The iQOO 13 features a 2x telephoto camera, complemented by an advanced triple-camera setup that aims to deliver impressive photography capabilities.
The ultrawide camera is a 50-megapixel Samsung S5KJN1SQ03 sensor with an f/2.0 aperture, while the telephoto lens uses a 50-megapixel Sony IMX816 sensor, featuring an f/1.85 aperture and 2x optical zoom. While this telephoto option is a slight step down compared to the iQOO 12’s periscope telephoto sensor, iQOO asserts that Vivo’s image processing technology will enhance results and compensate for the difference.
Camera Tests: First Samples from Dubai, UAE
We had the opportunity to test the iQOO 13 cameras in Dubai, capturing various photos with all three sensors. Below are some early samples showcasing its capabilities in daylight and low-light scenarios, although a complete verdict will require further testing.
Main Camera Performance
The 50-megapixel Sony IMX921 main sensor demonstrates solid performance, especially in daylight. Images capture plenty of detail with colors that are slightly saturated yet mostly realistic. Dynamic range and white balance are well-maintained, providing a balanced output overall.
Daylight Samples
Daylight photos show excellent clarity and color accuracy, though more extensive testing is needed to evaluate the camera’s consistency across conditions.
Low-Light Samples
The OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) in the main camera sensor significantly enhances low-light photography, delivering sharp, less blurry images. While the low-light results are commendable for a performance-focused phone, some photos taken on a moving cruise exhibited slight blurriness, emphasizing the need for a stable environment in night photography.
Telephoto and Portrait Mode
The 50-megapixel Sony IMX816 telephoto sensor supports portrait mode and offers four distinct focal lengths: 24mm, 35mm, 50mm, and 100mm. Early results reveal sharp portrait photos, with impressive depth and detail, though edge detection could use some improvement. More testing will help assess its reliability in challenging conditions.
Snapshot Mode for Motion Photography
iQOO 13’s Snapshot mode in the Camera app is designed to capture sharp images of moving objects. During our tests at the Dubai Autodrome, we excelled at photographing cars traveling at speeds exceeding 200 km/h. This feature stands out for its ability to freeze motion effectively without introducing blur.
iQOO 13: Key Specifications
- Display: 6.82-inch, 1440×3168 pixels
- Front Camera: 32-megapixel
- Rear Cameras: 50-megapixel + 50-megapixel + 50-megapixel
- RAM: 12GB
- Storage: 256GB
- Battery Capacity: 6,150mAh
- Operating System: Android 15
Early Impressions
The iQOO 13’s camera system showcases excellent daylight performance and promising low-light capabilities, supported by Vivo’s image processing. The telephoto sensor delivers good results in portraits, but further testing is needed to explore its full potential under less-than-ideal conditions. Features like Snapshot mode enhance its appeal for users interested in motion photography.
With the iQOO 13 set to launch in India on December 3, stay tuned for our full review, where we’ll share detailed insights on its camera performance and overall capabilities.