iQOO 16: flagship smartphone with Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and 200MP camera

The iQOO 16 has appeared in the IMEI database, with an expected release in October 2026. Although still early, rumors are already revealing key specifications. Reliable insider Digital Chat Station reports the iQOO 16 will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset, positioning it to compete with the OnePlus 16.

This detail matters because it highlights the device's flagship ambitions. The smartphone will feature a flat 2K Samsung display with a high refresh rate, rumored to be either 165Hz or 185Hz. Other specifics remain under wraps, but the base model is known to come with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. For the camera system, the main sensor is a 200MP unit, supplemented by a 50MP ultra-wide sensor and a 50MP periscope lens.

In practice, this means the iQOO 16 will run on OriginOS 7 based on Android 17, offering premium features like an advanced cooling system. The base version is expected to cost around 5,000 yuan, equivalent to $730. Overall, the picture is straightforward: the iQOO 16 is shaping up to be the brand's flagship, combining a powerful processor, a top-tier display, and an impressive camera setup.