Leaked photos have surfaced, revealing an alternate design for the Oppo Find N3 that showcases a radically different look compared to the final product we see today. These images, shared by Cai Zuxuan on Weibo, highlight a fascinating “what could have been” scenario for the popular smartphone.
The Oppo Find N3, which some markets recognize as the OnePlus Open, apparently went through several design iterations before Oppo settled on the current look. The leaked images show an aesthetic heavily influenced by the dual-tone finish of the Find X7 Ultra. Instead of the streamlined, single-color finishes we know, this version featured a mix of materials, likely blending metal, glass, and leather.
Currently, the Oppo Find N3 is available in four distinct color and material options: Green and Gold, featuring glass backs, and Black and Red, sporting a vegan leather finish. In contrast, the alternate design combined metal or glass with leather accents and prominently displayed the Oppo and Hasselblad branding along the vertical stripes.
Though the rest of the design elements, such as the rounded corners and the large circular camera island, remained consistent with the final product, Oppo chose a different design path for market release. The reasons behind this decision are left to speculation. It could have been market preferences, production considerations, or simply a change in design philosophy.
Regardless of this switch, both the Oppo Find N3 and the OnePlus Open have garnered praise for their sleek, modern design. For fans of the two-tone aesthetic, the Oppo Find X7 Ultra, with its blend of faux leather and frosted glass, offers a compelling alternative.
This glimpse into the development process of a leading smartphone highlights the complexity and numerous decisions involved in bringing a product from concept to consumer. As we explore these alternate realities, it offers a deeper appreciation of the design journey and the challenges faced by manufacturers.
