In the highly competitive smartphone market, OnePlus has taken a bold step with its latest flagship device, the OnePlus 15, by deciding against incorporating magnetic charging features similar to those found in Google’s Pixel lineup. During a recent roundtable interview, OnePlus executive Rudolf Xu highlighted that weighing the device down with magnets would detract from the larger battery the company prioritizes. This approach highlights the ongoing industry debate between accessory capability and essential performance metrics such as battery life.
Xu emphasized that embedding magnets to accommodate wireless charging would result in unnecessary weight, which OnePlus chose to avoid in favor of maximizing battery capacity. He noted, “We reserve most of our space for a bigger battery,” reflecting the company’s long-standing commitment to superior battery endurance—an increasingly important factor for users who rely heavily on their devices throughout the day.
The decision to sidestep magnetic wireless charging resonates with earlier speculation about the possibility of integrating such technology in the OnePlus 15. Reports indicated that the device could draw inspiration from the advancements seen in sister company OPPO’s lineup. However, OnePlus ultimately decided to equip the 15 with a substantial 7,300mAh battery, which significantly outpaces competitors like the Pixel 9, which features a 4,700mAh battery.
OnePlus’s focus on battery technology is well-established, notably with the OnePlus 15 supporting an impressive 120W wired charging capability that can fully charge its massive battery in under half an hour. Enthusiastic tech users on social media platforms have been vocal about the potential of this feature, heralding it as a significant advantage for power users.
While magnetic charging ecosystems offer convenience with accessories, they often limit charging speeds to 15W or lower. In contrast, OnePlus’s AIRVOOC 50W Magnetic Charger provides a faster charging solution but relies on proprietary technology that mitigates the bulk of built-in magnets.
Competitors such as Google have embraced magnetic charging with their Pixel devices, which allow smooth integration with various accessories. A review of the OnePlus 13 noted how its cooling system surprisingly faced challenges during charging, raising questions about performance under high-demand circumstances. OnePlus, however, maintains that such features detract focus from important aspects like battery capacity.
As OnePlus prepares for the global launch of the OnePlus 15 on November 13, 2025, its strategy reflects a thoughtful deviation from magnetic convenience, opting instead for a robust battery. To adapt, the company has introduced a range of magnetic accessories, such as customizable cases designed for both style and functionality. These cases utilize materials like aramid fiber and sandstone, compatible with OPPO’s magnetic system.
Consumer feedback indicates a desire for faster magnetic solutions, as expressed in online forums where users pointed out the limitations of the standard 15W magnetic charging. Nevertheless, OnePlus’s approach seems to cater to buyers prioritizing battery life over accessory frills, with Xu suggesting that trading off features for longevity could prove worthwhile.
Looking ahead, OnePlus’s decision may set new precedents within the industry as it balances the increasing demand for robust performance against evolving charging technologies. With the added features of IP68/IP69 ratings and an advanced cooling system, the OnePlus 15 aims to capture the attention of performance-driven consumers in a market increasingly dominated by magnetic charging solutions.
Overall, OnePlus stands firm in its strategy, banking on endurance to carve out a unique place amidst its rivals. As users and tech enthusiasts continue to weigh the merits of battery longevity versus the convenience of magnetic charging, OnePlus appears to resonate with a significant demographic dedicated to high-performance smartphones.