Foldable smartphones have been on the rise for some time; seeing OnePlus break in with the launch of the OnePlus Open last year has been acceptable. Compared to Samsung and Google, the device holds its own. However, new leaks on the OnePlus successor, the OnePlus Open 2, seem to claim we could be without it for much longer than first envisioned.
Release Date Pushed to Late 2025?
In a leak from Sanju Choudhary on X / Twitter (via GSMArena), the OnePlus Open 2 might get delayed until the second half of 2025. That is a big departure from earlier reports suggesting Q1 2025 as its launch.
Unsurprisingly, the leak does not specify the grounds behind the delay, but early rumors suggested OnePlus might have delayed the release to introduce Qualcomm’s upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. But the longer timeline implies something else is afoot, something else was developed.
How Will Change the Foldable Market
If OnePlus Open 2 launches in the second half of 2025, it could be positioned to compete against Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7, which is set for release this July 2025. That makes OnePlus’ release window for a foldable high-stakes, especially in this space with Samsung being dominant.
OnePlus’s sister company, Oppo, will also release the Find N5 in 2024, which adds to the mystery. Considering the similarities between the hardware DNA of Oppo’s foldable and OnePlus models, finding a way for the Find N5 to point to what is to come with the OnePlus Open 2 is not altogether unreasonable.
Rumored Features and Upgrades
Even with the delay, leaks and reports have painted an exciting picture of what the OnePlus Open 2 might offer:
Slimmer Design
Once again, reports suggest the Open 2 will be thinner than Google’s Pixel Fold 9 Pro, the compact foldable classic.
Improved Hinge Mechanism
Relatedly, OnePlus might introduce an upgraded hinge design with no screen creases and a flatter, seamless display experience. It would be a huge improvement in usability and durability.
Enhanced Battery Performance
The rumors suggest a big upgrade in battery, something which might take away some foldable edge for other tech in the market.
Snapdragon 8 Elite Chip
Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite will launch in one of the earliest foldable, promising top-of-line performance and efficiency without the hefty, wallet-draining price tags.
Challenges Ahead
Competition with Samsung
Positioning the Open 2 to be ready at the end of 2025 puts it up against Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 — a quantum leap over Samsung’s own foldable technology.
Market Momentum
The big risk OnePlus takes with this is that it risks losing momentum in the gap between the Open and its successor. At the same time, our Oppo and Samsung competitor will continue refining their devices and increasing market share.
It is worth waiting
A delay is disappointing, but it is worth noting that OnePlus has a track record of delivering polished products that are always impressive in performance and design. While the Open 2 might not change the world of foldable phones, if the extra time gives us meaningful improvements in durability, battery life, and usability, it could still be a strong foldable phone contender.
Ethan Cole is a tech aficionado dedicated to exploring the latest innovations and gadgets, providing reviews and insights to keep you updated in the tech world.
