📌 Specifications and first details (11 August 2026): Revealed by leaker Digital Chat Station, the first characteristics of the Vivo X500e are taking shape: a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8-series processor, a 6.59-inch display, a square Zeiss camera module and a Sony IMX8 periscope telephoto.
Within the upcoming X500 family being prepared by Chinese manufacturer Vivo — which will include the X500e, X500, X500 Pro and X500 Pro Max — the Vivo X500e holds a place of its own. While the whole of the main series goes for MediaTek Dimensity 9600 chips, this “e” variant cuts against the rest of the catalogue by betting on a Qualcomm Snapdragon platform and a visual identity all its own.
Design: a square module that breaks the range’s rules
Aesthetically, the Vivo X500e will adopt a very different design language from its bigger siblings. The Vivo X500 Pro and the Pro Max will carry a large circular camera block centred on the back; the standard Vivo X500 keeps a round module but shifts it into the upper left corner.
The X500e will be the only member of the family to carry a square camera module, positioned in the upper left corner. It is therefore the shape, not the position, that will set it apart from the standard model — a detail that will matter when choosing a case.
On the display side, the phone will be fitted with a flat 6.59-inch screen. This mid-size format offers a generous viewing area while keeping the phone comfortable to handle day to day, in line with the brand’s decision to drop curved panels for this generation in favour of flat displays with reduced bezels.
Performance: choosing the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8-series platform
This is the main surprise of the spec sheet: Vivo would make the call to fit the X500e with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8-series processor, setting aside the MediaTek chips that power the standard X500 and the Pro versions.
That architectural choice brings genuine differentiation. Snapdragon 8-series chips are known for the power of their Adreno graphics and the efficiency of their image signal processors (ISP), guaranteeing great stability in demanding games and excellent handling of real-time photo processing.
One caveat, however: the leaker did not name the exact chip model, and this information remains to be confirmed.
Camera: Zeiss partnership and a Sony IMX8 periscope telephoto
True to the brand’s high-end positioning on imaging, the Vivo X500e will benefit from optical and software processing certified by Zeiss.
While the full sensor line-up has yet to be detailed, the leaks confirm the presence of a periscope telephoto built around a large Sony IMX8-series sensor. Fitting a periscope in this range is a major asset: it delivers sharp optical zoom without digital degradation, while offering better light capture in low light thanks to the generous size of the Sony sensor.
Naming and timing: what becomes of the FE range?
The X500e’s positioning also sheds light on the brand’s international strategy. Historically, the Vivo X300 FE was the global version of the China-only Vivo S50 Pro Mini. With the recent S60 series launched in China skipping a Pro Mini version, the Vivo X500e is tipped to take over directly, in both China and international markets, potentially replacing the “FE” designation.
Because of its Snapdragon processor, the Vivo X500e’s release date could differ from the rest of the X500 range expected in September 2026. No timeline has been announced so far, but the X500e could be unveiled later, during the first half of 2027, alongside the Vivo X500 Ultra, which will also adopt a high-end Qualcomm chip.
Expected Vivo X500e specifications
| Component | Expected specifications |
|---|---|
| Display | Flat, around 6.59 inches |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8-series (model unspecified) |
| Camera | Square module (upper left), Zeiss optics |
| Telephoto | Large-sensor periscope (Sony IMX8 series) |
| Design | Square module, the only one in the range (the others are round) |
| Estimated launch | No timeline announced — first half of 2027 suggested |
In summary
The Vivo X500e is shaping up as a very interesting alternative within the X500 range, combining a Snapdragon processor, a Zeiss-tuned Sony IMX8 periscope zoom and a flat 6.59-inch format with a reworked square design.
This article will be expanded as further official announcements and technical leaks arrive. While you wait for its official unveiling, you can browse the full range of Vivo smartphones available on our shop, along with our selection of Vivo cases and Vivo tempered glass.
