Vivo has announced the launch of its latest mid-range smartphone, the Vivo Y500 Pro, for November 10th in China. The device will be an upgraded version of the Vivo Y500 5G, which launched in September this year. A China Telecom listing and teasers from Vivo have revealed most of its key specifications ahead of its launch.
Vivo claims the Y500 Pro will be the first smartphone in its segment to boast a 200MP Samsung HP5 primary camera, a significant bump from the 50MP main sensor on the Y500. The device will be powered by a 7,000mAh semi-solid-state ‘Blue Ocean’ battery. It will also support fast charging, though exact wattage details remain unconfirmed.
Vivo claims the phone can support 120fps gaming in most of the MOBA titles, which surely shows its intent to appeal to gamers as well apart from regular users. The company also reveals the Y500 Pro will sport a satin AG glass back, a flat 6.67-inch 1.5K display with eye-protection, and IP68 and IP69 ratings for water and dust resistance.
The China Telecom listing reveals some details too. Under the hood, the phone will feature the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Ultra (MT6878T) processor paired with 12GB of RAM and as much as 512GB of storage. The camera setup also includes a secondary 2MP camera, while selfies are handled by a 32MP front shooter. The Y500 Pro will run OriginOS 6 based on Android 16, making it the first non-flagship to come with the previously China-exclusive skin. This shows Vivo’s intent to spread its software refinement beyond the flagship segment as well to give users a smoother experience.
Connectivity options include 5G, Bluetooth, NFC, and dual SIM support. It also carries an in-display fingerprint sensor and will bundle a protective case, charging adapter, data cable, and user manual within the retail box. The phone will be introduced in four colour options: Light Green, Titanium Black, Soft Pink, and Auspicious Cloud Gold.
As per the spec sheet, the Y500 Pro is aimed at the hotly contested mid-range segment. Its predecessor, the Vivo Y400 Pro, launched at Rs 24,999 in India but with inferior specifications. Going by the processor and Vivo’s placement of its Y-series, the phone could be priced a little over Rs 25,000 and could compete directly against the Realme 15. Vivo’s addition of a 200MP sensor, especially for users prioritising photography, will give it a huge competitive advantage over other OEMs.
As opposed to the Vivo Y400 Pro, which came earlier this year with a smaller 5,500mAh battery, the Y500 Pro is a step-up in both power and photography. Coupled with a flagship-grade camera, massive battery, and premium design, the Vivo Y500 Pro could be a capable all-rounder in the upper mid-range bracket for those looking to purchase. Vivo seemsto be attempting to combine premium build quality with long battery life – a combination that could be appreciated by mobile photographers and heavy gamers alike. For mid-range users, especially the photography enthusiasts, a 200MP camera in the segment will be a huge incentive to buy, and we hope the company brings the same spec sheet to India and other global markets.
