One plus set to Abandon Curved Edges to be Sleeker & Practical.

The OnePlus 13 may soon embrace a flat-edge design, a significant shift from the curved edges seen in recent OnePlus models. A leaked image, shared on Weibo and later removed, was spotted by 9to5Google, showcasing the upcoming flagship with flat sides. Though the change may seem subtle, it aligns OnePlus with a growing list of manufacturers moving towards the flat-edge trend, which many find more comfortable to hold.

This design shift can be traced back to 2020, when Apple reintroduced flat edges with the iPhone 12, a nod to the classic designs of the iPhone 4 and 5. Since then, other smartphone makers have followed suit. Samsung began straightening out its Galaxy S series with the S22, and Google’s most recent Pixel 9 phones also sport flat sides. Even Motorola, known for its curved “Edge” devices, has adopted flat edges for many of its recent models.

While this design change might not seem critical to users who immediately put their phones in cases, it’s a notable detail for enthusiasts who appreciate the nuances of phone aesthetics and ergonomics. Flat edges offer a more comfortable grip, making it easier to pick up the phone from a flat surface. Many argue that flat-sided phones also look more refined and polished, even if the overall result resembles the sleek design of an iPhone.

With the OnePlus 13 expected to launch in China soon, we won’t have to wait long to see how this new design plays out. Ultimately, whether or not it revolutionises the OnePlus lineup, the flat-edge trend appears to be gaining momentum across the smartphone industry.