OnePlus Delays Foldable Phone Release Until 2025

OnePlus Pauses Foldable Phone Launch: What to Expect

In a recent announcement, OnePlus has confirmed it will not be launching a new foldable phone this year, putting to rest speculation about a potential sequel to its 2023 "Open" foldable. According to a report by 9to5Google, this decision comes as the company shifts its focus to other innovations, with plans for a recalibration in their strategy regarding foldable devices.

No Open 2 This Year

Fans had been eagerly anticipating the release of a new model named "Open 2," which was expected to mirror the design framework of its sister company Oppo's latest ultra-thin foldable, the Find N5. However, much like many of Oppo’s devices, it appears the Open 2 will not be making its way to the US market. Instead, the anticipation mounts for Oppo’s release, which is poised for both domestic and international launch next week.

A Look Back at OnePlus' Previous Foldable

Last year, OnePlus released the "Apex Edition," a limited edition foldable that mainly stood out due to its striking crimson design and top-tier specifications. Despite being a solid entry in the foldable market, it lacked distinct innovations in functionality.

Shift in Focus to Oppo

In a community announcement, OnePlus’s product manager, Vale Gu, explained that Oppo will be taking the lead in the foldable segment moving forward. Although OnePlus is pausing its foldable efforts for this generation, Gu reassured fans this does not indicate that OnePlus is abandoning the category completely, rather it is a strategic pause for recalibration.

OnePlus Open: A Quick Recap

OnePlus’ initial foldable, the Open, provided an alternative approach in the US market, featuring an impressive outer display with a 20:9 aspect ratio. This design allowed users to experience it like a traditional phone while closed, setting it apart from competitors like Samsung and Google. Notably, the Open shattered OnePlus' one-day sales record in North America, indicating robust consumer interest.

Future Implications for Foldables

It will be interesting to see how this strategic pause impacts OnePlus’s long-term plans in the foldable space, especially as Google prepares to launch their own foldable device in 2024, which appears to take inspiration from OnePlus’ original design. As the foldable market continues to evolve, both consumers and tech enthusiasts will be watching closely for future developments from OnePlus and its peers.

Final Thoughts

While the absence of a new foldable launch this year may be disappointing for fans, OnePlus’s commitment to recalibration suggests that when they return to the foldable scene, it may be with innovative ideas that could reshape the market once more.

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