vivo has officially launched the X500 Series in Shanghai, introducing the X500, X500 Pro, and X500 Pro Max. These models are introducing the BlueImage Dynamic Imaging Technology Stack across the range.
By uniting camera sensors, imaging chips, and bespoke software algorithms, this new platform focuses heavily on dynamic range, image quality, cinematic colour, stabilisation, and dynamic consistency. According to vivo, the whole lineup aims to enhance both still photography and video recording across demanding scenarios like portraits, telephoto shots, and live concerts.
Speaking at the launch event, vivo Vice President Huang Tao emphasised the vision behind these devices. He stated that the professional ceiling of the X500 Series must be high enough to become a productivity tool for creators, while the barrier to a great user experience must be low enough for anyone to capture cinematic footage effortlessly.
BlueImage brings new sensor and video tools
Serving as the foundation for the main camera system, the X500 Pro and Pro Max incorporate the customised vivo x Sony LYTIA L910 sensor. Measuring 1/1.28 inches, it delivers an impressive 17 EV of dynamic range, directly translating vivo’s high-dynamic-range achievements from still images over to video capture. On the top-tier Pro Max model, this primary camera utilises 3° gimbal-grade optical image stabilisation, helping both the main and telephoto cameras achieve a CIPA 7.0 rating. Underneath, the phone pairs MediaTek’s Dimensity 9600 Pro processor with vivo’s own V3+ and VS1+ imaging chips, featuring dedicated Log video hardware.
Both Pro models provide support for 17 EV TrueDynamic Log Video with 10-bit 4:2:2 encoding alongside ACES colour management. vivo has also partnered with DaVinci to develop an official colour transform tailored specifically for Log footage. Beyond that, recording options include 4K 120 fps 10bit Log burn-in direct output and 4K 120 fps autofocus tracking.
Creatives can also take advantage of options like 4K 240 fps Cinematic Slow-Mo Video and 4K Cinematic Portrait Video. Users can pick from six cinematic colour styles, including Golden, Platinum, Sunny day, Paris afterglow, Noir, and Amber. Furthermore, the dedicated Cinema mode introduces extra tools such as Auto Framing Video, Vortex Shot, Super Slow-Mo, and Dual View.
X500 Pro Max leads with a 200MP telephoto
Taking the lead in zoom capability, the X500 Pro Max utilises the same 200MP ZEISS APO telephoto setup previously featured on the X300 Ultra. This setup also supports CIPA 7.0 stabilisation, 1,536-point multi-zone laser focus, 30x Long-Range Motion Snapshot, and Anyplace Telephoto Tracking. To expand these capabilities even further, vivo is offering the ZEISS Telephoto Extender Gen 2 Ultra, pushing the Pro Max to an equivalent 400mm focal length.
Powering the Pro Max is the Dimensity 9600 Pro silicon, paired with a massive 6.85-inch 2K ZEISS Master Color Display and a large 8,000mAh BlueVolt battery. In comparison, the standard X500 Pro relies on the exact same processor but scales down to a 6.36-inch ZEISS Master Color Display alongside a 6,510mAh battery, whilst retaining CIPA 7.0 stabilisation on its ZEISS APO telephoto camera.
The underlying Dimensity 9600 Pro chip is built using MediaTek’s second-generation 2nm N2P fabrication process. Operating software across both Pro smartphones is OriginOS 7, featuring Origin Workbench and Seamless Interaction, with both models successfully passing the firm’s rigorous 72-month anti-ageing model test. Buyers can also select from four distinct colour options, including Sunny White, Starry Gray, Moonlit Black, and Sunset Orange.
X500 keeps much of the imaging system
Even the standard X500 retains a significant portion of the flagship hardware, running on the Dimensity 9600M processor alongside a vivo x Sony LYTIA 828 main camera. Its secondary 64MP telephoto camera houses a Sony LYTIA 610 sensor with CIPA 5.5 image stabilisation.
Its extensive video suite includes 4K 120 fps slow motion, 4K 60 fps Cinematic Portrait Video across every focal length, 4K 120 fps 10-bit Log, and 4K 120 fps HLG recording modes. Additionally, all three devices across the entire X500 family support 8K Native Live video functionality.
For expanded reach, a separate ZEISS Telephoto Extender Gen 2 equips the standard X500 with a 200mm-equivalent focal length. Weighing just 153g and measuring 96mm, this attachment supports 14 different shooting modes that cover portraits, landscapes, and stage photography.
Equipped with a 6.59-inch ZEISS Master Color Display, the X500 houses a 7,500mAh BlueVolt battery supported by 90W wired and 40W wireless charging capabilities. Multi-tasking is handled by Origin Workbench, which can maintain up to five active applications running concurrently in the foreground. It is offered in Starry Gray, Sunny White, Dawn Pink, and Dusk Black.
China sales begin on 24 September
Pre-orders for the entire X500 Series opened in China on 21 September, ahead of the official general sales launch set for 24 September through vivo’s official website, official flagship stores on major e-commerce platforms and offline stores nationwide.
