Lava expands budget gaming smartphone lineup

Indian smartphone brand Lava has officially launched its new Play Ultra in India, targeting budget-conscious users who want a smooth mobile gaming experience without spending a premium. With competitive specifications and aggressive pricing, Lava aims to attract young gamers and first-time buyers.

Display and performance

The Lava Play Ultra comes with a 6.6-inch FHD+ display offering a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother visuals and reduced lag during gameplay. It is powered by an octa-core MediaTek Helio G99 chipset, designed for budget gaming smartphones. The phone is paired with up to 8GB of RAM and 128GB internal storage, expandable via microSD.

Gaming-focused features

To appeal to gamers, Lava has equipped the Play Ultra with Game Boost Mode, enhanced thermal management, and a large 5000mAh battery supporting 18W fast charging, ensuring uninterrupted gaming sessions.

Camera and software

On the optics side, the device features a 50MP dual rear camera setup and an 8MP selfie shooter. The smartphone runs on Android 14, offering a clean, near-stock interface with promised updates for at least two years.

Pricing and availability

The Lava Play Ultra has been launched at a starting price of ₹12,499, making it one of the most affordable gaming-focused smartphones in its segment. The device will be available in two color options: Shadow Black and Cyber Blue, and sales start from next week via online and offline channels.

Market positioning

With the Play Ultra, Lava continues its strategy of competing with Chinese rivals by offering feature-rich smartphones at aggressive price points. The device is expected to compete against the likes of iQOO Z7, Realme Narzo 62, and Redmi Note 13 in the sub-₹15,000 gaming category.