iQOO 15 Launch and Performance Insights

The iQOO 15 has officially launched in India and has garnered enthusiastic reviews since its debut. The device’s design, battery longevity, camera quality, and, most importantly, its performance have all earned significant acclaim. An opportunity arose to engage with Nipun Marya, the CEO of iQOO, to delve into the details of the iQOO 15’s launch. Having used the device as the primary phone for two weeks, it proved to be impressive, leaving nearly no room for critique. The discussion aimed at addressing critical questions regarding the phone, particularly its performance, while also touching upon the reasons for its increasing price and notable camera features. The following presents key excerpts from the conversation with Nipun Marya:

Price Dynamics in a Sensitive Market

Startup Superb: To begin with, in a price-sensitive market like India, there is a noticeable hike in the prices of flagship devices. The iQOO 15 has seen an increase of several thousand rupees compared to its predecessor. What factors contribute to this change? Is it related to the silicon carbide battery, the new processor, or part of a broader industry trend?

Nipun Marya: There are two aspects to consider. You are correct in noting that there is a price increase from the iQOO 13 to the iQOO 15. However, when you compare the upgrades from the 13 to the 15, encompassing the display, processor, battery technology, and software features, everything contributes positively. From an upgrade standpoint, the iQOO 15 is indeed a substantial improvement, justifying its higher price tag. Additionally, it’s widely known that the entire industry is experiencing a considerable rise in component costs, which also plays a significant role.

Exceptional Camera Performance

Startup Superb: My next question pertains to the camera capabilities, which are impressive. How much of the iQOO 15’s optics are shared with Vivo’s flagship models, and does this relationship enhance the camera’s performance?

Nipun Marya: Certainly, there’s no doubt about that. iQOO benefits significantly from its association with Vivo, leveraging their expertise in camera technology. As you might appreciate, camera performance relies on both hardware and software. Software optimisation is vital—elements like colour accuracy and texture sensitivity significantly affect outcomes. Additionally, AI engines for scene detection are crucial. All of this advanced technology from Vivo is shared with iQOO, contributing greatly to the camera’s exceptional performance.

Understanding the Distinctions

Startup Superb: Are the camera components identical, or are there differentiations and potential downgrades noticeable?

Nipun Marya: Certainly, when you juxtapose a Vivo X-series model with the iQOO, the Vivo X series is tailored for professional photography. Consequently, any cutting-edge features initially debut in the X-series and gradually make their way to iQOO devices. While specifics are challenging to disclose, it is clear that iQOO incorporates many of the advantageous qualities from Vivo’s technology into its camera systems.

Future Developments

Startup Superb: When can we expect to see a 15 Pro, especially in collaboration with ZEISS?

Nipun Marya: I will consider that feedback (laughs).

Gaming Performance Capacity

Startup Superb: It is evident that a powerful device has been developed; can you point to any current games that might challenge the phone’s capabilities?

Nipun Marya: I do not believe so. In fact, we are anticipating more games to incorporate ray tracing, as we have engineered a phone that excels not only in playing games but also in doing so seamlessly. Furthermore, the introduction of the game live stream assistant addresses a significant need for professional gamers and streamers, something that no other Android phone currently offers. Therefore, we foresee this device becoming a dream for gamers.

Personal Gaming Preferences

Startup Superb: What is the game that you enjoy playing on the iQOO 15?

Nipun Marya: Should I choose a game on the iQOO 15, it would likely be BGMI… maybe even Subway Surfers on occasion.

The “Monster Inside” the iQOO 15

Startup Superb: Lastly, when you refer to “Monster Inside,” if you were to highlight one feature, what would you define as the “monster” within the iQOO 15?

Nipun Marya: The defining aspect would be the refined performance, specifically the supercomputing chip Q3 allied with the 8 Elite Gen 5.