A Budget Flagship for Photography Enthusiasts
The iQOO 15 is drawing significant interest among UK smartphone buyers thanks to rumours that it will bring flagship-level camera performance at a price point under £700. If the leaks hold true, the device could offer a rare combination of high-end optics, advanced photography features and strong value—something that typically requires spending well above that threshold.
One of the most compelling bits of information is the confirmed inclusion of a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto lens in the rear camera setup. This was officially announced by iQOO’s product manager, marking a departure from the lesser zoom capabilities seen in many value-flagship phones. The setup is further bolstered by leaks that indicate a triple 50MP rear camera array: primary, ultra-wide and periscope telephoto. Such hardware is traditionally found only in very high-end smartphones.
The primary camera is said to be a large sensor (reportedly around 1/1.5″) with optical image stabilization (OIS), providing the basis for strong performance in low light and detailed capture. An ultra-wide-angle 50MP sensor adds versatility for group shots and landscapes. The periscope lens (50MP) offers optical zoom (3x reported) and higher quality zoom results—again, a feature typically reserved for much pricier models. Such a configuration gives the iQOO 15 optics that look very much “flagship tier.”
Pricing rumours are equally intriguing. Several sources suggest the UK launch (or at-least parallel import pricing) could place the base iQOO 15 model well under £700. This is significant because most phones offering similar camera hardware tend to launch much higher—often well above £800-£900 in the UK. If iQOO delivers what it promises, UK buyers could get near-top-tier camera performance at a price that previously belonged to mid-premium devices.
However, while the hardware sounds excellent, there are important caveats. Camera performance isn’t just about megapixels and lens count. Software optimisation, image processing algorithms, tuning for UK lighting conditions (indoors, low light, mixed lighting) and region-specific calibration will all play huge roles in how the camera performs in real-world use. Additionally, the availability of the full spec in UK variants (rather than a trimmed version) is not yet guaranteed.
Another factor is the brand’s service ecosystem in the UK. For photography-centric users, aspects like firmware updates, camera module repair or lens quality over time become even more relevant. iQOO’s camera hardware may be on paper competitive, but support and long-term reliability in the UK market will influence overall user satisfaction.
If all goes well—hardware confirmed, pricing holds, UK variant is full-feature—the iQOO 15 could become one of the best camera-centric smartphones under £700 available in the UK in 2025. For buyers who prioritise photography but are budget-sensitive, this could be a standout option. Conversely, those who place heavy weight on after-sales support, mature ecosystem and globally-tested camera results may still prefer more established brands.
In conclusion, the iQOO 15’s camera rumours suggest it could deliver flagship-quality imaging at an accessible value. For UK consumers seeking high-performance photography without the ultra-premium price tag, the device merits serious consideration—pending confirmation of UK availability, full feature-set and support infrastructure.
Also Read: iQOO 15 availability in UK may depend on carrier partnerships