OnePlus is effectively dead in most of the world, but software updates will continue. They just won’t be the same, as OxygenOS is going away and will instead be replaced by ColorOS.
As a part of its shutdown in global regions, OnePlus has confirmed that its flavor of Android, OxygenOS, is going away. Instead, all active OnePlus devices will be moving over to Oppo’s ColorOS starting with their Android 17 updates. This includes in India, where OnePlus is adamant it will continue operations – reliable reporting disagrees.
OnePlus explains:
As part of an operational adjustment to our software strategy, following the official release of ColorOS 17, users globally with existing OnePlus devices that fall within the eligible upgrade scope will have the option to voluntarily update to the latest ColorOS. This enables us to streamline software development, accelerate update delivery, improve software quality, and make better use of our shared engineering and R&D capabilities.
On the surface, it feels a bit weird given that OxygenOS was a major part of OnePlus’ identity in earlier years, but it makes sense in the long run. With Oppo moving away from this brand, consolidating the software makes it easier to provide ongoing updates for existing devices. OnePlus devices were already running ColorOS in China.
OxygenOS has largely evolved to become ColorOS over the past few years. Really, the only differences were in the little things – OxygenOS has typically been better about not crushing background activities and is overall better optimized for how other phones operate in global markets.
OnePlus will continue “maintenance support” for OxygenOS versions on older models not included in the Android 17 update scope, but newer devices will likely need to make the switch to ColorOS for all forms of continued support. OnePlus does explain that rollback versions to OxygenOS will be available for those who prefer the prior experience.
OnePlus devices will be able to choose whether to update to the latest ColorOS system. Older models that are not included in the update scope will also continue to receive version maintenance support. If users update to ColorOS, they will be able to roll back to OxygenOS. The specific rollback versions available will be subject to future official announcements.
OnePlus says that it will fully support devices as promised, with all existing devices getting “software updates, security patches, and applicable support.”
Realme, another Oppo brand, has also confirmed it will be moving to ColorOS starting with Android 17.
More on OnePlus:
- OnePlus shutdown reportedly goes beyond US & Europe next year, Realme exiting China
- Who will you switch to now that OnePlus is effectively dead? [Poll]
- What went wrong with OnePlus? [Video]
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