OnePlus has introduced the Android 15 Beta 1 update for its OnePlus 12 and OnePlus Open devices. While this initial Android 15 Beta isn't perfect, it does bring security enhancements and some minor user interface updates. Additionally, the OnePlus 12 has gained a new “Repair mode” feature with this update, designed to protect your privacy when sending your phone for repairs.
Typically, before sending your device to a technician, you need to back up and erase all your data. After the repair, you have to reinstall everything, which can be quite time-consuming.
Repair Mode Needs Refinement
Those using the OnePlus 12 with the Android 15 Beta 1 update can access the Repair mode by navigating to Settings > System & updates > Repair mode. However, the feature still has some kinks to iron out.
When you select the Repair mode option, you'll need to complete a setup process that takes a minute or two, after which you'll be taken to the home screen as a separate user. Once you exit the repair mode, the phone will erase all data stored during the process and revert to its previous state.
Similar Features from Competitors
We've seen similar features from Samsung and Pixel. Samsung introduced this functionality in OneUI 5 based on Android 13, naming it Maintenance mode. Google included a similar feature, called Repair mode, in its Pixel devices starting with Android 14 QPR1.
Although OnePlus’s version of Repair mode isn't as refined as those from Samsung and Google, it's still a valuable addition due to the time and effort it saves. Hopefully, OnePlus will address these minor issues before releasing the stable version.