Tag: Ai features

  • Nothing Phone (3a)

    The Phone (3a) launched in India in March 2025 at Rs 24,999 for 8 GB plus 128 GB. It brought telephoto zoom to Nothing's affordable line for the first time and introduced the Essential Key, a dedicated side button that captures screenshots, voice notes and ideas into Essential Space, Nothing's AI-powered organiser.

    Its 6.77-inch flexible AMOLED runs at 120Hz with high brightness, and the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 offers a meaningful step up over the Phone (2a) in both performance and efficiency. The Glyph lights return, arranged around a horizontal camera island, and the phone gains IP64 protection. Nothing OS 3.1 on Android 15 promises three years of OS updates.

    The triple camera, a 50 MP main with OIS, a 50 MP 2x telephoto and an 8 MP ultrawide, is versatile for the price, with portraits a highlight. The 5000 mAh battery lasts well over a day, with 50W charging. Against the Realme 14 Pro and Redmi Note 14 Pro, the (3a) wins on telephoto flexibility and clean software, though the ultrawide is weak.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 24,999 (base variant)
    India launchMarch 2025
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.77-inch, Flexible AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2392
    ProcessorSnapdragon 7s Gen 3
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main (OIS) + 50 MP 2x telephoto + 8 MP ultrawide
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging50W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 15, Nothing OS 3.1
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP64
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight201 g
    ColoursBlack, White, Blue

    What we like

    • 2x telephoto camera at a mid-range price
    • Faster Snapdragon 7s Gen 3
    • Essential Key and AI organiser
    • Clean software

    What could be better

    • Weak 8 MP ultrawide
    • No wireless charging
    • Essential Key cannot be fully remapped at launch

    Who should buy it

    Mid-range buyers who want portrait-friendly zoom, clean software and good battery life.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (March 2025). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Google Pixel 8 Pro

    Google launched the Pixel 8 Pro in India in October 2023 at Rs 1,06,999 for 12 GB plus 128 GB, putting it in the same bracket as the iPhone 15 Pro and Galaxy S23 Ultra. It moved to a flat 6.7-inch display, a matte glass back, and introduced a temperature sensor, a curious extra that saw little real-world use.

    The Super Actua LTPO OLED is one of the brightest displays of its year, running between 1 and 120Hz. Tensor G3 brings on-device AI features including Video Boost, Magic Editor and Best Take, though it remains behind Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and Apple A17 Pro in graphics performance and efficiency. Seven years of updates make it a long-term proposition.

    The camera system was upgraded to a 50 MP main, 48 MP ultrawide and 48 MP 5x telephoto, with Pro controls for manual settings. Image quality is excellent across lenses, especially in low light. The 5050 mAh battery gives a full day, charging at 30W wired and supporting wireless. Its high Indian price was the biggest obstacle compared with the S23 Ultra.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 106,999 (base variant)
    India launchOctober 2023
    SegmentFlagship
    Display6.7-inch, LTPO OLED (Super Actua), 120Hz, 1344 x 2992
    ProcessorGoogle Tensor G3
    RAM12 GB
    Storage128 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 48 MP ultrawide + 48 MP 5x telephoto
    Front camera10.5 MP
    Battery5050 mAh
    Charging30W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP68
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight213 g
    ColoursObsidian, Porcelain, Bay

    What we like

    • Outstanding triple camera with Pro controls
    • Very bright flat LTPO display
    • Seven years of updates
    • Useful on-device AI features

    What could be better

    • Very expensive in India
    • Tensor G3 gaming performance lags rivals
    • Temperature sensor adds little

    Who should buy it

    Photography-focused buyers who want Google's best camera and long software support and can absorb the premium price.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (October 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Google Pixel 9

    Google launched the Pixel 9 in India in August 2024 at Rs 79,999 for 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. It introduced a new design with flat aluminium sides and a floating, pill-shaped camera island, and was among the first phones built around Gemini, with features like Gemini Live, Pixel Screenshots and Add Me.

    The 6.3-inch Actua OLED is larger than the Pixel 8's and brighter still, while the extra RAM supports on-device Gemini Nano models. Tensor G4 is a modest step over G3, so performance remains behind the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in the Galaxy S24 and the A18 in the iPhone 16, but daily use is smooth and thermals improved.

    The camera system pairs a 50 MP main sensor with a new 48 MP ultrawide that captures better detail and macro shots. The 4700 mAh battery and 27W charging deliver a full day comfortably. Against the Galaxy S24 and iPhone 16, the Pixel 9 offers the strongest AI feature set and seven years of updates, though it costs more than discounted rivals.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 79,999 (base variant)
    India launchAugust 2024
    SegmentFlagship
    Display6.3-inch, OLED (Actua), 120Hz, 1080 x 2424
    ProcessorGoogle Tensor G4
    RAM12 GB
    Storage256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 48 MP ultrawide
    Front camera10.5 MP
    Battery4700 mAh
    Charging27W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP68
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight198 g
    ColoursObsidian, Porcelain, Wintergreen, Peony

    What we like

    • Gemini AI features built in
    • Improved 48 MP ultrawide
    • Bright 6.3-inch Actua display
    • Seven years of updates

    What could be better

    • Tensor G4 is only a small upgrade
    • No telephoto lens
    • Charging speeds still modest

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want Google's AI features and reliable cameras in a mid-sized flagship with long software support.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (August 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Google Pixel 8

    The Pixel 8 launched in India in October 2023 at Rs 75,999 for 8 GB plus 128 GB, a sizeable jump over the Pixel 7. Google justified it with a brighter 120Hz display, the new Tensor G3 and, most importantly, seven years of Android OS and security updates, a commitment no Android rival matched at the time.

    The 6.2-inch Actua OLED is smaller than the Pixel 7's screen and very bright, and the softer rounded corners make the phone comfortable to hold. Tensor G3 improved efficiency and enabled new AI tools such as Best Take, Magic Editor and Audio Magic Eraser. It still trails the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in the Galaxy S23 on gaming performance.

    The 50 MP main and 12 MP ultrawide cameras, now with autofocus on the ultrawide for macro shots, remain dependable and natural. The 4575 mAh battery gives a solid day of use, charging at 27W wired and wirelessly. Against the Galaxy S23 and iPhone 15, it competes on camera and software longevity, but its launch price made it hard to recommend over discounted rivals.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 75,999 (base variant)
    India launchOctober 2023
    SegmentFlagship
    Display6.2-inch, OLED (Actua), 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorGoogle Tensor G3
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 12 MP ultrawide
    Front camera10.5 MP
    Battery4575 mAh
    Charging27W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP68
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight187 g
    ColoursObsidian, Hazel, Rose

    What we like

    • Seven years of OS and security updates
    • Bright, smooth 120Hz Actua display
    • Excellent AI photo tools
    • Compact and comfortable

    What could be better

    • High launch price in India
    • Tensor G3 still trails Snapdragon in gaming
    • Charging is slow by Indian standards

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who plan to keep a compact phone for many years and value camera and software over raw speed.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (October 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Oppo Reno 12 Pro

    The Reno 12 Pro launched in India in July 2024 alongside the Reno 12, adding a 50 MP telephoto camera and a 50 MP selfie camera while keeping the same AI features. It targeted buyers who wanted portraits and AI tools in a slim design, competing with the Vivo V40, Samsung Galaxy A55 and OnePlus Nord 4.

    The 6.7-inch curved AMOLED display at 120Hz is sharp and bright. Oddly, the Reno 12 Pro uses the same Dimensity 7300 Energy chip as the cheaper Reno 12, so performance is adequate for daily use but not for heavy gaming. IP65 protection is included. ColorOS 14.1 on Android 14 brings AI Eraser, AI Best Face and other editing tools that work well in practice.

    The 50 MP main camera with OIS, 50 MP 2x telephoto and 8 MP ultrawide deliver strong portraits, and the 50 MP autofocus selfie camera is a highlight. The 5,000 mAh battery with 80W charging lasts a day. Against the OnePlus Nord 4, it offered better portraits and a telephoto lens, while OnePlus had much stronger performance and a metal unibody at a lower price.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 36,999 (base variant)
    India launchJuly 2024
    SegmentUpper mid-range
    Display6.7-inch, Curved AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7300 Energy
    RAM12 GB
    Storage256 GB / 512 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main with OIS + 50 MP 2x telephoto + 8 MP ultrawide
    Front camera50 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging80W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, ColorOS 14.1
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP65
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursSpace Brown, Sunset Gold

    What we like

    • 50 MP 2x telephoto camera
    • 50 MP autofocus selfie camera
    • AI editing tools
    • IP65 rating

    What could be better

    • Same chip as the cheaper Reno 12
    • Weak for heavy gaming
    • Priced above faster rivals

    Who should buy it

    Selfie and portrait enthusiasts who want AI editing tools in a slim phone.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (July 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Oppo Reno 13

    The Oppo Reno 13 launched in India in January 2025 with a noticeably more compact design than previous Reno phones, along with a flat aluminium frame and a much faster chip. It aimed at buyers who wanted a smaller, premium-feeling phone, competing with the Vivo V50, Samsung Galaxy A56 and Nothing Phone (3a).

    The 6.59-inch AMOLED display at 120Hz is sharp and easy to use with one hand. The Dimensity 8350 marks a big performance jump over the Reno 12's Dimensity 7300, handling games and multitasking with ease. IP66, IP68 and IP69 ratings give it strong protection against dust and water. ColorOS 15 on Android 15 brings smooth animations and a set of AI editing and writing features.

    The 50 MP main camera with OIS and an 8 MP ultrawide handle most situations well, though there is no telephoto lens on the standard model. The 50 MP selfie camera is excellent. The 5,600 mAh battery offers strong endurance for a compact phone, with 80W wired charging. Against the Vivo V50, it was smaller and faster, while Vivo had a better ultrawide and a bigger battery.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 37,999 (base variant)
    India launchJanuary 2025
    SegmentUpper mid-range
    Display6.59-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1256 x 2760
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 8350
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main with OIS + 8 MP ultrawide
    Front camera50 MP
    Battery5600 mAh
    Charging80W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 15, ColorOS 15
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP66, IP68, IP69
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursIvory White, Luminous Blue

    What we like

    • Compact, premium design
    • Dimensity 8350 performance
    • IP66, IP68 and IP69 ratings
    • 5,600 mAh battery for its size

    What could be better

    • No telephoto camera
    • Basic 8 MP ultrawide
    • Priced higher than previous Reno base models

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a compact, durable phone with strong performance and selfies.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (January 2025). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Oppo Reno 12

    Oppo launched the Reno 12 in India in July 2024 with a strong emphasis on AI features, including AI Eraser, AI Best Face and AI Clear Face for photo editing. It used MediaTek's Dimensity 7300 Energy chip and a slim curved design. Rivals included the Vivo V40, Samsung Galaxy A35 and Motorola Edge 50 Fusion.

    The 6.7-inch curved AMOLED display at 120Hz is bright and colourful. The Dimensity 7300 Energy offers efficient everyday performance, though it is not built for heavy gaming. IP65 protection against water jets is a useful addition. ColorOS 14.1 on Android 14 brings Oppo's AI tools, which work well for removing unwanted objects and fixing blinks in group shots.

    The 50 MP main camera with OIS, 8 MP ultrawide and 2 MP macro take reliable photos, though the telephoto lens from the Reno 11 was dropped. The 32 MP selfie camera is good. The 5,000 mAh battery with 80W charging lasts a full day. Against the Vivo V40, it offered more AI editing tools, while Vivo had better cameras and higher water resistance.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 32,999 (base variant)
    India launchJuly 2024
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.7-inch, Curved AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7300 Energy
    RAM8 GB
    Storage256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main with OIS + 8 MP ultrawide + 2 MP macro
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging80W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, ColorOS 14.1
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP65
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursMatte Brown, Sunset Peach, Astro Silver

    What we like

    • Useful AI photo editing tools
    • Curved AMOLED display
    • IP65 rating
    • 80W fast charging

    What could be better

    • Dropped the telephoto lens
    • Dimensity 7300 is modest for the price
    • Macro camera adds little

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a stylish phone with practical AI editing features.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (July 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.