In the world of smartphones, the importance of automation cannot be overstated. Many leading brands have recognized this, and today, Samsung, Apple, and Xiaomi provide robust automation tools within their software ecosystems. Whether it's Samsung's Modes and Routines, Apple's Shortcuts, or Xiaomi's newly introduced Automated Tasks in HyperOS, these features are transforming how users interact with their devices, offering convenience and enhancing productivity.
However, OnePlus seems to be falling behind in this area with the upcoming release of OxygenOS 15. While OnePlus is known for its smooth software experience and unique perks like Red Cable Club (RCC) benefits, the absence of a proper automation feature places the brand at a disadvantage. Let’s dive into the details and discuss why this missing feature is a significant setback for OnePlus.
Automation in Modern Smartphones: What Are We Missing?
In today's fast-paced world, users expect their smartphones to make life easier by automating repetitive tasks. Here's a breakdown of how different smartphone brands have already embraced this functionality:
Samsung (Modes and Routines): Samsung's Modes and Routines in One UI is a powerful automation tool that allows users to create custom routines based on triggers like location, time, device state, or connected accessories. For instance:
- Automatically switch to Do Not Disturb mode when you're in a meeting.
- Change screen brightness and enable battery-saving mode when the battery falls below a certain percentage.
- Launch music apps and activate Bluetooth when connecting to the car.
These custom routines help users reduce manual effort and enhance their daily experience.
Apple (Shortcuts): Apple’s Shortcuts app is perhaps one of the most advanced automation systems in any smartphone. It lets users create multi-step automations using an easy-to-understand, flow-based interface. Users can automate tasks like:
- Sending a message to a specific contact when leaving home.
- Turning off the Wi-Fi, enabling Low Power Mode, and launching an audiobook when starting a road trip.
- Scheduling a morning routine where your iPhone announces the weather, starts a playlist, and shows your calendar.
This tight integration with iOS allows Apple users to create sophisticated automations that save time and effort.
Xiaomi (Automated Tasks in HyperOS): Xiaomi’s HyperOS is the newest player to offer automation with their Automated Tasks feature. It works similarly to Samsung’s Modes and Routines but is deeply integrated into the MIUI ecosystem, offering unique triggers such as connectivity to smart devices and custom scenarios for home automation. Users can automate:
- Switching to silent mode at work or during sleep.
- Turning off mobile data at night.
- Activating the camera when a specific gesture is detected.
The Lack of Automation in OxygenOS 15: A Missed Opportunity
While OnePlus has always focused on delivering a fast, clean, and fluid user experience, the lack of automation tools in OxygenOS 15 feels like a glaring omission. Many users appreciate OnePlus devices for their near-stock Android experience, but that minimalist approach may now feel like a disadvantage as competitors have continued to add meaningful software features like automation.
What would automation look like in OxygenOS?
Had OnePlus introduced a similar feature, OxygenOS users could have benefited from scenarios like:
- Automatically doing activity in Apps.
- Silencing notifications during meetings or while sleeping.
- Launching navigation apps and enabling GPS as soon as the phone connects to the car’s Bluetooth.
Without this feature, users will have to rely on third-party apps or manual interventions, which can feel cumbersome compared to the seamless experiences available on competing platforms.
Why Automation Matters for OnePlus Users
Automation is more than just a fancy feature — it’s about creating a more efficient user experience. Here’s why this missing feature hurts OnePlus users:
Enhanced Productivity: Automating tasks like adjusting settings based on time, location, or usage patterns can save precious time. This feature would have streamlined everyday routines and cut down on repetitive tasks.
Seamless Personalization: Automation adds a layer of personalization that allows users to tailor their phone’s behavior to their lifestyle. For example, frequent travelers could set up automation routines for different time zones, Wi-Fi connections, and roaming settings.
Competitive Edge: OnePlus, once known as the "flagship killer," is facing fierce competition from brands that now offer both hardware and software excellence. The absence of a feature like automation could turn away potential buyers who prioritize ease of use and advanced features.
Unique OnePlus Benefits: RCC and Other Perks
It's important to recognize that OnePlus has some unique offerings, such as Red Cable Club (RCC), which brings benefits like exclusive discounts, extended warranties, and early access to sales. While these perks are appreciated, they don’t quite fill the gap left by missing core software features like automation.
What the Future Holds: Can OnePlus Catch Up?
OnePlus has always been responsive to community feedback, and many users are hopeful that a feature like automation will be added in future updates. However, for now, the lack of this functionality in OxygenOS 15 is a disappointment. In an era where automation is becoming a standard expectation for premium devices, this omission places OnePlus at a disadvantage against brands like Samsung, Apple, and Xiaomi, who are leading the charge in this area.
As we move forward, it will be interesting to see if OnePlus listens to its user base and adds automation to the mix, giving the OxygenOS experience a much-needed boost in functionality.
Conclusion: Time to Innovate
OnePlus has always been about speed, smoothness, and performance, but software features like automation are what truly set devices apart today. With OxygenOS 15, OnePlus has a chance to elevate the user experience by including automation tools that allow users to automate their routines and save time. If OnePlus wants to stay competitive in the smartphone market, addressing this missing feature should be a priority.
For now, OnePlus fans will need to rely on third-party solutions for automation, while the competition continues to push the boundaries of what's possible with smarter and more adaptive software. Hopefully, we’ll see OnePlus take action and integrate this much-needed feature in future updates, giving their loyal fanbase the best of both worlds — performance and innovation.
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