OnePlus 15 Dominates Poll: 70% of Users Would Pick It Over iPhone 17 or Galaxy S26

It’s not every day that a poll shakes up the smartphone world, but that’s exactly what happened when we asked readers which upcoming flagship they’re most excited about. A surprising 70% of participants said they’d choose the OnePlus 15 over the iPhone 17 or Samsung Galaxy S26. That’s a huge statement in a market usually dominated by Apple and Samsung, suggesting OnePlus may be on the verge of its biggest comeback yet.

With the global launch expected in November, the buzz around the OnePlus 15 has been intensifying. Leaks, teasers, and insider reports are already painting a compelling picture: a phone designed to disrupt the hierarchy of flagships. And it seems to be working – many Android fans, and even some iPhone users, are saying they’d seriously consider switching to OnePlus for their next upgrade.

The poll that turned heads

Our poll numbers tell an intriguing story.

Nearly 70% of voters expressed interest in the OnePlus 15 as their next phone, while only about 3.5% said they’d remain loyal to Apple or Samsung. Another 27% took the cautious approach, preferring to wait and see how OnePlus prices its new model before making a decision. It’s rare to see such a strong lead for any brand other than the two market giants, which makes this result even more remarkable.

However, as exciting as these numbers sound, early hype doesn’t always translate into real-world sales. Availability, pricing, and carrier deals often determine whether enthusiasm turns into actual purchases. After all, saying you want a phone and buying it are two very different things.

Availability could be the deciding factor

Even with so much fan interest, global rollout remains a critical test. OnePlus may have teased wide availability, likely including the U.S., but it still faces logistical challenges. Apple and Samsung dominate retail shelves and carrier catalogs, often pairing new models with aggressive promotions and trade-in offers that make them hard to resist. Without similar partnerships, OnePlus could lose ground despite its impressive product.

For example, if the OnePlus 15 launches at a price close to the iPhone 17 or Galaxy S26 but lacks the same financing options or bundled discounts, some consumers might hesitate. OnePlus has historically been strong among tech-savvy users who buy directly, but to truly compete at the top, it will need that mainstream push – something that’s easier said than done in markets where carrier deals shape consumer decisions.

What makes the OnePlus 15 so appealing?

So why is the OnePlus 15 drawing so much attention even before launch? The rumored specs explain a lot. The design reportedly builds on the sleek aesthetic of the OnePlus 13T, combining minimalist elegance with subtle curves and a refreshed camera island. Under the hood, it’s expected to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, promising top-tier performance for gaming, multitasking, and AI-powered photography.

Speaking of photography, leaks suggest a major camera overhaul. A new 50 MP telephoto sensor is said to join the lineup, delivering improved optical zoom and better low-light detail. If true, this could push OnePlus closer to the image quality of the Galaxy S26 Ultra – a space where it’s traditionally lagged behind.

Battery life also appears to be a major win. Reports point to a massive 7,000 mAh battery with 120W wired and 50W wireless charging – numbers that could easily outclass Apple and Samsung’s offerings. That combination of efficiency and speed would make it a true powerhouse for heavy users.

Can OnePlus finally break through?

All signs point to a phone that’s ready to challenge the industry leaders. Yet OnePlus still faces an uphill climb. Competing with Apple’s brand loyalty and Samsung’s marketing muscle isn’t easy, even with stellar hardware. If OnePlus manages to launch the 15 globally with fair pricing, consistent stock, and meaningful promotions, it could become its most successful device to date.

For now, it’s clear the hype is real. The OnePlus 15 has already captured the attention – and maybe even the hearts – of a huge segment of smartphone enthusiasts. Whether that excitement turns into sales will depend on how OnePlus handles the crucial next steps in what could be its biggest year yet.