CMF co-founder Akis Evangelidis had previously said the company was working on a successor to the CMF Phone 2 Pro but decided not to launch it this year because current memory prices made it difficult to deliver a genuine upgrade at a price that made sense. He also confirmed that CMF had several new products and entirely new categories planned for 2026. The Buds Neo appears to be one of those products.

CMF Buds Neo launch and design

The latest teaser shows the earbuds with possible blue, orange and black colour options. The earlier product image revealed a white stem, metallic-looking body and orange silicone ear tip on the showcased variant. At least two microphone openings are visible, while a circular section on the stem appears to be the touch-control area. The design retains some of the visual cues seen on previous CMF earbuds, although the company hasn't confirmed the Buds Neo's specifications.

The Buds Neo are expected to sit below the existing CMF Buds 2 range. The CMF Buds 2 launched in India at Rs 2,699 with 11mm drivers, up to 48dB hybrid ANC, Bluetooth 5.4, IP55 protection and Spatial Audio. The Buds 2 Plus, priced at Rs 3,299, adds 12mm LCP drivers, LDAC support and up to 50dB ANC.

CMF's "most accessible" positioning suggests the Buds Neo could focus on essential features and come in below the Buds 2, although pricing remains unconfirmed. For buyers, the main thing to watch will be whether CMF can offer decent audio, battery life and microphone performance without pushing the price too close to its existing models. More details should arrive when the CMF Buds Neo launches. Considering the date is not too far away, those shopping for affordable audio products should wait it out.

[highlights]

• Honor is reportedly working on a wide foldable.
• It's expected to debut later this year.
• The foldable could pack a 7,000mAh battery. 

[/highlights]

Honor recently launched the Robot Phone, which has a motorised gimbal camera. The Honor Robot Phone is among the most unique smartphones, but with flagship hardware. The brand is now reportedly working on a wide foldable with a form factor similar to the Galaxy Z Fold8. Honor already has a popular lineup of foldables with the traditional book-style design and flip form factor too.

The latest leak on Honor's wide foldable suggests it will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro, Qualcomm's upcoming flagship chipset. Details about its battery capacity have been leaked too. 

Honor wide foldable chipset, battery details (expected)

Weibo tipster Smart Pikachu has shared details on Honor's upcoming wide foldable. It's reportedly being tested with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro. It's an upcoming flagship chipset built on the 2nm process. If so, the Honor wide foldable would be the first to feature this chipset with this form factor. Considering it's Qualcomm's flagship chipset, you can expect peak performance levels from the previous generation.

Honor's wide foldable is also rumoured to feature a 5.5-inch cover display and a 7.6-inch inner display. This would give the foldable a more compact form factor with a wider aspect ratio, like the Galaxy Z Fold8. The upcoming Honor foldable is also expected to feature a horizontal camera module. It could house a 7,000mAh battery and a triple-camera setup with a 200MP primary sensor. 

With such hardware, Honor could end up offering one of the most powerful foldables on the market. The wide aspect ratio could be the new trend that catches on, as Samsung has introduced it with the Galaxy Z Fold8. Apple's first foldable is also rumoured to feature a similar form factor. This makes the foldable easier to hold and use, and makes it a good choice for multimedia too. 

Since it's still early for the Honor wide foldable, we should wait for more details. But if you've been waiting for a wide foldable that also boasts flagship hardware, you should keep an eye on the Honor foldable. This would be a good upgrade for first-time foldable users and those who want to switch from the book-style design.

[highlights]

• Apple's rumoured camera-equipped AirPods have surfaced in a macOS Tahoe 26.7 release candidate video demonstrating Visual Intelligence.
• The cameras could provide visual information to Siri, allowing it to identify objects and understand the user's surroundings.
• Apple hasn't confirmed the AirPods or their launch date, with reports suggesting they could arrive as early as September or later.

[/highlights]

Apple's long-rumoured AirPods with built-in cameras have surfaced in one of the clearest leaks yet. A video found in the macOS Tahoe 26.7 release candidate by MacRumours appears to demonstrate how the earbuds could use their cameras with Apple's Visual Intelligence features, giving Siri visual information about the user's surroundings.

Camera-equipped AirPods could bring Visual Intelligence

The short video shows a person holding up a book while wearing the purported camera-equipped AirPods. A voiceover explains that Visual Intelligence can make the user's surroundings "savable", suggesting that Siri could recognise something the wearer is looking at and save relevant information for later.

Here is your first look at AirPods with Cameras in action using Visual Intelligence.

This video file came from macOS 26.7 RC pic.twitter.com/yo7RI4MCeu

— Aaron (@aaronp613) August 18, 2026

That is a different approach from Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses, where cameras are also used to understand the environment but can support photo and video capture. Apple's reported implementation appears to treat the cameras primarily as sensors for AI. Instead of taking pictures, they could feed visual information to Siri, allowing users to ask questions about objects around them without reaching for an iPhone.

The software reportedly also includes a warning to keep hair away from the AirPods so their cameras can capture information from the surroundings properly. That suggests the cameras could sit in the earbuds' stems, although Apple hasn't confirmed the hardware.

Launch timeline unclear

The leak is interesting because Apple's reported timeline for these AirPods has changed. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman said in June that the camera-equipped model, reportedly codenamed B798, had been pushed to late 2027 amid delays with Apple's AI and Siri work. However, recent software references to another model, B790, have fuelled speculation about an earlier AirPods launch. The exact relationship between B790 and the camera-equipped model remains unclear, so a September debut should not be treated as confirmed.

If Apple does eventually launch camera-equipped AirPods, they could occupy a category between conventional wireless earbuds and smart glasses. The pitch would be about making AI available without requiring users to hold up a phone. That could make them compelling for existing AirPods users interested in Apple's AI ecosystem, but there are obvious questions around privacy, battery life and price. For now, buyers looking for better audio should not delay an AirPods purchase solely because of this.

• POVA 8 Pro rivals the OnePlus Nord 6 and POCO X8 Pro Max under Rs 50,000.
• The Active Matrix Display notifies users of calls, notifications, and crucial alerts.
• POVA 8 Pro goes on sale on Flipkart and offline channels starting August 21st.

[/highlights]

Following the release of the POVA 8 two months ago, the company has today pulled the curtain off the POVA 8 Pro, which features improved display and performance capabilities. Apart from that, the phone retains the signature sci-fi appearance, with intricate elements on the rear and an even larger Alive Matrix Display than on the POVA 8. With the MediaTek Dimensity 7400 Ultimate, a 50MP Sony LYT700c, and a decently sized 6,500mAh battery, the POVA 8 Pro is aimed at users seeking a balanced smartphone in the Rs 40,000 segment, while flaunting a distinct design.

POVA 8 Pro price, sale, availability

The POVA 8 Pro starts at Rs 49,999 for the base 8GB RAM and 256GB storage, while the 12GB RAM with 512GB storage variant will sell for Rs 54,999. The phone will be available to purchase starting August 21st at noon on Flipkart and offline retail stores.

The colour options for the POVA 8 Pro include Arc White, Graphite Black, and Tundra Green, all featuring small patterns and designs on the rear for a stand-out look.

[gallery link="file" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="712014,712015,712013"]

What the POVA 8 Pro offers

Kicking things off with the display, the POVA 8 Pro gets a 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED panel with up to a 144Hz refresh rate and 4,500nits peak brightness. Compared to the likes of the OnePlus Nord 6 and POCO X8 Pro Max, the display specifications appear to be on par with the competition.

The POVA 8 Pro is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7400 Ultimate, which is paired with UFS 2.2 storage and LPDDR5X RAM. Based on our recent experience with phones powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7400, such as the Realme P4 Power and Redmi Note 15 Pro, one can expect the POVA 8 Pro to run without any hiccups during daily tasks, such as scrolling through social media apps, web browsing, or even playing medium-intensive games for long periods.

On to the optics, the POVA 8 Pro offers a 50MP 1/1.56-inch Sony LYTIA 600c sensor paired with an 8MP ultrawide lens with a 111-degree field of view. While the primary camera sensor on board is superior to, say, the OnePlus Nord 6 (50MP 1/2-inch main), it remains to be seen how well the company has tuned it to deliver sharp results with a balanced dynamic range. On the front, the phone houses a 13MP selfie shooter.

The POVA 8 Pro boots Android 16 out of the box with HiOS 16 layered on top. This is POVA's proprietary skin, featuring a light, glass-based user interface with tons of AI features. The smartphone is promised two OS upgrades along with three years of security updates. Fueling the phone is a 6,500mAh battery with 45W fast charging support.

What sets the POVA 8 Pro apart is its design and appearance. The build is IP69K-rated and features SGS 5-Star drop resistance, meaning it can withstand and absorb shocks from drops up to a certain limit. Coming to the Active Matrix Display, as on the POVA 8, users can be notified of messages, alerts, and calls when the phone is placed face down. Apart from that, users can also add custom interfaces to be displayed when the phone is flipped. The display also lights up and shows specific icons when the phone is playing music or charging.

Is the POVA 8 Pro worth considering?

With the MediaTek Dimensity 7400 Ultimate, a capable 50MP LYTIA 700c primary camera, an IP69K-rated build, and a stand-out design, the POVA 8 Pro is certainly amongst the balanced smartphones out there. However, its rivals under Rs 50,000, such as the OnePlus Nord 6 and POCO X8 Pro Max, offer the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 and MediaTek Dimensity 9500s chipsets, respectively.

These are flagship-grade chipsets boasting powerful CPUs and GPUs and will certainly offer a better gaming experience than the Dimensity 7400 Ultimate, if gaming is one of your top priorities. Furthermore, it also misses out on a telephoto despite featuring a decently sized primary camera sensor. For users seeking detailed long-range zoom shots and portraits, the Motorola Edge 70 Pro+ and Nothing Phone (4a) Pro could be a better fit.

All in all, if you wish to stand out with a smartphone that looks stylish and futuristic, the POVA 8 Pro could be worth considering. However, don't expect the device to deliver extraordinary performance results compared to current rivals under Rs 50,000.

[highlights]

• Realme 16 Pro+ now starts at Rs 53,999.
• Realme 16 and 16T have received Rs 1,000 price hikes.
• Both the Realme 16 Pro and Pro+ have received multiple price hikes. 

[/highlights]

Realme has again hiked prices of its popular smartphones. The Realme 16 series, which sits in the mid-range segment, has become more expensive, thanks to the rising memory costs that have plagued the smartphone industry. The Realme 16 Pro+, Realme 16 Pro, Realme 16 5G, and Realme 16T have received price hikes up to Rs 4,000. Also, this isn't the first time Realme has hiked the prices of these phones. 

Realme 16 Pro+

The Realme 16 Pro+ has received a price hike of up to Rs 4,000 in India. The 8GB + 128GB variant is now priced at Rs 53,999, up from Rs 49,999. This is Rs 14,000 more than its launch price, which was Rs 39,999. Meanwhile, the 8GB + 256GB and 12GB + 256GB variants have become Rs 3,000 more expensive and now cost Rs 55,999 and Rs 58,999, respectively. This puts the Realme 16 Pro+ among rivals like the iQOO 15R, which offers a faster chipset and bigger battery. 

Realme 16 Pro

The Realme 16 Pro has also become more expensive in India. The 8GB + 128GB variant now costs Rs 44,999, reflecting a Rs 4,000 increase over its previous price of Rs 40,999. The 8GB + 256GB and 12GB + 256GB variants have each received a Rs 3,000 hike and are now priced at Rs 46,999 and Rs 49,999, respectively. Realme 16 Pro launched at Rs 31,999, and with the latest price hike, it's now Rs 13,000 more expensive. 

Realme 16 5G

The Realme 16 5G has received a relatively small Rs 1,000 price increase across all variants. The 8GB + 128GB model now costs Rs 36,999, while the 8GB + 256GB and 12GB + 256GB variants are priced at Rs 39,999 and Rs 42,999, respectively.

Realme 16T

The Realme 16T has also seen a Rs 1,000 price hike across its entire lineup. The 6GB + 128GB variant now starts at Rs 32,999, while the 8GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB models are priced at Rs 35,999 and Rs 36,999, respectively.

Realme 16 Pro+ stands out for its versatile camera setup, featuring a 3.5x telephoto lens. The handset also boasts a 144Hz display and a large 7,000mAh battery. The Realme 16 Pro offers a vibrant display, all-day battery life, loud speakers, and robust durability. While it's a good option for multimedia, the chipset might feel underwhelming for power users. 

The Realme 16, on the other hand, offers a compact 6.57-inch display, a unique selfie mirror design, and a large 7,000mAh battery. It's an overall balanced mid-range phone. The Realme 16T boasts a massive 8,000mAh battery, making it a good option for endurance. 

If what these phones offer aligns with your requirements, then you can go ahead and purchase them. Given these price hikes, explore competitors, which might offer better value at this price point.

[highlights]

• OnePlus could once again resort to BOE for the OnePlus 16's display.
• The OnePlus 16 is reported to feature a 185Hz refresh rate display and Qualcomm's upcoming flagship chipset.
• The OnePlus 16 is expected to be unveiled in a few weeks, in September.

[/highlights]

After officially teasing the gaming upgrades the OnePlus 16 is set to gain, a new report hints at the upcoming flagship's display capabilities. Compared to the OnePlus 15, the smartphone could boast all-around upgrades in colour reproduction, power efficiency, and durability, thanks to the inclusion of the BOE X4 panel. While the chances of the OnePlus 16 launching in India are slim, the phone could debut in China in just a few weeks.

OnePlus 16 could feature custom-made BOE X4 panel

Since the OnePlus 12, the company has utilised flagship BOE X series panels for its smartphones. The upcoming OnePlus 16 could continue that tradition by being equipped with the BOE X4, according to the renowned tipster Digital Chat Station (DCS) on Weibo.

The post states that OnePlus has partnered with BOE to develop the X4 panel, which, per internal tests, delivers superior performance to Samsung's latest M-series panel, likely the M14 used on the Galaxy S26 Ultra and iQOO 15.

In the past, the OnePlus 12 featured the BOE X1, the OnePlus 13 carries the BOE X2, and the OnePlus 15 was equipped with the BOE X3 panel, so it seems like OnePlus is simply sticking with BOE for its next flagship smartphone while boasting upgrades in several areas. Per DCS, these upgrades include lower power consumption, better longevity, extremely narrow symmetrical bezels, and top-tier circuit design. Per past leaks, the OnePlus 16 could come with an 185Hz refresh rate, if the OnePlus 15's 165Hz refresh rate wasn't already smooth enough.

The post further states that the OnePlus 16 will get several performance technologies, which is likely a hint at faster touch response times, smoother scrolling, and higher brightness levels compared to the OnePlus 15. Furthermore, the OnePlus 16 could highly benefit from the panel's improved power efficiency, especially if it's meant to run at 185Hz natively or with frame interpolation during long gaming sessions. The smartphone is likely to be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset, which is expected to be announced at the Snapdragon Summit next month.

OnePlus China president Li Jie has confirmed that the company's three signature gaming technologies will receive major improvements on the next flagship. These include a high refresh rate display, an enhanced Fengchi gaming engine, and upgraded e-sports triple-core hardware.

If these leaks hold true and gaming is a top priority, waiting a few weeks for the OnePlus 16 could be highly beneficial compared to purchasing a current flagship, especially if the phone launches in India. However, if you're content with existing high refresh rates, the upgrade might not be compelling enough to justify an immediate purchase.

[highlights]

• Vivo has reportedly started teasing the Vivo V80 Lite in Pakistan.
• A teaser has also been posted by an offline store from Madhya Pradesh, India.
• The Vivo V80 Lite could be a rebadged Vivo S2 in some markets.

[/highlights]

Vivo could be kicking things off for its next V-series lineup. Even though news arrived that the next V80 series may be delayed, things may be kicking off with the Lite model in the lineup. Vivo company has reportedly started teasing the Vivo V80 Lite in Pakistan, and a teaser even appearing on Instagram by an offline store in Shajapur, Madhya Pradesh, India.

The Vivo V80 Lite is shaping up to be a familiar phone in a new package. The teasers reveal only a curved display while keeping most details under wraps. However, a series of certification listings and database appearances suggest the V80 Lite could be a rebadged Vivo S2, which recently launched in India.

Vivo V80 Lite launch

The V80 Lite 5G has appeared under several model numbers in certification listings signifying a global launch. Malaysia's SIRIM database also lists model number V2626 for the phone. The V2576 connection is particularly interesting because it's also the model number associated with the Vivo S2. The V80 Lite has also appeared on the Google Play Supported Devices List, Geekbench, TUV and Bluetooth SIG databases. Its appearances on Malaysia's SIRIM and Europe's EEC certification sites suggest Vivo could be preparing for launch in these regions.

Reusing the S2 hardware would not be unusual for Vivo. Smartphone brands often rebrand existing models for different markets to fill regional lineups without developing a completely new device.

Expected specifications

Vivo's V-series typically focuses on design, cameras and everyday features rather than top-end performance. If the V80 Lite is indeed based on the Vivo S2, it could feature a 6.83-inch AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The phone is also tipped to have a 7,050mAh battery while measuring just 7.39 mm thick, making battery capacity and slim design two potential highlights.

The chipset is less certain. Earlier reports pointed to the Dimensity 7360 Turbo, which is present in the S2, but a Geekbench listing for the V2626 model suggests the Dimensity 7300e instead. There's a possibility different regions could get different chipsets. TUV certification has also indicated 44W charging, while earlier reports claimed 90W support, so the final charging specification may vary by market.

For cameras, the phone is expected to feature a 32MP selfie camera and a 50MP Sony IMX852 primary rear sensor paired with an 8MP ultra-wide camera and Vivo's Aura Light. Other expected features include stereo speakers, an in-display fingerprint sensor, IP68/IP69 protection and Android 16-based OriginOS 6.

Compared with rivals in the same segment, the V80 Lite could appeal more to buyers who prioritise battery life, display quality and design. However, Vivo has yet to confirm the specifications or pricing. With memory costs also putting pressure on smartphone prices, waiting for the official launch makes sense.

[highlights]

• iQOO Z11 will feature a dual-camera setup.
• It will get a 32MP front camera.
• The handset is launch with OriginOS 6 based on Android 16. 

[/highlights]

The iQOO Z11 is set to launch in India on August 20th as the third phone in the lineup. Ahead of the launch, the brand has been teasing key details about the iQOO Z11. The latest teasers confirm details about the Z11's cameras and software update policy. This gives us an idea of what to expect from the upcoming iQOO handset. 

iQOO Z11 cameras

The iQOO Z11 is confirmed to feature a 50MP Sony IMX882 primary camera with optical image stabilisation (OIS) and an 8MP ultra-wide camera. Up front, it gets a 32MP camera for selfies. The camera setup is quite basic and does not offer much versatility, since it lacks a telephoto lens. However, considering the price hikes, you might find similar camera setups in the same segment. 

iQOO Z11 software update policy

iQOO has confirmed that the Z11 will receive three major Android upgrades (up to Android 19) and five years of security updates. On the software front, the handset will run Android 16-based OriginOS 6 out of the box. It will also get several AI features such as AI Captions, AI Creation, AI Routing, Conversation Memory, and Circle to Search. With the phone targeted for college students, iQOO will be offering unlimited AI credits for AI Captions and AI Creation to students. 

iQOO Z11 specifications

The iQOO Z11 will feature a large 6.8-inch 3D curved AMOLED 1.5K display with a 144Hz refresh rate and 5,000 nits peak brightness. The handset will be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7500 Turbo chipset, making it the first phone in India to launch with this chipset. We should know more about the phone's performance once we review the device.

iQOO has also confirmed a 7,050mAh battery for the Z11, which should be enough for an entire day or more depending on your usage. The handset is also getting IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance. It will be available in Celestial Blue and Aurora Green colours, housing a slim horizontal camera bar at the back. 

The iQOO Z11 is also expected to be priced under Rs 40,000 in India based on the teasers shared by the brand. This would put the Z11 against contenders like the Motorola Edge 70 Pro and OnePlus Nord CE6. Based on the available details, the iQOO Z11 could appeal to people looking for a dependable mid-range phone with a good display and large battery for multimedia and gaming. Since the launch is only two days away, we'd advise waiting for official details before making a buying decision. 

[highlights]

• Jio has brought back its Prime membership for users amid reports of an upcoming tariff hike.
• The membership will lock existing tariffs for subscribers.
• Jio has also confirmed that its Rs 299 plan will continue after Airtel discontinued the tariff for its users.

[/highlights]

Ahead of its 10th anniversary, Jio has relaunched its good-old Prime membership. While it is no longer priced at Rs 99 and does not offer features such as subsidised tariffs, the revamped Jio Prime membership gives users some assurance amid reports of telecom operators increasing tariffs. The membership is available to both new and existing Jio users, with benefits including cashback offers, priority customer support, and early access to the telco's services and products, among other things.

Additionally, Jio reassures that it will continue to offer its affordable Rs 299 and Rs 239 plans for prepaid users with the same benefits. Here's everything you need to know about Jio Prime and affordable prepaid plans:

Jio Prime membership price, features

The Jio Prime membership is priced at Rs 300, making it three times more expensive than before. In return, the membership is offering assurance of no price hikes for a year until September 5th, 2027, even if the company announces price revisions during the period. Apart from this, there are other benefits such as Rs 300 cashback for adding a new Jio SIM connection for friends or family and a redeemable voucher for a new JioHome or JioPC connection.

Users are also slated to get priority customer support through a dedicated service channel, early access to new Jio products, services and trials, and 'additional member exclusive benefits' during the period.

How to get Jio Prime membership

The Jio Prime membership is available starting today. Both existing and new users can subscribe to the membership through the MyJio app, Jio.com, Jio stores, and Jio partner stores.

Jio Rs 299 prepaid plan

Taking a jibe at Airtel, which recently discontinued its affordable Rs 299 plan, Jio has reassured users that it will continue to offer the Rs 299 prepaid plan with unchanged benefits. The plan is available across circles and offers 1.5GB of data per day, unlimited voice calls, 100 SMS/day, a free 18-month Google Gemini Pro subscription with 5TB storage worth Rs 31,500, and a JioHotstar subscription. The plan comes with a validity of 28 days.

As of writing this article, Jio's Rs 239 remains its most affordable plan for prepaid users in India. The plan offers similar benefits as the Rs 299 plan, but with 23 days' validity.

Why is Jio relaunching Prime membership?

This makes Jio a better choice for users looking for affordability, while its Prime membership offers further assurance against tariff hikes, which are all but confirmed. All three major telcos, Airtel, Vi, and Jio, are expected to increase the prices of their prepaid plans by up to 15 percent over the next three to four months. In fact, Airtel has already scrapped several of its plans.

Per reports, the price hike could be announced between late October and December 2026. This is being done to increase average revenue per user (ARPU) for the telcos.