Some flagship smartphones that were recently launched have become more expensive. Apart from device manufacturers, suppliers are also contributing to the price increase by hiking their component prices. Qualcomm confirmed its upcoming high-end chipset will cost more, which could affect devices powered by that particular chipset, including the unannounced OnePlus 13. However, a new report suggests the handset will be spared from any price hike to remain competitive.
According to frequent and reliable leaker Digital Chat Station who shared details on Weibo (via Notebookcheck), OnePlus is set to announce the OnePlus 13 as early as this October in China, followed by a global launch. This will place the handset within an earlier launch window.
OnePlus 13 might command the same attractive price
Although the device is among the first batch of Android flagships most likely to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 SoC, the leaker forecasted the handset’s price won’t be influenced by Qualcomm’s planned price increase. This means the OnePlus 13 will carry the same price tag as the OnePlus 12 (review), which cost $800 at launch in the US.
With OnePlus retaining the price for the OnePlus 13, it could make the handset more competitive in several ways. First, recent flagship Android smartphones have become more expensive, including the new Google Pixel 9 and Samsung’s latest foldable lineup. Hence, the OnePlus 13 with a $800 price tag will undercut those alternatives among the competition.
In addition, maintaining the same price point could attract budget-conscious consumers who are looking for high-end features without the premium price tag. This strategy might help OnePlus capture a larger market share, especially among users who prioritize value-for-money propositions.
It’s unclear what the Samsung Galaxy S25 will offer, as it will also utilize Qualcomm’s chip. However, based on the current OnePlus strategy, the OnePlus 13 might continue to be a more affordable alternative to the Galaxy S25 Plus or be on par with the standard model. This could position OnePlus as a strong contender in the flagship smartphone market, offering top-tier performance at a more accessible price.
OnePlus 13 rumored specifications and design
The OnePlus 13 is rumored to feature an updated design that is unlike recent OnePlus devices. It might also ditch the curved AMOLED display in favor of a new micro-curved AMOLED that will result in a slightly flatter glass on top, similar to the Xiaomi 14 series.
As for the cameras, the OnePlus 13 is tipped to carry the same triple camera as its predecessor. If that were to be the case, the camera configuration should feature a 50 MP main, a 64 MP periscope telephoto with 3x zoom, and a 48 MP ultra-wide lens.
What do you think about the potential price of the OnePlus 13? Do you think it is a smart move to retain its price? Let us hear your opinion in the comments.
