OnePlus 13R Preview The next-gen flagship killer

Introducing the OnePlus 13R

OnePlus seems to be gearing up for the launch of the OnePlus 13R, a more budget-friendly version of its flagship model, the OnePlus 13. The R series, which first appeared with the OnePlus 11R, has become popular for providing flagship-level performance at a more accessible price point, and the 13R is expected to continue this trend.

While the OnePlus 13 showcases premium specifications such as the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and a 6,000 mAh silicon-carbon battery, the 13R will likely simplify some of these features to keep costs down. Here’s a more detailed look at what we can anticipate based on leaks, rumors, and trends from the R series.

OnePlus 13R specifications

Let’s start with an overview of the supposed specifications of the OnePlus 13R:

OnePlus 13R Design and Display

The OnePlus 13R is anticipated to come with a flat aluminum frame and a sleek, minimalist aesthetic. According to leaks, the phone is likely to feature a ceramic back, which is a rare option for mid-range devices, giving it a more premium appearance.

In contrast to the curved displays found on OnePlus’s flagship models, the 13R is expected to sport a flat 6.78-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 1264 x 2780, a refresh rate of 120Hz, and a pixel density of 450 PPI.

Colour options for the OnePlus 13R include:

• Black Eclipse
• Midnight Ocean
• Arctic Dawn

Alternative names like ‘Nebula Noir’ and ‘Astral Trail’ may be proposed for global markets. The phone is anticipated to have slim bezels and will keep OnePlus’s signature Alert Slider on the left side. Leaked images reveal a circular camera module that is more subtle compared to the OnePlus 12R, which is great news for those who consider the camera module design of previous generations to be somewhat excessive.

OnePlus 13R Camera

The OnePlus 13 is expected to come equipped with a triple 50MP camera system, featuring a periscope telephoto lens carrying the Hasselblad branding, which highlights its commitment to high-quality photography. In contrast, the 13R is anticipated to have a more basic configuration to reduce costs. Reports indicate that it might keep the 50MP main sensor but replace the periscope telephoto lens with a simpler telephoto camera.

Although this may seem like a downgrade on paper, OnePlus’s R series has traditionally provided strong camera performance through software enhancements. If previous models are any indication, the 13R’s camera is likely to appeal to casual photographers who prioritize ease of use and reliable results.

But here’s everything we know so far about the OnePlus 13R camera specs:

• Main: The 50 MP Sony IMX906 sensor features an f/1.8 aperture and has a size of 1/1.56 inches, enabling it to deliver outstanding image quality even in low-light conditions.
• Telephoto: A 50 MP Samsung JN1 sensor with an f/2.0 aperture, which would be a much more effective camera compared to the 2 MP macro sensor of the 12R.
• Ultra-wide: 8 MP ultra-wide lens with an f/2.2 aperture.
• Selfie camera: 16 MP with an aperture of f/2.4.

OnePlus 13R Performance and Benchmarks

The OnePlus 13R is expected to be powered by either the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or the more efficiency-oriented Snapdragon 8s Gen 4. Although these processors may not match the performance of the Snapdragon 8 Elite found in the OnePlus 13, they are still anticipated to offer robust capabilities for gaming, multitasking, and everyday tasks.

Both devices are likely to come with OxygenOS 15, which is based on Android 15. However, there is some speculation that certain features associated with Google’s Gemini AI, potentially launching with the OnePlus 13, may not be included in the 13R.

Additionally, the RAM options for the 13R are expected to be more modest, with a maximum of 16GB compared to the 24GB available on the OnePlus 13. Regarding OxygenOS 15, users can look forward to several changes and new features.

OnePlus 13R Software

The OnePlus 13R is expected to launch with OxygenOS 15, which is based on Android 15. This update introduces a variety of enhanced AI features, improved performance, and significant privacy upgrades for OnePlus devices.

For instance, it offers task prediction to enhance app efficiency and real-time translations that utilize Google Gemini (provided your device is compatible). The camera is also being upgraded, particularly in terms of low-light photography and object recognition. In terms of performance, OxygenOS 15 features HyperBoost 2.0 for a smoother gaming experience, as well as Dynamic RAM Allocation to improve multitasking capabilities.

Additionally, there are more personalization options than ever, including new Always-On Display widgets and customizable themes and fonts. Privacy enhancements are also noteworthy, with the introduction of Private Vault 2.0, which allows you to secure sensitive files using your fingerprint or other biometric methods.

Furthermore, you gain increased control over app permissions, which is always beneficial. The OnePlus Hub feature enhances connectivity between devices such as phones, earbuds, and TVs, enabling seamless transitions during calls.

As for battery life, improvements have been made here as well, with smarter charging patterns designed to extend battery longevity and better thermal management to keep your device cool under heavy use. Overall, OxygenOS 15 represents a solid blend of AI-driven advancements and practical enhancements that streamline everyday usage.

OnePlus 13R Battery

The OnePlus 13R is anticipated to feature a 6,000 mAh battery, which is on par with the OnePlus 13’s capacity. OnePlus’s implementation of silicon-carbon battery technology has enabled the company to enhance capacity without sacrificing size or weight, and it is likely that the 13R will follow this pattern. Charging speeds are also expected to be impressive, with support for 100W wired charging. This should facilitate fast and efficient charging, even with the larger battery. For users who prioritize battery life and charging convenience, the 13R may be a highly attractive choice.

Should you take it into consideration?

The OnePlus 13R appears to be another excellent mid-range option for those seeking flagship-like features at a more affordable price. Although leaks suggest that it may forgo certain features, such as the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and the periscope telephoto lens, it is still expected to deliver a robust offering with its likely large battery, solid performance, and competitive pricing.

If the leaks hold true, the price of the OnePlus 13R would be very appealing to budget-conscious consumers. Given OnePlus’s track record of producing well-rounded R-series devices, the 13R could prove to be an attractive choice in its category. Stay tuned for the official release and more detailed information about this eagerly awaited mid-range device.