OnePlus 13T: 5 Shocking Features That Will Change the Smartphone Game Forever

The OnePlus 13T, launching in China on April 24, 2025, marks the return of the brand’s T-series after a two-year hiatus, targeting users seeking flagship-tier specs at a mid-premium price. Leaks reveal a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Elite chipset, a 6.32-inch 1.5K OLED 120Hz display, and a 6,260mAh battery with 80W fast charging. The phone features a dual-camera setup (50MP primary + 50MP 2x telephoto), ditching an ultra-wide lens to prioritize portrait versatility.

Design shifts include flat edges, a minimalist “metal cube Deco” camera module, and a customizable button replacing the iconic Alert Slider—a move that risks alienating loyalists. In India, the device is expected to debut as the OnePlus 13S by June 2025, slotting between the ₹43K 13R and ₹66K 13 to compete with rivals like Xiaomi and Samsung. With a focus on compact form and premium performance, the 13T aims to carve a niche in the crowded mid-flagship segment, though its success hinges on pricing and consumer reception to design compromises. 

OnePlus 13T: 5 Shocking Features That Will Change the Smartphone Game Forever

The OnePlus 13T, set to debut in China on April 24, 2025, marks the return of the brand’s T-series after a two-year hiatus. Positioned as a bridge between the budget-friendly R-series and premium flagship models, the 13T aims to fill a critical gap in OnePlus’ lineup. With India poised as a key market, the device is rumored to arrive rebranded as the OnePlus 13S by June 2025. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect and why this launch matters.  

Strategic Comeback: Why the T-Series? 

OnePlus’ decision to revive the T-series reflects a tactical move to cater to users seeking flagship-tier performance without the premium price tag. The 13T is expected to slot between the ₹43K OnePlus 13R and ₹66K OnePlus 13 in India, likely targeting the ₹50K–55K segment. This positions it against rivals like the Xiaomi 14 Lite, iQOO 12, and Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, which dominate the mid-premium Android space.  

Global Launch Timeline 

• China: April 24, 2025 (as OnePlus 13T).  

• India: June 2025 (as OnePlus 13S). 

Industry insiders suggest the rebranding to “13S” in India could stem from regional marketing strategies or model differentiation, though OnePlus has yet to confirm this.  

Leaked Specs: Power Meets Practicality 

Performance:  

• Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Elite (same as OnePlus 13), ensuring top-tier performance for gaming and multitasking.  

• Display: A compact 6.32-inch 1.5K OLED panel with 120Hz refresh rate, balancing sharpness and battery efficiency. 

Camera:  

• Dual Rear Setup: 50MP primary sensor + 50MP 2x telephoto lens.  

• Omission of Ultra-Wide: A bold move, prioritizing portrait and zoom capabilities over versatility. 

Battery & Charging:  

• 6,260mAh Battery: OnePlus’ largest yet, promising extended usage.  

• 80W Fast Charging: Rapid top-ups, though trailing behind 100W+ competitors. 

Software:  

• Expected to ship with OxygenOS 15 (based on Android 15) and 4 years of OS updates. 

Design Overhaul: Form and Function 

The 13T ditches curves for a flat-edged, “squared-off” design, appealing to users seeking a sturdy grip. Key aesthetic updates include:  

• Matte Finish: Available in Morning Mist Gray, Cloud Ink Black, and a limited Pink edition.  

• Metal Camera Module: A unified “metal cube Deco” housing the dual lenses, aligning with minimalist trends.  

• Alert Slider Replacement: Swapped for a customizable button, a controversial shift given the slider’s iconic status. Users can toggle sound profiles or assign shortcuts, adding flexibility but risking fan backlash. 

India Market Strategy 

India remains pivotal for OnePlus, contributing significantly to global sales. The 13S (13T) will need to differentiate itself in a crowded market:  

• Pricing: A ₹50K–55K range could undercut rivals like the Google Pixel 8, which lacks a telephoto lens.  

• Competitive Edge: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and large battery may attract power users, while the compact size caters to those fatigued by oversized phones. 

Analysis: Hits and Misses 

Pros:  

• Flagship performance at a mid-tier price.  

• Telephoto lens enhances photography versatility.  

• Compact design in a market dominated by 6.7-inch+ devices. 

Cons:  

• No ultra-wide camera limits creative flexibility.  

• Removal of the Alert Slider might alienate loyalists. 

Final Verdict 

The OnePlus 13T (or 13S) is a calculated gamble—reviving a legacy series while addressing mid-premium market demands. Its success hinges on pricing and how Indian consumers react to design changes. If you’re eyeing a powerful, compact phone with long battery life and don’t mind sacrificing an ultra-wide lens, the 13T warrants a closer look. However, camera enthusiasts or Alert Slider loyalists may want to wait for the OnePlus 14 or explore alternatives.