OnePlus confirms OxygenOS 16 update plan for U.S. users

OnePlus has officially unveiled its latest software version, OxygenOS 16, bringing new features, performance enhancements, and a more intelligent system experience to its smartphone lineup. The rollout plan for the U.S. has been outlined following the global announcement, setting clear expectations for users awaiting the upgrade. The company aims to deliver the update in several phases to ensure stability and smooth performance across different devices and carriers.

The rollout officially begins with flagship devices. The OnePlus 15 series will ship with OxygenOS 16 preinstalled, making it the first set of phones to run the new system out of the box. This marks the start of a new software cycle aligned with Android 16. OnePlus confirmed that stable updates for the OnePlus 13 series, OnePlus 12, and OnePlus Open will start rolling out in the U.S. in November 2025. These models will be prioritized as they feature the latest hardware optimized for the new OS.

Following the flagship rollout, the next phase will focus on premium and upper mid-range devices. OnePlus plans to deliver the update to the OnePlus 11 series and select Nord models in December 2025. This includes both unlocked and carrier-locked versions, though carrier approval may cause slight delays. Devices like the OnePlus Pad 3 and Pad 2 will also receive their updates during this time frame. OnePlus aims to complete most of this wave by the end of the year, ensuring a wide reach before moving on to older hardware.

Older devices will see the update in early 2026. This includes the OnePlus 10 Pro, OnePlus 10T, and several Nord series models released in previous years. These devices typically face longer certification and optimization cycles, especially when tied to U.S. carriers. OnePlus has stated that it will release the update gradually to avoid server overload and ensure a stable experience for all users. The phased rollout will help minimize bugs and compatibility issues during the upgrade.

The company also highlighted the importance of its beta program for early access. U.S. users who wish to test OxygenOS 16 before the stable release can enroll in the open beta starting October 17, 2025. This allows eligible users to experience new features like improved multitasking, smarter battery optimization, enhanced customization options, and a cleaner user interface. Feedback collected during the beta stage will help refine the final stable build before it reaches the general public.

Regional factors can affect rollout timelines, and this is especially true in the United States. OnePlus has clarified that while the global update begins in November, U.S. users may see slight delays due to carrier testing and approvals. Major carriers like Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T often perform their own checks to ensure compatibility with network features such as 5G bands, VoLTE, and emergency services. As a result, unlocked models typically receive updates earlier than carrier-locked ones.

The complete rollout in the U.S. is expected to continue into the first quarter of 2026. By this time, OnePlus intends to have OxygenOS 16 running on all eligible devices, including its tablets and Nord series smartphones. The gradual release strategy is designed to maintain system stability, avoid large-scale software bugs, and ensure that each device gets the best possible performance from the new OS. Users will be able to check for updates manually through the settings menu once the rollout begins for their specific device.

For OnePlus users in the U.S., this update marks a significant milestone as the company continues to evolve its software experience. With enhanced performance, smarter AI-driven features, and tighter integration with Android 16, OxygenOS 16 is positioned to deliver a faster and more reliable smartphone experience. The structured rollout plan offers clarity and ensures that both new and existing OnePlus users know when to expect their upgrades in the coming months.

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