OnePlus’ claim to fame has, for a long while, been moderate costs on high-end hardware. That may change this year, however, as costs keep on ascending on all Android flagships, the OnePlus 8 will follow thanks in part to 5G connectivity.
In an interview with CNET, OnePlus CEO Pete Lau talked about some of the organization’s plans for the upcoming OnePlus 8, the cost is one part of the discussion. His main focus, however, was on 5G connectivity.
Lau says that the OnePlus 8 series is going “all in” on 5G connectivity, much similar to the Galaxy S20 series that propelled for the current month.
The base model Galaxy S20 comes in at an incredible $999, however, Lau says that OnePlus won’t be going very that far. He says, rather, that the “Pro” model will be the most costly gadget in the lineup with the regular OnePlus 8 at a more “accessible” price tag.
For what reason are these costs going up in the first place? Lau clarifies that OnePlus has “always had a position in creating the best product possible at the best price point,” yet that the technology required for 5G “does add costs, so costs have risen in comparison to 4G products.” Looking back, the OnePlus 7 Pro expense about $600 when it initially debuted, yet the OnePlus 7 Pro 5G costs $840.
At present, the OnePlus 8 series is relied upon to come in three models — two of which are affirmed in this interview — and may launch when mid-April. The OnePlus 8 Pro is additionally expected to deliver some long-awaited highlights, as well, including IP68 water resistance and wireless charging.