The smartphone industry is moving faster than ever, with brands constantly introducing new innovations to capture tech-savvy buyers. iQOO has once again stepped into the spotlight with the official launch of its latest flagship – iQOO 12 5G. This device is built for users who demand top-tier performance, a buttery-smooth display, and next-level charging technology. Packed with premium hardware and thoughtful design, the iQOO 12 5G is shaping up to be one of the most exciting smartphones in its price bracket.
Design and Display
The iQOO 12 5G blends sleek aesthetics with solid engineering. It comes with a glass front and back, protected by an aluminum frame that feels premium in the hand. Despite its powerhouse internals, the device maintains a comfortable grip.
Front and center is a 6.78-inch AMOLED panel with a Full HD+ resolution of 2400 × 1080 pixels. The standout feature is its 144Hz refresh rate, delivering ultra-fluid scrolling, gaming, and video playback. With HDR10+ support, colors look vivid and contrasts are deep, making this display a treat for both casual users and gamers. The smoothness also minimizes motion blur, keeping action-packed content sharp and immersive.
Performance and Software
At its core, the iQOO 12 5G is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset – one of the most advanced processors currently available. It handles multitasking, demanding apps, and heavy gaming without breaking a sweat.
Configurations go up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB UFS 4.0 storage, ensuring lightning-fast data speeds and plenty of room for apps and media. An advanced cooling system helps maintain stable performance during marathon gaming sessions.
On the software side, it runs OriginOS Ocean based on Android 13, offering a clean yet customizable interface. With minimal bloatware, fast animations, and consistent updates, the experience feels smooth and reliable for daily use.
Camera System
The triple-camera setup makes the iQOO 12 5G versatile in photography:
50MP primary sensor with OIS for crisp, detailed shots
50MP ultra-wide lens with a 120° field of view, perfect for landscapes
12MP portrait lens for depth-rich bokeh portraits
On the front, a 16MP selfie camera ensures clear and social-media-ready shots, with optional AI enhancements for those who prefer extra polish.
Low-light performance has been tuned with night mode features, though it doesn’t quite outshine ultra-premium flagships. Still, for its price range, the results are highly competitive.
Battery and Charging
One of the iQOO 12 5G’s biggest strengths is its charging speed. Equipped with a 4800mAh battery, it comfortably lasts a full day under heavy usage. But the real star is its 120W wired fast charging, which takes the phone from 0–100% in around 20–25 minutes.
It also supports 50W wireless charging, giving users flexibility and convenience. Whether you’re gaming or working, waiting around for battery top-ups is no longer an issue.
Connectivity and Extras
The iQOO 12 5G doesn’t compromise on modern connectivity:
Dual SIM 5G
Wi-Fi 6E
Bluetooth 5.3
NFC
USB Type-C 2.0
It also features an in-display fingerprint sensor, face unlock, stereo speakers, and precise haptic feedback for an immersive touch experience.
Pricing and Availability
The iQOO 12 5G starts at $649 (~MYR 3,049) for the base variant, with higher configurations priced accordingly. Considering its specs, it directly competes with models like the Xiaomi 13, Realme GT 3, and Samsung Galaxy S23 FE.
Its combination of Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 performance, ultra-fast charging, and 144Hz AMOLED display gives it a strong edge in the upper mid-range flagship segment.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 flagship processor
144Hz AMOLED display with HDR10+
120W wired + 50W wireless charging
Triple 50MP versatile camera system
Clean and fast software experience
Cons:
4800mAh battery could have been larger
No official IP rating for water resistance
Cameras strong, but not best-in-class in low light
Slightly bulky due to cooling system
FAQs
1. What is the price of iQOO 12 5G in Malaysia?
The base variant starts at ~MYR 3,049 (USD $649), with higher-spec models priced higher.
2. How fast does the iQOO 12 5G charge?
It supports 120W wired fast charging, fully charging the phone in about 20–25 minutes.
3. Does iQOO 12 5G support wireless charging?
Yes, it comes with 50W wireless charging for convenient cable-free top-ups.
4. What operating system does the iQOO 12 5G run?
It runs OriginOS Ocean based on Android 13, optimized for speed and smooth performance.
5. How good is the iQOO 12 5G for gaming?
With Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 144Hz AMOLED display, and an advanced cooling system, it is excellent for high-end gaming.
⚡ Disclaimer: This article is based on available specifications and early reports of the iQOO 12 5G at the time of writing. Actual pricing and features may vary by market.
Hi, I’m Nadeem, the author of GoldenSnapper. I enjoy sharing helpful insights about technology and automobiles. My goal is to provide readers with simple, useful, and reliable information that makes tech and auto topics easier to understand.