In recent years, OxygenOS has sparked controversy among Android users following OnePlus’s decision to merge its codebase with ColorOS. Despite this, the OS has undergone significant development, though some argue that OnePlus has departed from its original essence. Nevertheless, OxygenOS remains a visually appealing Android skin. With the release of OxygenOS 14 based on Android 14, numerous features were introduced, yet some were still absent. As anticipation builds for OxygenOS 15, there’s a wishlist of features I hope to see in the upcoming version of OnePlus’ mobile OS.
1. Enhanced Media Player Experience
Having recently transitioned from a Pixel to a OnePlus device, one notable downgrade for me was the media player on OxygenOS. While functional, it lacks the finesse of Pixel UI’s media player, which boasts a sleek, modern design characterized by Android’s signature material squiggly lines and glass effects during music playback.
I’m not suggesting OnePlus should replicate Pixel’s design pixel-for-pixel, but there’s a clear need for an update to OxygenOS’s media player. It feels disconnected from the UI, particularly in quick settings and on the lock screen. One potential improvement OnePlus could make in quick settings is relocating the tiles to accommodate the media player, resizing the brightness slider, and positioning the media player beneath the slider.
Apologies for the rough editing, but the image above represents my vision for OnePlus’ next media player design (sans playback buttons). The revamped player would display the thumbnail alongside like and dislike buttons, streamlining the user experience with fewer taps. Additionally, a seek bar would enable users to swiftly navigate to different sections of the media.
Personalized Alert Slider Functionality
The alert slider has long been a hallmark feature of OnePlus devices, yet its functionality has remained largely unchanged. While convenient for toggling sound profiles, many users may find it underutilized and would appreciate the option to remap its functions.
Consequently, I propose that OnePlus introduces a feature allowing users to customize the alert slider’s functionality. Among the possibilities for OxygenOS 15 wishlist, the ability to switch between Normal/High-performance mode for gaming, Do Not Disturb, and Ring modes would be a valuable addition.
3. Incorporation of Lockscreen Widgets
It’s about time Android manufacturers introduced lock screen widgets to their devices, and I’ve added this feature to my Android 15 wishlist. Among manufacturers, OnePlus seems best positioned to swiftly implement this feature.
Imagining the outcome is challenging, as only Nothing currently offers lock screen widgets on Android. Manufacturers should consider whether to include quick-setting tiles on the lock screen or focus solely on existing widgets. For the initial implementation, simplicity is key. Introducing existing widgets and gradually adding new lock screen widgets in future updates would be ideal.
4. Overhaul Quick Settings Interface
The Quick Settings panel on OxygenOS leaves much to be desired. It draws elements from Realme UI and ColorOS, resulting in a lackluster and uninspired design. A significant overhaul is needed to rejuvenate this aspect of the operating system.
The Aquamorphic design is visually appealing, but the gray overlay that appears atop the quick settings panel detracts from its vibrancy. OnePlus should consider integrating the colors from the wallpaper, reducing the blur effect, and lightening the gray hue for a more cohesive look. Additionally, there’s room for improvement in the arrangement of icons within the panel, as the current setup requires unnecessary navigation to access desired settings, undermining the concept of “Quick” settings.
5. Now Playing Feature Inspired by Pixel
One feature sorely missed since transitioning from a Pixel to OnePlus is Now Playing. Given OnePlus’s emphasis on AI, we anticipate the introduction of numerous features in the coming months, and the addition of a Now Playing-like feature would be a welcome inclusion
For the uninitiated, Now Playing automatically detects music in the surroundings and displays the song’s name on the Always-On Display or in notifications. While seemingly minor, the convenience of quickly identifying unknown songs by glancing at the Pixel’s Always-On Display is a habit that’s hard to break.
6. Introduction of Desktop Mode
Samsung has DeX, and recent reports indicate that Google is planning to introduce a desktop mode for Pixels, leveraging the phones’ USB-3.1 Type-C ports. While the concept of using your phone as a desktop replacement hasn’t gained widespread adoption, with more companies joining the trend, OnePlus should begin developing a desktop mode to stay competitive.
7. Integration of AI Functionalities
Most major manufacturers are prioritizing feature-rich UIs by integrating numerous AI functionalities. While OnePlus has announced plans to incorporate AI features into OxygenOS, there are three specific additions I’m eager to see.
Firstly, a video boost feature akin to Pixel’s, but with on-device processing rather than relying on server-side processing. Although the output doesn’t need to be flawless, the high-end Snapdragon SoCs found in flagship OnePlus devices have the capability to significantly enhance video quality. The processing time for this feature can be extended, as instantaneous results aren’t essential.
Another absent feature is AI-generated wallpapers. Lastly, introduce a generative fill feature for images, akin to the recent announcement from Google. These additions would enhance the user experience on OnePlus devices.
Honorable mentions include a Bluetooth widget displaying the battery percentage of connected devices and a punch-hole progress bar indicating file download progress.
Do you have a wishlist for features in the upcoming OxygenOS 15 update? Let us know in the comments below.
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