OnePlus has recently teased its upcoming smartphone, the OnePlus 13T, revealing some intriguing changes to its design, particularly with the Alert Slider. Louis Lee, the president of OnePlus, announced that this beloved feature will be replaced by a new “shortcut key.” The shortcut key aims to enhance user experience by allowing easy switching between different notification modes, providing practical functionality while still paying homage to the Alert Slider.
Users can expect options for silent, vibrating, and ringing modes. Lee’s brief description of the key suggests that it will streamline several operations, although more detailed information about its capabilities is promised for future announcements. The OnePlus 13T is designed with a 6.3-inch flat display, influenced by consumer feedback emphasizing a preference for smaller screens.
Lee noted that users who have tested this new size find it appealing. There are also speculations about a substantial 6,000mAh battery and the inclusion of 80W wired fast charging, which would align with the specifications of its flagship counterparts. The decision to replace the Alert Slider, which has been regarded as an iconic design element for OnePlus, has sparked mixed reactions among fans.
Many long-time users expressed disappointment at the departure of this feature, which allows for quick adjustments to notifications. Despite this outcry, CEO Pete Lau has defended the change, describing the shortcut key as “incredibly intuitive” and “future-ready.”
Set to launch later in April, the OnePlus 13T’s price is rumored to fall between $600 and $900. As anticipation builds, OnePlus is looking to balance innovation with user preferences in its latest offering.