The Chinese smartphone makers OnePlus and Oppo are working hand-in-hand to launch an integrated operating system that will be created by merging their respective custom ROMs - ColorOS and OxygenOS early next year. They are working together following their merger at the group level. Both smartphone brands have also integrated their research and development capabilities in India. As per ET Telecom, they are working together to better maximise their resources as well as position OnePlus towards growth.
Notably, Pete Lau, the OnePlus CEO and founder stated that they have integrated their R&D with Oppo and have deepened its investments in India. In addition to R&D infrastructure, they are also working with local manufacturing capabilities as well. He added that their R&D team is a very significant pillar for their Indian and global operations. Also, they will continue this strategy for their roadmap.
Recently, Lau took additional responsibility to become the Chief Product Experience Officer for both OnePlus and Oppo globally.
OnePlus And Oppo Merger
As per Bloomberg, Oppo is all set to cut around 20 percent of staff in the major software and device teams after having merged with OnePlus. On this, Lau stated that they are focus on bridging both teams together as strengths of both sides into the merged entire and deliver their efforts going forward. However, he did not comment any further regarding this move’s impact on Indian operations. Also, he did not share the details regarding the R&D operations and offline retail-related investment roadmap ahead for India.
Previously, OnePlus revealed that they will invest Rs 1,000 crore in an attempt to expand their India R&D centre and Rs 100 crore for its offline expansion. Lau further added that things are changing and teams are focusing on having an integrated OS. At this point in time, it is important to know that across software, several teams focus on different aspects such as OS experience, chipset integration and animations.
Upcoming OnePlus Smartphones
Furthermore, OnePlus will focus on three price segments for its smartphones on a global basis. The most premium ones will be its flagship smartphones priced around $500 and above. The next one will be the OnePlus R entry-level flagship models, OnePlus Nord premium mid-range models and the entry-level mid-range models in the OnePlus CE series.
