The season of flagship smartphones is here, with various brands showcasing their top-tier devices. iQOO has joined the competition with its latest release, the iQOO 15. This model represents the pinnacle of iQOO’s phone lineup, boasting significant upgrades compared to its predecessor, the iQOO 13. Despite the enhancements, the price has seen a notable increase, now matching that of competitors like OnePlus 15 and Realme GT 8 Pro at Rs 72,999.
Equipped with the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, a massive 7,000mAh battery, a triple-camera system featuring a 50-megapixel primary sensor and a 50-megapixel Sony 3x periscope lens, and a large 6.85-inch display, the iQOO 15 appears impressive on paper. However, with pricing no longer a distinguishing factor, iQOO faces direct competition from OnePlus 15 and Realme GT 8 Pro, making the choice between them a challenging one.
The design of the iQOO 15, available in black and white variants in India, maintains the brand’s familiar aesthetic. While reminiscent of previous models, subtle modifications like a slimmer camera module and a redesigned dynamic light enhance the overall look and feel of the device. The phone’s build quality is commendable, featuring a velvety matte texture on the back and IP68 and IP69 dust and water resistance.
The standout feature of the iQOO 15 is its display, a 6.85-inch Samsung 2K M14 LTPO OLED screen with a 144Hz refresh rate and up to 6000 nits peak brightness. The display delivers vibrant visuals and smooth performance, catering to both everyday use and gaming needs. The device’s performance is driven by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, ensuring seamless multitasking and gaming experiences without lag or overheating.
In terms of cameras, the iQOO 15 boasts a triple-camera setup on the rear, featuring a 50-megapixel primary sensor with OIS, a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto lens, and a 50-megapixel ultra-wide camera. The device excels in capturing detailed and natural-looking photos, though some areas like ultrawide shots may lack sharpness. The front camera also delivers clear selfies with accurate skin tones.
With a robust 7000mAh battery supporting wireless charging, the iQOO 15 offers extended usage without worrying about power depletion. The device performs admirably in day-to-day tasks and gaming, thanks to OriginOS 6 based on Android 16 and the Q3 gaming chip integration. Audio output is impressive, and the phone’s overall performance is well-rounded for both gamers and non-gamers alike.
Despite some minor camera limitations, the iQOO 15 presents a compelling flagship option with its impressive display, powerful performance, reliable battery life, and versatile camera system. Priced at Rs 72,999, it offers a competitive package, especially with bank offers bringing down the effective cost to Rs 64,999. For users seeking a premium Android experience without breaking the bank, the iQOO 15 stands out as a strong contender in the flagship smartphone market.