The OnePlus 12, OnePlus’ latest flagship offering, harks back to a simpler era in technology, eschewing the pervasive influence of artificial intelligence (AI) for a more straightforward approach. Despite this departure from the AI-driven trends of modern smartphones, the OnePlus 12 boasts an impressive array of features, including a vibrant display, sturdy construction, reliable cameras, outstanding performance, and exceptional battery life. Priced at $800, it presents a compelling option for consumers seeking a robust device without the frills.
Design and Display:
The OnePlus 12 sports a design reminiscent of older smartphone models like the Galaxy S10+, featuring tapered edges and rounded corners that enhance its ergonomic appeal. While the curvature of the screen may lead to some distortion, the phone’s 6.8-inch 3,168 x 1440 panel impresses with its sharpness and brightness. With a nominal peak brightness of 1,600 nits and support for a 120Hz variable refresh rate, the display delivers an immersive viewing experience, complemented by a durable Gorilla Glass Victus 2 back and an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance.
Performance:
Powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and equipped with up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, the OnePlus 12 offers swift and responsive performance. Despite underwhelming benchmark results, the phone delivers seamless multitasking and smooth gaming experiences. Additionally, OnePlus’ memory optimization feature ensures that frequently used apps remain readily accessible, minimizing unnecessary reloads.
Cameras:
The OnePlus 12’s triple-lens camera setup, including a 50-MP main camera, a 48-MP ultra-wide camera, and a 64-MP telephoto camera, delivers impressive results comparable to flagship competitors like the Galaxy S24 Ultra. Daytime shots are vibrant with neutral white balance, while low-light performance remains commendable. The inclusion of a Hasselblad watermark option adds a touch of customization to the photography experience.
Battery Life and Charging:
The OnePlus 12 stands out for its exceptional battery life, with its 5,400 mAh cell lasting an impressive 26 hours and 40 minutes on a local video rundown test. Charging speeds are equally impressive, with rapid wired and wireless charging capabilities facilitated by OnePlus’ proprietary technology. In just 10 minutes, the phone can reach 55% battery capacity with a wired charger or 37% with a wireless pad, outperforming competitors like the Galaxy S24 Ultra.
Conclusion:
In a landscape dominated by AI-driven innovations, the OnePlus 12 offers a refreshing alternative with its emphasis on simplicity and functionality. With a competitive starting price of $800 and superior battery life and charging capabilities, it presents a compelling option for users seeking a reliable and efficient smartphone experience. While future software updates may introduce AI features, the OnePlus 12 stands out as a capable device that excels at the essentials without unnecessary complexities.