TechCapsules

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

Vivo’s upcoming X Fold 5 could be a game-changer for foldable phone enthusiasts, as new leaks suggest it might offer compatibility with the Apple Watch. This would mark a significant step toward bridging the gap between Android and Apple ecosystems, allowing users to pair their Apple Watch with a non-iPhone device for the first time. Han Boxiao, vivo Product Manager, confirmed with a social post on Weibo that the Vivo X Fold 5 is expected to support Apple Watch functionality, enabling users to control and interact with their smartwatch directly from the foldable phone. This feature could appeal to consumers who own both an Apple Watch and an Android device, eliminating the need to carry an iPhone solely for smartwatch compatibility. The leak also hints that Vivo may achieve this through a dedicated app or system-level integration, though specifics remain unclear. Beyond Apple Watch support, the Vivo X Fold 5 is rumored to bring impressive upgrades over its predecessor. The device is expected to feature a sleek, lightweight design—potentially the thinnest and lightest foldable on the market—powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. Other anticipated specs include a 6.5-inch cover display, an 8.03-inch inner folding screen with 2K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, and a triple-camera system with a 50MP main sensor, a 50MP ultrawide, and a 64MP telephoto lens offering 3x optical zoom. The phone is also said to boast a 6,000mAh battery with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging. Additional features reportedly include an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor, a vegan leather back option, and an IPX8 water resistance rating, making it a robust competitor in the foldable market. While Vivo has not officially confirmed these details, the company’s track record with the X Fold series suggests a premium experience is in store. The inclusion of Apple Watch compatibility could set the X Fold 5 apart in a crowded foldable market dominated by brands like Samsung and Huawei. However, it’s uncertain whether this feature will rely on a custom Vivo app or broader Android support for Apple’s ecosystem, and whether it will extend to all Apple Watch models or specific ones. As Vivo prepares to launch the X Fold 5, likely first in China before a potential global rollout, this cross-platform compatibility could attract a new wave of users seeking flexibility without sacrificing their preferred devices. Stay tuned for official announcements as Vivo continues to push the boundaries of foldable innovation.