The Vivo iQOO price increase is set to impact smartphone buyers, as recent reports indicate that both brands are planning to raise prices in China starting March 18. The move is largely driven by rising costs of essential components such as DRAM, NAND flash memory, and other semiconductor parts, which have seen a sharp surge due to growing demand from AI-driven technologies and data centers.

Why Vivo and iQOO Are Increasing Prices

The global semiconductor industry is currently experiencing cost pressure, primarily due to increased demand for AI infrastructure. Memory components like DRAM and NAND are becoming more expensive, directly affecting smartphone production costs. As a result, brands such as Vivo and iQOO are adjusting their pricing strategies to maintain margins.

While the exact models affected have not been disclosed, the price hike is expected to apply across multiple devices in their portfolio. Industry insiders suggest that this is not an isolated move, as other smartphone manufacturers have also begun adjusting prices in response to similar supply chain challenges.

Impact on Smartphone Buyers

For consumers, the Vivo iQOO price increase could mean paying more for the same specifications in the near future. This trend may soon extend beyond China and influence global smartphone markets, including India.

Buyers who have been planning to upgrade their devices may want to act quickly before these pricing changes are implemented in other regions. Historically, such component-driven cost increases tend to ripple across the entire industry, affecting mid-range and flagship devices alike.

A Larger Industry Trend

The anticipated price hike highlights a broader shift in the smartphone market. With AI technologies driving demand for high-performance chips, manufacturers are facing increased production costs. This shift could redefine pricing structures across the industry in 2026, making smartphones more expensive overall.

In conclusion, the Vivo iQOO price increase reflects ongoing changes in the global tech ecosystem. As component costs continue to rise, consumers can expect similar pricing adjustments from other brands in the coming months.

Source: Gsmarena

Image: AI Generated

Also Read: Apple App Store Commission in China Reduced After Government Pressure

Apple App Store Commission in China Reduced After Regulatory Pressure

Apple App Store Commission in China has been reduced following increasing pressure from Chinese regulators, marking a notable shift in Apple’s long-standing App Store fee structure. The move is expected to benefit developers operating within the Chinese digital ecosystem and could influence discussions about app marketplace policies globally.

For many years, Apple maintained a commission model that charged developers up to 30 percent on paid apps and in-app purchases distributed through the App Store. Smaller developers participating in Apple’s Small Business Program typically paid around 15 percent. However, concerns about platform dominance and developer fairness have prompted regulators in several countries, including China, to examine the fee structure used by major technology platforms.

Recent reports indicate that Apple has now reduced the Apple App Store commission in China, lowering the standard commission rate for developers and offering additional relief to smaller app creators. The policy change is expected to save developers hundreds of millions of dollars annually, giving them more flexibility to invest in product development and services.

Why Apple Adjusted the App Store Commission

China represents one of Apple’s most important markets, not only for hardware sales but also for digital services such as the App Store. Millions of developers distribute applications through the platform, making commission policies a critical issue for the broader app economy.

Chinese regulators have recently intensified their focus on ensuring fair competition within digital marketplaces. Large technology companies have been encouraged to adopt more transparent business practices and reduce barriers for developers.

By lowering the Apple App Store commission in China, Apple appears to be responding to regulatory concerns while strengthening its relationship with local developers and authorities.

Impact on Developers and the App Economy

Lower commission fees mean developers can keep a larger share of their revenue. This change could encourage more startups and independent developers to launch apps within the Chinese App Store ecosystem.

Industry experts believe the reduction in the Apple App Store commission in China could stimulate innovation and increase the number of new apps entering the marketplace. More favorable revenue sharing may also improve long-term sustainability for smaller developers.

Although Apple has not announced similar commission reductions globally, the change in China highlights how regulatory influence can reshape policies within major digital platforms.

Source: Reuters

Also Read: OxygenOS 16.0.5 March Update Brings “Call to Block” Feature and System Improvements

OxygenOS 16.0.5 March Update

OxygenOS 16.0.5 March Update is now rolling out to several OnePlus smartphones, introducing new functionality along with important security and system improvements. The update focuses on improving user convenience, enhancing device security, and adding smarter tools to manage unwanted calls.

One of the most notable additions in this update is the Call to Block feature, which allows users to instantly block numbers directly from the call interface. Instead of navigating through multiple settings menus, users can now block spam or unwanted callers with just a single action during or after a call.

New “Call to Block” Feature Explained

The new Call to Block option is designed to simplify the process of dealing with spam calls. With this feature, users can quickly block suspicious or unwanted numbers directly from the call screen. This small but useful addition helps improve everyday usability and saves time when managing frequent spam calls.

The feature integrates seamlessly into the existing phone dialer, ensuring the blocking process is fast and intuitive.

Performance Improvements and Security Enhancements

Apart from the new call blocking capability, the OxygenOS 16.0.5 update also includes several performance optimizations. Users may notice smoother system navigation, improved stability, and better overall responsiveness.

The update also integrates the latest March Android security patch, which strengthens device protection against vulnerabilities and potential security risks. Regular security updates are essential for maintaining data safety and improving the long-term reliability of smartphones.

Should You Install the Update?

If the update is available for your OnePlus device, installing it is recommended. Along with the new Call to Block feature, the update delivers improved system stability and updated security protections. These incremental improvements help maintain smooth performance while also enhancing everyday usability.

As with most system updates, the rollout may happen in stages. Some users might receive the update earlier, while others may get it over the next few days.

Overall, OxygenOS 16.0.5 continues to refine the software experience by adding practical features and strengthening system reliability for OnePlus users.

Also Read: Google Maps Ask Maps Feature: 5 Powerful Gemini AI Upgrades That Transform Navigation