The possibility of OnePlus exiting significant markets, including the US, Europe, and India, appears to be forthcoming. A report surfaced earlier this year, suggesting that the phonemaker would cease operations in these regions, though the company initially denied these claims. However, recent developments indicate that these reports may hold some truth, with plans to discontinue operations in the US and Europe reportedly expected to be announced this week.

According to a report from Bloomberg, the decision to withdraw from these markets is part of a broader restructuring initiative by OnePlus’ parent company, Oppo. This strategy includes the sister brand Realme also adjusting its presence in certain markets. As of now, OnePlus has not issued any official comment regarding these claims.

India Today Tech has reached out to the company and will update the story upon receiving a response. There are speculations suggesting that OnePlus might also consider discontinuing operations in India in 2027.

Operational Changes Driven by Financial Pressures

The report suggests that OnePlus is likely to halt operations in most global markets outside China due to ongoing financial challenges in its smartphone business and decreased market traction in the US, Europe, and India. Geopolitical concerns regarding the sale of Chinese-branded phones in the US, alongside a lawsuit from Apple related to trade secrets, are also cited as contributing factors to the company’s decision.

Instead of a uniform retreat across Europe, reports indicate that Oppo aims to concentrate on Central Europe. In contrast, Realme is expected to target regions such as the Nordics, including Finland, Denmark, Sweden, and Iceland, where it has experienced more favourable results. Realme is also reportedly contemplating an exit from China, although it may continue its operations in India.

Once celebrated by technology enthusiasts, OnePlus has faced considerable difficulties in recent years. Amid these challenges, Oppo has been focusing on advancing its flagship devices, such as the Oppo Find X9 Ultra, into a broader range of markets, which includes India.

Recent Developments and Product Changes for OnePlus

In recent months, OnePlus has transitioned various aspects of its service provision. Owners of OnePlus devices can now access support through Oppo’s service network, leading to speculation that OnePlus service centres in India may close completely. Furthermore, OnePlus has launched a new N series of smartphones that are positioned below the Nord lineup; however, the future of flagship phone releases in India remains uncertain.

Reports have emerged indicating that in particular European markets like Germany and Spain, the OnePlus website has started displaying Oppo products, accompanied by promotional messages highlighting Oppo’s offerings. The language used suggests a strategic shift towards integrating the brands more closely.

It has also been indicated that Oppo is planning to phase out distinct Android skins such as OnePlus’ OxygenOS and Realme’s Realme UI, with the intention of standardising all phones from these brands to utilise Oppo’s ColorOS. This move comes despite the fact that all three operating systems already share a common codebase.

The overall smartphone market has faced numerous challenges, including rising memory costs and a shortage of components, prominently affecting lower-cost devices such as those in the OnePlus Nord series. A recent Counterpoint report revealed that smartphone shipments have dropped to the lowest levels since the summer of 2013, coinciding with a period prior to the establishment of OnePlus. This downturn further complicates the operational landscape for the brand and its future prospects.

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