The recently announced OnePlus Watch 3 has encountered an unusual hiccup ahead of its expected launch. A typographical error featuring the phrase "Meda in China" has delayed the release by nearly two months, much to the dismay of eager consumers and tech enthusiasts alike. Initially set to hit the market on February 25, the smartwatch’s release is now postponed until April 2025, with pre-orders expected to start shipping from April 15.
The Peculiar Cause of the Delay
This smartwatch was highly anticipated and promised significant improvements over its predecessor. Unfortunately, the seemingly innocent typo has led to a lengthy delay. OnePlus has been candid about the situation, labeling it as a "minor typographical error" and asserting that this is the sole reason for the postponement. However, a delay of over 45 days hardly feels "minor," especially considering that the OnePlus Watch 2 is only just turning one this March.
Despite the less-than-ideal circumstances, OnePlus has built a solid presence in the smartwatch market, having produced the lower-cost Watch 2R about seven months ago. Thus, although the delay is disappointing, the brand is not entirely lacking in offerings.
Interestingly, this blunder could ultimately bode well for consumers. With an opportunity to address customer feedback, OnePlus hinted at the potential release of a smaller model of the Watch 3, possibly catering to those who find the current 46mm size too bulky.
With solid positive reviews praising features like exceptional battery life, high-quality display, and useful functionalities, consumers may be willing to wait for the correct "Made in China" labeling on their devices. Pre-orders are still ongoing at a price of $329.99, with a discount available using the promo code "TIME1010."
While navigating through this unusual phase, OnePlus remains committed to transparency, and there’s hope that the delay might allow for more innovative features in the Watch 3 or the possible introduction of different size options. The company has indicated plans to explore solutions for the size issue later in the year, integrating consumer feedback into their decision-making process.
