OnePlus has officially confirmed that it will be replacing its iconic Alert Slider with a customisable action button, bringing a significant change to the design and functionality of its future smartphones. Pete Lau, Chief Executive Officer at OnePlus, shared this development on the OnePlus Community Forum, outlining the company’s vision for the new button and how it aims to enhance the user experience.
A new era for OnePlus smartphones
For years, the alert slider has been a hallmark feature of OnePlus smartphones, allowing users to quickly switch between ring, vibrate, and silent modes with a simple flick. This physical slider was widely appreciated for its convenience, especially compared to software-based toggles. However, OnePlus now believes that user demands have evolved, and it is time for an upgrade.
In his forum post, Pete Lau stated that users have been requesting a more customisable button, one that adapts to their lifestyle and offers greater functionality beyond just switching sound modes. As a result, OnePlus is now working on an action button that will be able to perform multiple tasks based on user preferences.
What to expect from the new action button?
While specific details about the functionality of the new button remain scarce, Lau’s statement hints at a versatile, programmable button that could be tailored to individual needs.
Describing the potential of the upcoming button, Lau wrote:
“Imagine a button that adapts to you. Whether you’re a power user or prefer simplicity, this button works for you, not the other way around. Wherever life takes you, it seamlessly fits your lifestyle. It’s an innovation that is not just smart but intuitively yours.”
This statement suggests that the button might allow users to customise its function, similar to Apple’s Action Button on the iPhone 15 Pro series. Potential features could include:
- Quick access to frequently used apps
- Instant activation of camera, flashlight, or voice recorder
- Shortcut for launching Google Assistant or other smart assistants
- One-tap access to Focus Modes or Do Not Disturb settings
- Custom gestures for different tasks, like screenshot capture or launching split-screen mode
OnePlus has yet to confirm these features, but the company appears eager to explore multiple possibilities.
User feedback to shape the button’s capabilities
OnePlus has always been known for engaging its user community in product decisions, and this time is no different. Lau has encouraged OnePlus users to share their thoughts on how the new action button could improve their daily smartphone experience.
He wrote:
“While we’re excited about what this new button can do, I also want to hear from you. What functionalities would make this button truly useful for you? How would you like to see it enhance your daily experience? Your feedback has always shaped OnePlus devices, and this time is no different. This is just the beginning, and your input will help define how we refine and improve this feature moving forward.”
This call for user input suggests that OnePlus hasn’t finalised all the features of the action button and will likely consider community feedback in its development.
Following in apple’s footsteps?
While OnePlus has not directly mentioned Apple, the decision to replace the alert slider with a customisable button closely mirrors Apple’s shift from the classic mute switch to the Action Button on the iPhone 15 Pro models. Apple’s Action Button allows users to assign various tasks such as enabling the flashlight, launching the camera, or activating different accessibility settings.
If OnePlus follows a similar approach, the action button on future OnePlus smartphones could become a key selling point, offering users a new level of control over their devices.
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What this means for OnePlus fans
For long-time OnePlus users, this change might be met with mixed reactions. The alert slider has been a unique feature that set OnePlus apart from competitors, offering a fast and tactile way to control sound settings without needing to unlock the phone. Removing it could be controversial among purists who have appreciated its simplicity and practicality.
However, the introduction of a more advanced button also opens up new possibilities. A customisable button could enhance user experience, providing greater convenience and functionality tailored to individual needs.
When will the change take effect?
OnePlus has not yet confirmed which upcoming smartphone models will feature the new action button instead of the alert slider. However, given the timing of the announcement, it is likely that this change could debut on the OnePlus 13 series, expected to launch later this year.
Final thoughts
The removal of the alert slider marks a significant shift for OnePlus, indicating a new design philosophy aimed at improving usability and adapting to modern smartphone trends. While some loyal fans may find it hard to part with the classic alert slider, the promise of a more functional and customisable button could offer greater versatility.
As OnePlus prepares to roll out this feature, the response from its community will be crucial in shaping how the new action button is implemented. Whether it becomes a game-changing innovation or a controversial design decision, only time will tell.
For now, OnePlus enthusiasts will have to wait for further details on how this new feature will enhance their smartphone experience.
