The smartphone market has long leaned toward larger screens, but what if OnePlus introduced a compact phone? Many brands have tried, only to eventually move back to larger sizes. Apple discontinued its Mini series after two generations, and Asus replaced its Zenfone 10 with the larger Zenfone 11 Ultra. Despite challenges like smaller batteries and compact cooling systems, modern technology could make a small OnePlus phone more viable than ever. But would it succeed?

Challenges of a Compact OnePlus Phone

A smaller smartphone comes with several drawbacks, which could make it a tough sell in today’s market.

One major issue is battery life. A compact phone naturally has less space for a large battery, and while newer chipsets are efficient, they can still consume a lot of power and generate heat. Heat dissipation is another concern—OnePlus’ flagship devices use large vapor chambers for cooling, but a mini-phone wouldn’t have the space for such systems, potentially leading to overheating and performance throttling.

Another challenge is camera technology. High-end sensors require space, and a compact device would need to compromise on camera size. This could result in a device that lacks the premium camera experience users expect from OnePlus. Additionally, a smaller screen may not appeal to users who enjoy watching content, a trend that has pushed the industry toward larger displays.

Why a OnePlus Mini Could Work

Despite these challenges, modern advancements in smartphone technology could make a OnePlus Mini a compelling option.

One of the biggest advantages would be the use of silicon-carbon batteries, as seen in the OnePlus 13 series. These batteries offer higher energy density, allowing for longer battery life even in a compact frame. Additionally, the latest processors are not only more powerful but also more energy-efficient, ensuring a smaller phone wouldn’t sacrifice too much performance.

Software improvements in photography also mean that even with smaller camera modules, computational photography could enhance image quality. Modern smartphones rely heavily on AI and image processing, which could compensate for the hardware limitations of a mini-phone.

A OnePlus Mini in the Nord Series?

A mini OnePlus device would likely make more sense as part of the Nord series rather than the flagship lineup. Nord models already focus on balancing price and performance, meaning compromises on size, battery, and cameras could be more acceptable.

To ensure a balance between compactness and usability, OnePlus could opt for a midrange 3nm or 4nm processor rather than a high-end chip that requires complex cooling solutions. A main camera with a solid sensor and an ultrawide lens would be a practical choice, while features like a telephoto lens could be skipped. Most importantly, battery life should not be sacrificed in favor of making the device ultra-thin.

Could a Compact Phone Regain Popularity?

While the smartphone industry has shifted toward larger screens, there is still a niche audience for compact devices. Many users with smaller hands or those looking for a more pocketable phone could find value in a OnePlus Mini. The key would be striking the right balance between size, performance, and usability.

Would OnePlus take the risk? If executed well, a OnePlus Mini could stand out in a market dominated by large-screen devices.