For years, OnePlus fans have had a soft spot for a tiny but mighty feature—the iconic alert slider. It’s been a signature part of the OnePlus experience, allowing users to quickly switch between sound modes without unlocking the phone. But as the tech world evolves, so must its gadgets—and OnePlus seems ready to rewrite its rulebook.
Recent leaks suggest the upcoming OnePlus 13T will be the first Android phone to feature a customizable action button, signaling the end of the alert slider era. Let’s dive into what we know so far, what’s changing, and why this could be a significant shift for OnePlus and Android.
(ALSO SEE: OnePlus 13 vs iQOO 13: Which Snapdragon 8 Elite Flagship Reigns Supreme?)
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OnePlus 13T Leak Reveals
The End of an Era: Goodbye, Alert Slider
The alert slider wasn’t just functional—it was a fan favorite. It instantly allowed users to toggle between ring, vibrate, and silent modes, making it a practical tool for everything from meetings to movie nights. It also gave OnePlus phones some “Apple-like” polish—something rare on Android.
However, as confirmed by OnePlus recently, the company is phasing out the beloved slider in favor of something new.
Meet the Action Button: OnePlus 13T’s Big New Feature
In a Weibo teaser shared by Li Jie, President of OnePlus China, a new button was shown off—a single, pressable shortcut key located where the alert slider used to be.
At first glance, it might seem like a downgrade. But here’s the catch: this button isn’t just a sound toggle. It’s fully customizable.
It will default switch between sound profiles (General, Vibrate, Silent). Still, users can remap it to trigger other actions, such as launching apps, turning on the flashlight, or activating AI tools. Sound familiar? That’s because Apple introduced a feature similar to the iPhone’s Action Button. Now, OnePlus is bringing that concept to Android.
Oppo’s Influence: A Shared Vision Across Brands?
Interestingly, OnePlus’ sister company, Oppo, has recently shown off a similar concept. In a demo video, Oppo showcased a customizable button capable of launching AI assistants, routines, or tasks.
Given that both companies operate under BBK Electronics, it’s no surprise their innovations are crossing paths. It could mean a shared ecosystem of features across future OnePlus, Oppo, and even Realme devices.
OnePlus 13T: Sleek Design & Display Rumors
Aside from the game-changing button, the OnePlus 13T is shaping to be a solid upgrade in other areas, too. Rumors point to:
- A 6.31-inch 1.5K OLED display with thin bezels
- Smooth visuals and vibrant colors, perfect for media and gaming
- An in-display fingerprint scanner for seamless unlocking
Expect a refined design with premium build quality—something OnePlus has nailed consistently in recent years.
Performance, Battery & Charging
Under the hood, the OnePlus 13T might be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or a special edition “Snapdragon 8 Elite,” offering flagship-level performance.
Even with a compact frame, the device is rumored to include a massive 6,200 mAh battery—a significant leap over most modern smartphones. Combine that with 80W fast charging, and you’re looking at a phone that lasts all day and powers up in minutes.
OnePlus 13T Camera Setup: Dual 50MP System
Camera leaks suggest the OnePlus 13T will feature:
- A dual 50MP lens system
- Primary wide-angle sensor
- A 2x telephoto lens for zoom and portraits
While not a triple-lens setup like its Pro siblings, this configuration could balance high-quality photography and affordability.
Slider vs. Button: The Great Debate
Is the new Action Button a worthy replacement for the alert slider?
Fans are split. Some see the change as a step forward—adding flexibility and personalization. Others feel like OnePlus is sacrificing its identity in the name of change.
But one thing’s clear: customizable hardware buttons are rare on Android. This move could spark a new trend across the platform.
OnePlus 13 vs. OnePlus 13T: What’s the Difference?
Leaks suggest that while the OnePlus 13T will debut the new Action Button, the regular OnePlus 13 may still include the classic alert slider—possibly marking it as the final model to do so.
That means fans could be forced to choose between nostalgia and innovation.
A Game-Changer for Android?
If the OnePlus 13T delivers on its promise, it could be the first Android device to offer a meaningful, customizable hardware button. It isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a shift in how users interact with their smartphones.
With AI features, app shortcuts, and more at your fingertips, it could redefine convenience and personalization on Android.
OnePlus 13T Release Date & Expected Pricing
While OnePlus hasn’t confirmed a launch date, rumors hint at a Q3 or early Q4 2025 release. Pricing is expected to sit below the main OnePlus 13, keeping the 13T in the upper mid-range tier.
We’ll update you as soon as an official announcement drops.
Final Thoughts: Evolution or Identity Crisis?
The OnePlus 13T represents a bold step for OnePlus. Dropping the alert slider might upset some fans, but introducing a customizable action button opens the door to new user experiences that could prove even more helpful.
The real question is: Will OnePlus fans embrace this change? Or will they cling to what made the brand special in the first place?
Your Turn: What Do You Think?
Will you miss the alert slider?
Is the new Action Button a worthy successor?
Drop your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear from you.
