Qualcomm may revive its “Gen” branding with the launch of Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 (SM8845) and Elite 2 (SM8850) this fall.
A third chip named Snapdragon 8s Gen 5 is rumoured to join the mix, targeting near-flagship performance.
Experts believe the coexistence of “Gen” and “Elite” names could help differentiate high-end versus ultra-premium offerings.
Caption – New leak reveals naming strategy of Qualcomm’s next range of flagship smartphone chips. (Image credit – Qualcomm)
Qualcomm switched to the new “Elite” moniker for its flagship chipset earlier this year with the launch of Snapdragon 8 Elite. While everyone thought that was the end of its “Gen” chip moniker, it seems we all were too quick to conclude. If recent reports are any indication, Qualcomm might be preparing for a bigger launch this fall than initially expected.
Qualcomm New Chip
Recently, popular Weibo tipster Digital Chat Station in a post hinted that chip maker could be reviving its Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 branding, even after switching to the new “Elite” naming convention earlier this year with the Snapdragon 8 Elite.
Caption – Tipster DCS’s recent post on Weibo. (Screenshot credit – Gizmochina)
However, this doesn’t mean Qualcomm is abandoning its new naming approach. Instead, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 is expected to be a separate product altogether, carrying the model number SM8845. Meanwhile, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is internally referred to as SM8850. This points to a scenario where both the “Gen” and “Elite” naming schemes might coexist for the first time.
That alone brings two flagship-tier chips into the mix, but there’s more. Qualcomm is also rumoured to be continuing its 8s lineup with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 5, adding another high-end chip to the portfolio.
Is Qualcomm Opting For Dual Branding?
Tech enthusiasts believe the reappearance of the “Gen” naming format could create confusion. Qualcomm had dropped it after using it last with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in favour of the cleaner Snapdragon 8 Elite name.
But with “Gen 5” making a comeback, consumers and manufacturers might now have to navigate overlapping product names.
There may be a strategic reason behind this dual approach. The SM8845 chip, which has been previously rumoured under various names such as Snapdragon 8s Elite or Snapdragon 8 Plus, is expected to deliver near-flagship performance. That positions it just below the top-tier SM8850 chip, allowing Qualcomm to better segment its premium lineup.
This move could be a response to rising competition from MediaTek and custom silicon from Samsung and Google, enabling Qualcomm to more clearly differentiate between ultra-premium and high-end offerings.
We can expect to get more clarity at Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Summit, scheduled from September 23 to 25. The company is set to unveil its next-gen Snapdragon X laptop chips along with whatever new mobile flagship chip it ultimately decides to brand between “Gen,” “Elite,” or both.
FAQs
Q1. Is Qualcomm bringing back the “Gen” naming format?
Answer. Yes. Despite introducing the “Elite” branding earlier in 2024, Qualcomm is reportedly reviving its “Gen” moniker with the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chip, model number SM8845.
Q2. Will both “Gen” and “Elite” names be used together?
Answer. Leaked details suggest a dual branding strategy, with Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 (SM8850) coexisting, offering different performance tiers within Qualcomm’s premium lineup.
Q3. When will Qualcomm officially announce these new chips?
Answer. All eyes are on the Snapdragon Summit, scheduled for September 23–25, where Qualcomm is expected to unveil its latest mobile and laptop chipsets.
With the Pixel 10 series, Pixel Watch 4 and possibly the Pixel Buds 2a just weeks away from launch, new information has surfaced about an update to Google’s premium earbuds lineup. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 aren’t expected to get a major refresh this year. However, recent leaks have hinted at a new colour option. Now, Google has seemingly confirmed at least one of those colourways by accident.
A recent 9to5Google report revealed that its team has discovered that Google prematurely listed the Moonstone variant of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 on the Google Store. The 3D view of the earbuds showcases this new greyish-blue colour, matching the previously leaked visuals and likely timed to launch alongside the Pixel 10 lineup later this month.
Caption – Upcoming Pixel Buds Pro 2 in Moonstone Colour. (Image credit – 9to5Google)
Previous ongoing leaks around the Pixel 10 lineup have already revealed two new colour options for the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL, Moonstone (a shade of blue) and Jade (green). Soon after, the Pixel Watch 4 was also leaked in the same Moonstone colour, suggesting a unified colour strategy across the ecosystem.
The listing also indicates a shake-up in the colour options for Pixel Buds Pro 2. The new Moonstone colour appears to be replacing the existing “Wintergreen” shade, which is no longer listed. In addition, a new colour name, “Obsidian,” has surfaced, possibly replacing “Hazel.”
Interestingly, the visual for “Obsidian” still resembles Hazel, suggesting this may be a simple name swap or a placeholder error.
Other existing colours like “Porcelain” and “Peony” remain, but the absence of “Wintergreen” and the sudden appearance of “Obsidian” and “Moonstone” indicate a shift in Google’s colour strategy.
Although neither Moonstone nor Obsidian variants are currently available for purchase, they are expected to debut at the upcoming Made by Google event on August 20. The event is expected to unveil the Pixel 10 series, Pixel Watch 4 and Pixel Buds 2a.
FAQs
Q1. What new information has surfaced about the Pixel Buds Pro 2?
Answer. Google accidentally listed the new “Moonstone” colour variant on its store, revealing a greyish-blue shade expected to launch with the Pixel 10 lineup.
Q2. Are there any changes to the existing colour options?
Answer. Yes. The new Moonstone hue seems to replace “Wintergreen,” while “Obsidian” might be swapping in for “Hazel.” Other colours like “Porcelain” and “Peony” remain unchanged.
Q3. When will the new Pixel Buds Pro 2 colours be officially available?
Answer. They’re likely to be announced at the Made by Google event on August 20, alongside the Pixel 10 series, Pixel Watch 4, and Pixel Buds 2a.
Instagram now restricts Live broadcasts to accounts with 1,000+ followers.
Meta says the update is to enhance experience quality, though critics speculate it’s due to high livestream hosting costs.
The change applies to public and private accounts, but is being phased in currently impacting public ones.
Now you need more than 1000 followers on Instagram to use the Live Broadcast feature. (Photo by Solen Feyissa on Unsplash)
If you are a small content creator on Instagram, this news is for you. Instagram has rolled out a major change to its Live broadcast feature that mostly impacts content creators with a small number of followers. According to new rules, going live on the platform now requires accounts to have at least 1,000 followers to go live.
Over the past few days, users have reported that they’re no longer able to start Live broadcasts, even if their accounts were previously eligible.
A notification now appears for affected users that reads, “We changed the requirements to use this feature. Only public accounts with 1,000 followers or more will be able to create live videos.”
Meta has confirmed the update to multiple media outlets, stating that the move is intended to “ensure the best experience” for creators who use Live and to enhance the feature’s overall usage quality. However, the company has not explained why accounts with fewer than 1,000 followers would negatively impact the experience.
A report from TechCrunch speculates the decision may be driven by cost concerns, noting that “since hosting livestreams is expensive, Meta may have decided that it doesn’t want to support broadcasts with only a handful of viewers.”
Meta also clarified that the new rule will apply to both public and private accounts. However, it appears to be rolling out gradually for private users. That may explain why the current notice only mentions public accounts, for now. This change could effectively phase out the option to livestream to just a few close friends, a niche feature Instagram had introduced earlier in 2024.
FAQS
Q1. Who can go Live on Instagram now?
Answer. Only public accounts with at least 1,000 followers are currently allowed to start Live broadcasts. Private accounts may be affected later as the change rolls out.
Q2. Why did Instagram make this change?
Answer. Meta says it’s to ensure the “best experience” for creators and improve overall Live feature quality. Some speculate it’s due to the high cost of hosting livestreams with low viewership.
Q3. What happens if I don’t meet the follower requirement?
Answer. Users with under 1,000 followers will see a notice that says, “Only public accounts with 1,000 followers or more will be able to create live videos.” Live access will be restricted until the account meets the new threshold.
Motorola’s upcoming collaboration with Swarovski was recently teased with the luxury edition of the Moto Razr lineup and Buds Loops earlier this month. Leaked images have now given us a complete look at the Motorola Razr 60 Swarovski Edition. The latest leak comes from YTECHB and includes official renders, detailed specifications and pricing.
Motorola Razr 60 Swarovski Edition Official Renders (Leaked)
The leak claims to show official renders of the Motorola Razr 60 Swarovski Edition, revealing the phone’s striking new design. The images reveal a crystal-embedded outer shell with a fabric-like texture, complemented by a single prominent crystal on the device’s hinge.
Caption – Leaked renders of the upcoming Motorola Razr 60 Swarovski Edition. (Image credit – YTECHB)
The volume and power buttons also appear to have received a glossy, crystal-inspired finish, adding to the device’s premium aesthetic.
According to the report, while the design has been revamped with Swarovski styling, the hardware remains the same as the standard Motorola Razr 60 (also known as the Motorola Razr 2025).
Motorola Razr 60 Swarovski Edition – Specs
The Razr 60 Swarovski Edition will feature a 6.9-inch LTPO foldable AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, accompanied by a 3.5-inch 90Hz AMOLED cover screen. Powering the device is the MediaTek Dimensity 7400X chipset and it will ship with Android 15 out of the box.
Buyers can expect 8GB or 12GB RAM options with 256GB or 512GB of internal storage.
The phone carries a dual rear camera system comprising a 50MP primary shooter and a 13MP ultrawide lens, while a 32MP selfie camera sits on the inner display. A 4,500mAh battery rounds out the specs. The phone is expected to launch at a price of $699.
FAQs
Q1. What is unique about the Motorola Razr 60 Swarovski Edition’s design?
Answer. The Razr 60 Swarovski Edition features a crystal-embedded outer shell with a fabric-like texture, glossy crystal-inspired buttons, and a prominent Swarovski crystal on the hinge, giving it a luxurious aesthetic.
Q2. Does the Swarovski Edition have different hardware from the standard Razr 60?
Answer. No, the hardware remains the same as the standard Motorola Razr 60. It includes a MediaTek Dimensity 7400X chipset, dual rear cameras (50MP + 13MP), a 32MP selfie camera, and a 4,500mAh battery.
Q3. What are the display and storage specifications of the Razr 60 Swarovski Edition?
Answer. It features a 6.9-inch LTPO foldable AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a 3.5-inch 90Hz AMOLED cover screen. Storage options include 256GB or 512GB, paired with either 8GB or 12GB of RAM.
A new leak has now revealed the updated design of the upcoming Pixel Buds 2a just ahead of Google’s anticipated launch event. While not much is known about its specs as of now, here is a roundup of all we know about the buds.
Pixel Buda 2a – Leaked Renders
A recent Android Headlines report has shared what appears to be an official render of the earbuds in the “Iris” colour variant. The leaked image gives us a glimpse at the design changes, while also highlighting that Google is retaining some familiar elements from the first-generation Pixel Buds A-Series.
According to the leaked renders, the case design remains largely unchanged and follows the same structure Google has used across its Pixel Buds lineup.
However, a noticeable tweak is the use of a single uniform colour inside the charging case, matching the earbuds themselves. This is in contrast to Google’s “Pro” models, which typically have a black interior regardless of the earbud colour.
A more significant update can be spotted on the earbuds. The images show new cutouts that resemble those found on the Pixel Buds Pro 2. On that model, these cutouts house microphones used for active noise cancellation. The original Pixel Buds A-Series lacked this feature, suggesting that the Pixel Buds 2a might introduce enhanced functionality, potentially including ANC or other audio-related improvements.
As of now, we don’t have any word on hardware changes but we can expect more information to appear closer to the launch.
FAQs
Q1. What design changes are expected in the Pixel Buds 2a?
Answer. The Pixel Buds 2a feature a refreshed design with new cutouts on the earbuds that resemble those found on the Pixel Buds Pro 2, potentially indicating support for active noise cancellation.
Q2. Has the charging case design changed for the Pixel Buds 2a?
Answer. The case design remains largely unchanged but now includes a single uniform colour inside the charging case that matches the earbuds themselves, unlike Google’s “Pro” models which typically have a black interior.
Q3. What colour variant has been leaked for the Pixel Buds 2a?
Answer. The leaked render showcases the earbuds in the “Iris” colour variant.
Samsung confirmed an earlier-than-usual release for the Galaxy S25 FE, likely in August or early September
The Galaxy Tab S11 series will debut with AI features and mid-range models, while Samsung’s first tri-fold phone is expected to launch by October 2025.
Samsung’s Project Moohan XR headset, built with Google and Qualcomm, will launch later this year.
Samsung Q2 2025 earnings call revealed some exciting plans for the rest of the year. (Image credit – Android Authority)
Samsung has confirmed several of its upcoming products during its Q2 2025 earnings call and offered a glimpse into its product roadmap for the second half of the year. The Korean giant touched on many anticipated devices starting from the Galaxy Tab S11 series to the much-anticipated TriFold device and an early launch of the Galaxy S25 FE.
Galaxy Tab S11 Series Confirmed, Alongside Mid-Range Tablets
While Samsung’s upcoming tri-foldable phone is attracting a lot of attention, the company also confirmed that the Galaxy Tab S11 series is on the way.
Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra for reference. (Image credit – Samsung)
According to Samsung, “Beyond smartphones, we are accelerating our ecosystem strategy in the second half of the year with a range of new products designed to maximise Galaxy’s competitive edge, including the next-generation form factor. First, we are set to release the Galaxy Tab S11 series, powered by enhanced AI capabilities and new mid-tier and entry-level models will complete our portfolio.”
Leaked low-resolution renders of the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra suggest a design similar to its predecessor, featuring a 14.6-inch OLED display, but with some notable changes. The dual front-facing cameras may be replaced by a single camera housed in a smaller U-shaped cutout, and the new stylus may lack Bluetooth, hinting at a design similar to the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s S Pen.
AI features will also be front and centre, in line with Samsung’s recent push to integrate Galaxy AI across its entire ecosystem. Additionally, mid-tier and entry-level tablets are expected to complement the S11 series.
Galaxy Z TriFold and Android XR Headset Also Teased
Samsung TriFold and headsets teased earlier this year. (Image credit – 9to5Google)
Samsung also used the earnings call to tease the launch of two major new form factors, the Galaxy Z TriFold and the company’s first Android XR headset, internally known as Project Moohan. Both are confirmed to launch later in 2025.
As stated in the company’s outlook for the second half (via SeekingAlpha), “In the MX business, we will drive sales of our premium mobile AI devices, including our newly launched foldables and aim to lead the market by expanding our ecosystem through innovative form factors like the upcoming TriFold device and our first XR headset as well as services such as connected health.”
Samsung also hinted at “connected health” services, which may point to new health-focused subscriptions or integrations for its fitness platforms.
Later in the call, Samsung reiterated its timeline, “…Meanwhile, we are also preparing to introduce next-generation innovative products, including our XR headset and TriFold smartphone this year. Our XR headset, which seamlessly integrates the XR ecosystem developed in partnership with Google as well as multimodal AI capabilities will serve as a key stepping stone in solidifying our leadership in future technologies and further expanding the Galaxy ecosystem.”
According to rumours, the Galaxy Z TriFold could launch as soon as October 2025.
Galaxy S25 FE Launching Earlier Than Expected
Another big reveal from the call is that the Galaxy S25 FE is set to arrive earlier than previously expected. While past FE models launched around October, Samsung now suggests the S25 FE could debut in the next couple of months.
The company confirmed, “For the Galaxy S25 series, we will focus on maintaining sales momentum with seasonal promotions as well as an earlier launch of the S25 FE.”
This earlier-than-usual release could signal a strategic repositioning of the FE series. With rumours suggesting that Samsung will rename the Galaxy S26 lineup to S26 Pro, S26 Edge, and S26 Ultra, the FE could become the new base model in the Galaxy S series. That move would elevate the Fan Edition above its previous budget image and possibly set the stage for future price increases, although no official pricing information has been shared yet.
Galaxy S25 Series Seasonal Discounts Confirmed
Among other things, Samsung also confirmed that it will offer seasonal promotions on the Galaxy S25 lineup including the S25, S25 Plus and S25 Ultra.
While the details are still unknown, past deals have included generous trade-in offers and price cuts. For example, trading in a Galaxy S24 Ultra currently knocks $580 off a Galaxy S25 Ultra.
FAQS
Q1. When will the Galaxy S25 FE be released?
Answer. Samsung confirmed that the Galaxy S25 FE will launch earlier than usual, likely within the next couple of months. This is a shift from previous FE releases, which typically debuted around October.
Q2. What are the key features of the Galaxy Tab S11 series?
Answer. The Galaxy Tab S11 series will feature enhanced AI capabilities and may include a 14.6-inch OLED display with a redesigned front camera cutout. Samsung also plans to release mid-tier and entry-level tablets alongside the S11 to complete its portfolio.
Q3. What is Samsung’s XR headset and when will it launch?
Answer. Samsung’s XR headset, internally known as Project Moohan, is its first Android XR device developed in partnership with Google. It will feature multimodal AI and immersive XR experiences, and is scheduled to launch later in 2025.
Xiaomi is introducing satellite communication in the Mix Flip 3 and Redmi Note 15 Pro+ Satellite Edition.
Satellite messaging will be available only in select variants with model 2603APX0AC for Mix Flip 3 and 25104RADAC for Redmi Note 15 Pro+.
The Redmi Note 15 Pro+ Satellite Edition received radio approval for BeiDou short message satellite communication.
Xiaomi Mix Flip 2 for reference. (Image credit – Xiaomi)
It appears Xiaomi is gearing up to bring satellite communication to a wider audience. New reports indicate that the upcoming Mix Flip 3 foldable and Redmi Note 15 Pro+ will both support this advanced feature.
Satellite messaging has often been limited to premium flagships and it is definitely a welcome step that it will become more accessible across Xiaomi’s broader lineup. Here’s what we know so far.
Satellite Communication in Xiaomi Devices
According to Weibo tipster “Experience More,” Xiaomi is actively working to integrate satellite messaging capabilities across its ecosystem. Leading the rollout is the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ Satellite Edition, followed by the Mix Flip 3, which is identified by model numbers 2603APX0AC and 2603EPX2DC, and carries the codename “Pixiu.”
Recent post of Weibo tipster Experience More. (Screenshot credit – Gizmochina)
Xiaomi’s satellite plans were further confirmed earlier this month when a device with the model number 25104RADAC received radio approval, explicitly supporting BeiDou short message satellite communication.
This device is widely believed to be the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ Satellite Edition, making it not only the first Redmi phone to feature satellite messaging, but also the first across the entire Redmi lineup including the premium K and K Ultra series to support such connectivity.
Popular leaker Digital Chat Station clarified that satellite messaging won’t be available on all variants of these devices. Xiaomi reportedly plans to enable the feature only in special editions, aimed at users with a specific need for off-grid communication.
While information on the Mix Flip 3 is still limited since the Mix Flip 2 only recently launched in China, early reports suggest that 2603APX0AC will be the satellite-enabled model and 2603EPX2DC will represent the standard version.
Bringing satellite messaging to devices like the Redmi Note series is a significant step for Xiaomi. The technology allows users to send and receive messages without cellular coverage, offering vital functionality in emergency situations, remote travel or isolated environments.
FAQs
Q1. Which Xiaomi devices will support satellite communication?
Answer. The upcoming Xiaomi Mix Flip 3 and Redmi Note 15 Pro+ Satellite Edition will support satellite messaging. These features will be limited to special variants, not the entire lineup.
Q2. What satellite technology is Xiaomi using in these devices?
Answer. Xiaomi is integrating BeiDou short message satellite communication, confirmed through radio approval for the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ Satellite Edition (model number 25104RADAC).
Q3. Will all variants of Mix Flip 3 and Redmi Note 15 Pro+ have satellite messaging?
Answer. No, satellite messaging will be available only in special editions. For example, Mix Flip 3 model 2603APX0AC will support satellite communication, while 2603EPX2DC will be the standard version without it.
It has already been reported that Samsung’s Galaxy S26 series is shaping up ahead of its expected January 2026 debut. Now, a new leak is pointing to battery life improvements for the Galaxy S26 Pro and S26 Edge. These changes appear aimed at addressing user concerns following last year’s mixed battery performance, especially on the Edge model. Here’s what we know so far.
Galaxy S26 Pro and Edge Expected Battery Upgrades
According to a report from GalaxyClub, the Galaxy S26 Pro is expected to feature a 4,300mAh battery, a clear step up from the 4,000mAh unit in the S25. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S26 Edge, which is likely to replace both the S25 Edge and S25 Plus, is tipped to house a 4,200mAh battery.
That’s a bump over the S25 Edge’s 3,900mAh capacity, but still smaller than the 4,900mAh battery in the outgoing S25 Plus, a detail already causing concern among fans of the larger Plus variant.
On the other hand, the Galaxy S26 Ultra will reportedly stick with the same 5,000mAh battery as its predecessor. However, it’s expected to support a faster 60W charging rate, an upgrade over the 45W charging on the S25 Ultra. While the Ultra isn’t getting a larger battery, the increased charging speed could offer quicker top-ups for power users.
Galaxy S26 Pro and Edge – Exynos 2600
Exynos 2600 chipset expected in the S26 lineup. (Image credit – Samsung)
What’s adding to the uncertainty is Samsung’s chipset strategy. While the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is almost certain for the S26 Ultra, Samsung has also hinted at including the Exynos 2600 in the S26 lineup. Based on historical patterns, it’s likely that the S26 Pro and Edge models could ship with the Exynos chip.
This raises important questions about power efficiency. While the Exynos 2600 is built on a 2nm process and is expected to offer improved resource management, it’s unclear if that will be enough to compensate for only a 300mAh gain in battery capacity, especially given the performance inconsistencies in past Exynos chips.
In short, Samsung appears to be making calculated, modest upgrades to battery sizes in the S26 Pro and Edge. But with chipset efficiency still uncertain, it remains to be seen whether users will actually experience meaningful battery life improvements across the lineup.
FAQs
Q1. What battery capacity is expected for the Galaxy S26 Pro and S26 Edge?
Answer. According to a report from GalaxyClub, the Galaxy S26 Pro is expected to feature a 4,300mAh battery, while the Galaxy S26 Edge is tipped to house a 4,200mAh battery.
Q2. Will the Galaxy S26 Ultra get a battery upgrade?
Answer. The Galaxy S26 Ultra will reportedly stick with the same 5,000mAh battery as its predecessor. However, it’s expected to support a faster 60W charging rate, an upgrade over the 45W charging on the S25 Ultra.
Q3. Which chipset might power the Galaxy S26 Pro and Edge?
Answer. Samsung has hinted at including the Exynos 2600 in the S26 lineup. Based on historical patterns, it’s likely that the S26 Pro and Edge models could ship with the Exynos chip.
The OnePlus Ace 5 Ultra receives official 40W UFCS certification, enabling cross-brand fast charging compatibility.
It supports 100W Super Flash Charge and Fusion Fast Charge, powered by a 6,700mAh silicon anode “Glacier Battery” that fully charges in under 30 minutes.
The device features a MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ chip, a 6.83″ LTPO AMOLED 144Hz display and a 50MP Sony IMX906 camera with OIS
OnePlus Ace 5 Ultra. (Image credit – OnePlus)
The OnePlus Ace 5 Ultra has become the first smartphone to receive official 40W UFCS (Universal Fast Charging Specification) certification. This marks a step toward a more standardised and user-friendly fast-charging ecosystem. Here’s what we know about this development.
OnePlus Ace 5 Ultra – 40W UFCS Certification
The certification was issued by the FCA Terminal Fast Charging Industry Association and reflects a growing industry movement to streamline fast-charging compatibility across devices and brands.
As confirmed by the association, the OnePlus Ace 5 Ultra has received the first integrated 40W UFCS fast-charging certificate (ID: 0302547331154ROM-UFCS00190). This means the phone can support third-party UFCS-compatible chargers at 40W, in addition to its native 100W Super Flash Charge and Fusion Fast Charge technologies.
UFCS represents a collaborative effort among leading Chinese tech companies to establish a unified fast-charging protocol that works across different ecosystems. The goal is to simplify charging for users by reducing confusion and ensuring better cross-brand compatibility.
OnePlus Ace 5 Ultra – What Else We Know?
Beyond charging, the Ace 5 Ultra boasts powerful hardware. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ processor and features a 6.83-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 2800×1272 resolution and a 144Hz adaptive refresh rate, delivering smooth visuals and vibrant clarity.
On the camera front, the device comes equipped with a 50MP Sony IMX906 sensor with OIS and an 8MP ultra-wide lens, offering versatile imaging capabilities.
Fueling the device is a 6,700mAh battery built using silicon anode technology, branded by OnePlus as the “Glacier Battery.” With support for 100W fast charging, the battery can be fully recharged in under 30 minutes, making it one of the fastest-charging phones in its segment.
Launched in China in May 2025, the OnePlus Ace 5 Ultra not only pushes performance boundaries but also sets a precedent in fast-charging standards. In a market where even supposedly “universal” PD charging often faces compatibility challenges, the UFCS initiative is a promising step toward true cross-device fast-charging reliability.
FAQs
Q1. What is special about the OnePlus Ace 5 Ultra’s fast charging capabilities?
Answer. The OnePlus Ace 5 Ultra has received the first integrated 40W UFCS fast-charging certificate, allowing it to support third-party UFCS-compatible chargers at 40W, in addition to its native 100W Super Flash Charge and Fusion Fast Charge technologies.
Q2. What is UFCS and why is it important?
Answer. UFCS (Universal Fast Charging Specification) is a collaborative effort among leading Chinese tech companies to establish a unified fast-charging protocol that works across different ecosystems. The goal is to simplify charging for users by reducing confusion and ensuring better cross-brand compatibility.
Q3. What are the key hardware features of the OnePlus Ace 5 Ultra?
Answer. The device is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ processor, features a 6.83-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 2800×1272 resolution and 144Hz adaptive refresh rate, and includes a 50MP Sony IMX906 sensor with OIS and an 8MP ultra-wide lens.
The Moto G86 Power follows the classic Moto premium design language but has quite a few changes. First off, the phone has a flat display, which is a pleasant change from the recent curved displays we have seen from the brand. It comes in a boxy shape that feels modern yet super comfortable to hold.
Motorola has gone for its signature vegan leather finish on the back. The difference we noticed, however, is that the texture is slightly more defined compared to the smoother leather backs we’ve seen on other Moto phones. It doesn’t just look good, it’s practical too. No fingerprint smudges, no micro-scratches and it offers a better grip, so you don’t feel like you’ll drop it every few minutes.
The phone doesn’t feel bulky or slippery, which is something we personally appreciate when using a phone day-to-day.
Our review unit came in the Golden Cypress colour, one of the Pantone-curated finishes Motorola is offering. It’s a unique greenish-golden tone that stands out without being too flashy. The Moto logo sits cleanly in the centre of the back panel and the camera module on the top-left blends nicely into the back. It has four cutouts, housing two cameras, a flash and an ambient light sensor.
As for durability, Motorola’s clearly not cutting corners. The build feels solid in hand like it could take a few bumps without worry.
The phone is IP68 and IP69 rated, so it can easily handle water splashes, dust, and even high-pressure water jets. It has also received MIL-STD-810H military-grade certification, which means it’s built to survive some rough handling.
All in all, the Moto G86 Power look good and is tough too.
Moto G86 Power 5G – Display and Multimedia Experience
Moto G86 Power 5G – Display and Multimedia Experience
The flat display of the Moto G86 Power is stunning. Motorola has packed in a 6.67-inch pOLED Super HD flat panel and we really found it to be one of the best you’ll find in this price segment. Everything from watching videos to casually scrolling through the social media feed looks stunning on this screen.
Colours look vivid and punchy, thanks to Display Colour Boost, 10-bit colour depth and 100% DCI-P3 coverage. The 120Hz refresh rate makes everything feel smooth. Right from navigating the UI to swiping through social media or playing fast-paced games, there wasn’t any lag or stutter.
It also stands out in the brightness specs. With a peak of 4500 nits, the screen stays clear and legible even under harsh outdoor lighting. The 1400 nits HBM kicks in automatically when extra visibility is needed and it works well.
Motorola has also added Smart Water Touch 2.0, which means the screen responds without a hitch even with slightly wet fingers or accidental splashes. There is also Corning Gorilla Glass 7i on the front, offering up to 2x better drop and scratch protection. It definitely adds peace of mind without needing to slap on an extra screen protector right away.
The dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos really take the multimedia experience to another level. They’re loud, clear and surprisingly immersive for a mid-range phone. There is also Hi-Res Audio support and Moto Spatial Sound to give you that extra depth while watching content or even playing games.
Moto G86 Power 5G – Performance
Moto G86 Power 5G – Performance
Moto G86 Power promises smooth performance with the MediaTek Dimensity 7400 chipset. This processor delivers solid performance for all everyday smartphone use. We have used the phone as our primary device for almost a week and the experience was as smooth as it can get.
The phone feels quick and snappy.Apps open fast, multitasking feels effortless and everyday tasks just feel responsive. We had the 8GB RAM and 128GB storage variant for testing, which is already good enough for most users. But Motorola has added RAM Boost 3.0. It promises to help during heavy multitasking sessions or while switching between several apps on the go.
As for gaming, we believe the chipset can handle some of the demanding games. We tried some popular games and it was a lot more smoother experience than we initially expected. As long as you keep settings to medium, graphics-heavy games run smoothly without noticeable frame drops. We also didn’t notice any concerning heating issues even after long sessions.
We also tested the phone on some of the most popular benchmark platforms to get a clear picture of its actual capability. The phone comfortably holds its ground in the mid-range category. Here are some of the results for reference –
On the software side, you get Hello UI based on the latest Android 15. Motorola has promised 1 year of OS upgrades and 3 years of security updates. There are a lot of pre-installed apps that might bother users during the initial use, but those can be uninstalled.
A cool addition to the phone is Smart Connect 2.0. This lets users wirelessly connect the phone to a TV or PC. You can simply mirror the screen to play games, make video calls, or even use apps on a bigger display. Features like Cross Device Search, Swipe to Share and Swipe to Stream make this feel like a productivity tool as much as a smartphone.
Moto G86 Power 5G – Camera Hardware and Performance
Moto G86 Power 5G – Camera Hardware and Performance
The Moto G86 Power’s camera setup has a 50MP Sony LYTIA 600C main sensor along with an 8MP ultra-wide + macro combo lens on the rear and a 32MP selfie camera on the front. Right from the first shot, the camera performance is nothing short of excellent for a phone in this segment.
The main lens captures clean and sharp images, especially in tricky lighting. The 120º ultra-wide-angle lens can take good landscape shots or group photos. As for the Macro Vision mode, it is perfect for capturing fine details. There’s also a 3-in-1 ambient sensor on the back and it works well to improve colour, clarity and lighting in real-time.
There’s also a Tilt Shift mode for depth-filled portraits, and plenty of creative extras like Dual Capture, Hyperlapse, Slow Motion, and Audio Zoom.
We tested the camera in different settings and the photos taken with the Moto G86 Power look vibrant and detailed. The colours appear natural and the shots have good dynamic range.Daylight shots come out crisp with plenty of texture. Low-light photos in particular show less noise and colours stay vibrant without being overly processed.
Moto G86 Power 5G Day Camera Sample
Moto G86 Power 5G Night Camera Sample
The 32MP selfie camera takes sharp and bright selfies. Features like Photo Booth Mode alongside filters like toning, big eyes, slimmer face and more add to the versatility of the front camera.
As for the videos, the 4K video recording is supported across all lenses, including the front camera. We experimented with the video recording in different lights and the results were impressive. It comes with Optical Image Stabilisation and does help in keeping the scene stable, especially in low light or while capturing handheld videos. There’s also All-Pixel Focus, which uses 32x more focusing pixels than regular sensors.
Moto G86 Power 5G Daylight Camera Video
Moto G86 Power 5G Night Camera Video
What adds even more value is Motorola’s Moto AI features built into the camera app. There are also features like AI Super Zoom and Auto Smile Capture, ensuring the photography experience remains fun.
Moto G86 Power 5G – Battery and Charging
Moto G86 Power 5G – Battery and Charging
The Moto G86 Power’s biggest strength, as the moniker suggests, is the massive 6720mAh battery. This is the largest ever on any Moto G series phone. And it easily lives up to almost two days of usage on a single charge with moderate use. During daily use, we rarely felt the need to top up before the end of the second day. Motorola claims up to 53 hours of runtime, and we easily managed more than 12 hours of continuous screentime.
The phone comes bundled with a 33W TurboPower charger. It takes about 45 to 50 minutes to top up the phone enough to have a full day’s worth of power.
There are also some useful battery features like Adaptive Battery, Optimised Charging and Battery Saver that ensure efficient use of power.
Verdict – Should You Buy Moto G86 Power 5G?
Verdict – Should You Buy Moto G86 Power 5G?
The Moto G86 Power is a premium-looking smartphone that comes with a stunning display, massive battery life, solid performance and a capable camera system. On top of that, there are the Moto AI camera features, Google AI tools, Smart Connect 2.0 and Moto Secure that make the phone a lot smarter and useful.
It is a perfect all-rounder smartphone that feels a lot more premium than its price suggests. So, if you’re looking for a phone that gets the basics while packing in some serious extras, the Moto G86 Power 5G is a strong contender.
Reasons To Buy
Reasons To Buy
Good design
Solid build quality
Excellent battery life
Smooth Performance
Versatile camera system
Reasons Not to Buy
Not a gaming phone
Alternatives
Vivo T4x 5G – ₹13,999
Vivo T4x 5G –
Realme P3 5G – ₹16,288
Realme P3 5G
Oppo K13 5G – ₹17,797
Oppo K13 5G
Poco X7 5G – ₹16,499
Poco X7 5G
FAQs
Q1. What are the main features of Moto G86 Power 5G?
Answer. The Moto G86 Power 5G combines a powerful MediaTek Dimensity 7400 chipset, a vibrant 120Hz pOLED display, and a massive 6720mAh battery. Its IP68/IP69 rating and MIL-STD-810H certification also ensure durability in tough environments.
Q2. How good is the camera setup on the Moto G86 Power 5G?
Answer. It features a triple rear camera system with a 50MP Sony LYTIA 600 sensor, an 8MP ultrawide lens for expansive shots and a flicker sensor for improved lighting accuracy. The 32MP front camera with f/2.2 aperture delivers detailed selfies and clear video calls.
Q3. What kind of battery life and charging does the Moto G86 Power 5G offer?
Answer. With a massive 6720mAh battery, the Moto G86 Power 5G offers extended usage for heavy users. It supports 33W TurboPower fast charging.
Q4. What is the RAM and storage on the Moto G86 Power 5G?
Answer. It comes with 8GB RAM, expandable up to 24GB via virtual RAM and 128GB uMCP storage.
Q5. What audio and software features does the Moto G86 Power 5G include?
Answer. It runs on Android 15 for the latest software experience and features dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos for immersive sound quality, enhancing both media playback and gaming.
