# OnePlus Watch 3: Tackling Size and LTE Limitations
The **OnePlus Watch 3** has made waves due to its noteworthy battery life and performance; however, it isn’t free from flaws. In a recent chat with *Wareable*, **Dr. Lee Zhang**, the Head of R&D at the OnePlus Health Lab, highlighted two significant concerns: the **watch’s size** and the **absence of LTE connectivity** outside of China. He reassured users that OnePlus is diligently pursuing solutions, hinting at possible enhancements in future models.
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## **The Size Dilemma: A Bulky Design for Petite Wrists**
A prevalent criticism of the **OnePlus Watch 3** is its **large 46mm case**, which can be cumbersome on smaller wrists. Dr. Zhang conceded that the watch “remains heavy for a small wrist,” particularly affecting female users and those who favor a more lightweight design.
### **How It Stacks Up Against Rivals**
– **OnePlus Watch 3**: 50g (without strap), 80g (with strap)
– **Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra**: 60g
– **Samsung Galaxy Watch 7**: 34g
– **Google Pixel Watch 3**: 37g
It’s evident that the OnePlus Watch 3 is considerably heavier than several of its rivals, making it less enjoyable for extended use.
### **What Lies Ahead?**
Dr. Zhang confirmed that OnePlus will **”rectify that this year,”** indicating that a **more compact version of the OnePlus Watch 3** might be in the pipeline. This could manifest as a **OnePlus Watch 3R**, a lighter and smaller variant, or the **OnePlus Watch 4**, anticipated in 2026.
A smaller model would likely come equipped with a **1.3-inch display** instead of the existing **1.5-inch screen**, possibly sacrificing some battery endurance while enhancing comfort and usability.
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## **The LTE Connectivity Hurdle**
A further significant downside of the **OnePlus Watch 3** is the **absence of LTE functionality outside of China**. While the Chinese variant boasts LTE capabilities, users in North America and Europe are restricted to Bluetooth connectivity.
### **Why No LTE Beyond China?**
Dr. Zhang clarified that the challenge is **not due to technology** but instead **logistical**. OnePlus must **collaborate with carriers** to facilitate eSIM capabilities and data plans, a complex undertaking.
### **Prospects for Future LTE Connectivity?**
OnePlus is presently engaging with carriers, **particularly in Europe**, to enable LTE support in forthcoming models. However, Zhang did not offer a specific timeline, suggesting that it may require several product cycles before LTE is broadly accessible outside of China.
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## **Implications for the Future of OnePlus Smartwatches**
Overall, the **OnePlus Watch 3** has been positively received, yet these two challenges—**size and LTE limitations**—have hindered it from becoming a genuine rival to Samsung and Google’s smartwatch offerings.
With OnePlus diligently pursuing a **smaller, more comfortable model** and **enhanced LTE support**, upcoming versions of the OnePlus Watch could attract a wider audience.
### **What to Anticipate Moving Forward**
– A **smaller OnePlus Watch 3R** or **Watch 4** featuring a **lighter build**
– Possible **LTE support in Europe** before expansion to North America
– Ongoing **software and hardware enhancements** to compete with leading Android smartwatches
Despite a few initial setbacks, OnePlus demonstrates a commitment to considering user feedback and refining its smartwatch offerings. If these proposed updates come to fruition, the **OnePlus Watch 4** could emerge as a formidable competitor in the smartwatch arena.
Would you be inclined to purchase a **more compact OnePlus Watch** or one equipped with **LTE connectivity**? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🚀
