OnePlus officially announced replacing its signature Alert Slider with a new customizable button. CEO Pete Lau made the announcement in a recent community post, justifying the move as an evolution for better functionality and user customization. The decision followed years of debate internally and feedback from users, especially after the OnePlus 10T release, which did not feature the Alert Slider.
The evolution of the Alert Slider
Ever since its launch in 2015 with the OnePlus 2, the Alert Slider has been one of the standout features, which made it convenient to toggle silent, vibrate, and ring modes. In time, the tactile switch won the hearts of users, such that it became a part of OPPO’s flagship phones too. Nevertheless, OnePlus has confirmed that the slider’s rigid hardware design did not allow it much scope for innovation.
In his announcement, Lau praised the Alert Slider but asked a pointed question: “How can it do more?” This question led to a re-examination of the feature’s utility in contemporary smartphone design. In OnePlus’ account, although the Alert Slider was handy, it took up a lot of space in the phone’s internal architecture, limiting design freedom and creativity.
Introducing the Customizable Button
The new solution is a customizable button that has been built to provide more functionality. OnePlus has assured customers that fast sound profile switching will always be a priority, but the new button will offer extra features. Users can now customize the button to perform different tasks, including opening certain applications, turning on the flashlight, or snapping screenshots.
“The answer? A smarter, more customizable button,” Lau explained, noting that the company desired to provide greater flexibility without compromising user convenience. The move follows contemporary smartphone patterns where consumers value more and more customization.
User feedback and future implementation
OnePlus understands that the elimination of the Alert Slider can have mixed responses, particularly from loyal followers. The company remains confident that the new button will be more personalized and responsive.
User feedback following the OnePlus 10T release was instrumental in making this choice. Several were disappointed that the slider was not included, prompting OnePlus to proceed cautiously over the last three years to create an appropriate alternative.
Although OnePlus hasn’t officially announced which phone will release with this customizable button, rumors have it coming with the OnePlus 14 lineup. The company is also requesting community members to suggest potential functionalities, supporting its user-centric focus.