Advertisement

Vivo X500 series roundup: Specs, leaks, and launch details

Vivo X500 Pro Max

The Vivo X500 series’ launch event is set for September 21st. That’s when it will launch in China, while the global launch has yet to be announced. Ahead of the launch event, the company has teased many key specs of the upcoming X500 series phones, and the leaks have spilled the rest of the details.

So, while the launch event is still at least two weeks away, we already know pretty much everything about the upcoming X500 series phones. This article is a roundup of leaks and confirmed details we know so far.

Vivo X500 series: Here’s everything we know so far

The upcoming X500 series will be a successor to the popular X300 series. But unlike last year, there’ll be a new “Pro Max” model this time. Vivo has confirmed three models in the lineup: X500, X500 Pro, and X500 Pro Max. More models, including the X500 Ultra and X500s, might launch next year, but there’s no official confirmation right now.

The standard X500 will focus on delivering flagship value and a large battery, while the Pro model will be a compact flagship with powerful hardware. The Pro Max will bring top-tier camera hardware, a larger battery, and a bigger display.

Vivo X500 Pro Max

The X500 Pro Max retains the large circular camera module on the back, featuring four sensors. The official image confirms the phone will have hardware compatibility for camera grips and optical lens attachments. It will be available in four color options as shown below.

Vivo has confirmed that the X500 Pro Max will feature the same 1/1.4-inch 200MP Samsung HP0 telephoto sensor as in the X300 Ultra, with CIPA 7.0 stabilization and up to 30x zoom. The device also supports the 400mm professional teleconverter kit.

The smartphone is confirmed to use a new custom Phantom 900 sensor, developed by Sony and Vivo’s Blueprint imaging team, which enables up to 17 EV of dynamic range and 3-axis gimbal stabilization. The X500 Pro Max is also confirmed to offer 4K slow-motion video recording at 240 fps, 480 fps, and 960 fps. It will also feature dedicated professional Log video hardware, enabling 4K 120fps 10-bit Log recording.

The X500 Pro Max is confirmed to feature a 2nm Dimensity chip, which is likely to be the Dimensity 9600 Pro, and a 6.85-inch 2K LTPO display with a 144Hz refresh rate and a total battery capacity of around 8000mAh.

Vivo X500 Pro

The X500 Pro will reportedly be a successor to last year’s “mini” model. It’s said to feature a 6.37-inch 1.5K OLED screen with a 144Hz refresh rate. The phone is confirmed to feature the same 2nm Dimensity chip as the Pro Max model, likely the Dimensity 9600 Pro.

The X500 Pro is confirmed to feature a 64MP APO telephoto camera with a custom Sony LYT-610 sensor. It will use a GG 1×1 and RB 2×2 pixel structure to deliver better focusing performance. The camera will offer 85mm focal length, CIPA 7.0 stabilization, 4K 120fps slow-motion video recording and 4K 60fps HDR video output.

The Vivo X500 Pro will also use a new custom Phantom 900 sensor, and could feature a 50MP resolution. The ultrawide unit is also said to carry a 50MP resolution.

Vivo X500

The standard Vivo X500 will reportedly feature a 6.59-inch 1.5K OLED display and a 7500mAh battery with 90W wired and 40W wireless charging. The phone will be offered in four color options as shown below.

Recent leaks suggest the phone may not use a 2nm Dimensity 9600-series chipset but instead a 3nm Dimensity 9500-series processor. This shouldn’t be too surprising, considering the significant rise in chip prices. We reported about this back in April.

Vivo has confirmed that the X500 will feature the same camera sensor as the X300 Pro. That means it will use a 50MP 1/1.28-inch Sony LYT-828 sensor with Zeiss gimbal-level stabilization and a CIPA 5.5 professional stabilization rating.

The telephoto camera will use the same 64MP Sony LYT-610 sensor as the X500 Pro. It will also offer a CIPA 5.5 stabilization rating and support 4K 120fps slow-motion video recording. The device is confirmed to support a 200mm teleconverter.

Here’s the spec sheet based on the confirmed and leaked details we have so far:

Vivo X500Vivo X500 ProVivo X500 Pro Max
Launch dateSeptember 21, 2026September 21, 2026September 21, 2026
Display6.59-inch 1.5K OLED6.37-inch 1.5K OLED
144Hz refresh rate
6.85-inch 2K LTPO OLED
144Hz refresh rate
ProcessorDimensity 9500-series (3nm)MediaTek Dimensity 9600 Pro (2nm)MediaTek Dimensity 9600 Pro (2nm)
Rear cameraMain: 50MP (Sony LYT-828), 1/1.28″, CIPA 5.5
Telephoto: 64MP (Sony LYT-610), CIPA 5.5
4K slow-mo recording at 120fps
200mm teleconverter kit support
Main: custom Phantom 900 sensor
Telephoto: 64MP (Sony LYT-610), CIPA 7.0
4K slow-mo recording at 120fps
4K 60fps HDR video output
Main: custom Phantom 900 sensor
Telephoto: 200MP Samsung HP0, 1/1.4″
3-axis gimbal stabilization
4K slow-mo recording at 240/480/960fps
4K 120fps 10-bit Log recording
400mm teleconverter kit support
Battery7500mAh~8000mAh
Charging90W (wired)
40W (wireless)

We’ll keep posting fresh detais in our Vivo section. You can visit the page to stay updated, or simply join our Telegram channel to get instant alerts.

HMD Asha 305 announced: it’s an Android with 5″ LCD, 145g body, 2,500mAh battery

HMD has dusted off a familiar name from Nokia’s past and is bringing the Asha sub-brand back with a new entry-level smartphone, which is built on top of the Android Open Source Project. It’s a clear move toward simple, affordable devices for people who just want the basics without the extra cost of more capable Android phones.

It comes in black and lime green, is 10.2 mm thick, and weighs just 145 grams. Up front there’s a 5″ LCD screen with 854×480 resolution and a 2MP selfie camera. On the back sits a matching 2MP main camera with an LED flash.

Inside, it runs a Unisoc T137 processor with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of storage, which you can expand with a microSD card up to 128GB. It has a removable 2,500mAh battery that charges at 5W and is claimed to last up to 32 hours. Connectivity covers dual 4G SIMs, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS, and a USB Type-C port.

The phone runs on Pulse OS, which is based on Android. One notable difference is that it doesn’t come with Google Play services or the usual Google apps pre-installed. Instead, HMD offers its own app store with a selection of lighter apps. While the brand didn’t mention any supported apps except for TikTok Lite in their website, unofficial reports name Facebook Lite, Instagram Lite, WhatsApp, and YouTube. The idea is to keep the system simple and focused on core communication and entertainment.

Pricing:

HMD hasn’t announced official global pricing yet, though the phone has shown up in places like the Philippines for about 3,990 Philippine pesos (around $65 / ₹6,000). It’s being positioned as a lite smartphone that sits between HMD’s basic feature phones and more capable (and more expensive) budget Android devices.

It doesn’t have the high-resolution cameras or larger display you’d find on a regular Android phone, but that also means it should feel less distracting. The one trade-off is that it leans a bit more into the app ecosystem, including social media, compared to HMD’s more digital-detox-friendly feature phones. Still, it could make a solid secondary device that’s neither too dumb nor too boring.

The removable battery, compact size, and Asha branding only add to the appeal for anyone who owned the original Nokia Asha 305.

Don’t miss a thing! Join our Telegram community for instant updates and grab our free daily newsletter for the best tech stories!

🔌 You’ll NeedStorage is capped at 16GB, but a 128GB microSD card gives you room for photos and apps. Check 128GB microSD card price on Amazon →

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

(Source: HMD)

DOOGEE Anymoving M1 Pro Sports Watch: GPX Navigation and AI Fitness Analysis

DOOGEE has introduced the Anymoving M1 Pro, a dual-band GPS sports watch designed for outdoor exploration, fitness tracking, and everyday use. The new smartwatch combines GPX route navigation, Track Back functionality, AI-powered sports analysis and long battery life, positioning it as a feature-rich companion for users who spend time both training and exploring outdoors.

GPX Navigation and Track Back for Outdoor Use

A key feature of the Anymoving M1 Pro is its support for GPX offline route navigation. Users can import planned routes to the watch before starting their journey, allowing them to access navigation information in areas with limited connectivity.

This could be particularly useful for activities in mountains, wilderness areas and other remote locations. The watch also records the user’s activity track in real time. Its Track Back feature can then help users retrace their recorded route when returning, reducing the chances of losing their way during an outdoor adventure.

The smartwatch uses dual-band GPS positioning to support more precise location tracking during activities such as hiking, running and cycling.

AI-Powered Insights for Smarter Training

Beyond navigation, the Anymoving M1 Pro includes an AI-powered sports analysis system designed to provide users with a better understanding of their workout performance and physical condition.

The watch tracks and evaluates information such as training load, VO₂ max and daily fitness vitality. These insights can help users monitor their recovery status and manage training intensity more effectively.

By providing multidimensional workout data, the system is designed to help users adjust their training plans based on their physical condition and potentially avoid overtraining.

More Than 170 Sports Modes

The Anymoving M1 Pro supports more than 170 sports modes, covering a broad range of fitness and outdoor activities. These include running, cycling, hiking, swimming and skiing, along with many other activities.

The wide selection makes the watch suitable for users with different exercise routines. Whether it is used for regular fitness training or more demanding outdoor adventures, the device is designed to track a variety of activities from a single wearable.

Up to 30 Days of Battery Life

Long battery life is another major feature of the smartwatch. In typical mode, the Anymoving M1 Pro can offer up to 30 days of battery life.

With the Always-On Display enabled, battery life is rated at around seven days. Under heavier use, the watch can operate for approximately four days. The device also supports magnetic charging for added convenience.

This extended battery performance could be useful during multi-day hikes, long-distance cycling trips and other activities where regular access to charging may be limited.

Bright AMOLED Display and Outdoor Protection

The watch features a 1.5-inch AMOLED HD display with peak brightness of up to 1,000 nits. This is designed to keep information visible and easy to read in bright outdoor conditions.

For additional durability, the Anymoving M1 Pro comes with 5ATM water resistance and an IP68 protection rating. These features are intended to help the watch handle water, sweat and the conditions often associated with outdoor activities and workouts.

Voice Memos and Multiple Style Options

DOOGEE has also included a built-in Voice Memo function, allowing users to record voice notes with a single tap while on the move.

The Anymoving M1 Pro will be available with silicone, leather and stainless steel strap options. This gives users a choice between styles suited to sports, outdoor activities and everyday wear.

With GPX route navigation, Track Back, dual-band GPS, AI-powered sports analysis and support for more than 170 sports modes, the DOOGEE Anymoving M1 Pro brings together navigation and fitness features in a single device. Combined with a bright AMOLED display, strong protection, and up to 30 days of battery life, it is designed for users looking for a smartwatch that can support both active lifestyles and everyday use.

Price and Availability

The DOOGEE Anymoving M1 Pro is priced at $219 and is available in Black, Gray and Blue color options. For more product details and purchase information, visit the official DOOGEE website.

WalkingPad G5i Auto Incline Foldable Treadmill: Powerful Incline Training in a Compact Design

WalkingPad G5i Auto Incline Foldable Treadmill is designed for people who want a powerful and versatile home fitness machine without dedicating an entire room to it. Priced at $1899, the treadmill combines automatic incline training, a high-performance motor, a spacious running deck, and a foldable design. It is built for everything from casual walking to more demanding running workouts while offering practical features for modern homes.

Up to 18% Incline for Intense Workouts

One of the G5i’s standout features is its adjustable incline, which reaches up to 18%. Incline walking and running can make workouts more challenging while placing greater emphasis on muscles such as the glutes and hamstrings. This allows users to add more variety and intensity to their training without leaving home.

The G5i supports speeds from 1 to 10 mph, making it suitable for a wide range of fitness routines. Whether users prefer a relaxed walk, brisk cardio session, or faster run, the treadmill offers flexibility for different training levels.

Powerful Motor and Spacious Running Surface

At the heart of the treadmill is a 4.5 HP brushless motor designed to deliver smooth and consistent performance. The brushless design also aims to provide quieter operation and long-term durability, making the G5i more suitable for regular home use.

The treadmill features a generous 51.2 x 19.7-inch running area, giving users enough room to move comfortably. Its reinforced frame supports a maximum user weight of 300 lb or 136 kg, providing stability during both flat and uphill workouts.

For additional comfort, the G5i uses SoftStep Incline cushioning with EVA and PET materials. The shock absorption system is designed to reduce the impact on the joints while maintaining a supportive running surface.

Fully Assembled and Easy to Store

The WalkingPad G5i arrives fully assembled, eliminating the need for complicated installation. Users can simply unbox the treadmill, unfold it, and begin their workout. A foot brake provides a simple one-step unlocking mechanism for setting up the machine.

When not in use, the treadmill can fold into a compact form and be stored flat or vertically against a wall. Its folded dimensions measure 45.7 x 33.4 x 10.2 inches, while the slim design helps save valuable floor space.

Despite its 68 kg net weight, the G5i includes transport wheels and a built-in handle to make moving and storing the treadmill easier.

Smart Features for Connected Workouts

The G5i supports the free KS Fit app, allowing users to track workouts, access personalized training plans, and use AI-powered fitness insights. Speed can be adjusted through the app or using the SpeedDial knob.

Apple Watch connectivity is another useful feature. By pairing the KS Fit app with an iPhone and Apple Watch, users can monitor their heart rate during workouts. The control knob can also provide an alert when the heart rate exceeds 180 bpm.

Bluetooth connectivity allows users to integrate their workout data with compatible fitness platforms. There is also a holder for tablets up to 11 inches, making it easier to follow workout videos or enjoy entertainment while exercising.

Built for Convenient Home Fitness

The G5i also includes supportive foldable side handles for added stability during more intense workouts. Once finished, the handles fold away to maintain the treadmill’s clean and compact profile. Its handrail also lowers with a controlled descent, helping make folding safer and easier.

With its 18% automatic incline, 4.5 HP motor, large running deck, smart connectivity, and space-saving design, the WalkingPad G5i is a feature-packed option for users looking to bring a more complete cardio training experience into their home.

iQOO 16 vs. OnePlus 16 camera specifications emerge: Which one would you choose?

The iQOO 16 and OnePlus 16, two upcoming performance-focused flagships, are drawing closer to their respective launches. The iQOO model is already confirmed to launch in China this month, potentially towards the end of September. Meanwhile, rumors suggest the OnePlus 16 could be unveiled in October, and a new leak has now revealed the camera specifications of both models.

iQOO 16 and OnePlus 16 camera specifications leaked

According to tipster Digital Chat Station, the two upcoming flagships will take notably different approaches to their camera hardware. The iQOO 16 is said to feature a triple-camera setup built around a 50-megapixel OV50Q primary sensor with a 1/1.3-inch size.

The main camera is reportedly joined by a 50-megapixel ultrawide lens and a 50-megapixel Sony IMX882 periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. This would give the iQOO 16 three 50-megapixel sensors, with the larger main sensor potentially offering an advantage in low-light photography and overall image quality.

The OnePlus 16, meanwhile, is tipped to feature a much higher-resolution 200-megapixel primary camera. The sensor is reportedly a 1/1.4-inch unit, although the leak does not identify its exact model.

It could be paired with a 50-megapixel ultrawide camera and the same 50-megapixel Sony IMX882 sensor for 3x periscope telephoto shots. On paper, the OnePlus 16 therefore combines a high-resolution main camera with two 50-megapixel secondary sensors.

As far as the other specifications are concerned, both phones are expected to feature top-notch displays. The iQOO 16 could get a 2K 165Hz Samsung AMOLED panel, while the OnePlus 16 is tipped to feature a 1.5K 185Hz OLED display. Both phones are expected to be powered by the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chip, with the iQOO 16 reportedly packing an 8,400mAh battery and the OnePlus 16 a larger 9,000mAh unit.

Both could support 100W wired charging, while wireless charging may reach 40W on the iQOO 16 and 50W on the OnePlus 16. On the software front, both are expected to run Android 17 with their respective OriginOS 7 and ColorOS 17 interfaces.

Which camera setup and overall package looks more exciting to you: the iQOO 16’s triple 50-megapixel system or the OnePlus 16’s 200-megapixel main camera?

For daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

Asus Vivobook lineup gets a fresh new look with up to 38-hour battery life

Asus is preparing to bring a refreshed Vivobook lineup to India later this month. The upcoming range focuses on a more personal design approach while covering different laptop formats and processor platforms. Asus has also revealed the launch date and some key details ahead of the announcement.

Asus Vivobook lineup gets a fresh design

The new Vivobook range will launch in India on September 16 at 12 noon, with Asus positioning the refreshed lineup around its “Your Vibe. Your Colour.” theme. The laptops will feature all-metal construction and a new choice of Cool Silver, Matte Gray and Light Blue finishes.

The lineup will cover the Vivobook 14 Flip, Vivobook S14 Flip, Vivobook S14, Vivobook S16 and Vivobook 16. The Flip models will offer convertible form factors, while the other laptops will follow traditional clamshell designs.

Asus has also confirmed that the new range will span AMD, Intel and Qualcomm Snapdragon processor options, although the company has not yet detailed the chips used in each model.

Battery capacity figures have not been revealed yet, but Asus claims up to 38 hours of battery life for the upcoming Vivobook models. Actual endurance will vary depending on the configuration and usage conditions.

Launch offer and availability

Alongside the new laptops, Asus will introduce a limited-period launch offer in India. Buyers will be able to get a two-year extended warranty and three years of accidental damage protection, together valued at Rs 5,599, for Rs 99 during the promotional period.

Pricing, detailed specifications and individual processor configurations are expected to be announced at the September 16 launch. The event will also clarify how the different Vivobook models and configurations will be positioned in the Indian market.

For daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

Xiaomi’s Xring O100 chip hits 330TPS thanks to 1.22TB/s memory bandwidth

Xiaomi has taken another step in its self-developed chip plans, introducing three new Xring chips, one of which is a specialized accelerator meant to handle more powerful AI processing right on the device. Founder, chairman and CEO Lei Jun announced it at the company’s Autumn flagship product launch event.

The new AI accelerator chip, called the Xring O100, delivers up to 1.22TB/s of memory bandwidth. Xiaomi is calling it the world’s first 6nm 3D wafer-level stacked advanced packaging solution.

It uses an advanced hybrid bonding process, with the bonding pitch getting very close to the physical limit According to the company, this design gives it 16 times the memory bandwidth of traditional mobile phones and enables an on-device inference speed of 330 tokens per second.

The key idea is stacking the logic and high-speed DRAM dies vertically using wafer-on-wafer technology and hybrid bonding. That shortens the physical distance between the compute parts and the memory.

Xiaomi says this near-memory approach helps overcome the long-standing memory bottleneck that has limited how well large language models can run on edge devices. Even when regular mobile SoCs have decent compute power, they often get held back by slow data transfer. The O100’s high bandwidth and dense connections are meant to let on-device models generate tokens much faster.

It uses a multi-core NPU setup optimized for different stages of inference and supports dynamic data routing. Xiaomi has already shown prototypes, including tablet-style devices and “Xiaomi AI Cube” mini-PC form factors that pair the O100 with other Xring chips for sustained local AI workloads. Commercial use is expected in 2027, with potential applications in smartphones, tablets, robotics, and more.

As mentioned above, the O100 is part of Xiaomi’s broader Xring chip family, which also includes flagship mobile SoCs and chips aimed at cars. Instead of just chasing smaller process nodes, Xiaomi is focusing on bandwidth and packaging improvements. The aim is to make generative AI feel responsive, private, and usable even when you’re offline.

Don’t miss a thing! Join our Telegram community for instant updates and grab our free daily newsletter for the best tech stories!

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

(Source)

Apple’s foldable iPhone Duo could start at $2,000 with 256GB storage

Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone is getting closer to becoming a reality, with more details now emerging ahead of its expected arrival. The device has been referred to by different names during its development, but a new report points towards a different branding strategy. The latest information also gives us an idea of how much Apple could charge for it.

iPhone Duo price and availability details

iPhone Duo AI-generated image
iPhone Duo AI-generated image

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple could call its first foldable smartphone the iPhone Duo instead of the previously rumored iPhone Ultra. The name appears to highlight the device’s dual-screen design, while also distinguishing it from Apple’s existing iPhone lineup. The report claims that the entry-level model could cost $2,000, and come with 256GB of storage.

Higher storage configurations could reportedly push the price close to $3,000, or around Rs 2.5 lakh. Apple is said to have faced higher production costs, partly due to the ongoing memory shortage, but could absorb some of those expenses to keep the base model near the $2,000 mark. The company may instead pass more of the cost to buyers opting for higher storage capacities.

The iPhone Duo is reportedly expected to go on sale as early as October, with white and dark blue colour options. This would put its availability after the expected iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max launch, although the gap may not be particularly long.

As per other reports, the foldable iPhone is tipped to feature Apple’s A20 Pro chip and C2 modem, along with two 48-megapixel rear cameras and a 12-megapixel front camera. A magnetic hinge system is also expected, while Apple Pencil support could bring a more tablet-like experience to the larger internal display. Rumors also point to side-by-side app support and iPad-style multitasking.

For daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

5 Reasons to Buy the Xiaomi 18 Fold (and 2 Reasons to Wait)

If you’ve been following foldable phones from China over the past few years, you’ve probably noticed the trend. Honor, Oppo, and Vivo have all been making foldables with good cameras, large batteries, and flagship hardware, while Samsung has kept treating the Galaxy Z Fold series as productivity-focused devices.

The all-new Xiaomi 18 Fold fits right into that trend, and in a few areas, it pushes it further than anyone else has so far. It launched in China this month and is now available to international buyers through resellers, so you don’t have to be in China to get one.

Xiaomi 18 Fold

The question isn’t whether this phone has strong specs; spoilers: it clearly does. The question is whether it’s the right foldable for you specifically, given the price and the fact that Xiaomi hasn’t confirmed an official launch outside China. Here’s what makes the case for buying one, and what might make you wait.

1. The 6,000mAh battery is bigger than what Samsung and Apple offer

Battery life is one of the biggest compromises with book-style foldables, but Xiaomi is trying to change that with the 18 Fold. The phone packs a 6,000mAh Jinshajiang battery. It uses a new stacking process with 20% silicon content and an energy density of 920Wh/L.

For comparison, the Galaxy Z Fold8 has a battery of around 4,800mAh. That gives the Xiaomi 18 Fold more than 1,000mAh of extra capacity without making the phone significantly larger. Xiaomi also supports 67W wired charging and 50W wireless charging, so you won’t have to spend too much time plugged in.

🔌 You’ll NeedThe 18 Fold supports 67W wired charging, but you’ll need a compatible GaN charger to actually hit that speed. Check Xiaomi 67W GaN charger price on Amazon →

2. Xring O3 gives Xiaomi its own flagship chip

The Xiaomi 18 Fold is powered by Xring O3, Xiaomi’s second in-house mobile chip. The chip has already attracted attention because of its benchmark results. Xiaomi claims the Xring O3 can reach an AnTuTu score of 5.22 million, making it the first mobile chip to cross that mark. 

The chip is built on a 3nm process and has a 10-core CPU paired with a 16-core G2-Ultra NX GPU. It also brings the first commercial use of LPDDR6 memory, with bandwidth reaching up to 113.8GB/s. 

The bigger advantage is that Xiaomi designed the Xring O3 specifically for its own hardware. It isn’t a chip that has to be adapted for phones from several different manufacturers.

3. The camera setup is better than what you usually get on a foldable

Chinese foldables have generally offered better camera hardware than Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series, and the Xiaomi 18 Fold continues that trend. It has a 200MP Leica main camera with a 1/1.56-inch sensor, OIS, and an f/1.7 aperture. 

It is joined by a 50MP periscope camera with 3.5x optical zoom and up to 7x optical-quality zoom, along with a 50MP ultra-wide camera. All three cameras also use Leica-tuned Summilux optics. In comparison, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold8 does not have a dedicated zoom camera, instead relying on digital cropping. 

4. Both displays are bright enough for outdoor use

The Xiaomi 18 Fold has a 7.58-inch inner AMOLED display with a 2364 × 1672 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The outer screen measures 5.38 inches, has a 1712 × 1168 resolution, and also runs at 120Hz.

Both panels can reach up to 4,000 nits of peak brightness and support HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. Xiaomi also uses its HyperRGB panel technology with a full RGB subpixel structure.

You’re also covered by foldable UTG glass and a new dragon-bone hinge that Xiaomi says survives a 1.2-meter drop, so durability isn’t an afterthought either.

5. It is surprisingly thin and light

At 219g, this is the lightest foldable Xiaomi has ever built, and it measures just 5.02mm thick when unfolded. Xiaomi is calling it a “mid-fold” as the form factor is something in between the tall, narrow foldables and clamshell ones. 

There’s also a Ceramic Special Edition with an ultra-narrow four-sided bezel layout, big rounded corners, and a completely flat wraparound frame. 

Reasons to wait

6. The price is still high

All that hardware comes at a price. The Xiaomi 18 Fold starts at ¥10,999 (~$1,640) in China. International buyers face an even higher price because it is currently exclusive to mainland China, meaning importing is the only option for those who want one.

Global resellers are listing the phone from around $1,999, putting it close to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and well above what most people are willing to spend on a smartphone. Chinese foldables have traditionally offered better hardware than Samsung at lower prices. With the Xiaomi 18 Fold, that price advantage is much smaller.

7. There is no official global launch yet

As of now, Xiaomi hasn’t confirmed an international launch for the 18 Fold. Buyers outside China are relying on import resellers, which usually means longer shipping windows, import duties depending on where you live, and less certainty around warranty support if something goes wrong down the line. Software is the other wrinkle. 

The phone runs HyperOS 4 on top of Android 17, and while Xiaomi’s global software support has improved a lot in recent years, a China-first release always carries some risk of missing features, delayed updates, or app quirks until an international version shows up, assuming one ever does.

For daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

Nothing explains why the Phone (2) won’t get Android 17

Nothing Phone 2

Nothing has recently published the rollout timeline for Nothing OS 5.0, and three phones were missing from the list: the original Phone (1), Phone (2), and CMF Phone 1. The Phone (1) is too old to receive an OS upgrade, but many Phone (2) users were expecting to receive Android 17.

During a recent “Ask Me Anything” session on Reddit, many users expressed their disappointment over the Phone (2) not getting the Android 17-based Nothing OS 5.0 update. Responding to the query, Nothing’s CEO, Carl Pei, said the kernel is unfortunately too old, and that Android 17 won’t be supported by the chip vendor.

The kernel is unfortunately too old, and Android 17 won’t be supported by the chipset vendor. This phone was originally advertised as having 3 major updates but got 4 (13/A14/A15/A16), with security patches to 2027. So I think what we’ve done is pretty fair if we were clear about the support at the time of purchase, and then went above that,” said Carl Pei

Carl incorrectly claimed that the Phone (2) received four major upgrades, but in reality, it received three. Later, he edited the message to include the correct details.

Even though the Phone (2) isn’t getting the Android 17 update, Nothing stood by its promise. At the launch, the brand committed to offering three major OS releases to the device, and it did. The last major OS upgrade was Android 16, and that will be it for the rest for the lives for Phone (2) users.

The Nothing Phone (2) will continue to receive security updates until July 2027, per the official update policy.

From the users’ point of view, it’s fair to ask for more OS updates, especially when brands like Samsung offer their mid-range phones up to six major Android updates. Many budget Galaxy phones also carry the same update policy, while Nothing is stuck with three for most of its phones.

Only the flagship Nothing Phone (3) is eligible for five major OS updates. Even that can’t match what Samsung and Google promise to their high-end phones.

In 2026, three OS updates for mid-range phones sound like an outdated update policy. Nothing needs to rework on its update policy and offer longer OS support to its devices.

We’ll keep updating you with the latest Nothing OS details in our Nothing section. You can visit the page regularly or join our Telegram channel to stay updated.

iQOO Pad Ultra teasers reveal built-in 14,500rpm cooling fan, gaming-focused design, retractable gaming accessory

iQOO is gradually confirming details about its upcoming flagship devices, such as the iQOO 16 and Pad Ultra, which are slated to debut together later this month in China. Today, it rolled out the following posters to reveal a few key details about the Pad Ultra. Continue reading ahead to see what the latest teasers reveal.

iQOO Pad Ultra teases a serious gaming setup

The first poster focuses on the cooling hardware inside the iQOO Pad Ultra. It shows a compact fan rated at up to 14,500rpm, with dimensions of 30 × 30 × 3.5mm. The fan can reportedly deliver up to 0.94 CFM of airflow, while its stated area is 1,661mm². This suggests that thermal management will be an important part of the tablet’s performance-focused design.

Another teaser highlights a new form factor and shows the tablet alongside what appears to be an adjustable gaming accessory. The poster lists dimensions of 209.67 x 107.76 x 60.4mm and a maximum extension length of 211.5mm. A third poster gives dimensions of 201.54 x 130.44 x 8.54mm and again focuses on the gaming-oriented accessory, with the phrase “Under Control” pointing towards its emphasis on handling and control.

The teaser campaign also uses phrases such as “Unprecedented, reshaping imagination”, “extreme performance release” and “precision design”. Together, the posters suggest that iQOO is positioning the Pad Ultra as a gaming-focused tablet rather than a conventional large-screen device.

iQOO Pad Ultra specifications (rumored)

The iQOO Pad Ultra is rumored to feature an 8.8-inch OLED display, potentially with a 165Hz refresh rate. It could be powered by a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 series chipset and pack around a 9,000mAh battery with support for 66W charging. The tablet is also expected to be Wi-Fi-only and may arrive in Shadow Black and Armor Silver colors.

With Vivo scheduled to launch the Vivo X500 series on Sept. 21, the iQOO 16 and Pad Ultra are likely to break cover by the end of September.

For daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

Honor reopens MagicOS 11 internal beta recruitment for the first batch of devices

Honor MagicOS 11 beta

Honor will unveil MagicOS 11 at its Global Developer Conference 2026, scheduled for September 15th. At the event, the company will highlight new features, major upgrades to the new software, and rollout plans.

The Android 17-based software is already available to select Honor users via the beta channel, but that rollout unexpectedly hit a pause. According to a latest report by The Tech Outlook, the company has reopened the internal beta program for the first batch of eligible devices.

The eligible devices in the first batch include:

  • HONOR Magic V6
  • HONOR Magic V5
  • HONOR Magic8 RSR Porsche Design
  • HONOR Magic8 Pro
  • HONOR Magic8 Pro Air
  • HONOR Magic8
  • HONOR Magic7 RSR Porsche Design
  • HONOR Magic7 Pro
  • HONOR Magic7
  • HONOR 600 Pro
  • HONOR 600 Super Edition
  • HONOR 600 Vitality Edition
  • HONOR WIN
  • HONOR WIN RT
  • HONOR GT Pro
  • HONOR MagicPad3 Pro
  • HONOR MagicPad3 Pro 12.3

The list hasn’t changed from the initial beta roadmap. As always, the number of seats is limited, so you must be quick to reserve your spot.

To apply for the MagicOS 11 beta program, go to My Honor > Club > MagicOS 11 testing program > Submit. Once done, go to Settings > System and Updates to install the update.

Remember to visit the Honor section to get the latest updates. You can also join our Telegram channel to receive instant alerts.

Here’s the first look at the Vivo X500 Pro Max’s design and its telephoto extender

For the past few days, Vivo has been gradually confirming key specifications and features of the Vivo X500 series ahead of its September 21 launch in China. However, none of the teasers had revealed the lineup’s design. Today, the brand released an image showcasing the X500 series for the first time.

Vivo X500 Pro Max’s design revealed

The image provides a first official look at the X500 Pro Max‘s design. The Pro Max appears to feature a large circular camera module on the upper portion of the rear panel, with the camera area rising gently from the back. The sloped design could help make the prominent camera bump appear less pronounced. It will be available in at least two shades, such as black and orange.

The image also shows the X500 Pro Max alongside a dedicated telephoto lens and a professional photography grip. These accessories give the phone a more camera-like appearance and are aimed at users looking for additional control and reach while shooting.

The X500 Pro is expected to feature a similar design as the Pro Max, but in a more compact form factor. The standard X500, however, is rumored to take a different approach, with its camera module positioned in the top-left corner.

Vivo is positioning the X500 lineup around photography and video, with its stated goal of making it a first choice for photos and a go-to option for video recording. The series is expected to debut the BluePrint 900 sensor globally, along with CIPA 7.0 stabilization for the main and periscope telephoto cameras. An upgraded AI photography assistant is also expected to be part of the package.

For video recording, Vivo has highlighted a 17-stop dynamic range, 10-bit 4:2:2 encoding and support for the ACES colour encoding system. The lineup will also feature dedicated professional Log video hardware, enabling 4K 120fps 10-bit Log recording. Native 8K Live output and 8K Live streaming support on supported platforms are also part of the video-focused feature set.

For daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

HMD Key 2 entry-level Android tipped with a 6.52″ IPS LCD display, 5000mAh battery, 10W charging

HMD looks like it’s about to refresh one of its most affordable smartphones. Leaked specs suggest a straightforward update to an existing entry-level model.

According to tipster smashx_60, the upcoming HMD Key 2 will use a Unisoc SC9863A processor, which keeps it firmly in the low-end category. It’s expected to come in black and green, with a 6.52″ LCD screen running at 1280×576 HD+ resolution and a standard 60Hz refresh rate. There’s a 5MP front camera for selfies and video calls.

On the back, you’ll find a 13MP main sensor paired with a 0.3MP secondary lens. Memory options include 3GB or 4GB of RAM with 32GB or 64GB of storage. It packs a 5,000mAh battery that charges at 10W, and it runs Android 14 Go edition, a lighter version made for devices with limited resources.

The HMD Key from 2025 uses the older Unisoc SC9832E chip, only 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, and the same 6.52″ 1280×576 60Hz LCD (rated at 460 nits). So the Key 2 brings a bit more processing power, higher memory choices, a bigger battery, and a better main camera, while keeping the same screen size and resolution.

Like most other HMD devices, the Key 2 isn’t meant to compete with phones from other brands on speed or camera quality. Instead, it’s focused on offering a clean software experience while covering the basics such as calls, messaging, and light browsing. The company has built a presence in this segment in recent years with simple, no-frills handsets.

No official launch date, pricing, or complete feature list has been confirmed yet. The leaked details point to HMD continuing its approach of offering accessible Android Go phones with small hardware improvements. When it does arrive, it should be a solid option for anyone looking for a low-cost secondary phone without any unnecessary extras.

Don’t miss a thing! Join our Telegram community for instant updates and grab our free daily newsletter for the best tech stories!

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

(Source)

Xiaomi Mijia Air Pump 3 gets 25% faster inflation and 150psi pressure

Xiaomi today announced a new portable inflator in China. The Mijia Air Pump 3 is now available for crowdfunding through Xiaomi Mall and Xiaomi Youpin at a retail price of 199 yuan (~ $29), while the crowdfunding price is 179 yuan (~ $26).

Xiaomi says the new pump inflates 25% faster than the previous model. It uses a 21mm high-precision alloy die-cast cylinder and a more powerful motor, with a maximum pressure of 150psi.

Xiaomi Mijia Air Pump 3

The pump has two built-in 2500mAh lithium batteries. Xiaomi says they can inflate a car tire 10 times, a road bike tire 19 times, or a size 7 basketball 80 times on a single charge. Charging is handled through USB-C, but there is no fast charging. A full charge takes around 3 hours with a 5V/2A adapter.

The Mijia Air Pump 3 also has a display that shows the inflation progress in real time. Its redesigned pressure relief valve makes it easier to adjust the pressure. A digital chip sensor measures tire pressure with an accuracy of ±1psi, while automatic calibration at startup helps keep readings accurate at different altitudes.

🔌 You’ll NeedIt charges via USB-C with no fast charging, so a basic 5V/2A adapter is all you need to top it up. Check 5V 2A USB-C charger price on Amazon →

Xiaomi Mijia Air Pump 3 features six inflation modes

There are six preset modes. Car mode has a default pressure of 2.5 bar and supports 1.8–3.5 bar. Motorcycle mode defaults to 2.4 bar and supports 1.8–3.0 bar. Bike mode has a 45psi default with a 30–65psi range, while electric scooter mode defaults to 50psi and supports 45–60psi. Ball mode defaults to 8psi and supports 4–16psi. There is also a custom mode that supports pressures from 3psi to 150psi and lets you save your own settings.

In terms of inflation speed, Xiaomi says the pump can fill a 205/55 R16 tire from empty to 2.5 bar in around 6 minutes. Topping the same tire up from 2.0 to 2.5 bar takes about 75 seconds.

Xiaomi Mijia Air Pump 3 Motor

The pump also comes with a built-in LED light. It has a standard lighting mode for better visibility and an SOS flashing mode for emergencies.

The battery is not user-replaceable, so Xiaomi advises against opening the unit. The pump is also not waterproof and should be kept away from moisture. It can operate at temperatures as low as -10°C, while charging is supported between 5°C and 40°C.

For air travel, Xiaomi says the 2400mAh battery pack is below China’s 100Wh carry-on limit for lithium batteries. However, you should still check your airline’s rules before taking it on a flight.

For daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

OnePlus 16 leak with three custom chips for gaming and a main processor

Digital Chat Station has shared more details about the OnePlus 16 following an earlier leak. The tipster previously revealed that OnePlus was working on a new version of its e-sports triple-core technology. The latest leak explains what that means: three separate chips developed by OnePlus specifically for gaming.

The three chips are reportedly called the P4 display chip, G3 network chip, and T3 touch chip. Each one is designed to tackle a different part of gaming performance. The display chip should help reduce screen response times, while the network chip is expected to improve connection stability. The touch chip, meanwhile, should make touch inputs register faster.

OnePlus 16 render

According to the leak, OnePlus 16 will be the first to use all three chips. And the company has also reportedly worked with FPS game studios to tune the system for real-world gaming. 

OnePlus 16 has a separate main chip

These gaming chips won’t replace the phone’s main processor. Instead, they will work alongside it. The OnePlus 16 is expected to be one of the first phones powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro. The chip is reportedly built using TSMC’s 2nm process and could feature new Oryon CPU cores clocked above 5GHz.

The new chip is also expected to bring higher IPC, which should improve overall performance. 

Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro

On the display front, the OnePlus 16 is set to bring a new version of the Oriental Screen, co-developed with BOE. Pair that with ColorOS 17, and the interface itself should feel a notch smoother too, since Oppo and OnePlus have spent months tuning the software’s animations and resource management ahead of release.

None of this is official yet. Digital Chat Station’s track record on OnePlus leaks has been solid so far, but OnePlus hasn’t confirmed the chip names or exactly how they work together. The phone is expected to launch in October, so there’s still room for details to change before then.

For daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

(Source)

iQOO 16’s display officially revealed ahead of September 14 event

iQOO recently confirmed that it will hold a launch event this month to unveil the iQOO 16 and iQOO Pad 6 Ultra. Reports have revealed that the iQOO 16 will feature the industry’s best display, and now the company has shared more details about its display technology.

iQOO 16 display gets Samsung collaboration

iQOO 16 display event

iQOO has confirmed that it will hold an event in collaboration with Samsung Display to reveal more details about the iQOO 16’s screen. The two companies will work together on areas including screen clarity, colour reproduction, touch response, high refresh rates and eye protection.

Scheduled for Sept. 14, the event will also make iQOO the first smartphone brand to hold a display technology communication event at Samsung Display’s headquarters in South Korea. The above image shows that the iQOO 16 will have a flat display with ultra-thin bezels on all four sides.

iQOO 16 specifications (rumored)

As per reports, the iQOO 16 is expected to feature Samsung’s M16 LEAD AMOLED panel. The screen is tipped to measure 6.85 inches and offer a 2K resolution with a 165Hz refresh rate. It will feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset alongside iQOO’s Q4 chip for enhanced ray tracing.

The iQOO 16 may feature a 32-megapixel front camera and its redesigned camera module on the back will have a 50-megapixel rear camera setup with a 1/1.3-inch primary sensor featuring an f/1.68 aperture. It will be joined by a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens and a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto camera.

The phone is tipped to pack an 8,400mAh battery with 100W wired and 40W wireless charging. Other expected specifications include an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor, USB 3.2, dual speakers and IP68/IP69 ratings.

Storage options could include 12GB+256GB, 12GB+512GB, 16GB+512GB and 16GB+1TB, with OriginOS 7 based on Android 17 expected to handle the software side. It is expected to arrive in shades like Track, Legend, and Light Chaser.

For daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

Oppo begins reservations for Find X10 E, Find X10, Find X10 Pro Max, Watch S2, and Enco X4

Oppo has already confirmed that the Find X10 series will debut in China this month. Starting today, the company is accepting reservations for the upcoming lineup across multiple channels. While the exact launch date remains under wraps, here’s what to expect from Oppo’s next flagship launch event.

Oppo Find X10 lineup officially confirmed

The Find X10 series will include the Find X10E, Find X10, and Find X10 Pro Max, according to the promotional material shared by Oppo. The lineup will focus heavily on imaging, with the Find X10 positioned as an all-round flagship featuring a dual 200-megapixel camera setup. The Pro Max takes things further with three 200-megapixel cameras covering both photography and video creation.

Oppo is also bringing its Hasselblad-branded imaging experience to the Find X10 series, with the company referring to it as the Hasselblad Ultra-Clear Original Camera. The Pro Max’s triple 200-megapixel configuration should give it greater flexibility across different focal lengths. The brand has already revealed that it has a Samsung HPC main camera, which is likely to be joined by two Samsung HP5 sensors for ultra-wide and periscope telpehoto cameras.

The Find X10 and X10 Pro Max will pack an 8000mAh battery, with a five-year durability design intended to reduce long-term battery degradation. The phones will also feature a new 1-nit eye-care display, while ColorOS 17 will come pre-installed to deliver a smoother software experience. These devices are going to be powered by Dimensity 9-series chipsets, respectively.

Watch S2 and Enco X4 join the launch

Oppo’s launch event will also introduce the Watch S2 smartwatch and Enco X4 wireless earbuds. The Enco X4 is being positioned as a flagship audio product developed with Danish audio expertise, while the Watch S2 will arrive alongside the new smartphones. The X4 is also rumored to support Apple-like real-time AI translations.

For daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

Honor Magic 9 series design, 500mm telephoto extender officially revealed before September 28 launch

Honor has confirmed that the Magic 9 series will be unveiled in China on September 28. Ahead of the launch, the brand has started accepting pre-reservations for the Magic 9 series, while also revealing its design and several key details, including its impressive zooming capabilities. Here’s everything Honor has confirmed about the upcoming series so far.

Honor Magic 9 gets a photography-focused setup

Honor Magic 9 series pre-reservations

According to Honor, the Magic 9 series will feature a dual 200-megapixel ARRI imaging system, with the cameras designed to deliver clear results during both daytime and nighttime shooting. The setup is also aimed at maintaining image quality across different shooting distances, making zoom photography a key part of the experience.

The primary 200-megapixel ARRI camera is listed with an f/1.57 aperture and a 1/1.28-inch sensor. Alongside it, the 200-megapixel ARRI super-night telephoto camera features an f/2.6 aperture and a 1/1.4-inch sensor. These specifications suggest that Honor is putting considerable emphasis on sensor size, low-light capture and long-range photography.

Honor Magic 9 series pre-reservations-

As can be seen above, the company is also preparing a Photography Master Kit with two dedicated telephoto accessories. The headline accessory is a 500mm Honor telephoto extender, which is being introduced with the series to bring distant subjects closer within the frame. Honor has positioned it as an option for users who want to capture faraway subjects without carrying traditional camera equipment.

The second accessory is a 200mm Honor thumb-sized telephoto extender. It weighs just 88g and measures 81mm in length, making it considerably easier to carry around. Both accessories are designed to complement the phone’s camera system rather than represent the native focal lengths of its built-in cameras.

The Magic 9 lineup is expected to include the Magic 9 and Magic 9 Pro Max, both powered by the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 series chipset.

For daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

Gmktec unveils Evo-X5 Pro with Ryzen AI Max+ PRO 495 & up to 192GB LPDDR5X unified memory

At IFA 2026, Gmktec announced the Evo-X5 Pro, a compact desktop PC built specifically to handle heavy artificial intelligence workloads offline. The company is marketing the device as an Agentic PC, a term it uses to describe computers that can run complex, autonomous AI tasks locally rather than sending data back and forth to a cloud server.

Gmktec Evo-X5 Pro

Gmktec Evo-X5 Pro Specifications

Inside the machined metal chassis, the Evo-X5 Pro is powered by AMD’s new Ryzen AI Max+ Pro 495 processor. The chip includes a 16-core, 32-thread CPU built on the Zen 5 architecture, alongside integrated Radeon 8065S graphics with 40 compute units. For dedicated AI processing, it features an AMD XDNA 2 NPU capable of 55 TOPS.

The Evo-X5 Pro supports up to 192GB of unified LPDDR5X memory. Because it uses a unified architecture, users can allocate up to 160GB of that system memory directly as VRAM. Gmktec says this setup provides enough bandwidth to run 300-billion-parameter large language models entirely on the device, provided the models use INT4 quantization.

Gmktec Evo-X5 Pro

The practical benefit of this hardware is data privacy. Gmktec is aiming the Evo-X5 Pro at sectors like healthcare, finance, and legal compliance, where organizations want the benefits of AI but cannot legally or safely send sensitive information to cloud providers. By keeping the computing on-premise, the data never leaves the local network.

To keep the system running under sustained loads, Gmktec included a vapor chamber and a triple-fan cooling setup with three adjustable power profiles. The desktop also features a robust port selection, including two front-facing USB4 ports and two rear USB4 V2 ports. These connections support external GPUs and allow IT departments to link multiple Evo-X5 Pro units together to create distributed computing clusters.

For enterprise management, the system includes an independent dTPM 2.0 security chip and an RJ45 DASH network adapter, allowing IT teams to manage the hardware remotely regardless of the operating system state.

Availability

The Evo-X5 Pro is slated to launch in October 2026. Gmktec has not yet shared pricing details.

In related news, Acemagic has recently unveiled the F9A Mini PC with a Ryzen AI Max+ Pro 495 processor, 192GB of LPDDR5X unified memory, and OCuLink connectivity.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!