OnePlus is charting a new path in mobile photography—stepping away from its longstanding partnership with Hasselblad to develop its own imaging technology. The upcoming OnePlus 15 will debut the DetailMax Engine, a proprietary imaging platform designed for authentic, detail-rich photography
Why the Shift Matters
After five years of collaboration, the partnership with Hasselblad—credited with improving color science and photo realism in prior OnePlus models—is ending. OnePlus asserts that Hasselblad’s refined aesthetic principles are now embedded in its imaging DNA, laying the groundwork for its own innovation journey.
Introducing the DetailMax Engine
- DetailMax Engine: A fully in-house imaging system, built from the ground up to capture clarity and realism—prioritizing natural detail over artificial enhancement.
- OnePlus emphasizes that this engine reflects user feedback—especially the urge to see “what’s real” when zooming into photos
- Though still in prototype stage, early results are described as “promising,” aiming to establish a new benchmark in mobile photography quality.
What to Expect with OnePlus 15
- The OnePlus 15 (possibly skipping the number 14 in some markets) is expected to be the first device to feature the DetailMax Engine
- Rumors suggest a triple 50MP camera system—wide, ultrawide, and periscope telephoto—with stepped-up photo and video processing thanks to the new engine.
Strategic Implications
- By ending its Hasselblad collaboration, OnePlus is embracing full control over its camera tech—following a path similar to Oppo’s own imaging evolution.The Verge
- Meanwhile, Oppo (its sister brand) has renewed its Hasselblad partnership—highlighting a divergence in imaging strategy across the broader ecosystem.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| New Imaging Platform | DetailMax Engine — in-house, computational photography-centered |
| Partnership Status | Ends 5-year Hasselblad collaboration |
| First Device Expected | OnePlus 15 flagship |
| Key Focus | Clarity, realism, detail preservation, user-driven imaging experience |
| Strategic Advantage | Full control over imaging R&D; independence from external tuning brands |
Conclusion
OnePlus’s move to end its Hasselblad collaboration and launch the proprietary DetailMax Engine signals a bold step toward imaging autonomy. As the OnePlus 15 prepares to debut this new tech, the company positions itself to redefine smartphone photography through greater control, precision, and authenticity—embodying a significant shift in how mobile imaging evolves.
