Published on October 17, 2025 | By Aditya Kumar Singh | X | Linkedin
Last Updated | 9:54 AM (IST)
OnePlus has unveiled OxygenOS 16 in India, built on Android 16 and packed with new AI upgrades. The update introduces Plus Mind AI integration, Google Gemini support, and the fresh “Breath with You” design language for a more fluid experience. With enhanced O+ Connect for seamless cross-device connectivity, the OxygenOS 16 Open Betabegins October 17, 2025, for eligible OnePlus devices.
OxygenOS 16 Update Timeline
| Phase | Expected Rollout | Eligible Devices |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | November 2025 | OnePlus 13, 13R, 13s, 12, 12R, Open, Pad 3, Pad 2 |
| Phase 2 | December 2025 | OnePlus 11, 11R, Nord 5, Nord 4, Nord CE5, Nord 3 |
| Phase 3 | Q1 2026 | OnePlus 10 Pro, Nord CE4, Nord CE4 Lite, Pad, Pad Lite |
OxygenOS 16 Key Features
AI Integration with “Plus Mind”
OnePlus is embracing artificial intelligence in a big way with Plus Mind, a new AI-powered suite designed to make your device smarter and more intuitive.
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Virtual Memory: Store and access your photos or record short voice notes (up to one minute) directly within Plus Mind.
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AI Search: Find stored content conversationally using natural phrases like “poster from last night” or “recipe I saved.”
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Plus Key: Upcoming devices such as the OnePlus 15 will include a dedicated AI hardware button for instant access to Plus Mind features.
Interface & Visual Improvements
OxygenOS 16 introduces a fluid, glass-like aesthetic for a modern, elegant experience.
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Flux Theme 2.0: Enhanced lock screen customization with motion photos and video wallpapers featuring a depth effect.
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Liquid Glass Design: Gaussian blur adds a soft, translucent look across the home screen, app drawer, and Quick Settings.
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Customizable Quick Settings: Rearrange tiles and expand toggles for easier access.
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New Home Screen Layouts: Resize icons and widgets, and switch to a 5×7 grid layout.
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Categorized App Drawer: Automatically organizes apps into categories, much like iOS folders.
Multi-Device Connectivity
OnePlus is building a stronger ecosystem with OxygenOS 16, focusing on seamless cross-device experiences.
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Expanded O+ Connect: Enables file transfers and screen mirroring between OnePlus, Windows, and macOSdevices.
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Direct Bumping: Instantly share files between two OnePlus phones by simply bumping them together.
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Apple Watch Support: Sync health data with the OHealth app for better tracking and analytics.
Performance & Security Enhancements
OxygenOS 16 isn’t just about looks — it’s faster, smoother, and more secure than ever.
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Parallel Processing 2.0: Improves animation smoothness and UI responsiveness.
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Private Computing Cloud: Offers hardware-level protection for sensitive data stored locally and online.
Also Read- Check Latest Apple Devices
Eligible OnePlus Devices for OxygenOS 16
The stable rollout of OxygenOS 16 will begin in phases starting November 2025, continuing through early 2026.
Stable Rollout: November 2025
Smartphones: OnePlus 13, OnePlus 13R, OnePlus 13s, OnePlus Open, OnePlus 12, and OnePlus 12R
Tablets: OnePlus Pad 3, OnePlus Pad 2
Stable Rollout: December 2025
Smartphones: OnePlus 11 5G, OnePlus 11R 5G, OnePlus Nord 5, OnePlus Nord CE5, OnePlus Nord 4, and OnePlus Nord 3 5G
Stable Rollout: Q1 2026
Smartphones: OnePlus 10 Pro 5G, OnePlus Nord CE4, OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G
Tablets: OnePlus Pad, OnePlus Pad Lite
Beta Program & Early Access
The OxygenOS 16 Open Beta began in mid-October 2025 for flagship devices like the OnePlus 13 and 12 series.
The stable version will roll out in stages, depending on the region and carrier.
Pre-Installed on the OnePlus 15
The upcoming OnePlus 15 will be the first device to ship with OxygenOS 16 out of the box, giving users a glimpse of the next-gen OnePlus experience powered by AI and Android 16.
Also Read- Nothing Phone 3a Specs and Rumors
FAQs About OxygenOS 16
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Will OxygenOS 16 support backward compatibility for older OnePlus models not listed ?
Some older models may not receive the full stable update—OnePlus typically limits support based on hardware capability and update policies.
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Is there a special “Plus Key” on all devices, or only new ones ?
The Plus Key is only available on select new OnePlus models that include dedicated AI hardware support.
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Will existing data (apps, files) remain intact after the upgrade ?
Yes, in most cases the OTA update preserves user data. However, a backup is always recommended before installing.
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Which regions or countries will receive the update first ?
Rollout order often prioritizes markets like China, India, then Europe/US, but exact regional timelines can vary.
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Will OxygenOS 16 include the full set of Android 16 features (QPR, etc.) ?
Some features from stock Android 16 may be delayed or omitted, depending on OnePlus’s customization decisions.
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Are the new AI features (Plus Mind, Gemini integration) available offline or do they need internet access ?
Most advanced AI features may require connectivity or server-side support; offline capability could be limited depending on the device.
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How long will OnePlus provide updates (OS + security) for phones upgraded to OxygenOS 16 ?
OnePlus has varied policies; typically flagships get 3–4 major OS versions + extended security updates, though this may differ per device.
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What happens if a user wants to roll back to an earlier OxygenOS version ?
Rolling back is technically possible but often voids warranty or may require a full wipe — plus risk of instability.
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Will OxygenOS 16 affect battery life (positive or negative) ?
New features and AI tasks may put extra load; but optimizing background tasks and software tuning typically offset impact.
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Is there a developer / modding benefit (e.g. root, custom ROM) with OxygenOS 16 ?
The update’s security hardening and AI integration may make rooting or modding more complex; community will need to adapt tools and patches.