Android enthusiasts, rejoice! OnePlus is reviving a beloved feature from the golden days of Android. The upcoming OnePlus 12, set to be unveiled in December, has teased the return of the cherished IR blaster. This week in China, OnePlus showcased their collaboration with the Chinese display manufacturer, BOE, introducing a dazzling 3,000 nit display and giving a sneak peek of the OnePlus 12’s 2,600 nit panel, dubbed the “X1 OLED.”
While the showcased OnePlus 12 prototype kept much under wraps, a notable cutout at the top of the device caught the attention of many. Max Jambor identified this as the IR blaster, a feature that was once a staple in Android smartphones. Brands like Samsung, HTC, and LG had once championed the IR blaster for its ability to control TVs from a distance, replacing the traditional remote. Over time, however, this feature became less common in modern Android devices. Interestingly, OnePlus had never incorporated this feature in their devices before.
But the winds of change are blowing. The OnePlus Nord 3, launched earlier this year, discreetly reintroduced the IR blaster, even though it went largely unnoticed. The recently released OnePlus Open foldable also boasts an IR blaster, equipped with a dedicated app to control various IR devices, from TVs to soundbars and other smart home gadgets. This unique addition by OnePlus, though not heavily publicized, is a testament to their commitment to offering distinctive features for their users.
For Android aficionados, the return of the IR blaster is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminding them of the versatility and innovation that Android devices once offered. With the OnePlus 12’s global launch on the horizon, the Android community eagerly anticipates what other surprises OnePlus might have in store.
