Android 15: OnePlus 12 Takes the Lead for 2024's Best Smartphone!

This week, OnePlus announced a significant upgrade with the release of OxygenOS 15, showcasing a remarkable transformation for the OnePlus 12. This Android 15-based update exemplifies how a company can learn from its past missteps and emerge stronger, and it's a reason for excitement among smartphone enthusiasts.

OnePlus has become one of the few manufacturers to roll out the Android 15 update in under a month following Google's official release. In stark contrast, major players like Samsung have indicated that their Android 15 beta won't debut for at least another month, with their own One UI 7 not arriving until early 2025. It’s hard to believe I would have ever doubted OnePlus managing a timely rollout, but it’s a refreshing change!

If you're among the OnePlus 12 crowd, you'll be thrilled to know that this update is landing on your devices this week! Other OnePlus smartphones in the lineup can expect this update within the coming weeks and months. This timely upgrade is just one more reason to consider purchasing the OnePlus 12 during the upcoming Black Friday sales, where we’ve already seen discounts bringing the price to $649. Patience might just pay off, as even steeper discounts could emerge come Black Friday!

A Fresh and Intuitive Experience

OxygenOS 15 showcases a revamped interface with refined icons and a powerful theme engine that harkens back to the brand's glory years. New features like a split notification shade provide more quick-toggle options while retaining easy access to notifications. You can seamlessly swipe between panes, making it an enhancement over similar features on iOS.

In a move that aligns with industry trends, OnePlus introduces a Dynamic Island-style notification feature, although it remains disabled by default. Currently, its support is limited to a select few apps, but it's an interesting addition.

The user interface's stunning animations and frosted glass look enrich the experience, and the tactile haptics continue to impress. Sliding on volume or brightness controls feels satisfying, and using the fingerprint sensor feels like pressing a real button—creating an experience that lingers long after you put it down.

Revolutionary AI Enhancements

While OnePlus phones have historically lagged in camera technology, the OnePlus 12 defies expectations with its innovative Hasselblad color tuning system and an impressive telephoto sensor. The addition of new AI features is a welcomed enhancement to its camera capabilities.

After testing the AI eraser tool, which outperforms Google’s Magic Eraser, OnePlus has rolled out three new features that are game-changers. The AI Detail Boost sharpens low-resolution images or enhances details in zoomed-in photos, while AI Unblur rectifies blurred shots—ideal for capturing those priceless memories. A reflection eraser tool helps eliminate pesky reflections in photos, akin to features Samsung introduced earlier this year.

Additionally, the new global search tool, powered by Google Gemini, organizes your photos, messages, and contacts, making it easier to locate information without juggling multiple apps, although it’s not quite as powerful as the Pixel Screenshots feature from Google.

OnePlus has also revolutionized multitasking, mirroring the functionality seen in their OnePlus Open. The new floating window capabilities support intuitive gestures, and the smart sidebar acts as a desktop-like dock for effortless app launching. Switching between applications is faster and smoother than on many rival devices, thanks to OnePlus's exceptional UI design.

As 2024 approaches, it’s safe to say that the OnePlus 12 has solidified its status among the best smartphones of the year, helped along by the powerful innovations of Android 15 and OxygenOS 15. If you’re on the lookout for a cutting-edge smartphone, this device deserves your attention!