Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Dec 18: OnePlus has unveiled its latest mid-flagship smartphone, the OnePlus 15R, in India, targeting buyers who want a near-flagship experience without paying full flagship prices. Priced from ?44,999 onwards, the 15R goes head-to-head with the Google Pixel 9a and OPPO Reno 14, while offering some exclusive firsts.
The OnePlus 15R is the first phone globally to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chip, delivering up to 36% faster CPU performance and 11% faster graphics, along with a 46% boost in on-device AI. The phone is built for longevity, with 7,400mAh battery capacity—the largest ever in a OnePlus phone—and IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K ratings for dust and water resistance, setting a new benchmark in durability.
Storage options include 256GB and 512GB, paired with 12GB RAM. OnePlus’ custom CPU scheduler optimizes the device for high-end gaming, ensuring smooth performance for years without feeling dated.
On the camera front, the 15R features a 50MP Sony IMX906 wide sensor and an 8MP ultra-wide sensor, while omitting a telephoto lens. However, the phone retains advanced image processing and computational photography algorithms from the OnePlus 15, producing sharp, detailed photos with balanced colors, though some scenarios may slightly affect color accuracy.
The OxygenOS interface has been updated, offering snappy performance and utilities like Dual App Control and Split View. OnePlus’ AI suite, including AI Scan, AI Recorder, and Photos editing tools, along with the personal assistant Mind powered by Google Gemini, adds extra value, although some features may require a learning curve.
While certain flagship features like wireless charging are omitted, the OnePlus 15R emphasizes longevity, performance, and thermal engineering, making it a practical daily driver for tech enthusiasts. Analysts say the phone proves that a flagship-level experience doesn’t always require flagship-level pricing.
The OnePlus 15 remains the statement piece, while the 15R offers a more restrained, value-focused alternative, catering to the needs of daily users seeking performance, durability, and overall polish without breaking the bank.