Update 12/17
OnePlus has now confirmed it will showcase a new device called the OnePlus Concept One during CES. Though many expect the device will be a smartphone, the manufacturer has not yet divulged this information. However, OnePlus had this to say about the device.
The name itself, Concept One, is a clear promise that this device is only the first in a series to come and shows OnePlus’ commitment to applied, innovative technology – bringing users an ever smoother, faster, and more “burdenless” experience. The OnePlus Concept One, demonstrates a vision of both new technology and alternate design approach for the future of smartphones.
OnePlus via Android Central
OnePlus recently celebrated its sixth anniversary as a company on December 16.
Original
Recent reports and rumors suggest that OnePlus may return to its budget-friendly roots in 2020. While the 5G powered OnePlus 7T Pro McLaren starts at $899, there is evidence of a OnePlus 8 Lite model, circulating. Leaksters, @OnLeaks and 91Mobiles shared renders of the device in early December.
Further details suggest the handset could include a 6.4-inch or 6.5-inch flat display with a centered hole-punch for the front camera, a USB-C port, and dual-camera with a ToF sensor.
There is no visible fingerprint sensor on the handset render, suggesting that the device may have an in-display fingerprint sensor. Additionally, a headphone jack is precariously missing. All of these features allude to a rather well-constructed device so it may ultimately be internal features that determine the price classification of the OnePlus 8 Lite.
Qualcomm has notably introduced the Snapdragon 765 as a 2020 mid-range processing chip, which will power 5G. Mediatek’s Dimensity 1000 5G chip could also be an option, with OnePlus also being known for combining premium chips with truncated specs to keep prices low. Reports suggest that customers can expect to see 5G prices dip as low at $300 in the coming year.
There is no word on how much the OnePlus 8 Lite might cost, but it comes at an interesting time when budget-friendly devices are dominating the rumor mill with sleek designs, elaborate camera setups, large batteries with fast charging.
Flagship Killer Comeback
For OnePlus, this would be a second stab at a budget model, as 91Mobiles noted that the manufacturer released the OnePlus X in 2015 to a lackluster reception. The device sold for just $249 but is considered one of OnePlus’ biggest failures. Riding the high of the popularity of the OnePlus One (which sold for $330 in its heyday), the OnePlus X released not long after the OnePlus 2, seemingly choked the brands own market of affordable devices. Many also complained the device was poorly constructed.
This time around, OnePlus may have a greater proposition to release a cheaper model as its most premium smartphones could easily it $1,000 in the coming year. The standard OnePlus 7T sells for $599. In comparison, a OnePlus device in the $300 or $400 range could likely be heaven consumers’ ears particularly long-time fans that remember when the premium models sold in that range.
OnePlus hasn’t used its catchphrase “flagship killer” in many release cycles. Ironically, the OnePlus 8 Lite may find its biggest premium competitors in its pricier sibling models. With a larger fan base and carrier support, there is less of a chance at a cheaper OnePlus smartphone would cannibalize more expensive models.
OnePlus has recently teased that it will be hosting exclusive events during CES 2020 in January. Some have suggested we may see a Lite model device unveiled during the tech conference. However, the OnePlus 8 would likely have to launch first, and the companies traditional early-year launch time frame is some time in May.
