Morgan Stanley predicts Apple will introduce a 200-megapixel camera in the iPhone 21 in 2028.
Apple is expanding suppliers and boosting US-based production to reduce reliance on single sources with Sony and STMicro involved in camera and LiDAR components.
Under-display Face ID is expected in 2027, while Apple maintains its current supplier (LITE) for Face ID sensors.
iPhone 17 Pro series camera module. (Image credit – Apple)
Apple is expected to introduce 200-megapixel cameras to the iPhone lineup in 2028, according to researchers at investment bank Morgan Stanley. The report suggests that Apple will rely on Samsung’s 200MP camera technology while also expanding its supplier base to reduce long-term costs and avoid dependence on a single source.
iPhone 21 Likely to Be First With 200MP Camera
While speculation around Apple’s shift to 200MP cameras has been circulating for some time, Morgan Stanley believes the upgrade will arrive later than some earlier predictions. The firm’s note to investors, seen by AppleInsider, states that the iPhone 21 will be the first Apple device to feature a 200MP camera sensor.
Previously, it was widely expected that Apple would move to 200MP cameras at some point with some reports even predicting the change could happen as early as the iPhone 18 series. Last spring, Weibo tipster Digital Chat Station claimed that Apple was already developing a 200MP version of the iPhone camera.
Supplier Diversification and US Manufacturing Plans
According to Morgan Stanley, the delayed timeline is partly linked to Apple’s efforts to diversify its supply chain rather than rely on a single supplier. The move is also believed to align with Apple’s broader goal of increasing iPhone component production in the United States.
This supports earlier reports suggesting that Samsung could manufacture CMOS image sensors for future iPhones at its facility in Austin, Texas. Those reports also indicated that Apple plans to adopt a 200MP camera in a future iPhone model, potentially because Sony has not been able to match Samsung’s sensor technology at that level.
A closer look at the iPhone 17 Pro series internal camera module. (Image credit – Apple)
Camera Suppliers and LiDAR Changes
Sony currently supplies several camera components for the iPhone and is also involved in providing LiDAR sensors. However, Morgan Stanley notes that Apple is now in discussions with STMicro as an additional supplier for LiDAR components, signalling further diversification in this area as well.
At present, Apple equips all rear iPhone cameras including Ultra Wide and Telephoto lenses with 48MPsensors. The main camera was the first to transition from 12MP to 48MP, setting the stage for future resolution upgrades.
Face ID Roadmap and Supply Chain Outlook
Despite expected changes to camera hardware, Morgan Stanley does not anticipate any major shift in the supply chain for Face ID sensors. These components are currently supplied by a single company, LITE, and the firm believes this arrangement will continue.
That said, Morgan Stanley researchers are confident that under-display Face ID technology could arrive in 2027, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the original iPhone.
The report suggests that Apple’s strategy of expanding suppliers and adjusting component sourcing should help maintain stable supplies while keeping costs under control. As a result, Morgan Stanley expects Apple to continue absorbing rising component costs instead of passing them on to consumers.
FAQs
Q1. When will Apple introduce a 200MP camera in the iPhone?
Answer. Apple is expected to debut a 200-megapixel camera in the iPhone 21, slated for release in 2028, according to Morgan Stanley’s report.
Q2. Which suppliers will Apple rely on for the 200MP camera and other components?
Answer. Apple will primarily use Samsung’s 200MP sensor technology, while also diversifying suppliers. Sony remains involved in camera components, and Apple is in talks with STMicro for LiDAR sensors to reduce reliance on a single source.
Q3. What changes are expected in Face ID technology?
Answer. Morgan Stanley anticipates under-display Face ID arriving in 2027, coinciding with the iPhone’s 20th anniversary. However, Apple is expected to continue sourcing Face ID sensors from its current supplier, LITE.
Realme Buds Air 8 launched featuring dual-driver audio, Hi-Res certification, 55dB ANC, AI-powered translation tools, 58-hour battery life and IP55 durability.
Realme Pad 3 launched with Android 16 with Realme UI 7.0, 2.8K 120Hz display, Dimensity 7300-Max, 8GB RAM, up to 256GB storage, quad speakers with Dolby Audio and 12,200mAh battery.
Alongside the launch of the Realme 16 Pro 5G series in India today, Realme has expanded its other product lineup as well. The Chinese company has introduced Realme Buds Air 8 true wireless earbuds and the Realme Pad 3 tablet. Here’s more on both new launches.
Realme Buds Air 8 – Key Features
Realme Buds Air 8.
The Realme Buds Air 8 are equipped with an 11mm + 6mm dual-driver setup that uses a high-purity diaphragm and an independent tweeter to deliver layered audio output. The earbuds support Hi-Res Audio certification and LHDC 5.0, enabling high-resolution wireless audio with sampling rates of up to 96kHz.
Additional audio enhancements include the NextBass algorithm for improved low frequencies, along with 3D Spatial and Dynamic Audio. This feature relies on HRTF-based processing to create a wider and more immersive soundstage and can be customised through the realme Link app.
In terms of noise control, the Buds Air 8 offer up to 55dB ultra-depth active noise cancellation. This is combined with ear canal adaptive and real-time adaptive noise cancellation, which adjusts performance based on ear shape and surrounding noise to maintain comfort and effectiveness. Call quality is handled by a six-microphone system with three microphones on each earbud, designed to improve voice clarity while reducing background noise.
The earbuds also come with smart AI-powered features under the Ear-by AI Assistant including AI Live Translator, AI Face-to-Face Translator, and Ask AI powered by Google Gemini. These features allow users to perform tasks such as translation, weather checks, and general information queries via the companion app.
Battery life is rated at up to 58 hours of total playback with the charging case under standard conditions. Realme claims the earbuds can retain around 80 percent battery health even after 1,000 charging cycles. Connectivity and durability features include USB Type-C charging, IP55 dust and water resistance, a 45ms low-latency gaming mode, Bluetooth 5.4, support for connecting up to three devices simultaneously, and Swift Pair for quick pairing with compatible PCs.
Realme Buds Air 8 – Price and Availability
The Realme Buds Air 8 are available in Master Gold, Master Purple, and Master Grey colour options. While the earbuds have been officially unveiled, sales will begin on January 16, 2026, through the Realme India website, Flipkart, Amazon India, and other major retail platforms.
The earbuds are priced at ₹3,799 with an additional flat ₹200 discount offered as part of the launch promotion.
Realme Pad 3 – Key Features
Realme Pad 3.
The Realme Pad 3 runs on Android 16-based Realme UI 7.0 and features a 1.61-inch 2.8K display with a resolution of 2,000 x 2,800 pixels. The screen supports a 120Hz refresh rate and a 240Hz touch sampling rate, offering up to 500 nits of typical brightness and covering 96 percent of the NTSC colour gamut.
Powering the tablet is the octa-core MediaTek Dimensity 7300-Max chipset, built on a 4nm process, paired with an Arm Mali-G615 GPU. The tablet comes with 8GB of RAM and is offered in 128GB and 256GB storage variants with storage expansion supported up to 2TB via a microSD card slot.
For photography and video calls, the Realme Pad 3 includes an 8-megapixel rear camera and an 8-megapixel front-facing camera. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.4, and dual-band WLAN.
The tablet is also equipped with sensors such as an ambient light sensor, accelerometer, e-compass, and hall sensor. Audio is handled by quad speakers with Dolby Audio support, and security features include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
The tablet is backed by a 12,200mAh battery that supports 45W fast charging along with 6.5W reverse charging. In terms of design, the Realme Pad 3 measures 6.6mm in thickness and weighs approximately 578 grams.
Realme Pad 3 – Price and Availability
The Realme Pad 3 is priced at Rs. 26,999 for the Wi-Fi variant with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage. The 5G versions are priced at Rs. 29,999 for the 8GB + 128GB model and Rs. 31,999 for the 8GB + 256GB variant. The tablet is available in Champagne Gold and Space Grey colour options.
Sales of the Realme Pad 3 will begin on January 16 at 12pm IST via the Realme website, official Realme stores, and Flipkart. As part of the launch offers, Realme is providing a Rs. 2,000 bank discount for eligible customers.
FAQs
Q1. What are the key audio features of the Realme Buds Air 8?
Answer. They feature an 11mm + 6mm dual-driver setup, Hi-Res Audio certification, LHDC 5.0, NextBass algorithm, 3D Spatial Audio, and up to 55dB active noise cancellation.
Q2. What smart features are included in the Realme Buds Air 8?
Answer. The earbuds come with AI-powered tools such as AI Live Translator, AI Face-to-Face Translator, and Ask AI powered by Google Gemini.
Q3. What is the battery life of the Realme Buds Air 8?
Answer. They offer up to 58 hours of total playback with the charging case and retain around 80% battery health after 1,000 charging cycles.
Q4. What are the specifications of the Realme Pad 3 display and performance?
Answer. The tablet has a 2.8K 120Hz display, powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300-Max chipset, with 8GB RAM, up to 256GB storage, and 2TB expansion support.
Intel unveiled the Core Ultra Series 3 processors at CES 2026, its first AI PC platform built on Intel 18A (1.8nm-class) process technology.
The lineup includes X9 and X7 mobile processors with up to 16 CPU cores, 12 Xe graphics cores, and 50 NPU TOPS AI acceleration.
They deliver 60% better multithread performance, 77% faster gaming, and up to 27 hours battery life compared to previous-gen chips.
Intel Core Ultra Series 3 Processors.
Intel has announced the Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors at CES 2026, marking the company’s first AI PC platform built on Intel 18A process technology. Designed and manufactured in the United States, the new platform supports more than 200 device designs from global partners and is Intel’s most widely available AI PC platform so far.
Speaking on the announcement, Jim Johnson, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Client Computing Group, Intel, said, “With Series 3, we are laser focused on enhancing power efficiency, adding more CPU performance, a bigger GPU in a class of its own, more AI compute and app compatibility you can count on with x86.”
Intel Core Ultra X9 and X7 Mobile Processors
The Series 3 mobile lineup introduces a new class of Intel Core Ultra X9 and X7 processors with integrated Intel Arc graphics. These processors are aimed at multitasking, content creation, gaming, and everyday productivity workloads.
Key specifications of the new mobile processors include up to 16 CPU cores, up to 12 Xe graphics cores, and AI acceleration rated at 50 NPU TOPS. Intel claims up to 60 percent better multithread performance, up to 77 percent faster gaming performance, and battery life of up to 27 hours compared to previous-generation platforms.
Alongside the premium X9 and X7 chips, the Series 3 family also includes Intel Core processors designed for mainstream laptops. These processors are based on the same architecture as the flagship Series 3 lineup, enabling efficient and high-performance designs at more accessible price points.
Support for Edge and Industrial AI Workloads
Beyond consumer PCs, Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors are also certified for embedded and industrial applications. These chips support extended temperature ranges, deterministic performance, and continuous 24/7 operation, making them suitable for demanding edge deployments.
For edge AI workloads, Intel states that Series 3 processors deliver up to 1.9 times higher large language model performance, up to 2.3 times better performance per watt per dollar in end-to-end video analytics, and up to 4.5 times higher throughput for vision language action models.
The integrated AI acceleration enables a single-chip system-on-chip design, reducing total cost of ownership compared to traditional multi-chip CPU and GPU setups.
Availability Timeline
Consumer laptops powered by Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors will be available globally starting January 27, 2026, with pre-orders opening on January 6, 2026. Edge and industrial systems based on the new platform are expected to arrive in the second quarter of 2026.
FAQs
Q1. What makes the Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors significant?
Answer. They are Intel’s first AI PC platform built on Intel 18A (1.8nm-class) process technology, supporting over 200 device designs globally.
Q2. What performance improvements do the new X9 and X7 mobile processors offer?
Answer. They deliver up to 16 CPU cores, 12 Xe graphics cores, and 50 NPU TOPS AI acceleration, with 60% better multithread performance, 77% faster gaming, and up to 27 hours battery life compared to previous-gen chips.
Q3. When will devices powered by Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors be available?
Answer. Consumer laptops launch globally on January 27, 2026 (pre-orders from January 6), while edge and industrial systems arrive in Q2 2026.
Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Book6 Ultra, Pro, and standard models at CES 2026.
These feature slimmer builds, refined chassis engineering, improved cooling systems, and durability upgrades.
The lineup is powered by Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors with up to 60% faster CPU performance, integrated NPU (50 TOPS) for on-device AI, and RTX 5070/5060 GPUs on the Ultra for advanced graphics, video editing, and gaming.
Samsung Galaxy Book6 Series Announced at CES 2026.
Samsung Electronics has announced the Galaxy Book6 series at CES 2026, expanding its premium laptop lineup with three new models. The models include Galaxy Book6 Ultra, Galaxy Book6 Pro and Galaxy Book6. The new series focuses on slimmer designs, improved performance, enhanced thermal systems, and deeper Galaxy AI integration.
Speaking on the announcement, Won-Joon Choi, President, Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Head of the R&D Office, Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics, said, “At Samsung, we believe true innovation begins with getting the fundamentals right. Performance defines the PC experience. With the Galaxy Book6 series, we combine unmatched speed and power with reliable AI to deliver the exceptional productivity and creativity capabilities users expect from Samsung.”
Galaxy Book6 series – Refined Design and Chassis Engineering
The Galaxy Book6 series features a redesigned structural layout aimed at reducing overall thickness while maintaining balance and durability. Samsung has introduced a symmetrical exterior design with curved corners and a centred logo across the lineup. The centrally aligned two-tone keyboard and haptic touch trackpad are designed to improve hand placement and typing accuracy.
Internally, a redesigned PCB layout distributes weight and components more evenly, enabling a slimmer profile while supporting stable performance and long-term reliability. The Galaxy Book6 Ultra and Galaxy Book6 Pro 16-inch models feature reworked internal and external components, including a wider vapor chamber, thinner fan, updated display structure, refined bezels, and a redesigned hinge mechanism.
In terms of dimensions, the Galaxy Book6 Ultra measures 15.4mm, which is 1.1mm thinner than the Galaxy Book4 Ultra. The Galaxy Book6 Pro 16-inch measures 11.9mm, marking a 0.6mm reduction compared to the Galaxy Book5 Pro 16-inch.
Galaxy Book6 Series – Processing Platform and Graphics Performance
The Galaxy Book6 series is powered by Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors, making it the first client system-on-chip platform built on Intel’s 18A (1.8nm-class) process technology. These processors support up to 16 combined performance and efficiency cores, delivering up to 60 percent faster CPU performance compared to the previous generation.
The integrated neural processing unit offers up to 50 TOPS, enabling on-device AI tasks such as image processing, translation, and intelligent search without relying on cloud-based services. For graphics-intensive workloads, the Galaxy Book6 Ultra supports NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 and RTX 5060 Laptop GPUs, enabling GPU-accelerated AI image generation, video editing, and gaming.
Galaxy Book6 Series – Advanced Thermal System
Samsung has redesigned the cooling architecture across the Galaxy Book6 Ultra and Galaxy Book6 Pro models to ensure sustained performance with controlled acoustics. The Galaxy Book6 Pro series introduces a vapor chamber for the first time, while the Galaxy Book6 Ultra uses a larger vapor chamber with expanded surface area.
Both models feature increased fin sizes to improve heat transfer, delivering up to 35 percent higher cooling efficiency compared to the previous generation. The Galaxy Book6 Ultra also includes a dual-path outlet fan and heatsink design to dissipate heat from the processor and internal components. The updated fan design features an optimised blade angle, a larger inlet grille for improved airflow, and uneven blade spacing to reduce operational noise.
Galaxy Book6 Series – Battery Life and Fast Charging
The Galaxy Book6 Ultra and Galaxy Book6 Pro are designed for extended usage through improved power efficiency. Both models are rated to deliver up to 30 hours of video playback, extending usage by approximately five hours compared to the previous generation. The Galaxy Book6 Ultra also supports fast charging, reaching up to 63 percent battery capacity in just 30 minutes.
Galaxy Book6 Series – Display Technology Enhancements
Samsung has equipped the Galaxy Book6 Ultra and Pro models with upgraded Dynamic AMOLED 2X touch displays designed to maintain clarity across varying lighting conditions. Display specifications include HDR peak brightness of up to 1,000 nits, SDR peak brightness of 500 nits, and an adaptive refresh rate ranging from 30Hz to 120Hz.
Additional features include Vision Booster, which adjusts visibility based on ambient lighting and on-screen content, True Bright 1300 certification, and True Black levels as low as 0.0005 nits. The displays are protected by Corning Gorilla Glass with DXC, which reduces surface reflection by up to 75 percent compared to standard glass while also improving scratch resistance. Touch input is supported for direct interaction during editing and navigation.
Galaxy Book6 Series – Audio System Upgrades
The Galaxy Book6 series introduces revised speaker configurations designed to complement the upgraded displays. The Galaxy Book6 Ultra features a six-speaker Dolby Atmos system with four force-canceling woofers and two tweeters. A back-to-back woofer layout helps reduce vibration and distortion at higher volumes.
Both the Galaxy Book6 Ultra and Galaxy Book6 Pro 16-inch models include up-firing tweeters to improve voice clarity and side-firing woofers to enhance low-frequency output for media playback and calls.
Galaxy Book6 series – Galaxy AI and Ecosystem Integration
The Galaxy Book6 series integrates Galaxy AI to support both on-device and cloud-based workflows across Samsung’s ecosystem. Supported features include AI Select for text selection and contextual lookup using touch input, AI Cut Out for background removal in images, and natural language search across files, photos, and system settings.
Additional features include Note Assist for text summarisation and translation,Storage Share for accessing files and photos across Galaxy devices, and Link to Windows for phone apps, notifications, messaging, and Live Translate workflows. Users also get Nearby Devices for quick discovery and drag-and-drop connectivity, Multi Control for cursor, copy, and paste across Galaxy Book, phone, and tablet, and Second Screen for workspace expansion using Galaxy tablets.
Galaxy Book6 series – Security and Device Protection
The Galaxy Book6 series is protected by Samsung Knox, offering multi-layer, hardware-based security. Additional protection is provided through Windows 11 Secured-core PC features. All devices undergo Samsung’s durability and quality testing processes, and Samsung Care+ is available for accidental damage protection, repairs, and replacements.
Galaxy Book6 Series – Pricing and Availability
The Galaxy Book6 Ultra, Galaxy Book6 Pro, and Galaxy Book6 will be available in Grey and Silver colour options in select markets starting late January 2026. Reservations will open in select regions via Samsung’s official website.
Pricing details are expected to be announced closer to the rollout. Samsung has also confirmed that a Galaxy Book6 Enterprise Edition, designed for managed IT environments, will be available in certain markets starting April 2026.
FAQs
Q1. Which models are included in the Samsung Galaxy Book6 series?
Answer. The lineup consists of Galaxy Book6 Ultra, Galaxy Book6 Pro, and Galaxy Book6, with an Enterprise Edition planned for April 2026.
Q2. What processors power the Galaxy Book6 series?
Answer. All models are powered by Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors, built on Intel’s 18A (1.8nm-class) process technology, offering up to 60% faster CPU performance.
Q3. What are the key display upgrades in the Galaxy Book6 Ultra and Pro?
Answer. They feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X touch displays with HDR peak brightness up to 1,000 nits, adaptive refresh rates (30Hz–120Hz), Vision Booster, and Corning Gorilla Glass DXC protection.
Q4. How has Samsung improved cooling and battery life in the Galaxy Book6 series?
Answer. The Ultra and Pro models use redesigned vapor chambers and larger fans for 35% higher cooling efficiency. Battery life extends up to 30 hours of video playback, with the Ultra supporting 63% charge in 30 minutes.
Q5. What AI and ecosystem features are integrated into the Galaxy Book6 series?
Answer. The laptops include Galaxy AI for tasks like image cutouts, text summarisation, translation, and natural language search. They also support Multi Control, Second Screen, Storage Share, and Link to Windows for seamless Galaxy ecosystem connectivity.
Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G starts at ₹22,999 (Wi-Fi only, 8GB+128GB) with top-end Wi-Fi+5G 8GB+256GB at ₹27,999.
Sales begin January 12 via Xiaomi’s online store, offered in Silver and Grey, with up to ₹2,000 bank discounts.
Key Features – 12.1-inch 2.5K display, Snapdragon 7s Gen 4, 8GB RAM, up to 256GB storage, HyperOS 2 (Android 15) with 5 years OS + 7 years security updates and massive 12,000mAh battery with 33W fast charging and 27W reverse charging.
Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G has been launched in India.
Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G has been launched in India as the latest tablet offering from Xiaomi’s sub-brand. Offered in two colour options, the Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G will go on sale in India later this month through the company’s official website. One of its key highlights is a large 12,000mAh battery, paired with a 12.1-inch display. Here’s more on that.
Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G – Price in India and Availability
The Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G is priced starting at Rs. 22,999 for the Wi-Fi-only variant with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage. The same configuration with Wi-Fi and 5G connectivity is priced at Rs. 25,999. Meanwhile, the top-end Wi-Fi + 5G variant with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage costs Rs. 27,999.
Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G price and launch offers.
Xiaomi is also offering an instant discount of up to Rs. 2,000 on purchases made using Axis Bank, SBI, and ICICI Bank credit cards.
The tablet will be available for purchase in India starting January 12 via the Xiaomi online store. The Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G is offered in Silver and Grey colourways.
Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G add ons.
Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G – Key Features
The Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G runs HyperOS 2 based on Android 15. Xiaomi has promised five years of OS updates along with seven years of security updates for the tablet. It features a 12.1-inch 2.5K display with a resolution of 2,560×1,600 pixels, a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, and a pixel density of 249ppi. The panel supports up to a 360Hz touch sampling rate, peak brightness of up to 600 nits, Dolby Vision, a 16:10 aspect ratio, and 1.07 billion colours.
Powering the Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G is an octa-core 4nm Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset from Qualcomm, which is said to deliver a peak clock speed of 2.7GHz. The processor includes one prime core, three performance cores, and four efficiency cores. The tablet also features an Adreno 810 GPU, 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM, and up to 256GB of UFS 2.2 internal storage.
Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G Key features.
In terms of optics, the Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G comes with a single 13-megapixel rear camera with an f/2.2 aperture. On the front, it houses an 8-megapixel camera with an f/2.28 aperture for selfies and video calls. The tablet supports video recording at up to 1080p resolution at 60fps.
The Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G is backed by a 12,000mAh battery that supports 33W wired fast charging and 27W wired reverse charging. Connectivity options include support for 5G, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.4.
The tablet is equipped with a range of sensors including an accelerometer, gyroscope, ambient light sensor, colour temperature sensor, e-compass, and hall sensor. It measures 7.5mm in thickness and weighs approximately 610 grams.
FAQs
Q1. What is the price of the Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G in India?
Answer. The Wi-Fi-only 8GB+128GB variant costs ₹22,999, the Wi-Fi+5G 8GB+128GB model is ₹25,999, and the top Wi-Fi+5G 8GB+256GB version is ₹27,999.
Q2. When will the Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G be available for purchase?
Answer. Sales begin on January 12 via Xiaomi’s official online store.
Q3. What are the key display features of the Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G?
Answer. It has a 12.1-inch 2.5K display with 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision, 600 nits peak brightness, 360Hz touch sampling, and support for 1.07 billion colours.
Q4. What powers the Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G?
Answer. The tablet is powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset, paired with 8GB LPDDR4x RAM, up to 256GB UFS 2.2 storage, and runs HyperOS 2 (Android 15) with 5 years of OS + 7 years of security updates.
Q5. How strong is the battery and charging system on the Redmi Pad 2 Pro 5G?
Answer. It packs a massive 12,000mAh battery with 33W fast charging and 27W reverse charging, ensuring long usage and device-to-device power support.
Realme 16 Pro Series starts at ₹31,999 (8GB+128GB) with sales from January 9. Buyers get a ₹3,000 bank discount.
Realme 16 Pro+ – Snapdragon 7 Gen 4, 200MP main + 50MP periscope camera (3.5x zoom), curved AMOLED display (6,500 nits), 7,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging, rugged IP ratings.
Realme 16 Pro – Dimensity 7300 Max, 200MP main camera with 4K HDR video, AMOLED display (144Hz, 1.5K), 7,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging, ultra-volume mode.
Realme 16 Pro and Realme 16 Pro+ Launched in India. (Image credit – Realme)
Realme has expanded its popular number series in India with the launch of the Realme 16 Pro and Realme 16 Pro+. The new lineup maintains largely familiar pricing, which comes as a relief to buyers amid rising smartphone prices across brands. Here’s everything you need to know about both phones, starting with price and availability.
Realme 16 Pro and Realme 16 Pro+ – Prices and Availability in India
The Realme 16 Pro 5G is priced starting at Rs 31,999 for the 8GB RAM and 128GB storage variant. The 8GB + 256GB version costs Rs 33,999, while the top-end 12GB + 256GB model is priced at Rs 36,999.
The Realme 16 Pro+ 5G price start at Rs 39,999 for the 8GB + 128GB variant, rises to Rs 41,999 for the 8GB + 256GB version, and go up to Rs 44,999 for the 12GB + 256GB configuration.
Realme 16 Pro and Realme 16 Pro+ prices in India. (Image credit – Realme)
Sales for the Realme 16 series will begin on January 9.
Buyers will be able to avail a flat discount of Rs 3,000 through select bank card offers. With these offers applied, the Realme 16 Pro 8GB + 128GB variant will effectively be priced at Rs 28,999 for eligible cardholders.
Realme 16 Pro+ – Key Highlights
Sitting at the top of the lineup is the Realme 16 Pro+, which Realme positions as a performance-centric and camera-focused smartphone. It is powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, a processor that, while not brand new, has already proven capable for everyday performance. The phone is backed by a large 7,000mAh battery with support for 80W fast charging.
Cameras are a key differentiator for the Pro+. The device features a 200-megapixel primary camera along with a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto lens. Realme has confirmed around 3.5x optical zoom, which should result in cleaner zoomed-in shots compared to most mid-range smartphones.
The inclusion of a periscope camera gives the Realme 16 Pro+ a notable advantage for users interested in long-range photography without paying flagship prices.
On the front, the Realme 16 Pro+ sports a curved AMOLED display with up to 6,500 nits of peak brightness. It also offers ultra-slim 1.48mm bezels, a 2,500Hz touch sampling rate, and support for Netflix HDR content.
Durability has also been a focus, with the phone carrying IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K ratings, placing it among the more rugged devices in its segment on paper.
Realme 16 Pro – Key Highlights
Realme 16 Pro key features. (Image credit – Realme)
The standard Realme 16 Pro is positioned as a more balanced choice for users looking to stay within a tighter budget. It also features a 200-megapixel main camera with support for 4K HDR video recording. Powering the device is the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Max chipset, a new variant that Realme claims is tuned for efficiency and sustained performance, though real-world performance will become clearer with extended use.
Like the Pro+, the Realme 16 Pro packs a 7,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging and offers a display capable of reaching up to 6,500 nits of brightness. Realme has not compromised on durability, as the same IP ratings found on the Pro+ are also present on the Pro model.
Additionally, the Realme 16 Pro introduces a 300 percent ultra-volume mode, aimed at users who frequently rely on loudspeaker audio.
Realme 16 Pro and Realme 16 Pro+ – Shared Features and Software Experience
Both smartphones share several design and hardware elements. They feature a triple rear camera setup housed in a square module, an aerospace-grade frame, and physical buttons placed along the right edge.
The displays on both devices are AMOLED panels with full-HD+ resolution, although the Realme 16 Pro offers a 1.5K AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and support for 1.07 billion colours.
The Pro+ takes things further with higher touch sampling rates, advanced dimming technology, and slimmer bezels for a more immersive viewing experience.
On the software front, the Realme 16 Pro and Realme 16 Pro+ run Realme UI 7.0 based on Android 16 out of the box. Realme has committed to providing three major Android updates and four years of security patches, aligning with expectations in this price segment.
Both models also include performance-focused features such as LPDDR5x RAM support and advanced cooling solutions.
FAQs
Q1. What are the prices of the Realme 16 Pro in India?
Answer. The Realme 16 Pro 5G starts at ₹31,999 (8GB+128GB), ₹33,999 for the 8GB+256GB variant, and ₹36,999 for the 12GB+256GB model.
Q2. What is the expected pricing of the Realme 16 Pro+?
Answer. While not officially confirmed, it is expected to start at ₹39,999 (8GB+128GB), ₹41,999 for 8GB+256GB, and ₹44,999 for 12GB+256GB.
Q3. When will the Realme 16 series go on sale and are there launch offers?
Answer. Sales begin on January 9, with a flat ₹3,000 discount available through select bank card offers.
Q4. What are the standout features of the Realme 16 Pro+?
Answer. It features a Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, 200MP main + 50MP periscope telephoto camera (3.5x optical zoom), curved AMOLED display (6,500 nits), 7,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging, and rugged IP ratings.
Q5. How does the Realme 16 Pro differ from the Pro+?
Answer. The Realme 16 Pro uses a Dimensity 7300 Max chipset, offers a 200MP main camera with 4K HDR video, has a 1.5K AMOLED display with 144Hz refresh rate, and introduces a 300% ultra-volume mode, while still sharing the same 7,000mAh battery and IP durability ratings.
Redmi Note 15 5G debuts in India at ₹22,999 for 8GB+128GB and ₹24,999 for 8GB+256GB.
It will be available from January 9 via Amazon, Mi.com, and offline stores with ₹3,000 bank discounts and EMI offers.
It features a 6.77-inch FHD+ AMOLED curved display, Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 SoC, 8GB RAM, up to 256GB storage, 108MP main + 8MP ultra-wide rear camera, 20MP front camera and 5,520mAh battery with 45W fast charging.
Redmi Note 15 5G is now available in India.
Redmi has launched its latest mid-range 5G smartphone in India, the Redmi Note 15 5G. The device was earlier unveiled in China in August 2025 and has now made its way to the Indian market with a few notable changes. Here’s everything you need to know about the phone and its India availability.
Built for detail. 📸
Can you guess the camera spec on the REDMI Note 15 5G?
Redmi Note 15 5G – Pricing and Availability in India
The REDMI Note 15 5G is available in Glacier Blue, Black, and Mist Purple colour options. The 8GB + 128GB variant is priced at Rs. 22,999, while the 8GB + 256GB model costs Rs. 24,999.
Redmi Note 15 5G price and launch offers in India.
Sales of the smartphone will begin from January 9th via Amazon.in, Mi.com, and offline retail stores across India.
As part of the launch offers, buyers can avail an instant discount of Rs. 3,000 using Axis Bank, SBI, or ICICI Bank cards.No-cost EMI options are also available.
Redmi Note 15 5G – Key Specifications
Redmi Note 15 colours.
The REDMI Note 15 5G sports a 6.77-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a resolution of 2392×1080 pixels, a 120Hz refresh rate, a 240Hz touch sampling rate,up to 3,200 nits peak brightness, 3,840Hz high-frequency PWM dimming, and 12-bit colour depth. It is powered by an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 4nm 5G SoC, featuring four Cortex-A78 cores clocked at 2.4GHz and four Cortex-A55 cores at 1.8GHz, along with an Adreno 710 GPU.
The device comes with 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and offers 128GB or 256GB of UFS 2.2 internal storage, expandable up to 1TB via microSD card. It runs Android 15 with Xiaomi HyperOS 2 and supports hybrid dual SIM functionality.
Redmi Note 15 5G key features.
For optics, the phone includes a 108MP main camera with an f/1.7 aperture, an 8MP ultra-wide camera with an f/2.2 aperture, and LED flash with support for up to 4K video recording at 30fps. On the front, there is a 20MP camera with an f/2.2 aperture that supports 1080p video recording at 30fps.
Additional features include an in-display fingerprint sensor, infrared sensor, stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, and military-grade durability certified to MIL-STD-810H standards.
It is backed by a 5,520mAh battery with 45W fast charging support.
Connectivity options include 5G support across multiple bands, dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, GPS with support for multiple satellite systems, and a USB Type-C port. The handset measures 164×75.42×7.35mm for the Black and Glacier Blue variants and 7.4mm for the Mist Purple version, with a weight of 178 grams.
FAQs
Q1. What is the price of the Redmi Note 15 5G in India?
Answer. The 8GB + 128GB variant costs ₹22,999, while the 8GB + 256GB model is priced at ₹24,999.
Q2. When and where will the Redmi Note 15 5G be available for purchase?
Answer. Sales begin on January 9 via Amazon.in, Mi.com, and offline retail stores across India.
Q3. What are the key display and performance features of the Redmi Note 15 5G?
Answer. It has a 6.77-inch FHD+ AMOLED curved display with 120Hz refresh rate and 3,200 nits peak brightness, powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 SoC with Adreno 710 GPU.
Q4. What camera setup does the Redmi Note 15 5G offer?
Answer. The phone features a 108MP main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, and a 20MP front camera, supporting up to 4K video recording at 30fps.
Q5. How strong is the battery and durability of the Redmi Note 15 5G?
Answer. It packs a 5,520mAh battery with 45W fast charging and is certified with MIL-STD-810H military-grade durability.
Apple has exported iPhones worth $50 billion (₹4.51 lakh crore) from India since FY22 with $16 billion shipped in FY26 so far.
India is emerging as a key iPhone assembly hub as Apple reduces reliance on China.
Contract manufacturers like Foxconn and Tata Electronics benefit from the PLI initiative.
Apple iPhone Shipments From India Cross $50 Billion Milestone. (Image credit – Apple)
Apple has reached a major milestone in India by shipping iPhones worth $50 billion (around Rs. 4.51 lakh crore) from the country. Citing an Economic Times report, Union Minister of Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed the figures. The Minister said that Apple via its contract manufacturing partners such as Foxconn has exported approximately $50 billion worth of iPhones from India since being onboarded under the PLI scheme as part of the Make in India initiative.
In a major milestone for PM @narendramodi Ji’s ‘Make in India’ and our quest to become a producer economy, Apple ships $50 billion worth mobile phones in 2025.
Electronics production has increased 6 times in last 11 years. And electronics exports have grown 8 times under PM…
Apple continues to reduce its dependence on China by expanding its manufacturing footprint across other regions with India emerging as a key assembly hub. As part of this shift, the iPhone maker’s contract manufacturers, including Foxconn and Tata Electronics, have benefited from the Indian government’s production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme.
$16 Billion Worth of iPhones Shipped in FY26 So Far
According to the report, Apple exported nearly $16 billion (about Rs. 1.44 lakh crore) worth of iPhones in just the first nine months of FY26. This has taken the total value of iPhone shipments from India to $50 billion since FY22.
The figure is expected to rise further as three months remain in the current financial year, which also marks the completion of the first five-year phase of the PLI scheme.
Earlier Shipment Data Highlights Rapid Momentum
In November 2024, the minister had revealed that Apple shipped devices with a freight-on-board (FoB) value of $10 billion (approximately Rs. 90,000 crore) during the first two quarters of FY25, covering the period from April to October.
The total shipment value rose to nearly $15 billion (around Rs. 1.35 lakh crore) when additional factors such as sales accounts, distribution, marketing, logistics, and margins were included. Of this amount, made-in-India iPhone models accounted for close to $7 billion (roughly Rs. 63,000 crore).
The minister also highlighted the rapid growth of India’s electronics sector, stating that electronics production has increased sixfold over the past 11 years, while exports have grown eightfold during the same period. He added that electronics products have now become one of the top three commodities exported from the country.
Ashwini Vaishnaw further announced that four semiconductor manufacturing plants are set to begin commercial production later this year. He also noted that India’s electronics manufacturing ecosystem currently employs around 25 lakh people.
FAQs
Q1. How much has Apple exported iPhones from India under the PLI scheme?
Answer. Apple has shipped iPhones worth $50 billion (₹4.51 lakh crore) from India since FY22, including nearly $16 billion in FY26 so far.
Q2. Why is India important in Apple’s manufacturing strategy?
Answer. India has become a key iPhone assembly hub as Apple reduces reliance on China. Contract manufacturers like Foxconn and Tata Electronics benefit from the government’s PLI scheme.
Q3. What growth has India’s electronics sector seen alongside Apple’s expansion?
Answer. Electronics production in India has grown sixfold in 11 years, exports have increased eightfold, and the sector now employs around 25 lakh people. Four semiconductor plants are also set to begin production later this year.
Honor Power 2 debuts in China with pre-orders live and sales scheduled to start 9 January 2026.
The phone will be available in three colours and is priced at CNY 2,699 (12GB+256GB) and CNY 2,999 (12GB+512GB).
Key Features – 10,080mAh battery with 80W fast charging, Dimensity 8500 Elite SoC, 12GB LPDDR5X RAM, UFS 4.1 storage, 6.79-inch 1.5K OLED display, 50MP OIS + 5MP ultra-wide, 16MP selfie camera and IP66/IP68/IP69/IP69K durability.
Honor Power 2 was unveiled in China featuring a 10,080mAh battery. (Image credit – Honor)
Honor has officially launched the Honor Power 2 in China, packing a massive 10,080mAhsilicon-carbon battery. While the phone may remind you of the iPhone 17 Pro, the main highlight of the phone is that it can deliver over 20 hours of continuous usage. According to Honor, users can expect more than 26 hours of video playback, up to 17 hours of continuous navigation, or around 14 hours of uninterrupted gaming. Here’s more about the newly launched device.
Honor Power 2 – Pricing and Availability in China
The HONOR Power 2 is offered in Sunrise Orange, Midnight Black, and Snowfield White colour options. Pricing starts at CNY 2,699 for the 12GB + 256GB variant, while the 12GB + 512GB model is priced at CNY 2,999.
Honor Power 2 colour variant. (Image credit – Honor)
Pre-orders for the smartphone are already live in China. Official sales are scheduled to begin on 9 January 2026 at 10:08 AM through HONOR Mall, authorised online platforms, HONOR Experience Stores, and authorised retail outlets.
Honor Power 2 – Key Features
The HONOR Power 2 sports a 6.79-inch flat LTPS OLED display with a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The panel is rated for up to 8,000 nits of HDR peak brightness and 1,800 nits of global peak brightness, enabling vivid HDR photo and video playback.
Honor Power 2 display features. (Image credit – Honor)
For improved eye comfort, the display integrates multiple eye-care technologies including 3840Hz PWM dimming, hardware-level low blue light protection, and an aluminosilicate glass cover. Multi-touch input is supported with up to 10 simultaneous touch points.
Powering the smartphone is the MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Elite SoC, featuring one Cortex-A725 core clocked at 3.4GHz, three Cortex-A725 cores running at 3.2GHz, and four Cortex-A725 cores at 2.2GHz.
Honor Power 2 hardware. (Image credit – Honor)
The chipset has achieved an AnTuTu score of 2,407,614 and is paired with a Mali-G720 MC8 GPU. The HONOR Power 2 is available in a single 12GB LPDDR5X RAM configuration, paired with either 256GB or 512GB of UFS 4.1 internal storage. On the software side, the device runs MagicOS 10 based on Android 16.
The Honor Power 2 features a newly developed cooling system that combines dual VC vapor chambers with next-generation graphite. This setup offers a total heat dissipation area of more than 40,000mm² and is said to deliver performance improvements of up to 20% and 90%, respectively.
In the camera department, the smartphone comes with a dual rear camera setup, headlined by a 50MP primary sensor with optical image stabilisation (OIS), accompanied by a 5MP ultra-wide camera. On the front, the Honor Power 2 houses a 16MP selfie camera that supports up to 1080p video recording. Additional features include portrait mode, gesture capture, voice shutter, and 2D facial recognition.
The Honor Power 2 is backed by a 10,080mAh battery, rated at 9,886mAh, and built using Honor’s Qinghai Lake battery technology. It supports up to 80W wired SuperCharge fast charging, as well as 27W wired reverse charging for compatible devices. Smart charging features are also included to help optimise battery health and efficiency.
In terms of durability, the smartphone offers extensive protection with IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K ratings for dust and water resistance under laboratory conditions.
Connectivity options on the Honor Power 2 include dual SIM support, 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, an infrared remote control, USB Type-C, and stereo speakers with HONOR Sound. The device also integrates Honor’s self-developed C1+ radio frequency enhancement chip and supports a wide range of global positioning systems, including dual-frequency GPS and NavIC, depending on the region.
FAQs
Q1. When and where is the Honor Power 2 available in China?
Answer. Pre-orders are live, with official sales starting on 9 January 2026 at 10:08 AM via HONOR Mall, authorised online platforms, HONOR Experience Stores, and retail outlets.
Q2. What are the pricing and storage options for the Honor Power 2?
Answer. The smartphone is priced at CNY 2,699 for the 12GB + 256GB variant and CNY 2,999 for the 12GB + 512GB model.
Q3. What are the key display features of the Honor Power 2?
Answer. It has a 6.79-inch LTPS OLED display with 1.5K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR peak brightness up to 8,000 nits, and eye-care features like 3840Hz PWM dimming and low blue light protection.
Q4. How powerful is the Honor Power 2’s battery and charging system?
Answer. The device packs a 10,080mAh silicon-carbon battery, offering up to 26 hours of video playback, 17 hours navigation, and 14 hours gaming. It supports 80W wired SuperCharge and 27W reverse charging.
Q5. What are the camera and durability highlights of the Honor Power 2?
Answer. It features a 50MP OIS primary camera + 5MP ultra-wide, a 16MP selfie camera, and durability with IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K ratings for dust and water resistance.
Nothing has officially announced India launch of the CMF Watch 3 Pro and CMF Headphone Pro.
Community Review Program invites Indian creators to apply for early access and embargoed reviews alongside active engagement through writing, photography, or videography.
Official launch date, price and availability yet to be confirmed.
CMF Watch 3 Pro and CMF Headphone Pro India launch confirmed.
Nothing has officially confirmed that the CMF Watch 3 Pro and CMF Headphone Pro will launch in India. The CMF Watch 3 Pro made its global debut in July 2025, while the CMF Headphone Pro was introduced internationally in September 2025.
Earlier, Vice President of Business at CMF by Nothing, Himanshu Tandon had stated that the CMF Headphone Pro would arrive in India before the end of 2025. However, the launch did not materialise at the time with no official reason shared.
Nothing Community Post Confirms India Launch and Announces Community Review Program
In the latest community update, Nothing teased both products in a light green colour option and announced a Nothing Community Review Program ahead of the India launch. The initiative will allow selected creators to get early access to either the CMF Watch 3 Pro or the CMF Headphone Pro and share detailed reviews with the Nothing Community and on their personal social media platforms.
Nothing community page announcing CMF Watch 3 Pro and CMF Headphone Pro for India
According to the company, the program is aimed at creators who enjoy expressing their opinions through writing, photography, or videography, while actively engaging with the tech community. Selected participants will receive one of the two devices and will be required to publish an in-depth review under embargo conditions.
Nothing Community Review Program: Eligibility and Requirements
To apply for the Nothing Community Review Program, applicants must be Indian residents aged 18 years or above, be enthusiastic about the Nothing brand, and be willing to create detailed content using writing, photos, or videos.
Applicants must also agree to maintain strict confidentiality before the public release, sign a non-disclosure agreement, and adhere to embargo timelines and deadlines set by Nothing.
Nothing has outlined several key terms for the program. Applications will close on 7 January at 3 PM IST, and selected participants will be informed via email by the end of the same day, along with the invitation and embargo agreement. Participation is not guaranteed, as selection is entirely at Nothing’s discretion. The company also notes that additional terms and conditions may be updated on nothing.tech, and applicants are advised to stay alert for any changes.
CMF Watch 3 Pro – Key Features
CMF Watch 3 Pro.
The CMF Watch 3 Pro comes with a 1.43-inch round AMOLED display featuring a 466×466 resolution, a 60Hz refresh rate, and peak brightness of up to 670 nits. It supports more than 120 watch faces and offers health tracking features such as heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, blood oxygen measurement, stress tracking, and menstrual cycle tracking.
Additional features include Bluetooth calling, built-in GPS, gesture controls, and ChatGPT access. The smartwatch is backed by a 350mAh battery, which is claimed to deliver up to 13 days of typical usage. It also features an IP68-rated metal body paired with a silicone strap.
CMF Headphone Pro – Key Features
CMF Headphone Pro.
The CMF Headphone Pro is an over-ear wireless headphone with active noise cancellation capable of reducing noise by up to 40dB, with adjustable ANC levels. It includes swappable ear cushions, a roller dial, an energy slider, and a customisable button, all of which can be configured via the Nothing X app.
The headphones are equipped with 40mm drivers and support LDAC and Hi-Res audio. Nothing claims up to 100 hours of playback without ANC, or up to 50 hours with ANC enabled, along with fast charging via a USB Type-C port.
Expected Price and Availability in India
While the company has not yet disclosed the exact launch dates, pricing, or availability details for India, it has confirmed that more information will be shared soon. The Indian variants are expected to retain the same specifications and features as their global counterparts.
Based on Nothing’s previous launch strategy in the country, the CMF Watch 3 Pro and CMF Headphone Pro are expected to be sold via Flipkart, although a dedicated microsite has yet to go live.
FAQs
Q1. When will the CMF Watch 3 Pro and CMF Headphone Pro launch in India?
Answer. Nothing has officially confirmed their India launch, though exact dates and pricing are yet to be disclosed. Both devices are likely be sold via Flipkart.
Q2. What is the Nothing Community Review Program and who can apply?
Answer. The program allows selected Indian creators (aged 18+) to get early access to either the CMF Watch 3 Pro or CMF Headphone Pro and publish detailed reviews. Applicants must sign an NDA, follow embargo timelines, and create content through writing, photography, or videography. Applications close on 7 January at 3 PM IST.
Q3. What are the key features of the CMF Watch 3 Pro?
Answer. CMF Watch 3 Pro features 1.43″ AMOLED display, 120+ watch faces, health tracking (heart rate, sleep, SpO₂, stress, menstrual cycle), Bluetooth calling, GPS, ChatGPT access, 13-day battery, IP68-rated body.
Q4. What are the key specs of CMF Headphone Pro?
Answer. CMF Headphone Pro – Over-ear wireless design, 40dB ANC with adjustable levels, swappable cushions, customizable controls, 40mm drivers, LDAC/Hi-Res audio, up to 100 hours playback (50 with ANC), USB-C fast charging.
