Introduction: iQOO’s upcoming performance-focused smartphone appears to be moving closer to release. After recent leaks suggested that the China-bound iQOO Z12 Turbo could arrive in global markets as the iQOO 16R, the device has now appeared in its first certification, signaling that launch preparations may already be underway.
A new listing in Indonesia’s TKDN database has revealed a device with the model number I2606. The certification entry confirms the iQOO branding and also indicates that the phone will support 5G networks. This same model number was previously spotted in the GSMA IMEI database in early September, where the iQOO 16R name was first identified.
The expected naming strategy follows iQOO’s previous pattern. The iQOO Z11 Turbo launched in China before being introduced internationally as the iQOO 15R. If the company follows the same approach again, the Z12 Turbo could be rebranded as the iQOO 16R for markets outside China.
Based on rumors surrounding the Z12 Turbo, the iQOO 16R may feature a 6.59-inch display with an ultra-high refresh rate. Under the hood, the phone is said to be tested with either the Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 or Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Pro chipset. Additionally, iQOO is reportedly evaluating an active cooling fan to improve sustained performance.
Another leak claims that the company’s next performance smartphones are being tested with batteries of up to around 10,000 mAh. If accurate, this would mark a major upgrade over the iQOO 15R, which packs a 7,600 mAh battery.
As for timing, the previous generation followed a relatively quick rollout schedule. The Z11 Turbo debuted in China in January, followed by the global launch of the iQOO 15R in February. If iQOO repeats this timeline, the Z12 Turbo and its global counterpart, the iQOO 16R, could become official in early 2027.
vivo iQOO 15R
| 256GB 8GB RAM | ₹ 53,999
|
| 256GB 12GB RAM | ₹ 59,999
|
| Show all prices |
