Archive — US — techcrunch
Phone maker OnePlus reportedly plans to wind down US and Europe operations
OnePlus plans to shut down operations in the U.S. and Europe due to rising electronics prices and low demand, as part of a restructuring by its parent company, Oppo. The decision also affects its operations in India, while OnePlus will continue in China and transition to selling Realme phones in successful markets.
Key points
- OnePlus is winding down operations in the U.S. and Europe due to rising consumer electronics prices and declining demand.
- This decision is part of a restructuring at parent company Oppo.
- The company is also shutting its operations in India, despite it being a major market.
- OnePlus started in 2013 focused on affordable Android phones but faced challenges as flagship prices increased.
- Forecasts suggest a 13% decline in smartphone shipments by 2026 due to memory chip shortages, termed RAMageddon.
- Oppo has seen a double-digit decline in shipments year-over-year in 2026 and weak demand in key markets.
Why it matters
- Rising prices of consumer electronics and supply issues resonate with broader trends in global markets.
- The reported decline in smartphone shipments aligns with forecasts made by industry analysts like IDC and Counterpoint.
- Oppo's challenges reflect difficulties faced by many companies in the tech industry post-pandemic, including supply chain disruptions.
OnePlus's decision to exit key markets highlights the broader struggles within the smartphone industry, driven by economic conditions and evolving consumer preferences.