BEJING: Smartphones developer confirmed that its next-gen device OnePlus 2 will sport a USB-C port. Depending on when it arrives, the OnePlus 2 could be the first smartphone to sport a USB-C port.
“We want to provide an amazing user experience that our competition won’t merely try and catch up to later this fall, but also throughout 2016 and beyond,” OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei wrote in a blog post. “The USB Type C port on the OnePlus 2 is just one of these details.”
The Type C standard was developed by the USB Implementers Forum, made up of more than 700 companies, including Apple, Dell, HP, Intel, Microsoft, and Samsung. Resembling a micro-USB connector, the new technology is slightly thicker to accommodate its reversible-plug feature. Plus, it has the same connector on both ends, making it easier to plug in without fumbling for the right side. It’s also theoretically twice as fast as USB 3.0.
Apple and Google debuted the feature on their new MacBook and Chromebook Pixel, respectively. But while the Pixel has two USB 3.0 ports and an SD card reader, the new MacBook only has a USB-C connection, meaning customers have to purchase a separate USB-C-to-USB 3.0 adapter.
OnePlus will provide an adapter for the OnePlus 2, though it did not specify if that will be included or a separate purchase. But the “port will be backwards compatible, so current One owners don’t have to worry,” Pei said. “With the OnePlus 2, the USB cable is more optimal than ever. It’s a simple change to connectivity, but it’s something we saw needed to change.”
Last week, the manufacturer confirmed that its next flagship handset will use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 810 processor. While the chip has been linked to overheating problems in other devices, OnePlus promised that won’t be a problem.
Pei also tipped “further improvements on top of the USB Type C standard that we have patented and that will be exclusive to OnePlus,” but declined to elaborate so as not to “spoil the surprise.”
If you’re in the market for something a little more immediate, the company recently unlocked its OnePlus One smartphone (pictured) for the public. After a year of limited invitations, the occasional flash pre-sale and Tuesday-only online offers, the 16GB Silk White ($299) and 64GB Sandstone Black ($349) handset is on sale to everyone.
For more, see PCMag’s review of the OnePlus One and the slideshow above.
