OnePlus 13T to Feature New 'Shortcut Key' in Place of Iconic Alert Slider
As anticipation builds for the upcoming launch of the OnePlus 13T, details about its new features are starting to emerge. Recently, OnePlus president Louis Lee shared insights about a significant change: the replacement of the company's well-loved Alert Slider with a new feature dubbed the 'shortcut key.'
In a post on Weibo, Lee described the shortcut key as 'very practical' and suggested that it will allow users to seamlessly switch between various options across multiple operations. While specifics are still under wraps, the shortcut key is designed to carry forward the legacy of the Alert Slider by supporting different notification modes, such as silent, vibrating, and ringing. Lee has hinted that more information regarding the functionality of this new button will be unveiled in the near future, heightening user curiosity and excitement.
Apart from the shortcut key, Lee also highlighted the OnePlus 13T's display features. This model is expected to be equipped with a 6.3-inch flat display, catering to fans of smaller smartphones. In his post, Lee noted that feedback from OnePlus users who prefer compact devices significantly influenced the design choices for the 13T. He remarked, 'Everyone who has used it likes it very much,' emphasizing the positive reception of the decision to maintain a smaller screen size.
The transition away from the Alert Slider has not gone unnoticed. The Alert Slider has been a defining feature of OnePlus devices, contributing to the brand's identity. Its removal prompted a wave of reactions from dedicated fans on the company's forums. In March, CEO Pete Lau first mentioned the shift away from this beloved feature, explaining that the new shortcut key would be more personalized and versatile. Despite some outcry among long-time users, Lau described the shortcut key as 'incredibly intuitive' and 'future-ready,' suggesting that the company believes this change will ultimately benefit users.
However, some concerns linger regarding the functionality of the Alert Slider, with reports indicating that it was becoming increasingly limited in its use, potentially leading to its downfall in terms of utility. The Alert Slider is also said to be non-reprogrammable due to certain constraints, which may have contributed to the decision to replace it with the shortcut key.
As for the OnePlus 13T's other specifications, April has already seen its fair share of teasers, with leaks suggesting that the device will boast a powerful 6,000mAh batteryâsimilar to its flagship siblingâalongside rapid 80W wired charging capabilities, according to regulatory filings. While these features remain unconfirmed, they add to the growing excitement surrounding the device's release.
The OnePlus 13T is expected to hit the market later in April, with a rumored price range set between $600 and $900. As the official launch date draws closer, OnePlus fans and tech enthusiasts alike are eager to see how the company will innovate while maintaining the core values that have endeared it to many users.
