OnePlus 11 5G: Blazing into 2023 with Next-Gen Specs

The highly anticipated OnePlus 11 5G is setting the bar high for smartphones in 2023 with its next-generation chipset, Hasselblad-inspired cameras, and striking look based on physics-defying black holes. Unlike previous models, the new release will not have a Pro version in the lineup, as stated by OnePlus President Li Jie. This makes the OnePlus 11 5G a flagship device, boasting cutting-edge features usually reserved for the Pros.

Let’s unpack all the specs powering the new flagship OnePlus:

Power-saving display

The display resembles the OnePlus 10 Pro with its large and vibrant 6.7-inch AMOLED screen and dynamic refresh rates that can top out at 120hz and drop to 1Hz on the fly. By reducing the refresh rate, you can save significant power and use your device for longer between charges. However, you can still enjoy the highest refresh rate with less drain on the battery thanks to the upgraded LTPO 3 (low-temperature polycrystalline oxide), which allows the battery to go further, even at 120Hz.

The newest Snapdragon chipset

Powering the OnePlus 11 5G is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, making it one of the first phones to feature the new, premium chip. In a press release, OnePlus says the device delivers a 35% faster CPU and a 25% faster GPU for speedy, no-lag performance, no matter what you’re doing. The quicker system is supported by a hefty 16GB RAM with an advanced RAM management system and a choice between 256GB and 512GB onboard storage.

Camera meets high expectations

This is the third collaboration between OnePlus and Hasselblad, producers of industry-leading cameras. Naturally, this means there are some pretty high expectations for the camera performance in the new devices. The OnePlus 11 sports a reimagined camera module that replaces the square bump with a new, circular black-hole-inspired design. You get a powerful triple camera setup headlined by a 50MP main shooter, 48MP ultra-wide lens and 32MP telephoto sensor with 2x optical zoom. On the front, you get a 16MP selfie snapper. The photos released by the tech company show some big improvements in the device’s photography from the previous generation - colours are more accurate and balanced, the dynamic range and sharpness delivers impressive results, portrait mode is eye-catching with beautiful bokeh effects and nighttime photography is outstanding thanks to noise reduction and a boost in depth and clarity.

Fast charging gets faster 

Under the hood are dual 2,500mAh batteries that support 100W fast charging, which is a bump from the predecessor’s 80W limit. The improved speed juices up the phone from 0% to fully charged in 25 minutes.

Long-term security & software support

Although the company hasn’t yet announced software and security support for the device, it did say that select models launched this year and beyond will receive four major Android updates and five years of security patches. The device runs on Android 13 with the ColorOS 13.0 interface out of the box and is a likely candidate for these long-term updates.

Verdict

The OnePlus 11 5G is packed with incredible hardware that’s setting a new standard for smartphones in 2023. It performs with high-speed precision while still saving on power. Highlights include the latest chipset, exceptional cameras, amped fast charging capabilities, and a captivating, efficient display.

Keep up to date on our website for the latest OnePlus 11 5G deals across all leading networks in South Africa. It's planned to launch worldwide on 7 February and is expected to arrive locally shortly thereafter. At Mondo, we bring the latest smartphone deals to you. Use our website to conveniently compare prices and easily apply for a smartphone contract that ticks all your boxes.