OnePlus Watch Unveiled: No Wear OS!

OnePlus Enters the Smartwatch Market

Prior to any circulating speculation, the arrival of a OnePlus smartwatch was anticipated. Following the development of multiple smartwatch iterations and a range of headphones, a smartwatch represented a natural progression for the company.

During today's launch event, OnePlus officially unveiled its first major wearable device, simply named the OnePlus Watch. The device features a design that prioritizes simplicity and is offered at a price point of $159, reflecting its streamlined approach.

Operating System Choice

A noteworthy aspect of this release is the chosen operating system. The OnePlus Watch will operate on OnePlus Watch OS, a system developed in-house. While Google’s Wear OS and Samsung’s Tizen were potential options, OnePlus opted for a different path.

The company chose to construct its own operating system utilizing an RTOS (real-time operating system) foundation. CEO Pete Lau previously explained this decision in a OnePlus forum post, stating:

The emphasis on battery life is particularly relevant. Prolonged battery performance remains a significant challenge for smartwatches, especially as functionalities expand.

Battery Life and Features

OnePlus claims the Watch’s 402 mAh battery provides between one and two weeks of usage on a single charge. This is a substantial claim that requires verification through independent testing. Such performance would align with many dedicated fitness trackers.

The device incorporates a variety of sensors for monitoring health metrics, including heart rate and blood oxygen levels, with data accessible through the OnePlus Health application. It also offers 4GB of storage, with 2GB dedicated to user content like music.

The OnePlus Watch boasts an IP68 waterproof rating, ensuring durability against water exposure.

Cobalt Edition

Alongside the standard model, OnePlus is releasing a Cobalt Edition. This version replaces the stainless steel casing with a more robust cobalt alloy and features a scratch-resistant sapphire glass screen.

Availability

The OnePlus Watch will be available for purchase in North America starting on April 14th.

This launch marks OnePlus’s entry into a competitive smartwatch market, offering a unique approach with its custom operating system and focus on extended battery life.