OnePlus tackles the Green Line Issue: Will the Worry-Free Solution win back Indian consumers?

Updated on 06-Dec-2024

For years, OnePlus has been celebrated for its innovation and user-first approach, creating a loyal community of tech enthusiasts in India. However, recent challenges such as the notorious green line issue on AMOLED displays and motherboard problems have cast a shadow over the brand’s reputation. The green line problem, where vertical lines inexplicably appear on the screen, has frustrated many users.

Acknowledging the growing concerns, OnePlus has launched its “Green Line Worry-Free Solution,” a comprehensive initiative aimed at addressing the issue head-on. Combining advanced display technology, rigorous testing, and an industry-first lifetime warranty, this move reflects OnePlus’ commitment to rebuilding trust in the highly competitive Indian smartphone market. But is it enough to win back the hearts of Indian consumers?

Credit: OnePlus Community

Let’s delve into the specifics of the green line issue, OnePlus’s solution, and whether this ambitious effort can truly restore faith in the brand.

The Issue at Hand

Green lines on AMOLED displays have been a sore point for smartphone users, with OnePlus devices being no exception. These vertical lines, which appear seemingly out of nowhere, are believed to result from a complex interplay of factors. According to tech experts, the causes range from manufacturing defects, poor sealing of AMOLED layers, or physical stress on the display, to excessive heat buildup. Many cases have also been reported shortly after software updates, sparking speculation about potential software-related triggers.

However, OnePlus has clarified that it does not attribute the issue to the software itself. Instead, the company believes the problem lies in the excess heat generated inside the phone. The same also happens during the update process. This heat can stress the display’s delicate AMOLED components, leading to the green line malformation. This distinction underscores the company’s focus on tackling the root cause—heat and environmental factors—rather than superficial fixes.

OnePlus’ Response: A Multifaceted Solution

OnePlus’s response, unveiled on December 6, 2024, takes a three-pronged approach:

1. Advanced Display Technology
The company has introduced an Enhanced Edge Bonding Layer using PVX edge-sealing materials. This technology is designed to combat the impact of moisture and oxygen penetration, key contributors to green line issues. OnePlus claims this innovation has significantly reduced display failures, even in India’s challenging climate.

2. Rigorous Quality Control
Every OnePlus phone now undergoes over 180 tests in extreme simulated conditions. From high-temperature endurance to structural durability, the brand is pushing the limits of its devices. The “Double 85” test (85°C and 85% humidity) is a new test added to the fray primarily to combat green line woes.

3. Lifetime Warranty
Perhaps the most consumer-friendly aspect is the lifetime warranty against the green line issue. This warranty applies to all OnePlus smartphones, old and new, setting an industry benchmark. By doing so, OnePlus aims to reassure users of its confidence in the durability of its displays.

Restoring Faith: A Consumer-Centric Move

OnePlus India CEO Robin Liu emphasised the brand’s “user-first approach,” describing the initiative as a testament to OnePlus’s commitment to quality. The lifetime warranty, in particular, is a standout feature.

These measures are likely to resonate with consumers who value longevity and reliability. For existing users, the extended warranty serves as a peace offering, while for potential buyers, it could tip the scales in favour of OnePlus over competitors.

Can OnePlus Win Back Indian Audiences?

The Indian smartphone market is fiercely competitive, with brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, and Realme offering a plethora of options. While OnePlus’s move is commendable, rebuilding trust will require more than just technical fixes—it hinges on consistent performance and effective communication.

The clarification around the causes of green line issues may help alleviate consumer confusion, but scepticism lingers about whether the problem has truly been solved. OnePlus’ proactive measures show promise, but the brand must continue to provide transparency in updates and maintain the reliability of its devices to reestablish its reputation.

Dhriti Datta

Perpetually sporting a death stare, this one can be seen tinkering around with her smartphone which she holds more dear than life itself and stuffing her face with copious amounts of bacon.

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