Shrinkflation in Smartphones: A Growing Concern for Consumers

Key Takeaways

1. Many new smartphones are released annually, creating excitement among consumers for upgrades and new features.
2. Not all smartphones show improvement over their predecessors; some models may regress in key areas.
3. The OnePlus Nord 5 has switched from a premium metal unibody design to a plastic body compared to the Nord 4.
4. The OnePlus Nord 5 has lower storage and RAM options than the previous model, reducing its overall capabilities.
5. The OnePlus Nord 5 lacks the iconic physical notification slider, replacing it with a new programmable Plus Key.

Hundreds of new smartphones are released each year, and many consumers eagerly anticipate these new gadgets. This excitement could stem from the need for an upgrade or a desire to see how the features and specifications of these devices are advancing.

Not All Phones Show Improvement

However, not every phone demonstrates progress compared to its predecessor. In fact, some models take noticeable steps backward. A case in point is the OnePlus Nord 5, which we recently reviewed. It’s certainly a solid device that received a decent overall score in our evaluation.

Comparing with the Previous Model

Yet, when you compare it to last year’s OnePlus Nord 4, the reductions are quite apparent. In 2024, OnePlus promoted a metal unibody design in a premium mid-range smartphone priced under €500. The Nord 5, however, has switched to a plastic body. While the design remains sturdy and visually appealing, it lacks the premium feel and is far less impressive.

The OnePlus Nord 5 also shows a decline in storage capabilities. It now only features UFS 3.1 flash, while the previous model boasted the faster UFS 4.0. Additionally, the RAM has decreased, with options of 8GB or 12GB instead of the earlier 12GB or 16GB. Although this may not significantly affect everyday usage, it is still a step down.

Missing Iconic Features

Another notable absence is the physical notification slider, which has been a classic element of OnePlus devices. Instead, there’s a new programmable Plus Key.

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