Pros and Cons of OxygenOS 15 on the OnePlus 13

OxygenOS 15 is the latest version of OnePlus' custom Android operating system, built on top of Android 15. It focuses on enhanced visuals, smoother animations, improved file-sharing capabilities, and new AI-powered features like AI-assisted photo editing and contextual replies. These features are all designed to provide a more refined user experience on OnePlus devices; essentially, it's the OnePlus take on the latest Android update with additional proprietary features.

Learn more about the OxygenOS 15 features on the OnePlus 13.

Like any software, OxygenOS 15 has its strengths and weaknesses. Gadgets Hub tested this system extensively for nearly two months. Here, we break down the pros and cons to help you decide if OxygenOS 15 is worth the upgrade.

Pro #1. Optimized Performance

OxygenOS 15 has been designed to be lean and fast. The system is 20% smaller than its predecessor, reclaiming up to 5GB of storage by removing redundant features. Parallel processing ensures faster app launches and smoother animations.

During actual usage, the OS feels exceptionally polished, with zero noticeable lags. Transitions are fluid, and animations—enhanced by Gaussian blur effects—add a premium touch to interactions like opening or closing apps.

Pro #2. Improved Camera & Recording

In terms of camera performance, AI has made photography more powerful. The following AI tools enhance the experience:

• AI Unblur: Fixes blurry photos for clearer results.

• AI Reflection Eraser: Removes unwanted reflections in your images.

• AI Detail Boost: Enhances fine details for sharper pictures.

The camera app impresses with 28 watermark variations, catering to photographers who enjoy personalization. Screen recording goes a step further, supporting 120FPS for ultra-smooth footage capture.

Pro #3. Robust Security Features

The theft protection system automatically locks the device when it detects suspicious activities, such as SIM removal or sudden motion. This adds an extra layer of protection, ensuring your phone remains secure.

Pro #4. Refined Design & User Interface (UI)

OxygenOS 15 retains the signature design language from previous iterations, evoking a sense of continuity for long-time users. It subtly nods to the original OxygenOS philosophy, offering a smoother, lightweight experience. The revamped UI is clean, intuitive, and customizable. Users can personalize their experience with adjustable icons and a redesigned Shelf feature for quick access to tools and widgets.

Additionally, vibration haptic feedback feels precisely tuned, adding a tactile element to interactions. The integration of AI features, such as photo enhancements and productivity tools, also ensures a modern, capable OS.

Pro #5: Customization & Personalization

OxygenOS 15 on the OnePlus 13 allows for customization and personalization of the following:

• Home Screen: Icon customization is extensive, including shape adjustments and support for third-party icon packs.

• Lockscreen: While the lockscreen offers decent customization, its focus leans more on aesthetics than functionality.

• Monet Theming: It preserves Android’s dynamic color theming, seamlessly blending system visuals with your wallpaper.

Pro #6. Cross-Platform Sharing

The new “Share with iPhone” feature simplifies file transfers between OnePlus and Apple devices, enhancing compatibility for users who switch between ecosystems.

On the other hand, there are certain areas for improvement that OnePlus can work on in the future.

Con #1. Divergence from Stock Android

While the new design is polished, some users feel it leans too closely to iOS in terms of aesthetics, potentially losing the unique identity that sets OxygenOS apart. Users seeking a stock Android experience may find the OS overly skinned, as it strays far from a minimalist Android approach.

Con #2. Early Software Glitches

Like many software updates, OxygenOS 15 has had its fair share of initial bugs, including app crashes and occasional connectivity issues. Most of these are expected to be fixed in future updates.

Con #3. Outdated and Limited Features for Power Users

Although the OS offers personalization options, advanced users may find it lacks the depth available in older OxygenOS versions or custom ROMs. There were also a few design elements, like the media player and widget selection menu, that felt dated. The lock screen shortcuts are restrictive, with only a few options (e.g., Torch and Home Control). Unlike some competing OS skins, screen recording is not available for the lock screen or always-on display (AOD).

Con #4. Removed and Incomplete Features

Besides the new-found limitations, users also can’t help but notice some missing features. The “Snooze Notification” option was previously removed, reducing notification management flexibility. Moreover, the Do Not Disturb (DND) mode lacks an option to completely hide notifications, which some users might prefer.

Con #5. Annoyances in Functionality:

Lastly, some functionalities are particularly unlikeable. XPAN mode in the camera app cannot be placed on the main menu, adding unnecessary steps for photographers. The default text in the Gallery’s “Stitch” mode cannot be edited, limiting creative freedom. To add up, Live Alerts work well for timers but strangely omit support for stopwatches.

If you think the weaknesses mentioned can weigh down your overall experience with your OnePlus 13, consider going for what your gut and preference tell you.