Compact Smartphones Make a Comeback: OnePlus 13T Aims to Fill Market Gap

A growing number of Indian consumers are yearning for a return to more pocket-friendly smartphones, but feel woefully underserved by the current market. A recent survey by Counterpoint Research, conducted among over 2,000 young professionals and early jobbers, reveals that a strong 74% of respondents favor compact smartphones. However, this desire runs up against a frustrating reality: a full 68% believe there simply aren't enough compact options available.

Consumer Expectations and Priorities

It’s not just about size, though. Consumers aren’t willing to sacrifice performance or battery life to get a smaller phone. A whopping 88% said they would purchase a compact smartphone if it could deliver flagship-level performance. What’s truly shaping this preference is usability. Difficulty using large-screen devices with one hand (cited by 55% of respondents) and the increased risk of accidental drops are driving the demand for more manageable form factors.

Beyond functionality, the tactile experience also matters. 71% prioritize a good in-hand feel, and 69% value the overall look and feel of the device. The “sweet spot” for screen size appears to be between 6 and 6.5 inches, favored by 60% of users – suggesting a desire for portability without completely sacrificing screen real estate.

An Opportunity for Smartphone Brands

Industry analysts see a clear opening for brands to capitalize on this unmet need. Tarun Pathak, Director at Counterpoint Research, points to Apple, Samsung, and OnePlus as potential players. He notes that consumers approaching upgrade cycles are increasingly leaning towards comfortable, long-term compact devices, but highlights a significant gap in the market. As of 2024, roughly 90% of new smartphones launched boast screens larger than 6.5 inches.

Gaming, AI, and the Rise of Mobile Entertainment

The demand for compact phones isn’t just about practicality; it's also fueled by evolving use cases. Mobile gaming is a significant factor, with 86% of respondents preferring smaller devices for enhanced comfort and reduced hand strain during gameplay. Beyond gaming, 89% emphasize the importance of AI-powered functionalities like voice assistants and camera enhancements, and 84% want the convenience of customizable buttons for quick access to key features.

The OnePlus 13T: A Potential Contender

OnePlus appears to be responding to this demand with the upcoming release of the OnePlus 13T (likely branded as the OnePlus 13S in India). The phone is expected to launch in China on April 24th, 2025. Leaked details suggest a compact 6.32-inch flat OLED display with a 1.5K resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. But the most intriguing aspect is the potential inclusion of the flagship-grade Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Elite chip – a powerful processor typically reserved for more expensive devices.

Key Specifications (Leaked/Expected):

• Display: 6.32-inch Flat OLED, 1.5K Resolution, 120Hz Refresh Rate
• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Elite
• RAM: 12GB LPDDR5X
• Storage: 256GB UFS 4.0
• Battery: 6,260mAh
• Charging: 90W Fast Charging (expected)
• Camera: Dual Camera - 50MP Main, 50MP 2x Telephoto
• IP Rating: IP68 & IP69 (Dual Rating)

The OnePlus 13T features a redesigned aesthetic with flat sides, rounded corners, a matte finish available in Morning Mist Gray, Cloud Ink Black, and Pink, and a new "metal cube Deco" camera layout. A controversial change for some long-time fans is the removal of the iconic Alert Slider, replaced with a customizable physical button.

Comparing OnePlus Models: 12 5G vs. 13T

While the OnePlus 12 5G remains a strong contender, boasting a larger 6.82-inch curved LTPO AMOLED display with QHD+ resolution and up to 4500 nits brightness, the 13T offers a different proposition. The 12 5G shines with its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, versatile triple-camera system (50MP main, 64MP periscope telephoto, 48MP ultrawide) and 5400 mAh battery with fast charging.

However, the 13T differentiates itself with a focus on compactness, a potentially more efficient Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, a larger 6260 mAh battery, and the latest Android 15. The camera setup is simpler – a dual-camera system (50MP main, 50MP telephoto) – hinting at a prioritization of quality over versatility.

Comparison Table:

Ultimately, the “better” choice comes down to individual priorities. The OnePlus 12 5G is a powerhouse for users who demand the best possible display, camera versatility, and overall performance. The OnePlus 13T, however, caters to those seeking a more pocketable, efficient, and modern smartphone experience.

A Word of Caution…

Interestingly, a survey commissioned *by* OnePlus presents these findings. While the data suggests a genuine desire for compact flagships, it's also worth noting that past attempts by major manufacturers like Apple (with the iPhone mini) have proven challenging. Past performance doesn't guarantee future results, but it's a reminder that market demand can be unpredictable. The future of compact high-end phones may hinge on whether consumers are willing to actually commit their purchases to this size category.