OnePlus just pushed version 16.0.1.305 to the OnePlus 15, and buried in there is something the changelog doesn’t mention: you can now run the display at its full 165Hz in three more apps. WhatsApp, Instagram, and X all get access to that higher refresh rate now. Before this, 165Hz was reserved for a handful of games. Everything else maxed out at 120Hz.
You’ll Need to Dig for It
The catch? OnePlus tucked this behind Developer Options. So you’ll need to enable that first, which isn’t difficult – just tap your build number seven times in Settings – but it does create problems. Banking apps hate Developer Mode. Some will flat-out refuse to open until you switch it back off.
Strange choice for a feature that OnePlus advertised on the box.
The Implementation Is Weird
Even once you’ve enabled it, the behaviour is off. The display doesn’t do what it normally does – dropping down to 1Hz when nothing’s moving on screen. Instead, it stays locked at 165Hz the entire time you’re in those apps. No dynamic switching. Your battery will notice.
OnePlus already has a Screen refresh rate option sitting in Display & brightness settings. Most people don’t even know it exists, which makes it perfect for power users who want to mess with this stuff. Stick a warning on it, let the display behave normally, done. Why they went with the Developer Options route instead is anyone’s guess.
Other Stuff in the Update
The rest of the changelog covers the usual ground:
- System stability improvements
- Gaming performance tweaks
- Camera enhancements
- General bug fixes
Availability
Rolling out now in India. Other regions should see it within the next few days.
