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Technology

OnePlus 13 Unboxing and First Impressions: Setting the tone for 2025

OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressions

OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressionsIBT

As the world rings in the New Year, there’s already some exciting news for smartphone enthusiasts as OnePlus takes the first shot at commencing the flagship race. Marking a grand launch of two biggest flagships of the year, OnePlus finally launched OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 13R on January 7, putting an end to all the speculations and rumours about what the new phones will be all about.

OnePlus, however, hasn’t kept a tight lid on the devices, boldly showing off the design and teasing key features in the days leading up to the launch. But we’re here to bring you some more of that exclusive peek as OnePlus has shared with us the review units of OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 13R.

OnePlus 13 starts at Rs 69,999 and the OnePlus 13R stars at Rs 42,999. There’s a special launch offer with ICICI Bank discount, slashing the price by Rs 5,000. The 12GB+512GB variant costs Rs 76,999 and the 24GB+1TB costs Rs 84,999. The 13R’s 16GB+512GB costs Rs 49,999.

While we are in the process of testing and reviewing the flagship, we can, at this point, share with our readers the phones’ first impressions as we unbox the devices.

Unboxing OnePlus 13 series media kit

OnePlus sent us the whole package, its celebrated media kit, which comes with each flagship device. While the phones are a part of it, there are accessories that elevate the overall user experience, which helps us bring a better perspective of the devices.

OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressions

OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressionsIBT

The media kit of the OnePlus 13-series is an experience in itself. The main box is at least 10 times the size of normal smartphone packaging. In well-secured compartments, OnePlus has placed the OnePlus 13, OnePlus 13R and OnePlus Bullets Pro 3 in an all-new Sapphire Blue shade, complimenting the Sapphire Blue OnePlus 13.

As traditions go, OnePlus even put a secret compartment on the side, in which came two OnePlus 13 magnetic cases, an AIRVOOC 50W wireless magnetic charger and a coffee tumbler with subtle OnePlus branding.

OnePlus 13 first impressions

OnePlus sent us the Arctic Dawn variant of the OnePlus 13, and there are two other shades — Midnight Ocean and Black Eclipse. Though the white looks elegant, the blue is the new shade and has to be the better of the trio, complete with its microfiber vegan leather back to set the 13 apart. Nevertheless, the white variant is class apart. It looks sophisticated with that matte glass finish, which curves at the ends to seamlessly blend into the chassis. The shiny frame complements the white shade very well. The weight distribution is also on point, and it doesn’t feel like it weighs 210 grams. At 8.5mm thin, it is one of the sleekest flagships and has a solid grip.

OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressions

OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressionsIBT

OnePlus has also addressed one of the biggest asks by fans in the OnePlus 13 by giving it IP68 and IP69 certification. This allows the phone to withstand water immersion and even high-temperature water jets, making it the most durable flagship in the OnePlus portfolio.

Under the hood, the phone packs a 6,000 mAh battery with 100W SuperVOOC and 50W AirVOOC. This fast-charging tech is unparalled, and the massive battery just refused to die. The phone is lasting well over a day on a single charge. 

The back of the phone has a big circular camera module, which houses four camera lenses. The redesigned camera module, OnePlus says, adheres to the golden ratio. OnePlus has packed a 50MP Sony LYT-808 sensor wide camera, 50MP LYT-600 with 3X optical zoom telephoto camera, 50MP S5KJN5 ultra-wide camera on the back. Video recording is supported at 8K 30fps, 4K at 60fps. The front camera has a 32MP Sony IMX615 sensor. 

OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressions

OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressionsIBT

Take a look at some of the camera samples below:

1/8

  • Shot on OnePlus 13

    Shot on OnePlus 13: 0.6X

  • Shot on OnePlus 13

    Shot on OnePlus 13: 1X

  • Shot on OnePlus 13

    Shot on OnePlus 13: 2X

  • Shot on OnePlus 13

    Shot on OnePlus 13: 3X

  • Shot on OnePlus 13

    Shot on OnePlus 13: 6X

  • Shot on OnePlus 13

    Shot on OnePlus 13: 6X

  • Shot on OnePlus 13

    Shot on OnePlus 13 front camera: Normal

  • Shot on OnePlus 13

    Shot on OnePlus 13 front camera: Portrait

Just as the back of the phone has a quad-curved glass, the display also has a quad-curved screen, which gives an expansive viewing experience. The Alert Slider takes its usual position and continues to work its charm. The volume and power controls are on the right while the USB Type-C port sits at the bottom along with the speaker grille. Overall, the OnePlus 13 takes a fresh approach towards design without losing the signature look, all while keeping the core “Never Settle” spirit alive.

1/3

  • OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressions

    OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressionsIBT

  • OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressions

    OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressionsIBT

  • OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressions

    OnePlus 13 unboxing & first impressionsIBT

OnePlus 13 packs a 6.82-inch QHD+ 120Hz ProXHDR display with LTPO4.1 and Ceramic Guard. It is bright and crisp with vibrant colours, suitable for multimedia and playing high-graphics games. The phone is powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, Andreno 830, up to 1TB storage, 24GB LPDDR5X RAM, which ensures seamless performance. In the short time we’ve been using the phone, there has been no issue with the performance or the UI.

OnePlus 13

OnePlus 13IBT

As we’re reviewing these new smartphones, tell us if there’s any specific content you’d like us to test. You can write to the reviewer at s.khan@ibtimes.co.in.

Technology

OnePlus Nord Buds 3 review: ANC meets bass on budget

OnePlus Nord Buds 3 review

OnePlus Nord Buds 3 review

OnePlus Nord Buds 3, launched on September 17, carved a niche in the budget TWS market. While they lack some features of the Nord Buds 3 Pro, their performance stands out for casual users prioritizing battery life and comfort over audiophile-grade sound. Let’s take a deeper look at what the earbuds have to offer at a competitive price point.

Design and comfort

The Nord Buds 3 features a minimalist stem design with matte finishes that resist fingerprints and smudges. Their IP55 rating protects against dust and light splashes, making them ideal for outdoor activities and light workouts. At just 4.4 grams per earbud, they feel incredibly light, allowing for comfortable extended use. The charging case, though slightly bulkier than competitors, feels sturdy and has a satisfying magnetic snap.

Thanks to their ergonomic design and lightweight build, the earbuds fit snugly without causing discomfort during extended use. The three ear tips included in the box ensure they suit a wide variety of ears.

Audio Performance

Powered by 12.4mm titanium-coated drivers, the earbuds deliver balanced audio. The sound has a punchy bass, making them ideal for genres like pop, EDM, and Bollywood hits. Vocals remain clear, and the highs are crisp but feels a bit harsh.

The ANC is surprisingly effective for the price, blocking out low-frequency noise such as air conditioners or distant traffic. The Transparency Mode is handy for quick interactions without removing the earbuds.

The earbuds are compatible with Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring fast and stable connectivity. There was no issue connecting the earbuds to OnePlus phones or iPhones once paired. The HeyMelody app adds customization options, like EQ adjustments, firmware updates, and finding misplaced earbuds. It is a must-have app, at least while setting up the earphones just to get the equaliser settings right.

The low-latency mode (94ms) is a bonus for gamers, though it’s available only on select devices. Unfortunately, there’s no multipoint connectivity, meaning you can’t connect to two devices simultaneously.

Battery Life

Battery life is a strong suit. The earbuds offer 7 hours per charge, while the case extends it to a total of 36 hours. With fast charging, just 10 minutes of charging delivers 5 hours of playback. For those on the go, these earbuds are just ideal.

Verdict

Priced at ₹2,299, the Nord Buds 3 strikes a balance between affordability and features. While sound quality and ANC may not rival premium models, the battery life, comfortable fit, and connectivity options make them a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers. For those willing to spend more, the Nord Buds 3 Pro offers an upgraded experience at ₹3,299.

Pros:

  • Impressive ANC for the price

  • Punchy bass

  • Excellent battery life and fast charging

  • Comfortable design and lightweight

Cons:

  • No multipoint connectivity

  • Limited codec options

  • Lacks clarity

  • Slightly bulky case

Technology

OnePlus 13R unveiled ahead of Jan 7 launch; what’s changed from OnePlus 12R [details]

OnePlus 13R unveiled ahead of Jan 7 launch; key features tipped [details]

OnePlus 13R unveiled ahead of Jan 7 launch; key features tipped [details]OnePlus

OnePlus fans may be excited about the launch of the OnePlus 13, but the company has made yet another announcement, confirming the launch of another flagship, OnePlus 13R. This new addition to the OnePlus 13 series is set to make its global debut on January 7, 2025. OnePlus 13R is said to be a compact powerhouse, with a stunning design, top-tier performance, versatile cameras, a lightweight operating system, and a substantial 6,000mAh battery.

OnePlus 13R will be available in two colorways, Nebula Noir and Astral Trail, inspired by “Mother Nature.” The design of the OnePlus 13R is a harmonious blend of form and function, featuring a slim design with an elegant camera layout that adheres to the golden ratio. The device is also equipped with Gorilla Glass 7i on both the front and back. This is complemented by an aluminum frame, creating a refined and elegant look.

OnePlus 13R, along with OnePlus 13, are equipped with versatile triple camera systems on the rear, designed to capture stunning, sharp, and detailed photos of fleeting moments. This feature ensures that users can capture high-quality images of dynamic scenes, such as a child at play or a pet in motion, without any blur.

OnePlus 13R vs OnePlus 12R

OnePlus 13R is the successor to last year’s OnePlus 12R, and it has been the subject of much discussion in recent weeks as it has started to appear on global certification listings, including the Geekbench database. OnePlus 13R is expected to feature major refinements in design, such as a flat screen and a leather back panel. OnePlus 12R, on the other hand, featured a glass build and a circular camera module, giving it a premium look.

In terms of performance, the OnePlus 13R is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. The OnePlus 12R was equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. The OnePlus 13R is also expected to have a larger battery capacity, with a 6000mAh battery, compared to the 5500mAh battery of the OnePlus 12R.

In addition to the OnePlus 13R, OnePlus will also be launching a new colorway for the OnePlus Buds Pro 3, Sapphire Blue. These earbuds feature smooth touch controls, a sleek design, and a leather-textured finish.

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 will also introduce an AI Translation feature in partnership with the OnePlus 13 series, providing considerable convenience for everyday communication and work-related activities.

Technology

OnePlus 13 series, new Buds Pro 3 variant launching on January 7; new info emerges

OnePlus 13 series, new Buds Pro 3 variant launching on January 7; here's what we know

OnePlus 13 series, new Buds Pro 3 variant launching on January 7; here’s what we knowOnePlus

OnePlus is all set to launch its new flagship smartphones, the OnePlus 13 series, and a new variant of its flagship earbuds, OnePlus Buds Pro 3, on January 7. This announcement comes as the company celebrates its 11th anniversary. OnePlus 13 series is expected to feature a slim design, an elegant camera layout following the golden ratio, and three stunning new colourways: Black Eclipse, Arctic Dawn, and Midnight Ocean.

OnePlus 13 Series

The Midnight Ocean variant is going to be the first phone to feature micro-fiber vegan leather, offering a luxurious hand feel while providing desirable resistance to corrosion and scratches. The Arctic Dawn colourway introduces an industry-first surface-based glass coating, for a comfortable, silky smooth touch and a fingerprint-resistant surface.

OnePlus 13 series is going to be powered by the newly-released OxygenOS 15, known for its advanced AI features designed to deliver a lighter, smarter, and smoother experience. These AI enhancements are applied across key areas of the devices, simplifying daily interactions, boosting productivity.

OnePlus 13 launch confirmed; full design revealed ahead of January release

OnePlus 13 launch confirmed; full design revealed ahead of January releaseOnePlus

AI and OnePlus Buds Pro 3

Key highlights include Intelligent Search, letting you search across your local files using natural prompts, so that you don’t have to open the file one by one, or read a long file yourself, and AI-powered photography tools, enhancing everyday tasks.

The OnePlus Buds Pro 3 will also come in an elegant Sapphire Blue colorway, complementing the OnePlus 13 Midnight Ocean. The Buds Pro 3 will introduce AI Translation in collaboration with the OnePlus 13 Series, offering seamless convenience for everyday communication and office tasks.

As the OnePlus 13 series launch approaches, it also marks a significant milestone for OnePlus—its 11th anniversary. This anniversary celebrates the Never Settle spirit that has defined the brand since its inception and its strong community.

Technology

OnePlus Green Line Worry-Free Solution revolutionises display standards; offers lifetime AMOLED warranty

OnePlus Green Line Issue

OnePlus Green Line Issue

Instead of hiding behind ignorance, OnePlus has taken a significant step to address the persistent issue of green lines on AMOLED displays in smartphones. The company has introduced what it calls OnePlus Green Line Worry-Free Solution, which reassures users through advanced display technology, stringent quality control, and an extended service policy of a lifetime warranty.

After responding swiftly with technological solutions to mitigate display risks in the Indian market. OnePlus is now accelerating technology upgrades in AMOLED displays. But what comes as a surprise is its lifetime warranty for Indian users, which is the first of its kind.

The OnePlus Green Line Worry-Free Solution operates in three key areas. Let’s take a closer look:

Advanced display technology

The first area is the integration of advanced display technology. The standout advancement is the integration of the Enhanced Edge Bonding Layer, which utilizes superior PVX edge-sealing materials in all OnePlus AMOLED displays, which tackles various environmental challenges.

PVX is a high-performance material with exceptional resistance to weathering and chemicals, making it ideal for enhancing durability in extreme conditions. The PVX layer acts as a barrier, significantly slowing moisture and oxygen penetration over time, thereby extending the lifespan of the display. This move effectively minimizes the occurrence of green line issues to the lowest level in the industry, even in India‘s extreme heat and humidity.

OnePlus Green Line Issue

OnePlus Green Line Worry Free SolutionOnePlus

Quality control

The second area of operation is rigorous quality control. The OnePlus Quality Engineering Lab conducts over 180 comprehensive tests on all phones, simulating extreme real-world conditions to ensure reliability and durability.

Lifetime warranty 

Finally, the extension of a lifetime warranty to all its smartphone models demonstrates OnePlus’s dedication and confidence. Whether users own an older model or considering buying the latest releases, they can rest assured that their investment is protected from display issues. 

It’s worth noting that OnePlus’s move to address the green line issue with a lifetime warranty for all its phone models comes ahead of the OnePlus 13 launch. This bold move reinforces its reputation as a user-centric brand.

Technology

OnePlus announces to invest Rs 6,000 crore in India to boost products, services

OnePlus logo seen at the launch of 6T in New Delhi on October 30, 2018.

OnePlus logo seen at the launch of 6T in New Delhi on October 30, 2018.IBTimes India/Sami Khan

Global technology brand OnePlus on Thursday announced annual investment of Rs 2,000 crore in India over the next three years (till 2027) to accelerate innovations in products and services in the country.

The Rs 6,000 crore investment plan over the three years, launched under the name of ‘Project Starlight,’ is a strategic vision for the brand’s future investment in the region, the company said in a statement.

“At OnePlus, we are deeply committed to understanding and addressing the unique needs of our Indian users,” said Robin Liu, CEO of OnePlus India. “The Project Starlight is a demonstration to our dedication to going beyond the surface to tackle the challenges faced by our users in their daily lives.

“India remains a top priority for us globally, and we continue to strive to earn the trust and affection of our Indian community,” Liu added.

The Project Starlight investment focuses on three key areas — making even more durable devices, exceptional customer service, and developing India-specific features.

OnePlus 13 launch confirmed; full design revealed ahead of January release

OnePlus 13OnePlus

The first commitment starts immediately with two significant display technology advancements – the creation of the world’s first DisplayMate A++ display and the rolling out of OnePlus’s Green Line Worry-Free Solution.

“The new display is set to premiere in an upcoming flagship device and is designed to excel in the harsh sunlight of India, redefining clarity, brightness, and color vibrancy. The 2K 120Hz ProXDR Display’s peak brightness of 4,500 nits allows for clear visibility even under the brightest sunlight, ensuring that colours remain true and images remain vivid without any washout,” said the company.

Next, the ‘Project Starlight’ aims to elevate the overall user experience through enhanced service quality. This year, OnePlus successfully increased its service centres by 22 per cent, including an 11 per cent rise in exclusive service centres directly owned by the company.

The company aims to expand its service centres by 50 per cent by mid-2026.

“The third focus of the Project Starlight will see OnePlus dedicate itself to developing features that are tailored to address the distinct requirements of our Indian user base,” said the company.

Meanwhile, in India, OnePlus 13 Series devices will also introduce Steady Connect which extends Bluetooth connection range to up to 360 metres.

(With inputs from IANS)

Technology

OnePlus 13 launch confirmed; full design revealed ahead of January release

OnePlus 13 launch confirmed; full design revealed ahead of January release

OnePlus 13 launch confirmed; full design revealed ahead of January releaseOnePlus

OnePlus has revealed the launch of its next flagship smartphone, OnePlus 13, which is happening in January 2025. This highly anticipated smartphone is expected to be available in three unique colorways – Midnight Ocean, Black Eclipse, and Arctic Dawn. The launch has created a buzz among tech enthusiasts worldwide, as OnePlus 13 promises to blend cutting-edge innovation, swift and seamless performance, and AI with a stunning, eye-catching design.

OnePlus 13 is touted to be the first smartphone from the brand to secure an IP68 + IP69 rating. This rating suggests that the phone is dust-tight and can withstand high-pressure, high-temperature jet sprays, wash-downs, or immersion in water. 

The Midnight Ocean color of OnePlus 13 will be the first phone to feature micro-fiber vegan leather. 

OnePlus 13’s launch is set to coincide with the release of other flagship models. For instance, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra is expected to hit the shelves in early 2025. The S25 Ultra is anticipated to feature a sturdy titanium build and Corning’s glare-free glass for extra durability, along with a Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chip.

OnePlus 13 launch confirmed; full design revealed ahead of January release

OnePlus 13 launch confirmed; full design revealed ahead of January releaseOnePlus

However, OnePlus 13 seems to be a step ahead with its unique features. For instance, the base 12GB/256GB model will be available only in Black Eclipse globally. The phone also boasts an A++ rating from DisplayMate, indicating its superior display quality. The listed peak brightness is 4,500 nits, and there’s a special Crystal Shield glass to protect the display.

OnePlus 13 also promises significant camera upgrades. The new 50MP telephoto unit uses a slightly bigger sensor, and the periscope zoom module comes with an upgraded “multiple prism reflection structure.” This new zoom camera kit is expected to deliver higher photosensitivity, which theoretically means more efficient light data collection and better picture quality.

The device is powered by a 6,000mAh silicon-carbon battery, supporting 100W wired and 50W wireless charging.

In terms of software, OnePlus 13 runs on OxygenOS 15, which includes Open Canvas on non-folding phones. This feature represents a significant departure from traditional multitasking, offering users a more efficient and seamless smartphone experience.

Technology

Apple dominates Q3 tablet sales in India: Samsung follows; Xiaomi, OnePlus win big

Apple iPad

Apple iPad 2022IANS

India’s tablet PC market witnessed a remarkable surge in the third quarter of 2024, with a staggering 46% year-on-year growth, according to a report by CyberMedia Research (CMR). This growth is driven by the rapid adoption of 5G tablets and a wave of premiumization in the market. The report highlights a significant 108% YoY increase in tablets in the INR 20,000-30,000 range, indicating a shift towards premium devices.

Wi-Fi tablets still held a commanding 62% market share in Q3 2024, showcasing their affordability and effectiveness for home-based users. However, 5G tablets demonstrated substantial growth, capturing 19% of the market, as users look for on-the-go, high-performance devices.

Apple leads yet again

Apple secured the top position in the Indian tablet market with a commanding 34% market share and a staggering 95% year-over-year (YoY) growth. The new Apple iPad 10 Series contributed to 60% of Apple’s shipments, underpinning Apple’s strong momentum in the market, CMR report stated.

Samsung came in second with a market share of 25% and a YoY growth of 70%. The brand’s vast product portfolio, covering both premium and value-for-money tablets, enabled it to target a wide consumer base. For instance, Samsung Galaxy A9 Plus 5G contributed to 52% of Samsung’s total shipments.

Interestingly, Xiaomi saw exceptional market gains with a significant 146% YoY growth in Q3 2024. Known for its value-for-money offerings, Xiaomi’s growth was driven by the popular Redmi Pad (37%) and Redmi Pad SE WiFi (26%), both resonating well in India’s price-sensitive market.

Xiaomi Redmi Pad Pro 5G review

Xiaomi Redmi Pad Pro 5GIBT

Lenovo continues to face challenges in Q3 2024, experiencing a 13% decline in unit sales. The Lenovo Tab M11 4G + Wi-Fi (28%) and Lenovo Tab Plus (16%) were the main contributors to its shipments. No other brand lost tablet market share as much as Lenovo did in Q3 2024.

OnePlus continues to make strides, achieving a significant 97% YoY growth. The OnePlus Pad Go Wi-Fi Series was particularly popular, accounting for 57% of OnePlus’s shipments. It shows the brand understands the pulse of the nation in the tablet race, helping it gain ground at a rapid pace.

“The tablet market is on a growth incline, steered by a surge in 5G tablet adoption and a clear ongoing trend towards premiumization during the festive season sales. India’s value concious consumers are prioritizing better-speeced tablets for work, learn and play,” Menka Kumari, Analyst – Industry Intelligence Group (IIG), CyberMedia Research (CMR), said in a statement.

“As brands align their strategies with consumer expectations, the future of the tablet market looks incredibly promising,” Kumari added. 

Looking ahead, CMR forecasts a steady 10-15% growth for the tablet market in 2024. This market growth will be steered by a robust consumer demand for premium as well as value-for-money tablets. Alongside, commercial tablet demand is also on the rise, steered by growing pocket of opportunities in edtech, healthtech, hospitalitytech and CPGtech, amongst others.

This growth trend in the tablet market is not unprecedented. In the past, similar surges have been observed with the advent of new technologies or during festive seasons. For instance, the introduction of 4G technology also saw a significant increase in tablet sales, as consumers sought to upgrade their devices for better connectivity and performance. Similarly, festive seasons have traditionally seen a spike in tablet sales, as consumers take advantage of festive offers and discounts.

Technology

OxygenOS 15 is here: OnePlus redefines speed, design; puts AI at core [key features]

OxygenOS 15 is here: OnePlus redefines speed, design; puts AI at core [key features]

OxygenOS 15 is here: OnePlus redefines speed, design; puts AI at core [key features]OnePlus

OnePlus has officially launched OxygenOS 15, which promises to enhance user experience through speed, sleek design, and advanced AI integration. Keeping in line with the brand’s mantra of “Never Settle”, OxygenOS 15 combines fast performance, smoother interactions, and AI features. Here’s everything you need to know about the new update.

The open beta version of OxygenOS 15 will be available first on the OnePlus 12 5G starting October 30. Details on the public roll out will follow shortly.

Speaking of the new update, Arthur Lam, Director of OxygenOS Product, said, “With OxygenOS 15, we aim to create a product that resonates with our users, integrating advanced and meaningful AI features alongside a design they helped create. This release sets a new standard for software performance and productivity.”

Key Features of OxygenOS 15

Parallel Processing

OxygenOS 15 comes with a new technology called “Parallel Processing”, which optimizes transitions between applications and ensuring smooth performance even under heavy usage. The system’s refined animations, coupled with a 20% reduction in system storage on next-gen flagship devices, ensure efficiency and speed. With this new technology, switching between more than 20 applications continuously is quite seamless.

AI at core

OxygenOS 15 takes advantage of AI in photography, productivity, and even note-taking. Notable features include:

  1. AI Detail Boost: Elevates low-resolution images to stunning 4K.

  2. AI Unblur: Sharpens blurry photos effortlessly.

  3. AI Notes: Offers intelligent note formatting, voice-powered transcription, and content expansion.

Interestingly, OnePlus has partnered with Google to bring Gemini app to its upcoming OnePlus flagship devices as the default AI assistant. Users can take full advantage of Gemini features, including help with writing, planning, learning, Gemini Live and Go Live with Gemini.

AI features are set to begin rolling out to OnePlus devices by the end of November.

UI overhaul

OnePlus has completely redesigned the visual aesthetics of OxygenOS 15, featuring new icons, fingerprint unlock styles, new lockscreen, and immersive shimmering effects. OnePlus has introduced OneTake feature, which enhances phone unlocking visuals, and the “Share with iPhone” function simplifies file sharing across platforms.

OxygenOS 15

OxygenOS 15OnePlus

OnePlus is known for its attention to detail, which now reflects in the OxygenOS 15 update. There are new elements in settings, notification bars, and control centers to give a streamlined and immersive experience. One of the most beloved features of OnePlus Open, Open Canvas is now a part of OxygenOS 15, which means your candybar OnePlus devices will get it too.

Privacy and Security

OxygenOS 15 prioritizes user privacy with new theft protection mechanism. When the phone detects sudden movements typical of theft, such as someone taking your device and trying to run away, the device gets automatically locked. There is a new remote lock feature, which users can use to lock their stolen device with just their phone number and without having to log in to the Google account.

Technology

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 review: Perfection

OnePlus Buds Pro 3

OnePlus Buds Pro 3IBT

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 was launched in India on August 20, succeeding the highly-popular OnePlus Buds Pro 2. The new pair of TWS by OnePlus is a major upgrade from its predecessor, offering an impressive blend of audio performance, design, and intelligent features. Priced at Rs 11,999, the Buds Pro 3 comes in two shades, Midnight Opus and Lunar Radiance and we got the latter for testing.

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 became our daily driver for the better part of the month, shifting from the highly-capable AirPods Pro 2. There were some tough shoes to fill. Nevertheless, here’s what we think of the OnePlus Buds Pro 3.

Design and Build Quality

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 maintains a sleek and modern design, in line with the brand’s commitment to aesthetic appeal. The polished, ergonomic build ensured we had a comfortable fit even during extended use. The materials feel premium to the touch, enhancing the overall user experience.

The charging case is compact and sturdy, making it portable and easy to slip into jeans pockets as well. Of the two colours, we loved the Lunar Radiance as it exuded elegance. 

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 review

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 reviewIBT

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 are rated IP55 for dust and water resistance, and were able to use the buds during workouts and even in light rain. The L and R engraving on the earbuds makes it easy to identify which side is which. This is the best execution in any TWS. 

Audio Quality

Audio performance is where the OnePlus Buds Pro 3 truly shines. Equipped with advanced drivers and tuning, these earbuds deliver a rich, balanced sound profile. The bass is punchy without being overwhelming, mids are clear, and highs are crisp, making them suitable for a wide range of music genres.

The buds also have spatial audio and adaptive sound technology, which offered an immersive and dynamic listening experience. The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is highly effective, capable of drowning out ambient noise to a significant degree. We tested it in busy market areas and while driving as well, and the ANC worked perfectly well. 

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 review

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 reviewIBT

For users who frequently use earbuds for calls, the OnePlus Buds Pro 3 does not disappoint at all. The triple-mic setup works efficiently in reducing background noise, and ensures clear voice on both sides. This makes the earbuds reliable for both casual and professional communication. 

Features and Connectivity

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 comes loaded with features that are practical and useful on a day-to-day basis. What truly stood out is the seamless connectivity with OnePlus devices, which is possible due to Bluetooth 5.4. The buds ensured a stable connection through and through. It also means the Buds Pro 3 supports the standard codecs like SBC and AAC, but they lack support for high-resolution codecs like AptX and LDAC, which many audiophiles may find disappointing. 

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 review

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 reviewIBT

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 supports multi-device pairing, which made switching between devices convenient and effortless. 

The earbuds have touch controls on them, which are intuitive and responsive. From managing calls, music, and volume was effective and eliminated the need to reach out for the phone.

Battery performance

Of all the features, one that is admirable is the fast charging capability. We could put the earbuds on for a quick 10-minute charge, and continue streaming for over 3 hours. This came in handy while travelling or when we had busy shoot days. Coming to the battery life, the buds are commendable.

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 review

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 reviewIBT

Even with ANC turned on, the buds delivered an impressive 6 hours of playback time on a single charge. Thanks to the case, we could add over 40 more hours with ANC off. This means, we could go on using the earbuds for a week or more, depending on the usage.

Software and User Experience

Like other OnePlus buds, the OnePlus Buds Pro 3 can be customised using the HeyMelody app, which is available on both Android and iOS. The app allowed us to tweak the sound profile, update firmware, and access features like the earbud fit test. The app also supports various sound modes, including a transparency mode that lets in ambient sounds, useful for situational awareness. Given the features it offers, the app is a must for OnePlus earbuds’ users.

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 review

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 reviewIBT

Verdict

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 offers an impressive package that balances design, audio quality, and advanced features. They are perfect for casual listeners and audiophiles, providing a versatile audio solution. The seamless integration with OnePlus devices and the additional features like ANC, spatial audio, and fast charging make these buds a strong contender in the premium wireless earbuds market.

Sure, some users might find the price point slightly on the higher side, however, the overall value proposition, considering the quality and feature set, makes them a worthwhile investment for those seeking high-performance earbuds.

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 is highly recommended for users looking for premium quality wireless earbuds with advanced features and excellent audio performance.