Sony launched the Xperia 1 VIII with a refreshed design but familiar core specifications. The standout feature is a new 48MP telephoto camera with a 1/1.56-inch sensor, four times larger than its predecessor. Priced at €1,500, the phone offers Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, 12GB RAM, and a 5,000mAh battery.

Meanwhile, Xiaomi confirmed the upcoming 17 Max featuring a 6.9-inch display, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, and an impressive 8,000mAh battery with 100W charging. Samsung began rolling out One UI 8.5 globally and announced One UI 9 beta for the Galaxy S26 series. The company also entered India's refurbished market with certified Galaxy models.

Samsung's refurbished pricing in India ranges from INR 23,249 for the Galaxy A36 to INR 97,499 for the S25 Ultra, all with one-year warranty. These competitive prices could impact India's smartphone market, where refurbished options are gaining traction as consumers seek premium devices at lower price points.