May 10, 2026, 10:11 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Since early 2026, smartphone manufacturer OnePlus has been under pressure. Reports frequently surface suggesting the company might exit markets outside Asia. Initially, the company dismissed such rumors, but it has since stopped commenting. Notably, new products have recently only been released in China and India.
Simultaneously, there are indications of significant changes within the company. According to “9to5Google,” this includes job cuts. All of this suggests that OnePlus is currently undergoing a period of transition.
Merger with Realme on the Horizon
New information from a well-known insider is adding momentum to the situation. According to the tipster Digital Chat Station on Weibo, OnePlus has already merged with Realme. Both brands are part of the Oppo group. They are reportedly consolidating their activities into a joint sub-product center. Marketing and customer service are also expected to be organized jointly in the future.
These changes apparently affect not just specific regions but are applicable worldwide, including China. OnePlus President Li Jie is expected to lead, supported by the former Realme vice president. Both are said to report to OnePlus co-founder Pete Lau.
Also of interest: Who is really behind the smartphone brand OnePlus?
No Confirmation, but More Clues
This potential merger has not yet been officially confirmed. However, there are additional hints from other sources. Insiders on Telegram also report closer collaboration between the two brands. Among other things, it is mentioned that the companies plan to focus more on reusing product series in the future. What exactly this means remains unclear.
It is also unclear whether OnePlus will become more active outside Asia due to its proximity to Realme. Realme is already present in several regions, including Europe. However, the brand is not present in the U.S. Whether OnePlus will utilize this structure in the future is currently unknown.