Tech wrap this week: Galaxy M17 5G, ASUS ROG Ally lead big launches
From budget-friendly powerhouses to premium limited editions, this week’s gadget scene is buzzing with fresh openings in the smartphone and handheld gaming space. Brands like Samsung, Realme, Vivo, Motorola, HMD Global, and ASUS are rolling out devices designed to appeal to different segments of the Indian market and tech enthusiasts worldwide. Here’s a closer look at the biggest launches and what they mean for consumers.
Samsung Galaxy M17 5G: a budget-friendly 5G powerhouse
The Samsung Galaxy M17 5G is set to arrive with a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display and a vertical pill-shaped rear camera module, combining a modern aesthetic with practical features. With up to 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, it targets buyers seeking a reliable daily driver at an accessible price point. The IP54 rating adds dust and splash resistance, making it a sensible pick for everyday use. Rumors point to One UI 7 based on Android 15, promising a refreshed software experience. Pricing is expected to be under ₹15,000, aligning with the device’s position as a value-focused option in Samsung’s lineup.
Realme 15 Pro 5G Game of Thrones Limited Edition
Realme adds a flair of fantasy with the Game of Thrones Edition of the Realme 15 Pro 5G. The device showcases exclusive black-and-gold styling, a 3D engraved Dragon Claw border around the camera island, and nano-engraved motifs that echo the fantasy theme. The back panel reportedly changes to a fiery red with warm water exposure (42°C or higher), a novelty feature designed to stand out in retail showcases. Priced from ₹ 44,999, this limited edition aims at collectors and fans who want a premium look with flagship-inspired touches.
HMD Touch 4G: India’s first hybrid feature phone
HMD Global enters a niche but practical space with the Touch 4G, billed as India’s first hybrid phone. A 3.2-inch touchscreen pairs with a basic camera setup (2MP rear, 0.3MP front) for essential communications. The Express chat app adds a social edge, enabling groups and video calls despite a simpler hardware profile. Priced at ₹ 3,999, it’s pitched as an ultra-affordable option for first-time smartphone users or as a supplementary device for staying connected without breaking the bank.
ASUS ROG Ally and ROG Ally X: handheld gaming evolution
ASUS expands its handheld gaming ambitions with two devices: the ROG Ally and ROG Ally X. Both run Windows 11 Home on AMD Ryzen Z2 processors, delivering solid gaming performance in a portable form. A 7-inch full HD IPS display, 120 Hz refresh rate, and 500 nits brightness ensure engaging visuals on the go. The devices use Gorilla Glass Victus protection and offer Corning DXC anti-reflection coating for clearer viewing in varied lighting. Pricing places the standard ROG Ally at ₹ 69,990 and the higher-spec ROG Ally X at ₹ 1,14,990, appealing to gamers who want desktop-level flexibility outside a traditional PC setup.
Vivo V60e and Moto G06 Power: mid-range and value options
Vivo introduces the V60e with a 6.77-inch Quad Curved AMOLED display, a 6,500 mAh battery, and a strong camera stack including a 200 MP primary sensor. Running Android 15 on MediaTek Dimensity 7360-Turbo, the V60e targets mid-range buyers seeking premium screen tech and long battery life, with prices starting around ₹29,999. Motorola follows with the Moto G06 Power, featuring a 6.88-inch display, a generous 7,000 mAh battery, and Dolby Atmos stereo speakers. Powered by the MediaTek G81 Extreme, this model combines a large display with solid endurance, positioning itself as a dependable budget option at ₹7,499 onward.
What these launches mean for consumers
Across these new devices, a few trends are clear. Budget and mid-range smartphones continue to evolve with standout displays and battery life, while special-edition designs cater to enthusiasts who want something unique. Handheld gaming devices are expanding beyond traditional consoles, offering portable Windows-based experiences with high-refresh-rate screens. For shoppers, the key is balancing features, battery life, and price, then weighing how much specialty branding, like a Game of Thrones motif, matters in daily use.
Stay tuned for more
CNBCTV18’s market coverage will continue to track real-time updates on these launches and any pricing changes as they become official. For deeper insights into every device’s specs, performance benchmarks, and long-term value, follow our ongoing tech coverage across CNBC-TV18 and related channels.
