A new rumor suggests OnePlus is already working on its upcoming compact flagship, the OnePlus 16T, even though the device is not expected to launch until next year.

The development update comes shortly after claims that the OnePlus 15T may not be released in India under the same naming strategy used previously. Last year, the OnePlus 13T reportedly launched in India as the 13s, leading to speculation that a similar rebranding approach would continue. However, current reports suggest that strategy may be changing.

According to information from a well-known tipster, OnePlus has already begun internal work on the 16T series. While the phone is still in early development, some preliminary details about its specifications have started to surface.

The OnePlus 16T is expected to be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 chipset, although it remains unclear whether the standard or Pro version will be used. The device is also said to feature a 6.3-inch flat display, paired with an ultra-high refresh rate aimed at delivering a smoother user experience.

Beyond these early details, most specifications are still under development and subject to change as the project progresses.

Despite uncertainty around the future of the smaller T-series branding in India, the lineup appears to be performing strongly in China, where OnePlus is already preparing for the next-generation model ahead of schedule.

It is still unknown whether the OnePlus 16T will eventually launch in India or follow a modified branding approach similar to previous regional releases. For now, the device remains in the development phase, with more details expected to emerge closer to launch.