The OnePlus 13T Introduces a New Shortcut Key: Here’s How It Will Function

OnePlus is set to replace the traditional Alert Slider with a customizable shortcut key on its upcoming OnePlus 13T, enhancing multitasking capabilities. The president of OnePlus China, Louis Lee, recently teased the design of the 13T on social media, showcasing a boxier aesthetic and a flat display. While details about the new shortcut key remain limited, it has been confirmed that it will facilitate various functions, including switching between silent, vibration, and ringing modes. Lee’s social media updates suggest that this shift aligns with OnePlus’s recent trend of borrowing features from competitors.

After adopting a version of Apple’s Dynamic Island with its OxygenOS 15, OnePlus plans to introduce the shortcut key as a replacement for the Alert Slider. The OnePlus 13 is expected to be the last model featuring the latter, marking a significant change in the brand’s design philosophy. In his posts, Lee mentioned that the shortcut key not only supports basic sound settings but also includes a custom function aimed at easing the user experience. This feature adds practicality by allowing users to switch between different options seamlessly.

Furthermore, Lee indicated an “interesting function” associated with the key that will be revealed later, generating curiosity among fans. The render shared by Lee offers a glimpse of the OnePlus 13T, which appears to adopt a more angular design reminiscent of the OnePlus 13R. It seems to signify a departure from the subtle curves seen in previous models. This new shortcut button mimics the functionality of the Alert Slider while incorporating the ability to assign multiple actions—something that diverges from Apple’s single-duty approach.

While some will miss the Alert Slider, many users, including myself, welcome the change. The original design often proved cumbersome, accidentally shifting modes when placed in pockets. A customizable shortcut aiming to integrate smoothly with OxygenOS could significantly enhance usability. With the OnePlus 13T anticipated for a late April release, fans can expect more teasers from Lee in the coming weeks.