The year 2027 will mark the 20th anniversary of Apple’s iPhone. Reports suggest that while the brand will announce the iPhone 18 series in 2026, it may skip the iPhone 19 lineup in 2027. The iPhone 19 series is said to be replaced by the iPhone 20 lineup in celebration of the 20th anniversary. A new report suggests that Xiaomi could also adopt a similar approach for its flagship series.
Xiaomi 19 could be skipped
Xiaomi 17 Pro Max
Last year, Xiaomi launched the Xiaomi 15 lineup, including the Xiaomi 15, 15 Pro, and 15 Ultra. These models were followed by the Xiaomi 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Ultra, skipping the Xiaomi 16 series entirely.
Xiaomi skipped the “16” in its flagship line to jump straight to the Xiaomi 17 series, primarily to create parity with Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup. This move positioned Xiaomi as a direct competitor and signaled a major leap in premium features, as confirmed by company President Lu Weibing.
The new report by XiaomiTime, which claims that the Xiaomi 19 series will be skipped, does not provide any concrete proof to support this claim. However, the possibility remains, as such a strategic numerical jump carries implications beyond marketing alone. Just as Xiaomi deliberately skipped the 16 series to launch the Xiaomi 17 in a clear, market-savvy move aimed at direct, name-for-name competition with the iPhone 17, it would not be surprising for the brand to repeat this tactic by bypassing the Xiaomi 19 series.
While Xiaomi is not celebrating a major anniversary in 2027 that would align perfectly with Apple’s potential move, such a calculated leap could ensure that Xiaomi’s next flagship, the Xiaomi 20, arrives alongside the rumored iPhone 20 in 2027, maintaining branding consistency and competitive positioning.
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The Poco F8 Pro and Poco F8 Ultra have debuted a couple of months earlier than expected. Recent certifications suggest that the M8 series could be next in line to break cover in multiple markets. A new report by XiaomiTimesuggests that Poco has reportedly decided to skip a couple of major models next year.
Poco X8 Pro Max incoming, Poco X8 takes an exit
Redmi Note 15 Pro+
The report, which is based on Mi code, claims that the following devices will be rebranded as Poco models.
Poco M8 5G: Rebranded version of Redmi Note 15 5G
Poco M8 Pro 5G: Rebranded version of the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ 5G
Poco X8 Pro Max: Rebranded version of the Redmi Turbo 5 Pro Max (heading to China, yet to launch)
The standard Poco X8 is missing from the above list. The device hasn’t appeared in the GSMA IMEI database yet. This device, which was expected to be a rebranded version of the Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G, has reportedly been cancelled.
Previously, Poco offered up to three models in its X-series, including an entry-level Neo-branded model. In 2026, the X8 series will be shrunk to two models, such as the Poco X8 Pro and the X8 Pro Max. The report also claims that the X8 Pro will have a special Iron Man Edition.
Poco F8 may not exist
The China-exclusive Redmi K90 Pro Max and Redmi K90 have been rebranded as the Poco F8 Ultra and F8 Pro, respectively, for the global market. The report claims that the Poco F8 does not exist but has not concrete evidence to support this claim.
It will be interesting to see how these claims play out in reality, especially since the F8 was expected to be the only F8-series phone to launch in India, which remains one of Poco’s key markets.
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OnePlus is gradually confirming the key specs of the OnePlus 15R, which is set to break cover on Dec. 17. The brand has recently confirmed that the 15R will have an upgraded front camera. It offers the same megapixel count as the OnePlus 15’s front camera.
OnePlus 15R selfie camera revealed
OnePlus 15R’s front camera revealed
The OnePlus 15R is officially confirmed to feature a 32-megapixel front camera with autofocus support. It is the most advanced selfie camera on an R-series phone. This is a major upgrade, as last year’s OnePlus 13R featured a 16-megapixel front camera.
The 15R’s front camera is capable of capturing 4K videos at 30fps. This is also an upgrade, as the 13R’s front camera was limited to 1080p video. The 15R is also equipped with the DetailMax Engine, which offers advanced computational photography algorithms that enhance captured shots.
With the new selfie camera onboard, the OnePlus 15R levels itself with the OnePlus 15, which will also feature a 32-megapixel front camera with autofocus support. While the OnePlus 15 has a Sony IMX709 sensor powering the selfie camera, the OnePlus 15R is rumoured to be equipped with an OmniVision sensor for its front camera.
OnePlus 15R specs confirmed so far
So far, the brand has confirmed that the OnePlus 15R’s screen supports a 1.5K resolution and a 165Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, it has the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chip and a 7,400mAh battery with 80W charging. It will also have other features such as OxygenOS 16, a Plus Key, a 50MP main camera with 4K 120fps video recording support, and an IP68/69-rated dust- and water-resistant body. It will be available in three shades: black, green, and violet.
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The Galaxy S26 series is at the centre of a developing supply situation that has drawn attention across the industry. A report from South Korea has revealed that Samsung is preparing for high-level discussions with Micron as it aims to secure stable mobile DRAM for its upcoming flagship. With the smartphone’s launch window nearing, rising memory prices and unsettled contracts have triggered a series of urgent developments that set the tone for what follows.
Samsung seeks emergency talks at CES 2026
TM Roh
TM Roh, who heads Samsung’s DX division, is reportedly scheduled to meet Micron CEO Sanjay Mehrotra on the opening day of CES 2026 in Las Vegas. Such meetings are rarely arranged during the event, but the growing strain on LPDDR5X supply appears to have made this one unavoidable.
Industry insiders say the price surge has been unusually steep. LPDDR5X 12GB modules that were trading at around 30 dollars earlier this year have reportedly jumped to nearly 70 dollars by late November, creating uncertainty in Samsung’s negotiations with both its DS division and Micro. The two suppliers have yet to finalize terms for the Galaxy S26, leaving the smartphone unit under pressure as it approaches mass production deadlines.
Several Korean reports note that memory manufacturers prefer quarterly supply agreements during price upswings rather than longer commitments. This has added another layer of difficulty for Samsung’s mobile division, which is already dealing with increased expenditure on application processors. The situation has elevated Micron’s importance in Samsung’s flagship portfolio, especially after the company supplied a large share of mobile DRAM for the Galaxy S25 series.
New DRAM technologies and internal challenges
Samsung’s DS unit is simultaneously advancing its next-generation LPDDR6 technology, expected to offer higher bandwidth and improved efficiency. Early signs suggest the company may showcase it at CES 2026, although commercial deployment could arrive later. Meanwhile, internal adoption of the Exynos 2600 remains limited, further tightening the mobile division’s budget as it negotiates memory procurement.
With the Galaxy S26 set to debut in early 2026, the outcome of TM Roh’s CES meeting may influence how smoothly Samsung can secure DRAM supply for its next flagship. While the company has declined to comment on its memory plans, the urgency around negotiations underscores the broader industry pressure caused by rising demand and limited production capacity.
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Apart from the Vivo S50, the Vivo S50 Pro Mini bearing the model number V2527A has appeared in the database of China Telecom. As usual, the listing has revealed the key specifications of the device. Rumours suggest that the Vivo X300 FE, which is expected to launch in the near future for the global market, will be a rebranded version of the S50 Pro Mini. So, continue reading ahead to know what to expect from the Vivo X300 FE.
Vivo S50 Pro Mini specifications
Vivo S50 Pro Mini’s China Telecom listing
The China Telecom listing has revealed that the Vivo S50 Pro Mini will be a compact phone featuring a 6.31-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 2640 x 1216 pixels and an in-screen fingerprint sensor. The device measures 150.83 x 71.76 x 8.10mm and weighs 192 grams.
On the rear, the S50 Pro Mini is fitted with a triple camera setup comprising a 50-megapixel main camera, a 50-megapixel secondary camera and an 8-megapixel lens. For selfies, the device is equipped with a 50-megapixel front-facing camera.
Powering the S50 Pro Mini is the all-new Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 (SM8845) with a peak clock speed of 3.8GHz. The listing confirms configurations of 12GB+256GB, 12GB+512GB and 16GB+512GB, using LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.1 storage.
Vivo S50 Pro Mini
The S50 Pro Mini packs a 6,500mAh battery, which is the same capacity as the larger Vivo S50, which features a bigger 6.59-inch screen. Vivo has already revealed that it will support 90W wired and 40W wireless charging. The S50 Pro Mini runs Android 16, with expectations of OriginOS 6 on top.
Past reports have revealed that the S50 Pro Mini will have a glass back, an aerospace-grade aluminium frame and an IP68/69-rated body. It will be available in shades like Space Black, Confession White and Inspirational Purple.
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Yesterday, it was widely reported that Samsung has silently released a new 60W charger, which could support 60W charging on the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra. Now, a new certification listing has emerged to confirm the fast-charging capabilities of the device.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra 3C certified
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra 3C certified in China
The Galaxy S26 Ultra’s Chinese variant bearing the model number SM-S948B has been approved by China’s 3C certification platform. The listing reveals that the device will support 20A/3V (60W) charging, but it will be sold without a power brick.
This will be the first major charging speed upgrade arriving on Samsung phones, as 45W charging was introduced way back in 2019 on the Galaxy Note 10+. Apart from this 60W wired charging, the S26 Ultra is also expected to support wireless and reverse wireless charging.
The 3C listing also reveals that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will have support for satellite connectivity. This is not surprising since the S25 Ultra also came with support for it in China.
Likely, the S26 Ultra will be the only phone in the series to support 60W fast charging. The S26 Plus is expected to offer 45W charging. It remains to be seen whether the standard S26 will support 25W or 45W charging.
The 3C certification also hints at a delayed arrival for the Galaxy S26 series. The reason behind this is that the S25 Ultra was approved by the 3C authority in September 2024 before going official in January 2025. With the S26 Ultra getting certified by the 3C in December, it appears that the S26 series may debut by late February, as suggested by recent reports.
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On Dec. 15, Vivo is set to announce the Vivo S50 and S50 Pro Mini in China. In the recent past, the brand has already confirmed the key specifications of the Pro Mini edition, but it has not revealed anything significant about the S50’s hardware. With only a few days remaining for the launch, the device has appeared in the product library of China Telecom, revealing all the key details.
Vivo S50 specifications
As per the China Telecom listing, the Vivo S50 will feature a 6.59-inch OLED display that offers a 1.5K resolution of 2750 × 1260 pixels. It is also likely to support a 120Hz refresh rate. The device will come with an in-screen fingerprint sensor.
The rear panel of the Vivo S50 is equipped with a triple camera setup that includes a 50-megapixel primary camera, an 8-megapixel lens and a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto camera featuring the Sony IMX882 sensor. On the front, the device will offer a 50-megapixel selfie camera.
The S50 is powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset. Vivo has already confirmed that the device will feature LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.1 storage. The China Telecom database also lists its three variants: 12GB+ 256GB, 12GB+512GB and 16GB+512GB.
Vivo S50
The battery section of the listing confirms a 6,500mAh unit. As seen in its 3C certification, the phone will support 90W fast charging. The device is expected to run Android 16 paired with OriginOS 6.
In terms of build, Vivo has already confirmed that the S50 features an aerospace-grade aluminium frame. It is also likely to offer an IP68/69-rated body. Colour options include Space Black, Confession White, Inspirational Purple and Serene Blue.
Vivo V70 could be based on the S50
Vivo is working on the Vivo V70 for the global market. Although details about the device remain unknown, it could be based on the S50. One major difference could be that the V70 may swap the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 for the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset.
Qualcomm has announced two new chipsets aimed at strengthening the mid-range and entry-level smartphone space. The Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 2 and Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 mark the company’s next wave of affordable mobile platforms focusing on faster performance, improved imaging support and upgraded efficiency. With both processors expected to appear in 2026 devices, they signal Qualcomm’s ongoing push to remain competitive in the budget segment.
Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 2
Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 2Snapdragon 4 Gen 4
The Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 2 is positioned as a dependable option for low-cost phones while still offering noticeable improvements over its predecessor. It comes with a Kryo CPU clocked at up to 2.9GHz and an enhanced Adreno GPU that delivers smoother visuals and gains in graphical output. The chipset supports 120fps playback on Full HD Plus displays, helping reduce lag in gaming and multimedia.
Imaging is also a key focus, with support for cameras up to 108-megapixel and the ability to capture photos and videos through multiple lenses at the same time. Qualcomm has strengthened AI-related functions as well, improving voice assistance and ensuring clearer audio through better microphone and echo management. These upgrades are intended to help budget phones deliver more reliable everyday performance.
Snapdragon 4 Gen 4
The Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 continues the same philosophy but leans more towards efficiency. It features a Kryo CPU capped at 2.3GHz along with an Adreno GPU that can handle 120fps output on compatible displays. Like the 6s 4G Gen 2, it supports 108-megapixel cameras, but adds hardware-level multi frame noise reduction for cleaner low light shots.
Battery life is another highlight, as the chip supports Quick Charge 4 Plus which can bring a phone from zero to fifty percent in about fifteen minutes. With 5G and Wi-Fi enhancements included, the chipset aims to power upcoming entry-level smartphones with a more balanced performance profile.
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The Redmi TV X 2026, which originally appeared alongside the K90 series in October, is now receiving an expansion to its lineup. The earlier launch focused on the larger mini-LED variants, but Xiaomi has since added more accessible size options for a wider audience. This update marks a broader push from the brand to cater to varied living room setups while keeping the same design language and feature direction.
Redmi TV X (2026) now comes in three new screen size options
The newly introduced 55-inch, 65-inch and 75-inch models are priced at 2499 Yuan (~$355), 2999 Yuan (~$425), and 3799 Yuan (~$540). These join the previously released 98-inch and 85-inch versions, which were priced at 4799 Yuan (~$680) and 7599 Yuan (~$1,080). As 55-inch, 65-inch, and 75-inch models are entry-level offerings, the dimming zone count is lower, with 308, 384 and 512 zones, respectively.
Redmi TV X (2026)key specifications
Redmi TV X (2026) in 55-inch
The Redmi TV X (2026) features a peak brightness of 1200 nits, a dynamic contrast ratio of 12,000,000:1 and 4K 144Hz output, with support for VRR and an e-sports mode that increases the refresh rate to 288Hz. The series offers HDR10+ support, DCI P3 94 percent colour coverage and calibrated color accuracy.
Features like the Full Stack Color Engine and AI-driven dimming aim to improve contrast and clarity across different content types. The company has included its picture enhancement engine along with the Green Mountain eye protection system for high-frequency dimming and reduced flicker.
Redmi TV X (2026) connectivity features
For gaming, Dolby Vision Gaming, FreeSync Premium and a 4ms response time are supported. The TV also integrates smart home controls, voice assistance in multiple dialects and multi-screen sports viewing, making it a versatile addition to Xiaomi’s ecosystem.
The TVs run on the MediaTek MT9655 chipset paired with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage, and ship with the Hyper OS 3 platform. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, dual HDMI 2.1 ports, USB 3.0 and other essential interfaces.
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I spent three to four weeks with the iQOO 15, using it as my main phone for daily communication, gaming, media and photography. The iQOO 15 arrives with an aggressive spec sheet, pairing the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 with iQOO’s self-developed Q3 e-sports chip, a 7,000mAh Blue Ocean battery, and a new 2K 144Hz Samsung LEAD OLED panel. But on top of the hardware, iQOO is clearly positioning this device as a performance flagship that also aims for a well-rounded everyday experience. After extended use, here is how it held up.
Design and build
iQOO 15 – Legend
The iQOO 15’s Legend white edition has one of the cleanest finishes iQOO has released. The AG matte glass back feels smooth and resists fingerprints and sweat impressively well. The new three-colour diamond texture around the logo gives the rear a subtle but premium identity without feeling loud. The camera module continues the floating rectangular design that iQOO has used in recent generations and looks cohesive with the rest of the phone.
Below the camera sits the Halo Light, which returns with customizable lighting effects for charging cues, notifications and game-triggered animations. However, in my usage, it was less visible than the Halo Light on the iQOO 13, especially once a case is applied. In most cases, the light gets muted significantly, reducing its usefulness beyond pure aesthetics.
iQOO 15
Despite the large battery capacity, iQOO has managed the weight distribution well. The curved edges and softened R-corners make long gaming sessions more comfortable. The metal frame adds to durability and grip. The side buttons are positioned sensibly, with the shortened volume rocker helping avoid accidental presses during landscape gameplay.
Display and audio
iQOO 15
The 6.86-inch 2K LEAD OLED panel is one of the best additions to the iQOO 15. Samsung’s new M14 material helps reduce power usage while providing strong brightness levels. Outdoors, the screen remains legible even under direct sunlight, and the colors stay vibrant without washing out.
The polarizer-free design reduces reflections and slightly improves clarity. More importantly, it works with the high-frequency PWM dimming to reduce eye strain during late-night use. iQOO also pre-applies an AR anti-reflective screen protector, which genuinely cuts down glare and maintains colour accuracy.
The display shines during gaming. Titles that support native 144Hz run extremely smoothly, and iQOO’s frame interpolation option can push perceived fluidity even further. Even basic UI scrolling feels faster and more refined compared to standard 120Hz devices.
Audio performance is also strong. The stereo speakers deliver good volume, clarity and directional accuracy that benefits gaming scenarios, especially shooters and competitive titles. Dialogue and vocals sound crisp, though the bass response is more functional than deep. Bluetooth audio pairing is stable and high-bitrate codecs work as expected.
Performance and experience (1/2)
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 powers the core performance experience and does so confidently. Combined with LPDDR5X memory and UFS 4.1 storage, the phone feels fast in every scenario. Apps open immediately, multitasking is effortless, and the phone rarely reloads apps in the background. Thermally, iQOO’s enlarged 8K VC chamber and layered graphite system help maintain consistency during heavy use.
For gaming, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is supported by the Q3 e-sports chip, which handles rendering enhancement, ray tracing and AI tasks. This is where the iQOO 15 differentiates itself from typical flagship phones. Ray tracing support in Genshin Impact delivers better lighting depth and a more realistic atmosphere. You cannot use ray tracing and super-resolution or super-frame simultaneously, but switching between them is quick, and each mode offers clear improvements.
Honor of Kings was the most impressive showcase. With native 144fps enabled, the phone consistently stayed above 144fps during full ranked matches. Touch response remained sharp, and frame pacing was extremely stable. Power draw remained surprisingly low for this level of smoothness. Thermals were controlled, though the phone does warm up noticeably after long sessions, reaching around 40 degrees Celsius in the upper rear section. It never throttled meaningfully during my testing.
Performance and experience (2/2)
Battery life is outstanding. The massive 7,000mAh battery comfortably lasts a full day with heavy gaming or nearly two days with lighter use. On busy days with navigation, photography, streaming and a few gaming sessions, I usually ended with 25 to 35 percent left. For many users, this battery may be the strongest reason to choose the iQOO 15.
Charging is equally impressive. With the bundled 100W charger, the phone goes from nearly empty to 25 percent in around 10 minutes, passes 75 percent at roughly the half-hour mark and reaches full around 49 minutes. Wireless 40W charging is available and works consistently with standard Qi pads and iQOO’s own chargers.
It’s the first iQOO phone to come preloaded with the OriginOS 6-based Android 16. The overall user experience is fluid, and it comes with the promise of five years of Android OS upgrades and seven years of regular security patches. Day-to-day stability is excellent, and animations are smooth throughout.
Camera and other features
The camera system includes a 50MP Sony IMX921 main camera, a 50MP IMX882 periscope telephoto, and a 50MP ultra-wide camera. This triple 50MP arrangement does not aim to compete with the most advanced camera flagships, but it is far better than what a pure gaming phone typically offers.
Daylight performance from the main sensor is vibrant and leans toward high saturation, which makes photos look lively on social media. Details are good, and dynamic range is strong, especially in complex lighting. In overcast weather, the phone tones down saturation and delivers more natural colors.
Macro shotMacro shotMacro shot
The periscope lens performs well at 3x optical zoom, offering good clarity and consistent color reproduction. Even at 6x the phone manages to preserve strong detail. Ultra-wide shots are distortion-free and capture large scenes effectively.
Night photography benefited from iQOO’s tuning. Brightness is elevated without blowing out highlights. Noise is controlled well, and the phone rarely produces unwanted ghosting even at high ISO. While it does not beat premium camera-centric flagships, it is perfectly reliable for daily and social use.
iQOO 15 (four seasons camera feature)iQOO 15 (four seasons camera feature)iQOO 15 (four seasons camera feature)iQOO 15 (four seasons camera feature)
Other features include a fast ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, responsive haptics tuned for different in-game actions, stable wireless performance, and a well-built frame that feels durable. iQOO’s network optimization for multiplayer games noticeably reduces input jitter on unstable connections, which gamers will appreciate.
Verdict
iQOO 15 in Legend and Alpha shades
After three to four weeks with the iQOO 15, it is clear that iQOO has moved beyond building only performance-focused phones. The iQOO 15 is a performance flagship that also delivers in display quality, battery life, charging speed, camera consistency, and overall day-to-day usability.
Yes, it warms up under long gaming loads. Yes, the Halo Light is not as visible as on the iQOO 13, particularly with a case. But these drawbacks pale in comparison to what you gain.
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If you want a phone that excels in gaming but still behaves like a complete flagship with no glaring weaknesses, the iQOO 15 stands out as one of the most balanced and powerful choices available today in India. It is not merely a gaming beast; it is a polished, all-round flagship that handles everything with confidence.
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