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Hook: Why the rush to try OxygenOS 16?

Picture waking up one day and your phone feeling faster and smarter – as if it “knows” what you’re about to do before you press. That’s what OnePlus is promising in OxygenOS 16 Open Beta, and they’ve just released it in India. If you have a OnePlus flagship, your time may be now. But jumping in also means embracing rough edges. Let me walk you through the update, risks, and what I feel so far.

What is OxygenOS 16 Open Beta – and why now?l89

Open Beta lets users test new software versions before the full stable release. OnePlus launched the OxygenOS 16 Open Beta in India ahead of its planned stable release on October 16.

Why India first? It’s a huge market where OnePlus has strong user feedback loops. Also, initial bugs can be caught quickly before a global rollout.

The aim: get early inputs, fix stability issues, and make the final version more polished. In short, be part of shaping what everyone will use soon.

Eligible models & requirements for OxygenOS 16 beta

Not every OnePlus will cut – here’s the list currently eligible:

• OnePlus 13, 13s, 13R
• OnePlus 12, 12R
• OnePlus Open (foldable)

Before you apply, check:

• You’re on the required build version (for example, OnePlus 13 must be on 15.0.0.860(EX01))
• Your battery is at least 30%
• You have free storage (4 GB or more)
• Back up your data! Beta can wipe or break things.

Keep in mind: beta builds often cause app crashes, lag, battery drain, or weird behavior.

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How to apply for OxygenOS 16 Open Beta (step by step)

Here’s how I’d walk a friend through it:

1. Go to Settings → About device → Up to date
2. Tap the menu (three dots) → Beta program
3. Select Apply or Enroll (you might see Closed Beta wording)
4. Fill out the questionnaire (they’ll ask questions to screen your readiness)
5. Wait for approval – it can take a few days
6. Once approved, you’ll get the OxygenOS 16 Beta as an OTA update
7. Install it, reboot, sit back – but expect some rough patches

If you regret it, rollback ZIPs are available – but note: reverting will wipe all data. So backup matters even more.

What’s new – teased features & real talk

OnePlus teases some exciting upgrades:

• Flow Motion animations – smoother transitions, no janky frames.
• Parallel Processing beyond the home screen – better multitasking.
• Enhanced cross-device connectivity: share files with Mac/Windows easily, better syncing with iPhone, tablet.

These sound great – but from what early testers say on forums and Reddit, not everything is smooth yet. Some users report lag, unstable apps, or battery hits.

Still, I believe these rough builds help shape something better – and it is exciting to feel like you are part of that.

Should you jump into the beta?

This is where my own opinion comes in:

If this is your primary phone and you can’t afford surprises, stick to the stable build. Wait. But if you love exploring and you don’t mind occasional hiccups – go for it. The thrill of trying new features before most users is real.

Personally, I am torn. I had tested it on a secondary device to avoid losing urgent data or facing daily annoyances. But the sneak peek of AI features, smoother UI, and cross-device flow really tempts me.

Short & catchy conclusion

In 2025, smartphone software is more than just updates – it’s a journey we take with the brand. The OxygenOS 16 Open Beta provides you with a front-row seat to that ride. It could be worth it if you enjoy living on the edge (with frequent backups). If not, wait a few weeks and upgrade when the map is smoother. Either way – your phone’s about to feel a little more alive.

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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information, official brand announcements, and verified media reports. The opinions and analysis expressed here reflect the writer’s personal perspective and are not influenced by any brand or promotional partnership. Readers are advised to verify specifications and availability from official sources before making any purchase decisions.

Source : Gadgets 360 & Oxygen Updater - OxygenOS 16 Open Beta