OnePlus has confirmed that it will retire its iconic Alert Slider, a hardware feature that has been a staple on its flagship devices since the OnePlus 2 in 2015.
The decision comes as part of the company’s shift towards more customizable hardware, akin to Apple’s Action Button on the iPhone.
The Alert Slider allowed users to quickly switch between sound profiles – silent, vibrate, and ring – without unlocking the phone. Many OnePlus enthusiasts regarded this as a defining feature that set the brand apart from its competitors.
Introducing the Customizable Action Button
In place of the traditional Alert Slider, OnePlus will introduce a customizable action button in its upcoming smartphones. According to OnePlus CEO Pete Lau, this new button will offer enhanced functionality beyond sound profile toggling.
While details remain scarce, leaks suggest that the new button will support functions such as launching the camera, activating the flashlight, taking screenshots, and executing user-defined shortcuts.
Taking Inspiration from Apple
This move closely follows Apple’s introduction of the Action Button on the iPhone 15 Pro series. Apple replaced its long-standing mute switch with a customizable button that allows users to assign different functions, such as activating silent mode, launching an app, or triggering shortcuts.
Given OnePlus’s history of incorporating Apple-inspired software and hardware elements – including a simulated Dynamic Island on the OnePlus 13 – it’s no surprise that OnePlus is following a similar route.
Community Reaction: Nostalgia vs. Innovation
The Alert Slider was more than just a feature; it was a defining aspect of OnePlus’s identity. Fans of the brand have expressed mixed feelings about its removal.
Some users argue that the slider was a convenient way to control sound settings without needing to unlock the device. Others believe that its removal is a step forward, as the new button could provide more flexibility and usability.
Balancing Tradition with Modern Demands
The decision to replace the Alert Slider highlights OnePlus’s challenge of balancing tradition with modern innovation. While the old slider was simple and effective, it lacked the versatility that modern users seek in smartphone controls.
The company believes that by replacing it with a more customizable option, it will provide a better user experience, allowing users to personalize their phones according to their needs.
The Future of OnePlus Devices
OnePlus has not yet revealed which smartphone will debut the customizable action button, but rumors suggest it could be the upcoming OnePlus 14 series.
The company claims that removing the slider will free up internal space, potentially leading to improvements in battery life, camera systems, or cooling mechanisms.
As smartphone designs continue to evolve, this change marks a shift in how users interact with their devices. The new button could redefine the way OnePlus users engage with their phones, making everyday tasks more efficient.
