OnePlus is preparing to introduce its next flagship smartphone, the OnePlus 15, with launches expected in both the Chinese and global markets before the end of the year. According to recent teasers and industry reports, the company appears ready to continue its tradition of releasing the device in China first, followed by a wider rollout.
OnePlus India recently hinted on X (formerly Twitter) that the OnePlus 15 in a Sand Storm finish will be “coming soon”, signalling that the company’s next-generation handset is nearly ready for release. Industry sources cited by 91Mobiles suggest that the global launch event will take place on 13 November, following a China-first unveiling that could happen as early as 27 October.
A force of nature. #OnePlus15 in Sand Storm. Coming soon. pic.twitter.com/ML16CSMwvo
— OnePlus India (@OnePlus_IN) September 30, 2025
If accurate, this timeline aligns closely with OnePlus’s previous launch patterns, where Chinese consumers typically receive early access before global markets become available a few weeks later.
Flagship specifications and performance expectations
The OnePlus 15 is expected to be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, offering enhanced performance and efficiency compared to its predecessor. The smartphone may also feature up to 16GB of RAM, making it one of the most powerful Android devices expected to be released this year.
Battery life is likely to be another key selling point, with rumours pointing to a large 7,000mAh battery. Such a capacity would place the OnePlus 15 among the leading smartphones for endurance, potentially delivering exceptional longevity for both heavy users and gamers.
Design-wise, the phone is said to include an aluminium frame treated with micro-arc oxidation for added durability and a premium finish. The display is rumoured to support a refresh rate of up to 165Hz, ensuring smooth performance for gaming and multimedia consumption. Additionally, storage options can reach up to 1TB, catering to users who require extensive onboard space for photos, videos, and applications.
Camera upgrades and software innovations
While OnePlus previously partnered with Hasselblad for its camera systems, the collaboration is reportedly coming to an end with this generation. Instead, the company plans to introduce its proprietary DetailMax Engine, a new image-processing system that aims to enhance sharpness and colour accuracy through computational photography.
The OnePlus 15 is expected to feature a triple-camera setup comprising a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilisation (OIS), a 50MP Samsung JN5 periscope telephoto lens, and an ultra-wide lens. Together, these upgrades are expected to deliver greater versatility and improved image quality across various lighting conditions.
The shift towards in-house imaging technology could signal OnePlus’s intent to strengthen its independence and innovation within the smartphone photography space. By leveraging computational photography, the brand aims to produce clearer, more natural-looking images without relying on external camera partnerships.
As anticipation builds, fans are eager to see how OnePlus will refine its flagship design, performance, and software experience. More details are expected to emerge closer to the reported 27 October launch date in China, ahead of the anticipated global unveiling in mid-November.
