Vivo’s next-generation smartphone portfolio is beginning to take shape after a series of regulatory filings and fresh leaks pointed to an expanding lineup. In May 2026, the Vivo X500, X500 Pro, and a new X500e variant surfaced in the GSMA IMEI database. Now, prominent tipster Digital Chat Station has provided what is described as the first detailed look at the more affordable “E” model, which appears poised to break with familiar design conventions.
A shift in camera design language
According to the leak, the Vivo X500e will adopt a square-shaped rear camera module positioned on the upper-left side of the back panel. That would mark a deliberate departure from the large circular camera housing that has long defined Vivo’s mainstream X-series aesthetic, signaling a possible realignment of the series’ visual identity for this generation.
Display, imaging, and core specifications
The device is tipped to arrive with a 6.59-inch display. On the imaging front, it is expected to feature a Sony IMX 8-series periscope telephoto camera tuned in partnership with Zeiss, underscoring Vivo’s continued emphasis on long-range optical performance even in its more cost-conscious tier. Powering the X500e, the leak suggests, will be a Snapdragon 8-series chipset—an interesting differentiation point, given that the standard X500 and X500 Pro are widely anticipated to run on Dimensity 9600-series silicon.
Expected launch window remains broad
No specific launch date was provided for the Vivo X500e, though the broader X500 series is currently expected to debut in the fourth quarter of 2026. The timing aligns with Vivo’s typical annual flagship refresh cycle and suggests the company is preparing a multi-tiered rollout that may span several months. Outside of the X500 family, a separate leak has also begun to hint at a new compact smartphone from Vivo, indicating the brand is actively broadening its product reach beyond conventional flagship form factors.
Source: weibo.com