• POCO X8s has surfaced on Singapore's IMDA certification platform, following earlier EEC and IECEE listings.
• Geekbench lists the phone with a Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, 12GB RAM and Android 16.
• The phone is tipped to launch in select global markets, but an India launch is reportedly not planned.

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POCO could be preparing a new addition to its X series, with a smartphone tipped to launch as the POCO X8s appearing on multiple certification platforms. A Geekbench listing has also offered an early look at its hardware, pointing to the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset.

According to XimiTime, the device carries the model number 2609CPC5FG and is headed to select markets outside India. Its reported specifications suggest POCO could be looking to fill the space between its standard and Pro models, although the phone's final positioning remains unclear.

POCO X8s specifications

The POCO X8s was reportedly spotted on Geekbench in August with the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4, 12GB of RAM and Android 16. Its recent appearance on Singapore's IMDA platform follows earlier listings on Europe's EEC and IECEE certification databases. These certifications do not reveal further hardware details, and POCO has yet to confirm the phone's existence.

The Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset is seen in phones like the OPPO Reno 16, Vivo V80, Motorola Edge 70, Realme 16 Pro+ and Nothing Phone (4a) Pro. They span across different price points and ultimately, the rest of the spec sheet will determine who the POCO X8s actually competes with. Display quality, camera hardware, battery capacity and software support will all influence how it compares with rivals.

The POCO X8 5G is listed in India at a starting price of Rs 26,999 and uses the Snapdragon 6s Gen 4. Its specifications include a 6.83-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, an 8,340mAh battery and 67W charging. The X8s could sit above the standard model, provided it delivers a meaningful performance upgrade without compromising on the other features.

XimiTime suggests the POCO X8s will launch in the Europe, Turkey, Russia and China, with an Indian launch reportedly off the table. The Chinese version is said to carry model number M583CF and could arrive under Redmi branding. POCO hasn't announced a launch date, price or full specifications. Until those details emerge, Indian buyers considering a phone in this segment should compare available Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 options on camera performance, battery life and overall value. If you're in a market where the X8s is expected and are considering a mid-range upgrade, it might be prudent to wait for official details given the promising chipset, especially if value is a key factor.

Here's a closer look at the five ways the OnePlus 16 is an upgrade over the OnePlus 15. 

New Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chipset

OnePlus 16 is powered by the new 2nm Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chip, a generational upgrade over the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 on the OnePlus 15. In comparison, the 3nm Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 is said to deliver 13 percent improved CPU performance, 44 percent improved GPU performance, and 35 percent improved NPU performance over the 8 Elite Gen 5. The chipset also focuses heavily on AI with Adreno Neural Fusion, which uses AI to improve frame generation and image quality in games. The handset is equipped with the new Wind Chaser Game Core to unlock full performance mode and consistent high frame rates in games, along with a self-developed triple e-sports chip. 

We can expect faster performance on the OnePlus 16, especially in terms of gaming. The OnePlus 15 is already a proven performer when it comes to handling graphics-intensive titles, so it's interesting to see how much further OnePlus pushes with its latest flagship and how that translates in real-world usage. 

Upgraded 200MP main camera

OnePlus 16's cameras have also received a major upgrade, with the main camera now a 200MP 1/1.4-inch sensor over the 50MP on the OnePlus 15. The front camera has also been improved to 50MP from 32MP on the new OnePlus flagship.

The rest of the setup is largely the same, with a 50MP telephoto camera (3x optical zoom) and a 50MP ultra-wide camera. With these hardware changes, we can expect much better camera performance on the OnePlus 16 as compared to its predecessor. But how the changes translate into real-world usage is something we can only determine once we test the phone. It's still a welcome move from OnePlus to focus on the cameras too for a flagship more known for its performance and endurance. 

Massive 9,000mAh battery

OnePlus 16 comes with a massive 9,000mAh battery, the largest ever on a OnePlus flagship. It's also among the largest in the high-end flagship phone segment. In comparison to the OnePlus 15, which already offers a large 7,300mAh battery that comfortably lasts over a day even with heavy usage. With the capacity increased to 9,000mAh, we can expect longer endurance on the OnePlus 16. This would be quite beneficial for power users, gamers, or people who rely on long battery life. 

OnePlus 16 also comes with 100W fast charging support, which has interestingly been reduced from 120W on the OnePlus 15. 100W is still pretty fast, and among the highest you can get for a flagship phone. In addition to this, you also get 50W Wireless Flash Charge, 27W wired reverse charging, and bypass charging with the OnePlus 16. So you're not only getting fast wireless charging but you can also use the phone to power other devices, and game without heating issues while the phone is being charged. 

The smartphone is also equipped with OPPO's self-developed energy chip, which is claimed to offer longer battery life with the same capacity. This means that even when the battery capacity is very low or almost empty, the performance will remain stable.

185Hz refresh rate

OnePlus 16's display hardware is similar to the OnePlus but with some key differences. It's a 6.78-inch flat LTPO OLED display with a 1,272 x 2,772 pixel resolution and up to a 185Hz refresh rate. The upgrade here is a maximum refresh rate of 185Hz as opposed to 165Hz on the OnePlus 15, which was already quite rare for a flagship. But OnePlus has clarified that 185Hz will kick in only during gaming and for select titles like Game for Peace, Delta Force, Arena Breakout, CrossFire: Legends, Lost Light, and Counter-Strike: Future.

Otherwise, the display intelligently switches between 1-165Hz, which itself should result in buttery-smooth animations and a scrolling experience. The panel has also been upgraded to BOE's X4 luminescent material, which is a generation above the BOE X3 used on the OnePlus 15. 

Whether the OnePlus 16 does manage to achieve 185fps in the said games is something we'll know in testing, but that itself is a major feat, and the 165Hz for normal scrolling as well. 

Larger and smarter cooling system 

OnePlus 15 has a strong cooling system powered by the Glacier cooling system to handle heat dissipation during extensive use and gaming. This has been upgraded on the OnePlus 16 with a larger vapour chamber that is said to deliver 40 percent better cooling performance. It also features a new generation of thermal conductive gel, which should improve heat dissipation by 50 percent. The handset is also equipped to deliver 2100W/m-K Glacier graphite performance for faster and more uniform heat spreading across the device. Another interesting thing is how the OnePlus 16 directs heat away from where one would typically hold the phone while gaming in landscape mode. 

If you're a gamer or power user still on an older flagship, the OnePlus 16 offers compelling upgrades. However, OnePlus 15 users might find the improvements incremental unless camera or extreme battery life are absolute priorities.

• Tecno Spark 50S 5G will launch in India on October 16th with a redesigned rear camera module.
• The phone has been teased in Burgundy Red and Breeze Blue colour options.
• Specifications and pricing remain under wraps ahead of the launch.

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Tecno is adding another phone to its Spark 50 series in India. The upcoming Spark 50S 5G is set to launch on October 16th, with the first teaser showing a redesigned rear camera module and two colour options. The company is yet to reveal its full specifications or price, but the new model will sit alongside the Spark 50 5G and Spark 50 Pro 5G.

Tecno Spark 50S 5G design and colours

The phone has a horizontal camera visor on the rear, with a slim profile and finishes that look different from the usual black and grey options in this segment. Tecno has shown the Spark 50S 5G in Burgundy Red and Breeze Blue. The former has a deep red finish, while the latter features a lighter blue shade with a reflective sheen. Both versions use the horizontal rear camera module, though the company hasn't yet shared details about the materials or dimensions. The company says the phone is designed for everyday use, including communication, digital payments, streaming and other routine tasks. It remains to be seen what changes the Spark 50S brings beyond the updated design.

The Spark 50S 5G is expected to join the Spark 50 5G and Spark 50 Pro 5G in the series. The Tecno Spark 50 5G launched in India at Rs 17,499 for the 4GB + 128GB storage variant. It features a 6.78-inch HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a MediaTek Dimensity 6400 chipset and a 50MP rear camera. The phone also packs a 6,500mAh battery with 45W charging, runs Android 16-based HiOS 16 and carries MIL-STD-810H certification and an IP64 Pro rating.

The Spark 50 Pro, available in select global markets, is different with a MediaTek Helio G100 Ultimate chipset, a 50MP Sony LYT-600 primary camera and support for 60W wired charging. Tecno hasn't confirmed whether the Spark 50S will share the Spark 50 5G's hardware or introduce changes to its display, cameras or battery. Its pricing will also determine how it competes with other budget 5G phones. For now, the design is the only clear differentiator, and buyers should wait for the October 16th launch before deciding whether the new model offers more than a cosmetic refresh.

• HP ZBook Ultra G3a starts at Rs 2,89,990, excluding taxes.
• The mobile workstation supports local AI models with up to 300 billion parameters.
• It weighs around 1.9kg and features a 16-inch 2.8K OLED display.

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HP has launched the ZBook Ultra G3a 16-inch in India, targeting professionals who need powerful hardware for AI development, engineering, design, and content creation. The new mobile workstation focuses on running demanding AI workloads directly on the device, while its portable design lets users work beyond a fixed desk. Here's what the new ZBook brings to the table.

HP ZBook Ultra G3a: price in India

The HP ZBook Ultra G3a 16-inch starts at Rs 2,89,990, excluding taxes. HP will sell the mobile workstation through its commercial channel partners in India.

HP ZBook Ultra G3a: key features and specifications

The ZBook Ultra G3a is for professionals who need workstation-level performance without carrying a bulky laptop. It uses AMD Ryzen AI Max+ Pro processors, with configurations going up to the Ryzen AI Max+ Pro 495. The hardware focuses on demanding tasks such as AI development, engineering, design and content creation.

"As AI becomes integral to professional workflows, the need for technology that combines performance, mobility and intelligence is growing. The HP ZBook Ultra G3a 16" bridges this gap by bringing AI at the edge to a mobile workstation, enabling users to run advanced AI workloads and apply agentic AI to complex workflows," said Sanjeev Pathak, Senior Director – HP Solutions, HP India

One of its main features is support for running large AI models directly on the laptop. HP says the workstation can handle large language models with up to 300 billion parameters, with up to 192GB of unified memory and up to 160GB dedicated to graphics memory. Its NPU also delivers up to 55 TOPS of AI performance, which should help with supported AI tasks without always relying on cloud services.

The laptop weighs around 1.9kg and measures 17.9mm thick. HP has also redesigned its cooling system to support up to 100W of performance during demanding workloads. This should help users run heavier tasks while working away from a desk.

For the display, the ZBook Ultra G3a features a 16-inch 2.8K OLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate. The high resolution should keep text and visuals sharp, while the OLED panel and its colour accuracy should suit designers and content creators. The 120Hz refresh rate also makes scrolling and supported animations feel smoother.

HP claims up to 14 hours of battery life from the laptop's 96Wh battery. It also supports 140W and 180W GaN USB-C chargers, depending on the configuration, to deliver high charging power in a compact adapter. The laptop also offers 5G connectivity, so users can stay connected when Wi-Fi is not available.

Should you buy the HP ZBook Ultra G3a?

The HP ZBook Ultra G3a starts at Rs 2,89,990 before taxes, which makes it a premium mobile workstation. The Lenovo ThinkPad P16s is a close alternative at around Rs 3.05 lakh, while Dell's Pro Precision 7 Series 16 offers similar workstation capabilities. Both rival machines use dedicated NVIDIA RTX PRO graphics, which can benefit users working with 3D design, rendering and engineering software.

Portability, however, is one of the HP's main advantages. At around 1.9kg, it weighs less than both the Lenovo ThinkPad P16v Gen 3 and Dell Pro Precision 7 Series 16, which weigh around 2.1kg and 2.17kg, respectively. The HP also supports up to 192GB of unified memory, making it particularly useful for professionals who want to run large AI models locally. The ZBook Ultra G3a makes the most sense for AI developers and professionals who need high computing power in a portable machine.

Another option to watch is the upcoming range of NVIDIA RTX Spark-powered laptops from brands such as ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo and MSI. These machines combine an ARM-based processor with a powerful NVIDIA RTX GPU, targeting users who need local AI performance alongside graphics and gaming capabilities. However, the new laptops have yet to launch officially in India, and their local prices remain unconfirmed.

• OnePlus Ace 7, potentially launching in India as the OnePlus 16R, could feature an active cooling fan and a 185Hz OLED display.
• The phone is tipped to pack a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, a 200MP primary camera and a 9,000mAh battery.
• A rumoured Realme phone could share similar hardware, including the cooling fan and 200MP camera.

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OnePlus could be preparing a major change to its performance-focused, sub-flagship Ace lineup, which launches under the 'R' branding outside of China. A leaked schematic of the rumoured Ace 7 shows a built-in cooling fan, while a separate leak suggests Realme could launch a phone with similar hardware under its own branding. The Ace 7 is expected to arrive in India as the OnePlus 16R, although neither phone has been officially announced.

Both brands belong to the OPPO group, making the hardware overlap a real possibility. Built-in cooling fans have started appearing beyond dedicated gaming phones, with brands looking for ways to manage the heat generated by heavy-duty chipsets and demanding workloads.

OnePlus Ace 7 / OnePlus 16R cooling fan and specifications

Tipster Digital Chat Station claims OnePlus will launch a smartphone with an active cooling fan and dual-airflow architecture in China later this month, without explicitly naming the device. The leaked schematic appears to show airflow directed towards both the processor and rear panel, with hot air pushed sideways and cooler air released downwards, away from the user's hands. The system is also said to feature an AI temperature sensor, proprietary cooling technology and measures to reduce fan noise and dust ingress. This would be a first for OnePlus, which has relied on passive cooling in its production smartphones so far.

Built-in fans have traditionally been associated with dedicated gaming phones such as Nubia's RedMagic series and the now archival ASUS ROG phones. However, the concept has spread to other performance devices, with OPPO introducing it in its K13 Turbo series in late 2025, while iQOO launched the iQOO 15 Ultra with one and is now bringing it to the elevated mid-range segment the Neo 12 this month.

Other reported specifications of the OnePlus Ace 7 / 16R include a 6.78-inch flat LTPS OLED display with 1.5K resolution and a 185Hz refresh rate. The phone is tipped to use the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, with a 200MP primary camera, a 50MP periscope telephoto camera offering 3.5x optical zoom, a 16MP selfie camera and a 9,000mAh battery. Charging could be rated at 100W or 120W, depending on which leak proves accurate. Two OnePlus devices, PMS110 and PYF110, have appeared on Geekbench with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, 16GB of RAM and Android 17. At least one could be the Ace 7, but that connection remains unconfirmed.

Realme could launch a similar phone under a different name

Separately, tipster GadgetsData claims Realme is developing a phone with a built-in cooling fan, a flat 1.5K OLED display with an 185Hz refresh rate and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8-series chipset. The camera setup could include a 200MP primary sensor and a 50MP telephoto camera with 3.5x optical zoom, without an ultrawide camera. Other reported features include a battery with a typical capacity of 8,700mAh that could be marketed as 9,000mAh, a metal frame, a flat glass back and a circular RGB light on the rear. The tipster also claims the phone could support gaming at up to 120fps in Battlegrounds Mobile India and 165fps in Call of Duty.

It remains unclear whether this is a separate Realme flagship or the Indian version of the OnePlus 16R coming with Realme branding. The reported camera setup also conflicts with earlier leaks about the two phones.

For buyers, the cooling fan could be a meaningful addition if it helps sustain performance during long gaming sessions. But fan noise, dust protection and actual thermal performance will matter as much as the other specifications. Until OnePlus and Realme clarify their plans, it's too early to know whether these phones will offer meaningfully different experiences or compete with each other.

• Apple HomePod Mini 2 gets new colours, Sound Glow and support for Siri AI through a future software update.
• The new Apple TV 4K features an A19 chip, hands-free Siri AI and a redesigned search experience.
• HomePod Mini 2 costs Rs 18,900, while Apple TV 4K is priced at Rs 39,900 in India.

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Apple wants its living room products to do more than play music or stream shows. Alongside the all-new HomeView, the company has launched the HomePod Mini 2 and a new Apple TV 4K, with Siri AI coming to both and a new four-speaker surround sound setup that brings them together. The idea is to make the Apple TV the centre of home entertainment, with HomePod speakers handling the sound and Siri making it easier to find content and control connected devices.

The two products have different audiences though. HomePod Mini 2 is a relatively affordable entry into Apple's smart home ecosystem, while the new Apple TV 4K is a more expensive upgrade for those who want better performance and a more integrated home theatre.

Apple HomePod Mini 2 features

The Apple HomePod Mini 2 retains its compact design but comes in five colours: pink, green, blue, white and midnight. It costs Rs 18,900 and uses Apple's S10 chip to optimise sound in real time. Users can pair two speakers for stereo sound or spread them across rooms for multiroom audio.

One new addition is Sound Glow, which makes the top of the speaker pulse with colours that respond to the music, including effects inspired by the currently playing song's album artwork. It's a small visual touch, but gives the speaker something beyond sound and voice control to offer.

Siri AI is the bigger change, although it will arrive in a future software update. Apple says it will enable more natural conversations, better music discovery and access to personal context when paired with a compatible Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone or iPad. HomePod mini 2 can recognise up to six people by their voice, while its smart home features include voice-controlled automations and alerts when it detects smoke or carbon monoxide alarm sounds.

Apple TV 4K features

The new Apple TV 4K gets an A19 chip, which Apple claims delivers up to 50 percent faster CPU performance and twice the GPU performance of the previous generation. It also adds a dedicated AV1 decoder for more efficient streaming. The Siri Remote gains Find My support with Precision Finding, addressing the familiar problem of misplacing the remote between sofas.

Siri AI gets a more visible role here as well, with a full-screen interface for finding shows and films, displaying relevant suggestions and answering follow-up questions while something is playing. Three far-field microphones also allow users to talk to Siri without picking up the remote.

The more interesting upgrade is the home theatre setup. For the first time, Apple TV 4K can work with four HomePod Mini 2 speakers to create surround sound, automatically adjusting audio timing and levels based on where the speakers are placed. It also works as a smart home hub, with Wi-Fi, Thread and support for compatible cameras and automations.

Apple HomePod Mini 2 and Apple TV 4K price in India, availability

HomePod Mini 2 costs Rs 18,900 in India and is available to pre-order in pink, green, blue, white and midnight with sales beginning October 30th. The new Apple TV 4K costs Rs 39,900, with pre-orders open and sales starting November 13th.

HomePod Mini 2 is the more accessible option for those who want a compact speaker and smart home controls. The Apple TV 4K makes more sense for people who stream regularly and want a more integrated entertainment setup. The four-speaker surround sound feature is a useful addition, but it also means spending on four speakers alongside the TV box. Those who already own a soundbar or a capable home theatre system may find less reason to upgrade, while existing Apple users looking to build their setup from scratch have more to gain.

• OPPO Find X10 and Find X10 Pro Max retail box labels reveal their listed MRPs.
• The Find X10 has an MRP of Rs 1,79,999, while the Pro Max lists at Rs 2,39,999.
• Both phones are expected to launch in India on October 22.

[/highlights]

The OPPO Find X10 and Find X10 Pro Max are set to launch in India on October 22, and their retail box labels have now leaked online, revealing their listed maximum retail prices. The two flagships are expected to bring high-end hardware, with the Pro Max focusing heavily on camera performance. Here's what the price listings reveal and what buyers can expect from the upcoming phones.

OPPO Find X10, X10 Pro Max: leaked prices 

The alleged retail box labels shared by tipster Abhishek Yadav on X reveal the maximum retail prices (MRPs) of both smartphones ahead of their India launch on October 22. The OPPO Find X10 carries an MRP of Rs 1,79,999, while the Find X10 Pro Max has an MRP of Rs 2,39,999. These are the prices printed on the boxes, not the confirmed selling prices.

EXCLUSIVE: Retail box labels of the OPPO Find X10 and Find X10 Pro Max have surfaced in India ahead of the October 22 launch 🇮🇳 OPPO Find X10 Pro Max (CPH2913) carries an MRP of ₹2,39,999 and weighs 233g, measuring 16.13 x 7.66 x 0.84 cm, manufactured in October 2026. OPPO Find X10 (CPH2911) carries an MRP of ₹1,79,999 and weighs 216g, measuring 15.65 x 7.43 x 0.84 cm, manufactured in September 2026. Both are made in India and come with a charger, USB cable, SIM tool and a protective case in the box. As always, the actual selling price should be well below the MRP #OPPO #FindX10 #FindX10ProMax

— Abhishek Yadav (@yabhishekhd) October 13, 2026

The labels also reveal the phones' model numbers, weight and dimensions. Both devices are listed as made in India and will include a charger, USB cable, SIM ejector tool and protective case in the box.

The actual selling prices should be lower than the listed MRPs, but we'll only know the actual pricing once the phones officially launch. 

OPPO Find X10 series: features and specifications

The OPPO Find X10 Pro Max is the more premium model, with a key focus on camera performance. It features three 200MP rear cameras, covering the main, ultrawide and periscope telephoto lenses. For context, the Find X9 Pro, which is its predecessor, featured only a single 200MP telephoto sensor, so there's a big jump in high-resolution lenses. This setup will give users multitudes of shooting options, from capturing wide landscapes to photographing distant subjects. 

The phone also supports 8K Log video recording across all three rear cameras and 4K video recording at up to 120fps with Dolby Vision. These features are ideal for users who want more control over video recording, while OPPO's Hasselblad camera partnership focuses on colour tuning and image processing.

For performance, the Find X10 Pro Max uses the MediaTek Dimensity 9600 Pro, a flagship chipset built on a 2nm process. It also features a 6.78-inch LTPO OLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and an 8,000mAh battery. The phone supports 80W wired charging, along with wireless charging. The large battery should help users get through longer gaming and streaming sessions even on busy days.

The standard OPPO Find X10 uses the MediaTek Dimensity 9600M chipset. It has a smaller 6.59-inch AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and a triple rear camera setup comprising a 200MP main camera, a 50MP ultrawide camera and a 200MP telephoto camera. It also packs an 8,000mAh battery with 80W wired charging. This makes it a more compact option while retaining high-end camera hardware and a large battery.

Should you buy the OPPO Find X10 series?

The listed MRPs are definitely high, but actual selling prices could be 30–40 per cent lower, as is often the case with smartphones. If OPPO follows this pricing pattern, the Find X10 could cost around Rs 1.08 lakh to Rs 1.26 lakh, while the Find X10 Pro Max could fall between Rs 1.44 lakh and Rs 1.68 lakh. It goes without saying, but these are our estimates, not confirmed prices.

The phones pack high-end chipsets, advanced cameras and the latest RAM and storage standards, and the latter have become much more expensive. At these prices, they will compete with previous-generation flagships such as the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, iPhone 17 Pro Max and Vivo X300 Ultra. These phones already offer excellent cameras and performance, so OPPO will need to justify the extra cost.

The Find X10 Pro Max suits users who prioritise photography and video, while the standard Find X10 could appeal to those who want a flagship without paying for the top-end model. However, it is worth waiting for OPPO to confirm the actual selling prices on October 22 before committing

• The iQOO 15 will be the first smartphone to receive stable OriginOS 7 update.
• The update rollout is set to be completed by the end of February.
• OriginOS 7 updates the visual design by bringing translucent and light effects.

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Just as Vivo unveiled the OriginOS 7 rollout schedule, iQOO quickly announced its own device update release plan. Based on Android 17, the update promises a refined design language with the introduction of Dynamic Translucent Material, advanced multitasking capabilities through Origin Workbench, and a slew of new AI functionalities. With the flagship iQOO 15 set to receive the stable update by the end of this month, here's when other eligible iQOO smartphones will get the update:

iQOO OriginOS 7 rollout schedule for India

Here's when iQOO will start the rollout of OriginOS 7 in India for its eligible devices, which are mentioned below:

Since the release timeline doesn't specify rollout dates, users will have to expect the update to drop during the allotted phase.

What improvements and changes does OriginOS 7 offer

While we've already covered OriginOS 7 in-depth in our dedicated hands-on story, here's a gist of what it brings to the table. OriginOS 7 upgrades the Origin Design language with Dynamic Translucent Material, adding transparency to elements, plus Dynamic Glow for a luminous effect. Furthermore, touch elements bounce, stretch, and flow naturally with liquid dynamics tracking finger direction and speed. This is similar to ColorOS 17's Living Flow Design, which also brings lighting effects to several elements.

OriginOS 7 brings multiple lockscreen themes, such as Wiggle, Glint, and Pet Pals, that add distinct visual flair statically or through user input, such as screen interaction or tilting the phone. Then there's the StickIt feature, which lets you add pre-defined or self-created stickers to the lockscreen or home screen.

Then there's Origin Workbench, a desktop-grade multitasking workspace that lets you comfortably organise and run up to five active apps simultaneously on a single screen on your regular slab-based phone and foldable smartphone. Like many brands, Vivo is upgrading its AI assistant, Jovi, to help users with their tasks. Instead of responding to simple commands, Jovi can now find information, read and dissect content from files, set scheduled tasks, and deliver consistent, relevant results.

Together, these features should create a comprehensive software experience: Origin Workbench lets users switch instantly between multiple apps, while Jovi AI can help with tasks that require sorting or organising files and photos.

Overall, OriginOS 7 looks set to deliver a substantial upgrade. Beyond smoother animations and more responsive UI interactions, it introduces tools such as Origin Workbench for seamless multitasking and enables Jovi AI to act independently. Customisation options expand further with new lockscreen themes and stickers, letting users design their preferred lockscreen, while dark-themed icons can pair nicely with lighter wallpapers.

• Redmi K100 will be the third phone in the lineup.
• The smartphone is expected to house a 10,000mAh battery.
• It could be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 V Series chipset. 

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Redmi could be adding a new smartphone to its K100 lineup soon. The Redmi K100 has been rumoured for quite some time now, and a new leak reveals its possible launch timeline. Redmi K100 will be the standard model in the lineup, joining the K100 Pro and K100 Pro Max. The smartphone's highlight will be its massive 10,000mAh battery. 

Redmi K100 launch timeline (expected)

Redmi is reportedly planning to launch the K100 by the end of this month, according to tipster Smart Pikachu. This is a new development, as it was previously said that the Redmi K100 would debut by the end of this year. The tipster added that the Redmi K100 will offer a combination of Snapdragon dual-chip performance, a massive battery, an ultra-high-refresh-rate display, and Bose-tuned audio. This setup isn't surprising, as Redmi's K100 series focuses on performance and endurance. 

Redmi K100 specifications (expected)

According to previous leaks, the Redmi K100 is tipped to feature a large display between 6.8 and 6.9 inches with a 165Hz - 185Hz refresh rate. The smartphone is also expected to house a massive 10,000mAh battery, or something close to it. If accurate, it would be a notable upgrade over the Redmi K90's 7,100 mAh battery. This setup makes for a powerful smartphone, especially for gaming, thanks to the high refresh rate and reliable battery life. 

The smartphone is expected to be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite 5 V chipset, which is based on the flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite 5. It could be paired with a dedicated display chip to enhance the gaming experience even more. The Redmi K100 is also said to come with symmetrical dual speakers, a large linear vibration motor, and a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint sensor. 

All leaks point towards dedicated gaming and performance hardware for the Redmi K100. With an imminent launch, it would make sense to wait for the Redmi K100 if you want a gaming-focused smartphone with a large battery. 

• Apple HomeView features a 7-inch Liquid Retina display and Siri AI, with personalised profiles for up to six people.
• The smart display costs Rs 39,900 in India, with sales starting November 13th.
• The tabletop model comes in four colours, while the wall-mounted version is available in two.

[/highlights]

Apple wants a bigger presence in your home, and HomeView is its latest attempt to get there. The company has launched a new smart display that puts Siri AI, FaceTime, music, photos and smart home controls on a screen that can sit on your bedside table or be mounted on a wall. It costs Rs 39,900 in India, which is well above Amazon's more affordable Echo Show displays, the dominant leader in the category in India. The idea is to give the whole family one screen without making everyone share the same digital space.

Apple HomeView features

HomeView has a 7-inch Liquid Retina display which sits above a domed aluminium speaker base, connected by a stainless steel hinge that lets users adjust its angle. The display has True Tone and automatic brightness adjustment, ranging from 500 nits in bright conditions to 0.3 nits at night, making it suitable for a bedside table too. The interface adapts to how close someone is, showing simpler information from across the room and more detail when they approach. Apple is also selling a wall-mounted version.

Its more interesting feature is facial recognition. HomeView can recognise up to six people and show each one their own Home Screen, including personal content from Messages, Calendar, Reminders and FaceTime. Shared photo albums and music remain available to everyone. That is different from treating a smart display as little more than a voice assistant with a screen attached. Apple wants HomeView to feel personal even though it stays in a common area of the house.

HomeView runs Apple's new Siri AI, which the company says can handle more natural conversations, answer general knowledge questions and offer better music recommendations. Pair it with a compatible Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone or iPad, and Siri can also draw on personal information from apps such as Messages and Calendar.

The display doubles as an entertainment and communication device, with FaceTime coupled with Center Stage, Apple Music, Apple Podcasts, Apple TV and compatible third-party apps. Its speaker system has two full-range drivers, a down-firing woofer and two force-cancelling passive radiators. Users can also follow recipes, set timers and control compatible lights, locks, thermostats and blinds.

HomeView can show up to nine camera feeds at once. Some of its more advanced security features, including recognition of familiar faces, pets and packages, require compatible cameras and an iCloud+ subscription. HomeView also acts as a smart home dashboard, letting users control compatible lights, thermostats, locks and blinds. 

If its Apple, it's private. Personal information is protected through on-device security features, and the company says data processed through its Private Cloud Compute system is not stored or made accessible to Apple.

Apple HomeView price in India: is it worth the premium?

Apple HomeView and its wall-mounted version are available to pre-order in India for Rs 39,900 each, while sales begin November 13th. The mounts for the wall-mounted model cost extra, starting at Rs 6,900. The tabletop model is available in silver, starlight, rose pink and space gray, with a matching cable for each finish. The wall-mounted version, available in silver and space gray, is designed for places such as hallways and entryways.

At this price, HomeView is a harder sell than its own HomePod or an Amazon Echo. Amazon's Echo Show range offers many of the basics, including voice control, entertainment and smart home management, for much less. Google-compatible devices and Indian brands such as Qubo also cover several everyday smart home needs without requiring a Rs 40,000 home in your pocket.

HomeView's appeal will largely depend on how much someone values Apple's ecosystem. If the household already uses iPhones, Apple Music and other Apple services, having personal information, calls, photos and home controls together could be useful. Those who simply want to check a security camera or switch off the lights with a voice command have cheaper options. HomeView is better suited to households that want a permanent screen for calls, personal information and home automation, particularly if everyone already uses Apple devices.

• Vivo X500 E has already appeared on the Bluetooth SIG platform.
• It's expected to debut globally soon.
• The smartphone might launch as a Vivo V80 rebrand.

[/highlights]

Vivo X500 E was recently spotted on the Bluetooth SIG and Google Play Console databases, suggesting an imminent launch. The smartphone is expected to launch as a successor to the Vivo X300 E, which debuted earlier this year in July. There's not much known about the Vivo X500 E, with some speculating it will launch as a Vivo V80 rebrand. 91mobiles has now spotted the X500 E on the Google Play Console listing, this time with its key specs and image. 

Vivo X500 E Google Play Console listing details

Vivo X500 E has appeared on the Google Play Console database with the model number V2648. It has been listed with a Qualcomm SM7750 chipset, which is widely known as the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4. This is also the same chipset powering the Vivo V80. The listing also reveals the X500 E's display will come with 1260 x 2750 pixels resolution and 8GB of RAM. We also get a look at the front design of the X500 E, confirming it's a flat panel with a punch-hole camera. 

[gallery link="file" size="full" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="718675,718676"]

There's not much else known about the Vivo X500 E, but it's tipped to feature a 64MP periscope telephoto camera and a 7,500mAh battery. These specs would make the X500 E stand out with the combination of a versatile telephoto camera and a large battery. It would also be different from the Vivo V80, which has a 50MP camera and a 7,200mAh battery. 

Since all these details are based on speculation, it's too early to say if Vivo is indeed launching the X500 E as a rebrand or not. Also, the Vivo V80 is already available in India, so the X500 E could be limited to select markets. We should wait for more concrete information before coming to conclusions. But the X500 E could still be what you're waiting for if you've been looking for a Vivo flagship at a more accessible price. 

• Infinix GT 50 Pro will launch in India on October 27.
• It features a Dimensity 8400 Ultimate chipset with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.1 storage.
• The phone includes a magnetic cooler and built-in shoulder triggers.

[/highlights]

Infinix has confirmed that the GT 50 Pro will launch in India on October 27, targeting gamers who want sustained performance during long gaming sessions. The phone features a MediaTek Dimensity 8400 Ultimate chipset, a liquid cooling system with visible channels on the rear panel, and a 144Hz AMOLED display. Here's what we know about it so far.

Infinix GT 50 Pro: features, specifications

he Infinix GT 50 Pro focuses on gaming performance, with a MediaTek Dimensity 8400 Ultimate chipset, liquid cooling and dedicated gaming controls. It also packs a 144Hz AMOLED display and a 6,500mAh battery, which should make it suitable for users who spend long hours playing games on their phones.

The phone uses a liquid cooling system with visible channels beneath the rear panel to help draw heat away from the processor. Infinix has also added an external magnetic cooler, which will come in the box in India. The cooler supports 30W wireless bypass charging, allowing users to power the phone directly while gaming.

These features should help the phone manage heat during long gaming sessions. Infinix says the GT 50 Pro can reach 144FPS in supported games, including Free Fire MAX and Call of Duty: Mobile. Actual frame rates will depend on the game and its graphics settings.

The 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED display supports a 144Hz refresh rate, which should make supported games and animations look smoother. The phone also adds pressure-sensitive shoulder triggers that let players map controls such as aiming and firing to buttons on the sides. This can make controls easier to manage in supported games instead of relying entirely on the touchscreen.

For everyday use, the GT 50 Pro packs a 6,500mAh battery with 45W wired and 30W wireless charging. It also uses LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.1 storage, which should help apps and games load quickly. The company has confirmed that the Infinix GT 50 Pro will launch in India on October 27. It has not shared the phone's price or full specifications yet.

Infinix GT 50 Pro: should you wait?

The Infinix GT 50 Pro follows the same gaming-focused approach as the GT 30 Pro (review), which launched in India in 2025 at Rs 24,999. The new model, however, could cost around Rs 40,000, given its more advanced cooling system and high-speed LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.1 storage, both of which have become exponentially more expensive. This is still an estimate, and we will know more when Infinix announces the official price.

At this price, the GT 50 Pro could compete with phones such as the OnePlus Nord CE 6 and POCO X8 Pro. The Nord CE 6 comes with a Snapdragon 7s Gen, a similar 144Hz AMOLED display, alongside an 8,000mAh battery. The POCO X8 Pro, meanwhile, has a powerful Dimensity 8500 chipset, a 1.5K 120Hz AMOLED display and 100W charging. The Infinix GT 50 Pro's 144Hz display, liquid cooling, shoulder triggers and included magnetic cooler make it a more gaming-centric phone compared to the other two, but performance-wise, all three are quite comparable, with POCO in a slight lead.  

The main question is whether Infinix can justify the expected price jump. The GT 50 Pro could appeal to users who prioritise gaming and want dedicated controls and better cooling, but a price close to Rs 40,000 would put it in a much more competitive segment. 

• The OPPO Reno X could feature a 6.35-inch 1.5K display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a wide 16:9 or 16:10 aspect ratio.
• The phone is tipped to pack two 200MP rear cameras, a 50MP ultrawide camera, and a MediaTek Dimensity 9000-series chipset.
• A previous leak suggested a 7,000mAh battery.

[/highlights]

Remember the Samsung Galaxy Note? Before tall, narrower displays became the norm, big-screen phones often had wider proportions with phones that were more like phablets. OPPO could be bringing that design back with the rumoured Reno X, which is tipped to feature a 6.35-inch display with a 16:9 or 16:10 aspect ratio. The phone could also pack two 200MP rear cameras, including a periscope telephoto shooter, although OPPO hasn't confirmed any of these details yet.

OPPO Reno X specifications

Tipster Gadgetsdata has shared the alleged specifications of the Reno X, describing it as a compact but wide slab phone. The device is said to feature a flat 6.35-inch display with 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 16:9 or 16:10 aspect ratio. That would make it look and feel different from most phones today, which have taller screens, but Huawei has brought back that concept with the Pura X View. A wider display could be handy when watching videos or playing games in landscape mode, without needing a foldable phone. The trade-off is that the phone could feel broader in the hand, and not every app will make the most of the extra horizontal space.

The camera hardware is ambitious too, much in line with the philosophy of the Reno series. The Reno X is tipped to feature a 200MP main camera with optical image stabilisation, a 50MP ultrawide camera, and a 200MP periscope telephoto camera. It could also use a MediaTek Dimensity 9000-series chipset and a metal frame. An earlier rumour mentioned a 7,000mAh battery, although that detail is yet to be corroborated.

Two 200MP cameras look impressive on paper, particularly the periscope unit, which could help with long-range zoom shots. But megapixel counts only tell part of the story. Image processing and actual zoom quality will determine whether the camera setup stands out against competing phones from Vivo and Samsung.

Notably, OPPO may be trying this new design in the Reno series rather than its flagship Find lineup. In India, Reno phones now start at Rs 52,999 and go up to Rs 72,999, putting them well above their original mid-range segment. That leaves room for a phone that offers something different from the usual glass slab without going down the foldable route. Still, a wide screen alone won't be enough to make the Reno X a compelling buy. Its dimensions, software experience, camera performance, and price will matter just as much.

OPPO hasn't confirmed the Reno X or announced a launch date. If you want a phone that's comfortable for video and gaming, the wider display is worth watching. If you're mainly after a good camera phone, though, it's better to wait for camera samples and pricing before getting excited about the two 200MP sensors. The idea is interesting, but we'll need to see the actual phone to know whether the wide design is genuinely useful or simply different.

• ColorOS 17 will roll out to several devices starting October 29th, 2026.
• The update focuses on smoothness, design, and AI features.
• The rollout will continue for all devices until Q1 2027.

[/highlights]

After multiple teasers and build-up, ColorOS 17 has been unveiled globally, promising an even livelier experience than ColorOS 16, with a translucent design language, luminous effects, and bouncy interactions. While the OPPO Find X10 series will be the first phones to run ColorOS 17 out of the box, launching internationally on October 21st, a slew of flagships from OPPO, OnePlus, and Realme will receive the update by the end of this month. For the uninitiated, OxygenOS and Realme UI have been officially phased out in favour of ColorOS 17.

ColorOS 17 key features, improvements

ColorOS 17 brings a host of new improvements and upgrades across design, customisation, and AI. Have a look at the key changes:

Living Flow Design: Aimed to make the experience seamless; every element has been reworked to have some kind of transition when moving from one page or section to another. Accompanying the transitions are luminous light effects, along with bouncy and stretchy animations when interacting with buttons or menus. These effects can be found on lockscreen clock, quick settings panel, navigation bars, and other key areas.

Luminous Rendering Engine: A new rendering architecture that uses less RAM, improving animation performance. This should also improve efficiency. Per OPPO, ColorOS 17 can retain over 90 percent of its initial smoothness, even with storage at 90 percent capacity.

Improved customisation: ColorOS 17 introduces a couple of new lockscreen clock styles, along with weather effects that depict the climate in real time, such as sunny, rain, and fog. It also adds a new theme called 'Esports mode' that changes the look and feel of the game manager UI. On the home screen, there haven't been major changes, except that every folder, clock, and icon now has light and transparency effects.

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AI improvements (AI Mind Pilot, AI Suggest, OSee): OPPO has introduced AI Mind Pilot on ColorOS 17, a dedicated app that bundles ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity into a single system that can perform tasks and actions based on the user's prompt. The AI Agent mode can also access locally stored files and photos and sort, organise, or combine them. This is similar to Google's Gemini Spark and Grok Bot, which can perform tasks as the user requests.

ColorOS 17 rollout schedule for OPPO, OnePlus, Realme

Here's when your OPPO, OnePlus, and Realme smartphone will receive the ColorOS 17 update, if eligible:

OPPO

OnePlus

Realme

Our ColorOS 17 hands-on notes show that the new software delivers an immaculate experience in usability, personalisation, and AI functionality. It continues to carry ColorOS' philosophy of being fast, smooth, and smart, and should offer an impressive experience for users coming from other skins.

• CMF Speaker M and Speaker S are the brand's first Bluetooth speakers, with prices starting at USD 59 (around Rs 5,600).
• Both speakers have a milk-carton-inspired design, removable panels, and IP68 dust and water resistance.
• The larger Speaker M delivers 35W output, while the compact Speaker S offers 10W output with up to 18 hours of playback.

[/highlights]

CMF has made a name for itself with colourful gadgets and quirky designs, and its first Bluetooth speakers are doing "Nothing" different. The new Speaker M and Speaker S look like milk cartons, complete with oversized knobs, carry handles, and bright colours. But there's more to them than their unusual looks, with both speakers offering IP68 dust and water resistance, customisable panels, and up to 18 hours of battery life.

CMF Speaker M and Speaker S features

The CMF Speaker S is the smaller of the two, measuring 130.5 x 85 x 44 mm and weighing 334 gms. It uses a 45 mm full-range driver and two passive radiators to reinforce bass, with an output of 10W RMS. Its compact size should make it a better fit for desks, bedrooms, and casual listening on the go.

The Speaker M is larger at 220 x 85 x 54 mm and weighs 602 gms. It packs a 70 mm woofer and a 16 mm tweeter, delivering 35W RMS output. The dedicated drivers should give it more room to handle bass and higher frequencies, making it the more suitable option for filling a living room or providing music at a small gathering.

[caption id="attachment_718597" align="alignnone" width="846"] CMF Speaker S[/caption]

Both speakers promise up to 18 hours of playback at 50 percent volume with Ultra Bass enabled. A 10-minute charge provides up to an hour of listening, while a full charge takes three hours on the Speaker M and 2.5 hours on the Speaker S.

The shared features include Bluetooth 6.0, NFC tap-to-pair, USB-C audio playback, and dual-device connectivity. Users can pair two identical speakers for stereo sound or use Auracast-based Party Mode to synchronise compatible speakers for simultaneous playback. Both also offer custom EQ settings, Wide Soundstage mode, and Night Mode, which limits maximum loudness to around 60 percent of Standard Mode.

Design

The milk-carton look is not just for show. Both speakers have removable front panels and knobs, letting owners change their appearance. CMF also provides a guide for 3D-printing replacement panels and knobs, which is a nice touch for people who like customising their gadgets. The speakers come in white, dark grey, orange, and turquoise.

CMF and its parent Nothing have been doing this for a while now - make products that stand out visually. The design could appeal to younger buyers, students, and anyone who wants a speaker to double as a desk accessory rather than blend into the background.

Price and availability

The CMF Speaker S costs USD 59 (around Rs 5,600), while the Speaker M is priced at USD 109 (around Rs 10,400). Both are available through Nothing's website and select retail partners. India pricing and availability haven't been announced.

The Speaker S looks like the more practical pick for personal listening and portability, while the Speaker M's higher output should suit people who want to play music in larger spaces. Both will compete with portable speakers from JBL and other brands, where sound quality and battery performance matter as much as design.

• Realme 16 prices have increased by up to Rs 5,000 in India.
• All three Realme 16T variants have become Rs 1,000 more expensive.
• The Realme 16 now starts at Rs 41,999, while the 16T starts at Rs 31,999.

[/highlights]

Realme has increased the prices of its Realme 16 5G and Realme 16T 5G smartphones in India once again, with the latest revision raising prices by up to Rs 5,000. The Realme 16 seeing the biggest increase, while all three variants of the Realme 16T have become Rs 1,000 more expensive. The new prices are now live across Realme.com and other e-commerce websites.

Realme 16 5G, 16T 5G prices hiked

The Realme 16 5G has received another price hike, with its variants now costing up to Rs 5,000 more. The 8GB + 128GB variant now costs Rs 41,999, while the 8GB + 256GB and 12GB + 256GB variants cost Rs 43,999 and Rs 47,999, respectively.

The Realme 16T 5G has also become more expensive, with all three variants receiving a Rs 1,000 price increase. The 6GB + 128GB model now costs Rs 31,999, while the 8GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB variants cost Rs 33,999 and Rs 36,999, respectively.

Should you still buy the Realme 16 or 16T?

The Realme 16 offers a compact 6.57-inch display, a unique selfie mirror design and a 7,000mAh battery, making it a balanced option for everyday use. The Realme 16T, meanwhile, packs an even larger 8,000mAh battery, making it a suitable choice for users who prioritise battery life.

However, these repeated price hikes make both phones harder to recommend at their revised prices. Buyers should compare them with alternatives in the same price range before making a decision, as rival smartphones may offer better value for money.

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

[/highlights]

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

Vivo V80, X Fold6 price in India and sale offers

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

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

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

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

Vivo X Fold6 specifications 

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

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

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

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

Vivo V80 specifications

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

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

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

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

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

[/highlights]

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

Google Fitbit Edge specifications and features

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[/highlights]

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

Vivo X500 E launch tipped

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[/highlights]

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

OnePlus 16R specifications (expected)

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

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

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

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

[/highlights]

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

OPPO Find X10 series specifications and India launch offers

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

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

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

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

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

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

iQOO Neo12 specifications

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

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

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

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

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

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

Launch and India availability

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

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

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

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

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

OPPO Pad Mini India launch

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Kindle mode is its biggest differentiator

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

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

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

2. Alexa+ brings AI into the everyday tablet experience

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

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

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

3. The hardware takes a premium turn

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

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

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

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

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

5. Performance that is optimised

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

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

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

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

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

OnePlus 16 specifications and features

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

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

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

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

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

OnePlus 16 price and availability in China

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

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

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

Will the OnePlus 16 launch in India?

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

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

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