Oneplus 15's unusual matte black finish: a love-hate relationship

The OnePlus 15 is an excellent flagship smartphone, boasting impressive features like a great camera, fast processor, and long battery life. However, it has a peculiar issue with its matte black finish that's both annoying and problematic.

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A chalkboard-like back

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The phone's back, achieved through micro-arc oxidation (MAO), features a ceramic-like layer that's extremely tough and abrasively tactile. Unintentionally, it acts like a blackboard, allowing you to scratch and write on it with your fingernail or any other object.

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Temporary and permanent scratches

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While the scratches are often removable with a wet wipe, some can be permanent. After a week of careless use, I discovered faint, irreversible marks on my OnePlus 15's back, highlighting the need for caution.

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A design conundrum

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The matte black finish is aesthetically pleasing and feels great, but it comes with an inherent drawback. The phone will accumulate unsightly marks, and even with proper care, some may persist. This could be a major consideration for those seeking a pristine device.

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Conclusion and recommendation

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Despite the OnePlus 15's flaws, it's still a fantastic smartphone. However, buyers should be aware of this specific coating and take necessary precautions or consider using a case to protect the phone's appearance.

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• OnePlus should provide more information about the MAO coating's properties.
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• Take extra care when handling the OnePlus 15, as the matte finish is prone to marking.
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• Consider using a case to maintain the phone's appearance.
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Pros:	Excellent camera, long battery life, fast processor, and attractive design.
Cons:	Matte black finish prone to scratching and marking, some scratches can be permanent.

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The OnePlus 15's unusual matte black finish presents a unique set of benefits and drawbacks. While it's a visually appealing and tactile experience, it also comes with the inconvenient reality of frequent marking and potential permanence of scratches. As such, potential buyers should carefully weigh these pros and cons before making a decision.