OnePlus 15: A November Launch and the End of an Era for the Alert Slider
OnePlus is shaking things up with its next flagship phone, the OnePlus 15, slated for a global reveal on November 13th. This launch date is notably earlier than the companyS typical January timeframe, signaling a potential shift in strategy. But the biggest news? A beloved feature is disappearing.
Farewell to the Alert Slider
For years, OnePlus phones have been instantly recognizable thanks to the alert slider - a physical switch to quickly mute or adjust notification sounds. However, OnePlus is replacing this iconic feature with a customizable button, similar to Apple’s Action Button found on recent iPhone models. This change is confirmed, and unfortunately, the alert slider won’t be making a return.
You’ll be able to program this new button to perform various functions, tailoring your phone experience to your exact needs. While some loyal fans will undoubtedly miss the tactile convenience of the slider, this button offers a new level of personalization.
Skipping a Number: why the OnePlus 15?
Interestingly, OnePlus is skipping the number 14, jumping directly to the OnePlus 15. This isn’t entirely unprecedented for the company. I’ve found that they previously skipped a number when transitioning from the OnePlus 3 to the OnePlus 5 back in 2017.
This practice stems from tetraphobia, a cultural aversion to the number 4, common in some East Asian countries. While the connection isn’t explicitly stated,it’s a plausible explanation for the numerical jump.
What Else Can You Expect?
Beyond the button and the name, here’s what we anticipate from the OnePlus 15:
* Software: The phone will ship with Android 16, layered with OnePlus’s OxygenOS interface.
* Early Launch: As mentioned, the November 13th launch is a departure from the usual January release cycle.
* Potential Improvements: While details are still emerging, expect the usual flagship-level upgrades in processing power, camera technology, and display quality.
The OnePlus 15 represents a significant evolution for the brand. It’s a bold move to retire such a defining feature as the alert slider, but the customizable button promises a new level of user control. We’ll have a complete picture of what the OnePlus 15 offers when it’s officially unveiled next month.
