The OnePlus 13 includes something unusual... but you shouldn't get rid of it.
When you purchase an official case for your OnePlus 13, you will be surprised to find an unexpected item in the box: a small piece of flexible plastic.
When purchasing an official case for the OnePlus 13, users will encounter a peculiar item in the box: a small piece of flexible plastic resembling a do-not-disturb sign, similar to those found on hotel doors. Although the initial inclination may be to discard it, it is advisable to keep it, as it may prove useful.
This plastic has a specific purpose for those who opted for the glass versions of the OnePlus 13. As indicated on the insert itself, its purpose is to optimize the wireless charging experience. When using the case, this insert should be placed between the back of the Arctic Dawn model of the OnePlus 13 and the phone case. All official OnePlus 13 cases are designed with a ring of magnets inside, facilitating alignment with the 50-watt AirVOOC charger to ensure optimal performance. This plastic accessory is needed only when using the Arctic Dawn, although owners of the Black Eclipse model may also benefit from it.
The reason behind this bold inclusion is that the OnePlus 13 is the first model to combine a microfibre vegan leather known as Midnight Ocean with two glass variants called Arctic Dawn and Black Eclipse. Since the materials have different characteristics and thicknesses, this insert was included to ensure that wireless charging is performed effectively and efficiently.
Using the insert may seem like a straightforward process, but in practice, it can be somewhat tricky. Integrating this piece between the phone and the case is not visually appealing and may make it difficult to center correctly. If not placed properly, it can protrude near the camera area. The best strategy is to position the insert on the back of the OnePlus 13, hold the phone horizontally, and then attach the case, preventing the piece from shifting.
Once installed, the insert becomes invisible and adds no extra weight, remaining in place until the case is removed. Although this solution is not the most elegant for an inconvenience caused by OnePlus, it is preferable to not addressing the issue of inadequate wireless charging.
However, it is unlikely that other case manufacturers will provide this insert with their products, which could lead to setbacks for those who do not purchase an official case. If you have discarded the insert after opening your OnePlus 13 box, you now understand its purpose and the importance of not dismissing it in the practical use of the device.