[highlights]

• Dell has launched the new Alienware 16X Aurora, Alienware 16 Area-51 and Alienware 18 Area-51 gaming laptops in India.
• The lineup operates on the Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series Laptop GPUs, with OLED display options.
• The Alienware 16X Aurora is priced at Rs 2,62,990, while the Area-51 models sit at nearly Rs 4 lakh.

[/highlights]

Dell Technologies has launched the Alienware 16X Aurora, Alienware 16 Area-51 and Alienware 18 Area-51 gaming laptops in India. The new lineup is targets gamers and power users who want high-performance hardware, premium displays and top-end graphics, and you can check out more details below.

New Dell Alienware laptops launched

The latest refresh includes a few different models, starting with the Alienware 16X Aurora, positioned as the more portable premium option, while the Alienware 16 Area-51 and Alienware 18 Area-51 sit at the top of the range.

The latter is ideal for users who want desktop-level gaming output from a portable machine. The laptops are now available via Dell.com, Dell Exclusive Stores, large-format retail, multi-brand outlets and leading e-commerce platforms.

Alienware 16X Aurora key specs:

Some key features worth discussing are the Alienware 16 Area-51 and 16X Aurora's anti-glare OLED panels. These panels help reduce reflections while keeping the deep blacks and vivid colours OLED buyers expect. 

Alienware Area-51: key specifications

The Area-51 models sit at the highest performance tiers, with power delivery reaching up to 240W on the 16-inch model and up to 280W on the 18-inch version. Dell is also bundling features like Thunderbolt 5, Wi-Fi 7, 96Wh batteries, customisable RGB lighting for these machines. 

Where do the new Alienware laptops sit?

Dell is positioning the new Alienware lineup firmly at the premium end of the gaming market. The Alienware 16X Aurora, at Rs 2,62,990, competes with other high-end 16-inch gaming machines like the Lenovo Legion 5 Pro, while the Area-51 16 and 18 push into ultra-premium territory at just under Rs 4 lakh.

Compared with last year's models, the new pricing is a lot higher. The earlier Alienware 16X Aurora started around Rs 1.80 lakh, while previous Area-51 variants sat in the roughly Rs 3.1 lakh to Rs 4.8 lakh range depending on configuration. 

The jump is nearly 40 percent here and while the performance uplift is significant, the pricing will be a tough pill for many buyers to swallow, especially at a time when memory shortages and component inflation are pushing laptop costs higher across the board.

Top-end gaming machines, in particular are facing the brunt of it since they rely on large amounts of fast RAM, storage and high-power GPUs.  

Trust JBL to launch a Rs. 2 crore high-end audiophile reference speaker and a streaming speaker with a screen for lyrics in the same month! Launched as a China-only model as of now, it just seems too cool a concept to be limited to one market, though. The JBL Vienna doesn't just play songs, but stages them, in fact using an 18.5in display set behind a high-transparency tempered glass. Instead of using a traditional screen, the Vienna uses moving light-and-shadow effects to give the typography real depth. The resulting illusion it creates is fascinating to watch as text appears to be floating in space rather than sitting flat on a screen.

Even without music, Vienna has 9 background themes and 11 meditation scenes that pair ambient sounds like rain, ocean waves, etc with moody visuals. Alternatively, you could also treat it like a digital photo frame if you like revisiting the 2000s and use it as an eclectic slideshow machine synced to your travel playlist.

A window to your music

Nine background themes ship out of the box, running from calm to bold, and the panel doubles as a photo frame: users can drop in their own pictures as a backdrop, turning a holiday shot or a candid with friends into the literal stage set for whatever's playing. Thankfully, JBL hasn't forgotten that this is supposed to be a speaker, and the audio hardware consists of a 2.1-channel array with two 3.23-inch full-range drivers for mids and vocals, four 8.5-inch racetrack-shaped oval bass drivers and two 5-inch passive radiators. That's some serious amount of speakers in a relatively compact chassis, powered by a 100W amplifier. JBL's claim is deep low-end, clear vocal separation and enough top-end air to hold together denser jazz and classical passages, material that usually exposes a muddy midrange.

Finding the perfect match

Connectivity is as expected with Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C, and AUX, with wireless screen mirroring from both iOS and Android. On idling, it also does clock duty with dual-timezone standby. If it does decide to make the trip to India, the JBL Vienna will reside in its own exclusive segment, distant from the smart home speakers like Amazon Echo Show, HomePod and Google Nest Hub. Roughly priced at around US$1200 in China, if launched in India, it would sit above the Authentics 500 and target buyers looking for a statement piece rather than just another wireless speaker. 

[highlights]

• Apple is reportedly testing a 6.96-inch display for its 20th anniversary iPhone.
• It could be marketed as a 7-inch screen if it reaches production.
• The anniversary iPhone is also rumoured to feature a major redesign, including an edge-to-edge display with curved glass.

[/highlights]

Apple's 20th anniversary iPhone, informally referred to as the iPhone 20 Pro Max, is looking to be one of the company's biggest redesigns in years, and a new leak suggests it could also be its largest. According to tipster Digital Chat Station, Apple is internally testing a display measuring around 6.96 inches, which would likely be marketed as a 7-inch screen if it makes it to the final product.

The leak adds to a growing list of reports pointing to a special iPhone lineup in 2027, when Apple is expected to mark two decades since the original iPhone launched. Apple did a similar thing to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the iPhone with the iPhone X in 2017, when it dropped the home button for a full OLED screen. So a radical redesign can be expected next year too (iPhone XX? Who knows)

Anticipated key specifications and features

Digital Chat Station, who has a reliable track record, claims the prototype display measures roughly 6.96 inches while maintaining the same aspect ratio as the current iPhone 17 Pro Max. At this stage, however, it's unclear whether Apple will use the panel in the final production model.

If the company goes ahead with it, the new screen would be only slightly larger than the 6.9-inch display expected on the iPhone 18 Pro Max and the current 6.86-inch iPhone 17 Pro Max. While the increase sounds modest on paper, it would still make the anniversary iPhone the largest iPhone Apple has ever released.

The latest leak also aligns with earlier reports suggesting Apple is preparing a major redesign for its 2027 flagship. Bloomberg previously reported that Apple has begun work on two versions of the anniversary iPhone, while other rumours have pointed to an edge-to-edge display with curved glass on all four sides for a nearly borderless appearance. Separately, reports have claimed Apple is evaluating an all-glass unibody design and capacitive solid-state buttons that would replace physical volume and power keys with touch-sensitive controls backed by haptic feedback. None of these features have been confirmed by Apple.

The last time Apple increased the size of its premium iPhones was with the iPhone 16 Pro lineup in 2024, when the Pro models grew from 6.1 and 6.7 inches to 6.3 and 6.9 inches, respectively.

The rumoured move comes as flagship smartphones continue to push larger displays while reducing bezel sizes. Android brands such as Samsung and Honor already offer foldables with tablet-sized screens, while conventional flagship phones have largely settled between 6.7 and 6.9 inches. A 7-inch display would move Apple's largest non-foldable iPhone closer to that territory without changing its overall form factor. Redmi recently launched the Redmi Note 17 with a 7-inch screen though we're yet to see how it's received.

The leak suggests Apple's anniversary iPhone could focus on delivering a more immersive experience alongside a broader design overhaul. However, with the device still more than a year away and the display reportedly only in testing, it's too early to assume the larger screen will make it to the final product. But if an iPhone with a massive screen excites you, it's worth waiting for 2027 as you're unlikely to see any changes in the iPhone 18 Pro lineup.

[highlights]

• The OPPO A7 Pro Max is tipped to feature a 10,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging
• It is said to measure just 8.47 mm thick.
• There is no word yet on the phone's launch timeline or availability outside China.

[/highlights]

The "Pro Max" title usually brings Apple's flagship iPhones to mind, though over the last year China has taken a lot of inspiration. The latest phone to adopt the name may be an OPPO mid-ranger instead. According to a new leak, the upcoming OPPO A7 Pro Max could pair a 10,000mAh battery with a surprisingly slim body, showing how quickly big batteries are becoming mainstream in Android smartphones without compromising on their thinness.

The details come from tipster Digital Chat Station, who claims the phone is currently in development. An earlier leak in June had also hinted that OPPO was preparing its first smartphone with a 10,000mAh battery.

OPPO A7 Pro Max expected key specifications

According to the leak (via), the OPPO A7 Pro Max will feature a 6.78-inch flat AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It's also tipped to include an in-display fingerprint scanner. Powering the phone could be Qualcomm's upcoming Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 chipset, paired with a 10,000mAh battery that supports 80W fast charging. Despite the enormous battery, the device is said to measure just 8.47 mm thick and weigh around 226 gms. For context, that's slimmer than the iPhone 17 Pro, which is reported to be around 8.75 mm thick, although Apple's flagship remains lighter, but also has a much smaller battery.

The camera setup is expected to remain modest, with a 50MP primary camera, a 2MP secondary sensor, and a 50MP front camera. That suggests OPPO is prioritising battery life and everyday usability over flagship-grade photography.

A 10,000mAh battery would have sounded extreme just a year ago, when 7,000mAh was beginning to emerge as the new benchmark for Chinese Android phones. Since then, brands such as Honor, Realme and Vivo have all introduced devices with 10,000mAh batteries, helped by newer silicon-carbon battery technology that allows manufacturers to increase capacity without making phones thicker.

The trend is already moving beyond 10,000mAh, with reports suggesting some upcoming Chinese smartphones from Honor could cross the 12,000mAh mark. Against that backdrop, OPPO adopting a 10,000mAh battery is more about keeping in touch with the times.

Not just the specs, but the naming is also interesting. While "Pro Max" originated with Apple's iPhone lineup, it has become increasingly common among Chinese smartphone brands. Xiaomi has used the branding across Xiaomi (Xiaomi 17 Pro Max), Redmi (Redmi K90 Pro Max) and POCO (POCO X8 Pro Max) devices, and OPPO now appears set to follow the same playbook for its premium A-series model.

There is no word yet on the phone's launch timeline or availability outside China. The OPPO A7 Pro Max could be worth watching if battery life is a higher priority than camera performance. A slim design paired with a 10,000mAh battery would help it stand out in the mid-range segment, though its overall appeal will ultimately depend on pricing and whether the Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 delivers competitive performance.

[highlights]

• Realme P4 Power gets a discount of Rs 2,000.
• The P4 Pro is also available with the same discount.
• Realme's sale is now live and will continue until July 24th. 

[/highlights]

Realme has announced its Power Days sale in India, offering discounts, coupons, and no-cost EMI options on its latest P-series smartphones. The sale could help Realme drive demand at a time when smartphone prices across the market continue to rise. The limited-period sale will run from July 21st to July 24th on Flipkart and the Realme online store, giving buyers a chance to purchase the Realme P4 Power 5G, P4 Pro 5G, and P4R 5G at lower effective prices. All three phones are part of Realme's battery-focused P-series. 

Realme Power Days sale offers

The biggest discount is available on the Realme P4 Power 5G, which gets a Rs 2,000 coupon discount and up to 9 months of no-cost EMI. The 8GB + 128GB variant can be purchased for Rs 27,999, down from Rs 29,999. The 8GB + 256GB and 12GB + 256GB variants are available for Rs 29,999 and Rs 32,999, respectively. The Realme P4 Power 5G (review) stands out with its 10,001mAh battery, which is one of the largest on a mid-range smartphone.

It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7400 Ultra chipset and includes a dedicated HyperVision+ AI chip. This smartphone stands out for its battery capacity among rivals from brands like OnePlus, OPPO, and Vivo. 

The Realme P4 Pro 5G also receives a Rs 2,000 instant price discount along with up to 6 months of no-cost EMI. Its effective prices start at Rs 26,999 for the 8GB + 128GB model, while the 8GB + 256GB and 12GB + 256GB variants are priced at Rs 28,999 and Rs 30,999, respectively. The Realme P4 Pro 5G (review) is aimed at users looking for a more balanced experience, offering a Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 processor, a 144Hz AMOLED curved display, a 7,000mAh battery, and 80W fast charging.

Meanwhile, the Realme P4R 5G does not receive a price cut but is available with 3 months of no-cost EMI. Prices remain unchanged, starting at Rs 18,999 for the 4GB + 128GB model, followed by the 6GB + 128GB variant at Rs 20,999 and the 6GB + 256GB version at Rs 22,999. This handset focuses on battery life and affordability with an 8,000mAh battery, 45W fast charging, a 144Hz display, and AI features, including Gemini integration.

For buyers, the sale offers the best value on the Realme P4 Pro 5G, thanks to its combination of performance, display quality, and charging speeds at under Rs 27,000. Those who prioritise battery life should consider the Realme P4 Power 5G, while the Realme P4R 5G is better suited for users looking for a budget-friendly 5G phone with long battery endurance. With ongoing price hikes, this sale would be a good time to grab all the offers and buy the phone you need. 

iQOO is preparing to expand its budget-focused Z-series lineup in India with the launch of the iQOO Z11 Lite. The Z series has traditionally targeted buyers looking for a balance of performance, battery life, and value, often bringing large batteries and MediaTek chipsets to the sub-Rs 20,000 segment. The upcoming iQOO Z11 Lite appears to follow the same formula while adding several AI-powered software features.

Here's everything we know about the smartphone ahead of its debut.

iQOO Z11 Lite India launch date

The iQOO Z11 Lite is set to launch in India on July 24th. It will be available via Amazon India. The company has already confirmed several key specifications through teasers, giving a clear idea of what to expect from the affordable offering.

The handset will be available in Solar Flame and Midnight Blue colour options. It will also feature Military-Grade Durability, SGS 5-Star Drop Resistance, and a Dynamic Light for notifications and incoming calls, adding some premium touches despite its affordable positioning.

iQOO Z11 Lite specifications

The smartphone will be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, a processor that has become a popular choice among brands launching budget 5G smartphones. While it is designed for everyday performance rather than gaming, the chip is expected to handle routine tasks, video streaming and casual gaming comfortably. The iQOO Z11 Lite is confirmed to pack a 6,500mAh battery with 44W FlashCharge support. The company is also promising five-year battery health, a feature that has recently started appearing on more affordable smartphones.

For the display, iQOO has confirmed a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1,200 nits, claiming it to be the brightest in its segment for improved outdoor visibility. The handset will house a 50MP primary camera with a Sony sensor. 

On the software front, the phone will run OriginOS 6 and is confirmed to receive four years of security updates. However, iQOO has not yet revealed how many Android OS upgrades the device will get, which could be an important factor for buyers comparing it with rivals from Samsung and other brands that now offer longer software support.

AI features

The iQOO Z11 Lite will ship with several AI-powered tools, including AI Creation, which can summarise documents, rewrite text, translate content, and generate ideas. It also gets AI Captions, offering live transcription, translation, and one-tap summaries during lectures and meetings. These features mirror the growing trend of incorporating AI capabilities into budget smartphones, a feature previously limited to premium devices.

iQOO Z11 Lite expected price in India

iQOO has confirmed that the Z11 Lite will launch at an expected price of under Rs 20,000. This could be with offers and discounts at launch. If the Z11 Lite does launch around this much, then it would be positioned against popular options such as the Vivo T-series, OPPO K-series, Redmi Note series, and Realme Narzo lineup.

If your priorities are battery life, a bright display, durability, and useful AI features, the iQOO Z11 Lite looks promising. The Dimensity 6300 is a familiar chip in this price segment, so buyers looking for top-tier gaming performance may find more powerful alternatives. However, for everyday users seeking a dependable 5G smartphone under Rs 20,000 with a large battery and modern software features, the iQOO Z11 Lite could be worth waiting for, especially if iQOO keeps its pricing competitive at launch.

[highlights]

• Samsung's Back to School campaign offers up to 10 percnet student discount through its Student+ programme, along with bank benefits and no-cost EMI options on select devices.
• The sale covers a wide range of Galaxy devices, including laptops, tablets, smartphones, monitors, wearables and earbuds, making it relevant for students across different use cases.
• Perks include up to a Rs 5,000 bank discount off for select laptops and tablets and 7 percent student discount on the Galaxy S26 series.

[/highlights]

Samsung has launched its 2026 Back to School campaign in India offering student discounts, bank benefits and no-cost EMI across a range of Galaxy AI devices. The offers cover premium laptops, tablets, smartphones, monitors and wearables. The sale targets students and educators looking for productivity and creativity tools for the new academic year.

The key devices under the sale include the Galaxy Book6 Pro laptop, Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra tablet, Galaxy S26 series phones, the Smart Monitor M8 and Galaxy wearables and Buds. Let's look at the offers and products in more detail below.

Samsung Back to School: key offers

Samsung Back to School: products

Galaxy Book6 Pro

The Galaxy Book6 Pro is Samsung's go‑to laptop for students who need a performant CPU and NPU combination in an extremely light form factor. The laptop pairs Intel Core Ultra series 3 processors with Galaxy AI features to speed up tasks such as note summarisation and media editing, which is useful for coursework and projects. 

Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra

The Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra targets art, design and note‑taking workflows with a Dynamic AMOLED display and an improved S Pen experience. Samsung is also promoting Galaxy AI tools for organisation, summarisation and collaboration that are useful for students managing coursework and group projects. The student programme lowers the effective price when combined with bank benefits and verification discounts.

Galaxy S26 series

For students who want flagship phones, the Galaxy S26 series is available through the Galaxy Forever upgrade programme and student pricing that reduces upfront cost and monthly outlay. There are also monthly payment options and a student discount percentage for eligible buyers. 

Smart Monitor M8

The Smart Monitor M8 is positioned as a lightweight monitor suitable for remote learning, study desks and media consumption. It supports quick file sharing and multi-device control with Galaxy features, which helps students work across phones, tablets and laptops. 

Wearables and Buds

The Galaxy Watch8 and Buds4 family are included to cover fitness tracking, notifications and hands‑free use during classes and campus life. Student offers and bank benefits are available for these accessories, which makes them an inexpensive add-on for buyers focused on health and connectivity.

Should you buy?

Yes, these deals are especially worth paying attention to right now when memory shortages and the resulting price hikes have made consumer tech extremely expensive. Samsung has also already raised prices on several Galaxy devices this year, which makes discount-led campaigns like this more valuable than they might look at first glance.

For buyers who were already planning to upgrade a laptop, tablet, phone, monitor or wearable, these offers can help offset the increased prices and soften the impact of the current market environment. Combine the student discount, bank benefit and no-cost EMI or upgrade benefit wherever eligible to get yourselves the best deals. 

[highlights]

• iOS 27 developer beta 4 includes new Battery Health strings that refer to multiple internal batteries.
• Current iPhones only have a single battery.
• Apple's foldable iPhone Ultra is expected to use two battery cells with a combined capacity of 4,883mAh.

[/highlights]

Apple may have dropped one of its biggest hints yet about its long-rumoured foldable iPhone. References found in the fourth developer beta of iOS 27, which is now available to download, point to an iPhone with two internal batteries, a change from the single-battery wording used on current iPhone models. The discovery, first reported by Macworld, has almost confirmed that the software is preparing for Apple's first foldable iPhone, widely rumoured to debut later this year.

iOS 27 beta 4 contains iPhone Ultra battery reference

Macworld found new Battery Health strings in the latest iOS 27 developer beta that refer to "the batteries in this iPhone" instead of "the battery in this iPhone." Other messages also mention that "one of the batteries" may not be verified as a genuine Apple battery, suggesting the operating system is capable of monitoring multiple battery cells independently.

Current iPhone models only contain a single battery, and the wording throughout the Battery Health section reflects that. The shift to plural references therefore stands out, although Apple hasn't confirmed what device these strings are intended for. It's most likely the foldable iPhone Ultra.

[box-highlights]

• "The batteries in this iPhone are performing as expected."
• "The health of the batteries in this iPhone has significantly degraded. An Apple Authorized Service Provider can replace the batteries to restore full performance and capacity."
• "The health of the batteries in this iPhone has significantly degraded, and one of the batteries could not be verified as a genuine Apple battery. An Apple Authorized Service Provider can replace the batteries to restore full performance and capacity."

[/box-highlights]

Earlier reports claimed Apple's foldable iPhone would use two battery cells with capacities of 1,921mAh and 2,962mAh, combining for a total capacity of 4,883mAh. That design would be similar to most existing foldable smartphones, which typically split the battery between the two halves of the device to make better use of internal space.

This also isn't the first time Apple's iOS is pointing towards a foldable iPhone. The iOS 27 first beta had references to angle detection and fold states, implicitly confirming that they're referring to the iPhone Ultra.

The new iOS 27 strings also suggest each battery could potentially be serviced separately. If that is true, replacing only the degraded battery instead of the entire battery assembly could help reduce repair costs for some users. While Apple has yet to announce a foldable iPhone, software references often appear months before new hardware reaches consumers, though they should not be treated as confirmation of an unreleased product. Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series in September.

The latest discovery is another indication that Apple is preparing software support for a new form factor rather than a guarantee of specific hardware. Foldable phones from Samsung, Google, Honor and other brands already use dual-cell battery designs, so Apple's implementation would follow an established approach. Those planning to upgrade this year may want to wait until Apple's September event if they are interested in a foldable iPhone.

[highlights]

• OPPO Find X10 Pro Max could replace the Ultra model this year.
• It was earlier rumoured to sport a 6.8-inch 2K display.
• The handset will be part of OPPO's flagship lineup. 

[/highlights]

OPPO's rumoured Find X10 Pro Max could arrive with a significantly different display than previously expected. A new leak suggests the flagship may ditch the earlier rumoured 6.89-inch 2K panel in favour of a smaller 6.78-inch flat 1.5K display with ultra-narrow, symmetrical bezels, hinting at a shift towards a more balanced design instead of chasing higher resolution. The latest leak also reveals changes across the broader Find X10 lineup, including updated chipsets and model positioning.

OPPO Find X10 Pro Max display details

According to tipster Digital Chat Station, the OPPO Find X10 Pro Max will reportedly sport a 6.78-inch flat display with a 1.5K resolution and ultra-narrow, symmetrical bezels achieved using LIPO (Low-Injection Pressure Overmolding) packaging technology. Earlier leaks had pointed to a larger 6.89-inch 2K display, indicating OPPO may now be prioritising slimmer bezels and a more compact form factor over higher pixel density. The difference in resolution may not have a real-world impact for users.

The handset is also tipped to be powered by the upcoming 2nm MediaTek Dimensity 9600 Pro chipset. OPPO would be catching up with Samsung's Galaxy S26 series, which launched with the first 2nm mobile chipset. For photography, it could feature a Samsung HPC 200MP primary sensor, accompanied by 200MP ultra-wide and 200MP periscope telephoto cameras, which would make it the first phone with a 200MP triple-camera setup. OPPO's Find X series is already known to offer top-tier cameras, and the Find X10 Pro Max could level that up even further. 

The leak also sheds light on the rest of the Find X10 lineup. The standard OPPO Find X10 is expected to feature a 6.59-inch 1.5K display and the 3nm Dimensity 9600 Lite, which is said to be an overclocked version of the existing Dimensity 9500. Meanwhile, the Find X10 Pro could retain a 6.78-inch 1.5K display while using the more powerful Dimensity 9600 Pro.

Interestingly, the tipster also claims OPPO is evaluating another compact 6.59-inch model powered by a different Dimensity 9-series chipset, although its launch has not been finalised.

The leak also raises questions about the future of the Find X10 Ultra, with no mention of the model. If the Ultra has indeed been dropped, the Find X10 Pro Max could become the flagship of the series. Buyers interested in OPPO's next premium phone may want to wait for official details, as the final lineup and specifications remain subject to change. For current Find X9 series users, the rumoured display change and new chipset might not be a compelling enough reason to upgrade immediately, unless the triple 200MP camera system is a game-changer for your specific needs.

[highlights]

• MediaTek showcased new imaging tech for flagship smartphones at its "Beyond the Lens" Tech Day in New Delhi.
• The highlights include technologies like 18EV HDR Fusion, 4K120 Super EIS, and the Dimensity 9500 series and Dimensity 8500 series chipsets.
• MediaTek also unveiled its strategy across smartphones, automotive, AI PCs, data centres, and other connected devices.

[/highlights]

MediaTek has just introduced a new set of technologies aimed at improving the camera experience on next-generation smartphones. At its "Beyond the Lens" Tech Day in New Delhi, MediaTek showed how its latest Dimensity chipsets can improve photos and videos, while also pushing its broader One MediaTek strategy across smartphones, automotive, data centres, and AI PCs. Let's look at it in more detail below. 

MediaTek's showcase

The event focused heavily on smartphone imaging, with MediaTek showcasing technologies such as 18EV HDR Fusion and 4K120 Super EIS. The company also positions them as a way to help flagship phones compete more directly with rival premium chipsets in challenging low-light and high-contrast scenes.

The event also highlighted the brand's latest chipsets, including the Dimensity 9500, Dimensity 9500s and Dimensity 8500. Devices on display included the vivo X300 Pro, OPPO Find X9s, Motorola Edge 70 Pro and Xiaomi 17T, all of which use these newer MediaTek platforms to support advanced imaging and AI features.

MediaTek's message is pretty clear here: smartphone photography is no longer just about the camera sensor. The company says the chipset, ISP, AI engine, optics and software all work together to decide how good a phone camera really is. That is why it is putting so much emphasis on AI-ISPs and computational photography, especially as users expect more from both still photos and video.

The company also claims the Dimensity 9500 flagship SoC and Dimensity 8500 premium SoC meet those expectations without sacrificing power efficiency. MediaTek also used the event to talk about its broader roadmap beyond smartphones.

Under its One MediaTek vision, the company is expanding across automotive, compute and edge-to-cloud technologies, with separate platforms for smartphones, cars and compute devices. It says this unified strategy is meant to connect different product categories through the same underlying technology stack.

It seems MediaTek clearly wants to be seen as more than just a phone-chip maker. Even though smartphones remain its biggest battleground, the company is building its system around AI, connectivity and high-performance computing across multiple device categories. 

[highlights]

• iQOO 16T has reportedly entered testing with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 chipset.
• The standard iQOO 16 is tipped to use the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro.
• India availability remains unlikely as the iQOO 15T was never launched in the country.

[/highlights]

Leaks around iQOO's next flagship lineup, the iQOO 16 series, are starting to gather pace. After the first details about the iQOO 16T surfaced in June, a fresh leak from tipster Digital Chat Station now suggests the phone has entered the testing phase, revealing more about its specifications. While the device is still likely months away from launch, the latest information points to iQOO continuing its focus on high-end performance and gaming hardware.

Expected key specifications

According to the leak (via), the iQOO 16T prototype is currently being tested with Qualcomm's upcoming SM8950 chipset, widely expected to launch as the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6. The company is also said to be evaluating a variant powered by MediaTek's upcoming Dimensity 9600 (DX6), suggesting iQOO could eventually offer multiple chipset options.

The prototype is also tipped to feature a built-in cooling fan, a feature rarely seen outside dedicated gaming phones. iQOO gave one in the 15 Ultra, and bringing it down to the T-model suggests the company is serious about delivering top-level gaming performance. The combination of the fan and a flat 2K Samsung display indicates iQOO is prioritising heavy workloads. Since the device is still in development, these specifications could change before the final launch.

The iQOO 16T will succeed the iQOO 15T, which debuted in May 2026 as the first T-branded flagship in the company's lineup. The 15T featured a 6.82-inch 2K+ 144Hz LTPO AMOLED display, the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 Monster chipset, up to 16GB RAM, up to 1TB storage, a 200MP primary camera, an 8,000mAh battery with 100W charging, and IP68/IP69 certification.

Based on leaks so far, the iQOO 16 lineup could comprise the standard iQOO 16 and iQOO 16T, for now. The vanilla iQOO 16 is reportedly being tested with Qualcomm's expected Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset and a huge 8,500mAh battery. Earlier reports also suggested iQOO may skip an Ultra model this generation due to rising memory costs, making the regular iQOO 16 the brand's primary flagship. That could make the 16T the performance-focused alternative with slightly different hardware.

Availability

There is currently no word on when the iQOO 16T will launch. Since the iQOO 15T never made it to India and the company instead introduced the more affordable iQOO 15R, the chances of the 16T arriving here also appear slim. Leaks have suggested that the standard iQOO 16 may skip the Indian market as the brand continues to prioritise mid-range and budget smartphones locally.

For buyers in India, these early leaks are worth watching mainly as an indication of iQOO's global flagship strategy. Unless the company's India roadmap changes, those looking for a flagship iQOO phone may ultimately have to consider other models that are officially launched in the country, rather than waiting for the 16T.

[highlights]

• Google plans to add Android backups to the user's Account storage.
• It was not an earlier part of the Google Account storage. 
• Some users have reportedly started receiving emails. 

[/highlights]

Google is reportedly changing how Android device backups are treated, with backup data set to count towards a user's Google Account storage quota for the first time. The company has started emailing Android users about the change, giving them a 45-day notice before the updated policy comes into effect, according to a report by Android Authority. Google currently offers 15GB of free storage, which already includes Gmail, Drive, and Photos. 

Google account storage changes

The emails explain that Android backups, which have so far not been counted against Google Account storage, will soon use the available cloud space tied to each account. The change applies to backup data such as SMS messages, call history, device and app settings, and other system information.

The report adds that once a user exceeds their storage limit, Android devices will stop creating new automatic backups. To resume backups, users will need to either delete files, free up storage, or upgrade to a higher-capacity Google storage plan.

Google is also said to be introducing more granular backup controls for devices running Android 9 and newer. Users will reportedly be able to choose which apps and categories of data are included in future backups, making it easier to avoid storing unnecessary information and reduce storage usage.

The emails reportedly include an estimate of how much additional space existing Android backups will occupy. In one example cited by the publication, the backup required around 30MB of storage. Earlier reports suggested the average backup size would increase by roughly 40MB, indicating the impact is likely to be minimal for most users.

The move brings Android backups more in line with how other cloud storage services like Apple's iCloud manage backup data within a shared storage quota. Users can monitor backup storage through the Google One storage manager, where they can review usage, delete files, purchase additional cloud storage, or disable Android backups if needed.

For most users on Google's free 15GB storage tier, the change is unlikely to have an immediate impact since it won't take up much space. However, those already close to the storage limit may want to review their Google Photos, Gmail, Drive, and Android backup usage to avoid interrupted automatic backups. There's Google One cloud storage subscription plans for users who require a lot of space for their personal data. 

[highlights]

• The Moto Pad 70 Groove will launch in India on July 31st and will be available via Flipkart.
• The Moto Pad 70 Groove will feature a 12.1-inch 2.5K display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
• The tablet has a 10,200mAh battery delivering up to 15 hours of video playback.

[/highlights]

Weeks after introducing the Moto Pad 70, Motorola has confirmed that its upcoming entertainment-centred tablet, the Moto Pad 70 Groove, will launch in India on July 31st. Ahead of the launch, the company has revealed several specifications on Flipkart, with the tablet's biggest highlight being what it claims is India's first nine-speaker JBL audio system.

The model appears to be aimed at buyers who consume a lot of entertainment content. It  builds on the Moto Pad 70 by placing greater emphasis on audio performance while retaining a large high refresh rate display and a sizeable battery.

Key specifications and features

According to Motorola, the Moto Pad 70 Groove will feature a 12.1-inch 2.5K display with a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and up to 800 nits of peak brightness in High Brightness Mode (HBM). These specifications should make it suitable for streaming, gaming and everyday productivity.

The standout feature is its audio setup. Motorola says the tablet packs India's first nine-speaker JBL system, comprising four tweeters, three woofers and two passive radiators. The setup is paired with a 43cc acoustic chamber, dedicated bass units, Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certifications. The company claims the system can deliver up to 48W stereo output through a 7.2-channel cinematic audio configuration, positioning the tablet as an entertainment-focused device.

Powering the tablet is a 10,200mAh battery, which Motorola says can deliver up to 15 hours of video playback on a single charge. It will also ship with a 68W fast charger in the box. Promotional images show the tablet in a green colour option with a distinctive circular rear module that combines the JBL speaker grille with a built-in fold-out stand supporting multiple viewing modes, including portrait, landscape, theatre and hanging modes.

Motorola hasn't disclosed details about the chipset, memory configurations, cameras or software. These are expected to be announced closer to launch.

Market availability

The Moto Pad 70 Groove will launch in India on July 31st and will be available via Flipkart. While Motorola hasn't confirmed the tablet's price, its feature set suggests it could compete with multimedia-focused offerings. The nine-speaker JBL setup could help it stand out if audio quality is a priority, as most tablets in this segment typically offer four to six speakers.

The Moto Pad 70 Groove looks worth waiting if you primarily use a tablet for streaming movies, listening to music or casual gaming and want a stronger audio experience than most rivals offer. However, buyers who prioritise performance or productivity should wait until Motorola reveals the processor, RAM options and pricing before making a decision. 

[highlights]

• Xiaomi has generally released its flagship smartphones in the second quarter of every year; this pattern could change soon.
• The Xiaomi 18 is likely to sport a compact design.
• The Xiaomi 17 Ultra could be the last 'Ultra' phone to launch in India.

[/highlights]

Xiaomi is known for releasing the first phones with Qualcomm's flagship Snapdragon processor in China every year. While this gives users in China the first opportunity to experience Xiaomi's next-gen offerings, buyers in other countries often have to wait several months for the phones to launch officially in their regions. This could change with the Xiaomi 18 series, which, according to a report by Smartprix, may arrive in India way sooner than previous releases.

Xiaomi 18 series could feature three models, expected to launch in December

Given the track record, the Xiaomi 18 series is likely to debut in China in September 2026. The lineup is expected to feature the standard Xiaomi 18, Xiaomi 18 Pro, and Xiaomi 18 Pro Max, with the 'Pro Max' variants sporting a secondary display on the rear. Per Smartprix, these smartphones could arrive in India as early as December 2026.

If the report holds, this will be the first time Xiaomi will release 'Pro' flagships in India since the Xiaomi 13 Pro, which debuted in India back in February 2023. In recent years, Xiaomi has replaced the 'Pro' model with 'Ultra', resulting in the arrival of phones like the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, Xiaomi 15 Ultra, and Xiaomi 17 Ultra, offering users the chance to get their hands on the best camera technology the brand has to offer.

[caption id="attachment_708842" align="alignnone" width="1010"] Xiaomi 17 Pro Max[/caption]

On the contrary, Smartprix states that the Xiaomi 18 Ultra is cancelled entirely, which corroborates the reports coming out of China, and the Xiaomi 18 Pro Max will remain the company's best offering for the next year. If its development hadn't halted, the Xiaomi 18 Ultra would have arrived in China during mid-2027.

However, if you were willing to purchase the Xiaomi 18 Pro Max in India, don't get your hopes up, as the report claims that Xiaomi plans to bring only limited quantities of the device. Given the market situation where phone prices are continuously soaring, dedicating only a few resources to selling its highest-end model could be an ideal move.

How will Xiaomi position the Xiaomi 18 series in India?

The Xiaomi 17 arrived in India just a few months back for Rs 89,999, a Rs 25,000 increase over the Xiaomi 15. Taking into account the pricing dynamics in the tech industry, the Xiaomi 18 could arrive at a similar or an even higher price, provided it's expected to pack Qualcomm's upcoming 2nm-based Snapdragon chip, dubbed Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6/6 Pro.

Just like the Xiaomi 18, the Xiaomi 18 Pro is likely to feature a compact design, along with superior camera hardware to justify the 'Pro' moniker. On the other hand, the Xiaomi 18 Pro Max could get a large display with a massive battery, along with the best camera setup Xiaomi has to offer, as stated above. All things considered, the Xiaomi 18 Pro could easily cross the Rs 1,00,000 pricing mark, while the 18 Pro Max could sit well over Rs 1,30,000, just like the Xiaomi 17 Ultra.

With reports suggesting that the OnePlus 16 may not arrive in India, this gives Xiaomi a good opportunity to have a go at the flagship segment and fill in the void left by OnePlus. However, with OPPO and Vivo flagships expected to release in the same timeframe, i.e November or December 2026, only time will tell how Xiaomi can get the upper hand over the OPPO Find X10 and Vivo X500 series. Therefore, it's worth waiting for the official specifications to get an idea of how the devices turn out.

[highlights]

• The Redmi Watch 6 Active and Watch 6 Lite are expected to boast over 140 sports modes.
• The smartwatches could come with heart rate monitoring, SpO₂ (blood oxygen) tracking, sleep tracking, distance tracking, and more.
• The Redmi Watch 6 Lite will be priced higher than the Redmi Watch 6 Active.

[/highlights]

After unveiling the Redmi Watch 6 in select global markets a couple of months ago, Xiaomi appears to be preparing to launch the Redmi Watch 6 Active and Redmi Watch 6 Lite. While the details regarding the release date are unknown, today we bring to you the key specifications, design renders, and expected European pricing of the said smartwatches, courtesy of tipster Sudhanshu.

To give a gist, the Redmi Watch 6 Active is the more affordable option of the two, aimed at users needing advanced features, while the Watch 6 Lite is expected to cater to those with basic health and fitness tracking needs.

Redmi Watch 6 Active key specifications and design renders

The Redmi Watch 6 Active will sport a smaller 1.85-inch AMOLED display over the Redmi Watch 6's 2.07-inch panel. Similarly, the Redmi Watch 6 Active's display, with a resolution of 390 × 450 pixels, is expected to be slightly less sharp than the Watch 6's higher 432 × 514 pixel resolution.

Coming to the features on board, the Redmi Watch 6 Active gains Bluetooth calling via Bluetooth 5.3, call and notification alerts, and over 140 sports modes. The watch is also expected to be equipped with multiple sensors, unlocking tons of monitoring and tracking functionalities, such as heart rate monitoring, SpO₂ (blood oxygen) tracking, sleep tracking, distance tracking, calories burned tracking, and of course, a pedometer to count steps walked in a day.

[gallery link="file" columns="9" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="708816,708817,708819,708815,708823,708820,708822,708818,708825,708824,708826,708821"]

Just like previous releases from Redmi, the Redmi Watch 6 Active will be compatible with Android and iOS. All the user needs to do is install the Mi Fitness app and follow the procedure to pair the watch with a smartphone. Lastly, the Redmi Watch 6 Active will carry a 470mAh battery, which is smaller than the Redmi Watch 6's 550mAh cell.

The Redmi Watch 6 Active is expected to be priced at around EUR 50 (approx Rs 5,500) upon release. While launch details remain unclear for now, the leaked European pricing suggests it could initially roll out in multiple European countries.

Redmi Watch 6 Lite key specifications and design renders

Given the display specifications provided to us, the Redmi Watch 6 Lite is likely to sit between the Redmi Watch 6 Active and the standard Redmi Watch 6. It is expected to feature a 1.96-inch AMOLED display, larger than the Watch 6 Active's screen but smaller than the Watch 6's 2.07-inch panel. Its panel could carry a resolution of 410 × 502 pixels.

[gallery link="file" columns="8" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="708807,708809,708808,708806,708812,708813,708811,708810"]

While the tracking and monitoring features remain the same as the Redmi Watch 6 Active, such as heart rate monitoring, SpO₂ (blood oxygen) tracking, sleep tracking, distance tracking, calories burned tracking, and a pedometer, additional hardware features will be present. These include a 9-axis motion sensor, multi-system satellite positioning (GPS), and a speaker. This indicates that the watch will not only allow you to take calls but also accurately track your route during runs or jogs, thanks to GPS.

Just like the Redmi Watch 6 Active, the Watch 6 Lite will be compatible with iOS and Android and run on a 470mAh battery. As for pricing, it could retail for EUR 60 (approx Rs 6,600) in the countries it'll launch first.

Once released, the Redmi Watch 6 Lite makes more sense for those seeking advanced features like route tracking and taking calls via the watch, while the Watch 6 Lite may fit better for casual users who just require checking basic stats during their workouts or runs.

Since the standard Redmi Watch 6 is yet to launch in India, it remains to be seen whether Xiaomi will release the Redmi Watch 6 Active and Watch 6 Lite here. If it does, the watches could stand as great alternatives to Realme's recent releases, such as the Watch 5 and Watch S5 (review), both of which also carry AMOLED displays, multiple sensors, and multi-day battery life.

Instead of relying on a single smartwatch to cater to every buyer, Xiaomi appears to be building a portfolio across different price points. The leaked pricing places the two new models well below the standard Redmi Watch 6, giving buyers more choice depending on whether they prioritise GPS, Bluetooth calling or simply health and fitness tracking.

Based on the leaked specifications, the Redmi Watch 6 Active appears to be the better choice for buyers who primarily want an AMOLED display, Bluetooth calling and comprehensive health tracking at the lowest possible price. The Redmi Watch 6 Lite, meanwhile, justifies its expected EUR 10 premium by adding built-in GPS and a 9-axis motion sensor, making it more suitable for runners, cyclists and users who want accurate outdoor workout tracking without carrying their phone. Since both watches are still based on leaks and Xiaomi has not announced a launch date yet, it may be worth waiting if you're planning to buy an affordable smartwatch in the coming weeks.

[highlights]

• Vivo has unveiled the an 'e' model in its flagship X series for the first time.
  
• The X300e is tipped to feature a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, much like the Vivo X300 FE.
• The phone adopts a square rear camera module, unlike other X300 models.

[/highlights]

After weeks of speculation, Vivo has officially unveiled the Vivo X300 E, expanding its flagship X300 lineup with a new 'e' model for the first time. The company has opened pre-orders in China, with the smartphone scheduled to go on sale on July 27th. While Vivo has yet to reveal the pricing or complete specifications, previous certifications and leaks have already revealed most of the phone's hardware.

Key confirmed specifications and features

Unlike the rest of the X300 family, the Vivo X300 E adopts a noticeably different design language, somewhat similar to the Redmi Note 17 Pro. The Vivo X300 and X300 Pro feature Vivo's signature large circular camera module positioned centrally on the rear panel, while the X300 FE opts for a horizontally aligned pill-shaped camera island. The X300 E, on the other hand, features a square module with a triple-camera setup positioned in the upper-left corner, giving it a cleaner and more understated appearance. Vivo has also confirmed that the phone will be available in black, white and orange colour options.

As per leaks, the Vivo X300 E is expected to feature a 6.59-inch flat 1.5K AMOLED display, making it larger than the 6.31-inch Vivo X300 FE. Under the hood, it's tipped to be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, the same processor found in the X300 FE, promising flagship-level performance for gaming, multitasking and AI workloads. For photography, the phone is expected to pack a 50MP primary camera, 50MP periscope telephoto sensor and an 8MP ultrawide camera, alongside a 50MP front-facing camera.

The X300 E is confirmed to house a 7,200mAh battery, reportedly with 90W fast charging. That's a significantly larger battery than the X300 FE's 6,500mAh unit while maintaining a relatively slim 7.99 mm profile and weighing around 203 gms. The phone is also expected to feature a metal frame and could include an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor.

The X300 E appears to fill the gap between Vivo's compact flagship and its premium models, especially after the X300's sales stopped. Buyers who found the X300 FE too small may appreciate the larger display and battery without having to step up to the significantly more expensive Pro models. The only difference between the X300 E and X300 FE for now seems to be the battery and screen size.

Vivo hasn't announced plans for an India launch and we aren't sure if the company plans to bring it to the country. However, users who watch multimedia on their phones or just prefer large-screen devices in general may find the X300 E a compelling option. Thanks to its larger display and battery, it may be priced more than the Vivo X300 FE but definitely lesser than the X300 Pro. So if you're a gamer or someone who consumes a lot of content and have the budget for a sub-flagship, we suggest waiting to check out Vivo's pricing of the X300 E.

[highlights]

• OPPO K14 series price in India now starts at Rs 16,999.
• The OPPO A6s 5G has also received a price hike of up to Rs 2,000.
• All three smartphones are powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC.

[/highlights]

Price hikes driven by RAM and storage shortages have hit OPPO smartphones once again. This time, the company has increased the prices of its affordable OPPO K14, K14x, and A6s 5G smartphones. Notably, the OPPO K14x has received its second price hike in as many months. The handset is now priced at Rs 16,999, up from its previous MOP of Rs 15,999 for the base 4GB RAM and 64GB storage variant. The Rs 1,000 price hike also applies to the smartphone's other variants. Meanwhile, the steepest hike of Rs 4,000 has hit the top-end 8GB RAM and 256GB storage configuration of the OPPO K14.

Here's how much the OPPO K14, K14x, and A6s 5G price in India before and after the hike:

As per a circular shared with OPPO's retail partners, the new price hikes for the smartphones are effective from today, July 20th. The revised prices are reflected on the e-commerce platform, Flipkart; however, it is worth noting that some of the variants of these models are currently out of stock.

OPPO K14 series and OPPO A6s specs

[caption id="attachment_696143" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] OPPO K14 (for representation)[/caption]

The OPPO K14 series and the A6s 5G remain the OEM's latest affordable offerings. Interestingly, all three smartphones are powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC, which should be capable of handling everyday tasks with ease. They also feature identical 6.75-inch HD+ LCD displays with a 120Hz refresh rate, making them suitable for casual viewing.

The similarities between the three smartphones don't end there. All three feature a 50MP + 2MP dual rear camera setup. However, if you want a better selfie camera, the OPPO K14 is the better pick, with an 8MP front-facing camera. The OPPO K14x and OPPO A6s 5G, meanwhile, feature lower-resolution 5MP selfie cameras.

The OPPO K14x and A6s 5G also pack smaller 6,500mAh batteries compared to the OPPO K14's 7,000mAh unit. All three smartphones support 45W fast charging. On the software front, the phones run Android 15-based ColorOS out of the box and are promised three years of security updates.

If you want the best value for money, the OPPO K14 stands as the strong option. However, those in tight budget might find the OPPO K14x a more appealing buy.

[highlights]

• The Pixel 11a could be powered by the Tensor G6, just like the Pixel 11 series.
• The Pixel 11a is unlikely to launch alongside the Pixel 11 series on August 12th.
• A MediaTek modem is expected to be in tow, potentially resulting in improved signal connectivity and efficiency.

[/highlights]

While the Pixel 11 series, potentially comprising the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and Pixel 11 Pro Fold, is officially launching worldwide on August 12, new details regarding the Pixel 11a have appeared. As is the case with the Pixel 'a' series, the smartphone may launch in Q1 2026, a few months after the Pixel 11 series' release. Now, let's see how the Pixel 11a could shape up based on the specifications revealed by Mystery Leaks on Telegram.

Google Pixel 11a key specifications revealed

Known for leaking details regarding Pixel smartphones way before their release, tipster Mystery Leaks claims that the upcoming Google Pixel 11a will be codenamed Formosan. The device is expected to feature a 6.3-inch display with a resolution of 1080p paired with a 120Hz refresh rate. Brightness is an aspect where the Pixel 11a could feature a notable upgrade, as the display is said to reach 2,250 nits in HDR content and a peak brightness of 3,350 nits, which is higher than Pixel 10a's 3,000-nit maximum brightness.

Since the Pixel 11a will launch months after the Pixel 11 series, it could feature the Tensor G6 processor, a chipset that'll be based on a 2nm fabrication process, while the Titan M3 security chip could also be in tow, just like previous models. However, one of the most significant hardware shifts rumoured for the Pixel 11a is the switch from Samsung's Exynos modem to MediaTek's M90. The Tensor G6 could be paired with 8GB of RAM.

The new MediaTek modem is anticipated to improve connectivity, signal stability, and heat management, which has been a longstanding flaw with Pixel smartphones over the years. The same modem is also expected to be used across the broader Pixel 11 family.

[caption id="attachment_708779" align="alignnone" width="1580"] Google Pixel 10a design[/caption]

Another significant hardware upgrade could come in the form of a new front-facing camera codenamed "dokkaebi," promising better selfie quality and improved video call performance. While details regarding the rear cameras haven't emerged, one can expect the phone to sport a primary and an ultrawide camera. On top of that, Google will once again rely heavily on its camera algorithms to deliver meaningful results with any kind of hardware that may be present.

For endurance, the Pixel 11a could gain a 4,870mAh battery, which appears to be the typical value, as the Pixel 10a already features a 5,100mAh battery, and the same could be present on the Pixel 11a.

Lastly, the tip reveals that the handset could be available in four colourways: Obsidian (Black), Olive (Green), Frost (Purple), and Fog (Silver).

How will Google position the Pixel 11a?

The Google Pixel 11a is expected to undercut the base Pixel 11 in pricing, positioning it as an affordable entry point into the Pixel ecosystem. This ecosystem includes various devices such as the Pixel Watch and Pixel Buds. Currently, the Pixel 10a is priced at Rs 55,999 in India. However, the Pixel 11a is unlikely to carry the same price tag due to the ongoing rise in memory and storage costs.

Like other brands, Google is expected to position the Pixel 11a one tier above its predecessor, which could push its launch price comfortably above the Rs 60,000 mark when it arrives around February 2026. By then, several smartphones powered by Qualcomm and MediaTek's next-generation flagship chipsets are also likely to hit the market. Therefore, it would be wise to wait until all devices are officially launched before making a final buying decision.

[highlights]

• The Vivo S2 is tipped to launch in India in early August and is expected to go on sale during the Independence Day sales.
• The Vivo S2 could be priced between Rs 45,000 and Rs 50,000.
• Vivo hasn't officially revealed the S2's specifications yet.

[/highlights]

Vivo's S-series appears to be making its return to India after almost six years. After multiple leaks and rumours around its launch timeline, tipster Yogesh Brar now says the Vivo S2 is expected to launch in early August and could go on sale during the upcoming Independence Day sales.

Earlier reports had suggested Vivo was preparing to revive the S-series in India. The phone was also recently spotted on the BIS certification website, indicating that its launch may not be far away. This one is not to be confused with the Vivo S50 from China, which are actually the V-series models in their home country.

Anticipated launch and pricing

Brar has reiterated previous leaks, which suggested the phone would be priced under Rs 50,000 in India. This would be a significant jump from the original Vivo S1, which debuted at Rs 17,990 in 2019. Back then, the S1 stood out by offering features like an AMOLED display, an in-display fingerprint scanner and a 32MP selfie camera at a price where those features were still uncommon. Differentiating has become increasingly harder in today's times as brands fight rising memory costs, and to justify the premium, are offering increased battery sizes going over even 10,000mAh, in some cases, to users. 

If the leaked pricing is true, the Vivo S2 will move into the premium mid-range segment, closer to phones such as the OnePlus 15R and iQOO 15R. Notably, Vivo has another offering in the sub-Rs 50,000 segment, the Vivo V70 FE, which currently starts at Rs 41,999 after a recent price hike from its launch price of Rs 37,999. Unlike the original S-series, which targeted the mainstream mid-range market, the new Vivo S2 appears to be aimed at buyers looking for a more premium smartphone experience. At the moment, Vivo has not confirmed any specifications for the device. Earlier leaks only suggested that it would target the mid-range segment, with chipset and hardware details still under wraps.

Launching the Vivo S2 close to the Independence Day sales could help the company capitalise on one of the busiest smartphone buying seasons in India, when brands typically introduce new products alongside promotional offers and exchange deals. The bigger challenge for Vivo, however, could be differentiating the S2 from its own lineup. The Vivo V70 FE already offers a 6.83-inch 1.5K 120Hz AMOLED display, MediaTek Dimensity 7360 Turbo chipset, a 7,000mAh battery with 90W fast charging and a 200MP primary camera. If the S2 launches at a similar price, Vivo will likely need to justify the premium with clear differentiation.

Based on Vivo's track record, the S2 could focus on photography, design or exclusive software features to carve out its own identity. Until the company reveals the hardware, buyers considering a phone in the Rs 40,000-50,000 segment may want to wait and compare it with the V70 FE and competing offerings from OnePlus and iQOO before making a purchase decision.

Motorola's first gaming-focused smartphone, Edge 70 Max, will commence its sale in India starting today. The handset was unveiled last week as a sub-flagship offering from the brand, prioritising performance and other feature-rich hardware. Key Motorola Edge 70 Max specs include the segment's first 2K AMOLED display, 7,000 nits peak brightness, and 25W magnetic wireless charging. The phone also boasts a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 SoC and a massive 7,100mAh battery.

Motorola Edge 70 Max India price, offers

The Motorola Edge 70 Max (first impressions) is priced in India at Rs 54,999 for the base 8GB RAM variant, while the top-end 12GB RAM option costs Rs 58,999. As part of the launch offer, the OEM is offering a Rs 5,000 discount with bank discounts and exchange offers on the smartphone, bringing its net effective price down to Rs 49,999.

The handset is Flipkart exclusive and comes in three Pantone colour options: Aqua Grey, Dark Shadow, and Ice Melt.

Motorola Edge 70 Max specifications

• 6.8-inch 144Hz QHD+ AMOLED display
• Snapdragon 8 Gen 5
• LPDDR5X + UFS 4.1
• 50MP + 8MP
• 32MP
• 7,100mAh battery, 90W wired, 25W wireless charging

The 6.8-inch flat ‘Extreme' 10-bit AMOLED display is among the phone's biggest strengths. The panel supports Quad HD+ resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, and up to 7,000 nits peak brightness, along with HDR10+ support, 100 percent DCI-P3 colour coverage, water touch support, and an Always-on Display. The panel is complemented by slim bezels and dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio support.

At the core of the Motorola Edge 70 Max is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 SoC, paired with up to 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256GB of UFS 4.1 storage. The chipset is also used in Motorola's Signature series and competing smartphones such as the OnePlus 15R and iQOO 15R. It is capable of handling everyday tasks, demanding games, and on-device AI workloads with ease.

Motorola has also equipped the phone with its ArcticMesh cooling system, featuring a large 5,500mm vapour chamber. The cooling solution is designed to keep temperatures under control during intensive workloads and supports 120fps gaming in titles such as BGMI and COD: Mobile.

The phone's 7,100mAh battery supports 90W wired charging, while Qi 2.2 magnetic wireless charging support is available at up to 25W. This allows the Edge 70 Max to work with MagSafe-style accessories, adding a level of convenience that remains uncommon among Android smartphones.

The camera setup is comparatively modest, comprising a 50MP Sony Lytia 710 primary sensor with OIS and an 8MP ultrawide lens. There is no dedicated telephoto camera, which could limit the phone's versatility for portraits and close-up shots. A 32MP front camera handles selfies and video calls.

The Motorola Edge 70 Max features an aluminium frame, Corning Gorilla Glass 7i protection, an IP69 rating, and MIL-STD-810H certification. The handset runs Android 16 with Motorola's Hello UI, with support for three major Android OS updates and five years of security updates, which is lower than what rivals are offering.

Who should consider buying the Motorola Edge 70 Max?

Core specifications make the Motorola Edge 70 Max an appealing option for gamers and power users. The handset also boasts a handful of premium features, making it a more promising option than other similarly priced gaming phones such as iQOO 15R and OnePlus 15R. That said, the rivals offer longer software support than the Motorola Edge 70 Max.

The Motorola smartphone also lacks camera versatility, with no dedicated telephoto lens. However, if that is not a deal-breaker and three years of major OS updates and five years of security support are sufficient for you, the Edge 70 Max appears to be a compelling value-for-money option. As always, we will bring you our full review of the device shortly, so stay tuned.

[highlights]

• New tip suggests OnePlus 16 will not launch in India
• OPPO is skipping Find X10 Ultra in favour of Find X10 Pro Max
• OnePlus' is working on a new budget phone for India, called the OnePlus N6x

[/highlights]

OnePlus made several headlines last week for a few reasons. First, a Bloomberg report revealed that OnePlus is planning to exit the US and European markets this month, a move the company later confirmed. The same report also added that the company is planning to exit India sometime in 2027, to which OnePlus India simply shared that it is "business as usual". The same day, OnePlus and Realme also announced phasing out OxygenOS and Realme UI for ColorOS. Now, a new leak suggests the OnePlus 16 will not launch in India this year.

Will the OnePlus 16 launch in India?

Tipster Debayan Roy tweeted that OnePlus will not launch the OnePlus 16 in India. The phone will be exclusive to China. There's no official word from OnePlus on this yet, and we're unlikely to get one anytime soon. To recall, the OnePlus 15 launched in China in October 2025 and made its way to India a month later. 

If Roy's information is true, OnePlus could be slowly pulling out of the flagship segment in India starting this year. While OnePlus has stated that it is operating as usual in the country this year, we know that there are major restructurings underway at the parent company, OPPO, which could affect OnePlus' product pipeline for the second half of this year and into 2027.

That said, OnePlus is very much launching phones still. The brand has started teasing the arrival of the OnePlus N6x, a new budget offering that is expected to slot below the OnePlus N6. 

OPPO Find X10 Ultra might not launch in India

OPPO also seems to be carefully considering its next batch of flagship phones for the Indian market. The tipster added that the OPPO Find X10 Ultra will not launch in India. However, an OPPO Find X10 Pro Max is on the cards. This model will launch alongside the OPPO Find X10 and Find X10 Pro, so buyers in India should still expect three new OPPO flagships to succeed the Find X9 series.

The Find X10 Pro Max will be OPPO's top-tier flagship phone in 2027, with specifications such as a 2K flat LTPO OLED display, three 200MP cameras for pro-level photography, a MediaTek Dimensity 9600 Pro chipset, a battery capacity of around 8,000 to 9,000mAh, and IP69 dust and water resistance, among other things. 

According to the tipster's recent leak, the ongoing global restructuring at OPPO could change how the parent company and OnePlus launch phones in India going forward. OnePlus has been focusing on bringing affordable phones to the budget and mid-range segments, with the OnePlus N6 and Nord CE 6 Lite as recent examples, as well as the upcoming N6x, while OPPO eventually takes over as the sole flagship provider among the two brands.

All of this is yet to be confirmed officially, so it would be wise to take this with a pinch of salt. However, if you've been waiting for a new flagship OnePlus phone, this news might disappoint you. Budget OnePlus buyers can still take heart with the upcoming OnePlus N6x on its way to India.

[highlights]

• POCO has officially teased the M8 Power 5G in India via a Flipkart microsite.
• The first teaser highlights a big battery and shows the phone in an orange finish.
• The POCO M8 Power is likely to be a rebranded Redmi Note 17 from China.

[/highlights]

Days after the POCO M8 Power was discovered in a HyperOS source code indicating its India launch was on course, the device has been officially confirmed and even teased by the company. A dedicated Flipkart microsite for the smartphone is now live, confirming that the launch is around the corner and the phone will be sold via the e-commerce platform in the country.

The teaser carries the tagline, "Ready for Big Battery. Non-Stop Entertainment?", indicating that battery life, much like all other phones that have launched in recent days, will be the USP of the device. The teaser also offers a partial look at the phone in an orange finish. The HyperOS source code leak suggested the POCO M8 Power could be a rebranded version of the Redmi Note 17 that launched in China last week. While the teaser doesn't confirm any of that, the camera module shown in it does bear resemblance to the Note 17. However, Redmi does not offer an orange version of the Redmi Note 17 or Redmi Note 17 Pro in China, suggesting POCO could be giving the Indian model a distinct design despite sharing hardware.

Key leaked details and features

If the POCO M8 Power is indeed a rebranded version of the Redmi Note 17, it could feature a 7-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Full HD+ resolution and up to 1,800 nits peak brightness. It is also expected to be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 chipset.

The biggest talking point, however, remains the rumoured 8,000mAh battery. Earlier speculation suggested Xiaomi could reduce the battery size outside China, but more recent firmware references indicate the Indian model may retain the same capacity. Other expected specifications include up to 8GB RAM, 256GB storage, a 50MP rear camera, an 8MP selfie camera, 45W wired charging, 22.5W reverse wired charging, IP65 dust and water resistance, NFC and AI-powered anti-fraud features. POCO is expected to reveal more information about the display, processor, cameras and launch date through additional teasers in the coming days.

The teaser comes as leaks suggest POCO is preparing more battery-focused smartphones for India. Tipster Debayan Roy has claimed that the standard POCO X8 is also in the pipeline with a 6.83-inch 1.5K 120Hz OLED display, Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 chipset, a battery of around 9,000mAh and 67W fast charging. References to the X8 were also found in the HyperoS firmware, indicating that it would be a rebranded Redmi Note 17 Pro from China.

If the leaked specifications prove accurate, the POCO M8 Power could stand out in the budget 5G segment. While rivals have gradually increased battery capacities, most still pair them with displays under 6.8 inches. Buyers looking for long battery life and a large screen for streaming or gaming may want to wait for POCO to confirm the remaining specifications before making a purchase.

Samsung's second Galaxy Unpacked event of the year is just around the corner, and there's plenty to look forward to. The event will unveil the brand's next-generation foldable lineup and carries added significance this year, with several rivals preparing to enter the foldable market. Samsung is expected to introduce as many as three new foldables: two will be direct successors to their previous editions, while the third will have a passport-like new form factor, aimed at appealing to a broader range of users.

Here's everything you need to know about the Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 event:

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 date, time

The Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 will take place in London, UK, on July 22nd. The event will kickstart at 02:00 pm local time, which in the Indian Standard Time (IST) zone is 06:30 pm.

How to watch Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026

The Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 event will be livestreamed on Samsung's official website, Samsung.com, as well as its social media channels and YouTube. We've also included the company's official YouTube livestream link below so you can watch the event live.

As always, we'll be covering the Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 event in real time, bringing you all the latest announcements, hands-on coverage of the new devices, and pricing details as soon as they are revealed.

What to expect from the Samsung Galaxy Unpacked Event 2026

Samsung hasn't revealed the list of devices it will be unveiling at its upcoming event, but shared subtle hints of a new foldable expected, alongside the expected Galaxy Z Fold 8, Galaxy Z Flip 8, and next-gen Galaxy Watch. The chaebol has also confirmed the introduction of a new Flex Titanium Technology display, which is said to be more durable than ever before and offer a crease-less experience.

The display incorporates a titanium-alloy film that, according to Samsung, is around 20 per cent stiffer than conventional polymer films. Despite being just 30 per cent as thick as a human hair, the film is said to improve the panel's durability without adding bulk. The new display technology also enhances viewing experience and makes it more power-efficient.

Apart from the new display, the handsets are also expected to come with improved performance, a larger battery, faster 45W wired charging speeds, and 25W wireless charging capabilities. It could also come with the latest Android 17-based One UI 9 out of the box.

Expected specifications

• Exynos 2600/ Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Elite SoC
• 12GB RAM + up to 1TB storage
• 6.9-inch main display and 4.1-inch cover display (Z Flip8)
• 7.6-inch main display and 5.5-inch cover display (Z Fold8)
• 50MP rear cameras
• 10MP front camera

Unfortunately, there isn't much we know about the form factor of the new foldable in the lineup. However, teasers suggest it could feature a slightly smaller design than Samsung's conventional book-style foldables. This may appeal to buyers who want the benefits of a large-screen foldable but not the tall form factor. The handset should be more pocketable than the rumoured Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8.

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Samsung has also announced a collaboration between its upcoming foldables and the forthcoming Spider-Man: Brand New Day. As part of the announcement, the company shared a teaser video offering brief glimpses of what appear to be the next-generation Galaxy Z Flip8 and Galaxy Z Fold8. If the visuals are anything to go by, both foldables are expected to retain designs similar to their predecessors. The Galaxy Z Flip8 appears to feature a dual rear camera setup, while the Galaxy Z Fold8 is likely to continue with a triple rear camera system.

Other than the smartphones, Samsung is also expected to launch its latest smartwatches, speculated to be the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 and Watch Ultra 2.

There is no word on the next-gen Samsung Galaxy foldables and smartwatches' price at the moment.

The Vivo T5 Lite is yet another 5G-capable entrant in the sub-Rs 20,000 segment to feature the MediaTek Dimensity 6300. Featuring a 6.75-inch display, a large 6,500mAh battery, and an IP65 rating, it takes the fight to the Realme P4R, which has been in the limelight recently for boasting a massive 8,000mAh cell. So, is the Realme P4R the clear winner for its battery prowess, or does the Vivo T5 Lite offer strong competition under Rs 20,000? Find out in this quick comparison.

Before diving into the comparison, here's a quick look at the specifications of both smartphones:

Vivo T5 Lite vs Realme P4R: price

The Vivo T5 Lite's base variant with 4GB RAM + 128GB storage retails for Rs 19,999, Rs 1,000 more expensive than the Realme P4R with the same storage configuration. Similarly, the 6GB + 128GB variant of the Vivo T5 Lite is priced higher than the Realme P4R's similar storage option, making the P4R an ideal pick for offering the same memory at lower prices.

Design

With flat-edged frames in tow, both Vivo T5 Lite and Realme P4R boast military-grade resilience alongside an IP65 rating. This structural sealing keeps dust out and prevents damage from accidental water spills, while protecting the phones against drops to a certain extent.

The T5 Lite sports a squarish camera module, while the P4R settles for an elongated rectangular camera deco. Interestingly, both phones feature ring-shaped LEDs around the camera modules that notify users of incoming calls and notifications when the devices are placed face down. The T5 Lite comes in two colour shades, Wave Blue and Twilight Shadow, while the Realme P4R features Silver Glare, Titanium Glare, and Lavender Glare, all with plastic back panels.

The Vivo T5 Lite weighs 209g, while the Realme P4R is heavier at 224g. A major advantage the T5 Lite carries is the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack and stereo speakers, both of which are lacking on the Realme P4R.

Display

The Vivo T5 Lite features a 6.74-inch HD+ LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate, up to 1,200 nits of high brightness, and eye-comfort certifications to avoid or mitigate strain caused by the blue lights emitted from the display. The Realme P4R uses a slightly larger 6.8-inch HD+ LCD panel but increases the refresh rate to 144Hz. It also supports up to 1,200 nits of high brightness and features Panda-1681 glass for added panel protection.

Since both smartphones offer HD+ resolution, videos and text details should appear similarly. However, the Realme P4R's higher 144Hz refresh rate could make scrolling and interactions in supported games feel smoother. Since the P4R sports a punch-hole camera, it should offer an immersive content viewing experience over the T5 Lite's dew drop notch display, which takes a tad bit more display space.

Performance

The Vivo T5 Lite is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 5G chipset, paired with up to 6GB of LPDDR4X RAM and up to 256GB of UFS 2.2 internal storage. The Realme P4R utilises the same hardware configuration, drawing power from the identical MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor along with up to 6GB of LPDDR4X RAM and up to 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage.

Since both smartphones share the same processor and memory configuration, users can expect identical day-to-day processing speeds, app loading times, and overall multitasking capabilities. However, the Realme P4R could hold an advantage during prolonged usage and heavy gaming sessions thanks to its massive 5,300 square mm vapour chamber cooling system, which may prevent thermal throttling better than the Vivo T5 Lite's standard cooling setup.

In our testing of the Realme P4R, the Dimensity 6300 offered AnTuTu and Geekbench multi-core scores of 6,03,216 and 1,957, respectively, and the T5 Lite could output similar numbers. Either way, expect both and other smartphones with the Dimensity 6300/6400 to deliver similar results in games.

Battery and charging

The Vivo T5 Lite features a large 6,500mAh battery paired with 44W FlashCharge support. The Realme P4R steps things up even further, packing a massive 8,000mAh battery, the biggest in its segment, while slightly increasing the charging speed to 45W.

Since both smartphones boast large battery capacities, users can expect multi-day endurance under light to moderate workflows. However, the Realme P4R should fare better due to the sheer advantage in terms of battery capacity, potentially resulting in better backup. On the other hand, the Vivo T5 Lite's slightly smaller 6,500mAh battery makes the device noticeably lighter, which could matter more to some people.

Cameras

The Vivo T5 Lite features a 50MP primary rear camera accompanied by an auxiliary lens, along with a modest 5MP front camera for selfies. The Realme P4R also uses a 50MP main camera on the back but pairs it with a 2MP depth sensor, while stepping up the front-facing sensor to an 8MP selfie camera.

Since both smartphones deploy a 50MP main sensor with an f/1.8 aperture, daytime photos and general point-and-shoot outputs should deliver similar results. For video recordings, both handsets are limited to 1080p resolution at 30FPS. In terms of AI imaging, the Realme P4R seems to have an advantage with the inclusion of multiple features, such as AI Portrait Glow, AI Eraser, and AI Reflection Remover, while the T5 Lite carries AI UHD to make images clearer and more detailed.

Software

The Vivo T5 Lite runs on OriginOS 6 based on Android 16, integrated with Google Gemini capabilities and custom productivity tools like vivo DocMaster. The Realme P4R features Realme UI 7, also based on Android 16 with its own look and feel. While both smartphones are promised two OS upgrades, the Vivo T5 Lite should fare better in the long term since it's set to receive four years of security updates, while the P4R is limited to three years.

As for which UI is better, it all comes down to preferences. While OriginOS 6 and Realme UI 6 share many similarities, such as featuring dynamic island-like interfaces to view real-time information from the status bar, they are unique in their own ways. Both custom skins have their own design language, customisation options, and productivity features.

Why choose the Vivo T5 Lite?

• Lighter at 209g (vs 224g) and slimmer at 8.4mm (vs 8.8mm), making it comfortable to hold for long sessions.
• Comes with a 3.5mm headphone jack alongside stereo speakers.
• Longer security patch support of four years compared to the P4R's three years.

Why choose the Realme P4R?

• Smoother 144Hz refresh rate in supported games.
• Considerably larger 8,000mAh battery for better endurance
• Slightly faster 45W charging.
• More affordable pricing for all storage variants.

While both smartphones will suffice for your needs in casual to medium use cases if you're coming from a two to three-year-old budget smartphone, the main advantage the Realme P4R has over the Vivo T5 Lite is its larger 8,000mAh battery for strong endurance. On the other hand, if you seek a lightweight smartphone with better media experiences, the T5 Lite is worth considering for its stereo speaker setup.

The Motorola Edge 70 Max and iQOO 15R (review) both chase the same buyer: someone who wants top‑tier performance, big batteries and smooth displays under Rs 60,000. On paper, they look very similar, but the specifications tell slightly different stories about who each phone is really for. In this comparison, we look at performance, cameras, design, battery and software purely on the basis of specifications to see which one fits your needs better.

Motorola Edge 70 Max vs iQOO 15R: price in India

Motorola Edge 70 Max vs iQOO 15R: specs at a glance

Performance

Since both phones lean on Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and fast LPDDR5X RAM, you can expect similar flagship‑level performance on paper for gaming, multitasking and long social media scrolls. Everyday tasks, loading heavy apps and switching between multiple tabs should feel equally quick on either device if you go by the core hardware.

[comparative-benchmark type="1" title="AnTuTu score" caption="AnTuTu assesses a smartphone's CPU, GPU, memory, and overall user experience (higher is better)" highlight="product_1" products="42264,41748,,," ][/comparative-benchmark]

The main difference shows up when you look at storage options on both. The Motorola Edge 70 Max caps out at 256GB, while the iQOO 15R adds a 512GB option for buyers who install a lot of big games, shoot 4K video often or prefer to keep their content offline.

If you know you use your phone more like a portable media drive, that extra storage on the iQOO side will likely matter more over time, even though performance itself is pretty similar on both in day-to-day use.

Design and display

The Motorola Edge 70 Max goes big and sharp with its 6.8‑inch Extreme AMOLED panel. The QHD+ resolution and 144Hz refresh rate make it feel like a proper screen for movies, games and scrolling, and the high peak brightness should help it stay visible outdoors and in bright rooms.

[comparative-benchmark type="1000" products="42264,41748,,," ][/comparative-benchmark]

The curved edges on the Edge 70 Max add that typical ‘flagship' look, but they also make the phone feel a bit wider in hand, which some users will enjoy for immersion, while others might find it harder to grip for long one‑handed use.

The iQOO 15R takes a more compact, practical route with a 6.59‑inch flat AMOLED display at FHD+ and the same 144Hz refresh rate. It will not look quite as razor‑sharp as Motorola's QHD+ panel but the size and flat design should make it easier to hold and use for longer stretches. You still get smooth animations and fast touch response, so it reads as a screen tuned for gaming and everyday tasks rather than multimedia use.

[comparative-benchmark type="2000" products="42264,41748,,," ][/comparative-benchmark]

If you enjoy big screens for movies and reading, the Edge 70 Max looks will appeal more to you. If you prefer a slightly smaller display that still feels fast and responsive, the iQOO 15R comes across as the more practical choice, especially for users who value comfort as much as resolution.

Cameras

The Motorola Edge 70 Max offers a more flexible rear camera setup based on its specs. You get a 50MP main camera with OIS, an 8MP ultra‑wide that also doubles as a macro lens, and an extra 2MP sensor to help with exposure and scene data. This combination covers regular photos, wider scenes and close‑ups, so it feels better suited to users who like experimenting with different perspectives rather than just shooting straight‑on frames.

The iQOO 15R (review) keeps things simpler with a dual camera array: a 50MP main sensor with OIS and an 8MP ultra‑wide. It still ticks the essentials for everyday photography and landscapes, but it lacks dedicated macro hardware, which slightly limits how far you can push close‑up shots on specs alone. Here's a quick look at the iQOO 15R's cameras:

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Both phones use a 32MP selfie camera with screen flash and support for 4K video at up to 60fps, which is great for social posts, vlogs and high‑quality video calls. Based only on the numbers, Motorola looks better for users who want more variety from the rear cameras, while iQOO is a straightforward setup that focuses on core photography use-cases.

Battery and charging

The Motorola Edge 70 Max uses a 7,100mAh silicon‑carbon battery with 90W wired charging and 25W wireless charging. That should ideally translate to a full day of heavy use or around a day and a half of mixed use, with a quick top‑up bringing you comfortably through the rest of the day. Wireless charging also makes it more convenient if you like using charging pads instead of cables.

[comparative-benchmark type="3" title="PCMark Battery score (in hours)" caption="PCMark battery test measures phone battery life from 100% to 20% (higher is better)" highlight="product_1" products="42264,41748,,," ][/comparative-benchmark]

The iQOO 15R steps up to a 7,600mAh battery and 100W wired charging, so it aims for slightly longer screen‑on time along with faster wired refills. You can reasonably expect it to stretch past a full heavy day and closer to two days for lighter users, as long as the software and display brightness level are managed adequately.

Here, the trade‑off is pretty clear: Motorola offers a more flexible charging setup with wireless support, while iQOO goes for the biggest possible battery and the quickest wired charging for users who care primarily about endurance.

Software

Both phones run Android 16, but they take different paths with their interface and update promises. Motorola's Hello UI stays close to a clean, stock‑style experience and is backed by three years of OS updates and five years of security patches, which should suit users who like simple, familiar software.

[comparative-benchmark type="3000" products="42264,41748,,," pias="59,54,,,"][/comparative-benchmark]

The iQOO 15R uses an OriginOS‑based skin, better gaming and AI features and offers four OS updates and six years of security, which reads as more reassuring for long‑term buyers on paper. If you care more about a lighter, minimalist interface, Motorola will feel more natural, but if you want longer support and extra tools built around performance and AI, iQOO looks like the more future‑ready option

Which one should you buy?

On specs alone, the Motorola Edge 70 Max looks better suited to users who care most about multimedia and an all‑round premium experience. The sharp QHD+ curved display, larger body that should help with heat dissipation, wireless charging and more versatile rear camera setup all point towards a phone built for long streaming sessions, gaming and mixed everyday use.

The iQOO 15R (review), meanwhile, targets buyers who want similar flagship‑level performance in a more compact, handy form factor. You still get a fast 144Hz AMOLED display, the same core Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 power and a larger battery that is better for pure endurance with quicker charging speed.

So the choice really comes down to what you value more: if you want the sharper, more immersive display, wireless charging and a richer multimedia prowess, pick the Motorola Edge 70 Max. If you prefer a compact‑ish phone with the same performance, a good display and a bigger battery for long days and travel, while saving some money, the iQOO 15R is the more sensible option.