OnePlus 12 Hands-on: return to “Flagship Killer” form

When it comes to exciting Android phones, OnePlus has consistently found itself on the shortlist of brands that enthusiasts eagerly anticipate. With a history of delivering top-end flagships at aggressively competitive prices, OnePlus has cultivated a reputation as the “Flagship Killer.” Now, with the unveiling of the OnePlus 12, the company seems poised to reclaim that title and make a resounding return to its roots.

Recently launched in China and soon to make its global debut, the OnePlus 12 has garnered attention for all the right reasons. We were fortunate enough to get our hands on the Flowy Emerald variant, a visually stunning device that not only catches the eye with its vibrant green color but also boasts a unique dynamic fluid pattern that shifts to a captivating light blue when tilted.

The tactile experience of the OnePlus 12 is equally impressive. The back, resembling delicate satin, invites users to touch and interact with it. While the visual pattern may suggest texture, running your fingertips across the rear panel reveals a uniform satin finish that adds to the phone’s overall premium feel.

Despite the seemingly large 6.8-inch display size, the OnePlus 12 maintains a surprisingly compact feel. This is achieved without compromising on battery capacity, as the device houses a sizable 5,400mAh battery. Although taller, wider, and thicker than its predecessor, the OnePlus 11, the real-world difference in dimensions is subtle. What’s more noticeable is the increased heft, with the OnePlus 12 weighing in at 220 grams, a departure from the lighter OnePlus 11.

Fortunately, the ergonomic design has not suffered. The curved rear back contributes to the impression of handling a smaller phone, ensuring a comfortable grip without any sharp edges digging into the palm. In a nod to the past, OnePlus has opted for a curved display, offering a departure from the trend of flat screens that has become increasingly common.

The standout feature on the rear is the sizable circular camera island, reminiscent of the OnePlus Open’s design philosophy. It is larger than its predecessor, making the OnePlus 12 slightly top-heavy. What catches the eye is the unexpected touch of glamour – faint shimmering glitter scattered across the camera island. A bold design choice that may not appeal to everyone, but it certainly stands out in a market filled with utilitarian designs.

Switching things up, OnePlus has rearranged the button placement on the OnePlus 12. The volume rocker now resides on the right side, above the power button, offering a more ergonomic layout. The signature ring switch finds its new home on the left side, a change that might take some getting used to for long-time OnePlus enthusiasts.

Surprising many, the OnePlus 12 boasts an IR blaster on the top frame, a feature not typically associated with OnePlus flagship phones. This addition aligns more with Oppo and Xiaomi devices, introducing a new level of functionality that might raise eyebrows among OnePlus fans.

The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, an improvement over the OnePlus 11’s Gorilla Glass 7. In a nod to user convenience, OnePlus has included a pre-applied basic screen protector, demonstrating a commitment to keeping the display in pristine condition.

In a move that solidifies its flagship status, the OnePlus 12 carries an official IP65 rating, offering improved protection against the elements. This certification ensures the phone is fully dust-proof and can withstand strong jets of water, an upgrade from the splash protection seen in its predecessor.

The OnePlus 12 marks a return to form for OnePlus, recapturing the essence of its iconic devices that garnered acclaim in the past. While it may seem like a safe release at first glance, the OnePlus 12 is shaping up to be an excellent Android flagship, promising a delightful user experience. In an industry where many manufacturers are opting for safer choices, OnePlus’ return to its roots is a refreshing change.

Stay tuned for our comprehensive review, where we delve deeper into the OnePlus 12’s performance, camera capabilities, and overall user experience. As it stands, OnePlus seems to be back on track, delivering a device that could potentially redefine the meaning of a “Flagship Killer” in 2024.

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