OnePlus to Replace Iconic Alert Slider with Customisable Button
In a move that has sparked significant discussion among OnePlus fans, OnePlus CEO Pete Lau has announced the company’s decision to phase out its signature Alert Slider in favour of a new, customisable button on future smartphones.
Lau detailed the change in a lengthy community post, explaining that the Alert Slider, a hardware switch, had reached its limitations in terms of functionality and customisation. “As a hardware switch, the Alert Slider’s capabilities were inherently restricted,” Lau stated. “We wanted to provide users with more flexibility and control over their device’s functions.”
The new button, described as “a smarter, customisable button,” aims to offer greater versatility. While it will retain the ability to switch sound profiles without unlocking the phone, users will also be able to assign other functions to it, enhancing personalisation.
However, the decision has drawn criticism from some quarters. Critics question why OnePlus didn’t opt for a software-driven solution for the Alert Slider. After all, this approach could have allowed customisation while still preserving the iconic feature. Furthermore, some worry that this change closely resembles Apple’s decision to replace the mute switch with the Action Button on its latest iPhones.
Lau addressed the rationale behind the change, emphasising the need for improved device space utilisation and structural enhancements. “This change allows us to better utilise the device’s space, explore new layouts, and make structural improvements while keeping performance top-notch,” he explained.
Despite the controversial decision, OnePlus assures users that the new button will still allow quick switching between sound profiles. However, for those who prefer the Alert Slider, it will continue to be available on current OnePlus models. Additionally, it will be featured on the OPPO Find X8 series and the Find N5. This is because of the close relationship between the two companies.
