Brief Summary
The video discusses the OnePlus 13S, a compact flagship phone redefining "small" with its 6.3-inch screen. It boasts top-tier specs like the Snapdragon 8 Elite, ample RAM, and fast storage. The phone stands out with its exceptional battery life due to a large 5,850 mAh battery, though its cameras are just passable. The OnePlus 13S also introduces AI features accessible via a customizable "plus key," but it lacks wireless charging and isn't coming to the US.
- Redefines small flagship phones with a 6.3-inch screen.
- Features flagship-level specs, including Snapdragon 8 Elite and a high-resolution display.
- Has outstanding battery life (5,850 mAh) but average cameras.
- Introduces AI features and a customizable "plus key".
- Lacks wireless charging and US availability.
Intro
Marques Brownlee starts the video by acknowledging the channel reaching 20 million subscribers. He then pivots to the main topic: the evolution of "small" phones. He notes the death of truly small phones like the Asus Zenphone 10 and the need to redefine what constitutes a small flagship in 2025. The new benchmark is around 6.3 inches, exemplified by phones like the iPhone 16, Galaxy S25, Xiaomi 15, and the OnePlus 13S.
OnePlus 13S Overview
The OnePlus 13S is presented as a top contender in the new category of small flagship phones, despite not being available in the US due to band compatibility issues. The phone has flagship-level specifications, including a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, 12GB of RAM, and up to 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage. Its 6.3-inch display features even bezels, a 1440p resolution, a 120Hz LTPO refresh rate, and a brightness range from 1.1 to 1600 nits with PWM dimming. The phone has a compact and solid build, clicky buttons, and a satin glass back, aligning with the flat front and back aesthetic trend of 2025 smartphones.
Battery and Camera
The OnePlus 13S does not have wireless charging. The camera is considered passable but not a primary selling point. The phone features a 5,850 mAh battery, providing easy two-day battery life with normal use and supports 80-watt fast charging. The battery is a major highlight, especially considering the phone's compact size. Interestingly, the version sold in China swaps the 32-megapixel selfie camera for a 16-megapixel one and includes a larger 6,260 mAh silicon carbon battery. The main camera is paired with a 2x telephoto lens, which may not be as versatile as an ultrawide lens found in competitors like the Samsung S25.
AI Features and Other Details
OnePlus has integrated AI features into the 13S, accessible via a customizable "plus key" that replaces the traditional alert slider. The default function of the plus key is to save content to "mind space," an AI-organized memory bank similar to Nothing phones' essential space. This feature allows users to save screenshots and extract information, but it lacks multi-platform support. The phone also includes an AI editor for photos and a translate app for live audio translations. Priced at around $650, the OnePlus 13S features an optical fingerprint reader and lacks the double-tap power button shortcut for the camera. However, it introduces a clever "icon pull down" gesture in Oxygen OS 15 for easier one-handed use.
Final Thoughts and Advertisement
The video concludes by reiterating that the benchmark for compact flagship phones has shifted to over 6 inches. The OnePlus 13S stands out for its exceptional battery life, smooth software, fast charging, and integrated AI features. However, it may not be the best choice for camera enthusiasts, and its availability is limited outside the US. The video ends with a promotion for Ridge wallets, suggesting them as a Father's Day gift and highlighting a sale with up to 40% off.
