Can you believe it’s been almost a decade since the debut of the original OnePlus One? The device epitomized the concept of a flagship killer, embodying the upstart phone maker’s mantra of “never settle.” Despite the excitement surrounding the OnePlus One and subsequent models, the series has consistently fallen short in one crucial aspect—the camera.
The potential for change looms with the impending release of the OnePlus 12. Although details about the flagship have been public since its China launch last month, the global release at the OnePlus Smooth Beyond Belief Launch Event on January 23 could still hold surprises.
Having reviewed OnePlus phones since the inaugural model, the persistent stigma has been the series’ underwhelming camera performance, especially when compared to rivals like Apple, Samsung, and Google. The question arises: Can the OnePlus 12 finally emerge as one of the best camera phones?
The recent OnePlus Open provides optimistic results. The first foldable phone from OnePlus narrowed the gap against competitors, such as the Google Pixel Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5. The OnePlus Open’s 48MP main camera impressed in various lighting conditions, standing firm against the Pixel Fold’s equally formidable 48MP camera.
Beyond the improved camera performance, the OnePlus 12 features an upgraded triple camera system, including a 50MP main camera, 48MP ultrawide shooter, and a crucial addition—a 64MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. This enhancement propels the OnePlus 12 into the upper echelon of camera phones, surpassing the OnePlus 11’s 32MP 2x telephoto camera.
The primary camera is anticipated to bear the brunt of the imaging tasks, but advancements in image processing techniques, pixel binning, and a larger camera sensor could elevate the OnePlus 12’s ability to retain details during digital zooming.
Improved image processing is another area of promise, drawing from OnePlus’ recent successes. The OnePlus Open showcased realistic image processing, distinguishing itself from competitors like the Galaxy Z Fold 5, which tends to apply excessive HDR effects.
Video features, crucial for enthusiasts, remain a focal point. While details about the OnePlus 12’s video capabilities are scarce, expectations include 8K resolution recording, full manual controls, a flat video colour profile, and a multi-camera view. The existing features on the OnePlus 11, including 8K recording, set a high standard.
The incorporation of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chip, designed with artificial intelligence and an enhanced image signal processor, opens possibilities for AI-assisted photo and video features. The goal is not to replicate Google’s Pixel 8 Pro but to tailor AI capabilities uniquely. Perhaps OnePlus could leverage generative AI models for enhancing video recordings, such as upscaling to a faster frame rate or resolution.
AI integration is expected to play a significant role in phones this year, and the OnePlus 12 must embrace this trend to stay competitive. As the unveiling of the OnePlus 12 approaches, anticipation builds for the possibility that this could be the year when a OnePlus phone claims the title of the best camera phone.
