It looks like iQOO isn’t done with its 15 series just yet. After launching the standard model back in October, new reports suggest the company is prepping a more powerful “Ultra” version. But unlike most upgrades that focus on cameras, this one seems designed entirely for hardcore gamers.
According to the latest chatter from reliable tech insiders, the phone is on track to launch in China before the Spring Festival kicks off on February 17, 2026.
Built for Gaming
The biggest change here isn’t just raw speed—it is how the phone handles heat. Leaks indicate the iQOO 15 Ultra will feature an active cooling fan inside the chassis. This is a rare feature usually reserved for niche gaming devices, and it allows the phone to run heavy games for hours without getting too hot or slowing down.
To make it even more appealing to gamers, the phone reportedly includes “shoulder triggers.” These are touch-sensitive or physical buttons on the side of the phone that act like the L and R triggers on a game controller. For anyone playing competitive shooters, this offers a massive advantage over tapping the screen.
Screen and Power
Under the hood, the device is expected to run on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, the same powerhouse chip found in the standard iQOO 15. However, the cooling fan should help it squeeze more consistent performance out of that processor.
The display is also getting a specific tweak for performance users. It is tipped to be a flat 6.85-inch 2K OLED panel. Gamers often prefer flat screens over curved ones because they prevent accidental touches at the edges of the display during intense matches.
Why This Matters
This release signals a shift in strategy for iQOO. Usually, when brands slap the “Ultra” name on a phone, they mean it has a better zoom camera. iQOO appears to be taking a different route, using “Ultra” to mean “Ultimate Performance.”
By adding hardware features like fans and triggers, iQOO is challenging dedicated gaming phones like the Asus ROG series, but likely in a package that still looks sleek enough for daily use.
What’s Next?
If the pre-February timeline is accurate, we can expect official teasers to start dropping in China very soon. There is no word yet on when—or if—this specific model will make it to global markets.
