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Google released the first stable build of Android 13 in August last year. And soon enough, all smartphone brands started releasing new versions of their custom Android skins based on Android 13. Oxygen OS 13 was one of the first of these skins to be released officially. It is the software on which OnePlus devices run.
Oxygen OS 13.1: What is Different?
On the 4th of April, 2023, OnePlus announced the upcoming Oxygen OS version, Oxygen OS 13.1. It is expected to be a minor improvement over Oxygen OS 13, with some bug fixes and enhancements. The design language will most likely be the same as Oxygen OS 13.
Reportedly, Oxygen OS 13.1 will likely focus on three key areas: privacy, multimedia experience, and performance. All the expected changes and improvements are discussed in detail below.
Improvements and fixes
First, Oxygen OS 13.1 is expected to bring devices a faster and smoother user experience. The app installation time has reportedly been reduced. The power consumption by apps has also been reduced, which would mean better efficiency and improved battery life. This new update may also improve navigation through the user interface, with faster app launching times and enhanced app switching. This would positively impact multitasking.
Furthermore, Oxygen OS 13.1 may also optimize apps better, which would mean increased efficiency and a better user experience. This update may also fix the issue where the screen does not refresh at more than 60 Hz in some apps.
Lastly, additional tweaks will ensure user data safety and privacy. The security patch version would also be bumped up to the latest one.
Changes
Oxygen OS 13.1 may improve the gaming experience. A new tool that enhances the device’s performance while gaming is likely in the works. Some other tweaks can also be expected, including a gaming focus mode.
When will your device receive the Oxygen OS 13.1 update?
In November last year, OnePlus stated that Oxygen OS 13.1 would be released in the first half of 2023. And they have fulfilled their promise. The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite is the first device to feature Oxygen OS 13.1. The update will be rolled out to other models soon after.
As for the eligibility of your device for getting the Oxygen OS 13.1, refer to the expected list of supported devices below.
OnePlus 11 series
- OnePlus 11 5G
- OnePlus 11R 5G
Being the brand’s latest high-end phones, the OnePlus 11 series will be the first to receive the update. Other devices that will be updated after these are listed further below.
OnePlus 10 series
- OnePlus 10 Pro 5G
- OnePlus 10T 5G
- OnePlus 10R 5G
OnePlus 9 series
- OnePlus 9 Pro 5G
- OnePlus 9 5G
- OnePlus 9RT 5G
- OnePlus 9R 5G
OnePlus 8 series
- OnePlus 8 Pro
- OnePlus 8
- OnePlus 8T
OnePlus Nord series
- OnePlus Nord CE 3 (Upcoming)
- OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite
- OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G
- OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G
- OnePlus Nord 2 5G
- OnePlus Nord 2T 5G
Issues in the released software: Color OS Problems?
If you keep yourself updated on the latest news about the smartphone industry, you may know about the merge between Oxygen OS and Color OS last year. While some have appreciated that decision, many have also condemned it. Oxygen OS has lost its charm and uniqueness post this merge, and that shows. Some exclusive features once exclusive to OnePlus phones are now available on devices running Color OS. However, this is not so much of an issue.
The real issue is that Oxygen OS is not as clean as it used to be. Some bloatware has been spotted on the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite review units, which run on Oxygen OS 13.1 out of the box. To name a few, Hot Apps, Hot FreeGames, Oppo Browser, Josh App, etc., have been seen. And consequently, users are disappointed because they expect, rightfully so, a clean software experience when buying a OnePlus device. For the unaware, this bloatware was only found in Color OS and Realme UI earlier. However, it is yet to be checked if this is the case with only lower-end devices or if flagships get affected, too. That should hopefully not be the case.
