The OnePlus Watch 2 May Soon Get a Cellular-Connected Twin as a New OnePlus Smartwatch Appears on Certification Site
OnePlus recently launched its first WearOS-powered smartwatch, the OnePlus Watch 2, but it seems like they’re already working on another smart wearable. A new OnePlus smartwatch has been spotted on a certification website in China, hinting at a potential successor or an LTE-enabled variant of the existing Watch 2.
A Peek at the New Model
A listing on TENAA, a Chinese certification website, has revealed a picture of the mysterious new OnePlus smartwatch. The listing, dated May 19, 2023, features a device tagged with the model number OPWW234. This watch appears to boast a larger display with a thinner bezel compared to the OnePlus Watch 2. The image also shows two buttons on the side, although they are positioned differently from the current Watch 2 model. While the design seems similar to the existing Watch 2, the new model appears significantly slimmer.
Key Specifications and Features
The TENAA listing offers some insights into the new smartwatch’s capabilities:
- 500mAh Battery: The new smartwatch shares the same battery capacity as the OnePlus Watch 2.
- LTE Connectivity: A notable upgrade over the existing model is the inclusion of LTE radios enabled by eSIM support. This means users will be able to make calls and access the internet directly from their wrist, without needing a smartphone connection.
- Operating System: While the listing mentions Android as the operating system, it remains unclear if the smartwatch will adopt a dual-architecture approach like the Watch 2, which features both WearOS and RTOS.
- Connectivity: The smartwatch is expected to support Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, and the usual global positioning systems (GPS, BeiDou, GLONASS).
Positioning and Possibilities
The addition of cellular connectivity suggests a potential OnePlus Watch 2S variant, offering an upgraded version of the existing model. Alternatively, it could be a brand new model, potentially named OnePlus Watch 3 or OnePlus Watch Ultra similar to Samsung’s rumored upcoming smartwatch.
The lack of a confirmed name and the relatively close timing to the Watch 2’s release has fueled speculation about the nature of this new smartwatch. While OnePlus hasn’t officially commented, the certification process indicates its release could be imminent.
The OnePlus Watch 2: A Quick Recap
The OnePlus Watch 2, launched in February 2023, marked a significant shift for OnePlus in the smartwatch market. It featured a blend of WearOS and RTOS operating systems, delivering both seamless transitions between modes and prolonged battery life. The Watch 2 is available in two color variants – black and silver – with robust health and fitness tracking capabilities, including SpO2 monitoring.
The Future of OnePlus Wearables?
The appearance of this new smartwatch on TENAA suggests that OnePlus is actively expanding its wearable portfolio. The addition of LTE connectivity opens up a new realm of possibilities for the company, allowing users to stay connected without their smartphone, making it a more versatile and independent device.
Ultimately, only time will tell whether this new smartwatch will be a slight variation of the OnePlus Watch 2 or a completely new addition to the OnePlus wearable lineup. Regardless of its positioning, the introduction of LTE connectivity is a significant step forward for OnePlus, paving the way for a more comprehensive smartwatch experience for users.
