The smartphone market in India moves at a lightning pace, but few devices manage to hold the spotlight quite like the Vivo V40. As we move into 2026, this mid-range champion is seeing a massive resurgence in interest. Originally famous for being the first in the V-series to bring professional ZEISS optics to a wider audience, the Vivo V40 has now received a major software “rebirth” with the rollout of the latest Android 16-based updates.
For Indian users, the Vivo V40 isn’t just a phone anymore; it has become a benchmark for value in the resale and “new-old” market. Whether you are looking for a price drop during the 2026 Republic Day sales or wondering if your current V40 can keep up with newer flagships, here is the full breakdown of where the device stands today.
The 2026 Software Surge: Android 16 and OriginOS 6
The biggest news for Vivo V40 owners in early 2026 is the official rollout of OriginOS 6 (Funtouch OS 16 in global markets). This update, which carries a hefty 4.3GB file size, effectively breathes new life into the device. It introduces the “Origin Island”—a dynamic notification area similar to the iPhone’s Dynamic Island—allowing users to track food deliveries and taxi rides directly from the top of the screen.
Beyond visual flair, the update optimizes the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor, making the interface feel significantly smoother than it did at launch. With enhanced AI features like an upgraded AI Eraser and better battery management, the V40 remains highly competitive against 2026’s newer mid-range releases.
Why the ZEISS Camera Still Rules the Mid-Range
Even two years after its debut, the camera setup on the Vivo V40 remains its strongest selling point. The collaboration with ZEISS was a turning point for the series. The dual 50MP rear camera system, featuring a dedicated ZEISS OIS main sensor and a 50MP ultra-wide lens, captures skin tones with a level of accuracy that many 2026 budget “flagships” still struggle to match.
The “Multifocal Portrait” mode is particularly popular in India, allowing users to switch between 24mm, 35mm, and 50mm focal lengths. This mimics professional photography lenses, making it a favorite for capturing vibrant Indian weddings and festivals. The front 50MP selfie camera also remains top-tier for creators who prioritize high-resolution video calls and vlogging.
Design and Durability: The Slim King
In an era where phones are becoming bulkier to accommodate large batteries, the Vivo V40 continues to hold the title of one of the slimmest phones in India with a 5500mAh battery. Measuring just 7.58mm in thickness, it feels premium and lightweight in the hand.
The durability factor has also aged well. With an IP68 rating, the phone is fully resistant to dust and can survive being submerged in water. For Indian users dealing with monsoon rains or dusty commutes, this level of protection provides peace of mind that is often missing in other mid-range competitors.
Current Market Status: Prices and Availability
In January 2026, the Vivo V40 is seeing aggressive pricing across major e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart. While it launched at ₹34,999, the base 8GB/128GB variant can now be found for as low as ₹31,990 during seasonal sales.
With the newer Vivo V50 and V60 series now entering the market, the V40 has transitioned into an “entry-level premium” choice. It is currently one of the most affordable ways to get a ZEISS-certified camera system without crossing the ₹40,000 mark.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Will the Vivo V40 get the Android 17 update?
Yes, Vivo has committed to a three-year OS update policy for the V40. Having launched with Android 14, it is scheduled to receive Android 17 as its final major platform update.
2. Is the Vivo V40 battery good for long-term use?
The 5500mAh BlueVolt battery uses silicon-carbon technology, which is designed to retain health better than standard batteries. Even in 2026, most users report a full day of battery life on a single charge.
3. Does the Vivo V40 support 5G in India?
Yes, it fully supports multiple 5G bands used by Jio and Airtel in India, ensuring high-speed connectivity for years to come.
4. Can I use the Vivo V40 for heavy gaming in 2026?
While the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 is a capable chip, it is now considered a “upper mid-range” processor. It can run games like BGMI on high settings, but for professional-grade gaming, newer V-series or X-series models might be better.
5. Does it come with a charger in the box?
Yes, unlike some other brands, Vivo still includes the 80W FlashCharge adapter in the retail box for the V40 in India.
