• Realme C100x launches in India as a 4G-only smartphone focused on battery life and durability. 
• It packs an 8,000mAh battery with 45W SUPERVOOC charging, along with expandable storage.
• The phone is priced at Rs 14,999 for the single 4GB+64GB configuration. 

[/highlights]

Realme has launched the C100x in India as a new 4G smartphone focused on battery life, durability, and everyday multimedia use. It is aimed at budget-conscious buyers who want a large display, long endurance, and a practical feature set rather than 5G or performance-heavy hardware.

Realme C100x: price in India

The Realme C100x comes in a single configuration with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage, priced at Rs 14,999. You also avail a special Rs 500 off discount, No-cost EMI options and an exchange bonus of Rs 500. The device is available in Deepblue Tides and Golden Coast colourways. 

Realme C100x: specifications, features

The Realme C100x comes with a 6.80-inch LCD display with HD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and up to 240Hz touch sampling. The panel also offers 700 nits of typical brightness and 900 nits of HBM brightness. While it is not the sharpest display around, it should still be easy enough to use for content consumption and gaming at this price.

It runs on the Unisoc T7250 chipset with an octa-core CPU and Arm Mali-G57 GPU. The phone supports 4GB RAM and 64GB storage, with LPDDR4X memory and eMMC 5.1 storage, plus support for microSD expansion and USB OTG. The good part is that the phone supports expandable storage, which helps a lot when the base 64GB starts feeling small. On the software side, it ships with Realme UI 7 based on Android 16.

For optics, Realme is pairing the phone with a 50-megapixel rear camera and a 5-megapixel front camera. This is not a phone built for heavy camera use, but it should handle casual photos, video calls, and social media posts without much trouble.

One of the biggest highlights is the 8,000mAh battery with support for 45W SUPERVOOC charging, with the charger included in the box. Realme also says the phone is compatible with several charging standards, including 45W PPS and 15W VOOC and PD. The phone is clearly built for people who care more about battery life and everyday comfort than raw power.

The company is also offering military-grade durability and an IP64 rating, which should help the phone appeal to buyers looking for a more rugged everyday device. Security options include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and facial recognition.

The Realme C100x is a 4G-only device, with no 5G support. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, USB Type-C, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. 

Realme C100x: should you buy it?

The Realme C100x makes the most sense for buyers who want a phone that lasts long, feels smooth in day-to-day use, and does not ask much in return. Its 8,000mAh battery is the big advantage here, and the 120Hz display, expandable storage, headphone jack, charger in the box, and durable build all add to the appeal. If your main priorities are battery life, basic reliability, and comfortable everyday use, this phone covers those well.

The catch is that it is still a 4G phone with an HD+ display and a 4GB + 64GB base setup, which makes it feel a step behind some phones in this price zone. Some rivals at this price, like the Redmi A7 Pro or the Lava Bold N2, offer 5G support, more storage, and sharper displays, so the C100x only really works if you are okay giving up network future-proofing in exchange for a bigger battery and other extras. For heavy users, gamers, or anyone wanting a more well-rounded phone, there are stronger options in the same price range.

[highlights]

• Google has released the first official teaser for the Pixel 11 series, confirming the Pixel Glow notification light and the August 12th launch event.
• Pixel Glow integrates a multi-coloured notification light into the rear camera bar, replacing the single-colour flash appearance for alerts.
• Google says Pixel 11 pre-orders will begin immediately after the August 12th event.

[/highlights]

The Pixel 11 series has been the subject of many leaks since a few weeks now, with virtually everything from the design to the colours and even the new Pixel Glow light being out in the open. Now, Google has officially kicked off the Pixel 11 launch cycle with its first teaser, confirming both the name of its next-generation flagship lineup and the new hardware feature called Pixel Glow. The teaser officially confirms that the Pixel 11 series will be unveiled at the company's Made by Google event on August 12th, with pre-orders opening immediately after the keynote.

The teaser, on the Google Store, prominently showcases what appears to be the Pixel 11 Pro in a gold finish while offering the first official glimpse of Pixel Glow.

What is Pixel Glow?

Pixel Glow is Google's take on a notification light, a concept originally popularised by Nothing in recent years. Instead of adding an external LED strip, the company has integrated a circular light into the rear camera bar, occupying the area typically used by the camera flash. The teaser shows the light cycling through multiple colours, confirming earlier reports that it will act as a visual indicator for notifications and other alerts.

Previous leaks suggested Pixel Glow is designed to help users "stay in the moment without losing touch" by displaying subtle colours and lighting effects on the back of the phone when it is placed face down. The teaser appears to support that description, although Google has yet to explain all of its capabilities.

The launch event is also expected to add updates to Gemini, with Google confirming that it will announce new AI-powered software experiences alongside its latest hardware.

Launch and availability

Google's Made by Google event will begin on August 12th at 6 pm ET (3.30 am IST, Aug 13th). The company has confirmed that Pixel 11 pre-orders will open immediately after the presentation.

Ahead of the launch, Google is offering a promotional code to eligible US customers who sign up for Google Store marketing emails before August 7th. In India, instead of a discount code, the company is offering a bundle deal on Pixel Buds or a Pixel Watch. Users need to have a local Indian shipping address and are over 18 years of age.

Leaks suggest the Pixel 11 will leap ahead of the Pixel 10 series with a 2nm Tensor G6 chip, allowing Gemini AI and its signature camera features to challenge Apple and Samsung's latest flagships. Pixel Glow is an interesting addition, but by itself it's unlikely to be a reason to upgrade. Buyers already considering a Pixel for its cameras, clean Android experience and Gemini-powered AI may see it as a thoughtful quality-of-life feature, especially if they frequently keep their phone face down. However, its usefulness will ultimately depend on how much control Google offers over notifications and whether developers can integrate with it. With Samsung, Apple and other Android brands expected to launch or refresh their flagships in the coming months, it makes sense to wait for Google's full announcement before making a purchase decision. Pricing, AI exclusives and overall hardware upgrades will matter far more than a colourful notification light, no matter how distinctive it looks.

[highlights]

• The Vivo T5 Lite 44W price in India starts at Rs 19,999.
• It's a battery-focused smartphone which should also deliver reliable everyday performance.
• Key specs include a mid-range Dimensity 6300 SoC, a 50MP main camera, and an HD+ display.

[/highlights]

The Vivo T5 Lite 44W is the company's latest budget smartphone, succeeding last year's Vivo T4 Lite. While it doesn't bring a major overhaul, it does introduce two notable upgrades: faster 44W charging, up from 15W on its predecessor, and a larger 6,500mAh battery. Beyond these changes, the rest of the hardware remains largely unchanged, including the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, a 6.75-inch display, and a 50MP primary rear camera. On paper, it seems to be a decent buy for everyday usage, but not the most power-packed offering in the segment.

Vivo T5 Lite 44W price in India, availability

The Vivo T5 Lite 44W is priced in India starting at Rs 19,999 for the base 4GB RAM + 128GB storage variant. It is also available in 6GB + 128GB and 6GB + 256GB configurations, priced at Rs 21,999 and Rs 24,999, respectively. This makes it compete against rivals such as Realme P4R and Infinix Note Edge.

The handset comes in Twilight Shadow and Wave Blue colour options and goes on sale starting July 22nd via Flipkart with a Rs 1,500 bank discount - effectively bringing the T5 Lite's price down to Rs 18,499.

Vivo T5 Lite 44W specifications

The Vivo T5 Lite 44W ships with a design identical to the more expensive V70 series. The handset features flat edges and a squarish camera deco at the back. The phone sports dual rear cameras, comprising a 50MP primary sensor and a VGA auxiliary lens. This is a pretty standard setup for the price and should be good for casual point-and-shoot photography. For selfies and video calling, the handset features a modest 5MP camera in the punch-hole setup.

The Vivo T5 Lite packs a 6.75-inch LCD display that bears HD+ resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and 1,200 nits peak brightness. The display should deliver a decent viewing experience, at least indoors. Managing the performance is a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC, paired with up to 6GB RAM + 256GB storage onboard. It is a budget-centric chipset, which should handle casual usage with ease. Software is managed by OriginOS 6, layered atop Android 16 out of the box. The handset supports 2 years of major OS and 4 years of security updates, keeping it relevant till 2030.

Coming to its biggest highlight, the Vivo T5 Lite 44W packs a 6,500mAh battery. While it isn't the largest in the segment, Vivo claims it can deliver over 23 hours of YouTube playback on a single charge. The battery also supports 44W fast charging, which is in line with most of its competitors and said to juice up the smartphone within 40 minutes. According to the company, the battery is designed to retain at least 80 percent of its original capacity even after 1,600 charge cycles, translating to up to five years of battery health.

Other features include an IP65 rating, MIL-STD-810H certifications, Wet-Hand touch support, and AI features.

The Motorola Edge 70 Max is the brand's latest new launch and joins the same premium segment as the OnePlus 15R (review) and they follow similar priorities. The Edge 70 Max focuses on delivering a flagship-level performance output, much like the OnePlus 15R, with high refresh rates, an extremely capable chipset, and a large battery that lasts longer under heavy use.

So it's only fair we pit the two against one another to see which is the better option in this price segment. Here is a detailed comparison to help you decide which phone fits your needs better.

Motorola Edge 70 Max vs OnePlus 15R: specs at a glance

Price in India

The OnePlus 15R now starts at Rs 59,999 for the base variant after multiple price revisions over recent months. The Motorola Edge 70 Max starts at Rs 54,999 for its base variant, making it slightly cheaper than the OnePlus.

The Edge 70 Max at Rs 54,999 is clearly positioned to undercut the OnePlus 15R while offering a similar premium, performance‑oriented product at this price. At these prices, buyers have the option to choose between a slightly more affordable Motorola with the same flagship chipset but less RAM in the base variant. Or, you can get a more expensive OnePlus that offers the same flagship performance with higher RAM and larger storage options in the base variant.

Design and display

The Motorola Edge 70 Max and OnePlus 15R sit very close to each other in size and weight. The Edge 70 Max measures 8.29mm and weighs 221g, while the OnePlus 15R comes in at around 8.3mm and 213–219g depending on the colourway.

Both use Gorilla Glass 7i on the front and rear, metal frames, and offer good water and dust protection. Motorola goes with IP68/IP69/IP66 and MIL‑STD 810H durability, while OnePlus adds IP66/IP68/IP69/IP69K to the mix.

On the design front, neither phone tries to reinvent the wheel. Motorola sticks to its boxy frame, large camera island and muted Pantone colours that match the rest of the Edge 70 line, so the Edge 70 Max looks and feels like a natural Moto flagship. OnePlus keeps its clean back, rounded camera module and soft pastel finishes, which makes the 15R feel like an evolution of recent number‑series phones, with just enough tweaks around the camera housing and colour palette to signal that it's the newer, more powerful model.

Motorola pairs that design with a 6.8‑inch Extreme AMOLED panel, Quad HD+ resolution of 1440 x 3168, up to 144Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, 100 percent DCI‑P3, 7,000‑nit peak brightness and Pantone‑validated colours and skintones. OnePlus, on the other hand, offers a slightly larger 6.83‑inch AMOLED display at 2800 x 1272, adaptive refresh up to 165Hz, Gorilla Glass 7i, 10‑bit colour and 1.5K‑class sharpness tuned for high‑frame‑rate gaming.

In day‑to‑day use, the Edge 70 Max's higher resolution and much brighter panel should feel more cinematic and easier to see outdoors, while the 15R's bigger screen and 165Hz support will speak more to gamers and heavy scrollers who can actually take advantage of those higher refresh rates in supported titles.

Cameras

The Motorola Edge 70 Max has a more versatile camera setup on paper, with a 50MP main camera with OIS, a 50MP ultra-wide camera, and a 50MP front camera. It should give you a bit more flexibility across main shots, wide shots, and selfies, but this comparison is still based only on specs.

The OnePlus 15R (review) keeps things simpler with a 50MP main camera with OIS, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, and a 32MP front camera. It may not look as flexible on paper, but the Sony IMX906 sensor and OnePlus' camera processing could still help it deliver better results in real life.

It is important to note, however, that both phones are not really camera-first devices, so a full review will give you a much better idea of how they actually perform. For now, this is just a conjecture based on the specifications alone.

Performance and software

The OnePlus 15R seems slightly ahead in terms of performance based on specifications alone. It uses Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 with a 3.8GHz Oryon CPU core and Adreno 8-series GPU, paired with 12GB LPDDR5X RAM, even in the base variant and UFS 4.1 storage in 256GB and 512GB options. It is a proper flagship with such a combination of CPU, GPU and storage speeds, especially if you care about gaming or heavy multitasking.

[comparative-benchmark type="1" title="AnTuTu score" caption="AnTuTu assesses a smartphone's CPU, GPU, memory, and overall user experience (higher is better)" highlight="product_1" products="42264,41310,,," ][/comparative-benchmark]

The Motorola Edge 70 Max uses Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 too, but it pairs the chip with 8GB RAM in the base variant or up to 12GB LPDDR5X RAM and 256GB UFS 4.1 storage. That should still handle everyday use, social media, light gaming and content consumption very easily, though the extra RAM and storage options on the OnePlus make it the more flexible option on paper. In our Antutu Benchmark test, the Edge 70 Max is slightly ahead of the OnePlus 15R, although the difference is insubstantial.

Both phones run Android 16, but they take different approaches to software. The Edge 70 Max stays closer to Motorola's near-stock-Android-style OS, with ThinkShield security and Google Gemini integration. The OnePlus 15R runs OxygenOS 16 based on Android 16 and offers a better suite of AI features like Mind Space and AI Playlab, along with gaming-focused optimisations, the Plus Key and special tuning for touch response and connectivity.

[comparative-benchmark type="3000" products="42264,41310,,," pias="59,53,,,"][/comparative-benchmark]

OnePlus also has the advantage in long-term appeal, with its 4 OS updates and 6 years of security patches making the 15R feel more future-ready. Motorola keeps things cleaner and simpler, which will suit users who prefer a lighter software experience, and it offers 3 OS updates and 5 years of security patches.

Battery and charging

Battery strategy is different too. OnePlus goes big with a 7,400mAh battery and 80W SUPERVOOC charging, which should deliver excellent endurance and quick top-ups. Motorola uses a 7,100mAh silicon-carbon battery, 90W wired charging and 25W wireless charging, so it gives you faster wired charging and the added convenience of wireless support.

[comparative-benchmark type="3" title="PCMark Battery score (in hours)" caption="PCMark battery test measures phone battery life from 100% to 20% (higher is better)" highlight="product_1" products="42264,41310,,," ][/comparative-benchmark]

In real use, the OnePlus 15R's larger battery should help it last longer during heavy workloads, while the Edge 70 Max balances its slightly smaller capacity with wireless charging and a more complete charging package. Buyers who want the longest possible endurance will likely find the OnePlus 15R more attractive, while those who want wireless charging and faster top-ups may prefer Motorola.

Which one should you buy?

If you want top performance, long battery life and a gaming‑ready display, the OnePlus 15R is the better pick here. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, 12GB RAM, UFS 4.1, 165Hz panel, 7,400mAh battery and longer software support make it the more future‑ready option for power users and gamers.

The Motorola Edge 70 Max is better if you want a more versatile premium phone with a few extras. It is still a bulky phone, but it balances that with wireless charging, a higher‑resolution display, and a more flexible camera setup on paper, which gives it a broader appeal.

On specs alone, the OnePlus 15R suits users who care more about performance, battery life and a high refresh rate at this price, while the Edge 70 Max suits those who may want a more rounded options with extras like wireless charging, higher display quality, especially if its lower starting price appeals to them.

[highlights]

• Realme C100x is expected to launch in India today at an effective starting price of Rs 14,999 for the 4GB + 64GB variant.
• The smartphone is confirmed to feature a Unisoc T7250 chipset, 50MP rear camera, and an 8,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging.
• The phone is already official in Indonesia.

[/highlights]

The Realme C100x is set to launch in India today and a new leak has revealed what could be its effective launch price. While the company has already confirmed several key specifications, the latest leak sheds light on its pricing ahead of the official announcement. The Realme C100x will be sold via Flipkart and is a battery-focused offering with an 8,000mAh cell.

Realme C100x India price (expected)

According to tipster Sanju Choudhary, the Realme C100x will be priced at Rs 14,999 (net effective price) for the 4GB + 64GB variant. This is significantly lower from an earlier leaked retail box image that suggested an MRP of Rs 29,999, indicating the phone is expected to launch with substantial introductory offers. Box prices are generally higher, but the actual selling price will be above Rs 15,000, as per the leak. Realme will officially unveil the phone today at noon, when its final pricing and launch offers will be confirmed.

Realme C100x specifications

Realme has already teased most of the phone's hardware, while additional details are known since the phone has already made its global debut in Indonesia. Key specifications include:

• 6.8-inch HD+ LCD display
• 120Hz refresh rate
• Unisoc T7250 chipset
• 4GB LPDDR4X RAM (base variant), 64GB storage
• 50MP AI rear camera, 5MP front camera
• 8,000mAh battery, 45W fast charging
• IP64 dust and water resistance, MIL-STD-810H military-grade durability
• Side-mounted fingerprint scanner, Face unlock

The phone will be available in Deepblue Tides and Golden Coast colour options. Realme claims the battery can deliver over 17 hours of navigation on a single charge.

Value analysis

The Realme C100x appears to prioritise battery life and durability over outright performance. An 8,000mAh battery and 45W charging are uncommon under Rs 15,000 (tipped effective price after launch offers), making it appealing for users who want long endurance without carrying a power bank.

However, the reported Rs 14,999 starting price also highlights how much the entry-level smartphone segment has changed. Just a few years ago, 4G smartphones with 4GB RAM routinely launched below Rs 10,000. Today, buyers are seemingly expected to pay around Rs 15,000 for similar memory and connectivity, even if they receive a much larger battery, faster charging, higher refresh rate display and better build quality in return.

For buyers focused on performance or future-proofing, the bigger concern may be the combination of a 4G-only Unisoc chipset and 4GB RAM at this price. Several competitors around the Rs 15,000 mark already offer 5G connectivity, more capable processors and higher RAM configurations, making the Realme C100x a more niche option aimed at users who value battery life above everything else.

[highlights]

• OnePlus is reportedly exiting all non-China markets
• Realme to exit China, focus on Nordic markets
• OnePlus India responded by saying its India operations will continue as usual  

[/highlights]

Update: In a statement, OnePlus India told 91mobiles, "OnePlus India continues to operate its business as usual, with all local operations on track. We urge the media to exercise restraint before amplifying unverified speculation." This suggests OnePlus is very much active in the country this year, but the statement doesn't quite provide a clear picture for 2027.

The original story follows...

OnePlus, once known as the "flagship killer" brand, is reportedly planning to exit several markets, including India. According to a new report by Bloomberg, OnePlus is shutting down operations in the US and Europe as early as this week. More importantly for our readers, the company is also planning its exit from India "at some point in 2027". OnePlus will continue to remain active in China.

Realme, on the other hand, will exit the China market and will shift its focus to the Nordic market, the Bloomberg report added. The brand's presence in India remains unchanged at the moment.

As per the report, "The change is happening as part of a larger restructuring to parent company OPPO, or Guangdong Oppo Mobile Telecommunications Corporation Ltd., said the person, who asked not to be identified discussing a private plan." OnePlus' slow growth in recent years in the US, Europe and India, as well as geopolitical concerns, are reportedly factors behind OPPO's decision. 

The writing on the wall

The latest development doesn't exactly come as a surprise, as rumours of OnePlus shutting down in the US and Europe markets emerged way back in March. Around the same time, OnePlus India CEO Robin Liu stepped down from his role to "pursue his personal passions", which added to speculation that all was not well with OnePlus' India operations. However, the brand had released a statement back then, ensuring that its India operations would "continue with local strategy and business continuity ensured."

More recently, there were reports that future OnePlus and Realme phones would ship with OPPO's ColorOS, phasing out OxygenOS and Realme UI, respectively. While this is yet to be officially announced by the brands, this is yet another signal of major restructuring happening within OPPO.

Why OnePlus users shouldn't worry right now

I personally owned a few OnePlus phones during its early years, my personal favourite being the OnePlus 5T Star Wars edition. These phones were incredibly fast and smooth, a reputation OnePlus built over the years. My OnePlus 5T still runs smoothly even now, when I take it out every so often. While it would be an incredibly sad day if OnePlus announced it was exiting India, this seemingly won't happen until sometime in 2027.

Existing OnePlus phones are not expected to be affected even if OnePlus exits next year. If rumours of OnePlus axing OxygenOS and moving to ColorOS are true, existing OnePlus phones and those expected to launch later this year will continue to receive software and security updates for years to come via OPPO.

[highlights]

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

[/highlights]

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

How the new backup option could work

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

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

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

Expected WhatsApp cloud storage plans

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

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

Availability

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

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

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

Specs at a glance

Motorola Edge 70 Max vs Signature price in India

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

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

Design

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

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

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

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

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

Display

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

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

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

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

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

Performance and software

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

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

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

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

Battery

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

Cameras

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

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

Verdict

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

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

[highlights]

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

[/highlights]

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

What do we know about the OnePlus N6x?

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

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

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

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

[highlights]

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

[/highlights]

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

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

Expected key specifications

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

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

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

Market status

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

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

[highlights]

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

[/highlights]

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

Realme Narzo 100x price, availability, first sale

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

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

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

Realme Narzo 100x specifications and features overview

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

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

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

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

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

Should you buy the Realme Narzo 100x?

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

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

[highlights]

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

[/highlights]

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

Motorola Edge 70 Max price in India, availability

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

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

Motorola Edge 70 Max specifications

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[highlights]

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

[/highlights]

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

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

Fresh colourways and aesthetics

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

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

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

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

Specifications and rumoured upgrades

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

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

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

Pricing and expected availability

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

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

[highlights]

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

[/highlights]

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

Xiaomi tablets: new prices

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

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

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

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

Redmi…

— Sanju Choudhary (@saaaanjjjuuu) July 14, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

[highlights]

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

[/highlights]

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

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

How Flex Titanium works

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

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

Performance benefits

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

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

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

Launch date

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

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

[highlights]

• The Redmi Note 17 and Note 17 Pro have launched in China with 8,000mAh and 9,000mAh batteries respectively.
• The standard model features a 7-inch OLED display, while the Pro adds a 1.5K OLED screen, Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 chipset and IP69K durability.
• The Redmi Note 17 has already appeared on BIS, with a 6GB + 128GB Indian variant tipped in Blue and Dark Night colours.

[/highlights]

Xiaomi has launched the Redmi Note 17 and Note 17 Pro in China, expanding its popular mid-range smartphone lineup with a focus on battery life. The new phones pack 8,000mAh and 9,000mAh batteries, respectively, making them among the larger capacity devices in their segments.

Redmi Note 17 (standard)

The standard Redmi Note 17 features a standout 7-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Full HD+ resolution and up to 1,800 nits peak brightness. While most smartphones today use displays between 6.6 and 6.8 inches, Xiaomi is betting on a larger screen to appeal to users who consume a lot of video content, play games or prefer a tablet-like viewing experience.

Powering the phone is the Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 chipset, paired with up to 8GB LPDDR4X RAM and 256GB UFS 2.2 storage. The device packs an 8,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging and 22.5W reverse wired charging, allowing it to charge other devices.

Other features include a 50MP rear camera, 8MP selfie camera, Android 16-based HyperOS 3, an in-display fingerprint scanner, NFC, microSD card support and Gorilla Glass 7i protection.

Redmi Note 17 Pro

The Redmi Note 17 Pro steps things up with a 6.83-inch 1.5K OLED display offering a 120Hz refresh rate, up to 3,500 nits peak brightness and Xiaomi's eye protection technologies. It is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 chipset and packs up to 12GB RAM and 512GB storage. The biggest highlight is its 9,000mAh battery, paired with 67W fast charging and 22.5W reverse charging. Xiaomi is also introducing a five-year battery programme in China. Buyers will receive a free battery replacement if battery health drops below 80 percent during the first four years. In the fifth year, eligible users will receive a larger-capacity replacement battery instead.

The phone also offers IP66, IP68, IP69 and IP69K ratings, making it one of the most durable devices in its segment. Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, an in-display fingerprint sensor and Android 16 with HyperOS 3 round out the package.

Compared to rivals such as the iQOO Z11 series, OnePlus Nord series and Honor Power lineup, Xiaomi is positioning battery life as the biggest selling point of the Note 17 series. The use of Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 and Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 chipsets means these phones prioritise endurance over flagship-grade performance.

Pricing and market availability

The Redmi Note 17 starts at CNY 1,299 (around Rs 18,450) for the 6GB + 128GB model and is available in Black, Shallow Cyan and Meteor Purple. It is available in three configurations:

• 6GB + 128GB: CNY 1,299 (around Rs 18,500)
• 8GB + 128GB: CNY 1,399 (around Rs 19,900)
• 8GB + 256GB: CNY 1,599 (around Rs 22,700)

The Redmi Note 17 Pro starts at CNY 1,599 (around Rs 22,690) for the 8GB + 128GB variant, with additional 256GB and 512GB storage options. It comes in Sky Blue, Nebula Purple, Black and White. It is offered in four variants:

• 8GB + 128GB: CNY 1,599 (around Rs 22,700)
• 8GB + 256GB: CNY 1,899 (around Rs 26,900)
• 12GB + 256GB: CNY 2,199 (around Rs. 31,200)
• 8GB + 512GB: CNY 2,299 (around Rs 32,620)

[highlights]

• Apple is reportedly engineering the M7 Ultra for up to 1.5TB of unified memory.
• The move suggests Apple is prioritising on-device and professional AI performance.
• The chip will likely target studios and developers who need extreme memory capacity for creative and AI-heavy workflows.

[/highlights]

Apple is reportedly planning to push its high-end Mac hardware into new territory with the M7 Ultra. According to a Bloomberg's Power On newsletter, the chip is being engineered to support up to 1.5TB of unified memory, a figure that would place it alongside the most extreme memory configuration ever offered on the 2019 Intel Mac Pro. Let's discuss this in more detail below. 

What the report says

The key figure here is undoubtedly the 1.5TB of unified memory, which would put the M7 Ultra at an all-new standard. Mark Gurman's newsletter says Apple is designing the chip for that level of memory, although the final configuration may change depending on supply conditions and how the market looks closer to launch.

He also shares that Apple is dropping the M6 Pro, M6 Max and M6 Ultra, with only the base M6 chip arriving this year before the company moves straight to the M7 family. That would shift the high-end Mac roadmap to an M7 Pro and M7 Max in late 2027, followed by the M7 Ultra in 2028, as Apple prioritizes AI-focused silicon over a full M6 lineup

Apple's unified memory design gives Macs very fast access to system memory, but it also ties capacity to the size and design of the chip itself. If Apple really moves to 1.5TB, it would signal a much bigger step for creative workflows, AI tasks and other heavy professional use cases.

The comparison with the 2019 Mac Pro is here because that machine was Apple's old high-end reference point for extreme memory capacity. Matching it in Apple Silicon would show just how far the company's newer architecture has come, while also reinforcing Apple's shift away towards tightly integrated silicon built for specific tasks and now AI workloads.

There is, however, one important caveat. The report says Apple may not ship the full 1.5TB configuration if memory shortages continue. Apple might be building the chip to support that level, but it may still launch the final product with a lower top-end option depending on market conditions.

Apple's AI push reaches the Mac

Apple's move to engineer an M7 Ultra that can handle up to 1.5TB of unified memory looks to be a sign of where its high‑end Macs are headed. Based on an earlier report by Bloomberg, the company is already skipping the usual M6 Pro, Max and Ultra chips to jump straight to an AI‑focused M7 family, which suggests Apple cares more about on‑device and workstation‑class AI performance than small, incremental CPU upgrades. 

In that context, a 1.5TB capacity is mainly about keeping much larger models and datasets in RAM while the CPU, GPU and Neural Engine all work from the same memory pool, instead of shuffling data in and out of slower storage or the cloud. It also gives Apple room to pitch future Mac Studio or Mac Pro  machines as local AI workstations for studios and teams that already live inside macOS and as an alternative to Nvidia‑based setups. 

The rumoured M7 Ultra looks best suited for power users who work with large creative files, AI models or heavy professional workflows. It also makes sense for studios, developers and technical teams that want very high memory capacity on a Mac system, especially if they already rely on macOS for production work. 

[highlights]

• The Redmi 17C 5G has surfaced on Geekbench with the Dimensity 6300 chipset, 4GB RAM and Android 16.
• The phone is tipped to feature a 6.9-inch display, 50MP camera, 6,000mAh battery and 33W charging.
• It shares its codename with the Redmi 15C 5G.

[/highlights]

Xiaomi could soon expand its budget 5G smartphone portfolio with the Redmi 17C 5G. The phone has now appeared on Geekbench, offering a look at its processor, memory configuration and software. Interestingly, the listing also suggests the phone could share its hardware with the Redmi 15C 5G.

The Redmi 15C 5G debuted in India in December 2025, and if the latest leaks are accurate, its successor may focus more on software updates than major hardware changes. The Redmi 17C 5G is expected to launch in India and other global markets, although Xiaomi hasn't officially confirmed the device.

Expected specifications and features

According to a Geekbench listing spotted by tipster Kacper Skrzypek, the Redmi 17C 5G carries the codename "Tornado", which is the same codename previously associated with the Redmi 15C 5G and POCO C85 5G. This suggests the upcoming phone may be a rebadged version rather than an entirely new model.

The benchmark listing reveals single-core and multi-core scores of 729 and 1,692, respectively, on Geekbench 6.7.1. It also points to an octa-core chipset with two performance cores clocked at 2.40GHz and six efficiency cores at 2.00GHz, matching MediaTek's Dimensity 6300 processor. The tested variant includes 4GB of RAM and is listed with Android 16, likely running Xiaomi's HyperOS skin.

Previous reports indicate the Redmi 17C 5G could feature a 6.9-inch HD LCD display, a 50MP primary rear camera paired with a depth sensor, and an 8MP front camera. It's also tipped to pack a 6,000mAh battery with support for 33W fast charging.

Comparison: 4G vs 5G models

The Redmi 17C 5G appears to be positioned differently from the Redmi 17C 4G, which launched in China in June this year. The 4G model features a MediaTek Helio G81-Ultra processor, a 6.88-inch 120Hz HD+ LCD display, a 13MP rear camera, a 5MP selfie camera, and a 5,160mAh battery with 18W charging.

By comparison, the leaked Redmi 17C 5G is expected to offer a faster Dimensity 6300 chipset, a larger 6,000mAh battery, quicker 33W charging and a higher-resolution 50MP primary camera. These upgrades would make it a more compelling option for users looking for affordable 5G connectivity without moving into the mid-range segment.

Launch expectations

The Redmi 17C 5G is expected to launch in India and other global markets in the coming months, though its China debut remains uncertain. Pricing has not been revealed, but if Xiaomi follows its existing strategy, the phone is likely to be positioned close to the Redmi 15C 5G, which launched in India at Rs 12,499 for the 4GB + 128GB variant.

The early leaks suggest the Redmi 17C 5G could be worth considering if you're looking for a budget 5G phone with a large battery and the latest version of Android. However, if the hardware ends up being largely unchanged from the Redmi 15C 5G, existing users may find little reason to upgrade.

[highlights]

• OnePlus has started rolling out OxygenOS 16.0.9.400 for the OnePlus 15 in India.
• The update brings new fingerprint animations, smoother multitasking, fresh camera filters and gaming audio tweaks.
• Some users are also reporting dual eSIM support with the update, along with the July 2026 Android security patch.

[/highlights]

OnePlus has started rolling out the OxygenOS 16.0.9.400 update for the OnePlus 15 (review) in India, and this one brings more than just minor fixes. The update adds new fingerprint animation styles, smoother multitasking, fresh camera filters, gaming audio tweaks and a few useful quality-of-life features, making it one of the more feature-packed OxygenOS updates for the device so far. Let's take a detailed look at it below.

What's new?

The OxygenOS 16.0.9.400 update adds a wider set of fingerprint icons and animations on the home and lock screens, along with smoother app opening and switching animations in Recent Tasks

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OnePlus has also added two new camera filters: Primrose, which aims for warm, film-like portraits, and Bold B&W, which is designed for dramatic black-and-white photography.

For gaming, the update brings an equaliser inside Game Assistant so users can fine-tune game audio more precisely. It can be accessed via Game Assistant > Tools > Sound Boost > Equaliser. OnePlus has also improved Sound Boost so it works with more games and can emphasise effects like footsteps or vocals more clearly.

The update also adds remote PC lock support, letting users lock and unlock their PC from the phone after connecting remotely. It also introduces a backup face option for device unlock, which should help if glasses or makeup interfere with regular face recognition.

OnePlus says the update includes the July 2026 Android security patch as part of the rollout. Since this is a staged release, only a small percentage of users are getting it first, with a wider rollout planned in the coming days. Some users are also reporting dual eSIM support with this update, which would make it an even more useful upgrade for people who rely on multiple cellular profiles.

How soon will I get in on my OnePlus device?

As the company's newest flagship, it makes sense that the OnePlus 15 is getting the update first. Since this is an OxygenOS 16-based rollout, other compatible phones (check out the entire list of supported devices) should follow in the coming weeks. That includes the OnePlus 15R, OnePlus 13 series, OnePlus 12 series, OnePlus 11 series, Nord 6 series, Nord 5 series, Nord 4 series and more supported devices. 

This update is not a major OxygenOS overhaul, but it does bring a good mix of useful additions for OnePlus 15 users. If you want the latest security patch and dual eSIM support, this is a good update to install. If you prefer to be cautious, you can wait a few days because the rollout is still staged.

The update adds new camera filters, smoother app and multitasking animations, gaming audio improvements, remote PC lock support and backup face unlock, along with the July 2026 Android security patch.

Some users are also reporting dual eSIM support, which is a more substantial upgrade. It brings the OnePlus 15 in line with other high-end phones that let users juggle physical and eSIM profiles. This is particularly useful in markets like India where people often run separate personal and work numbers or switch between operators. 

[highlights]

• The OPPO Find X9 Ultra and Vivo X300 Ultra feature dual 200MP cameras.
• The OPPO Find X10 Pro Max is likely to be powered by MediaTek's upcoming 2nm flagship processor.
• The smartphone is expected to be released in September or October.

[/highlights]

Instead of debuting just two Find series flagships, OPPO is expected to raise the stakes by releasing three flagships under the Find X10 series in the coming months. Along with the standard Find X10 and Find X10 Pro, the Find X10 Pro Max could tag along, featuring the best of what OPPO has to offer in terms of optics, display, and performance.

But how will OPPO justify the inclusion of a "Pro Max" variant when its standard "Pro" models already come packed with high-end specifications? By including triple 200MP cameras on the back, as stated by the reliable tipster, Digital Chat Station (DCS) on Weibo.

OPPO Find X10 Pro Max to sport three 200MP rear cameras

This is not the first time DCS has stated that the upcoming OPPO Find X10 Pro Max will feature triple 200MP lenses. Back in March, the tipster revealed the sensor sizes of every 200MP camera that could be on board. The latest post simply states that the engineering prototype of the Find X10 Pro Max, which is being referred to as the "2nm DX6 Pro Max", is on track to include three 200MP cameras. It's safe to assume that the 2nm DX6 Pro Max moniker refers to the Pro Max phone featuring the 2nm-based Dimensity 9600/Pro chipset, MediaTek's upcoming successor to the Dimensity 9500.

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As for the actual sensors, the OPPO Find X10 Pro Max could feature a 200MP 1/1.3-inch primary camera, a 200MP 1/1.5-inch ultra-wide camera, and a 200MP 1/1.3-inch periscope telephoto lens. While the primary and periscope lenses appear identical to the Find X9 Ultra, the large 1/1.5-inch ultra-wide sensor could be a noteworthy addition for capturing detailed and crisp wide-perspective shots.

Given the hardware, the X10 Pro Max should deliver an exceptional photography experience in every scenario. Paired with Hasselblad tuning, the smartphone could be well suited for professional photographers and camera hobbyists seeking a device to capture images on the go.

What specifications may OPPO Find X10 Pro Max carry

Per previous leaks and reports, most of which have been brought up by DCS, the Find X10 Pro Max could carry either a 6.89-inch 2K LTPO flat display or a slightly smaller 6.78-inch 1.5K LTPO panel. OPPO Find X10 Pro Max's supposedly closest rival, the Vivo X500 Pro (X300 Pro's successor), may also have a 2K panel this time around.

Built on a 2nm fabrication process, the MediaTek Dimensity 9600/Pro could result in much-needed efficiency gains. The next-gen flagship mobile chipset from MediaTek is also expected to be announced in a couple of months, right around when Qualcomm will unveil the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 in September. On the software front, the OPPO Find X10 series should run on Android 17-based ColorOS 17 out of the box.

With the specs leaked so far, the OPPO Find X10 Pro Max could shake up the flagship segment thanks to its triple 200MP camera array. But OPPO's real edge may lie beyond raw hardware in how the company leverages advanced computational photography and software tuning to make the most out of the sensors. Just like other upcoming flagships, the X10 Pro Max should be announced in China in September or October, while only time will tell whether OPPO brings the device to India or global markets.

[highlights]

• The iOS 27 Public Beta update is available for iPhones as old as iPhone 11.
• The update brings several performance and stability improvements.
• Major highlights of iOS 27 include Siri AI and deeply integrated Apple Intelligence.

[/highlights]

iOS 27 was unveiled to the world back in June during WWDC26. Fast forward to today, three developer beta updates later, iOS 27 Public Beta is now available for everyone to try out, provided you own an eligible iPhone and are ready to take on the risks the beta update may bring. With a brand new Siri, Liquid Glass transparency slider, and tons of stability and performance improvements in tow, iOS 27 appears to be all about refinements and getting back on track.

As for when the stable iOS 27 update will be released, it should arrive in September alongside the next generation of iPhones.

iOS 27 key features worth knowing

Siri AI - Siri on iOS 27 has been completely revamped. Along with a new design, it now supports natural, conversational interactions, understands context from your screen and personal data (like Messages and Calendar), and can perform complex multi-step tasks across apps.

Expanded Apple Intelligence - Apple Intelligence has been deeply integrated into the system. It improves the already available writing tools, image generation, and context-aware suggestions in Safari, Mail, Notes, and more.

[caption id="attachment_708188" align="alignnone" width="1562"] New Siri interface[/caption]

Photos app upgrades - The improved Apple Intelligence improves the Clean Up feature (better object removal and background filling), Spatial Reframing, and Extend (which intelligently expands or crops images).

Performance improvements - One of the key highlights of iOS 27, the entire system feels faster. Animations are quicker, apps launch snappier, AirDrop transfers are faster, and transitions between Wi-Fi and cellular are smoother.

Visual Intelligence - Built directly into the Camera app as a dedicated Siri mode, it makes it easier to analyse objects, get information, or interact with what's in the camera frame.

Design and customisation - Liquid Glass can now be adjusted to appear more tinted or transparent, then there's enhanced wallpaper customisation and subtle aesthetic tweaks throughout the OS for a more polished look.

Parental Controls - The update adds stronger tools for parents, including improved "Ask to Browse" permissions and better management of children's device usage and content access.

Apple's renewed focus on AI with Siri AI and deeply integrated Apple Intelligence comes at a time when competitors like Google and Samsung are also heavily investing in on-device and cloud-based AI. This may also lock users deeper into its ecosystem once they've developed a habit of regularly using AI features in their workflow.

How to download and install iOS 27 Beta update

Here's how you can install the iOS 27 Beta on your iPhone:

Step 1: Go ahead and open any browser and visit beta.apple.com

Step 2: Then, Sign in with your Apple ID

Step 3: Once done, you'll have to sign up for the iOS 27 public beta. To do this, 'Under Get Started', select Enroll your iOS device

Step 4: Now on your iPhone, go to the Settings app > General > Software Update
> Beta Updates. Choose iOS 27 Public Beta

Step 5: Now go to the Software Update section within the General menu

Step 6: The iOS 27 public beta update should pop up. Simply tap 'Download and Install', and you're good to go

Note: Since this is a beta update, we strongly advise you to refrain from downloading on your primary iPhone unless you're on board to face bugs or glitches that may come your way. Secondly, make sure to take a full backup of your device to be on the safer side.

iPhones eligible for iOS 27

The list of iPhones eligible for iOS 27 includes:

• iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone 17e, iPhone Air
• iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max
• iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2020), iPhone SE (2022)

From what's on offer, iOS 27 may not be a major update, but it might be one of the most important ones in recent years. It brings meaningful additions, such as improving the speed and performance of the overall UI; Apple Intelligence is finally showing its true potential, while Siri is now more capable than ever before.

[highlights]

• iQOO 16, Neo 12 and Z12 Turbo are tipped to feature batteries ranging from 8,500mAh to 10,000mAh.
• The iQOO 16 is expected to pair an 8,500mAh battery with the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset and 100W charging.
• The iQOO 16 may reportedly skip India, while the iQOO Z11 Lite remains the company's next confirmed launch in the country.

[/highlights]

iQOO could be preparing a major battery upgrade across its upcoming premium smartphone lineup. Reliable tipster Digital Chat Station has shared fresh details suggesting that the iQOO 16, iQOO Neo 12 and iQOO Z12 Turbo are all being tested with significantly larger batteries than their predecessors, continuing an industry-wide trend towards ultra-high-capacity silicon-carbon batteries.

The leak comes shortly after the same tipster revealed key specifications of the iQOO 16. While none of the details have been confirmed by the company, they indicate that iQOO is looking to balance flagship performance with longer battery life across different price segments, which has pretty much become the trend across the industry.

iQOO upcoming phones key leaked specifications

According to the latest leak (via), the iQOO 16 is currently being tested with an 8,500mAh battery. The phone is expected to be powered by Qualcomm's upcoming 2nm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset and support 100W wired fast charging alongside wireless charging.

The leak also claims that iQOO's next-generation 3nm performance lineup, believed to include the iQOO Neo 12 and iQOO Z12 Turbo, is testing even bigger batteries. One engineering prototype reportedly features a 9,000mAh battery, while another packs a 10,000mAh high-silicon single-cell battery. We've been seeing these numbers ever since OnePlus started the bandwagon in the mid-range with the 9,000mAh cell on the OnePlus Nord 6. Honor is reportedly developing a phone with a 12,000mAh battery, so it's imperative on iQOO's part to give endurance upgrades to keep up with the competition.

Previous reports suggest the iQOO Neo 12 will sport a 6.83-inch flat 2K OLED display with a 185Hz refresh rate. It is also tipped to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, a dedicated graphics chip for gaming, 100W fast charging, an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner and IP68/IP69-rated dust and water resistance.

There is little information about the iQOO Z12 Turbo at the moment. However, since its predecessor is expected to use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, the Z12 Turbo could arrive with Qualcomm's upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 chipset, making it another performance-focused offering in the lineup.

India availability, however, remains uncertain for these phones. Tipster Yogesh Brar claims the iQOO 16 may not launch in India this year, adding that the company could introduce only one budget Z-series phone while scrapping other planned launches. Although iQOO has not commented on these claims, the reported strategy could be due to the rising DRAM and NAND memory prices, which are expected to increase flagship smartphone costs across the industry.

For Indian buyers, the immediate focus remains on the iQOO Z11 Lite, which is set to launch next week, while the standard iQOO Z11 has already appeared on the BIS certification website. Those waiting for the Neo 12 or iQOO 16 may have to wait for official confirmation, particularly as iQOO skipped launching the Neo 11 in India and only refreshed the Neo 10 series with new colour options.

[highlights]

• Sony's new LinkBuds Clip is for users who want more comfortable open-ear earbuds than in-ear models.
• The buds come with an IP4X rating, 10mm drivers and Bluetooth 5.4.  
• The earbuds are available for purchase starting at Rs 18,990. 

[/highlights]

Sony's new LinkBuds Clip targets people who find regular in-ear earbuds uncomfortable because of the canal-style fit or who simply want a more open, all-day listening option. As an alternative to the standard earbuds, they focus on comfort, awareness of your surroundings and a secure fit, while still promising clear sound and reliable call quality. Let's look at the price and what features the new LinkBuds Clip offers in more detail below.

Sony LinkBuds Clip: features

The LinkBuds Clip are designed to let users stay aware of their surroundings while listening to music, taking calls or following podcasts. Sony claims the open-ear design delivers a balanced and natural sound profile without completely blocking outside noise.

The earbuds come with a 10mm driver unit and also include three listening modes. Standard mode is for everyday listening, Voice Boost makes speech clearer in noisy places, and Sound Leakage Reduction helps keep audio more private in shared spaces like trains, offices and elevators.

Sony says the LinkBuds Clip deliver balanced audio across different genres, while its DSEE technology restores some of the detail lost during audio compression. That should ideally make compressed streaming tracks sound a little fuller and more natural.

For calls, Sony has added dual microphones, multipoint connectivity, Precise Voice Pickup and AI-based signal processing to improve voice clarity. The company also says a bone conduction sensor helps capture the user's voice more accurately by reducing background noise.

Sony positions the LinkBuds Clip as a lightweight and secure option for long listening sessions. The earbuds should feel barely noticeable, stay secure during walking, work or travel, and include fitting cushions for a more personalised fit. Sony says the cuff-like design looks more like a simple everyday accessory than a bulky audio device.

The earbuds support Fast Pair for quick Bluetooth pairing with Android devices and Swift Pair for Windows PCs and laptops. They also support single-earbud use, so one earbud can be used independently when needed.

Sony rates the buds' battery life to 37 hours in total, with 9 hours in the earbuds and 28 hours from the case. Sony also says a 3-minute charge can provide up to an hour of listening time. The earbuds carry an IPX4 rating for sweat and splash resistance, and users can tune the sound through the Sound Connect app with a 10-band equaliser.

Should you buy the new LinkBuds Clip?

The LinkBuds Clip come in Green, Greige, Black and Lavender, and Sony has priced them at Rs 18,990. Around its price bracket, the LinkBuds Clip compete against open-ear designs such as Sony's own LinkBuds Open, Nothing's Ear (Open) (review), Soundcore's AeroFit Pro, etc.

These rivals offer hook or ring-style designs and focus on transparency (in Nothing's case) and long-wear comfort, but they generally don't offer the clip-style, jewellery-like form factor Sony is pushing here. 
 
Buyers who are comfortable with a canal-style fit can choose options like Apple's AirPods Pro 3 and Samsung's Galaxy Buds 4 Pro for better noise isolation and ANC. These models cost a bit more, but they often drop into a similar price range during discounts. In that context, the LinkBuds Clip work best for people who value open comfort and awareness of their surroundings over maximum sound isolation, while still wanting a premium experience and feature set.

Samsung's flagship tablet lineup for the year is taking shape, with the rumoured Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra now appearing on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification database. This comes just days after the Galaxy Tab S12+ was spotted on the same database, reinforcing that Samsung is preparing to bring both tablets to India together. The Tab S12 Ultra is expected to top Samsung's tablet range this year, sitting above the Tab S12+. A standard Tab S12 is also expected, though that one hasn't appeared on BIS yet.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra BIS details

The certification listing carries the model numbers SM-X940 and SM-X946B, pointing to Wi-Fi and 5G variants of the tablet, respectively, for the Indian market, similar to the pattern seen with the Tab S12+ (SM-X840 and SM-X846B). A BIS listing doesn't reveal hardware details, but it's typically one of the last regulatory steps before a device goes on sale in India, suggesting Samsung's timeline for the Tab S12 series is firming up.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra specifications (expected)

Leaks so far suggest the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra will hold on to the 14.6-inch display size of its predecessor, continuing Samsung's largest-screen option in the tablet lineup for those who want maximum real estate for multitasking, note-taking, or watching content.

Under the hood, the tablet is tipped to move to MediaTek's 3nm Dimensity 9500 chipset, a generational jump over the Dimensity 9400+ found in the Tab S11 Ultra. Early reports point to a considerably stronger GPU and NPU on the new chip, along with meaningful power efficiency gains, which should translate to smoother multitasking and better sustained performance for creative and productivity workloads.

Battery capacity, however, isn't expected to change much this time. Multiple reports point to Samsung sticking with an 11,600mAh battery, the same capacity as the Tab S11 Ultra, paired with 45W wired charging. This is a contrast to the Tab S12+, which is rumoured to get a battery bump to around 10,500mAh or 10,600mAh, meaning the gap in battery size between the two models could narrow this generation.

On memory and storage, the Tab S12 Ultra is tipped to offer up to 12GB of RAM with 256GB of storage as the base configuration, keeping it positioned as a genuine productivity and creative device meant to rival Apple's iPad Pro lineup.

Software-wise, the tablet is expected to ship with Android 17-based One UI 9.0 out of the box. Given Samsung's current update commitments, it should be eligible for seven years of OS upgrades and security patches, matching the support window expected on the Tab S12+.

Samsung hasn't officially acknowledged the Tab S12 series yet, and industry reports suggest the tablets won't be part of the July Unpacked event, which is expected to focus on new foldables and smartwatches instead. A separate announcement, likely later this year, appears more probable for the Tab S12 lineup. With both the Plus and Ultra models now cleared through BIS, an India launch could follow reasonably soon after Samsung's global unveiling.

If your current Tab S11 Ultra is still performing well, the rumored battery capacity remaining the same might mean the upgrade isn't critical unless the Dimensity 9500's performance gains are paramount for your workflow.

Also read: iPad prices are up 25–40%. Are Android tablets next?

[highlights]

• The Redmi A7 and A7 Pro have received a price hike for the second time.
• The 4G-only Redmi A7 series now starts at Rs 12,499.
• The revised prices are now live on Xiaomi's website.

[/highlights]

Amid the price-hike onslaught, the entry-level Redmi A7 4G and Redmi A7 Pro 4G are the latest devices to receive a price increase. Since the budget and midrange smartphone segments are most affected by the memory crisis, the price revision doesn't come as a surprise. Just recently, POCO raised prices of the X8 Pro series and M8, and it seems like it's now the turn for the Redmi A7 4G series.

Redmi A7, A7 Pro revised prices

Both the Redmi A7 4G and Redmi A7 Pro 4G are now Rs 2,000 more expensive than their launch prices. While the hike may not seem significant, it further reduces options for buyers looking for a smartphone under Rs 12,000. Additionally, the Redmi A7 is available in just one variant, 3GB RAM with 64GB storage.

Phones like the Lava Bold N2 5G now appear to be a stronger choice in this segment, as it offers 4GB RAM for the same price as the Redmi A7 4G (Rs 12,499). Additionally, the Unisoc T8200 chipset in the Lava device brings 5G support, allowing faster browsing and downloads. However, if you prefer a richer and more polished software experience, HyperOS 3 on the Redmi A7 delivers better in that regard, as Lava's software currently offers fewer features.

Moving on to the Redmi A7 Pro, priced at Rs 13,499, it offers 4GB RAM (an upgrade over the Redmi A7) while keeping the same 64GB storage. However, it also lacks 5G connectivity. Therefore, if 5G is a top priority, it's worth considering other similarly priced options like the Ai+ Nova Neo 2 5G.