OnePlus tipped to release second-gen foldable smartphone with upgraded build and display tech

OnePlus has allegedly decided to equip its second-gen Open with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 SoC rather than the 8 Gen 3 - which, unfortunately, will result in a launch delayed until the start of next year. The OEM will take all that time to upgrade its build to match its cutting-edge silicon, according to prolific leaker Digital Chat Station.

Accordingly,  the allegedly upcoming device is said to come with potentially crucial components rated to outdo predecessors such as the Flexion Hinge of the original Open, particularly in terms of weight, creak-resistance and reduced susceptibility to creasing.

The Open 2 is also now said to upgrade to ultra-thin glass (UTG) for its main display, while its cover screen might be at least as clear and sharp as its 120Hz Super Fluid OLED predecessor. It is also now backed to launch as an "extremely light" device while still packing a periscope zoom lens in its rear camera hump.

Then again, the first-gen Open did the same, even though it is only 5.8mm high when unfolded. It is also available at a discount - albeit only in the US, where it is priced at $1,399 (or $300 off its starting RRP) on Amazon or oneplus.com right now.