iQOO 13 Design and Build Quality
The iQOO 13 may look quite similar to its predecessor, the iQOO 12, but subtle upgrades and improvements elevate its overall experience. Although the design changes are minimal, there are key enhancements that make this phone stand out.
Design and Handling
In terms of design, the iQOO 13 continues with a glass sandwich build, featuring a glass front (Schott Xensation Alpha), a glass back, and an aluminum side frame. The back of the device comes with a matte, satin-like finish, while the side frame offers a glossy and flat look. While the design remains largely unchanged, the camera arrangement is different, and the camera island has received a slight redesign.
One of the most significant updates is the ingress protection. The iQOO 13 comes with an IP68/IP69 rating, which is a big improvement over the lack of any official IP rating on the iQOO 12. This makes the iQOO 13 resistant to dust and water, giving users more peace of mind regarding its durability.
The device is available in three colorways: Alpha (black), Nardo Grey, and Legend (white) with BMW M branding. The unit we reviewed was the Legend variant, featuring the signature white with the distinctive BMW M logo.
Despite its premium build, the iQOO 13 can be quite slippery to handle. The glossy side frame provides a secure grip, but the back, with its smooth matte finish, can make the phone feel a bit slippery. On a positive note, the back does not attract fingerprints, although the same cannot be said for the glossy side frame.
Innovative Features
One unique and quirky feature of the iQOO 13 is its camera bump, which is outlined by RGB LED lighting, known as the Monster Halo. This lighting effect illuminates when you power on the phone or when it’s charging, providing an eye-catching visual. Additionally, the Monster Halo offers real-time notifications for calls and messages, making it not just a stylish feature but also a practical one.
The iQOO 13 also integrates an IR blaster within the camera bump, a design choice that positions it more conveniently than in previous models, where it was placed at the top of the device.
Another noteworthy addition is the phone’s 360-degree NFC support. This feature allows you to make contactless payments or perform NFC tasks without having to hold the phone in a specific orientation. It’s a subtle but convenient improvement that makes everyday usage smoother.
Fingerprint Reader and Other Enhancements
In terms of security, iQOO has upgraded the optical fingerprint reader from last year to an ultrasonic one in the iQOO 13. Ultrasonic readers are generally faster, more reliable, and work more consistently in various conditions, such as when your fingers are wet. The placement of the fingerprint sensor is also more convenient, allowing for easy access with your thumb.
Conclusion
While the design of the iQOO 13 doesn’t undergo dramatic changes, the focus on improving practical features like the ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, 360-degree NFC, and enhanced ingress protection is apparent. These updates make the iQOO 13 a solid, user-friendly device for those seeking reliability and innovation in their smartphone experience. The unique Monster Halo feature and sleek design choices are a nice touch, further enhancing the overall appeal of the device.
FAQs
1. What improvements does the iQOO 13 have over the iQOO 12?
The iQOO 13 brings several key improvements, including an IP68/IP69 ingress protection rating for water and dust resistance, 360-degree NFC support for more convenient contactless payments, and a more reliable ultrasonic fingerprint sensor. The camera bump also features an RGB LED lighting effect called Monster Halo, which provides notifications and a visual aesthetic.
2. What colors are available for the iQOO 13?
The iQOO 13 is available in three color variants: Alpha (black), Nardo Grey, and Legend (white), with the latter featuring BMW M branding, making it stand out with a premium design.
3. How does the iQOO 13 handle grip and durability?
The iQOO 13 has a glass sandwich design with a matte satin-like finish on the back and a glossy, flat aluminum side frame. While the glossy side frame provides a secure grip, the back is smooth, which can make the phone slippery. However, the back doesn’t attract fingerprints, keeping it looking clean.
4. What is the Monster Halo feature?
The Monster Halo is an RGB LED light outline around the camera bump, which lights up when the phone is turned on or charging. It also provides real-time notifications for incoming calls and messages, making it a unique and functional design element.
5. Does the iQOO 13 support contactless payments?
Yes, the iQOO 13 features 360-degree NFC support, allowing users to make contactless payments or use NFC-enabled features from any orientation, without needing to hold the phone in a specific way.
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