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The Official Android 15 Season: OnePlus Takes a Shot

As the dust settles on Google’s latest and greatest Android 15 update for Pixel devices, other Android manufacturers are starting to unveil their own takes on the new operating system. OnePlus is the latest to join the party, unveiling Oxygen OS 15, which will debut on the upcoming OnePlus 13. I’ve been testing the Oxygen OS 15 beta on a OnePlus 12, and here’s my hands-on experience so far.

First, the Good: A Smooth Operator

OnePlus has a reputation for delivering smooth and fast performance, and Oxygen OS 15 is no exception. The company has introduced "parallel processing" to optimize app launching and animations, making the whole experience feel even snappier. In my testing, I barely noticed any lag or glitches, making it one of the smoothest Android experiences out there. But, to be fair, it’s not like they needed to reinvent the wheel – Oxygen OS 14 was already quite polished.

A Bridge Over Troubled Waters: Share to iPhone

OnePlus is tackling one of the most frustrating issues when it comes to Android-iPhone file transfers. The new "Share to iPhone" feature allows for easy file sharing between the two platforms, similar to third-party apps like Shareit. While it’s not as seamless as AirDrop, it’s a step in the right direction, especially since the O+ Connect app is now available on the Google Play Store. I tested it out, and file transfers took around 12 seconds, which is decent.

Storage Savvy: Reducing System Storage Size

OnePlus claims that Oxygen OS 15 has reduced system storage size by up to 20%, thanks to optimized system files and reduced redundancy. While this is primarily beneficial for new devices, it’s unclear if older devices will also benefit from this feature. If true, it’s a practical advantage, especially for those with limited storage options.

Multitasking Revamped (Sort Of)

Open Canvas, OnePlus’ feature for multitasking, is now available on candy bar phones, albeit with limitations. You can only run two apps at a time, which is still an improvement over traditional split-screen multitasking. The experience feels more natural, with the second app popping up at the top or bottom of the screen. However, it’s hard to imagine this being as useful on smaller screens as it is on foldables and tablets.

AI, the Future of Android

Rounding out the update are a slew of AI-powered features, including Intelligent Search, which allows for natural language queries, and enhancements to the Notes app. These features are still in development, and I’ve yet to test them thoroughly. While they have potential, it’s unclear how well they’ll work in the long run.

The Verdict: A Solid, If Uninspired, Step Forward

Oxygen OS 15 feels like a confidence boost for OnePlus, offering a refined and polished experience that’s hard to beat. While some design elements may borrow from Apple, it’s not a bad thing – who doesn’t love a good inspiration? The real test will be how well OnePlus executes its AI features and ensures a seamless rollout to their devices.

Source: Rushil Agrawal / Android Authority