• The Vivo V80 FE has appeared on India's BIS certification website with model number V2624.
• The listing follows its appearance on Indonesia's SDPPI certification website, which identified it as the V80 FE.
• The Vivo V80 just launched in India earlier this month.

[/highlights]

Vivo just kicked things off for the V80 series with the launch of the standard Vivo V80 in India earlier this month, but a more affordable model could be on the way. The Vivo V80 FE has appeared on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification website with model number V2624, hinting at a possible India launch.

The listing follows the phone's appearance on Indonesia's SDPPI certification website on October 8th, where the model number was linked to the V80 FE name. Neither certification listing reveals its specifications, so details about its processor, cameras, battery and pricing remain unknown. Vivo has also yet to announce the phone or confirm its launch plans.

Vivo V80 FE India launch details

The BIS listing suggests that the V80 FE is being prepared for the Indian market, although certification alone doesn't confirm when it will launch. Its appearance also comes shortly after the standard Vivo V80 went on sale in India on October 13th, with October 16th i.e today being mentioned as the "Date of grant".

The Vivo V80 starts at Rs 62,999 for the 8GB + 128GB storage variant, going up to Rs 79,999 for the 512GB model. It focuses on photography with Zeiss cameras, including a 50MP main sensor with OIS and a 50MP telephoto camera, alongside a 1.5K 144Hz AMOLED display and a 7,200mAh battery with 90W charging. The FE variant could offer a more accessible alternative, much like its predecessor, the Vivo V70 FE. However, there's no confirmation yet of how much Vivo plans to change the hardware or where the new model will sit in the lineup.

Should you wait for the phone?

The Vivo V70 FE offers a useful indication of what the next FE model could target. It features a 6.83-inch 1.5K 120Hz AMOLED display, a MediaTek Dimensity 7360 Turbo chipset, a 200MP main camera and a 7,000mAh battery with 90W charging. Its 8GB RAM and 128GB storage variant launched at Rs 37,999 and now costs around Rs 44,999. With the V80 starting at a considerably higher price, the V80 FE could appeal to buyers who want Vivo's cameras and large batteries without spending over Rs 60,000. However, its price is likely to be an important factor, especially as the V70 FE already offers a high-resolution main camera and fast charging.

For now, buyers who need a phone immediately can consider the V70 FE, while those willing to wait should look out for more concrete details about the V80 FE. Its certification listing is an early sign of a possible launch, not confirmation of its specifications, price or availability.

• The Redmi Turbo 6 and Turbo 6 Max have reportedly surfaced in the IMEI database, hinting at an international launch.
• The standard model is tipped to feature a 7-inch display, a 10,000mAh battery and a Dimensity 8600 chipset.
• The Turbo 6 Max could get a 2K display, a Dimensity 9600s processor and IP68/IP69 ratings.

[/highlights]

Xiaomi's next performance-focused smartphones could be moving closer to launch, with the Redmi Turbo 6 and Turbo 6 Max reportedly appearing in the IMEI database. The listings, shared by XimiTime, reveal multiple model numbers for both phones and offer an early indication of their international availability. The phones are expected to debut in China first, with a global launch possible later.

The listings don't confirm the final product names or specifications, but they suggest Xiaomi is preparing successors to the Redmi Turbo 5 series, which focuses on performance and battery life. The model numbers also point to a possible launch window in the first quarter of 2027.

Redmi Turbo 6 series launch timeline and international availability

The standard Redmi Turbo 6, codenamed Sofia and also identified as Q10, is associated with model numbers 2703BPC40G, 2703BRT40I, 2703BPC40I and M407CF. The Redmi Turbo 6 Max, codenamed Denver or Q10U, has reportedly appeared with model numbers 27011RT78I, 27011PC78I and 27011PC78G.

Based on the model number pattern, the phones could launch between January and March 2027, following the Redmi Turbo 5 series, which debuted in China in January. The Turbo 6 Max is specifically tipped to launch in China in January, although it's unclear whether the standard model will arrive at the same time.

Xiaomi hasn't confirmed the phones or their launch dates. The international names are also unconfirmed, although reports suggest the Turbo 6 and Turbo 6 Max could be rebranded as the POCO X9 Pro and POCO X9 Pro Max in global markets.

Redmi Turbo 6 and Turbo 6 Max specifications

As per previous leaks, the standard Redmi Turbo 6 is tipped to feature a 7-inch display and a 10,000mAh battery. It could use an upcoming MediaTek Dimensity 8-series chipset, believed to be the Dimensity 8600 built on TSMC's 3nm process. If accurate, the combination would offer a substantial upgrade over the Redmi Turbo 5's Dimensity 8500-Ultra and 7,540mAh battery.

The Turbo 6 Max is expected to sit higher in the lineup, with a MediaTek Dimensity 9-series processor, possibly the unannounced Dimensity 9600s. Previous leaks have pointed to a 2K display, while newer reports mention an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner, a metal middle frame and IP68/IP69 dust and water resistance. Its battery could also reach 10,000mAh.

For context, the Redmi Turbo 5 Max already offers a Dimensity 9500s chipset, a 9,000mAh battery and a 6.83-inch 1.5K OLED display. The next model could therefore focus on improving display sharpness, durability and battery capacity rather than performance alone.

A 7-inch screen and a 10,000mAh battery could appeal to users who game frequently or want longer battery life, but they may also make the phone larger and heavier. With OnePlus and Realme already pushing battery capacities higher, Xiaomi may need a similarly ambitious upgrade to remain competitive. Buyers should wait for confirmed specifications, pricing and availability before deciding whether the new models are worth holding out for. The phones could come to India as the Turbo 5 launched in India as the first Turbo series phone.

• Tecno Spark 50s 5G price in India starts at Rs 22,999.
• The handset comes in Burgundy Red and Breeze Blue colours. 
• It has dedicated network features for better connectivity. 

[/highlights]

Tecno has launched a new budget smartphone in India. The Tecno Spark 50s 5G comes with a fresh design, a 6,500mAh battery, good durability, dedicated network features, and more. Tecno Spark 50s 5G is priced under Rs 20,000 and offers 6GB RAM as the base variant, giving the phone a good reason to be a strong contender in this price segment. 

Tecno Spark 50s 5G price in India 

Tecno Spark 50s 5G is priced at Rs 19,999 for the base variant with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. It comes in an 8GB + 128GB storage variant as well, which is priced at Rs 22,999. The handset will be available from October 20th onwards, exclusively through offline retail stores across India. The handset comes in Burgundy Red and Breeze Blue colours. 

Tecno Spark 50s 5G specifications 

The Spark 50s 5G features a 6.78-inch HD+ IPS LCD with a 120Hz refresh rate, a resolution of 720 × 1576 pixels, and a high brightness mode of 567 nits. The smartphone is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6400 processor, which is quite rare for its price, giving the phone an edge in terms of performance. The smartphone also supports expandable storage and offers up to 24GB of RAM with virtual RAM expansion.

The Tecno Spark 50s 5G packs a 6,500mAh battery and supports 45W charging. This battery capacity should be enough for an entire day or more, depending on your usage. For optics, you get a 50MP rear camera and an 8MP front camera. The setup is quite basic and usually what's expected in this segment. 

For durability, the Tecno Spark 50s 5G comes with an IP64 Pro rating and MIL-STD-810H military-grade protection. It also comes with 5G, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 5, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. The smartphone is equipped with 4×4 MIMO technology, claimed to deliver up to 82 percent faster downloads, and UPI payments up to 2X faster with UPS 3.0, even in places where networks usually struggle. 

For those considering a budget phone under Rs 20,000, the Tecno Spark 50s 5G looks like a good option. You're getting 6GB of RAM, a capable chipset, a large battery, and good durability. Most phones offer only 4GB of RAM and a weaker chipset at this price, so the Spark 50s 5G could be a better alternative. If you're planning to upgrade to a 5G phone or need a well-packaged budget handset, you can go for the Tecno Spark 50s 5G.

• The DoT has amended caller ID rules to include names registered with telecom operators from November 1st, 2026.
• The change could help users identify unknown callers without relying on third-party apps.
• Apps such as Truecaller are expanding AI-based scam detection and call screening to offer more than basic caller identification.

[/highlights]

When an unknown number calls, the instinct is to turn to Truecaller to check who's calling before deciding whether to answer. That could become less necessary for basic caller identification as the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has amended India's caller ID rules to include subscribers' registered names from November 1st this year.

The amendment changes the definition of Calling Line Identification (CLI) under the Unified Licence Agreement, allowing a caller's name as recorded in their telecom operator's subscriber database to be used for identification. However, the DoT hasn't clarified whether operators must display these names on incoming call screens or exactly how the feature will work.

DoT changes caller ID rules

Previously, the definition of CLI primarily covered a telephone number, an IP address or another form of identification prescribed by the DoT. The revised definition explicitly includes the name recorded in a subscriber's data records. The change aligns with India's push towards Calling Name Presentation (CNAP), which aims to help recipients identify callers using information maintained by telecom operators. If implemented on incoming call screens, it could make basic caller identification available without installing an additional app.

There are limitations, though. The displayed name would come from the operator's subscriber records, so it may not tell you whether the caller is a delivery agent, a business representative or someone calling with fraudulent intent.

Will you still need Truecaller?

The change could reduce the need for Truecaller if you mainly use it to identify unfamiliar numbers. However, the app is working to offer more than names and numbers. Its features include community-based spam identification, automatic call blocking, SMS fraud detection and AI-powered caller insights. Its AI tools can flag suspected scams, classify businesses and summarise community comments while a call is ringing.

Truecaller is also expanding into AI-powered call screening and scam detection, while offering premium features such as an AI call assistant and AI voice-scam detection. In July 2026, its CEO said that the company plans to rely on its community-driven data, AI and enterprise services to differentiate itself as telecom operators roll out CNAP.

The distinction is simple - CNAP could tell you the name registered with a telecom operator, while apps such as Truecaller aim to provide additional context about whether a call may be spam or a scam. Neither should be treated as a guarantee that a caller is genuine.

• Redmi Clip Neo is the brand's first clip-on earbuds.
• It has been teased for launch this month.
• The wireless earbuds will come in white. 

[/highlights]

Redmi is also joining the clip-on TWS segment, with its first launch slated to arrive later this month. Redmi Clip Neo is the brand's first clip-on earbuds, and it's said to launch alongside the Redmi K100 smartphone. Clip-on earbuds have become quite the rage, with brands across the budget-to-premium spectrum introducing them. Xiaomi launched its first clip-on earbuds earlier this year, and Redmi will soon join. 

Redmi Clip Neo wireless earbuds

Redmi teased the Clip Neo on Weibo, confirming its launch later this month with the Redmi K100 smartphone. It also shared teaser images showing off the design of the Redmi Clip Neo. The earbuds have a small, curved design, with the smaller end sitting on your ear and the other end placed behind your ear. The earbuds can be seen in a white/light silver colour with a matching case. More colours may be announced at launch. 

Redmi hasn't shared any specs or features of the Clip Neo, but we expect it to sit in the budget segment, possibly below Xiaomi's clip-on earphones. These are priced at CNY 849 (Rs 12,100 approx.) and come with an 11mm driver, an IP57 rating for dust and water resistance, and up to 38 hours of battery life. The Redmi Clip Neo is expected to offer similar features but slightly toned down.

The appeal of clip-on earphones lies mostly in their design, offering a comfortable fit for long wear. It may also act as a stylish accessory, as brands can play around with the finish and overall look. Since these are not in-ear designs, they wouldn't have very strong ANC in comparison, but should be good enough to block out noise. 

We should know more details about the Redmi Clip Neo soon since it's launching later this month. For those who are interested in this ear-on design, they can wait and go for the Redmi Clip Neo. 

However, the immediate focus is on building manufacturing capabilities rather than simply setting up an assembly line. Logitech plans to begin with high-demand workspace products, starting with webcams, before expanding to other categories as production processes mature and additional products complete qualification.

The company has not disclosed the facility's size, its investment in the initiative, or its initial production capacity. It is also not committing to an export timeline, indicating that the first phase will focus on meeting Indian demand and gradually increasing the level of local sourcing.

Speaking at the announcement, Sree Chenincherry, Chief Supply Chain Operations Officer at Logitech, said India would now form part of the company's strategic manufacturing network.

"This is not the destination; this is just the beginning of the journey."

That was the message underlying the company's phased approach to manufacturing in India.

From assembly to localisation: A phased approach

For Logitech, the decision to begin with assembly is the starting point of a longer manufacturing roadmap. Once production stabilises and volumes increase, the company intends to focus on sourcing a greater proportion of components locally and developing a wider domestic supplier ecosystem.

Chenincherry said the immediate priorities were to establish production, ensure that manufacturing meets Logitech's global standards and build a resilient supply chain within India. Increasing local content would follow, while exports would be considered at a later stage.

The company is currently working with a new local manufacturing partner that had not previously manufactured products for Logitech. While it declined to name the partner, Chenincherry said the company would continue to evaluate potential partners based on their capabilities and long-term alignment with Logitech's business.

The selection process extends beyond production infrastructure. Logitech evaluates prospective partners on their engineering capabilities, talent, infrastructure, sustainability practices, employee treatment, and willingness to make a long-term commitment to the relationship.

The company also intends to build a broader ecosystem of domestic partners as its manufacturing operations mature. "Once you build that capability, then it becomes easier to do that," Chenincherry said, highlighting the importance of establishing a reliable manufacturing base before introducing additional products.

A dedicated production line, with global quality standards

Although the manufacturing facility is shared with other original equipment manufacturers, Logitech said its production area and assembly line would be dedicated to its operations, with restricted access to protect its intellectual property and manufacturing processes.

Delphine Donné, VP and General Manager of Personal Work Solutions at Logitech, said the company's products rely on the integration of hardware, software, design and AI-enabled capabilities. Maintaining the quality and performance of these products requires specialised manufacturing and assembly processes.

Logitech intends to maintain the same quality standards in India as in its other manufacturing locations. The company is also taking a phased approach to automation.

Chenincherry explained that production would initially involve more manual processes, with automation increasing as volumes grow and operations reach the necessary scale. Logitech already uses high levels of automation across its manufacturing network and is exploring how AI can be incorporated into manufacturing processes.

The company is also building its manufacturing support team in India. While it has hired some local manufacturing talent, it expects to scale the team further, drawing on resources from elsewhere in Asia during the initial phase.

Will local manufacturing make Logitech products cheaper?

For Indian consumers, one of the immediate questions is whether domestic assembly could translate into lower prices. Logitech does not expect pricing changes in the near term.
Polina Anokhina, IMEA (India, Middle East and Africa) Region Director at Logitech, said the company did not anticipate any immediate changes to pricing, although it could see benefits as production progresses.

Pricing decisions will continue to balance product quality, customer experience and competitiveness rather than depend on the manufacturing location alone. The company also sought to reassure its distribution and reseller network that the move would not disrupt existing commercial arrangements. Manoj Sahay, Country Head of Logitech India, said the company had planned its operations to maintain product availability and ensure that resellers remained equipped to serve the market.

He added that reseller margins would remain unchanged. While Logitech expects local assembly to improve operational agility, strengthen supply-chain resilience and reduce turnaround times, the company's immediate priority is to establish a stable production system before pursuing the next stages of localisation.

Exports are on the horizon, but not the immediate priority

Logitech is not ruling out using India as an export base. However, the company made it clear that exports are not the immediate objective of the Manesar operation.

The first stage will involve stabilising assembly and ensuring that products meet global standards. The next priority will be increasing local content and developing the domestic supplier ecosystem. Export opportunities will be evaluated as the operation matures.

The company also declined to share its annual manufacturing capacity or a timeline for expansion into additional products. According to Chenincherry, bringing India into Logitech's manufacturing network means that the country will be evaluated alongside its other manufacturing locations when decisions are made about where future products should be produced.

This could create opportunities for India to take on a larger role in the company's global supply chain, although the scale and timing of any such expansion remain undecided.

Chennai's R&D presence adds another dimension

Manufacturing is not Logitech's first major operational investment in India. The company already has a Global Capability Centre in Chennai, where its teams work across hardware, software, data analytics, AI experiences and quality assurance.

Donné said the engineering centre had expanded significantly beyond its earlier focus on IT, data analytics and QA to include hardware and software development, as well as video and audio capabilities.

Logitech operates a global R&D network, with engineering teams collaborating across several countries. Its Chennai team contributes to products developed for international markets, while local market insights can also inform products designed for specific audiences and use cases.

The company believes India's large engineering talent pool and changing workplace patterns create opportunities for its personal work solutions portfolio, which includes webcams, mice, keyboards and other workspace accessories.

For Logitech, bringing manufacturing closer to its existing commercial and engineering operations could strengthen its ability to respond to local demand while building on the capabilities already present in the country.

Sustainability remains part of the manufacturing equation

The company has also positioned the expansion within its wider sustainability objectives. According to the announcement, localised production can shorten supply-chain distances, reduce freight-related emissions and improve domestic logistics efficiency.

Donné said Logitech's global manufacturing strategy places considerable emphasis on product quality, sustainability and the use of recycled materials. She noted that more than 80% of the product volume in her business group was now made using recycled plastic, compared with none in 2018.

Achieving this required sustained work with suppliers to develop the ability to process recycled plastics while maintaining the durability and finish expected from Logitech products.

The company expects its Indian manufacturing ecosystem to develop in stages, with partner capabilities, sourcing options and production volumes influencing how quickly additional products and processes can be introduced.

India's role in Logitech's global supply chain

Logitech's entry into local manufacturing comes as India seeks to strengthen its domestic electronics production ecosystem and attract companies looking to diversify their manufacturing footprints.

For now, the Manesar operation is a measured start rather than a large-scale manufacturing commitment with publicly defined capacity targets. The company has not announced the investment involved, the number of production lines or a timeline for achieving a particular level of local sourcing.

What it has outlined is a sequence: establish assembly, stabilise operations, increase local sourcing and then evaluate opportunities for further product expansion and exports. The longer-term significance of the move will depend on how quickly Logitech can build supplier capabilities and scale production while maintaining its global quality standards.

For India, the opportunity lies in whether this initial assembly operation can evolve into a more deeply localised manufacturing network. For Logitech, the immediate test is to turn its new domestic production base into a dependable part of its global supply chain.

• iPhone Duo price in India starts at Rs 2,99,900.
• It will go on sale on October 23rd.
• Apple has also revealed the repair costs for the iPhone Duo in India.

[/highlights]

Apple's first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, is finally available to pre-order in India. It was launched alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max last month, which are already available to purchase. The iPhone Duo will be available to pre-order later today in India and other markets. If you've been waiting to get your hands on Apple's foldable, here's all you need to know. 

iPhone Duo pre-order India details 

The iPhone Duo will be available to pre-order in India later today at 5:30 pm. It can be pre-ordered via the official Apple India website and the Apple Store app. The official sale for the iPhone Duo begins October 23rd through Apple's online store and select partner retailers.

Pricing for the iPhone Duo starts at Rs 2,99,900 for the 256GB variant, while the 512GB variant costs Rs 3,24,900. iPhone Duo comes in 1TB and 2TB variants, which are priced at Rs 3,74,900 and Rs 4,49,900, respectively. The iPhone Duo is available in Star White and Night Sky colour options. The iPhone Duo Case will also be available to order today in navy blue and sand, and it's priced at Rs 8,900. The iPhone Duo Folio with Kickstand is priced at Rs 14,900. 

Apple is offering up to Rs 81,500 in trade-in credit on the iPhone Duo by exchanging an eligible iPhone 13 or newer model. Buyers can also claim up to 12 months of No-Cost EMI, up to Rs 7,000 instant cashback on select bank cards, and three-month subscriptions to Apple Music, Apple TV+, and Apple Arcade when purchasing the iPhone Duo.

iPhone Duo specifications

The iPhone Duo features a book-style folding design but in a more compact form factor. It has a 5.4-inch outer Super Retina XDR display and a 7.6-inch Super Retina XDR inner display. Powering the iPhone Duo is Apple's latest A20 Pro chipset, also used on the iPhone 18 Pro models. It has a 48MP Dual Fusion rear camera setup featuring a main sensor and an ultra-wide lens. There's a 12MP Center Stage front camera on the iPhone Duo and an under-display FaceTime camera when you unfold the device. On the software front, the iPhone Duo runs iOS 27.1 and comes with Apple Intelligence features.

In terms of battery life, the iPhone Duo is said to deliver up to 31 hours of video playback on the inner display and up to 44 hours on the outer display. 

Apple has also listed the repair costs for the iPhone Duo in India. The inner display will cost Rs 1,49,900 to repair, while the outer display and back glass will cost Rs 55,900. Apple has also mentioned "other damage" in the list, which will cost Rs 224,900, but without revealing the details. So if you are planning to buy an iPhone Duo, you'd have to be really careful with it to not incur the damage costs. 

The iPhone Duo is clearly a luxury item, especially in India. It's specifically for Apple enthusiasts or those who can afford to purchase the iPhone Duo. Competing foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra and Vivo X Fold6 are available, but for those who want to experience Apple's first foldable and iOS on this new form factor, the iPhone Duo would be the likely choice.

• Samsung Galaxy F70 5G will launch in India on October 18th on Flipkart, with a starting price teased at Rs 1X,XXX.
• The phone features an FHD+ 120Hz sAMOLED display with Gorilla Glass Victus protection.
• It packs an Exynos 1330 chipset, a 5,000mAh battery and a 50MP OIS camera with ultrawide and macro lenses.

[/highlights]

Samsung has confirmed it's next lower mid-ranger, the Samsung Galaxy F70, is set to launch in India on October 18th with a focus on display quality, camera versatility and a slim design. A teaser on Flipkart hints at a starting price below Rs 20,000, although the exact price is yet to be announced.

The Galaxy F70's specifications are notable in the current market, where rising smartphone prices have made it harder to find a well-rounded package at this price. While AMOLED displays and OIS cameras are already available on competing phones, Samsung is bringing together an FHD+ 120Hz panel, Gorilla Glass Victus protection, a triple rear camera setup and a 7.5 mm body at that price point.

Samsung Galaxy F70 launch date and price

Samsung has confirmed that the Galaxy F70 5G will launch in India on October 18th. The Flipkart teaser displays a starting price of Rs 1X,XXX, indicating that the phone will cost less than Rs 20,000. Samsung hasn't revealed the exact price or variants. Going by the teased range, the Galaxy F70 will sit between the Galaxy F70e, which currently starts at Rs 18,499, and the Galaxy F70 Pro, priced from Rs 37,999. The standard model could appeal to buyers who want a better display and more versatile cameras without paying the Pro model's premium.

Samsung Galaxy F70 specifications and design

The Galaxy F70 has a flat frame with rounded corners and a slim 7.5 mm profile. The teaser shows a lavender-blue rear panel with a contrasting silver frame. Three cameras are stacked vertically inside a pill-shaped module, with an LED flash beside it. The front camera sits in a waterdrop-style notch. The colours are confirmed to be Vivid Violet and Bold Black.

Samsung has confirmed the specifications of the phone via a microsite. It features a 6.7-inch FHD+ 120Hz sAMOLED display protected by Gorilla Glass Victus. Super AMOLED, or sAMOLED, is Samsung's branding for AMOLED displays with an integrated touch layer. The phone runs on the Exynos 1330 chipset, which we saw on the Galaxy A17 (review) and F17, and packs a 5,000mAh battery with 25W charging. Other features include NFC, Circle to Search with Google, Gemini and Samsung Wallet with Tap and Pay. For photography, the Galaxy F70 gets a 50MP primary camera with optical image stabilisation (OIS), a 5MP ultrawide camera and a 2MP macro sensor. A 13MP front camera handles selfies and video calls.

With reports suggesting that the India launch of the OnePlus 16 could be delayed or limited, the company may need to prioritise one model if bringing both phones to the market becomes commercially difficult. The decision also comes at a time when rising component costs are putting pressure on smartphone prices, making it harder to offer premium hardware at competitive prices.

The OnePlus 16R has traditionally been the more affordable option for buyers who want flagship-level performance without paying for the top-end model. While the 15R disappointed buyers in some ways (review), dropping the telephoto and downgrading the display, the latest leaks suggest that the upcoming 16R could address some of these shortcomings with a dedicated telephoto camera, a higher-resolution main sensor, and a faster-refresh-rate display. If these upgrades make it to the final product, the 16R could offer a more well-rounded experience than its predecessor, making the choice between it and the flagship OnePlus 16 less straightforward. If that happens, the gap between the two phones could become smaller, raising a bigger question: would Indian buyers benefit more from a premium OnePlus flagship or a more affordable alternative?

Read: 5 ways the OnePlus 16 is an upgrade over the OnePlus 15

OnePlus 16 vs OnePlus 16R: what do we know so far?

The OnePlus 16 launched in China on October 12th, starting at CNY 5,999 (approximately Rs 86,000) for the 12GB + 256GB storage variant. It's powered by the flagship Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chipset and features a 6.78-inch LTPO OLED display with a refresh rate of up to 185Hz in supported games, up from 165Hz on the OnePlus 15. The phone also packs a massive 9,000mAh battery with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging. Its camera setup includes a 200MP main sensor, a 50MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, and a 50MP ultrawide camera.

The OnePlus 16R, meanwhile, is yet to be announced. Tipster Gadgetsdata claims that it could launch in India, probably around a price point of Rs 70,000 to Rs 75,000. The phone is tipped to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, a 200MP main camera, a 50MP periscope telephoto camera with 3.5x optical zoom, an 185Hz flat OLED display, and a battery close to 9,000mAh. However, another leak from tipster Yogesh Brar points to a triple 50MP rear camera setup, a 165Hz display, and a battery exceeding 7,500mAh. Both leaks mention the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, but the camera, display, and battery specifications remain unclear.

If the leaked pricing is accurate, the OnePlus 16R could offer a good middle ground for buyers who want a powerful phone without spending over Rs 1 lakh. The OnePlus 15 launched in India at Rs 85,999 for the 12GB + 256GB variant, while the OnePlus 15R started at Rs 47,999. A starting price of Rs 70,000 to Rs 75,000 would be a big jump for the R series, but the reported upgrades could help explain the increase.

The camera could be the biggest change. The OnePlus 15R has a 50MP main camera and an 8MP ultrawide camera, without a dedicated telephoto lens. If the 16R gets a 200MP main camera and a periscope telephoto lens, it could offer more flexibility for portrait shots and zoom photography. This would also address one of the areas where the 15R had room for improvement.

The battery is another potential upgrade. A 9,000mAh unit would be a substantial increase over the 15R's 7,400mAh battery and could make the 16R a strong option for users who prioritise endurance. Add a high-refresh-rate display and a flagship-grade chipset, and the phone could tick several important boxes.

[caption id="attachment_717278" align="alignnone" width="782"] OnePlus 15R[/caption]

The reported specifications would also put the OnePlus 16R in a different league from even the OnePlus 15, despite their expected prices being relatively close. The OnePlus 15 starts at Rs 85,999 and features the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, a 165Hz LTPO AMOLED display, triple 50MP rear cameras, including a 3.5x periscope telephoto lens, and a 7,300mAh battery. The 16R could offer the same chipset at a lower price, along with a 200MP main camera and a larger battery of up to 9,000mAh, although its final camera configuration remains uncertain. If these upgrades hold up, the 16R could offer better value than the OnePlus 15, particularly for buyers who prioritise battery life and camera hardware. OnePlus would need to get the camera processing, software experience, and overall build quality right rather than relying on impressive specifications alone.

The OnePlus 16 will have a different audience though. Its newer flagship chipset, 200MP main camera, dedicated telephoto lens, and wireless charging make it a more complete premium offering on paper. Its starting price in China converts to approximately Rs 86,000, but the Indian price could be higher once local taxes, distribution costs, and pricing decisions are factored in. Some estimates suggest that the base variant could cross Rs 1 lakh, although OnePlus hasn't confirmed its India launch or pricing.

At that price, the OnePlus 16 would need to offer clear advantages over the 16R. A faster chipset alone may not be enough to convince buyers to spend Rs 25,000 or more extra, especially if the R-series phone gets a similarly capable camera system and a battery of comparable size.

However, skipping the flagship could also leave a gap in OnePlus's premium lineup. The company would miss the opportunity to compete directly with other top-end smartphones and offer an option to buyers who want its best hardware, regardless of price. This is more relevant especially after iQOO has confirmed that the iQOO 16, a direct competitor of the OnePlus 16, will launch in India.

If OnePlus has to pick one phone for India, the OnePlus 16R looks like the more sensible choice. Its reported specifications suggest that it could offer flagship-level performance, better camera versatility, and excellent battery life at a price below Rs 80,000. The OnePlus 16, however, shouldn't be ruled out. It would give the company a proper premium flagship in India and cater to buyers who want the latest hardware without compromising on features such as wireless charging.

Ideally, OnePlus should launch both phones and give buyers a clear choice. The 16R could target those looking for a premium experience at a relatively accessible price, while the OnePlus 16 could cater to those willing to pay extra for the best hardware. The 16R has the stronger case for reaching more buyers, provided its leaked specifications hold up. But if OnePlus wants to maintain its presence in the premium segment, launching the flagship alongside it would make more sense than leaving buyers with just one option.

• OnePlus Ace 7 series will feature two models.
• In India, the Ace 7 could launch as OnePlus 16R. 
• OnePlus hasn't teased the Ace 7 series yet. 

[/highlights]

OnePlus Ace 7 series has been on the rumour mill for quite some time now. It's part of OnePlus's latest performance-focused Ace series. The lineup has been rumoured to feature two phones: the OnePlus Ace 7 and Ace 7 Pro. Now, an official Google database listing has confirmed that they are indeed the OnePlus Ace 7 and Ace 7 Pro, which are set to launch soon. 

OnePlus Ace 7 series monikers confirmed 

Google's official Supported Devices list has entered two OnePlus phones: OnePlus Ace 7 and OnePlus Ace 7 Pro, with the model numbers PYF110 and PMS110, respectively. This confirms the monikers of the Ace 7 series and also suggests its imminent launch. It will take some time though as the flagship OnePlus 16 just made its debut in China. 

Like the previous generation, the OnePlus Ace 7 series is also tipped to come with dedicated gaming features and performance-focused hardware. It could feature a 6.78-inch 1.5K flat OLED display and a super-high 185Hz refresh rate, which means buttery smooth graphics for gaming. General scrolling will most likely be restricted to 165Hz, which would also be one of the highest in the segment. The smartphone is also expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset paired with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage.

OnePlus Ace 7 series is expected to house a 200MP primary sensor and a 50MP secondary camera on the rear, and a 16MP front camera for selfies. An active cooling fan is also tipped for the Ace 7 series, which would be an upgrade over the Ace 6 lineup, as it only came with external cooling accessories. 

OnePlus would launch the Ace 7 series in China first, followed by a global release under a different branding, though. In India, the Ace 7 is expected to launch as the OnePlus 16R, which has usually been the case in previous generations too. Since we still have time before the Ace 7 series debuts or the OnePlus 16R arrives in India, it would be best to wait for official details or more concrete information. 

• Apple is reportedly preparing a new round of product announcements on October 27th, followed by media and creator sessions in Los Angeles on October 28th.
• The expected lineup includes a touchscreen OLED MacBook Pro, M6-powered Macs and an OLED iPad Mini.
• The new MacBooks could go on sale in November.

[/highlights]

Apple's October product announcements may extend beyond its latest smart home devices which debuted earlier this week. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the company is inviting members of the media to an all-day product experience in Los Angeles on October 28th, following a reported announcement round on October 27th.

The expected products include Apple's first touchscreen MacBook Pro, an OLED iPad Mini and new Macs powered by the M6 chip. Apple has yet to confirm the lineup or announce a launch event, and the products could be unveiled through press releases before media members get hands-on time.

Touchscreen OLED MacBook Pro

The touchscreen MacBook Pro is the most significant product among the reported launches. Apple has traditionally kept touch input on the iPad, arguing that macOS is designed around a keyboard, trackpad and mouse. The new MacBook Pro is also expected to move from the current Mini-LED display to OLED. This could bring deeper blacks, stronger contrast and improved HDR performance. The laptop is tipped to feature a slimmer, lighter design, although details about its final specifications remain unconfirmed.

Premium Windows laptops from Dell, HP and ASUS already combine OLED panels with touchscreen support. Apple would therefore be catching up with an existing feature in the Windows market, while bringing its own macOS experience to it. The change could also make the MacBook Pro more expensive. Apple's previous transitions to OLED on the iPhone and iPad Pro came with higher prices, although it remains unclear how much the new MacBook Pro might cost. Apple's current 16-inch MacBook Pro models start at Rs 3,59,900 in India after a massive hike a few weeks ago, making pricing an important consideration.

M6 Macs and OLED iPad mini also expected

Apple is reportedly preparing an M6-powered 14-inch MacBook Pro and a new iMac. The company could also introduce an OLED iPad mini, which would bring the display technology to a smaller tablet in its lineup. The new Macs are expected to be announced in October but reach customers in November. Pre-orders could begin shortly after the announcement, with November 6th reportedly a possible launch date. These dates remain unconfirmed.

Anyone considering a MacBook Pro upgrade should weigh the expected display and design changes against the performance and battery life already available in current models. The touchscreen version could be worth waiting for if touch input and OLED are priorities, but buyers who need a laptop now shouldn't assume the new features will justify the much higher price.

• Vivo X300 Pro launched at Rs 1,09,999 in India.
• It can be purchased at an effective price of Rs 1,01,599 on Flipkart.
• The handset is available with various offers. 

[/highlights]

Vivo X300 Pro may be almost a year old, but it's still one of the leading flagships in India, especially for its cameras. At its current deal on Flipkart, the Vivo X300 Pro is a good catch if you want a premium Android flagship with versatile cameras, a powerful chipset, a large battery, and telephoto extender support. With smartphone prices increasing rapidly, it would be a good time to purchase the Vivo X300 Pro before it gets even more expensive. 

Vivo X300 Pro Flipkart deal details 

Vivo X300 Pro (review) is currently priced at Rs 1,19,999 on Flipkart. This is its latest price after a hike of Rs 10,000 from its launch price of Rs 1,09,999. But you can get the Vivo X300 Pro for as low as Rs 1,01,599. This is after a discount of Rs 18,400 for Flipkart Axis credit card holders, which includes a flat discount of Rs 14,400 and a cashback of Rs 4,000. Flipkart is also offering discounts of Rs 14,400 on HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank credit cards, and Google Pay as well. 

This is around the lowest you can get for the Vivo X300 Pro, so it's best to claim the deal soon before it ends or stocks run out. The handset may get another price hike considering the ongoing situation in the smartphone industry. 

Vivo X300 Pro: should you buy?

The Vivo X300 Pro launched in India last December, so it's almost a year old now. Its successor, the Vivo X500 Pro, has already launched and is expected to arrive in India too. But the X300 Pro still makes sense, especially if photography is your priority. The smartphone has a 50MP main, 200MP telephoto (3.5x optical zoom), 50MP ultra-wide, and 50MP selfie camera. You also get the optional ZEISS 2.35x telephoto extender kit with the X300 Pro. 

These cameras continue to be one of the most versatile setups, with the telephoto extender adding to its overall appeal. The smartphone offers flagship performance, a fluid OriginOS experience, and its 6,510mAh battery comfortably lasts over a day depending on your usage. You also get 90W charging support for quick top-ups.

Not just for photography, the Vivo X300 Pro still qualifies as a well-rounded Android flagship and is among the best you can get for this price. Its rivals, like the OPPO Find X9 Pro, are currently not available in India, and the iPhone 17 Pro is priced much higher at Rs 1,34,900. 

• The iQOO Neo 12 will be the first smartphone to feature Visionox's new Sky Mirror pTSF OLED material.
• The new material claims 8 percent higher luminous efficiency, 10 percent higher global peak brightness and 6.5 percent lower power consumption.
• The phone is confirmed to feature a 2K 185Hz display, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and a 9,000mAh battery.

[/highlights]

iQOO has revealed more details about the display technology coming to its upcoming Neo 12. At an event with Visionox and Tsinghua University on October 14th, the company explained how its new Sky Mirror pTSF OLED material improves light output, power efficiency and display lifespan.

The announcement builds on iQOO's earlier teasers, which confirmed a 2K OLED panel supplied by Visionox with a 185Hz refresh rate. The Neo 12 will also bring upgrades to gaming performance and cooling over its predecessor, the iQOO Neo 11. It's set to launch in China in late October.

iQOO Neo 12 display

The Sky Mirror material uses phosphorescence-assisted thermally activated sensitized fluorescence (pTSF), a technology designed to convert electrical energy into visible light more efficiently. It uses a thermally activated delayed fluorescence material to transfer energy to a fluorescent dye, which then emits light.

According to iQOO (via), the new material improves luminous efficiency by 8 percent and global peak brightness by 10 percent, while reducing power consumption by 6.5 percent compared with the previous generation. It also claims a 50 percent increase in display lifespan. Colour shift when viewing the screen from an angle is said to be reduced by 18 percent at 30 degrees and 40 percent at 75 degrees.

The company also claims the Neo 12's display consumes 27 percent less power than the Neo 11's screen. This is a separate comparison from the 6.5 percent improvement attributed to the new material, with the overall figure reflecting the display's broader changes.

The 2K 185Hz panel is another key upgrade over the Neo 11's 2K 144Hz display. iQOO says the phone will support 2K resolution and 185fps gaming simultaneously, with more than 50 games expected to support native 185fps playback. The display also gets a dedicated high-performance driver chip. For comparison, the OnePlus 16 supports a system-wide 165Hz refresh rate, rising to 185Hz in supported games.

Beyond the display, iQOO has confirmed the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, paired with its Q3 e-sports chip and latest Monster super core engine. The phone will also be the first Neo series model to feature the Ice Dome active cooling fan, which uses a redesigned air duct to move air through the device.

The Neo 11, meanwhile, features the Snapdragon 8 Elite, a Q2 gaming chip and a dedicated liquid-cooling system. It also has a 7,500mAh battery with 100W wired charging. The Neo 12 is confirmed to pack a larger 9,000mAh battery. However, its charging speed, camera specifications, memory configurations and durability ratings have yet to be announced.

iQOO Neo 12 launch and India availability

iQOO has confirmed that the Neo 12 will launch in China in late October, but hasn't announced an exact date or price. A report suggests the phone could reach select global markets as the iQOO 16R, while a tipster has indicated that it could launch in India. Neither has been confirmed by the company.

The Neo 12 looks promising for mobile gamers, with its flagship chipset, active cooling, high-refresh-rate display and larger battery. However, Indian buyers should wait for confirmation of its availability and pricing before deciding whether to hold off on the iQOO Neo 10, which remains the latest Neo series model available in the country. Its value will ultimately depend on the final price and how well the display and cooling upgrades translate into sustained gaming performance.

• OPPO Reno 17 series launch is expected to take place in China next month.
• The lineup is said to focus on a trendy design and camera features.
• Another leak reveals the alleged design of the Reno 17. 

[/highlights]

OPPO could be preparing to launch a new Reno series smartphone soon. The Reno 17 series is reportedly set to launch in China next month, with two models in development. Like the previous models in the Reno lineup, the Reno 17 series is also said to focus on a trendy design with strong camera hardware. A live image supposedly of the OPPO Reno 17 has also surfaced online, suggesting slight design changes. 

OPPO Reno 17 launch tipped 

The Reno 17 series might launch next month in China, according to tipster Smart Pikachu. The tipster adds that the lineup will include two models featuring large and small screens. More details include a trendy design and a 200MP camera, similar to the Reno 16 Pro. OPPO already offers striking designs with the Reno 15 series and the Reno 16 models, so it's interesting to see what it has in store with the Reno 17 lineup. 

The upcoming Reno 17 series is also said to bring new editing features for live photos and a dedicated AI button. The Reno 16 series also comes with an AI button. The biggest upgrade, though, would be the rumoured telephoto extender support for the Reno 17 lineup. OPPO has kept this functionality exclusive to the flagship Find lineup, but we could see it arrive on the mid-range Reno 17 series too. This would certainly give the Reno 17 series an edge in terms of long-range photography. 

In a separate leak, what's supposed to be the live image of the Reno 17 was shared by Smartprix. According to this image, the Reno 17 looks quite like the Reno 16, with a minor design change in the camera module. Otherwise, it looks like OPPO isn't planning any major design refinements for the Reno 17. This contradicts what the other leak says about the Reno 17. 

The report adds that the lineup will include only the Reno 17 and not a Pro model this time. It's also tipped to launch with similar hardware as the Reno 16. These include the same Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset and triple 50MP cameras. Battery capacity could see an upgrade to over 7,000mAh, and the smartphone could launch with ColorOS 17 (Android 17) out of the box. 

OPPO updates its Reno series biannually, so it's not entirely surprising to see incremental upgrades. But continuing with the same hardware may not sit well with buyers, especially when the predecessor model offers a similar experience. We'll still have to see what OPPO is actually planning with the Reno 17 series, as these details aren't official yet. 

• OPPO is launching the Find X10 series in India on October 22nd. 
• Its retail box prices for India were leaked earlier.
• The Find X10 series will most likely cross the 1 lakh margin. 

[/highlights]

OPPO's flagship Find X10 series is launching in India on October 22nd. The lineup will include two phones: the Find X10 and the Find X10 Pro Max. These will be the first Android flagships launching in India going into 2027. A recent leak revealed the retail box prices of the Find X10 series, which are usually higher than the official prices. Now, a new leak reveals what are supposed to be the official launch prices of the Find X10 and Find X10 Pro Max. 

OPPO Find X10 series India prices leaked

According to tipster Gadgets Data, the Find X10 will be priced at Rs 1,29,999 for the 12GB + 256GB variant. The Find X10 Pro Max with 12GB RAM and 512GB storage will launch at Rs 1,59,999 or Rs 1,89,999. The leaked prices are quite steep but not surprising, considering how the entire smartphone industry has shifted due to rising RAM costs. If we had to compare, the Find X9 launched in India at a starting price of Rs 74,999, while the Find X9 Pro debuted at Rs 1,09,999. Both phones' prices have been hiked ever since. 

If the leaked pricing is accurate, it would put the Find X10 series at a much more premium price segment, among rivals like the iPhone 18 Pro series and the Google Pixel 11 Pro models. But do note that these prices are without offers, so there would be some discount or cashback that buyers will be able to claim to reduce the overall costs. 

Speaking of which, the tipster also shared a promotional image revealing the offers for the Find X10 series in India. Those purchasing before October 28th can get a free OPPO power bank and Enco Air 5 Pro. There's also up to 15 percent instant cashback and up to Rs 8,000 exchange bonus. If you purchase before November 11th, you can get up to Rs 1,000 off on the OPPO Enco X4. More offers include Google AI Pro for three months, up to 70 percent assured buyback, and 180-day hardware defect replacement if purchased before November 11th.

Although the pricing isn't official, it still gives us an idea of what to expect from the Find X10 series in India. With that in mind, interested buyers can now better prepare to purchase the Find X10 and Find X10 Pro Max considering the available offers. OPPO's flagship series is suited for buyers who want the ultimate Android flagship with one of the best cameras. 

• Nothing is reportedly developing two pairs of smart glasses, one with a camera and AI features and another focused on audio.
• The camera-equipped model is tipped to offer ChatGPT integration, while both pairs could feature photochromic lenses.
• The glasses could launch in 2027, although Nothing has yet to confirm the products.

[/highlights]

Nothing could be preparing to expand its product lineup with two pairs of smart glasses, according to WinFuture's Roland Quandt. One model is tipped to feature a camera and AI tools, while the other will reportedly focus on calls and audio playback. This comes at a time when Nothing is expanding its portfolio beyond smartphones and earbuds. The company has been adding products across different categories, with smart glasses potentially being its next move. However, details remain scarce, including what the glasses will look like and how much they will cost.

Nothing smart glasses: what we know so far

According to Quandt, one pair of glasses will feature a built-in camera and AI capabilities such as translation, similar to the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. It's also tipped to support ChatGPT rather than Google's Gemini, continuing Nothing's existing integration of OpenAI's chatbot across its products. The second pair is said to focus on audio. It could let users take calls and interact with their phone's voice assistant, without a camera or direct AI integration. Both models are reportedly getting photochromic lenses, which darken in sunlight and become clearer indoors.

Nothing is known for its transparent-inspired designs and distinctive-looking products, so it will be interesting to see whether the company brings some of that character to its glasses. For now, though, there's no confirmed information about their design beyond the reported features. We presume they will be called something straightforward too - on the lines of Nothing Glasses (1) and (1a) or something similar.

Smart glasses would add to a product lineup that already includes smartphones, earbuds and over-ear headphones. The company launched its first over-ear headphones, the Nothing Headphone (1), in 2025 and is also reportedly working on its first smartwatch under the main Nothing brand.

In July, tipster Yogesh Brar claimed that the smartwatch would feature Nothing's transparent-inspired design language and cost under USD 300 (around Rs 29,000). A September launch was reportedly being considered at the time, although Nothing hasn't officially confirmed the watch or its specifications.

In an interview with Times Now, Nothing co-founder and India head Akis Evangelidis said the company plans to launch around twice as many smartphones in 2027 as it did in 2026. Nothing has launched three smartphones this year, the Phone (4a), Phone (4a Pro) and Phone (4b), and intends to offer a wider range next year. Akis also said Nothing has established dedicated business units for audio and AI-native products to speed up development.

The reported glasses and smartwatch fit into this wider expansion, with Nothing looking to build a product ecosystem that extends beyond phones. Nothing hasn't announced the glasses, their pricing or launch markets. Earlier reports pointed to a possible 2027 release. The two models could cater to different needs. The audio-focused pair may appeal to people who want hands-free calls without a camera, while the AI-equipped version would compete more directly with Ray-Ban Meta.

• iPhone 18 could launch early next year.
• It's tipped to debut alongside iPhone 18e and iPhone Air 2.
• iPhone 18 may not bring major upgrades over the iPhone 17.

[/highlights]

Apple switched up its launch cycle this year by announcing only the Pro models and debuting its first foldable. The standard iPhone 18 is expected to launch early next year alongside the rumoured iPhone 18e and iPhone Air 2. A new leak from Weibo suggests Apple is on track to launch the iPhone 18, with production set to begin in November. 

iPhone 18 production, stock details (rumoured)

According to tipster Digital Focus on Weibo, iPhone 18 production is set to begin at the end of November. The tipster adds that the stock volume of the iPhone 18 looks quite large this time, suggesting that Apple is preparing for a lot of sales of its base iPhone model, which has usually been a popular pick in the lineup. This leak also adds to the speculation that Apple is indeed on track to launch the iPhone 18 early next year, possibly around spring. 

The iPhone 18 might make its debut alongside the iPhone 18e and iPhone Air 2 if Apple continues to upgrade the latter two models. 

There have been several predictions and rumours about the iPhone 18, with most of them not sounding great. Apple is reportedly planning to upgrade the RAM capacity on the iPhone 18 to 9GB, up from the 8GB found on the iPhone 17. While this should help improve the overall performance, it will still not be enough to support some of the new iOS 27 AI features, as those require 12GB of RAM. This means that the iPhone 18 may not come with the complete deck of AI features available on iOS 27. 

Apple is also reportedly downgrading the manufacturing process for the chipset with lower chip specifications for the iPhone 18. The decision could be to cut costs, given the current situation in the smartphone industry with rising component prices. Other than that, the iPhone 18 is still expected to feature a 6.3-inch LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 1.5K resolution, similar to the iPhone 17. 

It's interesting to see what kind of upgrades the iPhone 18 might offer over the iPhone 17. If you're coming from an older iPhone model, upgrading to the iPhone 18 might make sense. But for those already using the iPhone 17, you'll probably not find the switch necessary. 

• 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.

[/highlights]

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.

[/highlights]

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.

[/highlights]

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.

[/highlights]

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.

[/highlights]

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.

[/highlights]

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.