[highlights]

• The Redmi Note 17 and Note 17 Pro have launched in China with 8,000mAh and 9,000mAh batteries respectively.
• The standard model features a 7-inch OLED display, while the Pro adds a 1.5K OLED screen, Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 chipset and IP69K durability.
• The Redmi Note 17 has already appeared on BIS, with a 6GB + 128GB Indian variant tipped in Blue and Dark Night colours.

[/highlights]

Xiaomi has launched the Redmi Note 17 and Note 17 Pro in China, expanding its popular mid-range smartphone lineup with a focus on battery life. The new phones pack 8,000mAh and 9,000mAh batteries, respectively, making them among the larger capacity devices in their segments.

Redmi Note 17 (standard)

The standard Redmi Note 17 features a standout 7-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Full HD+ resolution and up to 1,800 nits peak brightness. While most smartphones today use displays between 6.6 and 6.8 inches, Xiaomi is betting on a larger screen to appeal to users who consume a lot of video content, play games or prefer a tablet-like viewing experience.

Powering the phone is the Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 chipset, paired with up to 8GB LPDDR4X RAM and 256GB UFS 2.2 storage. The device packs an 8,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging and 22.5W reverse wired charging, allowing it to charge other devices.

Other features include a 50MP rear camera, 8MP selfie camera, Android 16-based HyperOS 3, an in-display fingerprint scanner, NFC, microSD card support and Gorilla Glass 7i protection.

Redmi Note 17 Pro

The Redmi Note 17 Pro steps things up with a 6.83-inch 1.5K OLED display offering a 120Hz refresh rate, up to 3,500 nits peak brightness and Xiaomi's eye protection technologies. It is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 chipset and packs up to 12GB RAM and 512GB storage. The biggest highlight is its 9,000mAh battery, paired with 67W fast charging and 22.5W reverse charging. Xiaomi is also introducing a five-year battery programme in China. Buyers will receive a free battery replacement if battery health drops below 80 percent during the first four years. In the fifth year, eligible users will receive a larger-capacity replacement battery instead.

The phone also offers IP66, IP68, IP69 and IP69K ratings, making it one of the most durable devices in its segment. Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, an in-display fingerprint sensor and Android 16 with HyperOS 3 round out the package.

Compared to rivals such as the iQOO Z11 series, OnePlus Nord series and Honor Power lineup, Xiaomi is positioning battery life as the biggest selling point of the Note 17 series. The use of Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 and Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 chipsets means these phones prioritise endurance over flagship-grade performance.

Pricing and market availability

The Redmi Note 17 starts at CNY 1,299 (around Rs 18,450) for the 6GB + 128GB model and is available in Black, Shallow Cyan and Meteor Purple. It is available in three configurations:

• 6GB + 128GB: CNY 1,299 (around Rs 18,500)
• 8GB + 128GB: CNY 1,399 (around Rs 19,900)
• 8GB + 256GB: CNY 1,599 (around Rs 22,700)

The Redmi Note 17 Pro starts at CNY 1,599 (around Rs 22,690) for the 8GB + 128GB variant, with additional 256GB and 512GB storage options. It comes in Sky Blue, Nebula Purple, Black and White. It is offered in four variants:

• 8GB + 128GB: CNY 1,599 (around Rs 22,700)
• 8GB + 256GB: CNY 1,899 (around Rs 26,900)
• 12GB + 256GB: CNY 2,199 (around Rs. 31,200)
• 8GB + 512GB: CNY 2,299 (around Rs 32,620)

[highlights]

• Apple is reportedly engineering the M7 Ultra for up to 1.5TB of unified memory.
• The move suggests Apple is prioritising on-device and professional AI performance.
• The chip will likely target studios and developers who need extreme memory capacity for creative and AI-heavy workflows.

[/highlights]

Apple is reportedly planning to push its high-end Mac hardware into new territory with the M7 Ultra. According to a Bloomberg's Power On newsletter, the chip is being engineered to support up to 1.5TB of unified memory, a figure that would place it alongside the most extreme memory configuration ever offered on the 2019 Intel Mac Pro. Let's discuss this in more detail below. 

What the report says

The key figure here is undoubtedly the 1.5TB of unified memory, which would put the M7 Ultra at an all-new standard. Mark Gurman's newsletter says Apple is designing the chip for that level of memory, although the final configuration may change depending on supply conditions and how the market looks closer to launch.

He also shares that Apple is dropping the M6 Pro, M6 Max and M6 Ultra, with only the base M6 chip arriving this year before the company moves straight to the M7 family. That would shift the high-end Mac roadmap to an M7 Pro and M7 Max in late 2027, followed by the M7 Ultra in 2028, as Apple prioritizes AI-focused silicon over a full M6 lineup

Apple's unified memory design gives Macs very fast access to system memory, but it also ties capacity to the size and design of the chip itself. If Apple really moves to 1.5TB, it would signal a much bigger step for creative workflows, AI tasks and other heavy professional use cases.

The comparison with the 2019 Mac Pro is here because that machine was Apple's old high-end reference point for extreme memory capacity. Matching it in Apple Silicon would show just how far the company's newer architecture has come, while also reinforcing Apple's shift away towards tightly integrated silicon built for specific tasks and now AI workloads.

There is, however, one important caveat. The report says Apple may not ship the full 1.5TB configuration if memory shortages continue. Apple might be building the chip to support that level, but it may still launch the final product with a lower top-end option depending on market conditions.

Apple's AI push reaches the Mac

Apple's move to engineer an M7 Ultra that can handle up to 1.5TB of unified memory looks to be a sign of where its high‑end Macs are headed. Based on an earlier report by Bloomberg, the company is already skipping the usual M6 Pro, Max and Ultra chips to jump straight to an AI‑focused M7 family, which suggests Apple cares more about on‑device and workstation‑class AI performance than small, incremental CPU upgrades. 

In that context, a 1.5TB capacity is mainly about keeping much larger models and datasets in RAM while the CPU, GPU and Neural Engine all work from the same memory pool, instead of shuffling data in and out of slower storage or the cloud. It also gives Apple room to pitch future Mac Studio or Mac Pro  machines as local AI workstations for studios and teams that already live inside macOS and as an alternative to Nvidia‑based setups. 

The rumoured M7 Ultra looks best suited for power users who work with large creative files, AI models or heavy professional workflows. It also makes sense for studios, developers and technical teams that want very high memory capacity on a Mac system, especially if they already rely on macOS for production work. 

[highlights]

• The Redmi 17C 5G has surfaced on Geekbench with the Dimensity 6300 chipset, 4GB RAM and Android 16.
• The phone is tipped to feature a 6.9-inch display, 50MP camera, 6,000mAh battery and 33W charging.
• It shares its codename with the Redmi 15C 5G.

[/highlights]

Xiaomi could soon expand its budget 5G smartphone portfolio with the Redmi 17C 5G. The phone has now appeared on Geekbench, offering a look at its processor, memory configuration and software. Interestingly, the listing also suggests the phone could share its hardware with the Redmi 15C 5G.

The Redmi 15C 5G debuted in India in December 2025, and if the latest leaks are accurate, its successor may focus more on software updates than major hardware changes. The Redmi 17C 5G is expected to launch in India and other global markets, although Xiaomi hasn't officially confirmed the device.

Expected specifications and features

According to a Geekbench listing spotted by tipster Kacper Skrzypek, the Redmi 17C 5G carries the codename "Tornado", which is the same codename previously associated with the Redmi 15C 5G and POCO C85 5G. This suggests the upcoming phone may be a rebadged version rather than an entirely new model.

The benchmark listing reveals single-core and multi-core scores of 729 and 1,692, respectively, on Geekbench 6.7.1. It also points to an octa-core chipset with two performance cores clocked at 2.40GHz and six efficiency cores at 2.00GHz, matching MediaTek's Dimensity 6300 processor. The tested variant includes 4GB of RAM and is listed with Android 16, likely running Xiaomi's HyperOS skin.

Previous reports indicate the Redmi 17C 5G could feature a 6.9-inch HD LCD display, a 50MP primary rear camera paired with a depth sensor, and an 8MP front camera. It's also tipped to pack a 6,000mAh battery with support for 33W fast charging.

Comparison: 4G vs 5G models

The Redmi 17C 5G appears to be positioned differently from the Redmi 17C 4G, which launched in China in June this year. The 4G model features a MediaTek Helio G81-Ultra processor, a 6.88-inch 120Hz HD+ LCD display, a 13MP rear camera, a 5MP selfie camera, and a 5,160mAh battery with 18W charging.

By comparison, the leaked Redmi 17C 5G is expected to offer a faster Dimensity 6300 chipset, a larger 6,000mAh battery, quicker 33W charging and a higher-resolution 50MP primary camera. These upgrades would make it a more compelling option for users looking for affordable 5G connectivity without moving into the mid-range segment.

Launch expectations

The Redmi 17C 5G is expected to launch in India and other global markets in the coming months, though its China debut remains uncertain. Pricing has not been revealed, but if Xiaomi follows its existing strategy, the phone is likely to be positioned close to the Redmi 15C 5G, which launched in India at Rs 12,499 for the 4GB + 128GB variant.

The early leaks suggest the Redmi 17C 5G could be worth considering if you're looking for a budget 5G phone with a large battery and the latest version of Android. However, if the hardware ends up being largely unchanged from the Redmi 15C 5G, existing users may find little reason to upgrade.

[highlights]

• OnePlus has started rolling out OxygenOS 16.0.9.400 for the OnePlus 15 in India.
• The update brings new fingerprint animations, smoother multitasking, fresh camera filters and gaming audio tweaks.
• Some users are also reporting dual eSIM support with the update, along with the July 2026 Android security patch.

[/highlights]

OnePlus has started rolling out the OxygenOS 16.0.9.400 update for the OnePlus 15 (review) in India, and this one brings more than just minor fixes. The update adds new fingerprint animation styles, smoother multitasking, fresh camera filters, gaming audio tweaks and a few useful quality-of-life features, making it one of the more feature-packed OxygenOS updates for the device so far. Let's take a detailed look at it below.

What's new?

The OxygenOS 16.0.9.400 update adds a wider set of fingerprint icons and animations on the home and lock screens, along with smoother app opening and switching animations in Recent Tasks

[gallery link="file" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="708206,708204,708202"]

OnePlus has also added two new camera filters: Primrose, which aims for warm, film-like portraits, and Bold B&W, which is designed for dramatic black-and-white photography.

For gaming, the update brings an equaliser inside Game Assistant so users can fine-tune game audio more precisely. It can be accessed via Game Assistant > Tools > Sound Boost > Equaliser. OnePlus has also improved Sound Boost so it works with more games and can emphasise effects like footsteps or vocals more clearly.

The update also adds remote PC lock support, letting users lock and unlock their PC from the phone after connecting remotely. It also introduces a backup face option for device unlock, which should help if glasses or makeup interfere with regular face recognition.

OnePlus says the update includes the July 2026 Android security patch as part of the rollout. Since this is a staged release, only a small percentage of users are getting it first, with a wider rollout planned in the coming days. Some users are also reporting dual eSIM support with this update, which would make it an even more useful upgrade for people who rely on multiple cellular profiles.

How soon will I get in on my OnePlus device?

As the company's newest flagship, it makes sense that the OnePlus 15 is getting the update first. Since this is an OxygenOS 16-based rollout, other compatible phones (check out the entire list of supported devices) should follow in the coming weeks. That includes the OnePlus 15R, OnePlus 13 series, OnePlus 12 series, OnePlus 11 series, Nord 6 series, Nord 5 series, Nord 4 series and more supported devices. 

This update is not a major OxygenOS overhaul, but it does bring a good mix of useful additions for OnePlus 15 users. If you want the latest security patch and dual eSIM support, this is a good update to install. If you prefer to be cautious, you can wait a few days because the rollout is still staged.

The update adds new camera filters, smoother app and multitasking animations, gaming audio improvements, remote PC lock support and backup face unlock, along with the July 2026 Android security patch.

Some users are also reporting dual eSIM support, which is a more substantial upgrade. It brings the OnePlus 15 in line with other high-end phones that let users juggle physical and eSIM profiles. This is particularly useful in markets like India where people often run separate personal and work numbers or switch between operators. 

[highlights]

• The OPPO Find X9 Ultra and Vivo X300 Ultra feature dual 200MP cameras.
• The OPPO Find X10 Pro Max is likely to be powered by MediaTek's upcoming 2nm flagship processor.
• The smartphone is expected to be released in September or October.

[/highlights]

Instead of debuting just two Find series flagships, OPPO is expected to raise the stakes by releasing three flagships under the Find X10 series in the coming months. Along with the standard Find X10 and Find X10 Pro, the Find X10 Pro Max could tag along, featuring the best of what OPPO has to offer in terms of optics, display, and performance.

But how will OPPO justify the inclusion of a "Pro Max" variant when its standard "Pro" models already come packed with high-end specifications? By including triple 200MP cameras on the back, as stated by the reliable tipster, Digital Chat Station (DCS) on Weibo.

OPPO Find X10 Pro Max to sport three 200MP rear cameras

This is not the first time DCS has stated that the upcoming OPPO Find X10 Pro Max will feature triple 200MP lenses. Back in March, the tipster revealed the sensor sizes of every 200MP camera that could be on board. The latest post simply states that the engineering prototype of the Find X10 Pro Max, which is being referred to as the "2nm DX6 Pro Max", is on track to include three 200MP cameras. It's safe to assume that the 2nm DX6 Pro Max moniker refers to the Pro Max phone featuring the 2nm-based Dimensity 9600/Pro chipset, MediaTek's upcoming successor to the Dimensity 9500.

[gallery link="file" columns="2" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="708201,708200"]

As for the actual sensors, the OPPO Find X10 Pro Max could feature a 200MP 1/1.3-inch primary camera, a 200MP 1/1.5-inch ultra-wide camera, and a 200MP 1/1.3-inch periscope telephoto lens. While the primary and periscope lenses appear identical to the Find X9 Ultra, the large 1/1.5-inch ultra-wide sensor could be a noteworthy addition for capturing detailed and crisp wide-perspective shots.

Given the hardware, the X10 Pro Max should deliver an exceptional photography experience in every scenario. Paired with Hasselblad tuning, the smartphone could be well suited for professional photographers and camera hobbyists seeking a device to capture images on the go.

What specifications may OPPO Find X10 Pro Max carry

Per previous leaks and reports, most of which have been brought up by DCS, the Find X10 Pro Max could carry either a 6.89-inch 2K LTPO flat display or a slightly smaller 6.78-inch 1.5K LTPO panel. OPPO Find X10 Pro Max's supposedly closest rival, the Vivo X500 Pro (X300 Pro's successor), may also have a 2K panel this time around.

Built on a 2nm fabrication process, the MediaTek Dimensity 9600/Pro could result in much-needed efficiency gains. The next-gen flagship mobile chipset from MediaTek is also expected to be announced in a couple of months, right around when Qualcomm will unveil the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 in September. On the software front, the OPPO Find X10 series should run on Android 17-based ColorOS 17 out of the box.

With the specs leaked so far, the OPPO Find X10 Pro Max could shake up the flagship segment thanks to its triple 200MP camera array. But OPPO's real edge may lie beyond raw hardware in how the company leverages advanced computational photography and software tuning to make the most out of the sensors. Just like other upcoming flagships, the X10 Pro Max should be announced in China in September or October, while only time will tell whether OPPO brings the device to India or global markets.

[highlights]

• The iOS 27 Public Beta update is available for iPhones as old as iPhone 11.
• The update brings several performance and stability improvements.
• Major highlights of iOS 27 include Siri AI and deeply integrated Apple Intelligence.

[/highlights]

iOS 27 was unveiled to the world back in June during WWDC26. Fast forward to today, three developer beta updates later, iOS 27 Public Beta is now available for everyone to try out, provided you own an eligible iPhone and are ready to take on the risks the beta update may bring. With a brand new Siri, Liquid Glass transparency slider, and tons of stability and performance improvements in tow, iOS 27 appears to be all about refinements and getting back on track.

As for when the stable iOS 27 update will be released, it should arrive in September alongside the next generation of iPhones.

iOS 27 key features worth knowing

Siri AI - Siri on iOS 27 has been completely revamped. Along with a new design, it now supports natural, conversational interactions, understands context from your screen and personal data (like Messages and Calendar), and can perform complex multi-step tasks across apps.

Expanded Apple Intelligence - Apple Intelligence has been deeply integrated into the system. It improves the already available writing tools, image generation, and context-aware suggestions in Safari, Mail, Notes, and more.

[caption id="attachment_708188" align="alignnone" width="1562"] New Siri interface[/caption]

Photos app upgrades - The improved Apple Intelligence improves the Clean Up feature (better object removal and background filling), Spatial Reframing, and Extend (which intelligently expands or crops images).

Performance improvements - One of the key highlights of iOS 27, the entire system feels faster. Animations are quicker, apps launch snappier, AirDrop transfers are faster, and transitions between Wi-Fi and cellular are smoother.

Visual Intelligence - Built directly into the Camera app as a dedicated Siri mode, it makes it easier to analyse objects, get information, or interact with what's in the camera frame.

Design and customisation - Liquid Glass can now be adjusted to appear more tinted or transparent, then there's enhanced wallpaper customisation and subtle aesthetic tweaks throughout the OS for a more polished look.

Parental Controls - The update adds stronger tools for parents, including improved "Ask to Browse" permissions and better management of children's device usage and content access.

Apple's renewed focus on AI with Siri AI and deeply integrated Apple Intelligence comes at a time when competitors like Google and Samsung are also heavily investing in on-device and cloud-based AI. This may also lock users deeper into its ecosystem once they've developed a habit of regularly using AI features in their workflow.

How to download and install iOS 27 Beta update

Here's how you can install the iOS 27 Beta on your iPhone:

Step 1: Go ahead and open any browser and visit beta.apple.com

Step 2: Then, Sign in with your Apple ID

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

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

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

Step 6: The iOS 27 public beta update should pop up. Simply tap 'Download and Install', and you're good to go

Note: Since this is a beta update, we strongly advise you to refrain from downloading on your primary iPhone unless you're on board to face bugs or glitches that may come your way. Secondly, make sure to take a full backup of your device to be on the safer side.

iPhones eligible for iOS 27

The list of iPhones eligible for iOS 27 includes:

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

From what's on offer, iOS 27 may not be a major update, but it might be one of the most important ones in recent years. It brings meaningful additions, such as improving the speed and performance of the overall UI; Apple Intelligence is finally showing its true potential, while Siri is now more capable than ever before.

[highlights]

• iQOO 16, Neo 12 and Z12 Turbo are tipped to feature batteries ranging from 8,500mAh to 10,000mAh.
• The iQOO 16 is expected to pair an 8,500mAh battery with the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset and 100W charging.
• The iQOO 16 may reportedly skip India, while the iQOO Z11 Lite remains the company's next confirmed launch in the country.

[/highlights]

iQOO could be preparing a major battery upgrade across its upcoming premium smartphone lineup. Reliable tipster Digital Chat Station has shared fresh details suggesting that the iQOO 16, iQOO Neo 12 and iQOO Z12 Turbo are all being tested with significantly larger batteries than their predecessors, continuing an industry-wide trend towards ultra-high-capacity silicon-carbon batteries.

The leak comes shortly after the same tipster revealed key specifications of the iQOO 16. While none of the details have been confirmed by the company, they indicate that iQOO is looking to balance flagship performance with longer battery life across different price segments, which has pretty much become the trend across the industry.

iQOO upcoming phones key leaked specifications

According to the latest leak (via), the iQOO 16 is currently being tested with an 8,500mAh battery. The phone is expected to be powered by Qualcomm's upcoming 2nm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset and support 100W wired fast charging alongside wireless charging.

The leak also claims that iQOO's next-generation 3nm performance lineup, believed to include the iQOO Neo 12 and iQOO Z12 Turbo, is testing even bigger batteries. One engineering prototype reportedly features a 9,000mAh battery, while another packs a 10,000mAh high-silicon single-cell battery. We've been seeing these numbers ever since OnePlus started the bandwagon in the mid-range with the 9,000mAh cell on the OnePlus Nord 6. Honor is reportedly developing a phone with a 12,000mAh battery, so it's imperative on iQOO's part to give endurance upgrades to keep up with the competition.

Previous reports suggest the iQOO Neo 12 will sport a 6.83-inch flat 2K OLED display with a 185Hz refresh rate. It is also tipped to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, a dedicated graphics chip for gaming, 100W fast charging, an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner and IP68/IP69-rated dust and water resistance.

There is little information about the iQOO Z12 Turbo at the moment. However, since its predecessor is expected to use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, the Z12 Turbo could arrive with Qualcomm's upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 chipset, making it another performance-focused offering in the lineup.

India availability, however, remains uncertain for these phones. Tipster Yogesh Brar claims the iQOO 16 may not launch in India this year, adding that the company could introduce only one budget Z-series phone while scrapping other planned launches. Although iQOO has not commented on these claims, the reported strategy could be due to the rising DRAM and NAND memory prices, which are expected to increase flagship smartphone costs across the industry.

For Indian buyers, the immediate focus remains on the iQOO Z11 Lite, which is set to launch next week, while the standard iQOO Z11 has already appeared on the BIS certification website. Those waiting for the Neo 12 or iQOO 16 may have to wait for official confirmation, particularly as iQOO skipped launching the Neo 11 in India and only refreshed the Neo 10 series with new colour options.

[highlights]

• Sony's new LinkBuds Clip is for users who want more comfortable open-ear earbuds than in-ear models.
• The buds come with an IP4X rating, 10mm drivers and Bluetooth 5.4.  
• The earbuds are available for purchase starting at Rs 18,990. 

[/highlights]

Sony's new LinkBuds Clip targets people who find regular in-ear earbuds uncomfortable because of the canal-style fit or who simply want a more open, all-day listening option. As an alternative to the standard earbuds, they focus on comfort, awareness of your surroundings and a secure fit, while still promising clear sound and reliable call quality. Let's look at the price and what features the new LinkBuds Clip offers in more detail below.

Sony LinkBuds Clip: features

The LinkBuds Clip are designed to let users stay aware of their surroundings while listening to music, taking calls or following podcasts. Sony claims the open-ear design delivers a balanced and natural sound profile without completely blocking outside noise.

The earbuds come with a 10mm driver unit and also include three listening modes. Standard mode is for everyday listening, Voice Boost makes speech clearer in noisy places, and Sound Leakage Reduction helps keep audio more private in shared spaces like trains, offices and elevators.

Sony says the LinkBuds Clip deliver balanced audio across different genres, while its DSEE technology restores some of the detail lost during audio compression. That should ideally make compressed streaming tracks sound a little fuller and more natural.

For calls, Sony has added dual microphones, multipoint connectivity, Precise Voice Pickup and AI-based signal processing to improve voice clarity. The company also says a bone conduction sensor helps capture the user's voice more accurately by reducing background noise.

Sony positions the LinkBuds Clip as a lightweight and secure option for long listening sessions. The earbuds should feel barely noticeable, stay secure during walking, work or travel, and include fitting cushions for a more personalised fit. Sony says the cuff-like design looks more like a simple everyday accessory than a bulky audio device.

The earbuds support Fast Pair for quick Bluetooth pairing with Android devices and Swift Pair for Windows PCs and laptops. They also support single-earbud use, so one earbud can be used independently when needed.

Sony rates the buds' battery life to 37 hours in total, with 9 hours in the earbuds and 28 hours from the case. Sony also says a 3-minute charge can provide up to an hour of listening time. The earbuds carry an IPX4 rating for sweat and splash resistance, and users can tune the sound through the Sound Connect app with a 10-band equaliser.

Should you buy the new LinkBuds Clip?

The LinkBuds Clip come in Green, Greige, Black and Lavender, and Sony has priced them at Rs 18,990. Around its price bracket, the LinkBuds Clip compete against open-ear designs such as Sony's own LinkBuds Open, Nothing's Ear (Open) (review), Soundcore's AeroFit Pro, etc.

These rivals offer hook or ring-style designs and focus on transparency (in Nothing's case) and long-wear comfort, but they generally don't offer the clip-style, jewellery-like form factor Sony is pushing here. 
 
Buyers who are comfortable with a canal-style fit can choose options like Apple's AirPods Pro 3 and Samsung's Galaxy Buds 4 Pro for better noise isolation and ANC. These models cost a bit more, but they often drop into a similar price range during discounts. In that context, the LinkBuds Clip work best for people who value open comfort and awareness of their surroundings over maximum sound isolation, while still wanting a premium experience and feature set.

Samsung's flagship tablet lineup for the year is taking shape, with the rumoured Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra now appearing on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification database. This comes just days after the Galaxy Tab S12+ was spotted on the same database, reinforcing that Samsung is preparing to bring both tablets to India together. The Tab S12 Ultra is expected to top Samsung's tablet range this year, sitting above the Tab S12+. A standard Tab S12 is also expected, though that one hasn't appeared on BIS yet.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra BIS details

The certification listing carries the model numbers SM-X940 and SM-X946B, pointing to Wi-Fi and 5G variants of the tablet, respectively, for the Indian market, similar to the pattern seen with the Tab S12+ (SM-X840 and SM-X846B). A BIS listing doesn't reveal hardware details, but it's typically one of the last regulatory steps before a device goes on sale in India, suggesting Samsung's timeline for the Tab S12 series is firming up.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra specifications (expected)

Leaks so far suggest the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra will hold on to the 14.6-inch display size of its predecessor, continuing Samsung's largest-screen option in the tablet lineup for those who want maximum real estate for multitasking, note-taking, or watching content.

Under the hood, the tablet is tipped to move to MediaTek's 3nm Dimensity 9500 chipset, a generational jump over the Dimensity 9400+ found in the Tab S11 Ultra. Early reports point to a considerably stronger GPU and NPU on the new chip, along with meaningful power efficiency gains, which should translate to smoother multitasking and better sustained performance for creative and productivity workloads.

Battery capacity, however, isn't expected to change much this time. Multiple reports point to Samsung sticking with an 11,600mAh battery, the same capacity as the Tab S11 Ultra, paired with 45W wired charging. This is a contrast to the Tab S12+, which is rumoured to get a battery bump to around 10,500mAh or 10,600mAh, meaning the gap in battery size between the two models could narrow this generation.

On memory and storage, the Tab S12 Ultra is tipped to offer up to 12GB of RAM with 256GB of storage as the base configuration, keeping it positioned as a genuine productivity and creative device meant to rival Apple's iPad Pro lineup.

Software-wise, the tablet is expected to ship with Android 17-based One UI 9.0 out of the box. Given Samsung's current update commitments, it should be eligible for seven years of OS upgrades and security patches, matching the support window expected on the Tab S12+.

Samsung hasn't officially acknowledged the Tab S12 series yet, and industry reports suggest the tablets won't be part of the July Unpacked event, which is expected to focus on new foldables and smartwatches instead. A separate announcement, likely later this year, appears more probable for the Tab S12 lineup. With both the Plus and Ultra models now cleared through BIS, an India launch could follow reasonably soon after Samsung's global unveiling.

If your current Tab S11 Ultra is still performing well, the rumored battery capacity remaining the same might mean the upgrade isn't critical unless the Dimensity 9500's performance gains are paramount for your workflow.

Also read: iPad prices are up 25–40%. Are Android tablets next?

[highlights]

• The Redmi A7 and A7 Pro have received a price hike for the second time.
• The 4G-only Redmi A7 series now starts at Rs 12,499.
• The revised prices are now live on Xiaomi's website.

[/highlights]

Amid the price-hike onslaught, the entry-level Redmi A7 4G and Redmi A7 Pro 4G are the latest devices to receive a price increase. Since the budget and midrange smartphone segments are most affected by the memory crisis, the price revision doesn't come as a surprise. Just recently, POCO raised prices of the X8 Pro series and M8, and it seems like it's now the turn for the Redmi A7 4G series.

Redmi A7, A7 Pro revised prices

Both the Redmi A7 4G and Redmi A7 Pro 4G are now Rs 2,000 more expensive than their launch prices. While the hike may not seem significant, it further reduces options for buyers looking for a smartphone under Rs 12,000. Additionally, the Redmi A7 is available in just one variant, 3GB RAM with 64GB storage.

Phones like the Lava Bold N2 5G now appear to be a stronger choice in this segment, as it offers 4GB RAM for the same price as the Redmi A7 4G (Rs 12,499). Additionally, the Unisoc T8200 chipset in the Lava device brings 5G support, allowing faster browsing and downloads. However, if you prefer a richer and more polished software experience, HyperOS 3 on the Redmi A7 delivers better in that regard, as Lava's software currently offers fewer features.

Moving on to the Redmi A7 Pro, priced at Rs 13,499, it offers 4GB RAM (an upgrade over the Redmi A7) while keeping the same 64GB storage. However, it also lacks 5G connectivity. Therefore, if 5G is a top priority, it's worth considering other similarly priced options like the Ai+ Nova Neo 2 5G.

[highlights]

• Redmi Turbo 6 series is tipped to feature 7-inch displays and 10,000mAh batteries.
• Redmi Turbo 6 may use the upcoming Dimensity 8600, while the Turbo 6 Max could debut with the Dimensity 9600s.
• The Redmi Turbo 6 Max is expected to launch in China in January 2027.

[/highlights]

Redmi appears to be preparing its next generation of performance-focused smartphones. According to a new leak from tipster Smart Pikachu, the upcoming Redmi Turbo 6 series could bring notable upgrades over the current Turbo 5 lineup, including larger displays, next-generation MediaTek chipsets and a huge 10,000mAh battery.

Like the Redmi Turbo 5 series, the new lineup is expected to include two models: the standard Redmi Turbo 6 and the higher-end Redmi Turbo 6 Max. While Xiaomi hasn't confirmed any details, the leak suggests the company is continuing its focus on offering flagship-grade performance at relatively aggressive prices.

Redmi Turbo 6 (standard model)

The standard Redmi Turbo 6 is tipped to feature a 7-inch display and a massive 10,000mAh battery. A 7-inch screen sounds large by current standards but Redmi is expected to debut it on the Redmi Note 17 in China later today, and it could set a new benchmark. Under the hood, the Turbo 6 is expected to use an upcoming MediaTek Dimensity 8-series chipset, believed to be the Dimensity 8600 built on TSMC's 3nm process.

If the leak proves accurate, the chip could offer better performance and power efficiency than the Dimensity 8500 Ultra found in the current Redmi Turbo 5. Interestingly, the same processor is also rumoured to power the Honor Power 3, which is said to feature an even larger 12,000mAh battery. OnePlus and Realme have been leading with capacities in India and China with the latter's phones even crossing the 10,000mAh mark, so an upgrade is essential to keep up with the competition.

Redmi Turbo 6 Max (premium model)

The Redmi Turbo 6 Max is expected to be the more premium offering in the lineup. It is tipped to feature a MediaTek Dimensity 9-series processor, likely the unannounced Dimensity 9600s, although the chipset name hasn't been officially confirmed.

Previous reports have also claimed the phone will sport a 2K display, while the latest leak adds an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner, a metal middle frame and IP68/IP69 dust and water resistance. Combined with the reported 10,000mAh battery, these upgrades could position it as a direct successor to the Redmi Turbo 5 Max, which already packs a Dimensity 9500s chipset, a 9,000mAh battery and a 6.83-inch 1.5K OLED display.

Expected launch and global rebranding

The Redmi Turbo 6 Max is expected to launch in China in January 2027, although it remains unclear whether the standard Redmi Turbo 6 will debut alongside it. Xiaomi has yet to officially announce the series. If the company's previous branding strategy continues, the Redmi Turbo 6 Max is expected to make its global debut under the POCO branding, with reports pointing to a possible launch as the POCO X9 Pro Max. However, this year we saw the Redmi Turbo series make its debut in India with the Redmi Turbo 5, so an unchanged global release cannot be ruled out.

While the leaked specifications are promising, buyers may want to wait for official announcements, especially around chipset details, display resolution and battery capacity. If Xiaomi retains the Turbo series' value positioning, the new phones could become strong options for users prioritising gaming performance and long battery life.

[highlights]

• The Nothing Phone (4b) is the company's latest mid-range offering.
• Key specs include a 6,000mAh battery, Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 SoC, Glyph Bar, and more.
• The Phone (4b) can be fetched for as low as Rs 29,999 with an instant bank discount and exchange offer.

[/highlights]

The Nothing Phone (4b), which was launched in India last week, is set to go on sale for the first time today, July 14th. It is the latest mid-range smartphone from Nothing, positioned below the Phone (4a) (long-term review) in the company's lineup. The Phone (4b) (first impressions) packs the largest battery ever seen on a Nothing smartphone and features the Glyph Bar design, similar to its elder sibling. While there are a few compromises to keep the price competitive, it still shapes up to be a compelling buy for anyone looking for a distinctive design paired with a clean, bloat-free software experience.

Nothing Phone (4b) price in India, sale details

The Nothing Phone (4b) is priced in India at Rs 34,999 for the base 128GB storage variant. Its top-end 256GB storage option costs Rs 38,999. The handset will be available for purchase via Flipkart from 12 pm onwards and leading retail partners: Croma, Reliance Digital and Vijay Sales, in Black, White, and Blue colours.

As part of the first sale offer, the Phone (4b) will be available with a 7.5 percent instant bank discount and exchange bonus, effectively bringing its price down to Rs 29,999.

Nothing Phone (4b) specifications

The Nothing Phone (4b) offers pretty modest specifications, except for its battery. The handset packs a 6,000mAh battery, which might not be the biggest for the segment, but it certainly leaves behind other Nothing smartphones in terms of capacity. However, the phone is backed by 33W fast charging, which can take some time to juice up the battery. Nothing claims a full charge in about 80 minutes.

The Phone (4b) doesn't fail to leave a mark with its design. It borrows design elements from both the Phone (4a) and the Phone (4a) Pro, giving it a familiar yet distinctive look. The handset features a large transparent camera island, paired with a sturdy frame that includes a subtle indent in the bottom-left corner. It also sports flat edges, while the camera module integrates the Glyph Bar, which features 45 mini LEDs arranged across five sections. According to Nothing, it is up to 40 per cent brighter than previous Glyph implementations.

The handset may not feel as premium as the Phone (4a) series with its polycarbonate build. However, it is said to be durable and boast an IP64 rating for dust and minor splashes of water resistance. 

The Phone (4b) sports a 6.77-inch Super AMOLED display that bears a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, peak brightness of up to 2,000 nits, and an optical fingerprint scanner embedded beneath the screen. The handset is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 chipset, backed by a sizeable 20,829mm2 cooling system to prevent the phone from heating up while gaming and other demanding activities.

In optics, the handset features a dual rear camera setup, with a 50MP Samsung primary sensor and an 8MP ultra-wide sensor offering a 119.5-degree field of view. Selfies and video calls are handled by a 16MP Samsung front-facing camera. To get the gist of the sensor's performance, read our Phone (4b)'s camera overview.

Binding everything together is Nothing OS 4.1 based on Android 16. Nothing has committed to providing three major Android OS upgrades and six years of security updates. The Phone (4b) also includes AI-powered features such as Essential Space and Essential Voice, alongside the Glyph Bar's Live Updates functionality, which supports compatible apps including Uber, Google Maps, and Zomato.

The Nothing Phone (4b) competes against the likes of the OnePlus Nord CE6 and the Redmi Turbo 5, which appear to be more powerful offerings. However, neither of them looks as interesting as the Nothing smartphone and offers a closer-to-near-stock Android experience. If you are looking for a similar smartphone with a relatively tight budget, the Phone (4b) deserves your attention.

[highlights]

• The Google Pixel 11 and Pixel 11 Pro series are expected to come in four colours each.
• The Pixel 11 lineup is expected to be powered by the 2nm-based Tensor G6.
• The Pixel 11 series' pricing could start at USD 899.

[/highlights]

With the Google Pixel 11 series official launch less than a month away, the pricing and colour options of the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro/Pro XL, and Pixel 11 Fold have been reportedly revealed through an Amazon listing. Courtesy of 9to5Google and 9to5Toys, who were able to pull the images from the said listing, the Pixel 11 series could have multiple colour choices on offer, including a few striking shades that have never debuted before by the company. Along with the images, the US pricing details were also spotted.

Google Pixel 11 pricing and colour options leaked

The Google Pixel 11 will seemingly be available in four colour options: Frost, Pistachio, Hibiscus, and Obsidian. Per the Amazon listing, the Pixel 11 will feature two storage options; the 256GB variant could start at USD 899 (Rs 86,450 approx.), while the 512GB could be priced at USD 1,019 (Rs 98,000 approx.).

Coming to the key specifications, the Pixel 11 is expected to come with a 6.3-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It could be powered by the Tensor G6, Google's first mobile processor to be based on a 2nm fabrication process, which should yield better endurance and thermal efficiency over the Tensor G5.

Just like the Pixel 10, the Pixel 11 could sport a triple rear camera setup, comprising a 50MP primary camera, telephoto, and an ultrawide lens. Per leaks, a 4,985mAh battery could power the device.

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Google Pixel 11 Pro/Pro XL pricing colour options revealed

On to the Google Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL, both smartphones could feature the same colour choices, including Olive, Fog, Canyon, and Obsidian, since hardware-wise only the battery and screen sizes could be the differentiating factors.

Google Pixel 11 Pro

• 256GB: USD 1,099 (Rs 1,05,600 approx.)
• 512GB: USD 1,219 (Rs 1,17,200 approx.)
• 1TB: USD 1,499 (Rs 1,44,000 approx.)

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL

• 256GB: USD 1,299 (Rs 1,25,000 approx.)
• 512GB: USD 1,419 (Rs 1,36,400 approx.)
• 1TB: USD 1,649 (Rs 1,58,500 approx.)

The Pixel 11 Pro could rock a compact 6.3-inch OLED display, while the Pixel 11 Pro XL may get a 6.8-inch OLED panel with a higher resolution. Both devices may get a 120Hz refresh rate and run on the Tensor G6. A much superior camera setup is expected to be onboard over the standard Pixel 11, including larger main and telephoto camera sensors.

[gallery link="file" columns="4" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="708123,708121,708120,708122"]

Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold pricing and colour choices

Google's next-gen foldable, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold, could start at a whopping USD 1,899 (Rs 1,82,000 approx.) for the base 256GB storage, while the 512GB and 1TB variants could be priced at USD 2,019 (Rs 1,94,000 approx.) and USD 2,249 (Rs 2,16,000 approx.), respectively.

The Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold is rumoured to feature a 6.5-inch OLED outer display, while the battery capacity is listed at 4,750mAh. Powering the device will be Google's Tensor G6 chipset, which should deliver faster AI processing and improved battery endurance.

[gallery link="file" columns="2" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="708118,708117"]

Since the images and pricing in the Amazon listings came from a third-party seller, they should be taken with a grain of salt. Although Amazon has since removed the listings, the Pixel 11 series is still expected to bring iterative upgrades over the Pixel 10. With a more advanced Tensor G6 chipset, Google appears to be focusing heavily on faster AI performance, which should complement the new AI features these phones are likely to debut with.

[highlights]

• The 6,500mAh battery promises up to 80 hours of continuous music playback on a single charge
• 10 minutes of charging will deliver up to 8 hours of calling
• The brand claims at least 80 percent battery health after 1600 charge cycles

[/highlights]

Ahead of the iQOO Z11 Lite's launch on July 24th, the company has been slowly revealing the phone's key features. Last week, iQOO revealed the phone's colour options, processor, and several AI-powered features through an Amazon microsite. The same microsite has now added details around the iQOO Z11 Lite's battery, including the capacity, fast charging, battery health, and more.

iQOO Z11 Lite battery details

The iQOO Z11 Lite packs a 6,500mAh battery, the company has revealed. It's not the biggest battery we have seen in recent months, but the company is promising long-lasting endurance, including up to 20 hours of social media scrolling or 80 hours of continuous music playback on a single charge.

The upcoming iQOO phone supports 44W fast charging. With just 10 minutes of charging, the phone can deliver up to 8 hours of calling or 7.2 hours of online video playback. We will have more to share about the time it takes to fully charge the device once we test it in person after launch.

[gallery link="file" size="full" columns="2" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="708129,708128"]

iQOO promises 5 years of battery health with the iQOO Z11 Lite. Based on its own internal testing, the brand claims at least 80 percent battery health after 1600 charge cycles, which comes to approximately 5 years.

Lastly, the iQOO Z11 Lite also supports reverse charging and bypass charging. The latter, for those unaware, essentially charges the system rather than the battery while you're running heavy apps or gaming to prevent overheating.

iQOO Z11 Lite battery specs at a glance

Here's a quick look at the battery features of the upcoming iQOO Z11 Lite:

• Battery capacity: 6,500mAh
• Charging speed: 44W
• Battery health: At least 80% battery capacity retained after 5 years of charging
• Charging features: Supports reverse charging and bypass charging

Other iQOO Z11 Lite details revealed so far

Here's everything else about the iQOO Z11 Lite officially revealed so far:

• Chipset: MediaTek Dimensity 6300
• Colour options: Midnight Blue and Solar Flame
• AI features: AI Captions and AI Creation

Unofficially, the iQOO Z11 Lite is rumoured to feature a 50MP primary camera. Details around the secondary camera are still sparse. The budget phone is tipped to sport a 6.74-inch HD+ LCD display. That's right, don't expect an AMOLED panel here. This also gives us an indication of its potential pricing.

The iQOO Z11 Lite is expected to be the most affordable phone in the lineup, placing it below the iQOO Z11x, which is currently priced at Rs 24,999. We expect the iQOO Z11 Lite to start from just under Rs 20,000. iQOO will officially announce the price, offers, and sale date of the iQOO Z11 Lite on July 24.

If a massive battery and long-term battery health are your absolute top priorities on a tight budget, the Z11 Lite's specs revealed today make it a strong contender, but hold off on any purchase decisions until the official launch on July 24th for full pricing and availability details.

[highlights]

• OnePlus has increased prices of the OnePlus 15R, Nord 6 and Nord CE 6 by up to Rs 5,000.
• The OnePlus 15R base variant now starts at Rs 59,999, while the Nord 6 starts at Rs 44,999.
• The revised prices are live on the OnePlus website.

[/highlights]

The price hike cycle shows no signs of slowing down. After multiple revisions across its portfolio over the past few months, it's now OnePlus that has once again increased prices of some of its popular phones. This is the third round of hikes for the OnePlus 15R, OnePlus Nord 6 and OnePlus Nord CE 6 in India. The latest revisions increase prices by as much as Rs 5,000 and are already live on the OnePlus website.

As before, OnePlus hasn't officially explained the latest revision. However, the move comes amid continued pressure from rising component costs and changing pricing strategies across the smartphone industry. With every successive hike, these devices are moving into new segments from their original launch prices, significantly changing the value they initially offered.

OnePlus 15R, Nord 6, Nord CE 6 new prices

OnePlus 15R

The biggest increase this time has been reserved for the OnePlus 15R (review). The smartphone has received another Rs 5,000 hike across all storage variants, taking the base 12GB + 256GB model to Rs 59,999. The hike also affects the new 16GB variant, which launched in June. This makes the phone Rs 12,000 more expensive than when it debuted, pushing it closer to flagship territory away from its sub-flagship positioning.

OnePlus Nord 6

The OnePlus Nord 6 has also become pricier. The 8GB + 256GB variant now costs Rs 44,999 following a Rs 2,000 increase, while the 12GB + 256GB version has gone up by Rs 3,000 to Rs 50,999. It makes the phone more expensive by up to Rs 9,000 from its launch price.

OnePlus Nord CE 6

The OnePlus Nord CE 6 has also received another price revision. The 8GB + 128GB model is now priced at Rs 35,999 after a Rs 2,000 hike, while the 8GB + 256GB variant has gone up by Rs 3,000 to Rs 39,999. Ironically, the Nord CE 6 now is in the same segment as the OnePlus Nord 6, when the latter had launched.

*Disclaimer: Prices are as of the latest revision and can change any time.

Should you buy the phones now?

On the hardware front, nothing has changed. The OnePlus 15R continues to offer flagship-grade performance with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, a massive 7,400mAh battery, a 165Hz AMOLED display and a 50MP primary camera. The Nord 6 still packs the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 processor, a 9,000mAh battery, a 165Hz AMOLED display and up to 512GB UFS 4.1 storage. Meanwhile, the Nord CE 6 continues to target the upper mid-range segment with a Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset, an 8,000mAh battery, an 80W fast charging solution and a 144Hz AMOLED display.

The revised prices, however, paint a different picture. The OnePlus 15R now sits close to the Rs 60,000-mark, but it's still one of the cheaper Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 phones. So in terms of competition, not much has changed but only the value proposition has altered. If you've been eyeing it for a while, better to get it now before prices rise again. Similarly, the Nord 6 has drifted well beyond the sub-Rs 40,000 segment it originally disrupted, but even in the new sub-Rs 50,000 segment, its processor is more capable than that of the competition. Plus it carries a 9,000mAh battery which is unmatched in the segment and even beyond.

The Nord CE 6 still offers a strong hardware package for its class, but at nearly Rs 40,000 for the top variant, buyers now have access to several phones with better camera systems. The phone remains competitive on battery life and display, but its value proposition isn't as compelling as it was at launch.

Tipsters have been rather explicit in their advice - do not wait for sales. That's because by the time the sale period arrives, hikes leading up to it have already made the phone more expensive and the net effective price ends up being more than launch prices. If OnePlus continues revising prices at this pace, waiting for festive sales may not necessarily translate into lower effective prices. Buyers planning to purchase any of these devices may want to keep a close eye on bank offers and limited-time discounts, as the gap between launch pricing and current pricing continues to widen.

The second half of July is shaping up to be a busy one for smartphone buyers in India. Motorola, Realme, Vivo and Tecno are all set to introduce new devices across multiple price segments, ranging from affordable 5G phones to premium flagships, even as the Redmi Note 17 series goes official in China. While battery life appears to be the biggest focus for the budget offerings, Motorola is targeting power users with flagship hardware, and Tecno is looking to bring premium features to the upper mid-range segment.

Here's a look at the smartphones launching this week in the country and what they are expected to offer.

Motorola Edge 70 Max

Motorola will kick off the week with the launch of the Edge 70 Max (roundup) on July 15th. The smartphone will sit at the top of the Edge 70 lineup and also mark its global debut in India. It's expected to take on rivals such as the OnePlus 15R and iQOO 15R in the premium segment.

Specs at a glance

• Snapdragon 8 Gen 5
• 6.82-inch Quad HD+ 144Hz LTPO OLED display
• 7,100mAh battery, 90W wired + 25W magnetic wireless charging
• 50MP Sony Lytia primary camera with OIS

Motorola has confirmed the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, paired with up to 12GB LPDDR5X RAM and a large vapour chamber cooling system for sustained gaming performance. Alongside this, the phone is expected to introduce Moto AI features through a dedicated AI button, offering tools such as real-time translation and AI-powered search. The Edge 70 Max is tipped to feature a 6.82-inch Quad HD+ LTPO OLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and up to 7,000 nits peak brightness. For buyers, this should translate into sharper visuals, smoother animations and improved outdoor visibility compared to conventional Full HD+ panels. Pricing remains under wraps, but the smartphone is expected to launch below Rs 55,000.

Realme Narzo 100x 5G

Realme will also unveil the Narzo 100x 5G on July 15th, with the smartphone focusing heavily on battery life and everyday usability. It is expected to strengthen the company's position in the affordable 5G segment.

Specs at a glance

• MediaTek Dimensity 6300
• 6.72-inch 120Hz display
• 8,000mAh battery
• 50MP AI camera

The biggest highlight is undoubtedly the 8,000mAh battery, which Realme claims can deliver up to two days of usage under specific conditions while retaining over 80 percent battery health even after four years of regular use. That could make the phone particularly appealing for users who prioritise endurance over ultra-fast charging.

Powering the handset is the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset running Android out of the box. The phone also features a 6.72-inch 120Hz display with adaptive refresh rates to balance smoothness and battery efficiency. Other confirmed features include a 50MP AI camera, stereo speakers, ArmorShell protection and Rainwater Smart Touch, making it a well-rounded option for users looking for a durable daily driver.

Vivo T5 Lite 44W

Vivo's next launch is the T5 Lite 44W, scheduled for July 16th. The smartphone is aimed at younger users looking for a balance of battery life, durability and AI-powered software features.

Specs at a glance

• MediaTek Dimensity 6300
• 120Hz display
• 6,500mAh battery, 44W charging
• IP65 rating

The Vivo T5 Lite 44W packs a 6,500mAh battery with 44W fast charging and is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset. The combination should be sufficient for everyday multitasking, media consumption and casual gaming while supporting 5G connectivity.

The phone also features a 120Hz display with up to 1,200 nits peak brightness for improved outdoor visibility. On the software front, vivo is bundling OriginOS 6 with AI-powered tools including document assistance, live captions, transcript generation and a dedicated Private Space for storing sensitive information. Combined with its military-grade durability and IP65 rating, the phone appears to be a dependable option for students and young professionals.

Tecno Camon 50 Ultra

Tecno will round off the week with the Camon 50 Ultra on July 17th. The smartphone was first showcased globally at MWC 2026, although it remains to be seen whether the Indian variant will retain the same specifications.

Specs at a glance

• MediaTek Dimensity 7400 Ultimate
• 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED 144Hz display
• 50MP triple rear cameras
• 6,500mAh battery, 45W charging

If Tecno brings the global model unchanged, buyers can expect a 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and up to 4,500 nits peak brightness. The Dimensity 7400 Ultimate chipset, paired with up to 12GB RAM, should offer enough performance for gaming and demanding workloads.

Camera hardware is another major highlight, featuring a 50MP Sony LYT-700C primary sensor, a 50MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom and an 8MP ultra-wide lens. Premium additions such as IP68, IP69 and IP69K ratings, MIL-STD-810 certification and a 6,500mAh battery further strengthen its value proposition. If Tecno manages to price the Camon 50 Ultra aggressively, it could emerge as an interesting alternative to more established brands in the upper mid-range segment.

[highlights]

• A hands-on video has revealed the Motorola Edge 70 Max's design and confirmed a 50MP Sony Lytia main camera with OIS.
• The phone is confirmed to feature a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, Quad HD+ 144Hz LTPO OLED display, and a 7,100mAh battery.
• Motorola will launch the Edge 70 Max in India on July 15th.

[/highlights]

Motorola is adding a 'Max' variant to its popular mid-range Edge series for the first time this year. The company is set to launch the Motorola Edge 70 Max in India on July 15th, where the smartphone will also make its global debut. Ahead of the announcement, a hands-on video and leaked renders have surfaced online.

While Motorola has already confirmed several key specifications and the design through its Flipkart microsite, the latest leak offers the clearest look yet at the handset and confirms details that were previously under wraps, including its primary rear camera.

Display and build quality

The leaked hands-on video shows the Motorola Edge 70 Max in a pale green finish with a flat display surrounded by slim bezels. Unlike other phones in the Edge 70 lineup, the Max adopts flat aluminium edges instead of curved sides, paired with a glass back panel for a more premium design, reiterating its positioning at the top of the Edge series . The power and volume buttons are placed on the right edge, while a dedicated AI button sits on the left. The leaked hands-on video also confirms a 50MP Sony Lytia primary camera with OIS, although details of the remaining cameras are still under wraps.

Here's the good look at the Motorola Edge 70 Max.#Motorola #MotorolaEdge70Max pic.twitter.com/ZWghNsXvl9

— Anvin (@ZionsAnvin) July 12, 2026

Read: Motorola Edge 70 Max roundup: what to expect

Additionally, leaked renders shared by tipster Sudhanshu Ambhore suggest the phone will also be available in Onyx Black, Sage Green, and Glacier Blue Pantone-inspired colour options.

The tipster also claims the Edge 70 Max will feature a 6.82-inch Quad HD+ LTPO OLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and up to 7,000 nits peak brightness. Motorola has already confirmed Gorilla Glass 7i protection and says the panel is the first Quad HD+ display in its segment, making it one of the phone's biggest highlights. For buyers, that should translate to sharper visuals for media consumption and gaming, along with better outdoor visibility and a smoother scrolling experience than typical Full HD+ displays in this price range.

Core performance and hardware

Motorola has confirmed that the Edge 70 Max will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, paired with up to 12GB LPDDR5X RAM. The company claims the processor delivers an AnTuTu score exceeding 3 million, positioning the phone squarely at gamers and power users. This is a popular chipset choice for sub-flagships, and notably, this is Motorola's second phone with this processor, after the Motorola Signature.

To keep temperatures under control during extended gaming sessions, the device will feature a large vapour chamber cooling system. Motorola's teaser mentions a 5,500 sq mm cooling solution, while earlier promotional material referenced a 5,000 sq mm chamber.

The phone is also confirmed to pack a 7,100mAh battery with 90W wired charging and 25W magnetic wireless charging. Motorola is also expected to introduce its Moto AI key and on-device AI assistant for features such as real-time translation, AI search and text summarisation.

Motorola has not announced pricing yet, but the Edge 70 Max is expected to sit above the Edge 70 Pro+, which starts at Rs 47,999. That suggests a launch price of under Rs 55,000 could make it competitive against devices such as the OnePlus 15R and iQOO 15R. Buyers looking for a flagship Android phone with a high-resolution display, a large battery and fast charging may find it worth waiting for the official launch before making a purchase decision.

[highlights]

• Meta has removed its new Instagram AI image feature in the US after privacy concerns and user backlash.
• The feature allowed Meta AI to generate images using content from tagged public Instagram accounts and was enabled by default.
• Users in supported regions could opt out, though doing so also disabled some existing content reuse features.

[/highlights]

Meta has rolled back a new Instagram AI feature just days after introducing it in the US, following widespread criticism over privacy and consent. The feature, part of the company's new Muse Image AI model, allowed users to generate customised AI images by referencing public Instagram accounts, inviting concerns that people's photos could be used without their permission.

The company acknowledged the criticism, saying it had "missed the mark" and confirmed that the feature is "no longer available." Meta has not said when or if the feature will return.

Why was Meta's Muse Image AI feature criticised?

Muse Image is Meta's first dedicated AI image-generation model. Like competing tools from Google, OpenAI and Adobe, it can generate images from text prompts, edit photos and create new visuals. Its distinguishing feature was its deep integration with Instagram, which could've been a boon for the company but proved to be a bane.

Users could simply mention a public Instagram account while interacting with Meta AI, allowing the chatbot to pick up publicly available photos from that profile to generate customised AI images featuring that person. The feature was enabled by default for public accounts in the US, meaning users had to manually opt out if they did not want their content to be used.

Privacy advocates and creators argued that this approach lacked consent. Hollywood performers' union SAG-AFTRA welcomed Meta's decision to withdraw the feature, calling it a "win", while Privacy International criticised the rollout as another example of AI companies treating users' images as data for AI training and generation.

The AI image feature was available only in the US, but Meta had indicated that it planned to expand it to additional markets over time. Users in supported regions could disable content reuse by going to Instagram Settings and turning off "Allow people to reuse your content on Instagram and with AI features at Meta."

However, there's a trade-off. The same setting also controls existing collaboration features such as Remixes, templates, stickers and certain content-sharing options. Turning it off prevents Meta AI from using public content for AI image generation, but it may also reduce opportunities for creators to increase the reach of their posts through Instagram's collaborative features.

Companies are racing to introduce image-generation capabilities that are tightly integrated into existing apps, but user expectations around privacy and consent are rising just as quickly. Rivals including Google, OpenAI and Adobe have generally required users to actively upload or provide images they want AI to edit, making Meta's default-enabled approach particularly controversial.

For users, this is a reminder to review privacy settings whenever new AI features are introduced. Those who are uncomfortable with public content being repurposed for AI-generated images may prefer to opt out. Meta's swift retreat underscores a critical lesson: in the age of AI, user trust and explicit consent are non-negotiable, even for public data.

[highlights]

• Redmi Note 17 is launching in China tomorrow.
• The handset is tipped to launch in India in two colours.
• Redmi hasn't officially confirmed an India launch yet. 

[/highlights]

The Redmi Note 17 series is set to launch in China tomorrow (July 14th). The new mid-range lineup will feature two phones: the Redmi Note 17 and Redmi Note 17 Pro. Both phones are expected to launch in India soon. The Redmi Note 17 was recently spotted on BIS, confirming an India debut, and a new leak reveals more details about this. 

Redmi Note 17 Indian variant details 

According to tipster Abhishek Yadav, the Redmi Note 17 will launch in India with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. This will most likely be the base variant of the smartphone. Redmi is also expected to launch the handset in more configurations. The tipster adds that the Redmi Note 17 will be available in Blue and Dark Night colours. 

Redmi Note 17: what to expect

The Redmi Note 17 will stand out with a large 7-inch OLED display, the biggest-ever on a Redmi phone. This display size would be great for people who like watching content on their phone. The display supports up to a 120Hz refresh rate and 1,200 nits of global brightness level. If this is the peak brightness level, then it might not be as bright outdoors, especially in harsh sunlight.

The handset is also confirmed to pack an 8,000mAh battery with support for 45W wired charging and 22.5W reverse wired charging. This would be one of the biggest battery capacities in the segment and also a major upgrade over the Redmi 15's 5,800mAh battery capacity. It's also expected to compete with the OnePlus Nord CE6 series, which offers up to a 9,000mAh battery. Most phones in the mid-range segment are now focusing on large batteries, and it looks like Redmi is also joining the trend. The company has also confirmed a 50MP primary rear camera for the Redmi Note 17.

In terms of design, the Redmi Note 17 has been revealed in a new Meteor Purple colour option, which features a textured rear design inspired by meteor trails across the night sky.

Based on the details so far, the Redmi Note 17 seems appealing for buyers who want a large-screened phone with a massive battery. It will make sense for power users who consume a lot of content on their phone and require uninterrupted battery life. For users prioritising battery life and a large screen, these specs make the Redmi Note 17 a device to watch, but official pricing and full reviews will be crucial for a final decision. If you own an older Redmi Note series phone, the battery and display upgrades might be compelling, but if you have a Redmi Note 15, the changes might not warrant an immediate upgrade unless these are your priorities. 

[highlights]

• The Moto G77 Power will be available at an effective price of Rs 23,999.
• The Moto G77 Power comes in three colourways.
• The device competes with the iQOO Z11x and Redmi Note 15 under the Rs 30,000 segment.

[/highlights]

The Moto G77 Power was launched in India last week and goes on sale starting today at 12 PM on Flipkart, Motorola's online store, and retailers across India. Priced at Rs 25,999, the smartphone targets buyers seeking a high-endurance battery, strong build, and respectable camera results. To sweeten the deal, Motorola is offering the G77 Power at a discounted price using bank offers as part of the first sale. With this release, Motorola appears to be targeting a significant share of the highly competitive sub-₹30,000 segment.

Moto G77 Power price, colour shades, launch offers

With a retail price of Rs 25,999, the Moto G77 Power will be available in a single 8GB RAM + 128GB storage variant. It comes in three colour options: PANTONE Fuchsia Red, PANTONE Nautical Blue, and PANTONE Impenetrable, with the latter featuring an acrylic-based finish, while the other two options feature a vegan leather back panel. With such vibrant and poppy colour options, it offers a great choice for those looking for something funky.

Customers buying the Moto G77 Power during the first sale can avail an instant Rs 2,000 discount using Axis and HDFC Bank credit cards, bringing the effective price down to Rs 23,999.

What does the Moto G77 Power offer?

The Moto G77 Power features a familiar Moto G-series design with a protruding camera module and multiple rear finishes. It sports a 6.72-inch Full HD+ IPS LCD display with 120Hz refresh rate and up to 1,050 nits of brightness. The display is protected using Gorilla Glass 7i, while the build is IP64 rated for protection against small amounts of dust and water.

Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6400 chipset with 8GB RAM and 128GB expandable storage, the phone should be able to deliver sufficient performance for casual to medium use cases, such as chatting on WhatsApp, scrolling social media feeds, checking emails, and watching videos. Since the Moto G37 Power features the same chipset, the processor delivered an AnTuTu score of 5,70,353. The chipset is paired with UFS 2.2 storage and LPDDR5X RAM.

For cameras, it has a 50MP LYTIA-600 main sensor (1/2-inch) paired with an 8MP ultrawide lens, capable of 2K video recording. The said primary sensor is a great addition, since newer releases this year are limited to 1/2.75 to 1/3-inch sensors, which are smaller in size compared to the LYTIA-600.

It runs Android 16-based Hello UI with a promised Android 17 upgrade and three years of security patches. The highlight is its massive 7,000mAh battery with 30W charging and 6W reverse charging. If you're upgrading from a phone older with a smaller battery, this could be a significant improvement

Additional features include a 3.5mm jack, stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, and a side-mounted fingerprint scanner.

Should you buy Moto G77 Power: early impressions

From our brief hands-on time with the Moto G77 Power, its ergonomics and in-hand feel are nearly identical to those of the Moto G37 Power and G57 Power, maintaining a cohesive design language across Motorola's portfolio.

While we are yet to test the cameras in depth, it delivers respectable shots for the price, though images take a while to fully process. The 7,000mAh battery easily lasts for days on a single charge, while the FHD+ display paired with the stereo speakers offers a decent viewing and audio experience. To determine whether the Moto G77 Power is a better choice than competitors like the iQOO Z11x and Redmi Note 15 5G, stay tuned for our full review, which should be live in a few days.

[highlights]

• POCO has increased prices of the X8 Pro Max, X8 Pro and M8 5G for the second time in India.
• Some variants are now Rs 3,000 - Rs 4,000 more expensive than their original launch prices.
• The POCO X8 Pro Max top variant is now priced over Rs 50,000.

[/highlights]

POCO has increased the prices of the POCO X8 Pro, POCO X8 Pro Max and POCO M8 in India, following earlier revisions on the same phones. The phones have received price hikes of up to Rs 2,000, with the revised prices now reflecting across retail listings. This is the second price hike for all the phones.

As cynical as it may sound, buyers should be used to this now, with almost all brands announcing hikes across multiple lineups in the past few months to offset increasing memory costs caused by ongoing DRAM and NAND supply shortages.

POCO smartphones revised prices

POCO X8 Pro Max

Notably, the 12GB + 256GB variant had launched at Rs 42,999, while the 512GB model debuted at Rs 46,999. This means the base variant is now Rs 4,000 costlier than its launch price.

POCO X8 Pro

The X8 Pro originally launched in India at Rs 32,999 and Rs 35,999 for these respective variants, making the new prices Rs 4,000 above the launch pricing.

POCO M8

The M8 5G was introduced at Rs 18,999, Rs 19,999 and Rs 21,999 for these variants, meaning each configuration is now Rs 3,000 above its launch price.

Tipster Sanju Choudhary claims that more smartphone price hikes from other brands could follow in the coming days, although this has not been independently verified.

Should you buy the phones?

The reported revisions make POCO's devices less aggressive from a value perspective than they were at launch. In the sub-Rs 25,000 segment, buyers can also consider alternatives such as the OnePlus N6, iQOO Z11x, and Moto G77 Power, depending on whether they prioritise software experience, battery or performance. Those shopping around Rs 40,000–50,000 can compare the X8 Pro Max with rivals such as the iQOO 15R, Motorola Edge 70 Pro+, and Google Pixel 10a. While Pixel phones are known for their clean software experience and computational photography, POCO and iQOO phones prioritise performance. Despite the price hike, the POCO X8 Pro Max still remains a leader in performance despite competing with phones that were launched at a higher starting price.

In any case, the generic advice remains the same - hold onto your phones for as long as you phone but if you absolutely have to upgrade, yesterday was the best time but today is the next best as the prices are expected to keep on rising for a few more months at least.

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[highlights]

• The Galaxy M47 5G price now starts at Rs 32,999.
• It comes in three memory configurations.
• The handset gets six years of software updates. 

[/highlights]

Update: Interestingly, the Samsung Galaxy M47 is back at its launch price of Rs 25,999 on Amazon. However, the official Samsung website is still showing the revised price. Readers eyeing the phone are advised to grab the deal as it may be live for a limited time.

Samsung launched the Galaxy M47 5G in India last month as its new mid-range offering. The smartphone was available at a special Amazon Prime Day offer price of Rs 22,999, while its actual price was Rs 25,999. Just two weeks after its debut, the Galaxy M47 has become costlier by Rs 7,000. This also pushes the Galaxy M47 into a different price segment altogether. Price hikes have been hitting almost every new and existing smartphone due to rising demand for memory, and the costs are going up.

Samsung Galaxy M47 5G price hike

Samsung launched the Galaxy M47 5G in India at a starting price of Rs 25,999. This is for the base variant with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. This variant is now priced at Rs 32,999, according to its Amazon listing. The handset comes in two more variants with 8GB RAM and up to 256GB of onboard storage. It's available to purchase via Amazon and Samsung's online store. 

Here's a breakdown of the old and new prices:

Samsung Galaxy M47 5G specifications

The Galaxy M47 5G features a 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection. Under the hood of the phone runs the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset, paired with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 3.1 storage. While the chipset may not be suited for intensive tasks, it should be capable of handling everyday activities like social media, casual gaming, and light multitasking. In comparison, the OnePlus Nord CE6, which is in the same price segment, uses the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4. 

The smartphone has a triple-camera setup featuring a 50MP primary sensor, a 5MP ultra-wide sensor, and a 2MP macro sensor. For selfies, you get a 12MP front camera on the Galaxy M47 5G. This camera setup is quite decent and versatile in the segment. The handset also packs a 6,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging support, which should be enough for an entire day's usage. It's worth mentioning, though, that alternative options like the OnePlus Nord CE6 (8,000mAh) offer larger batteries.

On the software front, the Galaxy M47 5G runs One UI 8.5 based on Android 16 out of the box. The handset will receive six OS upgrades and six years of security patches, which is one of the longest in the segment. One UI also brings advanced AI features, such as Object Eraser, Edit Suggestion, and My Filter. 

At its new price, the Galaxy M47 5G remains a compelling option for those who want a well-balanced mid-range Samsung phone. You're getting a large AMOLED display, a dependable chipset and batteries, and a versatile camera setup. Software is also a big selling point, especially for those who plan to use the phone for a long time. So if a Samsung phone is on your list and the hardware matches your priority list, you can go ahead and purchase the Galaxy M47 5G. Since price hikes aren't stopping anytime soon, it's best not to wait and buy while the current price still exists. 

[highlights]

• Tecno Camon 50 Ultra is 'designed' for creators and also focuses on long battery life, sleek design.
• The handset will boast triple rear cameras and Dolby Atmos-backed speakers.
• The Tecno Camon 50 Ultra is teased in three colourways: Misty Purple, Nebula Titanium, and Cypress Green.

[/highlights]

The Tecno Camon 50 Ultra is all set to launch in India as the next-gen camera-centric offering from the brand. The OEM has teased the smartphone launch and also confirmed its availability on the e-commerce platform Amazon.in. "Designed for creators, storytellers, and photography enthusiasts, the smartphone is built to capture life's best moments as they happen," said the company in its press release. While the Tecno Camon 50 Ultra specifications haven't been confirmed yet, it will boast a slim and durable design, along with a long-lasting battery life. The handset will also feature AI tools to enhance photos, remove unwanted distractions, and more.

[box-highlights]

The Tecno Camon 50 Ultra is built around the philosophy of "Sees It All". The device is designed to capture life's fleeting moments with remarkable clarity, while intelligent AI makes the experience even more effortless.

[/box-highlights]

Tecno Camon 50 Ultra launch date, availability

The Tecno Camon 50 Ultra is launching in India on July 17th. The handset will go on sale via Amazon.in where its microsite has already gone live, confirming its design and colour options. The Camon 50 Ultra comes in three colour choices: Nebula Titanium, Cypress Green, and Misty Purple. All three variants will have a dual-tone finish at the back and curved edges. The Cypress Green also features contrasting edges.

Tecno Camon 50 Ultra specifications

The Tecno Camon 50 Ultra was showcased earlier this year at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. The details about whether the Indian variant will have the same specifications as the one introduced globally remain to be seen.

To jog your memories, the Tecno Camon 50 Ultra debuted a 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED display that supports a 144Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling, gaming and multimedia consumption. The panel also features a peak brightness of up to 4,500 nits, which should improve outdoor visibility, while Corning Gorilla Glass 7i protection is expected to add durability against everyday wear and tear.

Powering the smartphone is the MediaTek Dimensity 7400 Ultimate chipset, paired with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of onboard storage. Software-wise, it boots Android 16-based HiOS 16 out of the box, bringing the latest software features and AI enhancements from Tecno. For photography, the Camon 50 Ultra 5G sports a triple rear camera setup comprising a 50MP Sony LYT-700C primary sensor, a 50MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, and an 8MP ultra-wide lens. On the front, it houses a 13MP selfie camera. The device also supports 4K video recording at up to 30fps, making it capable of capturing high-resolution videos.

Beyond the core specifications, Tecno has equipped the global model with several premium features that are usually seen in higher-priced smartphones. These include IP68, IP69 and IP69K ratings for dust and water resistance, along with MIL-STD-810 certification for improved durability. The smartphone also packs a sizeable 6,500mAh battery with 45W wired fast charging support, which should comfortably last through a full day of heavy use.

On paper, the Camon 50 Ultra 5G appears to offer a well-rounded mix of display, cameras, durability and battery life, making it a compelling buy if Tecno manages to price it competitively in the Indian market.

[highlights]

• A new leak shows the Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold in a Pine green finish with a light gold satin frame and matching Google logo.
• The foldable retains last year's overall design but features a slimmer camera island and a rearranged rear camera layout.
• The unusually large LED flash has sparked speculation that it could integrate Google's rumoured Pixel Glow notification feature.

[/highlights]

It's only been a couple of days since word got out that the Made by Google event, the official debut of the Pixel 11 series, will be held on August 12th. Since then (and even before), we've seen a steady stream of leaks around the phones and the latest one gives us a look at a new colour option of Google's upcoming foldable. We get to see the Pixel 11 Pro Fold in a new "Pine" colour option, with a few design refinements.

The leak comes from a Telegram channel called Mystic Leaks and it quite matches the renders that were out back in March.

Visual refinements and build

The biggest visual change is the introduction of the new Pine finish, a muted green shade paired with a light gold satin-finished frame and a matching gold Google logo. The colour is expected to be shared with the Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL, giving Google's premium lineup a more consistent identity.

The rear camera module has also received a refresh. While it retains the dual pill-shaped layout introduced on the Pixel Fold series, the surrounding camera island is now slightly narrower with the camera cutouts extending closer to the edges, reducing the amount of visible metal around them.

The camera arrangement has also changed. The primary and ultrawide cameras now occupy the lower pill, while the telephoto camera moves to the upper-right position alongside a noticeably larger LED flash. The flash appears significantly bigger than on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, prompting speculation that it could incorporate Google's rumoured Pixel Glow notification system, although there is no confirmation of this yet.

If true, these tweaks suggest Google is polishing the hardware without changing the overall identity of the Fold. That's a sensible approach given the Pixel Fold's already distinctive design, but it also means competitors like Samsung, Honor and Vivo may continue to hold an edge in areas such as thinness.

Key dimensions and form factor

Google seems to be building on an established design instead of introducing a completely new form factor. The Pixel 11 Pro Fold retains the familiar book-style folding design with flat edges, rounded corners and a slim profile that closely resembles last year's Pixel 10 Pro Fold. The foldable is expected to measure 155.2 x 150.4 x 5.3 mm when unfolded, making it marginally thinner than its predecessor. While OEMs like Vivo, Honor and OPPO race to push ultra-thin foldables, Google appears focused on familiarity rather than chasing hardware records.

Those upgrading from older foldables could benefit from Google's expected AI improvements, Tensor G6 chipset and refined camera hardware, while Pixel 10 Pro Fold owners may want to wait and see whether the software and camera upgrades justify the move.

[highlights]

• iQOO 16 will be the brand's next flagship device.
• The handset could be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset.
• iQOO 16 could pack an 8,000mAh+ battery. 

[/highlights]

iQOO's next flagship smartphone is expected to debut later this year. While it's still quite early for any concrete details, leaks have already started mentioning the iQOO 16. A fresh leak from well-known tipster Digital Chat Station suggests iQOO is continuing to double down on gaming and multimedia performance with its upcoming iQOO 16. Although the device was not explicitly named in the latest Weibo post, the hardware details closely match earlier rumors surrounding the next-generation flagship.

iQOO 16 specifications (expected)

According to the leak, an engineering prototype powered by Qualcomm's expected Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset is currently undergoing testing. The prototype reportedly features flagship-grade symmetrical dual speakers from the 1115 series, a combination that could deliver louder output and better stereo separation than the asymmetrical speaker setups commonly found on many premium smartphones.

The leak also mentions a 0916-series X-axis linear motor, indicating a stronger emphasis on tactile feedback during gaming and everyday interactions. Rounding out the package are a dedicated graphics chip aimed at improving gaming performance and a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, which is generally regarded as faster and more reliable than optical in-display sensors. iQOO's flagship lineup has primarily focused on performance and gaming, so it's no surprise that the iQOO 16 is getting this hardware.

One of the biggest highlights, however, is the battery. Responding to questions in the comments, Digital Chat Station all but confirmed that the device will pack an enormous 8,500mAh battery. If accurate, it would significantly surpass the battery capacities of most current flagship smartphones, potentially giving the iQOO 16 a major advantage in endurance without sacrificing flagship-class hardware.

The latest information also aligns with previous reports that pointed to a 2K flat display using a new customized panel material, paired with an ultra-high refresh rate to enhance gaming and multimedia experiences. Earlier leaks additionally claimed that iQOO may skip an Ultra model this generation due to rising memory costs, positioning the standard iQOO 16 as the brand's primary flagship offering. It would also be an upgrade over the iQOO 15's 7,000mAh battery. 

As always, these specifications remain unconfirmed until iQOO makes an official announcement. However, if the leaks prove accurate, the iQOO 16 could appeal to buyers looking for long battery life, premium gaming features, and flagship performance. However, the iQOO 16 may not arrive in India with the company reportedly focusing on mid-range and budget devices.