OnePlus has unveiled its initial ColorOS beta, marking the beginning of the shift from OxygenOS.

      The OnePlus 15 and 15R are the initial devices testing the software, although the beta is currently restricted to India.

      When OnePlus announced its departure from the North American and European markets last month, it also stated that all devices eligible for the next platform update would transition from OxygenOS to ColorOS, bringing an end to the Android skin that shaped the OnePlus brand for over ten years. While a definite timeline for this transition was not provided, OnePlus has now begun the process by initiating a closed ColorOS beta program for the OnePlus 15 and OnePlus 15R.

      The beta currently excludes the US and Europe.

      According to Android Authority, the closed beta is limited to the Indian models of both smartphones, meaning users in the US and Europe cannot participate this time. Additionally, OnePlus has restricted the program to 300 testers for each device, and applying requires more than just owning the correct phone.

      To apply, OnePlus necessitates an active OnePlus Community account, a signed non-disclosure agreement, and a willingness to engage in a Telegram group and collaborate with OnePlus' software team. The application period is brief, only open on August 6 and August 7.

      OnePlus has not confirmed the Android version beneath it, but Android 17 is likely, as reports suggest the company has been testing it internally on the OnePlus 15 since March.

      This isn't the first beta limited to India from OnePlus.

      Last year’s OxygenOS 16 beta followed a similar pattern, remaining exclusive to Indian devices during its entire run before the stable version was eventually released to other regions. Thus, the chances of users in the US and Europe accessing a beta version are minimal.

      OnePlus has consistently explained its rationale for this change. The company has indicated that shifting to ColorOS will enable it to consolidate engineering resources with its parent company Oppo and accelerate upcoming updates. If faster updates are indeed the primary objective, users may not have to wait too long to receive stable ColorOS for their OnePlus 15 or 15R in the US or Europe.

      Pranob is an experienced tech journalist with over eight years of experience in consumer technology coverage.

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