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OnePlus 2
OnePlus 2
Phone in packaging
ManufacturerOnePlus
TypeSmartphone
First released28 July 2015; 10 years ago (2015-07-28)
Availability by region
August 11, 2015[1]
  • China China
  • Hong Kong Hong Kong
  • India India
  • Canada Canada
  • European Union European Union
  • United States United States
September 22, 2015
October 13, 2015[2]
  • Israel Israel
October 24, 2015[3]
  • Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia
  • United Arab Emirates United Arab Emirates
PredecessorOnePlus One
SuccessorOnePlus 3
RelatedOnePlus X
Compatible networksGSM, WCDMA, LTE
Form factorSlate
Dimensions151.8 mm (5.98 in) H
74.9 mm (2.95 in) W
9.85 mm (0.388 in) D
Weight175 g (6.2 oz)
Operating systemAndroid based OxygenOS (global version) or HydrogenOS (Chinese version)
System-on-chipQualcomm Snapdragon 810
CPUOcta-core 64-bit 20 nm
• Quad-core 1.77 GHz Cortex-A57
• Quad-core 1.56 GHz Cortex A-53
GPUAdreno 430 630 MHz
Memory3 or 4 GB LPDDR4 RAM
Storage16 or 64 GB eMMC v5.0
Removable storageNone; 2 removable nano-SIM card slots
Battery3,300 mAh Li-Po
Rear camera13 MP OmniVision Technologies PureCel-S™ OV13860 1.3 μm-pixel optical sensor, f/2.0 aperture, 2160p@30fps, 1080p@60fps, 720p@120fps, optical image stabilization, laser autofocus, dual LED flash
Front camera5 MP OmniVision Technologies OV5648 1.4 μm-pixel optical sensor, wide-angle lens, 1080p@30fps, 720p@60fps
Display5.5 in (140 mm) 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution (401 ppi)
1080p Full HD IPS LCD In-Cell
SoundSingle mono speaker, 3.5 mm stereo audio jack
Connectivity
All models:
Data inputs
List
ModelA2001 (China)[4]
A2003 (EMEA and Asia)[5]
A2005 (North America)
Codenameoneplus2
Websiteoneplus.net/2

The OnePlus 2 (also abbreviated as OP2) is a smartphone designed by OnePlus. It is the successor to the OnePlus One. OnePlus revealed the phone on 28 July 2015 via virtual reality, using Google's Cardboard visor and its own app.[6]

OnePlus sold out 30,000 units of the OnePlus 2 in China within 64 seconds after launching the product sale.[7]

Development

[edit]

On 25 January 2015, OnePlus announced the smartphone's official name as OnePlus 2.[8] It was also later reported that the OnePlus 2 would have a late 2015 release, possibly due to hardware issues with its processor.[9]

In early April 2015, OnePlus confirmed that the OnePlus 2 would not feature wireless charging and NFC. On 29 June 2015, it was confirmed that the device would also feature a fingerprint sensor, which is similar to Apple's Touch ID.

In October 2015, OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei said that the OnePlus 2 will be the only flagship from the company for the year 2015, but another phone, called the OnePlus X,[10] was released.

Release and distribution

[edit]

Invite system

[edit]

OnePlus posted that it would use an invite system to handle sales of the OnePlus 2, exclusively through the company's website, like the OnePlus One.[11] OnePlus claims that the invite system is more efficient than the invite system used for the sales of the OnePlus One, the OnePlus 2's predecessor. According to co-founder Carl Pei, there will be 30 to 50 times more invites from the start to match the greater demand for the OnePlus 2.[12]

Within 72 hours of being launched, the OnePlus 2 had already accumulated over 1 million reservations.[13] Within one week after being launched, the OnePlus 2 had accumulated over 2 million reservations.[14] By September 2015, it had accumulated over 5 million reservations.

Open sales

[edit]

In September, 2015, the OnePlus 2 became available in Israel without an invite, through its exclusive distributor, C-DATA. This came after buyers complained of buying the OnePlus 2 (without an invite) that came preloaded with malware.[15]

On 12 October 2015, OnePlus held its first open-sale for 1 hour from 12-1 pm HKT/CEST/PDT exclusively to 32 countries via the company's website, with the exception of China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Israel and Singapore. This did not go flawlessly as the website's back-end could not handle the load. Due to this, the 1 hour sale was extended for another hour. In India, the sale ran for the entire day via sales partner Amazon.in.[16]

A week later (on 19 October 2015), Malaysian carrier Maxis offered the OnePlus 2 invite-free for MYR 1788 ($420) exclusively via the Maxis Website.[17]

Specifications

[edit]

Design and hardware

[edit]

The OnePlus 2 has a revamped design meant to put it at the top with the rest of its flagship competitors. The handset incorporates an aluminum-magnesium alloy chassis, with the volume and power keys along with the new notifications control switch having a polished stainless steel accent and with the rear of the phone accompanied with a textured Sandstone Black plastic back cover.[18][19] The user also have the choice to customize back covers with choices of Kevlar or assorted wood offerings including bamboo, black apricot and rosewood.[18]

Compared to its predecessor the phone is 1 mm shrunken height and width-wise but 8% thicker and heavier due in part to its larger 3,300 mAh battery.[20] The OnePlus 2 and its predecessor, the OnePlus One, have comparable displays, each 5.5" LCD 1920 x 1080 full HD resolution screens, with Corning Gorilla Glass protection. New to the OnePlus 2 is its fingerprint sensor which can optionally serve as a capacitive home button, along with back and multitasking navigation keys, but they can be disabled in favor of customizable navigation "soft keys" rendered on-screen.[21]

There are two versions of the OnePlus 2. The White Basic version features 16 GB internal storage, and 3 GB LPDDR4 RAM. The Sandstone Black Premium version has 64 GB internal storage with 4 GB LPDDR4 RAM.[22] The handset is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 v2.1 64-bit octa-core chip purposefully underclocked to 1.8 GHz to avoid any overheating issues.[23] The system on chip also includes an Adreno 430 graphics processor clocked at 630 MHz.[24]

For its rear-facing camera, the OnePlus 2 utilizes an OmniVision OV13860 13-megapixel image sensor with features including a 1/2.6-inch sensor size, f/2.0 aperture,[25] laser autofocus,[26] optical image stabilization, dual tone LED flash, 4K and slow motion 720p video recording ability. Compared to its competitors the Samsung Galaxy S6 and LG G4 which both have 16-megapixel sensors, the smaller megapixel count of the OnePlus 2, "allows for individual pixels to be made bigger. Bigger pixels capture more light per pixel than smaller ones and this, in turn, reduces the amount of digital noise or 'grain' showing up in photos, especially in low light situations."[27] The front-facing camera contains a wide-angle 5-megapixel camera.[18]

Other features include a dual SIM (nano SIM) card layout with 4G LTE compatibility[24] and the handset is the first smartphone with a worldwide release to feature a USB-C port.[18][28] However, features left out with controversy include lack of NFC hardware and quick charge capabilities found on many other flagships and resulting in full charges that could exceed 3 hours according to OnePlus.[29][30] OnePlus explained that NFC was not used by enough OnePlus One users for NFC to reasonably be added to the OnePlus 2.[31]

Unlike the One Plus One, which shipped a single model worldwide, the 2 shipped different models per region[32] (like most other manufacturers). As a consequence of this, 4G (LTE) connectivity may not be possible outside the region the phone was bought, due to different LTE standards.[33]

The phone has an alert slider at the upper edge with 3 notification profiles : None, Priority and All.

Software

[edit]

The OnePlus 2 comes preloaded with Android 5.1.1 "Lollipop" with OnePlus' OxygenOS version 2.0 on top of it. An update to OxygenOS version 2.2.1 was released for the OnePlus 2 in Feb 2016.[34] In May 2016, OnePlus released an OTA update of Oxygen OS 3.0 with Android Marshmallow for its OnePlus 2 users.

Oneplus released an updated version of Oxygen OS (OOS3.5.5) on Christmas Eve, this update mainly covered VoLTE, gesture updates, enhanced UI and defect fixes. However, there were frequent network drop issues that led the Oneplus team to stop the OTA. The Oneplus Team quickly responded with fixing the defect and releasing the next version of Oxygen OS (OOS 3.5.6) that fixed all possible issues.[35]

Despite telling consumers that the OnePlus 2 would be updated to Android 7 "Nougat", it was eventually confirmed that this was not to happen, leaving the device on the older Android 6.0.1.[36]

OnePlus released OxygenOS 3.6.0 in July 2017, with included Android security patch level 1 June 2017 and small fixes.[37]

It received an update OxygenOS 3.6.1 in October 2017, with included Android security patches, WPA2 security issues and general bug fixes & improvement.[38]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

OnePlus 2

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The OnePlus 2 is an Android smartphone developed by the Chinese manufacturer OnePlus and released on August 11, 2015, as the successor to the company's debut device, the OnePlus One. Marketed as the "2016 Flagship Killer," it aimed to deliver premium hardware at an accessible price, starting at $329 for the 16 GB model and $389 for the 64 GB variant, challenging higher-priced flagships from competitors like Samsung and Apple. Key specifications include a 5.5-inch IPS LCD display with 1920 x 1080 resolution and 401 ppi density, protected by Corning 3, providing a sharp and vibrant viewing experience. The device is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 octa-core processor (1.5 GHz quad-core Cortex-A53 and 2.0 GHz quad-core Cortex-A57) paired with an Adreno 430 GPU, 4 GB of LPDDR4 RAM, and either 16 GB or 64 GB of internal storage, though it lacks a microSD card slot for expansion. Notable innovations for its time include the integration of a USB Type-C port for faster charging and data transfer, a first for OnePlus, and a fingerprint sensor integrated into the home button below the display, enhancing security and user convenience. The camera setup features a 13 MP rear sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), dual-LED flash, and 4K video recording capability, alongside a 5 MP front-facing camera for selfies. It is equipped with a non-removable 3300 mAh battery supporting Qualcomm Quick Charge 2.0, and measures 151.8 x 74.9 x 9.9 mm with a weight of 175 grams, available in sandstone black or soft gold finishes. The OnePlus 2 launched with Android 5.1 Lollipop under the custom OxygenOS user interface, which emphasized a stock Android-like experience with added optimizations, and received an official update to Android 6.0 Marshmallow via OxygenOS 3.0. Initially distributed through an invite-only system to manage demand and build hype, it later transitioned to open sales, contributing to OnePlus's growing reputation for value-driven smartphones despite some criticisms regarding software bloat and heating issues with the Snapdragon 810 chipset.

Development

Announcement

OnePlus began teasing the successor to its popular smartphone in late 2014, generating significant buzz among Android enthusiasts through posts on and the company's forums. Co-founder confirmed in September 2014 that the device, referred to as the OnePlus 2, would arrive in Q2 or Q3 2015. On January 25, 2015, officially announced the smartphone's name as OnePlus 2. These early campaigns positioned the OnePlus 2 as a natural evolution, building on the original's reputation for value-driven flagship performance while hinting at improvements in and capabilities. Throughout early 2015, ramped up the hype with additional teasers, including forum updates and posts that reinforced the device's role as the next "flagship killer." By late May 2015, Pei reiterated in interviews that the phone would launch in Q3 2015. On June 29, 2015, teased enhancements like a fingerprint sensor. The narrative focused on offering 2016-level specifications—such as high-end processing power and ample RAM—at a mid-range cost, aiming to undercut established brands like and Apple despite the 2015 rollout. The official reveal occurred on July 27, 2015, via a groundbreaking event streamed through Google's platform, marking the world's first VR product launch. However, the anticipated summer 2015 target faced setbacks from production and challenges, delaying shipments to North American markets by 2-3 weeks beyond the initial August 11 availability date in other regions. These issues stemmed from scaling manufacturing to meet demand, ultimately pushing full global distribution into late summer for some buyers.

Design decisions

The development of the OnePlus 2 emphasized strategic trade-offs to deliver high performance at a competitive price of $329, prioritizing essential features over emerging conveniences. A key decision was the exclusion of wireless charging and near-field communication (NFC). OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei stated that NFC was omitted because "very few people are using NFC," allowing resources to be allocated elsewhere without significantly impacting user experience. Wireless charging was similarly left out to avoid added costs and maintain optimal battery efficiency in the 3300 mAh unit, as the feature would have required design compromises like a glass back panel that could reduce durability and increase thickness. These choices aligned with OnePlus's philosophy of "never settling" on core aspects like speed and battery life while keeping the device affordable. Another pivotal engineering choice was the integration of a fingerprint sensor, marking the first such feature in a . The capacitive sensor, embedded in the home button, supported up to five fingerprints and enabled faster unlocking than competitors like Apple's at the time, enhancing security and user convenience without relying on pattern or PIN entry. This implementation used touch-based technology from Fingerprint Cards (FPC1150), which allowed 360-degree finger placement for reliable even in varied conditions. The build material selection further highlighted the focus on practical premium quality. OnePlus opted for an unibody frame, which provided a sturdy yet lightweight construction at 175 grams, balancing strength against the need to minimize weight for better . This alloy improved signal reception compared to full aluminum designs and contributed to the device's slim 9.9 mm profile, while accents added durability to high-wear areas like the edges. Development efforts for the OnePlus 2 ran in parallel with the compact model, enabling shared components such as certain display drivers and software optimizations to accelerate production timelines and reduce costs across the lineup. However, hurdles significantly influenced the schedule; delays in procuring the 810 processor, stemming from its well-documented overheating issues, postponed the launch from an anticipated Q2 debut to July 27, 2015. This adjustment ensured the device could incorporate the latest chipset while mitigating thermal risks through custom optimizations.

Launch and distribution

Initial release

The OnePlus 2 was officially unveiled on July 27, 2015, through a pioneering event accessible via Google's Cardboard visor and a dedicated app, marking the first launch of its kind. This global online experience allowed participants worldwide to interact with the device in a 360-degree environment, highlighting OnePlus's innovative approach to product announcements. A separate physical launch event followed in , , on July 28, 2015. The device launched in two variants: a base model with 16 GB of internal storage and 3 GB of RAM priced at $329, and a higher-end version with 64 GB of storage and 4 GB of RAM priced at $389; neither included expandable storage via microSD. Initial sales commenced in on August 4, 2015, where 30,000 units sold out within 64 seconds, demonstrating strong early demand. expanded to , , and starting August 11, 2015, with purchases gated by OnePlus's invite system to manage supply. First shipments to customers in these regions began shortly thereafter, though some North American deliveries faced delays of 2-3 weeks due to production schedules.

Invite system

The OnePlus 2 employed an invite-only sales model at launch, requiring prospective buyers to obtain an invite code to purchase the device. These codes could be acquired from existing OnePlus owners through a referral system, where owners received shareable invites shortly after receiving their , or through official contests held on and the company forums. This system was designed to manage overwhelming demand and prevent inventory shortages similar to those experienced with the predecessor , while fostering a exclusivity among early adopters. By limiting purchases to invite holders, could better align production with actual sales, reducing the risk of overstock or unfulfilled orders for the . Users could also earn invites by actively participating in the OnePlus community, such as posting product reviews or engaging in forum discussions, which prioritized long-time supporters on the reservation queue. The reservation list saw rapid growth, surpassing 5 million sign-ups by October 2015, reflecting strong global interest even before widespread availability. OnePlus announced a transition away from the invite system, shifting to open sales starting December 5, 2015, to make the device more accessible after the initial exclusivity phase, with the change applied permanently to the OnePlus 2. This move followed high demand, including a rapid sell-out of 30,000 units in China within 64 seconds of the initial release there.

Open sales

The open sales for the OnePlus 2 commenced on October 12, 2015, marking a shift from the restrictive invite system that had built significant hype around the device. This initial event allowed unrestricted purchases for one hour only, starting at 12:00 p.m. PDT in and 12:00 p.m. CEST in through OnePlus.net and select Amazon marketplaces, with following at 12:00 p.m. HKT. In , availability opened simultaneously via Amazon.in from 12:00 p.m. IST, extending access to a key without the need for invites. High demand during this first wave overwhelmed stock levels, resulting in rapid sell-outs and subsequent shipping delays that frustrated many customers eager to purchase without barriers. OnePlus responded by improving inventory management, scheduling additional limited-time open sales events—such as an extended window on October 13, 2015, from 8:00 a.m. IST in while supplies lasted—to better handle global demand and reduce wait times. Further expansions broadened distribution, with ongoing open sales on Amazon.in in India by late November 2015, reflecting OnePlus's efforts to scale logistics for broader accessibility. By December 5, 2015, the company ended the invite requirement entirely for the OnePlus 2, achieving full open availability in select markets including North America, Europe, and India, which alleviated previous supply constraints and supported sustained sales through 2016.

Design and hardware

Build quality

The OnePlus 2 features a unibody construction with an outer frame made from a lightweight aluminum-magnesium alloy, providing structural integrity while keeping the overall weight manageable. This metal frame is accented by elements and includes visible antenna lines at the top and bottom to facilitate wireless signal transmission without compromising the premium aesthetic. The back panel is removable for battery access and SIM tray insertion, supporting dual-SIM functionality via a tray that accommodates two nano-SIM cards. Measuring 151.8 mm in height, 74.9 mm in width, and 9.85 mm in thickness, the device weighs 175 grams, offering a balanced profile suitable for one-handed use despite its 5.5-inch . The design incorporates a gentle curve along the edges and back for improved and grip, reducing slippage during handling. Durability is enhanced by a Corning Gorilla Glass 3 front panel, which provides scratch and impact resistance, though the device lacks an official IP rating for water or dust resistance. The sandstone-textured back cover adds a tactile, grippy surface that contributes to everyday handling without a glossy finish prone to fingerprints. An alert slider on the left side allows quick toggling between ring, vibrate, and silent modes, improving user convenience without navigating software menus. Available only in a Black finish, the 2's color option emphasizes a matte, durable texture over glossy alternatives. The home button on the front integrates a capacitive for secure unlocking.

Display

The OnePlus 2 features a 5.5-inch IPS LCD display with a Full HD resolution of 1920 × 1080 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 401 ppi. This in-cell panel delivers vibrant colors and an impressive 1500:1 , providing deeper blacks and enhanced clarity that approaches AMOLED-like quality for an IPS panel. The display achieves a peak brightness of 585 nits, enabling strong sunlight readability even in outdoor conditions. It is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, which offers scratch resistance and durability against everyday wear. The screen incorporates 2.5D curved glass edges for a smoother feel during swipes and improved aesthetics. Touch input is handled via a capacitive multi-touch system supporting up to 10 simultaneous points of contact, facilitating precise gesture navigation integrated with the device's software.

Processor and memory

The OnePlus 2 is powered by the 810 v2.1 chipset, a 64-bit octa-core processor featuring four Cortex-A57 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz for high-performance tasks and four Cortex-A53 cores at 1.5 GHz for . This configuration provided robust computational capabilities for its time, enabling smooth execution of demanding applications and games. The integrated Adreno 430 GPU handled graphics-intensive workloads effectively, supporting features like advanced rendering in mobile gaming and video playback. Memory options varied by model: the base 16 GB eMMC 5.0 storage variant included 3 GB of LPDDR4 RAM, while the 64 GB version offered 4 GB of RAM for enhanced multitasking. Neither configuration supported microSD card expansion, limiting users to internal storage for media and apps. In practice, the RAM allocation allowed the device to manage multiple apps concurrently without frequent reloads, contributing to a fluid in everyday use. Performance benchmarks at launch highlighted the chipset's strengths, with the OnePlus 2 achieving an score of approximately 63,700 points, positioning it competitively among 2015 flagships equipped with similar processors. However, under sustained loads, the device exhibited thermal throttling, where the CPU and GPU reduced clock speeds to manage heat—dropping GPU by about 15% after four minutes of intensive use and stabilizing at 66% of peak after 17 minutes. This behavior, common to early Snapdragon 810 implementations, helped maintain stability but could impact prolonged gaming or benchmarking sessions.

Battery

The OnePlus 2 is equipped with a removable 3,300 mAh lithium-polymer (Li-Po) battery, providing a balance of capacity suitable for its flagship-level specifications at the time of release. In standardized tests, the battery delivered an endurance rating of 61 hours under GSMArena's methodology, which simulates one hour each of voice calls, web browsing, and video playback per day. Specific benchmarks included 22 hours and 35 minutes of talk time, 9 hours and 9 minutes of continuous web browsing over 3G, and 8 hours and 32 minutes of video playback at default brightness. Real-world mixed usage, encompassing a combination of calls, browsing, video, and standby, lasted approximately 11 hours and 24 minutes according to FoneArena's tests, while heavy Wi-Fi browsing yielded around 5 hours. Charging is facilitated through a USB Type-C port supporting standard speeds of up to 5V/2A without implementation, resulting in a full charge from 0% to 100% in about 3 hours and 20 minutes; the device does not support wireless charging. To enhance efficiency, the OnePlus 2 incorporates software-based features in , such as a low-power mode that throttles CPU performance and background activity, alongside adaptive brightness that adjusts screen illumination based on ambient light conditions. The 810 processor contributes to power consumption, with its higher thermal output under load potentially impacting overall endurance during intensive tasks.

Cameras

The OnePlus 2 features a rear camera with a 13-megapixel OmniVision OV13860 sensor, measuring 1/2.6 inches with 1.3-micrometer pixels, paired with an f/2.0 aperture lens consisting of six elements to minimize distortion and color aberration. Optical image stabilization (OIS) and laser autofocus enhance sharpness, while a dual-LED flash supports low-light capture. The front-facing camera uses a 5-megapixel OmniVision OV5648 sensor with an f/2.0 aperture and wide-angle lens, suitable for selfies and video calls. Camera features include HDR mode for improved , panorama stitching, and a manual mode allowing adjustments to ISO, , white balance, and focus. An update in March 2016 added native RAW (DNG) support to the default camera app, with earlier third-party app compatibility introduced in September 2015. Video recording capabilities encompass 4K UHD at 30 fps from the rear camera (including DCI 4K at 24 fps) and 1080p at 30 fps from the front, with additional options like 1080p at 60 fps and 720p at 120 fps for slow-motion effects on the rear. In performance, the rear camera delivers good detail and in daylight, with accurate white balance that closely matches reference images, though colors lean slightly warm indoors. Low-light shots benefit from OIS, enabling brighter exposures with reduced blur compared to the predecessor , but noise remains noticeable at high ISOs. HDR processing can introduce aggressive shadow lifting and ghosting due to exposure delays, resulting in slower capture times. Video footage from the rear maintains stable quality at 4K thanks to OIS, while the front camera produces adequate clips for casual use.

Software

Operating system

The OnePlus 2 launched in August 2015 with Android 5.1.1 Lollipop as its base operating system, providing a near-stock experience optimized for the device's hardware. This version introduced principles, enhancing visual consistency across the interface with card-based layouts and vibrant color schemes. Initial patches for the OnePlus 2 were delivered via over-the-air (OTA) updates, with the first major update in August 2015 addressing the Stagefright vulnerability and subsequent patches extending coverage through late 2015 and into 2016, including after the upgrade to Android 6.0 , to mitigate emerging threats. These updates ensured compliance with Google's early monthly bulletin program, focusing on critical exploits without requiring user intervention beyond installation. Core features of Android 5.1.1 on the OnePlus 2 included enhanced multi-tasking through the Overview screen, allowing users to switch between recent apps with visual previews and dismiss them efficiently. Notifications were improved with heads-up alerts for priority messages, appearing as floating cards over active apps, while seamless integration with services enabled features like automatic backups, location-based reminders, and cloud-synced contacts via and other ecosystem apps. The operating system facilitated easier customization, particularly root access, as the device's shipped unlocked, allowing users to gain elevated privileges using standard tools like ADB and custom recoveries without additional manufacturer restrictions. , the lightweight skin layered atop Android, further supported this by minimizing barriers to modifications while preserving core stability. Bloatware was minimal on the OnePlus 2, adhering closely to a stock Android philosophy with only essential pre-installed apps like a default keyboard (SwiftKey, which could be disabled), avoiding third-party redundancies and emphasizing user choice in app selection. Official software support for the OnePlus 2 concluded with Android 6.0.1 and security updates up to January 2017, with no upgrade to Android 7.0 provided.

User interface

The OnePlus 2 launched with 2.0, a custom user interface skin based on Android 5.1 Lollipop that drew inspiration from modifications to deliver a near-stock Android experience with targeted enhancements for usability and personalization. This version emphasized , avoiding heavy bloatware while introducing subtle tweaks to improve daily interactions, such as a customizable quick settings panel and app drawer that mirrored stock Android's familiarity. A standout feature was the Shelf, a dedicated leftmost panel accessible via a right swipe, which displayed frequently used apps, contacts, and weather information, and supported widget integration for quick access without cluttering the main homescreen. Gesture controls enhanced off-screen functionality, including double-tap to wake the display, drawing a circle to launch the camera, a "V" shape for the , and to play or pause music. Night Mode provided a dark theme option to reduce in low-light conditions by applying black backgrounds across the UI, while custom themes allowed users to select accent colors and apply pre-installed icon packs for visual personalization. Compared to Android, 2.0 integrated unique hardware-software synergies, such as the alert slider on the device's side that toggled between ring (all notifications), priority (vibrations and alerts only), and silent modes without navigating menus. The built-in received enhancements for easier navigation, including quick search, batch operations, and integration with options, surpassing basic capabilities. In the Chinese market, the OnePlus 2 shipped with HydrogenOS, a localized variant of that replaced services with Baidu equivalents, such as Baidu search and , while retaining a similar core UI but adding region-specific apps like payment tools and local directories. 2.0 was architected with modular updates in mind, facilitating a seamless upgrade path to Android 6.0 via 3.0, which introduced features like Doze mode and refined permissions without requiring a full hardware redesign.

Reception

Critical reviews

Upon its launch in 2015, the OnePlus 2 was widely regarded by reviewers as a compelling smartphone contender, offering flagship-level specifications at a fraction of the cost of premium devices, though it fell short of fully dethroning established flagships due to notable compromises. Critics praised the device's battery life, with its 3,300 mAh capacity delivering up to a full day of moderate use and over nine hours in continuous video playback tests, outperforming many contemporaries in endurance. Performance was another highlight, as the Snapdragon 810 processor and up to 4 GB of RAM enabled smooth multitasking, gaming, and app navigation without significant lag, making it feel responsive for everyday tasks. The build quality also impressed, featuring a premium metal frame and durable body that conveyed a high-end feel at its $329 starting price, enhancing its value proposition in the budget flagship segment. However, the Snapdragon 810 drew criticism for overheating during intensive gaming sessions, which could make the device uncomfortably warm to hold despite software optimizations. The camera's image processing was frequently called mediocre, with inconsistent exposure, noticeable shutter lag in low light, and grainy results indoors, limiting its appeal for photography enthusiasts despite hardware like optical . The absence of NFC was a common point of contention, excluding users from mobile payments and quick device pairing features available on most rivals. Review scores averaged around 4 out of 5 stars across major outlets, reflecting its strong value but tempered by these flaws; for instance, Android Authority praised its affordability and performance, while CNET awarded 7.8/10. In comparisons, the OnePlus 2 was often favored over the Nexus 6P for its lower price point, providing similar core specs like a 5.5-inch display and Snapdragon 810 without the $100 premium, though the Nexus edged out in build refinement. Versus the iPhone 6S, it was critiqued for lacking the seamless ecosystem integration and camera consistency of Apple's offering, but reviewers noted its superior battery and RAM made it a more affordable alternative despite the price gap. The invite-only purchasing system was occasionally referenced as a barrier to accessibility, complicating immediate access for interested buyers.

Sales figures

The OnePlus 2 demonstrated strong initial commercial performance, particularly in its home market of , where 30,000 units sold out in just 64 seconds during the device's first open sale without invites. This rapid sell-out highlighted robust domestic demand and helped solidify OnePlus's position in the competitive Chinese smartphone sector. Globally, the invite-only sales model generated exceptional interest, with over 5 million reservations accumulated by September 2015, surpassing the 2 million mark within the first week of launch. These figures underscored the device's appeal and contributed to OnePlus's overall projection of selling 2.5 to 3 million smartphones worldwide in 2015. The high demand was partly fueled by positive early reviews, which amplified word-of-mouth promotion in key regions. The 2 significantly boosted the brand's recognition in emerging markets like , where sales exceeded initial expectations and accounted for a notable portion of the company's . In , the device performed surprisingly well outside , helping OnePlus establish a foothold among premium yet affordable smartphone buyers. The launch of the in mid-2016 shifted focus to the successor, shortening the OnePlus 2's market longevity and contributing to a decline in its ongoing sales.

Issues and controversies

Invite system backlash

The OnePlus 2's sales were restricted to an invite-only model, requiring potential buyers to obtain a unique code through referrals, contests, or limited rollouts, which generated significant user frustration due to the difficulty in securing access. Many consumers reported prolonged waits, with invites not arriving despite registrations, leading to widespread complaints about the 's inefficiency in managing demand. This scarcity fueled a gray market where resold invites and devices at inflated prices, exacerbating issues for genuine buyers. Media outlets and analysts criticized the approach as an tactic, accusing of using it as a gimmick to build hype rather than a genuine supply constraint. Coverage highlighted how the system alienated potential new customers, particularly as early adopters showed less enthusiasm for upgrading amid repeated barriers. User discussions on tech sites echoed this, with frequent reports of invite hacks and fake sales further eroding trust. OnePlus defended the invite system as a necessary measure to control production and logistics for a young company, preventing overstock and ensuring quality. In response to backlash, the firm accelerated invite distributions, hosted charity auctions and contests for codes, and initiated limited open sales events. CEO issued a public apology in September 2015, admitting the launch had been mishandled with unmet timelines, and promising improvements like flash sales to boost availability. The controversy delayed wider adoption of the , as frustrated users opted for competitors or risked gray market purchases, though the device garnered over 2 million reservations within the first week after launch. Ultimately, phased out the system with one-hour open sales starting October 12, 2015, followed by holiday promotions and full unrestricted access from December 5, 2015.

Hardware problems

The OnePlus 2's 810 processor contributed to overheating concerns common among early implementations of the chipset, with the device warming noticeably during extended gaming sessions or 4K video recording. Reviews indicated surface temperatures rising to around 40°C under load, prompting thermal throttling to maintain stability, though the phone's sandstone back cover helped diffuse heat effectively. To address these issues preemptively, down-clocked the CPU from 2.0GHz to 1.8GHz, which reduced peak heat generation compared to other Snapdragon 810 devices like the HTC One M9. The integrated fingerprint , positioned as a capacitive home button, faced criticism for inconsistent performance in initial firmware releases, often requiring multiple swipes or firmer pressure for successful reads, which disrupted one-handed use. This inaccuracy stemmed from sensitivity calibration challenges, leading to occasional failed unlocks even after proper enrollment. Later software updates partially mitigated these problems by refining algorithms and touch detection. Some early production units exhibited build quality inconsistencies, including a rough rear finish that felt abrasive and contributed to a less premium hand feel, alongside reports of random restarts during routine tasks like camera launches or charging. The device's increased thickness and weight relative to its predecessor exacerbated grip issues for some users. In September 2015, reports emerged of pre-installed and on select OnePlus 2 units sold through unofficial retailers, particularly Chinese variants distributed outside official channels, which compromised user by injecting unwanted apps. OnePlus responded by advising affected owners to perform factory resets and emphasized that official inventory was unaffected.

Legacy

Official support

The 2 launched with 2.0 based on Android 5.1 in August 2015. Subsequent updates included 2.2.1 in March 2016, which introduced RAW photo support in the default camera app along with general bug fixes and performance improvements. In May 2016, rolled out 3.0, upgrading the device to Android 6.0 and adding features like Doze for better battery efficiency. The software received incremental updates through 3.6.1 in October 2017, which included the October 2017 Android security patch, fixes for the WPA2 vulnerability (), and additional bug fixes addressing issues such as overheating during intensive use. OnePlus provided security patches for the OnePlus 2 into 2018, aligning with its policy of two years of major Android updates followed by one additional year of security support. However, the device did not receive official updates to Android 7.0 or later versions. Support ended around 2018 with no further over-the-air (OTA) updates issued thereafter. The came with a standard one-year limited covering manufacturing defects and hardware malfunctions from the date of purchase. For qualifying hardware issues within the period, offered replacements or repairs, with some cases extending coverage for delays in service resolution. Following the end of official support, users turned to -driven alternatives for continued .

Community modifications

Despite official updates for the OnePlus 2 ceasing in 2018, the device's community has sustained its usability through extensive aftermarket modifications, focusing on software extensions and hardware tweaks to address aging components and performance limitations. Custom ROMs remain a cornerstone of community efforts, with LineageOS offering builds starting from version 14.1 based on Android 7.1 Nougat and extending to unofficial beta versions like 22.2 on Android 15 as of late 2024. Resurrection Remix, known for its customization options derived from LineageOS source code, provided stable builds for the OnePlus 2 up to Android 10 (version 8.6) as of May 2021, though support has since shifted to other ROMs for newer Android iterations; unofficial builds have pushed compatibility up to Android 9 Pie and beyond through developer ports. Rooting the OnePlus 2 is straightforward using Magisk, a systemless rooting solution that integrates seamlessly with custom recoveries like TWRP, allowing users to gain elevated privileges without voiding core functionality on older firmware. The device also supports Xposed framework compatibility via modern variants like LSPosed or EdXposed when paired with Magisk, enabling modular tweaks for UI customization and app behaviors on Android versions up to 14. Hardware modifications have focused on mitigating the Snapdragon 810's notorious overheating and the original 3300 mAh battery's degradation over time. Community guides detail battery replacements using compatible third-party cells to restore capacity and extend daily usage, often requiring disassembly tools for the non-removable . Cooling solutions include adding pads or aftermarket heat sinks to the area, which help reduce throttling during intensive tasks like gaming, as shared in developer forums addressing the processor's thermal profile. The XDA Developers forum remains the primary hub for OnePlus 2 modifications, with active threads discussing ROM flashing, kernel tweaks, and troubleshooting as of 2024. Additionally, postmarketOS provides a Linux-based alternative, with downstream kernel support (version 3.10.108) enabling basic functionality like USB networking and touchscreen input, though features such as Wi-Fi and camera remain non-operational as of the latest documented ports. By 2025, the OnePlus 2's modifications cater primarily to tinkerers seeking to repurpose the device for development or lightweight tasks, lacking mainstream viability due to its dated hardware and security constraints compared to contemporary smartphones.

References

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