Vivo has quietly expanded its smartphone lineup with the release of the Y05, a recent 4G device aimed at the entry-level market. The Y05 distinguishes itself with a substantial 6,500mAh battery and, notably, a built-in infrared (IR) blaster – a feature increasingly rare in modern smartphones. This allows users to control TVs, air conditioners, and other compatible devices directly from their phone, functioning as a universal remote.
The device isn’t about flagship specs, but rather delivering essential functionality and extended battery life at an accessible price point. The Vivo Y05 is currently available in select markets, including Malaysia, where it retails for 399 RM (approximately $102 USD as of February 25, 2026), making it a contender for budget-conscious consumers seeking a reliable and versatile device. The inclusion of an IR blaster alongside a large battery capacity sets it apart from many competitors in this price range.
The Vivo Y05 features a 6.74-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1600 x 720 pixels (260 ppi). The display also boasts a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1200 nits, offering a relatively smooth and vibrant viewing experience for its class. The phone is powered by a Unisoc T7225 12nm chipset, comprising a dual-core Cortex A75 processor clocked at 1.8 GHz and a hexa-core Cortex A55 processor, also clocked at 1.8 GHz. This is paired with 4GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 64GB of eMMC 5.1 storage, which can be expanded up to 2TB via a microSD card slot.
Camera and Connectivity
On the camera front, the Vivo Y05 sports an 8-megapixel rear camera with an f/2.0 aperture. Interestingly, the second cutout on the rear camera module houses the IR blaster. For selfies, there’s a 5-megapixel front-facing camera. The device also includes a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for added security.
Beyond the core specifications, Vivo has included several convenience features. These include an RGB notification light, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and IP65-rated splash and dust resistance. The phone runs on OriginOS 6.0, based on Android 16. The battery supports up to 15W charging.
A Competitive Landscape
For consumers in the United States looking for a similar value proposition, the Motorola Moto G Play is often cited as a comparable option. However, the Moto G Play does not include an IR blaster.
The Vivo Y05’s focus on practical features like a large battery and IR blaster, combined with its affordable price, positions it as a strong contender in the entry-level smartphone market. The Unisoc T7225 chipset, while not a powerhouse, is designed for efficiency and should provide adequate performance for everyday tasks.
It remains to be seen when, or if, the Vivo Y05 will be available in additional markets beyond its initial launch regions. The company has not yet announced plans for wider distribution, but the device’s specifications and pricing suggest a potential for broader appeal. The continued demand for affordable smartphones with long battery life and useful features like IR blasters will likely influence Vivo’s future rollout strategy.
What do you think about the return of the IR blaster on smartphones? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
