OnePlus' upcoming Nord smartphone has an unusual focus on being durable in all situations — even against washing machines.

      The OnePlus Nord 6 is designed to withstand more punishment than your typical flagship.

      OnePlus is evidently aiming to make the Nord 6 feel less like a standard update and more like a resilient mid-range smartphone. In its recent press release, the company presented the device as performance-oriented for young professionals, integrating productivity features and a significantly sturdier build than is typically found in this price range.

      What’s the major enhancement this time?

      The latest Nord model boasts an IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K rating, protecting it from various elements. This means it is dustproof and can withstand water immersion, as well as high-pressure and high-temperature water jets. In terms of durability, it also includes Crystal Guard Glass, which OnePlus claims provides drop and scratch resistance comparable to flagship-grade Gorilla Glass Victus+.

      For reference, high-end flagships such as the iPhone 17 Pro Max and Galaxy S26 Ultra max out at an IP68 rating.

      Surviving a washing machine isn’t usually a phone bragging point.

      The standout feature is that OnePlus asserts the phone has been tested in detergent-filled hot water and subjected to multiple drop tests according to MIL-STD-810H military-grade standards. Thus, the Nord 6 is marketed as a device capable of enduring mishaps that would typically spell disaster for most phones.

      The camera features were also teased.

      Durability was just one aspect of the teaser. OnePlus has confirmed that the Nord 6 will feature impressive camera capabilities, including a 50MP Sony main camera with dual-axis OIS and an 8MP ultra-wide angle lens. Additionally, the front houses a 32MP camera for selfies and video calls, equipped with a multi-focusing hardware sensor to enhance sharpness, particularly in low-light conditions. This new mid-range model will also offer 4K60fps video recording and a 4K Motion Photo Clipper that allows users to extract full-resolution stills from short video clips.

      AI features are included in the discussion about the Nord 6. OnePlus will introduce various AI-driven tools such as OnePlus Mind Space, Google Gemini integration, AI Portrait Glow, AI Eraser, AI Unblur, AI Perfect Shot, real-time translation, AI Ghostwriter, and AI Scan.

      The press release also highlights other key specifications previously announced, including the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chip, 165 FPS gaming, chip-accelerated Wi-Fi, and what OnePlus describes as the largest 9000mAh battery in its segment. Complete specifications and availability will be unveiled on April 7.