Laptops have evolved beyond traditional gaming rigs. With advanced cooling systems, AI-enhanced optimization, and next-gen GPUs, these systems handle demanding games effortlessly while staying cool and quiet.

What to Look for in a Gaming Laptop

Before diving into the top models, it’s important to understand the key specifications that define modern gaming performance.

Modern gaming laptops also feature AI tuning that automatically adjusts performance profiles, balancing power and temperature for the optimal experience.

Best High-End Gaming Laptops of 2026

For those who want the absolute best in graphics, speed, and design, these premium machines deliver unrivaled performance.

These high-end laptops are built for professionals and enthusiasts who demand the highest possible frame rates and graphical fidelity — perfect for 4K gaming and VR.

Read More: The Benefits of Gaming: Why More and More People are Turning to Games for Stress Relief and Entertainment

Best Mid-Range Gaming Laptops of 2026

If you want great performance without spending a fortune, mid-range gaming laptops now offer exceptional value.

These laptops can handle any modern AAA game at 1440p resolution, offering high refresh rates and advanced cooling without the premium price tag.

Best Budget Gaming Laptops of 2026

Gamers on a tighter budget don’t have to sacrifice quality. Entry-level models now come equipped with impressive GPUs and high-refresh screens.

These laptops prove that great gaming experiences don’t require high-end budgets. They’re perfect for students, travelers, or anyone wanting solid performance in a portable package.

Display and Visual Technology in 2026

Display technology has advanced rapidly, offering higher refresh rates and richer color accuracy.

Key display innovations this year include:

• OLED panels with ultra-fast pixel response and deep contrast.
• Mini-LED displays delivering precise HDR visuals and brightness.
• AI adaptive refresh rates for energy efficiency and performance balance.
• Advanced G-SYNC and FreeSync Premium for stutter-free gameplay.

Most gamers now prefer QHD 240Hz displays, which offer an ideal balance of resolution and smoothness without draining the GPU.

Read More: The Fine Line Between Gaming Passion and Obsession

Cooling and Performance Optimization

One of the biggest challenges in gaming laptops has always been heat — but in 2026, cooling systems are smarter and quieter than ever.

Latest Cooling Innovations:

• Dual vapor chambers distribute heat evenly.
• Liquid metal compounds replace traditional thermal paste.
• AI-controlled fans adjust automatically based on temperature.
• Custom performance profiles let users fine-tune CPU and GPU output.

These improvements keep laptops performing at their peak even during marathon gaming sessions.

Battery Life and Portability

Battery life used to be a major trade-off in gaming laptops. Not anymore. The latest models are far more efficient thanks to advanced chipsets and power management.

Average Battery Ranges (2026):

• High-end systems: 6–8 hours of mixed use, 3–4 during gaming.
• Mid-range: 7–10 hours of productivity use.
• Budget: Up to 12 hours with hybrid mode.

Fast-charging technology now allows most laptops to reach 80% battery in under 40 minutes, making them far more convenient for travel and hybrid work.

Design and Build Quality

Beyond performance, design matters. Today’s gaming laptops are sleek, professional, and surprisingly lightweight.

Modern Design Trends:

• Minimalistic aluminum bodies with subtle RGB accents.
• Thinner bezels for immersive viewing.
• Magnetic power adapters and upgraded hinge durability.
• Per-key RGB customization for personalization.

These designs make gaming laptops suitable for both professional work and entertainment without looking overly aggressive or bulky.

Future of Gaming Laptops

Looking ahead, expect gaming laptops to become even more powerful and energy-efficient:

• AI-driven thermal control for real-time power optimization.
• Onboard neural processors enhancing in-game visuals.
• Modular GPUs and SSDs for easier upgrades.
• Integrated AR/VR compatibility for next-gen experiences.
• Eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient components.

The next few years will bring laptops that rival high-end desktops not just in performance, but also in sustainability and intelligence.

Read More: Top Gaming PC Trends for 2025: Innovations and Must-Have Builds

Final Thoughts

The Best Gaming Laptops of 2026 combine raw power, intelligent design, and seamless mobility. Whether you’re after the unmatched performance of the Razer Blade 18, the balance of the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16, or the value-packed Acer Nitro 5X, there’s a perfect model for every type of gamer. The future of gaming is portable — and 2026’s laptops prove that you no longer need a bulky tower to experience cutting-edge performance.

​

October 2025: First Wave of ColorOS 16 Updates

The ColorOS 16 roll-out begins with OPPO’s newest flagship devices in October 2025. These premium models will be the first to experience the enhanced AI-powered features, fluid animations, and improved customization options that ColorOS 16 brings.​

Devices receiving updates in October 2025:

• OPPO Find N5

• OPPO Find N5 Satellite Communication Edition

• OPPO Find X8 Ultra

• OPPO Find X8s+

• OPPO Find X8s

• OPPO Find X8 Pro

• OPPO Find X8 Satellite Communication Edition

• OPPO Find X8​

These cutting-edge devices represent OPPO’s latest technology, including foldable smartphones and satellite communication capabilities. The October phase prioritizes users who purchased the most recent models, ensuring they receive immediate access to ColorOS 16’s innovations.​

November 2025: Expanding to Premium Foldables and Reno Series

The second phase of the ColorOS 16 roll-out schedule targets previous-generation flagship devices and the popular Reno lineup. November 2025 will see significant expansion across OPPO’s premium portfolio.​

November 2025 eligible devices:

• OPPO Find N3

• OPPO Find N3 Flip

• OPPO Find X7 Ultra Satellite Communication Edition

• OPPO Find X7 Ultra

• OPPO Find X7

• OPPO Reno14 Pro+

• OPPO Reno14 Pro

• OPPO Reno14

• OPPO Reno13​

This phase demonstrates OPPO’s commitment to supporting foldable technology users and the mid-to-premium Reno series, which remains highly popular among photography enthusiasts and design-conscious consumers.

Read More: Oppo Find X9 series launches on October 28​

December 2025: Mid-Range and Performance Devices

December 2025 marks the third wave, bringing ColorOS 16 to additional foldables and performance-oriented K series devices. This phase expands the update to users seeking power and value.​

December 2025 update schedule:

• OPPO Find N2

• OPPO Find N2 Flip

• OPPO Find X6 Pro

• OPPO Find X6

• OPPO K13 Turbo Pro

• OPPO K13 Turbo​

The K series Turbo models are particularly noteworthy, as they cater to gaming enthusiasts and power users who demand high performance without flagship pricing. ColorOS 16 will optimize these devices further, enhancing their already impressive capabilities.​

Q1 2026: Comprehensive Roll-Out to Older Flagships and Budget Devices

The final phase extends from January through March 2026, covering the broadest range of devices. This quarter includes older flagship models, mainstream Reno series, budget-friendly K series, and OPPO’s tablet lineup.​

Q1 2026 eligible devices:

• OPPO Find X5 Pro (Dual Edition)

• OPPO Find X5 Pro

• OPPO Find X5

• OPPO Reno12 Pro+

• OPPO Reno12 Pro

• OPPO Reno12

• OPPO Reno11 Pro+

• OPPO Reno11 Pro

• OPPO Reno11

• OPPO Reno10 Pro+

• OPPO Reno9 Pro+

• OPPO K13s

• OPPO K13x

• OPPO K12

• OPPO K12 Plus

• OPPO K12s

• OPPO K12x

• OPPO Pad 3

• OPPO Pad 2

• OPPO Pad SE​

This extensive list demonstrates OPPO’s dedication to long-term software support, ensuring even devices from previous generations receive the latest features and security improvements.

​

Key Features of ColorOS 16

ColorOS 16 introduces significant improvements including enhanced AI capabilities, smoother animations, redesigned interface elements, improved battery optimization, and better privacy controls. The update is based on Android 16, ensuring compatibility with the latest Google services and security patches.​

Regional Availability and How to Check for Updates

The roll-out schedule begins in China, with global deployment following shortly after. Users in different regions may experience slight variations in update timing based on carrier approvals and regional testing requirements.​

To check for the ColorOS 16 update on your device:

1. Navigate to Settings

2. Select “Software Update”

3. Tap “Check for Updates”

4. Follow on-screen instructions if ColorOS 16 is available​

Conclusion

With over 40 devices confirmed for ColorOS 16 updates spanning October 2025 through Q1 2026, OPPO demonstrates strong commitment to its user base. Whether you own the latest Find X8 Ultra or an older Reno10 Pro+, you can expect to receive the ColorOS 16 experience with its advanced features and improvements. Mark your calendar based on your device model and prepare to enjoy OPPO’s most sophisticated mobile operating system yet.

Sources: Notebook Check, Gadgets to Use

The battle between flagship smartphones has reached new heights with the launch of the Realme GT 8 Pro and iQOO 15, both powered by Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. These devices represent the cutting edge of mobile technology in 2025, offering exceptional performance, massive batteries, and premium features at competitive prices. As both phones prepare for their Indian market debut, consumers face a difficult choice between two remarkably capable devices.

The Realme GT 8 Pro introduces a groundbreaking design feature that sets it apart from every other flagship smartphone on the market. Its modular camera module system allows users to physically swap out the camera housing design using two Torx screws and magnetic attachments. Realme provides three official styles including square, circular, and robot-inspired designs, and has even released the 3MF model file for users to 3D-print their own custom modules. This level of personalization is unprecedented in the smartphone industry and appeals to users who want their device to reflect their individual style.

The device measures 161.8 x 76.9 x 8.2mm and weighs 218 grams, making it slightly thicker but remarkably compact considering its 7000mAh battery capacity. The build quality is exceptional, featuring a glass front, aluminum frame, and a choice between fiberglass or silicone polymer eco-leather back panels. Available in Blue, Green, and White colorways, the GT 8 Pro carries comprehensive protection with IP66, IP68, and IP69 ratings, ensuring resistance against dust, water immersion up to 2 meters for 30 minutes, and high-pressure water jets.

More RealMe Phones on TechInDeep.

Read More: Realme 15 Lite 5G, Vivo V60e Specifications Leak

iQOO 15: Gaming Aesthetics with RGB Flair

The iQOO 15 takes a more traditional approach to flagship design but adds gaming-oriented flourishes that appeal to its target demographic. The device features a flat 6.85-inch display optimized for gaming, with slightly curved edges and an anti-reflective coating for better outdoor visibility. Measuring 163.65 x 76.80 x 8.10mm and weighing just 215 grams, it’s marginally lighter and thinner than the Realme offering.

The standout design element is the RGB Energy Halo, an ambient light ring surrounding the camera module that responds to music, notifications, and in-game events. During gaming sessions in titles like Genshin Impact and Honor of Kings, the Energy Halo displays corresponding colors based on elemental attacks or game actions, creating an immersive experience. The phone comes in multiple color variants including the classic “Legend” colorway, a tri-color striped “Lingyun” edition, and special editions with unique finishes. Like the Realme GT 8 Pro, it also carries IP68 and IP69 ratings for comprehensive environmental protection.

Both phones demonstrate premium craftsmanship with attention to detail, though they cater to different aesthetic preferences. The Realme GT 8 Pro appeals to users who value customization and photographic heritage, while the iQOO 15 targets gamers who appreciate RGB lighting and performance-focused design elements.

More Vivo Phones on TechInDeep.

Read More: Vivo OriginOS 6 Global Launch: Revolutionary Android 16 Interface Set for October 15, 2025

Display Technology

Realme GT 8 Pro: Brightness Champion

The Realme GT 8 Pro features a 6.79-inch QHD+ LTPO AMOLED display with a resolution of 1440×3136 pixels, delivering an impressive 508 ppi pixel density. The panel supports a 144Hz refresh rate with a remarkable 3200Hz touch sampling rate for ultra-responsive input during gaming sessions. The display covers 100% of both DCI-P3 and sRGB color gamuts, ensuring accurate color reproduction for content creation and media consumption.

The most spectacular feature is its 7000 nits peak brightness, making it one of the brightest smartphone displays ever produced. This extraordinary brightness level ensures perfect visibility even in direct sunlight and supports HDR10+ content with exceptional dynamic range. The screen maintains a 90.7% screen-to-body ratio with a punch-hole cutout for the front camera and benefits from Gorilla Glass protection. According to laboratory measurements, the display achieves manual brightness of 570 nits by default, extending to nearly 1000 nits with enhanced range enabled, while global high brightness boost reaches close to 2000 nits.

iQOO 15: Samsung Excellence

The iQOO 15 sports a slightly larger 6.85-inch LTPO AMOLED display co-developed with Samsung, specifically using the Samsung M14 8T LTPO panel. With a resolution of 1440×3168 pixels, it delivers a similar 508 ppi pixel density and maintains the same 144Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and gaming. The aspect ratio of 19.8:9 provides a slightly taller viewing area compared to the Realme’s 19.5:9 ratio.

The display achieves a peak brightness of 2600 nits, which while significantly lower than the Realme GT 8 Pro, remains excellent for flagship standards. The panel supports 1000 nits typical brightness, 2160Hz PWM dimming, and DC Dimming technology to reduce eye strain during extended use. An ultrasonic fingerprint scanner provides secure biometric authentication with fast and accurate performance. The screen occupies approximately 90.7% of the front surface with minimal bezels and a punch-hole camera design.

While both displays offer exceptional quality with identical refresh rates and resolution standards, the Realme GT 8 Pro’s brightness advantage of nearly 3x the peak luminance gives it a decisive edge for outdoor visibility and HDR content consumption. However, the iQOO 15’s Samsung panel delivers excellent color accuracy and power efficiency that contributes to overall battery performance.

Vivo X300 Pro Telephoto Camera: 200MP Zoom With Stunning Moon Shot Sample – Tech in Deep

Performance and Processing Power

The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Foundation

Both smartphones are powered by Qualcomm’s flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, built on an advanced 3nm process technology. This chipset features an octa-core CPU configuration with two high-performance Oryon V3 Phoenix L cores running at 4.6 GHz and six efficiency Oryon V3 Phoenix M cores at 3.62 GHz. The architecture delivers significant improvements in both raw performance and power efficiency compared to the previous generation, enabling sustained high frame rates without rapid overheating.

The GPU responsibilities fall to the Adreno 840 (Realme GT 8 Pro) and Adreno 850 (iQOO 15), both providing exceptional graphics performance for demanding games and applications. Both devices offer identical memory configurations with 12GB or 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and storage options ranging from 256GB to 1TB using UFS 4.1 technology. The UFS 4.1 storage delivers blazing-fast read and write speeds crucial for loading large games and transferring files.

Realme GT 8 Pro: R1 Graphics Enhancement

The Realme GT 8 Pro incorporates Realme’s custom R1 graphics chip to augment the Snapdragon processor’s capabilities. This dedicated display and gaming enhancement chip supports over 10 popular titles including Genshin Impact and Honkai Star Rail, enabling 2K super resolution upscaling and 144Hz frame interpolation. In testing, Honor of Kings maintained a nearly perfect 120 FPS with virtually no frame drops throughout extended gaming sessions.

During a half-hour high-load Genshin Impact test at maximum settings, the device averaged 58.48 frames per second with power consumption of 6.1 watts. While the back panel temperature reached 46.7°C, the thermal management system kept performance stable without significant throttling. The 7000mAh battery combined with efficient cooling allows the GT 8 Pro to handle intensive gaming workloads while maintaining acceptable temperatures.

iQOO 15: Q3 Gaming Chip Advantage

The iQOO 15’s secret weapon is its dedicated Q3 gaming chip, which fundamentally changes mobile gaming performance. This custom processor enables real-time ray tracing in Genshin Impact, making the iQOO 15 the first smartphone to support this advanced lighting technology in the popular game. The Q3 chip also provides super resolution upscaling that sharpens mobile game visuals beyond their native resolution, functioning as a “mobile DLSS” equivalent.

Gaming tests demonstrate the iQOO 15’s exceptional capabilities. In Honor of Kings, the device maintained a rock-solid 144 FPS with virtually no frame drops. Genshin Impact at highest settings and 60 FPS produced a nearly straight frame rate line with only minor dips during ultimate ability animations or map loading. The “Ray Tracing Quality” mode enhanced lighting and shadows without affecting the stable 60 FPS performance. In Wuthering Waves and Delta Force at 144 FPS mode, the phone held steady at 140+ FPS throughout 15-minute matches.

The device completed an 11-hour and 21-minute battery life test under heavy gaming loads, representing nearly a 2-hour improvement compared to its predecessor. The combination of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, Q3 chip, and Origin OS 6 optimization creates what reviewers call “a benchmark product for performance flagships”.

Both phones deliver exceptional performance, but the iQOO 15’s Q3 chip and gaming-specific optimizations give it a meaningful advantage for users who prioritize gaming above all else. The Realme GT 8 Pro remains highly capable for gaming while offering a more balanced approach to overall performance.

Camera Systems

Realme GT 8 Pro: Ricoh GR Partnership Excellence

The Realme GT 8 Pro represents the first collaboration between Realme and legendary camera manufacturer Ricoh GR, bringing professional photography expertise to smartphone imaging. The triple-camera system is headlined by a 50MP Ricoh GR anti-glare main sensor with a 1/1.56-inch sensor size and f/1.8 aperture. This primary camera utilizes a specialized 7-element lens array with ultra-low-reflection coating achieving 97% light transmittance, significantly reducing glare and producing cleaner, more realistic images.

The system emulates Ricoh’s classic 28mm and 40mm focal lengths and features five Ricoh-inspired film tones to capture the signature GR texture that photographers love. Users can engage the dedicated GR mode which recreates the shooting experience and photo style of actual Ricoh cameras, though it cannot fully replace the optical quality of dedicated cameras like the GR3X.

The camera array includes a 200MP Samsung ISOCELL HP5 periscope telephoto lens with Super QPD autofocus, 3x optical zoom, and the capability to record 8K video at 30fps. This massive resolution sensor enables impressive digital zoom capabilities up to 120x, maintaining detail at zoom levels where most competitors show only blur. Completing the setup is a 50MP ultrawide camera with f/2.0 aperture and 116-degree field of view, plus a 32MP front-facing camera with f/2.4 aperture for selfies and video calls.

Reviewers note that while the Realme GT 8 Pro delivers excellent results worthy of its flagship positioning, it doesn’t quite match the absolute best camera phones on the market. The Ricoh tuning excels in daylight conditions with accurate exposure control and color reproduction. The telephoto performs admirably at 3x and even 10x zoom, maintaining color consistency and clarity. However, in challenging night scenes, the telephoto shows slight oversaturation and detail loss at 3x zoom.

iQOO 15: Triple 50MP Sony Excellence

The iQOO 15 takes a different approach with an all-50MP triple camera system prioritizing consistency across focal lengths. The primary camera uses a Sony IMX921 sensor with a 1/1.56-inch size and f/1.88 aperture, featuring optical image stabilization for sharper handheld shots. This main sensor delivers excellent results in daylight with good exposure control and color reproduction, though it focuses more on practical photography than artistic expression.

The ultrawide camera features a 50MP sensor with f/2.05 aperture and a 1/2.76-inch size, providing consistency in color and processing with the main camera. The standout is the 50MP Sony IMX882 periscope telephoto lens with f/2.65 aperture, 1/2.51-inch sensor size, optical image stabilization, and genuine 3x optical zoom. This telephoto extends to 6x lossless zoom and performs admirably in most lighting conditions. A 32MP front camera handles selfies and video calls.

According to comprehensive reviews, the iQOO 15 delivers “decent imaging” that exceeds typical gaming phone standards but falls short of true flagship camera performance. In daylight, the main camera performs well with good exposure control and color reproduction. The 3x and 10x telephoto shots maintain acceptable quality with color consistency and clarity, setting it apart from gaming phones that typically sacrifice camera quality. Night photography shows respectable results from the main camera with good color and glare control, though the telephoto struggles slightly with oversaturation and detail loss at 3x zoom.

The Realme GT 8 Pro’s 200MP telephoto sensor and Ricoh partnership give it a substantial advantage in camera versatility and photographic capability, making it the clear choice for users who prioritize photography. The iQOO 15 delivers competent camera performance that exceeds gaming phone expectations but cannot match the Realme’s imaging prowess.

Battery Life and Charging

Identical Capacity, Different Charging Speeds

Both the Realme GT 8 Pro and iQOO 15 pack massive 7000mAh batteries split between two silicon-carbon cells, representing some of the largest capacities available in flagship smartphones. This enormous power reserve enables all-day heavy usage including intensive gaming sessions, 4K video streaming, and photography without anxiety about running out of charge. The silicon-carbon battery technology provides higher energy density than traditional lithium-ion cells while maintaining safety and longevity.

Battery life testing reveals impressive endurance from both devices. In a rigorous 5-hour mixed-usage test, the Realme GT 8 Pro retained 55% battery at the end, which reviewers characterized as standard for this capacity. Remarkably, after the battery showed zero and the phone shutdown, it could still play Genshin Impact for another hour plus half an hour of PUBG. This performance means the device easily handles a full day of heavy use including gaming.

The iQOO 15 demonstrated even more impressive results in durability testing. In a “test-to-death” battery life model, it lasted for 11 hours and 21 minutes under continuous heavy load, representing nearly a 2-hour improvement compared to its predecessor. Both phones benefit from sophisticated power management in their respective operating systems that intelligently balance performance with battery preservation.

Realme GT 8 Pro: Faster Charging Speeds

The Realme GT 8 Pro supports 120W wired fast charging using UFCS, PD, PPS, and QC protocols, capable of reaching 50% charge in just 15 minutes and full charge in 43 minutes. The wireless charging reaches 50W, taking approximately 79 minutes for a complete charge. These speeds rank among the fastest available in any smartphone globally, dramatically reducing the time users spend tethered to chargers.

iQOO 15: Solid But Slower

The iQOO 15 features 100W wired fast charging compatible with PD and PPS protocols. In testing, a full charge took approximately 56 minutes and 40 seconds including a trickle charge period of about 40 seconds. The wireless charging maxes out at 40W, which while respectable, lags behind the Realme’s capabilities. The slower charging speeds represent the primary battery-related disadvantage compared to the Realme GT 8 Pro.

For users who frequently need quick top-ups between activities, the Realme GT 8 Pro’s faster charging speeds provide meaningful convenience. However, both phones’ massive 7000mAh capacities mean charging frequency is minimized regardless of which device you choose.

Software and User Experience

Realme UI 7.0 vs Origin OS 6

The Realme GT 8 Pro runs Realme UI 7.0 based on Android 16, offering a refined and feature-rich experience that balances customization with usability. Realme UI maintains close ties to its OPPO ColorOS roots while incorporating unique features that cater to the GT series’ performance-oriented audience. The interface emphasizes smooth animations, comprehensive customization options, and intelligent features powered by AI.

The iQOO 15 operates on Origin OS 6 also based on Android 16, specifically tuned for gaming performance and efficiency. Origin OS has gained recognition for its stable, top-tier tuning that optimizes system resources for maximum performance. The software includes dedicated gaming modes, enhanced notification management during gameplay, and system-level optimizations that squeeze every bit of performance from the hardware. Reviewers consistently praise Origin OS for creating “a benchmark product for performance flagships” through its careful balancing of power and efficiency.

Both operating systems provide extensive customization, comprehensive security features, and access to the full Android app ecosystem. The choice between them largely depends on personal preference, with Realme UI offering broader appeal for general users and Origin OS optimizing specifically for gaming enthusiasts.

Additional Features

The Realme GT 8 Pro includes dual stereo speakers with AAC’s 0816 ultra-wideband pulse motor for layered haptic feedback. The haptic system is designed primarily to enhance gaming vibration feedback but remains impressively restrained in daily use, never feeling distracting or out of place. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, infrared blaster, and comprehensive sensor arrays including light, proximity, accelerometer, compass, and gyroscope.

The iQOO 15 similarly features dual stereo speakers using the same 1115e speakers found in flagship devices, delivering sound quality that places it in the top tier among Android devices. The device includes dual X-axis linear motors and dual-axis vibration motors providing precise haptic feedback during gaming. Connectivity matches the Realme with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, infrared, and a full complement of sensors.

Both phones incorporate ultrasonic fingerprint sensors positioned under the display, offering faster and more reliable authentication than optical alternatives. Neither device includes a 3.5mm headphone jack or microSD card expansion, standard omissions in modern flagship smartphones.

Pricing and Value Proposition

China Market Pricing

In the Chinese market, the Realme GT 8 Pro starts at CNY 3,999 (approximately $562 or ₹46,000) for the 12GB RAM with 256GB storage variant. Higher configurations include 16GB+256GB (CNY 4,299/₹53,000), 12GB+512GB (CNY 4,499/₹56,000), 16GB+512GB (CNY 4,699/₹58,000), and the top-tier 16GB+1TB (CNY 5,199/₹64,000).

The iQOO 15 pricing begins at CNY 4,199 (approximately $580 or ₹52,000) for its base 12GB+256GB model. Additional variants include 12GB+512GB (CNY 4,699), 16GB+256GB (CNY 4,499), 16GB+512GB (CNY 4,999), and 16GB+1TB (CNY 5,499/₹68,000). The iQOO 15 commands a premium of approximately CNY 200-300 (₹2,000-3,000) across equivalent configurations.

India Launch Timeline and Expected Pricing

The iQOO 15 is confirmed to launch in India during November 2025, with reports suggesting a specific date of November 27th. The expected Indian pricing sits around ₹59,999 for the base variant, positioning it competitively in the premium flagship segment.

The Realme GT 8 Pro is anticipated to arrive in the Indian market during December 2025, approximately one month after its Chinese launch. Industry experts predict Indian pricing between ₹55,000 to ₹65,000 depending on configuration, with the base model likely starting around ₹60,000. Some analysts suggest that if Realme can position the starting price closer to ₹55,000 or even ₹50,000, it would become “definitely quite sellable” and attract significant consumer interest.

Value Analysis

The Realme GT 8 Pro offers compelling value by delivering more premium features including the brighter display, superior camera system with Ricoh partnership, faster charging speeds, and innovative modular design at a lower price point than the iQOO 15. For users seeking the best overall value with balanced flagship capabilities, the Realme GT 8 Pro represents the stronger choice.

The iQOO 15 justifies its slightly higher price through its dedicated Q3 gaming chip, superior gaming optimizations, and refined Origin OS experience. For serious mobile gamers who demand the absolute best performance and are willing to sacrifice some camera capability for gaming excellence, the premium pricing remains reasonable.

User Ratings and Reception

Realme GT 8 Pro Reviews

Early reviews of the Realme GT 8 Pro emphasize its well-rounded nature as a flagship device. Reviewers praise the Ricoh GR camera collaboration for bringing emotional value and creative tools to smartphone photography, noting that the unique imaging style appeals to photography enthusiasts. The swappable camera module design receives particular acclaim as a rare example of genuine innovation in smartphone design, offering personalization options unprecedented in the industry.

Critics note that while the GT 8 Pro upgrades imaging and display capabilities significantly, it maintains the GT series tradition of strong gaming performance. The device is characterized as striking an excellent balance between being a dedicated performance machine and a versatile flagship. Users appreciate the comprehensive feature set that addresses previous shortcomings while delivering unique design elements rarely seen in modern smartphones.

Some reviewers point out that the camera system, while excellent, cannot fully compete with absolute top-tier camera phones, and the Ricoh collaboration produces results more similar to the Oppo Find X9 Pro (which also uses similar sensors) than fundamentally different. The pricing represents a CNY 300 increase over the previous GT 7 Pro, prompting discussion about value relative to the added features.

iQOO 15 Reviews

The iQOO 15 has generated enthusiastic reception, particularly among gaming enthusiasts. The device broke sales records in China, selling in just 30 minutes what its predecessor sold in its first full day, demonstrating strong consumer interest. Reviewers consistently highlight the Q3 gaming chip as a game-changing feature that enables capabilities like real-time ray tracing and super resolution upscaling previously unavailable on mobile devices.

The gaming performance receives universal praise, with testers noting the phone maintains consistently high frame rates across demanding titles without significant throttling or overheating. The 7000mAh battery combined with efficient power management enables marathon gaming sessions that outlast competing devices. The Origin OS 6 software earns recognition for its stability and gaming-specific optimizations that maximize hardware potential.

Camera performance represents the primary criticism, with reviewers noting that while the triple 50MP system exceeds typical gaming phone standards, it falls short of true flagship imaging capabilities. The iQOO 15 is characterized as a device that “can be said to have become a benchmark product for performance flagships” that seriously focuses on its positioning rather than trying to be everything to everyone.

On review aggregator GSMarena, users express mixed opinions about certain omissions like the lack of FM radio and eSIM support, though these represent minor concerns relative to the overall package. The general consensus positions the iQOO 15 as an excellent choice for gamers seeking flagship performance without the extreme pricing of ultra-premium devices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which phone has better battery life: Realme GT 8 Pro or iQOO 15?

Both phones feature identical 7000mAh batteries with similar battery life performance. In testing, the iQOO 15 lasted 11 hours and 21 minutes under continuous heavy load, while the Realme GT 8 Pro demonstrated excellent endurance with 55% remaining after 5 hours of mixed usage. The main difference is charging speed – the Realme GT 8 Pro supports faster 120W wired and 50W wireless charging compared to the iQOO 15’s 100W wired and 40W wireless charging.​

Is the Realme GT 8 Pro camera better than the iQOO 15?

Yes, the Realme GT 8 Pro offers a superior camera system. It features a 200MP periscope telephoto lens with 120x digital zoom capability and Ricoh GR imaging partnership, compared to the iQOO 15’s 50MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom. The Ricoh collaboration brings professional photography features and unique film tones. However, the iQOO 15’s triple 50MP system still delivers competent photography that exceeds typical gaming phone standards.​

Which phone is better for gaming: Realme GT 8 Pro or iQOO 15?

The iQOO 15 is the better choice for gaming. It features a dedicated Q3 gaming chip that enables real-time ray tracing in Genshin Impact and super resolution upscaling. In tests, it maintained 144 FPS in Honor of Kings and stable 60 FPS in Genshin Impact with ray tracing enabled. The Origin OS 6 software provides superior gaming optimizations. While the Realme GT 8 Pro with its R1 chip also delivers excellent gaming performance, the iQOO 15’s specialized gaming hardware gives it the edge.​

What is the price difference between Realme GT 8 Pro and iQOO 15?

In China, the Realme GT 8 Pro starts at CNY 3,999 (~₹46,000) while the iQOO 15 starts at CNY 4,199 (~₹52,000), making the Realme approximately ₹6,000 cheaper. For the India launch, the iQOO 15 is expected to cost around ₹59,999 (launching November 2025), while the Realme GT 8 Pro is anticipated to be priced between ₹55,000-65,000 (launching December 2025). The Realme GT 8 Pro offers better value with more premium features at a lower price.​

When will the Realme GT 8 Pro and iQOO 15 launch in India?

The iQOO 15 is confirmed to launch in India in November 2025, with reports suggesting November 27th as the specific date. The Realme GT 8 Pro is expected to arrive approximately one month later in December 2025. Both phones launched in China in October 2025 before their international rollout.​

Do both phones support 5G connectivity?

Yes, both the Realme GT 8 Pro and iQOO 15 are 5G-enabled smartphones with comprehensive connectivity features including Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, and infrared blaster. They support multiple 5G bands for global compatibility and include dual SIM slots for flexibility.​

Which phone has a brighter display?

The Realme GT 8 Pro has a significantly brighter display with 7000 nits peak brightness compared to the iQOO 15’s 2600 nits. This gives the Realme GT 8 Pro nearly 3x the brightness advantage, ensuring superior outdoor visibility and exceptional HDR content viewing. Both phones feature 6.8+ inch LTPO AMOLED displays with 144Hz refresh rates and QHD+ resolution.​

Can I expand storage on these phones?

No, neither the Realme GT 8 Pro nor the iQOO 15 support microSD card expansion. However, both phones offer generous internal storage options ranging from 256GB to 1TB using fast UFS 4.1 technology. For most users, even the base 256GB variant provides ample storage for apps, games, photos, and videos.​

Are the Realme GT 8 Pro and iQOO 15 waterproof?

Yes, both phones carry comprehensive water and dust resistance with IP66, IP68, and IP69 ratings. This means they can withstand dust, water immersion up to 2 meters for 30 minutes (IP68), and high-pressure water jets (IP69). Both devices are well-protected against environmental elements during daily use.​

What makes the Realme GT 8 Pro’s design unique?

The Realme GT 8 Pro features an innovative modular camera module system that allows users to physically swap out the camera housing design using two Torx screws and magnetic attachments. Realme provides three official styles (square, circular, and robot-inspired) and has released 3D printing files for custom modules. This level of personalization is unprecedented in flagship smartphones.​

Which phone is lighter and thinner?

The iQOO 15 is slightly lighter at 215g compared to the Realme GT 8 Pro’s 218g (a 3-gram difference). The iQOO 15 is also marginally thinner at 8.1mm versus 8.2mm. However, both phones are remarkably compact considering they pack 7000mAh batteries, and the weight difference is barely noticeable in daily use.​

Do these phones have headphone jacks?

No, neither the Realme GT 8 Pro nor the iQOO 15 includes a 3.5mm headphone jack. This is standard for modern flagship smartphones. Both devices support high-quality wireless audio through Bluetooth 6.0 and feature dual stereo speakers for excellent built-in sound quality.​

Which phone offers better value for money?

The Realme GT 8 Pro offers better overall value. It provides more premium features including a brighter display (7000 nits), superior camera system with 200MP telephoto and Ricoh partnership, faster charging (120W/50W), and innovative modular design at a lower price point. The iQOO 15 justifies its higher price for dedicated gamers who prioritize the Q3 gaming chip and specialized gaming optimizations.​

What processors do these phones use?

Both phones are powered by the same Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset built on 3nm process technology, featuring an octa-core CPU with cores running up to 4.6 GHz. The key difference is additional processing: the Realme GT 8 Pro includes an R1 graphics chip for display enhancement, while the iQOO 15 features a dedicated Q3 gaming chip that enables advanced features like real-time ray tracing.​

Which phone should I buy for photography?

Choose the Realme GT 8 Pro for photography. Its 200MP periscope telephoto lens, Ricoh GR imaging partnership, and professional camera features make it significantly better for photography enthusiasts. The Ricoh collaboration brings unique film tones and imaging styles that appeal to creative photographers. The iQOO 15’s camera system is competent but focuses more on practicality than artistic expression.​

Final Verdict: Which Phone Should You Buy?

Choose the Realme GT 8 Pro If You:

• Prioritize photography and camera versatility, particularly the 200MP telephoto and Ricoh GR imaging partnership

• Value display brightness for outdoor use and HDR content consumption (7000 nits peak)

• Appreciate design customization with the unique swappable camera module system

• Want faster charging speeds with 120W wired and 50W wireless charging

• Seek better overall value with more premium features at a lower price point

• Prefer a balanced flagship experience that excels across multiple categories rather than specializing

The Realme GT 8 Pro represents the better choice for most consumers, offering exceptional versatility, superior camera capabilities, and innovative design features that justify its flagship status. Its lower pricing combined with premium specifications makes it the value champion in this comparison.

Choose the iQOO 15 If You:

• Prioritize gaming performance above all else, benefiting from the dedicated Q3 gaming chip

• Want the absolute best gaming optimizations with ray tracing and super resolution support

• Prefer Origin OS 6 for its gaming-focused features and stable performance

• Value unique gaming features like the RGB Energy Halo responsive lighting

• Need a lighter device at 215g versus 218g

• Want earlier availability with the November 2025 India launch versus December

The iQOO 15 excels as a gaming-focused flagship that doesn’t completely sacrifice other features. Its dedicated gaming hardware and software optimizations create an unmatched mobile gaming experience for serious enthusiasts willing to accept competent rather than exceptional camera performance.

The Bottom Line

Both the Realme GT 8 Pro and iQOO 15 represent exceptional flagship smartphones that deliver tremendous value in their respective price ranges. They share core strengths including the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, massive 7000mAh batteries, brilliant 144Hz displays, and comprehensive build quality with IP68/IP69 ratings.

The Realme GT 8 Pro emerges as the winner for most users through its superior camera system, brighter display, faster charging, innovative modular design, and lower pricing. It delivers a more balanced flagship experience that excels across multiple use cases rather than specializing narrowly.

The iQOO 15 claims victory specifically for mobile gaming enthusiasts who demand the absolute best performance and are willing to accept camera compromises in exchange for gaming excellence. Its Q3 chip and Origin OS optimizations create gaming capabilities unmatched by any other smartphone currently available.

Ultimately, your choice should reflect your primary smartphone usage patterns. Photography enthusiasts, content creators, and users seeking well-rounded flagship experiences will find greater satisfaction with the Realme GT 8 Pro. Serious mobile gamers who spend hours daily in demanding titles should strongly consider the iQOO 15’s specialized capabilities.

Resources: Croma Unboxed, Cashify, GsmArena, NotebookCheck

OpenAI has officially entered the browser wars with ChatGPT Atlas, a revolutionary AI-powered web browser that reimagines how we interact with the internet. Announced by CEO Sam Altman on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Atlas represents OpenAI’s boldest move yet to transform online browsing from a passive experience into an intelligent, conversational partnership.

Read More: Facebook AI: What Privacy & Security Experts (and Everyday Users) Really Need to Know

What Makes ChatGPT Atlas Different?

Unlike traditional browsers that simply display web pages, ChatGPT Atlas integrates artificial intelligence directly into every aspect of your browsing experience. The browser replaces the conventional URL search bar with an AI chatbot interface, allowing users to ask questions naturally rather than crafting keyword-based searches.​

Key Features of ChatGPT Atlas

• ChatGPT Sidebar Integration: Access an “Ask ChatGPT” button on every webpage to summarize content, compare products, analyze data, and answer questions without leaving your current page​

• Agent Mode (Preview): Available to ChatGPT Plus, Pro, and Business subscribers, this feature allows ChatGPT to autonomously complete tasks like researching meal plans, booking reservations, shopping online, and compiling documents​

• Browser Memory: ChatGPT remembers your browsing context and past interactions to provide personalized suggestions and recall information from sites you’ve visited​

• Built on Chromium: Atlas runs on the same open-source framework as Google Chrome, meaning it supports Chrome extensions and receives the same security updates​

• Privacy Controls: Users can disable memory, clear browsing history, use incognito mode, and control whether their data is used for model training​

Direct Competition with Google Chrome

With over 800 million weekly ChatGPT users, OpenAI is positioning Atlas as a serious challenger to Google Chrome’s decades-long dominance. Sam Altman described this launch as “a rare, once-in-a-decade opportunity to rethink what a browser can be,” emphasizing that AI represents a fundamental shift in how people use the internet.​

The timing is strategic. Following a U.S. Department of Justice ruling that labeled Google’s search practices an illegal monopoly, OpenAI sees an opportunity to capture market share while traditional browsers face regulatory pressure.

Read More: The Complete Guide to Smart Refrigerators: How AI is Revolutionizing Your Kitchen in 2025​

Availability and Future Updates

ChatGPT Atlas launched globally on October 21, 2025, for macOS users, with Windows, iOS, and Android versions promised soon. The browser is free to use, though Agent Mode functionality requires a paid ChatGPT Plus or Pro subscription.​

OpenAI has already announced upcoming improvements including user profiles, tab grouping, an optional ad blocker, enhanced agent response times, and better compatibility with cloud services like Google Drive and Excel.​

Privacy and Security Considerations

While Atlas offers powerful capabilities, cybersecurity experts have raised concerns about privacy risks. The combination of browser-level access with AI memory creates new vulnerabilities, including susceptibility to “indirect prompt injection” attacks. OpenAI has implemented safeguards preventing the agent from accessing passwords, running code, or downloading files without permission.​

The Bottom Line: ChatGPT Atlas represents a significant evolution in web browsing technology. Whether it can truly dethrone Chrome remains to be seen, but OpenAI’s massive user base and innovative AI-first approach make Atlas a serious contender in the browser market.

ChatGPT Atlas: Pros and Cons

Read More: The Future of Human-AI Collaboration in Creative Industries

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is ChatGPT Atlas?
A: ChatGPT Atlas is OpenAI’s AI-powered web browser that integrates ChatGPT directly into the browsing experience, allowing users to chat with web pages, automate tasks, and receive personalized assistance.​

Q: Is ChatGPT Atlas free to use?
A: Yes, ChatGPT Atlas is free for all users. However, advanced features like Agent Mode are exclusive to ChatGPT Plus, Pro, and Business subscribers.​

Q: What platforms support ChatGPT Atlas?
A: Atlas is currently available for macOS. OpenAI has announced that Windows, iOS, and Android versions are coming soon.​

Q: Can I use Chrome extensions with Atlas?
A: Yes! Because Atlas is built on Chromium (the same framework as Chrome), it supports all Chrome Web Store extensions.​

Q: What is Agent Mode in Atlas?
A: Agent Mode is a preview feature that allows ChatGPT to complete tasks autonomously by opening tabs, clicking buttons, filling forms, and navigating websites on your behalf—like booking reservations or shopping online.​

Q: Is my browsing data private in Atlas?
A: OpenAI states that browsing content is not used to train AI models by default, and users have full control over memory settings, history deletion, and incognito browsing. However, security experts recommend caution when using Agent Mode with sensitive information.​

Q: How does Atlas compare to Google Chrome?
A: Atlas offers native AI integration, conversational search, and automated task completion, while Chrome provides a mature ecosystem, broader platform support, and extensive third-party extensions. Atlas is AI-first; Chrome is search-first.​

Q: What are the security risks of using Atlas?
A: Cybersecurity experts warn that AI browsers like Atlas are vulnerable to “indirect prompt injection” attacks, where malicious code embedded in web pages can manipulate the AI agent. OpenAI has implemented safeguards, but users should remain cautious.

Conclusion

ChatGPT Atlas marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of web browsing. By seamlessly integrating AI assistance into every aspect of the browsing experience, OpenAI has created more than just another Chrome alternative—they’ve reimagined what browsers can accomplish.

While the platform is still in its early stages and faces legitimate privacy and security concerns, the innovative features like Agent Mode and contextual memory offer a glimpse into the future of intelligent web navigation. For users seeking a more conversational, automated browsing experience, Atlas presents a compelling reason to reconsider their default browser choice. As OpenAI continues to refine the platform and expand its capabilities, ChatGPT Atlas could very well become the catalyst that transforms how billions of people interact with the internet.

Resources: Tech Crunch, OpenAI, PCMag

To get their website audited, many hire external auditors. They inspect your website and submit a detailed report on its technical performance, SEO, content, user experience, and design. However, the thing is that even the best audits slip past many vital issues.

In our take, any issue that affects a site’s performance is very important. No matter whether the impact is big or small, it is significant. That is why we are bringing this blog post to you. Here, you will learn about common website issues that often go unnoticed by most auditors, which you can mitigate independently.

Common Issues That Get Slipped During Website Audit

There are many factors that can affect a website’s performance. That is why sometimes small factors are overlooked. But with time, those small factors lead to big problems and even crash the websites. Here are some of the common issues that usually get overlooked during a website audit.

Read More: SEO Website Audit: Why It Matters and How It Helps Your Business

1. Broken Internal Links Deep Inside the Site

Checking the broken links is an important step during the website process. However, many of them still commonly slip past during the audits.

Why?

This happens because website audits typically focus on top-level pages and categories that drive revenue and traffic for a website.

Many people overlook the outdated pages of the website, considering them unnecessary. Only because they are indexed or are not getting the traffic. However, until those pages are on your website and have broken links, your site’s reputation is at risk. And search engines might also not score your website well.

That is why it is necessary to run a full broken link audit site-wide. And doing that is not a very technical thing. You can do all that by yourself with the assistance of tools like Screaming Frog.

2. Conflicting or Missing Canonical Tags

Canonical tags might seem a bit technical. However, they are a crucial element that, if overlooked during a website audit, can result in significant financial losses.

These tags basically help search engines determine which version of a page to index, particularly on e-commerce and multilingual websites.

If you miss a single misconfigured canonical tag, search engines will get confused, resulting in a waste of your crawl budget. Ultimately, your website performance will be severely impacted.

But the thing is that if these tags are so crucial, why do they get missed during the audits?

Well, the answer is that canonical tags don’t always throw visible errors. They can look fine on the surface until you compare them across multiple URLs. Some pages might point to themselves, others might point to outdated URLs, or worse, a staging domain like staging.example.com.

This all can be avoided by taking a few simple actions, such as:

• Running a deep audit for every page that has a canonical tag.
• Avoiding unnecessary self-referencing canonicals.
• Make sure you’re not mixing HTTP and HTTPS.

Read More: Top reasons you Must Have an E-commerce Website for Your Business

3. Hidden DNS Record Misconfigurations

DNS records are like the invisible map that tells the internet where your website lives. They control everything, from how your site loads to whether your emails reach their destination.

Yet, despite being so important, DNS issues are among the most overlooked problems in website audits.  This is because DNS settings don’t show up in most site crawlers or SEO tools. They live outside your website and are managed by your domain registrar or hosting provider. That means unless someone manually checks them, they stay hidden in plain sight.

However, the fix to this issue is very simple. Now there are tools such as a DNS record checker available. Using the DNS record checker, you can scan your domain and verify all essential records, such as:

• A
• AAAA
• CNAME
• MX
• TXT
• SPF
• DKIM
• DMARC

Running a quick DNS record check takes less than a minute, but it can save hours of debugging later. Because an error in the DNS record can:

• Cause emails to bounce and land in spam.
• Lead to slow site response and downtime.
• Redirect users to their old IP addresses.

4. Hidden Mobile Layout Problems

Think of yourself, if you ever have to perform a website audit, what device will you be using? A desktop system or a laptop, right?

The catch is that most of today’s websites are accessed from mobile devices. And that is where most layout problems hide, especially if the site is too big and has thousands of web pages.

While performing an audit on a desktop, you might think your site looks perfect. But on a smartphone, users may encounter elements that jump around, buttons that move just as they’re about to tap, or text that overlaps images.

These are all the signs of Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS), one of Google’s Core Web Vitals metrics that measures visual stability.

But here’s a question that comes to mind. Almost every webmaster and auditor knows the importance of web traffic. Still, the issues slip past, why?

The answer is that many auditors now rely solely on automated tools or desktop simulations. Yet, they also offer mobile layout inspection, which many overlook when configuring the settings.

Ultimately, those tools don’t test how a real user experiences your site on a mobile device. As a result, the shifting elements, hidden buttons, or off-screen text never appear in their reports.

The only fix to this is conducting an audit for the small screens. Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to check the website’s core web vitals score. In fact, you can also check them via Google Search Console.

If you spot layout issues there, fix them immediately. Fixing these layout shifts isn’t just about design; it’s about better rankings, too.

Conclusion

Those above are the four common website issues that slip past most auditors. Yet, they might look small and unnecessary to you. But avoiding them for a longer period can become the cause of a big problem in the future. So, if you are planning or have gotten an audit done for your website, double-check the website for these issues as well. As websites aren’t the assets to take risks with in this digital era.

Read More: Huawei MateBook X Pro 2022

TL;DR: Huawei HarmonyOS 6 UI Upgrades

What’s New: Huawei launched HarmonyOS 6 on October 22, 2025, featuring major UI upgrades and AI enhancements.​

Key UI Features:

• Smart Light Sense system with dynamic, responsive animations throughout the interface​

• AIGC-powered lock screen that creates personalized artistic designs from photos and text​

• 11 customizable home screen styles and mood-based themes​

Performance Boost:

• 15% faster than HarmonyOS 5, 40% faster than HarmonyOS 4​

• 11% quicker app startup, 21% improved page rendering​

• 35-51 minutes longer battery life​

AI Intelligence:

• Upgraded Xiaoyi assistant with 80+ AI agents for shopping, travel, healthcare​

• Smart file categorization and memo capture​

• Supports 16 Chinese dialectsyoutube​

Game-Changer: First-ever file sharing between HarmonyOS and Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac) without internet​

Security: StarShield architecture with AI anti-fraud protection, including family scam alerts and AI face-swap detection​

Revolutionary UI Design and Visual Experience

The most striking feature of HarmonyOS 6 is its completely reimagined user interface, highlighted by the innovative Smart Light Sense system. This dynamic visual technology incorporates responsive animations and a light-sensing mechanism that adapts naturally during everyday interactions such as voice assistant activation, photo editing, and privacy-related tasks. The light effect flows through the entire system like a living organism, creating ripple-like animations when users tap the screen and fluctuating with voice rhythm to deliver an immersive, intuitive experience.​

The lock screen receives a major artistic upgrade through AIGC (AI-Generated Content) technology, which creates unique signature designs by analyzing font characteristics and blending text with visual elements. Users can transform ordinary photos into stunning wallpapers with smart composition that automatically adjusts depth, layout, and color palettes. This personalization extends to mood-based themes that respond to user emotions, offering matching emojis and captions that can be switched with a simple tap or long-press gesture.​

AI-Powered Features and Xiaoyi Assistant Upgrades

HarmonyOS 6 significantly enhances its artificial intelligence capabilities through the upgraded Xiaoyi assistant, which now performs multi-step tasks autonomously with single voice commands. The assistant supports 16 Chinese dialects, making it more accessible to users across different regions. Key AI features include Smart Categorization for automatic file organization, Memo Quick Capture for saving links without app switching, and Recorder Transcription Summary that differentiates between speakers during conversations.youtube​​

The system introduces the Harmony Intelligent Agent Framework (HMAF), enabling developers to create interactive AI agents without dedicated algorithm teams. More than 80 AI agents are currently available through the Xiaoyi Intelligent Agent Hub, covering scenarios from travel booking and healthcare consultations to shopping assistance and entertainment. For instance, JD.com has developed a shopping assistant agent that recommends products, searches for promotions, and compares discounts based on user preferences.​

Read More: Huawei Mate X2 – The next level “Flamboyant” foldable phone is coming

Breakthrough Performance Improvements

Powered by the advanced Ark Engine, HarmonyOS 6 delivers remarkable performance gains over its predecessors. Multi-device operations run 15% faster than HarmonyOS 5 and up to 40% faster than HarmonyOS 4. Application startup speed increases by 11%, page rendering improves by 21%, and content loading accelerates by 30%. In a particularly impressive benchmark, large PDF files open in just 0.6 seconds on HarmonyOS 6, compared to 55 seconds on Windows 11, according to Huawei’s internal testing.​

Battery optimization represents another significant advancement, with lab tests showing battery life extended by 35 to 51 minutes compared to the previous version, thanks to system-level power management enhancements.​

Cross-Ecosystem Connectivity and Apple Compatibility

In a groundbreaking move, HarmonyOS 6 introduces seamless file-sharing capabilities with Apple devices, marking the world’s first native cross-platform interconnection between HarmonyOS and iOS. This new near-field communication feature allows users to transfer photos, documents, and files directly between Huawei devices and iPhones, iPads, and Macs without requiring internet connectivity. The functionality resembles Apple’s AirDrop and represents Huawei’s strategic effort to break down ecosystem barriers and improve user convenience in China’s competitive smartphone market.​

The tap-to-share feature supports over 60 applications, enabling instant transfers across devices. Additionally, gaze-based drag-and-drop technology allows users to move items simply by looking at the target device and pressing Ctrl, reportedly boosting productivity by 27%.​

Enhanced Security with StarShield Architecture

HarmonyOS 6 debuts the comprehensive StarShield Security Architecture, implementing AI-driven protection across the entire system from kernel to application ecosystem. The standout security feature is the Family Anti-Fraud system, which alerts users to suspicious calls, allows remote call termination, and automatically syncs flagged numbers across family devices. AI Anti-Fraud Protection actively detects sophisticated scam attempts, including AI face-swap fraud during video calls.​

Additional privacy features include Anti-Peek Protection, which automatically hides sensitive content when others view the screen, and View-Once Mode, preventing secondary sharing of confidential information. The encrypted sharing function allows users to specify exact recipients who can view shared content, with restrictions on screenshots and recordings.​

Read More: Huawei P50 Series ultra thin periscope lens, will come with 120Hz display but will be delayed

HarmonyOS 6: Review

Device Availability and Rollout Schedule

The HarmonyOS 6 public beta launched on October 22, 2025, for over 90 device models in mainland China. Eligible devices include the Huawei Mate 70, Mate 60, and Mate X6 series, Pura 80 and Pura 70 smartphones, Pocket 2 series, Nova 14, Nova 13, and Nova 12 models, plus various MatePad tablets. A broader rollout extending through November and December 2025 will include additional smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and IoT devices. According to Huawei, HarmonyOS 5 has already been installed on 23 million devices, demonstrating strong user adoption.​

Huawei’s latest operating system represents a major evolution in mobile technology, combining aesthetic refinement with practical innovation. As the system moves away from Android dependencies and establishes itself as a third major player alongside iOS and Android, HarmonyOS 6 demonstrates China’s growing capability in developing independent technology ecosystems while simultaneously embracing cross-platform compatibility to enhance user experience.

Sources: Cachify, Fone Arena, Tech Node

But there is a shift from cloud computing to edge computing that brings the inference of machine learning and data processing right at the source, i.e. the devices. This transition is believed to open a new era of intelligent devices, lower response times, better security, and much less need for the centralized cloud infrastructure. Explore how Machine Learning in Edge Computing is reducing cloud dependency and powering smarter devices. Learn these cutting-edge skills with a comprehensive Machine Learning course designed for real-world applications.

The Rise of Edge Computing

Edge computing was well known long before it gained importance as a result of the Internet of Things (IoT) craze. Picture a smart city where the traffic is constantly monitored by cameras, air quality is being monitored by environmental sensors, and self-driving shuttles are going around the city. Transmitting all this unprocessed data to a remote cloud server for immediate analysis would add considerable delay, require a lot of bandwidth, and upraise major privacy issues.

Edge computing overcomes these issues by placing processing power at the “edge” of the network which are smart cameras, industrial gateways, or even mobile phones. Instead of the edge devices just collecting data and sending it to the cloud, they are getting more and more capable of performing local data processing. This dispersed strategy reduces the duration of gaining insights and acting accordingly greatly, which in turn, makes the systems more responsive and efficient.

Read More: No Car, No Problem: Technology Has Made Traveling Easier Than Ever

The Synergy: Machine Learning at the Edge

The real power of edge calculating is unleashed when united with machine learning. ML models, conventionally trained in powerful cloud settings, can now be arranged and run directly on edge devices. This addition creates “smarter” campaigns that can make intelligent conclusions autonomously, without constant announcement with a central server.

Consider a few compelling examples:

• Smart Cameras: Instead of transmitting every single frame to the cloud for object detection, a machine learning model working on an edge camera can mark anomalies or certain objects (for instance, a package that is left at a door) and only send alerts or compressed data to the cloud that are relevant. This leads to a significant decrease in bandwidth usage and an increase in the effectiveness of real-time security monitoring.
• Predictive Maintenance in Factories: Vibration or temperature data from industrial machines might be gathered by sensors. At the edge, a machine learning algorithm would process this information continuously to anticipate failure and send maintenance alerts before an expensive breakdown occurs. This eventually eliminates the need for downtime and increases the efficiency of operations.
• Autonomous Vehicles: The use of machine learning is extensive in self-driving cars for perception (recognizing their environment), planning (making the right actions), and control (carrying out movements). Due to the urgency for instant decision-making, it is beyond the realm of possibilities for these ML models to be completely located in the cloud. They have to be at the edge, on the vehicle.
• Healthcare Wearables: A fitness tracker can continuously check the heart rate of the user, the quality and duration of his/her sleep, and how active he/she is. A machine learning model that runs on the device can recognize heart rhythm irregularities or a sudden fall of the user and notify emergency services or the user’s relatives, all this without the transfer of sensitive medical information from the device unless it is really necessary.

Read More: The Rise of Smart Home Devices: How Technology Is Transforming Modern Living

The grouping of machine learning and edge computing offers a horde of advantages:

• Reduced Latency: Arguably, this is the most important advantage that comes along with it. If the data is processed at the local level, then the decision can be taken in no time at all. For applications like self-driving vehicles, hospitals, and factories, the low latency is not only a plus but also a prerequisite for safe and efficient operations.
• Lower Bandwidth Consumption: The cost of transmitting huge amounts of unprocessed data to the cloud is high and can lead to network congestion. With Edge ML, the devices cleverly use their processing power and send to the cloud only the very little data that has been gleaned and is of high importance, thus, cutting down the bandwidth usage and costs that come with it considerably.
• Enhanced Privacy and Security: Data that is sensitive and could be in the form of health information or surveillance footage when processed at the edge is not required to be transferred to a central cloud server thus, there is very little chance of a breach. This is an issue that poses a challenge for compliance with regulations such as GDPR and HIPAA.
• Improved Reliability: Sometimes the cloud is not accessible especially in places where the environment is difficult or far away. Edge devices with machine learning programmed in them can work continuously and even make smart decisions when there is no internet connection, thus guaranteeing operation without interruptions.
• Cost Efficiency: The requirement of less expensive cloud computing, storage, and processing has a considerable saving in the long run against the initial investment in more powerful edge hardware.
• Scalability: Edge computing gives rise to the distributed architecture that facilitates the IoT scaling in deployments without the central cloud system being overloaded.

Challenges and Considerations

While the reimbursements are compelling, positioning machine learning at the edge is not short of its challenges:

• Resource Constraints: Edge devices usually don’t have the same level of computational power, memory, and battery life as cloud servers. Consequently, the ML models need to be optimized very often by means of quantization, pruning, or knowledge distillation in order to be run smoothly under these constraints.
• Model Deployment and Management: The process of deploying, updating, and managing near to a thousand or even millions of machine learning models in a large but the different edge devices network can be hard. Strong MLOps (Machine Learning Operations) practices are a must.
• Data Labeling and Training: The process of inference is done at the edge, but the training phase of complex ML models is still very much dependent on the cloud’s huge computing power. Furthermore, the collecting and labelling of data sets that are diverse and specific to edge cases is still a huge barrier to overcome.
• Security of Edge Devices: The more intelligent and capable edge devices become, the more they are likely to be attacked. Thus, the issue of security for these scattered endpoints becomes priority number one.
• Hardware Diversity: The different range of edge hardware, which includes tiny microcontrollers and powerful embedded systems, indicate that the application of ML solutions must be done by making them more compatible with specific platforms.

Read More: Freedom Holding Corp: How Technology Shapes Their Financial Services

The Future is at the Edge

There is no question, we are seeing a trend of pushing intelligence closer to the data source. With advances in hardware capabilities and optimizations in machine learning frameworks for edge deployment, we can anticipate many creative applications. From smart homes that can actually predict our needs to performing industrial operations hyper efficiently and true autonomous systems, machine learning in edge computing sets the stage for a future in which devices are not simply connected, but are truly intelligent.

Final Thoughts

For both individuals and organizations seeking to reap the benefits of this revolution, a clear understanding of machine learning is no longer a “nice to have,” but fundamentally required. A complete machine learning course can give you the foundational knowledge and practical skills to produce intelligent models in the cloud or at the rapidly emerging edge. Knowing how to work with optimized models for resource-constrained environments will be particularly advantageous.

The continued movement towards some world rich with connected intelligent devices will benefit from the partnership of machine learning and edge computing as a key driver of smarter systems, reducing our reliance on centralized cloud architecture and ultimately will make our digital world more responsive, private, and efficient.

Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, marking a critical turning point for hundreds of millions of users worldwide. The Windows 10 end of support deadline means that this popular operating system will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical assistance from Microsoft, leaving devices vulnerable to cyber threats and malware attacks. Understanding what the Windows 10 end of support means for your computer and business is essential for maintaining security and productivity in the months ahead.​

As of September 2025, approximately 40% of Windows users globally were still running Windows 10, representing over 400 million devices that could be affected by this transition. Whether you’re an individual user, small business owner, or IT professional, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the implications of the Windows 10 end of support and explore your available options moving forward.

​Read More: Windows VPS vs Linux VPS: What to Choose and Why

Understanding Windows 10 End of Support: What Does It Mean?

The Windows 10 end of support signifies that Microsoft has ceased all maintenance activities for the operating system. This doesn’t mean your computer will suddenly stop working after October 14, 2025, but it does mean significant changes to how the system functions and the risks you’ll face.​

When an operating system reaches its end of support date, the manufacturer stops providing three critical services: feature updates that add new functionality, security patches that fix vulnerabilities, and technical support for troubleshooting issues. For Windows 10, this transition occurred after a decade of service, which is typical for Microsoft operating systems—Windows 7, for example, received approximately 10 years of support before its end of life.​

Your Windows 10 device will continue to boot up and run applications as normal after the deadline. However, without ongoing security updates, any new vulnerabilities discovered in the operating system will remain unpatched, creating an increasingly dangerous environment for your data and privacy. Microsoft’s Security Response Center will no longer issue fixes for critical security flaws, leaving systems exposed to exploitation by cybercriminals who specifically target outdated software.​

The Windows 10 end of support also affects compatibility with modern software. As developers focus their efforts on Windows 11 and future versions, new applications may not install or function properly on Windows 10. Similarly, hardware manufacturers will gradually stop releasing Windows 10 drivers for new devices, limiting your ability to upgrade components or peripherals.

Read More: Windows Spotlight Tool: What That Means for Me (and You)​

Security Risks After Windows 10 End of Support

Continuing to use Windows 10 after its end of support poses substantial security risks that escalate over time. Cybercriminals actively target unsupported operating systems because they know vulnerabilities will never be patched.​

Without security updates, Windows 10 systems become vulnerable to multiple attack vectors. Malware authors and ransomware operators can exploit unpatched vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to your device. The risk extends beyond individual infections—entire networks can be compromised when a single unsupported device serves as an entry point for attackers. Security experts have already observed threat actors exploiting Windows 10 vulnerabilities like CVE-2025-29824 and CVE-2025-24990 to deploy ransomware and establish persistent backdoors.​

Phishing attacks and social engineering schemes pose additional dangers. Hackers know that users of outdated systems are slower to adopt security best practices, making them prime targets for credential theft and malicious software installation. Your personal information, financial data, and business documents could all be at risk without the protective barrier of regular security patches.​

For businesses, the consequences are even more severe. Organizations handling sensitive customer data must comply with regulations like GDPR, PCI DSS, and various industry-specific standards. Running an unsupported operating system can violate these compliance requirements, resulting in substantial fines, legal liability, and reputational damage. Cybersecurity insurance policies may also refuse to cover incidents occurring on unsupported systems, leaving organizations financially exposed.​

Microsoft confirmed that Windows Defender will continue receiving anti-malware definition updates for approximately three years after the Windows 10 end of support—until October 2028. However, these definitions alone cannot protect against vulnerabilities in the operating system itself, leaving a significant security gap.​

Read More: Best Note Taking App on Windows: Top 7 Tools for Productivity in 2025

Extended Security Updates: Temporary Protection Options

Microsoft has introduced the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program to provide a bridge for users who cannot immediately transition away from Windows 10. This marks the first time Microsoft has offered ESU access to individual consumers, not just businesses and enterprises.​

The ESU program delivers critical and important security updates as defined by Microsoft’s Security Response Center, helping reduce the risk of malware and cyberattacks. However, ESU does not include new features, bug fixes for non-security issues, design changes, or technical support. Think of it as life support rather than ongoing development—it keeps your system secure but doesn’t improve or enhance it.​

For individual consumers, the ESU program offers one year of extended protection, from October 15, 2025, through October 13, 2026. Microsoft initially announced a $30 annual fee for consumer access, but also provides two free enrollment options: backing up PC settings to OneDrive through your Microsoft account, or redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.​

European Economic Area (EEA) residents received particularly favorable terms. Following challenges from consumer protection organizations under the Digital Markets Act, Microsoft made ESU completely free for EEA users without requiring cloud backup or other conditions. Users in this region simply need to authenticate with a Microsoft account once every 60 days.​

Business and enterprise customers face significantly higher costs. Commercial ESU licenses cost $61 per device for the first year, with prices doubling annually—$122 for year two and $244 for year three. Educational institutions and non-profit organizations receive reduced pricing starting at approximately $0.90 to $1.90 per device for year one. Enterprise customers can purchase ESU through Microsoft’s Volume Licensing Program or Cloud Service Provider partners.​

Important limitations apply to the ESU program. Devices must be running Windows 10 version 22H2 (the latest version) with current updates installed. The ESU license links to a Microsoft account and can cover up to 10 devices associated with that account. Devices joined to Active Directory domains, connected to Azure Active Directory (now Microsoft Entra ID), or enrolled in Mobile Device Management systems are generally not eligible for consumer ESU and must use commercial licensing.​

Windows 10 End of Support: Here’s what you can do:

Windows 11 Upgrade: Requirements and Process

Microsoft strongly encourages users to upgrade to Windows 11 as the primary solution to the Windows 10 end of support challenge. The upgrade is free for eligible devices, making it an attractive option for users whose hardware meets the necessary specifications.​

Windows 11 imposes stricter hardware requirements than previous Windows versions. Your computer must have a 1 GHz or faster processor with at least two cores on a compatible 64-bit CPU, 4 GB of RAM, and 64 GB of storage space. The display must be at least 9 inches diagonally and support HD resolution (720p). Your graphics card needs DirectX 12 compatibility with a WDDM 2.0 driver.​

The most challenging requirements involve security components. Windows 11 requires a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability, and a compatible processor from Intel’s 8th generation or AMD’s Ryzen 2000 series and newer. These restrictions disqualify many computers that were built for Windows 10, particularly those more than five or six years old.​

To check your PC’s eligibility, download and run Microsoft’s PC Health Check app from the official support page. This tool evaluates your hardware against Windows 11 requirements and identifies any incompatibilities. If your device qualifies, you can upgrade through Windows Update by navigating to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and selecting the Windows 11 upgrade option when it appears.​

Before upgrading, create a comprehensive backup of your system. Use Windows 10’s built-in Backup and Restore feature to create a full system image on an external hard drive. This backup serves as your safety net—if anything goes wrong during the upgrade or you dislike Windows 11, you can restore your previous Windows 10 installation. Additionally, back up important files to OneDrive or another cloud storage service, and export browser bookmarks and license keys.​

For computers that don’t meet the official requirements, workarounds exist. Tools like Rufus can create modified Windows 11 installation media that bypasses certain hardware checks, particularly the TPM requirement. However, Microsoft warns that installing Windows 11 on incompatible hardware may void warranties, cause stability issues, and potentially exclude you from future security updates—though in practice, Microsoft has continued providing updates to unsupported installations.​

Windows 11 offers significant security improvements over Windows 10. The operating system includes virtualization-based security (VBS) enabled by default, which isolates security software in protected memory regions. Hardware-enforced stack protection defends against zero-day exploits, while secured-core PC standards make devices 60% more resilient to malware attacks compared to non-secured systems. Enhanced phishing protection, passkey support for passwordless authentication, and improved Windows Defender SmartScreen further strengthen security.​

Read More: Get Cheap and Genuine Windows 10 and Office suites from just $6 on Keysfan! Quantity is limited!

Alternative Operating Systems and Migration Options

If your computer cannot run Windows 11 and you prefer not to purchase new hardware, alternative operating systems provide viable paths forward after the Windows 10 end of support.​

Linux distributions have emerged as the most popular Windows alternatives, offering free, open-source operating systems with strong security and long-term support. Ubuntu 24.04 LTS provides 12 years of updates and features a modern GNOME desktop interface, making it suitable for both personal and professional use. For users who want the most Windows-like experience, Linux Mint with its Cinnamon desktop environment closely mirrors Windows 10’s interface, complete with a familiar Start menu, taskbar, and system tray.​

Zorin OS specifically targets Windows and macOS switchers, offering layout options that mimic both platforms and supporting many Windows applications through compatibility layers like Wine. Pop!_OS appeals to gamers, designers, and developers with built-in NVIDIA and AMD driver support and optimized GPU performance. Fedora delivers cutting-edge technology and frequent updates for advanced users, while Debian provides rock-solid stability for professionals prioritizing reliability over new features.​

For lightweight computing needs, ChromeOS Flex breathes new life into older laptops by transforming them into cloud-first devices optimized for web browsing, streaming, and Google Workspace productivity. However, this option requires reliable internet connectivity since most applications run in the cloud rather than locally.​

When migrating to a new operating system or new hardware, data transfer tools simplify the process. EaseUS Todo PCTrans offers free PC-to-PC transfer capabilities for files, applications, and settings. For businesses, professional solutions like Laplink PCmover ($59.95) and Zinstall WinWin ($129) provide comprehensive migration services including application transfer and system configuration preservation.​

Read More: How to Transfer Files from an iPhone to Windows PC

Top 3 Windows 10 End of Support Replacement Operating Systems

Quick Comparison Summary

• Choose Windows 11 if your computer meets hardware requirements and you need full Windows software compatibility after Windows 10 end of support.
• Choose Ubuntu 24.04 LTS if you want the longest support period (12 years) and are comfortable learning a new operating system to address Windows 10 end of support.
• Choose Linux Mint if you’re transitioning away from Windows 10 end of support and want the easiest Linux experience with a familiar Windows-like interface.

Business Impact and Enterprise Considerations

The Windows 10 end of support creates particularly complex challenges for businesses and organizations. With 53% of Windows users still running Windows 10 as of mid-2025, the transition affects hundreds of millions of devices across enterprises, government agencies, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions.​

Corporate IT departments must balance multiple competing priorities. Upgrading entire fleets of computers requires substantial capital investment, careful planning to minimize operational disruption, extensive compatibility testing for line-of-business applications, and comprehensive user training. Many organizations operate on replacement cycles that don’t align with Microsoft’s support timeline, leaving them with relatively new Windows 10 machines that haven’t reached their expected lifespan.​

Compliance requirements make using unsupported systems untenable for many industries. Financial services firms, healthcare providers, and other regulated entities cannot risk the legal and financial consequences of data breaches occurring on unpatched systems. Cybersecurity insurance providers increasingly exclude coverage for incidents involving outdated software, potentially leaving organizations liable for millions in damages.​

IT managers facing the Windows 10 end of support should develop comprehensive migration strategies. Begin by conducting a complete inventory of all Windows 10 devices and their current specifications. Test critical applications for Windows 11 compatibility and identify any software that requires updates or replacements. Create a prioritized deployment schedule that addresses the most vulnerable or critical systems first.​

For organizations that cannot complete their Windows 11 migration by the deadline, commercial ESU provides temporary coverage. However, the escalating costs—$61 per device in year one, $122 in year two, and $244 in year three—make this an expensive stopgap rather than a long-term solution. Some organizations may find it more economical to accelerate hardware replacement rather than pay for multi-year ESU subscriptions.​

Cloud-based solutions offer an alternative path. Organizations using Windows 365 Cloud PC receive free Extended Security Updates for their Windows 10 instances, providing additional time to transition. Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) deployments can also help bridge the gap while organizations plan their broader Windows 11 rollout.​

Environmental Impact and E-Waste Concerns

The Windows 10 end of support has sparked significant environmental concerns. Consumer advocacy groups estimate that approximately 400 million functional computers may become obsolete due to Windows 11’s strict hardware requirements, potentially generating 1.6 billion tons of electronic waste.​

Organizations like the California Public Interest Research Group have petitioned Microsoft to extend Windows 10 support, arguing that forcing users to discard perfectly functional devices harms both consumers and the environment. Critics point out that many computers unable to run Windows 11 remain perfectly capable for everyday tasks like web browsing, email, document editing, and media consumption.​

The e-waste issue is particularly acute in developing nations and lower-income communities, where users cannot easily afford new hardware but rely on computers for education, work, and essential services. While Microsoft declined to comment on these concerns, the company has faced similar pressure from advocacy groups in the past and has occasionally modified policies in response.​

Making Your Decision: Next Steps

With the Windows 10 end of support now in effect, you must choose your path forward. If your computer meets Windows 11’s requirements, upgrading provides the most straightforward solution with continued security updates and access to new features. Create a full backup before upgrading, verify that your essential applications work with Windows 11, and proceed with the free upgrade through Windows Update.​

For computers that cannot run Windows 11, evaluate whether purchasing a new device fits your budget and needs. Modern Windows 11 computers offer improved performance, battery life, and security features that justify the investment for many users. If buying new hardware isn’t feasible, consider enrolling in the ESU program to maintain security for an additional year while you save for a replacement or explore alternative solutions.​

Alternative operating systems like Linux provide a cost-free option that extends the useful life of your current hardware. However, this path requires a willingness to learn new interfaces and workflows, and you must verify that Linux alternatives exist for your essential Windows applications.​

For businesses, develop a comprehensive transition plan that addresses hardware inventory, application compatibility, user training, and budget allocation. Prioritize mission-critical systems and high-risk environments, and consider commercial ESU as a bridge solution only when necessary.​

Regardless of which option you choose, act promptly. Every day you operate an unpatched Windows 10 system after the Windows 10 end of support increases your exposure to security threats and potential data loss. The transition may require effort and expense, but the cost of a security breach or data compromise far exceeds the investment in maintaining a supported, secure computing environment.​

Windows 10 End of Support: Extended Security Updates Pricing & Coverage Comparison

Windows 10 End of Support: Key Action Steps for Users

Immediate Actions (This Month):

• Check your computer’s Windows 11 compatibility using Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool

• Create a full system backup to external hard drive before making any changes

• Make a list of all essential applications and verify Windows 11 compatibility

• Document any specialized software or hardware drivers you depend on

• Check your device’s TPM version and BIOS settings for Windows 11 readiness

If Your Device Qualifies for Windows 11:

• Back up all personal files to cloud storage (OneDrive, Google Drive, or equivalent)

• Export browser bookmarks and saved passwords from your current browser

• Note down any software license keys or authentication information

• Schedule the Windows 11 upgrade during a time when you won’t need your computer

• Create a recovery drive before starting the upgrade process

• Upgrade to Windows 11 through Windows Update (Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update)

• Test all critical applications after upgrade completion

• Adjust Windows 11 privacy settings according to your preferences

If Your Device Cannot Run Windows 11:

• Enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for one additional year of protection

• For consumers: Choose between $30 payment, OneDrive backup option, or Microsoft Rewards redemption

• For EEA residents: Enjoy free ESU with simple Microsoft account authentication

• For businesses: Obtain commercial ESU licenses through Volume Licensing channels

• Begin budgeting for new hardware replacement within 12 months

• Research alternative operating systems like Ubuntu 24.04 LTS or Linux Mint

If Choosing Linux After Windows 10 End of Support:

• Download Ubuntu 24.04 LTS or Linux Mint installation media

• Create a bootable USB drive using Rufus or similar tool

• Back up all Windows 10 data before beginning installation

• Test Linux on your hardware using live USB before full installation

• Use EaseUS Todo PCTrans or similar tools for data migration

• Install Wine or PlayOnLinux for legacy Windows application support

• Join community forums (r/linux4noobs, Ubuntu Forums) for learning resources

• Plan gradual transition rather than immediate complete replacement

For Business IT Managers Addressing Windows 10 End of Support:

• Complete comprehensive device inventory and specification audit

• Prioritize systems by criticality, risk level, and compatibility status

• Test Windows 11 compatibility with all line-of-business applications

• Develop staged deployment plan starting with pilot groups

• Allocate budget for hardware upgrades, licensing, and ESU costs

• Plan user training sessions before Windows 11 deployment

• Establish help desk resources for support during transition period

• Implement compliance monitoring to ensure all systems reach Windows 11 or obtain ESU

• Consider cloud-based solutions like Windows 365 Cloud PC as alternatives

• Communicate timeline and requirements clearly to all stakeholders

Security Best Practices Until Migration Complete:

• Enable Windows Defender real-time protection and keep definitions updated

• Use strong, unique passwords for all online accounts

• Enable two-factor authentication on critical accounts

• Avoid clicking suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources

• Keep all software and browser extensions updated

• Use a reputable VPN service for public WiFi connections

• Disable unnecessary services and ports on Windows 10 devices

• Monitor for unusual account activity or system behavior

• Back up critical data regularly to offline storage

• Consider isolating Windows 10 devices from sensitive network segments

Conclusion

The Windows 10 end of support represents a major inflection point for personal and business computing. After a decade of reliable service, this operating system has reached the end of Microsoft’s maintenance commitment, requiring users to make critical decisions about their technology future. Whether you choose to upgrade to Windows 11, extend protection through the ESU program, explore alternative operating systems, or invest in new hardware, taking action now protects your data, privacy, and productivity in an increasingly hostile digital landscape.​

The security risks of continuing with unsupported Windows 10 are substantial and growing. With no new patches forthcoming, every newly discovered vulnerability becomes a permanent weak point that cybercriminals can exploit. Businesses face additional compliance, legal, and insurance complications that make using outdated systems untenable.​

Fortunately, multiple paths forward exist to meet different needs and circumstances. Free Windows 11 upgrades, extended security updates, robust Linux alternatives, and various data migration tools provide options for users across all scenarios. The key is making an informed decision quickly and implementing your chosen solution before security threats materialize into real-world consequences. The Windows 10 end of support may mark the end of an era, but with proper planning and action, it doesn’t have to disrupt your computing experience or compromise your digital security.​

If you own a OnePlus device or are planning to upgrade soon, this guide is for you. We cover the official list of compatible phones and tablets, explain OxygenOS 16’s standout features, outline how to safely upgrade, and discuss the benefits and drawbacks of updating right away. Here is a full list of Oppo devices.

OxygenOS 16 Compatible Devices: Full List & Rollout Schedule

OnePlus is rolling out OxygenOS 16 in several phases between November 2025 and Q1 2026. Below is the official list of eligible devices and when you can expect to receive it via OTA (over-the-air) update:

Starting November 2025

• OnePlus 13
• OnePlus 13R
• OnePlus 13S
• OnePlus 12
• OnePlus 12R
• OnePlus Open (Foldable)
• OnePlus Pad 3
• OnePlus Pad 2

Starting December 2025

• OnePlus 11 5G
• OnePlus 11R 5G
• OnePlus Nord 5
• OnePlus Nord CE5
• OnePlus Nord 4
• OnePlus Nord 3 5G

Staring Q1 2026

• OnePlus 10 Pro 5G
• OnePlus Nord CE4
• OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G
• OnePlus Pad
• OnePlus Pad Lite

Note: Updates roll out in batches by region, device, and carrier. Some users may see the update before others with the same model. Be patient and check regularly in Settings → System → Updates.

Read More: ColorOS 16: OPPO’s Next Big Step in Smartphone Software

OxygenOS 16 Compatible Devices Table

Top Features: What’s New in OxygenOS 16?

Fresh Design Language: “Breathe With You”

OxygenOS 16 unveils a reinvigorated UI with OnePlus’ new “Breathe With You” visual philosophy. Expect a lighter, cleaner interface filled with subtle blur effects (Liquid Glass), smoother rounded elements, and a brighter, more positive look across system apps and settings. Even core apps like Weather, Calculator, and the Quick Settings panel have been visually refreshed for a more modern feel.

Custom animations now ripple throughout the interface, with a “glow” effect on touches and a more dynamic always-on display that feels alive. Widget options, notification panels, and even the calculator get unique, bubbly touches.

Expansive Customization & Lock Screen Upgrades

Lock screen and home screen customization take center stage. Thanks to Flux Themes 2.0, users can tailor the lock screen experience like never before:

• Set motion photos or videos as lock screen wallpapers with depth effects
• Choose from multiple clock styles, font sizes/colors, and even upload custom word art
• Add mini-widgets like weather, calendar, or music controls for glanceable info without needing to unlock

Home screen upgrades let you resize app icons and folders, apply dynamic icon packs (including the new “Flux” pack that adapts to wallpaper colors), and enjoy an app drawer that’s easier to search and organize with new Categories.

Parallel Processing 2.0 & Flow Motion: Smoother Than Ever

Fast, flawless animations were a OnePlus selling point for years. With Parallel Processing 2.0, OxygenOS 16 now rapidly handles multiple UI animations—across navigation buttons, foldable multitasking interfaces, and the Shelf—resulting in virtually lag-free transitions. The new Flow Motion engine stitches together everything from the always-on display to the home screen into a single, fluid experience so your phone feels even faster than its hardware specs suggest.

Advanced AI Integration: Mind Space & Google Gemini

OxygenOS 16 puts AI at the core of your experience, intelligently organizing your digital life. The new Mind Space app collects screenshots, notes, and voice memos (up to 60 seconds) into a private hub, which now works seamlessly with Google Gemini. Gemini can turn your saved data into practical outputs—e.g., transcribing receipts, building travel itineraries, or summarizing web pages.

AI powers the built-in Writer (for generating mind maps, captions, or social posts), automatic document scanning, and real-time audio transcription with speaker detection. These features streamline workflows for everyone from students to professionals.

Cross-Device Functionality & Apple Ecosystem Features

OxygenOS 16 expands connectivity well beyond OnePlus alone. The unified Cross-Device Connectivity menu helps users:

• Cast screens and sync notifications between OnePlus phones, tablets, and Windows/macOS PCs (via O+ Connect app)
• Instantly share photos/files, clipboards, or even internet connections
• Mirror your phone on your OnePlus Pad or vice versa
• Enjoy Apple Watch integration for simple notifications and camera control, plus health data sync via OHealth Connect

Notably, OnePlus breaks ecosystem barriers, helping Android users get a taste of Apple Watch utility without switching to iOS.

Better Camera & Gaming Experience

Smarter image processing means better low-light, sharper autofocus, and enhanced Portrait Glow/AI photo touch-up. The camera, powered by Hasselblad partnerships in upper-tier devices, leans on software to elevate your mobile photography with less manual editing.

Gaming gets a significant step up as well, with proper 120FPS support on compatible hardware, an improved Game Assistant for performance tuning, and tighter organization of game screenshots, clips, and achievements.

AI Toolkits: Productivity, Photography & More

OxygenOS 16’s AI Toolkit has three pillars:

1. AI Productivity
   • Mind maps, summary generation, smart search, real-time transcription
2. AI Creativity
   • Document scanning, photo-to-PDF, motion photos, new editing tools
3. AI PlayLab (Experimental)
   • “Party Up” video generator, “YumSee” dish image creator, and more

File sharing, note-taking, and cloud/private computing controls are all enhanced.

How to Upgrade to OxygenOS 16 (Step-by-Step)

Upgrading is simple, but a few prep steps ensure things go smoothly and minimize risk.

Before You Update

• Back Up All Data: Use OnePlus Clone Phone, Google Drive, or your preferred cloud service for contacts, apps, photos, and files.
• Free Up Space: At least 6GB of free storage is recommended for a glitch-free installation.
• Check Battery: Charge to at least 60% before starting the update.
• Update Pre-Requirements: Install any interim security or feature updates before checking for OxygenOS 16.

OTA (Over-the-Air) Upgrade

1. Open Settings
2. Go to System → Updates
3. Tap Check for updates
4. If OxygenOS 16 appears, tap Download and wait for completion.
5. Tap Install now and allow your device to reboot multiple times—this is normal.

Local/Manual Installation

1. Download the correct OxygenOS 16 package (official only!)
2. Place it in your device’s root storage
3. Go to Settings → About device → Version and enable Developer Options
4. In Software Update, use the three-dot menu to enable Local Upgrade
5. Select your file and follow the prompts

Rollbacks to OxygenOS 15 are possible, but wipe all data. Make a full backup beforehand!

Benefits of Upgrading

Upgrading to OxygenOS 16 delivers transformative real-world improvements:

• Smoother, More Responsive Performance: Thanks to advanced animation engines and Parallel Processing 2.0, phones “feel” faster—especially on 120Hz+ screens.
• More Useful Customization: Tailor your lock screen, widgets, home screen, and even app icons. Your phone finally matches your personal style, not just the manufacturer’s vision.
• Smarter Everyday AI: Mind Space and Gemini lighten your cognitive load. Summarize research, quickly find files, or automate workflows with a few taps.
• Powerful Multitasking: Run more apps at once, use multi-window tools, and effortlessly drag-and-drop between devices (Open Canvas and enhanced multitasking on tablets/foldables).
• Improved Camera Output: AI-powered features result in better night shots, portraits, and instant photo touch-up—no pro skills needed.
• Future-Ready Security: Android 16’s security additions mean safer data, better privacy dashboards, and advanced features like Advanced Protection and Identity Check.
• Apple Ecosystem Integration (Limited): Notification mirroring, camera controls, and health data sync with Apple Watch.

Drawbacks & Things to Consider

No major OS update is flawless. Here’s what to watch for with OxygenOS 16:

• Early Bugs: Betas can be unstable and some bugs may persist in early public rollouts.
• App Compatibility: Not all apps may work perfectly at launch—especially banking, security, or niche utilities.
• Resource Usage: Older or lower-end devices may not realize the full performance/longevity benefits. Extra AI features can consume more RAM or slightly reduce battery life, though adaptive management aims to balance this.
• Learning Curve: The new UI (especially the notification panel, quick settings, and customization menus) will take some users time to adapt.
• Privacy Concerns: Mind Space and AI features that reference cloud-based Gemini require reviewing (and potentially limiting) data sharing.
• Big Storage Footprint: The update is hefty. Users with 128GB or less should manage space carefully.

User Tips for a Smooth Upgrade

• Backup, backup, backup! Never rely on any update not causing issues.
• Familiarize yourself with new permissions—especially for Mind Space and Gemini integration.
• Check app compatibility: Especially if you depend on certain banking or business applications.
• Monitor battery/heat: Allow several days for system optimizations after the update.
• Explore settings: New features are sometimes off by default or need to be toggled.
• Join OnePlus forums: Early bug reports and solutions surface here fastest.
• Use widget options judiciously: Too many can clutter the new lock/home screens.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will OxygenOS 16 be available for my device?

• Flagships & tablets: November 2025
• Mid-range Nord series: December 2025
• Older flagships/tablets: Q1 2026

Can I manually install OxygenOS 16 before the OTA?

• Yes, using official update packages, but always back up your data first.

Will beta channel users get the update first?

• Usually, yes. But beta builds may be less stable than final rollouts.

What is Mind Space and how does it help?

• It’s OnePlus’s digital “vault” for notes, screenshots, and voice memos, now supercharged by Google Gemini’s AI for summaries, reminders, and planning.

Does OxygenOS 16 use more battery?

• Some users notice a minor hit early on, but adaptive management often balances this within a week. Older phones may see less benefit.

Can I roll back to OxygenOS 15?

• Yes—using a rollback package, but this completely wipes your device.

What security improvements are included?

• Advanced Protection, updated privacy dashboard, better passcode/identity management, and Android 16’s under-the-hood protections.

Does OxygenOS 16 work with Apple Watch?

• Limited but expanding support for notifications, fitness data, and camera controls.

Is the update worth it for older phones?

• If you rely on speed, AI, or customization, yes. If stability is your top need and the phone is 3+ years old, consider waiting for stable feedback.

Conclusion: Should You Upgrade?

You have seen OxygenOS 16 Compatible devices, so you know if you can upgrade. OxygenOS 16 is OnePlus’s most versatile and user-focused update yet. For most users with compatible devices—especially recent flagships and Nords—the upgrade is absolutely worth it: smoother visuals, smarter AI, real cross-device compatibility, and a more beautiful daily experience.

Older devices or stability-focused users should carefully back up, review feedback, and perhaps wait until one or two minor updates address any teething bugs.

If you want your phone to feel smarter, faster, and truly personal, OxygenOS 16 delivers in meaningful ways. Don’t just update for new features—update for a better relationship with your daily tech.

Sources: The Indian Express, Android Central, 9To5Google