OnePlus 13S Unboxing & First Look: When a Phone Feels Like Silk!

The OnePlus 13S has been officially revealed, promising a flagship experience with subtle yet meaningful upgrades. We got an early look at the special media edition of this India-exclusive model, and here’s what stands out in terms of design, build, and first impressions.

Unboxing experience

The media edition comes in a premium vegan leather-wrapped box that immediately feels luxurious. Opening it reveals a personal letter from OnePlus CEO Pete Lau before unveiling the retail packaging inside. Included are the OnePlus 13S handset, a silicon protective case, a quick start guide, SIM ejector tool, an 80W charger, and a USB-A to USB-C charging cable.

Design and feel

The OnePlus 13S exudes a true flagship vibe with glass on both the front and back, framed by metal rails. The India-exclusive Green Silk color stands out thanks to its soft matte, velvet-like finish that feels carefully crafted rather than mass-produced—offering a sophisticated but understated look.

Equipped with Gorilla Glass 7i on the front and Panda Glass on the back, the phone’s durability is solid but not quite at the top tier. Its design draws inspiration from leading brands—the camera module resembles that of Google’s Pixel, while the flat glass and rounded edges echo Samsung’s Galaxy S series.

One notable feature is the new Plus Key on the side, which functions similarly to Apple’s Action Button by allowing users to launch apps or shortcuts with a press and hold. While convenient, its functionality is somewhat limited, much like the Apple version.

Price and availability

The OnePlus 13S is slated to launch in India on June 5, available in three color options: Black Velvet, Pink Satin, and the exclusive Green Silk.

Though the official price will be disclosed during the event, leaks suggest it will hover around ₹55,000. This pricing would place the 13S between the OnePlus 13R and OnePlus 13, making it a well-balanced choice for those seeking a refined flagship option.