Vivo might be gearing up to step into a whole new space—and it’s not another smartphone. According to a recent report from Chinese outlet Leifeng, the company is working on a compact handheld vlogging camera called the Vivo Pocket. If true, this could mark Vivo’s entry into the growing market of portable creator tools, going head-to-head with brands like DJI.
From what’s been revealed so far, the Vivo Pocket is shaping up to be more than just a simple accessory. It’s reportedly designed for vloggers and content creators who want something lightweight but still powerful enough to capture high-quality footage on the go.
Launch timeline and production plans
The latest information suggests that the Vivo Pocket could arrive toward the end of the year, likely between November and December. Mass production is expected to kick off around October. This timeline is slightly different from earlier rumors, which hinted at a September launch alongside Vivo’s X500 smartphone series.
Interestingly, the delay might not be accidental. It seems other brands have also started working on similar handheld camera devices, possibly pushing Vivo to refine its product before release.
A serious camera in a small body
One of the most exciting details is the camera hardware. The Vivo Pocket is rumored to feature a large 1/1.1-inch sensor, putting it in the same league as some premium compact cameras. There’s also talk of a Sony LYT-901 200MP sensor being used in the prototype, which is a big deal for a device this size.
If that sounds familiar, it’s because Vivo appears to be borrowing its smartphone camera expertise and applying it here. The device is said to follow a similar hardware approach to flagship phone imaging systems, which could mean strong image processing and impressive video capabilities.
There’s no word yet on the exact processor, but leaks suggest it will be powerful enough to handle demanding shooting scenarios.
Aiming straight at DJI
With these specs, Vivo isn’t playing it safe. The Pocket is expected to directly compete with DJI’s compact camera lineup, which currently dominates the handheld gimbal camera space.
What’s even more telling is Vivo’s production strategy. The company is reportedly preparing an initial batch of around one million units, signaling strong confidence in demand for this kind of product.
The competition is heating up
Vivo isn’t alone in this race. Oppo is already working on its own handheld camera project, codenamed “Fuyao,” which could also launch later this year. Meanwhile, Huawei and Honor are said to be developing similar devices, although their entries might not arrive until 2027.
This shift suggests a broader trend: smartphone brands are starting to explore dedicated creator hardware as profits from traditional phones become tighter. Instead of just improving phone cameras, they’re building entirely new tools for content creation.
Canon has also filed a patent for it’s gimbal like camera. No one is sure if a real product will be launched. Lately, Insta has been posting teaser about their dual lens (standard+telephoto) aimed at the DJI Pocket 4P while the other earlier action camera GoPro is also launching new products. There are smaller brands are already actively promoting their ‘nano’ and 360 degrees camera.
It is only a matter of time smartphone makers will venture into these markets where it is led by DJI.
