Why you might want to wait before installing Oxygen OS on OnePlus One

OnePlus calls the new OS “light and essential with subtle, useful features”. “This is just a beginning; a platform on which we will build, together,” says the Oxygen page, while in the forum there is a post about a new app that will let users give their feedback about the OS.

However, getting the OS installed is not that easy. Since OnePlus is pushing its phone from one OS to another, the phone will have to be wiped clean of all data for the new one to be installed. So the entire installation process is all of 6 steps and strongly not recommended for those who can’t understand the concept of flashing a phone or boot into recovery. Which means most of us average smartphone users better wait for what the next option.

There are some new gestures and customisation options in Oxygen OS

OnePlus says they “are actively working on an easier, more automated solution soon to be available, but for now the build must be flashed manually”.

As the video shows, the OS is very similar to what Cyanogen OS 11, but has a strong Android Lollipop feel too. It brings in features like off screen gestures new to a pure Android phone. It gives you customisation likes the old OS and the chances are it will be more sprightly.

While we will soon take a leap of faith and flash our review unit of the OnePlus, we suggest that if you have never done something like this before it might be better to wait for an update that is easier to install for lesser mortals who don’t wear ‘I am a geek’ T-shirts.