Now we know more about OnePlus’ upcoming “OnePlus Open.” OnePlus CEO Pete Lau recently sat down with tech YouTuber Unbox Therapy to show off an early render of the company’s upcoming foldable smartphone.
The YouTube video does not detail any of the hardware specifications or software features that the rumored “OnePlus Open” will have at launch. The company keeps its mouth shut. Instead, it focuses solely on one particular aspect of the device: its hinge. Focusing only on the hinge may seem a little strange, but it’s for good reason, as they apparently put a lot of work into it. You see, when closed, the OnePlus foldable will have a slim, gap-free design similar to the Galaxy Z Fold 5.
Lau explains that OnePlus has “35 patents” on the hinge alone, ensuring a flat form factor. The video demonstrates the strength of the component by having a tester bend the phone closed over a sheet of paper and then proceed to suspend the phone in the air by simply holding the sheet. It does not shift or slide. Lau claims that OnePlus has further refined the hinge design over the years. Compared to sister brand Oppo’s Find N2, the phone’s new hinge has 31 fewer components and is “37 percent smaller.”
Perfectly balanced
Something we noticed when watching the Unbox Therapy interview is that it doesn’t seem like any compromises have been made on the smartphone’s exterior screen. One of our criticisms of the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is that the cover screen is narrow. The thinner screen is a compromise Samsung made to ensure its device is “still comfortable to hold.” However, at first glance, it seems like OnePlus has managed to strike a good balance with its folding. The outer screen doesn’t look too wide or thin, nor does the overall design feel heavy.
Pete Lau apparently feels quite confident in this device and boldly states that the brand is investing in “delivering the best foldable phone for users.” We’re not sure if it will break any records or make our list of the best foldables, but it has definitely piqued our interest.
notable information
That’s it for most of the interview, although there are a few other things we should mention.
First of all, while watching the video, you may notice that the rear camera is covered with cardboard. As noted above, OnePlus is keeping certain hardware specifications under wraps. However, a video has surfaced showing the back of the foldable phone. We’re pretty confident in saying it’s a OnePlus device because the circular lens array is reminiscent of what’s found on other models. So much for discretion. Additionally, the textured alert slider seen on the OnePlus 11 is back.
At the end of the video, Unbox Therapy asks if the company has plans or is developing a foldable phone like the Galaxy Z Flip 5. Lau states that they are not working on one because they do not have a large enough audience to want a device with a foldable design. shell.
It is unknown when the “OnePlus Open” will launch, although there is speculation online that it could be this month. Until then, be sure to check out TechRadar’s list of the best OnePlus phones for 2023.
