Introduction When a major smartphone maker introduces a new flagship, there is always a lot of hype and with good reason. The OnePlus 15 (henceforth “the device”) represents OnePlus’s next leap in its flagship line, following the OnePlus 13 (and skipping “14” as part of a numbering strategy). The device aims to deliver a combination of top-tier performance, display innovations, battery endurance, and camera capabilities, in a design that aligns with current premium trends.
Launch, Pricing & Availability
- The device was officially launched in China on 28 October 2025.
- Price (China market):
- 12 GB + 256 GB: CNY 3,999 (approx. ~₹50,000)
- Variants up to 16 GB + 1 TB: CNY 5,399 (approx. ~₹67,000)
- Colours offered: Absolute Black, Misty Purple, Sand Dune (Sand Storm).
- For India: Expected price in the range of ~₹60,000–₹70,000 for the launch period.
- Availability: Sales begin in China soon after launch; global rollout (including India) to follow.
Key Specs
- Display size: 6.78 inches.
- Resolution: 1.5K (1,272 × 2,772 pixels) which is slightly less than “full” QHD (2K) but still extremely sharp.
- Refresh rate: Up to 165 Hz (dynamic LTPO, meaning refresh rate can adjust) for ultra-smooth animation.
- Touch sampling rate: Up to ~330 Hz in touch input (as per some sources) for responsiveness.
- Brightness & colour: Peak brightness ~1,800 nits (per some claims), 100% DCI-P3 colour gamut, 1.07 billion colours.
Experience & Considerations
- The 165Hz is a step up from previous OnePlus flagships (which were often 120Hz). That means smoother on-screen action, which is great for gaming or heavy UI usage.
- The use of 1.5K instead of full QHD might raise eyebrows OnePlus states this trade-off helps achieve 165 Hz refresh rate with less power consumption.
- Flat screen (less curved edges) means fewer accidental touches and potentially better durability.
- Good brightness and colour support means the screen is well-suited for multimedia, gaming, outdoors, etc.
Battery Life & Charging
Battery life and charging have become major differentiators in high-end phones; the OnePlus 15 makes some bold statements here.
- Capacity: 7,300 mAh (one of the largest capacities seen in a flagship).
- Wired: 120 W Super Flash Charge (reportedly) extremely fast.
- Wireless: 50 W Wireless Flash Charge rare at this tier.
- Some claims: The battery supports “6 hours of streaming after 5 minutes charging” (OnePlus marketing) real-world results may vary.
Cameras & Imaging System
Camera systems are always a highlight in flagships. The OnePlus 15 brings a triple-50MP setup and signals a shift in OnePlus’ imaging strategy.
Rear Cameras
- Primary: 50 MP (f/1.8, OIS) main shooter.
- Ultra-wide: 50 MP (f/2.0) ultra-wide lens.
- Telephoto: 50 MP (f/1.8 or f/2.8 depending on region) 3.5× optical zoom per reports.
- Video: Up to 8K video recording at 30 fps; 4K up to 120 fps in some modes.
Front Camera
- 32 MP selfie shooter (f/2.4) capable of up to 4K video at 60fps
. Software & Additional Features
- OS: China version ships with ColorOS 16 (based on Android 16) for OnePlus 15. Globally, it is expected to run OxygenOS 16 (or its successor) based on Android 16.
- Features: In-display ultrasonic fingerprint reader, IR blaster (in some markets), stereo speakers, USB-C 3.2 support, NFC, etc.
- Gaming & connectivity: The high refresh display + strong chipset + improved touch sampling make this an appealing phone for gamers.
- Build & durability: As mentioned, some models boast MAO coatings and even claims of IP ratings up to IP69K in promotional leaks.
Strengths & Highlights
- Performance powerhouse: With the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 + up to 16/1 TB memory, you get one of the fastest Android phones available.
- Top-class battery & fast charging: 7,300 mAh + 120W wired + 50W wireless is rare in this segment and gives a combination of endurance + convenience.
- Smooth display: 6.78″ 1.5K, 165Hz refresh rate excellent for fluid UI and gaming.
- Premium build: Design upgrades (materials, finishes) give a premium feel.
- Well-rounded camera setup: Triple 50MP lenses plus 8K video ensure versatility.
- Aggressive pricing (in China): Offers flagship performance at relatively modest cost (for flagship tier).
. Should You Buy It?
Pros for you:
- If you’re looking for a top-tier Android flagship with strong future-proofing (5G, high refresh display, large battery), this is a very good candidate.
- If you care about fast charging, large battery and a premium build the OnePlus 15 ticks those boxes.
- OnePlus has good presence in India (service centres, support), which means less risk compared to obscure imports.
- The price (likely ₹60–70k at launch) is competitive in the premium flagship segment.
Things to check
- Ensure the Indian variant has the same specs (battery 7,300 mAh, 120W wired, 50W wireless) sometimes India/SEA versions differ.
- Check network compatibility: 5G bands, carrier support in Andhra region.
- If photography (especially low-light, zoom) is your main use case, you might want to wait for independent camera reviews of the OnePlus 15 (and compare with say Samsung S/Ultra or Pixel).
- Future software update commitment: OnePlus has improved in this regard, but make sure it meets your expectations for Android updates and security patches.
- If you already have a high-end phone (e.g., OnePlus 12, 13 or other flagship) the incremental benefit may not justify the cost unless you really want the biggest battery and newest features.
The OnePlus 15 is a strong flagship contender in 2025. It delivers high performance, excellent battery/charging, a smooth display, and a premium buildall at a competitive price point (especially in China/India). Some trade-offs (resolution, camera tweaks) exist, but for many users the positives will far outweigh the negatives.