Speculation surrounding the next iteration of the OnePlus foldable phone, tentatively named the OnePlus Open 2, has intensified following hints at improved water resistance capabilities. The initial OnePlus Open, while robust in many areas, did not boast an official IP rating for water resistance. This omission was noted by many tech enthusiasts, creating a notable point of interest for the follow-up model. The latest indications suggest that the OnePlus Open 2 could introduce a substantial upgrade in this area, potentially reaching an IPX9 certification.
The IP rating system, which stands for Ingress Protection, assesses the level of protection that an electrical enclosure provides against the intrusion of foreign objects, like dust, and liquids, like water. IP ratings are usually displayed as two digits, the first representing protection against solid particles and the second against liquids. An IPX9 rating is at the high end of the scale for liquid ingress protection. It signifies protection against powerful high temperature water jets. It is worth mentioning that this rating isn’t often seen on smartphones because many manufacturers deem it too costly to implement, opting for a lower but still adequate rating of IP68. This would represent a significant step forward in the durability of the OnePlus device.
The source of this speculation stems from a display gallery featuring what is believed to be the OnePlus Open 2. Within this gallery, components and design choices suggest advanced waterproofing technologies were incorporated into the smartphone’s design. While it is common for devices to be sealed to various degrees to prevent damage from accidental splashes, it’s the implied rating of IPX9 which suggests a more robust and rigorous implementation. This leak indicates a level of protection that surpasses that of the typical smartphone. This would make the new model more resistant to potential damage from heavy rainfall, accidental submersion, or other situations involving water exposure. The display gallery is part of a series of information leaks that have surfaced in the past few days, which suggests that the phone release date may not be far off. The components seen in the gallery suggest the phone is in the final testing phase, making it more likely the final specifications are set.
The display itself, a critical component of a foldable device, appears to be the focus of this waterproofing attention. The intricate hinge system of a foldable device is a natural point of vulnerability for water ingress. Protecting it effectively with the new water resistance technology would make the phone more durable and give consumers peace of mind. It is likely that the improvements are not only focused on the display, but also include other crucial points such as the charging port and the speaker grills. All of these are entry points for water and are commonly protected by gaskets, seals, and other technologies. The inclusion of IPX9 certification would suggest a significant investment in engineering and manufacturing technology, possibly involving the use of advanced adhesives, specialized seals, and other protective measures to ensure the device remains impervious to liquid.
The decision by OnePlus to potentially implement this high level of water resistance could be indicative of a strategic focus on building a device which can withstand a wide range of environmental conditions. In a time where consumers are concerned about device longevity and resistance, the implementation of an IPX9 certification may help OnePlus position the OnePlus Open 2 as a premium and highly durable foldable device. It could potentially give it a competitive edge against other high-end smartphone manufacturers who have made similar efforts to make their devices more resistant.
While an official announcement confirming the IPX9 rating is pending, the emergence of this information from what appears to be a display gallery provides a strong indication of what we might expect from the OnePlus Open 2. It is yet to be seen if these features translate to a higher price, as they involve costs of research and manufacturing, but it is clear that the phone will be at the forefront of the foldable phone market. With the release of the OnePlus Open 2 just around the corner, it is likely more information will surface in the following weeks. Many tech publications are already expecting the device to be formally announced in the coming months. It would be a valuable addition to the market, and offer a solid option for consumers looking for a foldable device that has a level of resistance and water protection that has, until now, been uncommon. Consumers will be awaiting for the official specs to be announced to evaluate if this investment in water resistance was worth it.
