The smartphone market is buzzing with anticipation for two titans set to clash: the iPhone 17 and the iQOO 15 5G. Both devices promise cutting-edge technology and powerful performance, but cater to slightly different audiences. Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide which one might be the better fit.
Price in India
The iPhone 17, known for its premium build and features, is expected to start at approximately ₹82,900 for the base 256GB variant. A 512GB storage option will likely be priced higher, around ₹1,02,900.
The iQOO 15 5G, on the other hand, is rumored to be more aggressively priced, potentially starting around ₹59,999 for the base model with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Other configurations, such as 16GB RAM + 512GB storage, may cost around ₹65,999, while the top-tier 16GB RAM + 1TB storage variant could reach ₹69,990.
Release Date
Apple unveiled the iPhone 17 lineup on September 9, 2025, and released the devices on September 19, 2025.
The iQOO 15 was launched in China on October 20, 2025. The India launch is expected between November 15 and November 25, 2025, or possibly early December.
Specifications and Features
| Feature | iPhone 17 | iQOO 15 5G | | ---------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Display | 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, 2622 x 1206 resolution, 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate, Always-On display, 3000 nits peak brightness | 6.85-inch 2K+ (3168 x 1440 pixels) curved Samsung M14 8T LTPO AMOLED display, 144Hz refresh rate, up to 6000 nits peak brightness, HDR 10+, Dolby Vision | | Processor | Apple A19 SoC | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 with Adreno 840 GPU, potentially with a dedicated Q3 gaming chip | | RAM | 8GB | 12GB or 16GB LPDDR5x | | Storage | 256GB, 512GB | 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB UFS 4.1 | | Main Camera | 48MP Dual Fusion camera system (48MP Fusion Main, 48MP Fusion Ultra Wide), 2x optical zoom | Triple 50MP setup: 50MP primary with OIS, 50MP ultrawide, 50MP periscope telephoto with 3x optical zoom and OIS | | Front Camera | 18MP with Dual Capture | 32MP | | Battery | 3692mAh, 25W charging | 7000mAh, 100W wired fast charging, 40W wireless charging | | Operating System | iOS 26 | OriginOS 6 based on Android 16 | | Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, Ultra Wideband | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, dual-band GPS | | Other | N1 networking chip, Memory Integrity Enforcement (MIE), Action button, Camera Control | Q3 gaming chip, ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, IP68/IP69 rating, vapor chamber cooling | | Colors | Lavender, Sage, Mist Blue, White, Black | Lingyun, Legendary Edition, Track Edition, Wilderness |
Key Differences and Considerations
- Ecosystem: The iPhone 17 offers seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, which can be a significant advantage for users already invested in Apple products and services.
- Performance: Both phones are expected to deliver flagship-level performance. The iQOO 15 may have an edge in gaming due to the dedicated Q3 chip and advanced cooling system.
- Camera: Both phones boast impressive camera systems. The iQOO 15's triple 50MP setup offers versatility with its periscope telephoto lens.
- Battery: The iQOO 15 has a significantly larger battery and faster charging capabilities, making it a better choice for users who prioritize battery life.
- Software: The iPhone 17 runs on iOS 26, while the iQOO 15 runs on OriginOS 6 based on Android 16. The choice between these operating systems comes down to personal preference.
- Design: The iQOO 15 is expected to feature a unique "squiricle" camera island with a glowing RGB light.
Conclusion
The iPhone 17 and iQOO 15 5G are both compelling flagship smartphones. The iPhone 17 offers a premium experience with its seamless ecosystem integration and refined design. The iQOO 15 5G, on the other hand, targets gamers and power users with its powerful hardware, large battery, and advanced cooling system, potentially at a more competitive price point. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
