In a surprising turn of events, OnePlus has announced that the upcoming Nord 4 will receive six years of security patches from its launch, a significant shift from its previous stance. Earlier this year, OnePlus stated that extending software support beyond five years was not financially viable. However, in a recent interview with Digital Trends, OnePlus COO Kinder Liu confirmed this extended support for the Nord 4, marking a notable change in the company’s approach.

Extended Software Support: A New Benchmark
The OnePlus Nord 4 will receive four major Android updates, matching the update cycle of the flagship OnePlus 11 and OnePlus 12 models. This is a step ahead of its main competitor, Samsung’s Galaxy A55, which only offers five years of support. The Nord 4’s extended security patch timeline gives it a competitive edge in the mid-range market, appealing to consumers who prioritize longevity and security in their devices.

The decision to extend support raises questions about the future of OnePlus’ flagship series. As of now, the OnePlus 12 is promised five years of updates. It remains to be seen whether the extended support will apply to existing models or will be implemented with the launch of the OnePlus 13 and beyond.

A Return to Metal: Durability Meets Design
In addition to its extended software support, the Nord 4 also boasts a unique design feature that sets it apart from recent smartphones: a metal unibody construction. This design choice is reminiscent of the iconic HTC One M series, known for its durability and aesthetic appeal.

OnePlus has chosen metal for the Nord 4 to enhance its durability, beauty, permanence, and strength. This choice comes despite the challenges posed by 5G technology, which requires numerous antennas that can be hindered by metal. To address this, OnePlus has designed the Nord 4’s antennas to be 50% smaller and strategically placed plastic inserts to ensure signal integrity without compromising on the metal body’s durability.

Performance Certified for Longevity
The Nord 4 has undergone rigorous testing by TÜV SÜD, simulating 72 months of use. It has been certified to maintain its performance over this extended period, ensuring that the device remains as fluent as it was on day one. This certification reinforces OnePlus’ commitment to durability and long-term performance.

Launch Details
The OnePlus Nord 4 is set to become official on July 16, promising a blend of extended software support, durable design, and sustained performance. This move by OnePlus marks a significant shift in the mid-range smartphone market, setting new standards for longevity and build quality. As the industry evolves, it will be interesting to see how competitors respond to OnePlus’ new benchmark.