iQOO has carved out a strong reputation in India’s flagship smartphone market by delivering premium features at relatively affordable prices. However, the company’s strategy has shifted with the iQOO 15, which launched at a starting price of Rs. 72,999. Now, fresh leaks suggest the upcoming iQOO 16 may not launch in India at all, citing steep hardware cost increases.
A new report from tipster Yogesh Brar indicates that rising memory prices could push the iQOO 16’s price to around Rs. 85,000, making it difficult for the brand to maintain its value proposition. Brar tweeted, “We may not see iQOO 16 launch in India..With current memory rates, iQOO 16 will cross Rs 85k. iQOO has only 1 budget Z series phone for this year, all other products have been scrapped.”
The iQOO 16 is rumored to feature significant upgrades compared to its predecessor, including a new flagship processor, a larger battery, improved cameras, and a brighter display. While these enhancements are expected to elevate the user experience, they also contribute to a likely substantial price increase over the iQOO 13, which launched at Rs. 54,999.
This potential pricing hike poses a strategic challenge for iQOO. The brand has built its identity on offering flagship-level specifications at a lower price point than many premium competitors. If the iQOO 16 ends up priced similarly to other top-tier devices, it could lose the competitive edge that has fueled its growth in India. The company has not officially confirmed the leak, leaving its launch plans uncertain.
If iQOO decides to skip the Indian market, rivals stand to benefit. Samsung’s Galaxy S series could become the most accessible premium option, while OnePlus may attract users seeking fast performance at a lower cost. Xiaomi’s flagship lineup and Vivo’s X series are also likely to gain traction, especially for their superior camera capabilities.
Nothing is final yet, and iQOO could still alter its plans. Nevertheless, the situation highlights a broader trend: the rising expense of building flagship smartphones. Brands are increasingly forced to choose between increasing prices or reconsidering their market strategies for high-end devices.