iQOO has introduced the Neo 12, a new mid-range smartphone that packs specifications typically reserved for high-end flagships. The device is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, the same chipset found in the $1,300 Galaxy S26 Ultra. To manage thermal performance, the phone includes a custom active cooling fan with 59 blades and a "3D Ice Dome" vapor chamber system.
The front of the device features a large 6.83-inch AMOLED display with a 2K resolution and a refresh rate of up to 185Hz. It offers a peak brightness of 2,200 nits and incorporates both DC dimming and 2,160Hz PWM dimming for eye comfort. Catering to its gaming focus, the screen is supported by a custom display chip for enhanced touch responsiveness and includes a super-sensitive gyroscope for precise aiming in games.
Despite housing an active fan, the iQOO Neo 12 achieves an IP69 rating, ensuring protection against water and dust damage under various conditions. Powering the device is a substantial 9,000mAh battery that supports 100W wired charging. The build also includes an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, an IR sensor, and stereo speakers.
On the camera front, the phone sports a raised island on the rear containing a 50MP Sony IMX921 main sensor and an 8MP ultra-wide lens. A 16MP sensor handles front-facing photography. The device is available in three colorways: Contender, Frost Blade Blue, and Shadow Black.
The iQOO Neo 12 is currently available for purchase in China through Vivo with the following pricing tiers: 12GB/256GB for CNY 4,199 (approximately $630), 12GB/512GB for CNY 4,899 ($735), 16GB/256GB for CNY 4,599 ($690), 16GB/512GB for CNY 5,299 ($825), and a top-tier 16GB/1TB model for CNY 6,299 ($945). A global release date has not yet been announced.
Sources: 9to5Google.