Overview:
Launched in mid-2019, the OnePlus 7 was introduced alongside its more feature-packed sibling, the OnePlus 7 Pro. While the Pro variant garnered more attention due to its unique features, the OnePlus 7 offered a balanced package for those who wanted a high-end experience without the highest price tag.
Features:
- Operating System: Shipped with Android 9.0 Pie with OnePlus’s OxygenOS skin, later upgradeable.
- Display: 6.41-inch Optic AMOLED capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, retaining the waterdrop notch.
- Processor: Qualcomm SDM855 Snapdragon 855 Octa-core.
- Memory: Options of 6/8 GB RAM with 128/256 GB internal storage (UFS 3.0).
- Camera: Dual rear camera setup – 48 MP primary sensor with OIS and a 5 MP depth sensor. A 16 MP front camera.
- Battery: 3700 mAh non-removable battery with OnePlus’s fast “Warp Charge” technology.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0, and GPS.
- Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, USB Type-C, and Face Unlock.
Pros:
- Performance Boost: With the Snapdragon 855 chipset and UFS 3.0 storage, the OnePlus 7 offered a significant performance boost over its predecessor.
- Camera Improvements: The 48 MP primary sensor provided detailed shots, and the inclusion of OIS improved low-light photography and video stability.
- Stereo Speakers: The addition of stereo speakers enhanced the audio experience for media consumption.
- Value for Money: Despite the improvements, the OnePlus 7 was priced competitively, offering great value.
Cons:
- No 3.5mm Jack: Like the 6T, the OnePlus 7 continued to omit the headphone jack.
- No Wireless Charging: The device still lacked wireless charging, a feature present in many other flagships.
- No Official IP Rating: While there were claims of water resistance, the device did not have an official IP rating.
Comparisons to Other Technologies:
In 2019, the OnePlus 7 faced competition from various devices:
- Samsung Galaxy S10e: Samsung’s more compact and affordable variant of its flagship lineup, offering a dynamic AMOLED display and a wide-angle camera.
- Google Pixel 3a: Known for its camera capabilities and pure Android experience at a mid-range price.
- Asus Zenfone 6: With its unique flip camera mechanism and massive battery.
Launch Date:
The OnePlus 7 was announced in May 2019 and released in June 2019.
Common Issues/Problems:
- Camera Software: While the hardware was improved, some users felt the camera software needed refinements, especially in terms of color accuracy and HDR processing.
- Lack of Some “Pro” Features: Some users wished for features present in the OnePlus 7 Pro, like the 90Hz display, to be in the standard variant.
- Vibration Motor: While improved from previous models, the haptic feedback was still considered inferior to some competitors.
Conclusion:
The OnePlus 7 was a strategic offering from OnePlus, catering to users who wanted flagship performance without all the bells and whistles (and associated costs) of the Pro variant. With its enhanced performance, improved camera, and the beloved OxygenOS experience, it was a compelling choice in the premium segment. While it had areas of improvement, the OnePlus 7 continued the brand’s legacy of challenging flagship norms and offering value-packed devices.
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