Highlights
- iQOO 12 series launching in India on December 12th with Funtouch OS 14, based on Android 14.
- Shift in software strategy: Elimination of pre-installed ‘Hot Apps’ and ‘Hot Games’.
- Commitment to three major OS updates and four years of security patches for the iQOO 12 series.
The iQOO 12 series, which is about to make its India debut on December 12th, is set to introduce significant updates in its software approach.
The series will come equipped with Funtouch OS 14, based on Android 14, marking a shift in the company’s strategy regarding pre-installed applications.
iQOO Discontinuing Bloatware?

Historically, iQOO’s Funtouch OS has been known for including default apps, commonly referred to as “Hot Apps” and “Hot Games.”
However, with the advent of Funtouch OS 14, the company has decided to discontinue this practice.
This change indicates a move towards offering a more streamlined user interface, free from the usual pre-installed applications, often termed as bloatware.
In addition to this software update strategy, iQOO has announced that the iQOO 12 series will receive three major OS updates.
Alongside this, the company will provide four years of security patches.
This commitment, while not on par with some of the longer support cycles offered by other major smartphone manufacturers, represents a step in the direction of enhanced device longevity.
iQOO Listening To Consumer Preference

The decision to remove pre-installed apps can be seen as a response to consumer preferences for a more uncluttered and efficient user interface.
This strategy aligns with current trends in the smartphone industry, where there is a growing emphasis on minimizing unnecessary software inclusions to improve the user experience.
As iQOO continues to carve out its niche in the competitive smartphone market, its pledge to offer extended software support is indicative of its effort to adapt and meet evolving consumer expectations.
With further development and increased market presence, it is possible that iQOO could extend its support timeframe, thereby positioning itself closer to the industry standards set by established brands.
IQOO 12 5G SPECIFICATIONS
Key Specs
RAM | 12 GB |
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 |
Rear Camera | 64 MP + 16 MP + 12 MP |
Front Camera | 24 MP |
Battery | 5000 mAh |
Display | 6.79 inches (17.25 cm) |
General
Launch Date | December 11, 2023 (Unofficial) |
Operating System | Android v13 |
Performance
Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 |
CPU | Octa core (3.36 GHz, Single core, Cortex X3 + 2.8 GHz, Quad core, Cortex A715 + 2 GHz, Tri core, Cortex A510) |
Architecture | 64 bit |
Fabrication | 4 nm |
Graphics | Adreno 740 |
RAM | 12 GB |
Display
Display Type | AMOLED |
Screen Size | 6.79 inches (17.25 cm) |
Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels |
Pixel Density | 388 ppi |
Bezel-less display | Yes with punch-hole display |
Touch Screen | Yes, Capacitive Touchscreen, Multi-touch |
Camera
MAIN CAMERA | ||
Camera Setup | Triple | |
Resolution | 64 MP, Primary Camera 16 MP 12 MP |
|
Autofocus | Yes, Phase Detection autofocus | |
Flash | Yes, LED Flash | |
Image Resolution | 9000 x 7000 Pixels | |
Settings | Exposure compensation, ISO control | |
Shooting Modes | Continuous Shooting High Dynamic Range mode (HDR) |
|
Camera Features | Digital Zoom Auto Flash Face detection Touch to focus |
|
Video Recording | 1920×1080 @ 30 fps | |
FRONT CAMERA | ||
Camera Setup | Single | |
Resolution | 24 MP, Primary Camera | |
Video Recording | 1920×1080 @ 30 fps |
Battery
Capacity | 5000 mAh |
Type | Li-Polymer |
Removable | No |
Quick Charging | Yes, Fast, 200W |
USB Type-C | Yes |
Storage
Internal Memory | 256 GB |
Expandable Memory | No |
Network & Connectivity
SIM Slot(s) | Dual SIM, GSM+GSM |
SIM Size | SIM1: Nano, SIM2: Nano |
Network Support | 5G Not Supported in India, 4G Supported in India, 3G, 2G |
VoLTE | Yes |
SIM 1 |
4G Bands:
TD-LTE 2300(band 40)
FD-LTE 1800(band 3) 3G Bands:
UMTS 1900 / 2100 / 850 / 900 MHz
2G Bands:
GSM 1800 / 1900 / 850 / 900 MHz
GPRS:
Available
EDGE:
Available
|
SIM 2 |
4G Bands:
TD-LTE 2300(band 40)
FD-LTE 1800(band 3) 3G Bands:
UMTS 1900 / 2100 / 850 / 900 MHz
2G Bands:
GSM 1800 / 1900 / 850 / 900 MHz
GPRS:
Available
EDGE:
Available
|
Wi-Fi | Yes, Wi-Fi 4 (802.11 b/g/n) |
Wi-Fi Features | Mobile Hotspot |
Bluetooth | Yes, v5.3 |
GPS | Yes with A-GPS, Glonass |
NFC | Yes |
USB Connectivity | Mass storage device, USB charging |
Multimedia
Loudspeaker | Yes |
Audio Jack | USB Type-C |
Sensors
Fingerprint Sensor | Yes |
Fingerprint Sensor Position | On-screen |
Fingerprint Sensor Type | Optical |
Other Sensors | Light sensor, Proximity sensor, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope |
FAQs
What is significant about iQOO 12’s software update strategy?
The iQOO 12 series marks a significant change in iQOO’s approach to software, featuring the new Funtouch OS 14 based on Android 14. This update signifies a shift away from the inclusion of pre-installed applications, streamlining the user experience by eliminating what is often regarded as bloatware.
How is iQOO’s approach changing with Funtouch OS 14?
With Funtouch OS 14, iQOO is discontinuing its practice of pre-loading ‘Hot Apps’ and ‘Hot Games’. This decision reflects a commitment to offering a cleaner, more efficient user interface, aligning with the preferences of consumers who favor a less cluttered and more efficient smartphone experience.
What does iQOO’s commitment to software updates entail?
iQOO has pledged to provide the iQOO 12 series with three major operating system updates along with four years of security patches. This approach, while not matching the lengthiest support cycles in the industry, represents a notable effort towards ensuring longer device lifespan and improved user security.
What does this strategy indicate about iQOO’s market positioning?
iQOO’s decision to extend software support and focus on user preferences suggests an adaptive and consumer-centric approach in the competitive smartphone market. This strategy may help iQOO to strengthen its market presence and potentially extend its support timeframe in the future, aligning more closely with industry leaders.
Also Read: iQOO 12 Camera To Reportedly Harbour a 64MP Sensor, Accompanied by 50MP Ultra-Wide Shooter
Also Read: iQOO 12 to Launch in India with Android 14-Based Funtouch OS 14