[highlights]

• WhatsApp is reportedly developing its own cloud backup service for iPhone, giving users an alternative to backing up chats via iCloud.
• The new backup option is expected to offer 2GB of free storage and end-to-end encryption enabled by default.
• The feature is still under development and hasn't yet been released for beta testing or announced for a stable rollout.

[/highlights]

If you're one of those who's constantly struggling with WhatsApp chat backups due to lack of iCloud storage space, there's good news for you. WhatsApp is reportedly developing its own cloud backup service for iPhone users, giving them an alternative to Apple's iCloud for the first time. The feature, spotted in the latest iOS beta by WABetaInfo, is still under development, but it could help users free up precious iCloud storage while offering end-to-end encrypted backups by default. The feature follows a similar effort already underway for Android, where WhatsApp is working on an alternative to Google Drive for chat backups.

How the new backup option could work

According to the leak, WhatsApp will allow iPhone users to choose between backing up chats to iCloud or WhatsApp's own cloud servers directly from the Chat Backup settings. iCloud is expected to remain the default option, but users will be able to switch providers at any time.

Unlike iCloud backups, which require users to manually enable end-to-end encryption, backups stored on WhatsApp's servers will reportedly be encrypted by default. Users will be able to secure them using a passkey, password or a 64-digit encryption key, with WhatsApp saying only the user will be able to access the backup.

This could also ease cross-platform chat restores in the future, allowing backups created on one operating system to be restored on another. However, that capability is still being explored and hasn't been confirmed.

Expected WhatsApp cloud storage plans

WhatsApp is reportedly planning to offer 2GB of free cloud storage for chat backups. Users with larger backups, particularly those who share a lot of photos and videos, may eventually have the option to subscribe to paid plans. Early reports point to a 50GB tier priced around USD 0.99 (around Rs 95) per month, alongside a 1TB plan for heavier users, although these details could change before launch.

The feature addresses a common pain point for iPhone users. Apple includes 5GB of free iCloud storage, which is shared across photos, files, device backups and apps. Large WhatsApp backups can quickly consume that quota, often forcing users to either delete files or upgrade to a paid iCloud plan.

Availability

The new backup provider is currently under development and isn't yet available, even for beta testers. WhatsApp has also not announced an official release timeline.

For users invested in WhatsApp running out of iCloud space, the feature could offer greater flexibility without compromising privacy. However, since it is still in development, it remains unclear whether Meta will launch it with the reported storage limits and pricing. If rolled out as described, it would also bring iPhone users closer to feature parity with Android, where WhatsApp is developing the same independent backup solution.

The recently launched Motorola Edge 70 Max and Motorola Signature (review) are flagship offerings from the same brand and are priced almost identically. However, both have been built for entirely different purposes. The Motorola Edge 70 Max is designed for gamers, while the Motorola Signature prioritises a lifestyle-focused experience. Here's a quick specs-based comparison of the two to find out which one is the better choice for you.

Specs at a glance

Motorola Edge 70 Max vs Signature price in India

The Motorola Edge 70 Max has been competitively priced in India at Rs 54,999 for its base 8GB RAM + 256GB storage option. Its top-end 12GB RAM variant costs Rs 58,999. The handset will be available for sale via Flipkart from July 20th with an early bird discount of Rs 5,000 - effectively bringing its price down to Rs 49,999.

The Motorola Signature, on the other hand, was launched in India back in January at Rs 59,999 for its base 12GB RAM and 256GB storage variant. The handset also comes in 16GB + 512GB and 16GB + 1TB configurations, which cost Rs 64,999 and Rs 69,999. However, the handset is currently selling with a Rs 2,500 instant discount across variants on e-commerce platform Flipkart, bringing its price down to Rs 57,499.

Design

As observed in the Motorola Edge 70 Max first impressions, the smartphone features flat edges instead of the curved ones seen on previous Edge-series models. This change has been made deliberately to minimise accidental touches while holding the phone horizontally during gaming. However, if you're coming from an older Motorola smartphone, the Edge 70 Max may feel slightly bulky in the hand. This is largely due to its weight of over 221 grams and its 8.29mm thickness.

[twenty20 img1="https://static.hub.91mobiles.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2026/07/Motorola-Edge-70-Max-FI04-1.jpg" img2="https://static.hub.91mobiles.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2026/01/Motorola-Signature-review07.jpg" offset="0.5" before="Motorola Edge 70 Max" after="Motorola Signature"]

Besides that, the Edge 70 Max flaunts a glass back instead of fabric/ psuedo leather/ wooden finish. The handset is IP68/IP69 water and dust resistance certified, along with MIL-STD-810H military-grade durability safeguarding it from minor drops and falls. The durability level is on par with the more expensive Motorola Signature. However, the latter is sleeker and easier to manage - despite being relatively wider.

The Motorola Signature weighs just 186 grams and measures 7mm in thickness, making it easier to hold and more pocket-friendly. The handset also features gently curved edges, which did not result in any accidental touches during my time with the device. However, I'm not a hardcore gamer, so I'm probably not the best person to judge its performance in that regard.

[comparative-benchmark type="1000" products="42264,41718,,," ][/comparative-benchmark]

The Motorola Signature comes in Pantone Carbon and Pantone Martini Olive colour options - both with fabric finish. The Edge 70 Max, meanwhile, comes with a glass finish across its Pantone-certified colour options: Aqua Grey, Dark Shadow, and Ice Melt.

Display

The Motorola Signature and Edge 70 Max both ship with a near bezel-less centre punch-hole 6.8-inch 10-bit OLED LTPO display. However, on paper, the Edge 70 Max's screen much more promising with Quad HD+ (2k) resolution and 7,000 nits brightness, alongside the usuals - HDR10+ support, water touch, and 100 percent DCI-P3 colour gamut.

[comparative-benchmark type="2000" products="42264,41718,,," ][/comparative-benchmark]

However, despite being a gaming-focused smartphone, its peak dynamic refresh rate of 144Hz is lower than that of the Motorola Signature. The Signature's 6.8-inch display supports a dynamic refresh rate of up to 165Hz, which should translate to slightly smoother visuals. That said, the difference is unlikely to be easily noticeable in everyday use. While the Signature also supports Dolby Vision, its display is limited to an FHD+ resolution and a peak brightness of 6,500 nits.

[twenty20 img1="https://static.hub.91mobiles.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2026/07/Motorola-Edge-70-Max-FI01-2.jpg" img2="https://static.hub.91mobiles.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2026/01/Motorola-Signature-review04.jpg" offset="0.5" before="Motorola Edge 70 Max" after="Motorola Signature"]

Both smartphones ship with dual stereo speakers, backed by Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio. Theoretically, the handsets should deliver identical listening experience, but the Signature has its speakers fine-tuned by Bose.

Performance and software

[comparative-benchmark type="1" title="AnTuTu score" caption="AnTuTu assesses a smartphone's CPU, GPU, memory, and overall user experience (higher is better)" highlight="" products="42264,41718,,," ][/comparative-benchmark]

The Motorola Edge 70 Max and Motorola Signature are both powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 SoC, paired with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.1 storage. The Signature's higher memory capacity allows it to keep more apps and data in memory than the Edge-series offering. Both smartphones also feature Motorola's ArcticMesh cooling system. Even though the Signature is not marketed as gaming, it features a larger 6,500mm2 vapour chamber compared to the 5,500mm2 unit on the Edge 70 Max.

[comparative-benchmark type="3000" products="42264,41718,,," pias="59,38,,,"][/comparative-benchmark]

The Motorola Signature can also deliver gaming at up to 120fps, just like the performance-oriented Edge 70 Max. The software experience should be identical on both smartphones, as they run Android 16-based Hello UI. However, if you're planning a long-term investment, the Signature has a clear advantage. It is promised to receive seven years of major Android OS and security updates, whereas the Edge 70 Max is limited to three major Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates.

Battery

The Motorola Edge 70 Max fares better in battery. The handset packs a 7,100mAh silicon-carbon battery, with 90W Turbo wired charging. This is bigger than the Motorola Signature's 5,200mAh battery, which is also backed by 90W fast wired charging. Both phones feature wireless charging capabilities, but the Edge 70 Max supports 25W Qi2.2 magnetic wireless charging. Beyond charging, users can attach accessories, such as wallets, to the smartphone like the iPhone.

Cameras

The Motorola Signature pulls things back with its cameras. The smartphone houses a triple-rear camera setup, comprising a a 50MP Sony Lytia 828 primary sensor with OIS, a 50MP ultrawide camera with a 112-degree field of view, and a 50MP Sony Lytia 600 periscope telephoto lens offering 3x optical zoom. The front camera is also a 50MP sensor for selfies and video calling.

On the contrary, the Edge 70 Max packs dual cameras with a mid-range 50MP Sony LYT 710 primary sensor and an underwhelming 8MP ultrawide lens. Even the front camera is downgraded to 32MP, making this smartphone less appealing to serious camera enthusiasts.

Verdict

The Motorola Edge 70 Max offers a bigger battery life, sharper display, fast magnetic wireless charging and support for magnetic accessories. All these on top of its powerful chipset and an advanced cooling system. These advantages make the Edge 70 Max the more compelling choice for gamers and power users who value endurance over photography.

The Motorola Signature, meanwhile, is aimed at users seeking a more premium all-round experience. The handset stands out with a significantly lighter and slimmer design, a far more capable camera system, Bose-tuned speakers, higher RAM and storage options, and an impressive seven years of Android OS and security updates. If cameras, long-term software support, and a refined in-hand feel matter more than battery capacity, the Signature justifies its higher asking price.

[highlights]

• OnePlus N6x will be the next phone in the N6 series
• The phone will come with familiar specs, according to a tipster
• OnePlus has started teasing the launch of the N6x on Amazon

[/highlights]

OnePlus N6 is the brand's most affordable phone in 2026. It sits below the Nord series, specifically the Nord CE 6 Lite, after the latter received a price hike in June. The OnePlus N6 is priced at Rs 22,999 while the Nord CE 6 Lite costs Rs 25,999. It seems that's not the only budget phone in the works. OnePlus N6 will soon be joined by the OnePlus N6x, a teaser on Amazon India confirms.

What do we know about the OnePlus N6x?

Not much, honestly. Tipster Yogesh Brar tweeted on Wednesday that there will be one more product in the N6 series, called the OnePlus N6x. Yes, the naming is getting a bit confusing. The phone will be "coming soon", but there is no word yet on when exactly the device will be unveiled. OnePlus has also started teasing the launch of its smartphone on Amazon India.

The tipster added that the OnePlus N6x will come with "familiar specs", suggesting it could share similarities with an existing phone. To recall, the OnePlus N6 shares a few common features with the Realme P4R, including an 8,000mAh battery, an HD+ LCD display, and 45W charging. The two phones use slightly different chipsets, though: the OnePlus N6 gets a MediaTek Dimensity 6360 Apex, while the Realme P4R uses the Dimensity 6300.

In all likelihood, the OnePlus N6x will be cheaper than the N6, suggesting a sub-Rs 20,000 price point. The phone's specifications are unclear at the moment, but we can expect the Amazon microsite to start revealing key details in the coming days.

If you were hoping to see a OnePlus phone under Rs 20,000, the upcoming OnePlus N6x might just be worth waiting for. The OnePlus N6, while cheaper than the Nord phones, is currently priced over Rs 20,000, which puts it out of reach of many budget buyers.

[highlights]

• The POCO M8 Power has surfaced in HyperOS firmware and is tipped to launch in India as a rebranded Redmi Note 17 5G.
• The Indian model could retain the same 8,000mAh battery along with a 7-inch 120Hz OLED display.
• The Redmi Note 17 launched in China this week, and the India launch status is still unknown.

[/highlights]

The POCO M8 Power appears to be on its way to India, and a new leak suggests it could simply be a rebranded version of the Redmi Note 17 that launched in China. References to the device have reportedly been spotted in the latest HyperOS firmware, with the model number indicating an Indian variant of the Redmi device.

The discovery, by tipster Kacper Skrzypek, follows Redmi's launch of the Note 17 in China yesterday. While the Chinese model carries the number 26021RN18C, the leaked POCO device is listed as 26021PC18I. The "RN" prefix denotes Redmi, "PC" stands for POCO, and the final "I" indicates the Indian market. This strongly suggests Xiaomi plans to bring the phone to India under the POCO brand instead of the Redmi name. This isn't entirely surprising as Xiaomi has this strategy of rebranding Redmi devices as POCO for different regions.

Expected key specifications

If the POCO M8 Power inherits all of the Redmi Note 17's hardware, it'll come with a massive 7-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 1,800 nits peak brightness and 2396 x 1080 resolution. It could be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 chipset. Besides the display size, another highlight is expected to be its 8,000mAh battery, which recent leaks claim will remain unchanged for the Indian model. Earlier speculation suggested Xiaomi could reduce the battery capacity outside China, but recent firmware findings indicate Indian buyers may receive the same large battery found in the Chinese variant.

Other expected specifications include up to 8GB RAM, 256GB storage, a 50MP rear camera, 8MP front camera, 45W wired fast charging, 22.5W reverse wired charging, IP65 dust and water resistance, NFC, and AI-powered anti-fraud features.

On paper, the combination of a large OLED display and an 8,000mAh battery could give the POCO M8 Power a clear advantage over rivals in the budget 5G segment, where battery sizes may steadily be increasing but display is capped around 6.8 inches.

Market status

Neither Xiaomi nor POCO has officially confirmed the smartphone, so details around pricing and launch timelines remain under wraps. It's also unclear whether the Redmi Note 17 will launch in India separately with changed specs or whether Xiaomi will position the POCO M8 Power as its equivalent for the market.

 If Xiaomi brings the Chinese hardware package to India unchanged, the POCO M8 Power could stand out among affordable smartphones by pairing an unusually large battery with an OLED display and a modern Snapdragon chipset. However, prospective buyers may still want to wait for official pricing before making a decision, as value has traditionally been one of POCO's biggest selling points.

[highlights]

• The Realme Narzo 100x targets buyers seeking high battery endurance.
• It competes with the likes of the OnePlus N6 and iQOO Z11x.
• The handset goes on sale starting July 22nd on Amazon.

[/highlights]

After catering to the sub-Rs 25,000 segment with a bunch of smartphones, Realme has readied another smartphone in the form of the Narzo 100x. Launched at a starting price of Rs 20,999, the device targets users who prioritise exceptional battery life while offering a reliable daily experience, backed by the Dimensity 6300 processor, a 144Hz refresh rate display, and a host of AI features.

Realme Narzo 100x price, availability, first sale

The Realme Narzo 100x's base storage variant features 4GB + 128GB RAM, and is priced at Rs 20,999, while the 6GB + 128GB and 6GB + 256GB variants retail for Rs 22,999 and Rs 24,999, respectively.

Early bird offers include an instant Rs 2,000 discount using bank offers and an additional Rs 500 off using a coupon. The phone goes on sale on Amazon starting July 22nd at 12 PM.

[gallery link="file" columns="2" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="708313,708312"]

Realme Narzo 100x specifications and features overview

The standout feature of the Realme Narzo 100x is undoubtedly its massive 8,000mAh battery, which should offer a couple of days of battery backup on a single charge, depending on the usage. The battery is paired with 45W fast charging and reverse charging. This puts it ahead of or on par with its rivals, such as iQOO Z11x and OnePlus N6.

Upfront, the Narzo 100x flaunts a 6.8-inch HD+ (720×1,570 pixels) LCD panel with up to a 144Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1,200 nits. While full HD+ displays were common additions on phones in this price segment until last year, the memory crisis has forced brands across the board to go with inferior components, such as HD+ panels.

The smartphone is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor, paired with an ARM Mali-G57 MC2 GPU. It comes with up to 6GB of LPDDR4x RAM and up to 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage. The device ships with Android 16-based Realme UI 7.0 out of the box, with Realme promising two years of Android version updates and three years of security patches. For sustained performance in games, Realme has bundled a 5,300mm² AirFlo VC cooling system, which should aid the processor in keeping temperatures cool.

On the camera front, Realme equips the Narzo 100x with a 50MP main sensor and a secondary lens, while the front gets an 8MP shooter. Realme has also loaded useful AI camera tools like AI Eraser 2.0, AI Ultra Clarity, AI Unblur, and AI Portrait Glow to elevate photo quality and simplify editing.

Other key aspects of the Narzo 100x include a military-grade durability certification, IP65 dust and water resistance, and a distinctive AI Pulse Light LED on the back. It ships with Realme UI 7.0, promising 2 OS upgrades and 3 years of security updates.

Should you buy the Realme Narzo 100x?

With a starting price of Rs 20,999, the Realme Narzo 100x undercuts the OnePlus N6, which sells for Rs 22,999, resulting in better value. The N6 also happens to carry an 8,000mAh battery, while having an equivalent-performing processor in the form of MediaTek Dimensity 6360 Apex.

The Narzo 100x is clearly built for users who value battery endurance above all else. With its oversized cell, smooth display, and practical feature set, it makes a strong case for anyone needing dependable all-day (or multi-day) power, whether for long commutes, outdoor work, or heavy travel.

[highlights]

• Motorola Edge 70 Max is priced in India starting at Rs 54,999.
• It's the first gaming-focused smartphone from the brand.
• The handset boasts an advanced ArcticMesh cooling system, 120 fps gaming support, a 7,100mAh battery, and more

[/highlights]

The Motorola Edge 70 Max has officially launched in India, marking the brand's entry into a new segment. As the flagship model in the Edge 70 series, it offers much more than just a premium lifestyle experience. The Edge 70 Max places a strong emphasis on performance, powered by the sub-flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 SoC and an ArcticMesh cooling system. It also features a flat-edge design that helps prevent the accidental touches commonly associated with curved displays during gaming. Other key specifications include support for 120fps gaming, a 144Hz QHD+ display, a 7,100mAh battery, 90W wired charging, and 25W Qi2.2 magnetic wireless charging. On paper, the Motorola Edge 70 Max appears to be one of the most feature-packed smartphones in its segment.

Motorola Edge 70 Max price in India, availability

The Motorola Edge 70 Max costs Rs 54,999 for the 8GB RAM option, while the 12GB RAM variant is priced at Rs 59,999. This puts it in the same league as the iQOO 15R (review) and OnePlus 15R (review), which are also performance-focused smartphones. The Motorola Edge 70 Max clearly has an edge over these offerings with a feature-packed specs sheet, making it a compelling buy.

The Motorola smartphone comes in three Pantone-certified colour options: Aqua Grey, Dark Shadow, and Ice Melt. The Edge 70 Max will be available for purchase via Flipkart from July 20th, and as part of launch offers, it can be purchased for as low as Rs 49,999.

Motorola Edge 70 Max specifications

The Motorola Edge 70 Max ships with an aluminium frame sandwiched between Corning Gorilla Glass 7i protection. The handset is IP68 water- and dust-resistant certified, as well as boasts MIL-STD-810H military-grade durability, protecting it from minor drops and falls. The fascia packs a centred punch-hole 6.8-inch ‘Extreme' 10-bit AMOLED flat display with the segment's first Quad HD+ resolution and 7,000 nits peak brightness.

The display also bears a flagship 144Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, 100 percent DCI-P3 colour gamut, water touch, Always-on, and razor-thin bezels. Apart from ensuring an impressive viewing experience, the Edge 70 Max also takes care of audio with dual stereo speakers backed by Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res audio.

At the heart of the Motorola Edge 70 Max is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 SoC, paired with up to 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256GB of UFS 4.1 storage. It is the same chipset found in Motorola's Signature series, as well as rival smartphones such as the OnePlus 15R and iQOO 15R. It is a capable processor that handles everything from everyday tasks and demanding games to on-device AI processing with ease.

To keep temperatures under control, the Edge 70 Max is equipped with Motorola's ArcticMesh cooling system, which incorporates a large 5,500mm vapour chamber. It certainly has a point to prove, considering Motorola smartphones have not traditionally been known for their thermal efficiency. The Edge 70 Max is designed to deliver 120 fps gaming support for popular titles such as BGMI and COD: Mobile.

The smartphone houses a massive 7,100mAh battery, which is pretty standard for the price segment, paired with 90W wired charging. However, what isn't standard is the Qi 2.2 magnetic wireless charging on the Edge 70 Max. This makes it only the second Android smartphone after the Pixel to offer the feature in India. The phone supports 25W magnetic wireless charging and iPhone-like MagSafe accessories.

The optics of the Motorola Edge 70 Max feel a bit modest with just a dual rear camera setup, comprising a 50MP OIS Sony Lytia 710 primary sensor and an 8MP ultrawide lens. There is no telephoto lens for portraits and close-up shots. For selfies and video calling, the handset features a 32MP sensor. 

Binding everything together is Motorola's Hello UI, layered atop Android 16. The handset also gets plenty of moto AI features, which we have seen on other Motorola devices launched recently. That said, the Edge 70 Max's 3 years of major OS and 5 years of security updates software support feels limited against the competitors, which are now offering 4+6.

[highlights]

• Official-looking renders of the Google Pixel Watch 5 have leaked ahead of its expected August 12th launch.
• The smartwatch is shown in four case colours: Dark Anthracite, Natural Silver, Pyrite and Warm Gold.
• Leaks suggest Google will hike prices for their Watch for the first time since its introduction.

[/highlights]

Google's upcoming Pixel Watch 5 has appeared in official-looking renders weeks before its expected debut, giving the clearest look yet at the smartwatch's design and colour options. While the Pixel 11 series has dominated recent leaks, the latest images suggest Google is taking a more iterative approach with its next smartwatch, retaining the familiar circular design while introducing new finishes and modest hardware upgrades.

Shared by tipster OnLeaks in collaboration with The Tide Chart, the renders show the Pixel Watch 5 in four case colours and two size options. The smartwatch is expected to launch alongside the Pixel 11 series at Google's Made by Google event on August 12th.

Fresh colourways and aesthetics

The leaked renders indicate that the Pixel Watch 5 will look almost identical to the Pixel Watch 4. It retains the domed glass display, side-mounted charging contacts and Google's proprietary band attachment mechanism.

Google is expected to offer four case finishes: Dark Anthracite, Natural Silver, Pyrite and Warm Gold, which have been leaked earlier but not in renders. However, the Warm Gold option is reportedly exclusive to the 41 mm model, while the larger 45 mm version will be available in the remaining three colours.

[gallery link="file" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="708283,708284,708285,708286"]

The renders also showcase a new watch face featuring an analogue clock, refreshed backgrounds and a dedicated Gemini shortcut, hinting at deeper AI integration across Google's wearable ecosystem.

Specifications and rumoured upgrades

Based on recent leaks, the Pixel Watch 5 will be offered in 41 mm and 45 mm sizes, with both Wi-Fi and LTE variants. The smartwatch is expected to ship with Wear OS 7, slightly larger batteries and Qualcomm's rumoured Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset, although Google has yet to confirm the processor.

Certification listings also point to support for LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC and ultra-wideband (UWB) connectivity. UWB could enable more accurate device tracking and tighter integration with compatible Pixel devices, while the new chipset is expected to improve performance, AI features and battery efficiency.

Interestingly, a recent prototype reportedly recovered from the ocean bed (seriously) in the Caribbean showed a design nearly identical to previous Pixel Watch models, reinforcing rumours that Google is focusing more on internal refinements than a visual overhaul this year.

Pricing and expected availability

According to recent reports, the 41 mm Wi-Fi variant could start at EUR 419 (around Rs 45,600), while the LTE version may cost EUR 519 (around Rs 56,500). The larger 45 mm model is tipped to start at EUR 449 (around Rs 48,900) for Wi-Fi and EUR 549 (around Rs 57,600) for LTE. If true, the lineup would see a EUR 20 price increase over the Pixel Watch 4 in Europe. Google has not yet confirmed pricing or whether the Pixel Watch 5 will launch in India, but we're likely to see it considering past models have been sold in the country.

For Pixel users, the Watch 5 could be a worthwhile upgrade if the rumoured chipset and battery improvements deliver day-to-day gains. However, buyers looking for a new design or major health sensor upgrades may want to wait until Google reveals the full hardware details next month.

[highlights]

• Xiaomi has increased the prices of its tablets in India by up to Rs 2,000, affecting the Pad 8, Redmi Pad 2 Pro and Redmi Pad 2 line-up.
• The Redmi Pad 2 now starts at Rs 19,999, while the Xiaomi Pad 8 climbs to Rs 37,999 for the base model.
• The hike could make festive season deals less attractive, as discounts might not fully offset the increased price.

[/highlights]

Xiaomi has raised the prices of its tablets in India, with the Xiaomi Pad 8, Redmi Pad 2 Pro and Redmi Pad 2 all seeing a hike of up to Rs 2,000. The revision comes as buyers gear up for the festive season, when tablet deals usually matter most to value-conscious shoppers. Let's look at it in more detail below. 

Xiaomi tablets: new prices

The details were first shared by X user Sanju Choudhary, who posted the revised pricing list online. According to the update, the Redmi Pad 2 now starts at Rs 19,999 for the 4GB/128GB LTE model, while the Redmi Pad 2 Pro begins at Rs 27,999.

Price hike alert 🚨
Xiaomi increases the price of their tablets by upto ₹2k:

Xiaomi Pad 8:
8/128GB: ₹35,999 → ₹37,999
12/256GB: ₹38,999 → ₹40,999

Redmi Pad 2 Pro:
8/128GB: ₹26,999 → ₹27,999
8/128GB (5G): ₹29,999 → ₹30,999
8/256GB (5G): ₹31,999 → ₹32,999

Redmi…

— Sanju Choudhary (@saaaanjjjuuu) July 14, 2026

The Xiaomi Pad 8 has seen the steepest rise in absolute terms, with the base 8GB/128GB variant now priced at Rs 37,999.

On the whole, the hike makes Xiaomi's tablet range a bit less aggressively priced than before. The Redmi Pad 2 still stays within budget territory, but the higher prices make it slightly weaker value-wise. The Redmi Pad 2 Pro moves further up into the mid-range, while the Pad 8 now sits closer to premium tablet segment, which means Xiaomi may have to rely more on offers and bundles to keep interest up.

[caption id="attachment_708266" align="aligncenter" width="1080"]Credits: @saaaanjjjuuu on X[/caption]

The move isn't unexpected and is in line with the broader trend of the consumer tech market, wherthe premiums keep creeping up due to the ongoing memory shortage. This could make big sale events like Flipkart's Big Billion Days and Amazon's Great Indian Festival feel less exciting than usual. There is a high chance the discounts offered this year will not fully absorb the hike.

If you're considering investing in a new smartphone, tablet or personal computer, the best time to upgrade is today, since across the board brands have been increasing prices, and there's no way to gauge when this will stop anytime soon.

[highlights]

• Samsung has confirmed a new display tech for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series which reduces inner display crease visibility while improving durability.
• The new structure uses a titanium-alloy film and titanium support plate beneath the OLED panel for greater stiffness and structural support.
• Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra on July 22nd.

[/highlights]

Rumours around Samsung's next foldables have been dominated by one claim in recent weeks: a virtually "crease-less" inner display. A leaked hands-on video of the alleged Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra appeared to back that up, showing a crease that was barely noticeable even after repeated folding and unfolding. Now, just days before Galaxy Unpacked, Samsung has revealed the technology behind those improvements. The company says its upcoming foldables will introduce a new "Flex Titanium" display architecture designed to reduce crease visibility while making the foldable display more durable.

Samsung says the new display structure will debut with its next-generation Galaxy foldables (without naming them) on July 22nd, which are most likely the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra.

How Flex Titanium works

Samsung posted a Newsroom release which details how Flex Titanium works. The redesigned display uses two new titanium-based components beneath the OLED panel: a titanium-alloy film and a titanium support plate. According to Samsung, the titanium-alloy film is around 20 times stiffer than conventional polymer films while being thinner than 30 percent of the thickness of a human hair. The added stiffness helps the display better resist deformation without making the panel noticeably thicker.

Supporting this is a titanium plate underneath the display module. Samsung says it removes air gaps between the display and its support structure, resulting in more even support when the phone is unfolded while retaining enough flexibility for repeated folding. Together, these structural changes are aimed at making the crease less visible without sacrificing the slim profile that Samsung introduced with last year's Galaxy Z Fold 7.

Performance benefits

Samsung says the biggest user improvements are a cleaner viewing experience, enhanced durability and improved power efficiency. The company has also paired the new display structure with next-generation organic display materials and a higher-resolution panel architecture, which it claims reduces power consumption.

Interestingly, Samsung stopped short of announcing a higher fold-cycle rating. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 was rated for up to 500,000 folds, and it remains to be seen whether the new titanium-based construction extends that lifespan.

The announcement also aligns with recent leaks showing a dramatically reduced crease on the alleged Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. If Samsung's claims translate into everyday use, it could help narrow one of the biggest visual differences between foldables and conventional smartphones. Rival brands such as Honor, OPPO and Vivo have steadily reduced crease visibility over the past few years, making this a hotly contested area for premium foldables.

Launch date

Samsung will officially unveil the Galaxy Z Fold 8 lineup at its Galaxy Unpacked event on July 22nd. Alongside the new display technology, leaks have pointed to upgrades such as a larger battery, faster 45W wired charging, 20W wireless charging and a higher price tag. Those details remain unofficial until Samsung takes the wraps off the devices.

For buyers considering a foldable this year, the display improvements could prove more meaningful than hardware upgrades. A less visible crease has long been one of the biggest requests from foldable users, and if Samsung delivers on its claims in real-world use, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 could offer one of the most polished folding display experiences yet.

[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.

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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.

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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.

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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.