United News of Bangladesh

U.S. chipmaker Intel is laying off thousands of employees and scaling back projects as part of an aggressive restructuring drive under its new CEO, aimed at regaining lost ground in a competitive semiconductor market. In a memo to employees on Thursday, CEO Lip-Bu Tan said Intel plans to end the year with 75,000 “core” employees—down from 99,500 at the end of last year—through a combination of layoffs and attrition. The company had previously announced a 15% workforce cut. “These are difficult but essential steps to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and reinforce accountability across the company,” Tan said. The chipmaker is also cancelling planned expansions in Germany and Poland and will relocate its assembly and testing operations from Costa Rica to larger facilities in Vietnam and Malaysia. Costa Rica will continue to host key engineering and corporate teams, according to the memo. In the U.S., Intel said it will further delay construction of its new semiconductor plant in Ohio. Founded in 1968 and once a pioneer of the personal computing era, Intel has struggled to keep pace with rivals like Nvidia and AMD, especially amid the recent AI boom. Nvidia, once a smaller competitor, now dominates the market for AI chips and boasts a market valuation of $4.24 trillion—dwarfing Intel’s $98.71 billion market cap as of Thursday's market close. Apple iPhone 17 Series: Leaks, Rumours and Probable Release Date Tan emphasized that Intel is prioritizing its core products and AI development. “There are no more blank checks. Every investment must make economic sense,” he wrote. For the second quarter, Intel posted a net loss of $2.9 billion, or 67 cents per share—widening from a $1.6 billion loss a year earlier. Excluding special items, the adjusted loss was 10 cents per share. Revenue held steady at $12.9 billion, slightly above analysts' expectations of $12 billion, according to FactSet. Source: Agency 

In Kansas, 15-year-old high school student Kayla Chege regularly turns to artificial intelligence for a wide range of everyday questions. From back-to-school shopping and makeup suggestions to healthy smoothie options and planning birthday parties, she uses ChatGPT as a personal assistant. While Kayla avoids using chatbots to complete her homework and tries to keep her interactions limited to routine topics, she acknowledges that AI has become a constant presence in the lives of many teens. In interviews with the Associated Press and findings from a recent study, teenagers revealed that they’re increasingly treating AI like a companion—seeking advice, emotional support, and guidance for daily decisions. Experts share tips to help teens navigate the rise of AI companions “Everyone uses AI for everything now. It’s really taking over,” Kayla said, reflecting on how AI tools are shaping her generation. “I think kids use AI to get out of thinking.” Although early discussions around AI and youth largely focused on academic cheating, teenagers say its influence now extends far beyond the classroom. AI has become a trusted tool for solving personal problems and navigating everyday life.

The Apple iPhone 17 series is generating massive buzz ahead of its expected early September 2025 launch. Packed with exciting upgrades like a thinner design, advanced cameras, and next-gen chips, Apple fans are eager to see how this flagship lineup will redefine innovation legacy once again.  Apple iPhone 17 Series Rumored and Leaked New Features . A Major Redesign One of the most anticipated updates in the Apple iPhone 17 series is the introduction of the iPhone 17 Air. Apple is reportedly dropping the underwhelming "Plus" variant in favour of a sleeker, thinner, and more premium device that redefines design expectations for iPhones.  According to notable analysts such as Mark Gurman and Ming-Chi Kuo, the iPhone 17 Air will be Apple’s thinnest iPhone ever, with a remarkable thickness of between 5.5mm and 6mm. To put that in perspective, the iPhone 16 Pro has an 8.25mm body, making the Air a significant leap in engineering and design. This model is expected to sit in a perfect spot—positioned between the standard iPhone 17 and the Pro models, both in terms of size and price. It will likely feature a 6.6-inch LTPO OLED display, giving it a comfortable middle ground compared to the 6.3-inch iPhone 17 and the 6.9-inch Pro Max.  Read more: Vivo X200 FE Review: The Compact Champion Featuring Zeiss Cameras and a Massive Battery What truly sets the Air apart is its rumoured centred, horizontal camera bump, a departure from the vertical stack seen on current non-Pro models. It adds a futuristic look while accommodating the internal adjustments needed for such a thin chassis. In terms of aesthetics, the Apple iPhone 17 Air could come in a set of refined and minimalist colours, including silver, black, gold, and light blue—mirroring Apple’s Air lineup across other product categories like MacBooks and iPads. Camera Upgrades  Apple appears poised to elevate camera performance across all iPhone 17 models. The front-facing selfie camera on every model is expected to get a huge upgrade, from 12 MP to 24 MP, providing sharper images, better video call quality, and more detail in selfies. On the back, things get even more exciting. The standard iPhone 17 is expected to continue with a dual-lens setup, offering a wide and ultra-wide combination. The iPhone 17 Air, however, will go with a single 48 MP wide camera, which marks a notable upgrade for a non-Pro model and aligns with Apple’s strategy to make high-quality photography more accessible.  Read more: Tecno Spark 40 Pro Review: Budget Brilliance or Just Another Buzz? On the Pro and Pro Max, Apple is reportedly going all-in with three 48 MP sensors: wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto. This would be the first time an Apple iPhone features this level of parity across all three lenses, and the leap from a 12MP telephoto lens to a 48MP one is especially significant. Additionally, the introduction of a mechanical aperture system on Pro models may allow photographers to manually adjust depth of field, mimicking DSLR-style photography. Another standout feature in the pipeline is dual-video recording, which lets users capture footage simultaneously from both the front and rear cameras. Ideal for content creators and vloggers, this feature brings professional-level storytelling tools into the hands of everyday users. A19 Chips and More RAM  Apple is expected to standardise high performance across the entire iPhone 17 range with its next-gen A19 chip, with the Pro and Pro Max getting the A19 Pro variant. These chips are said to be based on TSMC’s 3NP architecture, offering increased speed, reduced power consumption, and enhanced AI capabilities.  To handle more resource-intensive apps and Apple’s latest AI features, all Apple iPhone 17 models will reportedly come equipped with 12GB of RAM. The increase will allow smoother multitasking, faster app launches, and better performance in high-demand tasks like gaming, video editing, and machine learning. Read more: Best Smartphones Releasing in July 2025 ProMotion for All Models One of the most exciting leaks is that Apple will finally bring ProMotion displays to every model in the iPhone 17 lineup. Previously exclusive to the Pro models, this 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate technology enables ultra-smooth scrolling, fluid animations, and better responsiveness. Apple’s move to LTPO OLED panels across the board makes this possible, as these panels are more energy-efficient and capable of variable refresh rates from 1Hz to 120Hz. While always-on display functionality might still remain a Pro-only perk, standard and Air users will still enjoy the benefits of a faster, more visually engaging interface. Design  Design is getting a refresh as well. The Pro and Pro Max models are rumoured to abandon their titanium frames for a more durable and lighter half-glass, half-aluminium body. This not only improves drop protection but also maintains MagSafe compatibility. The most striking change is the horizontal camera bar, which now spans the width of the device—similar to the Pixel design language.  Colour-wise, Apple is stepping out of its comfort zone. Along with the usual silver, black, and dark blue, a bold orange variant may join the lineup. A liquid glass-inspired white option could also debut, featuring a finish that subtly changes colour based on lighting conditions. These aesthetic choices indicate Apple’s willingness to experiment with more expressive designs. Read more: vivo T4 Ultra Review: A Game-Changing Mid-range Flagship Improved Audio and Display Protection The audio experience is rumoured to get an upgrade too. Longer earpiece cutouts and possibly enhanced speaker tuning should improve call clarity and media playback. Coupled with new software optimisations in AirPods, Apple is aiming to deliver a superior audio ecosystem. Display durability is also a key area of improvement. Apple might debut scratch-resistant, antireflective glass on the Pro models—significantly tougher than the current Ceramic Shield. This would not only enhance durability but also reduce glare, making screen content easier to view in bright environments. Vapor Chamber Cooling and Battery Upgrades To keep everything running smoothly, especially under high-performance loads, vapour chamber cooling systems could be introduced in the Apple iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. These systems efficiently dissipate heat, preventing thermal throttling during demanding tasks like gaming or extended video recording.  Battery life is getting better, too. The iPhone 17 Pro Max may house the largest battery ever in an iPhone, while the Pro variant will also benefit from increased capacity due to its slightly thicker frame, rumoured to be 8.725 mm. Charging speeds will reportedly stay at 35W wired and 25W wireless, but improvements in thermal management and battery chemistry could extend real-world usage time considerably. Read more: Infinix GT 30 Pro Review: Best Budget Gaming Phone with Flagship Features in 2025 In a Nutshell The iPhone 17 series is shaping up to be Apple’s most exciting release in years. With a completely new Air model, universal ProMotion displays, camera and performance upgrades, and a striking design refresh, Apple is signalling a bold step forward. Whether you are a casual user or a power-hungry pro, the Apple iPhone 17 lineup will likely offer something worth waiting for.

As artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in everyday life, many teenagers are turning to AI chatbots for support, companionship, and conversation. These digital companions offer constant availability, a nonjudgmental tone, and seemingly endless patience — qualities that appeal to adolescents navigating complex emotions and social situations. But experts are raising concerns over the growing use of AI companions, especially as most parents remain unaware of how frequently their children are using these tools or the amount of personal information being shared. A new study by Common Sense Media finds that over 70% of American teens have used AI companions, and more than half interact with them regularly. The research focused on apps like Character.AI, Nomi, and Replika — programs designed to simulate “digital friends” — rather than AI tools like ChatGPT, although the line between them is increasingly blurred. To help families address this emerging trend, experts recommend several strategies: — Initiate open conversations. Michael Robb, lead researcher at Common Sense Media, urges parents to talk to their teens without judgment. Start by asking questions such as, “Have you heard of AI companions?” or “Do you use any apps that talk to you like a friend?” Listening without criticism can help build trust and lead to more honest discussions. — Clarify the nature of AI relationships. AI companions are programmed to be agreeable and validating — something real relationships are not. Experts caution that this can give teens a distorted view of human connection. “These tools may feel comforting, but they lack the ability to challenge, disagree or truly empathize,” said Robb. YouTube to shut down trending page on July 21 Mitch Prinstein, chief psychologist at the American Psychological Association (APA), emphasized the potential cost: “AI conversations might be taking away valuable time from real-life relationships. We must teach young people to see AI companions as entertainment — not reality.” — Watch for signs of emotional overreliance. If a teen prefers AI conversations over real friendships, becomes distressed when not using them, or spends hours engaging with AI, parents should intervene. These behaviors may signal that AI is replacing, rather than supplementing, real social interactions. — Set boundaries and rules. Just like screen time or social media, parents can establish limits around AI use. Many AI companions are designed for adults and can simulate romantic or intimate interactions. Experts recommend discussing what is appropriate and when AI tools should be used. — Emphasize that AI is not a mental health solution. While AI may seem comforting, it is not equipped to handle crises or offer real emotional support. Children dealing with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, or loneliness should seek help from trusted people — whether family members, friends, or trained professionals. — Stay informed and involved. “A lot of parents still don’t grasp how advanced AI has become or how many teens are relying on it,” said Prinstein. “When adults say, ‘This is crazy, I don’t understand it,’ kids feel like they can’t come to us with concerns.” Teens themselves are urging a balanced approach. Ganesh Nair, an 18-year-old who is distancing himself from AI companions after noticing a negative impact on his friendships, said banning the technology is not the answer. Is Outlook down? Thousands of users report issues accessing their email “Trying not to use AI is like trying not to use social media. It’s too integrated,” Nair said. “The solution is not to run from it, but to accept the challenge. When AI makes everything easy, we become vulnerable. Seek out challenges — they build resilience and connection.” Source: Agency 

Kioxia Corporation has announced a major leap in storage technology with the launch of the world’s first 245.76 terabyte (TB) NVMe solid-state drive (SSD), aimed at meeting the intense performance and efficiency needs of generative AI systems. The new SSD, part of the KIOXIA LC9 Series, is available in 2.5-inch and EDSFF E3.L form factors and complements the earlier 122.88TB version. It features a 32-die stack of 2-terabit BiCS FLASH™ QLC 3D flash memory and innovative CMOS Bonded to Array (CBA) technology, delivering exceptional speed and density. Designed for environments such as data lakes and AI training workloads, the SSD offers compact, high-capacity storage that can replace multiple traditional hard drives—cutting down power use, cooling needs, and total cost of ownership. Microsoft halts digital film and TV sales without warning Supporting PCIe 5.0, NVMe 2.0, and advanced security protocols, the LC9 Series is now being sampled to select customers and will be showcased at the Future of Memory and Storage 2025 conference in August. Kioxia’s breakthrough marks a key milestone in enterprise data storage evolution. Source: Agency 

Jake Larson, fondly known as “Papa Jake,” a D-Day veteran who captured hearts worldwide by sharing stories of World War II and honoring his fallen comrades on TikTok, has died at the age of 102. Larson, who survived German gunfire while landing on Omaha Beach during the 1944 D-Day invasion, passed away peacefully on July 17, his granddaughter McKaela Larson announced on his social media accounts. “He went peacefully,” she wrote, adding, “As Papa would say, love you all the mostest.” Despite his harrowing wartime past, Larson was known for his charm, warmth, and humor. His storytelling endeared him to a younger generation, amassing 1.2 million followers on TikTok through his “Story Time with Papa Jake” series. Tributes poured in from across the United States and towns in Normandy, where he remained a beloved figure. Born on December 20, 1922, in Owatonna, Minnesota, Larson lied about his age to join the National Guard at just 15. He was deployed to Northern Ireland in 1942 and later became an operations sergeant, helping to plan the Allied invasion of Normandy. European Union accuses TikTok of breaching digital rules its ad database falls short On June 6, 1944, Larson was among the 160,000 Allied troops who stormed the beaches of Normandy. He landed on Omaha Beach under heavy German machine-gun fire but survived without injury and reached the bluffs above — then heavily fortified with German emplacements. Speaking to the Associated Press during the 81st D-Day anniversary this past June, Larson reflected on his duty: “We are the lucky ones. We are their family. We have the responsibility to honor these guys who gave us a chance to be alive.” He also fought in the Battle of the Bulge, one of the war’s most grueling campaigns, and was later awarded the Bronze Star and France’s prestigious Legion of Honor. In recent years, Larson returned regularly to Normandy for D-Day commemorations. He was always met with admiration and gratitude — and countless selfie requests, to which he responded with heartfelt hugs. In a memorable moment in 2023, he embraced fellow D-Day veteran Bill Gladden, then 99, saying, “We were meant to meet.” Gladden passed away the following year. Larson’s TikTok videos blended light-hearted jokes with sobering reflections on the cost of war. “I’m no hero,” he once said. And in a message to global leaders in 2024, he urged: “Make peace, not war.” He often marveled at his fame late in life. “I’m just a country boy. Now I’m a star on TikTok,” he told AP in 2023. “I’m a legend! I didn’t plan this — it came about.” Across Normandy, local museums and remembrance groups paid tribute to Larson, whom they described as an “exceptional witness” to history. “He came every year to the museum, with his smile, his humility, and his tales that touched all generations,” read a post from the Overlord Museum. “His stories will continue to live. Rest in peace, Papa Jake. Thanks for everything.” Source: Agency  

Microsoft has abruptly pulled out of the digital movie and TV business, ceasing all sales and rentals through its Movies & TV app without prior notice. As of Friday, users can no longer buy or rent films and shows via Microsoft.com, the Microsoft Store on Windows, or the Xbox platform. A support notice on the company’s website states, “Important: Microsoft no longer offers new entertainment content for purchase, including movies and TV shows, on Microsoft.com, Microsoft Store on Windows, and the Microsoft Store on Xbox.” A similar message also appears on Xbox’s support page. Nvidia to resume AI chip sales to China with U.S. approval No reason was provided for the sudden decision, according to Variety. Users who have previously purchased digital content can still access it on Windows and Xbox devices. However, Microsoft will not issue refunds. As per the Microsoft Store Terms of Sale, “Movies and TV shows are ineligible for refunds.” Microsoft’s venture into digital entertainment began in 2006 with its Zune media player. This later evolved into Xbox Video in 2012, before rebranding as Microsoft Movies & TV in 2015.

Although travelers are hopeful that restrictions on carrying liquids through airport security may soon be eased, many U.S. airports still haven’t upgraded to advanced scanners capable of reliably detecting liquid explosives. While it’s a common frustration to dispose of drinks or limit toiletries before boarding, the real challenge lies in distinguishing between benign substances and potentially dangerous ones. The importance of this became clear after a 2006 terror plot in the UK involving liquid explosives disguised in sports drink bottles. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem recently suggested that changes to current liquid restrictions may be coming, stating, “The liquids, I’m questioning. So that may be the next big announcement.” However, officials say no immediate changes are planned. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) confirmed it is constantly evaluating ways to enhance security while improving passenger experience. Earlier this month, TSA lifted the rule requiring passengers to remove shoes—originally implemented after the 2001 “shoe bomber” plot. The current liquid limits, set after the 2006 UK plot, cap carry-on liquids at 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) due to concerns over X-ray machines' inability to detect liquid explosives. While some countries like the UK have considered relaxing this limit, the move has been delayed by the slow rollout of new computed tomography (CT) scanners. Starlink officially launched in Bangladesh These advanced machines provide high-resolution, 3D images that allow screeners to better identify threats. TSA official Johnny Jones said the technology “eliminates the guesswork” and significantly improves detection capabilities. Yet, only 255 of the 432 U.S. airports currently have these machines, and full deployment may not be completed until 2043 due to high costs and the need for structural modifications at checkpoints. Experts warn that rolling out new liquid rules at only select airports could confuse travelers. Meanwhile, some aviation security professionals argue it's premature to lift restrictions without broader scanner coverage. Despite past reports highlighting TSA screening gaps, agency officials emphasize that no aircraft has been lost due to missed threats since its creation in 2002. Source: Agency 

Netflix has confirmed that it used generative artificial intelligence (AI) to create visual effects in one of its original series for the first time. Co-CEO Ted Sarandos revealed that the technology was employed to generate a scene depicting a building collapse in The Eternaut, a science fiction drama from Argentina. Sarandos explained that generative AI, which can produce videos and images from text prompts, enabled the production team to complete complex sequences faster and at significantly lower costs. He noted that traditional methods would have made such scenes financially unfeasible for a series with a modest budget. "This is the first time final generative AI footage has appeared on screen in a Netflix original," said Sarandos, adding that the show's creators were delighted with the results. Advisory board urges continued nonprofit oversight of OpenAI Netflix’s announcement coincided with its latest financial report, which showed a 16% year-on-year revenue increase to $11 billion for the second quarter, with profits rising from $2.1 billion to $3.1 billion. The success of Squid Game: The Challenge, the final season of the hit South Korean thriller, played a key role in the platform’s strong performance, drawing 122 million views so far. Despite the technological innovation, the use of AI in the entertainment industry remains a contentious issue. Critics argue that generative AI may exploit existing creative works without consent and could lead to job losses. These concerns were central to the 2023 Hollywood strikes, where actors and writers demanded clearer regulations on AI usage. Filmmaker Tyler Perry even paused an $800 million expansion of his Atlanta studio in 2024, citing fears over AI’s potential impact on employment in the industry. The release of advanced tools like OpenAI’s Sora, capable of generating high-quality footage from text prompts, further fueled both excitement and anxiety across the creative sector. Industry professionals, however, see AI as a new addition to the creative toolkit. Davier Yoon, co-founder of Singapore-based animation studio CraveFX, said Netflix’s move reflects a broader industry shift. “Generative AI allows smaller studios to create visuals that rival big-budget productions,” he said. “At the end of the day, it's the artist—not AI—who shapes the final image.” #With inputs from BBC

Vivo has carved a name in the premium smartphone world with its innovative X series, known for flagship-grade cameras and sleek designs. The latest addition, the Vivo X200 FE, launched on 5 July 2025, continues this tradition with a powerful compact package built for performance lovers. Let's take a look at the main features, specifications, pros, cons and pricing of the Vivo X200 FE in Bangladesh. Key Features & Specs of vivo X200 FE . Design and Build Quality The Vivo X200 FE is a compact flagship that does not skimp on premium aesthetics or durability. With a sleek aluminium frame sandwiched between a glass front and back, it measures just 150.8 mm tall and weighs 186 g, perfect for one-handed use.  Its IP68/IP69 rating for dust and water resistance is a rare bonus at this size, even rivalling the rugged capabilities of Sharp Aquos R8s (which is MIL-STD-810G compliant) and exceeding the Motorola Razr 2025’s IP48 protection. While the Razr has a unique folding design and eco-leather finish, the X200 FE feels more solid and less gimmicky.  Compared to its bigger sibling, the Vivo X200, which is slightly larger and heavier (197–202 g), the X200 FE appeals to users seeking portability without compromising on materials. The colour options—Luxe Grey, Frost Blue, Amber Yellow, and Pink Vibe—add flair for those who care about visual appeal. Read more: Tecno Spark 40 Pro Review: Budget Brilliance or Just Another Buzz? Display Quality The Vivo X200 FE packs a stunning 6.31‑inch LTPO AMOLED display with 1B colours, a 120 Hz refresh rate, 2160 Hz PWM dimming, HDR10+ support, and an incredible peak brightness of 5,000 nits. The visuals are vibrant and sharp (at 1216×2640 resolution, ~461 ppi) and remain clear even under intense sunlight.  In comparison, the standard Vivo X200 features a slightly larger 6.67‑inch AMOLED display with a similar 2160 Hz PWM and HDR10+, but peaks at 4,500 nits. While both are excellent, the FE’s brightness makes it unbeatable outdoors. The Sharp Aquos R8s uses a PRO IGZO LTPO OLED panel with Dolby Vision support, but it peaks at just 1,300 nits, making it look dim beside the X200 FE in bright conditions. The Motorola Razr 2025’s foldable LTPO AMOLED screen is large (6.9″) and visually rich but peaks at 3,000 nits and feels more fragile due to the folding mechanism.  The X200 FE’s flat panel with Schott Xensation glass offers the best balance between performance, durability, and comfort for compact flagship seekers. Read more: Best Smartphones Releasing in July 2025 Camera Performance Vivo continues its imaging legacy with a powerful triple rear setup on the X200 FE: a 50 MP wide lens, a 50 MP periscope telephoto with 3x optical zoom, and an 8 MP ultrawide lens. Zeiss optics, laser autofocus, and Zeiss T* coating bring professional-level clarity and flare control. In daylight, shots are crisp, and the 50 MP selfie cam is a dream for content creators. Low-light performance is respectable, though the 8 MP ultrawide shows some soft edges and noise. Compared to the Vivo X200, which carries a superior 50 MP ultrawide camera with autofocus and a more advanced main sensor with OIS, the FE falls slightly short in diversity and sensor depth. However, the FE still outperforms competitors like the Motorola Razr 2025 and Sharp Aquos R8s. The Razr’s dual-camera setup lacks the FE’s periscope lens and struggles in low light, while the Sharp’s 13 MP ultrawide feels outdated and delivers middling detail. In video, the X200 FE records in 4K at 60 fps with HDR and gyro‑EIS, ensuring steady and vibrant footage—on par with most 2025 flagships. The Razr also shoots 4K, but the output lacks the vivid contrast and dynamic range Vivo's Zeiss partnership brings to the table. Processor Performance Under the hood, the Vivo X200 FE is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ (4 nm), built for flagship-level multitasking and speed. It boasts an octa-core CPU with a high-performance 3.4 GHz Cortex-X4 core and Immortalis-G720 MC12 GPU. While it is slightly less powerful on paper than the Vivo X200’s Dimensity 9400 (3 nm) and Immortalis-G925 GPU, the FE still performs fluidly across all tasks. Read more: vivo T4 Ultra Review: A Game-Changing Mid-range Flagship In daily usage, you will barely notice the difference unless benchmarking is your thing. Compared to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip in the Sharp Aquos R8s, the Dimensity 9300+ is more energy-efficient and slightly faster in AI and multitasking tasks. Meanwhile, the Motorola Razr 2025's Dimensity 7400X, paired with a Mali-G615 GPU, feels a step behind in both general responsiveness and heavy app loads. For users who prioritise consistent flagship-grade speed without thermal throttling, the X200 FE remains ahead of both competitors. Gaming Performance Gaming on the Vivo X200 FE is a smooth affair. The combination of a powerful GPU, 12–16 GB RAM, and a high-refresh-rate AMOLED screen ensures a top-tier experience in games like Genshin Impact, PUBG, or Call of Duty Mobile. Thermal performance is well-controlled, though there’s minor warmth after extended play or fast charging sessions. The Razr 2025, with its weaker GPU and foldable screen, is not built with hardcore gaming in mind. It struggles to maintain stable frame rates in graphically intensive titles. The Aquos R8s, though built on a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, does not have a gaming-optimised cooling system and tends to throttle over long periods.  Here, the X200 FE, despite lacking the ultra-performance edge of the X200’s Dimensity 9400, still delivers a far more reliable gaming experience than its similarly priced rivals. Read more: Infinix GT 30 Pro Review: Best Budget Gaming Phone with Flagship Features in 2025 Battery Life One of the standout features of the Vivo X200 FE is its massive 6,500 mAh battery (outside Austria and Hungary). It is rare to see this capacity in such a compact phone. In real-world use, this means 1.5 to 2 days of battery life for moderate users and a full day for power users with heavy media consumption. When you do run low, 90 W fast charging refills the phone to 100% in just under 60 minutes. By contrast, the Vivo X200 offers a smaller 5,800 mAh battery and similar 90 W charging speed—but drains quicker due to its larger display and more powerful processor. The Sharp Aquos R8s is limited by a 4,750 mAh battery and slow 15 W charging—totally outdated by 2025 standards.  The Motorola Razr 2025 also disappoints with a 4,500 mAh battery and 30 W charging (though it adds 15 W wireless support), but it cannot compete with the endurance the X200 FE delivers. Overall, the FE’s battery life is unmatched in this size class. Software and User Interface Running Android 15 with Funtouch OS 15, the Vivo X200 FE promises four major Android upgrades, keeping it future-proof until Android 19. Funtouch 15 is now lighter, more customisable, and smoother than previous versions, with fewer bloatware issues and cleaner UI animations. Features like RAM expansion, always-on display, and advanced camera controls are polished and useful. Read more: Basic to Flagship: Top 5 Official Smartphones Released in Bangladesh in 2025 Compared to OriginOS on Chinese models of the X200, Funtouch is more user-friendly globally. The Motorola Razr 2025 runs near-stock Android 15, which some may prefer for its simplicity, though it lacks the smart features and customisation Vivo offers. Sharp Aquos R8s still runs Android 13, and software updates remain a weak point for Sharp’s phones—putting it behind both Vivo and Motorola. Storage Options The X200 FE offers up to 512 GB storage with 12 or 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 3.1 speeds. While UFS 4.0 would have been preferable (as used in the X200 and Aquos R8s), real-world speed differences are minimal unless you are moving massive files frequently. There is no microSD support—same as its competitors—but the high base storage helps offset that. The Vivo X200 leads slightly with up to 1 TB storage and faster UFS 4.0, appealing to content hoarders and power users. Motorola Razr 2025, on the other hand, offers just 256 GB UFS 2.2—noticeably slower and more limiting. The Sharp Aquos R8s supports expandable storage via microSDXC, which is handy but can’t match the speed and integration of internal UFS storage.  Pros and Cons of vivo X200 FE Pros - Premium aluminum frame with IP68/IP69 rating- Compact 6.31-inch LTPO AMOLED display, 120 Hz refresh- Sharp and detailed triple rear camera with Zeiss optics- High-res 50 MP front selfie camera- Stereo speakers for rich audio- Infrared port and NFC included- Massive 6500 mAh battery with fast 90 W charging- Smooth performance with Dimensity 9300+ chipset- Bright 5000-nit screen, great for outdoor use- Up to 16GB RAM and 512GB storage. Read more: Xiaomi Redmi Turbo 4 Pro Review: Can It Survive the Competition? Cons - No FM radio feature- No 3.5mm headphone jack- USB-C is still version 2.0- The ultrawide camera is only 8 MP and lacks autofocus- No wireless charging support Price of vivo X200 FE The Vivo X200 FE is priced at approximately BDT 87,000 in Bangladesh. Verdict The Vivo X200 FE is perfect for users seeking a compact phone with flagship cameras, long battery life, and a stunning display. However, those needing wireless charging, a headphone jack, or a powerful ultrawide camera should consider alternatives. It is a premium pick for on-the-go power users and content creators. Read more: vivo iQoo Z10 Turbo Review: Is It the Mid-Range Beast You Are Looking For?