OnePlus 12: A Flagship Forging its Own Path with Power and Polish

OnePlus has long been known for its “flagship killer” moniker, offering top-tier specs at competitive prices. But can the OnePlus 12 maintain this legacy in a market increasingly dominated by behemoths like Samsung and Apple? After spending a week with the device, here’s my take:

Powerhouse Performance:

The OnePlus 12 packs a punch, powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. Multitasking is a breeze, even with demanding games and apps thrown its way. The 120Hz refresh rate display makes everything buttery smooth, from scrolling through social media to watching action-packed movies. Battery life is surprisingly good, easily lasting a full day on a single charge, thanks to the efficient processor and large 5000mAh battery.

Design that Shines:

OnePlus has stuck with its familiar sleek design, but with subtle refinements. The phone feels premium in the hand, with a glass back and aluminum frame. The new camera module adds a touch of elegance, while the updated colour options, Pale Green and Rock Black, give it a fresh personality.

Display Dazzles:

The 6.7-inch AMOLED display is a stunner. It’s incredibly bright, reaching a peak of 4500 nits, making it highly visible even under harsh sunlight. Colors are vibrant and accurate, thanks to the AMOLED technology. HDR content looks absolutely gorgeous, making watching movies and playing games a truly immersive experience.

Camera Conundrum:

The camera system is good, but not quite great. In well-lit conditions, the photos are sharp and detailed, with accurate colors. However, low-light performance is underwhelming, with images lacking sharpness and clarity. The lack of a dedicated telephoto lens is also a missed opportunity, especially in this flagship price range.

OxygenOS Oxygenates the Experience:

OxygenOS remains one of the cleanest and fastest Android skins out there. It’s bloatware-free and offers a near-stock Android experience with some useful OnePlus-specific additions like Zen Mode and Dark Mode. Updates are also generally prompt, keeping the phone feeling fresh and secure.

Price Point Pondering:

The OnePlus 12 starts at ₹64,999 for the 12GB RAM version, making it slightly more expensive than its predecessors. While the price bump might raise some eyebrows, the overall package feels more refined and justifies the increased cost to a certain extent. However, those on a tight budget might find competing offers from brands like Xiaomi and Google more enticing.

OnePlus 12 Price in India:

12GB RAM + 256GB storage: ₹64,999
16GB RAM + 512GB storage: ₹69,999

The OnePlus 12 is available for pre-order in India starting from January 23rd, with sales beginning on January 30th. You can purchase it through the OnePlus website, Amazon, and select retail stores.

Verdict: BUY

The OnePlus 12 is a powerful and polished flagship phone that delivers a smooth and enjoyable user experience. It excels in performance, display quality, and battery life, with OxygenOS making it a joy to use. However, the camera leaves some room for improvement, and the slightly higher price tag might give some pause.

Overall, the OnePlus 12 is a compelling option for Android enthusiasts who prioritise performance and a clean software experience, but those seeking the absolute best camera might want to explore other options.

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