Last week, I attended vivo South Africa’s launch event for the vivo X300 Series, and it’s safe to say the brand is coming into 2026 swinging. Held in Johannesburg, the event marked the local debut of the vivo X300 and X300 Pro, making them some of the first flagship smartphones to officially launch in South Africa this year.

From the moment you walk into the venue, it’s clear what vivo wants the conversation to be about: imaging, performance, and premium positioning. This wasn’t a mid-range refresh or a quiet spec bump — vivo is very deliberately planting the X300 Series in flagship territory.

Cameras Were the Main Event — And for Good Reason

Unsurprisingly, photography took centre stage during the presentation and hands-on sessions. vivo has continued its close partnership with ZEISS, and both X300 models showcase just how serious the brand is about mobile imaging.

The vivo X300 Pro is the clear headline act here. It features a 50MP Sony LYT-828 main sensor, paired with a 200MP periscope telephoto camera — a setup that immediately signals who this phone is for. During the demo zones, the long-range zoom performance was especially impressive, with sharp detail retention even at extreme focal lengths.

vivo also showed off its optional telephoto lens kit for the X300 Pro, which honestly drew a lot of attention on the floor. The kit adds physical controls like a shutter button and zoom lever, along with an internal battery — turning the phone into something that feels far closer to a compact camera. It’s a niche accessory, but for creators and photography enthusiasts, it makes a strong statement about vivo’s ambitions.

The standard vivo X300 still holds its own, featuring a 200MP main camera, supported by 50MP ultra-wide and telephoto sensors, making it far from a “watered-down” option.

Flagship Power, Inside and Out

Under the hood, the X300 Series is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9500, MediaTek’s current flagship chipset. vivo was keen to emphasise not just raw performance, but efficiency and sustained performance — especially important given the large batteries on both devices.

Both phones run Android 16 with OriginOS 6, and in day-to-day use during the event, the software felt fast, polished, and packed with AI-driven features aimed at productivity, photography, and smoother multitasking.

Displays, Design & Battery Life

Design-wise, vivo has leaned into a premium but understated look. The X300 Pro’s 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display is big, bright, and smooth thanks to its 120Hz refresh rate, while the regular X300 offers a more compact 6.31-inch LTPO AMOLED panel — something smaller-phone fans will appreciate.

Battery life is another area where vivo is clearly pushing boundaries. The X300 packs a 6 040mAh battery, while the Pro steps up to 6 510mAh, both supporting 90W wired and 40W wireless charging. Even on paper, those numbers suggest these phones are built for long days — whether that’s shooting content, gaming, or heavy multitasking.

Pricing, Availability & Final Thoughts from the Event

At the event, vivo confirmed that the X300 Series will be available in South Africa immedioutly for preorder with devices being shipped form the 9th from February 2026. Pricing starts at around R32 000 for the vivo X300, while the X300 Pro comes in at roughly R40 000, with the telephoto lens kit available separately or bundled as part of limited launch deals from Vodacom online. The Devices also come with a 365-day warranty for full repair and a 2+1 year warranty

Walking away from the launch, the biggest takeaway is this: vivo isn’t playing it safe anymore. The X300 Series feels like a confident push into true flagship territory, especially with its focus on camera hardware that goes beyond typical smartphone norms.

A full review will ultimately tell the complete story, but based on what was shown — and what I experienced hands-on — the vivo X300 Series is shaping up to be one of the most interesting smartphone launches South Africa has seen at the start of 2026.

The post I Attended the vivo X300 Launch — Here’s What Stood Out appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

Durban’s retail landscape just received a major shake-up. Edgars — once one of South Africa’s most troubled retail names — has completed a bold relaunch of its Gateway Theatre of Shopping store under the leadership of Retailability, the Durban-based group that acquired the brand in 2020.

The relaunch signals more than a facelift. It marks Edgars’ renewed commitment to modern retail, tighter store identities, and fresh product categories designed to bring customers back into physical spaces.

A New Ground Floor: Beauty Meets Tech

One of the most notable changes is the complete redesign of the store’s ground floor. Previously a mixed-category layout, the space is now intentionally curated around cosmetics and technology — two high-demand segments that consistently draw foot traffic.

The tech section is spread across the back section of the store, but its brand lineup is surprisingly strong with dedicated stands for :

• Oppo & Vivo
• Honor Lounge
• Huawei
• Samsung
• DJI , Nintendo, Pre-loved Apple devices (through the core group)

The store also features a dedicated section to Edgars Connect, the electronics arm, where you can see devices from :

• Xiaomi
• PlayStation 5
• Tecno smartphones
• Volkano gear
• JBL devices
• Specno Smartphones
• Laptops and so much more

It’s an unexpected but refreshing mix, blending mainstream smartphone brands with gaming, vlogging and creator gear — all in a store better known for fashion.

A Small Tech Section, But an Important Step for Durban

While the tech area isn’t large, the decision to include it is strategic and necessary. Durban has long suffered from a limited footprint of multi-brand tech retail spaces outside of carrier stores and stand-alone brand boutiques.

For many Durban shoppers, variety and accessibility are still major gaps in the city’s tech ecosystem. Edgars stepping into this space — even at a small scale — introduces competition, convenience, and a wider product choice for mainstream shoppers who may not visit specialist stores.

It’s a sign that Retailability recognises tech as a high-interest category that can help revitalise foot traffic and diversify Edgars’ identity moving forward.

A Star-Studded Relaunch With Honor’s CEO and DJ Tira

The relaunch event wasn’t just a ribbon-cutting. It brought notable energy to Gateway, thanks to the presence of Honor South Africa’s CEO, who joined the celebration alongside Durban’s own superstar DJ Tira.

Their appearance underscored the significance of Edgars’ renewed commitment to tech and highlighted Honor’s growing presence in South Africa’s mobile market. The collaboration also signals that major tech brands are eager to invest again in local retail spaces — a positive sign for Durban’s tech community.

A New Direction… But Who Is It Really For?

While the relaunch is undeniably impressive and the store feels fresh and modern, it also raises an important question: who exactly is Edgars trying to be now?

Under Retailability, Edgars seems to be experimenting with a hybrid identity — blending cosmetics, clothing, and now an increasingly wide mix of tech products, from smartphones and laptops to gaming consoles and drones. It’s a bold move, but also a confusing one.

Cosmetics and fashion have always made sense together. They share a customer base, a lifestyle connection, and a long retail history. But cosmetics mixed with mid-range tech — especially laptops, PS5s, drones, speakers, and creator gear — feels like Edgars is trying to be a more “upmarket ”, a one-stop-shop that captures every brand collaboration they can secure.

And that’s the challenge:
If a customer wants affordable tech, they go to PEP, Ackermans, or online.
If they want premium tech, they go directly to the brand stores or specialist retailers.
If they want fashion and beauty, Edgars has always existed — but adding tech doesn’t give them a competitive lead. It simply places them on the same playing field as everyone else, without a differentiator.

Even the placement of the tech section — tucked at the back behind cosmetics and fragrances — makes it feel less like a strategic pillar and more like an experiment the brand is still figuring out.

Durban needs more tech retail options, and Edgars stepping into that gap is valuable. But whether this new mix of perfume, clothing, and multi-brand tech will resonate with customers — or whether it muddies Edgars’ identity further — remains to be seen. The relaunch is a step forward, but the real test will be whether this hybrid concept can find a clear demographic and define who the “new Edgars” is meant to serve.

The post Edgars Reimagines Its Gateway Store: A Fresh Identity for Fashion, Beauty & Tech in Durban appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

SHANGHAI, China, October 15, 2025 – vivo today announced the global launch of vivo OriginOS, the company’s most advanced operating system, redefining human-computer interaction in the AI era. OriginOS will be available in South Africa with the launch of the vivo X300 Series.

“For years, vivo has deepened its global presence under the principle of ‘More Local, More Global,’ and continues to create products and experiences that stay true to users’ needs,” said SHI Yujian, Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at vivo. “As we celebrate vivo’s 30th anniversary, we are taking the next step with the global debut of OriginOS. Guided by our ‘Origin Design’ philosophy and built on three core pillars of smoothness, design and AI, the brand new OriginOS 6 reimagines the way people connect with the digital world.”

Smoothness Mastery: Look Smooth, Feel Smooth, Stay Smooth

Smoothness lies at the heart of OriginOS 6— more than a feature, it represents a new standard of mastery. The new Origin Smooth Engine enables seamless collaboration among the system’s core modules, computing, storage, and display, and delivers an all-around experience that looks smooth, feels smooth, and stays smooth over time.

The 8+1 Ultra-Core Computing keeps critical tasks running first, improving app cold-start speed by 18.5% and frame-rate stability by 10.5%. Memory Fusion accelerates data loading by 106%, while Dual Rendering boosts animation performance by 35% and keeps frame rates 11% steadier under heavy loads^[1].

Smoothness is first seen on screen through the Origin Animation system, which enhances the visual experience with motion effects such as Spring Animation, Blur Transition, Morphing Animation, and One Shot Animation, giving each touch a natural rhythm and visual coherence.

It’s also smooth to the touch. vivo’s industry-first Snap-Up Engine prioritizes computing power for high-demand actions such as ticketing, keeping users one step ahead. Paired with faster app launches, up to 16% quicker when opening 50 consecutive apps, and a refined touch response that’s 41% faster, every tap and swipe feels effortlessly smooth.

Beyond the moment, smoothness endures. The latest vivo X300 Pro with OriginOS 6 has earned SGS certification for sustained smoothness, simulating five years of heavy use. Together, these innovations define vivo’s mastery of smoothness—an experience users can see, feel, and rely on every day.

Intuitive Design Inspired by Nature

Inspired by nature and grounded in how people experience the world, OriginOS 6 is designed to make digital life more intuitive, effortless, and delightful. 

The Origin Design system unifies visual elements including color, shape, icon, image, font, layout, material and depth, with simplicity and precision. The new brand font, vivo Sans^[2], supports over 40 languages, and the symbols now feature fully variable and adjustable weight for the first time. With Dynamic Glow and Translucent Color, light flows across materials, adding depth and immersive vibrancy to every interaction.

Bringing life’s sensibilities into the digital world, vivo has also reimagined app design. From checking device status in iManager to tracking well-being in Origin Health, users can focus on ongoing tasks and get things done with ease. The new Immersive Weather further allows users to explore weather in an innovative digital form.

OriginOS 6 also inspires personal expression. The new Lock Screen Grid allows users to arrange and resize widgets freely, customize fonts, and combine photos for instant updates. A reimagined Home Screen Grid introduces a sleek 4×7 layout and adaptive folders, and the Flip Cards bring everyday photos to life with dynamic, living display that shifts naturally as you tilt the device.

vivo AI Empowering A New Personal Intelligence Experience

vivo AI propels OriginOS 6 into a new chapter of personal intelligence. In close collaboration with Google, it brings the upgraded Gemini and Circle to Search, delivering a smarter and more intuitive experience.

Further, as a new, natural and intuitive form of interaction, the new Origin Island surfaces real-time status at the top of the screen and remains visible when you leave apps, integrated with Android 16’s Live Updates integration. It offers contextual suggestions you can act on instantly, enabling Copy & Go—copy a phone number to call, text or save as a new contact, or copy meeting details to create a calendar item, and Drag & Go—edit a photo, for example, and drag it to Origin Island to continue in the suggested app without switching.

vivo AI transforms both creativity and productivity across everyday scenarios. In imaging capabilities, the new AI Retouch integrates AI Erase, AI Image Expander, and AI Photo Enhance into a single, seamless workflow for effortless enhancement. In everyday productivity, vivo AI empowers communication, document handling, content creation, and information search through intelligent tools such as Smart Call Assistant, DocMaster, AI Creation, and AI Search—making daily work simpler and more efficient.

Extending beyond a single device, vivo AI enables seamless collaboration through features such as the Office Kit^[3] and One-Tap Transfer^[4], to keep work and creativity flowing effortlessly across devices and platforms.

Security and Endurance to Rely On

OriginOS 6 strengthens protection with the vivo Security brand to safeguard data security and privacy, ensuring transparency and control, on-device intelligence, and data minimization. The upgraded BlueVolt technology further improves power efficiency and charging stability, keeping performance cool, stable and long-lasting.

[1] Data was obtained from vivo labs and may vary by model. Actual performance shall prevail.

[2] The font name may vary by model and region. Please refer to actual usage.

[3] To use Office Kit, install the latest version and get more information from pc.vivoglobal.com. This feature requires third-party service support, which may change.

[4] This feature requires third-party service support, which may change.

The post vivo Unveils OriginOS Globally, Defining Smoothness Mastery for the Next Mobile Era appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

Johannesburg, Oct. 14, 2025 – vivo Global officially launched its new flagship X300 series in Shanghai yesterday, opening a new journey for mobile imaging. As a milestone commemorating the brand’s 30th anniversary, X300 series establishes a new paradigm as the “Dual Kings of 200 MP ZEISS Imaging.” Centered around professional-grade imaging, X300 series also delivers comprehensive upgrades in performance, system experience, and design, offering users a refined and versatile flagship solution.

vivo X300 series introduces a breakthrough ZEISS APO 200MP super telephoto system on X300 Pro, while X300 features a revolutionary upgrade with its ZEISS 200MP super main camera. Powered by the Dimensity 9500 flagship platform and combined with vivo’s in-house Blueprint imaging chip V3+, the series achieves industry-leading 4K video creation through this “dual-chip integration.”

In addition, the jointly defined Dimensity 9500’s Ultra-Efficient Imaging NPU significantly enhanced motion snapshot capabilities. While imaging performance leaps forward, X300 series also brings an all-around evolution in flagship performance – with X300 Pro surpassing 4.1 million points in AnTuTu benchmarks under room temperature conditions. X300 series also comes equipped with the new OriginOS 6, offering exceptional sustained smooth performance.

Putting Users First: The Evolution of vivo’s ‘In-House & Collaborative R&D’ Strategy

The year 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of vivo. At the launch event, Huang Tao, Vice President of Product at vivo, shared the philosophy and persistence behind the brand’s three-decade journey. He stated, “For vivo, the most rewarding achievement lies in the moving moments preserved in our users’ photo albums. From landlines to music phones, and today’s imaging flagships, being able to accompany users over the long term has been vivo’s most valuable treasure over the past 30 years. While technology never stops advancing, vivo’s commitment remains unchanged: to conscientiously create excellent products and become users’ most enduring friend by offering truly worthwhile devices.”

Guided by the principle that “users are the starting point of every action,” vivo has forged a unique path of synergistic collaboration, advancing both in-house research and open partnerships. On one hand, through deep insights into user needs and strategic collaborations with industry leaders across various fields, vivo transforms cutting-edge professional technologies into tailored user experiences. On the other hand, to address unique demands that industry currently cannot meet, vivo commits to long-term, large-scale resource investments, focusing on core technologies that define leading experiences.

vivo X300 Pro: Reconstruct the Photo Experience with Ultra-Level Imaging

As the flagship of the series, vivo X300 Pro’s imaging system has achieved comprehensive technological upgrades. The all-new 85 mm 200 MP ZEISS APO Telephoto Camera on X300 Pro is a professional telephoto system with full coordination from the sensor and optics to stabilization. At its core is the HPB large bottom sensor, co-developed by vivo and Samsung. It features 200 MP and a 1/1.4-inch large sensor, representing Samsung’s advanced high-resolution sensor technology. It is equipped with a f/2.67 aperture and ZEISS T* Coating, and holds the ZEISS APO certification. The entire module is also equipped with industry-leading CIPA 5.5-Rated Image Stabilization, ensuring stable and clear shots even during telephoto shooting.

The jointly defined Dimensity 9500’s Ultra-Efficient Imaging NPU, working in tandem with vivo’s self-developed algorithms and the BlueImage Extreme Subject-Tracking Engine, enables X300 Pro to deliver outstanding motion tracking performance. It achieves not only millisecond-level tracking and shutter response but also improves tracking stability by over 200%. This makes it exceptionally capable in long-range snapshot scenarios at a 480 mm equivalent reach, such as stages and sporting events. Particularly in concert scenarios, vivo’s capability has been market-proven, having held the No. 1 position in the rental market for 7 consecutive months with a market share exceeding 50%. With further evolution in focus tracking and image quality, X300 Pro is set to solidify its status as the ultimate tool for capturing action.

For the main camera, vivo X300 Pro features the LYT-828 sensor, jointly defined by vivo and Sony. It boasts a large 1/1.28-inch size and incorporates vivo’s self-developed VCS 3.0 technology for more accurate color rendition. Paired with this sensor is a newly designed optical module. It has a 24 mm equivalent focal length and a large f/1.57 aperture. It also supports CIPA 5.5-Rated Image Stabilization, with the stabilization angle upgraded to ±1.5°, achieving a Gimbal-Grade level of stability. This provides a solid foundation for both video recording and low-light imaging. Thanks to this powerful hardware combination, vivo X300 Pro delivers Multi-Focal HD Portrait quality across the entire range from 24 mm to 135 mm.

Video recording capabilities have also been comprehensively upgraded. Powered by the Dual Flagship Chip setup, X300 Pro supports high-spec 4K 60 fps Portrait Video. It offers unique video styles like Cold-White and Classic Negative, enabling users to capture cinematic-quality footage effortlessly. A key breakthrough in videography is achieved with X300 Pro: both its main and telephoto cameras support 4K 120 fps Dual-Channel EIS. This allows for the creation of high-spec Dolby Vision HDR videos, a task that previously required a gimbal, now it can be accomplished effortlessly with just this device in hand.

For professional creators, X300 Pro supports 4K 120 fps 10-Bit Log video recording across all focal lengths and incorporates a full ACES workflow. This facilitates color management and multi-device color grading synchronization in editing software, establishing it as an imaging tool that meets professional demands. It truly puts cinematic-grade creative freedom into the hands of every user.

vivo X300: Set A New Standard for Small-Screen Flagships with Pro-Level Imaging

If vivo X300 Pro represents the ultimate exploration of an imaging flagship, then vivo X300 is dedicated to bringing pro-level imaging capabilities to users who prefer a more compact device. This Pro-level strength is first embodied in its powerful imaging core. For X300’s main camera, vivo has selected the same HPB large bottom sensor used in X300 Pro’s telephoto camera, crafting it into a 200 MP ZEISS Main Camera with a 1/1.4-inch large sensor, an f/1.68 aperture, and CIPA 4.5-Rated Image Stabilization. This powerful device enables a “shoot first, crop later” creative experience. A single photo can be cropped into various compositions, and users can even utilize the AI One-Shot Multi-Crop feature to generate popular “life trio” or dual-image narrative works with one tap. It truly delivers 200 MP Ultra-Clear Portrait quality without other equipment. Furthermore, vivo X300’s telephoto camera meets pro-grade standards. It employs a LYT-602 sensor, and with the support of VCS technology, its overall sensitivity at SNR10 is improved by 11.9%. Its exceptional optical quality has earned the rigorous ZEISS APO certification as well.

Building upon its powerful hardware foundation, vivo X300 series elevates portrait photography through comprehensive algorithm upgrades, moving beyond mere clarity into a new realm of “beautiful and storytelling” imagery. In static portrait, a variety of styles including the new Style Portrait and ZEISS Natural Portrait cater to different aesthetic preferences. The AI beauty feature, leveraging the powerful on-device AI capabilities of the jointly defined Dimensity 9500, learns users’ retouching preferences to enable one-tap batch enhancement. For dynamic portraits, the Live Photo experience has been completely revamped. It introduces the new Live Photo Passerby Erase function, which utilizes a self-developed video erasure model to intelligently and naturally remove background distractions. Particularly in Night Portrait scenarios, vivo has focused on solving the challenges of complex lighting. Even under challenging light sources like top-light, back-light, or mixed neon, it accurately separates the subject from the background to restore natural skin tones and texture. Furthermore, X300 series is equipped with an Adaptive Zoom Flash. Combined with its intelligent lighting technology and creative modes like Fireworks Portrait, it significantly enhances the atmosphere of night portraits. This combination of powerful hardware and rich, intelligent imaging features collectively establishes vivo X300 series as a veritable master of travel photography.

Two Expressions, One Flagship: Elegance and Ergonomics in Harmony

vivo X300 Pro incorporates an Ultra-grade imaging module while refining its body into a form that is both professional and elegant. With a sleek 7.99 mm profile, a 6.78-inch display, and finely curved straight-edged bezels, it offers a clean and comfortable grip. The back panel features the Unibody 3D Glass Design, seamlessly blending the camera module with the rear cover. This is complemented by the Coral Velvet Glass Technique, the design delivers a dual sensory appeal – both visual and tactile.

In contrast, vivo X300 pursues the ultimate balance of Eastern aesthetics and ergonomic comfort. Its front features a 6.31-inch Compact Flat Screen, regarded as the “golden size for single-hand use.” With a slim profile of just 7.95 mm and a weight of 190g, it provides a remarkably lightweight and comfortable handling experience. In design language, X300 continues the iconic circular camera module characteristic of the X Series. The back panel also adopts the Unibody 3D Glass Design and Coral Velvet Glass Technique, offering a warm texture that is resistant to fingerprints.

Foundation of Flagship: Build the Strength of All-Round Experience

The jointly defined Dimensity 9500 flagship platform, deeply co-developed by vivo and MediaTek, provides powerful driving force for the flagship experience.

Coupled with vivo’s self-developed V3+ imaging chip, X300 series achieves efficient “Dual-Chip Integration,” delivering robust computational power for both advanced imaging processing and system operations. Its powerful performance has also set a new record, with X300 Pro surpassing 4.1 million points in the AnTuTu benchmark under room temperature conditions.

The key to translating this powerful hardware potential into a sustained smooth experience is the all-new OriginOS 6. Through underlying technological innovations like Ultra-Core Computing, Dual Rendering, and Memory Fusion, it has obtained dual certifications from SGS for “Sustained Fluency under Full Scenarios Heavy Usage for 5 Years.” It also innovatively enables seamless connectivity with the Apple ecosystem.

This exceptional system and hardware efficiency also grant X300 series outstanding battery performance. Both X300 Pro and X300 are equipped with large-capacity BlueVolt Batteries, featuring Silicon Anode Technology, with capacities of 6510 mAh and 6040 mAh respectively. Through integrated software-hardware energy efficiency optimizations, X300 series delivers battery life endurance comparable to competing models with 7500 mAh and 7000 mAh batteries within the industry.

To complete the flagship experience, X300 series demonstrates flagship prowess in final sensory aspects like display and interaction. The ZEISS Master Color Display not only offers excellent visual effects but also supports two eye-comfort solutions: 2160 Hz Full Range Luminance PWM Dimming and Full Range Luminance DC Dimming. Its 1 nit Minimum Brightness ensures greater eye comfort during nighttime use. Furthermore, X300 series is equipped with high-end specifications such as the self-developed AI SuperLink system, 3D Ultrasonic Fingerprint Scanning, IP68 & IP69 Dust and Water Resistance, a high-performance X-axis linear motor, and USB 3.2, collectively forming a solid and reliable foundation for a comprehensive flagship.

To further expand the creative boundaries of X300 series, vivo has made vivo ZEISS 2.35x Telephoto Extender and Photography Kit compatible with all models in the series. This allows users to effortlessly capture highlight moments from a distance in scenarios like concerts and natural landscapes.

The post vivo X300 Series Launches, Reimagining the Mobile Imaging Experience appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

Johannesburg, South Africa, 30 September 2025 – vivo proudly announces the launch of the V60 Lite 5G, an all-day powerhouse offering ultra-long battery life, sharp photography, and robust durability. It’s designed to keep up with modern lifestyles where performance, creativity, and endurance matter most.

Power That Lasts All Day

At the heart of the V60 Lite lies a powerful 6500 mAh BlueVolt battery, engineered to deliver heavy all-day use in an ultra-slim 7.69mm design. It is the thinnest phone in its price segment to feature such a large battery, offering the largest combination of capacity and charging speed without sacrificing size. Users can enjoy hours of entertainment, browsing, and gaming without the constant worry of charging. And when it’s time to recharge, the 90W FlashCharge powers the device from 1% to 100% in under an hour.

Gamers benefit from Bypass Charging, enabled in Ultra Game Mode, which directs power straight to the system instead of the battery. This reduces heat generation, keeps performance smooth and stable, and extends overall battery health. With vivo’s assurance of five years of reliable battery performance, the V60 Lite upholds its benchmark for battery endurance.

Sharp Photos Day or Night

Photography is another area where the V60 Lite delivers exceptional value. Equipped with a 50 MP Sony IMX882 AF main camera and vivo’s AI Master Aura Light Portrait system, which matches the Aura Light Colour Temperature to the specific scene type to capture luminous, sharp, and natural-looking portraits in any setting. The Aura Light also expands the lighting area and softens illumination for true-to-life skin tones and professional-grade results.

Powered by AI Imaging 3.0, the V60 Lite brings creativity to users’ fingertips with AI Erase 3.0 (including reflection removal), AI Photo Enhance, and vivo’s Self-Developed Super Night Algorithm for crystal-clear low-light shots. Both front and rear cameras support 4K video recording, enhanced with Film Camera mode for trendy retro filters, making the V60 Lite a versatile companion for content creation.

Built for Everyday Durability

The V60 Lite is made to withstand the mishaps of everyday life and is backed by vivo’s 7-Star Quality Promise (when activated on or before 30 April 2026), which includes:

1. MIL-STD-810H impact resistance (Military-Grade Damage Protection)
2. SGS Drop Resistance Certification
3. 5-Year Battery Health
4. 50-Month Smooth Performance
5. IP65 Dust and Water Resistance, which guards against splashes and dust
6. Reinforced Protective TPU Case for reinforced protection
7. 360° Accidental Protection, which covers one-time free repair of screen, back cover, camera glass cover, and frame within 365 days for activation, valued at R4000

This reflects vivo’s ethos of real-life durability which backs users with practical, meaningful features that add real value to their everyday lives.

“Smartphones have become central to our daily lives, and at vivo, we believe they should deliver real value where it matters most,” said Tony Shi, General Manager at vivo South Africa. “From its 6500 mAh BlueVolt battery and Sony IMX882 camera to our unique 7-Star Quality Promise, it’s built as an all-day powerhouse that performs reliably in real life, not just on paper.”

Entertainment and Seamless Performance

The MediaTek Dimensity 7360-Turbo chipset ensures smooth performance across entertainment, gaming, and multitasking. Paired with up to 16 GB RAM (8 GB + 8 GB Extended RAM) and 256 GB ROM.

Connectivity is seamless with AI SuperLink, combining 5G with a 360° omnidirectional antenna, Wi-Fi boosting, and smart network switching for stable connections wherever users go.

Sleek Design with Confident Style

The V60 Lite continues vivo’s design legacy with an Exquisite Transparent Camera Module, crafted with a minimalist vertical lens layout that reduces clutter while delivering a refined, premium feel. Its Ultra-Thin Flat Screen design, measuring just 7.59 mm, makes it stylish, ergonomic, and perfect for long hours of use.

The device comes in Elegant Black, a timeless premium finish, and the hero colour Titanium Blue, inspired by Arctic glaciers. Its metallic texture and shimmering purity reflect elegance, poise, and calm confidence.

The vivo V60 Lite is more than just a smartphone, it is an all-day powerhouse. With ultra-long battery life, professional Sony imaging, military-grade durability, and seamless performance, it empowers users to stay connected, creative, and confident from morning to night.

The vivo V60 Lite is now available at a RSP of R12 999 and comes with a free smartwatch^[1], exclusively through Vodacom and Cell C stores and online.

[1] Stocks are limited and smartwatch specifications may vary.

The post vivo Launches an All-Day Powerhouse, the vivo V60 Lite 5G appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

Curved AMOLED display, massive battery, Zeiss cameras, and water resistance — the Vivo V50 brings premium features to the mid-range market like never before.

The smartphone market is crowded — but every once in a while, a device comes along that shifts expectations. The Vivo V50 is one such device.

Packed with a curved 120Hz AMOLED display, a 6,000mAh battery, Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 power, and Zeiss-engineered 50MP cameras, the V50 is designed for users who demand more from their smartphones — whether you’re a student, content creator, or just someone who wants flagship performance without compromise.

Vivo V50 Specs

What’s in the Box?

Every V50 comes bundled with:

• A protective case
• Pre-installed screen protector
• 90W Fast Charger
• USB-C cable

Right out of the box, you’re ready to go.

Who Should Buy the Vivo V50?

The Vivo V50 is ideal for:

• Power users who want performance without flagship pricing
• Content creators seeking a capable camera and 4K recording
• Students and professionals who need all-day battery and multitasking ability

Whether you’re shooting content, attending classes, gaming, or editing on the go, this phone is built to keep up.

Where to Buy

The Vivo V50 is available across major South African retailers and networks, including:

• Vivo South Africa
• Vodacom
• MTN
• Takealot
• Other leading mobile retailers

Storage and color options may vary by store.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Gorgeous curved AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh
• Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 provides excellent performance
• Long-lasting 6,000mAh battery with 90W fast charging
• 50MP Zeiss cameras deliver stunning results
• IP68/IP69 durability
• Long-term Android and security updates

Cons:

• No expandable storage (no microSD slot)
• No headphone jack
• Curved display may not appeal to all users

The Vivo V50 redefines what a mid-range smartphone can offer in 2025. From its flagship-tier display and camera system to super-fast charging and premium design, it’s clear that Vivo is aiming high.

If you’re done settling for less and want a device that delivers on all fronts, the V50 deserves a spot at the top of your list.

The post Vivo V50 Review: Underrated Flagship with ZEISS Camera That Rivals the Best appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

Dongguan, China, August 21, 2025, vivo today celebrated its 30th anniversary with the Vision Launch Event & Imaging Grand Ceremony in Dongguan, where it unveiled its first mixed reality (MR) headset, the vivo Vision Discovery Edition. The device will launch exclusively in China, with international expansion planned once the supporting content ecosystem is fully developed. This milestone highlights vivo’s commitment to advancing spatial computing and immersive technology.

Leveraging its extensive expertise in imaging, sensors, and display technologies, vivo has methodically addressed critical engineering challenges in MR devices, particularly in perception, interaction, and computational performance. vivo Vision Discovery Edition is the first MR product developed by a smartphone manufacturer in China, positioning vivo as the first Chinese company to operate within both the smartphone and MR product sectors.

At the event, vivo also announced a comprehensive upgrade to its imaging technology strategy and imaging culture ecosystem and revealed the winners of the 2025 vivo VISION+ Mobile PhotoAwards.

“Today, we are here in Chang ‘an, where vivo’s dream began. We are not here to revisit past milestones, but to witness how vivo has forged its own path over thirty years of hard work and perseverance. It’s a path of passion fueled by technology and rooted in humanity. It’s about working together for mutual benefit. Above all, it’s about putting users first and perfecting our products! Our aim is to let ‘technology illuminate beauty’, and our goal is to reach every user. As for how long we will walk this road? We’re committed to a century‑long journey toward a business that endures!” said Hu Baishan, Executive Vice President & COO at vivo, President of vivo Central Research Institute.

Hu Baishan, Executive Vice President & COO at vivo, President of vivo Central Research Institute, delivers a speech at the vivo Vision Launch Event & Imaging Grand Ceremony.

A New Lightweight, Immersive Mixed Reality Experience

Four years in the making, vivo Vision Discovery Edition combines vivo’s technological innovations with its user-centric values, advancing the company’s long-term home robotics strategy and bringing mixed reality from the lab into everyday life. Designed for daily use, this cutting-edge device features a lightweight, ergonomically optimized build. Weighing just 398g with a height of 83 mm and a thickness of 40 mm, it is 26% smaller than the industry average, improving overall comfort. Informed by extensive human factors research, the design offers four sizes of light seal, and eight foam padding options to ensure an optimal fit and long-lasting comfort, even during extended wear or active movement.

vivo Vision Discovery Edition.

vivo Vision Discovery Edition runs on OriginOS Vision, which enables natural and intuitive interactions. The information appears seamlessly in the surrounding space, allowing users to shift from traditional “tap-through-screen” interactions to “move-and-pinch” gestures. With 1.5° high-precision eye-tracking, 26 degrees of freedom in fingertip gesture recognition, and a vertical tracking range of 175°, users can enjoy intuitive and responsive controls. Additionally, its Dual Micro-OLED screens deliver 8K binocular resolution, 94% DCI-P3 color coverage, and DeltaE<2 color accuracy, producing visuals comparable to professional cinema monitors. Binocular brightness and color consistency calibration was also performed, with the binocular brightness difference ≤ 2nits and the binocular chromaticity difference ΔE < 2 to reduce the discomfort caused by binocular visual differences.

vivo Vision Discovery Edition is equipped with the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon® XR2+ Gen 2 platform. Compared to the previous generation, it delivers up to 2.5x GPU performance and 8x AI performance, enabling groundbreaking visual and interactive experiences.^[1] This enables the device to boast powerful performance, providing robust computing support for high-speed rendering in spatial computing.

This headset serves as a seamless entryway for users into their digital lives, covering immersive entertainment, gaming, and productivity scenarios. Its immersive video enables panoramic viewing from any angle, allowing users to watch live sports and e-sports broadcasts from different angles or in split-screen mode without missing any of the action. For media entertainment, it can generate a 120-foot theater screen, allowing users to enjoy cinematic experiences anytime, anywhere.

vivo Elevates Imaging Strategy to Build an Integrated Scenario-Based Ecosystem

Marking its 30th anniversary, vivo announced an integrated upgrade to its imaging strategy, focusing on scene integration and building a complete imaging ecosystem matrix. This upgrade aims to strengthen vivo’s long-standing capabilities in night photography, portraits, telephoto, and video, while responding to shifting user demands for diverse, scenario-based imaging experiences.

Yu Meng, Vice President of Imaging at vivo, speaks at the vivo Vision Launch Event & Imaging Grand Ceremony.

With its new strategy, vivo aims to make professional imaging capabilities accessible to a broader audience by covering imaging security, health applications, and cross-device experiences. As the first Chinese smartphone brand to join the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA), vivo guarantees that all up-coming features will safeguard content integrity across three dimensions: traceability, tamper-resistance, and recognizability. In health imaging, vivo plans to combine the Telephoto Macro capability of vivo X200 series with medical-grade optics to develop a portable slit lamp that will make ophthalmic diagnostics more accessible. To provide an immersive creation and viewing, vivo is committed to enabling seamless cross-device imaging experiences—from the debut of 3D imaging technology on the X100 Ultra and 60 fps spatial video on the X200 Ultra all the way to the brand-new Vision Discovery Edition.

vivo and ZEISS have entered a new era of global imaging partnership. Over the past five years, vivo has collaborated with ZEISS to deeply integrate vivo’s user-oriented product philosophy with ZEISS’s leading optical technology, continuously setting new standards in mobile imaging.

vivo and ZEISS extend and expand their global strategic partnership

“The collaboration between vivo and ZEISS is both deep and broad, transcending hardware or software solutions. Both partners are actively engaged in continuous learning and proceeding with the joint aim to responds to the needs and voices of consumers and the global imaging community, continuously innovating in the area of smartphone optics for state-of-the-art photography and videography. We look forward to deepening and broadening our collaboration to enable intuitive and creative use of mobile imaging technologies by millions of consumers worldwide.” said André Kutz, Head of ZEISS Photonics & Optics.

Andre Kutz, Head of ZEISS Photonics & Optics, delivers a speech on-site.

As part of its upgraded imaging strategy, vivo will continue to advance its self-developed imaging technology through an integrated approach to chips, sensors, and algorithms. The industry-leading VS1 pre-processing chip works in tandem with the V3+ imaging chip to improve efficiency in complex scenarios, delivering clear and natural portrait details. Sensor technology has evolved from single breakthroughs to system-level integration, powered by vivo’s large-model algorithms, including the AI Photo Enhance feature, which elevates quality for sharper images at high zoom. vivo will rely on a combination of image restoration and reconstruction algorithms to enable practical 30x telephoto performance, while the new generation of quality-enhancement models is expected to improve scene perception and texture rendering for greater optical and image fidelity.

Li Zhuo, Senior Director of Imaging Product at vivo, introduces the company’s latest achievements in imaging.

vivo Expands Imaging Culture Ecosystem and Announces 2025 vivo VISION+ Mobile PhotoAwards Winners

vivo is advancing its imaging culture ecosystem, combining cutting-edge technology with an open creative platform to make mobile photography more accessible and diverse. The company is broadening its reach to engage younger audiences through initiatives such as the “Capture the Future” short film competition with UNESCO, providing a stage for young filmmakers, and the first National Mobile Photography Exhibition with the China Photographers Association, which is redefining public perception of photographic art.

“vivo’s decade-long exploration in imaging shows how technology can make professional-grade photography accessible to all. This first National Mobile Photography marks a significant step in bringing technology and art into everyday life,” said Li Ge, Vice Chairman of the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles and Chairman of the China Photographers Association.

Li Ge, Vice Chairman of the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles and Chairman of the China Photographers Association, speaks at the vivo Vision Launch Event & Imaging Grand Ceremony.

At the event, vivo revealed the winners of the 2025 vivo VISION+ Mobile PhotoAwards, which drew over 500,000 submissions from around the world. Captured entirely on vivo smartphones, the submissions reflect authentic daily moments and fresh perspectives on contemporary life.

With three decades of innovation as its foundation, vivo reaffirms its commitment to user-centric innovation, technical excellence, and long-term collaboration to shape the future of imaging.

[1] Performance improvement data is obtained from the official Qualcomm website, which is an improvement over the previous generation Snapdragon® XR2 Gen 1.

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