The wait is finally over for OnePlus fans. The company has officially kicked off the Closed Beta testing of its upcoming OxygenOS 16, which is built on Android 16. This marks the next big step for OnePlus’s software, bringing new features, design changes, and smarter AI-powered tools that will roll out to millions of devices later this year.
In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know — from features and eligible devices to rollout timelines and how OxygenOS 16 compares with stock Android 16.
OxygenOS 16 Beta Testing Begins
OnePlus has started a Closed Beta Program (CBT) for OxygenOS 16, initially limited to OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 13s. Only around 300 testers per device are included in this early phase, chosen through applications on the OnePlus Community app.
For now, the beta is tightly controlled, but hints suggest more devices could join soon. In fact, OnePlus Nord 4 owners recently noticed indications in the latest security patch that their device may also be added to the testing program. While not yet officially confirmed, this is a strong sign that OxygenOS 16 won’t be limited to just flagships.
Rollout Timeline – When to Expect the Update
Going by OnePlus’s update history, here’s how the rollout is shaping up:
- Closed Beta: Already live for OnePlus 13 and 13s.
- Open Beta: Expected around October 2025, opening access to more users.
- Stable Release: Likely in November 2025, starting with flagship devices before expanding to Nord and CE models.
Interestingly, OnePlus began Android 16 beta testing as early as April 2025, which means the stable OxygenOS 16 release might arrive sooner than expected. Last year, OxygenOS 15 reached the OnePlus 12 in late October, and the stable version followed in November. If the brand follows a similar pattern, users can expect a wider rollout around October 30, 2025.
What’s New in OxygenOS 16?
OxygenOS 15 was praised for its speed and battery improvements but left some users wishing for fewer pre-installed apps and more personalization. OxygenOS 16 builds directly on that feedback, promising a cleaner, smoother, and smarter experience.
Here’s a breakdown of the most exciting upgrades:
Smarter Camera Upgrades
With the power of Android 16 and OnePlus’s tuning, the camera experience is expected to see major improvements. AI will step in for better low-light photography, faster autofocus, enhanced night mode, and even AI-powered portrait effects. There are also whispers of 8K video recording and improved slow-motion modes, which could arrive on higher-end models.
Predictive Back Navigation
Navigation gets a boost with the Predictive Back gesture, making it easier to move around the phone. Instead of just taking you one step back, the phone will anticipate where you want to go, saving time. Combined with customizable swipe gestures, this feature promises a much smoother experience.
Deeper Personalisation
OnePlus users love customization, and OxygenOS 16 takes it further. Expect new lockscreen widgets, more clock designs, themes, font styles, and even dynamic wallpapers that change depending on the time of day or battery level. The Quick Settings panel has also been overhauled, with clearer labels, better categorization, and drag-and-drop support for toggles.
Privacy and Security
OxygenOS 16 leans on Android 16’s enhanced privacy tools. A privacy dashboard, refined app permissions, anti-tracking features, and advanced cookie policies put users in control of their data.
AI Everywhere
From AI VoiceScribe (live captions, summaries, and even VoIP call recording on WhatsApp, Telegram, and Instagram) to battery optimization that learns your usage patterns, OxygenOS 16 is heavily AI-driven. Expect smarter photo editing, personalized suggestions, and adaptive performance management — all powered by Google Gemini AI at its core.
Refined Animations and UI Polish
System animations have been reworked to make scrolling, multitasking, and app switching feel more fluid. Small touches like new volume sliders, colorful home screen previews, and stacked notifications bring polish to the overall experience.
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Lock Screen Gets a Big Upgrade
One of the most requested features from the OnePlus community has finally arrived — lock screen widgets. OxygenOS 16 allows users to add widgets for weather, calendar, battery, and other apps directly on the lock screen, making it far more functional.
Additionally, there are six new clock styles, including stretched full-width clocks and asymmetric layouts, giving users more ways to personalize their device. Paired with dynamic wallpapers, the lock screen feels fresh and modern.
Eligible Devices for OxygenOS 16
While OnePlus has yet to confirm the full list, based on its update policy and testing patterns, these devices are expected to get the update:
- Flagships: OnePlus 13, 13s, 13R, 13T, 12, 12R, 11, 11R
- Nord Series: Nord 4, Nord 3, Nord CE 4, Nord CE 4 Lite, Nord CE 5 and higher
- Foldables & Tablets: OnePlus Open, Open 2, Pad, Pad 2
Some older models like the OnePlus 8T, 9 series, 10 Pro, and Nord CE2 Lite are unlikely to be supported.
OxygenOS 16 vs Android 16 – How Do They Differ?
Since OxygenOS 16 is based on Android 16, many features overlap. However, OnePlus adds its own flavor:
- UI & Design: OxygenOS offers richer customisation, widgets, and themes, while Android 16 sticks to a simpler design.
- Personalisation: OnePlus allows deeper lockscreen and Quick Settings tweaks.
- AI Features: Both rely on Google Gemini, but OxygenOS layers on exclusive tools like AI VoiceScribe and unique camera enhancements.
- Rollout Speed: Stock Android updates arrive sooner, but OxygenOS delivers more tailored features once they roll out.
Final Thoughts
OxygenOS 16 is shaping up to be one of the biggest software upgrades from OnePlus in years. From lock screen widgets and camera AI to predictive navigation and polished animations, it addresses community feedback while pushing the experience closer to true flagship software.
For now, only OnePlus 13 and 13s users in the closed beta can try it, but the open beta in October and the stable release in November 2025 will bring OxygenOS 16 to a wider audience.
If you own a recent OnePlus device, this is an update worth waiting for. Stay tuned, because as more features roll out and official announcements drop, we’ll keep you updated right here on SameerTech.in.
