OnePlus 12 First Impressions: More of the Same?
OnePlus 12 First Impressions: More of the Same? OnePlus isn’t taking any big gambles with AI but goes with a tried and tested formula, which does not seem all that bad.
by TAUHID SHAH: January 27: Saturday: 1:14 PM | 2024 Updated. IST
In 2023, Google brought out some cool AI features for its Pixel smartphones. Then, in 2024, Samsung followed suit with its Galaxy S24 series, putting a lot of focus on AI capabilities that seemed quite similar to what Google had done. However, other Android brands are playing catch-up, entering the tech scene a bit later. While cameras have been using AI for better photo processing, companies like Vivo, Oppo, and OnePlus aren’t fully embracing AI as a major player in improving their software or the overall smartphone experience.
Looking at OnePlus, they seem to be taking a different path. The new OnePlus 12, launched this year, doesn’t have any groundbreaking AI features to boast about. Instead, they’re sticking to the traditional approach and working on refining the hardware. After trying out the Pixel 8 Pro, I have to say that OnePlus’ strategy doesn’t seem misguided. My experience with the OnePlus 12 over the last few days genuinely left me impressed.
OnePlus has just unveiled a charger with a powerful 100W output. It comes with a Type-A to Type-C charging cable and a flexible matte-finished silicon case. The device looks stunning in the new Flowy Emerald design, with a textured rear panel adding to its appeal. Notably, the camera arrangement has a classy look, reminiscent of the dial on a traditional clock.
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Now, let’s get to the main point. The device comes with an official IP65 rating – a noteworthy feature, even though it doesn’t quite reach the peak of an IP68 rating. Given the limited options of smartphones with higher ratings in this price range, having an IP65 rating is a positive inclusion.
Turning our attention to the device’s appearance, it embodies the classic OnePlus style. Rounded corners and gracefully curved sides showcase the brand’s distinctive characteristics, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail synonymous with OnePlus. This design philosophy, in a way, brings OnePlus back to its roots, recalling the innovative design language seen in its foldable version, the Open.
There’s a large 6.82-inch QHD+ display in a broad 19.8:9 aspect ratio which appears quite sharp at 510ppi. OnePlus claims that it offers a maximum brightness of 1,600 nits and a peak brightness of 4,500 nits. The 3D curved edge display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which is also used for the rear panel.
This phone runs on the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, which is a standout feature. Unlike many other smartphones in this price range that use MediaTek or Exynos processors, this phone stands out with its Snapdragon processor. You can get it with up to 16GB of fast LPDDR5X RAM, and storage options go up to 512GB using UFS 4.0 technology. It’s great to have such powerful specs in a phone at this price point.
In the world of smartphone cameras, the OnePlus 12 has introduced a camera setup similar to its foldable counterpart, the Open model. It boasts a 50-megapixel main camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), a 48-megapixel ultra-wide camera with a wide 114-degree field of view, and a 64-megapixel telephoto camera offering a 3X optical zoom. For selfies, there’s a reliable 32-megapixel front-facing camera with a fixed focus. It’s noteworthy that these lenses mark a significant improvement in hardware compared to the previous OnePlus 11.
Despite its slim design, the phone houses an innovative 5,400mAh dual-cell battery. Expectations are high for top-notch performance, given OnePlus’ reputation for meticulous software optimization. The battery charges rapidly at 80W with the included 100W charger, a departure from last year’s 100W wired charging, driven by the need to replenish OnePlus’ most substantial phone battery. Another feature making a comeback is the 50W AirVOOC wireless charging, familiar from the previous year, enhancing the phone’s charging options.
In the world of smartphones, the OnePlus 12 is creating quite a buzz, with many eager to know what it brings to the table. While OnePlus has incorporated some components from its collection, the software side seems a bit lackluster despite the inclusion of OxygenOS 14 and Android 14. My main interest is whether OnePlus can compensate for the absence of certain artificial intelligence features through strong and reliable performance – an area where Google’s AI-focused Pixel faced some challenges. The big question: Can OnePlus stand out against Samsung’s Galaxy S series in terms of overall value? Stay tuned for my detailed review, dropping soon.
ONEPLUS 12 PRICE IN INDIA
Oneplus 12 (12GB RAM, 256GB) – Silky Black 64,999RS
OnePlus 12 price in India starts from ₹ 64,999. The lowest price of OnePlus 12 is ₹ 64,999 at Amazon on 27th January 2024.
Available Variants
- 12GB RAM 256GB STORAGE OnePlus 12 (12GB,256GB)
- 16GB RAM 256GB STORAGE OnePlus 12 (16GB,256GB)
- 16GB RAM 512GB STORAGE OnePlus 12 (16GB,512GB)
OnePlus 12 Full Specifications
General
| Brand | OnePlus |
| Model | 12 |
| Price in India | ₹64,999 |
| Release date | 5th December 2023 |
| Launched in India | Yes |
| Form factor | Touchscreen |
| Dimensions (mm) | 164.30 x 75.80 x 9.15 |
| Weight (g) | 220.00 |
| IP rating | IP65 |
| Battery capacity (mAh) | 5400 |
| Removable battery | No |
| Fast charging | Super VOOC |
| Wireless charging | Yes |
| Colours | Flowy Emerald, Silky Black |
Display
| Refresh Rate | 120 Hz |
| Resolution Standard | QHD+ |
| Screen size (inches) | 6.82 |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Resolution | 1440×3168 pixels |
| Protection type | Gorilla Glass |
| Pixels per inch (PPI) | 510 |
Hardware
| Processor | octa-core |
| Processor make | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 |
| RAM | 12GB, 16GB |
| Internal storage | 256GB, 512GB |
| Expandable storage | No |
Camera
| Rear camera | 50-megapixel (f/1.6) + 64-megapixel (f/2.6) + 48-megapixel (f/2.2) |
| No. of Rear Cameras | 3 |
| Front camera | 32-megapixel (f/2.4) |
| No. of Front Cameras | 1 |
| Pop-Up Camera | No |
| Lens Type (Second Rear Camera) | Telephoto |
| Lens Type (Third Rear Camera) | Ultra Wide-Angle |
Software
| Operating system | Android 14 |
| Skin | OxygenOS 14 |
Connectivity
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Wi-Fi standards supported | 802.11 b/g/n/ac/ax |
| GPS | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes, v 5.40 |
| NFC | Yes |
| Infrared | Yes |
| USB Type-C | Yes |
| Number of SIMs | 2 |
| Active 4G on both SIM cards | Yes |
| SIM 1 | |
| SIM Type | Nano-SIM |
| GSM/CDMA | GSM |
| 3G | Yes |
| 4G/ LTE | Yes |
| 5G | Yes |
| Supports 4G in India (Band 40) | Yes |
| SIM 2 | |
| SIM Type | Nano-SIM |
| GSM/CDMA | GSM |
| 3G | Yes |
| 4G/ LTE | Yes |
| 5G | Yes |
| Supports 4G in India (Band 40) | Yes |
Sensors
| Face unlock | Yes |
| In-Display Fingerprint Sensor | Yes |
| Compass/ Magnetometer | Yes |
| Proximity sensor | Yes |
| Accelerometer | Yes |
| Ambient light sensor | Yes |
| Gyroscope | Yes |
OnePlus 12 Summary
OnePlus has recently launched its newest smartphone, the OnePlus 12, hitting the market on December 5, 2023. This sleek device boasts a large 6.82-inch touchscreen display, offering a smooth viewing experience with its impressive 120 Hz refresh rate. The display resolution is 1440×3168 pixels (QHD+), ensuring clear and vibrant visuals, protected by sturdy Gorilla Glass.
Powering the OnePlus 12 is a robust octa-core Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, giving users the option of 12GB or 16GB RAM configurations for efficient performance. Running on the latest Android 14, the phone packs a solid 5400mAh non-removable battery that supports both wireless charging and the fast Super VOOC charging technology.
When it comes to capturing memories, the OnePlus 12 comes equipped with a triple-camera setup on the back. This includes a 50-megapixel (f/1.6) primary lens, a 64-megapixel (f/2.6, telephoto) camera, and a 48-megapixel (f/2.2, ultra wide-angle) lens, promising top-notch photo quality. Selfie enthusiasts will appreciate the 32-megapixel front-facing camera with an f/2.4 aperture.
The software running the show is OxygenOS 14, a blend of innovation and efficiency built on the solid foundation of Android 14. Storage options are generous, with 256GB and 512GB variants available. This dual-SIM device supports Nano-SIM cards, measuring 164.30 x 75.80 x 9.15mm and weighing 220.00 grams. It’s available in Flowy Emerald and Silky Black colors and boasts an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance.
Connectivity features of the OnePlus 12 include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac/ax, GPS, Bluetooth v5.40, NFC, Infrared, USB Type-C, 3G, 4G (compatible with Band 40 used by select LTE networks in India), and 5G with active 4G on both SIM cards. The phone comes with various sensors, such as an accelerometer, ambient light sensor, compass/magnetometer, gyroscope, proximity sensor, and an in-display fingerprint sensor. Additionally, the OnePlus 12 supports face unlock.
As of January 27, 2024, the OnePlus 12 is available in India with a starting price of Rs. 64,999, setting a new standard in the ever-evolving world of smartphone technology.
