iQOO has launched the iQOO Hackathon 2026, billed as India’s first hybrid mobile hackathon. Targeted at software engineers, student developers, AI enthusiasts, and early-career IT professionals, the competition tasks participants with developing technology solutions for real-world problems using a mobile-first workflow.
Format and Development Model
The hackathon introduces a hybrid structure requiring participants to integrate smartphones directly into traditional development environments.
- “Red Light, Green Light” Workflow: During designated “Red Light” phases, teams must develop and code primarily on an iQOO 15 smartphone. During “Green Light” phases, participants may blend mobile tasks with conventional laptop development.
- Hardware Utilization: The challenge leverages the iQOO 15’s hardware profile—including its Snapdragon processor, OriginOS optimizations, integrated vapor cooling system, and extended battery capacity—to test mobile feasibility for sustained programming workloads.
- Evaluation Criteria: Projects will be evaluated by an industry panel of AI specialists and technology executives on phone-first execution, AI integration, Office Kit utilization, real-world utility, and pitch quality. Participants will receive dedicated AI credits and guidance from over a dozen industry mentors.
Schedule and Regional Battles
The competition follows a 30-hour regional format across four major technology hubs before concluding with a national finale in Bengaluru.
| Stage / Location | Dates | Scope |
| Bengaluru City Battle | August 29–30, 2026 | Regional qualifier |
| Pune City Battle | September 5–6, 2026 | Regional qualifier |
| Chennai City Battle | September 12–13, 2026 | Regional qualifier |
| Hyderabad City Battle | September 26–27, 2026 | Regional qualifier |
| Grand Finale (Bengaluru) | October 9–11, 2026 | National championship |
Prize Pool and Registration
Each regional City Battle carries a prize pool of ₹6 lakh, distributed among the Winner, First Runner-up, Second Runner-up, Special Honour recipients, and standout projects.
Winners from each regional round and select shortlisted candidates from online submissions will advance to the Grand Finale in Bengaluru to compete for a separate ₹25 lakh national prize pool.
Registrations are currently open to eligible developers and students through the official portal at iqoo.reskilll.com.