After making a splash with its concept smartphone at CES 2020, OnePlus is back in the news with details about potential new carrier deals. The brand’s upcoming OnePlus 8, early year flagship may release on the Verizon network, according to AndroidPolice. The details now back up earlier reports that hinted at the same.
OnePlus’ Cinderella story into the hearts and pockets of U.S. consumers has been a whirlwind with consecutive carrier partnerships with T-Mobile since the release of the OnePlus 6. However, it’s long been known that the Chinese brand has greater ambitions in terms of appealing to the American mobile market.
OnePlus devices, such as OnePlus 6T have been certified for use on the Verizon network, with a proper SIM card, but striking a deal to get the brand’s devices sold in the carrier’s retail stores would be a major step. This would give Verizon’s 156.1 million subscribers direct access to the OnePlus 8, and potentially subsequent OnePlus devices, if a long term collaboration is inked.
The OnePlus 8 is rumored to feature 5G compatibility, which is another plus, as Verizon continues to roll out its mobile network. The carrier already offers 5G smartphones, such as the Motorola Moto Z4 and the Galaxy Note 10+ 5G. Though OnePlus has been experimenting with higher prices for some time, it likely won’t be as expensive as Samsung’s budget-busting 5G device.
Rumors suggest there may be several OnePlus 8 models, including a Pro model and a Lite model. The OnePlus 8 Lite is also expected to power 5G, at a price closer to what is remembered from the brand’s earlier models. Currently, there is no word on whether Verizon would carry all models of the OnePlus 8 or if the network may opt for a carrier exclusive model.
Android Police noted with a carrier partnership, the OnePlus 8 will likely be subject to some undesirable features, such as Verizon bloatware. However, the brand would benefit from Verizon marketing and in-store availability; which may be worth it in the long run.
The OnePlus 8 may be announced and release sometime in the spring to early-summer frame, likely between May and June.
