Lava, a homegrown Indian smartphone brand, is preparing to expand its Shark lineup with a brand-new 5G variant. Following the release of the Lava Shark 4G in March 2025, the Lava Shark 5G has surfaced in leaked renders ahead of its official launch. The upcoming smartphone aims to offer budget-friendly 5G connectivity while packing key upgrades and a fresh design.
Let’s dive into everything we know so far about the Lava Shark 5G, including expected specifications, hardware changes, software improvements, and more.
Lava Shark 5G: A Quick Overview
The Lava Shark 5G is expected to be a budget 5G smartphone aimed at Indian consumers looking for affordable high-speed connectivity. Based on early leaks, this new device will offer an updated design, a dual-camera setup, and run on Android 15 out of the box.
With the growing demand for accessible 5G devices, Lava’s entry into the segment with the Shark 5G could be an appealing option for price-conscious buyers.
Refreshed Design with Subtle Yet Bold Tweaks
Color Options and Aesthetic Appeal
The Lava Shark 5G will reportedly come in Blue and Gold, colors that Lava fans will recognize from the Shark 4G. However, the back panel of the device now proudly features a “5G” branding right next to the company logo, signaling its next-gen connectivity credentials.
Dual Camera Setup with Circular Flash Design
One of the most noticeable changes in the design comes from the revised camera module. Instead of a single camera lens, the Shark 5G will sport a dual-camera configuration with a square housing and a new circular LED flash array, giving the phone a distinct rear appearance. The primary lens is expected to be 13 MP, which is a shift from the 50 MP sensor used in the previous model.
Lava Shark 5G Expected Specifications
Processor and Performance
Under the hood, the Shark 5G is likely to be powered by the Unisoc T765 SoC. This chipset supports 5G and delivers modest performance, making it suitable for day-to-day smartphone activities like web browsing, video streaming, social media, and casual gaming.
Memory and Storage
The device is expected to come with:
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4GB RAM
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64GB internal storage
While this configuration won’t rival flagship phones, it should be enough for the average user seeking a reliable 5G smartphone on a tight budget.
Software: Android 15 Out of the Box
Lava appears to be stepping up its game by offering Android 15 right from the get-go. This is a smart move, as many budget phones still ship with older versions of Android, often lacking timely updates. With Android 15, users can expect improved performance, better battery optimization, enhanced privacy controls, and access to the latest features and security patches.
Camera: Downgrade or Strategic Choice?
A notable change is the downgrade from a 50 MP main camera to a 13 MP shooter in the 5G variant. While this might appear disappointing on paper, it could be a calculated decision by Lava to maintain a lower price point despite the additional cost of 5G hardware.
For many users in the budget segment, connectivity and performance often outweigh megapixel count. As long as the camera delivers decent shots in good lighting, the trade-off might not be a dealbreaker.
Battery and Charging (Expected)
While the battery capacity hasn’t been confirmed in leaks, we expect Lava to stick with a 5,000mAh battery, likely with USB Type-C and standard 18W charging support. This has become the norm for entry-level and budget smartphones in India.
Expected Launch Timeline and Availability
Though Lava hasn’t officially announced a launch date, the leaked renders suggest that the Lava Shark 5G could be unveiled in mid to late 2025. The company may follow a similar release pattern as the Shark 4G, which launched in March.
The smartphone is expected to be available through both offline retail channels and online marketplaces like Amazon and Flipkart. Pricing is still under wraps, but if history is any guide, Lava will likely aim to price the Shark 5G under ₹10,000–₹12,000, making it one of the most affordable 5G phones in India.
Final Thoughts: A Budget 5G Contender?
With 5G networks expanding rapidly across India, budget-friendly 5G smartphones are becoming increasingly crucial. The Lava Shark 5G, with its simplified yet thoughtful upgrades, Android 15 software, and Unisoc-powered performance, could attract users looking for entry-level access to 5G.
While the camera downgrade might raise some eyebrows, Lava’s focus on affordability and real-world usability is clear. As we await an official launch, the Shark 5G appears poised to make a splash in the budget smartphone market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the expected launch date of Lava Shark 5G?
A: While not officially confirmed, the Lava Shark 5G is likely to launch in the second half of 2025.
Q2: What processor will the Lava Shark 5G use?
A: The device is expected to feature the Unisoc T765 SoC.
Q3: What is the camera setup of Lava Shark 5G?
A: It is rumored to include a 13MP primary sensor in a dual-camera setup, a change from the 50MP single camera on the 4G variant.
Q4: Will Lava Shark 5G support Android 15?
A: Yes, it is expected to ship with Android 15 out of the box.
Q5: What are the color options available for Lava Shark 5G?
A: The phone will reportedly come in Blue and Gold color variants.
