Image: Foundry | Alex Walker-Todd
The deployment of Android 16 has commenced.
Every Google Pixel device starting from the Pixel 6 has now received the update, with various manufacturers already rolling out their tailored versions.
OnePlus is next on the agenda, renowned for its OxygenOS interface that’s well-regarded for smooth operation, extensive customization options, and robust privacy measures. With OxygenOS 16, the company aims to push the envelope further, particularly in the realm of AI with several new features that stand out.
In total, there are seven notable additions worth examining. If you possess a recent OnePlus device (a comprehensive list is available at the end of this article), these enhancements will be delivered via a free update shortly.
Introducing a Gemini-Powered Second Brain
Earlier this year, OnePlus launched Plus Mind, an innovative portal leveraging AI to synthesize, organize, and provide suggestions based on captured information.
Now, OxygenOS 16 is bolstering this with capabilities for audio capture via the dedicated Plus Key on compatible devices. Existing screenshots can be imported, and content can be auto-categorized into Collections.
The standout feature is integration with Gemini. When granted access to your Plus Mind content, Google’s AI can produce remarkably personalized suggestions. For instance, after saving details from a trip to Barcelona, you could request Gemini to recommend weather-appropriate locations tailored to what you’ve archived. If executed properly, this could revolutionize how users interact with their saved data.
OnePlus
Animating Text in New Ways
Initially, the AI Writer tool may sound like features available on many devices, aiding in crafting image captions, altering writing tones, and condensing long articles.
However, OnePlus adds a unique twist. AI Writer can transform your written content into visual mind maps and tables, significantly streamlining information organization. Imagine how useful this would have been during school exam preparations!
OnePlus
An Exceptional Document Scanning Tool?
The era of needing a standalone scanner to digitize physical documents is behind us. Most smartphone camera applications now include document scanning functionality, supplemented by numerous dedicated third-party apps. Nevertheless, OnePlus seeks to enhance this experience.
Its new AI Scan feature automates cleanup processes, correcting angles, eliminating shadows, and reducing glare—common challenges many users face. These enhancements are especially crucial when handling official documents in professional environments.
OnePlus
Transforming Audio Recordings into Useful Tools
Many of my phone’s audio recordings rarely serve their intended purpose. I often record with the aim of supplementing my notes or capturing missed quotes, but the thought of sorting through long recordings is daunting.
The AI Recorder from OnePlus could provide the solution I’ve been looking for. It features three automated functionalities that typically necessitate manual effort: speaker identification for transcriptions, summaries highlighting key points, and an AI Clear Voice option that minimizes background noise for cleaner recordings.
While none of these features alone are groundbreaking, their combination could significantly enhance the recording experience on OnePlus devices.
OnePlus
Enhancing Low-Light Portrait Photography
Achieving great portrait shots in low light poses a common challenge. Even the most advanced night modes struggle with delivering convincing photos.
AI Portrait Glow intends to eliminate this issue by emphasizing skin tones, which is often a key area of concern. This feature utilizes AI to ensure accurate representation of people, even in group photos.
Additionally, it provides an artificial torch feature to help prevent the unnatural brightening effect that sometimes occurs in low-light images.
A Clear Copy of Best Take?
If you’ve used a Pixel phone recently, you’re likely familiar with the Best Take feature. This technology permits users to swap faces in burst-mode group photos, ensuring everyone looks their best.
OnePlus offers a similar feature, dubbed AI Perfect Shot, that functions in a comparable manner. However, it appears that unlike Best Take on the Pixel 10 series, this process may not be fully automated.
OnePlus
Do you find it troubling to enhance images when they may not be genuine? That’s a question for you to ponder.
OxygenOS 16 features an option for testing new functionalities termed the AI PlayLab.
Two experimental features have been particularly highlighted. Party Up enables users to create brief, AI-generated videos using a still image, while YumSee caught my interest even more.
This tool comes in handy when confronted with a restaurant menu filled with unfamiliar dishes.
While some devices allow text to be translated by hovering the camera over it, that might not suffice, particularly in countries with unique culinary traditions. YumSee utilizes the translated text to visualize how each dish might appear, simplifying the decision-making process when ordering. Although designed for translation, it could be beneficial when encountering unfamiliar foods elsewhere.
Which OnePlus Devices Will Receive OxygenOS 16?
OnePlus has confirmed compatibility with the following models for OxygenOS 16:
- OnePlus 13
- OnePlus 13R
- OnePlus 12
- OnePlus 12R
- OnePlus 11R
- OnePlus 11
- OnePlus 10 Pro
- OnePlus 10T
- OnePlus 10R
- OnePlus Nord 5
- OnePlus Nord 4
- OnePlus Nord CE 4
- OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G
- OnePlus Nord 3
- OnePlus Open
Nonetheless, the full rollout might take weeks or even months. Users with older models on this list will need to exercise some patience.
If you don’t own a OnePlus device, find out more about when your phone will receive Android 16, or browse the best phones available now here.
