[highlights]

• Snapdragon Reality Elite is positioned as Qualcomm's most powerful XR solution yet.
• The chipset will power XREAL's Project Aura and Play For Dream's next-generation XR headset.
• Snapdragon Start provides all the tools required to help brands launch personal AI devices.

[/highlights]

Qualcomm has announced its next-generation Snapdragon Reality Elite platform at Augmented World Expo (AWE), aimed at powering advanced mixed reality (MR), virtual reality (VR), and smart glasses experiences. Alongside the new XR chipset, the company also introduced Snapdragon Start, a toolkit designed to help brands develop AI-powered smart glasses faster.

Qualcomm Snapdragon Reality Elite

The Snapdragon Reality Elite platform is positioned as Qualcomm's most powerful XR solution yet. It is designed for both high-performance video-see-through (VST) headsets and lightweight optical-see-through (OST) smart glasses, reflecting the industry's growing focus on mixed reality and AI-driven wearable devices.

A major highlight of the platform is its on-device AI performance of up to 48 TOPS, enabling support for large language models (LLMs) and vision AI models directly on XR devices. This allows features such as AI assistants, photorealistic avatars, real-time object generation, and improved contextual awareness without relying heavily on cloud processing.

Compared to the previous generation, Snapdragon Reality Elite offers up to 60 percent higher GPU performance, 30 percent faster CPU performance, and up to 160 percent better AI processing performance. Qualcomm says the platform can support displays with up to 4.4K resolution per eye at 90fps, delivering sharper visuals and smoother mixed reality experiences.

The new platform also promises up to 20 percent longer battery life and lower operating temperatures, which could result in lighter and more comfortable headsets for extended use. The chipset will power upcoming devices, including XREAL's Project Aura and Play For Dream's next-generation XR headset, with more products expected to follow.

Snapdragon Reality Elite signals the next step in premium XR hardware, bringing stronger AI capabilities, improved graphics, and better battery efficiency. While products powered by the platform are still on the way, buyers interested in mixed reality headsets or AI smart glasses may want to keep an eye on upcoming devices based on Qualcomm's latest technology.

Qualcomm Snapdragon Start

Qualcomm also introduced Snapdragon Start (Scalable Turnkey AI-Ready Toolkit). The program provides ready-made hardware modules, software tools, and AI integration support to help brands launch personal AI devices, such as smart glasses, more quickly. Eyewear company Inspecs is the first partner to join the initiative.

With Snapdragon Start, Qualcomm seems to be targeting eyewear brands, consumer electronics companies, and new entrants looking to launch AI-powered smart glasses without building the entire technology stack from scratch. By offering pre-built hardware modules, software tools, and AI integration support, the program aims to reduce development time and costs.

As demand for personal AI devices grows, Start could help bring a wider range of smart glasses to the market faster, giving consumers more choices across different price segments and use cases.

[highlights]

• WhatsApp is testing voice and video calls for group chats on WhatsApp Web.
• The feature supports up to 32 participants, screen sharing, call links and end-to-end encryption.
• Group calling on WhatsApp Web is currently available only to some beta users, with a wider rollout expected to happen gradually.

[/highlights]

If you've ever been chatting on WhatsApp Web and then had to grab your phone just to start a group call, that extra step may soon disappear. WhatsApp is testing voice and video calling for group chats on its web platform, a move that could make the browser version feel much closer to the mobile app experience.

The feature was spotted by WABetaInfo in the latest WhatsApp Web beta. While WhatsApp has been testing voice and video calls on the web for some time, the latest development expands support beyond one-on-one conversations and into group chats.

WhatsApp Web group calls with up to 32 participants

According to WABetaInfo, some beta users are now seeing support for group voice and video calls with up to 32 participants. The feature also includes screen sharing, bringing WhatsApp Web closer to dedicated communication platforms. Starting a call appears straightforward. Users can open a group chat, tap the call button and choose between a voice or video call. They can also select specific members from a group rather than calling everyone automatically. That may sound like a minor addition, but it could prove useful in larger office groups, residential communities or extended family chats where only a handful of people need to join a conversation.

Like existing WhatsApp calls, the web-based version remains end-to-end encrypted. It also supports call links, allowing users to invite others into a conversation without manually adding participants.

For many users, particularly those already spending hours on WhatsApp Web, the ability to start a quick group call without switching devices could make everyday communication more seamless. For now, the feature remains limited to select beta testers. Joining the WhatsApp Web beta is relatively straightforward through the platform's settings menu, although access to individual features is typically rolled out gradually.

For most users, this won't replace Zoom, Teams or Meet overnight. Businesses that rely on recordings, webinar tools or advanced meeting controls will still need dedicated platforms. But for quick team discussions, study groups, project check-ins and family catch-ups, WhatsApp Web could become a more capable alternative.

Redmi Turbo 5 launched in India today as the latest entrant in the mid-range segment. It's also the brand's first Turbo series smartphone to debut in India, joining the performance-focused category. The Redmi Turbo 5 brings with it a large 7,540mAh battery, the MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Ultra SoC, and a large 5,300mm2 vapour chamber cooling system. The handset also competes in a popular price segment under Rs 40,000.

For a better perspective, we compare the Redmi Turbo 5 with the Motorola Edge 70 Pro. Here's a detailed comparison to see which one's the better pick.

Redmi Turbo 5 vs Motorola Edge 70 Pro: specs at a glance

Redmi Turbo 5 vs Motorola Edge 70 Pro: price

Redmi Turbo 5 has been launched in India at a starting price of Rs 37,999 for the base variant. It's available in another variant with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, which costs Rs 40,999. The handset is available at an introductory price of Rs 35,999 for a limited time in India. The Motorola Edge 70 Pro (review), on the other hand, is available at a starting price of Rs 39,999. This isn't the original price but a result of the ongoing memory costs issue in the industry.

If budget is a constraint, the Redmi Turbo 5 at its introductory price would be the wisest choice here. 

Redmi Turbo 5 vs Motorola Edge 70 Pro: design, display

The Redmi Turbo 5 and Motorola Edge 70 Pro take completely different approaches to design. Despite being a performance-focused phone, the Redmi Turbo 5 keeps things simple with a minimalist look, flat display, and flat edges. It comes in Turbo White, Nitro Blue, and Asphalt Black finishes. While it weighs over 200 grams due to its large battery, it makes up for it with top-tier durability, offering IP66, IP68, IP69, and even IP69K ratings.

The Motorola Edge 70 Pro, on the other hand, prioritises elegance and comfort. At just 6.9mm thick, it features a lightweight build with curved edges and Pantone finishes in Lily White, Titan, and Tea, giving it a more premium in-hand feel. It also offers IP68 and IP69 protection against dust and water.

When it comes to displays, the Redmi Turbo 5 packs a 6.59-inch 1.5K AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate and 3,500 nits peak brightness. The Edge 70 Pro counters with a larger 6.8-inch Super HD curved display, a smoother 144Hz refresh rate, and an impressive 5,200 nits peak brightness.

In short, the Redmi Turbo 5 is built for users who value practicality, durability, and a clean aesthetic, while the Edge 70 Pro caters to those seeking a slimmer, more premium design with a more immersive display experience.

Redmi Turbo 5 vs Motorola Edge 70 Pro: chipset, battery

On paper, the Redmi Turbo 5 and Motorola Edge 70 Pro are evenly matched when it comes to raw performance. The Redmi is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Ultra, while the Motorola uses the Dimensity 8500 Extreme. Despite the different branding, both chipsets are essentially based on the same platform, meaning day-to-day performance, multitasking, and gaming should feel very similar. Both phones also pair the processor with fast LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.1 storage for quicker app loading and smoother overall responsiveness.

Where the Redmi Turbo 5 gains an edge is thermal management. It features a larger 5,300mm² vapour chamber cooling system compared to the 4,600mm² VC setup on the Edge 70 Pro. While both should handle demanding tasks well, the Redmi could offer slightly better sustained performance during extended gaming sessions by keeping temperatures in check more effectively.

Battery life is another area where the Turbo 5 stands out. It packs a large 7,540mAh battery with 100W HyperCharge support, comfortably outperforming Motorola's 6,500mAh cell and 90W TurboPower charging. Both should easily last a full day, but the Redmi is better suited for heavy users and gamers who prioritise endurance.

Redmi Turbo 5 vs Motorola Edge 70 Pro: cameras

Possibly the main difference between the Redmi Turbo 5 and the Motorola Edge 70 Pro lies in their ultra-wide cameras. Both phones feature a 50MP primary sensor, so you can expect comparable results for everyday shots in good lighting. However, Motorola pairs its main camera with a 50MP ultra-wide lens, giving it a clear advantage in terms of detail and versatility when capturing landscapes, group photos, or wider scenes.

The Redmi Turbo 5, meanwhile, opts for a more modest 8MP ultra-wide camera alongside its 50MP primary sensor. While it should get the job done for occasional wide-angle shots, it may not match the sharpness and consistency offered by Motorola. On the front, the Redmi features a 20MP selfie camera, which is also weaker compared to the Edge 70 Pro's 50MP sensor.

In short, if cameras are a priority, especially for ultra-wide shots and selfies, the Motorola Edge 70 Pro is the stronger pick. The Redmi Turbo 5 focuses more on delivering a capable main camera while directing its strengths towards performance and battery life rather than photography versatility.

Redmi Turbo 5 vs Motorola Edge 70 Pro: software

Software is another area where these two phones take very different approaches. The Redmi Turbo 5 runs Android 16-based HyperOS 3, which is packed with customisation options and feature-rich additions. From deeper UI tweaks to productivity tools and ecosystem integrations, HyperOS is designed for users who enjoy personalising their smartphones and exploring extra functionality. Redmi also offers an advantage in long-term support, promising four OS upgrades and six years of security patches.

The Motorola Edge 70 Pro, meanwhile, ships with Android 16-based Hello UI, which offers a near-stock Android experience with minimal pre-installed apps and little to no bloatware. The interface feels clean, lightweight, and easy to navigate, making it ideal for users who prefer simplicity over extensive customisation. The company has committed to three Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates.

In short, the Redmi Turbo 5 is the better choice for users who want a feature-packed software experience and longer update support. However, if you value a cleaner, more stock-like Android interface without unnecessary extras, the Motorola Edge 70 Pro has the edge. It ultimately comes down to whether you prioritise customisation or simplicity.

Summing up

Overall, the Redmi Turbo 5 and Motorola Edge 70 Pro cater to different types of users despite sharing similar core performance. The Redmi Turbo 5 stands out with its larger battery, better cooling, longer software support, and rugged durability, making it a great pick for gamers and power users. The Motorola Edge 70 Pro, meanwhile, offers a slimmer design, a cleaner software experience, and a more versatile camera setup.

If endurance and performance are your priorities, the Redmi is the stronger choice. But if you prefer a more refined everyday experience with better cameras and a premium feel, the Edge 70 Pro is hard to overlook.

[highlights]

• Huawei will launch the FreeBuds 7i and FreeBuds SE 4 in India on June 18th, with sales set to begin via Flipkart and the RTC India website.
• The FreeBuds 7i is listed at Rs 13,999 and offers features such as ANC up to 28dB, and up to 35 hours of battery life with the charging case.
• The FreeBuds SE 4 is priced at Rs 7,999 and features ANC up to 24dB, Bluetooth 5.4 and up to 50 hours of total battery life.

[/highlights]

Huawei is set to expand its audio portfolio in India with the launch of two new true wireless stereo earbuds, the Huawei FreeBuds 7i and Huawei FreeBuds SE 4. The company has confirmed that both models will debut in the country on June 18th and will be available through Flipkart and the RTC India website. The earbuds have already launched in select international markets with features such as active noise cancellation (ANC), multi-device connectivity and long battery life.

Huawei FreeBuds 7i price and features

The Huawei FreeBuds 7i has been listed at Rs 13,999 and will be available in Black, White and Pink colour options. It's the more premium offering with an 11mm quad-magnet dynamic driver, support for spatial audio, head tracking, personalised audio profiles and Dynamic EQ. Huawei has also equipped the earbuds with Intelligent Dynamic ANC 4.0, claiming up to 28dB of full-band noise cancellation.

For users who spend a lot of time on calls, Huawei has included triple microphones, a bone-conduction microphone and AI-powered noise reduction. The company claims the setup can maintain voice clarity even in noisy surroundings.

Huawei claims up to eight hours of playback on a single charge and up to 35 hours with the charging case when ANC is turned off. A quick 10-minute charge is said to deliver up to four hours of listening time.

The earbuds also support Bluetooth 5.4, dual-device connectivity, automatic device switching and compatibility with Android, iOS and Windows devices. An IP54 rating adds protection against dust and splashes.

Huawei FreeBuds SE 4 price and features

The more affordable Huawei FreeBuds SE 4 is priced at Rs 7,999 and will be offered in Black and White colour options. The earbuds feature 10 mm dynamic drivers and support ANC of up to 24dB. Huawei has included four EQ presets, Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity and support for SBC and AAC codecs. Like the FreeBuds 7i, the earbuds work with both Android and iOS devices.

Battery performance could be one of the biggest selling points. Huawei claims up to 10 hours of playback on a single charge and as much as 50 hours of total battery life with the charging case. With ANC enabled, the figures drop to seven hours and 35 hours, respectively.

For buyers, the FreeBuds 7i appears to be targeting those willing to pay extra for stronger noise cancellation, more advanced audio features and improved call quality. The FreeBuds SE 4, meanwhile, looks geared towards value-focused users who prioritise battery life and everyday convenience. As always, the final verdict will depend on real-world performance and launch offers.

India's TWS segment is no longer won on features alone. Active noise cancellation (ANC), long battery life and multi-device connectivity, once premium features, are now common even in more affordable earbuds from brands such as Nothing, CMF, OnePlus, Realme and OPPO. That means Huawei's latest offerings will have to do more than boast impressive specifications to stand out.

[highlights]

• Redmi K90 Ultra will join the performance-focused K90 series.
• It's tipped to feature a cooling fan like the Redmi K90 Max.
• The handset is expected to be an affordable alternative to flagships.

[/highlights]

Redmi K90 Ultra is set to launch in China this month as a new gaming-focused smartphone. It's a new addition to its K90 series that promises high-end gaming features, possibly at a more accessible price point. The K90 Ultra is also expected to borrow several ideas from the K90 Max, Redmi's recently launched smartphone with a built-in cooling fan.

Redmi K90 Ultra China launch details

Redmi has officially confirmed that the K90 Ultra will launch in China later this month. Xiaomi Group President Lu Weibing says the device is designed to continue the gaming-first philosophy introduced with the K90 Max, while targeting the CNY 3,000 (Rs 41,973 approx) segment, where options have become increasingly limited.

Redmi K90 Ultra specifications (expected)

While Redmi has yet to reveal the full specifications, leaks from tipster Digital Chat Station paint an interesting picture. The K90 Ultra is tipped to feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite-series processor paired with an active fan-based cooling system. If true, the setup could help deliver stable performance during extended gaming sessions by preventing thermal throttling.

The Redmi K90 Ultra could also pack a battery larger than 8,000mAh, which would make it one of the biggest in its class. Previous certification listings have also hinted at support for 100W wired fast charging, offering the possibility of combining endurance with quick top-ups.

Based on what's been revealed so far, the Redmi K90 Ultra could appeal to gamers and power users who prioritise sustained performance and battery life over premium extras like advanced camera systems. If Redmi manages to keep pricing competitive, it may emerge as one of the strongest value-for-money gaming phones in its segment. Smartphone gamers looking for a mid-range handset with sustained performance and who can wait for the official launch and reviews, the K90 Ultra could be a strong contender.

There's no word on an India launch yet, but the Redmi Turbo 5 launched in India today as the first phone from the lineup. This suggests that we may see more performance-focused phones from Redmi in India. 

[highlights]

• The Centre has temporarily restricted Telegram in India until June 22nd.
• The app's message-editing feature has been disabled until June 30th in the country.
• The NTA says Telegram's editing feature was allegedly being misused to create fake evidence of question paper leaks.

[/highlights]

Telegram has been temporarily restricted in India ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination in an effort to curb fraud, misinformation and fake question paper leak claims surrounding the medical entrance test. The NEET-UG 2026 re-exam is scheduled to be held on June 21st.

According to the National Testing Agency which conducts the examination, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has restricted Telegram access in India until June 22nd. Further, the government has also asked the platform to disable its message-editing feature in the country until June 30th.

Why has Telegram been temporarily restricted in India?

The NTA said Telegram's editing feature is a concern because it can allegedly be misused to create fabricated evidence of paper leaks. According to the NTA, some channel administrators have been editing older messages after an examination is over and replacing attachments with actual question papers. Since the original timestamp remains unchanged, the altered post can appear to show that the paper was shared before the exam took place. Such posts are then circulated on social media as "proof" of leaks, creating confusion among students and undermining confidence in the examination process. The suspension of message editing is intended to prevent such manipulation during the examination period.

The action follows coordinated efforts by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre and other law enforcement agencies to tackle Telegram-based fraud networks targeting students. According to the agency, several channels, groups and bots promoting fake NEET question papers have already been removed. Investigators claim some networks collected significant sums of money from students by promising access to examination papers that did not exist.

Students are advised to rely only on official NTA announcements for updates and avoid making payments to individuals or groups promising exam-related material. While the temporary Telegram restrictions may inconvenience some users, the agency maintains that the measures are limited in duration and aimed at protecting the integrity of the examination.

[highlights]

• OnePlus Nord Buds 4 is launching in India next week.
• It will be part of OnePlus's budget-friendly TWS lineup.
• The Nord Buds 4 will launch in black and green colours. 

[/highlights]

Shortly after teasing the Nord Buds 4, OnePlus has now revealed its launch date. The new TWS is part of OnePlus's Nord lineup, which caters to the budget segment, offering a premium experience without stretching the budget. OnePlus Nord Buds 4 will succeed the Nord Buds 3 and is expected to bring upgrades over its predecessor. 

OnePlus Nord Buds 4 India launch details

OnePlus has confirmed that the Nord Buds 4 will launch in India on June 25th. The earbuds will be available in two colour options: Stellar Black and Astral Teal, offering a similar look to the Nord 3, while maintaining a stylish and premium design.

The OnePlus Nord Buds 4 will be available on Amazon India, Flipkart, Blinkit, Myntra, OnePlus India online store, OnePlus Store App, and OnePlus Experience Stores and select partner stores.

OnePlus Nord Buds 4 specifications, features

OnePlus Nord Buds 4 is confirmed to feature up to 52dB Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). That's a notable figure for this segment and could help the earbuds compete with offerings from brands like Realme, CMF, and Redmi, which have also been pushing stronger ANC performance in affordable TWS products. The TWS also supports multiple listening modes to switch between deeper noise isolation and greater awareness of the surroundings.

For audio, the earbuds feature 12mm titanium-coated drivers that promise deep bass and crisp highs. OnePlus is also focusing on comfort, with each earbud weighing just 4.3 grams, making them suitable for long listening sessions, whether you're commuting, working, or binge-watching content.

The Nord Buds 4 also come equipped with a six-microphone AI Clear Call system designed to improve voice clarity during calls by reducing background noise. For gaming, the earbuds offer low-latency support along with 3D Spatial Audio and Game Sound Spatial Audio for a more immersive gaming experience.

Battery life is another area where the Nord Buds 4 could stand out. OnePlus claims up to 54 hours of total playback with the charging case. The earbuds have also received TÜV Rheinland Battery certification, which suggests a focus on long-term battery reliability. OnePlus also claims a quick 10-minute charge provides up to 11 hours of playback.

The OnePlus Nord Buds 4 check many of the boxes buyers look for today: strong ANC, long battery life, lightweight design, and gaming-friendly features. If OnePlus manages to price them competitively, they could be a compelling option for users seeking premium features without stretching their budget. Those in the market for new budget TWS and prioritise strong ANC and battery life, keep an eye on the Nord Buds 4, but hold off on purchasing until pricing is confirmed and initial reviews are out.

Preferred by heads of state, oligarchs and tech bros unanimously across the globe, the S-Class is different things to different powerful people. It's either a statement of success or the quiet tech flex if you opt for the AMG variants of the uber-saloon. As Mercedes-Benz (India) CEO, Santosh Iyer emphasised during the new S-Class launch, Mumbai has had a special relationship with this model over the decades, even before the brand set up base in India.

Since its first formal incarnation in 1954, it has unapologetically used the finest materials, the most advanced engineering, and the heaviest investment in occupant comfort. Seven decades and a dozen generations later, Mercedes-Benz India has launched the S450e, the first plug-in hybrid ever offered in the flagship sedan for our market.

At Rs. 2.20 crore for the Launch Edition and Rs. 2.38 crore for the bespoke MANUFAKTUR Edition, it is not just a mere nip and tuck job. With more than 2700 new or revised components, it is practically a new car wearing a very familiar face. Deliveries are slated to begin in Q4 2026, so if you're short of a couple of big ones, you have some time to save up.

The Electric Argument

The S450e pairs a Euro 7-compliant 3.0-litre inline-six with a 120kW electric motor to produce a combined 435hp and 680Nm of torque. The sprint to 100km/h takes 5.7 seconds, propelled only by the rear wheels, which is brisk. Thanks to its generous 22kWh battery, the more meaningful number is 115km of pure electric range, enough to cover a typical daily work commute without the combustion engine waking up at all. With a claimed average of 32 km/litre, even if you do wake up the six-cylinder engine, the intelligent battery management system will turn on the Battery Hold feature to preserve EV range and coast along with ICE power on longer stretches. It is also the first PHEV to support fast charging up to 60kW DC, so topping up the battery should no longer be the overnight exercise it once was.

CLA Started It, S-Class Scales It

The electric CLA, launched earlier this year, was the first Mercedes to run the full MB.OS platform, with four NVIDIA supercomputers monitoring and controlling the ADAS, powertrain, infotainment and Connectivity functions. But the S-Class feels like it has been architected for the long game toward Level 4 autonomy.

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The India-bound S450e will come equipped with 15 airbags, including front-facing airbags for rear passengers, seat belt airbags, 13.1-inch rear OLED screens with gesture-sensing cameras, and a 4D Burmester surround system running 1610 watts through 31 speakers and eight body-mounted exciters. Dolby Atmos via the native Apple Music and Amazon Music support will come as standard.

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The Supercomputer Inside

Strip away the leather and the Burmester and the Manufaktur paint options though and what you find is one of the most sophisticated computing platforms in any production vehicle. MB.OS, Mercedes' in-house operating system, runs on the NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin SoC. That chip processes 254 trillion operations per second and sits at the centre of a system managing 27 ADAS sensors, active air filtration rated at 99.9% purification, and intelligent AIRMATIC suspension that communicates with the Mercedes-Benz cloud to anticipate road imperfections before the wheels encounter them. Car-to-X data shared by other vehicles on the fleet tells the suspension what is coming. On Indian roads, this can be the difference between a novelty feature and a genuine quality-of-life argument.

The MBUX Superscreen brings a generative AI voice assistant capable of natural conversation in 27 languages, augmented reality navigation via Google Maps, and a Zero Layer interface designed to surface contextual information instead of you digging through menus. Even the familiar "Hey Mercedes" assistant is now powered by large language models, which means it handles context and follow-up questions in a way that the old keyword-detection approach simply could not.

A dream called CarPlay Ultra

Since MB.OS spans multiple domains like infotainment, EV battery management, automated driving, and vehicle functions simultaneously, handing the entire cockpit experience to Apple's interface would mean surrendering control of all four. So it's safe to assume that Mercedes has abandoned support for the Ultra tier of CarPlay that commandeers the instrument cluster, climate controls, and virtually every screen in the cabin. Standard CarPlay remains on board, and Mercedes has partnered with Google instead for navigation and machine-learning capability, baked into its own MB.OS.

BMW scores on screen

The S-Class's most fierce competitor, the BMW 7 Series, is not sitting idle, though. With its 31.3-inch 8K Theatre Screen with integrated Amazon Fire TV, it delivers the superior rear-seat theatrical experience and the one trick the S-Class simply cannot counter. Dual 13.1-inch OLED screens in the rear are great, but they are not cinematic, and the 2026 7 Series facelift also arrives with a pillar-to-pillar Panoramic Vision display and more aggressive power outputs across the range.

Rising above the rest

None of that changes the fundamental argument of an S-Class purchase, though. It dominates in safety tech and pure engineering marvels like the micro-LED DIGITAL LIGHT headlamps that project up to 600 metres ahead! Or the rear axle steering that turns the rear wheels up to 10 degrees, optionally, trimming the turning circle by nearly two metres. To top it all off, the Manufaktur Edition offers a depth of personalisation that no competitor's options list quite replicates. With a back seat that has been refined over 70 years, the S-Class remains the best mobile office the Indian market has to offer. Competitors have screens, but this car has a legacy and a very fast supercomputer running it!

[highlights]

• The Redmi Turbo 5 is priced in India starting at Rs 35,999.
• Key specifications include a 6.59-inch AMOLED display, fast LPDDR5X Ultra RAM and UFS 4.1 storage, and a mammoth battery capacity.
• Redmi Turbo 5 sale in India starts from June 19th onwards via Amazon.in.

[/highlights]

The Redmi Turbo 5 has officially debuted in India as the first smartphone in the company's Turbo series lineup. Aimed at mobile gamers and performance enthusiasts, the handset combines a powerful upper mid-range chipset with a massive battery. Key specifications include a 6.59-inch AMOLED display, the MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Ultra SoC, a 7,540mAh battery with 100W fast charging support, and a large 5,300mm2 vapour chamber cooling system for sustained performance under heavy workloads.

Redmi Turbo 5 price in India, availability

The Redmi Turbo 5 is priced in India at Rs 35,999 for the base 8GB RAM variant, while the 12GB RAM option costs Rs 38,999. These are introductory prices for a limited period and come with up to Rs 2,000 instant bank discounts with select bank credit cards such as SBI, ICICI, and Axis. The sale of the smartphone starts from June 19th, 12 pm onwards via Amazon.in, mi.com, and partnered retail stores. The handset comes in Turbo White, Nitro Blue, and Asphalt Black colour options.

The actual selling price of the smartphone is Rs 37,999 for the base variant, while the top-end variant costs Rs 40,999.

Redmi Turbo 5 specifications

The Redmi Turbo 5 debuts with a 6.59-inch 1.5K AMOLED display that bears a 120Hz refresh rate and a resolution of 1268 x 2756 pixels. The combination should translate into sharper visuals and smoother animations while scrolling through apps, gaming, or consuming multimedia content. Furthermore, the device should be easier to manage, considering its relatively compact form factor, which measures 157.5 x 75.2 x 8.2mm in dimensions. The weight is north of 200 grams, but that's excusable given its massive battery capacity.

The Redmi Turbo 5 houses a 7,540mAh battery, which is quite significant and could make it particularly appealing to gamers, frequent travellers, and heavy users who prioritise battery endurance. The bundled 100W HyperCharge support should also minimise downtime, allowing users to quickly top up the battery when needed. The smartphone is also designed to handle your adventures and minor mishaps, thanks to the IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K water and dust resistance ratings.

Powering the smartphone is the MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Ultra chipset, paired with 12GB LPDDR5X RAM and up to 512GB UFS 4.1 storage. While real-world performance remains to be tested, the hardware suggests that the Redmi Turbo 5 is geared towards users who prioritise gaming, multitasking, and sustained performance.

Redmi claims that the smartphone scores over 20 lakh on AnTuTu, which outperforms most rivals in the segment, including the OnePlus Nord CE6 and Nothing Phone (4a) Pro. The inclusion of a large 5,300mm2 vapour chamber cooling system should help keep temperatures under control during extended gaming sessions and demanding workloads.

For photography, the handset features a dual-camera setup comprising a 50MP Sony IMX882 primary sensor with OIS and an 8MP ultra-wide lens. Optical image stabilisation should aid in reducing blur in low-light shots and videos, while the ultra-wide camera offers added versatility for landscape and group photos. Selfie duties are handled by a 20MP front-facing camera that should be adequate for social media uploads and video calls.

The rear cameras feature multi-colour accent LED pixel matrix rings, fully customisable for multiple phone functions, such as call notifications, charging, media, and gaming. This adds to the aesthetics of the phone and serves as a reminder when the phone is face down. Software-wise, the Redmi Turbo 5 runs Android 16-based on Hyper OS 3 out of the box. It is the same software that you get on the company's flagship Xiaomi 17 series and other smartphones.

On paper, the Redmi Turbo 5 appears to be aimed squarely at buyers who value performance and battery life above all else. The Dimensity 8500 Ultra chipset, advanced cooling system, and large battery make it an attractive option for mobile gamers and power users. However, users who prioritise camera versatility may find some competing smartphones in the segment offering more comprehensive camera setups, including dedicated telephoto sensors.

Given its competitive pricing, the Redmi Turbo 5 seems to be a compelling option for power users.

[highlights]

• An Apple supplier has hinted that a major product launch has been pushed to early 2027.
• Multiple reports have claimed the standard iPhone 18 could be delayed until spring 2027.
• It remains unclear whether the delayed device is the iPhone 18 or Apple's first foldable iPhone.

[/highlights]

Apple could be preparing for its biggest iPhone launch shake-up in more than a decade - we've heard this before but the clues are now getting stronger. Fresh comments from a key supplier have added credibility to previous reports that the standard iPhone 18 will not launch this year, although some reports claim the delayed product could instead be Apple's long-rumoured foldable iPhone, presumably being called iPhone Ultra.

For years, Apple has unveiled its entire flagship iPhone lineup together in September. That tradition is under review this year as past reports have pointed to a split launch strategy starting with the iPhone 18 series, and the new comments add fuel to the fire.

Apple to host separate launch events in September and Spring 2027?

The latest clue comes from Largan Precision, Apple's primary supplier of iPhone camera lenses. Speaking at the company's annual shareholders' meeting, chairman Lin En-ping said (via) a major US customer had postponed the launch of a new product until the first quarter of 2027. As per machine translation, his exact comment was, "The fourth quarter of this year will be busier than in previous years due to customer new product scheduling factors, with some new products expected to be launched in the third quarter and others postponed to early next year."

While Lin did not identify either the customer or the device, the comments are significant because Apple suppliers rarely discuss future product schedules publicly. He also noted that some new products would launch in the third quarter of this year while others had been pushed to early next year.

The remarks align with multiple reports claiming Apple will unveil the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max this September, while delaying the standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18e and the next-generation iPhone Air until spring 2027. However, there is another possibility. Some reports claim the delayed product referenced by Largan could actually be Apple's first foldable iPhone, which has been variously referred to as the iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra.

The contradictory reports have created uncertainty around Apple's roadmap. Earlier leaks suggested the foldable iPhone was almost certain to debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup this autumn. With supply chain signals suggesting Apple may be pushing at least one major product into 2027, we cannot say with guarantee now whether the iPhone 18 will launch this year or the iPhone Ultra.

A middle-ground scenario is also possible. Apple could preview the foldable device this September and release it months later, similar to how it announced the iPhone X alongside the iPhone 8 series before shipping it at a later date.

Anyone planning to upgrade this year will likely still see new Pro models arrive on schedule. Buyers interested in Apple's foldable phone, however, may need to prepare for a longer wait. Despite the uncertainty, analysts remain optimistic about Apple's foldable ambitions, with some forecasts predicting shipments of around 11 million units in the device's first year whenever it eventually launches. While Apple's silence is typical, the supplier comments lend significant weight to the rumours, suggesting a shift could be underway.

If the reports are accurate, the split launch could help Apple better differentiate its premium and mainstream iPhones, giving the Pro models more room to shine during the crucial holiday season. It may also ease manufacturing pressures as Apple expands its lineup and prepares to enter the foldable market, where the company is widely expected to prioritise refinement and reliability over being first to market.

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• The UK plans to ban social media access for kids under 16 years old from 2027.
• The move aims to protect children online and reduce harmful exposure at an earlier age.
• Platforms will also have to block under-16s from livestreaming and stranger contact.

[/highlights]

The UK plans to ban social media for under-16s by spring 2027, in a move Prime Minister Keir Starmer says is meant to protect children online. The government says the decision follows growing concern over how social platforms affect young users, with 90 percent of parents who responded to its consultation supporting a minimum age of 16. 

Why is it being done?

The aim here is to reduce harm before it starts, rather than deal with it after children are already exposed to it. The plan fits into a broader global push for tougher online safety rules for children, with regulators in other major markets also moving to tighten age checks and platform responsibility.

The ban will apply to major social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube, Facebook and X, while apps like WhatsApp and Signal will stay outside the rules because they are mainly messaging services rather than public social networks.

The government is also trying to close other loopholes. Platforms will have to stop kids under 16 from livestreaming and block strangers from contacting them, with those protections switched on by default for under-17s, so children do not face a sudden change at 16. 

The plan also extends to AI chatbots which have become popular lately. "Romantic companion" bots will need to keep users under 18 out, while other chatbots must limit intimate features for minors, highlighting the wider concerns about children forming unsafe relationships with AI tools.

Starmer says the law will be introduced before Christmas, with rollout expected in spring 2027. The reasoning behind the move is simple: the government believes the risks of open access now outweigh the benefits, and it wants stronger guardrails in place before those harms become harder to manage.

How will the ban be enforced?

Based on a report by the BBC, a ban would likely be enforced through age verification systems that check whether a user is over 16 before allowing access. That usually means platforms may ask for ID, use face-based age estimation, or rely on other age-checking technology.

The UK government has asked Ofcom to quickly study the most effective ways to verify age. The regulator is expected to identify which methods work best and how platforms should apply them in practice. This is not a new approach in the UK as some adult sites already have to run age checks, and Ofcom has penalised platforms that failed to comply.

While the government's aim is clear, enforcing the ban will be far more complicated in practice. Age checks, VPN workarounds and platform compliance will all test how effective the new rules really are.That means the ban may rely not just on technology, but also on how well platforms detect and block circumvention.

[highlights]

• Vivo T5 Lite is tipped to house a 6,500mAh battery.
• The handset could be powered by the Dimensity 6300 SoC.
• It's expected to launch in India soon. 

[/highlights]

Vivo could be adding a new smartphone to its T5 lineup. The Vivo T5 Lite 5G has surfaced online as a new budget smartphone. It would succeed last year's Vivo T4 Lite, which launched as a budget-friendly 5G device. Ahead of its official debut, key specifications of the Vivo T5 Lite 5G have been leaked, revealing what we can expect from the upcoming smartphone.

Vivo T5 Lite 5G specifications (expected)

The Vivo T5 Lite 5G is tipped to feature a 6.74-inch HD+ LCD screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. It is also said to offer up to 1,200 nits of High Brightness Mode (HBM), which should improve outdoor visibility. Under the hood, the Vivo T5 Lite 5G is expected to be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset. The processor has already appeared in several budget 5G smartphones and has proven capable of handling everyday tasks, casual gaming, and multitasking with reasonable efficiency. The device will be available in three variants: 4GB + 128GB, 6GB + 128GB, and 6GB + 256GB.

The biggest talking point, however, may be its large 6,500mAh battery paired with 44W FlashCharge support. If accurate, the T5 Lite would offer a larger battery than many rivals in the segment while maintaining a relatively slim 8.39mm profile and a weight of 209 grams. It would also be an upgrade over the T4 Lite's 6,000mAh battery and 15W charging support. 

For photography, the handset is said to feature a 50MP primary rear camera alongside a 5MP front-facing shooter. An IP65 rating is also specified, protecting against dust and water splashes. The Vivo T5 Lite 5G is expected to launch in Twilight Shadow and Wave Blue colour options.

Based on the leaked specifications, the T5 Lite 5G may not aim to redefine the affordable smartphone experience through raw performance. Instead, it appears to focus on practical strengths: long battery life, a smooth display, fast charging, and durability. With the ongoing price hike, finding a capable 5G smartphone in the budget segment has already become expensive. The Vivo T5 Lite could be a good option if pricing is done right. 

Buyers prioritising endurance and everyday usability over benchmark numbers may find it worth keeping an eye on once pricing is officially announced. If you're currently on an older 4G device and battery life is paramount, this could be a strong contender, but hold off until the price is revealed to compare value.

[highlights]

• Vivo X Fold 6 is launching with OriginOS 6 Fold.
• The foldable will also be compatible with a Zeiss teleconverter.
• It's confirmed to launch in China soon. 

[/highlights]

Vivo has officially confirmed the launch date of its next-gen foldable, the X Fold 6. The brand has been teasing the X Fold 6, revealing key details like the chipset, cameras, software, and design as well. The Vivo X Fold 6 is confirmed to feature a 200MP camera, the Mediatek Dimensity 9500 Super Edition, and more. 

Vivo X Fold 6 China launch date

After weeks of teasers, Vivo has officially confirmed that the X Fold 6 will debut in China on June 26 at 7:00 PM CST (4:30 PM IST). Pre-orders are already live across major online platforms in the country, with early buyers entering a lucky draw for a chance to win the device for free.

Vivo X Fold 6: what to expect

Vivo is marketing the X Fold 6 as a "foldable mini DSLR," and the headline feature is its camera setup. It packs a 200MP sensor alongside the first Zeiss APO super periscope telephoto lens on a foldable. The device also features Vivo's Blueprint V3+ imaging chip and supports the Vivo Zeiss G2 teleconverter, extending the focal length equivalent to 200mm for enhanced zoom capabilities. This would bring the Vivo X Fold 6 closer to its flagship siblings, which are known for their camera prowess. 

Design-wise, the foldable arrives in a new "Blue Hole" finish inspired by deep-sea sinkholes, complemented by rounded corners and a 2.5D metal frame with flat edges. Both displays use next-generation luminescent materials, while the inner panel adopts Samsung's M14 technology, promising improved brightness and efficiency.

Powering the device is the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 Super Edition, a chipset that Vivo says was developed specifically with foldables in mind. The brand claims a 111 percent boost in NPU performance and a 56 percent reduction in power consumption over its predecessor. It ships with OriginOS 6 Fold and an upgraded Atomic Workbench for enhanced multitasking.

On paper, the X Fold 6 looks set to challenge rivals by addressing two long-standing foldable concerns: cameras and productivity. Clubbed with a large battery, the Vivo X Fold 6 is expected to have an edge over rivals like the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8. Buyers who have avoided foldables due to imaging compromises may finally have a compelling reason to take a second look. If you're a mobile photography enthusiast who has been waiting for a foldable with serious camera capabilities, the X Fold 6 might be worth considering, but wait for comprehensive reviews and global pricing before making a decision.

[highlights]

• OnePlus has increased prices by up to Rs 8,000 for the OnePlus 15 and Nord CE 6 Lite.
• The OnePlus 15 now starts at Rs 85,999, while the Nord CE 6 Lite base variant now costs Rs 25,999.
• The hike comes ahead of the June 30th launch of the OnePlus N6.

[/highlights]

The price hike saga seems to be never ending. The latest phones bearing the brunt are the cheapest (currently) and most expensive phones by OnePlus, namely the mid-ranger the OnePlus Nord CE 6 Lite and the flagship, OnePlus 15. The hikes, first pointed out by tipster Sanju Choudhary, go up to Rs 8,000, and are already live on the OnePlus website.

OnePlus obviously hasn't officially explained the price revision, but the move comes at a time when smartphone brands are facing rising component costs and shifting product strategies. The increase significantly changes the value proposition of both devices compared to their launch pricing.

OnePlus 15, Nord CE 6 new prices

The biggest increase has been seen on the OnePlus 15. The flagship smartphone, which launched as one of the more affordable premium Android options, has become considerably more expensive. Even though the flagship is currently out of stock on most platforms, the 12GB + 256GB variant has gone up from Rs 77,999 to Rs 85,999, while the 16GB + 512GB version now costs Rs 93,999, up from Rs 85,999. OnePlus is offering an instant discount of Rs 3,000, but we're not sure how long that'll continue.

The Nord CE 6 Lite has also received a notable price hike. The base 6GB + 128GB model, which launched at Rs 20,999, is now priced at Rs 25,999. The 8GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB variants have increased to Rs 27,999 and Rs 30,999, respectively. OnePlus is offering an instant discount of Rs 1,500 on the device.

Disclaimer: Prices as of current revision.

The timing for the OnePlus Nord CE 6 Lite hike is noteworthy. OnePlus recently confirmed that the first phone in its upcoming budget-focused N-series, the OnePlus N6, will launch in India on June 30th. While early reports suggested a sub-Rs 20,000 price tag, we now expect it to be priced closer to Rs 25,000. The Nord CE 6 Lite's revised pricing could help create room for the new model in OnePlus' portfolio.

Should you buy the phones now?

On the hardware front, the OnePlus 15 remains a feature-packed flagship with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, a 7,300mAh battery, 120W fast charging, a 165Hz LTPO AMOLED display, and a triple 50MP rear camera system. The Nord CE 6 Lite targets budget-conscious buyers with a 7,000mAh battery, Dimensity 7400 Apex processor, and a 144Hz LCD display.

The revised pricing places the OnePlus 15 much closer to rivals such as the OPPO Find X9 and Xiaomi 17. What was once positioned as a comparatively affordable flagship now sits firmly in premium territory. Notably, the Realme GT 8 Pro remains probably the only competing flagship still available at its original launch price of Rs 72,999.

For buyers considering the OnePlus 15, the device remains highly competitive on specifications, but the price increase makes cross-shopping with rival flagships more important than before. The phone is now priced at par with the OPPO Find X9 which, with its Hassleblad camera tuning, is the pick for photographers, while the Xiaomi 17 is also in the same category. Meanwhile, Nord CE 6 Lite buyers may also want to wait and see where the upcoming N6 lands before making a decision.

Adding to that, tipster Sanju Choudhary has suggested that shoppers shouldn't expect major discounts during festive sales. If that is the case, the best time to buy the phones was yesterday, and the next best is today.

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• Honor has launched the X70 Pro Max in China with an 8,560mAh battery and 90W fast charging.
• The phone features a 6.79-inch AMOLED display, Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 Enhanced Edition chipset, and IP69K durability.
• The Honor X80 Pro Max is set to debut on June 22nd with an even larger 11,000mAh battery.

[/highlights]

Honor has quietly unveiled the Honor X70 Pro Max in China, adding a new member to its X70 lineup. The phone combines a large battery, a bright AMOLED display, and extensive durability credentials, but its arrival comes with an unusual twist. On the very same day, Honor also confirmed that the Honor X80 Pro Max will launch on June 22nd with an even larger 11,000mAh battery. That announcement risks overshadowing a device that would have looked remarkable just a year ago.

Honor X70 Pro Max key details and specifications

The Honor X70 Pro Max is built around an 8,560mAh battery, which is a bit larger than what most smartphones offer today. For context, many premium Android phones nowadays sit in the 6,000mAh to 7,000mAh range, but there are some that go up to 9,000mAh and even more but there number is significantly lesser. Honor pairs the battery with 90W wired charging, aiming to reduce the downtime that often comes with larger battery packs.

Up front is a 6.79-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 2640 x 1200 pixels, 3840Hz PWM dimming, and a claimed peak brightness of up to 6,000 nits. The company is also highlighting a range of eye-comfort features, an area where Chinese manufacturers have increasingly focused their display marketing.

The phone runs on the Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 Enhanced Edition chipset, alongside 8GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage. That positions it as a mid-range device rather than a flagship challenger. Camera hardware is relatively straightforward, featuring a 50MP rear camera with electronic image stabilisation and an 8MP selfie camera. One area where the X70 Pro Max stands out is durability. The phone carries IP66, IP68, IP69 and IP69K ratings, levels of protection typically associated with more expensive devices.

Price, availability

The Honor X70 Pro Max starts at CNY 1,999 (around Rs 28,000) for the 8GB + 256GB variant, while the 512GB model costs CNY 2,399 (around Rs 33,600). Honor has not announced plans for an India launch.

If battery life is your top priority, the phone is an interesting addition to the segment. The challenge for Honor is that the conversation has already moved to what comes next. With the X80 Pro Max and its 11,000mAh battery just days away, so buyers may prefer to wait and see how much further Honor is willing to push limits.

[highlights]

• iPhone 18 Pro is expected to launch in four colours.
• A new 'Dark Cherry' colour could be the most popular option.
• The video shows a good look at all four colour variants. 

[/highlights]

There's been quite a buzz around the iPhone 18 Pro series, especially for the colour options. Several leaks and renders show a new 'Dark Cherry' colour variant for the iPhone 18 Pro, which is most likely going to become a fan favourite this year. A new video shows what the iPhone 18 Pro in Dark Cherry could look like, alongside its other colour options. 

iPhone 18 Pro colours 

A new concept video shows the iPhone 18 Pro series in four colour options: Dark Cherry, Cloud Blue, Black, and White/Silver. This aligns with previous leaks about Apple releasing a new deep red colour variant for the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. Apple's Pro iPhones have traditionally launched in muted and understated finishes such as Graphite, Space Black, Natural Titanium, and Desert Titanium. These colours are more subtle and premium and have appealed to buyers looking for a classy aesthetic rather than flashy colours. The rumoured Dark Cherry finish would be slightly bold compared to the other colours, but still not as flashy as the Cosmic Orange it introduced last year. 

Upcoming iPhone 18 Series lineup pic.twitter.com/8UQ2TbkCzr

— AhMad 𝕏 Ansari (@Ahmadansari2233) June 15, 2026

Design remains the same as the iPhone 17 Pro lineup, with the large camera plateau on the back. The Cloud Blue variant in the video shows a light shade of blue, which is different from the metal frame that leaked recently with a darker finish. Since these are only leaks for now and renders, the final product can still be different. But with so many leaks pointing towards a dark red colour, it could actually make it at launch.

As seen with previous models, the iPhone 18 Pro series is also expected to come with upgrades such as a faster chipset, advanced cameras, and possibly bigger batteries as well. The rumoured A20 Pro chipset is said to deliver performance jumps, especially for on-device AI. 

The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, and a new iPhone Ultra model, are said to launch this year in September. Meanwhile, the standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e are reportedly being pushed to a spring launch next year as part of Apple's refreshed release strategy. Those eyeing the iPhone 18 Pro series Dark Cherry colour might want to wait and hold off on buying a new phone. Everyone else should wait and see if the upgrades are significant or not. 

[highlights]

• Apple is reportedly still working on three iOS 27 features that were not announced at WWDC 2026.
• The missing additions include third-party AI integrations for Siri, beyond the existing ChatGPT partnership.
• A customisable Camera app and a simplified Modular Ultra watch face are also expected to arrive later this year.

[/highlights]

Apple used WWDC 2026 to showcase the biggest changes coming to its software platforms this year, with Siri AI upgrades, system-wide refinements, and a stronger focus on stability. But according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, not everything Apple has planned for iOS 27 and its wider software ecosystem was ready in time for the keynote. The analyst claims that at least three previously rumoured features remain in development and could still arrive before the public rollout of iOS 27 this September.

That wouldn't be unusual for Apple. The company has increasingly staggered feature releases over the past few years, with several capabilities often arriving through later software updates rather than on day one.

Additional Siri integrations

One of the more notable omissions from WWDC was broader chatbot support within Siri. Apple currently offers ChatGPT integration through its partnership with OpenAI, allowing Siri to hand certain requests over to ChatGPT when needed. However, Apple is reportedly working on a more open system that would let third-party AI developers integrate directly with Siri through an Extensions API. If introduced, the framework could potentially allow services from OpenAI, Google, Anthropic and others to plug into Siri without requiring individual partnerships with Apple.

According to Gurman, Apple has already held discussions with multiple AI companies about supporting the system. The move would bring Siri closer to rival AI platforms, many of which already offer access to different large language models. For users, it could eventually mean more choice over which AI assistant powers specific requests.

Camera app and Apple Watch changes

Another feature reportedly still in development is a more customisable Camera app. The planned redesign would allow users to rearrange controls and place frequently used settings in positions that better suit their workflow. While Apple introduced several camera-related improvements at WWDC, including deeper Siri integration inside the Camera app, the customisation features did not appear in the first developer beta.

The third missing feature is a simplified version of the Modular Ultra watch face for Apple Watch. The design is said to retain the large clock layout found on the current Ultra-exclusive face while reducing the number of complications displayed on screen. The feature is expected to debut alongside Apple's next Apple Watch lineup later this year.

For Apple users, these additions will not influence an immediate upgrade decision on their own. However, they could help round out iOS 27 ahead of the iPhone 18 series launch. The broader Siri integrations may be the most significant of the three, particularly as Apple continues trying to close the gap with Google's Gemini ecosystem and increasingly capable AI assistants available on Android devices.

[highlights]

• OPPO Find X10 Pro could be powered by MediaTek's upcoming flagship chipset.
• The phone is expected to sport an upgraded primary camera sensor.
• OPPO Find X10 series is expected to debut in September 2026 in China.

[/highlights]

After a wave of OPPO Find X10 and Find X10 Pro Max leaks made the rounds, a new leak has hinted at the camera setup and battery capacity of the upcoming Find X10 Pro. Disclosed by the well-known tipster, Digital Chat Station (DCS), who has been actively revealing key details of the soon-to-be-launched OPPO and Vivo flagships, the phone could put OPPO once again in the limelight for packing a solid multi-camera system.

OPPO Find X10 Pro to feature dual 200MP lenses, instead of triple 200MP cameras

The new leak shared by DCS reveals that the OPPO Find X10 Pro could pack dual 200MP, as opposed to a previous post from April that stated the phone would come with triple 200MP cameras on the rear. However, in the same post, he stated that OPPO is also A/B testing a 50MP ultrawide lens, so it seems like OPPO has indeed gone with a smaller megapixel count camera for the particular lens.

Without explicitly revealing the device's name, DCS is likely hinting at the OPPO Find X10 Pro, since the post mentions a 6.78-inch 1.5K LTPO display. Earlier leaks have suggested that the base Find X10 will carry a 6.59-inch panel, while the Find X10 Pro Max could gain a 2K display. Moving on, this display will carry ultra-narrow bezels with large rounded corners, and will be sourced from Tianma. Given that the Find X9 Pro also came with slim bezels and a 1.5K resolution, fetching a new-generation panel should result in better contrast tones, accurate colours, superior vividness, and more.

The 200MP 1/1.3-inch primary camera and the 200MP telephoto periscope may be assisted by a 3MP multispectral sensor, which should result in accurate colour outputs, as we've seen with the Find X9 Pro and Find X9 Ultra. For context, the Find X9 Pro is equipped with a 50MP 1/1.28-inch main camera, along with a 200MP 1/1.56-inch telephoto periscope with 3x optical zoom. Paired with MediaTek's upcoming all-out flagship chipset, the Dimensity 9600 Pro, OPPO is expected to fully utilise the processor's ISP capabilities to output noteworthy images from all the lenses.

OPPO Find X10 Pro could feature a 500mAh larger battery than the Find X9 Pro

With the Find X9 Pro already boasting one of the largest cells on a flagship smartphone at 7,500mAh, the tipster notes that the Find X10 Pro could further improve things by being equipped with at least an 8,000mAh battery. In real-world use, the extra battery should result in better endurance, especially if you're out and about, rigorously capturing images.

Apart from that, the handset is likely to pack wireless charging capabilities and a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint scanner for instant unlocks from the lockscreen. This may not come as a surprise, but the X10 Pro Max could also gain an IP68/69 rating for protection against dust and water splashes.

Given the hardware upgrades over the OPPO Find X9 Pro, the Find X10 Pro could be a worthwhile successor, especially in the camera and display departments. The new 1.5K panel could bring an enhanced display experience, while the new set of cameras should provide better details, improved dynamic range, and low-light performance. The Find X10 series could launch in September 2026.

[highlights]

• Vivo has hiked the prices of four of its smartphones.
• The Vivo V70 Elite and V70 are costlier now.
• Prices have been hiked by around Rs 4,000. 

[/highlights]

Vivo has increased the prices of some of its popular smartphones, including the V70 Elite and V70. Both phones are part of Vivo's V series, catering to the premium mid-range segment. The Vivo V70 Elite was earlier priced at Rs 54,999, and the V70 at Rs 49,999. Now, both phones are costlier by Rs 4,000. The budget Vivo Y21 and Y400 have also received price hikes. 

Vivo V70 Elite, V70 price hike

The base variant of the Vivo V70 Elite (review) with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage, which used to cost Rs 54,999, is now priced at Rs 58,999. The 12GB + 256GB variant is also costlier, with a price tag of Rs 63,999.  

Vivo V70 Elite
• 8/256GB: Rs 54,999 → Rs 58,999
• 12/256GB: Rs 59,999 → Rs 63,999

As for the Vivo V70 (review), this one launched as the affordable alternative to the Elite model. The 8GB + 256GB variant of the V70, which used to cost Rs 49,999, is now available at Rs 53,999 after the price hike. Similarly, the 12GB + 256GB variant costs Rs 56,999. 

Vivo V70
• 8/256GB: Rs 49,999 → Rs 53,999
• 12/256GB: Rs 53,999 → Rs 56,999

Although costlier, the Vivo V70 series is still among the popular picks in this segment, and both still offer good value at their new price points. Also, every other brand has been hiking the prices of their phones, so the table is already adjusted accordingly. The Vivo V70 Elite is now closer to the Xiaomi 17T in terms of pricing.

Among the two, the Vivo V70 Elite can be considered by those who want more consistent performance and higher storage options. It's also closely priced to the Vivo X200T now, which offers a larger display than the Elite, which has a compact form factor. The Vivo V70, on the other hand, serves as the more affordable option for users who are comfortable with regular day-to-day performance and do not want to spend extra on the Elite variant.

The two phones are largely similar in other areas, offering strong battery life, a premium design with a vibrant display, and capable primary as well as telephoto cameras.

Vivo Y21, Y400 price hike

Interestingly, for the Vivo Y21, only the 6GB + 128GB variant's price has been hiked. It had launched at Rs 20,999, but is now listed for Rs 21,999 on Vivo India's website. The 4GB + 128GB and 8GB + 128GB variants cost the same as they did at launch. The Vivo Y21 is a decent choice for a budget phone, offering a sizeable 6,500mAh battery, the Dimensity 6300 SoC, and a 50MP primary camera. One should still check and compare rivals in the same segment to see which phone gives the best value. 

The Vivo Y400 (review) sits in the mid-range segment and comes in two variants. The 8GB + 128GB variant, which used to cost Rs 28,999, is now available at Rs 31,999. As for the 8GB + 256GB variant, this variant of the Vivo Y400 is now priced at Rs 34,999, after a price hike of Rs 3,000. 

Vivo Y400
• 8/128GB: Rs 28,999 → Rs 31,999
• 8/256GB: Rs 31,999 → Rs 34,999

The Vivo Y400 is recommended for its slim and durable design with good durability. Its bright AMOLED panel also stands out with vibrant colours. The smartphone also produces decent colours in daylight and low-light scenarios. However, if performance is a priority, then you might want to check out alternatives. 

[highlights]

• OnePlus has confirmed the launch of the new budget-focused N6 in India on June 30th, with availability through Amazon.
• The N6 features a minimalist design with dual rear cameras.
• The new N series is tipped to start below Rs 20,000.

[/highlights]

In an era where smartphone prices have steadily been moving upwards since the past few months, OnePlus is preparing to give customers a reason to cheer as it enters a segment it has largely stayed away from in recent years. The company has officially confirmed that its new phone, the OnePlus N6 will launch in India on June 30th at 12 noon. An Amazon microsite is already live, confirming that the device will be sold through the e-commerce platform.

The launch is significant because it marks the arrival of the new OnePlus N series, a budget-focused lineup expected to sit below the Nord range. At present, the Nord CE6 Lite is the company's most affordable smartphone in India, starting at Rs 22,999.

OnePlus N6 design and features

The brand hasn't revealed any specifications yet but official teasers reveal the OnePlus N6 in at least two colour options - a soft mint green finish and a dark grey variant. The phone adopts a clean, minimalist design language that closely follows OnePlus' recent hardware philosophy.

The rear panel appears flat with softly rounded corners, while the camera module is positioned in the top-left corner. The module houses two large circular camera rings stacked vertically alongside a pill-shaped flash unit. Branding is kept subtle, with the OnePlus logo placed at the centre of the rear panel. From the front, the phone features slim bezels and a centred punch-hole camera. The overall design prioritises simplicity over flashy elements, a direction OnePlus has increasingly embraced across its recent smartphone portfolio.

Key details and expected India price

While specifications remain under wraps, reports suggest the OnePlus N series will target the sub-Rs 20,000 segment. If accurate, this would make it the company's most affordable smartphone family in India. That would place the N6 directly against popular options from Redmi, POCO, Lava, and Realme, all of which have built strong positions in the budget market. The competition is intense, with buyers today expecting high-refresh-rate displays, large batteries, capable cameras and long software support even at lower prices.

A budget-focused OnePlus lineup arrives at an interesting time for the industry. Smartphone makers have repeatedly pointed to rising component costs, and OnePlus and Nothing founder Carl Pei recently said that phone prices are likely to continue increasing over the coming years.

For buyers, that makes the N series worth watching. A sub-Rs 20,000 OnePlus phone could offer access to OxygenOS, one of the cleaner Android interfaces available today, at a lower entry price than the company's current lineup. However, value in this segment ultimately comes down to execution. Buyers considering a budget smartphone may want to wait until the N6's full specifications and pricing are revealed before making a decision.

As a brand, OnePlus' journey has been quite remarkable. The OG "flagship killer", OnePlus, has been a brand known for offering smartphones that score high on performance and value. While that positioning might have shifted somewhat in recent years, especially in the flagship space, the brand remains strongly aligned with an all-around approach that resonates with its audience. In the last few months, there have been many rumours around the brand and how it will continue in India, which is one of the biggest markets for smartphones. OnePlus responded by launching the N-series, a whole new smartphone lineup. I spoke with Ford, Vice President at OnePlus India, to get clarity on the speculation and to understand the thought process behind the new series. Read on.

2026 has seen significant chatter and speculation regarding OnePlus' market position. What is your response to these rumours?

While 2026 did bring considerable external speculation, including questions about OnePlus' continuity and brand direction, we've remained firmly focused on our priorities, directing efforts toward building and executing on a clear strategic vision. The central question guiding every decision has been one of accessibility and how OnePlus makes its experience available to a broader base of consumers, particularly in the context of industry-wide pricing pressures.

Two structural decisions followed from that question: (a) we streamlined our channel strategy to improve cost efficiency, and (b) we expanded our service network from 400 to 500 centres through the OPPO footprint, reinforcing our commitment to post-purchase support across India. On the device front, we responded to market pressures by launching the latest Nord Series: Nord 6, CE6, and CE6 Lite with launch prices consistent with their predecessors, ensuring that cost increases were absorbed at the brand level rather than being passed on to consumers. This led to a strong reception from our community, and it's been the most meaningful indicator of our standing. Overall, OnePlus remains firmly committed to the Indian market, and the N Series announcement today is a direct reflection of that long-term commitment.

What is the strategy and thought process behind entering the highly competitive Rs 18,000 – Rs 25,000 segment with the N Series?

The Rs. 18,000 to Rs. 25,000 price segment represents the largest concentration of smartphone consumers in India, and it's where OnePlus is now sharpening its focus. We're bringing a foundational advantage to this segment that is difficult to replicate: over a decade of flagship engineering experience. These technical learnings are being applied directly to the N Series, extending the benefits of that expertise to a wider consumer base and winning them as well.

In fact, the broader market context is relevant here. India is the world's second-largest smartphone market, with 152 million units shipped in 2025 as per IDC. Gen Z accounts for 44% of smartphone purchases in the country, and the Rs. 18,000 and above segment continues to represent the highest volume band in the market. The N Series has been developed with these realities in mind. Therefore, OnePlus has approached this segment with thoughtful, purpose-driven engineering focused on key consumer needs, while staying true to the uncompromising quality standards it is known for.

How is OnePlus adapting its marketing strategy to genuinely connect with this younger, value-conscious demographic?

Gen Z in India represents an unprecedented demographic force, with 377 million people who are already economically active. Equally significant is their relationship with technology. For this generation, the smartphone serves as essential infrastructure; the primary device through which they manage education, work, relationships, entertainment, and creative expression. And with average daily smartphone usage of 6 to 7 hours, mobile devices play a central role in their lives. This reality fundamentally shapes OnePlus' product strategy for the segment.

Our marketing approach is anchored to this framework, built around content-first, platform-native communication designed for genuine relevance rather than conventional aspiration. The strategy prioritises short-form content on platforms most frequented by this audience, storytelling rooted in campus and early professional life, and creator-led conversations that carry organic credibility.

A recent example is our micro-drama campaign called "Not Again" for the Nord CE6 series in collaboration with Terribly Tiny Tales. By leaning into fast-paced storytelling, culturally resonant humour, and formats native to how young audiences consume content, the campaign achieved 15 million views and a 10% engagement rate, metrics that reflect genuine connection, not passive reach. The results reinforced a core conviction: that authenticity, narrative pace, and cultural specificity are non-negotiable when engaging this demographic.

Extending this philosophy to the N Series, we took a distinctly different creative route, one that plays on generational contrast rather than generational mimicry. Our campaign features Himesh Reshammiya alongside a Gen Z interviewer, engineering a deliberate and delightful collision of sensibilities. The choice is intentional: Reshammiya's iconic resurgence has made him unexpectedly resonant with younger audiences, and the campaign harnesses that cultural moment to signal the N Series' arrival as a device unapologetically built for Gen Z; bold, self-aware, and in on the joke.
Ultimately, OnePlus' engagement with Gen Z is grounded in understanding their specific needs and building products and experiences that address them directly.

With OnePlus now operating across three distinct tiers Flagship, Nord, and the new N Series how will you prevent brand dilution? What guardrails are in place to ensure that the premium 'Never Settle' identity of your flagships coexists seamlessly with an affordable series?

The three-tier portfolio structure shows how OnePlus, as a brand, has grown and not diluted. It provides clear guardrails that preserve distinct positioning across the range. Each tier has a defined mandate, with no overlap in either positioning or target audience.
The Flagship range, at Rs. 50,000 and above, serves as OnePlus' technology showcase, housing our most advanced processors, refined camera systems, and premium build quality. On the other hand, the Nord Series, from Rs 25,000 to Rs 50,000, addresses the aspirational consumer seeking flagship-level performance at a more accessible price point. Finally, the N Series, positioned at Rs 18,000 to Rs 25,000, has been developed for first-time smartphone buyers, college students, and consumers in tier 2 and 3 cities, representing a new consumer base for OnePlus rather than a repositioning of an existing one.

The key differentiation across portfolios lies in the price points and consumer segments each serves. This breadth, spanning Rs 18,000 to Rs 50,000 and above, reflects OnePlus' commitment to delivering quality engineering to a diverse range of consumers across the Indian market.

What can we expect from OnePlus this year from a brand strategy as well as product roadmap perspective?

From a product perspective, our most significant development in 2026 is the introduction of the N Series, with the OnePlus N6 as the first device in this new lineup. It represents the most direct expression of our India-first approach, a device developed specifically for the critical mass of Indian consumers and at a price point that extends these capabilities to a significantly wider audience.

Strategically, this lineup is designed with Gen Z and the wider young hustler generation in mind. For these always-connected consumers, the smartphone is the primary tool for navigating daily life, enabling everything from learning and productivity to gaming, entertainment, and social connection. It is the product manifestation of this strategy, and our communications, creator partnerships, and community engagement will be structured to consistently reinforce this narrative.

Overall, India remains a strategic priority for OnePlus, and this launch underscores that commitment. It is complemented by the ongoing expansion of our service infrastructure, reinforcing our long-term investment in the market, ensuring our growth in India remains sustainable, reliable, and close to our community.

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• iQOO Neo 11S could launch as an upgrade over the Neo 11.
• It's tipped to feature the Dimensity 9500 SoC.
• The handset could also get 100W fast charging support. 

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iQOO could be working on a new Neo series smartphone in China. A new iQOO smartphone has appeared on the benchmarking website, Geekbench, which is believed to be the iQOO Neo 11S. The handset is also tipped to launch as a minor upgrade over last year's iQOO Neo 11. The same handset has also appeared on China's 3C certification database. The Neo 11S would be another option for buyers looking for a flagship-grade smartphone that sits just below the iQOO 15. 

iQOO Neo 11S Geekbench details

The iQOO smartphone on Geekbench carries the model number Vivo V2545A. It will reportedly be called iQOO Neo 11S and launch as a minor upgrade over the iQOO Neo 11. The Geekbench data reveals a MediaTek MT6993 chipset, which is the MediaTek Dimensity 9500. The chipset is paired with Mali-G1-Ultra MC12 GPU and 16GB of RAM. In comparison to the Snapdragon 8 Elite-powered iQOO Neo 11, the Neo 11S would be faster in terms of performance. The Dimensity 9500, if implemented well, promises a significant leap in raw processing power, making the Neo 11S a formidable contender for mobile gamers.

This listing suggests iQOO is doubling down on raw performance, a smart move in a market hungry for gaming prowess.

The Geekbench listing also mentions Android 16, which is expected of the upcoming iQOO phone. The same handset is said to have appeared on China's 3C certification website as well, with a 100W charger. This suggests the iQOO Neo 11S will come with 100W fast charging support, which is one of the fastest you can get, especially if the phone has a large battery. 

Since the iQOO Neo 11S is expected to arrive as an upgrade over the Neo 11, we can expect better hardware. For context, the iQOO Neo 11 launched in China last October. The handset comes with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, a 7,500mAh battery, a 50MP dual-camera system, and a 144Hz LTPO AMOLED display. The Neo 11S could bring a bigger battery and a more versatile camera setup as upgrades over the Neo 11. 

Since there's no official confirmation on the iQOO Neo 11S yet, it's better to wait for more details. For now, the iQOO Neo 11S could be a good option for those looking for a flagship-grade smartphone with powerful specifications. We should still wait for more concrete information and see what the Neo 11S has to offer. 

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• Vivo X Fold 6 is the brand's upcoming book-style foldable.
• It's getting upgraded cameras this time.
• The X Fold 6 is also confirmed to feature the Dimensity 9500 Super Edition.

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Vivo has been teasing its upcoming foldable, the X Fold 6, on Weibo, with key details being revealed gradually. Last week, chipset details of the Vivo X Fold 6 were made official, and now the brand has revealed the foldable's camera details. According to Vivo's president of product, Huang Tao, the Vivo X Fold 6 is being touted as a true "folding mini-DSLR." It will house a 200MP camera with a Zeiss lens. Vivo's flagships are already popular for their DSLR-like hardware on a smartphone, and the same could be achieved by the foldable. 

Vivo X Fold 6 camera specs

According to a post on Weibo shared by Huang Tao, the Vivo X Fold 6 will house a 200MP primary camera with a Zeiss APO super periscope telephoto lens. The foldable will also be equipped with the Blueprint Imaging Chip V3+ with support for Blueprint native colours and the Blueprint colour palette. Like the other Vivo flagships, the X Fold 6 will also support the Vivo Zeiss G2 teleconverter (200mm). 

In comparison to the X Fold 5, the new foldable will be an upgrade with the 200MP primary camera and the Zeiss APO telephoto lens. The X Fold 5 features a 50MP triple camera setup, comprising a primary camera, a wide-angle (UW) lens, and a telephoto lens. This suggests that Vivo isn't leaving the X Fold 6 behind when it comes to optics, something the brand is known for. With this setup, the X Fold 6 could turn out to be one of the best foldables for photography. 

Vivo X Fold 6 display details

The X Fold 6's inner and outer displays will both use the Samsung M14 panel. This display offers 2K resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, and up to 44 percent reduced power consumption. The foldable supports 5,000 nits of peak brightness on both the inner and outer screens, along with 1 nit of ultra-dark soft light. In terms of design, the X Fold 6 will feature a more rounded R-corner design and a 2.5D vertical metal frame.

The Vivo X Fold 6 is already known to feature the Dimensity 9500 Super Edition, a customised chipset for advanced on-device AI. Atomic Benchmark is also getting an upgrade with more refined productivity features for foldable screens. 

Based on the details revealed so far, the Vivo X Fold 6 is shaping up to be a true powerhouse rather than just another standard foldable. Historically, the physics of foldable designs have forced manufacturers to compromise on hardware, especially cameras and battery sizes. However, as OEMs progressively push past these design limitations, the X Fold 6 represents a significant leap forward, proving that choosing a foldable no longer means sacrificing flagship-tier performance.

With the X Fold 6, you're getting powerful cameras, bright displays, a customised flagship chipset, and lots of AI. If you've been considering a powerful foldable with good specs, the Vivo X Fold 6 could be worth waiting for. This could be a notable upgrade for those considering moving to a foldable. However, if you already own one, you might want to compare the specs and see if the upgrades are significant. 

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• Honor has confirmed the X80 Pro Max will launch in China on June 22nd with the largest ever battery in an Honor smartphone.
• The phone is expected to feature a 6.8-inch 120Hz OLED display, Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 chipset, and support for 90W wired charging.
• Honor hasn't announced India availability yet.

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2026 was clearly the year of the "big battery phone." Ever since the Si-C wave of 7,000mAh batteries for flagships started late last year, we've only seen that graph going up. Realme recently launched phones with 10,001mAh batteries shortly after Honor announced its Win series would come with 10,000mAh cells. However, the company seems to be getting back ahead in the race with the Honor X80 Pro Max, which is set to launch in China on June 22nd with a huge 11,000mAh battery.

Ahead of the announcement, Honor has revealed several key details about the device, including what it claims is the largest battery ever fitted inside one of its smartphones.

Honor X80 Pro Max key details and specifications

The headline feature of the Honor X80 Pro Max is its 11,000mAh battery. Honor has confirmed support for 90W wired charging, while official promotional material also points to 27W wired reverse charging, allowing the phone to power accessories and other devices.

The smartphone is expected to feature a 6.8-inch OLED display with a 2788 x 1280 resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 3840Hz PWM dimming. According to tipster Digital Chat Station, the panel could also reach a claimed peak brightness of 10,000 nits, which would again be a first in the smartphone world, though real-world full-screen brightness is likely to be a more relevant metric for everyday use.

Powering the device is expected to be the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 chipset. While not a flagship processor, it suggests Honor is positioning the X80 Pro Max as a battery-focused upper mid-range device rather than a performance-centric flagship. Honor is also highlighting durability. The phone is tipped to carry IP66, IP68, IP69 and IP69K ratings for dust and water resistance, alongside enhanced drop protection. The company has additionally announced a complimentary screen replacement programme for eligible accidental damage cases during the coverage period.

Storage options listed online include 8GB + 128GB, 8GB + 256GB, 8GB + 512GB and 12GB + 512GB variants. Colour choices include Lightning Red, Black Armour, Moon Shadow White and Vitality Orange. From a design perspective, Honor appears to be following an industry trend that has seen brands adopt "Pro Max" branding for larger premium models. The circular rear camera module shown in teasers also bears similarities to designs used in Vivo's flagship X-series devices.

India availability

Honor hasn't announced plans to launch the X80 Pro Max in India yet. The company is expected to reveal pricing and market availability during the June 22nd launch event. If the device eventually reaches global markets, it could appeal to users who prioritise battery life above all else. For most buyers, however, the Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 chipset means the phone is likely to compete more with mid-range devices than true flagship smartphones.

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• ASUS has launched three new Chromebooks in India for students and young professionals.
• The CM32 Detachable weighs just 640g and switches easily between laptop and tablet modes.
• The CM14 and CM15 offer up to 20 hours of battery life and start at Rs 26,990.

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ASUS has expanded its Chromebook lineup in India with the launch of the Chromebook CM32 Detachable, Chromebook CM14 and Chromebook CM15. The new range targets students and young professionals who want simple, secure and portable devices for learning, work and entertainment. Let's take a deeper look at the products below. 

ASUS Chromebooks: features

The new Chromebooks run ChromeOS and offer Google's ecosystem features, which means users get cloud-first storage, easier collaboration with Google devices and built-in security. ASUS says the lineup is also designed to help users work with AI-powered tools more comfortably as those workflows become more common. At its core lies the Mediatek Kompanio 540 with up to 8GB LPDDR5X and 128GB storage. 

The Chromebook CM32 Detachable is the key model in this new range. It weighs just 640g and works as both a laptop and a tablet, making it easier to carry around for classes, travel or casual use. It also comes with a 2.5K touchscreen, detachable keyboard, magnetic stand and ASUS Pen support, so users can type, sketch or watch content in different modes, depending upon their needs.

ASUS claims the CM32 offers up to 12 hours of battery life, which should comfortably cover a full day of study or light work. It also has a metal chassis, military-grade durability and Corning Gorilla Glass protection, so it should handle daily use better than a typical lightweight device.

The Chromebook CM14 and CM15 are aimed at buyers who want a more traditional laptop experience. They come in 14-inch and 15-inch sizes, offer up to 20 hours of battery life and use a MediaTek Kompanio 540 processor for everyday tasks. Their 180-degree hinge makes it easier to share the screen in class or during group work, while the narrow-bezel display should make movies, browsing and documents feel more comfortable.

Where do the new Chromebooks fit?

The Chromebook range starts at Rs 26,990 and will be sold on Amazon and the ASUS E-shop. During the CM32 pre-order period, buyers can also get bundled extras, including a warranty extension, accidental damage protection and an ASUS mouse for Rs 999.

The new ASUS Chromebooks sit in the Rs 25,000–30,000 price band, where most rivals offer basic 14‑inch or 15‑inch laptops for web browsing and schoolwork. The CM14 and CM15 follow this idea as well but are focused towards delivering longer battery life, with up to 20 hours of use claimed, which should last longer than many Acer and HP Chromebooks in the same range.

The CM32 Detachable is the most interesting of the three because very few Chromebooks around this price give you a 640g detachable body, a good touchscreen, pen support and a bundled keyboard and stand together. While most competitors feel like regular laptops running ChromeOS, the CM32 feels more like a light tablet‑style 2‑in‑1 for students who want something easier to carry and use in different modes.