![5 reasons why OxygenOS is arguably the best version of Android [Video] – 9to5Google](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fapiv2.oltnews.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2020%2F03%2FOxygenOS-10-scaled.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Variety is the spice of life, and while there are a ton of third-party skins on Android that offer the same basic experience, in our opinion, OxygenOS is definitely one of, if not, the better there.
Having options for the user interface and experience of your smartphone is one of the main strengths – and certainly weaknesses – of the purchase or daily use of an Android smartphone or tablet.
If all Android phones came with what most people call “stock” versions of the mobile operating system, you have to admit that it would be an overall outdated experience. And we understood, Android is not for everyone.
Samsung has a user interface, Oppo has Color OS, Huawei has EMUI, Xiaomi has MIUI, even the Pixel has its own version or branch separate from Android. All of them offer their own reasonably unique take and basic experience, but, at least in recent years, we believe the benchmark has become OxygenOS very regularly.
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With that in mind, here are five reasons why we think OxygenOS is arguably the best way to experience Android – and should potentially be the default experience for beginners.
Light skin
While other OEMs will completely overhaul the appearance of the basic Android operating system, OnePlus prefers to keep the changes minimal. At first glance, the changes are purely cosmetic compared to the experience of Pixel phones. This is a major reason why many “purists” find OnePlus smartphones so attractive.
This means that it looks “clean” compared to the exaggerated modifications often made by likes of Huawei, Samsung et al. It is understandable that some people like to have additional functionality, OxygenOS contains a lot of it, but it manages to do this without sacrificing the appearance or preloading of bloatware. You’ll find a few additional features and apps for use, but none that negatively affect device performance or spoil your overall experience.
At first glance, this seems rather simple, but the experience is far from it.
Improved accessibility features
OxygenOS adds a ton of small accessibility and access features to Android, some of which aren’t available anywhere else, but all of them are exceptionally executed. A good example is the quick launch function or screen gestures. The latter allows you to draw on the lock screen to activate things like the camera or turn on the flashlight.
In addition to this, OxygenOS includes the ability to take screenshots with a triple swipe up on your screen, stand up to answer calls, switch to answer calls, and much more. While hardware isn’t necessarily part of the software experience in the same way, you also have a dedicated toggle to enter and exit silent, vibrate, and ring modes. OnePlus really thought about how accessible certain features are, which is a big advantage.
We haven’t even managed other great extras like Power Off Scheduling, App Locker and Parallel Apps. All of them give you additional controls that you may not find elsewhere and really reiterate the power and flexibility of Android.
Speed
This is partly due to the hardware, but in almost all cases, the inertia and sense of speed with OxygenOS are light years ahead of any Android phone. Obviously, being fast doesn’t necessarily mean your software experience is the best, but it really helps to ensure that OnePlus phones feel really catchy everywhere.
Applications load quickly, scrolling is sharper and much more responsive. OnePlus increases animations and movements to really give the impression that OxygenOS is by far the fastest version of Android. The introduction of a refresh rate of 90 Hz further increases the stake. The OnePlus “Fast and Smooth” ethos is one that really sticks.
Extensive customization of the device
Android 10 on Pixel brought with it the most detailed set of customization options for the “stock” versions of the operating system. But OnePlus has offered better control options for much longer, allowing you to activate a system-wide dark theme, as well as accent and color changes. This is the tip of the iceberg, because even the system font can be changed between two options, if you prefer.
The dedicated customization section also gives you better control than the basic Styles and Wallpapers option on Pixel devices running Android 10. In addition to that, you can add or remove icons from the status bar, change battery indicators, etc., without having to delve into developer settings.
OxygenOS gives you almost all the controls of a launcher like Nova, but right out of the box.
OxygenOS Open Beta Program
You can argue that this one is a little unfair, since many other manufacturers offer beta versions for developers and preview programs. However, the OnePlus Beta program is one of the the better because it often gives you a taste of the features and functions to come well before a stable release. You also get regular security fixes and bug fixes.
Unlike the Android Developer Preview program, betas tend to be much more stable on a day-to-day basis and are open to all OnePlus owners. If you just need the latest features, this is also a fantastic way to try things out well before the crowds.
What is your favorite Android skin or OxygenOS feature?
You may not agree, and if so, what is your favorite Android OS skin or build? If you have a preferred OxygenOS feature, be sure to let us know in the comments section below as well.
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