The Growing Debate Over Early Imports of the iQOO 15

As excitement builds around the iQOO 15, UK consumers are split on whether it’s worth importing the phone before its official release. The device’s combination of high-end hardware, rumored aggressive pricing, and limited regional availability has created a dilemma among tech enthusiasts: buy early and take the risks, or wait for an official UK launch with full support.

The iQOO 15 is reportedly packed with flagship-level features at a fraction of the cost of most premium phones. Rumors suggest it could ship with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 or 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, up to 16GB RAM, a 7,000mAh battery, and an advanced triple-camera system featuring three 50MP lenses. The display is expected to be a 6.82-inch 2K LTPO AMOLED panel with a 144Hz refresh rate — technology often seen only on ultra-premium models. For many, these specs make the device irresistible, especially if import pricing stays near £500 to £550 for the base model.

But importing comes with significant caveats. Many UK buyers are concerned about the compatibility of imported models with local 5G and LTE networks. Not all global versions of iQOO devices fully support UK carrier bands, meaning connectivity could be inconsistent or limited. There’s also the issue of software — imported units often come with region-specific firmware that may lack Google Play certification or regular updates aligned with Western markets. These factors could affect long-term usability and performance.

Warranty and after-sales service are also major sticking points. Imported smartphones rarely include UK-based warranty coverage, forcing buyers to rely on third-party repair centers or send devices overseas for servicing. In addition, some online importers offer minimal support or charge high fees for replacements and repairs. For many consumers, that lack of assurance outweighs the short-term benefit of early ownership.

On the other hand, tech enthusiasts and early adopters argue that the savings and early access make importing worthwhile. The iQOO 15’s expected price advantage compared to established UK flagships like the Pixel 9 or Galaxy S24 could be significant — potentially saving hundreds of pounds. Those who value performance over convenience view importing as an acceptable risk, especially if they’ve successfully imported phones before. For them, the appeal lies in experiencing the latest Snapdragon power and cutting-edge charging speeds months before an official UK release.

Some buyers are also weighing the timing factor. The iQOO 15’s global rollout schedule remains uncertain, and if the UK launch is delayed, waiting could mean missing out on months of use. However, importers must also consider customs duties, shipping delays, and potential firmware issues that could arise with non-UK models. These hidden costs can reduce the overall price advantage, making the decision less straightforward.

Overall, the debate reflects two clear camps among UK consumers: the risk-takers eager to import early and the cautious buyers waiting for official support. For adventurous users, the iQOO 15 represents an opportunity to own a high-performance smartphone before most others. But for everyday consumers who prioritize reliability, software stability, and warranty coverage, patience may prove the wiser choice.

Ultimately, whether the iQOO 15 is “worth importing early” depends on each buyer’s priorities. If the rumored specs and performance live up to expectations, the device could be one of the most tempting imports of 2025. But until iQOO confirms a full UK launch with certified support, many consumers are likely to remain on the fence — watching closely to see if the early adopters’ gamble pays off.

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