OxygenOS 16 Internal Build Reveals Much Awaited Changes in the Pipeline

OnePlus' next operating system iteration is going to be the Android 16-based OxygenOS 16. While the brand is still actively pushing updates and upgrades to the Android 15-based Oxygen OS 15, looks like it is reserving some of the most requested features for the next iteration.

Fellow tech publication SmartPrix got early hands-on access to an exclusive internal build of OxygenOS 16. They were able to test the OS out in its nascent stages and were able to spot a few key additions that are making their way to eligible OnePlus smartphones later this year.

Starting with the most requested feature, OxygenOS 16 will finally support Lock Screen widgets. These widgets can range from weather information to app-specific widgets and can be placed in the bottom section of the lock screen.

We first saw London-based tech brand Nothing bring the ability to add widgets to the lock screen via Nothing OS 3.0. Later, Samsung and Google followed with their version of lock screen widgets. Now, looks like OnePlus will join the party too with OxygenOS 16.

OnePlus Community members have been asking for this functionality for quite some time now. So, it is good to see OnePlus finally giving its fans what they want.

The next major upgrade is also scheduled to arrive at the Lock Screen itself. However, this time around, it is going to be in the form of granular customisation options. Specifically, in the form of three different clock styles.

With OxygenOS 16, OnePlus users will be able to enjoy three different clock placement and behaviour mechanics. There is a new "full width stretched clock" option that will most likely add a depth effect to the lock screen clock and will enable a seamless transition between the AOD (Always On Display) and the lock screen.

Users will also be able to enjoy a "left or right two-thirds layout" option that is said to bring asymmetry to those who prefer that. Lastly, OxygenOS 16 will also let users enjoy a "top-left or top-right stretched clock" option that will bring a minimalistic approach to the lock screen clock face.

The last major update coming to OxygenOS 16 is in the form of UI and system animation polish and refinements. OnePlus' OxygenOS 15 is already quite fluid and refined when it comes to animations and overall UI experience.

However, looks like OnePlus is making these UI and system interactive elements feel much more natural and fluid. This will be noticable expecially during app transitions, menu interactions and settings navigation. Smartprix claims that these new refinements are best visible in the "Wallpaper and Style" interface and throughout system apps.

With that being said, this new update is not live for us at the time of writing and OnePlus has also not announced anything regarding its next operating system. If we are to go by earlier reports, the OxygenOS 16 stable build will likely hit eligible OnePlus smartphones in Q4 2025. So, stay tuned for an official announcement and keep an eye out at Beebom Gadgets for the latest news and updates on OxygenOS 16.