OnePlus has officially confirmed that it will not be launching a new foldable smartphone in 2024, putting to rest speculation surrounding the anticipated OnePlus Open 2. Despite the remarkable success of the original OnePlus Open, the company has opted for a strategic pause, choosing instead to recalibrate its approach to foldable technology.
In an official blog post published on February 13, Vale G, Product Manager of OnePlus Open, explained the company’s decision: “We have made the decision not to release a foldable this year. This is not a step back; it’s a recalibration. Our commitment to innovation is stronger than ever, and we’re excited to bring you fresh, unique experiences that truly Never Settle.”
This announcement puts an end to speculation that the OPPO Find N5, set for release on February 20, would be rebranded as the OnePlus Open 2 for international markets, including India. While OnePlus has been leveraging OPPO’s technological advancements for its foldables, the company has now chosen to refine its strategy before delivering its next major innovation in the category.
Vale G emphasized that this decision does not signal a departure from foldables. Instead, OnePlus is looking to build upon OPPO’s advancements in the field. “OPPO’s Find N5 demonstrates remarkable advancements in foldable technology, including the use of cutting-edge new materials and more sophisticated engineering. We remain committed to incorporating these breakthroughs into our future products,” Vale added.
This aligns with OnePlus’s broader strategy of delivering refined, top-tier devices instead of rushing annual upgrades. The company’s first foldable, the OnePlus Open, launched in 2023 to critical acclaim, praised for its lightweight design, powerful specifications, and polished software experience. However, with the rapid evolution of foldable technology, OnePlus is taking a cautious approach, ensuring that its next iteration delivers a significant leap forward.
For OnePlus enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the Open 2, this means a longer wait but also the promise of a more refined device when the time comes. By taking a step back in 2024, OnePlus is positioning itself to launch a more competitive and advanced foldable in 2025, possibly incorporating cutting-edge materials, better hinge mechanisms, and superior displays.
While the immediate disappointment is understandable, this strategic pause could ultimately work in favor of consumers, ensuring that OnePlus’s next foldable is not just an incremental upgrade but a true innovation in the foldable smartphone market.