As the official release of OnePlus’ new flagship phone approaches, I have had the opportunity to test the device for a few weeks. While I can’t share all of my thoughts due to embargoes, I can highlight some of the key features of the OnePlus 15.
Following the success of the OnePlus 13, expectations are high for the OnePlus 15. The previous model was praised for its value and performance, although its camera capabilities fell slightly short compared to other flagship devices. With OnePlus teasing exciting features for the new phone, it has the potential to be one of the best smartphones on the market.
Big design changes
The design of the OnePlus 13 received mixed reviews, with some finding it lacking in cohesion. The combination of different surface finishes, colors, and patterns did not create a unified look. However, the phone was well-built and offered IP68 and IP69 certification for dust and water resistance.
In contrast, the OnePlus 15 boasts a completely new design. While it may lose some individuality, it represents a new era in OnePlus’ flagship aesthetics. The design is reminiscent of the compact OnePlus 13s released earlier this year in select markets like India.
The OnePlus 15 features straight sides, a flat front and back, rounded corners, and a square camera module instead of the circular design on its predecessor. The new design is inspired by sister brand Oppo’s latest flagship models, the Oppo Find X9 and Find X9 Pro.
One standout feature of the OnePlus 15 is its color options. The phone comes in three unique finishes, with the Ultra Violet variant featuring a vibrant lavender base and an iridescent treatment that creates a color shift effect. The Infinite Black option offers a textured glass back that gives a sophisticated look, while the Sand Storm finish uses a ceramic treatment for durability and a matte appearance.
Plus Key, Plus Mind & Google
One of the notable changes in the OnePlus 15 is the replacement of the three-stage alert slider with the Plus Key. This programmable button provides access to Plus Mind, a digital assistant feature. The OnePlus 15 is the first flagship model from the company to feature the Plus Key, marking a departure from the traditional alert slider seen in previous models like the OnePlus 13.
In many ways, the introduction of the OnePlus 15 marks the end of an era for OnePlus. While the brand’s Plus Mind feature has continued to evolve over the years, the OnePlus 15 brings a new level of collaboration with Google, allowing Gemini to have awareness of the content saved in Plus Mind. This means users can now ask specific queries related to their saved content and receive tailored responses.
The OxygenOS 16 on the OnePlus 15 is not a major overhaul from its predecessor, but it does introduce several quality-of-life upgrades. Playful animations have been added throughout the UI, enhancing the overall user experience. The Predictive Back Gesture helps users navigate between apps more seamlessly, and there is a new dedicated AI section in the phone’s settings for enhanced control.
One of the standout features of the OnePlus 15 is its gaming experience. Powered by Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, the OnePlus 15 promises exceptional performance in both CPU and graphical tasks. The introduction of OnePlus’ CPU Scheduler and OP Gaming Core technology further optimizes gaming performance, ensuring smooth gameplay even at high frame rates.
The OnePlus 15 also introduces the DetailMax camera system, replacing the brand’s partnership with Hasselblad. Initial comparisons show significant improvements in color accuracy, contrast, dynamic range, and noise suppression with the triple 50MP camera setup on the OnePlus 15. This shift marks a new direction for OnePlus in terms of camera technology.
Overall, the OnePlus 15 represents a significant step forward for the brand, signaling the end of an era with its innovative features and performance upgrades. As OnePlus continues to push boundaries in the smartphone industry, the OnePlus 15 sets a new standard for flagship devices.
The comparison images showcase the differences in camera quality between the OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 15. From main sensor shots to macro photography and selfies, the OnePlus 15 demonstrates advancements in image clarity and detail. In low-light conditions, the OnePlus 15 captures brighter and clearer images compared to its predecessor.
The OnePlus 15 is set to launch globally on Thursday, 13 November, with the UK pricing already teased by OnePlus. Stay tuned for a comprehensive review of the device to uncover all its features and capabilities. Overall, the OnePlus 15 promises exciting upgrades for smartphone photography enthusiasts.
