[highlights]

• Motorola's entire high-end smartphone lineup will see discounts during the sale.
• The Moto Edge 70 Pro stands as a great alternative to the OnePlus Nord 6.
• The Flipkart Freedom sale begins 24 hours earlier for Plus and VIP members.

[/highlights]

Motorola has revealed its smartphone deals for the upcoming Flipkart Freedom sale. Set to begin on August 8th, the sale will cater to people seeking a smartphone or appliances at discounted rates. As part of the Motorola deals, the recently released Moto Edge 70 Max will sell for Rs 49,999, while the capable all-rounder, Edge 70 Pro, will sell for Rs 36,999.

Motorola Flipkart Freedom sale 2026 offers

Note:- Since Flipkart hasn't explicitly provided a breakdown of the sale prices, these deals likely include bank discounts and/or exchange bonuses.

Starting with the high-end and premium Motorola smartphones, the Moto Razr Fold at a discounted price of Rs 1,39,999 gets you a large 8.1-inch inner foldable display, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, and a capable camera system, including a 50MP 1/1.95-inch periscope camera with 3x optical zoom. If not getting the latest chipset on a premium smartphone doesn't concern you, the Razr Fold stands as a good choice for extensive productivity, entertainment, and photography.

The Moto Edge 70 could sell as low as Rs 49,999, making it one of the most affordable Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 phones after the iQOO 15R. It gets a large 7,100mAh battery, Qi2 wireless charging, and most importantly, a 2K AMOLED display, which no phone under Rs 1,00,000 offers. The Moto Signature is a similar phone with a superior set of cameras; however, you miss out on a large battery.

The Moto Edge 70 Pro continues to present itself as a great all-rounder offering at Rs 36,999, thanks to the Dimensity 8500 Extreme, a dual 50MP rear camera setup, comfortable side edge curves, and a decently sized 6,500mAh battery. One can get it over the OnePlus Nord 6 for an ergonomic, lighter design while gaining a similar level of performance. If you're on the hunt for a telephoto camera phone, the Edge 60 Pro continues to offer great value.

Lastly, the Moto G77 Power and Moto G37 for Rs 12,999 and Rs 21,999, respectively, present themselves as suitable options for those seeking 5G budget options with excellent battery endurance. However, with just one OS upgrade support, these phones don't offer the best software longevity.

If you've been eyeing a Motorola smartphone for its distinctive design language and Hello UI experience, this Flipkart Freedom Sale could be the perfect time to buy one. With the possibility of price hikes after the sale, it makes even more sense, not just for people seeking Motorola phones, but for anyone looking for a smartphone right now.

[highlights]

• The OPPO F35 series is tipped to launch in India around late August or early September, ahead of the festive sale season.
• The OPPO Find X9s Pro is also rumoured for India, but a tipster says its launch remains unconfirmed.
• The OPPO F35 series will succeed the F33 lineup, which launched in India in April 2026 starting at Rs 31,999.

[/highlights]

OPPO could be gearing up for a busy festive season in India. According to tipster Debayan Roy, the company is preparing to launch the mid-range OPPO F35 series in the country around the end of August or the beginning of September, likely during the first week of the month. The timing would place the launch just ahead of Flipkart's Big Billion Days and Amazon's Great Indian Festival sales, when smartphone brands typically refresh their lineups.

Roy also claims that the OPPO Find X9s Pro could make its way to India. However, unlike the F35 series, he notes that this information could not be independently verified. While one of his sources is confident about the flagship's India debut, two other sources reportedly said its launch is not confirmed. As a result, the Find X9s Pro's India arrival should be treated as speculation for now.

OPPO F35 series

If the reported timeline holds, the OPPO F35 lineup will arrive less than five months after the OPPO F33 series, which debuted in India in April this year. The previous generation comprised the OPPO F33 and OPPO F33 Pro, starting at Rs 31,999 and Rs 37,999, respectively.

Both phones featured a 6.57-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, MediaTek Dimensity 6360 Max chipset, a 7,000mAh battery with 80W SUPERVOOC charging, a 50MP primary camera, Android 16-based ColorOS, and storage options of up to 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. The Pro variant offered more RAM options, an additional colour option and a different camera module design.

Although specifications of the F35 series remain under wraps, OPPO is likely to continue targeting the upper mid-range segment, where it competes with devices from Vivo, Motorola, OnePlus and iQOO. Launching ahead of the festive shopping season could also help the company capitalise on higher consumer demand.

OPPO Find X9s Pro India launch

The situation is less clear for the OPPO Find X9s Pro. The flagship launched in China and select international markets in April, but OPPO hasn't confirmed plans to bring it to India. The Find X9s Pro is placed above the Find X9s, which launched in India alongside the Find X9 Ultra in May, starting at Rs 79,999. While the Indian and global Find X9s share identical hardware, they differ from the China-exclusive model, offering a larger 6.59-inch AMOLED display and a bigger 7,025mAh battery.

Compared to the standard Find X9s, the Find X9s Pro features a more compact 6.32-inch 144Hz display, the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset, dual 200MP main and periscope telephoto cameras alongside a 50MP ultrawide sensor, 50W wireless charging, and configurations of up to 16GB RAM and 1TB storage. In China, it starts at CNY 5,299 (around Rs 75,000).

For buyers, the OPPO F35 series is the launch worth watching in the near term, especially if you're planning a purchase during the festive sales. Those interested in the Find X9s Pro may want to wait for more concrete information, as its India launch remains unconfirmed.

[highlights]

• Sony's new BRAVIA 9II lineup now includes a 115-inch model, which the company says is its largest BRAVIA TV ever.
• The TVs use True RGB technology with RGB Backlight Master Drive Pro, designed to improve colour accuracy, contrast and brightness.
• The BRAVIA 9II series starts at Rs 8,39,900 in India, while the BRAVIA 7II series starts at Rs 3,59,900.

[/highlights]

Sony India has announced its flagship BRAVIA 9II lineup, led by a new 115-inch (292 cm) model, which is the largest BRAVIA television Sony has ever made. The company says the new TV combines a very large screen with its True RGB backlight technology to offer a more cinematic viewing experience at home. Let's look at the new lineup in more detail below.

What's new?

The 115-inch BRAVIA 9II  targets users who want a high-end home cinema setup without going for an OLED panel. It sits above the existing 75-inch and 85-inch BRAVIA 9II models. With this launch, Sony's True RGB range now covers screen sizes from 55 inches (140 cm) to 115 inches.

Sony positions the whole True RGB lineup, which includes BRAVIA 7II and BRAVIA 9II, as an option for users who care about colour accuracy, high brightness and large-screen viewing. This includes people who watch a lot of movies, play games or follow sports on a Home Cinema setup.

The new TVs use Sony's RGB Backlight Master Drive Pro. This system controls red, green and blue LEDs separately. Sony says this approach delivers a wider colour range, better contrast and smoother transitions between shades compared to its earlier models.

Other picture features include:

• X‑Wide Angle Pro, which keeps colours and contrast consistent even when viewed from the side
• Luminance Booster Pro, which increases brightness while trying to maintain accurate colours
• Smooth Colour Gradation, which reduces visible banding in gradients and preserves fine detail
• Immersive Black Screen Pro, a low‑reflection screen treatment that improves black levels and detail in dark scenes. This is available on BRAVIA 9II models except the 115‑inch version

On the audio side, the 115‑inch BRAVIA 9II uses a 12‑speaker Acoustic Multi‑Audio+ system. It includes two subwoofers, eight full‑range drivers and two tweeters. Sony says this setup is designed to deliver louder, more immersive sound with clearer dialogue in large rooms.

The TVs run Google TV, which brings together movies, shows, apps and games in one interface. Sony also confirmed that Gemini for Google TV will be added through a future software update, allowing more natural, AI‑based interactions on these sets.

Should you buy this?

Sony's BRAVIA 9II series starts at Rs 8,39,900 (75-inch), while the BRAVIA 7II series starts at Rs 3,59,900 (55-inch) in India. The 115-inch Bravia comes in at a whopping MRP of Rs Rs 45,99,900. If you want a premium, non‑OLED TV with a very large screen and excellent colour accuracy, the new 115-inch BRAVIA 9II is clearly designed for you. It makes the most sense if you watch a lot of HDR movies, sports or console games in a dedicated living room or home theatre and have the money to spare.

If you are more price‑sensitive or do not need a 115‑inch panel, the existing 75‑inch and 85‑inch BRAVIA 9II and 7II models may offer better value. They still provide Sony's True RGB tuning, Google TV features and good  gaming support. For most buyers in India, the choice will depend on how much you prioritise screen size against how much you are willing to spend on a flagship, cinema‑focused TV.

[highlights]

• JioTag 2 has launched in India at Rs 1,249 with support for both Google Find Hub and Apple Find My.
• The tracker features Bluetooth LE, a 120dB buzzer, IP64 rating, and Lost Mode for locating misplaced items.
• JioTag 2 succeeds the original JioTag with broader compatibility, making it suitable for both Android and iPhone users.

[/highlights]

Reliance Jio has expanded its smart tracker lineup in India with the launch of the JioTag 2, bringing a key upgrade that many users have been waiting for. Unlike its predecessors, the new tracker supports both Google Find Hub and Apple Find My, allowing Android and iPhone users to locate tagged belongings through their respective native tracking networks.

The JioTag 2 succeeds the original JioTag launched in 2023 and arrives at a time when Bluetooth trackers are becoming increasingly popular for keeping tabs on keys, wallets, bags and luggage. With cross-platform compatibility, Jio is now targeting a wider audience instead of limiting the experience to a single ecosystem.

Price and availability

The JioTag 2 is priced at Rs 1,249 and comes in Black, Green and Red colour options. It's currently available for purchase through Amazon India. While it costs more than the original JioTag, which debuted at Rs 749 in June 2023, it is priced lower than the JioTag Go, which launched in December 2024 at Rs 1,499. That makes the new model Jio's most feature-rich tracker while remaining competitively priced.

Features and what's new

The biggest change is support for both Google's Find Hub network and Apple's Find My service. Android users can track items through Google Find Hub, while iPhone and iPad users can use Apple's native Find My app without requiring a separate companion application.

The tracker connects over Bluetooth Low Energy and includes a built-in 120dB buzzer that can be triggered through the paired app when the item is nearby. If the tracker moves out of Bluetooth range, nearby compatible Android and iOS devices can anonymously update its location through Google's and Apple's community-powered networks. It also supports Lost Mode to improve the chances of recovering misplaced belongings.

Jio says the tracker does not require a SIM card, cellular connectivity or a recurring subscription. It instead relies on community-based location updates and can help locate tagged items across countries and continents.

The JioTag 2 is powered by a replaceable coin-cell battery. While the company claims up to one year of battery life on a single battery, it also bundles an extra battery in the box, eliminating the need for charging. The tracker features an IP64-rated polycarbonate body with an integrated mounting hole for attaching it to keys, bags or luggage. It measures 101 x 62 x 17 mm and weighs 30 gms.

Compared to earlier models, the JioTag 2 offers broader compatibility and better value. The original JioTag worked through the JioThings app and supported both Android and iOS, while the JioTag Go shifted to Google's Find My Device ecosystem but dropped iPhone compatibility. The JioTag 2 brings cross-platform support back, making it the most versatile tracker in Jio's portfolio.

For buyers, the JioTag 2 is the better pick over previous JioTag models if you own devices across Android and iOS or simply want the flexibility to switch ecosystems in the future. Its combination of dual-platform support, community tracking and competitive pricing also puts it in a stronger position against other Bluetooth trackers available in India.

Vivo S2 is launching in India this week as a new mid-range option from the brand. The handset actually marks the comeback for Vivo's erstwhile S-series, which debuted back in 2019. The Vivo S2 brings a design-focused handset, housing a camera module similar to the Vivo X300 FE. With less than three days to go for the Vivo S2 India launch, here's a detailed roundup of ev everything you need to know about the handset. 

Vivo S2 India launch date, availability

The Vivo S2 is confirmed to launch in India on August 6th. The launch will take place at 12 pm, which will most likely be a price reveal. The smartphone is also confirmed to be sold via Amazon, with sale details and offers to be announced on launch day.

Vivo S2 design, colours

Design is clearly the focus here for the Vivo S2. The smartphone features a horizontal camera housing two sensors and an LED flash. It also features a 3D curved AMOLED display, which gives it a premium look and feel. This is also quite different from the other Vivo smartphones, which primarily offer a flat display. The handset is still quite slim, measuring 7.99mm, and has a refined metallic look. 

The smartphone has a punch-hole display, with the power button and volume keys on the right side. The Vivo S2 will be available in Silk White, Sapphire Blue, and Regal Bronze. 

Vivo S2 specifications

Vivo has revealed key specifications of the S2 ahead of its launch. The smartphone is confirmed to feature a 6.83-inch 3D Curved AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and up to 3,000 nits peak brightness. The handset will be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7360-Turbo processor, which is claimed to have scored 970,000 on the AnTuTu benchmark. This suggests good mid-range performance for the Vivo S2. We'll find out more when we review the phone. 

The Vivo S2 is also confirmed to feature a 50MP main camera and a 32MP front camera. It will get 4K video recording support on both the front and rear cameras, along with features like Aura Light Portrait and Dual View Video. The smartphone will house a 7,050mAh battery, which should be more than enough for an entire day's usage.

It will run OriginOS 6 with Android 16 out of the box and features like Shake and Share, which lets you instantly transfer photos and 4K videos between compatible devices with a simple shake. It will also get AI Creation, AI Transcript Assist, and Circle to Search 2.0. 

Vivo S2 expected pricing

The Vivo S2 is tipped to cost between Rs 40,000 and Rs 45,000 in India. Its box price is reportedly Rs 66,999. This pricing suggests that the Vivo S2 would be targeting the upper mid-range segment currently populated by devices like the OnePlus Nord 6 and the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro.

Based on what we know so far, the Vivo S2 seems heavily focused on the design. The phone could appeal to users who want a premium and stylish design, a large display and battery, and dependable cameras. It could also be a good upgrade for those looking to move to a newer and more premium mid-range phone. However, we should still wait for the official pricing details and see how the Vivo S2 compares with rivals in the same segment. 

[highlights]

• Flipkart Plus members will need to place four orders every month to keep the Netflix subscription active.
• A Flipkart Plus membership can only be gained by placing orders on Flipkart.
• The Netflix mobile plan offers access to a vast content portfolio in 480p resolution.

[/highlights]

Flipkart is known for offering multiple perks to customers who shop frequently on the platform, such as free app subscriptions or discounted app prices using SuperCoins. The latest benefit it has added for Flipkart Plus members is a free 30-day Netflix mobile subscription worth Rs 149. However, the Netflix plan isn't as easily achievable as you think. More details below.

Free Netflix subscription offer with Flipkart Plus

In partnership with Netflix, every Flipkart Plus member who places at least four orders is eligible to obtain a free Netflix mobile subscription. These can be orders from Flipkart, Flipkart Grocery, or Flipkart Minutes with a total order value exceeding Rs 299 or above. Subsequently, a Flipkart membership can be earned by completing 15 successful transactions in the last 365 days.

How to get a free Netflix subscription through Flipkart Plus

Once you have acquired a Flipkart Plus membership, here's how to claim a free Netflix mobile subscription:

Step 1: Place four different orders on Flipkart of Rs 299 each

Step 2: The free Netflix plan will be gifted to you on the Flipkart app

Step 3: Within the Flipkart app, head over to the Netflix Benefits Page under My Accounts > Plus Page > Netflix

Step 4: Tap the 'Claim now' button, and you'll be redirected to the Netflix app

Step 5: Now log in with the same phone number or email ID you used to log in to Flipkart. An OTP may be required in this step

Step 6: Once logged into Netflix, your Netflix mobile plan will be activated instantly

Note: To keep your Netflix subscription active, make sure to place four orders of Rs 299 each every 30 days; otherwise, the plan will be deactivated.

It's also worth noting that the Netflix mobile plan worth Rs 149 is restricted to just 480p resolution and can be logged into just a single smartphone at once. While the said low resolution might deter some, for casual mobile viewers, it should be beneficial to enjoy the content offered by Netflix.

By bundling a free Netflix subscription with Plus membership, Flipkart makes it an attractive loyalty perk in Indian e-commerce. This not only benefits the customers by providing them access to Netflix's vast content portfolio, but also allows Flipkart to penetrate deeper into the market and grow its order value on a massive scale. On the other hand, the benefit also rivals Amazon, which already provides Prime Video to paid subscribers.

[highlights]

• The iQOO Z11 India model has a noticeably different design than the China variant.
• It's also tipped to come with a different chipset, possibly the Dimensity 7500 Turbo.
• The phone is tipped to launch this month in a higher price segment than the predecessor, the iQOO Z10.

[/highlights]

iQOO has been steadily building anticipation around the upcoming iQOO Z11, and 91mobiles has now exclusively obtained a teaser image revealing the design and colour options of the India variant. The image not only offers the clearest look yet at the phone but also confirms that the Indian model will feature a noticeably different design from its Chinese counterpart.

iQOO Z11 India variant design

The teaser shows the iQOO Z11 in two colours, which sources tell us will be called Aurora Green and Celestial Blue. Both variants feature a horizontally aligned, pill-shaped camera module with two large camera rings, a smaller third sensor, and a circular LED ring light positioned at one end. The module sits on a raised aluminium island with polished chamfered edges, while the phone itself appears to have a slim frame and a curved rear panel. The image also hints at a large curved display with narrow bezels, reinforcing iQOO's push towards a more premium design, courtesy its more premium positioning.

According to information obtained by 91mobiles, the iQOO Z11 has been designed "inspired by nature." Aurora Green draws inspiration from the Northern Lights, while Celestial Blue is inspired by the night sky. The company calls the new camera housing the Skyline Camera Module. It's crafted from precision-machined aluminium and features polished edges designed to reflect light while blending seamlessly into the rear panel. Besides improving the phone's premium appearance, the compact horizontal layout is also claimed to offer a more comfortable grip and better stability when the device is placed on a flat surface. There's a large 3D curved display that flows into a one-piece narrow frame. Despite the expansive screen, iQOO says the Z11 remains slim and lightweight, giving it a flagship-inspired in-hand feel.

iQOO had already hinted at this design through a hand-drawn sketch shared earlier, and India CEO Nipun Marya has also been actively teasing the Z11 ahead of its official debut. While the company has not announced a launch date, previous reports suggest the smartphone could arrive in India sometime this month. The teaser campaign aligns with that timeline.

The horizontal camera island is also becoming an increasingly common design trend in the smartphone industry. Originally reminiscent of Google's Pixel smartphones, similar layouts have recently appeared on devices such as the Vivo X300 FE and the Vivo S2, suggesting more brands are adopting the cleaner, landscape-style camera arrangement.

Notably, the India variant differs significantly from the version sold in China. The Chinese iQOO Z11 features a flat rear panel, flat frame, flat 6.83-inch display and a squircle-shaped camera module with vertically arranged cameras. It's available in black, white and blue colour options. The Indian model, by contrast, adopts a curved display, a pill-shaped rear camera island with an LED ring light, and a thinner overall profile.

Pricing and other details

Previous leaks suggest the Indian iQOO Z11 will be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7500 Turbo chipset, making it different from both the Chinese model, which uses the Dimensity 8500, and the Malaysian variant, which is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 7s Gen 4. This would make India the third market to receive its own chipset configuration. The smartphone is also tipped to feature a 1.5K 144Hz OLED display, a battery between 7,000mAh and 8,000mAh with 90W fast charging, a 50MP primary camera with OIS, a 32MP selfie camera, IP68 and IP69 ratings, an in-display fingerprint scanner, and 8GB and 12GB RAM options.

The iQOO Z11 is expected to launch at around Rs 35,000, marking a notable jump from the iQOO Z10, which debuted in India at Rs 21,999 for the 8GB + 128GB variant. The Z11x and Z11 Lite start at Rs 24,999 and Rs 19,499, respectively, albeit with lower base RAM configurations.

At this price, the Z11 would move the Z-series further into the upper mid-range segment, taking on rivals such as the OnePlus Nord CE 6, Motorola Edge 70 Pro and the upcoming Redmi Note 17. Buyers looking for a performance-focused smartphone with a large battery, curved display and premium design may find it worth waiting for.

[highlights]

• The Redmi 17 5G global variant will feature a 6.9‑inch HD+ LCD display with 120Hz refresh rate. 
• The phone is tipped to pack a 7500mAh battery with 45W USB‑C fast charging support. 
• The device will be available in three colour variants, including orange (textured back), black and blue.

[/highlights]

Ahead of its official launch, we have obtained exclusive information that covers the global variant of the Redmi 17 5G in detail, courtesy of tipster Sudhanshu on X. This leak includes full specifications, a likely international launch price and high-resolution design renders that show how the phone will look in the global markets. Let's check it out below. 

Redmi 17 5G: design, colours, pricing

The renders show the Redmi 17 5G in at least three colour options: an orange finish with a textured back, a black variant and a blue option. Each colour uses the same flat‑frame design with a prominent rectangular camera module and circular camera cut‑outs. These designs suggest Xiaomi is aiming for a simple, modern look with a bit of personality from the different colourways.

[gallery link="file" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" columns="6" ids="710360,710361,710362,710363,710364,710365"]

The dimensions and weight point to a rather sizeable device: 170.12 × 74.42 × 8.8 mm and 235g. That aligns with the large display specs and a big battery. Pricing for the 4GB + 128GB variant is tipped at €250, placing the Redmi 17 5G in the budget‑to‑mid range segment.

Redmi 17 5G: leaked specifications

The Redmi 17 5G is tipped to launch as a large‑screen 5G phone with a focus on battery life. According to information shared with us by known tipster Sudhanshu, the phone's display is likely to be a 6.9‑inch LCD with an HD+ resolution of 1600 × 720p.

The panel is said to support 60Hz, 90Hz and 120Hz refresh rates, letting users pick between smoother scrolling and better battery life. Brightness is listed at 675 nits typical and 825 nits in High Brightness Mode, which suggests the screen should stay readable outdoors in most situations if the figures are accurate.

Under the hood, the Redmi 17 5G is expected to use a Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 chipset, a 4nm processor with 2.45GHz of clock speed. It is paired with Xiaomi HyperOS 3.0 based on Android 16. This combination should deliver efficient performance for everyday tasks such as browsing, social media, streaming and light gaming, plus the latest software features from Xiaomi.

Camera details in the leak mention a 50MP AI main rear camera assisted by a QVGA sensor with anti‑flicker capabilities. This suggests Xiaomi may be prioritising a single higher‑resolution primary camera to keep costs in check. The front camera is said to be 8MP, which should be sufficient for casual selfies and video calls. 

The Redmi 17 5G's battery and charging are key parts of this rumoured package. It is listed with a 7500mAh battery and claimed endurance of up to 78 hours and 20 minutes. Charging is reportedly 45W over USB‑C with USB Power Delivery support, but the leak also states that a charger will not be included in the box. If true, buyers would need to reuse an existing fast charger or purchase one separately.

For connectivity, the phone is expected to support dual nano SIMs with 5G and 4G networks, Wi‑Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1 and NFC. A 3.5mm headphone jack is said to be present along with stereo speakers and a quoted "300 percent" volume boost.

In terms of durability, the display is listed with Corning Gorilla Glass 7i protection, and the phone carries an IP64 rating for dust and light water resistance. For unlocking, the device is rumoured to offer a side‑mounted fingerprint scanner alongside face unlock. A dynamic RGB LED element is also mentioned, likely for notifications and visual effects.

If these leaked specs are proven true, this phone clearly targets buyers who want a big screen and great battery life at a budget price point. At around 250 euros, it sits in Europe's crowded budget segment, where users already expect at least a high‑refresh AMOLED, decent fast charging and a main camera that can handle day‑to‑day shooting without constant fuss.

The Redmi 17 5G can deliver on most fronts, but its LCD display might not provide the same visual experience an AMOLED panel would, even though its battery life will likely outlast most of its competitors.

[highlights]

• Vivo V70 series price in India has increased again.
• The V70 Elite has received the biggest price hike of Rs 8,000.
• The new prices are already live on the Vivo India website. 

[/highlights]

The Vivo V70 series has received another price hike in India. All three models, including the Vivo V70, V70 Elite, and V70 FE, are now more expensive. Of the three, the V70 Elite has received the biggest price hike of Rs 8,000. The V70 is costlier by Rs 6,000, and the V70 FE by up to Rs 5,000. Here's a detailed look at the current costs of the V70 series in India. 

Vivo V70 series price hike 

Vivo V70 Elite 

Starting with the most premium model in the lineup, the Vivo V70 Elite (review) now starts at Rs 66,999 for the base variant, which comes with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. This is after a price hike of Rs 8,000 on the same variant, which was earlier priced at Rs 58,999, after the first price hike. The 12GB + 256GB variant now touches Rs 71,999, entering flagship pricing. 

The new pricing pushes the Vivo V70 Elite to a new segment altogether, making it more expensive than options like the OnePlus 15R, which has a bigger battery and faster chipset. For users prioritising raw performance, the V70 Elite at Rs 71,999 might now be a harder sell compared to alternatives, despite its camera prowess. However, the Vivo V70 Elite still holds its own with a compact design, vibrant display, and versatile cameras.

Vivo V70

The Vivo V70 (review) still manages to sit under the sub-Rs 60,000 price bracket, at least for the base variant. It now starts at Rs 59,999 for the 8GB + 256GB variant, while the 12GB + 256GB variant costs Rs 64,999. 

The Vivo V70 is the affordable alternative to the V70 Elite. It's a well-packed premium mid-range phone, offering a flat and vibrant display, dependable performance and battery, and cameras that get the job done.

Vivo V70 FE

The Vivo V70 FE (review) is the most affordable offering of the three, with a starting price of Rs 44,999 for the base variant with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage. This is after the latest price hike. All three variants have received price hikes, with the top-end variant costing Rs 51,999. 

The Vivo V70 FE has a large display, a capable mid-range Dimensity chipset, and an ‘ultra large' VC cooling system for heat dissipation. The handset has a powerful 200MP primary camera, several AI features, and a large 7,000mAh battery. 

Since the Vivo V70 series is much costlier now, it's advised to compare and check prices with competing phones, as every other brand is going through the same situation. The Vivo V70 and V70 Elite can be recommended for their compact and premium design, versatile cameras, and dependable performance and battery. The V70 FE is for the budget-conscious who wants a well-balanced mid-range phone. 

The Vivo V70 series is only a few months old, so you're not buying an old model. And their successors are expected to launch at higher prices. If you need a premium mid-range phone and the V70 series fits your requirements, then you can go for it. 

[highlights]

• Samsung Galaxy F70 Pro is among the few phones in its price segment to feature an AMOLED panel.
• The phone competes against the OnePlus Nord CE 6 Lite and Moto G77 Power under the Rs 30,000 segment.
• The phone goes on sale starting August 8th on Flipkart and Samsung's online store.

[/highlights]

After recently releasing phones under the Galaxy A and Galaxy M series, i.e., the Galaxy A27 and Galaxy M47, Samsung has pulled the curtain off the Galaxy F70 Pro 5G today in India. While the retail price and specifications of the smartphone were officially revealed a few days back, the special launch price has gone live on Flipkart. Featuring an AMOLED display and the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, the Galaxy F70 Pro targets users seeking a midrange smartphone for everyday and moderate workflows.

Samsung Galaxy F70 Pro price, sale and availability

The Samsung Galaxy F70 Pro comes in three storage configurations and two colour options, which are as follows:

The colourways include Alpha Black and Aura Green. As part of the early bird offer, all the storage variants of the phone will be offered at a discounted rate, with the base variant starting at Rs 23,999. The handset will go on sale starting August 8th on Flipkart and Samsung's online store.

Samsung Galaxy F70 Pro specifications overview

The Galaxy F70 Pro features a 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display paired with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection. With phones like the OnePlus Nord CE 6 Lite and Moto G77 Power offering LCD panels above Rs 25,000, the AMOLED panel on the Galaxy F70 Pro feels like a fresh breath of air. On top of that, it gains a flagship-grade display protection, which is highly appreciable in this segment.

Powering the smartphone is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor, paired with fast LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 3.1 storage, which should ensure stable performance and usability over a long period of time. The chipset should offer similar performance to the iQOO Z11x and Nord CE 6 Lite, both carrying the MediaTek Dimensity 7400.

On the camera front, the F70 Pro boasts a 50MP primary sensor with Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS), supported by a 5MP ultrawide and a 2MP macro lens. It can record up to 4K videos, while the 12MP front camera offers HDR support. Even though the hardware for the ultrawide and macro lens isn't anything to write home about, most brands are completely skipping these sensors, resulting in less camera flexibility for photographers.

Keeping the Galaxy F70 Pro powered is a massive 6,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging. Samsung claims it can deliver over 24 hours of YouTube playback, more than 8 hours of gaming, or around 12 hours of social media use on a single charge. Now, the major highlight of the device, the F70 Pro, launched with Android 16-based One UI 8.5; it is promised six years of OS upgrades along with six years of security patch updates, on par with Samsung's Galaxy M47 under the Rs 30,000 segment.

Should you consider buying the Samsung Galaxy F70 Pro?

Even at its original price of Rs 25,999, the Samsung Galaxy F70 Pro has an edge over the similarly priced OnePlus Nord CE 6 Lite and Moto G77 Power in a couple of departments, such as an AMOLED panel instead of an LCD and significantly longer software support.

With One UI 8.5 on board, the Galaxy F70 Pro is likely to appeal to users wanting a well-refined and feature-rich UI, thanks to features like NowBar, quick settings customisation, GoodLock, and more. Furthermore, with six OS upgrades supported, the Galaxy F70 Pro shall stay up to date with the latest advancements for years to come. Taking all of these into account, the phone is shaping up to be a solid midranger for those prioritising entertainment and software longevity.

[highlights]

• iQOO India has teased the Z11 through two X posts by CEO Nipun Marya, hinting at an imminent launch.
• The Indian iQOO Z11 is tipped to feature the MediaTek Dimensity 7500 Turbo, unlike the China and Malaysia variants.
• The phone is expected to launch in August at around Rs 35,000 with a curved AMOLED display and a large battery.

[/highlights]

iQOO has stepped up its teaser campaign for the iQOO Z11 in India, hinting that the smartphone's official debut may not be far away. This time, the latest teasers come from iQOO India CEO Nipun Marya, who has shared two cryptic posts on X, offering the clearest indication yet that the company's next Z-series phone is on its way.

Marya first posted an acrostic in which the first letter of each line spelled "ZELEVEN", pretty much revealing he's talking about the iQOO Z11. He later followed it up with a hand-drawn smartphone sketch carrying the caption, "Not every sketch belongs on paper." The illustration appears to showcase a slim profile, a 3D curved back, and narrow bezels, giving the first official glimpse of the phone's possible design.

Expected specifications and details

While iQOO is yet to announce a launch date, previous reports suggest the iQOO Z11 could debut in India sometime in August. According to previous leaks, the Indian iQOO Z11 is expected to be powered by MediaTek's Dimensity 7500 Turbo chipset. This would set it apart from both the Chinese and Malaysian variants. The iQOO Z11 launched in China with the Dimensity 8500 processor, while the Malaysian model uses Qualcomm's Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset.

The phone is also tipped to feature a 1.5K 144Hz curved OLED display, a battery between 7,000mAh and 8,000mAh with support for 90W fast charging, and a 50MP primary camera with OIS. Other rumoured specifications include a 32MP front camera, IP68 and IP69 ratings, an in-display fingerprint scanner, and 8GB and 12GB RAM options.

Pricing is expected to be around Rs 35,000, which would mark a significant jump over the iQOO Z10. For comparison, the Z10 launched in India at Rs. 21,999 for the base 8GB + 128GB variant and now retails closer to Rs. 24,999, although it is currently listed as out of stock. The Z11x and Z11 Lite, meanwhile, start at Rs. 24,999 and Rs. 19,499, respectively for lower RAM options.

At the expected price, the iQOO Z11 would move beyond the traditional mid-range Z-series positioning and compete directly with upper mid-range smartphones such as the OnePlus Nord CE 6, Motorola Edge 70 Pro and possibly the Redmi Note 17. Buyers looking for a performance-focused phone in the Rs 30,000 - Rs 35,000 segment may find it worth waiting for, especially if iQOO pairs the new chipset with the large battery and high-refresh-rate display tipped in recent leaks.

[highlights]

• Vivo X300T is reportedly in development for India and is expected to follow the Vivo X200T's launch timeline.
• The source says the Vivo X300 E may also launch in India separately.
• The Vivo X200T launched in January this year starting at Rs 59,999.

[/highlights]

Vivo appears to be preparing another premium sub-flagship smartphone for the Indian market. According to tipster Debayan Roy, the Vivo X300T is currently in development for India and is expected to launch in the country, although the release is still some time away.

This is the first time the Vivo X300T has surfaced in leaks. Roy claims the phone is likely to follow a launch timeline similar to the Vivo X200T, which arrived in India in January 2026. While an exact launch window remains unclear, the leak indicates Vivo intends to continue expanding its premium X-series portfolio in India at a time when reports are floating about companies cancelling flagships due to the ongoing memory crisis.

Expected specifications and leaks

Interestingly, some users on Roy's X post speculated that the Vivo X300T could simply be a rebranded version of the recently launched Vivo X300 E. However, Roy responded by saying that the Vivo X300 E itself may also launch in India, hinting that the two devices could coexist as separate models.

Since this is one of the first mentions of the Vivo X300T, we don't know much about the specifications, but details about the X300 E and the predecessor X200T could give us context about the specifications and price. The Vivo X300 E features the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, paired with up to 12GB LPDDR5x RAM and 512GB UFS 4.1 storage. It sports a 6.59-inch flat AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. The phone packs a large 7,200mAh battery with 90W wired fast charging. For photography, it offers a Zeiss-tuned triple rear camera setup comprising a 50MP primary sensor with OIS, a 50MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, and an 8MP ultrawide sensor. There's also a 50MP front camera and an in-display 3D ultrasonic fingerprint scanner. In China, the handset starts at CNY 4,799 (around Rs 68,200).

Meanwhile, the Vivo X200T is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ processor and features a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 5,000 nits peak brightness. It also packs a 6,200mAh battery with 90W wired and 40W wireless charging, alongside a Zeiss-branded 50MP triple-camera system. It launched starting at Rs 59,999 for the 12GB + 256GB variant in India and is one of the few phones still available at its launch price, making it a steal deal.

Since the X200T was praised for its positioning, expectations from the Vivo X300T will naturally be high. However, users can expect an elevated price tag and may not get the same value proposition. The X300T is expected to compete with phones from iQOO and OnePlus' R-series, besides Xiaomi's T series. For buyers, it's still too early to wait specifically for the X300T, but those planning an upgrade later this year may want to keep an eye on future leaks as more details emerge.

[highlights]

• CMF Clip Pro will be the brand's first clip-on TWS.
• It's confirmed to launch on August 8th.
• The TWS has been teased in white and orange colours. 

[/highlights]

CMF by Nothing has been teasing the launch of a new product. It has now been revealed that the product in question is the CMF Clip Pro, and as the name suggests, it is a pair of clip-on wireless earbuds. CMF has shared a glimpse of the design and the colour options of the upcoming TWS. Clip-on earbuds have become quite the trend for their unique design and comfort. Brands like Sony and Bose have also introduced clip-on earbuds, suggesting there's good demand for this style of TWS. 

CMF Clip Pro launch details

CMF has announced on X that the Clip Pro TWS will launch on August 8th. This would be a global launch, but it's not confirmed yet if the Clip Pro TWS will arrive in India. The CMF Clip Pro will likely launch here, as CMF became an independent subsidiary of Nothing, setting up India as its base.

Clip Pro.
4 August. pic.twitter.com/ig2yi2xfJi

— CMF by Nothing (@cmfbynothing) July 31, 2026

According to the teaser video shared on X, the CMF Clip Pro will launch in white and orange, with the latter being its signature shade. CMF shared more images of what look like sketches for the Clip Pro's potential design and colour options. The TWS has a similar design to that of other clip-on earbuds, where one side sits inside your ear and the other behind it.

While this design can offer comfort compared to in-ear wireless earbuds, it also compromises on features like ANC, since it's an open ear design. We'll have to see how CMF manages to maintain good audio quality and noise isolation.

The sketches also show black, pink, orange, and white as the colour options for the CMF Clip Pro. But it's not confirmed if all four colours will be part of the official lineup. 

CMF already has a strong lineup of wireless earbuds, especially in the budget lineup. The CMF Clip Pro is expected to sit in a similar price segment. The CMF Clip Pro is expected to appeal to users who are interested in the clip-on design and want something like this from CMF. But with several options already available in the market, we should wait and see how the CMF Clip Pro is priced and how its features compare to rivals. If you already own a clip-on TWS model, you might want to skip it, but if you're interested in the open-ear design, then this might be a worthwhile upgrade.

The Redmi Note 17 is now officially headed to India on August 6, and between the official China launch and multiple leaks, we already have a fairly clear picture of what to expect from the device. This story pulls together everything we know so far about the Note 17's India launch date, expected price, core specifications and how it compares in the mid-range segment. Let's check it out below.

Redmi Note 17: India launch date and price

Xiaomi has confirmed the Redmi Note 17 India launch for August 6, with the event scheduled for noon. Sales are expected to start on August 11, and the phone will be available via Amazon and Xiaomi's own online store, with offline availability likely to follow.

Leaks point to the Redmi Note 17 5G starting around Rs 30,000 for the 6GB + 128GB variant, with the 8GB + 128GB model at roughly Rs 33,000. If this checks out, Note 17 moves the vanilla Note lineup into a much higher bracket.

The Redmi Note 15 launched at Rs 22,999 in January 2026, while the Redmi Note 14 started at Rs 18,999. Over two generations, we're looking at a potential jump of around Rs 12,000 for the base Note. The core reason for the price increase is the rising memory costs, which have been driving mid-range prices up across the board.

Redmi Note 17: expected specifications

For India, leaks have given us a clear idea of the Redmi Note 17's core hardware. The phone is expected to come with a 7‑inch OLED display with Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. Most phones in this segment still use 6.6–6.8‑inch screens, so the Note 17 should feel a lot larger and better suited to users who watch a lot of videos and playing games.

Xiaomi has confirmed that the Indian Redmi Note 17 will launch with an 8,000mAh battery. This is one of the biggest batteries in its price range. Leaks also suggest support for 45W fast charging and reverse wired charging, which would allow the phone to charge other devices. 

Other expected hardware features include an in‑display fingerprint sensor, Gorilla Glass 7i protection on the front, NFC support and a microSD card slot. Note 17 is focused purely on practical day-to-day usability with its modest upgrades. 

Inside, the Indian Redmi Note 17 is tipped to use Qualcomm's Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 chipset. The base model is expected to offer 6GB RAM and 128GB UFS 2.2 storage, with higher RAM options up to 8GB. The phone should run HyperOS 3 based on Android 16, and leaks point to 4 years of Android OS updates and 5 years of security patches. This support window makes the device more suitable for long‑term use.

For cameras, reports indicate a 50MP rear camera and an 8MP front camera. This is a much simpler setup than the Redmi Note 15, which offered a 108MP main camera, and it shows that Xiaomi is focusing on battery life, display size and software. 

Should you buy the Redmi Note 17?

From what we know so far, the Redmi Note 17 looks best for people who care most about battery life and a large display. An 8,000mAh battery, a 7‑inch OLED panel and long software support make it a great option if your daily use is mostly streaming, browsing and messaging, and you want a phone that can comfortably last more than a day between charges.

There are clear trade-offs, though, as the Note 17's Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 and 50MP camera mean you are not getting an upgrade in performance and cameras. At the rumoured starting price of about Rs 30,000, the Note 17 will sit against capable mid‑range phones from Samsung, Realme, OnePlus and Poco that may offer better performance or more flexible camera setups.

If you use a Note 15 or an older Redmi Note and your main complaints are battery life and screen size, the Note 17 is worth looking at once Xiaomi confirms the final India price and launch offers. If you care more about performance, camera quality or overall value in this price band, it makes sense to wait for detailed reviews and comparisons with the Note 17 Pro and rival phones before deciding.

After a series of smartphone launches in July, August is also shaping up to be another busy month for the Indian smartphone market, with several launches already confirmed. The lineup spans budget and mid-range offerings to premium and flagship smartphones, giving buyers plenty of options across price segments. Google is also set to unveil its next-generation Pixel 11 lineup, while brands such as Vivo, Redmi, Samsung, POCO and iQOO are preparing new contenders.

Here are the major smartphones expected to launch in India in August, along with their launch dates, specifications and expected prices.

Google Pixel 11 Series

Launch date: August 12th

Specifications: Google's Pixel 11 lineup is expected to include the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL. The phones are tipped to feature the next-generation Tensor G6 chipset, reportedly manufactured using TSMC's 2nm process. Battery capacities are expected to be 4,985mAh, 4,850mAh and 5,115mAh, respectively. The Pro models could reportedly feature 12GB RAM, while the series may move to 256GB as the base storage option. A new Pixel Glow RGB lighting system integrated into the camera bar is also rumoured, and teasers have suggested the same.

The Pixel 11 series is expected to focus more on efficiency, AI and software improvements than a dramatic design overhaul. The move to 256GB base storage from 128GB is also expected to one of the upgrades for the new Pixel lineup.

Vivo S2

Launch date: August 6th

Specifications: The Vivo S2 is expected to feature a 6.83-inch 1.5K curved display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It could be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7360-Turbo chipset and pack a 7,050mAh battery with 44W charging. Other tipped features include IP68 and IP69 ratings, a 50MP primary camera, 2MP secondary sensor and 32MP selfie camera. The phone could also support 4K recording from both front and rear cameras.

Price: Expected to be between Rs 40,000 and Rs 45,000.

The Vivo S2 appears aimed at buyers seeking a more premium design and a large display, with the large battery adding another advantage.

Redmi Note 17 5G

Launch date: August 6th

Specifications: The Redmi Note 17 5G is confirmed to pack an 8,000mAh battery. Based on its Chinese counterpart, the Indian model could feature a 7-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Full-HD+ resolution and up to 1,800 nits brightness. It could be powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 chipset and feature a 50MP rear camera, 8MP selfie camera and Android 16-based HyperOS 3.

Price: Expected to start at around Rs 30,000 for 6GB + 128GB, with the 8GB + 128GB variant potentially priced at Rs 33,000.

This would represent a substantial increase over the Redmi Note 15's Rs 22,999 starting price, possibly due to rising memory costs leading to price hikes across the smartphone industry.

Samsung Galaxy F70 Pro 5G

Launch date: August 3rd

Specifications: The Galaxy F70 Pro 5G will feature a flat FHD+ Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection. It will be powered by an unspecified Snapdragon chipset, paired with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 3.1 storage. The phone will feature a 50MP primary camera with OIS, alongside a 5MP ultra-wide and 2MP macro sensor. It will pack a 6,000mAh battery with 45W charging and support up to 4K video recording.

Price: Starts at Rs 25,999 for 6GB + 128GB. The 8GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB variants will cost Rs 29,999 and Rs 34,999, respectively.

The F70 Pro 5G stands out with its AMOLED display and Victus+ protection, features that are becoming rare in this price segment. It will compete with phones such as the OnePlus N6.

POCO M8 Power

Launch date: August 4th

Specifications: POCO has confirmed an 8,000mAh battery and an AMOLED display for the M8 Power. The phone will feature a 50MP primary rear camera and a flat-edge design with a large camera module and a bright orange colour. POCO claims the battery can deliver up to three days of usage on a single charge. Rumours also suggest the M8 Power could be a rebranded Redmi Note 17. You can read our first impressions of the device to get an idea of what to expect from the M8 Power. 

With battery life likely to be its biggest selling point, the M8 Power could appeal to buyers who prioritise endurance over other specifications.

iQOO Z11

Launch date: Exact date yet to be announced

Specifications: The iQOO Z11 is expected to feature a 1.5K 144Hz curved OLED display and a MediaTek Dimensity 7500 Turbo chipset for the Indian market. It could pack a battery between 7,000mAh and 8,000mAh with 90W fast charging. Other tipped specifications include a 50MP primary camera with OIS, 32MP selfie camera, IP68 and IP69 ratings, an in-display fingerprint sensor and 8GB/12GB RAM options.

Price: Expected to be around Rs 35,000.

The Z11 could push the Z series further into the upper mid-range segment based on the leaked pricing. Its combination of a high-refresh-rate curved display, large battery and fast charging could make it a strong option for performance-focused buyers.

The August lineup covers very different requirements. The Galaxy F70 Pro 5G could appeal to buyers looking for a balanced Samsung experience, while the Redmi Note 17 and POCO M8 Power appear focused heavily on battery life. The Vivo S2 is likely to target design-conscious buyers, while the iQOO Z11 could be the choice for performance enthusiasts.

For those shopping at the premium end, the Pixel 11 series will be the most significant launch to watch, particularly if Google's new Tensor chip and AI-focused software bring meaningful improvements over the Pixel 10 lineup. If you own a Pixel 9, the Pixel 11 might be a significant upgrade for its chipset. If you have a Pixel 10, you might consider waiting for reviews to see if the improvements are substantial enough.

The latest budget offering, OnePlus N6x, marks the return of a 3.5mm headphone jack and microSD card slot. It's the brand's latest attempt to appeal to buyers in the sub-Rs 20,000 segment, which has grown significantly as the more affordable category has all but disappeared due to rising component costs. As a younger sibling of the OnePlus N6, corners have been cut to price it more competitively. Here are some of the key specs of the OnePlus N6x:

Key specs

• 6.8-inch HD+ display, 120Hz
• MediaTek Dimensity 6360 Apex SoC
• 13MP rear camera
• 5MP front camera
• 7,000mAh battery, 15W charging

While only a review will tell how capable the OnePlus N6x truly is, the specifications look nothing but ordinary. Priced at Rs 19,999 for the base variant, the smartphone faces stiff competition from several smartphones, both recent launches and slightly older models, that seem to have superior hardware. Check out these 5 alternatives that you can consider buying instead of the OnePlus N6x.

Samsung Galaxy M17 5G

The Samsung Galaxy M17 5G (review) seems to be the most value-for-money smartphone in the segment. It continues to offer features that have become rare in the segment, including an AMOLED panel that offers a crisp and punchy viewing experience with an excellent contrast ratio. The handset even packs a variety of cameras, including a dedicated ultrawide lens to capture wide perspectives.

Key specs

• 6.7-inch AMOLED display, 90Hz
• Exynos 1330 SoC
• 50MP + 8MP + 2MP rear cameras
• 13MP front camera
• 5,000mAh battery, 25W charging

While its 5,000mAh battery capacity is on the lower side - compared to rivals, the handset should comfortably last a day with everyday usage. The front camera is also a respectable 13MP sensor for selfies and video calling. However, the real highlight of the smartphone is the software. The Galaxy M17 runs Android 15-based OneUI 7 out of the box, but is promised to receive six years of software support, making it a safe choice for long-term usability.

Realme P4R

The Realme P4R stands out in quite a few areas. For starters, the handset's 8,000mAh battery is the largest in the segment and even supports 45W fast charging. The camera also seems more capable with a 50MP primary sensor and an 8MP front-facing lens.

Key specs

• 6.8-inch HD+ display, 144Hz
• MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC
• 50MP rear camera
• 8MP front camera
• 8,000mAh battery, 45W charging

Performance-wise, the Realme P4R boasts the MediaTek Dimensity 6000-series chipset - should be reliable for basic usage. Another highlight of the phone is the superior 144Hz refresh rate, which should support smooth animations and graphics while gaming more effectively than its counterpart. The Realme P4R runs Realme UI 7.0 out of the box, and will get 2 OS upgrades and 3 years of security patches.

iQOO Z11 Lite

The iQOO Z11 Lite (review) might deliver an identical viewing experience and performance as the Realme P4R. Its primary camera is also an impressive 50MP sensor, which should offer superior detailing and vibrant colours. Its 6,500mAh battery capacity is slightly on the lower side, but shouldn't make a significant difference in everyday use. Furthermore, the smartphone supports fast 44W charging, ensuring relatively quick top-up speeds.

Key specs

• 6.74-inch HD+ display, 120Hz
• MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC
• 50MP rear camera
• 5MP front camera
• 6,500mAh battery, 44W charging

The iQOO Z11 Lite boots the latest OriginOS 6 out of the box and is promised to receive two major OS upgrades and security updates for three years. The smartphone also ships with a 3.5mm headphone jack.

OPPO K14x

Everything that I've said about iQOO Z11 Lite follows for the OPPO K14x (review). Both smartphones share an identical specs sheet, which means OPPO has the upper hand with a 50MP rear-facing camera. What sets the OPPO K14x apart is its software experience. The OPPO smartphone ships with ColorOS 15 and can be upgraded to ColorOS 16 via an OTA update. The interface feels more polished and feature-rich than most other Chinese Android skins. 

Key specs

• 6.75-inch HD+ display, 120Hz
• MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC
• 50MP rear camera
• 5MP front camera
• 6,500mAh battery, 44W charging

However, since the OPPO K14x has already received one major Android upgrade, it is only eligible for one more OS update. As a result, it will stop receiving new Android features sooner than the other smartphones on this list. The phone comes with a dedicated 3.5mm headphone jack for wired earphones lovers. However, the base variant of the OPPO K14x comes with 64GB storage. It's better to opt for the 128GB storage option, which costs Rs 18,999, if you don't want to run out of storage soon.

Tecno Spark 50 5G

The Tecno Spark 50 5G (review) deserves your attention for its Pixel-inspired camera visor design and the MediaTek Dimensity 6400 Ultimate chipset. While the chipset is largely similar to the Dimensity 6300 series, it offers slightly higher clock speeds for the performance cores, resulting in a modest performance boost. The improvement may not be significant, but it remains a notable advantage in the fiercely competitive budget smartphone segment.

Key specs

• 6.74-inch HD+ display, 120Hz
• MediaTek Dimensity 6400 Ultimate SoC
• 50MP rear camera
• 8MP front camera
• 6,500mAh battery, 45W charging

The Tecno Spark 50 also packs a superior 8MP front-facing camera to the iQOO Z11 Lite and OPPO K14x. This should make it slightly better in the selfie game. Moving on, the 6,500mAh battery and 45W fast charging remain identical to most of its competitors. The handset also features a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Final thoughts

Whether you choose the OnePlus N6x or one of its rivals, you can expect broadly similar everyday performance. However, each smartphone has its own strengths. The Realme P4R stands out with its larger battery, while the OPPO K14x, iQOO Z11 Lite, and Tecno Spak 50 remain balanced offerings. 

None matches the value of the Samsung Galaxy M17, which delivers a versatile camera setup and long-term value thanks to its extensive software support.

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

What is One UI 9 based on?

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

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

Samsung devices eligible for One UI 9 update

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

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

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

Samsung devices already running stable One UI 9

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

How to check your current One UI version

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

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

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

How to update your Samsung phone to One UI 9

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

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

Step 2: Now scroll down and select Software update

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

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

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

New changes and features on One UI 9

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

Animation improvements: Several areas have received animation upgrades. For instance, the transition when tapping the search bar within the app drawer, opening folders, and selecting the widgets picker menu is smoother and more refined.

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

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

[gallery link="file" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="710432,710431,710434"]

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

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

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

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

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

[gallery link="file" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="710435,710433,710438"]

FAQs

When was One UI 9 released?

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

Does One UI 9 improve battery life?

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

Can I downgrade from One UI 9?

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

[highlights]

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

[/highlights]

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

Here's the Google Pixel 11 series

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

Pixel 11 pic.twitter.com/If3jUNCmgG

— Evan Blass (@_evanblass_) July 30, 2026

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

Pixel 11 Pro XL pic.twitter.com/VfovbndUDa

— Evan Blass (@_evanblass_) July 30, 2026

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

A look at the Pixel 11 Pro Fold

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

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

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

Should you wait for the Pixel 11 series?

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

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

[highlights]

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

[/highlights]

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

Teaser and launch timeline

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

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

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

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

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

— iQOO India (@IqooInd) July 31, 2026

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

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

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

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

Should you wait for the iQOO Z11?

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

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

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

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

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

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra

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

Price in India

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

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

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8

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

Price in India

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

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

OPPO Reno 16 and Reno 16c

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

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

Reno 16 price in India

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

Reno 16c

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

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

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

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

Motorola Edge 70 Max

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

Price in India

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

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

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

Nothing Phone (4b)

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

Price in India

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

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

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

iQOO Z11 Lite

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

Price in India

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

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

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

OnePlus N6x

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

Price in India

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

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

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

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

The pivot: from wearables to smartphones

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Going up against incumbents in a tough market

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

Distribution: Flipkart online, wearables network offline

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

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

After-sales support and software updates

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

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

AI and the Gemini integration

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

The roadmap: two models now, premium play from January

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

The bigger ecosystem play

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

[highlights]

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

[/highlights]

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

Samsung Galaxy F70 Pro 5G India launch date, pricing

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

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

Samsung Galaxy F70 Pro 5G specifications

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

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

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

[highlights]

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

[/highlights]

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

OPPO A7 Pro Max launch date

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

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

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

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

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

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

[highlights]

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

[/highlights]

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

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

Vivo S2 launch details and design

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

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

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

Expected specifications and pricing

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

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

[highlights]

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

[/highlights]

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

OnePlus N6x price in India

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

OnePlus N6x design, specifications

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

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

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

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

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

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