OxygenOS 16: A Deep Dive into OnePlus’s Latest Android-Based Operating System
OnePlus has released OxygenOS 16, the latest iteration of its custom Android-based operating system. Built upon the foundation of Android 16, OxygenOS 16 refines the concepts introduced in OxygenOS 15, introducing enhancements in user interface (UI) animations, artificial intelligence (AI) functionality, and cross-platform interconnectivity. This analysis draws upon testing conducted on a beta version of the OS, specifically on the OnePlus 13s, with observations anticipated to be representative of the final version across compatible devices.
Design and User Interface
The design of OxygenOS 16 emphasizes evolutionary improvements over radical changes. Subtle alterations are present throughout the UI, requiring close observation to discern. Noteworthy changes include revised icons for core applications, such as Clock, Camera, and Settings. The alterations to other applications, including Calculator, Weather, and My Files, are minimal.
OxygenOS 16 features Parallel Processing 2.0, an enhancement that optimizes UI animations across various components. This includes the three-button navigation, the Shelf, and the app drawer, among others. Furthermore, OnePlus introduces “Flow Motion,” a new animation technology focused on improving transitions within the UI and between applications.
The implementation of Flow Motion is most evident in the lockscreen, which now showcases dynamic animations. These animations seamlessly transition the wallpaper and lockscreen elements to the homescreen. The smooth execution of these transitions on the OnePlus 13s, operating at 120Hz refresh rate, is noteworthy. The performance of these animations on lower-tier Nord devices remains to be determined.
The overall user experience in OxygenOS 16 demonstrates fluidity, with refined animations that contribute to a responsive feel.
Applications
OxygenOS 16 largely retains the application suite of its predecessor. Functionality and appearance remain consistent across most pre-installed applications, with minor updates post-icon redesign.
New applications include a Compass, a Game Assistant replacing the previous Games app, and a Videos app similar to those found on Oppo and Realme devices.
OnePlus continues to focus on improving connectivity with Apple products, including the O+ Connect app for macOS. The functionality to transfer content between OnePlus devices and iPhones using a similar connection method is included. However, the functionality and performance of this cross-platform content sharing feature are still under review.
OnePlus AI Integration
OxygenOS 16 incorporates several new AI-driven features.
Mind Space, accessible via the Plus Key on the 13s, Nord 5, and subsequent devices like the OnePlus 15, functions as a smart screenshot utility. It analyzes images, extracting information and enabling search capabilities via text or voice.
AI Writer is another new feature. Integrated across typing interfaces, this tool generates text based on user prompts. It also offers text proofreading and tone adjustment capabilities.
Overall, improvements to cross-platform connectivity and refinements to the user experience are present. While OxygenOS 16 demonstrates improvements, its lack of design cohesion remains. The consistency across the OxygenOS ecosystem is gradually decreasing, and it’s essential to analyze the brand’s differentiation within the market.
