Will the OnePlus 5 Get the Android 12 Update?

Smartphone manufacturers are continually rolling out updates to their devices, bringing new features, performance improvements, and security enhancements. Recently, OnePlus has launched several new devices running on Android 12, such as the OnePlus 10R and OnePlus Nord 2T. These updates have raised the question of whether older devices like the OnePlus 5 will receive the same treatment. In this article, we will explore the update timeline and the reasoning behind the decision.

Recent Updates and Elegant Upgrades

OnePlus has been at the forefront of delivering Android 12 updates to its devices. The latest devices like the OnePlus 10R and OnePlus Nord 2T have already been receiving updates on this latest version of the operating system. This move highlights OnePlus's commitment to providing their customers with the best experience possible.

However, for older devices like the OnePlus 5, the story is different. Many users are eagerly waiting for the Android 12 update, wondering if their beloved device will be among the beneficiaries. In this section, we will discuss why the OnePlus 5 may not be included in the Android 12 update rollout and what this means for OnePlus's update strategy.

Why the OnePlus 5 May Not Get the Android 12 Update

While OnePlus is known for its commitment to providing updates, there are practical limitations that need to be considered. The OnePlus 5 was launched in 2017, and the hardware is quite dated by today's standards. The decision to skip the Android 12 update for the OnePlus 5 can be attributed to several factors:

1. Hardware Incompatibility

One of the primary reasons is hardware incompatibility. The OnePlus 5 has limited processing power and RAM compared to newer models. Android 12, while more user-friendly and feature-rich, requires a more powerful hardware base to operate smoothly. With its older hardware, the OnePlus 5 may struggle to handle the updated OS, leading to performance issues that could detract from the user experience.

2. Battery Considerations

Battery life is a crucial aspect of any device, and older hardware may not be able to achieve the same level of power efficiency. Android 12 includes several power-saving features, but these may not be as effective on the OnePlus 5, potentially leading to shorter battery life and user frustration.

3. Development and Testing Costs

Sustaining an ongoing update process for older devices can be resource-intensive. OnePlus must allocate resources to develop, test, and support the update for the OnePlus 5. Given the limited hardware capabilities, the benefits of providing the update may not justify the costs involved.

Alternative Solutions and Future Updates

OnePlus does offer alternative solutions for users who are keen on receiving the latest software updates. Instead of the Android 12 update, users of the OnePlus 5 can explore:

1. OxygenOS 11/12.5

While the latest Android 12 release might not be possible, users can still benefit from newer versions of OxygenOS, which is OnePlus's custom skin over Android. Versions like OxygenOS 11 and 12.5 offer a more up-to-date user experience without the strain on older hardware.

2. Newer Devices for Better Performance

For a genuinely enhanced experience, users might consider upgrading to a more recent OnePlus model. The OnePlus 9, OnePlus 9R, or even the latest OnePlus 10R and Nord 2T will provide a smoother and more advanced experience with Android 12.

Conclusion

While the OnePlus 5 did not receive the Android 12 update, users have alternative solutions to enjoy the latest software features. Google and OnePlus are committed to providing their customers with the best possible experience, while also ensuring hardware and resources are used efficiently.

Stay tuned for future updates and news regarding the update plans for your device.