Chinese smartphone giant iQOO has dropped its latest addition to the Neo series in India — the iQOO Neo 10R. Boasting Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, the company is pitching it as the fastest smartphone in its price range. With a starting price of Rs 26,999, the device aims to capture attention in the mid-range market.
Price and Variants: Something for Everyone
The iQOO Neo 10R is coming in three configurations, offering users flexibility based on their needs and budgets:
- 8GB RAM + 128GB storage: Rs 26,999
- 8GB RAM + 256GB storage: Rs 28,999
- 12GB RAM + 256GB storage: Rs 30,999
It also arrives in two stylish color options — MoonKnight Titanium and Raging Blue, giving users a choice between a sleek, dark finish and a bold, vibrant look.
Availability: Pre-Booking Perks and Where to Buy
The smartphone is set to hit the shelves on March 19, but eager buyers can get a head start with pre-bookings already live on Amazon and iQOO India’s e-store. Those who pre-book can grab their device a day early on March 18.
Performance and Power: Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 Takes the Lead
At the heart of the iQOO Neo 10R is the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset — a toned-down but still powerful sibling to the flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. This processor promises high performance for gaming, multitasking, and daily use without breaking a sweat.
- CPU: Octa-core setup with improved power efficiency
- GPU: Adreno, designed to handle high-end games with smooth frame rates
- Battery: A robust 5,000mAh battery with 120W fast charging
iQOO claims that the Neo 10R can charge up to 50% in just 10 minutes, keeping users connected with minimal downtime.
Display and Design: Bold Looks with Fluid Performance
The Neo 10R sports a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate — a sweet spot for gamers and content consumers. The HDR10+ support ensures punchy colors and deeper contrasts, while the design remains slim and sturdy.
- Resolution: 2400×1080 pixels (FHD+)
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz for ultra-smooth scrolling and gameplay
- Build: Glass back with aluminum frame
Cameras: Snapping Moments with Precision
In the camera department, the iQOO Neo 10R doesn’t hold back. It packs a dual rear camera setup alongside AI enhancements to improve photo quality on the fly.
- Main Camera: 50MP sensor with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)
- Ultra-Wide Camera: 8MP for wider shots
- Front Camera: 16MP selfie shooter
Night mode, portrait enhancements, and 4K video recording are all onboard, catering to photography enthusiasts.
Competition and Market Position
The Neo 10R lands in an increasingly competitive space. Rivals like the OnePlus Nord 3, Realme GT Neo 5, and Xiaomi Redmi K50i are all in the same ballpark. However, with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, faster charging, and an aggressive price tag, iQOO might just steal the spotlight.