The iQOO 12 series just set a very high benchmark for performance-based smartphones, and now all eyes lie in the successor: the iQOO 13. While an official launch is still a few months away, the leaks and rumors have already started pouring in and give us a fair idea of what to expect from this upcoming flagship.
Reports from the recent leaks have it that the iQOO 13 might still be sleek and modern in design, just like the previous one, with little upgrades probably on the camera module and color options. The device will sport a flat display, precisely similar to that of the iQOO 12; however, this time, refresh rates and resolution might get an uplift.
Display Size: Though not confirmed, it will likely be in the ballpark of the iQOO 12's 6.78-inch panel.
Refresh Rate: It will come with a high refresh rate, maybe 144Hz or higher, for silky-smooth scrolling and gaming.
Resolution: With a resolution possibly being 2K, it should provide clear and detailed visuals.
It is most likely to be powered by an upcoming Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipset under the hood. This flagship processor brings a lot of performance improvements over its predecessor for smooth multitasking and the capability of easily running heavy tasks.
RAM and Storage: Users will, of course, have generous RAM and storage options to choose from based on preference.
Battery: Rumors have a large capacity compared to the iQOO 12 for improved endurance.
Charge: Fast charging is a given; probably at faster speeds than the previous generation.
Photography has been one of the high points for iQOO smartphones, and the iQOO 13 may continue this tradition. Updates in the camera setup with bigger sensors, low-light photography, and better image processing are all expected.
Primary Sensor: A high-resolution primary sensor would be at the center.
Ultrawide and Telephoto Lenses: Additional lenses for ultra-wide and telephoto photography will be available to bring in some diversity.
Video: Enhanced video stabilization and shooting modes are anticipated.
Software: The iQOO 13 could run on Android 14 out-of-the-box, with a custom skin by iQOO atop.
Audio: Advanced audio features could be rolled out with the succeeding generation; this might involve high-resolution audio format support.
In-Display Fingerprint Sensor: This feature will be continued for easy and safe unlocking.
Though the exact date of launch has not been disclosed, iQOO 13 will certainly be on the market by late 2024. On price fronts, it will be a little pricey to offer real value for money to all consumers who are highly enthusiastic about technology.
Though the exact charging wattage is yet to be confirmed, having 100W+ fast charging does make things a bit exciting.
Battery Health: What iQOO has to do right is not compromise on battery health for the sake of fast charging speed; both should go hand in hand for long-term performance.
Wireless Charging Absence: In contrast, many would find the absence of wireless charging at least something to raise their eyebrows about, but it definitely contributed to the slimmer profile and thus potentially a better battery life.
The metal frame, combined with the glass at the back, gives way to high-quality construction.
IP Rating: An IP68 or even IP69 rating should make the iQOO 13 more resistant to water and dust, enhancing its durability.
Display Design: Even though the flat display is a mass favorite, some might want a curved screen for aesthetics and immersive content consumption.
Under-Display Fingerprint Sensor: This is going to be a norm, so this feature will most probably make its way into the iQOO 13.
Improved Haptics: Improved haptic feedbacks bring a much-needed overhaul to user experience.
Gaming Improvements: Dedicated gaming chips, trigger buttons, and improved cooling systems are all going to be a part of it, seeing that iQOO is a brand for gamers.
The performance-driven, cost-effective portfolio of iQOO brings the iQOO 13 at an estimated competitive pricing for a high-end segment. Though exact figures remain to be known, it is sure to be placed at par with flagship products across other prominent brands.
Component Costs: The most important include Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, display technology, camera sensors, and other premium components. These components will directly affect the price.
Market Competition: Keeping stiff competition in mind from OnePlus, Xiaomi, and Samsung, iQOO needs to price the device accordingly.
Storage and RAM Options: Multiple storage and RAM options raise the price naturally.
The iQOO 13 will quite clearly compete with the following premium flagship devices:
One Plus 12: With its seamless software experience and fast charging, this brand will be very serious competition.
Xiaomi 14: Xiaomi's flagship series flexed its muscles in the camera performance segment and was full of innovations.
Samsung Galaxy S24: The South Korean giant never stops amazing; its flagship stands at the front desk in each category.
Google Pixel 8 Pro: Google Pixel 8 Pro’s computational photography and the pure Android experience simply spell differentiation.
iQOO 13 and OnePlus 12 are going to explode in the premium segment very soon. Both companies have been incessantly pushing high-performance devices with USPs.
Performance: Both would come armed with the latest flagship Snapdragon, so top performance was without a doubt. While iQOO remains fiercely gaming-centric, OnePlus focuses more on software smoothness.
Camera: Though both shall most probably come with compelling camera systems, iQOO has traditionally invested in camera hardware, while OnePlus in computational photography.
Design and Build Quality: Traditionally, OnePlus has invested in a clean, minimalistic design language. On the other hand, iQOO has dabbled in bolder aesthetics.
Charging Technology: Both brands have pushed hard in fast charging tech, so you could guess aggressive charging speeds on either device.
One Plus' OxygenOS is known for its bloat-free UI and quick performance, whereas iQOO's custom skin has been evolving to offer a more polished experience.
The following are the things that, to be different from OnePlus 12, iQOO can focus on:
Gaming-Centric Features: Elaborating further on the reputation as a brand-oriented towards gaming, iQOO could bring enhanced cooling solutions, trigger buttons, and exclusive gaming partnerships.
Aggressive Pricing: The price would be competitive enough to wrestle the OnePlus 12 and have more takers from the budget-conscious segment who desire flagship performance.
Unique Camera Features: Unique features such as very advanced night modes in photography or unique video recording capabilities will greatly help in setting the iQOO 13 apart.
Customized User Interface: Provide a highly customized UI with intense personalization; this would be a big deal for people seeking a customized experience.
Well, little is said regarding the official date of release, but it should be late 2024.
It should be Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 at the iQOO 13.
The iQOO 13 will likely retain a similar display size as its predecessor, somewhere around 6.7 inches with a high refresh rate—most probably 144Hz or above.
There won't be an iQOO 13 Pro model, if the current rumors are believed.
According to rumors, the iQOO 13 will have a larger battery than its predecessor while retaining support for fast charging, touted to be higher than 100W.