The OnePlus 13 is getting a second wind with a helpful software update that lets you edit high-resolution photos without ruining the quality. It also introduces a clever battery-saving feature previously reserved for newer models, making this older flagship easier to live with in the long run.
A fresh update for a reliable flagship
If you are still rocking a OnePlus 13, you might have noticed a notification waiting for you—or you will soon. The company is currently pushing out OxygenOS 16.0.3.501, a surprisingly robust update for a device that isn't the newest kid on the block anymore. According to a new post on the official community forum, this rollout is starting in India but should hit other regions shortly.
While usually these monthly updates are just about security, this one actually changes how you use the phone. Here is what is included in the new firmware:
What is new in OxygenOS 16.0.3.501
Bypass charging expansion: You can now power the phone directly from the cable while using apps other than games, saving your battery from wear and tear.
High-res photo editing: The Photos app now supports editing 50MP images while maintaining their original clarity, so you don't lose that crisp detail.
Security boost: The update includes the January 2026 Android security patch to keep your data safe.
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Why this matters for your battery health
OxygenOS 16. | Image credit — OnePlus
Let's be honest: keeping a phone for several years is the norm now, and battery health is usually the first thing to go. That is why the "Bypass Charging" feature is such a big deal. Originally, this tech was marketed strictly to gamers so they could play high-performance games while plugged in without the phone overheating or degrading the battery.
By expanding this to "non-gaming activities," OnePlus is acknowledging how we actually use our phones. With this update, the OnePlus 13 can pull power directly from the wall outlet or car charger, completely bypassing the battery. This keeps the phone cool and extends the overall lifespan of your power cell. It is a feature the newer OnePlus 15 received recently, and it is excellent to see it trickle down to the 13.
It should be noted that while the hardware capability exists in many flagships (Samsung, Sony, Asus), OnePlus is one of the few mainstream manufacturers trying to make it a standard "utility" feature rather than just a "gamer" feature.
Which new feature from this update are you most excited to use?
Bypass charging (I want my battery to last longer!)
50%
50MP Photo editing (I need my photos to look crisp.)
25%
Just the security patch, thanks.
25%
I’ve already upgraded to the OnePlus 15.
0%
I don't own a OnePlus smartphone.
0%
Saving the day
I am personally a huge fan of software updates that add utility rather than just fixing bugs. As someone who constantly edits photos on the go, the ability to tweak a 50MP shot without the app compressing it down to a lower quality is a welcome treat. It means you can crop in on a detail, and it will actually still look sharp.
However, the standout here is the bypass charging. I would use this feature daily for navigation. There is nothing worse than arriving at a destination with a phone that is hot to the touch because it was GPS-ing and charging simultaneously. It is a smart move by OnePlus to keep their legacy users happy. If you are in India, check your settings now; for everyone else, keep an eye out over the next few days.
Johanna 'Jojo the Techie' is a skilled mobile technology expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience, specializing in the Google ecosystem and Pixel devices. Known for her user-friendly approach, she leverages her vast tech support background to provide accessible and insightful coverage on latest technology trends. As a recognized thought leader and former member of #TeamPixel, Johanna ensures she stays at the forefront of Google services and products, making her a reliable source for all things Pixel and ChromeOS.
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