iPhone 17 vs Pro vs Pro Max vs Air :The Ultimate Buying Guide

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Jan 4, 2026

Choosing a flagship iPhone in 2026 isn’t just about picking the most powerful model; it’s about finding the one that truly fits your lifestyle, priorities, and budget. Apple’s latest lineup gives buyers four distinct paths: a balanced everyday flagship, two performance-driven Pro models built for creators and power users, and a sleek new Air variant that blends style with premium capability. This guide breaks down how each iPhone feels to use in the real world, helping you decide which one actually makes the most sense for you.

Major Features Compared:

Feature	iPhone 17	iPhone 17 Pro	iPhone 17 Pro Max	iPhone Air	Winner
Chipset	A19	A19 Pro	A19 Pro	A19 Pro	17 Pro / Pro Max — Most powerful A19 Pro chipset
RAM	8GB	12GB	12GB	12GB	17 Pro / Pro Max / Air — Higher multitasking headroom
Storage Options	256GB, 512GB	256GB, 512GB, 1TB	256GB–2TB	256GB–1TB	Pro Max — Largest storage ceiling
Display	6.3″ LTPO OLED, 120Hz	6.3″ LTPO OLED, 120Hz	6.9″ LTPO OLED, 120Hz	6.5″ LTPO OLED, 120Hz	Pro Max — Largest and most immersive screen
Rear Camera Setup	48MP wide + 48MP ultrawide	Triple 48MP (wide + periscope + ultrawide) + LiDAR	Triple 48MP (wide + periscope + ultrawide) + LiDAR	48MP single wide	Pro / Pro Max — Best zoom + Pro video tools
Telephoto / Zoom	No telephoto	100mm periscope, 4x optical	100mm periscope, 4x optical	None	Pro / Pro Max — True telephoto + stabilization
Video Features	Dolby Vision HDR	Dolby Vision, ProRes, ProRes RAW, Apple Log 2	Dolby Vision, ProRes, ProRes RAW, Apple Log 2	Dolby Vision HDR	Pro / Pro Max — Creator-grade video
Battery (type / range)	3692 mAh	3998–4252 mAh	4823–5088 mAh	3149 mAh	Pro Max — Longest endurance potential
Charging	PD3.2 + MagSafe/Qi2	PD3.2 + MagSafe/Qi2	PD3.2 + MagSafe/Qi2	PD2.0 + MagSafe/Qi2	17 / Pro / Pro Max — Faster wired standard
USB Port	USB-C 2.0	USB-C 3.2 Gen 2	USB-C 3.2 Gen 2	USB-C 2.0	Pro / Pro Max — Faster data + workflows
Build Material	Glass + aluminum	Aluminum alloy	Aluminum alloy	Titanium (Grade 5)	iPhone Air — Premium titanium, sleek feel
Camera Count Philosophy	Balanced everyday	Pro-grade versatility	Max creator flexibility	Minimalist + clean output	Depends on user needs
Approx Price	~$800	~$1100	~$1200	~$1000	–

1. Design and Display

Build and Feel

The iPhone 17 takes a familiar glass-and-aluminum approach that feels premium yet approachable, making it ideal for everyday users upgrading from older models. The 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max step things up with aluminum-alloy builds that feel more robust and purposeful, appealing to power buyers who value durability and a richer in-hand character. The iPhone Air goes for a sleek titanium frame and a noticeably slimmer profile, giving it a modern, minimal look that feels stylish and slightly more lifestyle-focused than performance-focused.

Display Quality

All four phones feature LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED panels with 120Hz refresh and Dolby Vision, ensuring consistency in sharpness and color richness. The Pro and Pro Max deliver the most immersive viewing experience, especially for gaming and high-brightness outdoor use. The iPhone Air offers a larger, everyday-friendly screen experience that feels balanced for reading, streaming, and work tasks, while the iPhone 17 keeps things straightforward with a refined, bright display that feels more practical than premium-leaning.

Verdict

Choose the Pro/Pro Max for the richest visual experience, the Air for sleek style with a large display, and the iPhone 17 for a refined but mainstream flagship feel.

2. Specifications

Performance

iPhone 17 runs on the A19 chip with 8GB RAM, delivering strong flagship performance suitable for social apps, gaming, and long-term software support. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max upgrade to the A19 Pro with 12GB RAM, which feels better tuned for heavy workflows, video editing, and demanding graphics. The iPhone Air also uses the A19 Pro, but with a slightly lighter performance character that feels optimized for smooth everyday use rather than intense professional workloads. Storage options are more extensive on the Pro and Pro Max, making them better choices for content creators.

Battery and Charging

The iPhone 17 provides reliable daily endurance with fast wired charging and MagSafe/Qi2 wireless support. The 17 Pro and Pro Max offer larger-capacity batteries and feel more confident for long travel days, especially for users who shoot video or stream frequently. The Air focuses on slim design, so its battery feels more balanced than endurance-heavy, suiting users who prefer style and portability with efficient charging rather than extended power cycles.

Verdict

Power users and creators should lean toward the 17 Pro or Pro Max, while the iPhone 17 suits mainstream users and the Air suits stylish performance-seekers who value a thinner design.

3. Camera

Main and Secondary Lenses

iPhone 17 features a dual-camera setup with a 48MP main and ultrawide lens, delivering balanced everyday photography that feels natural for casual users and travelers. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max introduce a triple-camera system with periscope telephoto and LiDAR, offering more creative flexibility, stronger zoom, and advanced video tools such as ProRes and Apple Log 2. These models feel purpose-built for filmmakers and enthusiasts who want cinematic control.

The iPhone Air keeps a single 48MP main camera, prioritizing simplicity and clean image output over multi-lens versatility.

Selfie Camera

All four models share an 18MP selfie system with Dolby Vision and spatial audio recording, offering consistent video quality for social content and video calls. The Pro models add deeper control features that feel more suited for creators who publish regularly.

Verdict

Casual photographers will be happy with the iPhone 17. The 17 Pro and Pro Max are the clear winners for zoom, pro-grade video, and versatility, while the iPhone Air suits users who want flagship-level imaging without complex camera configurations.

4. Pricing

iPhone 17 is priced at around $800, making it the most sensible entry into the 2026 flagship lineup for buyers who want premium features without crossing into Pro-tier pricing. The iPhone Air sits near $1000, positioning itself as a lifestyle-focused flagship for users who value a slim, stylish build with Pro-class performance but fewer camera modules.

The iPhone 17 Pro comes in at about $1100, feeling like the sweet spot for enthusiasts who want stronger cameras, higher RAM, and more advanced connectivity without committing to the largest form factor. The iPhone 17 Pro Max, at around $1200, is the top-end pick for users who want maximum storage options, the biggest display experience, and the most creator-focused camera hardware.

The spread makes the lineup feel intentionally layered, one model for every type of premium buyer rather than a single all-rounder.

Verdict: Budget-conscious flagship buyers should choose the iPhone 17, design-focused premium users should consider the iPhone Air, while power users and creators will get the best long-term value from the 17 Pro or Pro Max.

5. Conclusion

The iPhone 17 stands out as the balanced everyday flagship, offering strong performance, great display quality, and dependable cameras without pushing users into a higher pricing tier. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max feel purpose-driven for professionals and enthusiasts, delivering advanced camera control, Pro-grade video features, and higher RAM that makes them better suited for editing, content production, and long-term heavy use. The Pro Max further appeals to users who prefer a larger cinematic viewing and productivity experience.

The iPhone Air brings a distinctive identity to the lineup, combining a slim titanium design with powerful internals, making it ideal for buyers who want a premium, stylish flagship without the bulk of Pro-tier hardware.

Verdict

Choose the iPhone 17 if you want a premium upgrade at the best value. Pick the iPhone Air if style, slim design, and balanced performance feel more appealing. Go for the iPhone 17 Pro if productivity, photography, and performance matter most. The iPhone 17 Pro Max suits buyers who want the biggest display experience and the most complete flagship package.

6. iPhone 17 Series: Buyer Recommendation

User	Best Pick	Why This Works
Casual Everyday User	iPhone 17	Great balance of performance, cameras, and battery at the most affordable price (~$800); smooth everyday use without overkill features.
Style & Design Focused	iPhone Air	Sleek titanium frame, thin profile, and solid flagship performance, ideal for users who value premium aesthetics with capable hardware.
Mobile Gaming & High Performance	iPhone 17 Pro	A19 Pro + 12GB RAM feels more responsive under heavy loads; excellent for gaming, productivity, and long-term performance headroom.
Photography & Zoom Lovers	iPhone 17 Pro Max	Triple-lens system with periscope telephoto and LiDAR delivers the best zoom, creative control, and low-light results.
Video Creators / Pro Content	iPhone 17 Pro / Pro Max	ProRes, ProRes RAW, Apple Log 2, 10-bit HDR and 3D video tools enable professional-grade filming and editing workflows.
Power Users / Multitaskers	iPhone 17 Pro / Pro Max	Higher RAM, faster storage, and larger storage tiers, especially up to 2TB on Pro Max, suit heavy apps and creator workloads.
Frequent Travelers	iPhone 17 Pro Max	Bigger battery feel and immersive display are better for long trips, navigation, media, and travel photography.
Value-Focused Upgrade	iPhone 17	Best value flagship in the lineup: premium performance and reliable cameras at the lowest entry price.

Vivo X200T moniker confirmed via Bluetooth SIG certification, launching soon

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 4, 2026

A recent leak suggested that the Vivo X200T will be unveiled by late January in India. It appears that the phone is still on track for an imminent release, as it has received approval from the Bluetooth SIG authority. While the listing does not reveal any information about its specifications, it suggests that the device could be a rebranded version of an existing phone that debuted last year.

Vivo X200T Bluetooth SIG authority

The above screenshot shows that an upcoming Vivo smartphone bearing the model number V2561 has received approval from the Bluetooth SIG authority. The listing confirms that the device will be marketed as the Vivo X200T when it launches.

Vivo X200T specifications, price (rumored)

Leaks surrounding the Vivo X200T suggest that it could be a rebranded version of the Vivo X200s, which was announced in April 2025. The X200s features a 6.31-inch flat OLED display offering a 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor. It is powered by the Dimensity 9400 Plus chipset.

In China, the X200s was offered with up to 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM, up to 1TB of UFS 4.1 storage, and is backed by a 6,200mAh battery. The phone supports 90W wired and 40W wireless charging.

The X200s is said to feature a triple 50-megapixel rear camera setup comprising a main, ultra-wide, and periscope telephoto sensor. For selfies, it has a 32-megapixel front-facing camera. Other features include dual speakers, a metal frame, and an IP68/69-rated dust and water-resistant body.

A recent report claimed that the Vivo X200T could be priced at around Rs 55,000 (~$610) in India. It is likely to be available as online-only device.

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Vivo X300s key specifications leak reveals Dimensity 9500 Plus, 7,000mAh battery, and more

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 4, 2026

Vivo is expected to host a launch event in March to announce the Vivo X300 Ultra. Rumours suggest that the brand may also unveil the Vivo X300s as an incremental upgrade over the Vivo X300, which was announced in October 2025 in China. A new leak, courtesy of tipster Digital Chat Station, has revealed the key specifications of the X300s.

Vivo X300s specifications (rumored)

According to the tipster, the Vivo X300s will have a flat display surrounded by equally sized slim bezels on all four sides. On the back, it will feature a circular camera module.

On the front, it will sport a 6.78-inch 1.5K OLED screen, while the rear panel will house a 200-megapixel main camera accompanied by a mid-tier periscope telephoto camera. Under the hood, it will feature the upcoming Dimensity 9500 Plus chipset, which is said to be an overclocked version of the existing Dimensity 9500.

The X300s will pack a large battery of around 7,000mAh capacity. In comparison, the X300 features a smaller 6,040mAh battery. It will also include other features such as an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor and a waterproof chassis.

While there are speculations about the Vivo X300 Ultra’s global release, the X300s may remain confined to the Chinese market for about a year. The reason behind this is that the Vivo X200s, which debuted in China in April 2025, is expected to be rebranded as the Vivo X200T globally later this month or in early February. Similarly, the Vivo X300s may be rebadged as the Vivo X300T for the global market in 2027.

In related news, Vivo’s March launch event in China will not only see the arrival of the X300 Ultra and X300s but also the brand’s first-ever action camera. However, the rumor mill is yet to leak concrete details about the action camera’s specifications and features.

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Honor Magic 8 Pro Air officially teased, key specifications and launch timeframe emerge

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 4, 2026

Honor will unveil the Honor Power 2, equipped with the Dimensity 8500 Elite and a massive 10,080mAh battery, on Jan. 8. While its launch is only a few days away, the company has now teased a new Magic 8 series phone, which is also expected to launch this month. The teaser suggests that the brand may unveil the Magic 8 Pro Air either by the end of this month or in early February in China.

Honor Magic 8 Pro Air teased

The words “Pro” and “Air” above a Weibo post by Honor President Fangfei suggest that an upcoming Honor phone will carry these brandings. While the official moniker has not been confirmed, the device could be called the Magic 8 Pro Air or simply the Magic 8 Air.

Honor Magic 8 Pro Air specifications, launch timeframe (rumored)

According to tipster Experience More, the Honor Magic 8 Pro Air will be a compact phone with an ultra-thin design. It will feature a 6.31-inch screen, and previous leaks have suggested that it will be an LTPO OLED 1.5K display equipped with an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor.

Under the hood, the Honor Magic 8 Pro Air will feature the Dimensity 9500 chipset. It is said to pack a 5,500mAh battery with 80W fast charging support. The camera specifications of this device are currently under wraps, but being a Magic 8 series phone, it may not disappoint in the photography department. It is expected to run on MagicOS 10 and feature a metal frame for durability.

Honor Magic 8 Pro Air launch timeframe tipped

The leak also reveals that the Magic 8 Pro Air will debut in about ten days in China. If this holds true, teasers revealing its design may begin after the Power 2’s launch. As per a recent report, the device will come in color options such as Feather White, Shadow Black, Light Orange, and Fairy Purple.

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iQOO 15 Ultra official teaser arrives, launch timeline revealed

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 4, 2026

iQOO has finally started teasing the arrival of the iQOO 15 Ultra. For those who don’t remember, the company had confirmed its existence when it unveiled the iQOO 15 back in October in China. Today, the brand rolled out its first poster and revealed its launch timeframe.

iQOO 15 Ultra teasers begin

iQOO 15 Ultra poster — iQOO 15 Ultra teaser

The above poster confirms the iQOO 15 Ultra moniker, and the Chinese text on it reveals that it will be announced before the Chinese New Year, which falls on Feb. 17. Therefore, it is likely that the device may debut by the end of this month or in the first half of February.

Recently, a new Vivo phone bearing the model number V2545A was approved by China’s SRRC authority, hinting that its launch could be drawing near. While it did not reveal the final marketing name, it appears that it could be the upcoming iQOO 15 Ultra.

Reports have revealed that the iQOO 15 Ultra will be designed for a specific group of users, likely gaming creators, streamers, and competitive players. It is tipped to feature gaming shoulder triggers and an active cooling fan.

It is also being said that the device may inherit most of its specs from the iQOO 15. Therefore, it is likely to feature a massive 6.85-inch flat LTPO AMOLED screen that offers a 2K resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, and an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor. It could be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip and a battery of around 7,000mAh capacity with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging.

On the back, it may feature triple 50-megapixel cameras and run on OriginOS 6-based Android 16. Likely, the device may arrive with an IP68/69-rated dust and water-resistant body.

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Motorola Signature full specifications leaked, reveals 7 years of OS upgrades

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 4, 2026

Motorola is gearing up to unveil the Motorola Signature flagship phone in multiple markets, including India. Days before the official announcement, a new leak, courtesy of veteran leaker Evan Blass, has revealed the full specifications of the Signature. Here’s a look at what to expect from the company’s next flagship phone.

Motorola Signature full specifications (rumored)

Motorola Signature leak by Evan Blass — Motorola Signature leaked poster by Evan Blass

As per the leak, the Motorola Signature has a 6.8-inch Extreme AMOLED screen offering a 1.5K resolution (2780 x 1264p), 446ppi pixel density, up to a 165Hz refresh rate, a peak brightness of 6,200 nits, and support for Dolby Vision and HDR10+. The screen is integrated with a fingerprint sensor and will also have Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection.

Under the hood, the Motorola Signature will feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, paired with 12GB / 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 256GB / 512GB / 1TB of UFS 4.1 storage. It will draw power from a 5,200mAh battery, which will support 90W TurboPower wired charging, 50W TurboPower wireless charging, and 10W / 5W reverse wireless / wired charging. Thankfully, the charger will be included in the retail box.

Moving on to optics, the Motorola Signature will have a 50-megapixel Sony LYT-500 selfie camera and a 50-megapixel Sony LYT-828 primary camera on the back. The main sensor will be joined by a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens with autofocus support and a 50-megapixel Sony LYT-600 periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom and 100x digital zoom. It will support 8K Dolby Vision (30fps) and 4K Dolby Vision (60fps / 30fps) video recording.

One of the major highlights of the Motorola Signature is that it will be the company’s first phone to be promised to be treated with up to seven years of OS upgrades and security patches. It will come preloaded with Android 16, which will likely have Hello UX on top.

The Motorola Signature will come with other features such as dual speakers, eSIM, Wi-Fi 802.11ax, Bluetooth 6.0, and USB-C. In terms of durability, the Signature will arrive with an MIL-STD-810 grade body equipped with an aluminium frame and an IP68/69 rating for dust and water resistance. Finally, the device will measure 162.1 x 76.4 x 6.99mm and weigh around 186 grams.

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Oppo Find X9 Ultra’s detailed camera specs leak reveals a new 200MP OmniVision periscope sensor

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 4, 2026

A recent leak revealed that the Oppo Find X9 Ultra will debut as the world’s first smartphone equipped with dual 200-megapixel cameras. So far, it is expected that one of them will be the recently unveiled Sony LYT-901 sensor powering the primary camera. However, the details of the other 200-megapixel sensor were not known. Now, a new leak reveals that it will be powered by a new OmniVision camera sensor.

Oppo Find X9 Ultra camera specifications (rumored)

Oppo Find X9 Ultra camera specifications leaked

According to a Chinese tech blogger, the Oppo Find X9 Ultra’s primary camera uses a 23mm lens paired with a 200-megapixel Sony LYT-901 sensor with a large 1/1.12-inch size. It is accompanied by a 15mm ultra-wide lens with a 50-megapixel Samsung JN5 sensor sized at 1/2.76-inch.

The key highlight of this leak is the inclusion of a 70mm mid-range telephoto camera on the Find X9 Ultra, featuring the new 200-megapixel OmniVision OV52A sensor with a 1/1.28-inch size.

The camera system also includes a 230mm periscope telephoto lens for long-range zoom, which uses a 50-megapixel Samsung JN5 sensor measuring 1/2.76-inch. In addition, the setup is supported by a third-generation Danxia multispectral lens, designed to improve colour accuracy and maintain consistent colour reproduction across different focal lengths.

While it is not mentioned in the leak, the device is likely to feature a 50-megapixel Samsung JN5 front-facing camera with autofocus support.

Other reports have revealed that the Find X9 Ultra will have a 6.82-inch AMOLED 2K 120Hz screen and a large battery of around 7,000mAh capacity. It is expected to support 80W wired and 50W wireless charging. Under the hood, it will have the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. Reports also suggest that it could be Oppo’s first Ultra-branded phone to be released in the global market. While it is expected to hit the Chinese market in March, its global launch could take place in the second quarter of this year.

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Realme Neo 8 with Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 launch timeframe officially revealed

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 4, 2026

Realme has officially confirmed that the Realme Neo 8 will arrive later this month in China. Apart from confirming the moniker, the brand has also revealed the chipset’s name that will drive this phone. Here’s a look at what to expect from it.

Realme Neo 8 confirmed with Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset

Realme Neo 8 january 2026 launch confirmed

The Realme Neo 8 will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 platform. This chip also powers the upcoming iQOO Z11 Turbo and the OnePlus Ace 6T, which is already available in China.

The performance figures shared by the brand show that the Realme Neo 8 has crossed the 3.58 million mark on AnTuTu, positioning it among the highest-scoring Android phones in its segment. Realme executives have indicated that the device is positioned as a new-generation gaming-focused flagship, with emphasis on consistent frame rates and thermal control rather than short bursts of peak performance.

Realme Neo 8 specifications (rumored)

Leaks and official teasers have revealed that the Realme Neo 8 will arrive with a 6.78-inch flat Samsung AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution and an adaptive refresh rate ranging from 1Hz to 165Hz. The screen is said to support high-frequency PWM dimming, which improves viewing comfort during extended use. The phone is also expected to feature a 50-megapixel primary camera, paired with a large sensor.

A leaked image of the device that has surfaced on the web has revealed that the Realme Neo 8 adopts a metal frame and a square camera module placed at the top-left. The image also shows that it has a distinctive “Awakening Halo” lighting element, which sits beside the camera, lighting up dynamically for calls and notifications.

Powering the device is an 8,000mAh battery with 80W wired charging and bypass charging support, aimed at keeping temperatures in check during long gaming sessions. The phone is also tipped to include an ultrasonic fingerprint authentication and an IP68/69 dust and water-resistant chassis.

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Honor MagicPad 3 Pro Tops Global Android Tablet Performance Rankings in December 2025

By

Sudhanshu

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Jan 4, 2026

AnTuTu’s December 2025 Android tablet performance rankings clearly show a segment shaped by limited chipset refreshes and selective manufacturer participation. The data, collected globally outside mainland China using AnTuTu Benchmark V11, reflects average benchmark scores rather than peak figures, ensuring consistency and reliability.

The Honor MagicPad 3 Pro 13.3 takes the top position with a commanding average score of 4,051,634, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. Honor is currently the only brand to introduce this new-generation flagship chipset to the tablet market, giving the MagicPad a substantial performance lead over all competitors. The gap is large enough to place it in a separate performance tier.

Second place is claimed by the OnePlus Pad 2 Pro, running the Snapdragon 8 Elite, with an average score of 3,399,451. While still highly capable, it falls well behind Honor’s latest offering due to the older chipset. The Legion Pad Y700 Gen 4 follows in third place, also using the Snapdragon 8 Elite, achieving an average score of 3,168,903.

Other entries in the top ten include gaming-focused tablets from Red Magic and Lenovo, as well as productivity-oriented models from Samsung and Xiaomi, many of which rely on MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400+ or older Snapdragon platforms. These devices deliver strong performance but lack the raw computing power of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.

AnTuTu reiterates that tablet scores are influenced by thermal conditions, system versions, and sustained workload behavior. Devices with insufficient benchmark samples are excluded, and cross-version score comparisons are not supported.

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Asus Zenfone 13 Ultra may not launch this year, doubts surround ROG Phone 10 series

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 4, 2026

Last year, Asus refreshed its flagship lineup with the launch of the Zenfone 12 Ultra in February. However, a new industry report now suggests that the company may not follow up with a Zenfone 13 Ultra this year. The update hints at a pause in new smartphone launches, setting the stage for a deeper look at Asus’s mobile strategy.

Asus plans to pause new smartphone launches in 2026

According to a recent DigiTimes report, smartphone distributors in Taiwan have indicated that they are no longer able to source Asus smartphones through local agents. This led to speculation that the company’s smartphone unit might cease activity after Dec. 31, 2025.

Responding to these claims, Asus clarified that its smartphone operations are continuing, but it currently has no plans to introduce new smartphone models in 2026. The company emphasized that its existing business structure remains unchanged.

While there has been no news about the Zenfone 13 Ultra, a report dating back to November 2025 revealed that the ROG Phone 10 series is in the works. However, there haven’t been any subsequent leaks.

Asus confirmed that maintenance services, software updates, and warranty support for all current smartphone users will continue as usual. This assurance is aimed at existing customers using devices such as the Zenfone 12 Ultra and the gaming-focused ROG Phone, ensuring their ownership experience is not affected by the absence of new launches.

Asus entered the mobile phone space in the early 2000s and initially found success in parts of Southeast Asia with competitively priced Zenfone models. Over time, growing competition from Chinese smartphone brands reduced its market share. In 2018, Asus restructured its smartphone business and absorbed a major financial hit linked to handset operations, prompting a sharper focus on premium and gaming devices instead of mass-market models.

The situation also reflects a broader trend among PC-centric brands struggling to sustain smartphone businesses. Acer, another Taiwanese brand, exited the smartphone segment in 2016 and only re-entered the space in 2024 through a licensing deal limited to India.

Asus’s reported pause highlights how challenging it has become for traditional PC makers to maintain momentum in a crowded global smartphone market.

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This special Android phone puts privacy first, pairs it with removable battery and IP68 rating

By

Debasish

-

Jan 4, 2026

This smartphone is for users who want more control over their data without switching to a feature phone or giving up basic conveniences.

The MC03, from Swiss phone maker Punkt, runs AphyOS, the company’s custom software built on the Android Open Source Project. It removes Google services and background tracking, focusing instead on giving users tighter control over permissions and network access.

Punkt also bundles privacy-focused tools like a VPN and optional Proton services for email and cloud storage. These extras are included for the first year, after which a paid subscription is required. Without it, the phone still functions, but updates and some features are limited.

Specs-wise, this is clearly a mid-range device. The MC03 comes with a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, paired with MediaTek’s Dimensity 7300 chip and 8GB of RAM. It should be more than enough for everyday use, though it’s not trying to compete with flagship phones. The camera setup includes a 64MP main camera, an ultra-wide lens, and a 32MP selfie camera, which again points to practicality rather than headline-grabbing hardware.

One feature that immediately stands out is the removable battery, something that has almost disappeared from modern smartphones. The battery is said to be around 5,200mAh and supports both wired and wireless charging. The phone is also built to handle rougher conditions, with IP68 water and dust resistance and a relatively hefty 240g weight.

Pricing and availability:

Punkt is pricing the MC03 at €699, with European deliveries expected later this month and North American availability planned for spring. It’s not a phone for everyone, but for users tired of data-heavy ecosystems and sealed designs, the MC03 offers a rare alternative in today’s smartphone market.

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OnePlus Turbo 6V specifications emerge via TENAA certification

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 4, 2026

On Thursday, OnePlus will unveil the OnePlus Turbo 6 series of smartphones. Recent reports have revealed the key specifications of the Turbo 6, but there has been limited information about the more affordable Turbo 6V. That changes now, as the Turbo 6V’s specifications have surfaced via the TENAA certification in China.

OnePlus Turbo 6V specifications (rumored)

As per the TENAA listing, the OnePlus Turbo 6V will arrive with a 6.78-inch AMOLED screen offering a 1.5K resolution of 2772 x 1272 pixels. The device is powered by an 8,760mAh rated battery, which has already been officially confirmed to offer a 9,000mAh typical value. According to reports, the screen supports a 144Hz refresh rate and offers 80W fast charging.

The OnePlus Turbo 6V will be powered by a 2.7GHz octa-core processor, which appears to be the rumoured Snapdragon 7s Gen 4. The device will be available in RAM variants such as 8GB, 12GB, and 16GB. It will come in storage options like 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. The brand has already confirmed that it will be available in multiple configurations, such as 8GB+256GB, 12GB+256GB, and 12GB+512GB.

The OnePlus Turbo 6V will feature a 16-megapixel front-facing camera. On the back, it will have a 50-megapixel + 2-megapixel dual-camera setup. The listing also reveals other specifications, such as an in-screen fingerprint sensor and an IR blaster. It will measure 162.46 x 77.45 x 8.65mm and weigh 215 grams. It will arrive in color options, such as Lone Black, Nova White, and Fearless Blue.

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Samsung hints at brighter Freestyle+ portable projector ahead of CES 2026

By

Debasish

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Jan 4, 2026

Samsung is teasing a new version of its Freestyle portable projector, and the early message is pretty clear: it’s brighter. The upcoming Freestyle+, expected to be shown at CES 2026, looks like an attempt to address one of the original model’s biggest drawbacks.

From what Samsung has shared so far, the design stays largely the same. The projector keeps its cylindrical shape and rotating stand, letting users aim it at a wall, ceiling, or floor without much effort. That flexibility has always been the Freestyle’s main draw, and it doesn’t look like Samsung wants to mess with it.

The bigger change is brightness. Samsung is quoting 430 ISO lumens, which is a noticeable jump over the original Freestyle’s 230 lumens. Portable projectors are often hard to use unless the room is very dark, so this increase could make a real difference in everyday use — at least on paper.

There are also some new software tricks. Samsung is introducing something it calls AI OptiScreen, which handles autofocus, keystone correction, and screen alignment automatically. There’s also a wall calibration feature that adjusts colors depending on the surface, which could help when projecting onto painted or textured walls.

Like earlier Freestyle models, the Freestyle+ runs Tizen OS, so it doesn’t need a separate streaming device. Apps, Samsung Gaming Hub, and a built-in 360-degree speaker are all part of the package, with optional soundbar pairing through Q-Symphony.

Samsung is expected to share full specs and pricing during CES 2026. Whether the Freestyle+ ends up being a meaningful upgrade will likely come down to how much that brightness boost holds up outside controlled demo rooms.

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Vivo X300 Ultra rumored to bring continuous optical zoom to the main camera

By

Debasish

-

Jan 4, 2026

A new rumor suggests Vivo could be planning something ambitious for its next flagship camera phone. The upcoming Vivo X300 Ultra is said to borrow an idea from Xiaomi’s recent zoom tech — but apply it in a way that could make it more useful in everyday shooting.

The claim comes from a Weibo tipster and has since made its way to Reddit and X. According to the post, vivo’s next Ultra model — expected around March and tipped as the company’s first Ultra phone to see a wider global release — could feature a triple rear camera setup led by a 200MP main sensor with a 35mm equivalent focal length. The sensor is rumored to be a large 1/1.12-inch Sony LYT-901, paired with a 200MP periscope telephoto and a 50MP ultra-wide camera using a 1/1.28-inch sensor.

What’s drawing the most attention, though, is talk of continuous optical zoom on the upcoming Vivo flagship. Xiaomi introduced a similar idea on the 17 Ultra, where its periscope camera can optically shift between roughly 75mm and 100mm. Vivo, however, is rumored to be experimenting with this concept on the main camera instead, allowing optical zoom from around 35mm up to 85mm. If accurate, this could make the X300 Ultra feel closer to a dedicated camera than most of its competitors, including the Xiaomi 17 Ultra.

That said, there are reasons to be cautious. Continuous zoom systems are heavily limited by physical space inside the camera module. Using a larger main sensor could actually make it harder to achieve a wide zoom range. On top of that, the leaker behind this claim doesn’t reportedly have a strong track record, and well-known sources like Digital Chat Station haven’t backed it up yet.

If vivo does manage to pull off true continuous optical zoom on its primary camera, it could offer more flexibility than Xiaomi’s telephoto-focused approach. For now, though, this remains firmly in rumor territory. Either way, the X300 Ultra is shaping up to be another serious entry in the ongoing camera phone arms race.

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AnTuTu December 2025 Global Rankings: Poco X7 Pro Leads Mid-Range Androids in Performance

By

Sudhanshu

-

Jan 4, 2026

The Poco X7 Pro topped AnTuTu’s December 2025 sub-flagship Android rankings with an average score of 1,881,295 on AnTuTu Benchmark V11. The phone uses MediaTek’s Dimensity 8400-Ultra processor and stays ahead through good thermal control and steady performance.

The OnePlus Nord 4 came in second with 1,643,432 points. It runs Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 and is the best Snapdragon option in this category, though it scores about 238,000 points below the leader.

Third place went to the Poco X6 Pro 5G, which scored 1,541,644 using the older Dimensity 8300-Ultra. Even with last-generation hardware, it still puts up solid numbers.

The rankings barely changed throughout December. MediaTek controls this segment with two of the top three spots. Its Dimensity 8-series chips beat Qualcomm Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processors in real-world use. The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 is Qualcomm’s most powerful mid-range processor till date. It was released in March 2024, and we have not received a true successor of this chip yet.

The sub-flagship market has hit a plateau. Things probably won’t change much until new hardware arrives. Luckily, MediaTek is about to release its Dimensity 8500 soon, which was recently revealed to have achieved an AnTuTu score of over 2.4 million points. Additionally. OPPO’s Reno 16 Pro Max also made its global debut recently, featuring the Dimensity 8450 chip. It is expected to land somewhere in the middle of this month’s rankings.

AnTuTu collects data from phones actually being used worldwide, not lab tests. This gives a better picture of how devices perform in normal conditions. They only include phones with enough benchmark results and report scores from the best configurations that enough people tested.

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Red Magic 11 Pro Beats All Flagships in AnTuTu December 2025 Global Benchmarks

By

Sudhanshu

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Jan 3, 2026

As 2025 wraps up, AnTuTu‘s December performance rankings show which Android flagships are leading the pack right now. Qualcomm and MediaTek‘s latest flagship chips are everywhere, but only a handful of phones are truly pushing maximum performance. These rankings use average benchmark scores from December 1 to December 31, 2025, collected from global markets outside mainland China, all tested on AnTuTu Benchmark V10.

The Red Magic 11 Pro takes first place with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, scoring an average of 4,002,199. It also leads the AnTuTu flagship performance charts in mainland China, with a slightly better score of 4,118,828 points. Its gaming-focused design, active cooling, and aggressive tuning put it ahead of everything else. Second is the iQOO 15, also using the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, with an average score of 3,763,468. The Poco F8 Ultra comes in third at 3,755,870, keeping up Poco’s tradition of delivering flagship performance without the flagship price.

REDMAGIC 11 Pro and 11 Pro+ — Red Magic 11 Pro

All three top devices run the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, showing just how much Qualcomm controls the flagship performance space this generation. Phones like the Vivo X300 Pro and OPPO Find X9 Pro rank lower despite solid scores because they focus more on camera hardware and photo quality instead of maxing out benchmarks.

AnTuTu bases these rankings on average scores, not peak numbers, so they better reflect real-world sustained performance. Any device with fewer than 1,000 valid benchmark runs gets excluded. Scores can shift based on software version, temperature, and how the phone is being used.

December’s flagship rankings show a quiet month globally with few new releases. Performance leadership comes down to tuning and thermal management more than anything else.

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Xiaomi Auto delivers over 50000 vehicles in December, sets new monthly record

By

Soumyakanti

-

Jan 3, 2026

Xiaomi Auto reached a major milestone in December 2025 by delivering over 50,000 vehicles in a single month. This marks the highest monthly delivery total for the brand since it entered the electric vehicle market. The company had already crossed the 40,000 monthly delivery mark for three consecutive months prior to this record.

By the end of November 2025, Xiaomi Auto had delivered 361,625 vehicles for the year. With December’s strong performance, total deliveries for 2025 exceeded 410,000 units, surpassing the company’s original full-year target of 350,000.

As per China Passenger Car Association data, the cumulative vehicle deliveries had surpassed 500,000 units by November 2025. The company achieved this figure in less than 20 months, setting a new global record among EV brands for the fastest time to reach half a million deliveries.

Xiaomi Auto also appears to be preparing an aggressive product expansion in 2026. Reports from Chinese media indicate that the company plans to launch four new models next year. These include a refreshed SU7, an SU7 Executive Edition, a five-seat range extended SUV, and a seven-seat range extended SUV.

The updated SU7 and the larger SUV are expected to launch in the first half of the year. The Executive Edition and the five-seat SUV are scheduled to arrive in the second half. Interest is high around the upcoming SUVs, especially the larger model, which has already been seen in road testing under the internal name Kunlun.

Based on earlier industry reports, Xiaomi’s upcoming large SUV could launch as the YU9. The model is expected to compete with vehicles such as the AITO M9 and Li Auto L9, with a similar price segment.

In related news, Xiaomi has recently revealed the official repair pricing for the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, and fixing the camera-focused flagship is expected to be expensive.

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Casio refreshes popular G-Shock models with brighter LED backlights

By

Soumyakanti

-

Jan 3, 2026

Casio has rolled out a new wave of G-Shock digital watch upgrades, replacing the classic EL backlights with more power-efficient LED lighting. The changes apply to several long-running models, including the GW-6900, GW-2310, DW-5900, and GX-56 series. These models maintain their signature designs and features but now offer improved brightness and longevity through the LED system.

The GW-6900U-1JF leads the refresh. It retains the original’s 200-meter water resistance, shockproof design, Tough Solar charging, and Multi-Band 6 time syncing, but upgrades to Casio’s 3547 module. The new LED backlight replaces the EL system found on the 2009 model and increases its no-charge operation time to up to 10 months.

Casio has also updated the GW-2310 lineup. The GW-2310U-1JF and GW-2310UFB-1JF keep their stainless steel bezels and core features, including world time, stopwatch, and automatic calendar. Both use the 3537 module with a high-brightness LED backlight. The UFB variant features an inverted LCD display for a stealthier appearance.

The DW-5900U-1JF and DW-5900UBB-1JF also receive the LED treatment. These watches preserve the original Triple Graph display from the 1992 DW-5900 and now use the new 3536 module. Battery life has doubled to 10 years compared to earlier models. The design remains unchanged, maintaining the classic layout with animated counters and status icons.

Casio has also refreshed the GX-56 line with the GX-56UBB-1JF. The oversized, rugged model now features an LED backlight via the updated 3545 module. It continues to support Tough Solar charging and 200-meter water resistance.

Pricing and Availability

The DW-5900U-1JF and DW-5900UBB-1JF are priced at 14,300 yen (approximately $100). The GW-2310U-1JF and GW-2310UFB-1JF cost 22,000 yen (approximately $154).

The GX-56UBB-1JF is listed at 23,100 yen (around $161), while the GW-6900U-1JF is priced at 24,200 yen (around $169).

All models are set to go on sale in Japan this month and are expected to roll out globally in the coming weeks. Casio will continue selling the EL-backlit versions for now.

In related news, Casio has unveiled new Hokusai-themed G-Shock smartwatches in Japan.

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Moto G57 Power vs OnePlus Nord CE5 5G: Which Phone Offers Better Value at $300?

By

Joane

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Jan 3, 2026

A comparison between Moto G57 Power and OnePlus Nord CE5 5G brings together two smartphones that appeal to different types of buyers within the same price segment. Moto G57 Power is aimed at users who value practicality and long-lasting everyday usability, making it attractive to those who prioritize consistency and endurance in a phone. OnePlus Nord CE5 5G, on the other hand, is positioned for buyers who prefer a more refined and premium-leaning experience, especially in terms of overall polish and brand appeal within the mid-range market.

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1. Design and Display

Build and Feel

Moto G57 Power focuses on durability with a rugged, grip-friendly finish that feels dependable for rough and outdoor use. It gives a sense of confidence during everyday handling and suits users who value practicality and protection. Nord CE5 takes a sleeker approach with a cleaner, more refined design that feels modern and premium, making it better suited for style-driven buyers who prefer a polished, elegant aesthetic.

Display Quality

Nord CE5’s AMOLED display delivers deeper contrast and richer colors, making movies, gaming, and social content feel more immersive and visually engaging. The higher brightness tuning enhances outdoor visibility and adds a premium viewing character. Moto G57 Power’s IPS panel focuses on consistency and readability, offering smooth scrolling and reliable clarity for daily use, even if it lacks the same cinematic depth.

Verdict

Nord CE5 feels more premium in display quality and visual appeal, while Moto G57 Power leans toward durability and functional everyday usability.

2. Specifications

Performance

Nord CE5 delivers stronger processing power and faster graphics handling, making multitasking, gaming, and long-term use feel smoother and more responsive. Its performance profile suits users who prioritize speed and refinement. Moto G57 Power offers steady, efficiency-focused performance that feels reliable for routine apps, streaming, and social use, appealing to users who prefer stability over aggressive performance tuning.

Battery and Charging

Moto G57 Power clearly prioritizes endurance, with a large-capacity battery that feels ideal for long days, travel, and heavy on-the-go use. It reduces charging anxiety and favors power users. Nord CE5 balances capacity with significantly faster charging, allowing quick top-ups that feel convenient for urban and frequent-use environments where rapid recovery matters.

Verdict

Moto G57 Power feels superior for battery longevity, while Nord CE5 stands out for stronger performance and fast-charge convenience.

3. Camera

Main and Secondary Lenses

Nord CE5 offers a more advanced primary camera with optical stabilization and richer processing, producing steadier, more detailed shots in varied lighting. Its ultrawide lens feels better tuned for landscapes and group photos, giving it a versatile shooting profile. Moto G57 Power focuses on balanced colors and clear daylight output, making it feel dependable for casual photography and everyday sharing.

Selfie Camera

Nord CE5 captures sharper selfies with smoother tones and stronger stabilization during video, making it suitable for creators and frequent video callers. Moto G57 Power delivers natural-looking selfies that feel well-suited for simple personal photos and social use.

Verdict

Nord CE5 feels stronger for versatile and premium photography, while Moto G57 Power remains consistent and practical for regular shooting needs.

4. Pricing

Both phones are priced at $300, placing the decision entirely on priorities rather than cost difference. Moto G57 Power feels like a better value for endurance-focused users who want rugged usability and long battery life at the same price. Nord CE5 feels more rewarding for buyers who seek performance, camera refinement, and a premium display experience without paying extra, giving it a more upscale appeal in the same price bracket.

Verdict

Pricing is equal, but Moto G57 Power favors battery-heavy users, while Nord CE5 feels better suited for performance- and multimedia-centric buyers.

5. Conclusion

Moto G57 Power stands out for its rugged build focus, stereo sound, and endurance-first design that feels ideal for users who value reliability and long uptime. Nord CE5 distinguishes itself with its premium AMOLED display, faster charging, refined biometrics, and stronger video capabilities, making it feel oriented toward a polished and modern smartphone experience.

Verdict

If only one phone has to be chosen, the better overall pick is the OnePlus Nord CE5 5G. It delivers stronger real-world performance, a more premium AMOLED display, a superior primary camera with OIS, and much faster charging, all at the same $300 price point. The phone feels more future-ready, more refined in daily use, and better suited for users who want a modern, polished smartphone experience rather than endurance-only value.

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Xiaomi 17 Ultra repair costs revealed, fixing this camera beast won’t come cheap

By

Soumyakanti

-

Jan 3, 2026

Xiaomi has officially revealed the repair parts pricing for its latest flagship, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. As expected, the company lists the display, motherboard, and camera as the most expensive components.

The 6.73-inch AMOLED display is priced at 990 yuan ($138.6). The motherboard for the 12GB + 512GB model costs 2,980 yuan ($417.2), while the 16GB + 1TB variant is priced at 3,440 yuan ($481.6).

Xiaomi has kept the pricing for other components consistent across both variants. The main wide-angle camera module is priced at 850 yuan ($119). The periscope telephoto camera costs 795 yuan ($111.3). The ultra-wide camera is listed at 85 yuan ($11.9), and the front-facing camera is priced at 60 yuan ($8.4). The battery costs 159 yuan ($22.26), and the back cover is priced at 330 yuan ($46.2).

Additional components include the sub-board at 60 yuan ($8.4), top speaker at 55 yuan ($7.7), bottom speaker at 25 yuan ($3.5), charger at 55 yuan ($7.7), and data cable at 19 yuan ($2.66).

The Xiaomi 17 Ultra centers its upgrade around imaging, marking the first phone built under Xiaomi and Leica’s new Strategic Co-creation Model. The triple-camera system pairs a 1-inch Light Fusion 1050L main sensor with LOFIC HDR for stronger highlight and shadow control, a 14mm ultra-wide camera, and a standout 200MP Leica telephoto.

The telephoto uses a true 75mm to 100mm optical zoom system with moving lens groups and full sensor usage, avoiding digital crop. Leica APO certification further reduces chromatic aberration, while the UltraPure optical design helps control ghosting in complex lighting.

Outside the camera system, the phone features a flat LTPO display with up to 3500 nits brightness, runs on Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, packs a 6800mAh battery with 90W wired and 50W wireless charging, and supports Wi-Fi 7, UWB, and satellite communication.

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