Meet the OnePlus X: Possibly the best budget-friendly Android smartphone on the market
After months of leaks, rumors and speculation, OnePlus has at last unveiled its latest smartphone, the OnePlus X. What’s particularly unusual about this handset is that it’s not intended to be a flagship killer like previous OnePlus devices. Instead, it’s being marketed as a budget-friendly smartphone that delivers an incredible amount of bang for your buck.
For just $249 in the US or €269 in Europe, you will be able to get your hands on an unlocked OnePlus X. Under the hood, you’ll unearth a 5-inch Full HD display, a 2,3GHz quad-core Snapdragon 801 processor, an Adreno 330 GPU, 3GB of RAM, 16GB of expandable internal memory, a 13-megapixel rear-facing camera, an 8-megapixel selfie shooter and a 2,525mAh battery.
As you’d expect with this price tag, you’re going to have to sacrifice some of the functionality you’ll find on its older brother, the OnePlus 2. Although, it’s nothing you can’t live without. By opting for the OnePlus X, you’ll lose access to: NFC, wireless charging, quick charge and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS).
You will, however, be able to indulge in customising the unit till your heart’s content as OnePlus has designed a variety of cases that match the SyleSwap Covers available for the OnePlus 2. The Chinese manufacturer has even gone as far as to create an array of colourful silicone cases that provide a thin layer of added protection for the already durable device.
The handset runs the latest build of OxygenOS out of the box, which is OnePlus’ very own reskinned version of Android 5.1.1. It offers a near-stock setup, together with a handful of new features, such as off-screen gestures, manual camera mode and RAW support for third party applications.
To celebrate the launch of its first budget-friendly smartphone, OnePlus has created a limited edition Ceramic version of the OnePlus X. This model has a unique ceramic back plate that adds an elegant glow to the device. Only 10,000 Ceramic models will be available — so if you want to get your hands on one, best act fast.
OnePlus will be embracing its traditional invite system for the release of the OnePlus X. Unlike the OnePlus 2, this process will only be adopted for a month before the device is put online for all to purchase. The handset will launch on November 5 in Europe and on November 19 in the United States.
Come comment on this article: Meet the OnePlus X: Possibly the best budget-friendly Android smartphone on the market
The first camera samples from the OnePlus X are in!
One thing OnePlus has often been criticised for is its cameras. From previous experience, I’ve found that they are pretty poor in low-light conditions and are, truth be told, a little gimmicky. However, it would appear that things are somewhat different with its latest smartphone, the OnePlus X.
It’s astonishing to think that the following images were taken on a $250 handset with a 13-megapixel shooter. The camera department at OnePlus really have pulled out all the stops to improve the quality of still shots, and it shows. I suspect that this has something to do with the ISOCELL technology in the sensor, which produces a higher color fidelity in poor lighting conditions.
Check out the camera samples in the gallery below:
Source: OnePlus
Come comment on this article: The first camera samples from the OnePlus X are in!
Mid-range HTC One M9e quietly launched in China
Although the new design of the One A9 may have been the focus of HTC’s efforts these past couple of months, we have also heard numerous rumors about a One M9e handset this year too, which today has been quietly made official over in China.
The HTC One M9e is another handset that attempts to bridge the gap between the mid and high-end segments of the market. It features a 5-inch 1080p display and is powered by an octa-core MediaTek MT6795T processor, 2GB of RAM and 16GB of internal storage, with a microSD card slot that will accept up to 2TB of extra space. The phone also includes a 2,840mAh battery and Android 5.0 Lollipop OS with HTC Sense.
HTC’s One range:
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HTC seems to be making up for its previously questionable efforts in the camera department, having thrown in optical image stabilization alongside the One M9’s 13 megapixel, f/2.2 aperture rear camera. In typical HTC style, the phone also features an Ultrapixel sensor on the front with an f/2.0 aperture.
Overall, the HTC One M9e doesn’t quite keep up with the other One M9 variants that HTC has shipped this year. But that’s no bad thing if you’re looking for a more affordable handset, and the smartphone’s price reflects these specifications.
The One M9e is available through China’s TMall for 2,699 Yuan (~$425). However, there’s no indication if or when the handset will go on sale outside of China.
What do you think about the HTC One M9e?
First BlackBerry Priv ad wants to convince you that privacy is important
BlackBerry has been suprisingly quiet about the launch of the Priv, the company’s first Android smartphone. In fact, there still hasn’t even been a launch event for the phone. At least now we have our first official advert for the handset (above), which attempts to explain why you might want a very secure smartphone.
Clearly, BlackBerry’s additional security software and features are going to help the handset stand out from its wide range of Android competitors. The Priv’s physical keyboard and extra productivity tools may also win over some potential customers.
Other hardware details include a 5.43-inch QHD (2560×144) AMOLED display, hexa-core Snapdragon 808 processor, 3GB of RAM, 32GB of internal storage and a 3,410mAh battery. The phone will also come with an 18 megapixel rear camera, which features optical image stabalization and phase detection auto focus, along with a 2MP front camera and Android 5.1.1 Lollipop on-board.
See also: BlackBerry Priv apps show up at Play Store ahead of phone launch
If you are already sold on the BlackBerry Priv, pre-orders are currently live in the US, UK and Canada, with unsubsidised prices set at USD$699, CAD$899 and £559. The phone is scheduled to ship out on November 6th.
What did you make of the BlackBerry Priv ad?
LG’s mobile business just lost $67.8 million
If you were under any doubt that companies will struggle to make a profit from the smartphone business, you won’t after today. LG has updated its financial results to reveal that the firm’s mobile division lost $67.8 million in the last three months. That’s in sharp contrast to the previous quarter, where the company could boast of squeaking a 1.2 cent profit from every handset that it sold. LG believes that the recent launches of both the Nexus 5X and V10 smartphones will help to wash away some of that pain. If executives were looking for reassurance, they’ll get it from Sony which also posted its updated financial results today. The rival mega-conglomerate conceded that its own mobile division is losing $1.9 million every single day — ouch.
Source: LG
Samsung announces big profits for Q3 2015, driven by components business
Samsung’s finances are in a favorable position, for this quarter at least. Earlier today the Korean conglomerate issued official figures for the Q3 2015 ending September 31st. Highlights include 51.68 trillion won ($45.55 billion) in consolidated revenue and 7.39 trillion won ($6.51 billion) in operating profit. This translates to a 6% quarter-on-quarter increase. The success is primarily a result of semiconductor and display panel sales.
Also mentioned was that operating profits increased 500 billion won ($440.6 million) from Q2 due to a favorable exchange rate. So beneficial was the weakened won that it translated to quarterly gains of approximately 800 billion won ($705 million), primarily from component sales.
Particular attention was paid to the fact that Q4 is not expected to yield results of this nature due to a belief the exchange rate will not warrant such a positive impact.
Display Focus
Samsung plans to put more focus on V-NAND and streamlining its LCD TV production to improve next year’s cash situation, as well as significantly develop the display segment. In particular, the Display Panel segment “posted KRW 7.49 trillion in consolidated revenue and KRW 930 billion in operating profit for the quarter.” This was in part due to OLED panels, whose “earnings increased QoQ due to the release of new high-end smartphone panels for major customers, expansion of the customer base, and higher operation ratio.”
The OEM promised to improve cost competitiveness and reinforce mid-low end device line-ups in Q4. Additionally, the Display Panel segment plans to tackle new challenges, “developing new products to secure new growth engines….we will seek new applications including transparent and mirror displays, along with head-mounted and automotive display among many others.”
Mobile Segment
The mobile division posted 26.61 trillion won ($23.4 billion) in consolidated revenue and 2.40 trillion won ($2.11 billion) in operating profit for the quarter. This was driven by sales of the Galaxy Note 5, Galaxy S6 Edge+, and both the Galaxy A and Galaxy J series. Profits actually decreased from Q2 due to price reductions on the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge, and greater sales of non-premium hardware.
Tablet-related sales was reported as in-line with that of last quarter.
As of the time of writing, the stock value has increased approximately 1.3%.
Analysis
These figures are quite good for Samsung. There has been mounting speculation that its premium offerings this year have been unable to recapitulate the success of devices released in the past. In particular the fact that the Galaxy Note 5 has seen limited release, and all premium devices for 2015 to-date are devoid of both microSD support and a user-replaceable battery which has generated a visible outcry among some internet users.
This quarter also marks another period in which Samsung goes head-to-head with Apple, as the latter company released its iPhone 6S and iPhone 6S Plus just a few weeks ago. Q4 will likely be met with further pressure from competitors via the LG V10 and even the HTC A9.
Indeed Samsung’s success this period would appear to be largely based on sheer timing as the exchange rate is cited not only as a major contributor, but as a specific reason next quarter is not likely to offer as much good news. The clear listing of component and display-related business as driving the major sources of income further the belief that smartphones have become an omnipresent commodity of which progressively less people are willing to spend for cash-intensive purchases like flagships.
Samsung’s commitment to trying new things (see the Galaxy View above), as well as increasing investments shows that it has a solid plan in the path forward. Ultimately only time will tell how successful that manages to be.
OnePlus X hands-on and first impressions!
The OnePlus X has been subject to many a rumor, but today is a special day for the popular Chinese startup. The all-new OnePlus X brings some new materials to some internals you may be familiar with, but one of the most important aspects of this shiny handset is its price point. We toyed around with the device for a bit and are ready to give you our first look at the OnePlus X. Let’s jump right in.
Design and build quality
The OnePlus X definitely sports a very different look compared to what we have seen coming from the startup in the past. For starters, it has dual glass panels, which are held together by a metal frame. This set-up makes for a very sturdy construction. And though it is smaller than many devices we have on the market today, it actually feels a bit heavier than usual.
Handling is made easy thanks to the smaller size (5-inch, 1080p screen) and the flat metal sides. There is a second version of this phone, though, which features a fire-baked ceramic back, instead of the glass. This happens to be hard to create, also meaning this specific iteration will come in limited quantities and at a higher price. It’s not only the new material that makes these two phones different, though. The ceramic version features chamfered edges all throughout the back outline, as you can see in this image below.
Going around the sides we can see the volume and power buttons on the right side, making them very easy to reach. But the most interesting part is in the opposite direction, where we can find an alert slider that returns from the OnePlus 2 and makes it a breeze to change what kind of notifications you get on the device: all, priority or none.
Also returning from the OnePlus 2 is the ability to stick in dual SIM cards, but one of these trays will also be able to house a microSD card. Yes, you will be able to expand the storage on the OnePlus X. We are certain this will be great news for many of you.
Overall, we would say the craftsmanship of this device is something we are definitely satisfied with. Even though it is a smaller handset, it is well-built and has a heavier feeling that will really make it seem stronger. The one complaint we have is that it is very prone to fingerprints, but that’s just something you have to expect from a glass construction. On the other hand, this material choice does make it a sleeker-looking gadget. But there is one downside to this new build quality – it’s not as customizable.
To make up for this, OnePlus is offering a bunch of different cases that will alter the look and feel of the handset. I personally do feel like these cases look out of place, but designs include different colors, as well as materials like wood and Kevlar. We know some of you love these interesting materials.
Hardware
Now, the screen may only sport a 1080p definition, but in this case that is accompanied by a good quality AMOLED panel. This is especially handy when you consider Oxygen OS now supports Ambient Display, a feature which allows you to take a quick peek at your notifications. You can actually wave your hand over the display to trigger it. Why is that a benefit? Well, AMOLED screens don’t light up pixels when displaying black, so even while using ambient display the phone won’t use too much energy.
Packed inside we can find the Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 processor, which may seem a weird choice in 2015. OnePlus tells us they found it was still reliable, as well as better performing than the mid-end Snapdragon 617. It’s backed by the Adreno 330 and 3 GB of RAM. There’s also a 2525 mAh battery is also housed in there, which will likely allow the phone to go for quite some time, considering the specs. We will have to run our tests before confirming that, though.
| Display | 5-inch display 1920 x 1080 resolution Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Processor | Qualcomm 2.3GHz Snapdragon 801 processor |
| GPU | Adreno 330 |
| RAM | 3GB |
| Storage | 16GB |
| MicroSD | Up to 128GB |
| Connectivity | 2.4GHz b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, GLONASS, BDS, LTE |
| SIM card | Nano SIM, dual compatible (but uses microSD slot) |
| Camera | 13MP ISOCELL 3M2 CMOS with f/2.2 rear cam, 8MP front cam |
| Battery | Non-removable 2,525 mAh LiPo battery |
| Software | Oxygen OS (based on Lollipop) |
| Dimensions | 140 x 69 x 6.9 mm, 138g for Onyx, 160g for Ceramic |
Camera
When we move on to the camera we can find some changes. The camera comes with a 13 MP Isocell sensor in the rear, and an 8 MP shooter in the front. Fans of the OnePlus 2 camera app will also feel right at home, as it is nearly identical in the OnePlus X. You can swipe between modes and we have no manual controls (at least for now).
Software
In terms of software we have Oxygen OS, which returns from the OnePlus 2 to offer a very similar experience. Most of the same features are present. The software is still very stock Android-like, which makes it a breeze to use, especially in this 5-inch display.
The Shelf feature is there, but it is off by default. The dark mode returns, which also makes the light easier on your eyes at night. And as we mentioned, you can also take advantage of the Ambient Display. But the most shocking addition is likely that of an FM radio (at least to us Americans). This may be odd, but plenty of markets use it and it will help you listen to tunes without using any data.
Gallery
Wrap up
The OnePlus One is still one of our favorite devices, so we are glad to see a similar experience coming to a smaller and more affordable package. A couple of new features make this phone an enticing offer, including the alert slider and the expandable storage. But what really makes us excited about this handset is the price.
At $249.99, this may be one of the best ways to enter the Android smartphone market. But don’t mistake this for a cheap phone. It’s performance is still pretty good and the build quality seems amazing.
See also: OnePlus X officially announced: what you need to know
By the way, those interested in the ceramic version have a couple things to keep in mind. For starters, it will be more expensive. We know many of you wouldn’t mind that, but it also will only be available in Europe and China, making it a very limited commodity (only 10,000 will be made).
As far as the invite system goes, you will have to deal with those for a while. Only invites will be accepted the first month. Open sale periods will then start rolling out periodically, at least until OnePlus can handle a full open sale on the OnePlus X.
With all that in mind, we would like to remind you our full review is definitely coming, so keep it tuned to Android Authority for our full thoughts on the OnePlus X, as well as all your Android content.
OnePlus X officially announced: what you need to know
Last year’s OnePlus One came out of nowhere and instantly shook up the market by bringing us a handset with flagship specs and Nexus-like pricing that put nearly all of its competitors to shame. Since then, the “flagship killer” has been followed up by the OnePlus 2, which has arguably failed to deliver the same momentum as the original. That’s not all OnePlus has up its sleeves for 2015 however, as the company has now unveiled the OnePlus X.
In many ways, the OnePlus X is sort of like the 2015 version of the original OPO, featuring a lot of the same specs but in a more premium package, with an even lower starting price. It remains unseen if a sleeker design and lower price tag will be enough to win over the hearts of consumers in a market where pricing has become more aggressive than ever, but the X is certainly a valiant effort. Without any further ado, let’s take a look at the OnePlus X.
OnePlus in video
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OnePlus X specs and features
| Display | 5-inch display 1920 x 1080 resolution Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Processor | Qualcomm 2.3GHz Snapdragon 801 processor |
| GPU | Adreno 330 |
| RAM | 3GB |
| Storage | 16GB |
| MicroSD | Up to 128GB |
| Connectivity | 2.4GHz b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, GLONASS, BDS, LTE |
| SIM card | Nano SIM, dual compatible (but uses microSD slot) |
| Camera | 13MP ISOCELL 3M2 CMOS with f/2.2 rear cam, 8MP front cam |
| Battery | Non-removable 2,525 mAh LiPo battery |
| Software | Oxygen OS (based on Lollipop) |
| Dimensions | 140 x 69 x 6.9 mm, 138g for Onyx, 160g for Ceramic |
The OnePlus X comes with a 5.0-inch Active Matrix OLED display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 and a pixel density of 441ppi. It’s also covered in a layer of Corning Gorilla Glass 3, which should keep the device safe (to a point) from scratches and small bumps and bruises. Seeing as how the company’s last two flagship phones shipped with 1080p panels, it’s no surprise to see this affordable device sport a Full HD screen.
One benefit to having a lower resolution display is that it will sip power compared to a Quad HD display. This will certainly help the device’s non-removable 2525mAh lithium-polymer battery last a bit longer. The new device also sports a 2.3GHz quad-core Snapdragon 801 processor backed by 3GB of RAM and an Adreno 330 GPU. The Snapdragon 801 is still a powerful chipset, even though it’s a couple years old at this point.
You’ll only get 16GB of on-board storage with the OnePlus X, though there is a microSD card slot that supports expandable memory up to 128GB. Oh, and if you don’t need any more memory, you can use the other slot for another Nano SIM card. For those curious, no the OnePlus X still doesn’t have NFC.
On the camera front, the OnePlus X features a 13MP rear cam with f/2.2 aperture, with .2-second autofocus with phase detection autofocus. There’s also an 8MP front-facing camera that OnePlus provides its best selfie experience yet.
Just like the OnePlus 2, the OnePlus X runs on the company’s in-house OS, OxygenOS, which is a stock-like ROM that is based on Android 5.1 Lollipop. When it comes to the software experience, anyone who has used stock Android should be pretty comfortable with the software features found on the OnePlus X.
There are a few differences between stock Android and OxygenOS that you should be aware of, though. OxygenOS comes with a handy Dark Mode for nighttime reading, as well as several gestures designed to make using the phone a bit easier. OxygenOS also has something called the Shelf, which is a special area found to the right of the homescreen that gives you access to widgets, you most used apps, favorite contacts and other important information.
For those familar with the OP2, OnePlus did manage to throw in a few additional software features in their latest build of Oxygen OS that we think many of you will be quite fond of. Thanks to the device’s OLED display, this allows for an ambient display that will wake in duo-chrome mode to alert you to new notifications. This is similar to what we’ve seen on Google’s recent Nexus devices and Motorola’s Moto X line. There’s also a proximity sensor that will allow the device to wake up when it’s pulled out of a pocket or bag. OnePlus has also decided to bring FM radio to the X. You’ll now be able to broadcast your favorite stations directly from your phone without having to connect to Wi-Fi or consume mobile data.
OnePlus X design
The specs might not be as aggressive on the OnePlus X as we saw with the OnePlus 2, but one area where the X truly shines is in design.
The OnePlus X features an anodized metal frame sandwiched between a glass front and back, in somewhat similar fashion to handsets like the Galaxy S6 or even the Sony Xperia Z series. The end result is a stunning, premium design that should appeal to that are looking for something with a bit more flair than found with OnePlus’ previous two handsets.
The Ceramic version on top, Onyx at the bottom
There’s actually a second version in addition to the standard “Onyx” model, but it has a much more limited availability. The OnePlus X Ceramic, as the name implies, features a clear ceramic backing that is scratch-resistant with a hardness of 8.5H and is designed to provide both a stunning look and an even more solid, durable feel.
Regardless of which version you get, you’ll also see the return of the OnePlus 2’s Alert slider for easy notification adjustments, on the left hand side of the phone. On the right you’ll find the power button and the volume rocker.
While the phone is definitely a fingerprint magnetic, the new design is certainly attractive, and the smaller screen size should also result in an easier handling experience – especially for those that favor one-handed use.
OnePlus X pricing, availability and invite system
Sticking with OnePlus tradition, the OnePlus X will require an invite for purchase, though OnePlus suggests it won’t be very long before they start opening up sales without invites, though likely in limited capacity, just as we saw with the OP2’s one hour sale recently. As for the cost, the OnePlus X will set US users back $249 and will be available on November 19th.
See also: OnePlus X hands-on and first impressions
European consumers will be able to pick one up a little earlier on November 5th for EUR269. European and Indian consumers will also have the opportunity to get one of the limited (10,000 only) Ceramic versions of the OnePlus X starting November 24th, priced at EUR369.
Powerfully Beautiful: Presenting the OnePlus X
New Smartphone Line Fuses Sleek Design with Flagshiplevel Performance
LONDON – October 29, 2015 – OnePlus today announced their brand new smartphone line
with the launch of the OnePlus X. Featuring a compact 5” display and a new range of premium build materials, the OnePlus X, available in Onyx black glass and a limited Ceramic edition, showcases an elevated level of craftsmanship and power for OnePlus.
“Today’s smartphone user strives to find the perfect balance of style and performance. The OnePlus X is a designcentric device chic and powerful enough to fit any lifestyle,” said OnePlus CEO Pete Lau.
Precision Artwork in Your Hand
The OnePlus X is a work of art. OnePlus has created two separate editions inspired by the exquisite handiwork behind two timeless fields of art glassware and ceramic. The OnePlus X Onyx is fashioned from black glass on a metal bezel, giving the phone a premium feel in your hand. Every glass backplate is cut to size and polished repeatedly until it achieves a smooth, glossy, mirrorlike finish. Slightly rounded edges give the phone a fluid and seamless feel, and at just 4.86 oz, it is the lightest and slimmest OnePlus device to date.
The Ceramic version is crafted in a process totaling 25 days. Starting with a zirconia mold just 0.5 mm thick, the ceramic is firebaked up to 2,700ºF for more than 28 hours before cooling for two full days. Each individual OnePlus X backplate undergoes three meticulous methods of polishing before it is flawless enough for use. Scratchresistant with a hardness of 8.5H on the Mohs scale and weighing 5.64 oz, the ceramic build is a feat of engineering and design. A brushed anodized metal frame etched with 17 elegant microcuts surrounds the OnePlus X.
A convenient Alert Slider for easy notification adjustments adorns the left side of the device, with the power button and volume rocker located on the right. Intuitively placed buttons combined with subtle curves and ergonomic lines make the OnePlus X easy and natural to use with one hand.
Capture Your World Faster than Ever
The OnePlus X has a 13MP rear camera combined with f/2.2 aperture, perfect for documenting your unique everyday experiences. Optimized white balance and saturation maintain the integrity of the colors of your photos, and a lightningfast 0.2second autofocus with phase detection autofocus (PDAF) our fastest camera yet means you won’t miss a moment. Shoot in Auto, HDR or Clear Image to perfect your image, or switch to the 8MP frontfacing camera with supported Beauty Mode to capture a flawless selfie.
Beauty That’s More than Skindeep
Combining the Snapdragon 801 processor with Adreno 330 GPU and 3GB of RAM, the OnePlus X is as powerful as it is stylish. The 5” 1080p Active Matrix OLED screen is responsive and incredibly bright in direct sunlight, and the 441 PPI resolution keeps the screen sharp without draining your battery.
Notably, the OnePlus X supports two nano SIMs for more network choices and added convenience for people on the go. Even better, one card slot provides optional expandable storage with your own microSD card, allowing a maximum capacity up to 128GB.
Personalize Your Experience
OxygenOS, a custom operating system developed by OnePlus, brings a range of unique features and elements to the OnePlus X.
The AMOLED screen, never before seen in a OnePlus device, allows for an ambient display that will wake in duochrome mode to alert you to new notifications. A proximity sensor, enabled by each individual user, also wakes the screen whenever the OnePlus X is brought out of a pocket or bag.
Along with OxygenOS features such as onscreen gestures, an enhanced file manager and custom quick settings, the OnePlus X also brings FM radio to your smartphone. Broadcast your favorite local stations directly from your phone without having to connect to WiFi or consume data with the new OnePlus Radio.
Pricing and Availability
The OnePlus X Onyx will be available on oneplus.net with an invite in Europe starting November 5 at EUR269.00, with a U.S. version to follow on November 19 for USD249.00. The Ceramic edition will be available with a Ceramicspecific invite in Europe and India starting November 24 for EUR369.00. Only 10,000 OnePlus X Ceramic devices will be available.
About OnePlus
OnePlus is a global startup challenging conventional concepts of technology. Created around the “Never Settle” mantra, OnePlus creates exquisitely designed devices with premium build quality and high performance hardware. OnePlus thrives on cultivating strong bonds and growing together with its community of users and fans. For more information, please visit oneplus.net.
So, with all of that said, what are your thoughts? Are you interested in the new OnePlus X? Let us know what you think in the comments below.
BBC iPlayer is finally coming to Apple TV
In its bid to bring programming to the largest possible audience, the BBC supports all manner of hardware and devices for its popular iPlayer service. iPhone and iPad owners have been able to stream on-demand for some time, but the company never completed the set by making it available natively on Apple TV. Now that Cupertino’s new streamer is up for pre-order, however, the Beeb has decided to put everyone out of their misery: it today announced that a dedicated iPlayer app is coming to Apple’s latest set-top box.
Source: BBC iPlayer (Twitter)
Meet the $249 OnePlus X
With its first two phones, OnePlus proved that it could deliver flagship-level devices at a cheaper price-point than most of its rivals. Neither were exactly design duds, but for its third handset — and the second to be unwrapped in 2015 — OnePlus is focusing on style in particular. It’s called the OnePlus X and yes, it has a hint of both the iPhone 4 and iPhone 5 about it. There are two models: the $249/£199 Onyx, which sports a sheet of black glass on the back, and a £269 Ceramic version, which won’t be available in the US. In fact, OnePlus is only making 10,000 Ceramic handsets full-stop, so you’ll have to be quick if you want one of the company’s lucrative invites. Yep, you read that correctly. Once again, OnePlus will be using an invite system to carefully manage customer demand and shipments.
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