Last week, users who upgraded to the latest firmware of OxygenOS 16 (specifically builds 16.0.2.500, .501, and .503) received an unpleasant surprise: hardware-level anti-rollback protection. For the average user, this doesn’t mean much. But for modders and custom ROM enthusiasts who treat their phones like a digital dress-up closet, it was a disaster.
Attempting to downgrade to older versions of OxygenOS or ColorOS – a standard step in installing custom software immediately bricked the devices. This restriction affected these latest flagship phones, including: OnePlus 13 / 13T / 13s, OnePlus 15 and OnePlus Ace 5 series.
Did this upgrade prioritize security over style, or was it simply a major bug?
OnePlus broke its silence in a statement to Android Authority, clarifying that this wasn’t an attack on the modding community. Rather, it was a temporary “security pause.”
To further strengthen device security, we’ve temporarily paused the ability to downgrade from 16.0.2.50x software builds to older builds. We will be restoring the ability to downgrade software builds in our next routine software update, but in the meantime customers looking to downgrade their build can contact OnePlus after sales channels directly.
— OnePlus to Android Authority
“To further strengthen device security, we have temporarily disabled the ability to downgrade from the 16.0.2.50x software builds. We will restore the ability to downgrade in our next routine software update.”
Although they didn’t name names, there are also rumors circulating that this was a hotfix for a vulnerability that allowed stolen phones to be wiped and resold. OnePlus put on the emergency brakes to protect data, even if it meant closing the doors to enthusiasts for a few weeks.
Good news for modders
“Freedom to mod” has been a cornerstone of the OnePlus brand since the original OnePlus One. If they continue this restriction, it will be a huge blow to their reputation, but OnePlus says a fix is coming: the next routine update will officially reverse the anti-rollback behavior, giving modders their freedom back, and this fix will apply to both the Chinese variant and the global OxygenOS models.
Support for bricked phones: If you have bricked your phone while trying to downgrade, OnePlus says you should contact their after-sales channels. (They haven’t confirmed whether the repair will be free, so keep your receipt handy).
What this means for you:
If you’re planning to flash a custom ROM or prefer an older version of the OS that requires a rollback, wait a little longer. Don’t try to force a downgrade on the current build, or your phone will become an expensive paperweight. Wait for the next OTA update, which will safely “unlock” the ability to downgrade.
OnePlus is essentially saying, “It’s not your fault, it’s a security bug.” They’re not becoming a completely closed-garden brand just yet.
Personal Opinion
I believe OnePlus needs to strike a balance between security and freedom. As a moderator, I’m eagerly awaiting the next update. If OnePlus fixes this issue, which they’re calling a bug, they can avoid significant market damage. Let’s see what happens next. Feel free to comment with any suggestions.
