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OnePlus's Niche Role for PWM-Sensitive Users

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OnePlus occupies a unique position in the smartphone market, especially for users with PWM sensitivity. While most U.S. buyers get phones from carriers, OnePlus sells unlocked devices, a strategy that has limited its market share. Yet the company has publicly denied rumors of winding down its global presence, a crucial stance for a specific user group.

For those sensitive to flickering LEDs and temporal dithering, OnePlus is often the only safe haven. The author and a musician named Harry Metzler describe debilitating symptoms from PWM dimming, a technique used by major brands like Apple and Samsung. OnePlus's flagship phones, like the OnePlus 15, adhere to IEEE standards for LED flicker, offering a pain-free experience where others fall short.

The issue is compounded by temporal dithering, another flicker technique used to enhance color on modern displays. While Apple and Samsung have introduced partial solutions, their progress is slow. If OnePlus were to exit the market, flicker-sensitive users would be left with limited options like mid-range Motorola or Nothing phones, or E Ink devices with lower specs.

This highlights a broader industry gap in accessibility. Major manufacturers often overlook niche health needs, leaving companies like OnePlus to fill the void. For many, a smartphone is essential for daily life, making OnePlus's continued presence not just a market choice, but a necessity for those who depend on its eye-friendly displays.