The OnePlus 13 is already making waves. The Chinese manufacturer is making a big splash by offering Android 16 before all other manufacturers, with the exception of Google. This head start illustrates the brand's ambition to remain among the most responsive to Android updates.
Each new version of Android is eagerly awaited, but its arrival is often gradual. Google generally reserves the first betas for its own devices, before opening them to other brands. This year, OnePlus is shaking up the established order. The brand becomes the first, outside of Pixel, to offer Android 16 on one of its smartphones. The OnePlus 13 is receiving this version as a preview.
The beta offered is version Android 16 Beta 2. It is primarily aimed at developers and advanced users. This is not a stable version, and OnePlus makes it clear: this system is only intended for testing applications on the new platform. Installation is risky, with many known bugs and daily use strongly discouraged. Some of the reported issues include untimely reboots during Bluetooth calls and frequent camera crashes.
The Android 16 beta on the OnePlus 13 remains reserved for experienced testers
This version is not compatible with all models. Devices sold through carriers like Verizon or T-Mobile are not supported. Additionally, any installation attempt requires a full backup, as downgrading to Android 15 will result in total data loss. The process remains complex and is reserved for a knowledgeable audience. No notable feature additions are expected at this time, as this version is only intended to lay the groundwork for future optimizations.
This early launch, however, underscores OnePlus' commitment to staying at the forefront of Android updates. By accessing Android 16 so early, the brand is likely hoping to deliver the final version sooner than its competitors. Conversely, Samsung has not yet completed the deployment of Android 15 in certain countries with One UI 7, which clearly shows a lag in responsiveness. For users, this initiative by the brand could ultimately result in better support for the OS's new features as soon as they are officially released.
0 Comments