The intriguing but elusive OnePlus One smartphone has a new operating system, dubbed OxygenOS.
The original OnePlus ran the customizable CyanogenMod 11S software, which is based on Android 4.4.2. That allowed OnePlus to focus on the hardware, the company said this week. But "now, it's time to take the next step," OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei said in a blog post. "By creating our own operating system, we can quickly respond to user feedback and make it easier for you to continue playing a fundamental role in the future of OnePlus."
OxygenOS is based on Android 5.0.2, and the goal "is to provide faster, more meaningful updates and a better-integrated range of services for every OnePlus user," according to Pei, who promised an emphasis on performance and battery life rather than "gimmicks and bloated features."
Among the features OnePlus is touting are: Gestures like like double-tap to wake, music controls, and shortcuts for the camera and flashlight; customizable lock-screen wallpapers and the ability to switch between hardware and software navigation keys; a quick-settings menu that can be re-organized with the features you need most. Check it out in action in the video below.
The OnePlus One boasts specs similar to the Samsung Galaxy S5—5.5-inch screen, 2.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 processor, 3GB of RAM, and a 3100mAh battery—but the One comes unlocked and for only $299 (16GB) or $349 (64GB).
But you'll have to work to get one. Because OnePlus makes so little money on each phone, it doesn't want to make more than it can sell. And it takes three months to request changes in volume from the company's screen manufacturer. As a result, prospective buyers have had to wait for an illusive invite, the occasional flash sale, or the company's Tuesday sales.
Those of you who actually have a OnePlus One and want to try out OxygenOS can head to oneplus.net/oxygenos. Look for the download link and list of instructions on how to flash Oxygen on your OnePlus One.