Vivo X500 series leaks via IMEI database, hints at new ‘e’ model

There’s a small change in naming this time. Vivo appears to be skipping the X400 series entirely, which is often linked to tetraphobia in Chinese markets. That makes the X500 lineup the direct follow-up to the Vivo X300 series launched in October last year. If the company sticks to its usual cycle, the next launch should land around a similar timeframe, though some leaks suggest it could come a bit earlier.

Expected models

The IMEI listings point to three devices in development:

• Vivo X500: expected successor to the X300
• Vivo X500 Pro: expected successor to the X300 Pro
• Vivo X500e: a new variant with no clear equivalent in the previous lineup

The first two follow a familiar structure. The X500e is the one to watch. Vivo hasn’t used this naming before in the X-series, so it’s not clear where it fits. It could be a more accessible version like the FE in the X200 or X300 series, or something positioned slightly differently for specific markets.

Key specifications

Nothing is official yet, but a mix of earlier leaks gives a rough sense of what Vivo is aiming for. The X500 is expected to stay relatively compact, with a screen around 6.3-6.4 inches. The X500 Pro could step up to a larger 6.8-6.9-inch panel with a 2K LTPO OLED display. Both are tipped to support up to a 144Hz refresh rate and include 3D ultrasonic fingerprint sensors, keeping them in line with current flagship standards.

Vivo is likely to continue with MediaTek, with the series expected to run on the upcoming Dimensity 9600 chipset. Reports suggest this could be built on a 2nm process. If that holds, the gains are expected more in efficiency and sustained performance than just speed, along with better handling of AI features.

Camera upgrades remain a central part of the X-series. The X500 lineup is said to be testing a new 50MP LOFIC sensor aimed at improving dynamic range, especially in bright or high-contrast scenes. The Pro model could also include a 200MP periscope telephoto camera, pushing zoom capabilities further. It looks like Vivo is trying to improve consistency across lighting conditions while also extending zoom.

Battery capacity could see a noticeable jump. Both the X500 and X500 Pro are tipped to feature batteries exceeding 7,000mAh, along with 100W fast charging. If accurate, that would put them in line with current flagships, as the X300 and X300 Pro had smaller batteries.

It’s still early, and most of this is based on leaks, so final specifications and pricing will matter more. On paper, the X500 Pro is shaping up as the more complete option, especially for users who prioritise camera flexibility and battery life. The standard X500 could appeal to those who prefer a slightly smaller phone without stepping too far down in specs. The X500e is still unclear, but it could end up being the more affordable entry point depending on how Vivo positions it. For now, those considering a new flagship might want to hold off on any purchase decisions until Vivo officially unveils the X500 series, likely later this year, to see how these impressive rumored specs translate into real-world value and pricing.