The iQOO 15 made its debut back in November 2025 as the direct successor to the iQOO 13, and now it looks like the company is preparing to broaden the lineup further. A new smartphone, reportedly called the iQOO 15R, has been spotted on the Bluetooth SIG certification database. This sighting usually does not happen too early, so it quietly suggests that the launch may be closer than it seems.
The listing reveals a device with the model number I2508, which is expected to sit just below the standard iQOO 15 in the lineup. In practical terms, this places it in the sub-flagship category, similar to how the OnePlus 15R exists alongside the OnePlus 15. Interestingly, iQOO has historically relied on the “Neo” branding for its performance-focused mid-range smartphones. This appearance of the 15R name hints that the brand may be rethinking its naming strategy, particularly for India and other global markets.
Key Takeaways
- The iQOO 15R has been officially listed on the Bluetooth SIG database with model number I2508.
- Reports indicate it could be a rebranded version of the upcoming iQOO Z11 Turbo from China.
- The phone is expected to run on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, positioning it just below the flagship iQOO 15.
- It may feature a 200-megapixel primary camera and a 6.59-inch display.
- Premium durability is expected, including a metal frame and IP68 plus IP69 dust and water resistance ratings.
The appearance of the I2508 model number on the Bluetooth SIG website is a strong sign that the device is nearing launch. What makes this more interesting is that the same model number previously showed up in the IMEI database under the name iQOO Neo 11. The shift from “Neo” to “15R” feels deliberate. It suggests iQOO wants its more affordable high-performance phones to be more closely tied to its flagship number series, rather than existing as a separate lineup altogether.
This approach follows a broader industry trend. Many brands are now using “R” or “Neo” style models to offer near-flagship performance at a slightly lower price. The usual trade-offs tend to be in areas like camera tuning, display resolution, or secondary hardware features. For many buyers, that compromise is acceptable, especially when raw performance remains strong.
On the performance front, the iQOO 15R is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor. Built on a 3nm process, this octa-core chipset is designed to deliver high-end performance without reaching the cost levels of the “Elite” variant used in top-tier flagships. Internally, the phone is said to carry the codename “The Battle Spirit,” which hints clearly at a gaming-focused identity. It is likely to ship with Android 16 out of the box, running on iQOO’s OriginOS 6 interface.
Battery life also seems to be a major focus. Early reports suggest the device could pack a very large battery, possibly going up to 7,600mAh. If that figure holds true, it would be among the largest in its segment. Paired with 120W fast charging support, the phone should be well-suited for long gaming sessions or heavy daily use without constant top-ups.
In terms of design and build quality, the iQOO 15R does not appear to cut corners. The phone is expected to feature a metal middle frame combined with a glass back panel. Rounded corners are also mentioned, which should help with grip during prolonged use. Up front, there is said to be a 6.59-inch flat OLED display with a 1.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. This setup should strike a good balance between sharp visuals and smooth performance.
Photography is another area where the phone aims to stand out. The iQOO 15R is expected to come with a 200-megapixel primary camera, marketed around delivering “ultra-clear” images. While final image quality will depend on sensor tuning and software optimization, the hardware itself certainly sounds ambitious for a sub-flagship device. For security, the phone is tipped to include an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, which is typically faster and more reliable than the optical sensors commonly seen in this price range.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the expected price of the iQOO 15R in India?
A1: While there is no official confirmation yet, the iQOO 15R is expected to be priced between Rs 45,000 and Rs 55,000. This would place it as a direct competitor to the OnePlus 15R.
Q2: Is the iQOO 15R water-resistant?
A2: Yes, the handset is expected to feature IP68 and IP69 ratings. This means it should handle water immersion as well as high-pressure water exposure.
Q3: Will the iQOO 15R support 5G networks?
A3: Yes, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset includes an integrated 5G modem, ensuring support for major 5G bands in India.
Q4: How does the iQOO 15R differ from the standard iQOO 15?
A4: The standard iQOO 15 uses the more powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and comes with a larger 6.85-inch display. The iQOO 15R is expected to be a slightly more compact and affordable option, using the standard Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 while retaining much of the flagship-level performance.
