The trend of compact flagship smartphones is making a robust return, and OnePlus seems ready to jump into the action. Leaks emerging from China suggest the brand is developing a smaller flagship device to compete with popular options like the iPhone 16 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro, and Xiaomi 15.
What to Expect from the Compact OnePlus Device
Reports indicate that the upcoming OnePlus device will feature a 6.3-inch display, striking a balance between portability and premium user experience. The screen will boast a 1.5K resolution, promising vivid visuals with excellent clarity. Powering the device will be Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, which is built to deliver exceptional performance for demanding tasks, making it ideal for gamers, multitaskers, and tech enthusiasts.
Design and Build: A Minimalistic Approach
The design of the new OnePlus phone is rumored to include a horizontally aligned camera module, reminiscent of Google’s Pixel smartphones. This layout, combined with a compact form factor, is likely to appeal to users who prioritize aesthetics and ease of handling.
Advanced Camera Features, but No Periscope Zoom
The camera setup is another highlight of this device. The main sensor will reportedly be a 50 MP Sony IMX906, designed to offer excellent performance in low-light conditions and deliver sharp, detailed images. However, the phone will lack a periscope lens for zoom, which some competitors have been incorporating. Instead, OnePlus appears to be focusing on simplicity and functionality over specialized features.
Cutting-Edge Display and Biometrics
The prototype of this device is expected to include an in-display optical fingerprint sensor for quick and secure access. However, the company is reportedly considering replacing it with an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, which could provide faster and more accurate authentication. This ongoing debate may impact the final release timeline.
Possible Name and Release Timeline
Industry insiders speculate that the device may belong to the Ace 5 series, potentially being named the Ace 5 Mini or Ace 5 Pro Mini. Since the company is still finalizing critical aspects such as fingerprint technology, an official launch might not happen soon. However, the buzz around the compact flagship signals that OnePlus is targeting a niche audience looking for smaller, high-performance smartphones.
Final Thoughts
As OnePlus prepares to compete in the compact flagship market, this rumored device could provide a premium alternative for users seeking powerful yet portable smartphones. While the absence of certain features like a periscope lens might seem like a drawback, the focus on performance, design, and user-friendly features could make it a strong contender.
