• Vivo V80 price in India starts at Rs 62,999.
• Vivo X Fold6 is priced at Rs 2,19,999.
• Both handsets are now available to purchase in India. 

[/highlights]

Vivo's latest smartphones, the V80 and X Fold 6, are now on sale in India. Both devices launched last week and cater to two very different audiences. The Vivo V80 is a premium mid-range smartphone featuring a 144Hz AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, and a 7,200mAh battery. Meanwhile, the Vivo X Fold6 is the company's premium foldable offering, equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 9500 Super Edition processor, a 200MP primary camera, and a larger battery than its predecessor.

Vivo V80, X Fold6 price in India and sale offers

The Vivo V80 is available in Sunrise Anthem, Horizon Blue, and Stellar Black colour options. Its price in India is as follows:

• 8GB + 128GB: Rs 62,999
• 8GB + 256GB: Rs 69,999
• 8GB + 512GB: Rs 79,999

The Vivo X Fold6, on the other hand, is priced at Rs 2,19,999 for the 12GB + 512GB variant. It comes in Nebula Teal and Prism Black colour options.

Both smartphones are available for purchase starting today through Vivo's official website, Flipkart, Amazon, and partner retail stores. Buyers can avail of a flat 10 percent instant cashback as part of the launch offer on the V80. If you purchase the X Fold 6 online, you can avail of an instant cashback of up to Rs 26,400 on select bank cards.

Vivo X Fold6 specifications 

The Vivo X Fold6 is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 Super Edition chipset, which appears to be a customised version of the processor for the device. It runs OriginOS 7 based on Android 17. The foldable smartphone features an 8.02-inch main display and a 6.51-inch cover display. Both panels use AMOLED technology with LTPO support, a variable 1Hz–120Hz refresh rate, and HDR10+ support. 

For photography, the Vivo X Fold6 features a triple rear camera setup comprising a 200MP Samsung HPB primary sensor with OIS, a 50MP Samsung JN1 ultra-wide-angle camera and a 50MP Sony LYT-602 telephoto sensor with 3x optical zoom and OIS. It also has 20MP cameras on both the main and cover displays for selfies and video calls.

The device packs a 6,900mAh battery, a notable upgrade over the 6,000mAh battery on the Vivo X Fold5. It supports 80W wired FlashCharge and 40W wireless FlashCharge.

The Vivo X Fold6 is aimed at buyers who want a premium foldable experience, a versatile camera system, and a large battery. Its higher price makes it a niche option, but the upgraded battery and flagship-grade hardware could appeal to users seeking a premium foldable smartphone.

Vivo V80 specifications

The Vivo V80 features a 6.59-inch AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution of 2,750 × 1,260 pixels. The panel supports a 144Hz refresh rate, up to 5,000 nits of local peak brightness and 1,800 nits in High Brightness Mode (HBM).

Under the hood, the smartphone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, the same processor used in its predecessor. On the software front, it runs Android 17-based OriginOS 7, making it the first Vivo smartphone to launch with this software version. Vivo has promised four major OS upgrades and six years of security updates.

The handset's biggest highlight is its 7,200mAh battery, the largest in the V series so far. It supports 90W fast charging. For optics, the Vivo V80 features Zeiss-backed cameras, including a 50MP primary sensor with OIS, a 50MP telephoto camera, and an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens. On the front, it sports a 50MP camera for selfies and video calls.

The Vivo V80 is worth considering for buyers looking for a premium mid-range smartphone with a high-refresh-rate AMOLED display, a large battery, Zeiss-backed cameras, and long-term software support. However, its Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset may fall behind performance-focused alternatives such as the iQOO 15R and OnePlus 15R.

• Google Fitbit Edge features a 1.34-inch AMOLED display, built-in GPS, ECG and SpO2 monitoring.
• It is Google's first repairable fitness tracker, with a modular internal design and replaceable battery.
• It's priced at USD 179.99 (around Rs 17,100) and offers up to seven days of battery life.

[/highlights]

Google has launched the Fitbit Edge, its first repairable fitness tracker, bringing a replaceable battery and modular internal design to a category where devices are often replaced rather than repaired. The new tracker combines this repair-friendly approach with an AMOLED display, built-in GPS and ECG monitoring, while retaining a slim, lightweight design. It sits between the screenless Fitbit Air and the more advanced Pixel Watch 5, offering a middle ground for users who want on-wrist fitness data without a full-fledged smartwatch.

Google Fitbit Edge specifications and features

The Fitbit Edge features a 1.34-inch AMOLED display with an oval-shaped design and a recycled aluminium case. It measures 11.5 mm in thickness and weighs 17.7 gms, making it suitable for wearing throughout the day and while sleeping. A physical side button provides quick access to workout controls, while a pinch mechanism allows users to change the bands.

Google claims up to seven days of battery life with the always-on display disabled, dropping to around two days with it enabled. A full charge takes approximately 90 minutes. The tracker has an IP68 rating and supports built-in GPS, an altimeter, automatic activity detection for up to 100 workouts, ECG, SpO2 monitoring, continuous heart rate tracking and sleep analysis. It also offers everyday features such as Google Maps, YouTube Music controls, Find My Phone, and call and message notifications. The device is compatible with Android phones and iPhones.

The Edge also introduces Google's Health Guardian features, which include blood pressure and insulin resistance trend insights, alongside high and low heart rate alerts. Google says these trends can help users identify changes in their health patterns. They aren't a substitute for medical diagnosis, and some personalised guidance requires a Google Health Premium subscription.

The Fitbit Edge costs USD 179.99 (around Rs 17,000) in the US, with three months of Google Health Premium included. It is available for pre-order ahead of its October 27th retail release. Google hasn't confirmed an India launch, although tipster Debayan Roy suggests it could cost around Rs 22,000 if it arrives here.

Fitbit Edge vs Fitbit Air: what's the difference?

The Fitbit Air recently launched in India at Rs 13,999. It focuses on discreet health and sleep tracking without a screen, making it suitable for users who prefer a simpler wearable. The Edge adds a display, built-in GPS, ECG readings and on-wrist workout metrics, making it more useful for runners and people who want to track activities without carrying their phone. Its replaceable battery is another practical advantage, potentially extending the device's usable life. However, it does not offer the full app experience of a smartwatch such as the Pixel Watch 5.

At the tipped price, the Edge would be considerably more expensive than the Fitbit Air. Buyers who mainly want sleep and health tracking may find the Air sufficient, while runners and fitness enthusiasts could benefit from the Edge's GPS, display and ECG features. Its repairable design is a welcome step, but the final Indian price and the cost of ongoing premium features will determine how compelling it is.

• Vivo X500 E could launch as a V80 rebrand.
• The smartphone might bring some upgrades, though.
• Vivo has yet to officially tease the X500 E. 

[/highlights]

Vivo X300 E made its debut earlier this year in July, and its successor may already be on its way. The Vivo X500 E has been spotted on the Bluetooth SIG website and the Google Play Console Supported Devices List, suggesting its imminent launch. This also suggests a global launch for the Vivo X500 E, which could take place alongside the flagship Vivo X500 series later this month. 

Vivo X500 E launch tipped

Vivo X500 E was spotted on the Bluetooth SIG certification website with the model number V2656. The Google Play Console listing also shares the same number, but with a device code V2648, which is the same as the one that belongs to the Vivo V80. This phone was launched in India earlier this month as a new premium mid-range offering. While it's still speculation, it could be that the Vivo X500 E is a rebrand of the V80 for select markets. 

The Vivo X500 E could share its core specifications with the Vivo V80 5G if it turns out to be a rebranded version of the latter. The Vivo V80 5G features a 6.59-inch AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and up to 5,000 nits of local peak brightness. It is powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset and packs a 7,200mAh battery with 90W FlashCharge support. On the software front, the handset runs Android 17-based OriginOS 7.

In terms of cameras, the Vivo V80 5G has a 50MP Sony LYTIA 700V primary sensor with OIS, a 50MP Sony IMX882 telephoto camera with OIS, and an 8MP ultra-wide-angle sensor. It also features a 50MP autofocus front camera and a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint sensor.

That said, the Vivo X500 E is tipped to offer a few notable upgrades, including a 64MP periscope telephoto camera and a 7,500mAh battery. If the X500 E does indeed bring a 64MP periscope telephoto camera to the premium mid-range, it could help differentiate the phone among rivals in the same segment.

If these details are accurate, the device may not be an exact rebrand of the V80 5G. However, neither the phone's specifications nor its relationship with the V80 5G has been officially confirmed, so these claims should be treated as rumours for now.

We should wait for official details before coming to conclusions about the Vivo X500 E's specifications. That said, if the rumored 64MP periscope camera and 7500mAh battery hold, this phone could be a strong contender for users prioritizing photography and battery life in the premium mid-range.

• OnePlus 16R is expected to launch in India in late December or January 2027.
• The handset could feature a telephoto lens.
• The latest leak reveals key specs of the 15R.

[/highlights]

OnePlus 16R was recently tipped to launch in India despite rumours of the flagship not arriving here. The smartphone will launch as an affordable alternative to the OnePlus 16. A new leak reveals key specifications of the OnePlus 16R, suggesting a major upgrade in the camera department. OnePlus 16R is expected to launch in India this December or early 2027. 

OnePlus 16R specifications (expected)

According to tipster Yogesh Brar, the OnePlus 16R will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. This would be an upgrade over the 8 Gen 5 powering its predecessor, the OnePlus 15R, meaning improved performance. The OnePlus 16R is also expected to house triple 50MP cameras, with one of them being a telephoto lens. The 15R has a dual-camera setup with a 50MP main camera and an 8MP ultra-wide lens. A telephoto lens would be a step-up for the 16R, especially in terms of portrait photography and long-distance shots. 

The tipster adds that the OnePlus 16R will feature a 165Hz display and pack a 7,500mAh+ battery. The 15R also features a 165Hz refresh rate display, which is already at its peak among rivals in the same price segment. Battery capacity exceeding 7,500mAh would be another upgrade over its predecessor, which has a 7,400mAh unit. The 16R could even get a 9,000mAh battery.

Based on this leak, the OnePlus 16R is shaping up to not just be a dominant flagship alternative but one that doesn't compromise on cameras either. OnePlus's R models have primarily focused on performance and endurance, while offering good cameras. With the 16R, OnePlus would be adding versatile cameras, making the overall package more appealing. If you're looking to upgrade to a flagship without the ultra-premium price tag, the OnePlus 16R could be worth waiting for. For those who already own a 15R, the camera and battery upgrades might justify the jump, but consider your current usage.

• OPPO Find X10 series will launch in India on October 22nd at 4.45 pm IST, as per the OPPO India website.
• The OPPO Pad Mini Matte Display Edition, and Enco X4 buds will also launch alongside.
• OPPO's India website is promoting a Rs 9 Privilege Pack with benefits worth up to Rs 29,997, alongside accessory discounts and prize offers.

[/highlights]

OPPO is preparing to bring its latest flagship smartphones and accessories to India, with the OPPO Find X10 series, Pad Mini Matte Display Edition, and Enco X4 buds confirmed to launch in the country on October 22nd. The India event will follow the global unveiling of the phones in Mallorca, Spain, on October 21st. Ahead of the launch, OPPO has also started promoting benefits and offers on its Indian website.

OPPO Find X10 series specifications and India launch offers

The OPPO Find X10 and Find X10 Pro Max will succeed last year's Find X9 and Find X9 Pro, with the Pro Max being the most premium model and the world's first smartphone with three 200MP rear cameras. Its Hasselblad-tuned camera system supports 8K Log recording across all three sensors and 4K 120fps Dolby Vision recording across focal lengths. The phone runs on the flagship 2nm MediaTek Dimensity 9600 Pro chipset, making it a notable contender in the premium Android segment. Other highlights include a 6.78-inch LTPO OLED display with a 144Hz maximum refresh rate, an 8,000mAh battery, and 80W SuperVOOC charging. Meanwhile, the standard Find X10 comes with the Dimensity 9600M chipset.

OPPO's India website is showing a Rs 9 Privilege Pack which users can buy, with benefits worth up to Rs 29,997 for the Find X10 series and its ecosystem. The listed benefits include a chance to win the OPPO Pad SE (limited to 50 units), a Rs 1,000 coupon for the Pad Mini, and a Rs 500 coupon for the Enco X4. The website also promotes prize offers featuring the Find X10 and Hasselblad teleconverter kit, Pad Mini, Pad SE, and Enco X4. Users must note that these are wins and not than guaranteed freebies, so please check the terms and conditions before purchasing.

Coming to the other products, the OPPO Pad Mini Matte Display Edition features a 2.5K OLED matte display with a 144Hz refresh rate, TUV Rheinland eye-comfort certification, and a paper-like stylus experience. It runs on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset and packs an 8,000mAh battery. The Enco X4 earbuds offer AI-powered adaptive active noise cancellation, a 6nm chip, three ANC levels, three microphones for calls, and up to 53 hours of battery life.

The OPPO Find X10 Pro Max starts at CNY 6,799 in China (around Rs 97,000). Its Indian price could exceed Rs 1.5 lakh, putting it in competition with premium camera phones such as the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra. This assumption is based on the OPPO Find X10 Pro listing, which was spotted listed at Rs 1,28,999, so the Pro Max will command that premium. Buyers prioritising photography should wait for Indian pricing and independent camera tests before deciding. The triple 200MP setup is promising, but image processing, telephoto performance, and video quality will matter more than resolution figures alone. The launch offers may add value, particularly for buyers considering OPPO's tablet and audio products.

• iQOO Neo12 will feature a 2K OLED display with a 185Hz refresh rate and Visionox's new p-TSF technology.
• The phone will pack the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, an active cooling fan, and a 9,000mAh battery.
• The phone is expected to launch in China this month, with a possible global debut as the iQOO 16R.

[/highlights]

The iQOO Neo series hasn't seen a new launch in India since the Neo 10 arrived in 2025, making an upgrade overdue for buyers looking for a performance-focused phone in the segment. However, confirmed details of the upcoming iQOO Neo12 have now emerged in China, with the company confirming a new high-refresh-rate display, a flagship Snapdragon chipset, and a larger battery ahead of its launch later this month.

iQOO Neo12 specifications

iQOO has confirmed that the iQOO Neo12 will feature a 2K OLED display supplied by Chinese manufacturer Visionox, with a 185Hz refresh rate. The company has also shared teaser images offering an early look at the phone's display and rear design. The display teaser shows a flat panel with slim, uniform bezels and a punch-hole selfie camera, and highlights the collaboration between Visionox, iQOO, and Tsinghua University on display technology. iQOO will reveal more details at an event on October 14th.

Visionox's panel uses p-TSF luminescent technology, designed to improve colour reproduction, reduce power consumption, and extend display lifespan. Tipster Digital Chat Station has previously said the Neo12 will be the first smartphone to use Visionox's fourth-generation p-TSF material, which hasn't appeared on any flagship phones that have been launching since September this year.

The other teaser uses a red-and-black design, with the phone partially concealed beneath textured red fabric. It reveals part of a black rear camera module with a large circular camera element and a vent-like element. The teaser has the text "Monster Inside" indicating heavy performance.

Under the hood, the Neo12 will feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, iQOO's in-house Q3 gaming chip, and a new Ice-Dome cooling system with an active fan. It will also pack a 9,000mAh battery, up from the 7,500mAh unit in the iQOO Neo11.

For context, the Neo11 features a 6.82-inch 2K LTPO AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate, the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and a Q2 gaming chip paired with a dedicated liquid-cooling system. The Neo12's confirmed specifications suggest improvements in refresh rate, processing power, cooling hardware, and battery capacity. Camera specifications, charging speeds, memory options, and durability ratings are yet to be announced.

The 185Hz refresh rate is a huge upgrade for sure, but we don't know whether it will be available system-wide or limited to supported games. iQOO has confirmed the display specification, but the announcements do not clarify how the refresh rate will work across apps and games. OnePlus debuted the OnePlus 16 with a system-wide 165Hz refresh rate going up to 185Hz for specific titles, so the iQOO Neo12 might compete with that.

Launch and India availability

iQOO hasn't confirmed the Neo12's exact launch date, but the phone is already available for pre-order in China. More details are expected in the coming weeks. According to a report, the smartphone could reach select global markets as the iQOO 16R with the same specifications. A Geekbench listing reportedly associated with the device suggests 16GB of RAM, Android 17-based OriginOS 7, and an Adreno 840 GPU. These details remain unconfirmed by iQOO.

India availability is also less certain though a tipster recently said the phone will arrive in the country. The iQOO Neo11 did not launch here, leaving the Neo10, which debuted in 2025, as the latest model in the Indian Neo lineup. The phone starts below Rs 45,000 and has since received new colour options and price increases.

With the Neo10 now more than a year old, the Neo12 could be a deserved upgrade if iQOO brings it to India. Its combination of a flagship chipset, active cooling, a 185Hz display, and a 9,000mAh battery could appeal to mobile gamers. However, buyers should wait for confirmation of an Indian launch.

• OPPO Pad Mini is launching in India soon.
• It's powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset.
• The tablet has a compact design. 

[/highlights]

Shortly after teasing a new tablet in India, OPPO has now confirmed it's the Pad Mini. The tablet is expected to debut alongside the Find X10 series in India. OPPO is also launching the Enco X4 wireless earbuds. The Pad Mini is OPPO's flagship compact tablet with a powerful chipset and will most likely act as a direct competitor to the iPad Mini in India. While there are flagship tablets in India already, the Pad Mini stands out with its compact size.

OPPO Pad Mini India launch

OPPO has teased the Pad Mini on X, revealing key details about the upcoming tablet. It's called the OPPO Pad Mini Matte Display Edition, and the tablet will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, the same chipset powering phones like the iQOO 15R and OnePlus 15R. The tablet is confirmed to pack an 8,000mAh battery, teased to deliver all-day power. The OPPO Pad Mini also has a 144Hz refresh rate display, which should be beneficial while gaming. 

More details should be revealed soon, but since the tablet is already official, we have an idea of what to expect. The OPPO Pad Mini's highlight will be its compact 8.8-inch size, making it a good option for those who want something larger than a phone but still not too big. This would also put it close to the iPad Mini, which is known to be a premium and powerful compact tablet. The OPPO Pad Mini also features a 13MP rear camera and an 8MP front camera. 

Since the OPPO Pad Mini sits in the premium segment, it will most likely be priced on the higher side. However, if you've been looking for a compact tablet that offers flagship-level hardware, the OPPO Pad Mini could be worth waiting for. The OPPO Pad Mini could also be a worthwhile upgrade if you're switching from an older tablet to a more premium one. 

Over the years, the tablet market has established a fairly predictable hierarchy. Apple's iPad is the default choice for users who want a polished ecosystem, creative tools and a versatile everyday device. Samsung's Galaxy Tab range caters to Android users who want powerful hardware, multitasking, an AMOLED display and S Pen support.

Amazon's new Alexa Tablet, announced yesterday, takes a different route. Instead of competing purely on performance, productivity or display quality, it wants to become an AI-powered assistant, an entertainment device and an e-reader rolled into one.

Here are five things that could set it apart from an iPad or Samsung Galaxy Tab.

1. Kindle mode is its biggest differentiator

While all tablets can run the Kindle app, the Alexa Tablet's dedicated Kindle mode attempts to make reading a more focused experience by silencing notifications, reducing blue-light output and offering different display treatments, including warmer tones and even monochrome. Amazon also claims battery life can extend to 20 hours in this mode, depending on the model.

This is an interesting proposition for anyone who switches between reading a book, gaming, browsing the web and watching videos on the same device. An iPad or Galaxy Tab can do all three, but Amazon is putting a greater emphasis on making the transition between these activities feel intentional.

Think of it as an e-reader when you want to concentrate and a conventional tablet when you want to switch off your brain and stream something. We've all been there.

2. Alexa+ brings AI into the everyday tablet experience

The new tablet range integrates Alexa+, Amazon's next-gen generative AI-powered assistant. Beyond answering questions and controlling compatible smart-home devices, Alexa+ is designed to offer more conversational assistance and help users complete tasks without constantly switching between applications.

So while rivals continue investing and experimenting with AI, Amazon has already built a strong foundation in voice assistants and connected-home devices over the past decade. The potential advantage is integration if you already use Alexa-compatible IoT products like lights, cameras, thermostats and speakers, the tablet could become a central interface for managing your home.

If any of the Amazon Echo devices seemed too "static" for your lifestyle, the Alexa Tablet could bridge that final device between you and the powers of Alexa.

3. The hardware takes a premium turn

The flagship Alexa Tablet 12 Pro features a 12-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, an aluminium unibody measuring 6.5mm thick and quad speakers supporting Dolby Atmos. It also offers an optional Nanomatte display, which uses precision-etched glass designed to reduce reflections while retaining colour accuracy and detail. This could be particularly useful for reading, browsing and working in brightly lit environments.

The optional Pro Pen adds another layer of functionality, allowing users to annotate documents, take handwritten notes and interact more precisely with on-screen content. However, Amazon's bigger play is its on-screen intelligence, which lets Alexa+ understand what you're viewing and offer contextual assistance, rather than simply responding to generic voice commands. Screen-aware features are opt-in, so don't get your socks in a twist just yet.

4. It wants to be your smart-home command centre

An iPad or Galaxy Tab can control a smart home through compatible applications. Amazon, however, has an established Alexa ecosystem that gives its new tablet a potentially more natural role as a household control hub.

Users can interact with Alexa, manage compatible devices and access entertainment from a single interface. For households already invested in Amazon's ecosystem, this could be a more compelling reason to buy the tablet than its processor or display specifications. But its appeal will depend on how well it integrates with the devices you already own. People using a mixture of Google Home, Apple Home and other platforms may not find the same advantages.

5. Performance that is optimised

The Amazon Alexa Tablet 12 Pro is powered by a 4nm, octa-core MediaTek processor, paired with up to 16GB of RAM and an Arm Mali-G720 GPU. Amazon claims nearly three times faster processing and nine times faster graphics than its previous tablets, which should help with its AI, gaming and multitasking conquests.

Compared to Apple's comparable A16 and Samsung, which gambles with its own Exynos or MediaTek, it's impossible to say how the Alexa tablet will hold its own, but Amazon has always equipped its devices with just enough horsepower to make everything work smoothly.

So ultimately, choose an iPad if you want a mature app ecosystem, strong creative tools and close integration with Apple's devices. The choice comes down to what you want from your tablet. A Samsung Galaxy Tab if you want S Pen support and the flexibility of Android, and the Amazon Alexa tablet if you love reading eBooks as much as mindless binging on a long-haul flight. Indian prices, if Amazon decides to launch the Alexa tablet, are yet to be announced.

• OnePlus 16 starts at CNY 5,999 (around Rs 86,000)
• It brings the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chip, a 200MP main camera, and a much larger battery
• If the OnePlus 16 comes to India, expect a pricing over Rs 1 lakh

[/highlights]

OnePlus has announced the OnePlus 16 in China, bringing Qualcomm's new Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chip, a 200MP main camera, and a much larger battery than last year's flagship. The chip is also headed to the iQOO 16, Motorola Signature 27, and Xiaomi 18 Pro, all of which have been confirmed for India. It remains unclear whether the OnePlus 16 will follow. The brand won't bring this to the US and Europe, but I hope it comes to India, and you'll see why in a minute. Here are the full details.

OnePlus 16 specifications and features

The OnePlus 16 has a 6.78-inch flat LTPO OLED display with a 1,272 x 2,772 pixel resolution. It supports up to 185Hz, though the phone runs at up to 165Hz in everyday use and only unlocks the extra 20Hz in supported games. That is still impressive and makes the OnePlus 16 among the few phones that support up to 185Hz for gaming. The panel uses BOE's X4 luminescent material, can dim down to 1 nit, and has 1.15mm bezels. There's an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner and a 50MP front camera.

The Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 is paired with LPDDR5X Ultra RAM and UFS 4.1 storage. The phone comes in four configurations: 12GB + 256GB, 12GB + 512GB, 16GB + 512GB, and 16GB + 1TB. It runs ColorOS 17 out of the box.

On the camera front, the OnePlus 16 has a 200MP main camera with a 1/1.4-inch sensor, a 50MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, and a 50MP ultrawide camera. Video recording goes up to 8K at 30fps and 4K at up to 120fps, including in Dolby Vision. The OnePlus 15 had a 50MP main camera, so this is a big jump in resolution on paper, but whether it improves photo quality will only be clear in testing.

The battery is rated at 9,000mAh typical capacity, up from 7,300mAh on the OnePlus 15 (review), with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging. Wired charging, however, drops from 120W on the OnePlus 15 to 100W.

The phone comes in Starlight, Dark Forest, and Martian Masterpiece colours. It weighs around 220g and is about 8.5mm thick, with the Martian Masterpiece version slightly lighter at around 217g thanks to a glass fibre composite back. It has an IP68 and IP69 rating, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, and a USB-C port.

OnePlus 16 price and availability in China

In China, the OnePlus 16 starts at CNY 5,999 (around Rs 86,000) for the 12GB + 256GB variant. The top 16GB + 1TB model costs CNY 8,499 (around Rs 1.22 lakh). Open sales begin on October 31.

The starting price is 50 percent higher than the OnePlus 15's CNY 3,999 launch price in China last year. The upgraded hardware explains part of the jump, but the memory-cost squeeze that has pushed up phone prices across the industry this year likely plays a role, too. The OnePlus 16 also has the same starting price in China as the iQOO 16.

The iQOO 16 is confirmed to launch in India, and rumours suggest a price tag over Rs 1 lakh. If the OnePlus 16 follows, expect a similar Rs 1 lakh+ pricing.

Will the OnePlus 16 launch in India?

OnePlus hasn't announced anything for India. Earlier reports suggested the company might skip launching its top-end phones in the country, but a recent tip points the other way. Tipster Gadgetsdata claims OnePlus is preparing two flagship phones for India, with the OnePlus 16R described as "very likely" and the other only "guessed" to be the OnePlus 16. The tipster says the launch could happen in December 2026 or January 2027.

The OnePlus 16R is tipped to cost between Rs 70,000 and Rs 75,000 in India. All of this is unconfirmed, and OnePlus hasn't commented. Meanwhile, the iQOO 16, Motorola Signature 27, and Xiaomi 18 Pro have all been confirmed for India with the same chip.

On paper, the OnePlus 16 makes a strong case for itself. It packs a 9,000mAh battery, a 200MP main camera and 3x telephoto, and 185Hz gaming mode, all backed by the chip's raw speed. The catch is the price: a 50 percent hike in China suggests that if the phone does come to India, it won't be cheap, which could make it a tough sell for a brand historically known as a "flagship killer". For now, the only thing to do is wait for OnePlus to say something about the OnePlus 16's India launch.

• Dell XPS 13 is now available in India, starting at Rs 1,80,990.
• The laptop features Intel Core Ultra 7 Series 3 processors with soldered RAM.
• Buyers can choose up to 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD storage.

[/highlights]

Dell has announced the official India pricing and configurations for the new XPS 13, which is now available with Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors. The premium laptop weighs around 1kg and features a 13.4-inch 2.5K touchscreen with an adaptive 30–120Hz refresh rate. It targets users who want a powerful yet portable machine for work and everyday use. Let's look at it in more detail below.

Dell XPS 13: price in India

Dell XPS 13: features, specifications

The new Dell XPS 13 is the brand's thinnest and lightest XPS yet, built for students and young professionals who want a premium-feeling laptop that's still relatively affordable. It weighs about 1 kg, measures just 12.75 mm thick, and uses an aluminium chassis that comes in Sky and Storm colours. You get a 13.4‑inch 2.5K touch display with 100 percent DCI‑P3 colour, a variable 30–120 Hz refresh rate for smoother visuals and a battery that claims up‑to‑17 hours of video streaming.

Under the hood, it runs on Intel Core Series 3 processors at launch, with Intel Core Ultra Series 3 options coming later, up to 32 GB LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1 TB PCIe Gen4 SSD storage. Other features include a dual‑fan cooling setup, a backlit keyboard, a standard touchscreen, Intel Wi‑Fi 7, and a glass touchpad. 

Dell XPS 13: should you buy?

The Dell XPS 13 is positioned as a premium Windows alternative to the MacBook Air M5, targeting professionals who want a thin, lightweight laptop with ample performance and good battery life. However, Dell's starting price of Rs 1,80,990 is considerably higher than the 13-inch MacBook Air M5, which starts at Rs 1,49,900 in India.

The XPS 13 uses the Intel Core Ultra 7 355, which focuses on power efficiency alongside everyday performance. Its low-power DDR5 memory also helps keep power use down, while Dell claims up to 17 hours of video streaming. The RAM, however, is soldered to the motherboard, so buyers cannot upgrade it later. The SSD, on the other hand, can be replaced, giving users more upgradability than the MacBook Air.

The 2.5K touchscreen with a variable 30–120Hz refresh rate is another advantage over Apple's laptop, which does not offer a touchscreen or a 120Hz refresh rate. The XPS 13 also runs Windows, making it a good fit for users who rely on Windows software or prefer its wider compatibility. 

Overall, the XPS 13 makes the most sense for executives and professionals who want a premium, lightweight Windows laptop with good performance and battery life. Its high price, however, makes it a weaker alternative against the MacBook Air M5, especially for users who do not need a touchscreen, higher refresh rate, or Windows-specific software.

• Nothing OS 5.0 brings over 80 new changes, per the company.
• The update features a new split quick settings option.
• Nothing will gradually roll out stable Nothing OS 5.0 to more Nothing smartphones.

[/highlights]

Announced in late August, Nothing pulled ahead of major Android players like OPPO, Vivo, and Xiaomi by unveiling its Android 17 update globally early. Now, as promised, the stable version of Nothing OS 5.0 is rolling out to the Phone (3) after users tested it in the Open Beta programme for over a month. Key highlights include a new 'Lucent' translucent theme, a slew of lockscreen clocks, widgets, and apps, and performance improvements, among others.

What to expect on Nothing OS 5.0 update

Since we've covered the new UI in detail, check out our dedicated hands-on story, which gives a rundown on every new change and improvement across categories like customisation, productivity, and design. To give a gist, Nothing OS 5.0 is the biggest software update the company has released since Nothing OS 1.0. As a result, OS 5.0 is a major step up from Nothing OS 4.1, giving users more customisation options across lockscreen and homescreen, and productivity features such as a split quick settings panel, Glyph Timer and Collector widgets, and app batch editing.

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The Lucent theme, which gives widgets a translucent look, along with the 3D Noto emojis, brings a much-needed freshness to the UI. Even with lingering issues, such as poor haptics implementation and less blur detail than other phones, the new additions should improve the overall software experience for users coming from Nothing OS 4.0. Furthermore, with its minimalist monochrome design language, the skin continues to stand out from others.

How to update to Nothing OS 5.0 stable update

If the update doesn't arrive automatically through an OTA notification, users with Nothing Phone (3) coming from Nothing OS 4.0 can install the stable Nothing OS 5.0 update by following these steps:

Step 1: Firstly, go ahead and open Settings

Step 2: Now select the System section

Step 3: Tap the 'Nothing OS' text, and the phone will start fetching the update from the server

Step 4: Once the update is available, tap 'Download and install'

Once downloaded, the phone will reboot and be updated to Nothing OS 5.0. Because the rollout may be staggered by region, it may not appear for everyone immediately.

While today marks the stable release of Nothing OS 5.0 to the Phone (3), the remaining eligible phones will also be updated in the coming weeks; you can check our round-up story for the Open Beta and stable update rollout schedule and features.

• The Acer Iconia Tab 11 5G and Tab 12 5G have launched in India.
• Both tablets feature 90Hz displays, 5G connectivity and accessory support.
• Prices start at Rs 23,990 for the Iconia Tab 11 5G and Rs 26,990 for the Tab 12 5G.

[/highlights]

Acer has expanded its tablet lineup in India with the Iconia Tab 11 5G and Iconia Tab 12 5G. Both tablets feature 90Hz displays, 5G connectivity and support for keyboard and stylus accessories, targeting users who want a device for entertainment, online learning and everyday productivity. The Tab 11 offers a more compact design, while the Tab 12 caters to users who prefer a larger screen. Let's take a closer look at the two below.

Acer Iconia Tab 11, 12: price in India

The Acer Iconia Tab 11 5G starts at Rs 23,990, while the Iconia Tab 12 5G starts at Rs 26,990. Both tablets will be available with support for keyboard and stylus accessories and are available for purchase across Flipkart, Amazon, Acer exclusive stores, and the Acer e-store. 

Acer Iconia Tab 11, 12: features, specifications

The Iconia Tab 11 5G features a 10.95-inch Full HD+ IPS display with a 90Hz refresh rate and 450 nits of brightness. The screen should work well for streaming, browsing and online classes, while the higher refresh rate makes scrolling feel smoother.

The Iconia Tab 12 5G gets a larger 12.2-inch display with a sharper 2400 x 1600 resolution, a 90Hz refresh rate and 400 nits of brightness. It also uses a fully laminated panel, which should make it a better option for users who plan to take notes or draw with a stylus.

Both tablets use the MediaTek MT8755 processor and come with 8GB RAM and 128GB or 256GB storage options. This hardware should handle everyday apps, streaming and online learning, although users who want to play demanding games or run heavy apps may need a more powerful device.

Acer also supports keyboard covers and styluses on both models, giving users the option to type documents, take notes or sketch. Both tablets include fingerprint recognition, 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, USB Type-C and microSD card support.

For cameras, the Tab 11 gets a 13MP rear camera, while the Tab 12 features a 16MP main camera and a 2MP macro camera. Both tablets have an 8MP front camera for video calls and online classes.

The Iconia Tab 12 5G packs a 10,000mAh battery with 18W charging support. Acer has not shared the battery capacity of the Tab 11 in the launch details.

Should you buy the Acer Iconia Tab 11 5G or Tab 12 5G?

The Acer Iconia Tab 11 5G starts at Rs 23,990, making it an option for users who want a tablet with 5G connectivity for studying, streaming and everyday tasks. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+ is another option to consider, with an 11-inch 90Hz display and the same MediaTek processor. However, its 5G variant currently costs around Rs 25,999, which puts it above Acer's starting price. Acer offers a slightly larger display with higher brightness, while Samsung may appeal to users who prefer its software and ecosystem.

The Acer Iconia Tab 12 5G costs Rs 26,990 and offers a larger 12.2-inch display with a 2.4K resolution. The Redmi Pad 2 Pro is worth considering if display quality and battery life matter more to you. It offers a sharper 12.1-inch 2.5K display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a more powerful Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset and a 12,000mAh battery. However, the Wi-Fi + 5G variant starts at Rs 29,999.

The Acer tablets are worthwhile options for users who want 5G connectivity, stylus support and a large display without spending too much. The Tab 11 is a reasonable option for everyday use, while the Tab 12 offers more screen space for reading, watching content and multitasking. The Redmi Pad 2 Pro is the better choice for entertainment and battery life, but it costs more, especially if you need 5G.

• Samsung has increased the prices of its mid-range Galaxy M47 and Galaxy F70 Pro.
• The handsets now cost Rs 37,999, up from their previous selling price of Rs 37,999.
• Key specs of the phones include a Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 SoC, AMOLED display, 6,000mAh battery, and more.

[/highlights]

Samsung Galaxy M47 and Galaxy F70 Pro prices in India have been hiked yet again. This time, the smartphones have become Rs 2,000 costlier across variants. The Samsung Galaxy M47 and Galaxy F70 Pro are now available at a starting price of Rs 37,999, up from their previous MOP of Rs 35,999. Both smartphones come in three RAM and storage configurations and share identical specifications.

Samsung Galaxy M47 and Galaxy F70 Pro new price

The revised prices of the Samsung Galaxy M47 5G and Galaxy F70 Pro 5G are now effective across India. Both smartphones are listed at the increased prices on the company's official website. However, at the time of writing this article, the Galaxy M47 and Galaxy F70 Pro were selling on their respective e-commerce platforms, Amazon.in and Flipkart, at discounted prices, starting at Rs 26,999.

This could be part of the platform's ongoing festive season sale. If you have been eyeing the Samsung smartphone, there doesn't seem to be a better time than this. The handsets stand out for their vibrant display, reliable everyday performance, dependable battery life, and long-lasting software support.

Samsung Galaxy M47 and F70 Pro specifications

The Samsung Galaxy M47 and Galaxy F70 Pro both feature a 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, which should deliver vibrant colours and deep blacks, while the high refresh rate promises smoother scrolling and animations. Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection adds a layer of durability against everyday scratches and accidental drops.

[caption id="attachment_710332" align="aligncenter" width="1676"] Samsung Galaxy F70 Pro[/caption]

Under the hood, both smartphones are powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor, designed to handle everyday tasks, including web browsing, social media, video streaming, and multitasking. In optics, the handsets sport a triple rear camera setup comprising a 50MP primary sensor, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP macro sensor. The primary camera should be the go-to option for everyday photography, while the ultrawide lens allows users to capture landscapes and group shots from a wider perspective. On the front, both smartphones feature a 12MP camera for selfies and video calls.

As for battery, the Samsung smartphones pack a 6,000mAh battery, which should provide sufficient capacity for a full day of use, depending on individual usage patterns. However, charging speeds and real-world battery endurance will ultimately determine how convenient they are for users who spend long hours on their smartphones.

Samsung hasn't shared what led to the price hike on the smartphones, but it can be pinned down to the rising memory costs, which has affected the entire industry.

ASUS ranks second in future purchase preference

• ASUS ranks second among the brands users are most likely to choose for their next laptop, with 19 per cent of respondents picking the brand. Lenovo narrowly leads at 19.4 per cent, while HP follows at 14.7 per cent.
• ASUS' future purchase share is also higher than its 15.4 per cent share among current laptop owners, suggesting stronger interest in the brand among potential buyers.
• A key reason behind this could be the wide range of laptops ASUS offers across different user segments. Its portfolio covers gaming machines under the ROG and TUF series, affordable options through the VivoBook range, and premium models under ZenBook.
• ASUS also caters to more specialised users with its ProArt creator-focused laptops, while its ExpertBook range targets business and professional users and is gaining traction across both consumer and commercial segments.
• This breadth gives ASUS an option for almost every type of laptop buyer, whether they are looking for an affordable everyday machine, a gaming laptop, a premium thin-and-light or a device for professional workloads.
• With just 0.4 percentage points separating ASUS from Lenovo, the results suggest that the brand's wide product portfolio is helping it remain one of the most preferred choices for users planning their next laptop upgrade.

ASUS ranks among the top three brands for user loyalty

• ASUS records a 44.6 per cent brand loyalty score, putting it third among the brands covered in the survey. Apple leads at 68.4 per cent, followed by Samsung at 55 per cent, while Lenovo is in fourth place with 42.6 per cent.
• ASUS' wide range of laptops could be one reason behind its high repeat-user interest. The brand has options for everyday users, gamers, premium buyers and professionals, giving users plenty of choices within the same brand.
• This also gives existing users room to upgrade as their needs change, as a user who starts with an affordable VivoBook, for example, can move to a ZenBook, ROG or ProArt machine without having to switch brands.
• The same applies to its gaming lineup, where TUF Gaming caters to more accessible price points while ROG targets users looking for higher performance.
• With 44.6 per cent of users willing to stick with ASUS, the survey shows that the brand has built a substantial base of repeat users across different laptop segments.

ASUS scores well across gaming and display satisfaction

• ASUS records a 57.4 per cent gaming satisfaction score, placing it among the survey's stronger performers. It sits just behind Lenovo at 57.9 per cent, while HP, Dell and Samsung score 55.3 per cent, 52.1 per cent and 47 per cent, respectively.
• A major strength for ASUS is the breadth of its gaming portfolio. The TUF Gaming series caters to users looking for a capable gaming laptop without moving too far up the price ladder, while the ROG lineup targets enthusiasts willing to spend more for higher performance, better cooling and more powerful hardware.
• This gives ASUS options across gaming price points, from first-time buyers to those seeking a more powerful machine. It also gives existing users a clear upgrade path within the brand.

• ASUS also scores well for displays, with a 71.9 per cent display satisfaction score, the third-highest in the survey, behind Samsung (90 per cent) and Apple (89.5 per cent).
• The combination of a high gaming score and one of the highest display satisfaction scores shows that ASUS performs well across different parts of the laptop experience.
• Its wide range of laptops, from affordable, gaming-focused machines to premium, creator-oriented models, gives it room to cater to different types of users.

Based on our survey results so far (read here), ASUS appears to be steadily gaining momentum as one of the more aspirational laptop brands among Indian buyers. Its wide portfolio, multiple price points, and focus on features that matter to users give the brand a strong entry point across different segments.

Users can start with a more accessible VivoBook or TUF Gaming laptop and move to a ZenBook, ROG, ProArt or ExpertBook as their needs change. The survey results suggest this variety could help ASUS not only attract new users but also retain them when it is time to upgrade, building a sizeable base of repeat buyers over time.

• The Moto G47 Power could be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300.
• The standard Moto G47 was recently released in Europe.
• The Moto G47 Power could sit between the Moto G37 Power and the Moto G67 Power in India.

[/highlights]

When it comes to releasing budget and midrange smartphones, Motorola doesn't shy away from offering buyers a large portfolio of devices to choose from. As a result, the company appears to be preparing to launch the Moto G47 Power, likely an advanced version of the vanilla Moto G47 unveiled in April. The handset was recently spotted on the TDRA certification website, indicating an imminent launch.

Moto G47 Power's model number revealed on TDRA certification

The Moto G47 Power listing has just appeared on the TDRA certification website with the model number XT2625-15. For the uninitiated, TDRA refers to the mandatory certification issued by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to verify that radio, telecommunication, and wireless devices meet national technical standards and will not cause network interference.

Beyond that, Lenovo Electronics Technology Co., Ltd. has not revealed any details or specifications of the smartphone, other than that it filed for approval before releasing it to market.

How will the Moto G47 Power be different from Moto G47?

The standard Moto G47 launched in April for EUR 319 (approx. Rs. 35,000) in several European countries, with only an 8GB RAM and 128GB storage variant. Given that Motorola has previously released only the "Power" variants of its G-series smartphones in India, the G47 Power could follow suit. Historically, the 'Power' moniker on Motorola devices usually indicates larger batteries. So, since the standard version packs a 5,200mAh cell, the Moto G47 Power could pack an even larger battery, say 7,000mAh or more.

Coming to specifications, the Moto G47 features a 6.67-inch IPS LCD display with HD+ resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, peak brightness up to 1,050 nits, and Corning Gorilla Glass 7i protection. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 with a Mali-G57 MC2 GPU paired with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage, while Android 16 with Motorola's Hello UI runs the show.

The rear camera is a dual setup with a 108 MP main sensor (f/1.7, PDAF) and 2MP macro lens, supporting video up to 1440p at 30 fps. The front camera is an 8MP unit that also records up to 1440p. A 5,200 mAh battery provides the power, with 20 W TurboPower wired charging and 6W reverse wired charging. Other features include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, USB Type-C, and 5G connectivity. Based on the naming, if the Moto G47 Power launches in India, it will likely sit between the Moto G37 Power and Moto G67 Power, so it could be priced between Rs 20,000 and Rs 25,000.

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OnePlus may have diverted its attention to its budget series in the past few months, but it isn't exiting the flagship space anytime soon. The OEM is all set to introduce the OnePlus 16 in China today, October 12th, at 7:00 PM (4:30 PM IST). Ahead of the official announcement, the company has confirmed key specifications of the phone, including charging capabilities, IP ratings, storage type, and more. These are on top of the already-known hardware of the OnePlus 16, so the only thing that remains to be seen is its official pricing.

OnePlus 16 specifications

Starting with the latest information, the OnePlus 16 will boast 100W SuperVOOC wired charging capabilities, which, unfortunately, is a downgrade from the 120W charging of its predecessor, the OnePlus 15. The reasons behind this are unknown at the moment, but theoretically, it should mean longer charging times for its rumoured 9,000mAh battery—the largest on a OnePlus flagship. For added convenience, the OnePlus 16 supports a regular Qi 50W SuperVOOC wireless charging solution.

Moving on, like its predecessor, the upcoming OnePlus flagship will also be highly durable, featuring an IP69K rating for protection not just against water and dust, but against high-pressure and high-temperature jets as well. The handset will also support tri-frequency GPS and quad-frequency BeiDou satellite positioning for accurate location tracking.

The phone will offer USB 3.2 Gen 1 support via its Type-C port, which delivers lower data transfer speeds than the OnePlus 15's USB4. Other features include support for the n79 high-frequency band, dual stereo speakers tuned by Master, a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint sensor for security, and a new high-performance X-axis linear motor for improved haptic feedback. The OnePlus 16 will also be protected by Oppo's Crystal Shield Glass.

Previously, it was revealed that the smartphone will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chipset. It will feature a display with up to a 185Hz refresh rate, a 200MP+50MP+50MP triple rear camera setup, a 50MP front camera, ColorOS 17, and up to a 16GB RAM + 1TB storage configuration.

While the OnePlus 16's design looks identical to its predecessor, at least one of the three colour variants will feature LED lights on the back for incoming calls, notifications, music, charging, games, and more. The handset will be available in Tomorrow's Starlight, Dark Forest, and Mars Masterpiece.

The OnePlus 16's specifications definitely scream "flagship experience," though not with all the bells and whistles. The cutbacks in charging speeds and storage types suggest some cost-cutting measures in light of rising smartphone prices due to component shortages. Despite that, the OnePlus 16 appears quite promising on paper and could easily take on rivals such as the iQOO 16, which has already launched in China at a starting price of around Rs 86,000.

While OnePlus hasn't officially confirmed it, the OnePlus 16 could make its debut in India in either December 2026 or January 2027. If you have been eyeing a power-packed smartphone, the OnePlus 16 could be worth waiting for.

• Performance
• Battery life
• Display quality
• AI features
• Brand satisfaction
• Loyalty and after-sales support

Beyond individual preferences, the findings will also highlight shifting ownership patterns and the factors that matter most when users choose a new laptop. From the user's perspective, the survey aims to show what Indian consumers expect from their laptops and how major brands are performing against those expectations.

Trends in laptop ownership

• Lenovo and HP are the most commonly owned laptop brands among our respondents, at 21 per cent and 20.6 per cent, respectively. ASUS and Dell follow at 15.4 per cent and 14.8 per cent.
• When asked about their next laptop, Lenovo and ASUS lead the list at 19.4 per cent and 19 per cent, followed by HP at 14.7 per cent.

• HP's share falls from 20.6 per cent among current owners to 14.7 per cent among those planning their next purchase. This suggests that while HP has a sizeable base of existing users, some may be considering other brands when it is time to upgrade.
• ASUS shows the opposite trend, rising from 15.4 per cent of current ownership to 19 per cent of future purchase intent. This points to growing interest in the brand among potential buyers.

• Apple also has a substantial presence in future purchase plans, at 11.9 per cent. Given the large share of younger users in our survey, factors such as brand appeal, design, and the wider Apple ecosystem may be driving this interest.
• Overall, the results show that the brands people use today are not always the brands they want to buy next. This gives us a useful look at which brands are retaining their users and which ones are gaining interest among potential buyers.

User satisfaction across different laptop aspects

Display quality

• Samsung and Apple lead in display satisfaction, with 90 per cent and 89.5 per cent of users satisfied with their laptop screens.
• ASUS follows at 71.9 per cent, while HP and Dell record 68.3 per cent and 63.2 per cent. Lenovo and Acer are lower at 57.8 per cent and 56.3 per cent, while MSI records 47 per cent.
• The higher ratings for Samsung and Apple may partly reflect their presence in the premium laptop segment, where better-quality displays are standardised.
• Lenovo and Acer, on the other hand, have a much wider presence in the budget and entry-level segments, where laptops often use more basic display panels to save costs. This could help explain the lower satisfaction levels among their users.
• Overall, the results show how the price segment a brand competes in can influence the experience users get, particularly for features such as display quality.

Battery life

• Apple leads battery satisfaction by a wide margin, with 89.5 per cent of users satisfied with their laptop's battery. Dell follows at 75 per cent, while satisfaction is below 40 per cent for Lenovo, ASUS and HP.
• Acer records 40 per cent satisfaction, while Lenovo, Samsung and MSI stand at 36.3 per cent, 34.3 per cent and 21.1 per cent, respectively.
• The lower ratings for Lenovo, ASUS, and MSI may partly be linked to their wide range of gaming-series laptops. These machines often use more powerful processors and dedicated graphics, which can result in shorter battery life.
• Apple's dominant rating can also be explained by its use of ARM-based Apple silicon, which is designed to deliver high performance while using less power. This gives MacBooks an advantage in battery efficiency compared with many traditional Windows laptops.
• Overall, the results suggest that battery life remains a major area where laptop experiences differ, with power-efficient hardware and the type of laptop a brand sells playing an important role in user satisfaction.

Gaming performance

• MSI and Acer lead in gaming satisfaction, with 73.7 per cent and 73.2 per cent of users satisfied with their gaming experience.
• Lenovo and ASUS follow at 57.9 per cent and 57.4 per cent, while HP and Dell stand at 55.3 per cent and 52.1 per cent.
• Samsung records 47 per cent satisfaction, while Apple ranks lowest at 32.1 per cent.
• The results here should be viewed in the context of each brand's product mix. A brand with a smaller, more gaming-focused user base may see higher satisfaction than a brand whose users include a much wider mix of everyday, budget and gaming laptops.
• Samsung does not have the same dedicated gaming laptop presence as brands such as MSI, Acer, Lenovo and ASUS, which may help explain its lower score.
• Apple's 32.1 per cent score is also unsurprising. Gaming on ARM-based MacBooks is still not mainstream, and only a limited number of major PC games offer official support for macOS and Apple silicon.

After-sales experience

• Dell leads in after-sales satisfaction, with 76.3 per cent of users satisfied with the brand's service experience. Apple follows closely at 75 per cent.
• Lenovo and HP are next at 59 per cent and 58.9 per cent, while Acer and Samsung record 53.5 per cent and 52.6 per cent, respectively. MSI and ASUS rank lower, at 46.8 per cent and 41.8 per cent.
• Dell's high score could partly reflect its established service network and focus on direct customer support, which can make it easier for users to get repairs or support when needed.
• Apple's high score is also important, given its more premium positioning. A smaller product range and controlled service ecosystem may help it offer a more consistent support experience.
• The lower scores for MSI and ASUS could partly reflect the wider variation in service coverage across locations, especially for users outside major cities. However, the survey does not directly measure service availability by region, so this should be treated as a possible factor.
• Overall, the results show that buying a laptop is only part of the experience. How easily a brand handles repairs, support and other issues can have a major impact on user satisfaction.

Brand loyalty/retention

• Apple has the most loyal users, with 68.4 per cent saying they are likely to buy their next laptop from the same brand.
• Samsung follows at 55 per cent, while ASUS and Lenovo record 44.6 per cent and 42.6 per cent, respectively.
• Apple's strong loyalty could partly reflect its tightly connected hardware and software ecosystem, which can make it easier for existing users to continue with the brand when upgrading.
• Samsung's impressive showing is understandable given its premium positioning and wider ecosystem of connected devices, which can encourage existing users to stay with the brand.
• ASUS and Lenovo also have a strong presence among gaming users, with popular ranges such as TUF and LOQ helping build familiarity and loyalty among this audience.
• MSI stands at 31.6 per cent, followed by HP at 25.8 per cent, Acer at 22.5 per cent and Dell at 20.9 per cent.

User buying preferences

How much do people spend on laptops

• The Rs 75,000–Rs 1 lakh segment is the most popular, accounting for 21.6 per cent of respondents. The Rs 50,000–Rs 75,000 segment is close behind at 21.3 per cent.
• Another 19 per cent paid between Rs 30,000 and Rs 50,000, while 16.4 per cent spent Rs 1 lakh–Rs 1.5 lakh.
• At the higher end, 5.6 per cent paid Rs 1.5 lakh–Rs 2 lakh and 6.2 per cent spent more than Rs 2 lakh. Only 9.8 per cent paid less than Rs 30,000.
• Overall, 50 per cent of respondents paid Rs 75,000 or more for their current laptop, suggesting that the survey audience has a relatively strong representation in the mid-range and premium segments.
• This also helps put the earlier findings into context. With many users spending Rs 75,000 or more, factors such as display quality, battery life, performance and after-sales service can have a bigger role in the purchase decision, rather than price alone.

When people plan to buy their next laptop

• 48.5 per cent of respondents are not planning to buy a laptop anytime soon, making this the largest group in the survey.
• Among those planning a purchase, 21.5 per cent are looking at the pre-Diwali festive sales, including Amazon Great Indian Festival and Flipkart Big Billion Days.
• Another 15.7 per cent plan to buy within three to six months, while 14.4 per cent plan to buy after six months.
• Strong interest in the pre-Diwali period shows festive sales remain an important buying window for laptops, with discounts and bank offers likely to encourage users already planning an upgrade.
• At the same time, the large share of users with no immediate plans suggests that laptop purchases are still relatively infrequent and need-based.
• Another possible factor is the recent rise in laptop prices due to the ongoing RAM and storage shortage, which could be prompting some users to delay their purchase until prices stabilise.

Where people prefer to buy

• Offline stores remain the preferred option when online and offline prices are the same, with 52 per cent choosing offline stores compared with 24.9 per cent preferring online. Another 23.1 per cent were unsure.
• When the online price is Rs 5,000 cheaper, preference shifts sharply: 48.5 per cent choose online, while 32.2 per cent still prefer offline stores.
• However, when the offline price is Rs 5,000 cheaper, 63.7 per cent prefer buying offline, while only 13.9 per cent choose online.

• This suggests price strongly influences where people buy laptops. While many users may prefer the reassurance of an offline purchase when prices are similar, a meaningful online discount can push them towards e-commerce.
• The greater preference for offline purchases when stores are Rs 5,000 cheaper also shows that buyers are willing to choose physical stores when they offer a clear price advantage, rather than seeing online shopping as the default.

Here's a summary report for your reference:

This summarises our findings. For the full report, including year-on-year trends for major laptop brands, write to us at survey@91mobiles.com.

• Infinix GT 50 Pro is set to launch in India on October 27th.
• It's touted as India's first smartphone with a HydroFlow Liquid Cooling system.
• Key specs are expected to include a 6.78-inch AMOLED display, MediaTek Dimensity 8400 Ultimate SoC, 50MP main camera, and more.

[/highlights]

Infinix has confirmed that its upcoming gaming smartphone, the Infinix GT 50 Pro, will launch in India on October 27th. The handset will be introduced in partnership with Flipkart and will offer several gaming-focused features, starting with its design. Infinix has teased the GT 50 Pro's design, which draws inspiration from the Cyber Macha supercar. The smartphone will also feature built-in LED lights and be available in a couple of colour options. The brand has confirmed some key features, which are in line with the global variant of the Infinix GT 50 Pro.

Here's everything you need to know about this upcoming smartphone:

Infinix GT 50 Pro features

A key highlight of the Infinix GT 50 Pro is its HydroFlow Liquid Cooling system, which uses a micro-pump liquid-cooling network. The system is designed to improve heat dissipation during intensive gaming sessions. The phone also features an Explicit Viewport Design, which makes the liquid-cooling channels visible through a dedicated window on the rear panel.

The smartphone features Mechanical Lighting Waves, comprising four RGB light strips arranged in the brand's signature GT crosshair pattern. The lighting responds to incoming calls, gaming sessions and music playback, with 14 lighting effects and eight customisable colour options.

For gaming, the GT 50 Pro features GT Trigger 2.0, with dual pressure-sensitive shoulder buttons integrated into the top edges of the device. These can be mapped to different in-game actions, including aiming and firing, as well as functions such as camera zoom and app launching.

Additionally, the smartphone will come in Black Abyss and Red Blaze colour options, which boast a racing car Cyber Mecha-inspired design, with aerodynamic lines, a tapered waistline, and a streamlined curve inspired by wind-tunnel design. The back panel is confirmed to offer a Kevlar-style textured finish, built on a 2D composite panel, which is said to balance durability with a lightweight feel. 

Infinix GT 50 Pro specifications

Infinix hasn't confirmed the GT 50 Pro's specifications in its India launch date note. However, the phone has already been launched globally in Indonesia earlier this year. Since the teased GT 50 Pro India variant features are identical to the global one, we are presuming that its specifications will be too.

Globally, the Infinix GT 50 Pro sports a 6.78-inch AMOLED LTPS display with 1.5K resolution and up to 4,500 nits of peak brightness. At its core lies the MediaTek Dimensity 8400 Ultimate chipset, which is a powerful mid-range SoC designed to handle almost everything thrown at it. Furthermore, the handset packs a 6,500mAh battery with support for 45W wired fast charging and 30W wireless charging. The smartphone runs Android 16-based XOS 16 and comes with a promise of five OS upgrades.

For photography, the Infinix GT 50 Pro could feature a 50MP+8MP setup at the back and a 13MP front-facing camera.

While the handset may not appeal to photography enthusiasts, it could be worth considering for power users, particularly gamers. If you own an older Infinix GT model, consider waiting for a detailed comparison to see if the HydroFlow system offers a significant upgrade.

The GT 50 Pro is likely to be a mid-range offering, a segment that already has options such as the POCO X8 series catering to performance enthusiasts. A real-world test will reveal how well the Infinix GT 50 Pro delivers on its promises, but its India pricing will ultimately play a key role in determining its success.

What Motorola is promising with the Signature 27

Ranjan said Motorola has gone all out on the chipset, calling the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 the most powerful chipset available, with major gains across the CPU, GPU, and NPU. He tied that to Motorola's AI pitch: with a stronger NPU and what he described as a breakthrough six-antenna design, the phone is built for both on-device AI and cloud-based agentic AI models. According to Ranjan, no other phone has six antennas, and the setup should improve cloud connectivity and download speeds.

On the camera side, the Signature 27 has a 50MP Sony primary sensor and a 200MP periscope telephoto lens. Ranjan said the phone will set a new imaging benchmark for both photos and video. He added that Motorola has worked hard to improve its cameras based on user feedback, to the point that DxOMark rated the Razr Fold (review) highly as one of the best cameras on a foldable phone.

The phone also gets what Motorola calls an Arctic mesh cooling system, which combines a diamond-infused gel, liquid metal, a copper mesh, and a 3D vapour chamber that is 25 percent larger than the one on last year's Signature. Ranjan said last year's slim Signature didn't have heating problems, and this system is meant to let the faster chip perform without throttling. He added that there are other things about the phone he can't talk about yet.

Why Motorola went for the Extreme chip

I asked Ranjan why Motorola went the Extreme chip route instead of the base Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6. He said last year's Signature 26 was just entering the flagship space and they wanted a balanced product rather than one defined only by power. So the phone used a less powerful Snapdragon chip than the top-end Elite. 

[block-highlights]"The Signature 27 is our attempt to go all out."[/block-highlights]

But customers also told Motorola they wanted an out-and-out flagship, and the Signature 27 is the answer to that. "This is our attempt to go all out," he said, adding that Motorola wants to take on anyone in flagship performance and experience. He was also careful to say the phone isn't just about specs, describing the Signature as "not just a brick of pure power" but a device meant to reflect the user's personality.

On pricing and the memory crunch

I asked how the Extreme chip and this year's price increases fit together. Ranjan said the whole industry is going through a memory supercycle that no brand can avoid, and that the price impact will be there for every manufacturer, Motorola included. He added that being part of Lenovo leaves Motorola better equipped to handle it than many rivals.

He couldn't comment on the Signature 27's India price, but said Motorola sees an opportunity in the situation. Consumer demand may shrink, but it won't disappear, and buyers will look for value more than before, which he defined as price relative to what you get rather than price alone. To keep the Signature 27 accessible, Motorola will use bank offers, NBFC offers, and EMI options, alongside after-sales perks like the Signature Club.

[box-highlights] To keep the Signature 27 accessible, Motorola will use bank offers, NBFC offers, and EMI options, alongside after-sales perks like the Signature Club. [/box-highlights]

On how consumers are reacting to the price hikes of the past several months, Ranjan said the initial shock and disbelief, when some buyers felt brands were taking advantage of them, has passed, and people now understand that the memory supercycle is here and is the new normal. But he doesn't think buyers have fully absorbed how much the price they pay for a given level of value has changed. "I personally believe it'll still take time, especially for India," he said, noting that consumer incomes haven't risen in the same proportion. He expects acceptance to keep growing but thinks it will take a few more months.

On design and partnerships

Motorola has a multi-year exclusive partnership with Bang & Olufsen, in addition to its long-running tie-up with Pantone. Ranjan said the B&O link goes beyond sound quality to the design and craftsmanship the brand is known for, which he sees as a fit for the Signature's positioning at buyers who are tasteful and want something differentiated. More broadly, he said Motorola's approach is to work with experts, including Corning, Dolby, and Bose, rather than reinvent the wheel. The Signature 27 itself uses a mix of finishes, including ceramic, silk, and fabric.

How Motorola made it into India's top five

Ranjan said Motorola reached the top five in India in Q1 with a market share of 8.9 percent, and that the company's goal is to climb to number three over the coming years. He credited a mix of factors:

• Competitive portfolio: products across every price segment
• AI choice: Moto AI acts as an orchestration layer while letting users pick Gemini, Copilot, or Perplexity
• Imaging: Motorola says its cameras have improved sharply, helped by R&D in Bangalore focused on Indian skin tones
• CMF and partnerships: colours, materials, finishes, and tie-ups with the likes of Bose and Pantone
• Ecosystem: earbuds, watches, tablets, and PCs alongside phones, which helps with cross-selling
• Software updates: Ranjan said Motorola is the second brand after Google to roll out Android 17, a response to past criticism of delayed updates

He said the thread running through all of it is that Motorola acts on consumer feedback, using the camera and software update criticism of past years as examples.

The Signature 27 will be one of the first phones to use the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 in India, alongside the iQOO 16 and Xiaomi 18 Pro. This aggressive push into the premium segment, while ambitious, will test Motorola's brand perception in a highly competitive market. We should learn more about the Signature 27's India launch date, pricing, and availability in the weeks to come.

Phones launched in India (October 5th-9th)

OPPO F35 series

[box-highlights]

Key specs

• AMOLED display
• MediaTek Dimensity 7360/ 6360 Max SoC
• 50MP main camera
• 50MP selfie camera
• 8,000mAh battery
• Android 17-based ColorOS 16.5

[/box-highlights]

OPPO refreshed its mid-range smartphone portfolio in India with the launch of the F35 and F35 Pro. The new F-series offerings build on their predecessors with a focus on design, battery life, and selfie photography. Both smartphones pack an 8,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging, a 50MP front camera, and IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K ratings for water and dust resistance.

The OPPO F35 Pro takes things a step further with a 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED display featuring a 144Hz refresh rate, a MediaTek Dimensity 7360 Max chipset, and a 50MP primary rear camera with optical image stabilisation (OIS) and an ultrawide lens. The standard F35, meanwhile, features a 6.57-inch FHD+ 120Hz display and a MediaTek Dimensity 6360 Max processor. Both phones run Android 17-based ColorOS 16.5.

The OPPO F35 starts at Rs 38,999, while the F35 Pro is priced from Rs 45,999. The sale of the smartphones begins on October 11th via online and offline channels across the country.

Vivo V80

[box-highlights]

Key specs

• 1.5K AMOLED display
• Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 SoC
• 50MP+8MP+50MP rear cameras
• 50MP front camera
• 7,200mAh battery
• Android 17-based OriginOS 7

[/box-highlights]

The Vivo V80 (review) is the latest smartphone in the company's V-series lineup. The handset brings upgrades to the display, battery, and camera experience. The smartphone ships with a 7,200mAh battery with 90W fast charging, alongside a 6.59-inch 1.5K AMOLED display that features a 144Hz refresh rate and up to 5,000 nits of peak brightness. At the core of the Vivo V80 lies the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, and on the software front, it runs the latest Android 17-based OriginOS 7 out of the box, with a promise of four OS upgrades and six years of security updates.

For photography, the V80 features a 50MP OIS-enabled primary camera, a 50MP telephoto sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, and a 50MP front camera. The phone also supports 4K Cinematic video recording and over 30 AI-powered creative features, including AI Diwali Portrait 2.0. Other highlights include IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance and a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint sensor.

The Vivo V80 goes on sale from October 13th through Vivo's online store, Amazon India, Flipkart, and offline retail channels with a starting price in India of Rs 62,999.

Vivo S2 FE

[box-highlights]

Key specs

• 1.5K AMOLED display
• MediaTek Dimensity 7300e SoC
• 50MP+2MP rear cameras
• 32MP front camera
• Android 16-based OriginOS 6
• 10,000mAh battery

[/box-highlights]

Vivo expanded its S-series lineup in India with the launch of the S2 FE. It is a smartphone that prioritises battery endurance, durability, and everyday usability. The biggest highlight of the Vivo S2 FE is its massive 10,000mAh battery, the largest yet on a Vivo smartphone in India, paired with 44W fast charging.

The handset features a 6.83-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 2,000 nits of high brightness, making it suitable for multimedia consumption and everyday use. The handset is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300e chipset, paired with up to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, and for photography, it sports a 50MP Sony primary rear camera and a 32MP front-facing camera.

The smartphone is also IP68 and IP69 water and dust resistance certified, along with military-grade durability. The smartphone boots Android 16-based OriginOS 6 out of the box to take care of the software side of things. The price of Vivo S2 FE starts at Rs 38,999. It comes in Stellar Green, Zen White, and Titan Black colour options, with sales beginning on October 20th through online platforms and offline retail channels.

Vivo X Fold 6

[box-highlights]

• LTPO AMOLED displays
• MediaTek Dimensity 9500 Super Edition SoC
• 200MP+50MP+50MP rear cameras
• 20MP+20MP front cameras
• 6,900mAh battery
• Android 17-based OriginOS 7

[/box-highlights]

The Vivo X Fold 6 is its latest book-style foldable, succeeding the X Fold5. The new model retails a similar form factor while bringing notable upgrades to performance, camera hardware, and battery capacity. The handset is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 Super Edition chipset, paired with 12GB of RAM and 512GB of UFS 4.1 storage.

The foldable features an 8.02-inch 2K+ LTPO AMOLED inner display and a 6.51-inch cover display, both supporting a 120Hz refresh rate. For photography, it sports a Zeiss-co-engineered triple rear camera setup comprising a 200MP OIS-enabled primary sensor, a 50MP ultra-wide camera, and a 50MP 3x telephoto camera with OIS. It also features 20MP selfie cameras on both displays. A major highlight is its 6,900mAh battery, the largest yet on a foldable smartphone, with support for 80W wired and 40W wireless charging.

The device runs Android 17-based OriginOS 7 and carries IP58, IP59, IPX8, and IPX9 ratings for dust and water resistance. The Vivo X Fold 6 is priced at Rs 2,19,999 for its sole 12GB RAM and 512GB storage variant and is available in Nebula Teal and Prism Black. Pre-bookings are underway, with sales set to begin on October 13th.

Realme P4s Lite 4G

[box-highlights]

Key specs

• HD+ LCD display
• Unisoc T7250 SoC
• 13MP rear camera
• 5MP front camera
• 7,000mAh battery

[/box-highlights]

Realme expanded its P4 series in India with the launch of the P4s Lite, an entry-level 4G smartphone that prioritises battery life and everyday usability. Its biggest highlight is a 7,000mAh battery, which the company claims can maintain its health for up to six years. The battery supports 15W wired charging and wired reverse charging, allowing users to power compatible devices.

The smartphone features a 6.75-inch HD+ LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate, meant to offer smooth scrolling and animations. Under the hood, the handset rocks a Unisoc T7250 chipset, paired with 4GB of RAM and up to 128GB of storage. For photography, the Realme P4s Lite boasts a 13MP rear camera with autofocus and a 5MP front camera. Other highlights include an IP64 rating for dust and water resistance, military-grade shock resistance, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

The Realme P4s Lite is priced at Rs 16,499 for the 4GB RAM and 64GB storage variant, while the 4GB RAM and 128GB storage model costs Rs 18,499. It comes in Nebula Black and Moonlight Silver colour options.

Infinix Smart 20 HD

[box-highlights]

Key specs

• HD+ display
• Unisoc T7250 SoC
• 8MP rear camera
• 8MP front camera
• 5,000mAh battery

[/box-highlights]

The Infinix Smart 20 HD is an entry-level 4G smartphone aimed at users seeking a large display and essential features at an affordable price. The handset features a 6.67-inch HD+ LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 700 nits of brightness in high-brightness mode. It also packs DTS-supported dual stereo speakers with up to 300 percent volume boost, making it suitable for watching videos and other multimedia content.

The Infinix Smart 20 HD is powered by the Unisoc T7250 chipset, paired with 3GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage, with support for virtual RAM expansion and a dedicated microSD card slot. For photography, the handset features an 8MP rear camera with autofocus and an 8MP front camera for selfies and video calls.

Keeping the lights on is a 5,000mAh battery with 15W charging support, although the box includes a 10W adapter. Other highlights include an IP64 rating for dust and splash resistance and a relatively lightweight 189g design. On the software front, it runs Android 15-based XOS. The Infinix Smart 20 HD is priced at Rs 10,999 for its sole 3GB RAM and 64GB storage variant. It comes in Sunlike Orange, Silver Dancer, and Night Pulse colour options.

These were the devices launched in India this week, each catering to buyers in different segments. The Infinix Smart 20 HD and Realme P4s Lite 4G are good options in the budget segment, with the latter being an ideal choice for users looking for a big-battery phone. Speaking of battery capacity, the Vivo S2 FE stands out in this list, thanks to its massive 10,000mAh battery, which is its biggest USP. However, if you are looking for a more balanced offering, the OPPO F35 series is worth considering.

The Vivo V80, meanwhile, is an upper mid-range offering, and as noted in our review, it is a compelling option to consider, especially for its cameras. The Vivo X Fold 6 is another noteworthy launch, standing out not just in this lineup but also among Android foldables in its segment. While it looks promising, only a full review will reveal how it fares in real-world use.

iQOO 16 is coming to India

Rumours had been swirling about whether the iQOO 16 would make it to India after its launch in China, and Marya said the company received hundreds of messages asking the same question. "iQOO 16 is the big story," he said, confirming that the phone is on its way to the country.

That's where the details end for now. We asked whether we should expect a launch toward the end of October or in November, but iQOO didn't share a timeline. Pricing wasn't discussed either, and Marya didn't elaborate on India specifications.

What he did say is that the phone will combine the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 with OriginOS 7 and an M16 display, with a 2K panel and a 165Hz refresh rate that the company calls the only one of its kind in the world. Marya also teased "very surprising, very unique" AI features on the phone, but said he couldn't say more yet.

Why iQOO went with the Extreme chip

iQOO has used Qualcomm's flagship Snapdragon chips in all of its flagships since the brand launched in 2020, and Marya said the company is the only brand that can say so. "That is where our mouth is, and that is where our money is," he said of iQOO's performance legacy, adding that the combination of OriginOS 7 optimisations and the new chip should make for a popular performer.

On whether it would have made sense to pick the cheaper, non-Extreme chip, Marya acknowledged there is a cost difference between the two, but said that a flagship has to live up to its name. He framed the iQOO 16 as a "complete flagship experience," one that goes beyond raw CPU and GPU performance to cover the camera, display, AI features, and multitasking.

Why Qualcomm launched two Elite chips

This is the first time Qualcomm has introduced two Elite chipsets in the same generation: the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 and the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6. Arora said both share the same foundation, and both improve on last year's chip across CPU, GPU, and other tiers, so the non-Extreme version is not a lesser product. "Think of 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 as the pinnacle of every element of a chipset," he said, pointing to the latest CPU and the strongest NPU Qualcomm has built.

The Extreme chip is designed to run what Qualcomm calls agentic AI use cases, where the phone doesn't just respond when asked but anticipates what you need. Arora pointed to the chip's always-on, low-power sensing hub, which lets the phone stay aware of what's happening around the user. His example was paying the bill after dinner: a phone that understands context could message the valet for your car or book a cab without being prompted.

Why a 5GHz CPU matters for AI

The 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 is the first mobile CPU to touch 5GHz in benchmarks, according to Qualcomm, using two prime cores and six performance cores. Arora said a new cache arrangement lets the prime and performance cores work together without waiting on each other for access.

He also made the case that CPU speed matters more in the agentic AI era than it might seem. The CPU is the part that invokes AI agents, he explained, so a fast one ensures there's no lag when an agent is called. GPU and NPU remain important, he added, but the CPU is what controls everything.

Arora also said Qualcomm works with partners like iQOO across the CPU, GPU, NPU, AI, camera, and software layers, rather than optimising a single area.

What we still don't know

Launch timing and India pricing are the two big unknowns. For context, the iQOO 16 starts at CNY 5,999 (around Rs 86,000) in China, 43 percent higher than the iQOO 15's launch price there, and a tipster recently suggested a price over Rs 1 lakh. But my conversation with Nipun and Saurabh told me the iQOO 16, with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6, should deliver flagship performance and AI readiness that power users in the agentic AI era can expect. Whether the iQOO 16 delivers on that promise smoothly is something we will test after its launch. You can check the latest on the iQOO 16 here.

• ColorOS 17 will be detailed in the next few days.
• The OPPO Find X10 series will carry ColorOS 17 out of the box.
• The update promises major improvements to design and transitions.

[/highlights]

After confirming the release of the OPPO Find X10 lineup with the MediaTek Dimensity 9600 series for India just a few days ago, the company has revealed that the phones will be the first devices to boot on ColorOS 17. Based on Android 17, OPPO's newest skin brings Living Flow Design, which aims to deliver seamless transitions and animations when swiping or scrolling, along with other major changes. In other news, the ColorOS 17 Open Beta programme is now live for the OnePlus 13 and 15 series in India.

ColorOS 17 global launch date announced, key features teased

While the OPPO Find X10 series, comprising the Find X10 and Find X10 Pro Max, launches globally on October 21st in Spain, ColorOS 17 will be detailed a few days earlier, on October 13th. ColorOS' social media handles have already started teasing the update's new improvements and additions.

These include Living Flow Design and Luminous Effect, which work together to create fluid transitions when switching between pages and screens. When you tap elements, the UI reacts by displaying shades of light. The most prominent example is on the quick settings page, where the quick toggles illuminate on touch; when you swipe between the notifications and toggles pages, a curtain-like animation appears.

In addition, AI Suggest is being improved to offer more accurate widget recommendations, while the Laminar Flow Engine ensures endurance, speed, and performance remain consistent at all times. Together, these improvements should deliver an even smoother, more productive experience than ColorOS 16.

ColorOS 17 Open Beta goes live for OnePlus 13, 15 series, OPPO Find X9, X9, Reno 15 series, Realme GT 8, GT 7 series

Starting with Android 17, OnePlus confirmed that it is ditching OxygenOS in favour of ColorOS 17. As a result, all the Android 17-eligible devices will receive ColorOS updates going forward. OnePlus launched the ColorOS 17 Closed Beta programme for the OnePlus 15 and OnePlus 15R in India a few months ago. The update is now available to all OnePlus 15, 15R, 13, 13s, and 13R users in open beta, as confirmed in a set of OnePlus Community posts.

To receive the update, go to the Updates page in Settings and select the Beta programme option. You'll be presented with a quiz that you'll need to take to get the ColorOS 17 Open Beta update when it's released.

Since Realme is also moving away from Realme UI in favour of ColorOS going forward, the following Realme phones are now eligible to run the ColorOS 17 Open Beta update.

• Realme GT 8 Pro / GT 8 Pro Dream Edition
• Realme GT 7 Pro
• Realme GT 7T
• Realme GT 7 / GT 7 Dream Edition

As for OPPO, users of the following smartphones can register for the ColorOS 17 Open Beta programme:

• OPPO Find X9 Ultra
• OPPO Find X9 Pro
• OPPO Find X9
• OPPO Find X9s
• OPPO Find X8 Pro
• OPPO Find X8
• OPPO Reno 15 Pro
• OPPO Reno 15 Pro Mini

• OnePlus is allegedly planning to launch two flagship phones in India, including the OnePlus 16R.
• Key specs of the OnePlus 16R include an 185Hz flat OLED display, a 9,000mAh battery, a 200MP main camera, and more.
• The other flagship could be the OnePlus 16.

[/highlights]

The flagship OnePlus 16 series is seemingly heading to India, contrary to previous reports that claimed the OEM might skip launching its top-end smartphones in the Indian market. Popular tipster Gadgetsdata, who goes by this username on X, posted that OnePlus is gearing up to launch two flagship phones in India soon. One is described as the OnePlus 16R "very likely", while the other phone is "guessed" to be the OnePlus 16.

The tipster claims the OnePlus flagships' launch in India may take place either in December 2026 or January 2027. This comes at a time when iQOO 16, Motorola Signature 27, and Xiaomi 18 Pro have also been confirmed to launch in India. Moreover, the OnePlus 16 is scheduled to launch in China on October 12th. We shall be keeping a tab on that, so stay tuned.

OnePlus 16R specs and price (expected)

It is reported that the OnePlus 16R could launch in India with the same specifications as the rumoured OnePlus Ace 7. The handset could feature last year's flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC, making it much more powerful than the OnePlus 15R. It could also sport a 6.78-inch 1.5K LTPS OLED display with an upgraded 185Hz refresh rate as opposed to 165Hz on its predecessor.

The OnePlus 16R may also receive a camera upgrade, with a dedicated 50MP telephoto lens offering 3.5x optical zoom, a feature omitted from its predecessor. Additionally, the main camera is expected to feature a superior 200MP sensor instead of the 50MP sensor on its predecessor. This is likely to enhance its photography, which was criticised on the OnePlus 15R. For selfies and video calling, the handset will most likely rely on a 16MP selfie camera.

Moreover, the OnePlus 16R will reportedly pack a massive 9,000mAh battery, which should mean a longer endurance than the OnePlus 15R's 7,400mAh battery. This is said to be backed by a 100W wired charging solution, and on the software front, the smartphone could boot the latest ColorOS 17 out of the box.

As for the price, the OnePlus 16R is tipped to cost anywhere between Rs 70,000 and Rs 75,000. If accurate, this would be significantly higher than the OnePlus 15R, which launched at a starting price of Rs 47,999 and is currently selling for Rs 59,999 following multiple price hikes. The upgrades, especially in the camera department, could make the OnePlus 16R worth waiting for. However, these are mere rumours for now and should be taken with a grain of salt until the company makes an official announcement.

• The Xiaomi 18 Pro joins the iQOO 16 and Motorola Signature 27 as the first batch of phones to launch with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 series.
• The Xiaomi 18 Pro carries a 6.4-inch OLED display with dual 200MP rear cameras.
• The smartphone will launch in India in the next few months.

[/highlights]

At the ongoing India Mobile Congress 2026 (IMC), Xiaomi took the stage at Snapdragon Day to confirm the release of the Xiaomi 18 Pro in India. While the iQOO 16 and Motorola Signature 27 will be powered by the top-end Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6, the Xiaomi 18 Pro uses the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6. Launched in China a few weeks back, the Xiaomi 18 Pro boasts a compact-ish 6.4-inch OLED display and dual 200MP rear cameras.

Xiaomi 18 Pro showcased during IMC 2026

At IMC 2026, one of the largest technology events for mobile devices, Gautam Batra, Associate Director of Product Marketing at Xiaomi India, officially confirmed the India launch of the Xiaomi 18 Pro. While the exact launch date is still under wraps, the device is expected to launch in the next few months.

[caption id="attachment_718183" align="alignnone" width="2560"] Xiaomi 18 Pro showcased in all its glory at IMC 2026[/caption]

The Xiaomi 18 Pro with the base Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 will be smaller and should deliver similar, though marginally lower, performance as the iQOO 16 and Motorola Signature 27. With a large sensor-sized 200MP primary camera and a 200MP periscope lens with 3.2x optical zoom, the 18 Pro should stand out for its camera capabilities and film simulations, courtesy of the LEICA partnership.

Xiaomi 18 Pro key specifications

Based on the Xiaomi 18 Pro launched in China, it pairs a 6.4-inch flat 1.5K LTPO AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 4,000 nits peak brightness, plus a 2.7-inch LTPO AMOLED rear screen with the same refresh rate and peak brightness. Inside, Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 comes bundled with 12GB or 16GB of RAM and 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of storage.

For cameras, a 200MP Light Fusion 960 1/1.28-ich main sensor with OIS, a 200MP periscope telephoto with OIS and 3.2x optical zoom, and a 50MP ultrawide make the cut on the Xiaomi 18 Pro. A 50MP front camera handles selfies.

In China, the phone ships with a 7,000mAh battery, 100W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. The rest of the kit includes Wi-Fi 7, UWB, USB 3.2 Gen 1, stereo speakers, a dedicated AI button and an IP68 rating. For software, the Xiaomi 18 Pro will boot on Android 17 with HyperOS 4. The skin features various design and AI enhancements for a better overall experience.

A notable addition is Super Pixel Display 2.0, Xiaomi's hardware-based privacy display technology. It uses dedicated privacy pixels and physical baffles to restrict the viewing angle. Samsung introduced the concept with the Galaxy S26 Ultra, while Huawei has also brought hardware-based display privacy to the Mate XT 2.

In India, the Xiaomi 17 already starts at Rs 89,999, and flagship parts are getting more expensive, so the 18 Pro could push past Rs 1 lakh. Anyone set on Xiaomi's top hardware will have to decide whether the rear display and dual 200MP cameras justify that premium. It's also worth waiting for the iQOO 16 and Motorola Signature 27 to launch to compare pricing before deciding.

• Motorola Signature 27 will launch in India too, alongside its global release.
• The flagship features the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 and a 200MP periscope camera.
• Motorola promises seven years of OS upgrades and audio by Bang & Olufsen.

[/highlights]

The Motorola Signature 27 is confirmed to launch soon in India alongside its global release. Shivam Ranjan, Marketing Head at Motorola, announced at the India Mobile Congress (IMC) in Delhi today. Much like its predecessor, the Motorola Signature, the new flagship will launch in India as part of the initial global rollout, although the company has yet to announce its exact launch date or price. Let's check out the details below.

Motorola Signature 27: features, specifications

The Motorola Signature 27 uses the new Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6, Qualcomm's latest flagship chipset. The chipset is based on TSMC's advanced 2nm process and has a peak clock speed of up to 5GHz. It aims to deliver faster performance for demanding apps, gaming and AI tasks, along with better camera processing.

Motorola has also added its ArcticMesh cooling system to keep temperatures under control during long gaming sessions, video recording and other demanding tasks. The system combines diamond-infused thermal gel, liquid metal, copper mesh and a redesigned 3D vapour chamber, which is claimed to be 40 per cent larger than the previous generation.

[caption id="attachment_718172" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Shot at IMC, Delhi[/caption]

Motorola is also promising seven years of OS upgrades for the Signature 27, similar to its predecessor, the Signature. The phone is expected to run Android 17 out of the box, although the company has yet to confirm the complete specifications.

The Signature 27 gets a 50MP Sony LYTIA 910 main camera and a 200MP periscope telephoto camera. The main camera should handle everyday photography extremely well, while the periscope lens helps capture distant subjects with more detail thanks to its higher resolution.

The Signature 27 is also Motorola's first smartphone to feature Audio by Bang & Olufsen (B&O). The partnership brings the audio company's sound tuning to Motorola's premium phone lineup.

[caption id="attachment_718173" align="alignnone" width="2560"] Shot at IMC, Delhi[/caption]

The device also comes with improved Google's Gemini AI integration. Users can turn text prompts, photos and existing footage into videos with Gemini Omni. They can also use Google's Lyria tool to create music and soundtracks, adding more options for users who like to create content on their phones.

The Signature 27 features an aluminium frame with curved edges and a slim design. Its camera module combines ceramic and brushed aluminium, giving the phone a distinct look.
Motorola will offer the phone in two colour options: Pantone Coal Smoke, which has a woven finish for better grip, and Pantone Capulet Green, which uses a brushed, fabric-like texture.

Should you wait for the Motorola Signature 27?

The Motorola Signature 27 looks like a good option for general users who want a premium phone with capable cameras, AI features and long-term software support. If you want more raw performance and gaming-focused features, however, the iQOO 16, which was also announced at IMC, is worth keeping an eye on. It offers a 2K 165Hz AMOLED display and a larger 8,400mAh battery, making it a better fit for gaming and performance enthusiasts.

Naturally, the pricing will be important for both phones, as RAM and storage costs remain at an all-time high, pushing smartphone prices higher. The two flagships could easily launch around the Rs 1 lakh mark in India, which is a lot higher than their traditional pricing. Buyers planning an upgrade should keep this in mind, as the new models may cost more than they expected.