OnePlus is gearing up to release OxygenOS 14, the latest version of its operating system, and the brand is actively seeking feedback from users through a public beta program. While OxygenOS 14 may not appear drastically different from its predecessor, it does include a few subtle changes that enhance the user experience.
One of the notable features in OxygenOS 14 is the Aquamorphic 2.0 design language, which dynamically changes colors based on the time of day. This design aesthetic offers a visually appealing interface that adapts to different lighting conditions.
Another interesting addition is the Fluid Cloud feature, which mimics the iPhone’s Dynamic Island on the status bar. This feature presents a compact icon in the status bar when users launch a timer, make a call, or play music. Interacting with the icon expands it to a full-size window with additional controls.
To better understand OxygenOS 14 and its future plans, OnePlus Product Partnership Lead Gary Chen and OxygenOS Product Lead Zach Lin provided insights into the development process. Lin explained that the Fluid Cloud feature was inspired by the Aquamorphic Design’s structure of solid, liquid, and gas, and its goal is to present notifications in a merging and flowing manner that is intuitive for users.
Lin also highlighted the shifting color palette in OxygenOS 14, which changes dynamically based on factors such as the time of day and smartphone status. Additionally, the new version introduces Aquamorphic-themed ringtones and notification tones co-developed with professional artists from Denmark and Finland.
When asked about the possibility of a desktop mode, Lin mentioned various productivity features in OxygenOS 14 but did not confirm the inclusion of a desktop mode. The focus of OxygenOS 14 is on stability, smoothness, power efficiency, and faster connection speeds.
To address the stability concerns that arose after the integration of ColorOS, OnePlus is opening up the beta program to more devices to gather feedback from a broader user base. The brand is also overhauling the underlying framework with the Trinity Engine, which utilizes algorithms for optimizing hardware performance.
Although some fans may have missed the clean and clutter-free UI of the earlier OxygenOS versions, Chen explained that, after the integration with ColorOS, OxygenOS and ColorOS are developed on the same codebase for better build quality and updates. However, OxygenOS still retains customized design elements, such as icons, widgets, wallpapers, ringtones, and always-on display (AOD).
Regarding future plans, OnePlus remains committed to delivering a fast, smooth, stable, and secure experience. The Trinity Engine plays a crucial role in achieving these goals. Chen also teased the upcoming OnePlus foldable device, OnePlus Open, and mentioned that the brand is working closely with Google to co-develop foldable-related features.
OnePlus is also exploring the integration of AI-related features into OxygenOS, although specific details were not disclosed. Chen stated that the brand is working with partners to incorporate AI technology and improve the usability of OxygenOS 14.
In conclusion, OnePlus is putting the finishing touches on OxygenOS 14, which offers subtle design changes, a dynamic color palette, and features like Fluid Cloud. The brand is actively seeking feedback from users through the public beta program, and it aims to deliver a fast, smooth, stable, and secure experience across its devices.