The OnePlus 13s Plus Key is a brand-new customizable hardware button that redefines how users interact with their smartphones. Positioned on the left side of the device, it replaces the traditional Alert Slider and offers far more flexibility. Unlike its predecessor, which was limited to toggling sound profiles, the Plus Key allows users to assign different actions to single press, double press, and long press gestures. From launching apps like the camera or flashlight to activating Google Assistant or setting up smart home controls, the Plus Key is designed for convenience and personalization. It’s OnePlus’s bold step into smarter, user-defined hardware interaction — blending simplicity with power.
📱 What Is the OnePlus 13s Plus Key?
The OnePlus 13s introduces a major design evolution — the Plus Key, a new customizable button replacing the iconic Alert Slider. OnePlus calls it the “Plus Key” for its ability to do more than toggle sound profiles.
In a world where smartphone buttons are getting smarter, the Plus Key reimagines hardware interaction and adds layers of personalization to Android.
🔄 Goodbye Alert Slider: What’s Changed?
The traditional Alert Slider has been a OnePlus signature since the OnePlus 2, offering a quick toggle between Silent, Vibrate, and Ring modes. While beloved by fans, its functionality was limited to sound profiles only.
https://www.oneplus.in/content/dam/oneplus/2025/in/launch/13s/pre_launch/Superless_pc.mp4#t=0.1
✅ Pros of the Alert Slider:
- Simple and tactile
- No need to look at the screen
- Ideal for quick mode switching
❌ Limitations:
- No customization
- Not useful beyond audio control
- Became redundant with in-screen controls
🚀 OnePlus 13s Plus Key Features & Functions
The OnePlus 13s Plus Key functions do everything the Alert Slider did — and more. It opens up multi-functionality similar to software shortcuts.
🔧 Key Functions of the OnePlus 13s Plus Key:
- Launch specific apps (e.g., Camera, Flashlight, Notes)
- Trigger Google Assistant or OnePlus AI Assistant
- Open specific settings like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or DND
- Shortcut to open QR scanner or payment apps
- Assign gaming or camera modes
- Switch to Silent/Vibrate/Ring modes (retains legacy feature)
✨ Pro Tip: You can set different functions for a single press, double press, and long press — a total of 3 shortcuts per key!
🍏 Oneplus 13s Plus Key vs Apple Action Button: What’s the Difference?
The Apple Action Button, first seen on iPhone 15 Pro, shares similar DNA — a multifunctional physical button replacing the mute switch. However, OnePlus goes a step further.
| Feature | Apple Action Button | OnePlus Plus Key |
|---|---|---|
| Default Function | Toggle Silent mode | Customizable |
| App Launch | Limited (Shortcuts app) | Direct app launch |
| Custom Presses | Single action only | Single, Double, Long Press |
| Integration | Deep iOS integration | Deep Android & OxygenOS integration |
| Hardware Position | Above volume | Left side, customizable position |
🔍 Verdict: The Plus Key offers more granular customization and broader use-cases than the Action Button — ideal for power users and Android tinkerers.
🌟 Real-World Benefits of the O eplus 13s Plus Key
Here’s how the Plus Key can actually improve daily smartphone usage:
- Quick Access to Essentials
Launch flashlight, notes, or QR scanner in a flash — no need to search or unlock. - Productivity on the Go
Set it to open Gmail, Calendar, or Google Tasks for focused work. - Smart Home Control
Pair with Google Home or Alexa apps for instant home automation toggles. - Better Gaming Experience
Activate Gaming Mode or Performance Mode with a long press before a match. - AI Features Access
Launch OnePlus AI Recorder, Summary Tool, or Transcription features instantly.
📦 OnePlus 13s Plus Key: Technical Details
- Positioned on the left edge of the device
- Tactile feedback for each press type
- Controlled via OxygenOS Shortcuts menu
- Doesn’t interfere with volume or power keys
- Works even with the screen off
🔄 Should You Miss the Alert Slider?
Honestly? No.
The Plus Key includes Silent/Vibrate/Ring toggle as an option. If you loved the Alert Slider’s simplicity, you can assign one of the three press types to mimic it.
But the truth is — once you explore the full potential of the Plus Key, the traditional slider will feel like a relic of the past.
🧠 Why This Matters: A Shift in OnePlus Philosophy
The Plus Key signals a fresh design direction for OnePlus, blending hardware minimalism with smart software integration. It aligns with:
- Growing AI-first user experiences
- Gesture-based navigation and shortcut-first UI
- User empowerment through customization
It’s not just a button — it’s a portal to personalization.
🏁 Final Verdict: Is the Plus Key Worth the Hype?
Absolutely. The OnePlus 13s Plus Key is:
- A smart upgrade over the Alert Slider
- A powerful rival to Apple’s Action Button
- A productivity tool that actually saves time
Whether you’re a casual user or a tech nerd, the Plus Key has something to offer. It’s not just a gimmick — it’s a functional evolution.
❓FAQs on OnePlus 13s Plus Key
Q1. Can I bring back the Alert Slider functionality on the Plus Key?
✅ Yes, you can assign Silent/Vibrate/Ring toggle to any press type.
Q2. Does the Plus Key work when the screen is locked?
✅ Yes, just like the Alert Slider, it works even when the phone is locked.
Q3. Is the Plus Key available in other OnePlus phones?
❌ Currently, it’s exclusive to the OnePlus 13s, but future models may include it.
Q4. Can I disable the Plus Key?
✅ Yes, you can remove all assigned functions if you prefer not to use it.