OnePlus could revive the "mini" flagship phone formula in 2025.
It is said that OnePlus is developing a compact high-end phone that will feature Qualcomm's most advanced processor, a 50-megapixel Sony camera, and a refreshed design.
OnePlus is about to launch its latest flagship model in the international market, while also planning the arrival of the Ace 5 series phones in China. However, it seems that there is an additional surprise for brand enthusiasts. According to reports from Digital Chat Station, a well-known leaker of Chinese brands, OnePlus is working on a "small" device that will feature a 6.53-inch display, compared to the 6.82 inches of the OnePlus 13.
This is not the first time OnePlus has released a more compact phone. In 2019, the OnePlus X was introduced, notable for its glass and metal design, a 5-inch display, a high-end Qualcomm processor, and an attractive price of $250. Currently, brands like Google and Apple have opted for smaller-sized phones, although with screens that exceed 6 inches. This trend is gaining momentum, as evidenced by the launch of the Vivo X200 Pro mini, which also stands out for its high-end hardware in a smaller form factor.
The recent leak, which initially appeared on the microblogging platform Weibo, suggests that the new OnePlus phone will be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. The screen resolution will be equivalent to 1.5K, and one of the rear cameras is expected to use a 50MP Sony sensor. Additionally, it will feature a new horizontal camera island design on the back. The fingerprint sensor will be located under the display, although it has been indicated that the phone will not include a periscope zoom system.
Rumors regarding the design and specifications suggest that this is a completely different device and not one of the exclusive Ace series models. So far, OnePlus has not made any official comments about the development of this device. However, the sister company Oppo, which shares research and development efforts with OnePlus, is also working on a "mini" smartphone for the Chinese market, according to the same leaker. The connections between the two brands are close; for example, the Oppo Find N3 is fundamentally the same device as the OnePlus Open. Although it is still unclear which of the two will play a major role in this new segment, OnePlus has the opportunity to be the first to launch a mini flagship model in the market.
