vivo Y21 5G announced with massive battery options and 44W charging

vivo is bringing back the Y21 name for a new 5G smartphone, though this time with significantly upgraded specifications. The upcoming vivo Y21 5G will feature two different battery configurations depending on the market, with the Indian and Malaysian variants getting a larger 6,355 mAh rated battery while other regions will receive a 5,090 mAh version.

These capacities will likely be advertised as typical 6,500 mAh and 5,250 mAh respectively, following industry standards for battery marketing. Both versions will support 44W wired charging, allowing for relatively quick top-ups despite the large battery capacities.

[Image:1] The device has been spotted in the EPREL database under two model numbers: V2553 for the larger battery variant and V2554 for the smaller one. The V2553 model has already received certification for sale in India through BIS and in Malaysia through SIRIM, suggesting these markets will be among the first to receive the device.

EPREL certification reveals several interesting details about the Y21 5G's battery longevity. The phone is rated for 1,600 charge cycles before the battery capacity drops below 80% of its original capacity, which translates to several years of regular use for most consumers. This durability rating suggests vivo is targeting users who expect long-term reliability from their devices.

In terms of durability, the Y21 5G has received an A rating for drop resistance, indicating robust build quality that should withstand everyday accidents. However, it only scored a C for repairability, which may make screen replacements or other repairs more challenging and potentially more expensive for users.

The device will carry an IP65 certification, providing protection against dust ingress and low-pressure water jets. While not as comprehensive as IP68 ratings found on flagship devices, IP65 still offers reasonable protection for everyday use in various environments.

One of the more notable specifications is the promise of Android security updates for five years. This extended support period is becoming increasingly common among manufacturers looking to differentiate themselves in the competitive mid-range segment, and it provides users with long-term security and feature updates.

The decision to reuse the Y21 name for a completely different device might seem unusual, but it's not unprecedented in the smartphone industry. Many manufacturers refresh older model names when introducing new features or targeting similar market segments. In this case, the addition of 5G connectivity and the significant battery upgrades justify the name reuse, even if it creates some confusion with the original 2021 model.

The vivo Y21 5G appears positioned as a value-oriented device that prioritizes battery life and durability over cutting-edge specifications. With its large battery options, fast charging, and extended software support, it could appeal to users who prioritize longevity and reliability in their smartphone purchases.

[Image:2] As of now, vivo hasn't announced official pricing or a global launch date for the Y21 5G. The certification in India and Malaysia suggests these markets will likely see the device first, with other regions following in subsequent months. Given the specifications revealed so far, the Y21 5G seems likely to compete in the budget to mid-range 5G smartphone segment, where battery life and value for money are often key purchasing factors.