• Mivi's first smartphone could launch under Rs 15,000 with 5G connectivity.
• A Geekbench listing suggests the phone could feature Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 and 6GB RAM.
• The phone could fill a growing gap in India's affordable 5G smartphone segment

[/highlights]

Mivi is preparing to enter India's smartphone market with its first device, and a new Geekbench listing has now revealed more details about the upcoming phone. The Mivi MVNOE has been spotted with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset and 6GB RAM, specifications that line up with details we previously reported exclusively. The listing also reveals the phone's Geekbench scores and Android 16 software.

Mivi's upcoming smartphone spotted on Geekbench

A Geekbench listing on X shared by tipster Sanju Choudhary appears to show the upcoming Mivi smartphone. The listing carries the model name Mivi MVNOE and shows the device running Android 16, with a Qualcomm chipset and around 5.35GB of available memory.

The listing identifies the processor as the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 (SM4450), with an octa-core configuration comprising two cores clocked at 2.21GHz and six cores at 1.96GHz. It scored 677 points in the single-core test and 1,490 points in the multi-core test on Geekbench 7. The post claims the device uses the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 with 6GB RAM.

6GB RAM, Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 pic.twitter.com/Xy7RLh9XLL

— Sanju Choudhary (@saaaanjjjuuu) August 27, 2026

This matches up with our earlier exclusive, where we revealed that Mivi's first smartphone will be priced under Rs 15,000 and use a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset. The Geekbench listing adds some weight to those details, although we can't conclusively say that this is the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2-powered Mivi phone yet.

The listing does appear to be from Geekbench and carries the Mivi name, but the company has not confirmed the device or its specifications. For now, the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 and 6GB RAM should be treated as expected specifications, although everything seems to be falling into place for Mivi's first smartphone.

Should you wait for the Mivi phone?

The budget smartphone segment has almost disappeared this year, with most phones around this price point focusing on 4G connectivity. That has left a big gap for buyers who want a capable 5G smartphone without crossing the Rs 15,000 mark, and Mivi could be looking to take advantage of it.

If the leaked specifications prove accurate, the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 would give the Mivi phone 5G connectivity and enough capability for everyday tasks. The chipset is a couple of years old now, but that doesn't make it inadequate, especially for a phone that targets the budget segment.

In fact, with memory prices currently pushing smartphone costs higher, using a proven chipset could help Mivi keep the phone affordable while still delivering a capable experience. If the company can combine it with clean software, competitive battery life and reliable hardware, its first smartphone could be an interesting option in a segment that has very few 5G devices right now.

• OPPO Find X10 Pro Max is tipped to be the first phone with 200MP main, telephoto and ultrawide cameras.
• The 200MP ultrawide could enable heavier cropping, better macro shots and more ambitious video stabilisation.
• The phone could launch in September or October, but OPPO has not confirmed the camera setup or launch date.

[/highlights]

OPPO could be about to make smartphone camera race considerably more interesting. Its next 'Ultra' flagship tipped to be called the OPPO Find X10 Pro Max, is said to become the world's first phone with three 200MP cameras, putting the resolution on its main, telephoto and ultrawide shooters. The ultrawide is particularly intriguing - 200MP could give OPPO far more room for cropping, macro photography and video stabilisation than conventional ultrawide cameras, potentially turning what is usually the secondary camera into a much more versatile tool.

OPPO Find X10 Pro Max camera tipped

The claim comes from tipster Digital Chat Station, who says the OPPO Find X10 Pro Max will have a 200MP main camera, 200MP telephoto camera and 200MP ultrawide camera. The main camera is reportedly based on Samsung's ISOCELL HPC sensor, which uses DeepPix technology to improve dynamic range and reduce noise. Details about the telephoto sensor have not yet emerged.

While 200MP cameras are becoming increasingly common on premium phones, manufacturers have generally reserved them for the main or telephoto camera. The Vivo X300 Ultra became the first phone to use two 200MP cameras earlier this year, followed by the OPPO Find X9 Ultra. A third 200MP sensor would take that idea considerably further.

The most interesting part is not actually the number of megapixels on the main camera. It is the 200MP ultrawide. No smartphone has offered one before, and the extra resolution could give OPPO considerably more flexibility with an ultrawide image after it has been captured.

For example, a 200MP ultrawide could potentially be cropped to produce roughly 1x to 3x framing while retaining more detail. It would not replace the main camera, as cropping an ultrawide still has inherent limitations, but it could make the camera more useful for subjects that are too far away for a conventional ultrawide shot. The huge sensor could also use 16-in-1 pixel binning to produce brighter, cleaner images, while the additional resolution could benefit macro photography.

Video may be where the high-resolution ultrawide becomes even more useful. Phones commonly use ultrawide cameras for electronic stabilisation because software can crop into the frame to compensate for movement. A 200MP sensor would give the phone considerably more pixels to work with before that crop becomes too aggressive.

In theory, that could make higher-resolution stabilised video possible, including 8K stabilisation. That remains speculation, however, and the hardware alone does not guarantee it. Most smartphones still do not offer 4K ultrastabilised video, so OPPO's processing and stabilisation software will be just as important as the sensor.

Digital Chat Station previously tipped the Find X10 Pro Max to launch in September or October, potentially alongside the wider Find X10 series. OPPO hasn't confirmed the phone or its specifications.

The three 200MP setup is worth watching for phone camera enthusiasts, but not because more megapixels automatically mean better photos. The interesting question is whether OPPO can turn that 200MP ultrawide into genuinely useful cropping, macro and stabilisation features. If it can, this could be one of the more better use cases of extreme camera resolution we've seen on a phone.

• OPPO is reportedly testing a teleconverter accessory for the Reno 17 series.
• The accessory could give the Reno 17 series greater reach for long-range photography.

[/highlights]

OPPO is reportedly testing a teleconverter accessory for its upcoming Reno 17 series, which could give the phones added reach for long-range photography. The development comes as OPPO continues to experiment with camera-focused features for its Reno lineup, although it remains unclear whether the accessory will make it to the final products. Here's what we know so far.

OPPO Reno17 series might support teleconverters

According to an X post by tipster Debayan Roy, OPPO is currently testing a teleconverter accessory for the Reno 17 series. The accessory could give the phone's camera additional reach, making it possible to capture distant subjects with superior clarity.

A teleconverter essentially adds additional magnification to a camera system, allowing users to capture distant subjects more closely without relying entirely on digital zoom. If OPPO eventually brings the accessory to market, it could give the Reno 17 series a serious boost in long-range photography.

After adding the Snap key on Reno 16 Series , now,

OPPO is testing teleconverter for the Reno 17 Series 😍✅

They're also testing the 68MP 1:1 selfie camera for Reno 17 Series , but, what I've heard is , this is unlikely to arrive on the Reno 17 Series

But before that OPPO… pic.twitter.com/YRcipVVhx1

— Debayan Roy (Gadgetsdata) (@Gadgetsdata) August 26, 2026

However, this is still an early development and there is no confirmation that OPPO will launch the teleconverter commercially. The tipster has also not shared details about its magnification or compatibility with specific Reno 17 models, so we'll have to wait for more information from OPPO.

The same post also claims OPPO is testing a 68MP 1:1 selfie camera for the Reno 17 series. However, the tipster says this camera is unlikely to make it into the final phones, making the teleconverter the more important development for now.

Why include a teleconverter for the Reno series?

OPPO already supports a teleconverter accessory on the Find X9 Pro, so bringing a similar feature to the Reno 17 series could effectively bring a flagship-style camera accessory to the company's traditional premium lineup.

This could make sense as the Reno series continues to move further upmarket in terms of pricing. The Reno 16 (review), for instance, sits around Rs 67,000 in India, putting it within reach of traditional flagship pricing. Adding a more capable hardware accessory could then give OPPO another way to differentiate the Reno series and make it more appealing to camera enthusiasts.

There is a catch, however. A teleconverter would likely add to the overall cost, especially if OPPO wants to offer a quality optical solution. Whether it makes sense will ultimately depend on its price, compatibility and the improvement it offers over the phone's built-in zoom. For now, it's still a big "if", since OPPO is only said to be testing the accessory.

• POCO X8 Power will launch in India on September 4 at 12 PM.
• The phone will feature a 10,000mAh battery, which POCO claims can last up to 3.5 days.

[/highlights]

POCO has officially teased the POCO X8 Power in India, confirming that the upcoming smartphone will pack a massive 10,000mAh battery. The company claims it can deliver up to 3.5 days of usage, making battery life the clear focus of the new X-series phone. Here's what we know so far about this phone.

POCO X8 Power India launch date confirmed

POCO has confirmed that the X8 Power will launch in India on September 4 at 12 PM. The company is positioning the phone around its battery endurance, with the 10,000mAh cell becoming the largest battery ever used in a POCO smartphone.

10,000 mAh battery? Yeah, you read that right.

We didn't just push the limits, we completely broke them. Introducing the biggest battery EVER on a POCO phone: #10000mAh of uninterrupted power that keeps going for 3.5 DAYS straight.#POCOX8Power, launching 4th September at 12 PM pic.twitter.com/6MmNt86JUj

— POCO India (@IndiaPOCO) August 28, 2026

POCO claims the battery can deliver up to 3.5 days of usage, although the actual endurance will naturally depend on how the phone is used. Still, a 10,000mAh battery should give the X8 Power a significant advantage for users who prioritise long battery life. 

POCO X8 Power: expected specifications

According to an X post by tipster Sanju Choudhary, the POCO X8 Power could feature a 6.83-inch 1.5K 120Hz LTPS OLED display and Qualcomm's Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 chipset. The phone is expected to pair the processor with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.1 storage, although the exact memory and storage configurations haven't been revealed yet.

For cameras, the phone could feature a 50MP Sony IMX882 main sensor alongside an 8MP ultrawide camera, paired with a 32MP front camera. The 10,000mAh battery is also tipped to support 100W charging, which would complement the phone's focus on long battery life.

The leak also claims that the X8 Power could get four Android OS upgrades and six years of security updates, along with IP68 and IP69 ratings for water and dust resistance. The post claims the POCO X8 Power could be priced at around Rs 35,000 in India. That would place it below the existing X8 Pro and X8 Pro Max, while giving POCO a capable battery-focused option in the upper mid-range segment.

POCO X8 Power: is it worth waiting for?

The POCO X8 Power would be one of only two smartphones in India with a 10,000mAh battery, alongside the Realme P4 Power (review), making the two direct competitors. The X8 Power, however, could have an advantage in several areas if the leaked specifications prove true. Its reported 100W charging, Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 chipset and longer software support would make it a more complete package than the Realme P4 Power, rather than making battery capacity its only selling point.

That could make the POCO X8 Power an easy recommendation for gamers and power users who want both performance and endurance for demanding everyday use. The POCO X8 Pro currently retails for Rs 39,999, and the X8 Power is likely to be priced below it. We expect the phone to cost around Rs 35,000, which would make it one of the most well-rounded options at this price point.

• Redmi 17 5G will launch in India on September 3rd with a 7,900mAh battery and Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 chipset.
• The phone will feature a vegan leather finish, and come in three colour options.
• The Redmi 15 launched in India in August last year under Rs 15,000 but is now sold over Rs 20,000.

[/highlights]

Xiaomi has confirmed it's bringing the Redmi 17 5G to India next month with a large battery and a Snapdragon chipset. The global version of the Redmi 17 was recently launched in Malaysia with a 7,900mAh battery and a vegan leather finish, which is the one coming to India, while the China Redmi 17 is another model with different hardware.

Redmi 17 5G India launch

Xiaomi has confirmed that the Redmi 17 5G will launch in India on September 3rd. The phone will be sold through Amazon, mi.com and offline retail stores, with pricing and configurations to be announced at launch.

We have no leaks on the India price as of now but for context, the Redmi 15, its predecessor in India, launched in August last year at Rs 14,999 for the 6GB RAM variant. However, it's now priced from Rs 21,499. We expect the Redmi 17 to be priced a little above that only.

Redmi 17 5G specifications, features

The Redmi 17 5G has been confirmed to be India's first Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 phone. The Qualcomm processor is designed for budget 5G smartphones and was unveiled in May. The phone will have a dual rear camera setup, as we can see in the teasers, probably with a 50MP primary sensor, and a centrally positioned punch-hole selfie camera.

Xiaomi's teaser shows the Redmi 17 5G with a textured vegan leather-style rear panel and a contrasting camera island with rounded corners. It will be available in Eternal Orange, Endless Blue and Absolute Black.

The 7,900mAh battery is the biggest selling point, increasing capacity by 900mAh from the predecessor. The phone also supports 22.5W reverse wired charging, allowing it to charge compatible accessories and other devices. Xiaomi hasn't yet confirmed the regular wired charging speed for the Indian model.

The phone's battery is likely to be its strongest pitch, particularly as large-capacity batteries are becoming more common in India's affordable smartphone market. However, competitors such as the Realme P4 Power have pushed battery capacities beyond 10,000mAh, making battery life a more important area of competition.

For buyers considering an upgrade from the Redmi 15 5G, the larger battery and newer processor make the Redmi 17 5G worth waiting for. However, the Redmi 15 offers a 144Hz display refresh rate, so the newer model's value will ultimately depend on its Indian price and the rest of its specifications.

• The Tecno Spark Go 3 Pro starts at Rs 15,999 for 4GB + 64GB variant.
• It gets IP69 protection, a 120Hz display and a 5,200mAh battery with 15W charging.
• The phone will go on sale in India from September 4th.

[/highlights]

Tecno has launched the Tecno Spark Go 3 Pro in India, bringing an IP69-rated build to its affordable Spark series. The phone targets buyers who prioritise durability for everyday use, particularly in outdoor or demanding environments. It also features a 120Hz display, a 5,200mAh battery and an infrared blaster, although it remains a 4G smartphone.

Tecno Spark Go 3 Pro price in India, availability

The Tecno Spark Go 3 Pro is priced at Rs 15,999 for the 4GB + 64GB storage variant, while the 4GB + 128GB model costs Rs 16,999. The phone will go on sale in India from September 4th through offline retail partner stores as well as Amazon and Flipkart.

Tecno Spark Go 3 Pro specifications, features

The Tecno Spark Go 3 Pro has a 6.78-inch HD+ IPS LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 240Hz touch sampling rate and up to 580 nits of brightness. It's powered by the MediaTek Helio G81 chipset and comes with 4GB of RAM. For photography, there is a 13MP rear camera with autofocus and an 8MP front camera. The phone also has dual speakers with DTS support and AI Voiceprint Noise Cancellation for reducing background noise during calls.

The Tecno Spark Go 3 Pro's biggest differentiator is its IP69 rating. The phone is designed with demanding everyday use in mind, including outdoor delivery work, agricultural environments and crowded commutes. An IP rating does not make a phone immune to damage, but IP69 gives the Spark Go 3 Pro an advantage for buyers who are particularly concerned about water and dust exposure. Rather than competing primarily on connectivity or processing power, the company is using physical durability to distinguish the Spark Go 3 Pro.

A 5,200mAh battery powers the phone and supports 15W charging. Other features include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, USB connectivity, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and an IR blaster that can turn the phone into a remote for compatible appliances.

The combination of IP69 protection and a 120Hz display is to the Spark Go 3 Pro's advantage, but buyers looking for broader connectivity or stronger performance have alternatives. At around the same price, some competing phones offer 5G and more capable chipsets, making them better suited to buyers who expect to keep their phone for several years.

The Tecno Spark Go 3 Pro is best considered by buyers who value durability, a large display and basic everyday battery life over 5G connectivity and gaming performance. For more demanding users, a 5G rival may offer better long-term value even if it lacks an IP69 rating.

• Vivo X500 Pro series will utilise MediaTek's first 2nm-based chipset.
• Vivo X500 Pro Max will be the first smartphone to use the specific 2K display from BOE.
• The phones will launch in China in September.

[/highlights]

After officially revealing the camera details, Vivo has confirmed that the X500 Pro series will be powered by the next-generation 2nm MediaTek processor. On the Chinese blogging website Weibo, Vivo's official handle has also revealed that the top-of-the-line X500 Pro Max will feature a 2K AMOLED display. This will be the first time a Vivo X Pro smartphone will carry a 2K resolution panel.

Vivo X500 Pro series gets 2nm-based MediaTek processor

According to a post by Vivo's Product Manager, Han Boxiao, on Weibo, the X500 Pro and X500 Pro Max are set to get a new MediaTek Dimensity chipset built on TSMC's second-generation 2nm N2P process, featuring an all-new GPU architecture and an ultra-high-performance NPU. While the processor's name hasn't been revealed yet, a recent Geekbench listing for the X500 Pro Max mentions that the processor on it has the model number MediaTek MT6995, which is widely expected to be the Dimensity 9600 Pro.

While Qualcomm has already announced the arrival of its next-generation flagship chipsets in September, MediaTek has yet to reveal the launch date of its processors. If history is anything to go by, the chip manufacturer could host the event towards the end of September.

Coming to the key additions of this 2nm MediaTek chipset, it includes a dedicated imaging chip supporting 4K 120fps 10-bit Log recording, 60fps video autofocus tracking, 4K Dolby Portrait video, one-tap AI video highlight generation, and hardware-level video super-resolution.

BOE Q11 2K display confirmed for Vivo X500 Pro Max

On to the display, the Vivo X500 Pro Max will feature a large 6.85-inch BOE Q11 2K Zeiss Master Color panel, the first smartphone in the world to use this specific screen. Compared to the previous generation, Vivo claims a 93 percent reduction in motion blur, 43 percent better colour uniformity, and 22 percent improved brightness consistency. Despite the jump to 2K resolution compared to the X300 Pro, the panel is said to use 21 percent less power than the older 1.5K display while lasting twice as long. It also includes a high-precision under-display multispectral sensor that adjusts brightness with 0.3-lux accuracy and closely matches human vision.

Since the post explicitly mentions the X500 Pro Max, the X500 Pro could settle for a 1.5K display. Both Vivo and its sub-brand iQOO have relied on BOE displays for their premium and flagship devices in the past. The inclusion of the BOE Q11 panel shows that Vivo is sticking with the same supplier after positive experiences with their previous screens. The focus on display quality with the BOE Q11 panel suggests Vivo is keenly aware of the importance of visual experience for its premium users

The Vivo X500 series, comprising the X500, X500 Pro, and X500 Pro Max, is set to launch in China in September. The X300 series made its way to India in December 2025, so there's a high chance the company may stick to the same launch timeframe. While upgrading from the X300 Pro to the X500 Pro or Pro Max may not offer drastic changes, it's good to see Vivo continuously innovating on the processor and display fronts, apart from cameras.

• OnePlus 16 is tipped to offer 165Hz refresh rates across system and app scenarios, unlike the limited 165Hz mode on the OnePlus 15.
• It could feature a new-generation BOE Oriental Screen with ultra-thin, symmetrical bezels.
• The phone is expected to launch in China around October, but OnePlus hasn't confirmed anything yet.

[/highlights]

OnePlus may have wrapped up operations outside of China and India but the company is in no mood of slowing down in these markets. The OnePlus 16 is expected to be the company's next flagship smartphone and a successor to the OnePlus 15, which introduced a 165Hz display and dedicated gaming hardware to the series. Now, new leaks suggest OnePlus could take that further with 165Hz refresh rates reportedly available across system and app scenarios, along with even thinner symmetrical bezels. The phone is also expected to get new gaming hardware and software, with a China launch tipped for October.

OnePlus 16 upgrades expected

According to tipster Digital Chat Station, the OnePlus 16 will retain the narrowest four-sided bezels in the company's flagship range. The leak, however, doesn't give an exact measurement. Earlier reports had already linked the phone to a 6.78-inch next-generation BOE Oriental Screen with a flat panel and symmetrical bezels, so the new information adds to the existing picture.

The bigger change could be how the 165Hz refresh rate works. The OnePlus 15 already supports up to 165Hz, but its specifications list a 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate for general use, with 165Hz available in supported games. The OnePlus 16 is now tipped to extend the higher refresh rate to system animations, scrolling and other application scenarios. This could make everyday interactions feel smoother, although the higher refresh rate could also have greater power demands.

OnePlus is also expected to expand its gaming hardware. The company has confirmed upgrades to its Fengchi Gaming Core, high refresh rate technology and triple-chip esports system, while leaks point to an overclocked display controller, dedicated co-processing hardware and game-focused kernel optimisation. Supported games could reportedly run at up to 185Hz. That builds on the OnePlus 15, which already combines a 165Hz 1.5K LTPO display with dedicated gaming hardware and 3,200Hz instantaneous touch sampling.

OnePlus 16 expected specifications

Several specifications have already been reported in earlier leaks. The OnePlus 16 is tipped to use Qualcomm's upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset and could pack a 9,000mAh battery. The camera system is expected to include a 200MP main sensor, a 50MP ultrawide camera and a 50MP 3.5x periscope telephoto camera. In China and India both, the phone is expected to run Android 17-based ColorOS 17.

The new-generation Oriental Screen is also expected to use an X4 light-emitting material jointly developed by OnePlus and BOE. OnePlus has previously claimed that this material outperformed Samsung's M-series material in internal testing, while targeting lower power consumption and longer panel life.

The OnePlus 16 could launch in China in October, following Qualcomm's Snapdragon Summit in September. Its entry-level model has previously been tipped to cost CNY 4,999 (around Rs 71,000), but OnePlus hasn't confirmed the price or launch date. India availability is also unconfirmed.

For buyers, the display alone is not a strong reason to wait, since the OnePlus 15 already offers a 165Hz panel. The OnePlus 16 becomes more interesting for gamers if its reported system-wide 165Hz support, newer gaming hardware and Snapdragon chipset materialise. However, those waiting for it should be prepared for an increased price tag.

• The Vivo Y31t 5G starts at Rs 25,999 for 4GB + 128GB variant.
• It gets a 7,200mAh battery, 44W charging and IP68/IP69 ratings.
• The phone uses the same Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset as the Vivo Y31 5G and Vivo Y400 5G.

[/highlights]

Vivo has silently launched a new mid-range phone in the form of the Vivo Y31t 5G in India with a 7,200mAh battery, a 50MP rear camera and a 120Hz LCD display. The phone runs OriginOS 6 based on Android 16 and is powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset, which is an entry-level 5G chipset. Here are the details on the price and specifications of the phone.

Vivo Y31t 5G price in India, availability

The Vivo Y31t is priced at Rs 25,999 for the 4GB + 128GB storage variant. The 6GB + 128GB model costs Rs 29,999, while the 6GB + 256GB version is priced at Rs 34,999. The phone is available in Crimson Red, Golden Mist and Seashore colour options. It can be purchased through Flipkart, the Vivo India online store and other offline retail channels.

For launch offers, Vivo is offering an instant cashback of Rs 1,500 with select SBI, IDFC First Bank, Axis Bank, Yes Bank, HDFC Bank, Bank of Baroda and IndusInd Bank cards.

The pricing is notably higher than that of the starting price of the Vivo Y31 5G. The latter launched in India at Rs 14,999 for its 6GB RAM variant in September 2025 and is currently listed from Rs 27,999.

Vivo Y31t specifications, features

The Y31t features a 6.75-inch HD+ LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 1,250 nits of peak brightness. It's powered by the 4nm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset, with up to 6GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 256GB of storage. The phone runs OriginOS 6 based on Android 16 and supports 5G connectivity.

The 7,200mAh battery is the phone's biggest hardware advantage over the Y31 5G, which has a 6,500mAh battery. Both phones use the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 and support 44W charging, so buyers upgrading from the Y31 are primarily paying for the larger battery and newer software, as the Y31 comes with Funtouch OS 15 out of the box.

For photography, the Y31t has a 50MP primary rear camera paired with a secondary sensor for depth information. An 8MP camera is placed on the front. The rear camera supports modes including Night, Portrait, Video, Slo-mo, Time-lapse, Pro and Pano. Vivo has given the phone IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance. Other features include dual stereo speakers, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, face unlock, a USB Type-C port and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

For buyers who want maximum battery life and durability, the Vivo Y31t is the more suitable choice. Those looking for a better display, more RAM or faster charging may get better value from the Vivo Y400. The latter is a more expensive but compelling alternative for buyers who prioritise the display or faster charging. It uses the same Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 but offers 8GB RAM, a 6,000mAh battery, 90W charging and an AMOLED display. At up to Rs 34,999, the Y31t's top variant will therefore need its larger battery and rugged build to justify its price against Vivo's own lineup.

• The new Acer Swift Neo AI starts at Rs 67,999 in India
• The laptop gets Intel Core Ultra 5 and Ultra 7 H-series processors with up to 1TB SSD
• It features a 14-inch WUXGA display, with an OLED option available on select variants

[/highlights]

Acer has expanded its thin-and-light laptop lineup in India with the launch of the Swift Neo AI, which combines Intel Core Ultra processors with a lightweight design to cater to professionals, students and creators. The laptop weighs just 1.25kg and measures 17.2mm thick, while offering up to 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD storage. Let's check it out in detail below:

Acer Swift Neo AI: specifications and features

The Swift Neo AI is available with Intel Core Ultra 5 and Ultra 7 H-series processors, which Acer says are designed to handle everyday productivity, multitasking and content creation. The processors also feature Intel AI Boost, allowing the laptop to handle supported AI workloads more efficiently.

The laptop comes with up to 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD storage, giving users plenty of room for applications and files while helping with faster boot and load times. For visuals, you get a 14-inch WUXGA IPS display with a 16:10 aspect ratio, 1920 x 1200 resolution and up to 300 nits brightness. Acer also offers an OLED display option on select variants.

The machine weighs just 1.25kg and measures 17.2mm thick, making portability one of its biggest strengths. The laptop uses metal covers on the top and bottom, while the 180-degree hinge allows users to adjust the display more freely during work or collaboration.

Acer has equipped the Swift Neo AI with two full-function USB Type-C ports, which support charging, data transfer and display output. It also gets HDMI and additional USB ports, along with Wi-Fi 6 for wireless connectivity.

Other features include a 1080p Full HD webcam, dual speakers, backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader. The laptop runs Windows 11 Home with Microsoft Copilot and packs a 52Wh battery, with support for 65W USB Type-C fast charging.

Acer Swift Neo AI: should you buy it?

The Acer Swift Neo AI starts at Rs 67,999 and is available for purchase through Flipkart, Acer's E-store and other retail channels. It sits in a competitive segment where portability is no longer enough on its own. One of its closest alternatives is the MotoBook 60 Pro, which offers a similar hardware package but adds an OLED display on select configurations and has a more distinctive design. Motorola also benefits from Lenovo's backing, which gives it some reassurance when it comes to build quality and after-sales support.

Acer, however, sticks to a more familiar laptop design, which may appeal to users who prefer something less flashy. It also has an advantage when it comes to memory, with configurations offering up to 32GB RAM, while Motorola's soldered memory limits future upgrades.

That makes the Swift Neo AI a decent choice based on your priorities. It doesn't necessarily have the flashiest design or display in this segment, but its lightweight build and higher memory ceiling make it a good option for professionals and students who prioritise portability and long-term usability.

• The Samsung Galaxy S26 FE features a 6.7-inch 120Hz AMOLED display and Exynos 2500 chipset
• The phone gets a 50MP main camera, 12MP ultrawide and 8MP telephoto camera
• Samsung promises seven Android OS upgrades, alongside security updates

[/highlights]

Samsung has expanded its premium smartphone lineup with the launch of the Galaxy S26 FE, which serves as a more accessible entry point into the company's flagship S series. The phone comes with an Exynos 2500 chipset and a versatile triple-camera setup, while retaining several features associated with Samsung's more premium smartphones. Let's take a deeper look at what the device brings to the table below.

Samsung Galaxy S26 FE: price in India

Samsung has not yet revealed the Galaxy S26 FE's official price in India. Globally, the phone starts at USD 699.99 for the 8GB + 128GB variant. 

The Indian price could land around Rs 70,000, although this is only an estimate at this stage. For context, the Galaxy S26 (review) starts at Rs 79,999 in India for the 12GB + 256GB variant. Pricing the FE model lower would give Samsung some room to position it as a more accessible entry point into the S series.

Samsung Galaxy S26 FE: features, specifications

The Samsung Galaxy S26 FE brings a familiar flagship-inspired design with a flat frame, flat rear panel and slim bezels around the display. The phone measures 161.6 x 76.9 x 7.4mm across and weighs 193 grams, keeping it relatively slim. The phone is available in Blueberry, Graphite and Pistachio colour options, while the front houses a centred punch-hole cutout for the selfie camera.

The device features a 6.7-inch Full HD+ (1080 x 2340) AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, making it well suited to scrolling, gaming and watching videos. The display is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus+, while the aluminium frame adds to the phone's overall durability. It also carries an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.

Under the hood, the Galaxy S26 FE runs on Samsung's Exynos 2500 chipset. The 3nm deca-core processor is designed to handle everyday apps, multitasking and more demanding workloads, while also powering the phone's AI and camera features.

Samsung has equipped the phone with a familiar triple-camera setup that includes a 50MP main camera, 12MP ultrawide camera and 8MP telephoto camera. This gives users dedicated options for regular photography, wider shots and zoomed-in subjects. A 12MP front camera handles selfies and video calls.

The Galaxy S26 FE packs a 4,900mAh battery with support for 45W wired charging through Samsung's Super Fast Charging 2.0 technology. On the software front, it arrives with OneUI9 based on Android 17 out of the box. Samsung is also offering seven Android OS upgrades along with security updates, giving the phone long-term support.

Samsung Galaxy S26 FE: should you buy it?

The Galaxy S26 FE is Samsung's answer for users who want the S series experience without paying flagship prices. You get the polished One UI experience, Samsung's security features, the latest Android version and a long software support window. Add the range of AI-assisted tools and the top-end Exynos 2500 chipset, and this is a phone that should remain relevant for quite a few years.

If we talk of rivals, the OPPO Reno 16 (review), for instance, is more aggressive with its hardware in some areas. It has a more versatile camera setup, a compact 6.3-inch design and a considerably larger battery. But the S26 FE is ahead where longevity matters, particularly with its performance and software support.

If you want the features and software experience associated with Samsung's premium S series phones and plan to keep the device for several years, the FE remains an option worth considering. If battery capacity, a compact design or camera hardware are higher on your priority list, there are alternatives that offer more in those areas.

• The POCO X8 has been teased on Flipkart, confirming the e-commerce platform as one of its sales channels in India.
• The phone is tipped to launch at around Rs 28,000-Rs 30,000 with a 9,000mAh battery and Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 chipset.
• The POCO X8 could launch alongside the POCO X8 Power.

[/highlights]

POCO is preparing to expand its X8 series in India, with the standard POCO X8 now being teased ahead of its launch. The phone is expected to sit below the POCO X8 Pro and X8 Pro Max, which arrived in India in March. While POCO hasn't revealed the launch date or specifications yet, the upcoming phone could bring a much larger battery than its more expensive siblings.

POCO X8 India launch

A dedicated POCO X8 landing page is now live on Flipkart, confirming that the phone will be sold through the e-commerce platform in India. The teaser image shows the device from the rear, revealing a square camera module with rounded corners and two vertically arranged cameras. An LED flash sits alongside the lenses, while the power and volume buttons are visible on the right side.

POCO hasn't revealed any other specifications or confirmed the launch date. However, a previous tip suggested that the POCO X8 could launch in India by early September, alongside the Poco X8 Power, and the company had started teasing two new phones on X. The upcoming phones are reportedly based on Xiaomi's latest Redmi Note models. The POCO X8 is said to be based on the Redmi Note 17 Pro, while the X8 Power could be a rebranded Redmi Note 17 Pro Max, which was recently unveiled in Japan with a 10,000mAh battery.

POCO X8: what to expect

The new phones could fill a gap in POCO's current India lineup. The Poco X8 Pro now starts at Rs 39,999, up from its Rs 32,999 launch price, while the X8 Pro Max starts at Rs 49,999, compared with Rs 42,999 originally. The company's M-series remains below Rs 25,000, leaving little representation between the two ranges. Tipster Debayan Roy has suggested a price of around Rs 28,000 - Rs 30,000 for the POCO X8 and around Rs 35,000 for the X8 Power.

The POCO X8 is tipped to feature a 9,000mAh battery and Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 chipset, while the X8 Power could get a 10,000mAh battery, Snapdragon 6 Gen 5, a 6.83-inch 1.5K 120Hz AMOLED display and 100W charging. For context, the X8 Pro has a 6,500mAh battery and the X8 Pro Max an 8,500mAh cell, with both supporting 100W charging.

If the reported specifications are accurate, battery life could become a bigger selling point than performance, which is not what POCO originally intended with its performance-centric phones. Buyers should wait for the company to confirm details before choosing the X8. A 9,000mAh battery could offer excellent endurance, but a heavy chassis or slower charging could reduce some of that advantage.

• Lava Bold N4 Lite starts at Rs 7,999, making it an entry-level option for consumers on a tight budget.
• It features a 6.56-inch display, a 5,000mAh battery and Android 16 Go out of the box. 
• The Unisoc 9863A chipset is ideal for everyday tasks and basic gaming rather than demanding workloads.

[/highlights]

Lava has expanded its budget smartphone lineup in India with the launch of the Bold N4 Lite. The new smartphone focuses on the basics, offering a large 6.56-inch display, 5,000mAh battery, Android 16 Go and an 8MP rear camera at a launch price of Rs 7,999. Let's check it out in more detail below.

Lava Bold N4 Lite: features, specifications

The Lava Bold N4 Lite features a 6.56-inch display, giving it a fairly large screen for its price segment. The larger panel should work well for basic tasks such as browsing, social media, watching videos and using everyday apps. 

Lava offers the phone in Empire Gold and Ghost Silver colour options, giving buyers two relatively understated finishes to choose from. You also get a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for unlocking the phone, along with a MIL-STD-810H rating that should offer some added protection against the rigours of daily use.

The Bold N4 Lite uses the Unisoc 9863A chipset, paired with 3GB of RAM. Lava also offers up to 3GB of virtual RAM, which can use some of the phone's storage to help with multitasking.

For storage, you get 32GB of internal storage, which can be expanded to 64GB. This should be enough for essential apps and some photos and videos, although users who store a lot of media may need to make use of the expandable storage.

The phone packs a 5,000mAh battery, which should comfortably cover typical everyday use. Lava bundles a 10W charger, while the phone uses a single speaker for calls, videos and other audio playback. 

The Bold N4 Lite runs Android 16 Go, Google's lightweight version of Android designed for entry-level smartphones. Lava says it has kept the software bloatware-free, which should make the overall experience cleaner and leave more storage available for users.

Lava Bold N4 Lite: should you buy it?

This isn't a phone designed for raw performance, but the hardware should be adequate for basic day-to-day tasks such as messaging, browsing, social media and streaming. You can also expect to run some basic games on the device, although more demanding titles aren't really what this phone is designed for.

For storage, you get 32GB of internal storage, which can be expanded to 64GB. The cameras also provide enough capability for basic photography, making the Bold N4 Lite a fairly straightforward entry point for users who need a phone for essential daily activities without spending too much.

At this price, one of the more relevant alternatives is the itel Zeno 200 (review), which offers a more capable processor but costs around Rs 2,000 more. That extra performance should make everyday use smoother and give you a better user experience, but for someone working with a very strict budget, the additional cost may not be enough to justify the upgrade. The Bold N4 Lite makes more sense as a basic, affordable smartphone for users who simply need a device to get through their everyday tasks.

• The Redmi Note 17 Pro Max has been launched in Japan.
• The Redmi Note 17 is already official in India, while the Redmi Note 17 Pro has launched in China.
• The Redmi Note 17 Pro and Pro Max are tipped to launch in India in September.

[/highlights]

Xiaomi has officially unveiled the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max in Japan, making it the first Pro Max model in the Redmi Note series and the company's first smartphone with a 10,000mAh battery. The phone combines the large battery with 100W charging, a 1.5K 120Hz AMOLED display and extensive durability ratings. However, compared with the predecessor Redmi Note 15 Pro+, the new model also makes some hardware compromises, particularly in the chipset and main camera.

Price and expected India availability

The Redmi Note 17 Pro Max starts at JPY 79,980 (around Rs 48,000) for the 8GB + 256GB variant, while the 8GB + 512GB model costs JPY 99,980 (around Rs 60,000). Xiaomi is offering an early-bird discount of JPY 10,000 (around Rs 6,000) on both variants until October 14th, while the phone goes on sale tomorrow.

The phone was previously confirmed for a global launch in Malaysia on August 27th but that has now been pushed to September 2nd. Its India launch hasn't been officially announced yet but a previous report claimed that the Redmi Note 17 Pro and Note 17 Pro Max could be unveiled in the country on September 15th. Redmi hasn't confirmed the date or started teasing the phones in the country yet.

If the reported India launch takes place, the Note 17 Pro Max could be considerably more expensive than previous Redmi Note Pro models, considering the price hikes across the industry due to rising component costs. The Redmi Note 15 Pro+ started at Rs 37,999, and a tipster suggested a Rs 5,000 - Rs 8,000 increase for the new Pro models. That could push the Note 17 Pro Max into the Rs 40,000-plus segment.

Specifications

The Redmi Note 17 Pro Max has a 6.83-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, up to 3,500 nits peak brightness and a 3,200Hz touch sampling rate. This is broadly similar to the Redmi Note 15 Pro+, which also has a 6.83-inch 1.5K 120Hz AMOLED display, although the newer phone raises peak brightness from 3,200 nits to 3,500 nits.

The biggest change is the battery. The Note 17 Pro Max packs a 10,000mAh silicon-carbon battery with 100W charging, compared with the 6,500mAh battery and 100W charging on the Note 15 Pro+. The Chinese Redmi Note 17 Pro sits between the two with a 9,000mAh battery and 67W charging. The Pro Max also supports 27W wired reverse charging. Vivo, Realme and Honor have already unveiled phones touching the magnanimous 10,000mAh-mark.

However, the chipset is a step down from the Note 15 Pro+. The new phone uses the Snapdragon 6 Gen 5, while the older Pro+ uses the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4. The Chinese Note 17 Pro is powered by the Snapdragon 6s Gen 4, making the Pro Max newer and higher-positioned than its Chinese sibling, but still below the Note 15 Pro+ in Qualcomm's chipset hierarchy.

The camera hardware also favours the older Pro+. The Note 17 Pro Max has a 50MP OIS primary camera, 8MP ultrawide and 32MP front camera. The Note 15 Pro+ features a 200MP OIS main camera, 8MP ultrawide and 32MP selfie camera. The Chinese Note 17 Pro also uses a 50MP main camera, but has an 8MP front camera.

The Pro Max makes up for these compromises with durability. It has IP66 and IP68 ratings, Gorilla Glass Victus 2, a claimed 72-hour underwater test at 2 metres and SGS-certified drop resistance from up to 3 metres. It also gets HyperOS 3, four OS upgrades and six years of security updates.

For buyers, the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max is best viewed as a battery and durability-focused phone rather than a clear upgrade over the Note 15 Pro+. The 10,000mAh battery is a major advantage for heavy users, but those prioritising gaming or camera quality may find the older Pro+ more compelling, especially if the new phone reaches the reported Rs 40,000-plus price range in India.

• The Google Pixel 11 Pro XL goes through scratch, heat, and bend tests.
• The smartphone's aluminium frame is easily scratchable.
• The Google Pixel 11 Pro XL is being regarded as one of the most repairable phones of 2026.

[/highlights]

Just like most globally launched smartphones from prominent brands, the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL arrived at YouTuber Zack Nelson's desk. Going by the name JerryRigEverything, Zack is known for putting smartphones through their paces by conducting several rigorous tests, such as scratch, heat, and bend tests, and even disassembling them to showcase the engineering on the inside. With that out of the way, here's how the Pixel 11 Pro XL has fared in the test.

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL goes through JerryRigEverything's durability test

Starting with the scratch test using different Mohs hardness scale picks, the Pixel 11 Pro XL's Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2-protected display scratches at Mohs level 6, which results in micro-scratches that look slightly less pronounced than usual, while deeper grooves form at level 7. Even though Google claims the display is more than twice as scratch-resistant as previous generations, this outcome is a common affair on most midrange and flagship devices.

Turning to the sideframe, the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL is housed in an aluminium chassis with a paint finish. Upon scratching the sideframe using a cutter, it shows scratch marks relatively easily, which has always been the case with previous Pixel phones equipped with a polished frame.

Unlike the composite glass panel on the Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold, the Pixel 11 Pro XL uses regular glass. Neither the back glass nor the camera glass is easily scratched by a cutter, while the metal housing can be damaged relatively easily.

On to the most crucial test that assesses the phone's structural integrity, the chassis barely flexes in either direction when bent with brute force, indicating an extremely solid build. Even though in real-world use there will be hardly any instances of a phone being bent as shown in the video, it's good to know the phone will survive such harsh conditions.

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL is easy to repair

As shown in the video, the Pixel 11 Pro XL is very easy to open from both the front and back using a heat gun and pry tool. Furthermore, the display and battery can be removed in just a few minutes, while the battery has convenient pull tabs for easy replacement. In the US, Google even sells official spare parts through iFixit for repairing faulty parts in the comfort of users' homes. In the end, Zack calls it one of the easiest phones to repair in 2026.

For those upgrading from older Pixels, or any smartphone for that matter, the improved repairability is a significant step forward.

• The Realme C100i 4G is priced at Rs 14,999 for the 4GB + 64GB variant and goes on sale in India from August 27th.
• It features a 6,500mAh battery with 15W charging, a 6.75-inch HD+ 120Hz display and IP64 dust and water resistance.
• The phone has an 8MP rear camera, 5MP selfie camera, and runs realme UI based on Android 16.

[/highlights]

Realme has launched the Realme C100i 4G in India as a budget smartphone for buyers who prioritise battery life and a smoother display. The phone brings a 6,500mAh battery, 120Hz refresh rate and IP64 rating, but remains a 4G device in a segment where buyers seek 5G options.

Price and availability

The Realme C100i 4G is priced at Rs 14,999 for the sole 4GB + 64GB storage variant. It will go on sale from today through mainline retail stores, Flipkart and Realme's official website.

The phone is available in Midnight Black and BlackSkyline Silver colours. Buyers can also get seven-month EMI with one month's EMI discounted, eight-month EMI with two months' EMI discounted, or 10-month EMI with three months' EMI discounted through mainline stores. Flipkart and realme.com offer three-month no-cost EMI.

At Rs 14,999, the C100i 4G faces competition from phones like the Lava Virat V1 series that offers 5G connectivity in the segment.

Specifications

The Realme C100i 4G features a 6.75-inch HD+ display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and 900 nits peak brightness. The screen has a 90.4 percent screen-to-body ratio and supports DC Dimming. Powering the phone is a 4G chipset, paired with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage in the launch variant. It runs Realme UI based on Android 16, with the company promising three years of lag-free performance. The phone also supports 10W wired reverse charging, allowing it to charge compatible accessories or other devices.

The 6,500mAh battery supports 15W fast charging. While the capacity is competitive, charging is relatively slow compared with some similarly priced 5G phones. For cameras, the phone has an 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera. It also gets IP64 dust and water resistance, military-grade shock resistance, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and face unlock.

At this price, the C100i's battery and 120Hz screen are its strongest features. However, buyers who want 5G, stronger performance or better cameras can find more capable alternatives around Rs 15,000, making it worth comparing those options before choosing the new Realme phone.

• Nothing OS 5.0 will gradually roll out to all eligible devices over the course of the next few weeks.
• Users encountering bugs on Nothing OS 5.0 beta build can request a rollback.
• The update brings over 80 new changes, per Nothing.

[/highlights]

Nothing recently unveiled the next iteration of its custom skin, Nothing OS 5.0. Based on Android 17, the update brings a myriad of changes and improvements across key areas, such as design, productivity, customisation, and AI. In order to offer the best possible experience to its users, the company has already kicked off the Open Beta programme for Phone (3) users, which will be expanded to more phones over the course of the next few weeks.

How to download Nothing OS 5.0 Open Beta on Phone (3)

If you've a Nothing Phone (3) and are willing to get your hands on Nothing OS 5.0 before anyone else, the download instructions are below. However, before proceeding, make sure you're running the latest build, Metroid-V4.1-260814-1733, and that all your data is backed up or stored securely to reduce the risk of data loss.

Step 1: Firstly, go ahead and download the Nothing Beta Hub V2.0 APK from Nothing's website. The download link is at the bottom of this webpage.

Step 2: Once downloaded, go to the Downloads folder on your phone and install the Nothing Beta Hub APK.

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, the 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 will be installed just like any other local update, which will take a few minutes to boot your phone.

If you're encountering bugs or find the system problematic, you can go to the Nothing Beta Hub in Settings to request a rollback.

Nothing OS 5.0 rollout schedule

Here's when the Nothing OS 5.0 beta and stable update will hit Nothing devices other than the Phone (3):

As for the new changes and improvements in Nothing OS 5.0, users can expect a brand-new translucent homescreen theme that blurs widgets, new iconography, a couple of new lockscreen clock styles, a separate quick settings panel, and batch home editing.

Under the hood, improvements include smoother animations across the system, better design spacing in the Camera app, and more convenient Bluetooth controls. Post the update, users will also be able to share media with iPhone users via Quick Share using a QR code. The update is also bringing a dedicated app to control every Glyph interface setting on supported phones.

It's good to see Nothing moving quickly to roll out its Android 17-based open beta software globally ahead of major brands such as OPPO, OnePlus, Xiaomi, and Vivo. This instils confidence in users' minds and reinforces the brand'sreputation for fast major update releases. On top of this, Nothing claims to have made over 80 changes in Nothing OS 5.0, making it the biggest release yet.

• Realme has increased the price of its P4x, P4 Lite, P4 Power, and P4R.
• The most affordable Realme P4 Lite 4G now starts at Rs 13,999, while the P4 Power is available at Rs 34,999.
• This comes just a day after Realme added a new P4s to the lineup.

[/highlights]

The price hike season continues, with the Realme P4 series getting costlier amid rising memory, chipset, and overall smartphone component costs. In a single move, the OEM has increased the prices of all four models in the lineup: the Realme P4x, P4 Lite, P4 Power, and P4R. The most affordable Realme P4 Lite 4G has received a Rs 1,000 price hike, while the top-end Realme P4 Power now starts at Rs 32,999, up from Rs 29,999 for the base 8GB RAM and 128GB storage variant. The price revision comes just a day after Realme launched the P4s in India as the latest addition to the lineup, with a starting price of Rs 34,999.

Realme P4 Power price: old vs new

Realme P4x price: old vs new

Realme P4R price: old vs new

Realme P4 Lite price: old vs new

Realme P4 Power still undercuts P4s

These are the new prices of all the Realme P4 models. Interestingly, despite the Rs 3,000 price hike, the Realme P4 Power (review) remains more affordable than the newly launched Realme P4s (without the launch offer). The latter packs a smaller 8,000mAh battery and features a flat-edge design, compared to the P4 Power's massive 10,001mAh battery and curved-edge form factor. While the larger battery does add some heft, the P4 Power should be the obvious choice for users looking for a smartphone that can double up as a power bank.

The new Realme P4 series prices are effective from today across e-commerce platforms and retail outlets. With no clear indication of when this round of price hikes will end, if you are planning to buy one of these smartphones, the best time was yesterday, and the second-best time is today.

• Apple's September 9th event invite has a glowing Apple logo on a light-blue background.
• Mark Gurman says the visual could hint at a mechanical aperture on the iPhone 18 Pro Max.
• The other clue could be the new colour for the iPhone 18 Pro.

[/highlights]

Apple just sent out invitations for its September 9th event, and like always, this year's "Surprise and shine" invite may be revealing more than usual. The artwork features a glowing Apple logo against a light blue background, with a bright flare at its centre. Apple obviously hasn't explained the visual, but Bloomberg's Mark Gurman believes the shining light and the blue shade could drop some exciting clues about the iPhone 18 Pro reveal.

Apple event invite: what clues is it dropping?

According to Gurman, the shining light could hint at a mechanical aperture for the iPhone 18 Pro Max, while the blue shade may point to a new Sky Blue colour for the iPhone 18 Pro. Gurman's interpretation is notable because a mechanical aperture would be a first for an iPhone, and the leaks have been hinting at it for a while now.

The system would use physical blades to change the size of the lens opening, allowing more light in darker conditions and less in bright scenes. It could also give photographers greater control over depth of field and natural background blur. Low light photography has been a pain point for iPhone Pro users, and Apple could finally be fetching a fix.

The blue in the invitation could similarly point to a new Pro colour. The iPhone 17 Pro series introduced Cosmic Orange, but Apple is expected to replace it with a darker Dark Cherry shade, described in earlier reports as a deep red-purple. Sky Blue, along with silver and dark grey, has also been tipped for the new Pro models. The invitation and Gurman's comment make Sky Blue a strong possibility, although the Dark Cherry was actually seen in a leaked prototype a few weeks earlier.

iPhone 18 Pro series: what to expect

The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to retain the broad design of the iPhone 17 Pro series, while gaining a smaller Dynamic Island, new colours and camera changes. Reports suggest both could use Apple's A20 Pro chip, built on a 2nm process, while the displays are expected to remain around 6.3 inches and 6.9 inches respectively. The Pro models are also tipped to retain 48MP main, ultrawide and telephoto cameras.

The biggest camera change could be the variable aperture, although reports differ on whether it will reach both Pro models or remain exclusive to the Pro Max. If it is limited to the larger phone, Apple would be following a strategy it has used before, reserving some camera hardware for its top-end model.

Reports have pointed to a possible USD 100 starting price increase for the iPhone 18 Pro series, with memory and component costs adding pressure. The iPhone 17 Pro starts at Rs 1,34,900 in India, so a substantial increase could push the new Pro models further into premium territory. Those specifically interested in camera improvements should wait for Apple's September 9th announcement.

• Apple has announced a September 9th launch event at the Steve Jobs Theater in Apple Park.
• The iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and first foldable iPhone Ultra are expected to debut at the event.
• John Ternus will oversee his first iPhone launch as Apple CEO.

[/highlights]

Apple has announced its next launch event for September 9th, with an invitation that carries a glowing Apple logo against a soft blue background and the words "Surprise and shine." It's expected to be one of Apple's biggest iPhone launches in years, with the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max tipped to arrive alongside the company's first foldable iPhone, reportedly called the iPhone Ultra.

As per the invite, the event will take place at the Steve Jobs Theater in Apple Park at 10 am PT (10.30 pm IST). The event will be interesting for another reason as it also marks a change in Apple's leadership. John Ternus is set to become CEO on September 1st, just eight days before the launch, taking over from Tim Cook. Ternus, who currently leads Apple's hardware engineering, will therefore oversee his first iPhone launch as CEO. Cook, who has been Apple's CEO since 2011, will become executive chairman after 15 years at the helm.

iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max and iPhone Ultra expected

Obviously, Apple has been tight-lipped about every minute detail. But unlike previous September launches, Apple is not expected to announce the entire iPhone 18 lineup at this event. Reports suggest the standard iPhone 18 and second-generation iPhone Air could be pushed to 2027, leaving the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and foldable iPhone Ultra as the headline launches.

The iPhone Ultra is expected to be Apple's first foldable, using a book-style design similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8. Rumours point to a 5.3 to 5.5-inch outer display and a 7.6 to 7.8-inch inner OLED screen, both potentially supporting 120Hz ProMotion. The device is also tipped to use Apple's A20 Pro chip and offer a thinner design with a new hinge system.

The iPhone 18 Pro models, meanwhile, are expected to retain a broadly similar design to the iPhone 17 Pro series, but could get a smaller Dynamic Island, new colours and camera improvements. The iPhone 18 Pro Max is rumoured to feature a 48MP main camera with variable aperture, while both Pro models are expected to use Apple's next-generation 2nm A20 Pro chip.

Read: iPhone 18 Pro series and iPhone Ultra roundup

iPhone 18 Pro, Ultra price and what buyers should expect

Pricing has not been confirmed, but reports suggest the iPhone 18 Pro could start at around USD 100 more than the iPhone 17 Pro, which retails for Rs 1,34,900 in India. The foldable iPhone Ultra is expected to be significantly more expensive, with reports pointing to a starting price around USD 2,000 (around Rs 1.9 lakh) or higher.

That would put the Ultra well above Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 and other premium foldables, making it a product for buyers who specifically want Apple's take on the form factor rather than simply the best-value foldable. The Pro models may make more sense for most iPhone buyers, particularly if the camera, battery and performance upgrades materialise. That said, the Pro models are expected to bring more incremental improvements, while the Ultra could offer a completely new experience for users willing to pay a substantial premium for a foldable iPhone.

• Mivi is preparing to launch its first smartphone in India priced under Rs 15,000.
• The Mivi phone is expected to feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor.
• The phone is confirmed to be sold through Flipkart.

[/highlights]

India's budget smartphone market is seeing some new names emerge as established brands, willingly or unwillingly, move towards higher price segments. Audio brand Mivi is the latest to prepare a move into smartphones, with its first phone set to target buyers looking for affordable 5G connectivity. 91mobiles has learned exclusively from industry sources that the phone will be priced below Rs 15,000 and come with a Snapdragon processor.

Mivi phone launch: what to expect

The Mivi phone will mark the company's entry into India's smartphone market. A promotional poster on Flipkart has already gone live, showing a green colour option and a flat rear panel with rounded corners. The device will be sold through the e-commerce platform, although Mivi has yet to announce its launch date, full specifications or exact name and pricing.

According to sources, the Mivi phone will use a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset and will be priced under Rs 15,000. Mivi claims this will make it the only phone in this price segment with a Snapdragon processor. For buyers, the Snapdragon chipset could make the Mivi phone interesting on paper, but the processor alone will not determine whether it is a good alternative to established brands. Software support, cameras, battery life, performance and after-sales service will be equally important once the phone launches.

Mivi is best known for affordable audio products, including TWS earbuds, Bluetooth speakers, soundbars and AI-powered devices. Its smartphone entry follows Fire-Boltt's recent move into the category with the Boltt Evo 4G and Boltt Ace 5G, which start under Rs 10,000. Mivi has also reportedly onboarded industry veteran Himanshu Tandon, who previously worked with POCO and CMF by Nothing, as it prepares to enter the competitive smartphone market.

Mivi's entry comes at an interesting time for India's smartphone market. Fire-Boltt has already launched phones, Ai+ has entered the segment, and Micromax is reportedly preparing a return, while Philips has also teased an upcoming smartphone. These brands are finding room as established players such as Redmi, Realme, OnePlus, OPPO and Vivo focus on more profitable price bands higher up in the spectrum.

Rising RAM and storage costs have also made it harder for major brands to maintain the aggressive pricing that once defined the budget segment. That has created an opening for newer brands to target buyers who still want capable hardware without spending Rs 20,000 or more. If Mivi combines its Snapdragon processor with competitive cameras, battery life and dependable after-sales support, it could give budget buyers another option at a time when affordable smartphones are becoming harder to find.

Design: Exterior

Thankfully, Audi has resisted the industry's slide into design overkill, and the Q3 looks perfectly proportioned all the way from its new 3D mesh grille and sleek LED matrix headlights to the illuminated four-ringed logo on the tailgate. It has also grown in every dimension over its predecessor, and the surfacing shows it. Where rivals have leaned into aggressive, over-articulated surfacing that tries too hard, the Q3 holds a discipline that runs through every panel.

Design: Interior

The all-new cabin layout and dashboard design is a welcome sight after years of dealing with the archaic Audi architecture. The dual-screen dashboard curves toward the driver instead of sitting as a flat slab, a layout that reads as more usable than the triple-screen setups several competitors have adopted as a default. A rotary volume knob survives the transition, a small mercy in a segment eager to bury every control in a touch layer. One bewildering surprise is the decision to retain seat heating from the EU models and not include seat ventilation (cooling) for the India-spec variants.

[gallery link="file" columns="2" size="medium" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="712979,712980"]

Cabin tech

The infotainment graphics are new, and the tiled icon layout is intuitive, though the presentation remains largely monochromatic next to rivals that massage the retinas with HDR colour. The 12.8-inch main display is responsive, and while internationally, this generation of the Q3 ships with ChatGPT integrated into its voice assistant, we won't know whether India-spec cars will get that sort of tech stack. The bigger upgrade is the 12-speaker Sonos premium sound system that replaces the outgoing stock setup. It comes with multiple surround modes and enough user-adjustable parameters to shift the soundstage from an intimate two-channel feel to something closer to a full surround presentation, depending on taste. It's a genuine step up, and one that buyers cross-shopping the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA will notice.

Switchgear carries Audi's usual quality signature with knurled finishes, tactile clicks, and fit and finish that hold to the brand's standards, and none of it feels cut to a price. The cabin also feels roomier, helped by moving the drive selector to a steering-column stalk and freeing up console space. Wireless charging, dual USB-C ports, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are all finally standard fare, closing a gap the outgoing Q3 had left open for years. A head-up display debuts on the Q3 for the first time, handling navigation and speed readouts.

Drivetrain

Power comes from a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol producing 204hp and 320Nm, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic and Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system, expected to remain standard fit. Audi claims a 0-100kph time of 7.1 seconds and a top speed of 229kph. Pricing is expected to open around Rs 60 lakh (ex-showroom) when the Q3 launches later this year.

On this early look, Audi's entry-level SUV finally feels like it has the design, cabin tech and powerplant to exceed the segment's asking price. Final judgement waits on India-spec feature confirmation and a proper road drive.

• The Nothing Buds Pro 2 could kickstart a new audio lineup for the company.
• The TWS could be launching initially in the USA.
• The Nothing Buds Pro 2's charging case could pack a 460mAh battery.

[/highlights]

Nothing has been prominently releasing audio products ever since the release of Ear (1), its first-ever product. While several of its TWS have launched under the 'Ear' branding, a report has revealed that the company is working on yet another TWS called Nothing Buds Pro 2. Along with the name, the report also details the product's model number, battery, and design of the charging case. More details below. 

Nothing Buds Pro 2 spotted on FCC listing

Per XpertPick's findings, the Nothing Buds Pro 2 will carry the model number B195, as revealed by the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) database. Subsequently, it could come with FCC ID 2AZEQ-B195C. The label artwork includes the Nothing Buds Pro 2 name.

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Upon further digging into the FCC documents, the source has found that the charging case is expected to house a 3.8V lithium-ion battery rated at 460mAh, delivering a total energy capacity of 1.748Wh. With input rated at 5V/0.6A and output at 5V/0.24A, it appears capable of wired charging of up to roughly 3W.

A design outline of the Nothing Buds Pro 2 has also been found in the documents, revealing that the charging case will sport a rounded rectangular shape, with dimensions listed as 26.45 x 16.92 mm. The design of the actual earbuds hasn't been revealed or hinted at.

Is Nothing possibly coming up with a new TWS lineup?

As noted earlier, Nothing's TWS have always been released under the 'Ear' branding, with the Ear (Open) being the brand's latest offering in India. The Buds Pro 2, on the other hand, could kick-start a new lineup to offer essential TWS features at competitive pricing, while the Ear lineup could be retained for launching high-end to premium audio products.

While CMF has been a prominent player under Rs 5,000 in the audio segment, Nothing may now want to carve out its own identity at higher or similar price points. This way, the CMF earbuds could cater to the affordable segment, the Nothing Buds to users seeking premium-level features, and the Ear series to offer the best sound quality and features the company has to offer. Since FCC filing is a mandatory step before selling commercial goods in the US, the Buds Pro 2 could launch in the US initially.

This move could be a smart strategic play by Nothing to diversify its audio offerings and capture a broader market segment, a necessary step in today's competitive TWS landscape

The Redmi Note 17 has already launched in India (review), while the Redmi Note 17 Pro is currently available in China. The Pro Max, meanwhile, hasn't yet launched in China and will make its first appearance globally in Malaysia on September 2nd. Notably, this is the first 'Pro Max' variant in the Note series, with previous generations having the Pro+ as the top model. Here's a quick recap of everything before tomorrow's launch.

Redmi Note 17 Pro Max launch date

The Redmi Note 17 Pro Max is scheduled to launch globally on August 27th in Malaysia. Xiaomi has announced the date through its global website and is expected to reveal the remaining specifications, pricing and availability details at the event.

The smartphone's India launch date is currently unknown. A recent report citing a tipster claimed that Redmi could launch the Note 17 Pro and Note 17 Pro Max in India on September 15th, but Redmi hasn't confirmed this date or started teasing the phones for the Indian market. The reported timing would put the launch in a busy September period, with Apple's iPhone 18 series also expected to attract attention.

Redmi Note 17 Pro Max design

The Redmi Note 17 Pro Max has a flat-frame design with rounded corners and a relatively slim-looking profile. The rear panel shown by Xiaomi has a light, pearlescent finish with a pink-and-white cloud-like pattern that changes across the surface, giving the phone a more distinctive appearance than a conventional solid colour back. Xiaomi hasn't confirmed the complete colour lineup for the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max. The images released so far show the phone in a light, pink and white finish.

The camera module is positioned in the top-left corner and uses a rounded rectangular shape with two large circular camera cutouts arranged vertically, alongside a separate LED flash. The module also carries the 50MP camera branding. The flat metallic-looking frame continues around the edges, while the bottom houses a USB Type-C port, speaker grille and SIM tray.

Another notable design element is the photochromic rear panel. Xiaomi has also highlighted certified drop resistance for the new Redmi Note series, along with IP66, IP68, IP69 and IP69K ratings for dust and water resistance. This makes durability one of the more prominent aspects of the Note 17 Pro Max.

Redmi Note 17 Pro Max specifications

The Redmi Note 17 Pro Max will feature a 6.83-inch AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution. The screen size is unchanged from the Redmi Note 17 Pro launched in China, which also gets a 6.83-inch 1.5K OLED panel. The Pro Max is expected to offer a high refresh rate, although Xiaomi has yet to confirm the exact figure for the global model.

Under the hood, the smartphone is expected to use Qualcomm's Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 chipset and offer up to 12GB of RAM. A recent Geekbench listing showed a variant with 8GB RAM and Android 16, providing an indication of the hardware configuration, although the final memory options may vary by market.

The Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 is newer than the Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 used by the Redmi Note 17 Pro in China. However, the chipset sits below Qualcomm's Snapdragon 7 family, so its newer branding does not automatically mean it will outperform the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 used by the Redmi Note 15 Pro+. Buyers particularly interested in performance will therefore need to wait for real-world benchmarks before judging the upgrade.

The biggest hardware change comes in the battery department. The Redmi Note 17 Pro Max is confirmed to pack a huge 10,000mAh battery with support for 100W wired fast charging. This is substantially larger than the 9,000mAh battery and 67W charging on the Redmi Note 17 Pro in China. It is also a major jump over the previous-generation Redmi Note 15 Pro and Note 15 Pro+, which featured 6,580mAh and 6,500mAh batteries respectively. The Note 15 Pro+ supported 100W charging, but its battery capacity was still considerably smaller. The larger capacity in the new Pro Max has been made possible by the increasing adoption of silicon-carbon battery technology in smartphones.

For photography, Xiaomi has confirmed a 50MP primary rear camera. The phone is also expected to have an additional rear sensor, with earlier reports pointing to an 8MP ultrawide camera and a 32MP front camera. These camera specifications have not all been confirmed by Xiaomi yet.

Redmi Note 17 Pro Max expected pricing

Xiaomi hasn't yet announced the global price of the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max. A recent tip suggested that the Redmi Note 17 Pro and Note 17 Pro Max could launch in India at around Rs 5,000 to Rs 8,000 higher than their Redmi Note 15 Pro-series counterparts. For context, the Redmi Note 15 Pro launched in India at Rs 31,999, while the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ started at Rs 37,999. A similar increase would put the new models considerably higher, potentially taking the Redmi Note 17 Pro into the upper Rs 30,000 range and the Pro Max towards roughly Rs 43,000 - Rs 46,000, depending on the variant.

That would be a significant change from the pricing of earlier Redmi Note Pro models, which traditionally competed at much lower prices. The potential increase would also bring the Note 17 Pro Max into territory occupied by phones such as the OnePlus Nord 6, Nothing Phone (4a) and Vivo V70 FE.

The higher price, if confirmed, will make the choice more dependent on what the Pro Max offers beyond its enormous battery. The Redmi Note 15 Pro+ already paired a 6,500mAh battery with 100W charging and a Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset, so the Note 17 Pro Max's newer but less powerful Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 will need to demonstrate that its battery, display and durability advantages justify the positioning.

With the global launch taking place on August 27, Xiaomi should reveal the remaining specifications and pricing shortly. For Indian buyers, however, it makes sense to wait for an official launch announcement before drawing conclusions on availability or price. The 10,000mAh battery and 100W charging make the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max particularly interesting for users who prioritise battery life and media consumption.

• Qualcomm's next-generation Oryon CPU reaches 5GHz, marking a first for mobile processors.
• Oryon FlexCache lets its CPU cores dynamically share available cache based on workload.
• The new architecture could help future Snapdragon flagships improve performance without relying on larger RAM configurations.

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Qualcomm has announced a new milestone for smartphone processors and claims that its next-generation Oryon CPU is the first mobile CPU to reach a 5GHz clock speed. While clock speed is only one part of overall processor performance, the achievement gives Qualcomm a useful advantage as it looks to push smartphone performance closer to what you'd get from a laptop or desktop processor. Let's discuss this in more detail below.

Impressive 5GHz speed, but there's more

Qualcomm says it achieved the 5GHz milestone through a fully custom CPU design, allowing it to tune the architecture and wider CPU subsystem together. It is also introducing Oryon FlexCache, which is designed to help the CPU cores make better use of cache and reduce how often they need to access slower system memory.

A CPU's clock speed tells us how quickly it can run its processing cycles. Simply put, a 5GHz CPU can run up to five billion cycles per second. However, clock speed alone doesn't determine performance. Two processors can run at different speeds but deliver similar results depending on how much work they can complete in each cycle. This is where IPC (instructions per clock) can help. 

[caption id="attachment_712942" align="alignnone" width="814"] Source: Qualcomm News[/caption]

To put it simply, think of two cars. One may have a higher top speed, but that doesn't necessarily mean it will perform better in every situation. Acceleration, handling and how well it performs at high speeds also matter. Similarly, 5GHz tells us how quickly the CPU can operate, while its architecture and IPC determine how much work it can complete at that speed.

Qualcomm says the new Oryon CPU combines its 5GHz peak clock speed with high IPC, which should benefit everything from everyday apps and gaming to content creation and AI workloads.

The new FlexCache architecture

Qualcomm's new Oryon FlexCache architecture is another important part of the design of their next-gen chipsets. Cache is a small amount of very fast memory located close to the CPU cores, allowing them to access frequently needed data without repeatedly reaching into slower system RAM.

The new architecture that's shown uses two Prime cores and six Performance cores, with both types able to access a shared cache pool. Instead of being restricted to fixed portions, the cores can dynamically use more of the cache when a workload requires it.

This doesn't replace RAM, but it can reduce how often the CPU needs to access system memory, potentially helping maintain performance during demanding gaming, multitasking, AI and video workloads. 

How could this impact future Snapdragon flagship chipsets?

The new Oryon architecture could become particularly useful as smartphone makers deal with rising memory costs. RAM was not a major constraint for flagship phones in the past, but higher memory prices are now making manufacturers more cautious about how much memory they put into each device.

FlexCache technology could help Qualcomm improve performance without relying entirely on larger RAM configurations. By allowing CPU cores to share and dynamically use the available cache, more frequently needed data can stay closer to the processor, potentially reducing the number of trips to system memory.

It is too early to say how much this will translate into actual gains, but the approach has its merits and could give future Snapdragon flagship chipsets another way to improve sustained performance without simply adding more RAM. That could become increasingly relevant if memory prices remain elevated in the future.