OnePlus Turbo series reportedly in the works, aiming squarely at the budget segment
OnePlus may be gearing up to expand its lineup beyond the flagship number series and the China-focused Ace range. A well-known Weibo tipster, Smart Pikachu, claims the company is developing a new budget-friendly family dubbed the Turbo series. The leak describes the phones as a “小金刚” lineup, a nickname in China often associated with tough, value-packed devices like those in the Redmi Note family.
Why this matters
– Price gap to fill: In China, the Redmi Note 15 starts at around CNY 999 (about $140), while OnePlus’ most affordable current option, the Ace 5 Racing, begins at CNY 1,799 (about $252). A Turbo series would let OnePlus compete more directly in the sub-CNY 1,500 bracket, a key battleground for volume sales.
– Global playbook: OnePlus has a track record of renaming its China-first models for international markets. Just as the Ace 5 arrived globally as the OnePlus 13R, Turbo-branded phones in China could land worldwide under different names.
What to expect from a potential Turbo lineup
– Aggressive pricing to challenge mainstream mid-rangers
– Performance-first value with efficient mid-tier chipsets (think recent Snapdragon or Dimensity series)
– Big batteries and fast charging, aligning with OnePlus’ reputation
– High-refresh displays (likely 90/120 Hz) and a clean, speedy software experience
– Practical camera setups emphasizing a solid main sensor over niche extras
Current OnePlus road map highlights
– OnePlus 15: Expected to debut in China in October, with earlier leaks hinting at multiple colorways and storage options.
– OnePlus 15T: A compact next-gen flagship is also rumored, suggesting OnePlus will cover both premium and pocket-friendly niches this cycle.
Bottom line
If accurate, the Turbo series would mark OnePlus’ most serious push yet into true budget territory, bringing the brand’s speed-focused identity to lower price points. As with any leak, details could change, but the move fits OnePlus’ broader strategy of segmenting its lineup for different markets and budgets. Keep an eye on official teasers from China in the coming weeks.
