OnePlus and Realme Are Reportedly Merging: Here Is the Full Story

Earlier this year, Realme merged with Oppo to operate as a sub-brand of the latter in a major business reshuffle. Now, according to a fresh report by Chinese outlet Leifeng, OnePlus and Realme could be merging to move toward a deeper operational integration in China. 

Oppo's Restructuring Could Combine OnePlus and Realme Product Teams

As per the latest report, a new "sub-series product centre" has reportedly been established to merge product teams from both OnePlus and Realme across domestic and overseas markets.

The division is reportedly going to be led by Li Jie Louis, President of OnePlus China, who will report to Liu Zuohu (also known as Pete Lau), Co-Founder and CEO of OnePlus. The goal is believed to be streamlining product planning, reducing duplication and improving coordination between the two brands. 

Image Credit: Sreeyash Lohiya/ Shutterstock

Despite the reported backend OnePlus Realme merger, both brands are still expected to operate independently in the market, at least for now. OnePlus is likely to retain its premium positioning, while Realme continues to target the value-driven segment. 

The report also lands at a time when OnePlus has been caught in a cycle of conflicting narratives around its future. Earlier claims about OnePlus being dismantled were officially denied by the brand, calling such reports inaccurate. Subsequent rumours suggested a potential OnePlus global shutdown in regions like the US and Europe, though these too remain unverified. 

Interestingly, recent developments on the ground paint a different picture. OnePlus expanded its service network in India a while back by leveraging Oppo's infrastructure. This was proof that OnePlus will not slow down, at least in India. 

For now, without formal confirmation from the brands, the reported OnePlus Realme merger remains a report for now. However, taken alongside earlier reshuffle claims, it suggests Oppo could be gradually unifying its ecosystem to stay competitive, while keeping its brand identities intact on the surface.