OxygenOS 16 Open Beta Program has officially launched in India, giving OnePlus users exclusive early access to Android 16 features. This limited-time program offers flagship device owners the chance to experience cutting-edge improvements before the stable release on October 16, 2025. The registration window closes on October 13, 2025, making immediate action essential for interested users.
Key Points
- Registration deadline: October 13, 2025 – only 1 day remaining for applications
- Eligible devices: OnePlus 13, 13R, 13S, 12, 12R, and OnePlus Open foldable
- Regional availability: Currently restricted to Indian users only
- Stable release: OxygenOS 16 launches October 16, 2025 for general users
- Application method: Eligibility quiz system through device settings with 3 attempts allowed
What is the OxygenOS 16 Beta Registration Process?
The OxygenOS 16 beta registration requires users to complete an eligibility assessment through their device settings. Unlike traditional open beta programs, OnePlus implemented a quiz-based qualification system to ensure dedicated testers participate in the program.
To begin registration, navigate to Settings > System & update > Software Update, then tap the three dots and select Beta Program. The eligibility questionnaire evaluates user knowledge and commitment, with participants needing to achieve a qualifying score from three available attempts.
OnePlus Android 16 Update Features and Improvements
The OnePlus Android 16 update brings significant enhancements to the user experience across multiple areas. Performance improvements include smoother animations, faster system responsiveness, and enhanced UI design throughout the interface.
Key features include Live alert support for expanded applications, predictive back gesture implementation, and lock screen widgets functionality. The update also introduces new Flux themes features and cosmetic improvements that modernize the overall visual experience.
Similar to how Samsung approaches major updates with their One UI 8.5 features and release schedule, OnePlus focuses on performance optimization and user interface refinements in OxygenOS 16.
OxygenOS 16 Eligible Devices and Compatibility
OxygenOS 16 eligible devices currently include six OnePlus flagship models participating in the beta program. The OnePlus 13 series leads compatibility with the 13, 13R, and 13S variants all receiving beta access.
Previous generation devices like the OnePlus 12 and 12R also qualify for beta testing, along with the OnePlus Open foldable device. This device selection mirrors OnePlus’s commitment to supporting recent flagship models with major Android updates.
The hardware requirements align with devices powered by premium processors, similar to how the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 delivers ultimate speed and AI power in next-generation smartphones.
OnePlus 16 Beta Features Deep Dive
OnePlus 16 beta features focus on three core improvement areas: performance, design, and functionality. The performance enhancements deliver faster app launches, reduced system lag, and improved multitasking capabilities compared to OxygenOS 15.
Design improvements include refined animations, updated iconography, and enhanced visual consistency across system applications. The interface modernization creates a more cohesive user experience while maintaining OnePlus’s signature clean aesthetic.
Functionality additions expand user control options with new customization settings, improved notification management, and enhanced privacy controls built into Android 16’s foundation.
OxygenOS 16 Release Date and Rollout Timeline
The OxygenOS 16 release date is confirmed for October 16, 2025, just four days after the current beta registration deadline. This accelerated timeline demonstrates OnePlus’s confidence in the beta testing phase and readiness for stable deployment.
The rollout strategy prioritizes OnePlus 13 series devices for initial stable release access, followed by OnePlus 12 series and OnePlus Open in subsequent phases. This phased approach ensures optimal update quality while managing deployment logistics across different device generations.
The timeline positions OnePlus ahead of competitors in Android 16 adoption, similar to how manufacturers compete for early flagship releases like the anticipated Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra launch date in January 2026.
OnePlus Beta Program India Exclusive Access
OnePlus beta program India currently restricts participation to Indian users exclusively, with plans for EU/UK and North American expansion in future phases. This regional limitation positions India as the primary testing market for OxygenOS 16 features and stability.
The India-first approach allows OnePlus to gather focused feedback from a concentrated user base before global expansion. Indian users benefit from early access while contributing valuable testing data for worldwide rollout optimization.
This exclusive access mirrors industry trends where manufacturers often select specific regions for beta testing, similar to how brands like Nothing plan strategic launches with devices like the Nothing Phone 4a Pro appearing in IMEI listings ahead of official announcements.
Installation Requirements and Precautions
Beta software installation requires careful consideration of potential risks including bugs, incomplete features, and performance issues. OnePlus recommends against installing beta updates on primary devices due to these inherent testing-phase limitations.
Users should backup important data before installation and maintain access to stable firmware for potential rollback needs. The beta testing experience serves advanced users comfortable with troubleshooting potential issues during the development process.
Conclusion
The OxygenOS 16 Open Beta Program represents a critical opportunity for OnePlus users to experience Android 16 features ahead of the October 16 stable release. With registration closing on October 13, 2025, interested users must act immediately to secure beta access through the eligibility assessment process. This program demonstrates OnePlus’s commitment to user feedback integration while advancing their software development timeline in the competitive smartphone market.
