OxygenOS 15 vs ColorOS 15: What's the Difference?

OxygenOS and ColorOS are similar in many ways, but there are some key differences. For one, the two software variants share a common foundation. Both are based on Android 15, with the latest versions being ColorOS 15 and OxygenOS 15, respectively, meaning they incorporate the features and updates from the latest Android version on their respective custom interfaces. However, the two are distinguished by their regions, which have unique features and user experiences that cater to different audiences.

Let’s define them individually.

OxygenOS is the global version of OnePlus’s operating system, known for its clean interface and close-to-stock Android experience. The OxygenOS 15 will come pre-installed on the upcoming OnePlus 13 (global version), offering some of the best features of an Android device.

Meanwhile, OnePlus phones sold in mainland China come preinstalled with ColorOS, the Chinese version of OxygenOS (other regions use HydrogenOS). This explains why ColorOS has some regional add-ons, as it's intended for Chinese units. The first devices to receive this update are the Oppo Find N3, Find N3 Flip, and Reno 11 Pro.

The two OS updates mainly differ in design aesthetics, pre-installed applications, and certain functionalities to cater to their respective user bases.

OxygenOS 15 is known for its redesigned system icons, including new icons for first-party apps. It uses square icons as the default and has themes like Radiance and Shadow. You can also use custom icon packs. Designed for global users, it offers a clean, near-stock Android experience with more rounded corners and fresh charging animation. The minimalist interface ensures smooth performance, making it ideal for users who prefer a clutter-free look.

On the other hand, ColorOS uses circular icons rather than squares. It has a UI that focuses on natural lighting and shadows to help users navigate in any lighting condition. Tailored for Chinese users, it features a more vibrant and customizable design. With additional animations and a focus on aesthetics, ColorOS provides a more immersive interface.

Here's a clear visual of the OxygenOS 15/ColorOS 15 interfaces:

OxygenOS 15 comes with fewer pre-installed apps, aligning with its streamlined design. Additionally, users have the freedom to customize their app collection without dealing with bloatware.

Meanwhile, ColorOS 15 features a larger suite of pre-installed apps, including region-specific services and tools commonly used in China. ColorOS also has exclusive features like Aquamorphic Sound Effects and the ability to create larger folders.

Basic customization options like icon packs, themes, and widgets while staying close to Android’s default layout best describe the OxygenOS 15. Besides those, it also introduced customizable lock screen and home screen styles, allowing users to change clock styles and add depth effects to photos, similar to iOS features. While the interface offers customization options, some lock screen and wallpaper choices are limited and may not appeal to all users.

ColorOS 15 also excels in customization, allowing users to personalize nearly every aspect of their device, from themes to gesture controls. It features optimized animations for responsive app switching.

We're giving this transition a chef's kiss!

OxygenOS 15 is integrated with the Google Play Store for seamless app downloads and updates. On the other hand, ColorOS 15 relies on the OPPO App Market, optimized for Chinese apps and services, but lacks native Google Play integration.

Both are basically powerful and designed to be smarter, smoother, and faster. If we have to specify their advantages, OxygenOS 15 is more deeply rooted in the OnePlus 13’s upgraded hardware, allowing quicker load times and smoother multitasking. The introduction of Parallel Processing technology on the OxygenOS 15 aims to maintain smooth animations and efficient app switching, which is particularly beneficial for heavy multitaskers.

Most of the AI features in these systems are mostly cloud-based, which could be a major concern for data privacy. However, both ColorOS and OxygenOS have made strides in improving their privacy policies to address user concerns. For example, ColorOS offers a ‘Private Safe’ feature that keeps sensitive data secure on the device, and OxygenOS includes a ‘OnePlus Private Vault’ to ensure that personal data remains private.

Additionally, both systems comply with global privacy regulations, such as GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) in Europe, which mandates transparency in data collection and processing.

These are some of the popular AI features incorporated in the respective operating systems:

The easiest way to distinguish the features between OxygenOS and ColorOS is that the former focuses on core Android features, while the latter focuses on region-specific features such as OPPO’s Breeno Smart Assistant and a comprehensive privacy suite tailored for Chinese versions. ColorOS 15 has a gaming mode with many features, including the ability to add game pads.

OxygenOS 15 has a new feature called Zen Mode for focused productivity and efficient multitasking tools. This software also helps keep photos sharp, even when you zoom in on details. Lastly, some mobile gaming experiences on OnePlus 12 running on OxygenOS 15 observe noticeable strengths, though it’s unclear how much of this is due to software optimizations versus hardware capabilities.

Yes, technically, you can switch between ColorOS and OxygenOS. However, it requires advanced technical knowledge and involves unlocking your phone's bootloader, flashing custom ROMs, and potentially voiding your warranty; this process is usually done through custom firmware found on platforms like XDA Developers and is not officially supported by either Oppo (ColorOS) or OnePlus (OxygenOS). Let’s break them down below:

1. Not a simple process

Switching between these operating systems is not a straightforward setting change and requires significant technical expertise.

2. Unlocking bootloader

To flash a different ROM, you need to unlock your phone's bootloader, which often voids the manufacturer's warranty.

3. Custom ROMs

You'll need to download and flash the appropriate custom ROM (either ColorOS or OxygenOS) onto your device.

4. Potential risks

Attempting to change the OS without proper knowledge can lead to issues, including potential device malfunction. Improper flashing can brick your phone, so proceed with caution and thorough research.

For a visual comparison and more insights into the differences between OxygenOS 15 and ColorOS 15, you might find the following video helpful: