Software is a big part of why OnePlus devices are considered the best Android phones. OnePlus has made OxygenOS one of the best software interfaces, providing a clean layout with lots of customizability and timely updates.
In 2021, there is a new dimension to that narrative. OnePlus is now using ColorOS as the basis for OxygenOS to streamline resources between the two entities, which means change is coming. We’ve seen early integration with OxygenOS 11.3 in Nord 2, but we’ll have to wait until Oxygen OS 12 to get a complete picture of what this integration will offer.
OxygenOS 12 is debuting with the OnePlus 9 RT, a new look in the OnePlus 9 number series that will debut in the coming months. Although there is very little official information around OxygenOS 12, I was able to get my hands on an internal build and give some insight into the UI and new features.
OxygenOS 12 public beta will launch soon
According to my sources, OnePlus aims to launch OxygenOS 12 Closed Beta by the end of August. Closed Beta has only 200 members, and OnePlus usually hires “hardcore” fans to participate in the beta and give feedback on new additions. These feedbacks are transmitted directly to the product team and are considered when making final changes to the interface.
Depending on the feedback and build stability, the closed beta usually takes two to three weeks, and the changes will be integrated into a new build that is released to the public. That means we’ll be able to see OxygenOS 12 public beta roll out just before October; I’m guessing an official announcement in just five weeks.
In context, the OxygenOS 11 public beta was available in late August, but this timeline has been pushed back this year due to the sheer number of issues with Android 12. Several bugs and stability issues are running the latest Beta 4 build of Pixels, so it’s safe to assume that device makers are taking a little longer than usual to iron out bugs.
New features of OxygenOS 12
OxygenOS 12 will get new features that are ported from ColorOS. First is a floating Windows mode that lets you resize windows anywhere on the screen, making multitasking easier. Another exciting addition is a theme store that gives you the ability to change the look and feel of the interface.
OxygenOS 12 significant foundations such as accent colour customization and off-screen gestures will remain intact, and ColorOS additions will make the UI more customizable. The settings page is getting a category reshuffle that makes it easier to find connection options, and some of these changes are live on OxygenOS 11.3. Switching to ColorOS means you need to set up a 6-digit passcode (instead of the usual 4-digit PIN) before you can configure biometric authentication.
In terms of security, ColorOS’s safe mode is coming to OxygenOS, and you can hide sensitive documents and pictures behind a password. For aesthetics, OxygenOS 12 Google’s new component won’t use your design, instead of retaining the same OxygenOS 11 design language with a few tweaks around the notification pan and shadow.
While the underlying premise has been rebuilt, the OnePlus Launcher and other OnePlus features such as Work-Life Balance, Zen Mode, Scout and Shelf will remain intact, so users switching from OxygenOS 11 should feel at home.
OxygenOS 12 is coming to those phones
OnePlus will have to wait until it officially confirms the devices that will get the OxygenOS update. Still, if history gives any indication, the OnePlus seven series and then the version will have to be switched to Android 12. OnePlus launches Android 11-based OxygenOS 11 is built into the OnePlus 6 and 6, so when it comes to OxygenOS 12, it’s safe to assume that all devices of 2019 and beyond will be updated.
Of course, this does not include Nord N series devices; The N10 and N100 will only get an update on Android 11, so they will miss out. Here is a brief list of OnePlus phones that will be updated to OxygenOS 12:
