As the year draws to a close, the smartphone market shows no signs of slowing down. Vivo is preparing to introduce its next-generation S-series devices, the Vivo S50 and S50 Pro mini, with official teasers and benchmark leaks painting a detailed picture of what to expect. The upcoming launch promises a focus on design differentiation and high-end specifications, particularly for the compact Pro mini model, which aims to deliver flagship performance in a smaller form factor.
Official Design Reveal Highlights Aesthetic Choices
Vivo has officially begun teasing the design of its upcoming S50 series. The standard Vivo S50 will feature a new "Confession White" colorway, which exhibits a patterned, color-shifting effect on the back panel. This model adopts a conventional rectangular camera module housing multiple lenses and a flash, set against a flat-sided metal frame for a clean, minimalist aesthetic. Alongside this special edition, the phone will also be available in more traditional Inspiration Purple, Gentle Blue, and Space Black finishes, which offer solid-color backs. In contrast, the Vivo S50 Pro mini, previewed earlier by a company product manager, breaks from this mold with a distinctive horizontal "pill-shaped" camera deco. Vivo claims this design, combined with a 6.31-inch screen, creates a unique and ergonomic handset.
Reported Vivo S50 Series Specifications
| Feature | Vivo S50 (Standard) | Vivo S50 Pro mini |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.59-inch, 1.5K resolution, flat | 6.31-inch, 1.5K resolution, flat |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 |
| Memory/Storage | Up to 16GB RAM (Geekbench) | LPDDR5X + UFS 4.1 (claimed) |
| Rear Camera | Main + Periscope Telephoto (rumored) | VCS Main + Sony IMX882 Periscope Telephoto |
| Front Camera | 50MP (rumored) | 50MP |
| Battery & Charging | 6,500mAh, 90W wired | 6,500mAh, 90W wired, 40W wireless |
| Durability | Not specified | IP69 + IP68 |
| Other Features | - | 3D Ultrasonic Fingerprint 2.0, X-axis Motor |
| Geekbench Score | ~2045 (Single-core) / ~5780 (Multi-core) | AnTuTu claimed >3,000,000 |
| Colors | Confession White, Inspiration Purple, Gentle Blue, Space Black | Inspiration Purple (shown) |
Performance and Specifications Leak Ahead of Launch
Beyond aesthetics, key specifications for both models have surfaced through regulatory filings and performance benchmarks. The star of the show appears to be the Vivo S50 Pro mini. It is reportedly equipped with the unannounced Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, paired with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.1 storage, a combination Vivo claims will yield an AnTuTu benchmark score exceeding 3 million points. This would mark the first time the S-series debuts with a current-generation flagship Snapdragon chip. The standard Vivo S50, identified by the model number V2528A, has appeared on Geekbench running a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset. Its listed scores are around 2045 for single-core and 5780 for multi-core tests, confirming its position in the upper-mid-range performance tier.
Camera and Battery Tech Aim for Premium Experience
The S50 series seems poised to offer substantial upgrades in imaging and endurance. The Pro mini is rumored to feature a sophisticated camera system headlined by a VCS ultra-sensitive main sensor and a Sony IMX882 periscope telephoto lens, complemented by a 50MP front-facing camera. Both models are expected to house large 6,500mAh batteries, a significant capacity that should translate to excellent battery life. They will support 90W wired fast charging, with the Pro mini also adding 40W wireless charging capabilities. Additional premium features slated for the Pro mini include an IP69/IP68 dust and water resistance rating, a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, and an X-axis linear motor for haptic feedback.
Positioning and Market Context
The leaked details position the Vivo S50 Pro mini as a compelling option for users seeking high-end specs in a more manageable size, a niche often underserved in the market. Its combination of a top-tier processor, advanced camera hardware, a large battery, and a compact 6.31-inch display is unusual. The standard S50, with its capable Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 and expected 6.59-inch screen, will likely compete aggressively in the mainstream segment. With official teasers already underway, a formal launch for the Vivo S50 series in China is anticipated before the end of the month, setting the stage for the next phase of competition in the vibrant smartphone landscape.