Tag: China

  • China Welcomes Huawei’s Aito M9 SUV with Multiple Displays, Projector Screens, and 630km Range

    China Welcomes Huawei’s Aito M9 SUV with Multiple Displays, Projector Screens, and 630km Range

    Aito, a brand supported by Huawei, has recently unveiled the M9 SUV tailored specifically for the Chinese market.

    Exclusive Features and Design

    The Aito M9, a six-seater SUV, is packed with cutting-edge features. Its electric variant showcases Huawei’s latest technology, including multiple screens and two projectors that deliver a cinematic experience both inside and outside the vehicle. This launch comes on the heels of the M7 SUV introduction a few months back.

    The M9 boasts a contemporary and sleek design, even though its body may seem somewhat commonplace. Noteworthy are the advanced headlights, reminiscent of those on the Huawei Luxeed S7 sedan. These headlights employ adaptive matrix LED technology, aiding in the identification of pedestrians and vehicles. Moreover, the integrated projector can display images up to an impressive 100 inches.

    Entertainment and Connectivity

    A standout feature of the Aito M9 is its entertainment system. Apart from serving as a drive-in theater or open-air karaoke system, the SUV is furnished with a laser projector and a retractable 32-inch panel in the cabin. This setup allows passengers to enjoy movies, games, and other content from the comfort of their seats.

    The dashboard of the M9 bears a striking semblance to Mercedes vehicles’ hyperscreen, hosting a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 15.6-inch central infotainment screen, and a 16-inch front passenger screen. Furthermore, there is a 75-inch head-up display and four tablets for the rear passengers. Operating on Huawei’s HarmonyOS 4, the entire system also includes a premium 2,080W audio system with 25 speakers for an exceptional audio experience. Active noise reduction technology further heightens the audio quality.

    Adaptable Layout and Safety Features

    The layout of the Aito M9 SUV is customizable to cater to the occupants’ specific needs. The official gallery of the SUV exhibits a double bed configuration, with all seats being electrically controlled. To ensure safety, the M9 is furnished with 27 sensors and utilizes the Huawei ADS 2.0 system for enhanced safety features.

    Powertrain Choices

    Aito provides two powertrain options for the M9. The first is a fully electric variant (BEV) with dual electric motors that generate a combined power output of 390kW. This version is outfitted with a 97.7kWh CATL battery pack, offering a range of 630km based on the CLTC standard. The second option is a range-extender (EREV) that pairs a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with dual electric motors, delivering a combined power output of 365kW. The EREV is equipped with a 42kWh/52kWh CATL battery and provides a combined range of up to 1,402km on a full tank and fully charged battery.

    Pricing and Availability

    In China, the Aito M9 is priced between 469,800 yuan ($65,725) and 569,800 yuan ($79,715). Initial deliveries of the M9 are slated to commence in early 2024. As of yet, Aito has not disclosed any plans for global availability of the models.

    In essence, the Aito M9 SUV presents a myriad of innovative features and impressive specifications, positioning it as an attractive choice in the Chinese electric vehicle market.

  • Xiaomi Unveils its Debut Electric Vehicle – The Xiaomi SU7 in China

    Xiaomi Unveils its Debut Electric Vehicle – The Xiaomi SU7 in China

    Xiaomi Unveils the SU7: A High-Performance Electric Sedan

    Xiaomi has finally revealed its highly anticipated electric car, the SU7, during a recent event. Positioned as a "C-class high-performance ecological technology sedan," the SU7 showcases a sleek design, impressive performance, and cutting-edge technology.

    Building a Car for the Future

    During the launch event, Xiaomi's founder Lei Jun emphasized the company's goal of creating a car that will withstand the test of time. They envision the SU7 as a vehicle that will look good not just today, but even ten or fifty years from now.

    To achieve this vision, Xiaomi has assembled a top-notch design team consisting of industry experts from Mercedes-Benz and BMW. Additionally, renowned car designer Chris Bangle has been brought in as a consultant to add finesse to the SU7.

    Sleek and Futuristic Design

    Xiaomi's first electric vehicle (EV), the SU7, boasts a stunning design. It features a carefully crafted silhouette with a long wheelbase of 3000mm and short overhangs, reminiscent of a sporty coupe. The water drop-shaped headlights and halo-shaped taillights add a touch of futuristic flair.

    The SU7's sleek exterior includes clever design choices like semi-hidden door handles and a stylish, pebble-shaped rearview mirror. Xiaomi claims that the car is incredibly aerodynamic, with a drag coefficient of only 0.195 Cd, making it the lowest among production vehicles.

    In terms of dimensions, the SU7 stretches an impressive 4997mm long, 1440mm high, and 1963mm wide. Lei Jun compared its spaciousness to that of a BMW 5 Series, highlighting that it is a full-size class car that sits above the popular Tesla Model 3. The car also offers ample storage space, with a 105-liter frunk and a boot space of 517 liters.

    Performance and Technology

    The SU7 comes in two variants: the regular version and the Max version. The Max version features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system that delivers a staggering 673 horsepower and an impressive 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 2.78 seconds. The regular version, while still powerful, offers a single-motor rear-wheel drive setup with a 0-100 km/h time of 5.28 seconds.

    The Max version shines in terms of range, offering an 800km CLTC range, thanks to its 101kWh CATL Kirin battery. The car also supports super-fast charging, with the ability to gain 220km of range in just 5 minutes and 510km in 15 minutes.

    Inside the SU7, you'll find a spacious and luxurious cabin with a panoramic view, thanks to the expansive 5.35㎡ glass area. The car is equipped with a 16.1-inch touchscreen, a 56-inch HUD, and a 7.1-inch instrument cluster to keep you informed and entertained. Additionally, the 25-speaker sound system with Dolby Atmos ensures an immersive audio experience.

    Safety is also a priority for Xiaomi. The SU7 features an armored cage-type steel-aluminum hybrid body, 7 airbags, and a quadruple braking safety mechanism. The car has achieved 5-star safety ratings and comes with a comprehensive suite of active safety features, including automatic emergency braking.

    Integration of Technology and Ecology

    Xiaomi emphasizes the integration of technology and ecology in the SU7. The car is equipped with the latest Xiaomi HyperOS system, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chip. This allows for seamless software connectivity features, such as mirroring your phone or tablet.

    The SU7 is also compatible with Xiaomi Home IoT devices. Users can connect and control various smart home gadgets, such as cameras and robot vacuum cleaners, directly from the car. While Xiaomi gadgets work best with the SU7, Lei Jun assures that even Apple product users will have a great experience with Xiaomi cars.

    Another exciting feature of the SU7 is its self-driving mode called Xiaomi Pilot. Powered by two Nvidia Orin-X chips, the car is equipped with 1 lidar, 3 radars, 11 HD cameras, and 12 ultrasonic sensors, providing a safe and reliable self-driving experience for highway driving, self-parking, and car summoning features.

    Availability and Pricing

    The Xiaomi SU7 is still undergoing testing and is set to officially launch in the first half of 2024. Pricing details have not yet been revealed.

    During the launch, Lei Jun expressed ambitious goals for Xiaomi's automotive venture, aiming to establish the company among the top five car manufacturers within the next 15-20 years. With the impressive features and technology showcased in the SU7, Xiaomi is certainly making a strong entry into the electric car market.

  • China reconsiders its stance on video games market following an $80 billion downturn

    China reconsiders its stance on video games market following an $80 billion downturn

    China’s Gaming Stocks Plunge After Announcement of New Draft Rules

    Last week, China’s video games regulator announced new draft rules for online games, which has resulted in a massive meltdown in gaming stocks. The sudden and unexpected announcement has caused a significant decline in the market, with several gaming companies and platforms experiencing substantial losses.

    Limiting Gamer Spending and Restricting Rewards

    The new draft rules aim to limit how much gamers can spend and restrict rewards that encourage excessive time spent online. These rules are intended to address concerns about gaming addiction and the impact of excessive gaming on the mental and physical health of players.

    Stock Declines for Gaming Companies and Platforms

    Following the announcement of the draft rules, gaming stocks experienced a sharp decline. Tencent, one of the largest gaming companies in China, saw a 16% price slump. Bilibili, a popular online entertainment platform, witnessed a 14% decrease in its market value. NetEase, another major player in the gaming industry, had a massive 28% decline in its stock within the period.

    Cumulative Losses in Market Value

    The combined impact of the draft rules on the mentioned gaming stocks resulted in a cumulative loss of $80 billion in market value. This significant decline reflects the market’s reaction to the potential impact of the new regulations on the gaming industry.

    China’s Review of the Draft Rules

    In response to the market turmoil, China’s gaming regulator has announced that it will review the new draft rules. The regulator has emphasized its commitment to considering all feedback seriously to improve the draft rules. This review process aims to address concerns raised by industry players and investors regarding the potential impact of the regulations on the gaming market.

    Future Implications for the Gaming Industry

    The outcome of China’s review of the draft rules will have significant implications for the gaming industry in the country. Depending on the revisions made, gaming companies and platforms may need to adjust their strategies and business models to comply with the new regulations. Investors will also be closely monitoring any updates or changes to the rules that could impact the future performance of gaming stocks.

    Conclusion

    The announcement of new draft rules for online games in China has triggered a massive meltdown in gaming stocks. The market reacted strongly to the potential limitations on gamer spending and rewards. As China reviews and revises these draft rules, the gaming industry and investors await further developments that will shape the future landscape of the market.

  • World of Warcraft Marks Blizzard’s Resurgence in China, Paving the Way for a New Era in Gaming

    World of Warcraft Marks Blizzard’s Resurgence in China, Paving the Way for a New Era in Gaming

    The Return of World of Warcraft to China: Blizzard’s Potential Reunion with NetEase

    The gaming community is abuzz with news that Blizzard Entertainment, the renowned American video game giant, may be rekindling its partnership with China’s NetEase. This development has sparked speculation about the potential return of the legendary game World of Warcraft (WoW) to the Chinese market, which is a significant player in the online gaming industry.

    Blizzard’s quest to reintroduce WoW in China has been a challenging journey. After their initial agreement with NetEase expired in early 2023, Blizzard explored collaborations with other Chinese publishers. However, they ultimately circled back to NetEase, suggesting a nuanced understanding between the two gaming giants, despite previous disputes.

    WoW’s Cultural Revival in China

    The potential resurgence of WoW in China is not merely a business maneuver; it holds cultural significance. WoW has been a prominent name in Chinese gaming since 2009, but its player base has dwindled from 5 million to around 350,000 by January 2023. The return of the game could breathe new life into its presence in the world’s largest video gaming market in terms of revenue.

    Rebuilding Operations and Game Servers

    However, this reunion is not without its challenges. Before WoW can grace Chinese screens once again, Blizzard and NetEase will need to rebuild their operations team and ensure that the game servers are up to the task. This process is expected to take at least six months, emphasizing the complexity of bringing the game back to the Chinese market.

    Blizzard’s gaming portfolio has faced difficulties in China due to the country’s regulatory landscape. Foreign games are required to be published through local partners, as part of China’s broader approach to managing its gaming industry. This approach includes strict content guidelines and playtime restrictions for minors. These regulations have impacted Blizzard’s operations in China, and the potential reunion with NetEase may offer an opportunity to navigate these challenges more effectively.

    Microsoft’s Acquisition of Activision Blizzard

    The backdrop to this potential Blizzard-NetEase reunion is Microsoft’s recent acquisition of Activision Blizzard, the parent company of Blizzard Entertainment. With a staggering price tag of $68.7 billion, this merger has cleared significant regulatory hurdles and could potentially shape Blizzard’s strategy in China in the near future. The influence of Microsoft’s resources and expertise may play a pivotal role in Blizzard’s efforts to regain its foothold in the Chinese gaming market.

    In conclusion, the potential reunion between Blizzard Entertainment and NetEase has sparked excitement among gaming enthusiasts, as it may pave the way for the return of World of Warcraft to China. This cultural revival could reinvigorate WoW’s presence in the world’s largest gaming market, but it will require careful planning, rebuilding of operations, and navigating China’s regulatory landscape. With Microsoft’s recent acquisition of Activision Blizzard, the future of Blizzard’s strategy in China holds promise and potential.

  • China launches Oppo Reno 11 Good Things Come in Pairs Good Luck Gift Box

    China launches Oppo Reno 11 Good Things Come in Pairs Good Luck Gift Box

    Oppo Reno 11 Series Introduces Limited Edition Gift Box for New Year

    The Oppo Reno 11 series, which was launched in China in November, has now unveiled a special limited edition gift box just in time for the New Year. Known as the "Good Things Come in Pairs Good Luck Gift Box," this box set includes two pairs of devices.

    What's Included in the Gift Box

    Priced at ¥5,999 (~$840), the gift box contains the following products:

    • 2 x Oppo Reno 11 (12GB + 512GB) in Moonstone color
    • 2 x Oppo Enco R Pro

    If purchased individually, the Reno 11 and Enco R would cost ¥2,999 ($420) and ¥499 (~$70) respectively. This means that buying two units of each device separately would amount to ¥6,996. By opting for the gift box, customers can save ¥997. However, it's important to note that this package is only available at select offline stores across China from December 22 to January 1.

    Oppo Reno 11 Specifications

    The Oppo Reno 11 features a 6.7-inch curved OLED display with a 10-bit screen and a resolution of 2412 x 1080 pixels (FHD+). It boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, 2160Hz PWM dimming, and a peak brightness level of 950 nits.

    Under the hood, the device is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8200 chipset, coupled with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 3.1 storage. It runs on ColorOS 14, which is based on Android 14.

    In terms of camera capabilities, the Reno 11 sports a triple camera system on the back, consisting of a 50MP Sony LYT-600 primary sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide unit, and a 32MP Sony IMX709 2x telephoto shooter. On the front, it features a 32MP Sony IMX709 selfie camera.

    Moreover, the Reno 11 is equipped with a 4,800mAh battery that supports 67W SuperVOOC fast wired charging.

    With its impressive specifications and the added value of the gift box, the Oppo Reno 11 series continues to offer a compelling option for smartphone enthusiasts.

  • The Honor 90 GT debuts in China with a starting price of 2,599 Yuan (~$365)

    The Honor 90 GT debuts in China with a starting price of 2,599 Yuan (~$365)

    Honor 90 GT: A Performance-Driven Sub-Flagship Phone

    Last week, Honor launched its latest smartphone, the Honor 90 GT, in the Chinese market. This performance-driven sub-flagship phone is now available for purchase, offering impressive specifications and storage options. Let's take a closer look at what the Honor 90 GT has to offer.

    Pricing and Configurations

    The Honor 90 GT is available in various configurations in China. These include:

    • 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage: 2,599 Yuan (~$365)
    • 16 GB RAM + 512 GB storage: 2,899 Yuan (~$405)
    • 16 GB RAM + 1 TB storage: 3,199 Yuan (~$447)
    • 24 GB RAM + 1 TB storage: 3,699 Yuan (~$517)

    Please note that there is currently no information on whether the brand plans to release the Honor 90 GT in markets outside of China.

    Impressive Specifications

    The Honor 90 GT boasts impressive specifications that make it stand out in the market. It features a 6.7-inch OLED panel with a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The device also offers a 3840Hz PWM dimming feature.

    Under the hood, the Honor 90 GT is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, ensuring smooth performance. It also comes with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage, providing ample space for all your files and applications.

    Powerful Battery and Camera System

    Equipped with a 5,000mAh battery, the Honor 90 GT offers long-lasting battery life. It also supports 100W wired charging, allowing for quick and convenient charging.

    In terms of photography, the Honor 90 GT features a 16-megapixel front camera for stunning selfies. On the back, it sports a dual-camera system, consisting of a 50-megapixel main camera with OIS support and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens.

    Additional Features and Design

    The Honor 90 GT runs on Android 14 and Magic OS 7.2, providing a smooth and user-friendly experience. It also comes with additional features such as an in-screen fingerprint sensor, an RF enhancement C1 chip, an x-axis linear motor, and dual stereo speakers.

    With a thickness of 7.19mm and weighing 185 grams, the Honor 90 GT offers a sleek and lightweight design.

    In conclusion, the Honor 90 GT is a performance-driven sub-flagship phone that offers impressive specifications and storage options. With its powerful battery, high-quality camera system, and additional features, it is sure to attract smartphone enthusiasts.

  • China reacts strongly to global outage of Elon Musk’s X app

    China reacts strongly to global outage of Elon Musk’s X app

    Elon Musk’s X app experienced a widespread outage, impacting users globally and sparking a flurry of complaints and memes, particularly in the United States.

    Unexpected Impact in China

    What set this outage apart was its unexpected influence on users in China, a nation known for its stringent internet regulations and restrictions on accessing Western social media platforms. The incident led to an intriguing turn of events on China’s microblogging site, Weibo, where “Twitter down” swiftly became the top trending hashtag. This unexpected focus on a platform not directly accessible in mainland China raised eyebrows and dominated discussions for over two hours. The hashtag amassed a staggering 190 million views, with Weibo users contributing 50 pages of posts and thousands of comments.

    China’s Social Media Landscape

    Despite the longstanding ban on Twitter in China, the platform, alongside X, remains popular among the Chinese public. The country’s dominant social media players, Weibo and WeChat, enforce strict registration requirements and censorship algorithms to control content, fostering an environment where freedom of expression is stifled. The Chinese government’s tight grip on internet regulations is evident in its restriction of access to Western social media apps, viewing them as potential challenges to its narrative. WeChat, boasting 1.3 billion monthly active users, reigns supreme in China’s online landscape, while complaints on Weibo highlight the public’s desire to bypass the “Great Firewall” using official VPNs.

    Surprising Outage in China

    The outage of X, previously known as Twitter, in mainland China left many Chinese netizens surprised. Financial influencer Xiyangsimu, with 1.4 million Weibo followers, humorously questioned the focus on a platform inaccessible in China, pondering the need to investigate those bypassing the Great Firewall.

    Acknowledgment and Restoration

    During the outage, X displayed a placeholder message, welcoming users and highlighting its features, earning praise from Weibo CEO Wang Gaofei. Gaofei commented on the message’s superiority over Weibo’s version in similar circumstances, showcasing a light-hearted acknowledgment of the competition. In response to inquiries about the outage, X sent a brief email stating, “Busy now, please check back later.” The platform was eventually restored globally, affecting users in the United States, Canada, Britain, France, and other countries. Over 77,000 U.S. users faced issues during the peak of the outage, contributing to the global impact of the incident.

    Resilience of Digital Platforms

    Elon Musk’s ownership of X, acquired in 2022, added a layer of intrigue to the outage. Musk recently boasted about the platform’s “strong growth,” citing a 22.3% increase in site traffic in November compared to the previous year. The outage of X, though temporary, has once again brought to the forefront the complexities of internet regulations, censorship, and the global impact of social media disruptions, leaving both users and industry experts pondering the resilience of digital platforms in an era of constant connectivity.

  • China Implements Stricter Regulations on Gaming to Safeguard Consumers and Reduce Excessive Practices

    China Implements Stricter Regulations on Gaming to Safeguard Consumers and Reduce Excessive Practices

    China’s New Regulations Reshape the Gaming Industry

    China’s recent decision to impose strict regulations on the video gaming industry has sent shockwaves through the digital entertainment landscape. As the world’s largest gaming market, China’s move to set spending limits and eliminate certain reward mechanisms in online games is not only reshaping the industry but also sparking discussions about consumer protection and corporate responsibility.

    Curbing Excessive Spending and Addictive Behaviors

    The new regulations, announced by Chinese regulators, aim to curb excessive spending and discourage addictive gaming behaviors. By banning rewards for daily logins, first-time spending, and consecutive purchases, the authorities are targeting the very incentives that often tempt players into spending more than they originally intended.

    Impact on the Market

    The immediate impact of these rules was evident in the market, with major gaming companies like Tencent Holdings and NetEase experiencing significant drops in their share values. This reaction highlights the crucial role that such incentive mechanisms play in the gaming industry’s revenue model.

    Addressing Gaming Addiction

    Interestingly, the regulations not only focus on monetary aspects but also address gaming addiction, a long-standing concern for regulators worldwide. China had already set playtime limits for minors and suspended new game approvals in 2021 to combat this issue. The latest regulations continue this effort, demonstrating Beijing’s commitment to safeguarding its younger population from the potential risks of excessive gaming.

    Encouraging Innovation and Social Responsibility

    While some may view these measures as overly restrictive, they also underscore the growing need for the gaming industry to innovate and develop more sustainable and socially responsible business models. The regulations may compel game developers to rethink how they engage players, shifting their focus to the quality of content rather than relying on monetization strategies based on repetitive spending.

    A Bold Move with Global Implications

    Beijing’s decision to regulate in-game spending is a bold move that may influence gaming practices worldwide. It serves as a reminder that as digital entertainment becomes increasingly prevalent, the responsibility to protect consumers, especially younger audiences, becomes even more critical. Although this approach may initially impact the industry’s revenue, it could ultimately lead to a healthier and more sustainable gaming environment in the long run.

    A Potential Model for Other Countries

    China’s stance on gaming regulations could serve as a model for other countries grappling with similar issues, striking a balance between industry growth and consumer protection. The world will be closely watching to see how these new rules reshape the gaming landscape, not only within China but globally.

  • China Telecom Leak Reveals OnePlus Ace 3 Design, Specs, Price ahead of January Launch

    China Telecom Leak Reveals OnePlus Ace 3 Design, Specs, Price ahead of January Launch

    OnePlus Ace 3 Series Under Development

    After the OnePlus 12 release, OnePlus shifts its attention towards the Chinese sector, preparing for the forthcoming OnePlus Ace 3 series.

    Unveiling and Characteristics

    Information leaks hint at the series comprising two models: the standard Ace 3 and the OnePlus Ace 3V. Recently teased, the OnePlus Ace 3 is slated for an early 2024 launch.

    Insights into the device have emerged on China Telecom, shedding light on specifications, visuals, and pricing:

    Detailed Overview of OnePlus Ace 3 China Telecom Listing

    • Design: Resembling the OnePlus 12 with a circular camera layout, curved borders, and an alert slider.
    • Display: A 6.78-inch 1.5K 120Hz curved-edge OLED screen.
    • Processor: Powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
    • RAM: Available in 12GB or 16GB LPDDR5x configurations.
    • Storage: Ranging from 256GB to 1TB USF 4.0.
    • Battery: Equipped with a 5500mAh battery supporting 100W wired charging.
    • Camera: Boasting a 50MP primary sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, a 2MP macro lens, and a 16MP front camera.
    • Additional Features: Constructed with a metal middle frame, IR blaster, dual speakers, and NFC capabilities.
    • Dimensions: Measuring 163.30 x 75.27 x 8.8mm and weighing 207 grams.

    Pricing and Release

    The OnePlus Ace 3 will hit the market in three models:

    • 12GB+256GB: Priced at 3299 CNY ($460)
    • 16GB+512GB: Available for 3699 CNY ($520)
    • 16GB+1TB: Costing 3999 CNY (~$560)

    Color selections comprise Star Black, Moon Sea, and Sand Gold.

    International Launch

    For the global market, the Ace 3 is expected to be rebranded as the OnePlus 12R, with probable specification variations. Official confirmation is forecasted for January.

  • Vivo S18 Series Now Available in China Starting at ~$295

    Vivo S18 Series Now Available in China Starting at ~$295

    Vivo S18 Series Hits the Shelves in China

    The Vivo S18 series of smartphones, which was unveiled last week, is now officially available for purchase in China. The series consists of three models: the Vivo S18e, S18, and S18 Pro. Let’s take a closer look at their specifications and pricing.

    Pricing Details

    The Vivo S18e is offered in two storage configurations. The base model, with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, is priced at 2,099 yuan ($296). There is also a variant with 12GB RAM and 512GB storage, priced at 2,299 yuan ($325). The S18e comes in three color options: Starry Night Black, Xuaguang Purple, and Cloud Shabai.

    Moving on to the Vivo S18, this model offers four different variants with varying RAM and storage capacities. The base model, with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage, starts at 2,299 yuan ($367). The other options include 12GB RAM and 256GB storage for 2,599 yuan ($395), 12GB RAM and 512GB storage for 2,799 yuan ($395), and the top-end variant with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage for 2,999 yuan ($424). The S18 is available in black, white, and green colors.

    Vivo S18 Pro

    The Vivo S18 Pro, similar to the S18, also offers three memory combinations. The base model, with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, starts at 3,199 yuan ($452). The other options include 16GB RAM and 512GB storage for 3,499 yuan ($494), and the highest-tier variant with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage for 3,699 yuan (~$522). The available color choices for the S18 Pro are black, white, and green.

    Specifications

    The Vivo S18e features a 6.67-inch AMOLED FHD+ screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. On the other hand, both the S18 and S18 Pro boast larger 6.78-inch AMOLED FHD+ displays with curved edges and a 120Hz refresh rate.

    In terms of performance, the S18e is powered by a Dimensity 7200 processor. The S18 is equipped with a Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset, while the S18 Pro runs on a top-tier Dimensity 9200+ chip.

    All models in the series come with a 5000mAh battery, except for the S18e which has a slightly smaller 4800mAh battery. However, all models support 80W fast charging. They also run on OriginOS 4 based on Android 14 and feature an in-screen fingerprint scanner for secure unlocking.

    When it comes to the camera, the S18e features a 16-megapixel selfie camera and a dual rear camera system with a 50MP main lens and a 2MP blur lens.

    The S18 takes a step further with a 50MP selfie camera and a dual rear camera setup consisting of a 50MP main lens and an 8MP ultrawide lens. Lastly, the S18 Pro leads the pack with a triple rear camera system, which includes a 50MP main lens, a 50MP ultrawide lens, and a 12MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom. It also features a 50MP selfie camera.

    With their impressive specifications and competitive pricing, the Vivo S18 series is sure to attract smartphone enthusiasts in China.