The distribution of Android 16 is progressing smoothly.
All Google Pixel models starting from the Pixel 6 have been updated, and various other Android manufacturers have also introduced their iterations.
OnePlus is next in line, with its OxygenOS interface celebrated for its responsive performance, rich customization, and robust privacy settings. With OxygenOS 16, the brand is emphasizing what every manufacturer is currently discussing – AI – through some innovative features we’ve not encountered previously.
In all, there are seven new capabilities that merit closer inspection. If you have a contemporary OnePlus device (check the end of this article for a complete list), you’ll receive all these enhancements through a complimentary update shortly.
A second brain powered by Gemini
In May, OnePlus launched Plus Mind, a specialized platform utilizing AI to analyze, sort, and recommend based on the data you gather.
OxygenOS 16 enhances this capability, allowing audio capture through the dedicated Plus Key on compatible models. Screenshots you’ve already taken can be imported, and related content is grouped automatically into Collections.
The significant improvement here is the integration of Gemini. When you allow Google’s AI assistant access to content collected by Plus Mind, it can now deliver genuinely personalized responses for the first time.
OnePlus has illustrated this with a trip to Barcelona, where you could prompt Gemini for weather-appropriate suggestions based on your saved entries. If executed properly, this could be transformative.

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Make text engaging
Initially, the AI Writer feature seems reminiscent of tools available on many other devices. It can aid in creating image captions, writing in various tones, and summarizing articles or lengthy written works.
However, OnePlus has something additional. AI Writer can also leverage your text to produce visual mind maps and tables, simplifying the organization of information tremendously. Where was this when I was studying for school exams?!

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The ultimate document scanner?
Gone are the days when a dedicated scanner was a necessity for digitizing physical documents. Most smartphone cameras can now perform document scans, or you can opt for specialized third-party applications. However, OnePlus aims to enhance this further.
The new AI Scan function does all the enhancement for you. It can correct angles, eliminate shadows, and remove glaring spots, which are common hurdles I frequently face. These details are crucial when submitting formal documents or utilizing them in professional settings.

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Practical audio recordings
I’m not sure about you, but the majority of the audio recordings on my device tend to be utterly pointless. I hit record intending to supplement my notes or capture a quote I may have overlooked, yet sifting through 30 minutes or more of audio feels as appealing as standing next to a Pixel 10 Pro Fold as it malfunctions.
OnePlus’ AI Recorder could be the solution I’ve needed. It features three automated functions that usually require manual effort: transcription with identification of individual speakers, summaries capturing key points, and an AI Clear Voice feature that eliminates background noise for clearer recordings.
While these aren’t groundbreaking features on their own, collectively they may significantly enhance the audio recording experience on OnePlus devices.

OnePlus
Enhance low-light portraits
Low lighting and portrait photography don’t usually go hand in hand. Even on devices equipped with superior night modes, achieving convincing results is a significant challenge.
AI Portrait Glow seeks to rectify this by focusing on skin tones, which is usually a prevalent problem. It employs artificial intelligence to ensure that individuals are represented as accurately as possible, even in group photographs.
This feature can even enable you to include an artificial light source, which can help diminish the often unrealistic appearance when brightening low-light images.
A clear Best Take imitation
If you’ve used a Pixel device in recent years, you’re likely familiar with Best Take. This feature by Google enables you to swap faces in a burst of group photos to ensure everyone looks their finest.
OnePlus’ counterpart is labeled AI Perfect Shot, which appears to function in precisely the same manner. However, it seems that this process cannot be automated, unlike the Best Take feature available on the Pixel 10 series.

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Are you concerned about creating aesthetically pleasing images that are not strictly real? That’s for you to decide.
A revolutionary menu translator
OxygenOS 16 features the potential for experimental functions within what OnePlus refers to as the AI PlayLab.
Only two functions have been spotlighted. Party Up allows for the creation of brief, AI-generated videos from a single still image, but it’s YumSee that truly piqued my interest.
The latter is tailored for those awkward moments faced with a restaurant menu that you don’t understand.
Some smartphones permit you to hover your camera over the text and it will translate it, but that can be ineffective, especially in countries where traditional dishes differ vastly from what you’re accustomed to.
With this in mind, YumSee utilizes the translated text to generate an image of each dish, significantly reducing the guesswork involved in making a choice. While primarily designed for translation, I can see its usefulness for any unfamiliar cuisines.
Which OnePlus models will receive OxygenOS 16?
OnePlus has verified that the following devices will support OxygenOS 16:
- OnePlus 13
- OnePlus 13R
- OnePlus 12
- OnePlus 12R
- OnePlus 11R
- OnePlus 11
- OnePlus 10 Pro
- OnePlus 10T
- OnePlus 10R
- OnePlus Nord 5
- OnePlus Nord 4
- OnePlus Nord CE 4
- OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G
- OnePlus Nord 3
- OnePlus Open
Nevertheless, the comprehensive rollout might require several weeks or even months. If you’re using one of the earlier models listed above, patience will be necessary.
Don’t have a OnePlus device? Discover more about when your phone is getting Android 16, or the top phones to acquire at present.
And that’s it, friend!
If OnePlus continues to roll out these functionalities, I might just let them off the hook for the wait. Until next time, keep those gadgets rolling!
