In a bold strategic shift, iQOO, the performance-focused sub-brand of Vivo, is reportedly exploring a compact flagship model under the iQOO 15 lineup. Codenamed either the iQOO 15 Mini or iQOO 15T, this upcoming device is poised to go head-to-head with the much-rumored OnePlus 15T. The standout feature? An unusually massive 7,000mAh battery, housed within a notably smaller form factor — a promising curveball in 2025’s smartphone arena.
What the Leaks Reveal
- Compact form with massive battery: As surfaced by tipster Smart Pikachu on Weibo, the device reportedly fuses a smaller display with a whopping 7,000mAh silicon-carbon battery — a notable feat in compact design.
- Other shared traits with OnePlus’ contender: Both iQOO’s and OnePlus’s compact models are tipped to feature flat displays, ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensors, and gaming-ready performance, likely powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chip.
- Gaming-oriented, yet average bezel control: Balancing act between compact comfort and power, Smart Pikachu hints at intense gaming optimization, even if bezel refinement remains ʻadequateʼ.
Why This Matters
- Redefining compact with endurance: Typically, compact flagships compromise on battery size. iQOO’s rumored innovation, if real, could break that trend by delivering all-day endurance in a palm-friendly design.
- Direct challenge to OnePlus: By aligning a device so closely in concept with the expected OnePlus 15T, iQOO seems to be signaling a turf war in the compact flagship segment.
- Gamers and power users rejoice: With Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 speculated under the hood, iQOO appears to target hardcore users who demand performance and battery life — without lugging a large phone.
The Big Unknowns
- Official confirmation is absent: Despite vivid rumors, iQOO hasn’t confirmed the device’s name, specs, or launch plans.
- Display size and design details: While described as “small,” precise screen dimensions remain unknown—nor have details on refresh rate or resolution surfaced.
- Battery tech still speculative: The mention of silicon-carbon battery tech is a hopeful tidbit, but its final implementation, efficiency, and charging capabilities are not yet verified.
In Summary
iQOO is reportedly developing a compact flagship—possibly dubbed iQOO 15 Mini or iQOO 15T—that aims to combine extraordinary battery life (7,000mAh) with gaming-grade performance, to go toe-to-toe with the OnePlus 15T. Rumored features include a flat display with ultrasonic fingerprint sensing and Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 power under the hood. While speculative, this bold move could redefine what’s possible within a compact chassis—if the rumors hold true.
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