Finally, some good news for the owners of at least one older OnePlus phone

OnePlus 12 is getting a new software update ahead of schedule.

OnePlus 12
OnePlus 12. | Image by PhoneArena
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Even though the OnePlus 16 won’t make it to North America and Europe, the company has promised to continue with the software support for its older devices. It turns out that OnePlus isn’t only keeping this promise, but it’s also going ahead of schedule with the software upgrade with one of its flagship models.

OnePlus 12 is getting Android 17 earlier than promised


When OnePlus announced its plans for the shift from Android 16 and OxygenOS to Android 17 and ColorOS 17, the company also gave us a very specific schedule for the release of the new software. Now, it appears things are running ahead of schedule, as the rollout of ColorOS 17 has already started on the OnePlus 12.

Initially planned for November 17, the software upgrade comes with build number CPH2573_17.0.0.100(EX01), and it requires a download of 3.3 GB. For now, the distribution is limited to India, and OnePlus hasn’t officially announced when the software will reach other regions, including the US. However, it’s unlikely for this to take too long.

What’s new in ColorOS 17 for the OnePlus 12?



The shift from OxygenOS 16 to ColorOS 17 is certainly a big deal, and comes with a very long list of changes. The interface has seen a refresh, with smoother animations, seamless transitions between the different screens the clock shows on, translucent notifications, and a new look for the Quick Settings.

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OnePlus also promises improvements in the performance thanks to an upgrade to the Laminar Flow Engine. This should make the memory management better and more efficient, reducing the unnecessary background app killing. Of course, there are new AI features, such as AI Highlights, Live Alerts, and new features for Mind Space.

The company also announced a new feature that allows phones to auto-unlock PCs, and a redesigned and improved Translate app.

OnePlus users on Reddit didn’t sound very impressed with ColorOS 17 on their phones. While some were happy with the small details that have changed, many others said things look basically the same.

A refreshing approach


Software updates continue to be one of the biggest downsides of Android phones that aren’t made by Google. I’m glad that OnePlus is approaching the rollout of Android 17 in such an exemplary way, but that’s still far behind Apple’s approach with iOS.

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