OnePlus could foray into IoT and wearables market, foldable phone not coming anytime soon

OnePlus could foray into IoT and wearables market, foldable phone not coming anytime soon
HIGHLIGHTS

OnePlus says it is paying very close attention to IoT (Internet of Things) devices and wearables.

OnePlus CEO says he sees foldable phones as more conceptual.

OnePlus is also considering to make India the global base for its 5G efforts including device exports and R&D.

OnePlus started off as a smartphone brand, ventured into the television market recently and it could now be looking to expand even further. The company could foray into the IoT and wearable market soon. While the smartphone industry is moving forward towards foldable phones, a OnePlus foldable phone is not coming anytime soon.

In an interview with OnePlus CEO Pete Lau, ET asked him the products that OnePlus could release in future. He said that OnePlus is focusing on “seamless connectivity among those spaces where mobile experience is most critical.” He added, “We are paying very close attention to IoT (Internet of Things) devices and wearables.” The company’s vision is to make products that give users a seamlessly connected experience by creating an ecosystem of connected spaces. Hence, we could see a wearable device from OnePlus soon. 

While the mobile industry is looking forward to introducing foldable displays on various devices including smartphones and laptops, OnePlus CEO says he sees foldable phones as more conceptual. “It is a screen technology and not a tremendous technical achievement.” Citing sale numbers of the current foldable phones, Lau says the technology is not driving value to users. However, if the technology expands in the long-term, there could be a potential for OnePlus making a foldable phone.

In terms of smartphone innovation, the CEO says, “there will be an improvement in user experience and that will come from a focus on seamless connectivity which is a focus on across the industry.” Further, the company is looking at localization of services in India. While OnePlus Pay is a start, the company is not set on other services yet.

OnePlus is also considering making India the global base for its 5G efforts including device exports and R&D. OnePlus plans to increase its employee base from 300 to 1000 in India in the next two years.

Prakhar Khanna

Prakhar Khanna

I write about tech stuff and tell (stupid) jokes View Full Profile

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