Right after Google, Samsung quickly announced its Android 17-based skin, One UI 9, in May 2026. Currently officially running on Samsung's latest generation of foldables, the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Z Flip 8, the update promises several meaningful changes that aid users in their daily workflows, productivity, and creativity. Since One UI 8.5 featured a host of design and interface-level changes, One UI 9 prioritises AI functionalities and ecosystem-based connectivity.

On that note, if you're wondering whether your Galaxy device is eligible for One UI 9, what new features it brings, or how to download and install the update, this roundup has you covered.

What is One UI 9 based on?

One UI 9 is built on top of Android 17. While Google emphasises privacy, security, and refined performance, Samsung has added its own valuable improvements to One UI 9 by improving the software's adaptability across various form factors, enhancing AI features, and ensuring a better connected ecosystem experience.

Subsequently, Samsung has implemented various core Android 17 and Android features in general into One UI 9, such as flexible multitasking and a Pixel-style Google search bar below the dock on the homescreen, as well as several under-the-hood security and privacy measures.

Samsung devices eligible for One UI 9 update

One UI 9 beta officially started rolling to the Samsung Galaxy S26 series on May 13th, days before Google unveiled Android 17 on May 19th at Google I/O 2026. Unlike previous One UI beta updates, which were restricted to South Korea upon release, One UI 9 was made available in multiple regions at once, including India, Germany, Poland, the U.K., and the U.S.

Users with an eligible Samsung device can apply for the beta update through the Samsung Members app once the firmware is made available. As of now, One UI 9 beta is available only for the Samsung Galaxy S26 series, while the Galaxy S25 series could soon gain the update in the coming weeks. On the other hand, the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Fold 8 Ultra, and Z Flip 8 were launched with One UI 9 out of the box on July 22nd.

While Samsung hasn't yet announced the list of devices set to get One UI 9, we've curated a list based on the software commitment promised by the brand at their release.

Samsung devices already running stable One UI 9

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Galaxy Z Flip 8 are the first Samsung devices to run One UI 9.

How to check your current One UI version

Not sure if your Galaxy phone is already on One UI 9 or still running an older version? Here's how to check:

Step 1: Go ahead and open the Settings app
Step 2: Scroll down and tap About phone
Step 3: Select Software information
Step 4: Look for the One UI version listed on the screen

If it shows One UI 9, your device has already received the update. If it shows an older version, you can manually check for updates using the steps below.

How to update your Samsung phone to One UI 9

Once the One UI 9 update is pushed out for your Samsung device, you'll be notified through an OTA alert. However, if the "Auto download" updates setting is disabled, here's how you can manually check for the update:

Step 1: Firstly, open the Settings app on your Samsung phone or tablet

Step 2: Now scroll down and select Software update

Step 3: On the next screen, tap Download and install

Step 4: The next page will prompt you to download and install the update, if available. Tap Install now. If needed, you can also schedule the auto-installation for a later time by selecting the Schedule install option

Step 5: Once the download begins, the phone will install the update and eventually boot up on One UI 9

New changes and features on One UI 9

Redesigned Now Bar music player: In the lockscreen, the music Now Bar now displays the music wavelength in the minimised form. When expanded, the play/pause and next/previous buttons are bolder and no longer sit inside a card, changing the overall appearance of the music player.

Changes to quick settings panel: The split-style quick settings panel is more versatile by allowing users to resize the toggles, media player, and even the sliders into more forms. For instance, the media player can now be expanded into a small 2x2 layout, while the brightness and volume sliders are now thicker for easier scrolling.

Parental controls: A brand new parental control allows users to set app-specific time limits, and even restrict app installations to just specific categories or age limits.

Redact text in Samsung Notes: One UI 9 introduces a new way to redact text in Samsung Notes using tapes. There are tons of different tape patterns and designs to make the notes as personalised as possible.

Bypass charging in gaming menu: To preserve battery health, users on One UI 9 can enable bypass charging when the phone is plugged in by just tapping a button within the gaming menu.

Now Nudge: A Galaxy AI-oriented feature, Now Nudge analyses your screen context to provide smart, real-time prompts for your next action. It lets you seamlessly jump between tasks, such as opening your calendar or saving locations, without manual app switching.

My FanCam: Launched exclusively for foldables on One UI 9, My FanCam automatically tracks your chosen subject and reframes the video into your preferred aspect ratio, turning dynamic scenes into perfectly cropped clips ready to be shared on social media.

Warranty and care section: A new 'Warranty and care' section is being added to One UI 9 that displays the warranty coverage status of your Samsung device along with the option to communicate directly with Samsung Care.

FAQs

When was One UI 9 released?

One UI 8 was first launched as a beta for the Galaxy S26 series (S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra) in May 2026, while the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Z Flip 8 became the first phones to launch with One UI 9 pre-installed in July 2026. Since the stable rollout of One UI 8 began in September 2025 for the Galaxy S25 series, one can expect One UI 9 to be released officially during the same timeframe or even earlier this year.

Does One UI 9 improve battery life?

While most major OS upgrades feature efficiency improvements, results vary depending on your device and usage. Meaning, even though Samsung has optimised the update for better battery life, the actual endurance delivered comes down to an individual's use case, such as whether particular third-party apps are optimised to run more efficiently with the new firmware.

Can I downgrade from One UI 9?

You may be able to downgrade from One UI 9 to One UI 8, but that will most likely require installing software from unofficial sources both on your Samsung device and PC, which can be a risky move. Downgrading the One UI version also erases all your data.

[highlights]

• New leaked renders show the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL and Pixel 11 Pro Fold in multiple colourways.
• The images appear to be official marketing materials, revealing full designs, camera bars and the Pixel Glow light strip across the lineup.
• Google is set to officially unveil the Pixel 11 series at its Made by Google event on August 12.

[/highlights]

Google is gearing up to announce the Pixel 11 series on August 12, but the phones are already showing up online in what look like official marketing images. Multiple new posts by known tipster Evan Blass on X reveal the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL from several angles, giving us a clear look at their designs and colour options well before the launch. Let's check it out in more detail below.

Here's the Google Pixel 11 series

The latest batch of images by Evan Blass on X focuses on the three non‑foldable phones in the Pixel 11 lineup. Each model appears in four finishes, with renders that showcase the front, back and sides, along with close‑ups of the camera bar and frame. The quality and consistency of these pictures make them look like internal marketing assets. 

Pixel 11 pic.twitter.com/If3jUNCmgG

— Evan Blass (@_evanblass_) July 30, 2026

that the standard Pixel 11 will come in colours that may be branded Light Sterling, Fuchsia, Midnight Haze and Moss. The new renders corroborate that by showing a mix of vibrant and muted tones, from a bright pink option to more subdued green and blue‑grey colourways. The vibrant new colourways for the standard Pixel 11 is a change of pace, and suggest Google is aiming for a bolder, more playful aesthetic this year.

Pixel 11 Pro XL pic.twitter.com/VfovbndUDa

— Evan Blass (@_evanblass_) July 30, 2026

The Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL, on the other hand, seem to adopt more subtle finishes. Leaks point to names like Dune, Light Fog, Midnight Haze and Pine for these models, and the images show matching colours across the Pro and Pro XL, just like we saw with previous Pixel generations. 

A look at the Pixel 11 Pro Fold

Alongside these X posts, Evan Blass has also shared what appears to be a full set of Pixel 11 Pro Fold marketing renders through his Substack account. The images confirm an 8‑inch inner display and a design that closely follows last year's Pixel 10 Pro Fold, but with a refined camera bar and the new Pixel Glow light strip integrated into the glass section.

[gallery link="file" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" columns="5" ids="710288,710289,710287,710286,710285"]

The Pixel Glow element is expected to act as a notification and status light, tying into Google's Gemini Intelligence branding that will sit at the centre of the Pixel 11 family's software story. In these renders, the Pro Fold shows up in at least one muted green shade, aligning with the Pine‑style finish seen on the Pro phones.

Should you wait for the Pixel 11 series?

Earlier this month, Google reportedly confirmed that higher Pixel 11 prices are a direct result of increasing memory costs driven by the ongoing global RAM shortage. The company said it had absorbed rising component prices for as long as possible and now plans to soften the impact with trade‑in bonuses, launch offers and bundled services such as Google One.

India pricing isn't official yet, but if these global hikes carry over, the Pixel 11 lineup is likely to launch above the Pixel 10 series, which started at around Rs 79,999. That means buyers who want a Pixel this year will need to weigh the new design, Gemini Intelligence features and camera upgrades against a potentially higher entry point and consider whether current Pixel 10 deals make more sense while they are still available.

[highlights]

• iQOO has just shared an official teaser on X that suggests the iQOO Z11 is launching soon. 
• The Indian iQOO Z11 variant will reportedly use a Dimensity 7500 Turbo chipset and a curved OLED panel.
• iQOO Z11 is tipped to launch in India in August around Rs 35,000.

[/highlights]

iQOO is preparing to bring the iQOO Z11 to India after launching the phone in China earlier in March this year. The Vivo sub-brand has now shared a teaser that can be decoded as a reference to the Z11, signalling that the next Z-series phone is close to its India debut. Let's look at it in more detail below.

Teaser and launch timeline

In its latest post on X, iQOO published three binary strings instead of naming the device directly. When converted, those codes read as "Z11", which lines up with earlier leaks around the upcoming model and effectively confirms the name without a formal announcement.

Some clues aren't meant to be read. They're meant to be decoded. 👀🔐

A secret is hidden in plain sight... but only if you can crack the binary.

Think you've figured it out? Share your answers & tag 3 friends in the comment section.

Top 5 lucky winners will get a chance to win… pic.twitter.com/93gAjvNcCb

— iQOO India (@IqooInd) July 31, 2026

The company has not yet revealed the exact launch date or specifications for the Indian unit, but a report by Gadgets 360 claims the phone is on track for an August release.

The report also claims that iQOO plans to ship the Indian Z11 with MediaTek's Dimensity 7500 Turbo chipset, rather than the Dimensity 8500 used in the Chinese variant. That suggests iQOO wants a different performance and efficiency balance for the Indian market. The phone is also expected to arrive with a 3D curved display in India, giving it a more premium look compared to flat-screen mid-rangers.

An earlier leak suggests that the iQOO Z11, with model number I2514, will launch in India at around Rs 35,000, pushing the Z lineup further into the upper mid‑range segment. For context, the iQOO Z10 5G arrived in April 2025 at Rs 21,999 for the 8GB + 128GB variant and now sits closer to Rs 24,999, although it is currently listed as out of stock.

The phone is tipped to feature a 1.5K 144Hz curved OLED display, a battery somewhere between 7,000mAh and 8,000mAh with 90W fast charging, and the Dimensity 7500 processor, which seems to be true based on the latest leaks. It is also said to carry a 50MP primary camera with OIS, a 32MP front camera, IP68 and IP69 ratings, an in‑display fingerprint sensor, a plastic frame, and 8GB and 12GB RAM options.

Should you wait for the iQOO Z11?

In China, the iQOO Z11 launched in March with a more powerful Dimensity 8500 chip, a 6.83‑inch 1.5K 165Hz AMOLED display, a 9,020mAh battery, 90W fast charging, a 50MP OIS primary camera, a 2MP depth sensor and a 16MP selfie camera, starting at CNY 2,299 (around Rs 32,500) for the 8GB + 256GB variant.

The Indian unit, based on leaks, looks more battery‑focused, similar to the iQOO Z10. It is tipped to swap to the Dimensity 7500 Turbo, use a 1.5K 144Hz curved OLED display, pair it with a 7,000–8,000mAh battery and 90W charging, and arrive around Rs 35,000, which reflects the market conditions due to rising memory and component costs.

Buyers who want a long battery life and a premium display at a sensible price will likely find the Indian Z11 more appealing, while those who prefer performance and slightly lower effective pricing may have better luck with options like the Redmi Turbo 5 or the OnePlus Nord CE6. 

July was one of the busiest months for smartphone launches in India, with brands launching across every price segment. Samsung continued to strengthen its foldable portfolio, OPPO refreshed its Reno lineup with new AI features, Nothing introduced a more affordable way into its ecosystem, while OnePlus, Motorola, Realme, Vivo and iQOO focused on practical upgrades such as bigger batteries, performance and durability.

From budget phones under Rs 20,000 to premium foldables costing over Rs 2 lakh, buyers had plenty of options depending on their priorities. Here's a look at the key smartphones launched in India this month and what they bring.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra

Starting with the most expensive of the lot, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra became the first mainstream phone in India to touch (well, almost) the Rs 2-lakh mark after its debut at Unpacked on July 22nd. The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra (first impressions) brings upgrades to cameras, durability and AI features. It also debuts Samsung's new Flex Titanium display structure, helping make the phone slimmer, stronger and significantly reducing the visibility of the crease.

Price in India

• 12GB + 256GB: Rs 1,99,999
• 12GB + 512GB: Rs 2,19,999
• 16GB + 1TB: Rs 2,59,999

The Fold8 Ultra packs an 8-inch adaptive AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chipset, 5,000mAh battery, up to 16GB RAM and a camera setup headlined by a 200MP primary sensor. While rivals such as Vivo's X Fold series continue to offer larger batteries, Samsung relies on Galaxy AI, software optimisation and long-term software support to differentiate. If you want Samsung's most feature-rich foldable and don't mind paying a premium, the Fold8 Ultra remains the company's most complete foldable yet.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8

Samsung also introduced the Galaxy Z Fold8 as a new addition to its foldable lineup, sitting below the Ultra with a wider form factor for entertainment and productivity. Instead of replacing the Ultra, it gives buyers another option within Samsung's premium foldable range. Like our first impressions noted, it is "a great middle ground between the sleek Flip8 and the serious Fold8 Ultra." Even though the middle sibling, it's not cheap by any means.

Price in India

• 12GB + 256GB: Rs 1,79,999
• 12GB + 512GB: Rs 1,99,999
• 16GB + 1TB: Rs 2,39,999

The phone comes with a 7.6-inch 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X inner display, a 5.5-inch cover screen, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chipset, up to 16GB RAM, 1TB storage, a 4,800mAh battery with 45W charging, dual 50MP rear cameras and One UI 9 based on Android 17. Those primarily interested in reading, streaming and multitasking may find it a more balanced option than stepping up to the Ultra.

OPPO Reno 16 and Reno 16c

OPPO refreshed its Reno lineup earlier this month with the Reno 16 (review) and Reno 16c (review), introducing updated designs, larger batteries, new AI features and improved camera systems. The Reno 16 targets buyers looking for a compact premium smartphone, while the Reno 16c brings many of the same features at a lower price.

[caption id="attachment_708545" align="alignnone" width="912"] OPPO Reno16[/caption]

Reno 16 price in India

• 8GB + 256GB: Rs 61,999
• 12GB + 256GB: Rs 67,999

Reno 16c

• 8GB + 128GB: Rs 46,999
• 8GB + 256GB: Rs 49,999
• 12GB + 256GB: Rs 55,999

The Reno 16 features a compact 6.32-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, 6,700mAh battery with 80W charging and a triple 50MP rear camera setup with a telephoto lens. The Reno 16c comes with a larger 6.57-inch AMOLED display, Dimensity 7300 chipset, 7,000mAh battery and also gains a 50MP telephoto camera, a notable upgrade over its predecessor. Both phones ship with ColorOS 16.1 based on Android 16 and introduce new AI features such as AI Snap Key, Mind Space and Mind Pilot.

[caption id="attachment_706958" align="alignnone" width="1000"] OPPO Reno16c[/caption]

The Reno 16 is likely to appeal to users who prefer compact phones without compromising on cameras, while the Reno 16c offers many of the same strengths with a bigger battery at a lower price. Buyers upgrading from older Reno devices may find the improvements worthwhile, although those using the Reno 15 series should note the price difference and evaluate the jump.

Motorola Edge 70 Max

Motorola entered a new segment with the Motorola Edge 70 Max (review), a performance-focused smartphone that takes on rivals like the OnePlus 15R and iQOO 15R. Alongside flagship-level hardware, it brings a rare combination of a QHD+ display, large battery and magnetic wireless charging.

Price in India

• 8GB + 256GB: Rs 54,999
• 12GB + 256GB: Rs 59,999

The Edge 70 Max features a 6.8-inch 144Hz QHD+ AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, up to 12GB LPDDR5X RAM, 7,100mAh battery with 90W wired and 25W Qi2.2 magnetic wireless charging, plus a 50MP dual-camera setup. It also comes with IP68 protection, MIL-STD-810H durability and Motorola's ArcticMesh cooling system for sustained gaming performance.

Motorola has packed in plenty of hardware for the asking price, although its promise of three Android updates trails several rivals offering longer software support. For buyers prioritising performance, battery life and display quality, however, the Edge 70 Max stands out as one of the month's stronger launches.

Nothing Phone (4b)

Nothing expanded its portfolio with the Nothing Phone (4b), the first device in its new "(b)" series. Positioned below the Phone (4a) lineup and the entry point in 2026, it fills the gap created after recent industry-wide price hikes pushed Nothing's other phones further up the price ladder.

Price in India

• 8GB + 128GB: Rs 34,999
• 8GB + 256GB: Rs 38,999

The Phone (4b) offers a 6.77-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 chipset, a 6,000mAh battery for India, 50MP OIS main camera, Glyph Bar with expanded functionality, Nothing OS 4.1 based on Android 16, and three years of Android updates alongside six years of security patches.

Rather than being a stripped-down alternative, the Phone (4b) borrows several features from the Phone (4a) Pro while bringing Nothing's signature design to a more accessible price point. Like our first impressions noted, "What makes it better is the extra stuff that actually feels useful. There is Essential Search for quickly finding things, Essential Apps and Playground for customisation, and Essential AI tools like Voice and Space that help with notes, screenshots, and everyday tasks." Buyers looking for a distinctive software experience and balanced hardware around the Rs 30,000 mark may find it an appealing option.

iQOO Z11 Lite

iQOO expanded its affordable Z-series with the battery-focused iQOO Z11 Lite, targeting users who prioritise endurance over performance. It enters the sub-Rs 20,000 segment where battery capacity remains a major selling point.

Price in India

• 4GB + 128GB: Rs 19,499
• 6GB + 128GB: Rs 21,499
• 6GB + 256GB: Rs 24,499

The Z11 Lite sports a 6.74-inch 120Hz HD+ LCD display, MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor, 6,500mAh battery with 44W fast charging, a 50MP Sony camera, Android 16-based OriginOS and an IP65 rating. The RAM starts at 4GB and the display is LCD, which is what we're seeing plenty of brands going back to in the sub-Rs 20,000 segment, which has now become "budget" as sub Rs-15,000 phones are virtually non-existent.

The iQOO Z11 Lite's biggest strength is battery life, as our review notes, although the HD+ display and entry-level chipset mean it is not designed for intensive gaming or advanced photography. Buyers looking for a dependable everyday smartphone with long battery backup may find the Z11 Lite worth considering.

OnePlus N6x

While we're on the affordable side, it's worth discussing the OnePlus N6x also, which just launched today. The highlight of the phone is the large 7,000mAh battery but the return of the 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature missing from OnePlus phones since the Nord CE 3 Lite, also stands out in a market where wired audio ports have become rare.

Price in India

• 4GB + 64GB: Rs 18,999
• 4GB + 128GB: Rs 20,999

The OnePlus N6x features a 6.8-inch 120Hz HD+ LCD display, MediaTek Dimensity 6360 Apex chipset, a massive 7,000mAh battery with 15W charging, OxygenOS 16 based on Android 16, and IP64 as well as MIL-STD-810H durability. It also includes a microSD card slot and a 3.5mm headphone jack, making it one of the few phones in its segment to retain both. Rather than chasing premium specifications, OnePlus has focused on practicality. Buyers looking for dependable battery life, durability and everyday usability are likely to appreciate the N6x, while those prioritising cameras or display quality may find stronger alternatives.

However, the list doesn't stop at these. July also saw phones like the budget Vivo T5e 4G, Realme C100x, Vivo T5 Lite, and Realme Narzo 100x launch in India. Samsung also launched the Galaxy A27, while Motorola decided to compete in the lower mid-range with the battery-focused Moto G77 Power. The Tecno Camon 50 Ultra also launched in India this month after debuting globally earlier.

Fire-Boltt built its name on smartwatches — going from a standing start in 2020 to the number one wearable brand in India and the second-largest globally within three years. So when the company decided to enter the smartphone segment, the obvious questions were: why, and why now? I got on a call with Arnav Kishore, Founder & CEO, to talk about boltt, the company's new smartphone brand, and what he's planning in terms of product strategy, retail, service support and everything else this segment demands.

The pivot: from wearables to smartphones

A five-year run in wearables as the springboard: Arnav traces the decision back to Fire-Boltt's own journey — a "very humble beginning" in 2020, followed by rapid growth that took the brand to the top of the Indian smartwatch market and second place globally. That run, spanning "topping to bottoming to topping again," gave the team the confidence that they understood what it takes to compete in a hardware category with tight margins and deep component complexity. As Arnav put it, building a smartwatch is arguably just as challenging as building a smartphone, given the sheer number of components, the software layer, and the health-and-fitness data scrutiny involved.

A year in the making: The move into smartphones isn't a snap decision. Arnav says the team has been working on it for about 12 months, figuring out the right price segment and gap in the market. 

Timing driven by market disruption: Arnav points to a shift in the last few months, with several existing brands struggling to sustain themselves in the affordable segment. That opening, combined with supply chain groundwork Fire-Boltt had already secured, made this the right moment to launch. He plans to start in the sub-Rs 15,000 to sub-Rs 20,000 bracket, with one 4G and one 5G device to begin with. He notes that 4G is "coming back in a big way" as 5G handsets have become pricier of late.

The value proposition: everything you need, nothing you don't

Simplifying an overcrowded segment: Arnav frames the opportunity as an inflection point in the smartphone market. Customers, he says, aren't necessarily chasing more features anymore, but better value, after phones became "more complicated and more expensive than they should have become." boltt's pitch is built around delivering just the essentials — smooth performance, a good camera, and solid battery life — at the right price.

Stock Android, no bloatware: Arnav is direct about one of the brand's core promises. No unnecessary pre-loaded apps or software bloat, which he flags as a common source of security and privacy concerns on budget devices today. boltt phones will run close-to-stock Android on the latest version, with the company betting that a clean, trustworthy experience builds long-term loyalty rather than one-time purchases.

Specs at par or better: On the hardware side, Arnav claims the team has put in the work over the past several months to make sure performance, battery, display, and camera specs are "at par or slightly better" than the existing competition in the same price bracket.

Going up against incumbents in a tough market

When I asked him how a new entrant plans to compete against brands that have been entrenched in India's budget segment for years, Arnav leans on boltt's underlying value proposition, differentiated software experience, and Fire-Boltt's own captive base of over 40 million customers built up over four years, which the brand hopes to convert into early smartphone buyers.

Distribution: Flipkart online, wearables network offline

An exclusive online tie-up: Boltt is launching exclusively online with Flipkart, one of the country's leading channel partners, for both e-commerce and channel support.

Leaning on existing offline muscle: Beyond Flipkart, Arnav is confident about offline retail too, pointing to Fire-Boltt's own track record as a leading offline brand in smartwatches, with reach into tier 2 and tier 3 markets and organised retail. The plan is a pan-India launch across both channels, with a dedicated distribution network for boltt smartphones expected to take shape over the next six months — one that should also help place Fire-Boltt's wearables in more retail locations.

After-sales support and software updates

In-app customer support: Arnav describes a dedicated support application built into the phone itself, letting customers reach live agents directly from the device rather than hunting for a separate helpline.

400 service centres, GMS-aligned updates: Backing this up is a network of roughly 400 repair and service centres across India for walk-in support, along with regular software updates aligned to GMS guidelines, rolled out on a regular basis.

AI and the Gemini integration

Asked about AI as a point of differentiation, an area where affordable phones have traditionally lagged, Arnav confirms Boltt will lean on a deep Google Gemini integration across use cases, including camera features. He adds that additional AI-driven features are in the pipeline for future updates, though these remain under wraps for now.

The roadmap: two models now, premium play from January

boltt is starting with two models, each available in five to six colourways, which Arnav describes as long-term foundational products for the entry-level segment rather than short-lived, tactical launches. The company is targeting sales of around a million units across these two devices in the coming months. From January onward, the roadmap is set to expand into more premium price points, bringing AMOLED displays, improved cameras, and other higher-tier features into play.

The bigger ecosystem play

With smartwatches, hearables, and the recently launched Fire Lens AI glasses already under Fire-Boltt's umbrella, the natural question is whether Boltt smartphones are meant to tie this ecosystem together. Arnav agrees this is very much the intent — and acknowledges that several brands have tried and failed to pull off a convincing ecosystem play in the past. He believes Fire-Boltt's advantage lies in understanding how its existing wearable users behave, and in controlling the smartphone, OS, and platform layer itself, which should let boltt bring these devices together more seamlessly than a phone-first brand retrofitting an ecosystem around itself. Making this ecosystem story the brand's lead message, he says, is one of the company's biggest internal priorities going forward.

[highlights]

• Samsung Galaxy F70 Pro 5G will start at Rs 25,999.
• The handset will launch in three memory configurations.
• Samsung has confirmed key specs of the Galaxy F70 Pro 5G. 

[/highlights]

Shortly after teasing the Galaxy F70 Pro 5G, Samsung has now revealed the official launch date. The company has also revealed most of the key specifications ahead of the launch, including pricing, memory options, display, and camera details. The Galaxy F70 Pro 5G is expected to debut as a new mid-range option from Samsung.

Samsung Galaxy F70 Pro 5G India launch date, pricing

The Galaxy F70 Pro 5G is scheduled to launch in India on August 3rd. The smartphone is confirmed to go on sale via Flipkart. Samsung has also revealed the pricing for all three variants of the F70 Pro 5G.

The Galaxy F70 Pro 5G will start at Rs 25,999 for the 6GB RAM and 128GB storage variant. The 8GB + 128GB model will cost Rs 29,999, while the 8GB + 256GB version will be priced at Rs 34,999. Samsung says these are the original offer prices, but buyers will get exclusive launch offers. The handset will be available in Alpha Black and Aura Green colour options.

Samsung Galaxy F70 Pro 5G specifications

The Galaxy F70 Pro 5G gets a flat FHD+ Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, along with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection. The display specs are quite premium for the price segment, since most brands have now started offering HD+ and LCD panels. That way, the Galaxy F70 Pro 5G would have an upper hand among rivals. The company has not yet revealed the exact Snapdragon chipset, but the phone will pair Qualcomm's processor with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 3.1 storage. It would compete with rivals like the OnePlus N6. 

The smartphone features a 50MP primary camera with optical image stabilisation (OIS), accompanied by a 5MP ultra-wide camera and a 2MP macro sensor. It will support up to 4K video recording, while the front camera gets HDR support. Powering the phone is a 6,000mAh battery with 45W wired charging. Samsung claims the battery can deliver more than 24 hours of YouTube streaming, over eight hours of gaming, or 12 hours of social media use on a single charge.

At Rs. 25,999, the Galaxy F70 Pro 5G enters a competitive segment populated by phones from brands such as OnePlus, iQOO, and Motorola. However, the Galaxy F70 Pro 5G could stand out with its FHD+ AMOLED display, versatile cameras, and Samsung's software experience, making it attractive for buyers prioritising an all-round package. We should still wait for reviews to see how the phone performs in real-world usage before making a buying decision. If you currently own an older phone or are planning to upgrade from a budget phone, the F70 Pro 5G could be worth upgrading to for a better display, cameras, and software. 

[highlights]

• OPPO A7 Pro Max will launch in three colours.
• It has a large camera plateau. 
• The handset is confirmed to house a 50MP camera on the front and back.

[/highlights]

OPPO is gearing up to launch a smartphone with a massive 10,000mAh battery. The company has confirmed that the OPPO A7 Pro Max will debut in China next week, following the recent announcement that the handset will pack a massive 10,000mAh battery. This would be the largest battery capacity yet on an OPPO phone. 

OPPO A7 Pro Max launch date

The OPPO A7 Pro Max is scheduled to launch in China on August 4th. Pre-orders for the smartphone are already open through OPPO's official online store. There's no word on a global release for the OPPO A7 Pro Max yet. 

[gallery link="file" size="full" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="710222,710223,710224"]

The battery is undoubtedly going to be the biggest differentiator for the A7 Pro Max, particularly as smartphone makers increasingly focus on larger batteries to improve endurance. A 10,000mAh cell would put the phone well above the 7,000mAh batteries commonly found in mid-range smartphones, although real-world endurance will ultimately depend on the display, chipset, and software optimisation. While a 10,000mAh battery is impressive, we're keen to see if OPPO can balance this with a manageable form factor and competitive performance.

OPPO has also revealed some of the A7 Pro Max's camera specifications. The smartphone will feature a dual-camera setup on the rear, headlined by a 50MP primary sensor. It will also get a 50MP front-facing camera, suggesting that selfies and video calls will be another area of focus.

The official listing shows three colour options: Black, Light Blue, and Orange. The blue and orange versions stand out with a patterned finish on the rear panel. The handset will launch in three memory configurations: 8GB + 128GB, 12GB + 256GB, and 12GB + 512GB. Other specifications have not yet been confirmed, but recent leaks and a Geekbench listing suggest the A7 Pro Max could feature a 6.78-inch AMOLED display and Qualcomm's Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 chipset.

The OPPO A7 Pro Max makes sense primarily if long battery life is a priority. However, the large battery alone should not be the deciding factor. Display quality, charging speed, weight, and chipset performance will be important to assess once OPPO reveals the remaining specifications and pricing.

[highlights]

• Vivo has confirmed that the Vivo S2 will launch in India on August 6th at 12 PM.
• The official teaser reveals a curved-display design with a pill-shaped dual-camera module.
• The Vivo S2 is expected to feature a 6.83-inch 120Hz curved display, the Dimensity 7360-Turbo chipset and a 7,050mAh battery.

[/highlights]

After weeks of rumours and leaks, Vivo has officially confirmed that it is bringing back its S-series smartphones to India. The Vivo S2 will launch in the country on August 6th at 12 noon, marking the return of a lineup that last appeared in India with the Vivo S1 series in 2019 and then two subsequent models in 2020.

Alongside the launch date, Vivo has also revealed the phone's design, offering the clearest look yet at what to expect from its upcoming upper mid-range, design-focused smartphone.

Vivo S2 launch details and design

The official teaser shows the Vivo S2 in a white finish with a clean, minimalist design. The phone features a pill-shaped rear camera island positioned in the top-left corner, housing two large circular camera rings alongside a separate circular flash module. The pill resembles that of the Vivo X300 FE, and the look is unlike the circular module of the flagship X300 series or the vertical camera alignment of the V70 models. Unlike many recent smartphones that use contrasting black camera housings, the S2's camera module blends into the rear panel, giving it a more seamless appearance.

The front of the phone appears to feature a curved-edge display with slim bezels and a centred hole-punch cutout for the selfie camera. The curved screen, flat side frame, and understated rear panel together give the device a distinctly premium look. Earlier leaks also suggested the phone will arrive in Silk White, Sapphire Blue, and Regal Bronze colour options. We see the Silk White option in the teaser.

In a statement announcing the launch, Vivo said it is reviving the S-series to cater to younger consumers who increasingly view smartphones as tools for creativity, self-expression, and everyday lifestyle. The company says the S-series will focus primarily on design and imaging.

Expected specifications and pricing

While Vivo has not officially revealed the specifications, previous leaks suggest the Vivo S2 could feature a 6.83-inch 1.5K curved display with a 120Hz refresh rate, powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7360-Turbo chipset. The phone is also tipped to pack a 7,050mAh battery with 44W fast charging, along with IP68 and IP69 dust and water resistance ratings. For cameras, leaks point to a 50MP primary sensor, a 2MP secondary camera, and a 32MP front-facing camera. Earlier promotional material also highlighted 4K video recording support from both the front and rear cameras.

According to tipster reports, the Vivo S2 could be priced between Rs 40,000 and Rs 45,000, with a reported box price of Rs 66,999. If that pricing holds, the phone will compete against devices such as the upcoming OnePlus Nord 6, Nothing Phone (4a) Pro, Motorola Edge 70 Pro, and Vivo's own V70 FE. The emphasis appears to be on premium design, which could appeal to buyers looking for a stylish everyday smartphone. That said, with the launch only days away, it may be worth waiting for Vivo to reveal the final specifications and pricing before making a purchase decision.

[highlights]

• OnePlus N6x has been launched in India at Rs 19,999.
• It comes in two memory configurations.
• The handset is positioned below the OnePlus N6. 

[/highlights]

OnePlus has expanded its affordable smartphone portfolio in India with the launch of the OnePlus N6x. Positioned below the OnePlus N6, the new handset prioritises battery life and durability, while also reintroducing a feature that has been absent from the brand's smartphones for several years, the 3.5mm headphone jack.

OnePlus N6x price in India

OnePlus N6x price in India starts at Rs 19,999 for the base variant with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage. It comes in another variant with 128GB storage. The handset comes in two colour options: Burgundy Red and Ice Blue. Sale for the OnePlus N6x begins August 4th, 12 pm via the OnePlus India online store, Amazon India, and other platforms. 

OnePlus N6x design, specifications

In terms of design, the OnePlus N6x borrows heavily from last year's OnePlus Nord CE5. It sports a pill-shaped rear camera module positioned vertically in the top-left corner, while the front houses a waterdrop notch and a display with relatively thick bezels, reflecting its entry-level positioning.

Before we get into detail, here's a quick look at the OnePlus N6x specs:

The highlight of the smartphone is its 7,000mAh battery, which OnePlus claims can deliver up to 2.5 days of usage on a single charge. The company also says the battery is designed to retain its health for up to six years, maintaining longevity across 1,600 charge cycles. Alongside long battery life, the phone comes with an IP64 rating for dust and splash resistance and MIL-STD-810H military-grade durability, making it a practical option for users prioritising reliability.

Powering the OnePlus N6x is the MediaTek Dimensity 6360 Apex chipset, the same processor found on the OnePlus N6. The chipset is paired with 4GB of RAM and a 13280 mm² heat dissipation area to help sustain performance during extended use. The handset runs OxygenOS 16 based on Android 16.

For photography, the OnePlus N6x features a 13MP primary rear camera and a 5MP selfie camera. On the front, it sports a 6.8-inch HD+ LCD display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. Another notable addition is the return of the 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature last seen on a OnePlus smartphone with the Nord CE3 Lite in 2023. While many rivals have dropped the port entirely, its inclusion could appeal to users who still rely on wired earphones. OnePlus's decision to bring back the headphone jack is a refreshing nod to practicality in a segment often chasing trends.

With its large battery, a large display, and features like the headphone jack and microSD card, the OnePlus N6x is aimed at buyers who value a practical everyday phone. If you're using an older phone and the hardware fits your priorities, then the N6x can be considered. Those looking for sharper displays, better cameras, or higher RAM configurations may find stronger alternatives in the segment, but users seeking dependable battery life and everyday usability are likely to find the N6x a compelling option.

[highlights]

• The Samsung Galaxy S26 FE surfaces on FCC certification with model number SM‑S741U, confirming the phone is moving closer to launch. 
• Leaks point to a 6.7‑inch display, Exynos 2500 chipset, 8GB RAM, 4,900mAh battery and 45W charging, with One UI 9 expected out of the box.

[/highlights]

The Samsung Galaxy S26 FE looks closer than ever to launch, with the phone now surfacing on FCC certification. The listing confirms that Samsung is preparing to bring its next Fan Edition model to market soon, while recent comments from the company also point to a launch later this year. 

The FCC listing confirms model details

The FCC filing points to model number SM-S741U and ties the device to Samsung Galaxy S26 FE, seen in earlier leaks. The document also confirms support for 45W wired charging, which lines up with the earlier UL Demko leak and suggests Samsung will keep charging speeds unchanged from the previous FE model.

[gallery link="file" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" columns="2" ids="710118,710119"]

Following the FCC certification, in a report by CNET, Samsung confirmed on that call that it plans to launch the Galaxy S26 FE and the Tab S12 Android tablet later this year. They will arrive alongside new foldables and the latest Watch Ultra model, positioning the Galaxy S26 FE as the final member of the Galaxy S26 family.

With multiple leaks now in play, we can sketch a fairly clear picture of what the Galaxy S26 FE might ship with. Reports point to a 6.7‑inch display, an Exynos 2500 chipset, 8GB RAM, a 4,900mAh battery and 45W wired charging, with Android 17‑based One UI 9 expected out of the box.

That is very much in line for the classic Galaxy Fan Edition smartphone. The FE series essentially gives you a more affordable Galaxy S flagship that borrows heavily from the premium line while trimming costs where Samsung can. The Galaxy S25 FE (review) launched in India at Rs 59,999 last year, and with higher memory costs and the usual generational bump, the new FE could easily land in the Rs 75,000–80,000 bracket, sitting just under the Galaxy S26, which currently starts at around Rs 87,999. 

That's where the pricing could get interesting. If Samsung pushes the S26 FE closer to Rs 80,000, the narrow gap to discounted S25 FE units makes the upgrade look more incremental on paper. For Samsung fans who prioritise One UI, long‑term updates and the familiar S‑series design, the S26 FE would still offer a slightly more affordable way into the S26 lineup.

[highlights]

• OnePlus has officially teased the OnePlus 16 in China, confirming upgraded gaming technologies and performance enhancements.
• The flagship is expected to feature Qualcomm's next-generation Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset.
• The OnePlus 16 is rumoured to launch in China in October 2026, while its global availability remains unclear.

[/highlights]

Amid all the bleak news surrounding OnePlus and the subsequent US shutdown, there's finally the silver lining. In a surprise move and maybe a show strength, OnePlus has started teasing its next flagship smartphone, the OnePlus 16, much before confirming a launch date. At Qualcomm's Snapdragon Gaming Technology Awards event in China, the company revealed that its upcoming flagship will introduce three major gaming and performance upgrades. Once again, this signals that OnePlus is doubling down on mobile gaming as a key differentiator in the premium smartphone segment, a positioning it started with the OnePlus 15.

The teaser also suggests the OnePlus 16 will be among the first smartphones to debut with Qualcomm's next-generation flagship Snapdragon chipset. While the company has not confirmed a launch timeline, the device is widely expected to arrive in China in October after the Snapdragon summit in September. Its global launch, however, remains uncertain.

OnePlus also used the event to highlight its momentum in the Chinese market. The company said it recorded 13 percent year-on-year sales growth in the first half of 2026, making it the fastest-growing smartphone brand during the period. 

Gaming pivot

During the event, OnePlus confirmed that the OnePlus 16 will debut upgraded versions of its three proprietary gaming technologies: the Fengchi Gaming Kernel, Extreme High Refresh Rate technology, and the Esports Triple-Chip system. Together, these are expected to deliver smoother gameplay, lower latency and more consistent high-frame-rate performance.

The company also hinted at an upgraded display. While it did not reveal specific specifications, recent leaks suggest the phone could feature a 6.78-inch LTPO OLED panel with a 185Hz refresh rate. That would be an increase over the OnePlus 15, which was among the first mainstream smartphones this year to offer a 165Hz display.

Leaked specifications

We're still a couple of months away from the expected OnePlus 16 launch in October, but an alleged teaser circulating on Chinese social media hints at a return to a circular camera module, replacing the square camera island seen on the OnePlus 15. However, the authenticity of the image hasn't been verified. While the OnePlus 15 was praised for its minimalism, the return to the circular module would be nostalgic for the OnePlus enthusiasts, for whom the design was differentiating and iconic.

According to past reports, the OnePlus 16 could be powered by Qualcomm's upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset, paired with a 6.78-inch 1.5K LTPO OLED display featuring an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor. It's also tipped to house a battery of around 9,000mAh with support for 100W wired and 50W wireless charging. Other expected features include Android 16-based ColorOS 17, an X-axis linear vibration motor, symmetrical stereo speakers, and IP68/IP69 dust and water resistance.

If these specifications are true, the OnePlus 16 could emerge as one of the most gaming-focused Android flagships of the year. It's likely to compete with devices such as the iQOO 16, which is also expected to target enthusiasts with flagship chipsets and gaming hardware. 

[highlights]

• The Nothing Phone (4a) launched at Rs 31,999 in March and is sold via Flipkart.
• This is the fourth hike since launch for the device.
• Nothing hasn't officially commented on the hike yet.

[/highlights]

Nothing appears to be doubling down on higher smartphone prices in India. After revising prices at least three times in as many months, the company is now said to increase the price of the Nothing Phone (4a) by another Rs 3,000 from August 1st. If the latest revision goes through, the phone's starting price will have climbed by Rs 11,000, or around 34 percent, since its launch in March.

The move also comes amid reports that several smartphone brands are preparing to raise prices in August, as the broader market remains under pressure to keep up with the ever-rising DRAM and NAND prices.

Nothing Phone (4a) latest prices

According to multiple tipsters, the latest increase will come into effect from tomorrow and will apply across all variants of the Nothing Phone (4a). Nothing has not confirmed the change yet, and there is no information on whether the Phone (4a) Pro will also see a price revision.

Nothing Phone (4a)

This would mark the fourth price hike for the smartphone since its debut in March. The first round of increases came in May, followed by the last revision in June ahead of the Phone (4b) launch. The Phone (4a) originally started at Rs 31,999, meaning the base variant has become Rs 11,000 more expensive in just four months without any spec upgrade.

When it launched, the Nothing Phone (4a) was a mid-ranger featuring the company's signature transparent design and redesigned Glyph Bar with 63 LEDs. It is powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset and offers a 6.78-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, a 50MP primary camera, a 50MP periscope telephoto camera with 3.5x optical zoom, a 5,400mAh battery with 50W fast charging, and Nothing OS 4.1 based on Android 16.

Should you buy the Nothing Phone (4a)?

While the Nothing Phone (4a)'s hardware remains unchanged, its pricing has steadily pushed it into a different competitive bracket. At a starting price of Rs 42,999, it is no longer competing with the phones it did at launch. For around Rs 2,000 more, buyers can get the OnePlus Nord 6, which offers the more powerful Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset alongside a substantially larger 9,000mAh battery, making it a stronger choice for gaming and demanding workloads. However, in terms of cameras, the Phone (4a) is the stronger choice as it's the only device in the segment with a 50MP telephoto camera.

Those looking for the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 platform itself have more affordable alternatives as well. The Motorola Edge 70 Fusion is currently available for under Rs 30,000, while the Vivo T5 Pro costs around Rs 35,999 and pairs the same chipset with a 9,000mAh battery. The OnePlus Nord CE 6 is also priced around Rs 35,999 and combines the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 with an 8,000mAh battery and a 144Hz display.

That said, the Nothing Phone (4a) continues to offer features that remain uncommon in this segment, including its transparent design, Glyph interface and periscope telephoto camera. Buyers who specifically want those features may still find it appealing. However, if the reported August 1st price hike is on the horizon, purchasing today could be the more sensible option, particularly as Nothing has shown it is willing to revise prices multiple times within a short span.

[highlights]

• Vivo S2 FE could be the next model from the brand's S-series.
• The handset has reportedly replaced the earlier planned Pro model.
• Vivo S2 FE hasn't been confirmed officially yet. 

[/highlights]

Vivo's upcoming S2 series could arrive with an unexpected twist. While the company has already started teasing the Vivo S2 5G for India, a new leak suggests the brand had earlier decided to launch the traditional Pro variant but is now planning to introduce a Fan Edition (FE) model later in the lineup.

Vivo S2 FE India launch tipped

According to tipster PassionateGeekz.com (@passionategkeez), Vivo has reportedly shelved plans for a Vivo S2 Pro. Instead, the company is said to be working on a Vivo S2 FE, although details about the device remain under wraps. Vivo has not officially confirmed the expanded lineup or a launch timeline. The move also mirrors a wider industry trend, where brands use the "FE" branding to offer flagship-inspired features at a relatively lower price instead of expanding with Pro models. Vivo already offers FE models for its flagship lineup, and it could be adopting the same strategy for the S-series as well.

The S2 series marks Vivo's return to the S branding in India after nearly six years, with the Vivo S1 having launched back in 2019, targeting budget-conscious buyers with a price tag under Rs 20,000. The Vivo S2 is confirmed to launch in India soon, with teasers confirming a focus on its design. It's expected to launch in Sapphire Blue, Regal Bronze, and Silk White colourways.

Leaks suggest the handset could be priced between Rs 40,000 and Rs 45,000. It's expected to launch in two variants: 8GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB. 

In terms of specifications, the phone is tipped to feature a 6.83-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a MediaTek Dimensity 7360-Turbo chipset. It is also expected to pack a 7,050mAh battery with 44W FlashCharge support, IP68 and IP69 dust and water resistance, reverse wired charging, and a 32-megapixel selfie camera.

Camera leaks remain inconsistent, with reports suggesting either a 50MP + 2MP rear setup or a 50MP primary sensor paired with an 8MP ultra-wide camera. While the specs look promising, the success of the S2 FE will ultimately hinge on its final pricing and overall performance.

If the leaked pricing holds, the Vivo S2 will compete in the premium mid-range segment. But those who want a more affordable option may want to wait for the official launch, especially if the rumoured Vivo S2 FE offers a more aggressive price-to-performance proposition. 

[highlights]

• OPPO's next flagship lineup is expected to include three models.
• This time, there could be an OPPO Find X10 Pro Max replacing the Ultra.
• OPPO is reportedly on track to launch the Find X10 series in India.

[/highlights]

The Find X10 series is OPPO's next flagship lineup, with rumours and leaks surrounding the upcoming phones already crawling online. OPPO would launch the Find X10 series in China first, followed by a global release. While it's still too early, a new leak suggests OPPO plans on bringing the Find X10 series to India later this year. 

OPPO Find X10 series India launch tipped

According to a post on X by tipster Yogesh Brar, the OPPO Find X10 is slated to launch in India after Diwali. The timing isn't off, as the Find X9 series arrived here in November. The initial launch is expected to include only the Find X10 and Find X10 Pro, with the Pro Max/Ultra model arriving next year. This is based on the launch schedule of the Find X9 series, wherein the Find X9 and Find X9 Pro debuted first, and the Find X9 Ultra later in May 2026.

Interestingly, it has been rumoured that the OPPO Find X10 Ultra might not launch in India. This would be the top-end model in the series. It's not clear, though, if the Find X10 Ultra is the final moniker and not being replaced by the Find X10 Pro Max, or the latter launches as a new addition to the lineup. It's still too early to say about the top-end model as we'll most likely see the handset next year. The potential shift from 'Ultra' to 'Pro Max' suggests a subtle but important repositioning for OPPO's top-tier device.

OPPO's Find X10 series will most likely stand out for its rumoured triple 200MP camera setup. If so, then the Find X10 would be the flagship camera phone to look forward to. It is also expected to appeal mostly to camera enthusiasts, social media creators, and more than casual users. In terms of competition, the Find X10 series will most likely rival the Vivo X500 and Xiaomi 18 lineup. 

Based on early details, buyers interested in premium camera hardware may want to wait for the Find X10 series. However, those who already own the Find X9 should carefully check reviews and comparisons to see if the upgrade is worth it. 

[highlights]

• Samsung has teased the launch of the Galaxy F70 Pro 5G in India on Flipkart.
• The Galaxy F70 Pro 5G is expected to feature a Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset.
• he smartphone is tipped to start at Rs 32,999 in India.

[/highlights]

Samsung has started teasing the launch of the Galaxy F70 Pro 5G in India, confirming that the smartphone will soon join the Galaxy F70e 5G as the second model in the company's F70 lineup. While the company has not revealed a launch date yet, a dedicated microsite has gone live on Flipkart, offering the first official look at its design. Samsung has also confirmed that it will reveal more details about the smartphone on July 31st.

The teaser shows the Galaxy F70 Pro 5G in a green colour option with a flat rear panel and a pill-shaped camera module housing three rear cameras. The LED flash sits alongside the camera island, while the power button and volume rocker appear to be placed on the right edge of the device.

Expected specifications

While Samsung has yet to officially confirm the hardware, previous leaks have revealed what to expect. The Galaxy F70 Pro 5G was recently spotted on Geekbench with the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset, Android 16 and 8GB RAM. Separately, reports suggest the phone could feature a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a 6,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging, and a triple rear camera setup led by a 50MP primary sensor with optical image stabilisation (OIS). Other rumoured features include LPDDR5X RAM, UFS 3.1 storage, NFC, an IP64 rating for dust and splash resistance, and One UI 8.5 based on Android 16.

Samsung is also tipped to offer up to six years of Android OS updates, extending one of the company's biggest advantages to another mid-range smartphone. The device is also expected to feature a leather-like rear panel, continuing a design language seen on recent Galaxy F-series models. The Galaxy F70 Pro is likely to be the Flipkart-focused counterpart to the recently launched Galaxy M47.

Expected pricing in India

According to an earlier retailer leak, the Galaxy F70 Pro 5G could start at Rs 32,999 for the 6GB + 128GB variant. The 8GB + 128GB model is tipped to cost Rs 36,999, while the top-end 8GB + 256GB variant could be priced at Rs 41,999. This is in similar range to the Galaxy M47 pricing. If Samsung launches the phone around these prices, it will compete with upper mid-range options such as the Motorola Edge 70 Pro, Nothing Phone 4a and OnePlus Nord CE 6. While several rivals may offer comparable hardware, Samsung's extended software support could make the Galaxy F70 Pro a compelling option for buyers planning to keep their phone for several years.

The Galaxy F70 Pro 5G follows the Galaxy F70e 5G, which launched in India in February with a starting price of Rs 13,999. The F70e offers a 6.7-inch HD+ LCD display, MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, 6,000mAh battery and a 50MP primary camera.

[highlights]

• The Vivo T5x Fusion Red colour is available starting today via the Vivo India e-store, Flipkart and retail stores.
• The smartphone is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7400 Turbo chipset and features a 7,200mAh battery.
• The phone currently starts at Rs 24,999 though it launched at Rs 18,999 back in March.

[/highlights]

Vivo has expanded the colour options for the mid-range Vivo T5x in India with the introduction of a new Fusion Red variant. The smartphone, which debuted earlier this year as part of the company's performance-oriented T series, retains the same hardware while offering buyers another finish to choose from.

Pricing and availability

The new Vivo T5x red colour option is available starting today through the Vivo India e-store, Flipkart and authorised retail stores. Alongside the launch, the company is offering an instant discount of up to Rs 2,000 on Axis Bank, HDFC Bank and SBI Card transactions, as well as up to six months of no-cost EMI. The Fusion Red variant joins the existing Cyber Green and Star Silver colour options.

The Vivo T5x 5G is currently priced at Rs 24,999 for the 6GB + 128GB model, Rs 27,999 for the 8GB + 128GB variant and Rs 30,999 for the 8GB + 256GB version. The smartphone was originally launched in India in March this year with a starting price of Rs 18,999, before hikes pushed it into the sub-Rs 25,000 segment.

At its current price, the Vivo T5x 5G competes with rivals such as the iQOO Z11x, OnePlus N6, Realme P4x and others. By introducing a new colour option instead of refreshing the hardware, Vivo appears to be aiming to keep the device relevant while attracting buyers looking for a different design.

Key specifications

The Vivo T5x 5G features a 6.72-inch Full HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7400 Turbo processor and packs a 7,200mAh battery with 44W FlashCharge support. For photography, the smartphone includes a 50MP Sony primary camera, while software features are handled by OriginOS 6, which also brings several AI-powered tools. The device also offers IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance, along with Military Grade Shock Resistance for improved durability.

Large batteries have become an increasingly important selling point in the mid-range segment, with brands focusing on extended battery life alongside capable processors and high-refresh-rate displays. The T5x 5G follows this trend by combining a sizeable battery with durability features that are still relatively uncommon at this price.

For buyers, the Fusion Red variant offers a new aesthetic without changing the overall experience. If you're looking for a standout colour option in this price bracket, the T5x is a good option as most other competitors offer the more minimal, standard colours.

[highlights]

• Sony has launched the 1000X The Collexion headphones at Rs 59,990 in India.
• Meanwhile, the WF-1000XM6 earbuds start at Rs 29,990 in the country.

• The 1000X The Collexion features Sony's QN3 processor, 12 microphones for adaptive noise cancellation, Hi-Res Audio support and Google Gemini integration.

[/highlights]

Sony has expanded its premium audio portfolio in India with the launch of the 1000X The Collexion headphones and the WF-1000XM6 true wireless earbuds. The new products celebrate a decade of the company's 1000X series, which is Sony's flagship lineup for noise-cancelling audio devices.

The new headphones and earbuds will go on sale in India from August 7th through Amazon, Flipkart, Sony Center stores, ShopAtSC.com, Croma and Reliance Digital.

Pricing and availability

The Sony 1000X The Collexion is priced at Rs 59,990 and will be available in Black and Platinum colour options. Meanwhile, the WF-1000XM6 earbuds are priced at Rs 29,990 and come in Black and Platinum Silver.

With these prices, Sony continues to target the premium audio segment, where it competes with products such as Apple's AirPods Pro 2, Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless series and premium over-ear headphones from Bose and Sonos. The company appears to be focusing on users who prioritise audio quality, noise cancellation and smart features over affordability.

Key features

The 1000X The Collexion headphones feature a redesigned premium look with metal accents, leather finishes, a wider headband and larger ear cushions for improved comfort during extended use. Sony says the headphones use its HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3 and Integrated Processor V3, paired with a custom driver unit, to deliver improved sound quality.

They also support features such as 360 Reality Audio, DSEE Ultimate, Hi-Res Audio, Hi-Res Wireless, a 10-band equaliser, Adaptive Noise Cancelling Optimiser, Google Gemini integration, Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat, head gesture controls and multi-device connectivity. Sony has also included 12 microphones to improve active noise cancellation and call quality.

The new WF-1000XM6 earbuds are powered by Sony's HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3e. The company claims they offer up to 25 percent better noise cancellation than the previous WF-1000XM5. The earbuds also feature adaptive ambient sound, AI-powered voice pickup, bone conduction sensors for clearer calls, and support for Google Gemini.

For battery life, Sony claims the WF-1000XM6 can deliver up to 24 hours of playback with the charging case. A five-minute quick charge is said to provide up to 50 minutes of listening time. The earbuds also support Qi wireless charging and carry a sweat- and splash-resistant design.

Sony's latest offerings reflect how the premium audio segment is evolving. Instead of relying solely on better sound quality, brands are focusing on AI-powered features, smarter noise cancellation and seamless ecosystem integration to justify premiums. For buyers, the new models could be worth considering if features such as class-leading noise cancellation, high-quality audio and intelligent controls are a priority. Those primarily looking for value, however, may find more affordable options from Sony and rival brands better suited to their needs.

[highlights]

• The Redmi Turbo 6 Max could launch initially in China.
• The smartphone will succeed the Dimensity 9500s-powered Turbo 5 Max
• It could pack a 10,000mAh battery, ideal for hours of gaming and entertainment.

[/highlights]

Redmi could soon add a new member to its performance-oriented Turbo lineup with the release of the Redmi Turbo 6 Max next year in China. What appears to be a render of the Turbo 6 Max has been surfacing online recently, showcasing the phone's rear design, featuring a horizontal camera layout and slim bezels. The smartphone's key specifications have also been seemingly revealed, courtesy of Digital Chat Station (DCS) on Weibo.

Redmi Turbo 6 Max's design surfaces online

The leaked Redmi Turbo 6 Max image showcases a flat front glass panel with relatively slim, symmetrical bezels framing all four sides. Up front, there's a centred hole-punch cutout located at the top edge for the selfie camera. At the rear, the most striking element is a wide, pill-shaped horizontal camera island running across the top portion of the device, similar to Google Pixel's camera bar.

Since we were unable to verify the source of the image, the design details should be taken with a pinch of salt.

Redmi Turbo 6 Max's leaked specifications

Per the details revealed by DCS on Weibo, the Redmi Turbo 6 Max appears to be engineered as a media-consumption and power-user powerhouse. The phone could carry a massive 7-inch display with 2K resolution, something that has generally been reserved for premium flagships.

With the display crossing the usual 6.8-inch size, it could be ideal for high-frame-rate gaming, multitasking, and streaming. Notably, despite its tablet-like screen size, the phone maintains an ergonomic aesthetic thanks to large R-angle (softly rounded) corners that prevent the sharp, boxy feel typically associated with large flat displays. It could sport a flat metal frame, giving the device better heat dissipation capabilities and a premium in-hand feel.

Under the hood, a monumental 10,000mAh battery could be present. Given the known details, Redmi seems to be balancing ultra-long battery life with a modern design. However, it remains to be seen how well Redmi has maintained the phone's weight considering the battery capacity.

Will the Redmi Turbo 6 Max launch in India?

The Redmi Turbo 6 Max was essentially launched in India as the POCO X8 Pro Max, making the Redmi Turbo series exclusive to China. Therefore, there is a high chance that the Redmi Turbo 6 Max could land in India as a POCO-branded smartphone.

While we're yet to know the performance and processor details (the POCO X8 Pro Max was powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9500s), the 7-inch 2K display and the 10,000mAh battery indicate that the phone is going all out on gaming, endurance, and entertainment experiences. Since the POCO smartphone was launched at Rs 42,999 (currently selling at Rs 46,999 due to price hikes), the Redmi Turbo 6 Max's Indian variant could certainly cross the Rs 50,000 or even the Rs 55,000 mark for its superior and advanced hardware.

If the rumoured specifications align with your needs for a gaming/media powerhouse, it might be worth waiting for the device if it happens to launch here next year.

[highlights]

• The Pixel Watch 5 has been spotted in the Google Health app ahead of its debut at the Made by Google event.
• The smartwatch will launch in 41mm and 45mm sizes with Wi-Fi and LTE variants, and a Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset.
• The Pixel Watch 5 is tipped to start at EUR 419 (around Rs 45,600).

[/highlights]

Google's next smartwatch appears to be getting closer to launch. After surfacing in leaked renders, certification listings and even in the Caribbean sea (!), the unannounced Pixel Watch 5 has now appeared in Google's own Health app, making it unofficially official that its debut is just around the corner.

According to an account on Telegram (via), the Pixel Watch 5 now shows up as a supported device in the Google Health app. Screenshots shared show the smartwatch listed alongside other compatible devices, with a dedicated setup page that prompts users to connect the wearable to the app. While the listing doesn't reveal any new features, it suggests Google is preparing its software ecosystem ahead of the expected launch at the Made by Google event on August 12th, where the Pixel 11 series is also anticipated to debut.

Key specifications and changes

The Google Health app listing doesn't disclose any hardware details. However, the Pixel Watch 5 appears to use the same artwork as the Pixel Watch 4, but that could be because Google may simply be using a placeholder image before the official announcement.

Previous leaks suggest the Pixel Watch 5 will be available in 41 mm and 45 mm sizes with both Wi-Fi and LTE variants. The smartwatch is expected to ship with Wear OS 7, slightly larger batteries and Qualcomm's rumoured Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset. A Google Play Console listing also hinted at an increase from 2GB to 3GB of RAM, while the CPU and GPU configuration is expected to remain largely unchanged.

Certification listings have also pointed to support for LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC and ultra-wideband (UWB). If these details prove correct, the upgrades this year could come from better performance, battery life and AI capabilities rather than a redesign.

Sizing and aesthetic finishes

Renders leaked earlier suggest the Pixel Watch 5 will look almost identical to its predecessor, retaining the domed display, proprietary band attachment system and side charging contacts. The smartwatch is tipped to arrive in four case finishes: Dark Anthracite, Natural Silver, Pyrite and Warm Gold. However, the Warm Gold option is expected to be limited to the 41 mm model, while the larger 45 mm version could be available in the remaining three colours. The renders also show a refreshed watch face with a dedicated Gemini shortcut, hinting at tighter AI integration across Google's wearable ecosystem.

Expected pricing

Recent reports suggest the Pixel Watch 5 could start at EUR 419 (around Rs 45,600) for the 41mm Wi-Fi model, while the LTE version may cost EUR 519 (around Rs 56,500). The larger 45mm variant is tipped to start at EUR 449 (around Rs 48,900) for Wi-Fi and EUR 549 (around Rs 57,600) for LTE, representing a EUR 20 increase over the Pixel Watch 4 in Europe.

Google is yet to confirm pricing or India availability, although previous Pixel Watch models have launched in the country. If it arrives here, the Pixel Watch 5 is likely to compete with premium smartwatches such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch series and the Apple Watch Series lineup.

For existing Pixel users, the Watch 5 could be worth considering if the rumoured battery, RAM and AI improvements translate into a smoother everyday experience. Those hoping for a new design or significant health sensor upgrades, however, may want to wait for Google's official announcement before making a decision.

[highlights]

• New details of the Vivo S2's design and colourways have surfaced from industry sources
• The phone is tipped to get a 3D curved AMOLED display and a slim, light build
• This builds on an earlier leak that detailed its expected specifications and pricing

[/highlights]

We already know quite a bit about the upcoming Vivo S2 from an earlier leak covering its specifications and India pricing. Now, information shared with us by industry sources sheds light on the phone's design direction, and it looks like Vivo is leaning heavily on how the S2 looks and feels in hand to justify its upper mid-range positioning.

Vivo S2 design and colours

According to the information we've received, the Vivo S2 is being built around what the brand considers the priorities of today's young buyers: a phone that's stylish, comfortable to hold, and premium throughout. The phone is expected to launch in three colourways, Silk White, Sapphire Blue, and Regal Bronze, each described as offering a clean, premium finish, something we saw earlier this week via leaked hands-on videos of the S2 dummy units.

[caption id="attachment_709545" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Vivo S2 dummy units reveal colourways and curved design[/caption]

The bigger highlight is said to be a 3D curved AMOLED display, aimed at delivering an edge-to-edge, immersive viewing experience while giving the phone a more flagship-inspired look. Vivo is also tipped to keep the S2 slim and light, with the Silk White variant measuring 8.10mm thick and weighing 199g, while the Sapphire Blue and Regal Bronze colourways come in slightly slimmer and lighter at 7.99mm and 197g.

Taken together, this points to Vivo positioning the S2 as a design-first device for buyers who care about how a phone looks and feels as much as what's inside it, an approach that fits with what we'd already heard about the phone's positioning below the V70 series.

Recap: expected specifications and pricing

We previously reported that the Vivo S2 could launch in India around August 6, priced between Rs 40,000 and Rs 45,000, with a box price of Rs 66,999. That places it in the same bracket as phones like the OnePlus Nord 6 and the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro.

On the spec side, earlier leaks pointed to a 6.83-inch 1.5K curved pOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, the MediaTek Dimensity 7360-Turbo chipset, a 7,050mAh battery with 44W charging, and IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance. Cameras were tipped to be relatively modest for the segment: a 50MP primary sensor paired with a 2MP secondary sensor, and a 32MP front camera. It's worth noting that the newly leaked design details describe a 3D curved AMOLED panel, while the earlier leak mentioned a curved pOLED display, the two descriptions are largely consistent, though we'd wait for Vivo's official confirmation on the exact panel type.

What to expect

With design details now emerging alongside the previously leaked specifications and pricing, the picture of the Vivo S2 is getting clearer even before Vivo's own teasers reveal much. The phone looks set to prioritise how it looks and feels over chasing spec-sheet numbers, a strategy that could work well if Vivo prices it right in a segment where the Nord 6 and Phone (4a) Pro already have a foothold. As always, we'd recommend waiting for Vivo's official announcement before treating any of this as final.

[highlights]

• OPPO PYE110 could be part of the brand's A series.
• It has a horizontal camera bar design.
• The new OPPO phone is also listed with a 6.5-inch display. 

[/highlights]

A new OPPO smartphone, model number PYE110, has surfaced on China's TENAA certification website. The handset is rumoured to be part of the OPPO A7 series and is expected to feature a 6.57-inch display. So far, the OPPO A7 Pro Max has been confirmed to launch in China, and it is said to pack a massive 10,000mAh battery. OPPO has not officially announced any other A7 series device yet, including this newly spotted handset. Interestingly, the certifications have also revealed the design of the OPPO PYE110, which appears quite similar to the Vivo S2, a phone set to launch in India soon.

OPPO PYE110 design revealed

According to the images on the TENAA listing, the OPPO PYE110 has a horizontal camera bar housing two sensors and an LED flash. The smartphone has a flat frame with the power button and volume keys located on the right side. The colour variant here appears to be a dark violet shade.  

[gallery link="file" size="full" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="709953,709952,709950,709951"]

Interestingly, this OPPO phone looks quite like the Vivo S2, which also has a similar camera bar design. The Vivo S2 is set to debut in India next week. There's no official word on the new OPPO phone yet, but it's speculated to launch under the OPPO A series. If this is indeed an A-series device, it suggests OPPO is continuing to bolster its mid-range offerings, potentially targeting markets where budget-friendly yet stylish phones are in high demand, or perhaps filling a specific price point gap within their extensive A-series lineup.

In terms of specifications, the OPPO PYE110 is expected to feature a 6.57-inch FHD+ (1,080x2,372 pixels) AMOLED display. This would mean a slightly compact size, making it a good choice for people who don't want a phone that's too big or too small. It's also listed with 6GB and 8GB RAM options, along with 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage options on TENAA. More specifications include an octa-core chipset with a maximum clock speed of 2.4GHz, a 50MP rear camera unit, and an 8MP front camera. These specs suggest a mid-range smartphone with a focus on design and a decent set of hardware. 

This OPPO smartphone will most likely fall in the mid-range segment. We're yet to know more about it, especially which series it could belong to, and most importantly, the phone's name. Since it's too early, we can't say much about the OPPO PYE110, but you could still keep an eye out for it if the camera design and the compact 6.5-inch size appeal to you. Given the early stage, it's wise to wait for official announcements and full specifications before making any purchase decisions, especially if you own a recent A-series device and are considering an upgrade.

Nothing's smartphone lineup has quietly become one of the more interesting ones to check out in India. With the Phone (4b) now sitting below the Phone (4a) and Phone (4a) Pro, and last year's Phone (3) still on sale as the brand's flagship, there are four distinct phones spanning the budget to premium mid-range segments. Here's how they compare, and which one actually makes sense for you.

Nothing Phone (4b): the entry point

The Phone (4b) is Nothing's newest and most affordable phone, starting at Rs 34,999 for the 8GB+128GB variant and Rs 38,999 for the 8GB+256GB variant. It runs on the Snapdragon 6 Gen 4, gets a 6.77-inch AMOLED display, a 50MP main camera with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and Nothing's brightest Glyph Bar yet. There's no telephoto lens here, and it's built to be Nothing's accessible option rather than a scaled-down flagship. If you want Nothing's design language and Glyph Interface at the lowest possible price, and don't need a dedicated zoom camera, this is the one to consider. We haven't run it through a full review yet, so treat the above as based on Nothing's own specifications for now.

Buy it for:

• The lowest entry price into Nothing's design language and Glyph interface
• A clean and stock Android OS with Nothing's custom OS on top, along with 3 years of guaranteed OS updates.
• Nothing's brightest Glyph Bar yet, with Live Updates support

Nothing Phone (4a): the best all-rounder for most people

The Phone (4a) currently costs Rs 39,999, up from its Rs 31,999 launch price. In our original review, the phone stood out mainly for its 50MP periscope telephoto camera, a rare inclusion at this price, offering 3.5x optical zoom and genuinely impressive portrait results. The Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 handles everyday use and casual gaming comfortably, the 5,400mAh battery gets you through a day reliably, and Nothing OS 4.1 remains clean and clutter-free. The trade-offs are a lack of NFC, an underwhelming selfie camera, and a Glyph Bar that feels less engaging than the older Glyph Lights system. If you want the best camera versatility for the price without stepping up to the Pro, this is the pick. You can also check out our more recent long-term review to see how the phone stands today after a few price hikes.

Buy it for:

• A genuinely versatile 3.5x periscope telephoto camera, rare at its price
• Clean, near bloatware-free Nothing OS with reliable everyday performance
• Dependable battery life for a full day of regular use

Nothing Phone (4a) Pro: the premium mid-ranger

At Rs 49,999 (up from its Rs 39,999 launch price), the Phone (4a) Pro built on the 4a's foundation with a metal chassis, a larger 50MP Sony sensor on the main camera, and a telephoto lens that stretches to 140x digital zoom, double the 4a's range. We noted better thermal efficiency during gaming and a more premium in-hand feel as the standout upgrades in our review. Like the 4a, it lacks NFC and eSIM in India, and rivals at the same price offer better battery backup. It's the right choice if you want Nothing's most refined design and camera system without going all the way to the Phone (3).

Buy it for:

• A metal chassis and transparent camera module that feel noticeably more premium
• A telephoto lens that stretches to 140x digital zoom, double the standard 4a's range
• Better thermal efficiency for gaming, thanks to a larger vapour chamber

Nothing Phone (3): the flagship that's aged into a bargain

The Phone (3) launched at Rs 79,999 and, in our original review, scored 7.8/10, largely because that price felt hard to justify against the iPhone 16 and Galaxy S25. But after revisiting the phone in May, we found the calculus has changed. With street prices now down to around Rs 45,000, the Phone (3) looks like one of the few phones in that bracket still offering a complete flagship experience, including a genuine telephoto camera, the faster Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset, an aluminium frame, and IP68 protection.

Moreover, with smartphone prices increasing across the board this year due to the memory chip crisis, the Phone (3) starts to look even better than some of the newer mid-range phones, provided, of course, you're able to purchase the flagship under Rs 50,000. Battery life and thermals under load remain its weaker points, and the polarising Glyph Matrix and asymmetrical camera design are still there. But if you're able to get it at half its launch price, it undercuts the Phone (4a) Pro while offering a faster chipset and a more premium build.

Buy it for:

• A faster Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset than any other phone in this lineup
• A more complete camera system, including a dedicated periscope telephoto with OIS
• Aluminium build with IP68 protection especially if you can buy it for around Rs 40,000

Specs comparison

Which Nothing phone should you buy?

If budget is the main constraint and you just want the Nothing look and feel, the Phone (4b) gets you in the door for the least money. If you want the best balance of camera versatility and price without spending too much, the Phone (4a) is the easiest recommendation of the four. If you want the most premium build and camera performance in the mid-range bracket and don't mind paying more, the Phone (4a) Pro delivers that.

But the most interesting pick right now might be the Phone (3). With discounts and offers, the phone can be bought close to the Phone (4a)'s price and comfortably under the Phone (4a) Pro's, and brings a faster chipset, a more premium metal-and-glass build, and a genuinely capable telephoto system to the table. It might not be worth buying at its original Rs 79,999 launch price since you can find newer and better flagships here. If the bulkier design and asymmetrical camera don't bother you, it's arguably the smartest buy in Nothing's entire current lineup.

[highlights]

• The iQOO Z11 is tipped to launch in India in August at around Rs 35,000.
• It could come with a 1.5K 144Hz curved OLED display, a Dimensity 7500 chipset, and a 7,000mAh - 8,000mAh battery.
• The iQOO Z11 China variant packs the Dimensity 8500.

[/highlights]

iQOO launched the "budget" iQOO Z11 Lite in India a few days ago to join the existing Z11x in the latest Z-series lineup, and now another member seems to be coming soon. We haven't heard much officially but soon after a BIS listing was spotted for the iQOO Z11, there were indications that it would be coming soon. Now, a new leak reveals its expected specifications and price range.

The iQOO Z11 launched in China in March this year. While the phone appears to retain some of the features of the Chinese variant, it's also said to arrive with a different chipset, suggesting iQOO may be tailoring the device specifically for the Indian market.

Launch and expected pricing

Tipster Debayan Roy claims the iQOO Z11 (model number I2514) will launch in India in August at a price of around Rs 35,000. An official announcement is expected soon. If the tipped pricing holds, the iQOO Z11 will move the Z series further into the upper mid-range segment. For comparison, the iQOO Z10 5G debuted in India in April 2025 at Rs 21,999 for the 8GB + 128GB variant and is currently listed at Rs 24,999, although it's out of stock.

At around Rs 35,000, the iQOO Z11 is expected to compete with devices such as the OnePlus Nord CE 6, Motorola Edge 70 Pro, and even maybe the upcoming Redmi Note 15, which is expected launch around a similar price range.

Expected specs

According to the leak, the Indian iQOO Z11 could feature a 1.5K 144Hz curved OLED display, a battery between 7,000mAh and 8,000mAh with 90W fast charging, and the MediaTek Dimensity 7500 processor. It's also tipped to offer a 50MP primary camera with OIS, a 32MP front camera, IP68 and IP69 ratings, an in-display fingerprint sensor, a plastic frame, and 8GB and 12GB RAM options. An earlier report had claimed the phone would use the same chipset, making it the first smartphone in India to feature the platform. The Indian variant is also expected to come with a curved display, unlike the flat display found on the Chinese model.

The iQOO Z11 launched in China with a more powerful MediaTek Dimensity 8500 processor, a 6.83-inch 1.5K 165Hz AMOLED display, a 9,020mAh battery, 90W fast charging, a 50MP OIS primary camera, a 2MP depth sensor, and a 16MP selfie camera. It starts at CNY 2,299 (around Rs 32,500) for the 8GB + 256GB model.

The shift from the Dimensity 8500 to the Dimensity 7500 Turbo suggests iQOO may be prioritising pricing over outright performance for India. The Dimensity 8500 is designed for flagship-level gaming and demanding workloads, while the Dimensity 7500 Turbo is better suited for everyday multitasking and mainstream gaming. Using the less powerful chip could help iQOO keep the phone within a more competitive price bracket while still offering premium features such as a high refresh rate curved display, a large battery, and fast charging.

The iQOO Z11 could appeal to those looking for long battery life and a premium display without stepping into flagship pricing. However, since the specifications are based on leaks, it may be worth waiting for the official announcement to see how the final hardware and pricing compare with rivals in the segment.

[highlights]

• The Pixel 11 series is launching on August 11th.
• Pre-orders for the new Pixel lineup start the same day.
• Three models, including a Pixel 11 Pro Fold is expected to debut.

[/highlights]

Google has officially teased the Pixel 11 Pro, one of the models launching as part of its latest flagship lineup. This new teaser gives us the best look so far at the Pixel 11 Pro's design. Google has officially revealed the Pixel 11 series will debut on August 11th, with pre-orders set to begin on August 12th. The lineup is expected to include four phones: Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and Pixel 11 Pro Fold. 

Google Pixel 11 Pro teaser

Google shared a new teaser video on its socials, showcasing the design of the Pixel 11 Pro. It's not a complete image, but more of a silhouette of the handset, but still our clearest official look at the design yet. The Pixel 11 Pro continues with the curved edges like the previous Pixel 10 series and the large camera bar at the back, housing three sensors. One difference, though, is that there's no separate space for the LED flash and the temperature sensor. The LED flash now sits flush with the camera sensors, giving a more uniform look.

Google has also added a new Pixel Glow lighting feature to the Pixel 11 lineup. It's a small circular light in multiple colours, expected to work as a notification indicator for calls, messages, and other compatible apps. 

Google Pixel 11 Pro: what to expect

Based on what we know so far, the Pixel 11 Pro is assumed to sit in the middle of the lineup, between the Pixel 11 and Pixel 11 Pro XL. Reports suggest it will house a 4,850mAh battery, which is interestingly a tiny bit smaller than the Pixel 10 Pro's 4,870mAh capacity. The Pixel 11 Pro, along with the rest of the lineup, is also expected to use TSMC's 2nm Tensor G6 chipset, expected to deliver better efficiency and thermal performance. The handset is expected to compete with the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro lineup. 

Google is also rumoured to move from 16GB to 12GB RAM for the Pixel 11 Pro models. While this might affect performance, Google is said to focus on deeper Android 17 optimisations for maintaining performance. Google is known to focus more on software, giving Pixels the advantage of Android features and updates. But it could increase the base storage from 128GB to 256GB.

With less than two weeks to go for the Pixel 11 series launch, we should know more about the phones very soon. If you own a Pixel 9 or older, the potential improvements in chipset and camera might justify an upgrade. However, Pixel 10 Pro users might find the changes more iterative, especially given the slightly smaller battery capacity. It's still advised to wait for reviews and comparisons before making any buying decision. 

[highlights]

• AMD launches the Radeon RX 9050 at $279 and brings RDNA 4 architecture with 16 CUs, 8GB GDDR6 and a 92W TBP.
• The card targets "Medium" 1080p gaming in AAA titles and high-FPS esports. 
• The GPU has only launched in Asia-Pacific, Japan, and Latin America markets currently. 

[/highlights]

AMD just dropped the Radeon RX 9050, a new entry-level RDNA 4 graphics card that promises to bring the latest gaming tech to mainstream 1080p gamers, starting at $279 (approximately Rs 27,000). It's not a halo product, but it could be the upgrade a lot of older 1080p rigs actually need. Let's look at it in more detail below.

What you're actually getting

The Radeon RX 9050 runs on AMD's RDNA 4 architecture with 16 Compute Units and 1,024 stream processors and comes with 8GB of GDDR6 on a 128-bit bus (288 GB/s). Its clock speed sits at 1.92 GHz and goes up to 2.60 GHz with boost enabled, while the card draws just 92W TBP (total board power), a lot lower than the RX 9060 and far below the 9060 XT. AMD is thus pitching this GPU as a 1080p "Medium" gaming card. The brand's own numbers claim:

• About 60 FPS in 007: First Light
• Around 96 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077
• Over 100 FPS in Forza Horizon 6 and Counter-Strike 2

All at 1080p resolution and Medium graphical settings. That's a sensible target for this price segment and users can expect smooth esports performance and a worthwhile experience on AAA titles. 

On the feature side, you get stuff like 3rd-gen ray tracing accelerators, 2nd-gen AI accelerators, AV1 encode/decode, and full support for AMD FSR upscaling. With FSR, you can improve frame rates in demanding AAA games, which a card like will likely struggle in.
AMD also launched the Adrenalin 26.7.1 driver alongside the card, adding day-one support and early multiplayer access for Gears of War: E-Day. 

Where it sits in the market

At $279, the Radeon RX 9050 undercuts the GeForce RTX 4060's $299 MSRP while offering 8GB of VRAM and full RDNA 4 features. For gamers on a tight budget or with small PSUs, the 92W TBP is a comfortable requirement and the card will easily slot into older systems without the need to rethink cooling and power.

There are, however, some caveats that needed to be addressed. The GPU's initial availability is limited to Asia-Pacific, Japan, and Latin America. For Indian gamers, we're likely to see it later, or mainly through pre-builts (some of which could use a 4GB OEM variant).

The card is likely to launch around Rs 30,000 if the memory prices don't climb too aggressively and be a decent option for users considering to build their first 1080p desktop gaming system and people on a strict budget.