Launched in India in late 2023, the iQOO 12 arrived with a bang, boasting the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and a focus on performance-hungry users. But is it all just raw power, or does it offer a well-rounded experience? Let’s dive into the details and see if the iQOO 12 lives up to its flagship aspirations.
Performance Powerhouse: The heart of the iQOO 12 lies in its Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, built on a 4nm process. This translates to top-tier performance, handling demanding tasks like gaming and video editing with ease. Coupled with 12GB or 16GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage, the phone ensures smooth multitasking and ample space for your files. User reviews highlight its responsiveness and ability to handle even graphically intensive games without lagging.
Display Delight: The 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate offers a smooth and immersive viewing experience. The LTPO technology dynamically adjusts the refresh rate based on content, saving battery life while ensuring fluidity. Users appreciate the vivid colors and sharp visuals, making it a great choice for multimedia consumption.
Camera Capabilities: While not the main focus, the iQOO 12 still boasts a capable triple-camera system on the back. The main 50MP sensor captures detailed photos, while the 50MP ultrawide and 64MP telephoto lenses offer versatility for diverse shooting scenarios. However, some users note that low-light performance could be improved, and the lack of dedicated optical zoom might be a drawback for photography enthusiasts.
Battery Brawn: The 5000mAh battery paired with 120W fast charging ensures you’ll rarely be caught with a dead phone. Users commend the battery life, lasting comfortably through a day of moderate usage. The fast charging capability is a major plus, allowing you to quickly top up the battery in a short time.
Gaming-Centric Features: iQOO caters to its gaming audience with features like Monster Touch pressure-sensitive zones for enhanced control in games. The phone also boasts a cooling system designed to prevent overheating during intense gaming sessions. However, some reviewers found the gaming-specific software additions could be intrusive for non-gamers.
Design and Build: The iQOO 12 sports a sleek and modern design with a plastic back and a metal frame. While some might prefer a premium glass back, the plastic construction helps keep the weight down and feels sturdy. The phone is available in various color options, catering to different tastes.
Software and Updates: The phone runs on IQOO UI based on Android 13, offering a clean and user-friendly interface with some additional gaming-oriented features. However, concerns have been raised about the update schedule, with some users feeling updates are not rolled out as frequently as they’d like.
Value for Money: The iQOO 12 starts at a competitive price point, making it an attractive option for those seeking a powerful flagship experience without breaking the bank. However, it’s worth considering that some established brands might offer similar specs at comparable prices depending on the market.
In Conclusion: The iQOO 12 is a solid performer aimed at users who prioritize raw power and a smooth gaming experience. The phone boasts a powerful processor, a stunning display, and long battery life with fast charging. However, camera capabilities could be improved for photography enthusiasts, and the software update schedule might be a concern for some. Overall, the iQOO 12 offers a compelling option for those seeking a value-packed flagship with a focus on performance, especially if gaming is a major priority.
