OnePlus Watch 3: Smaller Size and LTE Support on the Horizon
Introduction
The OnePlus Watch 3, released last week, garnered attention for its impressive battery life and notable upgrades. However, it left unaddressed the persistent demands for a more compact design and LTE connectivity. According to the Head of R&D at OnePlus Health Lab, Dr. Leo Zhang, both of these enhancements are expected "this year."
Addressing the Size Issue
The OnePlus Watch 3 is known for its substantial size, with a chassis measuring over 47mm. In an interview with PULSE by Wareable, Dr. Leo Zhang acknowledged that some users prefer a smaller form factor. He confidently stated that OnePlus intends to "fix that this year." It is unclear whether this will manifest as a completely new smartwatch or a downsized version of the existing Watch 3.
LTE Support on the Global Horizon
The global version of the OnePlus Watch 3 currently lacks LTE connectivity. However, Zhang indicated that this feature is in the pipeline, particularly for the European market. He emphasized that the technological capability is not the obstacle; rather, the challenge lies in navigating the complexities associated with carrier partnerships.
Possible Timeline
OnePlus has not provided a specific timeline for the release of these upcoming variants. However, the OnePlus Watch 2R debuted approximately 4-5 months after the Watch 2. This timeline suggests that users may need to exercise some patience before experiencing the smaller-sized and LTE-enabled versions of the OnePlus Watch 3.
Current Availability
While the OnePlus Watch 3 is technically available, orders are currently suspended due to a typo on the existing stock. Once this issue is resolved, customers will be able to purchase the smartwatch as is.
Conclusion
The revelation that OnePlus plans to introduce a smaller-sized smartwatch and add LTE support to the global version of the Watch 3 is undoubtedly welcome news for users who have been eagerly anticipating these features. These enhancements will further expand the appeal of the OnePlus Watch 3, making it a more versatile and feature-rich smartwatch. While we await further details and an official release date, the prospect of these upgrades is sure to generate excitement among tech enthusiasts.
