ONEPLUS has promised to reduce the amount of data it gathers on its users with an update later this month.
OnePlus has addressed concerns about the amount of data it collects on its users.
The Chinese smartphone startup was purportedly siphoning a slew of user data – including wireless network IDs, mobile number, serial number, MAC address, and user data like when specific applications were opened and closed.
The revelation came courtesy of software engineer Chris Moore, who detailed the amount of data collection in a blog post.
Moore claims OnePlus never sought his permission to collect the data. He also points out that since some of the details – like the serial numbers – can be tied back to a specific person, the data collection isn’t even anonymous.
OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei addressed the concerns around data collection in a blog post on the company’s website.
“We take our users – and their data privacy – very seriously,” Pei writes.
“While data collection is a standard industry practice, we realise that our users have the right to understand how and why it is done.
“Please know that we take this matter seriously and will proactively take steps to improve going forward.”
Pei asserts that OnePlus collects data to create "a better overall user experience" in OxygenOS, however, those who are uncomfortable with the practice can opt-out within the Settings menu.
To opt-out of data collection navigate to Settings > Advanced > Join User Experience Program.
Pei writes: “The reason we collect some device information is to better provide after-sales support.
"If you opt out of the user experience program, your usage analytics will not be tied to your device information.”
And that’s not the only change.
By the end of this month, OnePlus will include a new splash screen during its OxygenOS that asks users whether they want to sign-up for the user experience program and share data with the company.
Telephone numbers, MAC addresses and Wi-Fi information will be excised entirely from data collected going forward.
OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei concludes: “We take privacy very seriously and do not share analytics with third parties.
“Our intention has always been to better serve our users. Looking ahead, we will continue working directly with our users to do so. We appreciate your patience and feedback.”
The news comes as rumours OnePlus is preparing to launch a new flagship smartphone.
According to sources speaking to GizmoChina, OnePlus aims to launch its OnePlus 5T handset in November 2017.
The biggest change purportedly planned for the new handset is the display.
The company is expected to increase the display to six-inches, with a 2160x1080 resolution and a 18:9 aspect ratio.
Following in the footsteps of the Galaxy S8, Pixel 2 XL and iPhone X, OnePlus will trim the bezels around its display – allowing for a greater screen-to-body ratio.
GizmoChina has obtained a photograph that claims to show the OnePlus 5T.
The source refused to reveal whether the sides of the display are curved like the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy Note 8 – as they appear in the leaked image.
Like all rumours, it’s worth taking this leak with a healthy pinch of salt.