OnePlus 13 Likely to Replace Alert Slider With Multi-Function Button – In a significant shift, OnePlus has officially replaced its iconic Alert Slider with a new customizable Action Button on the latest OnePlus 13T. This change marks a notable departure from a feature that has been a hallmark of OnePlus devices for nearly a decade. The new Action Button aims to offer enhanced functionality and personalization options for users, aligning with modern smartphone trends.
The OnePlus 13T, launched on April 24, 2025, in China, introduces this change as part of a broader redesign that includes a compact form factor, powerful internals, and a focus on user customization. This article delves into the reasons behind the replacement, the capabilities of the new Action Button, and what this means for both long-time OnePlus fans and new users.
OnePlus 13 Likely to Replace Alert Slider With Multi-Function Button
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Device | OnePlus 13T |
| Launch Date | April 24, 2025 (China) |
| Display | 6.32-inch 1.5K OLED, 120Hz refresh rate, LTPO 8T panel |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite |
| RAM & Storage | Up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM, up to 1TB UFS 4.0 storage |
| Battery | 6,260mAh with 80W SuperVOOC fast charging |
| Cameras | Dual 50MP rear cameras (main and 2x telephoto), 16MP front camera |
| New Feature | Customizable Action Button replacing the traditional Alert Slider |
| Operating System | ColorOS 15 based on Android 15 |
| Price (China) | Starting at CNY 3,399 (~$466) |
| Official Website | OnePlus Official Site |
The transition from the traditional Alert Slider to the customizable Action Button in the OnePlus 13T represents a major evolution in OnePlus’s smartphone design. While some users may miss the simplicity of the old slider, the new button offers significantly more flexibility. Combined with a powerful processor, long battery life, and quality cameras, the OnePlus 13T is a promising flagship for users seeking innovation and performance.
The Evolution: From Alert Slider to Action Button
What Was the Alert Slider?
Introduced in 2015, the Alert Slider was a physical switch on OnePlus devices that allowed users to toggle between Ring, Vibrate, and Silent modes without unlocking the phone. It was lauded for its convenience and became a distinctive feature of OnePlus smartphones.
Why the Change?
According to OnePlus CEO Pete Lau, the decision to replace the Alert Slider was driven by the desire to offer more functionality and personalization. Lau stated that the slider occupied significant internal space for a single function, and a customizable button could provide a better user experience by allowing multiple functions to be assigned to a single physical control.
Additionally, as smartphones continue to evolve into more versatile productivity and lifestyle devices, manufacturers are shifting focus to software-based flexibility supported by hardware elements. The Action Button embraces this philosophy.
Introducing the Action Button
The new Action Button retains the core functionality of the Alert Slider—switching between sound profiles—but adds the ability to customize its actions. Users can assign different functions to various press types (single tap, double tap, long press), such as launching specific apps, toggling the flashlight, or activating Do Not Disturb mode. This change aligns with trends seen in other smartphones, like Apple’s Action Button on the iPhone 15 Pro.
OnePlus 13T: A Closer Look
Design and Display
The OnePlus 13T features a 6.32-inch 1.5K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and LTPO 8T panel, offering smooth visuals and energy efficiency. The design is compact, catering to users who prefer smaller devices without compromising on performance.
It also includes an under-display fingerprint scanner and Corning Gorilla Glass protection, adding durability and ease of use.
Performance and Battery
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, the 13T offers up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage, ensuring top-tier performance. The device houses a 6,260mAh battery with 80W SuperVOOC fast charging, providing extended usage and quick recharging.
According to OnePlus, a 0 to 100% charge can be completed in under 40 minutes—ideal for users with a fast-paced lifestyle.
Camera Capabilities
The smartphone boasts dual 50MP rear cameras—a main sensor and a 2x telephoto lens—delivering high-quality photos and videos. The front-facing 16MP camera ensures clear selfies and video calls.
AI enhancements, improved night mode, and 4K video recording capabilities round out the camera experience, making the 13T suitable for mobile photography enthusiasts.
Customizing the Action Button: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Go to the Settings app on your OnePlus 13T.
- Select “Buttons & Gestures” then choose “Action Button”.
- Assign functions to different gestures:
- Single Press: Toggle silent mode or open an app.
- Double Press: Enable flashlight or other shortcuts.
- Long Press: Launch camera or voice assistant.
- Test the button to confirm actions work as expected.
Note: Available functions may differ based on software updates.
Availability and Pricing
The OnePlus 13T was launched in China on April 24, 2025, with prices starting at CNY 3,399 (approximately $466). While there is no official confirmation regarding global availability, it’s anticipated that the device may launch in other markets under different naming conventions, such as the OnePlus 13S.
Analysts predict a global rollout announcement during the second half of 2025, potentially alongside other OnePlus ecosystem products.
Market Context: Competing With Industry Trends
The move to a customizable Action Button reflects broader industry trends. Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro and Samsung’s latest foldables also support multifunctional side buttons. With smartphone hardware reaching maturity, companies are now focusing on micro-innovations that improve the user experience without disrupting core functionality.
For OnePlus, this could be a strategic pivot to attract a more mainstream audience while preserving the enthusiast appeal.
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FAQs about OnePlus 13 Likely to Replace Alert Slider With Multi-Function Button
Q1: Can I still switch between Ring, Vibrate, and Silent modes with the Action Button?
Yes, the Action Button retains the core functionality of the Alert Slider.
Q2: Is the Action Button customizable?
Yes. You can assign different functions to single, double, and long press gestures.
Q3: Will the OnePlus 13T be available globally?
As of now, the device is only available in China, but a global release is expected.
Q4: Does the OnePlus 13T support wireless charging?
No, it only supports wired 80W SuperVOOC fast charging.
Q5: What OS does the OnePlus 13T run?
It runs ColorOS 15 based on Android 15.
Q6: Will older OnePlus phones get the Action Button feature?
No, it’s a hardware feature exclusive to newer models.
