Oneplus teases mini tablet revival: 8-inch display, snapdragon 8 gen 5 possible

OnePlus is reportedly gearing up to re-enter the small tablet market, sparking renewed interest after a rumored launch last year didn't materialize. Leaks from Digital Chat Station on Weibo suggest a compact device with an 8-inch display and a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset could arrive as early as April in China.

Smaller is back: oneplus tablet rumors reignite

The whispers began back in August 2025, but this time, the buzz feels different. Digital Chat Station, a well-known source for leaks, posted on March 7th detailing the potential specs of the device – an 8-inch screen and either the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 or the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. However, the key detail is the mention of “OGA,” an abbreviation often linked to the OGA Group, the parent company of Oppo, OnePlus, and Realme. This suggests a familiar pattern: a China-exclusive Oppo tablet getting a global rebranding under the OnePlus name, as seen with the recent OnePlus Pad 3.

Yogesh Brar, another reputable leaker, adds fuel to the fire, suggesting OnePlus might also be working on a larger 12-inch tablet, possibly launching around June. This 12-inch model, often speculated to be the OnePlus Pad 4, could boast a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor and a battery exceeding 12,000mAh. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 is perhaps more probable than the toned-down Gen 5, considering the OnePlus Pad 3 featured a premium Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.

While larger tablets gain traction, the appeal of smaller screens remains strong for many. They offer a balance between smartphone portability and desktop functionality, ideal for on-the-go productivity and entertainment. The 8-inch size could be a sweet spot for users who desire more screen real estate than a phone but prefer a more manageable size than larger tablets.

The potential April launch in China means a global release could follow months later, possibly this fall. But the competition is fierce. Samsung, Lenovo and Xiaomi all have options in this space.

OnePlus’s renewed focus on a smaller tablet underscores a broader trend: manufacturers are recognizing the demand for devices that cater to diverse user needs. This isn't just about size; it's about offering a choice. And that choice could be a game-changer for Android tablet enthusiasts.

The company's track record suggests a premium offering, and if they deliver on the rumored specs, this mini tablet could carve out a significant niche in the market.