Chinese smartphone maker OnePlus is known for surprises. When it released the One back in 2013, it was a device that redefined what it meant to mean “budget.” Now, after reportedly getting a complete overhaul with both its hardware and software, OnePlus has confirmed that USB Type-C will be coming to its next flagship.
The #OnePlus2 will be the first flagship to use Type C USB. We want to lead the way in power connectivity. pic.twitter.com/lef5ylR7Rr
— OnePlus (@oneplus) June 22, 2015
That’s right. The OnePlus 2 is going to have…a different charging port! Wait. What? Who cares, you say? Well, it just happens to be a Swiss army knife of awesome that’s going to make your smartphone a lot better. We’ve already waxed poetic about the many benefits of USB Type-C, but if you need a quick primer, here’s a lowdown from former Gizmodoan Eric Limer (rip):
- It’s reversible, like Apple’s Lightning cable. No more fumbling to plug it in the right way.
- It can transfer data at up to 10 Gbps — i.e. 10 times your crazy isn’t the first one to turn to the new charging standard on a smartphone, there are many reasons to be excited. Whereas the inclusion of USB Type-C is only 100 per cent good news, there’s a few other double-edged sword type of rumours also surrounding the OnePlus 2. The company’s also confirmed that the OnePlus 2 won’t be quuuiiite so friendly to your finances. An improved Snapdragon 810 processor and a quad HD display (among other things) will not make the OnePlus the eye-poppingly cheap smartphone we’re used to. But hopefully with enough standout features like USB Type-C, it won’t get lost among the smartphone crowd.