Vivo X500e is shaping up to be the most distinctive member of the upcoming X500 family. Unlike the other models in the lineup, the device is expected to leave the Dimensity 9600-series behind and instead adopt a Snapdragon 8-series chip.
That shift alone already gives the phone a different identity, but the more striking change appears to be on the back. The X500e is said to use a square camera module in the top-left corner, while the other X500 models are expected to rely on a circular design.
A compact premium model with a separate direction
According to Digital Chat Station, Vivo is preparing a new e-branded model in the X500 series with a 6.59-inch display. The size points to a relatively compact flagship-style phone, which could appeal to users who want a premium device that is easier to handle.
The same leak does not reveal the full specification sheet yet. Battery capacity, charging speed, and memory configurations remain unknown for now.
What makes the X500e especially interesting is that it does not seem to be built as a simple variant of the rest of the family. Instead, the chipset choice, design language, and camera tuning suggest that Vivo may be giving it a separate position inside the X500 portfolio.
ZEISS tuning and a periscope camera add more weight
Photography is another area where the phone is expected to stand out. The leak points to ZEISS-tuned cameras, continuing a partnership that has become one of Vivo’s strongest selling points in mobile imaging.
The X500e is also said to include a periscope telephoto camera based on an IMX8-series sensor. That sensor is described as large, which usually hints at stronger zoom performance and a more serious approach to image quality.
These details are still incomplete, but they reinforce the impression that the X500e is being positioned as more than a routine offshoot. The combination of Snapdragon 8-series hardware, ZEISS camera branding, and a different rear module could make it one of the more attention-grabbing models in the lineup.
Launch timing remains unclear
There is still no official release schedule for the Vivo X500e. As a result, it is not yet clear whether it will arrive alongside the other X500 models powered by the Dimensity 9600-series.
Those other devices are reportedly slated for September, but the X500e may follow a different path because of its Snapdragon platform. One possibility is a joint debut with the Vivo X500 Ultra, which is rumored to use Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6.
In that scenario, the X500e and X500 Ultra could launch together in the first half of 2027. Even so, that timeline remains speculative until Vivo confirms its plans.
What the X500e could mean for the FE lineup
The appearance of the X500e also raises questions about the future of a possible Vivo X500 FE. Vivo previously brought the China-exclusive S50 Pro Mini back to global markets as the Vivo X300 FE, which makes a similar move seem plausible again.
But the current S60 family in China only includes the S60 and S60e, also known as the Vitality Edition. Since there is no S60 Pro Mini in that lineup, some observers believe the X500e could take over that slot for China instead.
If that happens, Vivo may not need an X500 FE at all. The company could simply release the X500e in China and global markets under the same name.
For now, the strongest impression is that Vivo is preparing a compact X500 model with a Snapdragon 8-series chip, ZEISS camera support, and a design that clearly separates it from the rest of the family. That alone makes the X500e one of the most closely watched upcoming Vivo phones.