iQOO is reportedly gearing up to challenge the compact tablet market with a new small-screen device that breaks from the company’s recent focus on larger models. The Vivo subsidiary has built a portfolio of sizable tablets in recent years, but insiders suggest the brand is now ready to pursue a different strategy.
According to a Weibo leak from tech tipster Digital Chat Station, the upcoming device will directly take on ZTE’s RedMagic Astra 2, a gaming-focused compact tablet that launched in June. This move signals that iQOO sees opportunity in a segment where fewer competitors currently operate at the premium end.
Key Specifications
The rumored tablet will feature an 8.8-inch display with what’s described as an “ultra-high” refresh rate, though the exact number remains unspecified. The screen itself will be surrounded by narrow bezels on all sides, contributing to a modern aesthetic that prioritizes display real estate.
The device will reportedly incorporate a metal frame, suggesting durability and a premium feel. More notably, it will include a built-in cooling fan—a feature increasingly common in gaming-focused tablets and phones designed to maintain performance during intensive tasks.
Processing power comes from the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset, which positions this as a high-performance device rather than a budget offering. This processor choice underscores iQOO’s intention to compete in the premium small-tablet space rather than offer a stripped-down alternative.
Why It Matters
The small tablet category occupies a middle ground between smartphones and traditional tablets. Devices in this range appeal to users seeking a larger screen for content consumption and productivity without the bulk of a full-size tablet. Gaming enthusiasts represent another key audience, as the compact form factor enables portable performance.
By targeting this segment with flagship-grade specifications, iQOO is betting that there’s untapped demand among users willing to pay premium prices for a specialized device. The inclusion of active cooling suggests the brand anticipates heavy usage scenarios.
What We Don’t Know Yet
Beyond the display size, processor, and cooling system, details remain sparse. Battery capacity, RAM configurations, storage options, pricing, and availability timelines have not been disclosed. The exact refresh rate of the screen also remains unknown, despite being described as exceptionally high.
The company has not officially confirmed this project, and all information remains speculative at this stage.
CellChamp Takeaway: iQOO’s apparent pivot toward compact tablets reflects growing market interest in premium small-screen devices. If confirmed, this tablet could reshape how consumers view the space between phones and full-size tablets, particularly among performance-conscious users.
