After Xiaomi (小米), vivo (维沃) reportedly researching battery replacement service with capacity boosts of 500–1,500 mAh

Reported plan

It has been reported that vivo (维沃) is surveying a battery replacement service that would fit older handsets with higher‑density "蓝海" batteries, potentially increasing capacity by as much as 500–1,500 mAh. The claim comes from Chinese tech blogger @数码闲聊站 and was picked up by IT之家. The move, if true, would mirror recent steps by rivals to extend device life rather than push immediate upgrades.

Why this matters

Why would phone makers do this now? Reportedly, exploding memory and longer software lifecycles have stretched users' replacement cycles. That leaves manufacturers competing over existing users and installed bases. Xiaomi (小米) has already rolled out a paid battery upgrade for its 13 series — priced at ¥189 (¥149 for the battery, ¥40 labor) — and Redmi staff publicly suggested some older models can actually gain capacity after a swap, though that outcome is not universal.

Implications and context

If adopted widely, battery upgrades could become a low‑cost way for Chinese OEMs to retain customers, reduce electronic waste and create new after‑sales revenue. Could it also blunt churn during tougher macro conditions and export headwinds? Possibly — but technical limits, safety certification and supply constraints will matter. It has been reported that vivo is still in the research stage; details, pricing and model eligibility remain unconfirmed.

What’s next

IT之家 first published the blogger's post and Xiaomi's earlier rollout; follow‑up reporting will be needed to verify vivo’s plans and the real‑world gains from high‑density swaps. Will other brands follow? Given the market dynamics, it would be surprising if they did not.