OnePlus may exit US and Europe as Oppo major business overhaul; India next in line?
OnePlus US and Europe exit news: OnePlus could soon stop its operations in the United States and several European markets as parent company Oppo reportedly prepares a major restructuring of its global smartphone business.
According to a Bloomberg report, the company is expected to begin the process as early as this week. The move is part of a larger strategy to reduce costs, improve profitability and focus on selected markets amid slowing smartphone demand and rising business challenges.
The reported decision marks a significant turning point for OnePlus, a brand that built its reputation by offering premium smartphones at competitive prices.
The reported withdrawal is linked to Oppo's broader restructuring plan. The Chinese smartphone maker has been facing weaker sales in several international markets while also dealing with increasing production costs and geopolitical pressures.
Apart from OnePlus, sister brand Realme is also expected to make strategic changes to its international business. Reports suggest Realme could scale back its presence in some regions as Oppo reshapes its global operations.
The company is reportedly focusing on strengthening markets where it sees stronger long-term growth instead of maintaining a widespread global presence.
For many smartphone buyers, OnePlus became popular by introducing flagship-level features at prices much lower than premium competitors. Its devices offered top processors, fast charging, premium displays and a clean software experience, helping the company build a loyal customer base across several countries, including India.
Industry experts believe the reported exit from the US and Europe would mark the end of a chapter for a brand that once challenged the biggest names in the smartphone industry.
Several factors appear to have influenced the company's decision. Weak smartphone demand in key overseas markets has affected sales, while higher component costs have increased pressure on manufacturers. In addition, geopolitical tensions surrounding Chinese technology companies have made doing business in some countries more challenging.
Oppo is also reportedly dealing with legal challenges, including a trade secrets lawsuit filed by Apple, adding further uncertainty to its international operations.
Also Read | Canada halts new applications to sponsor parents, grandparents under family reunification program
Also Read | Karnataka doctor found dead, 8-year-old son stabbed; wife found scrolling on mobile near bodies
At present, there is no immediate impact on OnePlus' India business. The company is expected to continue its operations in both China and India. However, Bloomberg reported that further changes to its international presence could be considered in the coming years, with India potentially seeing strategic changes around 2027.
India remains one of OnePlus' strongest markets, thanks largely to the success of its Nord smartphone series, which has attracted buyers looking for premium features at affordable prices.
Despite its popularity, the Nord lineup has also faced challenges. According to IDC data cited by Bloomberg, smartphone shipments in China declined 4.3% year-on-year during the second quarter. Rising component costs have reportedly affected smartphone manufacturers, with OnePlus' Nord portfolio also feeling the impact. These pressures have made it more difficult for brands to maintain competitive pricing while protecting profit margins.
Instead of expanding across multiple regions, Oppo is reportedly planning to strengthen its position in Central Europe. Realme, meanwhile, is expected to concentrate on Nordic countries such as Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Iceland, where the brand has shown relatively stronger performance.
- With inputs from agencies