The OnePlus Nord 4 will receive six years of security updates and be endowed with four major Android OS updates.
OnePlus Nord 4: A New Era of Long-Term Security Updates
OnePlus is set to officially unveil the Nord 4 on July 16th at the OnePlus Summer Launch event in India. In a groundbreaking move, OnePlus has announced that the upcoming Nord 4 will receive six years of security patches, outstripping the competition and setting a new standard for long-term device support. This decision not only enhances the Nord 4’s appeal but also places it ahead of rivals like Samsung’s Galaxy A55 and A35, which offer five years of support.
The Journey to Six Years of Security Updates
Earlier this year, OnePlus dismissed the feasibility of offering more than five years of software support, citing financial impracticality. However, the company has since reversed its stance, now pledging an unprecedented six years of security updates for the Nord 4. This extended support is likely to be a significant selling point for budget-conscious consumers who prioritize long-term device usage.
Comprehensive Software Support
The OnePlus Nord 4 will not only receive six years of security updates but will also be endowed with four major Android OS updates. This matches the software update cycle of OnePlus’ flagship devices, such as the OnePlus 11 and 12. It remains to be seen whether this policy will extend to existing flagships or future releases like the OnePlus 13, but for now, the Nord 4 stands out with its extended software support.
Design and Build: A Return to Metal
Beyond software, the OnePlus Nord 4 is making waves with its design. The phone marks the return of the metal unibody construction, a feature that has largely been absent from the smartphone landscape in recent years. According to OnePlus, this decision was driven by a commitment to “durability, beauty, permanence, and strength,” as explained by company representative Liu.
Overcoming 5G Challenges
The reintroduction of metal in the Nord 4’s design was not without its challenges. The advent of 5G technology necessitated numerous antennas, which can interfere with a metal chassis. However, OnePlus has overcome this hurdle by shrinking antenna size by 50% and strategically placing them within the phone’s design, ensuring optimal performance without compromising on build quality.
Rigorous Testing for Longevity
To further solidify its commitment to longevity, the Nord 4 has undergone rigorous testing by TÜV SÜD, simulating 72 months of use. Even after this extended period, the phone is verified to continue performing as it did on day one. This certification underscores OnePlus’ dedication to delivering a device that can stand the test of time.
Official Launch and Specifications
The OnePlus Nord 4 is set to officially unveil on July 16th at the OnePlus Summer Launch event in India. Ahead of this event, leaks have provided a glimpse into the phone’s impressive specifications. According to these leaks, the Nord 4 will feature a 6.74-inch U8+ OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2,150 nits. It will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 SoC, paired with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. Android 14 will be installed on the smartphone as default.
Camera Capabilities
In terms of photography, the OnePlus Nord 4 is rumored to come equipped with a 50-megapixel main Sony LYT600 sensor with OIS support, accompanied by an 8-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera. For selfies, the phone is expected to feature a 16-megapixel front-facing camera. This combination of cameras promises to deliver high-quality photos and videos, catering to photography enthusiasts.
Additional Features
The Nord 4 will also include an in-display fingerprint sensor, stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support, a 0809 AAC linear motor, and an IR Blaster. Under the hood, it will house a 5,500mAh battery with support for 100W SuperVOOC fast charging. Additionally, the device will retain the beloved Alert Slider, a staple feature of premium OnePlus phones.
Competitive Pricing
Leaked information suggests that the OnePlus Nord 4 could be priced at Rs 30,999 or Rs 31,999 in India. With bank card offers, the price is expected to drop to Rs 27,999. This competitive pricing positions the Nord 4 as an attractive option for consumers looking for a feature-rich smartphone at an affordable price. Notably, this price point is lower than its predecessor, the Nord 3, which was launched at Rs 33,999.
OnePlus Nord 4 vs. Competitors
The OnePlus Nord 4’s six-year security update policy sets it apart from its competitors. For instance, OPPO, a sister concern of OnePlus, offers five years of updates (four OS, five security) for its flagship Find X7 Ultra. Realme and Vivo provide a maximum of four years of updates (three OS, four security) for their mid-range phones. Similarly, Redmi and POCO lag behind with four years of updates (three OS, four security) for their sub-Rs 30,000 phones. Samsung and Google, on the other hand, promise seven years of total updates for their current flagships.
Why the Nord 4’s Software Update Policy Matters
A longer update policy ensures that the device remains secure and up-to-date with the latest features for an extended period. OnePlus claims that the Nord 4 is certified to run fluently for years, having undergone a three-stage test to evaluate its performance in everyday tasks, intensive operations, and after simulating long-term use. The TÜV SÜD Fluency 72 Month A rating attests to the phone’s ability to maintain acceptable performance levels even after extensive use.
Furthermore, the Nord 4’s battery is certified for 1,600 complete charging cycles, ensuring that it can charge effectively for years. This focus on longevity and durability sets the Nord 4 apart in a market where long-term support is often overlooked.
In Short!
The OnePlus Nord 4 is poised to make a significant impact in the smartphone market with its six-year security update policy, robust design, and impressive specifications. As the launch date approaches, anticipation is building for this device, which promises to deliver exceptional value and long-term support for budget-conscious consumers. Whether OnePlus will extend this policy to its other devices remains to be seen, but for now, the OnePlus Nord 4 stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to quality and longevity.
As the OnePlus Nord 4 prepares to launch on July 16th, it is clear that this device is not just another mid-range phone. With its extensive software support, durable design, and competitive pricing, the OnePlus Nord 4 is set to redefine what consumers can expect from a budget smartphone. Stay tuned for more updates and detailed reviews as the launch event unfolds.