Vivo’s next X-series wave is starting to look more ambitious than expected, especially on the Pro side. The latest leak points to a compact 6.37-inch model that could arrive with a 85mm periscope camera and the Dimensity 9600 Pro, a combination that would place it firmly in premium territory.
The most striking detail is not only the camera hardware, but also the way Vivo may be reshaping its entire lineup. If the current information holds, the regular X500 will serve as the more accessible entry point, while the Pro and Pro Max models take on the strongest features.
A smaller Pro model with flagship intent
Digital Chat Station on Weibo says the device in question will use a 6.37-inch display. That size has led to uncertainty over whether the final name will be Vivo X500 Pro or Vivo X500 Pro Mini.
Even without the final name confirmed, the core hardware details are becoming clearer. The rumored chipset is the Dimensity 9600 Pro, and it is described as a 2nm-based part aimed at users who want a smaller phone without giving up flagship performance.
Camera focus shifts to telephoto
The camera setup appears to be one of the main selling points. The Vivo X500 Pro is said to feature a 50MP main camera with a 1/1.28-inch sensor and LOFIC support.
That main camera would be paired with a 50MP ultra-wide lens using a relatively small sensor. For portrait work, the device is reportedly moving to a 64MP sensor with an 85mm focal length.
Digital Chat Station also says the periscope lens supports macro photography. That detail matches earlier reports that hinted at a similar rear camera arrangement.
Another comment from the same leaker makes the direction even clearer. He said all Vivo X500 Pro series phones will use an 85mm periscope lens, which would give the Pro family a distinct identity.
If that remains true at launch, Vivo seems intent on making 85mm the defining trait of the Pro tier. It would create a clean separation between the premium models and the standard version in the same generation.
Lineup changes point to a new strategy
The regular Vivo X500 is expected to come with a 6.59-inch display and the Dimensity 9500 built on 3nm. The chip is said to be the same one used by its predecessor.
That is a notable shift from the Vivo X300 series, where the X300 and X300 Pro both carried equivalent flagship processors. Vivo now appears to be reorganizing the series so the base model becomes more attainable while the Pro range carries the standout features.
The top end of the family is also taking shape. The Vivo X500 Pro Max is said to use a 6.85-inch 2K LTPO OLED panel and the same Dimensity 9600 Pro as the smaller Pro model.
Together, those leaks suggest a clearer hierarchy across the lineup. The base X500 focuses on accessibility, while the Pro models emphasize telephoto imaging and flagship-class power.
Launch timing remains later on the calendar
The Vivo X500 series is reportedly scheduled to arrive before the end of October in 2026. The Vivo X500 Ultra is then expected to join the family as the highest-end flagship in early 2027.
For now, the most watched device is still the 6.37-inch model, because it combines the strongest talking points from the leaks into one compact package. If Vivo keeps the current direction, the X500 Pro line could become one of the brand’s most clearly differentiated premium offerings yet.
