OnePlus Nord 5 and Buds 4 Unveiled
On July 8, 2025, OnePlus will launch the Nord 5, a mid-range smartphone boasting flagship-level photography with dual 50MP cameras, alongside the Buds 4, featuring advanced active noise cancellation (ANC) up to 55dB. The OnePlus Nord 5 aims to redefine mid-range performance with premium features like the Sony LYT-700 sensor and a new Plus Key. The Buds 4 introduce an Adaptive Mode for smart noise cancellation. This article dives into the specs, features, release details, and pricing for both devices, set to debut at the OnePlus Summer Launch Event.
OnePlus Nord 5: A Mid-Range Powerhouse
Camera System: Dual 50MP Excellence
The OnePlus Nord 5 elevates mid-range photography with a dual-camera setup:
- Rear Camera: A 50MP Sony LYT-700 sensor, previously exclusive to the OnePlus 13 series, paired with an 8MP ultra-wide lens (116° field of view). Enhanced by flagship HDR algorithms, it delivers vibrant, detailed shots, even in low light, with optical image stabilization (OIS) for sharp images. The camera supports 4K video recording at 60fps, a rare feature for mid-range devices.
- Front Camera: A 50MP Samsung JN5 sensor with autofocus, ideal for high-quality selfies and video calls. It also records 4K at 60fps, catering to content creators and social media enthusiasts.
- Advanced Features: The Ultra HDR LivePhoto mode captures 3 seconds of motion (1.5 seconds before and after the shot), rendering the final image in vivid Ultra HDR, enhancing dynamic range and colors.
The Nord 5’s camera system, praised for matching flagship quality, positions it as a top choice for photography buffs in the mid-range segment.
Design and Display
- Display: A 6.83-inch AMOLED with 1.5K resolution (2800 x 1272) and a 144Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals and vibrant colors. The flat OLED panel includes an in-display fingerprint sensor.
- Design: Features a glass back with a plastic frame, available in marmorized or grey colorways. The new Plus Key replaces the iconic Alert Slider, offering customizable shortcuts for AI functions, camera, or audio profiles, similar to Apple’s Action Button. IP65 rating ensures dust and water resistance.
- Cooling: A Cryo-Velocity VC cooling system with 7,300 mm² of graphene-based dissipation keeps performance stable during gaming or heavy use.
Performance and Battery
- Processor: Powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 (or possibly MediaTek Dimensity 9400e in some reports), the Nord 5 offers flagship-level speed and efficiency, surpassing the Nord 4’s Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3.
- Memory and Storage: Configurations include 8GB RAM/256GB storage and 12GB RAM/512GB storage, with RAM-Vitalization AI for enhanced multitasking.
- Battery: A 6,700–7,000mAh battery (estimates vary) with 80W or 100W SuperVOOC charging, promising nearly two days of use and a full charge in under 30 minutes.
- Software: Runs OxygenOS 15 based on Android 15, with four years of major updates and six years of security patches, ensuring longevity.
Other Features
- IR Blaster: Supports remote control functionality via a dedicated port.
- Audio: Dual stereo speakers for immersive sound.
- AI Enhancements: Includes “Plus Mind” AI features for screen content recognition, such as saving event details or appointments.
OnePlus Buds 4: Advanced ANC and Adaptive Audio
The OnePlus Buds 4, launching alongside the Nord 5, aim to compete in the premium TWS earbud market with cutting-edge features:
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Reduces noise up to 55dB across a 5500Hz range, with intelligent adaptation analyzing ambient sounds 800 times per second.
- Adaptive Mode: Automatically adjusts noise cancellation based on the environment, allowing critical sounds like traffic or voices to come through in busy settings while maximizing noise reduction in quieter spaces. This enhances safety and usability during commutes.
- Audio Quality: Features 12.4mm titanium-coated drivers with BassWave 2.0 for deep, rich sound, supported by Dolby Atmos and Dirac Audio Tuner.
- Battery Life: Up to 44 hours with the charging case (ANC off) and 11 hours from a 10-minute charge.
- Call Quality: Three microphones per earbud (two analog, one digital) with AI-enhanced noise reduction for clear calls, even in windy conditions.
The Buds 4 build on the Nord Buds 3 Pro’s success, offering premium features at a competitive price, though exact pricing remains unconfirmed.
Release Date and Pricing
- Release Date: The OnePlus Nord 5 and Buds 4 will debut at the OnePlus Summer Launch Event on July 8, 2025, at 10:30 AM IST, alongside the Nord CE 5, Watch 3 (43mm), and Pad Lite. The event will be streamed live on OnePlus’s YouTube channel.
- Pricing: The Nord 5 is expected to start at around ₹30,000 (~$360) for the 8GB/256GB variant, making it aggressively priced for its features. Higher configurations (12GB/512GB) may cost closer to ₹35,000 (~$420). Buds 4 pricing is unconfirmed but likely to align with premium TWS earbuds, around ₹7,000–₹10,000 (~$85–$120), based on the Buds Pro’s ₹12,990 launch price.
Fan and Industry Reactions
Social Media Buzz
Fans are excited about the Nord 5’s balanced specs, with one user calling it “a flagship killer at ₹30,000” and praising the 50MP selfie camera for content creators. Others highlighted the massive battery and Plus Key as standout features. However, some expressed disappointment over the 8MP ultra-wide lens, calling it “a weak link” compared to competitors. The Buds 4 garnered praise for their Adaptive ANC, with users noting it could rival premium earbuds.
Industry Insights
The Nord 5’s camera system has been lauded for bringing flagship-grade sensors to the mid-range, while the Buds 4’s ANC is seen as a game-changer for daily use. Some analysts noted that the 8MP ultra-wide might not satisfy users seeking high-quality wide-angle shots, but the overall package remains compelling.
The Bigger Picture: OnePlus’s Mid-Range Dominance
The Nord 5 continues OnePlus’s strategy of delivering premium features at accessible prices, following the Nord 4’s success with its metal unibody and AI tools. The inclusion of the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, a near-7,000mAh battery, and flagship cameras positions the Nord 5 against rivals like the Realme GT Neo6 SE and Motorola Edge 60. The Buds 4, with their advanced ANC and long battery life, aim to challenge brands like Apple and Samsung in the TWS market. OnePlus’s expanded ecosystem, including the Watch 3 and Pad Lite, signals a push for a cohesive, affordable tech lineup.
A Flagship Experience at Mid-Range Prices
The OnePlus Nord 5 and Buds 4, launching July 8, 2025, bring premium features to the mid-range market. The Nord 5’s dual 50MP cameras, Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, and massive 6,700–7,000mAh battery make it a standout for photographers and power users. The Buds 4, with their 55dB ANC and Adaptive Mode, offer a compelling audio experience. Priced competitively at ~₹30,000, the Nord 5, alongside the Buds 4, strengthens OnePlus’s mid-range dominance, blending flagship performance with affordability. Stay tuned for the live event to see how these devices reshape the market.
