April has been a thrilling month for smartphone enthusiasts, with numerous budget phones making their debut amidst political drama, particularly between the US and China. As a part of this ongoing saga, Apple reportedly flew 1.5 million iPhones from India using six chartered planes to maintain price stability. Meanwhile, the Honor India CEO is moving on to a new smartphone venture, leaving many to wonder what the future holds for the brand in India. Amidst all this, May promises to deliver an array of exciting smartphone launches that could shake up the market.
If you’re contemplating a new smartphone purchase, it’s wise to hold off for just a bit longer. Budget devices are evolving, incorporating features typically reserved for premium models, and the trend towards mini phones is making a comeback. This article will explore some of the most anticipated budget smartphones set to launch this month and what they bring to the table.
OnePlus Note C5: A Budget Powerhouse
The first phone on our radar is the OnePlus Note C5, expected to launch in the second week of May. This model features a design that is both minimalist and familiar, striking a balance between style and functionality. Under the hood, it is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8300 processor, which, while launched in November 2024, shows promising performance metrics.
To give you a better idea, the Dimensity 8300 scores around 14 lakh on the Android benchmark, comparable to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. The Note C5 also packs a punch with its specifications:
- UFS 3.1 storage
- 50 MP main camera
- 8 MP ultra-wide camera
- 7100 mAh battery
This impressive battery capacity reflects a growing trend in budget phones, which are now offering larger batteries while remaining slim and manageable. The expected price for the Note C5 is around ₹25,000, making it a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers.
A New Era for Compact Phones
Recent studies indicate that 60% of smartphone users prefer a screen size between 6 to 6.5 inches, and 88% would consider a compact phone if it performs similarly to larger flagships. Following Apple’s lead, brands like Vivo and Oppo are re-entering the compact phone segment with models like the Vivo X200 Pro Mini and Oppo X8s. Not to be left behind, OnePlus is also set to release the OnePlus 13S.
The OnePlus 13S boasts a frosted glass back and a dual-camera setup, delivering an excellent in-hand feel. It is set to launch as the OnePlus 13T in China on April 24, with an Indian release expected in the first or second week of June. Key specifications include:
- 6.3-inch display
- Snapdragon 8 processor
- 50 MP dual-camera setup
- 6260 mAh battery
With its price in China around ₹38,800, it’s anticipated to retail for approximately ₹50,000 in India.
Motorola Edge60 Pro: Performance and Style
Next up is the Motorola Edge60 Pro, which is gaining traction in the market. The previous Edge series set a high bar with its vibrant designs and user interface improvements. The Edge60 Pro is rumored to feature a MediaTek 8350 processor, promising significant performance enhancements over its predecessor.
Additional features include:
- 50 MP main camera
- Telephoto camera
- 6000 mAh battery
- 90 watt charging capability
Expected pricing for the Edge60 Pro is around ₹35,000 in India, making it a strong contender in the mid-range segment.
Poco F7: Flagship Performance on a Budget
Known for its performance-driven smartphones, Poco is set to launch the Poco F7, which could make waves in the budget flagship market. The device is rumored to be equipped with the new Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 processor and will also sport a massive 7550 mAh battery with 90 watt fast charging.
The anticipated launch is in the fourth week of May, with pricing around ₹30,000. The Poco F7 Ultra may also be making its way to India, potentially priced between ₹50,000 to ₹55,000.
Realme GT7 Series: Affordable Flagship Experience
Realme continues to impress with its GT series, known for delivering flagship-level performance at competitive prices. The Realme GT7 series is set to launch in India in the second or third week of May, following its successful debut in China.
Specifications to look out for include:
- 144 Hz display
- 50 MP dual-camera setup
- 7200 mAh battery
- 100 watt fast charging
- MediaTek Dimensity 9400 Plus
Pricing for the Realme GT7 is expected to start around ₹35,000 to ₹40,000 in India.
CMF Phone 2 Pro: A New Trend in Budget Phones
Finally, we have the CMF Phone 2 Pro, which is generating buzz for its innovative features, including a telephoto camera under ₹20,000. This model will also come bundled with a charger, a welcome return for budget-conscious consumers.
In addition to smartphones, the tech landscape is buzzing with news about smart glasses. Meta is rumored to launch its Ray-Ban smart glasses in India, with previous models showcasing impressive functionality. These glasses could retail for around ₹30,000 based on international pricing, while Meta’s upcoming Orion glasses are expected to be priced significantly higher, around ₹80,000 to ₹90,000 in India.
Conclusion
As we move into May, the smartphone landscape is set for an exciting transformation with a plethora of new launches. From budget-friendly options like the OnePlus Note C5 to premium offerings like the Realme GT7, there’s something for everyone. Additionally, the revival of compact phones and the introduction of innovative features across the board promise to enhance user experience. Which upcoming smartphone or gadget are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments!
Credit: TechWiser
