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| The successors to the Vivo X300 Pro and Vivo X300 are slowly taking shape as the Vivo X500 Pro Max and Vivo X500. |
Vivo's upcoming X500 series is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious camera-centric smartphone launches of the year, with four distinct models already appearing in global databases and fresh leaks revealing substantial sensor upgrades across the lineup.
The Chinese smartphone manufacturer appears to be preparing a comprehensive refresh of its premium X-series, with the Vivo X500, X500e, X500 Pro, and Vivo X500 Pro Max all surfacing in the IMEI database in recent weeks. This suggests a global launch is imminent, though Vivo has yet to officially confirm any release dates.
Camera Innovations Take Center Stage
According to renowned Chinese leaker Digital Chat Station, the camera systems across the Vivo X500 series will see significant improvements, particularly in sensor technology and image stabilization. The leaker, who has a strong track record of accurate smartphone predictions, shared detailed specifications for both the standard Vivo X500 and the top-tier Pro Max variant.
The Vivo X500 Pro Max, positioned as the direct successor to the X300 Pro, is expected to retain a generous 6.85-inch display while introducing groundbreaking camera hardware. Current test units suggest the device will feature a 50-megapixel 1/1.28-inch Sony sensor equipped with LOFIC (Lateral Overflow Integration Capacitor) technology, which promises dramatically improved dynamic range.
This marks the potential debut of Sony's recently unveiled Lytia L910 sensor, designed specifically to handle challenging lighting conditions that typically frustrate smartphone photographers.
Improved Stabilization Technology
While the Pro Max's primary camera represents the most significant upgrade, Digital Chat Station notes that much of the proven Zeiss triple-camera design philosophy carries over from previous generations. However, image stabilization is receiving a notable boost, with the Vivo X500 Pro reportedly inheriting stabilization technology from the Vivo X300 Ultra that meets the stringent CIPA 7.0 criteria—a first for any mobile phone.
The telephoto capabilities remain impressive, with the 200-megapixel 1/1.4-inch 85mm sensor making a return alongside a 50-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera. The setup continues to support high-quality telemacro photography, a feature that has become increasingly popular among mobile photography enthusiasts.
Standard Vivo X500 Embraces New Sony Sensor
Perhaps the most intriguing development comes with the standard Vivo X500, which appears to be moving away from the 200-megapixel sensor found in its predecessor. Instead, Vivo is reportedly equipping the device with a 1/1.28-inch 50-megapixel Sony sensor, though notably without the LOFIC technology reserved for the Pro Max variant.
The standard model will maintain a 50-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera while introducing a promising new 1/2-inch 64-megapixel Sony sensor for the 70mm periscope telephoto. This sensor is believed to be the recently announced Sony LYT-610, which promises significant quality improvements over previous iterations.
For the most recent updates directly from the source, check Digital Chat Station's Weibo feed here.
Display Sizes Across the Lineup
The Vivo X500 series will offer distinct size options to cater to different preferences. The standard Vivo X500 features a 6.59-inch display, which the leaker describes as "medium-sized"—an interesting characterization given the trend toward larger screens in flagship devices.
Meanwhile, the Vivo X500 Pro is expected to appeal to users who prefer more compact devices with a 6.37-inch display, making it one of the smaller premium smartphones expected in 2026.
What This Means for Mobile Photography
The Vivo X500 series represents a maturation of the company's camera strategy. While the Pro Max pushes boundaries with LOFIC technology and industry-leading stabilization, the standard model offers a compelling alternative with its new Sony LYT-610 telephoto sensor.
The potential inclusion of telephoto macro photography on the 70mm periscope camera could further distinguish the Vivo X500 from competitors, building on the brand's reputation for versatile camera systems.
For additional insights and behind-the-scenes updates from Digital Chat Station, follow their Weibo channel.
Launch Timeline and Availability
While the IMEI database entries confirm the existence of all four models, Vivo has not provided an official launch timeline. However, given the frequency of recent leaks and regulatory filings, an announcement could come within the coming months.
The Vivo X500 series is expected to launch initially in China before expanding to global markets, following the company's typical release pattern. European and Asian markets are likely to see the devices first, with other regions following shortly after.
As always with pre-release information, specifications and features may change before the official announcement. Tech enthusiasts and potential buyers should await Vivo's official confirmation for final specifications and pricing details.
The Vivo X500 series appears poised to continue the brand's tradition of innovative smartphone photography while offering distinct options for different user preferences—from the compact Pro model to the feature-packed Pro Max with its revolutionary LOFIC sensor technology.
Source : Digital Chat Station Weibo (2)
Image: Weibo
