iQOO has introduced the iQOO Z9 model, and we had the opportunity to try out the Brushed Green variant. Let’s explore its key features.
The iQOO Z9 boasts a 6.67-inch FullHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 300Hz touch sampling rate for gaming, and 1,200Hz instant touch sampling rate. The screen supports HDR with a peak brightness of 1,800 nits and can show 16.7 million colors. It also includes gaming features like 4D Game Vibration and Motion Control previously found on more costly iQOO phones.
The AMOLED display of the iQOO Z9, shielded by DragonTrail Star 2 Plus glass, features a centrally positioned punch-hole for the 16MP selfie camera. The camera utilizes Samsung’s S5K3P9SP04-FGX9 sensor with an f/2.0 aperture and is encircled by a metallic ring that adds a touch of style to the design. However, this detail may only be noticeable upon closer inspection.
Moreover, the display incorporates an embedded fingerprint scanner, which we found to be swift and precise in our testing. Nevertheless, akin to many other smartphones, the fingerprint scanner on the iQOO Z9 is positioned near the bottom bezel, making it challenging to reach. Placing it higher would have enhanced the unlocking experience, particularly for users with smaller hands.
On the rear, there is a squircle-shaped glossy, plastic module that houses a flash and two protruding cameras – a 50MP primary and a 2MP depth camera with f/1.79 and f/2.4 apertures, respectively. The primary camera utilizes the Sony IMX882 sensor with OIS and EIS. Video recording capabilities include 1080p at up to 60FPS and 4K at a maximum of 30FPS.
Although the shiny camera module enhances the aesthetics, it attracts dust and smudges easily, necessitating frequent cleaning.
However, the back cover of the iQOO Z9 features an AG finish that is resistant to fingerprints. The Brushed Green variant showcases an intriguing brushed pattern that looks impressive, particularly when light reflects off the surface at various angles.
Nonetheless, the flat sides and back panel of the iQOO Z9 may not be comfortable for some users to hold. Incorporating a back cover with curved edges similar to those on the iQOO 12 and iQOO Neo9 Pro models would have provided a better grip as those variants are more ergonomically designed despite the flat frames.
Regarding the physical attributes, the iQOO Z9 features a power button and volume controls on the right side, with the USB-C port positioned at the bottom along with a speaker, microphone, and hybrid SIM slot. At the top, there is a secondary microphone. The removal of the 3.5mm headphone jack seen in the iQOO Z8 is compensated by the inclusion of stereo speakers.
iQOO Z9’s ports and controls
The iQOO Z9 is driven by the Dimensity 7200 SoC, coupled with 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM. It offers 128GB/256GB of UFS 2.2 storage, expandable up to 1TB via a microSD card. The device comes with Android 14-based Funtouch OS 14 pre-installed, and iQOO guarantees two years of Android version updates and three years of security patches.
Other notable features of the iQOO Z9 include 5G support, an IP54 rating, Hi-Res Audio, and a 5,000 mAh battery with 44W fast charging capability. The device is claimed to reach a 50% charge in just 31 minutes.
The iQOO Z9 will be available for purchase in India starting March 13 for Amazon Prime members, starting at a base price of INR19,999 ($240/€220). Open sales will commence a day later, with availability in other regions yet to be confirmed.
