US shutdown halted OnePlus 15 launch

The smartphone that promises two days of battery life and extreme power for games will have to wait — bureaucracy won, at least for now

The recent shutdown of the United States federal government, although officially ended, still leaves traces in several sectors — and now its effects have reached the world of consumer technology. OnePlus announced this Thursday (13) the OnePlus 15its newest high-end Android smartphone, but American fans will have to wait a little longer to get their hands on the device.

The company confirmed that the launch of the model in the USA has been postponed because of delays at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the body responsible for certifying electronic devices in the country. “As a result of the government shutdown, device certifications have been delayed,” OnePlus said in a statement. “Consequently, US sales of the OnePlus 15 will be delayed until it is obtained. We hope that approvals can be generated quickly.” There is still no defined deadline for sales to be released.

A monster for games and autonomy

Even with the delay in the US, the OnePlus 15 is now available for order in several countries — including Canada — with starting price of $900. The basic model offers 256 GB of storage and 12 GB of RAMwhile the more robust version, of 512GB and 16GB RAMgo out US$ 1.000. The device is compatible with all major American operators, such as AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon, although it is not sold directly by them.

The highlight of the new flagship is its 7,300 mAh batterycapable of guaranteeing up to two full days of use on a single charge — a rare feat in today’s market. Additionally, the smartphone supports 80 watt fast charging e 50 watt wireless chargingas long as original brand accessories are used. OnePlus, however, requires a separate case for compatibility with magnetic bases.

The screen is also impressive: they are 6.78 inches com refresh rate up to 165 Hzdesigned especially for those who play titles like Call of Duty Mobile, Real Racing 3 e Brawl Stars. During tests, the fluidity was remarkable, although the difference between 165 Hz and the traditional 120 Hz — common on iPhones and Pixels — is difficult to notice outside of the gaming environment. For long gaming sessions, the device also has a internal steam chamber which helps dissipate heat, preventing overheating.

The first with the new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip

The OnePlus 15 is the first smartphone sold in the US equipped with the new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processorfrom Qualcomm — a powerful chip that already powers few models around the world. The performance is impressive: the device performs intense tasks, such as 4K video editing and artificial intelligence applicationswith remarkable speed.

Analysts believe that the Samsung should follow the same path and adopt the chip in its next premium models, but OnePlus is targeting a specific audience — demanding gamers and users who want maximum performance on an Android cell phone.

End of partnership with Hasselblad and new cameras

The design of the OnePlus 15 brings changes that should divide opinions. The brand removed the famous alert slider buttonreplacing it with a multifunction key inspired by the iPhone action button. The new feature allows you to reconfigure functions, but loses the different physical positions that so many users appreciated.

Another important change is the end of partnership with Hasselbladresponsible for color calibration of previous models. Now, the brand is betting on its own system, called “DetailMax Engine”. The camera set includes three 50 megapixel rear sensors and a 32 MP frontwhich deliver vibrant photos in well-lit environments — although they lose quality in low-light locations, where the Pixel 10 Pro still has the advantage.

The cell phone that is also a remote control

Among so many innovations, a classic and curious feature remains firm: the infrared emitterwhich turns the OnePlus 15 into universal remote control. The user can configure the device to control TVs, speakers, decoders and other devices in just a few minutes.
“If you’re in a waiting room and want to turn down the volume on the TV, or change the channel at the bar while watching a game, the OnePlus 15 can do it effortlessly.“, explains the company. Although it is a discreet detail, this functionality brings a touch of nostalgia — something that many modern devices have abandoned.

Artificial intelligence and integration with Google Gemini

Like other manufacturers, OnePlus also invests heavily in artificial intelligence. The OnePlus 15 comes with the Google’s Gemini assistantwhich integrates voice, image and text capabilities with the application Plus Minda type of digital diary that stores user data and notes. There are also tools for voice transcription e automatic photo enhancement — functions already expected in premium models.

A difference that can mark the market

Even if it doesn’t become the biggest seller in the United States, the OnePlus 15 shows that the Chinese manufacturer still knows how to surprise. The model combines impressive autonomy, cutting-edge graphical power e practical features in an elegant design, with a “micro-arc oxidation” finish, which improves grip in the hands.

For those who spend the day away from the socket or are passionate about mobile games, the OnePlus 15 represents one of the most complete experiences on the Android market. And if competitors don’t keep pace with OnePlus in terms of battery and performance, the brand may have found a new differentiator to stand out — even facing a turbulent start to its journey in the US.

With information from Bloomberg*