Pricing and availability

The 8TB model costs $699, and the 20TB model costs $899. Both are available now on Seagate's online store and through authorised partners, though availability varies by market. The release is date-limited to India but lists prices only in US dollars, so Indian pricing and stock are not yet confirmed.

How it works

Seagate says external storage has forced a choice between fast and small (SSD) or big and slow (hard drive). The Forge is meant to remove that choice. Alkemi supposedly learns in real time which files you use often and moves them to the SSD. In practice, you should never have to decide where files go. You see one drive, and the software handles the rest. Seagate also points to IDC's forecast that global data creation will rise from 218 zettabytes in 2025 to over 718 zettabytes by 2030, which is why it believes people need both fast access and large capacity.

The Forge reaches up to 2,500MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write over USB4. It comes in 8TB and 20TB capacities with an upgradeable hard drive, and it supports Windows 11 and macOS 26 and later. The SSD is not included, and Seagate says you must provide one for the drive to work.

What Seagate has not said

Seagate has not shared the cache size, how quickly Alkemi adapts, or what happens when the SSD fills up. It also gave no hard drive speeds and no list of compatible SSD sizes or brands. These details will matter for real-world use.

A portable SSD in the 4TB to 8TB range costs far more per terabyte, so the Forge's pitch is much more capacity at a lower price per terabyte, with SSD speed for the files you use most. A regular external hard drive in the 8TB to 20TB range is cheaper, but its speeds are typically around 200 to 250MB/s, so the Forge is a big step up, though only for data that is on the SSD at that moment. You could also build a similar setup with a separate SSD and hard drive and manage files yourself. Seagate's value is automatic management inside one enclosure.

The Forge suits gamers with large libraries, video editors working with 4K projects, and anyone who wants one big drive that feels fast for everyday files. Remember that the $699 and $899 prices do not include the SSD, so the real cost is higher.

The 2,500MB/s figure applies to data on the SSD. A file you have not used for a while may load from the hard drive and feel slower, so how well Alkemi predicts your habits will decide how good the drive feels. You will also need a USB4-capable computer to get the full speeds, since older ports will cap performance. Because Alkemi is new, it is worth waiting for independent reviews.

• Samsung is reportedly testing a sliding display that extends upwards rather than sideways.
• A recently published patent describes two sliding sections connected by a flexible screen.
• Samsung's first commercial rollable phone is tipped to arrive in the first half of 2028, although it's unclear whether this is the same device.

[/highlights]

Samsung was instrumental in making foldables mainstream as we know them, with the original Galaxy Z Fold launched in 2019. Then the company started the compact, wide trend with this year's Galaxy Z Fold 8, and now it seems to be taking its first steps to kick off another category. Samsung could be exploring another way to make smartphone screens larger without making the device bulkier. A new leak suggests the company is developing a phone with a vertically sliding display that changes from a 16:9 aspect ratio to 21:9 when extended. The design would be different from the sideways-expanding rollable phones demonstrated by several manufacturers so far.

Samsung slidable phone

The information comes from tipster Ice Universe, who has shared concept images of the alleged device. Samsung hasn't confirmed the project, so everything should be treated as leaks for now. However, there's some history behind the idea. At MWC 2026, Samsung Display showcased a Mobile Slidable concept that expanded upwards, taking its screen from 5.1 inches to 6.7 inches. The panel moved from a 16:9 format to 22:9 when extended. However, the prototype was still under development and didn't have a motorised mechanism.

Samsung is developing a phone with a display that can extend from 16:9 to 21:9. Some people prefer a wider screen, while others like a taller form factor. This design could accommodate both, letting users adjust the proportions to suit what they're doing. If Samsung can make it work, it could be a very appealing solution. Battery capacity is the big challenge, though. The sliding mechanism would take up a considerable amount of internal space, leaving less room for the battery. How much capacity could Samsung fit inside? And would it deliver enough battery life with the screen fully extended? Those are questions it needs to answer before this becomes a practical everyday device.

— Ice Universe (@UniverseIce) November 11, 2026

A Samsung patent published in October offers another clue. It describes a device made up of two housing sections that slide relative to each other, with a flexible display connecting them. The arrangement is broadly in line with the latest leak, although a patent doesn't mean Samsung intends to sell a phone based on it. The 16:9 and 21:9 figures may also have been inferred from the leaked concept images.

Samsung has experimented with expandable displays for years. Its earlier Flex Hybrid concept combined folding and sliding technology, while the Rollable Flex prototype demonstrated how an OLED panel could expand considerably beyond its original size. These were Samsung Display demonstrations, however, and not commercial smartphones.

A sliding screen could give users a more compact phone for everyday use and additional display space when needed. The shorter format may suit basic tasks, while the extended screen could be useful for reading, browsing and watching widescreen content. Getting that mechanism into a phone is another matter, of course. Motors, rails and the flexible display would take up internal space that could otherwise accommodate a larger battery or other components. The mechanism would also need to withstand repeated movement without damaging the panel. Samsung would have to address these concerns before the design could become a practical alternative to conventional foldables. Motorola and OPPO have also demonstrated rollable phone concepts, including designs that expand sideways. However, these experiments have not resulted in widely available commercial smartphones.

Separately, reports have suggested Samsung is targeting the first half of 2028 for its first commercial rollable smartphone. The device could be marketed as the Galaxy Z Roll, though Samsung has not confirmed the name or launch timeline. It's not clear whether the phone in Ice Universe's latest leak is this same project or a separate design. There's no confirmed price, launch date or India availability for either device. Anyone considering a premium Samsung phone today would be better served by looking at the existing Galaxy Z Fold lineup rather than waiting for a concept that may still be years away.

• Vivo X500s will be the fourth phone in the flagship lineup.
• It's expected to launch as the most affordable model.
• It could house a large 6.85-inch display. 

[/highlights]

Vivo's flagship X500 lineup features the standard X500, X500 Pro, and X500 Pro Max. Another model could join the lineup, which is rumoured to be the Vivo X500s. It will most likely be offered as an affordable alternative to the flagship X500 lineup. This handset will also succeed the Vivo X300s, which debuted earlier this year in March. A new leak reveals key specifications of the X500s. Here's what to expect. 

Vivo X500s specifications (expected)

A new leak by tipster Digital Chat Station talks about an S-series flagship, believed to be the Vivo X500s. Going by this speculation, the Vivo X500s could feature a 6.85-inch 2K+ flat display with a 144Hz refresh rate and an LTPO panel. In comparison, the X500s would be slightly bigger than the X300s and have a higher resolution. It's tipped to house a 64MP periscope telephoto lens, which would be an upgrade over the X300s' 50MP camera.

The smartphone is also said to use the latest MediaTek Dimensity 9000 series chipset. This means that the X500s will deliver flagship performance. The Vivo X300s is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset. 

According to the tipster, this smartphone is meant to offer an all-around large-screen flagship phone. So you're essentially getting the same screen size as the Vivo X500 Pro Max and the same chipset as the flagship lineup. The camera specs might be toned down, but you'd still get a similar experience and, most likely, Zeiss optics. 

Based on what has leaked so far, the Vivo X500s seems like a good option for buyers who want a large-screened flagship with good cameras and fast performance. If these are your requirements, the Vivo X500s could be worth waiting for. The Vivo X500s could also be offered as an affordable flagship for buyers who don't want to pay a premium for the other X500 models. Since Vivo hasn't officially teased the X500s yet, those in a hurry might want to go ahead with available options like the Vivo X300s. 

Availability

The range comes in 55, 65, 75, 85, 98 and 115-inch sizes, starting at Rs 75,000 for the 55-inch. It is on sale from November 12, 2026, at leading retail stores.

How the eye comfort system works

Vu says eye strain comes from the gap between the screen and the room, not from brightness alone. A bright screen in a dim room forces the eyes to keep adjusting, and sudden cuts from dark scenes to bright ones add to the strain. The AEye TV runs a continuous loop, frame by frame:

• Senses the room: the sensor measures the room's brightness and the colour of its light.
• Reads the scene: the AI recognises whether a frame is a dark thriller, a bright sports broadcast or a sunlit travel show.
• Balances the two: brightness, contrast, gamma, colour temperature, HDR intensity and local dimming are tuned to the room.
• Smooths the jumps: dark-to-bright cuts are eased so the eyes are not jolted.
• Warms up at night: the picture shifts to warmer tones later in the evening.

The brand argues that most people never change their TV's brightness settings after setup, so the TV does it for them. Which I think is true: a layman doesn't really care about the settings once the setup is complete.

Picture and sound

Display: RGB MiniLED with 100% BT.2020 colour coverage.

Brightness: up to 2,500 nits XDR on the 55- to 98-inch models, and 3,000 nits on the 115-inch.

Local dimming: up to 2,000 zones, and 2,696 on the 115-inch.

Motion: 288Hz Fluid Motion with a Hyper-Motion AI engine.

Audio (55 to 98-inch): a 110W VuFx system with 4 speakers and 2 rear woofers.

Audio (115-inch): a 240W, 10-driver system with 8 speakers and 2 rear subwoofers, with top, side and down-firing drivers.

Sound features: Dolby Atmos and a Dolby AC-4 Dialogue Enhancer.

Smart features: Google TV with Gemini AI, 3GB RAM, 32GB storage and two Bluetooth voice remotes.

Design: an aluminium-alloy body and the signature Armani Gold finish. Personalised Frame Mode turns the screen into a digital art display when it is off.

Pricing

RGB MiniLED is still rare in India. Hisense's UR8S RGB MiniLED series starts at Rs 1,19,990 for 55 inches. At Rs 75,000, Vu's 55-inch AEye TV is much cheaper for similar technology. The Hisense peaks at 3,500 nits, above Vu's 2,500 nits at this size. The 115-inch is a statement product. At Rs 13,00,000, it sits next to LG's 100-inch Micro RGB evo at Rs 12,99,990, but it is 15 inches larger.

Mid-sizes face crowded rivals. The 65- to 85-inch models compete with LG's QNED Mini LED and Samsung's Neo QLED ranges, which have stronger brand recognition and service networks. Vu's edge is the eye comfort feature, the design and the lower entry price.

The 55- and 65-inch models are the most compelling. They bring RGB MiniLED and the eye comfort features at prices well below the Hisense UR8S. Meanwhile, the 98- and 115-inch models suit buyers who want a showpiece. Check delivery, installation and service terms before buying at this price.

If you watch mostly at night or in dim rooms, the automatic brightness and warm-tone shift are the main reasons to choose this range.

A caution on the eye comfort claims

The press release says the system helps "minimise eye fatigue," but it does not mention any third-party certification or medical testing. This is Vu's own claim. Competing TVs already have ambient light sensors and auto-brightness, so how much better Vu's system is will need hands-on reviews. Vu has also not said whether the eye comfort features can be switched off or adjusted.

Vu is moving the AI pitch in TVs away from sharper pictures and better search and towards viewer wellbeing. If the system works well, it could set the Masterpiece range apart from similarly specced rivals. The aggressive pricing on smaller sizes shows Vu wants RGB MiniLED to reach more buyers than the very top of the market.

• Xiaomi's Paris event will cover wearables, open-ear audio and Mijia smart home products, beyond the Xiaomi 18 Pro phones.
• The Xiaomi 18 hasn't launched in China or anywhere yet.
• India availability remains unconfirmed for the ecosystem products.

[/highlights]

Xiaomi had confirmed its launching its next pack of flagship, the Xiaomi 18 Pro series, globally at an event on Paris on November 17th. Now, it seems to be turning into a much bigger product event than initially expected. The company has revealed that it will showcase the Xiaomi Watch S5 41mm, Smart Band 11 and its first clip-on earbuds, called the Xiaomi Clip, alongside the Xiaomi 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max. New Mijia smart home appliances will also feature at the event.

Xiaomi Watch S5 41mm, Smart Band 11 and Clip: what to expect

The Xiaomi Smart Band 11 debuted in China in September and went on sale in Europe in October. The Watch S5 41mm appeared on Xiaomi's global website earlier this month, ahead of the Paris announcement. Both products are therefore known, and the event will confirm their pricing and regional availability.

The Xiaomi Clip are the company's first clip-on earbuds, which attach to the ear rather than sitting inside the ear canal. That puts them in the same emerging category as Huawei's FreeClip and Bose's Ultra Open earbuds. Comfort and awareness of surrounding sounds are key selling points in this segment, but sound leakage and how securely they fit will matter just as much.

Xiaomi has also promised new Mijia smart appliances. Reports point to products such as a multi-door refrigerator, washer-dryer and robot vacuum cleaners, although the company hasn't detailed the full range yet. The announcement is part of Xiaomi's effort to build a broader product ecosystem, rather than rely on smartphones alone.

Will the new Xiaomi products launch in India?

India availability of the devices is less certain. Xiaomi has a sizeable local ecosystem spanning smartphones, tablets, TVs, earbuds, smartwatches, air purifiers and robot vacuum cleaners. However, its global product range doesn't always make it to India.

The Smart Band 11 has the strongest case for an Indian launch. Xiaomi hasn't brought a new generation of its Mi Band series to the country since the Mi Band 6 in 2021. A recent tip from Yogesh Brar suggested that the fitness band lineup could return, although he didn't confirm the model or launch date. The Smart Band 11 would be a natural candidate, especially in a market where it would compete with other trackers such as Samsung's Galaxy Fit range and Google's Fitbit.

The Xiaomi 18 Pro has already been teased for India, but the Pro Max's local availability remains unconfirmed. The November 17th global event should not be taken as confirmation of an Indian launch for either model. The Watch S5 41mm and Xiaomi Clip have no confirmed India launch dates either. For anyone considering a new fitness band or open-ear earbuds, it may be worth waiting until the event for prices and availability details. But Indian buyers should hold off on assuming these products will arrive here immediately. Xiaomi's local rollout plans are still the bigger question.

• Vivo is bringing all three X500 phones to India.
• The Pro Max will launch with a bundled photographer kit.
• Pricing might cross 2 lakhs for the Pro Max model. 

[/highlights]

Shortly after teasing the Vivo X500 series in India, it has now confirmed the launch date. This is Vivo's flagship lineup, featuring three phones: Vivo X500, X500 Pro, and X500 Pro Max. All three phones are confirmed to launch in India. Vivo is also bringing its first smartwatch, the Watch GT 2, to India alongside the X500 series. 

Vivo X500 series India launch date

The Vivo X500 series is scheduled to launch in India on November 26th. The launch event will take place at 12 pm, which will most likely be livestreamed for viewers in India. Vivo is launching the X500, X500 Pro, and X500 Pro Max, and the Watch GT 2 as well, so it's going to be a power-packed event that day. The Vivo X500 Pro Max photographer kit and the Vivo Imaging grip kit are also launching in India. 

Vivo X500 series: what to expect

The Vivo X500 series includes three phones with the X500 as the standard model, the X500 Pro as the mid-tier variant, and the X500 Pro Max as the top-end model. Starting with the Vivo X500, it has a 6.59-inch 1.5K 144Hz OLED display, a Dimensity 9600M chipset, and a 7,500mAh battery. The X500 Pro is the compact model this time, with a smaller 6.36-inch 1.5K 144Hz LTPO OLED display. It also comes with the 2nm Dimensity 9600 Pro processor and a 6,510mAh battery. Both phones have 50MP primary cameras and dedicated telephoto sensors.

The X500 Pro Max is the highlight here, boasting a 6.85-inch 2K 144Hz display, the Dimensity 9600 Pro chipset, and an 8,000mAh battery in China. It offers the most versatile and advanced camera setup in the series with a 50MP main camera, a 200MP ZEISS APO Telephoto lens with 3.5x optical zoom and CIPA 7.0 stabilization, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a 50MP selfie camera. The X500 Pro Max also supports ZEISS Telephoto Extenders (Gen 2 and Gen 2 Ultra) for extended optical and digital range.

The Vivo X500 is tipped to cost Rs 1,19,999 for the 12GB + 256GB variant, while the X500 Pro could launch at Rs 1,49,999. The X500 Pro Max will reportedly launch at Rs 1,79,999 for the 12GB + 512GB variant. The photography kit, which comes with the telephoto extenders and other accessories, is tipped to launch at Rs 2,29,999. If Vivo does launch the X500 series at these prices, it would be lower than the Find X10 lineup, which starts at Rs 1,39,999 and goes up to Rs 1,99,999.

Vivo's flagship series is clearly aimed at photography enthusiasts, especially the X500 Pro Max with its telephoto extenders. The Vivo X500 and X500 Pro can still be considered by buyers who want a camera flagship with a compact form factor. However, we'd still advise waiting for official pricing and reviews to see if you should upgrade or not. 

• OPPO Find X10 Ultra has reportedly been cancelled.
• Its hardware is now said to be featured on another phone. 
• OPPO is already testing a new phone with the Find X10 Ultra's rumoured specs. 

[/highlights]

Rumours surrounding the OPPO Find X10 Ultra have been coming in thick and fast. Just as details about its specifications begin to emerge, another leak claims that the phone has been cancelled. However, a fresh leak now suggests that the hardware intended for the Find X10 Ultra could still make its way to another model. OPPO has yet to confirm any of these reports.

Cancelled OPPO Find X10 Ultra hardware details

Tipster Digital Chat Station has been revealing details about the Find X10 Ultra, especially its camera specifications. DCS later posted about the possibility of the Find X10 Ultra being cancelled. Although not officially confirmed, OPPO could be restrategizing its premium lineup as rising memory costs have led to phones launching at ultra-high prices. The tipster's latest post is more confident, as he mentions that the hardware of the Find X10 Ultra will be distributed among future models. 

According to DCS, the hardware that was supposed to be used for the Find X10 Ultra will now be considered for future OPPO models. The tipster adds that a major smartphone model is being tested with a large 6.89-inch 2K BOE display, a 100MP 1:1 square front camera, and a 200MP main camera with a 1/1.12-inch sensor. These specifications are what had been rumoured for the Find X10 Ultra. So it looks like we'll get the same or similar hardware but in another OPPO device. 

The Find X10 Ultra is also expected to feature a 10x periscope telephoto camera, but it's not clear if this will land on the new OPPO phone being tested. This is a key hardware feature that debuted on the Find X9 Ultra and separated it from competing flagships. The OPPO Find X10 Pro Max's 200MP periscope telephoto camera caps at 3x optical zoom, and you need the extender lens for 10x zoom support. 

OPPO has yet to officially confirm any of these rumours, so for now it all remains speculation. Also, there's enough time before the Find X10 Ultra's rumoured launch, which is expected to take place next year. OPPO has already launched the Find X10 and Find X10 Pro as part of its latest flagship offerings, but the Find X10 Ultra would be its ultimate camera weapon. Since we don't have concrete information yet, it's better to take all this with a pinch of salt. If you need a high-zoom camera now, look at the Find X10 Pro Max or Find X9 Ultra, rather than waiting for this rumored mystery device.

• The iQOO 16R/16s may carry a fairly compact display
• The iQOO 16R/16s could feature an upcoming sub-flagship-grade Snapdragon processor.
• The smartphone could sell under different names across international markets.

[/highlights]

The iQOO 15R made waves earlier this year not only as the first iQOO smartphone in India with a fairly compact 6.59-inch display, but also as the first 'R' phone in the lineup. Now, its successor, the iQOO 16R, which could also reportedly end up being called iQOO 16s, has received BIS certification. While iQOO confirmed the release of the flagship iQOO 16 with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 processor in India during IMC 2026, the iQOO 16R's appearance on the BIS certification list suggests the smartphone could launch in the country.

iQOO 16R/16s bags BIS certification for India launch

According to an X post by Anvin (@ZionsAnvin), an iQOO smartphone named iQOO 16s (or 16R) with the model name I2606 has completed the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) process for launch in India. Through this procedure, the government mandates the quality and safety clearance required for all smartphones, feature phones, and wireless handsets manufactured, imported, or sold in India.

iQOO 16s (or 16R - I2606) has been received by the BIS authority in India. #iQOO #iQOO16R #iQOO16s https://t.co/IkWbA52AdV

— Anvin (@ZionsAnvin) November 11, 2026

Now, whether the upcoming iQOO 16s will directly succeed the iQOO 15R in India or the brand will stick with the iQOO 16R name, we'll have to wait and see, with more official and unofficial reports. In other news, the iQOO 16R was recently certified in Indonesia, indicating different naming for different markets. Apart from this, the BIS certification doesn't reveal any iQOdetails or specifications of the smartphone.

iQOO 16R/16s could end up being rebranded iQOO Z12 Turbo

If history is any guide, the iQOO 16R/16s is likely a rebranded iQOO Z12 Turbo in India, as with the iQOO Z11 Turbo, which launched here as the iQOO 15R. While earlier reports suggested that the iQOO 16R could share similar specifications with the newly launched iQOO Neo 12, that now seems unlikely since the Neo 12 sports a 6.83-inch display, which doesn't fit with the 'R' series' offering of packing a compact display.

That said, the iQOO Z12 Turbo hasn't been officially announced in China; however, key specifications have been revealed through leaks and reports. For starters, it could carry a 6.59-inch display with up to a 165Hz refresh rate, up from the 144Hz found on the iQOO Z11 Turbo (iQOO 15R). The device could be powered by the upcoming Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 or Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Pro. Qualcomm has yet to launch these chipsets.

A recent leak from DCS suggests iQOO is testing 9,000mAh and 10,000mAh batteries for the iQOO Z12 Turbo, which would exceed the 8,400mAh cell in the iQOO 16, at least in the Chinese variant. Since the iQOO 16R, if launched in India, will compete against the OnePlus 16R (rumoured to be rebranded OnePlus Ace 7 Pro), it could match its 9,000mAh battery capacity.

With performance-oriented phones like the iQOO 15R, OnePlus 15R, and Motorola Edge 70 Max already featuring batteries over 7,000mAh, it isn't surprising to see iQOO pushing the boundaries to pack more mAh into next-generation smartphones. Apart from this, it remains to be seen what upgrades or improvements the upcoming iQOO sub-flagship brings in display, camera, and cooling. The iQOO 16R could be worth keeping an eye out for those seeking a performance-oriented device, though it may be priced noticeably higher than the iQOO 15R due to the ongoing memory crisis.

• The Indian certification listing of the Samsung Galaxy S27+ carries the model number SM-S956B/DS.
• It follows the Galaxy S27's BIS appearance earlier this month.
• Samsung is expected to expand the lineup with a new Galaxy S27 Pro, but it hasn't been spotted on BIS yet.

[/highlights]

We're heading towards the end of the year and Samsung's next Plus flagship has taken another step towards an Indian launch. Annually refreshed in January, the Samsung Galaxy S27+ has appeared on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) website. The listing doesn't reveal any specifications, but it's an indication that Samsung is preparing the phone for India. The standard Galaxy S27 had appeared on the BIS database a few days earlier, but the Galaxy S27 Pro and S27 Ultra are yet to show up.

Samsung Galaxy S27+ India launch details

The Samsung Galaxy S27+ was spotted with model number SM-S956B/DS, according to tipster Anvin. The November 2026 registration, R-85000280, lists Samsung India Electronics Private Limited as the manufacturer, with its address in Noida. The model number suggests this is the global dual-SIM version intended for markets including India. BIS approval doesn't reveal any more, but it puts the S27+ among the devices being prepared for the Indian market.

Samsung is expected to introduce the Galaxy S27 series at a Galaxy Unpacked event in January or February 2027. Some reports have pointed to an earlier January launch, although February remains possible. The company has expectedly not confirmed the event or the lineup so far.

Samsung Galaxy S27+: what to expect

As per leaks, the Galaxy S27+ is said to retain a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It could run on Samsung's Exynos 2700 or a Snapdragon 8 Elite-series processor, depending on the market. Other reported specifications include 12GB RAM, 256GB or 512GB storage, a 4,900mAh battery and 45W wired charging. The camera setup is expected to retail a 50MP primary sensor, a 12MP ultrawide camera and 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. Android 17 with One UI is tipped for the software side. These details remain leaks, not confirmed specifications.

For context, the Galaxy S26+ launched in India at Rs 1,19,999 for the 12GB + 256GB variant. It offers a 6.7-inch QHD+ 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, Exynos 2600 in India, a 4,900mAh battery and 45W wired charging. The S27+ could therefore be an incremental upgrade on paper if the reported display, battery and camera specifications hold. A price increase looks likely though, with the ongoing DRAM shortage adding to the pressure on smartphone makers. The S27+ could therefore launch above the S26+'s Rs 1,19,999 starting price.

Since certifications have started appearing, it signals the launch is close and it would make sense for buyers purchasing in the segment to wait for more details.

Flagship: EPYC 9996

AMD calls the EPYC 9996 the world's best general-purpose server processor. Its claims, all from AMD's own testing:

• Up to 3.7x the performance of a system with Nvidia's Vera CPU
• Up to 2.2x the performance of Intel's Xeon 6980P
• Up to 2.0x the performance per dollar of the Xeon 6980P

AMD says this lets each server support more applications, transactions and users within the same power and space limits. The press release does not give core counts, clock speeds for the 9996 or pricing.

Agentic AI: three CPU roles

An AI agent is not just a model answering a question. It plans, calls tools, runs code, and reads databases. The GPU runs the AI model, but a lot of the surrounding work runs on CPUs. AMD says that work falls into three jobs, and each job needs a different kind of CPU.

• General-purpose services: These are the ordinary business servers around the AI, such as databases, web apps and APIs. AMD's EPYC 9996 is built for this.
• GPU host nodes: The CPU sits next to the GPU and feeds it data and instructions. If the CPU is slow, the GPU sits idle, and GPUs are the most expensive part. So AMD uses fast chips (up to 5.3 GHz) here. "1.8x LLM output throughput" means the AI model produces text up to 1.8 times faster than with the previous AMD generation.
• Agent sandboxes: When an agent runs code or uses a tool, it does so in a small, isolated environment, like a safe mini-computer. Thousands of agents means thousands of these. AMD uses chips with many cores here, so more agents fit on one CPU.

The numbers, in plain terms

• "3.3x agents per CPU watt": For the same electricity, AMD says its chip runs about 3.3 times more agents than Nvidia's Vera, and about 2.5 times more than Intel's Xeon 6980P.
• "1.18x agents per rack in a 35 kW limit": A rack can only draw so much power. AMD says its tuned power settings let a rack run about 18% more agents than default settings in the same power budget.

From server to rack

AMD sells whole racks called Helion, in three types:

1. Helion Liquid: water-cooled, for packing in the most agents. It is meant for very large deployments.
2. Helion Air: air-cooled, for companies that want to add agent capacity to data centres they already have.
3. Helion Air Inference: puts CPUs and GPUs in the same rack, so agents can run code and AI models together.

"73,728 threads in one rack" is the total number of tasks the rack's CPUs can handle at once. AMD uses it as a stand-in for "most agents in a rack," though one thread is not exactly one agent.

All of these comparisons are AMD's own claims. Real results depend on the workload and how the system is set up, so independent tests are needed.

Customers and availability

• Meta is a lead customer and is validating 6th Gen EPYC platforms ahead of deployment at scale.
• Microsoft Azure has HDv2 in preview (AI data processing, agentic AI, HPC), HXv2 for EDA and technical computing, and ND MI455X v7 (based on Helios) for AI inference.
• OCI will power its Compute E7 instances with 6th Gen EPYC.
• AMD also launched 6th Gen EPYC Embedded processors separately.

AMD's main targets are Nvidia's Vera CPU and Intel's Xeon 6980P. These are AMD's own numbers, and the footnotes with test setups were not included, so the real gains depend on workload and configuration. The "agents per rack" framing also overlaps with Intel's recent push for a "delivered agents per rack" metric. Both companies now argue that agentic AI should be judged by how many agents a rack can run, not by core count. Independent tests at a fixed latency target will show whose numbers hold up.

AMD is betting that AI agents will increase demand for CPUs, not just GPUs. Its pitch is that buyers can stay on x86, with one software and security stack, and pick the chip that fits each job. Meta, Azure, and OCI backing helps, but the performance leads still need external confirmation. India availability and pricing have not been announced.

• Vivo Y31e 4G is expected to launch as a new budget phone.
• The handset will be the fourth in the Vivo Y31 lineup.
• The Y31e's specifications haven't been revealed yet.

[/highlights]

Vivo Y31e could be an upcoming budget phone from the brand as part of its Y series. 91mobiles has spotted the handset on Thailand's NBTC certification site, suggesting its imminent launch. The Vivo Y31e would be the fourth phone in the lineup after the Vivo Y31, Vivo Y31 Pro and Vivo Y31t. This is the first time we're learning about the Vivo Y31e; although there was a Y31e 5G spotted online last year, the phone never launched. 

Vivo Y31e 4G NBTC certification

According to the listing, the Vivo Y31e carries the model number V2661. The certification confirms the phone's name and its launch in Thailand. While it doesn't reveal any Y31e specifications, the listing suggests the phone may support only 4G. This means that the Vivo Y31e would be a 4G smartphone, possibly sitting below the Y31 and Y31 Pro. While it may seem surprising that Vivo is launching a 4G phone in 2026, the ongoing memory crunch has led to a shift in the budget segment where brands have been launching 4G phones. 

Interestingly, there was a Vivo Y31e 5G spotted in the Bluetooth SIG database around October last year. However, the phone never launched, and we didn't hear anything about it further. It looks like the phone has been revived, and if Vivo intends to launch the Y31e soon, we should get to know more details about it. 

Both the Vivo Y31 and Y31 Pro are over a year old now, as they launched in India on September 15th, 2025. The Vivo Y31t 5G is still new, as it launched in September this year. It's priced at Rs 31,499 and comes with the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset, a 7200mAh battery, 50 MP + 2 MP rear cameras, and an 8MP front camera. If the Vivo Y31e does launch, it may offer similar hardware with a large battery, an entry-level processor, and a basic camera setup. Since it could offer only 4G, the Y31e is expected to be priced lower than the other Y31 models. 

It's still too early to say more about the Vivo Y31e since we're yet to learn its specifications. For now, you could keep an eye on the Y31e if you're on the lookout for a budget 4G phone from Vivo. 

OPPO Pad 6 NBTC details

The NBTC listing shows the OPPO Pad 6 with model number OPD2620. Like most regulatory listings, it doesn't include specs, pricing, or a launch date, and certifications can come weeks or months ahead of a launch.

It's worth treating the rebrand theory with some caution. The model number doesn't match the Pad Air6, which OPPO's China site lists as OPD2613 for the Wi-Fi version and OPD2614 for the SIM version. That doesn't rule out a connection, as regional variants often carry their own model numbers, but it means the certification doesn't prove the two are the same tablet.

There's also some confusion about the naming. OPPO already sells a different tablet called the OPPO Pad 6 in China with model number OPD2601. It launched in May with a 12.1-inch 3K 144Hz display, the Dimensity 9500s chipset, and a 10,420mAh battery, and starts at CNY 3,499. So the Thai listing could be that tablet heading overseas, or a global version of the Pad Air6 using the Pad 6 name, as the Pad Air5 did with the Pad 5. Until OPPO confirms, it's not clear which.

OPPO Pad Air6 specifications (as listed in China)

OPPO's China website lists the full specs of the Pad Air6, with a Book Now button but no price. Not much has changed from the Pad Air5. The tablet has a 12.1-inch LCD with a 2800 x 1980 resolution, a 7:5 aspect ratio, and a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. OPPO lists a typical maximum brightness of 600 nits and a peak of 900 nits, with 100 percent sRGB coverage in Natural mode and 98 percent DCI-P3 in Vivid mode. As with its predecessor, there are also Soft Light editions with a matte display to cut glare. The tablet comes in Encounter Blue and Starlight Silver.

The Pad Air6 is powered by the Dimensity 7360 Super, an incremental step up from the Dimensity 7300 Ultra in the Pad Air5. It comes in 8GB + 128GB, 8GB + 256GB, and 12GB + 256GB configurations with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 3.1 storage, and in Wi-Fi and 5G versions.

The battery is the same 10,050mAh as before, with 33W SuperVOOC and UFCS charging, and the USB-C port is USB 2.0. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth with LDAC and aptX HD, and there are four speakers and two microphones. The cameras are basic, with 8MP front and rear sensors that record 1080p video at 30fps, and there's face unlock but no fingerprint scanner. The tablet runs ColorOS 17, and OPPO highlights an updated Notes app with AI features. An optional stylus is supported.

At 6.89mm thick and around 603g, the Pad Air6 is slightly thicker and heavier than the Pad Air5, which is 6.83mm thick and weighs 597g in its Wi-Fi version.

Price and launch timeline

OPPO hasn't announced pricing for the Pad Air6 or any global launch plans, including for India. For context, the Pad Air5 launched in China in December 2025 at CNY 1,899 (roughly Rs 27,000) for the 8GB + 128GB Wi-Fi model. The Pad Air6 launches in China on Monday, November 16. We will have to wait and see if the Pad Air6 and the Pad 6 global model are the same device.

• The Vivo X500 lineup comprises a Pro Max variant for the first time, with an Ultra said to launch later.
• The Vivo X500 prices are tipped to start at Rs 1,19,999, with the Pro Max Master Set reportedly costing Rs 2,29,999.
• Vivo has also teased the Watch GT 2 and Zeiss telephoto extenders for the Indian market.

[/highlights]

We're in the midst of the Android flagship season in India and it's Vivo's turn now. The company could launch its Vivo X500 flagship series in India at the end of the month, with sales reportedly beginning in December, claims tipster Sanju Choudhary. The launch is also expected to include the Vivo Watch GT 2 and Zeiss telephoto extenders.

Vivo X500 series India launch date and expected pricing

Vivo has already confirmed that the X500 series is coming to India through its teaser campaign, but hasn't announced an event date. Earlier reports pointed to November 25th, but now, tipster Sanju Choudhary claims the phones will launch in India a day later on November 26th, and sales will begin on December 2nd. The series debuted in China in September and reached global markets in October.

According to Choudhary, the Vivo X500 could cost Rs 1,19,999 for the 12GB + 256GB storage variant. The X500 Pro is tipped at Rs 1,49,999 for the same configuration, while the X500 Pro Max could start at Rs 1,59,999. The Pro Max is also expected to get a 12GB + 512GB variant priced at Rs 1,79,999. A Master Set, with its bundled accessories, is reportedly listed at Rs 2,29,999. The tipster claims exclusive discounts will be available at offline stores, although the exact offers haven't been disclosed.

These prices would mean a substantial increase from the X300 series. The Vivo X300 launched at Rs 75,999 for its 12GB + 256GB variant, while the X300 Pro started at Rs 1,09,999 for 16GB + 512GB.

Which Vivo X500 model should you consider?

The Vivo X500 Pro Max is the obvious choice for buyers who want Vivo's best camera hardware. Its 200MP periscope camera and compatibility with the Zeiss Telephoto Extender Gen 2 Ultra, which offers a 400mm-equivalent focal length, give it a clear advantage for long-range photography. But that advantage comes at a steep price, and the extender is an additional purchase rather than something buyers should assume is included with the phone.

The standard X500 may make more sense for those who want a premium Vivo flagship without spending close to Rs 1.5 lakh. The Pro sits in an awkward middle ground at its rumoured price, so buyers will need to weigh its camera and hardware upgrades against the much cheaper standard model and the Pro Max's more ambitious camera setup.

Given the sizeable price jump over the X300 range, it may be worth waiting for official pricing and launch offers before placing an order. The claimed offline discounts could make a difference, particularly on the Pro and Pro Max. Buyers should also compare the cost of the phone and the camera accessory together, rather than judging the Pro Max on its starting price alone.

• Redmi's 12,000mAh battery has reportedly finished mass production.
• It's tipped to be used in a mid-range to high-end phone.
• We could also see a 14,000mAh battery phone from Redmi in the near future. 

[/highlights]

The Redmi K100 was recently launched as the company's first phone with a 10,000mAh battery. It looks like Redmi has similar plans for its upcoming phones, with the latest leak suggesting a 12,000mAh battery phone. This battery prototype has reportedly finished mass production planning and is intended for a mid-range to high-end phone. 

Redmi 12,000mAh battery phone

This leak comes from tipster Digital Chat Station, who hasn't revealed the company's name, but it's believed to be Redmi. The 12,000mAh battery is said to be ready and is reportedly planned for a mid-range smartphone. We might see it soon in a Redmi mid-range to high-end phone. The tipster adds that the company is already evaluating a battery with around 13,000mAh to 14,000mAh capacity, which could go into mass production next year. 

We'd still have to wait for more details from Redmi since this is all speculation, but the likelihood of a 12,000mAh battery phone won't be surprising. Its most recent smartphone, the Redmi K100, boasts a massive 10,000mAh battery. The upcoming Redmi Turbo 6 Max could beat it by offering an 11,000mAh battery. Both phones are suitable for power users who rely on multi-day usage. 

Not just Redmi; other companies have similar plans. OPPO A7 Ultra is tipped to launch with a 12,000mAh battery. Vivo is also reportedly testing a 12,000mAh battery phone, while Honor might beat everyone by launching one with a 15,000mAh battery. It looks like this will be one of the key smartphone trends going into 2027, where we see more phones with 10,000mAh+ batteries. 

It's not clear which Redmi phone we'll see the 12,000mAh battery in, but it's expected to arrive soon. With similar plans from other companies, it would be wise to wait if you've been looking for a mega battery phone that can go on for days. 

• A purported Redmi K100 Ultra is reportedly being tested with a 2nm chipset and a battery capacity of around 10,000mAh.
• The phone could support 100W wired and 50W wireless charging, along with a 50MP periscope camera offering around 3x optical zoom.
• It could become a dedicated gaming flagship in the K100 lineup, which already includes three models.

[/highlights]

Redmi could be preparing another flagship for its K100 lineup, and battery life appears to be one of its biggest priorities. An engineering sample of a new sub-brand flagship is reportedly being tested with a 2nm chipset and a battery of around 10,000mAh. While the tipster hasn't named the device, it is being linked to the purported Redmi K100 Ultra, which could fill the gap for a dedicated gaming flagship in the current lineup.

Redmi K100 Ultra specifications tipped

According to tipster Digital Chat Station on Weibo, the engineering sample packs a custom single-cell battery with a capacity of around 10,000mAh. It reportedly supports 100W wired charging and 50W wireless charging, along with low-voltage discharge and global bypass charging. The latter allows the phone to draw power directly from the adapter during heavy use, reducing battery stress and heat during extended gaming sessions.

The battery capacity would match the standard Redmi K100, which already packs a 10,000mAh cell with 100W wired charging. However, wireless charging is a notable addition, as Redmi has reserved 50W wireless charging for the K100 Pro and Pro Max so far.

The same tipster previously reported that the device is testing a 50MP periscope camera with a 1/1.95-inch sensor and around 3x optical zoom. This would be a notable upgrade over the Redmi K90 Ultra, which has a 50MP primary camera and an 8MP ultrawide sensor but no dedicated telephoto camera. The chipset hasn't been identified, although the leak points to a 2nm manufacturing process.

Redmi launched the K100 Pro and K100 Pro Max in August, followed by the standard K100 in October. The lineup already covers different priorities, with the Pro Max offering a 200MP main camera and 5x periscope zoom, while the standard model puts its 10,000mAh battery ahead of camera versatility. The purported Ultra could combine the larger battery with a dedicated gaming focus and wireless charging. Its 2nm chipset would also put it among the next generation of flagship performers, although the actual processor and gaming hardware remain unknown.

However, global availability remains questionable as usual. Xiaomi has brought the K100 Pro and Pro Max to international markets as the POCO F9 Pro and F9 Ultra, respectively. However, their batteries were reduced to 6,330mAh and 8,050mAh from the Chinese models' 8,580mAh and 9,070mAh capacities. If the K100 Ultra follows the same route, international buyers may not get the full 10,000mAh battery. Those considering a gaming flagship may want to wait for confirmation, particularly if battery capacity is a priority.

• Vivo Y600s Pro AI Edition could carry several AI features on a budget.
• The smartphone could boast large battery, just like other other phones in the Y600 lineup.
• The Vivo Y600s Pro AI Edition has appeared with the model number V2561A.

[/highlights]

After releasing a bunch of smartphones under the Y series this year, both in China and internationally, Vivo could be adding yet another member to the lineup in the form of the Y600s Pro AI Edition. The smartphone has been spotted on the Google Play supported devices list page, indicating the phone has received the clearance to run Google Play services. Currently, the Y600 lineup includes the standard Y600, Y600i, Y600 Turbo, and Y600 Pro, all launched exclusively in China for now.

Vivo Y600s Pro AI Edition appears in Google Play devices list

For the uninitiated, the Google Play supported devices list is an official catalogue of Android devices that have passed Google's compatibility requirements and are certified to run the Google Play Store and Google Play Services. Since the Vivo Y600s Pro AI Edition is part of the China-exclusive Y600 series, it's likely the smartphone will launch initially in China. Per the listing, it will carry the model number V2561A.

Since the listing doesn't reveal any concrete details or specifications of the smartphone, it's safe to assume the Y600s Pro AI Edition will share similar specifications with other phones in the lineup. This may include a large battery, such as 10,000mAh or so, since the Y600 and Y600 Pro carry a similar-capacity battery, a budget-to-midrange-oriented chipset, such as from the MediaTek Dimensity 7000 series, and a strong emphasis on durability with the addition of military-grade certification and high IP ratings.

With such a combination, the device will be well suited for buyers seeking a smartphone for everyday use that just works, be it for scrolling social media, chatting, watching videos or movies, or playing light games without needing extreme performance.

What we know about the Vivo Y600s Pro AI Edition so far 

Diving deep into the naming nomenclature, the "s" in the Y600s Pro AI Edition could either indicate a cut-down or advanced version of the Y600 Pro, while the "AI Edition" moniker could mean the presence of several AI-oriented features at an affordable price point. If the smartphone happens to launch with Android 17-based OriginOS 7 skin, the Y600s Pro may come with features like an enhanced voice recorder that automatically identifies the speaker, neatly organises the transcript, and generates summaries with the help of AI.

Jovi AI on OriginOS 7 has been upgraded to find information, read and organise files, and help with deep queries using simple prompts, while the Snap Note feature turns images of written text into editable notes for easy management and organisation of crucial information. We've covered all of these and more AI features in our dedicated OriginOS 7 roundup story.

• The Reno 17 series is launching in China next week.
• It will feature a triple camera setup.
• The Reno 17 is getting camera features such as live stickers. 

[/highlights]

The OPPO Reno 17 series is set to launch in China on November 16th. Ahead of the big reveal, OPPO has been teasing the Reno 17, with the design already unveiled. The Reno 17 features a 3D cat this time as the design highlight. Now, OPPO has revealed the camera details of the Reno 17. Here's what to expect. 

OPPO Reno 17 camera specs 

The OPPO Reno 17 is confirmed to feature a 50MP primary camera, a 50MP periscope telephoto lens, and a 50MP ultra-wide lens on the back. Up front, the phone will house a 50MP ultra-wide selfie camera. So it's a 50MP camera stack on the Reno 17. This might be seen as a downgrade compared to the Chinese Reno 16, which has a 200MP main camera. The rest of the specs remain the same. It's, however, similar to the Indian Reno 16, which also offers the same 50MP quad-camera setup. 

The Reno 17 may not offer hardware upgrades, but it's getting some dedicated camera features. One of these is said to be the industry's first six-second-long live videos. You'll also be able to add stickers to live videos, which can move with the people and objects in the scene. OPPO says you can make personalised stickers out of things like the milk tea you drank or the music you listened to, and turn your photos into your own digital diary. The Reno 17 uses AI to recognise the subject of the scene so you can freely adjust the sticker layers. OPPO is known to offer a wide variety of camera features in its Reno series, giving the phones an edge over rival brands. 

These features could appeal to social media creators and younger users who like to experiment with such photo editing tools. However, we'll have to see if the Reno 17 cameras show any improvement over the Reno 16 or not. So, if you already own a Reno 16 or Reno 15, you might want to wait for reviews to see if there are any significant upgrades. However, those planning to shift to a premium mid-range phone for its design and cameras might find the Reno 17 worth waiting for. 

• OnePlus 17 could get a wider display aimed at improving the gaming experience, according to a new leak.
• The phone is expected to join similar wide-screen flagships from OPPO, Vivo and Xiaomi next year.
• The OnePlus 16 recently launched in China, though its availability in other markets remains unconfirmed.

[/highlights]

The wide-screen party just got wider. According to a new leak emerging from China, OnePlus could be rethinking the display format for its next numbered flagship. The OnePlus 17 will reportedly be among five wide-screen flagship phones launching next year, with the wider panel looking to improve gaming on the phone. It would put OnePlus in the company of OPPO, Vivo and Xiaomi, all of which are said to be working on phones with shorter, wider displays. Interestingly, this isn't just a foldable phone trend anymore. Manufacturers are also looking at bringing the format to regular smartphones.

OnePlus 17 wide display tipped

Tipster Smart Pikachu made the claim on Weibo but didn't share the OnePlus 17's expected screen size or aspect ratio. An earlier report from Digital Chat Station (DCS) also suggested that OnePlus was exploring a wide-screen phone. That report raised the possibility of the company developing it as an alternative to a successor to the compact OnePlus 15T.

Given how much OnePlus has focused on display performance in its recent flagships, this leak is notable. The OnePlus 16, which launched in October, features a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a refresh rate of up to 185Hz in supported games. It's powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chipset and also packs a 200MP main camera and a 9,000mAh battery.

The OnePlus 17 could retain that focus on performance while changing the shape of the display. A wider panel would give games more horizontal space, making on-screen controls easier to manage. There was also an earlier rumour about OnePlus testing a 240Hz display, although there's no confirmation that it will make it to the next flagship.

OnePlus won't be alone if the leak pans out. OPPO is reportedly developing a conventional smartphone with a 16:9 or 16:10 display, while Xiaomi and Vivo are also said to be working on wide-screen phones. These would be regular slab smartphones, rather than foldables, where the format has already gained enough ground. Huawei's Pura X Max, Xiaomi 18 Fold, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Apple's iPhone Duo all use wider proportions than traditional book-style foldables. Huawei has also experimented with the idea on a regular phone through the Pura X View.

The news is worth watching for gamers as there would be more horizontal room without having to unfold a device. The trade-off could be ergonomics, particularly if the wider body makes one-handed use awkward. Anyone considering a gaming phone may want to wait for more details if a wider screen appeals to them, but do note that the OnePlus 17 is still nearly a year away.

• Vivo X500 Ultra will succeed the X300 Ultra.
• It's tipped to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chipset.
• It will be the fourth phone in Vivo's flagship lineup. 

[/highlights]

Vivo's flagship lineup includes the X500, X500 Pro, and X500 Pro Max. An Ultra model is also rumored, with leaks circulating online about its specifications. The Vivo X500 Ultra will be the lineup's top-end model when it launches. A new leak reveals the possible launch timeline for the X500 Ultra. It will succeed the Vivo X300 Ultra, which launched earlier this year in May. 

Vivo X500 Ultra launch timeline

Vivo X500 Ultra will reportedly launch around March or April 2027, according to tipster Digital Chat Station. The tipster added that the X500 Ultra will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chipset, which would be a generational upgrade over the X300 Ultra's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. This means we can expect improved performance on the new Ultra model. It would also set the X500 Ultra apart from its siblings, which use MediaTek's Dimensity 9600-series chipsets.

According to DCS, the Vivo X500 Ultra could be the only phone in the segment to feature an exceptionally large camera sensor. This would mean that the sensor could be bigger than what the OPPO Find X10 Ultra plans to offer, since this phone is also tipped to launch next year and directly compete with the X500 Ultra. 

The Vivo X500 Ultra is tipped to feature a triple rear camera setup comprising a 200MP primary sensor, a 50MP ultra-wide camera, and a 200MP periscope telephoto shooter. This camera setup is largely similar to the X300 Ultra. However, another leak suggests the X500 could get a triple 200MP camera setup.

There's still time to learn more about the Vivo X500 Ultra, but what we can expect is major camera improvements. The Vivo X500 Ultra is also expected to be among the top camera flagships. If price isn't a concern and you want the best cameras in a smartphone, the Vivo X500 Ultra would be worth waiting for. Vivo X300 Ultra users might want to wait for reviews to see if the upgrade makes sense or not. 

• The upcoming OPPO smartphone is said to carry the model number PNC110.
• OPPO's 12,000mAh smartphone will one up the OPPO A7 Pro Max in battery capacity.
• The phone could be part of the OPPO A series.

[/highlights]

Update: The upcoming OPPO smartphone with a 12,000mAh battery will reportedly be called the 'A7 Ultra', according to Digital Chat Station (DCS) on Weibo.

Original story follows...

Recently, an OPPO smartphone with model number PNC110 was spotted on China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) certification listing, with a 12,000mAh battery. While the listing revealed nothing beyond the battery capacity, we now have the first design glimpse of the smartphone, courtesy of the TENAA database. Furthermore, it's rumoured the phone could be sold under OPPO's A series, since it one-ups the OPPO A7 Pro Max with a 10,000mAh cell.

First look at OPPO's 12,000mAh battery smartphone

According to the TENAA database, which requires all telecommunication hardware to go through a certification process before it can be legally sold or used on networks in China, an OPPO smartphone has appeared with the model number PNC110, revealing its front and rear look.

A device with the same model number debuted on MIIT certification a few days ago, confirming the existence of a 12,000mAh OPPO smartphone. Looking closely at the design, the smartphone is likely to feature an iPhone-like large rectangular camera plateau, housing three camera lenses on the left and an LED flashlight in the top-right corner. The colour revealed in the listing is grey/silver, but the device will likely be available in several other shades.

Up front, since the display is completely blacked out, we can't judge how thin the bezels will be. However, the smartphone will almost certainly sport a flat panel with a boxy design. Furthermore, much like most recent OPPO smartphone releases, such as the F35 series, the rounded-corner design should help you hold the phone for long periods without discomfort.

If the smartphone does end up having a 12,000mAh battery, it'll be OPPO's highest-capacity smartphone yet, outpacing the recently launched OPPO A7 Pro Max, which features a 10,000mAh battery. This smartphone will likely launch in China first, as evidenced by the multiple certification listings.

In India, the phone with the highest-capacity battery is the Realme P4 Power, with a 10,001mAh cell, followed by others such as the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max, POCO X8 Power, and Vivo S2 FE, all with 10,000mAh batteries. This will put the upcoming OPPO smartphone ahead of the competition, potentially delivering multi-day battery life conveniently on a single charge. Buyers looking for the best battery life can keep an eye out for OPPO's 12,000mAh battery smartphone.

• Nothing has shared a new teaser of its upcoming AI-native device, showing a large button with a red circle and two coloured indicators.
• The device is expected to launch in December.
• CEO Carl Pei described it as a productivity tool that "cannot be an app".

[/highlights]

Nothing has offered a closer look at its mysterious upcoming AI device, revealing what appears to be a physical record button in its latest teaser. The image shows a grey, metallic-looking device with rounded corners, two pill-shaped elements glowing green and red, and a large rectangular control with a red circle at its centre. While the design resembles a conventional audio recorder, Nothing has yet to confirm the device's purpose. The teaser comes ahead of the company's planned December launch of its first AI-native hardware product.

Nothing's new AI device teaser

Nothing shared an eight-second teaser on its community forum, with CEO Carl Pei also posting the clip on X with the caption, "Context doesn't live in a chat box". The accompanying community post carries the headline "What if you had the time?"

Context doesn't live in a chat box https://t.co/6o8dmanMik

— Carl Pei (@getpeid) November 10, 2026

The close-up reveals a dark grey, textured body with a metallic finish. Two horizontal elements sit near the top, one green and the other red-orange. Below them is a large, light grey rectangular button with rounded edges and a red circular marking in the centre. The arrangement resembles the record control on a traditional dictaphone, although the company hasn't confirmed whether it's actually a recording button.

Earlier this month, Pei confirmed that Nothing's first AI-native product would ship in December. In an essay titled 'Toolmakers', he described it as a productivity tool with "no new screen" that "couldn't have been an app". He also argued that current AI assistants lack everyday context, such as ideas shared during meetings or casual conversations, because users rarely capture and feed this information into chatbots.

Could it be an AI recorder?

The latest teaser makes an AI-powered recording and note-taking device a stronger possibility. It could let users capture conversations or ideas through a physical control, with AI potentially handling transcription, summaries and follow-up tasks. However, these capabilities remain speculative.

Nothing already has some relevant software in place. Its Phone (3a) series introduced the Essential Key, which lets users save voice notes and screen content to Essential Space. The platform can organise captured information and generate summaries and action points. Dedicated hardware could make this process more accessible without requiring users to reach for their phones.

There are already competitors exploring this category. Plaud offers its Note and NotePin AI recorders, while India's NeoSapien sells the Neo 1 wearable note-taker. Both can capture conversations and turn them into searchable notes and summaries. Nothing will hence need to offer more than a distinctive design. Recording controls, transcription accuracy, language support, privacy protections and the quality of AI-generated summaries will determine whether its device offers a meaningful advantage. For now, buyers interested in dedicated AI recorders have existing options, but it makes sense to wait for Nothing to reveal its features and pricing before considering another device.

• Vivo X500 comes in four colour options.
• The X500 in red could be exclusive to India.
• It's tipped to cost above a lakh. 

[/highlights]

The Vivo X500 series is teased to launch in India soon. This is Vivo's flagship series, which is already official in China. Ahead of the launch, a new colour variant for the Vivo X500 has leaked and is tipped to arrive in India. This could be an exclusive colour variant for India, as it's not part of the Vivo X500 in China. Indian pricing for the Vivo X500 has been tipped as well.

Vivo X500 red colour variant

Tipster Sanju has shared an exclusive render of the Vivo X500 in red. Judging by the image, we can see that it's a very bright red, almost leaning towards orange. The handset retains the same design, which is a circular camera module on a larger plate. So, you're getting Vivo's flagship camera design but in a slightly different manner. The Vivo X500 is the only model in the lineup to get a design change this year. 

In China, the Vivo X500 comes in white, pink, grey, and black. It's not clear, which colours are coming to India apart from red. 

The tipster adds that the Vivo X500 could be priced at Rs 1,19,999 for the 12GB + 256GB variant. This is much higher than the Vivo X300, which launched at Rs 75,999 for the same memory configuration. The price hike is expected, though, considering the memory costs and all new flagships touching a lakh and above. 

The Vivo X500 is the standard model in the lineup, featuring a 6.59-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and 4,000 nits of peak brightness. It packs a 7,500mAh battery with 90W wired and 40W wireless charging, which is larger than the X300's 6,040mAh unit. For optics, you get a 50MP Sony LYTIA 828 main camera, a 64MP telephoto, and a 50MP JN1 ultra-wide camera.

Since Vivo has already teased the X500 series India launch, we should get to know the official details very soon. For now, you might want to consider the Vivo X500 if you're looking for a camera flagship with a large battery, a vibrant and bright display, and a relatively compact design. We should still wait for the official launch before making any buying decisions. 

• The Vivo Y6k presents itself as yet another budget option in China's budget-to-midrange smartphone market.
• The smartphone comes in three colourways.
• The Vivo Y6k is already on sale for CNY 1,599 on Vivo's online store in China.

[/highlights]

In an ever-expanding portfolio of budget smartphones, Vivo has added another member to its Y series in China, the Vivo Y6k. Already available on Vivo China's online store, the Y6k emphasises shock and drop resistance, a decent 6,500mAh battery for reliable everyday endurance, and a flicker-free display to reduce eye strain from long screen use. The smartphone could suit buyers looking for a budget option with noticeable performance gains.

Vivo Y6k price, colours, availability

The Vivo Y6k is already available on Vivo's online store for CNY 1,599 (approx. Rs 22,500) in the 6GB RAM and 128GB storage model. It can be purchased in three colourways, including Flowing Clouds White, Twilight Black, and Sunset Blue (translated from Chinese). Vivo is also offering the smartphone in monthly instalments of 3, 6, 12, and 24 months.

Vivo Y6k specifications overview

The Vivo Y6k is equipped with a 6.74-inch HD+ LCD panel with a resolution of 1,600 × 720 pixels, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 1,200 nits. The display is TÜV Rheinland certified, which helps ensure the panel's flicker doesn't cause eye strain.

The design and build, which closely resembles the Vivo T5 Lite, is 8.39mm thick and weighs 209g. While the smartphone offers nothing extraordinary in display or design, it is well positioned for everyday use and shouldn't add bulk to your pocket.

At the core of the Vivo Y6k sits MediaTek's Dimensity 6300 chipset, backed by 6GB of LPDDR4X memory and 128GB of UFS 2.2 storage. Out of the box, the device runs OriginOS 6 built on Android 16. With Vivo's own smartphones launching with OriginOS 7 based on Android 17, at least globally, running an older Android generation could be a bummer to sum.

[caption id="attachment_721221" align="alignnone" width="614"] Vivo Y6k in all colour options[/caption]

Photography duties on the rear are handled by a single 13MP camera, while a 5MP sensor takes care of selfies and video calls. Users can expect just usable results from these cameras, given the budget hardware.

Power comes from a 6,500mAh battery limited to 15W charging; Vivo claims the cell is engineered to maintain its capacity for up to five years. Biometric options include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and face unlock, and an infrared emitter to control compatible home appliances. Connectivity options include 5G, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.4, with physical ports including USB Type-C and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Durability features an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance, plus SGS five-star drop-resistance certification. This adds peace of mind, since the smartphone is certified to withstand shocks from drops or bumps on hard surfaces.

Since the Vivo Y6k's specifications are identical to those of the Vivo T5 Lite and iQOO Z11 Lite (review), which we've reviewed, the smartphone has the potential to deliver great battery life and efficient thermals during gaming. However, the U-shaped notch cutout may look dated to some, while the 6,500mAh battery may seem limiting on paper when many budget smartphones feature at least 7,000mAh cells.

• The Motorola Razr Flex 2027 has appeared on the company's Australian support website, confirming its name and pointing to a 2027 release.
• The upcoming wide foldable is tipped to feature a 6.92-inch inner display, a 4.97-inch cover screen and a 5,000mAh battery.
• The Razr Flex will join a growing category of wide foldables from Huawei, Xiaomi, Samsung and Apple.

[/highlights]

Motorola appears to be preparing a new entry in the growing wide-foldable smartphone category. Called the Razr Flex 2027, the device has surfaced on the company's Australian support website, giving its rumoured name its strongest confirmation yet. It's expected to feature a shorter, wider design than conventional book-style foldables, potentially making it a more compact alternative to Motorola's existing Razr Fold. The sighting comes as brands such as Huawei, Xiaomi, Samsung and Apple embrace wider screen proportions for their premium foldables, marking a growing trend in the industry.

Motorola Razr Flex 2027 launch details

The Razr Flex 2027 now has a dedicated support page on Motorola's Australian website. Its name also appears in the company's security update selector, alongside existing Razr models. The listing identifies it as a 2027 device, although Motorola hasn't announced an exact launch date.

The security update section currently displays a 'Test Security Updates' heading, an August 2024 launch date, Android 16 and support until August 2029. These appear to be placeholder details rather than the phone's actual software specifications or update commitment.

Separately, Brazilian publication TudoCelular has shared a video reportedly recorded at a Motorola event. It shows the company's branding followed by an animation of a foldable phone. While this could be an early glimpse of the Razr Flex, the footage doesn't identify the device.

Expected specifications

The Razr Flex is tipped to feature a 6.92-inch folding display and a 4.97-inch cover screen. This would make its inner panel smaller than the 8.1-inch display on the Razr Fold. Other expected specifications include a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, 12GB RAM, Android 17, two 50MP rear cameras and a 5,000mAh battery. It could also feature IP48 and IP49 ratings.

The design signals a broader change in the foldable market. Huawei's Pura X Max introduced a wider book-style approach in April 2026, followed by Xiaomi's 18 Fold, Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Apple's iPhone Duo. These devices favour shorter, wider inner displays that offer a more tablet-like viewing experience without the tall proportions of traditional foldables.

Motorola could take the concept in a more compact direction. With its reported 4.97-inch cover screen, the Razr Flex may appeal to users who find existing book-style foldables too large to carry and operate comfortably. A separate retailer leak has suggested a price of around USD 1,680 (around Rs 1.74 lakh), potentially positioning it below the Razr Fold. However, Motorola has yet to confirm its specifications, pricing or availability.

• This would be Vivo's first 12,000mAh battery phone.
• Vivo hasn't officially confirmed these details. 
• The Vivo S2 FE has a 10,000mAh battery, the largest on a Vivo phone.

[/highlights]

Vivo could be working on a large-battery phone, possibly 12,000mAh. If accurate, this would be the largest battery on a Vivo phone yet. At present, the Vivo S2 FE has a 10,000mAh battery, which is the largest yet on a Vivo phone. It looks like Vivo is pushing for big batteries, a trend that's picked up in the mid-range segment where companies are offering up to 10,000mAh battery phones. 

Vivo 12,000mAh battery phone

According to a leak by tipster Digital Chat Station on Weibo, the largest battery is currently in mass production, which is rated at 11,970, and sits in the 12,000mAh class. The tipster hasn't revealed the company's name, but it uses the word 'blue', which is believed to be Vivo. The said device is reportedly being kept a secret for now, but the company has devices with an even bigger battery and a large screen in the works. This means that we could see future phones from Vivo with batteries exceeding 12,000mAh and large displays. 

It looks like Vivo has large batteries in mind for its future portfolio of smartphones. What we can expect is more phones, possibly in the mid-range segment, with large batteries and large displays. This might just be the trend too, as Honor is reportedly testing 14,000mAh and 15,000mAh smartphone batteries. Honor is already known to be one of the first brands to offer large-battery phones, and it could be pushing that even further. 

Since we don't have any concrete information yet, it's better to wait for more details. But if you have been considering a Vivo phone with a large battery, then it would be better to wait for new developments. Otherwise, there are options like the Vivo S2 FE or similar alternatives to consider now.