iQOO launches its affordable U1x alongside a new 12GB RAM option for the Z1

iQOO is a sub-brand of the OEM Vivo that built its name on premium devices with top-end processors for decent prices. However, it now seems that it is expanding its offerings into different ranges as of late. The latest example of this portfolio enhancement is the U1x, a phone based on the Snapdragon 662 SoC.

In all honesty, the iQOO U1x looks like a new contender in the cost-effective arena. However, it has some severe drawbacks probably conferred on it to keep it in its new price bracket. They include its LCD display which has an HD+ resolution and no mention of an increased refresh rate. Furthermore, its sizeable battery has to charge at 18W over microUSB. Seems a real-world unit might stay stuck to a wall for a long time.

The iQOO U1x also has rear triple 13+2+2MP rear cameras and a selfie camera that goes in a waterdrop notch (although perhaps some consumers would prefer this over a punch-hole). It does at least look good in its Morning Forest or Light Black colorways.

The U1x starts at 899 yuan (~US$135) for a SKU with 4GB of RAM, and goes up to 1199 yuan (~$179) for one with a top-end 6GB of RAM and 128GB in internal storage. It is available to pre-order on sites such as Vivo's own store in China from now.

In other iQOO news, Dimensity 1000+ fans may remember the Z1, a version of the flagship Neo3 with this SoC in place of the Snapdragon 865. Therefore, it may have been attractive to those after a 5G premium mid-ranger, although it launched without a 12GB RAM option. The brand has just addressed this, and now lists 128GB units with this spec for 2598 yuan (~$389).