OnePlus 13 May Replace Alert Slider: The OnePlus 13 may replace its iconic Alert Slider with a brand-new, iPhone-style customizable button known as the “Plus Key”, according to multiple reports from 9to5Google and TechRadar. This significant design change could debut with the launch of the OnePlus 13 series, anticipated later in 2025. For many fans, this move marks a shift away from one of the most beloved hardware features in modern Android smartphones.
Since its debut on the OnePlus 2 back in 2015, the Alert Slider has been a defining feature of OnePlus devices, allowing users to easily toggle between silent, vibrate, and ring modes without unlocking the phone. But as smartphone design becomes more function-focused and modular, the company seems ready to trade nostalgia for customization. This transformation also mirrors broader industry shifts where personalization and smart features outweigh rigid hardware defaults.
This article explores the reasoning behind this move, what the Plus Key brings to the table, its comparisons to competitors, and what it means for the future of smartphone interactions. Whether you’re a OnePlus loyalist or a tech enthusiast curious about innovation in the Android space, here’s what to expect from this major design overhaul.
OnePlus 13 May Replace Alert Slider
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Replaced Feature | OnePlus Alert Slider (introduced in OnePlus 2, 2015) |
| New Feature Name | Plus Key |
| Functionality | Customizable button: sound profiles, flashlight, camera, app shortcuts, translator, voice notes |
| Inspired By | Apple iPhone 15 Pro’s Action Button |
| Devices to Feature | OnePlus 13, OnePlus 13T, OnePlus 13s |
| Expected Launch Timeline | Q4 2025 |
| Official Source | OnePlus.com |
The OnePlus 13 and its new Plus Key mark a bold step into a more customizable smartphone experience. While longtime fans may miss the tactile charm of the Alert Slider, the introduction of a versatile, user-programmable button signals OnePlus’ focus on adapting to modern user needs. With inspiration from Apple and innovation within Android, this move could redefine how we interact with our smartphones.
This design update shows that OnePlus is willing to take risks in the pursuit of relevance and innovation. Whether this risk pays off will depend on user adoption and software reliability. For now, it’s a bold reimagining that turns a simple switch into something smarter, more useful, and aligned with how people use smartphones today.
From Alert Slider to Plus Key: A Functional Leap
The Alert Slider, a three-stage mechanical switch, enabled quick toggling between notification settings. It was a rare convenience in the Android ecosystem and beloved by fans for its simplicity and tactile feedback. However, recent leaks and statements from OnePlus suggest that a new multifunctional hardware button will take its place.
This Plus Key is reportedly inspired by Apple’s Action Button introduced with the iPhone 15 Pro, a configurable button that users can program to perform tasks such as launching apps or activating system features. OnePlus aims to provide users with more flexibility and control, extending the button’s capabilities beyond mere sound profile toggling.
According to OnePlus CEO Pete Lau, “We envision a button that adapts to the user’s lifestyle. It should be more than a switch — it should be a shortcut to your phone’s most used tools.” (9to5Google)
Replacing such an iconic feature is not a decision taken lightly. The Plus Key, if implemented well, will allow OnePlus to offer more seamless, user-defined functionality without compromising performance or battery life. The concept leans into the idea of the modern smartphone as a personal hub, ready to execute multiple commands from a single physical touch.
What Can the Plus Key Do? Customization at Its Core
Here are some potential functions the Plus Key could support:
- Sound profile control: Ring, vibrate, silent (same as Alert Slider)
- Launch apps: Set the button to open the camera, messages, or browser
- Toggle flashlight: Quickly turn the flashlight on/off
- Start voice recording: Useful for notes, interviews, or meetings
- Real-time translation: Trigger a language translation tool
- Control smart devices: Set up routines with OnePlus’ ecosystem or third-party apps
- Capture quick screenshots: Useful for productivity or social media
- Switch focus modes: Help users stay distraction-free during work or study
- Voice assistant trigger: Summon Google Assistant without voice input
This move toward a programmable experience reflects a broader industry trend. Phones are no longer just communication tools; they’re productivity hubs, home automation controllers, digital wallets, and creative studios. Adding a fully customizable physical key offers tangible convenience, especially in an age where screen overload is a growing concern.
Which OnePlus 13 May Replace Alert Slider?
As of now, the Plus Key is expected to make its debut on:
- OnePlus 13: The main flagship model
- OnePlus 13T: A performance-focused version
- OnePlus 13s: A compact powerhouse with premium specs
According to a detailed Business Standard report, the OnePlus 13s will feature:
- A 6.32-inch AMOLED display
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 (Elite) processor
- 16GB RAM, 1TB storage
- 6,260mAh battery with 80W wired fast charging
Other likely additions to this series include a new haptic feedback motor, upgraded camera algorithms, and AI-powered performance optimization tools, all of which may enhance the effectiveness of the Plus Key’s integrated features.
User Reactions: Excitement Meets Sentiment
While many users are intrigued by the added functionality of the Plus Key, others are nostalgic about the Alert Slider’s tactile simplicity.
“The Alert Slider was a key reason I stuck with OnePlus over other brands. I’m skeptical about this new button,” said one Reddit user.
Another posted: “If it retains the same functionality and adds more, why not? The more I can control without unlocking my phone, the better.”
OnePlus had briefly removed the Alert Slider in earlier Nord and R-series models, leading to considerable backlash. In response, the company reintroduced the slider in subsequent releases. This time, however, OnePlus is betting on flexibility over tradition, and only time will tell if the gamble pays off.
Enthusiasts and tech bloggers are already speculating how this could unlock a new range of uses. For example, travel vloggers might assign the button to start filming instantly. Office workers may prefer toggling their calendar or do-not-disturb mode. The variety of use cases may ultimately justify the switch.
Pros and Cons of Replacing the Alert Slider
Pros:
- Multi-functionality: Do more with one button
- Custom experience: Adjust based on personal preferences
- Modern design: Sleeker and possibly more compact internal layout
- Software integration: Supports app shortcuts, smart controls
- Accessible design: Easier for new users familiar with Apple’s layout
- Evolves with software: More useful over time with updates
Cons:
- Loss of tactile feedback: Not as intuitive without physical stages
- Learning curve: May require setup and user adaptation
- Battery usage: Depending on assigned tasks, may increase power drain
- Software dependency: Could be glitch-prone if not optimized well
- Possible accidental triggers: If placed without adequate resistance
Practical Advice: Should You Upgrade?
If you’re someone who values customization, advanced features, and Apple-like user experiences, the OnePlus 13 lineup with the Plus Key could be a worthy investment.
However, if you prefer simplicity and muscle memory for toggling sound profiles, you might want to wait for hands-on reviews before switching. Ultimately, the usefulness of the Plus Key will depend on how seamless its integration is with the OxygenOS software layer.
Power users may find the button transformative—especially when paired with automation apps or in settings where quick access is crucial. Casual users might need time to see its full benefit. Keep an eye on early reviews, community impressions, and software support post-launch to make the best decision.
FAQs On OnePlus 13 May Replace Alert Slider
Q1. What is the OnePlus Plus Key?
A: It’s a customizable hardware button replacing the Alert Slider, capable of performing tasks like switching sound profiles, launching apps, and more.
Q2. Is the Plus Key similar to Apple’s Action Button?
A: Yes, it’s inspired by the Action Button on iPhone 15 Pro but promises to offer even broader functionality within the Android ecosystem.
Q3. Will the Alert Slider be removed from all OnePlus phones?
A: The change is expected for the OnePlus 13 series. Other models may retain the slider, depending on user feedback and market.
Q4. Can I customize what the Plus Key does?
A: Yes. Users can assign different functions through system settings or software updates.
Q5. When will the OnePlus 13 launch?
A: The launch is expected in Q4 2025, likely around October, based on OnePlus’ past release cycles.
Q6. Is the Plus Key available on Nord or older OnePlus models?
A: No, the feature is likely limited to the OnePlus 13 series and newer models going forward.
Q7. Can I remap the Plus Key for third-party apps?
A: Yes, provided that OxygenOS includes support or developers provide tools for integration.
