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OxygenOS 16 Rollout Begins: AI Upgrades, Redesigned Interface, and Apple Watch Support Coming to OnePlus Devices

oxygenos 16
Photo by Mayer Tawfik on Unsplash

OnePlus has officially confirmed the rollout schedule for its Android 16-based OxygenOS 16 update, set to begin in November 2025 and continue through the first quarter of 2026.
This major software release brings a refreshed user interface, powerful AI features, and even support for Apple Watch connectivity — a first for OnePlus.

The announcement was made on the OnePlus Community forums, where the company detailed which devices are eligible and how the rollout will progress across different phases.

Table of Contents

OxygenOS 16 Rollout Schedule

The update will be distributed in phases, following OnePlus’s usual gradual rollout approach to ensure stability and bug-free performance.

Phase 1: November 2025

The first batch of OxygenOS 16 updates will reach the latest flagship and premium devices, including:

  • OnePlus 13

  • OnePlus 13R

  • OnePlus 13s

  • OnePlus Open

  • OnePlus 12

  • OnePlus 12R

  • OnePlus Pad 2

  • OnePlus Pad 3

These models will be the first to experience Android 16 out of the box, with the upcoming OnePlus 15 already confirmed to ship pre-installed with OxygenOS 16.


Phase 2: December 2025

In the next phase, older flagship and mid-range models will receive the update, including:

  • OnePlus 11 5G

  • OnePlus 11R 5G

  • OnePlus Nord 5

  • OnePlus Nord CE 5

  • OnePlus Nord 4

  • OnePlus Nord 3 5G

This rollout will expand region-by-region, so timing may vary slightly depending on carrier and market.

Phase 3: January–March 2026

The final wave will bring OxygenOS 16 to older devices and tablets, such as:

  • OnePlus 10 Pro 5G

  • OnePlus Nord CE 4

  • OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G

  • OnePlus Pad

  • OnePlus Pad Lite

By the end of Q1 2026, nearly all active OnePlus models are expected to have transitioned to OxygenOS 16 globally.


AI Comes to OxygenOS: Introducing Plus Mind

A major highlight of OxygenOS 16 is the introduction of Plus Mind, a new AI-powered hub designed to organize and interpret on-screen content.
This system centers around a dedicated interface called Mind Space, which can be accessed via a customizable key or a three-finger swipe gesture.

What Plus Mind Can Do

  • Extracts contextual data — like dates from event posters or details from images — and automatically suggests calendar entries.

  • Allows long screenshots that capture entire scrollable pages.

  • Lets users assign the Plus Key to specific quick actions such as:

    • Launching the camera

    • Turning on the flashlight

    • Starting a voice recording

    • Switching between sound modes

This feature aims to centralize everyday tasks and deliver an AI-assisted productivity boost across devices.


Smarter Assistance with Google Gemini Integration

OxygenOS 16 goes a step further by integrating Google Gemini, Google’s advanced AI system, directly into the OS.

Gemini uses the contextual information stored in Mind Space to deliver personalized, context-aware suggestions.
For example, users can ask Gemini to generate home décor ideas based on previously saved design screenshots or notes — the AI will process this information and offer tailored recommendations.

This deep Gemini–Plus Mind integration allows OxygenOS 16 to act as a truly intelligent ecosystem, bridging the gap between human intent and on-device functionality.

Redesigned Interface and System Improvements

Alongside AI upgrades, OxygenOS 16 introduces a revamped interface built on Android 16’s Material You design language.
Expect smoother transitions, modern iconography, and enhanced customization across widgets, wallpapers, and the notification panel.

Other performance-focused refinements include:

  • Faster app loading times

  • Improved battery optimization using AI patterns

  • Enhanced privacy and security settings from Android 16

  • Broader cross-device compatibility, including Apple Watch support via Bluetooth connectivity

This marks the first time OnePlus devices will natively support Apple’s wearable ecosystem, expanding convenience for users who prefer cross-platform flexibility.


Security, Privacy, and Stability

OxygenOS 16 incorporates the latest Android 16 security framework, bringing:

  • Real-time threat detection

  • Advanced app permission management

  • Monthly security patch integration

Combined with OnePlus’s incremental OTA rollout, users can expect a stable, secure update experience with minimal disruption.


Community Excitement Builds

The OnePlus community has reacted enthusiastically to the OxygenOS 16 announcement, particularly highlighting the Gemini integration and Apple Watch support.
Many users hope the company maintains the clean, responsive OxygenOS identity that long-time fans love while adding meaningful AI intelligence.

With AI features becoming standard in 2025’s smartphone landscape, OxygenOS 16 positions OnePlus as a serious player in intelligent Android ecosystems, competing directly with Samsung’s One UI 7 and Google’s Pixel UI.


Quick Overview

FeatureDetails
Base Android VersionAndroid 16
Official Rollout BeginsNovember 2025
Final Phase CompletionMarch 2026
Key HighlightsPlus Mind AI Hub, Google Gemini Integration, Redesigned UI, Apple Watch Support
Pre-Installed OnOnePlus 15
First Devices to ReceiveOnePlus 13, 13R, 13s, 12, 12R, Open, Pad 2, Pad 3

Final Thoughts

With OxygenOS 16, OnePlus is taking a bold step into the era of AI-driven mobile intelligence.
The combination of Plus Mind and Google Gemini creates a smart, adaptive ecosystem designed to make your phone not just faster — but smarter and more intuitive.

From its redesigned interface to cross-platform compatibility and context-aware assistance, OxygenOS 16 represents the most significant software leap in OnePlus history.
As the rollout begins this November, the update promises to redefine what a truly intelligent Android experience feels like.


FAQs

1. When will OxygenOS 16 start rolling out?
The update begins in November 2025 for flagship models and will continue through March 2026 for older devices.

2. Which OnePlus devices will get OxygenOS 16 first?
The first wave includes the OnePlus 13 series, Open, and OnePlus Pad 3 lineup.

3. What new AI features does OxygenOS 16 bring?
It introduces Plus Mind (an AI content hub) and integrates Google Gemini for smart, contextual suggestions.

4. Will OxygenOS 16 support the Apple Watch?
Yes, for the first time, OnePlus devices running OxygenOS 16 will support Apple Watch connectivity via Bluetooth.

5. Is OxygenOS 16 based on Android 16?
Yes, the new update is fully built on Android 16, bringing improved privacy, performance, and personalization features.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on details first reported by official sources and publicly available news, including Google News. We have adapted and rewritten the content for clarity, SEO optimization, and reader experience. All trademarks and images belong to their respective owners.

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