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OxygenOS 12 for Oneplus Nord is now available – Oneplus Rolling out OxygenOS 12 Open Beta 1

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OnePlus Nord OxygenOS 12

OnePlus is turning its focus to its mid-range portfolio after upgrading the OnePlus 9 and OnePlus 8 series to Android 12. For the OnePlus Nord, the company has now launched the first public beta build of OxygenOS 12 based on Android 12.

OxygenOS 12 Open Beta 1 is now available for the original OnePlus Nord, according to a recent statement on the OnePlus Community forums, letting power users check out the new software before it is released to the general public. The release contains all of Android 12’s basic features, such as the Privacy Dashboard, camera and microphone indications, toggles, and redesigned home screen widgets, among others. OxygenOS 12 also comes with its own set of enhancements and tweaks, including a new “burdenless design” centered on light and shadow, Canvas AOD, better dark mode, Smart Battery Engine, and more.

Oneplus Nord OxygenOS 12

The complete changelog for the new update is as follows:

  • System
    • [Added] Smart Battery Engine, a feature that prolongs your battery life based on smart algorithms and biomimetic self-restoration technology
    • [Optimized] desktop icons with improved textures, by using a design inspired by brand-new materials and uniting lights and layers
  • Dark mode
    • [Supported] three adjustable levels, bringing a more personalized and comfortable user experience
  • Shelf
    • [Added] new additional style options for Cards, making data contents more visual and easier to read
    • [Added] access to OnePlus Scout in Shelf, allowing you to search multiple contents on your phone, including Apps, Settings, Media Data, etc
  • WorkLife Balance
    • [Added] WorkLife Balance feature, allowing you to effortlessly switch between Work and Life mode via quick settings
    • [Supported] automatic Work/Life mode switching, based on specific locations, Wi-Fi network, and time, also bringing customized App notification profiles according to the personalization
  • Gallery
    • [Supported] switching between different layouts with a two-finger pinch gesture, intelligently recognizing the best-quality pictures, and cropping the thumbnail based on the content, making the gallery layout more pleasing
  • Canvas AOD
    • [Added] new diverse styles of lines and colors, for a more personalized lock screen experience with inspiring visuals
    • [Added] multiple brushes and strokes and support for color adjustment
    • [Optimized] software algorithm and improved face recognition to better identify the features and skin color of different figures
  • Games
    • [Added] HyperBoost end-to-end frame rate stabilizer
    • [Added] Voice effect preview to allow you to record your voice effect or check your voice effect in real-time]

As expected, the first beta build does have some known issues, which are listed below:

  • The left bottom button of the keyboard may disappear.
  • Unable to browse, delete and download pictures in Cloud.
  • Personal Safe may not respond.
  • Anti-shake effect in Snapchat may not be obvious.
  • The screen may flicker when previewing after taking pictures.
Download: OxygenOS 12 Open Beta 1 based on Android 12 for the OnePlus Nord

If you want to try out the beta build, you can download the OTA package from the link below. Once downloaded, transfer the package to the root directory of the internal storage. Then navigate to Settings > System > System Updates > Local upgrade and select the OTA package to initiate the installation. OnePlus notes that this installation method won’t erase your user data, but we still recommend taking a full backup just to be on the safe side. If you wish to revert to the stable channel at any point, you can do so by flashing the rollback package (linked below). Do note that flashing the rollback package will completely wipe your phone.

Download OxygenOS 12 Open Beta 1 for OnePlus Nord

Download the rollback package

Source: Oneplus

Ashok Mor (also known as TechiBee) owns a YouTube channel named TechiBee. He has been providing various tips, tricks and latest tech videos in the world of smartphones.

OxygenOS

OnePlus Stock Dialer Gets an Amazing Upgrade With New Depth Effect Feature

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OnePlus smartphone displaying the new Depth Effect feature in the Stock Dialer calling screen, showcasing a layered contact photo interface introduced with the latest OxygenOS update.

The OnePlus Stock Dialer is finally receiving one of the most requested upgrades through the latest OxygenOS July OTA update. While the official changelog only mentions improvements to the Contacts app, the update introduces a refreshed calling experience with a new Depth Effect for contact photos. It also hints at more features that could arrive in future updates. The information is based on the latest OxygenOS update testing and feature walkthrough.

OnePlus Introduces Depth Effect in Calling Screen

The highlight of the latest update is the new Depth Effect in the Stock Dialer. When users assign a compatible profile picture to a contact, the caller’s image is intelligently separated into foreground and background layers. During incoming and outgoing calls, the contact name appears behind the subject, creating a premium-looking interface.

Users can enable or disable the effect by editing a contact’s profile picture and selecting the Depth Effect option. The feature also allows zooming and repositioning the image while maintaining the layered animation.

Performance and Battery After the Update

The July OTA update is approximately 462MB in size and was tested extensively. Benchmark results show a slight drop in Geekbench and AnTuTu scores compared to the previous build. A CPU throttling test even resulted in an unexpected system crash during testing, although it could not be consistently reproduced.

Gaming performance, however, remains impressive. During BGMI gameplay, the device maintained stable frame rates with low temperatures and minimal frame drops, offering a smooth gaming experience. Battery life also remains strong, with nearly eight hours of screen-on time during heavy testing and up to 9–10 hours under normal usage.

More Features Could Be Coming Soon

Although OxygenOS currently includes only the new calling interface, several features already available on ColorOS have not yet reached OnePlus devices. These include:

  • Scam protection inside Phone Manager
  • Improved AI Writer functionality
  • Remote PC locking through Device Connect

These additions could be introduced in upcoming OxygenOS updates, although OnePlus has not officially confirmed their rollout timeline.

Important Limitation

The new calling interface is available only on OnePlus smartphones that use the OnePlus Stock Dialer. Devices that rely on the Google Phone app will not receive the new Depth Effect feature, making this update exclusive to supported models.

Final Thoughts

The latest OxygenOS update may look minor on paper, but it brings a meaningful visual improvement to the OnePlus calling experience. While performance changes appear minimal and battery life remains solid, the new Depth Effect gives the Stock Dialer a more modern appearance. With additional ColorOS features expected in future updates, OnePlus users have more improvements to look forward to.

Also Read: OxygenOS 16.1 June Update Brings AI Features, Audio Sharing and Useful Upgrades for OnePlus Users

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OnePlus

OxygenOS 16.1 June Update Brings AI Features, Audio Sharing and Useful Upgrades for OnePlus Users

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OnePlus smartphone displaying the Audio Sharing feature in OxygenOS 16.1 alongside the text "OxygenOS 16.1 June Features," highlighting the latest June software update for OnePlus phones.

OxygenOS 16.1 June Update is rolling out to eligible OnePlus smartphones with several practical features that improve the overall user experience. Instead of introducing major visual changes, this update focuses on AI-powered tools, better connectivity, gaming enhancements, improved privacy, and system optimization.

OxygenOS 16.1 June Update Introduces AI Sports Widget

One of the biggest additions in the June update is the new AI-powered Sports Widget. Users can enable it from the OnePlus AI settings and place it on the home screen. The widget displays live football scores, upcoming fixtures, tournament standings, and match results without opening a separate sports application.

This feature is especially useful for sports fans who want real-time updates directly on their home screen.

OxygenOS 16.1 June Update Brings Layer 2 Audio Sharing

The update also introduces Layer 2 Audio Sharing, allowing two wireless earbuds to connect to a single OnePlus smartphone simultaneously. Users can stream music or videos together while independently controlling the volume for each connected earbud.

This feature makes sharing entertainment much more convenient without requiring additional accessories.

OxygenOS 16.1 June Update Improves Outdoor Mode

Outdoor Mode has also received a useful improvement. Users can now customize the dock by adding their preferred applications, including communication, navigation, entertainment, and utility apps. This makes switching between essential apps much faster while using the phone outdoors.

OxygenOS 16.1 June Update Enhances Gaming Experience

Gamers will notice a welcome addition inside Game Space. The Game Capture feature now supports 2K resolution screenshots, allowing players to capture sharper in-game moments compared to the previous standard resolution.

Although it’s a small feature, it benefits users who frequently share gaming content on social media.

Weather and App Drawer Improvements

The Weather application now displays additional information such as moonrise, moonset, and moon phases. While minor, it adds more detailed weather insights.

Meanwhile, the App Drawer has been improved with properly working Suggested Apps, making frequently used applications easier to access.

OxygenOS 16.1 June Update Adds Better Privacy Protection

Another important addition is an enhanced privacy feature. If a third-party application attempts a potentially risky action, OxygenOS now displays a warning and allows users to revoke sensitive permissions with a single tap. This provides better protection, especially for users who install apps from outside the Play Store.

OxygenOS 16.1 June Update Delivers Performance and Battery Improvements

Besides the visible features, the June update also includes better system optimization. Many users have reported smoother performance, improved battery backup, and noticeable camera enhancements after installing the latest software update. While improvements may vary by device, the overall experience appears more refined than previous builds.

Should You Install the OxygenOS 16.1 June Update?

The OxygenOS 16.1 June Update may not be a massive redesign, but it delivers several practical improvements that enhance daily usability. From AI-powered sports updates and dual audio sharing to gaming, privacy, and performance optimizations, the update offers meaningful additions that OnePlus users are likely to appreciate. Users with eligible devices are recommended to install the latest update to enjoy these new features and system improvements.

Also Read: OnePlus Nord Buds 4 Review: Big Bass, Strong ANC and Excellent Battery Life at Rs 3,299

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Wearable Tech

OnePlus Nord Buds 4 Review: Big Bass, Strong ANC and Excellent Battery Life at Rs 3,299

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OnePlus Nord Buds 4 in Astral Teal held in a hand with the charging case open, showcasing the earbuds against a clean background.

OnePlus Nord Buds 4 review starts with one clear takeaway: these earbuds are built to impress budget buyers who want strong bass, effective noise cancellation, and long battery life without spending too much. Priced at around Rs 3,299, the Nord Buds 4 aim to be one of the most balanced TWS options in the under-Rs 3,500 segment.

OnePlus Nord Buds 4 Review: Design and Comfort

OnePlus has kept the design familiar, but that is not a bad thing. The case feels solid, the Astral Teal color looks premium, and each earbud weighs just 4.3g, which helps during long listening sessions. The earbuds also carry an IP55 rating, making them suitable for workouts, daily commute, and light rain.

Better Bass and Immersive Sound

The biggest upgrade this time is the sound. The bass is noticeably punchier and deeper than before, while vocals still remain clean and clear. The earbuds also support 3D spatial audio, which adds more width to music and movies. The only small drawback is that the treble can feel a little sharp at higher volume, especially in busy tracks.

ANC, Gaming, Calls and Battery Life

The active noise cancellation is another major highlight. OnePlus claims up to 52dB real-time ANC, and in everyday use it works well in places like offices, cafes, and travel. For gaming, the 47ms low-latency mode helps keep audio and visuals in sync, while Bluetooth 6.1 keeps the connection stable. Call quality is also strong, thanks to six microphones with AI noise cancellation.

Battery life is equally impressive. OnePlus claims up to 54 hours of total playback, and even a quick charge gives useful backup for hours of use. The earbuds also support features like Google Fast Pair, dual-device connection, translation tools, Spotify Tap, custom controls, and equalizer options.

Final Verdict

OnePlus Nord Buds 4 review ends on a strong note. These are well-balanced budget earbuds with good bass, decent ANC, reliable gaming performance, and solid battery life. The treble could be smoother, but that is a minor issue compared to the overall package. For Rs 3,299, they look like one of the smartest buys in the budget TWS category.

Also Read: OnePlus 12 June Update: OxygenOS 16.1 Brings Better Battery, Camera Improvements and New Features

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