The OnePlus 3 and OnePlus 3T have just received an OxygenOS update which improves the camera app, adding smoother image stabilisation when shooting video. We’ve tested the camera’s video performance before and after the OxygenOS 4.1.0 update, to see what difference the improved image stabilisation makes.
The OnePlus 3 and 3T are two formidable smartphones, offering a strong camera experience for a less-than-premium price. Check out our in-depth OnePlus 3 camera review and OnePlus 3T camera review for more info and our personal experiences with these smart snappers. And with the latest version of OxygenOS, that camera experience just got even better.
What difference does the OxygenOS 4.1.0 update make to the OnePlus 3 and 3T’s camera?
With no kind of Optical Image Stabilisation on-board (in other words, mechanical camera parts which react to motion to counter shake and judder), the OnePlus 3 and OnePlus 3T are reliant on Electronic Image Stabilisation (EIS). This is a software solution which cleans up video footage once it’s been shot, reducing the shakiness for a smoother result.
Up until now, OnePlus’ EIS efforts were less than stellar. Shooting video when moving around resulted in a fair bit of judder, including serious shake when you take a step.
However, the OxygenOS 4.1.0 update is here to rectify the EIS situation and make for smoother video results.
Does the OnePlus EIS fix work?
Most definitely. We noticed a marked improvement when comparing our videos shot on the OnePlus 3 and 3T before and after the OxygenOS 4.1.0 update.
To keep things fair, we shot two straight line maneouvre on both phones, before installing the update. We then shot the exact same walking footage after the update, so the surfacing and conditions were identical.
You can see the results in the split-screen footage below. Side-to-side and up-and-down sway has been reduced significantly, giving a much smoother video. You also get a slightly reduced ‘popping’ effect with each step, although this is still present.
Note that this footage is shot in Full HD 1080p at 30 frames-per-second.
The improvement is basically the same for both the OnePlus 3 and 3T, so neither phone is better than the other at image stabilisation.
What other improvements does OxygenOS 4.1.0 bring?
This update from OnePlus also brings an upgraded version of Android 7.1.1 to the OnePlus 3 and 3T, plus Google’s latest security patch. On top of this you get improved Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity, as well as general bug fixes.
You can update your OnePlus 3 or 3T phone by heading to Android’s settings menu and then scrolling down to System Updates. Give this a tap and you’ll be told when your phone is ready to update. If the OxygenOS update isn’t ready to download just yet, check back later.
Note that the update is 1.4GB in size, so you’ll definitely want to be connected to a reliable WiFi network before commencing.
Check out our OnePlus 3 and 3T hub for all you need to know.
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