OnePlus, the renowned smartphone manufacturer, has recently unveiled its latest offerings exclusively for the Indian market: the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G and the OnePlus Buds 2R. While the Nord CE 3 serves as a more affordable alternative to the Nord 3, it still manages to pack some impressive features, including a flagship-grade Sony IMX890 main camera, NFC, Bluetooth 5.2, and Dolby Atmos. However, there is one noticeable omission in this generation that was a hallmark of its predecessors.
The Nord CE 3 is essentially a budget version of its flagship counterpart, the Nord 3, featuring a similar 6.7-inch FHD+ display and a camera array comprising a 50+8+2MP setup. Moreover, it inherits some of the Nord 3's standout features, such as the increasingly rare built-in IR blaster and a microSD card slot, which the Nord 3 lacks. However, both devices have made the surprising decision to eliminate the once-prized headphone jack, a move that might disappoint some users.
In terms of aesthetics, the CE 3 comes in two eye-catching color options: Gray Shimmer and Aqua Surge. The base model, starting at INR 26,999 (~US$328), offers 8GB of RAM and 128GB of fixed storage. If you require more storage space, you can opt for the 12/256GB configuration, priced at INR 28,999 (~US$352).
While the Nord CE 3 is yet to hit the shelves, OnePlus has already released another exciting product: the Nord Buds 2R. These wireless earbuds are the refined versions of the flagship Buds 2, featuring a 12.4mm driver and omitting active noise cancellation (ANC). Despite this, they still offer an impressive estimated battery life of up to 38 hours. The Buds 2R are available for purchase at an affordable price of just INR 2,199 (~US$27) through the official OnePlus website (oneplus.in) or Amazon India (amazon.in).
OnePlus has always been known for providing excellent value for money, and the Nord CE 3 5G and Buds 2R continue this tradition. By offering an affordable alternative to the flagship Nord 3, OnePlus ensures that users with a tighter budget can still experience the performance and features associated with the Nord series. The inclusion of flagship-grade camera technology and other premium features further enhances the appeal of the Nord CE 3.
However, the removal of the headphone jack might be seen as a step backward by some OnePlus enthusiasts who appreciated the convenience it provided. This decision reflects a broader industry trend, as many smartphone manufacturers have chosen to prioritize slimmer designs and waterproofing over the inclusion of the traditional audio port. Nonetheless, OnePlus has compensated for this loss by retaining other sought-after features, such as the microSD card slot and IR blaster.
The introduction of the Nord Buds 2R also caters to users seeking an affordable audio solution. While lacking ANC, these earbuds still offer impressive sound quality with their 12.4mm driver. The extended battery life ensures that users can enjoy their favorite tunes or take calls for an extended period without worrying about recharging. With their attractive price point, the Buds 2R aim to provide a compelling option in the increasingly competitive true wireless earbuds market.
In conclusion, OnePlus has unveiled its latest offerings for the Indian market, consisting of the Nord CE 3 5G and the Buds 2R. The Nord CE 3 provides a more affordable alternative to the flagship Nord 3 while still offering flagship-grade camera technology and other premium features. Although the omission of the headphone jack may disappoint someusers, OnePlus compensates for it by retaining other sought-after features. The Nord Buds 2R, on the other hand, cater to users looking for affordable wireless earbuds with excellent sound quality and an extended battery life. OnePlus continues to deliver value for money with these new devices, ensuring that users with different budgets can enjoy the performance and features associated with the Nord series.
