The phone OnePlus 2 It is a model that, like the device it replaces on the market, has caught the attention of users because it offers a more than striking quality / price ratio. But it has a really important drawback: to get it you need an invitation and this is not exactly easy (and there have even been cases of retrasos in shipments and the launch of these). The fact is that it seems that the company plans to offer the purchase no need for invitation.
But this will be done as compensation for the problems that we have already mentioned about the OnePlus 2 in relation to invitations, so this will happen for a very limited time: only one hourThe exact date this will happen hasn't been announced yet, but everything points to it being at the end of the month or, at the latest, at the beginning of the next (we'll keep you updated on Android Help, of course).
The truth is that the invitation system The OnePlus 2 is one of the aspects that people liked the least about the device, since it prevents you from getting one in the normal way. It is logical if you take into account that we are talking about a company that is not a giant today, like Samsung, and wants control expenses that it has. But, it is no less true that if you define yourself as “flagship killer”, You cannot have five million orders waiting, which are those that the Asian company has been indicated to have. This is a big mistake in my opinion.
A very good phone, but not the best
The truth is that the new OnePlus 2 is a very interesting terminal, since for about 400 euros it is possible to get a model with 4 GB of RAM, a Snapdragon 810 processor, a long-lasting battery, and a USB Type-C connection (but it uses the 2.0 standard, so this is important to keep in mind). The screen Full HD It is more than enough, since for example it does not abuse consumption, but it cannot compete with QHD in image quality.
But there are details that are not present in the OnePlus 2, such as for example NFC (and mobile payments?), fast charging and, in addition, it must be recognized that the terminal weight It is excessive, even though its design is quite interesting and striking.
The fact is that in not much time, and for an hour - which is not much - it will be possible to get a OnePlus 2 without an invitation. And, while we're at it—and because it's due to company problems—Wouldn't it be better to offer 24-hour service and thus increase customer satisfaction?
How the invitation works and what official options there are
OnePlus distributes invitations through contests and promotions, social networks and forums; it also allows buyers to send invitations to acquaintances. There is a reserve list. on the official website and invitations usually expire after 24 hours, reassigned if not used. They periodically enable uninvited shopping windows Very short (even an hour) and at certain stages they have even withdrawn the system completely. If you are looking for security, the official store offers Warranty clearer and avoids surprises with modified software.
Alternative stores: pros, cons, and what to check before paying
If you don't want to wait, several Chinese online stores They have offered the OnePlus 2 without an invitation. It is worth comparing the final price, Warranty and shipping times, in addition to possible import taxes:
- GearBest: It usually launches capacity promotions (16/64 GB) with discount codes. Watch out for the shipping methods if they add insurance or taxes at the end of the purchase.
- Oppomart: stands out for fast shipping through DHL (within days), with courier costs and a good rating history.
- Pandawill: veteran. Check the final price and remember that the OnePlus 2 does not support microSD; avoid adding cards by mistake.
- AliExpress: offers for limited units. Check the seller's reputation, return policy, and if it's a version global or Chinese.
- GizChina: sometimes includes accessories (such as protectors) in the order; it is important to verify that they are original.
- GeekBuying: announces reruns of stock; often sells the Chinese version, which is functional but has software nuances that require adaptation.
- Merimobiles: alternative when there is a lack of stock; short shipping times days, with a usually higher price.
- Amazon (third parties): may appear at a higher price; advantages in logistics and returns, but check the origin carefully.
Whatever the store, confirm the exact model (LTE bands 3/7/20 for Europe), which has not bloatware installed by the seller and that the written warranty covers you in your country. Some brands have warned of units tampered with by retailers; buy from the official channel reduces that risk.
Tricks to get an invitation sooner and not miss the uninvited window
It works very well ask for an invitation To those who already bought the phone: OnePlus is giving away codes to buyers to share. Participate in forums and communities (including Reddit) where cast lists are organized and stay tuned for official contests and the newsletter.
Activate alerts so you don't miss the sale without invitation When it opens: those windows are short and stock flies. Have your account, address and payment method set up for finish in minutesIf you buy outside the official channel, check customs, deadlines, and that the ROM is appropriate; avoid unnecessary accessories (such as microSD) that you will not be able to use in this model.
All in all, the OnePlus 2 remains a compelling buy for its balanced hardware and a reasonable price; if OnePlus facilitates invitation-free access for longer periods, the shopping experience and user satisfaction will grow significantly.