Tech enthusiasts weigh flagship power in UAE smartphone market

As anticipation builds for the iQOO 15’s arrival in the UAE, local tech fans have started comparing its specifications against two of the most popular flagships available — Samsung’s Galaxy S24 and the OnePlus 13. The discussion has intensified across online forums and retail communities, with many eager to see if iQOO’s latest performance-driven phone can hold its own against established giants in the region’s competitive premium market.

Early comparisons show that the iQOO 15 is positioned as a pure performance powerhouse. The device runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, offering enhanced speed and efficiency that directly targets gamers and power users. In contrast, the Galaxy S24 features Samsung’s Exynos or Snapdragon variant depending on region, while the OnePlus 13 also uses the Snapdragon 8 Elite platform. UAE consumers are particularly focused on thermal efficiency, multitasking, and gaming benchmarks — areas where iQOO’s hardware and dedicated cooling system appear to shine.

When it comes to displays, the iQOO 15 takes an aggressive approach with its 6.85-inch LTPO AMOLED panel featuring 2K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. This makes it one of the smoothest displays available for mobile gaming and content streaming. The OnePlus 13 is close behind, offering a 6.82-inch QHD+ screen with adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. Meanwhile, Samsung’s Galaxy S24 maintains a more compact 6.2-inch FHD+ display, appealing to those who prefer portability and one-handed use over sheer size.

Battery and charging performance have become decisive factors for UAE buyers. The iQOO 15 stands out with a massive 7,000 mAh battery and 100W fast-charging capability, allowing a near-full recharge in minutes. The OnePlus 13 follows with a 6,000 mAh unit and similar 100W charging, while the Galaxy S24 trails with a smaller 4,000 mAh battery and slower charging speeds. Given the UAE’s fast-paced lifestyle, where users rely heavily on their phones for gaming, work, and social media, longer endurance and rapid charging are viewed as major advantages.

Camera comparisons reveal that all three phones bring strong imaging setups. The iQOO 15 features a triple-lens system with a 50MP main sensor, an ultra-wide camera, and a periscope telephoto lens. The OnePlus 13 mirrors a similar configuration with three 50MP sensors and advanced image processing. Samsung’s Galaxy S24 offers a 50MP main shooter supported by a 12MP ultra-wide and a 10MP telephoto camera, which continues to impress with its color science and software tuning. For everyday photography, the Galaxy S24 still holds a loyal following in the UAE, but the iQOO 15’s combination of optical zoom and computational processing has sparked intrigue among enthusiasts.

Pricing expectations are another point of discussion. The iQOO 15 is projected to launch in the UAE between AED 2,100 and AED 2,700, significantly undercutting both the Galaxy S24 and OnePlus 13, which sit closer to AED 3,000 and above. Many UAE consumers view this as a compelling reason to consider iQOO, especially if official regional support and warranty coverage expand in the coming months. For price-conscious buyers seeking flagship performance, the value proposition could be difficult to ignore.

The comparison also extends beyond raw specifications to brand perception and service reliability. Samsung maintains a strong local presence with wide service coverage, while OnePlus has steadily grown its retail footprint across Gulf countries. iQOO, on the other hand, is newer to the UAE market but has already begun building partnerships with major online retailers. If the brand can ensure consistent after-sales support, it could quickly become a popular alternative to the region’s dominant players.

In conclusion, UAE consumers comparing the iQOO 15 with the Galaxy S24 and OnePlus 13 are seeing a clear divide between established reputation and emerging performance value. With its large display, massive battery, and powerful chipset, the iQOO 15 appears ready to disrupt the market when it arrives. For tech enthusiasts eager to experience a fresh flagship that emphasizes speed and endurance, iQOO’s entry into the UAE market could mark the start of a new competition in the premium smartphone space.