- OnePlus’ Pete Lau has hinted at an always-on display in OxygenOS 11.
- There aren’t many clues, but you could see an analog clock on your screen.
OnePlus has ticked more than a few of its remaining feature checkboxes with phones like the 8 Pro and Nord, but it now appears close to addressing one more: the always-on display.
Company chief Pete Lau has shared a teaser on Twitter that not-so-subtly hints at long promised always-on screen technology appearing in OxygenOS 11. He didn’t provide other details, but the image of an analog clock suggests it will be one of the options for persistent info.
OxygenOS 10 first shipped in September 2019 with Android 10 as its foundation, and version 11 is expected to arrive relatively soon after Android 11 is ready. OnePlus had previously indicated that beta testing for always-on display functionality could start as soon as August.
Enthusiasts added the feature to phones through a mod, but the risks involved with the add-on make it impractical for everyday users who’d rather not root their phones.
Read more: OnePlus Nord review
Whenever OxygenOS 11 appears, it could easily have a warm reception. Always-on display tech has been available from major smartphone makers for years, including on recent devices like the Galaxy S20 series. You won’t have to give up the convenience of quickly glancing at your phone just to get the other features you might appreciate from the OnePlus phone line.
You may want to think carefully about enabling the feature. While always-on display features take advantage of AMOLED screens to minimize the impact on battery life, it still consumes more energy than leaving the display blank. And no matter how dim the screen gets, it could still be a source of distracting illumination at night. Still, it’s better to have the option than not — it beats having to wake your phone just to check the time or your calendar.
