The OnePlus Nord 3 OxygenOS 15 update is now rolling out, bringing a range of new features, UI changes, and system optimizations. This latest update, identified as version 15.0.601, comes with the February 2025 security patch and introduces improvements to the camera, performance, and user interface.
If you own a OnePlus Nord 3, here’s everything you need to know about the latest OxygenOS 15 update, including new features, performance changes, and benchmark results.
Key Changes and Features in OxygenOS 15 Update for OnePlus Nord 3
1. UI Changes – Mixed Reactions from Users
OnePlus has made a few changes to the Control Center layout, specifically in the brightness and volume sliders. These UI tweaks have not been well received, as the new design lacks consistency. While the Classic Mode retains the older design, the Split Mode introduces a different tile shape that some users find visually unappealing.
2. New “Circle to Search” Feature
One of the biggest surprises in this update is the addition of Google’s Circle to Search feature. This feature was not mentioned in the official changelog but has been included in the update.
- How to Enable Circle to Search on OnePlus Nord 3
Go to Settings → System & Updates → System Navigation, and enable the Circle to Search option. - What Can You Do with Circle to Search?
- Search anything on the screen by long-pressing the navbar.
- Identify songs playing nearby.
- Translate text directly on the screen in multiple languages.
- Find product details by circling an item on the screen.
This feature enhances Google’s AI-powered search capabilities and is a great addition to OnePlus Nord 3.
3. Beacon Link – Communication Without Internet or Mobile Signal
The Beacon Link feature is another valuable addition. It allows users to make calls and send messages without mobile data or Wi-Fi by connecting with other OnePlus devices within a 200-meter range.
- How to Enable Beacon Link?
- Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Beacon Link
- Grant necessary permissions and enable Bluetooth.
This feature is useful in emergencies or low-network areas where regular communication isn’t possible.
4. New Watermarks in Camera App
OnePlus has also introduced new watermarks in the Camera app, giving users more customization options when capturing photos.
- How to Enable and Customize Watermarks:
- Open the Camera App
- Go to Settings → Watermark
- Choose from new styles and layouts
- Customize the text and positioning
These watermarks add a professional touch to captured images, especially useful for photography enthusiasts.
Performance Improvements and Benchmark Results
1. Smoother Animations & System Optimization
OnePlus has optimized animations, making them faster and more fluid. Previously, slight lags and stutters occurred when the device warmed up. With this update, animation lags have been significantly reduced.
2. Camera Improvements in Night Mode
The update also addresses overexposure issues in Night Mode.
- Before the update, images taken in low light appeared washed out with inconsistent contrast.
- After the update, highlights are better balanced, colors are more natural, and textures appear sharper.
3. Benchmark Scores Before and After Update
We conducted multiple performance tests using Geekbench, Antutu, and CPU Throttling to measure the impact of the update.
- Geekbench Scores:
- Single-Core: No significant change
- Multi-Core: Remained stable
- Antutu Benchmark Scores:
- Before Update: 10,91,000
- After Update: 11,23,000 (Improvement noticed)
- CPU Throttling Test:
- Before Update: 60% max throttle, 328,000 average GIPS
- After Update: 59% max throttle, 360,000 average GIPS (Better stability)
- Wildlife Extreme Stress Test:
- Stability: 48.3% (No major change)
These results confirm that the update improves performance, with slightly better benchmark scores and reduced thermal throttling.
Also Read: OnePlus 11 Latest Update: Hasselblad Watermarks, UI Changes & More
Final Verdict – Should You Update?
The OxygenOS 15 update for OnePlus Nord 3 is a must-install update for users looking for better system performance, enhanced camera features, and new functionality like Circle to Search, Beacon Link, and new watermarks. However, the UI changes might not appeal to everyone.
If you haven’t received the OTA update, you can manually install it by downloading the 1.13GB incremental update file from the OnePlus official website.
Have you updated your OnePlus Nord 3? Share your experience in the comments!
YOU CAN FOLLOW US ON– Telegram, Twitter, WhatsApp, and Google News