If you're looking to buy a high-end phone this year and want one that feels truly smart, here are five top options that offer powerful hardware with genuinely helpful AI features built in.

AI in smartphones isn’t just a fancy buzzword any more — it’s actually doing useful things that make our daily lives easier. Whether it’s helping you write better messages, edit your photos with a tap, or translate a conversation on the go, AI is now part of how we use our phones every day. And in 2025, it’s everywhere — from calls and chats to your camera and calendar. If you’re looking to buy a high-end phone this year and want one that feels truly smart, here are five top options that offer powerful hardware with genuinely helpful AI features built in.

Samsung’s most premium phone this year isn’t just about its massive screen or camera system — it’s what Galaxy AI can do that really makes it shine. This year, AI feels more connected to the overall software experience. A new feature called AI Select lives in a handy sidebar, letting you highlight text or images to instantly summarise, translate, or edit them. The Writing Assist tool helps improve how your messages sound, whether you're writing a work email or a social post. Real-time voice translation now works for calls and face-to-face chats in over a dozen languages. On the media side, the phone’s Gallery app lets you remove shadows, fix reflections, or reposition subjects in a snap. You also get Instant Slow-mo, which cleverly adds extra frames to make normal footage look like it was filmed in high frame rate.

The Pixel 9 Pro uses Google’s Gemini Nano to power on-device AI tools, and it works quietly in the background to make everyday things easier. The recorder app can transcribe conversations and summarise them into bullet points, right on the device. You can also circle anything on the screen and let Google search it instantly, whether it’s text or an object. The AI smarts carry over to the camera too. With Magic Editor, you can move or delete parts of a photo without messing up the background. Best Take helps pick better expressions from multiple shots, and Video Boost sends footage to the cloud to improve lighting and colours.

OnePlus is taking AI seriously in 2025, adding tools that are both practical and privacy-focused. Its AI Plus Mind system can understand what you’re trying to do, like pulling info from a photo and adding it to your calendar. AI VoiceScribe records and summarises meetings or calls, and the AI Call Assistant can even translate conversations live. For photos, features like AI Reframe and AI Best Face 2.0 help adjust composition and fix awkward expressions. OnePlus is also teaming up with Google to integrate Gemini features more deeply into the phone, including AI that understands what’s on your screen and talks to you in real time.

Xiaomi’s AI features are spread across its updated HyperOS 2 software and camera. Video calls can get AI subtitles, while notes, audio, and even meetings can be summarised automatically. In the photo editor, the AI can now expand tight crops or remove unwanted background elements more accurately. One standout is the AI Portrait feature, which can generate creative portraits by placing your face in different settings and poses. It might sound fun, but it’s also proof of how far Xiaomi’s AI image tools have come.

Apple was a bit slower in rolling out AI, but with the final iterations of iOS 18, it’s definitely leaning into Apple Intelligence. The Writing Tools menu lets you summarise or rewrite text, or even turn an article into a table or bullet points. Siri can now call up ChatGPT for more complex queries, while the Photos app adds a Clean Up tool to remove unwanted parts of your pictures. You can also create Memories videos using natural language prompts. Image Playground brings custom emoji and AI-generated visuals, while Notes can now transcribe voice memos and summarise them too.

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Best AI smartphones in India 2025: Top 5 picks for smart performance

In a world where convenience defines innovation, charging cables—the most stubborn relics of our tech past—are finally on their way out. The next wave of power technology is here, and it’s magnetic, wireless, and even invisible. As smartphones, laptops, and wearables evolve, brands across the globe are embracing magnetic charging and over-air power transmission, signaling the dawn of a new cable-free era.

For over a decade, wired chargers have been the lifeline of every electronic device. From micro-USB to USB-C, the world has chased faster speeds and smaller ports. But in 2025, that story is changing. The industry’s focus is shifting from faster wired charging to smarter wireless charging.

The change isn’t just cosmetic—it’s philosophical. Tech companies now view the charging cable as an unnecessary tether that limits design, portability, and sustainability. With advancements in wireless induction, magnetic alignment, and long-range RF power transfer, devices can now stay charged almost anywhere, without ever being plugged in.

Magnetic Charging: Simplicity Meets Efficiency

The move toward magnetic charging began subtly—with Apple’s MagSafe, Google’s PixelSnap, and Samsung’s Galaxy MagCharge systems. What started as a convenience feature for effortless alignment has turned into a complete ecosystem.

Today, magnetic chargers deliver up to 50W speeds on flagship phones and 120W+ on tablets and laptops. Unlike early wireless pads that required perfect placement, modern magnetic charging locks devices precisely into position, minimizing energy loss.

This technology doesn’t just stop at phones—smartwatches, earbuds, and even handheld consoles now rely on magnetic connectors for both charging and data transfer. It’s become clear that the future is modular and magnetic.

“Magnetic charging isn’t just about power delivery—it’s about simplifying user experience,” says tech analyst Priya Ramanathan. “You can now snap your phone, earbuds, and watch into one hub and have them all power up seamlessly.”

Over-Air Power: The True Wireless Revolution

If magnetic charging is the present, over-air charging is the future. This breakthrough uses radio frequency (RF) waves or infrared light to transmit power across short distances—meaning your phone could charge simply by being in the room.

Companies like Wi-Charge, Powercast, and Ossia are leading this revolution. Their over-air transmitters convert electricity into electromagnetic waves, which are safely captured by a receiver chip inside compatible devices.

In a 2025 demonstration, Wi-Charge showcased a setup where multiple gadgets—smartphones, earbuds, IoT sensors, and even electric toothbrushes—remained fully powered without cables or pads. It’s an ambitious vision, but one quickly becoming reality.

This technology could redefine not just smartphones, but entire smart homes. Imagine walking into a café where every table transmits power, or an office where laptops charge wirelessly through ceiling transmitters.

Why the World Is Ready for Wireless Power

- Smartphone makers are racing toward fully sealed, portless devices. Removing charging ports improves water resistance, dust protection, and design aesthetics. With advancements in wireless data transfer like Wi-Fi 7 and ultra-wideband (UWB), the need for physical ports is vanishing.

 - Each year, billions of charging cables are produced, shipped, and discarded, adding to global e-waste. Magnetic and over-air systems promise a sustainable alternative with fewer physical accessories and longer product lifespans.

- No more tangled wires, broken adapters, or carrying multiple chargers. The “set it and forget it” model appeals to modern consumers who value effortless experiences.

Despite the excitement, cable-free charging isn’t without challenges. Over-air power is currently limited in range and speed, typically transmitting a few watts across a few meters. There are also regulatory hurdles surrounding electromagnetic emissions, particularly in densely populated areas.

Efficiency is another concern—traditional wired charging delivers around 95% power transfer efficiency, while over-air systems currently hover around 60–70%. However, constant R&D is closing that gap fast.

Manufacturers must also ensure interoperability across brands. Without a universal wireless power standard, consumers risk being locked into proprietary ecosystems—something the tech world is working to prevent.

•	Samsung’s Galaxy AI Devices now feature MagCharge 2.0, combining AI power management with 65W wireless charging—adjusting charging speed dynamically based on temperature and usage patterns.

•	Apple’s MagSafe Duo 3 integrates reverse magnetic charging, letting users power up their AirPods or Watch directly from their iPhone.

•	Xiaomi’s Mi Air Charge technology can already deliver 10W power at a distance of 5 meters, with multiple devices charged simultaneously.

•	Oppo and OnePlus, both under BBK Electronics, are experimenting with multi-room wireless charging hubs for their ecosystem of devices.

The momentum is unmistakable—wireless charging isn’t just an alternative anymore, it’s becoming the new default.

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Goodbye Charging Cables: The World Moves to Magnetic and Over-Air Power

Infinix has officially launched its latest gaming smartphone — the Infinix GT 30 Pro — in India, marking the brand’s boldest entry yet into the mid-range gaming segment. Designed for performance-driven users and mobile gamers, the GT 30 Pro blends powerful hardware, immersive visuals, and a sleek aesthetic aimed at redefining what users can expect at this price point.

Designed for Gamers, Built for Performance

The Infinix GT 30 Pro is crafted specifically for gamers, featuring a robust set of specifications that ensure smooth gameplay, fast responsiveness, and efficient heat management. It comes equipped with a 6.78-inch 1.5K LTPS AMOLED display that supports an ultra-smooth 144Hz refresh rate and 1,300 nits peak brightness, delivering crisp details, vivid colors, and fluid animations — crucial for competitive gaming and multimedia use alike.

Powering the device is the MediaTek Dimensity 8300 5G chipset, built on a 4nm process, which provides flagship-grade performance for multitasking, gaming, and AI-enhanced operations. The GPU supports demanding titles with stable frame rates, ensuring lag-free sessions even under extended playtime.

To complement its performance, the GT 30 Pro features a 6-layer 3D vapor chamber cooling system, which effectively dissipates heat during long gaming sessions. This helps maintain consistent performance without thermal throttling, keeping the device cool even under heavy loads.

The smartphone packs a sizable 5,500mAh battery, offering long-lasting endurance to power hours of gameplay, streaming, and productivity. It also supports fast charging technology, allowing users to quickly recharge and get back to gaming with minimal downtime.

Camera Capabilities and Multimedia Enhancements

While optimized for gaming, the GT 30 Pro also delivers impressive imaging capabilities. It houses a 108MP primary rear camera, designed to capture sharp, detailed photos and 4K video recording with enhanced stabilization. The camera setup is complemented by AI optimization for better color balance and low-light performance.

On the front, the phone features a high-resolution selfie camera, making it suitable for streaming, video calls, and content creation — appealing to gamers and digital creators alike.

The Infinix GT 30 Pro runs on XOS 14 based on Android 14, offering a clean and responsive user interface with gaming-focused enhancements and system optimizations. The device is available in two variants:

8GB RAM + 256GB storage priced at ₹24,999

12GB RAM + 256GB storage priced at ₹26,999

Infinix is also offering exclusive launch-day bank offers, effectively bringing down the starting price to ₹22,999 for the base model and ₹24,999 for the higher configuration. The device will be available through leading online retail platforms soon, with its first sale expected in the coming days.

A Strong Contender in the Mid-Range Gaming Market

The Infinix GT 30 Pro aims to disrupt the Indian mid-range smartphone space by offering a balance of flagship-grade performance, immersive visuals, and aggressive pricing. With its combination of a 144Hz AMOLED display, Dimensity 8300 chipset, vapor chamber cooling, and large battery, it is positioned as a serious alternative to popular mid-tier gaming smartphones from brands like iQOO, Poco, and Realme.

By blending power, efficiency, and design innovation, Infinix’s GT 30 Pro reaffirms the company’s focus on delivering performance-driven devices for India’s growing gaming community.

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Infinix GT 30 Pro Launches in India: Gaming Powerhouse with 1.5K AMOLED Display, Dimensity 8300 Chipset

The age of smartphones has officially stepped into the era of real-time intelligence — and Samsung’s latest Galaxy AI generation is leading the charge. Introduced alongside the Galaxy S25 and the upcoming Z Fold 7 lineup, the new Galaxy AI platform brings a monumental shift from simple digital assistance to context-aware, multimodal intelligence that learns, adapts, and interacts naturally with users.

This evolution is not just about speed or processing power — it’s about how smartphones understand human intent. Samsung has taken its AI-first approach deeper into every layer of the Galaxy ecosystem, combining on-device neural processing, cloud collaboration, and user-centric design to create what it calls “the next level of mobile intelligence.”

The new Galaxy AI operates across text, image, audio, and video inputs — a concept known as multimodal interaction. This means a user can speak, type, draw, or point their camera at something, and the phone intelligently interprets what’s needed.

For example, the “Circle to Search” feature, co-developed with Google, now goes beyond simple visual lookup. The latest update allows the phone to analyze objects, places, or even written information within images and recommend direct actions — like purchasing the product, finding similar designs, or instantly translating foreign text on the spot.

Another powerful upgrade is Live Translate 2.0, which now offers real-time, two-way voice translation integrated directly into phone calls and video conferences. Instead of relying on third-party apps, Samsung’s on-device AI translates both ends of a call seamlessly, supporting over 30 languages — all processed locally to maintain privacy.

On-Device Intelligence: Private, Fast, and Personal

Unlike many AI platforms that rely heavily on cloud computing, Galaxy AI emphasizes on-device intelligence. Samsung’s new custom-built NPUs (Neural Processing Units) and improved Exynos and Snapdragon AI chipsets enable real-time data processing without sending personal information to the cloud.

This means features like Note Assist, Transcript Assist, and Browsing Assist can summarize text, generate concise reports, and even rewrite or translate entire documents instantly — while keeping all data secure on the device.

Samsung executives have emphasized that this hybrid AI model — combining on-device processing for privacy and cloud processing for complex generative tasks — strikes the right balance between efficiency, safety, and performance.

Photography, long a Samsung stronghold, has been transformed by Galaxy AI’s Generative Edit and Intelligent Scene Optimization. Users can now erase unwanted elements, fill in backgrounds, or even change the perspective of a shot using generative AI reconstruction — all natively inside the Gallery app.

The camera itself has become a proactive assistant. By recognizing the context of a scene — whether it’s a meal, a sunset, or a document — it automatically adjusts the settings or suggests relevant actions such as enhancing the image or converting it to a shareable note.

These tools are powered by the same generative engines found in professional editing software, yet Samsung’s optimization makes them accessible and real-time on a handheld device.

A significant part of the excitement around Galaxy AI’s latest update is Samsung’s official statement confirming that its core AI features will remain free indefinitely. Contrary to speculation that the company might introduce a premium subscription for features like Live Translate or Note Assist, Samsung clarified that all essential Galaxy AI functions will continue to be included at no cost.

This move reinforces Samsung’s strategy to democratize AI, bringing advanced technology to the masses rather than keeping it behind a paywall. The company also announced that Galaxy AI will reach over 400 million devices globally by the end of 2025, spanning not just flagship phones but also mid-range devices and tablets.

The hardware powering this revolution is equally important. The Galaxy S25 Ultra and Z Fold 7 are built with optimized NPUs and larger thermal modules to support intensive AI workloads without compromising battery life. Samsung’s One UI 8 integrates these AI systems seamlessly into daily operations — from predicting app launches to summarizing messages and managing energy consumption intelligently.

For foldable devices, Galaxy AI introduces adaptive multitasking, automatically resizing windows and predicting user intent when switching between folded and unfolded modes. In the Galaxy Z Fold 7, this enables fluid creative workflows — editing documents on one side while viewing AI-generated summaries on the other.

A Broader Vision for Connected Intelligence

Samsung’s ambitions for Galaxy AI extend beyond smartphones. The company envisions a connected AI ecosystem that unites phones, tablets, wearables, TVs, and smart appliances under one intelligent network. Features like SmartThings AI Home Control and Galaxy Buds Live Interpreter Mode hint at a future where AI-driven interactions flow naturally between all devices in the Galaxy family.

Moreover, Samsung is integrating environment-aware intelligence, enabling devices to adjust brightness, sound, and connectivity automatically based on surroundings and user habits.

With the latest generation, Samsung positions Galaxy AI as more than a feature — it’s the foundation of an evolving digital ecosystem. The focus is on context, personalization, and ethical AI deployment, ensuring that intelligence enhances rather than replaces human interaction.

In the words of TM Roh, President of Samsung’s Mobile eXperience Division, “Our goal is to make Galaxy AI the most trusted mobile intelligence platform — one that understands, protects, and empowers users in every moment.”

As the technology scales globally, Galaxy AI represents a major leap in how we perceive smartphones — not as tools, but as intelligent companions capable of understanding our world, our language, and even our intent.

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Galaxy AI Next Gen: Smartphones That Think, Learn & Assist — Instantly

The foldable smartphone industry has reached a new milestone with the launch of the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold, the world’s first folding phone to achieve a full IP68 dust and water resistance rating. This breakthrough cements Google’s place at the forefront of foldable innovation, outpacing long-established players such as Samsung and Honor, who have long dominated the category.

With the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, Google has redefined what it means for a foldable phone to be truly durable. The new hinge architecture is a technical highlight—it enables the device to withstand both dust ingress and submersion in water, a first for foldable phones. The engineering advancements in the hinge mechanism not only improve resilience but also reduce bulk, resulting in a design that is both slimmer and sturdier.

The device’s build quality reflects Google’s growing focus on material refinement. The frame, now made from reinforced aluminum, offers a stronger yet lighter structure. The bezels have been slimmed down significantly, giving the phone a modern edge-to-edge look. The left edge now aligns nearly flush with the frame, delivering a more balanced and seamless aesthetic compared to its predecessor. On the rear, the glass panel’s surrounding bezel has also been minimized, further enhancing the phone’s sleekness.

Color plays a larger role in the Pixel 10 Pro Fold’s design identity this year. The new anodized aluminum finish adds a subtle yet premium sheen to the device. The phone comes in Jade and Moonstone color options, both exhibiting Google’s signature minimalist tone. The Moonstone variant features a distinctive blue camera module that stands out as a visual centerpiece, giving the phone a refined, high-end character.

Displays That Shine Brighter and Last Longer

Both the inner and outer displays have received significant upgrades in durability and performance. Google has equipped the Pixel 10 Pro Fold with enhanced protective glass layers, offering improved resistance against scratches and impacts. The brightness peaks at 3000 nits, a considerable leap from the previous generation, ensuring excellent outdoor visibility and vibrant color accuracy.

•	Outer Display: Uses an LTPS (Low-Temperature PolySilicon) panel supporting variable refresh rates between 60Hz and 120Hz, balancing smooth visuals with energy efficiency.

•	Inner Display: Employs an LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) panel that dynamically adjusts between 1Hz and 120Hz, allowing seamless transitions between high-performance tasks and battery-saving idle states.

Google has also introduced a new PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation) sensitivity mode on the inner display, aimed at users who experience eye strain from screen flicker. This accessibility-focused feature reflects Google’s broader emphasis on inclusivity in its hardware design.

Under the hood, the Tensor G5 chip powers the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, offering notable improvements in AI performance, thermal efficiency, and overall speed. Built on a next-generation process node, the Tensor G5 enhances real-time translation, photo processing, and contextual intelligence—core pillars of Google’s Pixel experience.

Paired with upgraded memory and storage options, the Tensor G5 ensures smoother multitasking and faster app performance, maintaining responsiveness even in demanding foldable-optimized workflows. Despite its compact design, the device includes an expanded battery, around 400mAh larger than the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, translating into several extra hours of usage per charge cycle.

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold retains a physical SIM tray across all global models—a move that underscores Google’s commitment to flexibility for users who rely on physical SIMs alongside eSIM technology. The tray’s relocation to the top of the device frees up internal space, allowing for improved antenna design and better signal consistency. Interestingly, Google achieved this while removing the mmWave module found in earlier models, simplifying the build without sacrificing connectivity.

The camera system continues to be one of the defining aspects of the Pixel series. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold debuts a 48MP main sensor with enhanced light sensitivity and advanced image processing powered by Google’s Pro Level Zoom technology, supporting up to 100x hybrid zoom. This allows for clearer long-range shots and improved detail retention, even in challenging lighting conditions.

Thanks to the Tensor G5’s AI capabilities, features like Real Tone, Magic Eraser, and Night Sight have become faster and more accurate, maintaining Google’s edge in computational photography. The combination of high optical precision and AI-powered enhancement gives the Pixel 10 Pro Fold one of the most advanced imaging systems in the foldable segment.

Battery, Charging, and Pixelsnap Integration

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold introduces 15W Qi2 wireless charging through Google’s new Pixelsnap magnetic system, which enables magnetic alignment for faster and more stable charging without needing a case. This same system allows the device to act as a docked smart display when unfolded, displaying dynamic screensavers and contextual information—similar to the Pixel Tablet experience.

The slightly larger battery, combined with improved thermal management and adaptive refresh rates, ensures consistent power efficiency across extended use. With Google’s continued support of seven years of software and security updates, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold promises lasting reliability in both hardware and software.

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Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold: The World’s First Dustproof Folding Phone Sets a New Benchmark in Durability

For the first time in history, Samsung has overtaken Apple to claim the top spot in the super-premium smartphone segment — devices priced at $800 (around ₹70,000) and above — during the first half of 2025 (1H25).

According to the latest report from International Data Corporation (IDC), Samsung achieved a 49% market share, narrowly surpassing Apple’s 48%, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing rivalry between the two tech giants.

Samsung’s Flagships Drive Record Performance

The report credits Samsung’s surge to the strong sales of the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Galaxy S24 Ultra, and Galaxy S25, which performed exceptionally well in both domestic and global markets. These models, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy and enhanced with AI-driven camera features, helped Samsung reclaim leadership in a category long dominated by Apple.

The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus remained Apple’s top contributors in the Indian market, but Samsung’s diversified flagship lineup ultimately gave it the edge.

Industry analysts say the competition in the $800+ range reflects a shift in consumer preference toward AI-driven functionality, advanced photography, and higher display quality rather than ecosystem lock-ins alone. Samsung’s integration of Galaxy AI features and continued innovation in the Ultra series are believed to have played a decisive role in this turnaround.

India’s Smartphone Market: Segment-Wise Breakdown

The IDC report also offered deeper insights into the overall structure of India’s smartphone market, which shipped 70 million units in 1H25, marking a 0.9% year-over-year growth. The second quarter (Q2 2025) performed especially well, with 7.3% YoY growth and 37 million smartphones shipped.

The entry-level segment (below ₹10,000) saw a robust 22.9% YoY increase, expanding its share from 14% to 16%.

Xiaomi dominated this price band, propelled by the strong sales of its Redmi A4 and Redmi A5 models, which offered improved performance and 5G compatibility at competitive prices.

Mass Budget Segment: Flat Growth, Falling Share

Shipments in the mass budget category (₹10,000–₹20,000) rose modestly by 1.1% YoY, though its overall share dipped from 44% to 42%.

Brands like Vivo, OPPO, and realme collectively accounted for 60% of shipments in this category, continuing to appeal to value-conscious consumers with balanced specs and strong offline presence.

Entry-Level Premium Segment: Slight Decline

The entry-level premium segment (₹20,000–₹35,000) faced headwinds, with shipments declining by 2.5% and market share dropping from 30% to 27%.

Despite the decline, Vivo, Samsung, and OPPO remained dominant players. Interestingly, Motorola saw a multi-fold increase in shipments, jumping to fourth position thanks to the popularity of its Edge and Moto G Stylus series.

Mid-Range Premium Segment: Strong Double-Digit Growth

The mid-range premium segment (₹35,000–₹50,000) was one of the best performers, growing 39.5% YoY, expanding its market share from 4% to 5%.

This growth was primarily driven by OPPO and OnePlus, whose Find X7 and OnePlus 13 series attracted both tech enthusiasts and professionals looking for flagship-like performance at a slightly lower price point.

Premium Segment: Fastest-Growing Category

The premium segment (₹50,000–₹70,000) recorded a staggering 96.4% YoY growth, the highest across all categories. Its share doubled from 2% to 4%, underscoring India’s growing appetite for high-end smartphones.

The iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 together accounted for over 60% of shipments in this range. The iPhone 16 emerged as the most-shipped smartphone model across India in 1H25, contributing 4% of total national smartphone shipments during the period.

Overall Market Trends and Analyst Insights

According to Aditya Rampal, Senior Research Analyst at IDC Asia Pacific, the rebound in smartphone shipments was fueled by a surge of new model launches, price reductions on older devices, and strong offline channel incentives.

“The second quarter of 2025 witnessed a flurry of new model launches across all price segments,” Rampal said. “This, coupled with increased offline margins and aggressive marketing, helped boost overall sales momentum.”

However, IDC cautioned that consumer demand remains fragile, and rising average selling prices (ASPs) could limit sustained growth in the coming quarters. The firm expects a slower annual growth rate as the market stabilizes post-recovery.

Among emerging brands, Nothing posted the highest year-over-year growth at 84.9%, driven by the success of its Phone 3a and 3a Lite, which brought the brand’s signature transparent design and Glyph Interface to a wider audience.

IDC forecasts that the second half of 2025 will be critical as brands prepare for the holiday and festive season. With AI-powered smartphones, foldables, and mid-range 5G devices becoming mainstream, competition in both the premium and mass segments is expected to intensify.

Samsung’s historic win over Apple in the super-premium category underscores how quickly consumer preferences and brand dominance can shift — signaling a new era of innovation-led competition in India’s dynamic smartphone market.

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Samsung Surpasses Apple in Super-Premium Smartphone Segment for the First Time Ever: IDC Report

Barcelona, Spain — Chinese smartphone manufacturer Oppo is optimistic about the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in reviving global smartphone demand, particularly in China and Europe. The company believes that AI integration will not only redefine how users interact with their phones but also encourage them to upgrade to newer devices more frequently.

Speaking to Reuters during the European launch of Oppo’s Find X9 Pro in Barcelona, Elvis Zhou, Oppo’s Chief Executive for Europe, said the company has already seen AI-driven interest reshaping consumer behavior in China.

“Our observation of the Chinese market tells us that AI will drive people to think about replacing their phones,” Zhou said, speaking in Mandarin through a translator. “With AI, we believe the overall smartphone market will also grow again.”

Oppo’s latest flagship, the Find X9 Pro, comes equipped with a range of AI-powered features—including advanced photo editing tools, real-time translation, and smart image recognition. These features are designed to appeal particularly to younger consumers, who have shown a strong appetite for intelligent functionalities that simplify daily tasks.

According to Zhou, Oppo’s internal surveys indicate that users under 35 are especially drawn to AI features, viewing them as essential for productivity and creativity rather than gimmicks.

“The enthusiasm we’re seeing among younger users shows that AI is not just a passing trend,” Zhou added. “I don’t think it’s a bubble for our industry.”

Zhou’s comments come amid mounting investor concerns about the rapid surge of AI-related investments worldwide. Over the past year, multi-billion-dollar commitments from tech giants such as Google, Microsoft, and NVIDIA have fueled fears of a speculative AI bubble reminiscent of the late-1990s dot-com boom—which eventually collapsed.

However, Oppo remains confident that AI’s impact on smartphones is fundamentally different. Instead of speculative hype, Zhou argued, the company sees tangible use cases—like generative image tools, enhanced photography, and smarter language processing—that are directly influencing purchasing decisions and driving real-world adoption.

Zhou also emphasized that Oppo is doubling down on Europe, which he described as the company’s second-most important growth market after China. While many smartphone makers have struggled to gain traction in the region due to competition and pricing pressures, Oppo plans to focus on the premium segment rather than engage in a race to the bottom.

“We see Europe as a high-end smartphone market, where success depends not just on price, but on innovation, durability, and user experience,” Zhou said.

Oppo’s Find X9 Pro is expected to compete head-to-head with flagships like the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and Apple iPhone 17 Pro, both of which are integrating advanced AI features of their own. Oppo’s approach, however, emphasizes on-device AI processing, which aims to improve speed and privacy by minimizing reliance on cloud computing.

According to company-provided data, Oppo ranked fifth among smartphone brands in Western Europe in terms of shipments during Q2 2025, maintaining a steady presence in a market dominated by Samsung and Apple. The brand’s strategy moving forward includes expanding retail partnerships, investing in AI R&D, and enhancing customer experience through software updates and long-term device support.

Industry analysts suggest Oppo’s AI-first strategy could prove to be a differentiator as consumers increasingly seek smarter and more personalized devices. If successful, it could help the company rebound from recent global shipment slowdowns and position it as one of the leaders in the next wave of smartphone innovation.

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Oppo Bets Big on AI: Chinese Smartphone Maker Sees Artificial Intelligence Driving Global Demand

Samsung is reportedly preparing to unveil its highly anticipated Galaxy S26 series on February 25, 2026, marking an unusual delay of nearly a month compared to the traditional January launch window. The South Korean tech giant typically introduces its flagship S-series early each year, though this time, last-minute lineup revisions appear to have pushed the event schedule.

According to Korean outlet Money Today, Samsung will host the launch in San Francisco, its first S-series event in the city since the Galaxy S23 unveiling in 2023. Initially, reports suggested Samsung would drop the Plus variant in favor of a new Galaxy S26 Edge and rebrand the base model as the S26 Pro. However, following the underwhelming sales of the ultra-thin Galaxy S25 Edge, Samsung has reportedly canceled the Edge model and revived the Plus edition.

The final lineup is now expected to include:

The “Pro” branding for the base model has also been dropped.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra is rumored to introduce a new 10-bit display, capable of rendering over 1 billion colors, a notable step up from the 8-bit panels on previous models. While not yet matching the 12-bit displays of some competitors, the enhancement promises more vibrant visuals and color depth.

Camera hardware is expected to remain mostly unchanged, with most improvements focused on software processing and the new image signal processor (ISP) embedded in the chipset. Powering the Ultra will be the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, paired with 12GB of RAM.

Battery capacity is likely to remain at 5,000mAh, but charging speeds are set to increase to 60W, enabling a 0–80% charge in roughly 30 minutes.

Samsung has also teased AI-driven photography enhancements and new on-device AI features across the lineup. Design-wise, the S26 Ultra is expected to adopt a more rounded frame and introduce fresh color options, including a rumored Cosmic Orange shade reminiscent of Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro.

As with past generations, Samsung will reportedly split chipsets by region—some markets will receive devices powered by the Exynos 2600, while others will get the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.

The Exynos 2600, built on Samsung’s 2nm process, boasts up to six times faster NPU performance than Apple’s A19 Pro, significantly improving on-device AI tasks. Benchmark leaks from tipster Jukan suggest scores of 3,455 (single-core) and 11,621 (multi-core) on Geekbench, while the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 scored 3,832 (single-core) and 12,170 (multi-core) according to SamMobile.

Despite slightly trailing Qualcomm’s chip in raw benchmarks, the Exynos 2600’s AI and efficiency optimizations could give it an edge in real-world performance.

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Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Launch: Arriving a Month Late, Bringing Back the ‘Plus’ Model

The sub-₹30,000 category continues to be one of India’s most competitive smartphone segments, offering near-flagship features at accessible prices. Here are the standout options this month:

Starting at ₹29,999 (8GB/256GB), the Edge 60 Pro delivers premium design with IP68/IP69 ratings and Corning Gorilla Glass 7i protection. It features a 6.7-inch quad-curved pOLED display (1.5K resolution, 120Hz refresh, 4,500 nits brightness) and is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Extreme chip.

Its triple-camera setup includes a 50MP Sony LYTIA 700C main sensor with OIS, a 50MP ultra-wide, and a 10MP telephoto lens (3x optical zoom). A 50MP front camera rounds it off. Motorola promises three Android upgrades and four years of security updates.

Priced at ₹26,999, the Neo 10R packs a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor with AI-enhanced features like AI Erase and AI Photo Enhance. It offers a 6.78-inch AMOLED display (1.5K resolution, 144Hz refresh), a 50MP Sony IMX882 main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide, and a 32MP front camera.

It houses a 6,400mAh battery with 80W fast charging and runs Funtouch OS 15 (Android 15).

The Vivo V60e (₹29,999) focuses on AI-powered photography with a 200MP OIS primary camera and 30x zoom, alongside an 8MP ultra-wide and 50MP Eye Auto-Focus selfie camera.

It has a 6.77-inch Quad Curved AMOLED display (120Hz refresh), a 6,500mAh battery with 90W charging, and an IP68/IP69 rating. Creative AI modes like AI Festival Portrait and AI Four Season Portrait enhance its appeal.

Starting at ₹25,999, the Realme 15 5G runs on the Dimensity 7300+ processor, featuring 12GB RAM, a 7,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging, and a dual 50MP Sony IMX882 camera setup.

It introduces AI Edit Genie, which lets users edit images via voice commands, alongside features like MagicGlow 2.0 and Glare Remover.

At ₹24,997, the Nord CE 5 combines performance and longevity with the Dimensity 8350 Apex chip, up to 12GB LPDDR5X RAM, and OxygenOS 15. It guarantees four Android updates and six years of security support.

It includes a 6.77-inch AMOLED display (120Hz refresh), a 50MP Sony OIS camera, and a 7,100mAh battery with Bypass Charging for cooler gaming sessions. 

Priced at ₹25,999, the Poco X7 Pro 5G caters to gamers and content creators with its Dimensity 8400 Ultra processor and 12GB RAM.

It features a 6.73-inch flat AMOLED display (1.5K resolution, 3,200 nits brightness), a 50MP Sony LYT-600 main sensor, 8MP ultra-wide, and a 20MP front camera supporting 4K 60fps video. A 6,550mAh silicon-carbon battery with 90W HyperCharge 

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Best Phones Under ₹30,000 (November 2025): Top Picks for Performance and Value

The OnePlus 15 is shaping up to be not just the final major flagship phone of 2025 but also the first true glimpse of the next generation of Android devices arriving in 2026. While the OnePlus 13 stood shoulder to shoulder with heavyweights like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro, this year’s model aims higher — positioning itself as a direct competitor to the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S26 lineup.

In an exclusive conversation with TechRadar, Celina Shi, Chief Marketing Officer of OnePlus Europe, revealed new insights about the device’s global launch timeline, color variants, and several features that make the OnePlus 15 a “two-generational upgrade” over its predecessor.

Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5: A Leap Beyond Flagship Performance

At the heart of the OnePlus 15 lies the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, a powerhouse chipset that represents the pinnacle of mobile computing in 2025. OnePlus becomes one of the first smartphone brands in the world to integrate this processor, signaling its intent to redefine Android performance standards yet again.

For over a decade, OnePlus and Qualcomm Technologies have shared a close engineering partnership — pushing the limits of speed, efficiency, and thermal performance. This year, that relationship continues with even tighter optimization for AI-driven processing, real-time graphics rendering, and on-device machine learning.

Paired with 10,667Mbps LPDDR5X Ultra+ RAM in its 16GB variant, the OnePlus 15 promises blistering multitasking speed and sustained performance. This combination not only enhances app responsiveness but also boosts AI-assisted features such as smart resource allocation, context-aware battery management, and adaptive gaming performance.

The result is a smartphone experience that feels more intelligent, consistent, and thermally efficient, even during prolonged use — an evolution of the “Fast and Smooth” philosophy that defines OnePlus.

A Design that Marries Art and Engineering

While performance headlines the OnePlus 15 story, the design continues to embody the brand’s minimalist ethos. According to early leaks, the phone introduces refined color options inspired by natural tones — complementing its aerospace-grade aluminum frame and micro-textured glass back. OnePlus has reportedly worked on improving ergonomics, offering a slimmer profile with improved grip comfort without compromising on battery capacity.

Subtle details such as ultrasonic fingerprint sensors, new haptic motors, and an enhanced Alert Slider elevate usability — ensuring that every interaction feels deliberate and precise.

AI at the Core: The New Intelligence of OnePlus

Beyond raw specs, the OnePlus 15 integrates Qualcomm’s 7th-generation AI Engine, allowing deeper system-level intelligence. This enables features like AI Adaptive Photography, Smart Scene Detection, and Live Translation, along with smoother transitions and reduced latency during gaming or multitasking.

AI also assists in predictive charging, voice recognition, and contextual suggestions across OxygenOS 15, creating a phone that doesn’t just respond — it anticipates.

As Celina Shi explains, “The OnePlus 15 represents a turning point — not just for our brand, but for what users can expect from a smartphone in 2026. With the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 at its core, we’re returning to our performance roots while embracing a new era of intelligence and design precision.”

In essence, the OnePlus 15 isn’t just a device — it’s a statement of intent. By blending cutting-edge hardware with refined AI integration and a focus on sustained speed, OnePlus is signaling that it’s ready to once again set the benchmark for flagship smartphones heading into 2026.

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OnePlus 15: The Final Flagship of 2025 Ushers in a New Era of Android Power

Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, has introduced major updates to Samsung Wallet, making digital payments and identity management even more seamless for Galaxy users. The latest enhancements — including integrated UPI onboarding, PIN-free biometric authentication, and expanded Tap & Pay support — mark a major step forward in redefining how users manage their financial and digital lives.

With these innovations, Samsung Wallet is evolving from a digital wallet into a comprehensive digital gateway — empowering users to manage payments, travel essentials, identification cards, and digital keys, all in one secure and connected platform.

“With the new updates, Samsung Wallet is no longer just a digital wallet — it has become a universal and secure gateway for digital payments, travel, and identity management. From setup to daily transactions, we’re eliminating friction and setting new standards for convenience,” said Madhur Chaturvedi, Senior Director, Services & Apps Business, Samsung India.

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