The years have been good to the OnePlus 7T. The device still packs a punch with its Snapdragon 855+ chipset, 8GB RAM, and a triple camera system featuring a 48/16/12 configuration. Plus, it has a buttery smooth 90Hz fluid display refresh rate. But not everything is rainbows and butterflies.

At launch, the OnePlus 7T was running Android 10 and promised two major Android updates. At the time, the OnePlus brand was reputable and Carl Pei was in charge, I mean what could go wrong? As it turns out, the improbable happened and everything went to the dogs since then. Carl Pei parted way with OnePlus and moved on to found the Nothing phone brand.

For some years now, OnePlus has had an existential threat to lose its Oxygen OS identity to sister company Oppo’s Color OS. There was a stay in this verdict after a backlash from loyal OnePlus fans, but for the OnePlus 7T, there’s also end-of-life to contend with.

The OnePlus 7 series reached end-of-life when OnePlus rolled out the final OxygenOS 12 update. Much as it’s tempting to get in one more update, I would advise against this update if you haven’t yet installed it. If you have, I can assist you with rollback to a more stable version in a moment. All this comes from personal experience as I have used the Oneplus 7T for the last few years.

OnePlus 7T Android 12 woes

OnePlus 7T HD1907 - 1

My OnePlus 7T HD1907 receiving wrong a bug-ridden Android 12 update for HD1901

On top of the Android 12 update coming over a year late, most devices didn’t receive the OTA update when it came out. Some have never received up to today. Those who did complain of a myriad of bugs and issues which forced many to roll back to Android 11 at their earliest convenience, including myself.

OnePlus device owners in India seem to be the few getting some love, with the majority of the updates pushed to India first, but still, many complain about not receiving the updates or bugs galore. To their chagrin, OnePlus still remains tightlipped after the delayed and bungled upgrades.

Device owners (verifiable on my OnePlus 7T HD1907) who update to Android 12 lose usage of Dual SIM even with a second SIM installed, and report issues with automatic maximum screen brightness, especially on unlocking, random call disconnection, and battery drain. Some people say they can’t disable ending their calls with the button or close background apps in a multiview screen. Other people complain about refresh rate drops from 90Hz to 60Hz and also gallery instability. The gallery bug though is actually an old bug from Android 11 that was never fully fixed but not a big issue for the most part.

Personally, I received an OTA update version HD1901_11_F20 and later HD1901_11_F22 over a year since OnePlus announced the update. Incidentally, my phone is the HD1907, not the HD1901 meaning it was the wrong update to begin with. I accidentally installed this update and lost the use of my second SIM and all the issues mentioned above. I have since rolled back to Android 11.

There is no official communication from OnePlus about the mix-up or update to squash the bugs other than a rollback to Android 11. Luckily, OnePlus is one of the phone brands that make this possible in a few simple steps.

OnePlus 7T Android 11 update woes

It’s hard to believe that Android 11 is now pretty stable on the OnePlus 7 series, but that wasn’t initially the case. At the time, some of the reported issues included overheating and subsequent battery drain, even when the phone was idle, and framerate drops.

Initially, the OnePlus 7 series also suffered from sluggishness, app crashes, and connectivity issues. It goes without saying that whenever a OnePlus device is beset with these bugs, the best course of action is to downgrade to the previous OS, in this case, Android 10.

Luckily, most of these issues were fixed by the last update, Oxygen OS 11.0.9.1 which I am currently running on my OnePlus 7T. This is the update we advise our readers to stick to until there’s evidence that Android 12 is stable enough to run.

Summary

In conclusion, OnePlus 7/7T device owners should be cautious about updating to Android 12 and consider rolling back to Android 11 if they experience any issues. OnePlus needs to address the numerous bugs and issues users have reported to regain its once-reputable status.

How to Rollback a OnePlus 7T Device

OnePlus provides a nifty rollback method that can downgrade your device to its previous operating system. Unfortunately, as is to be expected, the rollback method will erase all the contents of the phone. Be sure to back up all your data before you go through with it.

Download the Rollback package for Android 11 from the links below :

  • OnePlus 7T (IN&GLO)
  • OnePlus 7T (EU)
  • OnePlus 7T Pro (IN&GLO)
  • OnePlus 7T Pro (EU)

According to OnePlus, these are the latest packages of OxygenOS 11 to help you restore the lost applications after rollback to Android 11 . Download the latest ROM rollback zip package from the specified server.

  • OnePlus 7T (IN)
  • OnePlus 7T (EU)
  • OnePlus 7T (GLO)
  • OnePlus 7T Pro (IN)
  • OnePlus 7T Pro (EU)
  • OnePlus 7T Pro (GLO)
  1. Copy the ROM rollback package to the phone storage and rename the package according to different regions, you may refer to the note below.
  2. Go to Settings -> About device -> Version -> Click Build number 7 times and enter the password, now you are in the developer mode.
  3. Go back to Settings -> About device -> Up to date -> Click the top right button -> Local install -> Click on the corresponding rollback package -> Extract -> Upgrade -> System upgrade completed to 100%.
  4. After the rollback is complete, click Restart.
  5. Rollback successful.

However, sometimes there is no option for Local Upgrade/Install as what happened once I installed Android 12 and wanted to downgrade. In that case, follow the method below:

Rollback guide for OnePlus 7T (when you don’t see Local Upgrade)

  1. Download the first rollback zip package from the specified server.
  2. Copy the ROM rollback package to the phone storage and rename the package according to different regions, you may refer to the note below.
  3. Go to Settings -> About device -> Version -> Click Build number 7 times and enter the password, now you are in the developer mode.
  4. Go back to Settings -> About device -> Up to date -> Click the top right button -> Local install -> Click on the corresponding rollback package -> Extract -> Upgrade -> System upgrade completed to 100%.
  5. After the rollback is complete, click Restart.
  6. Rollback successful.
  7. Download the latest packages of OxygenOS 11 from the specified server.
  8. Copy the Upgrade package to the phone storage.
  9. Install this apk You’ll need it to update. Then, open the app -> tap the top-right gear icon -> find the upgrade package and tap it -> wait to finish the installation -> tap reboot
  10. After the upgrade is complete, click Restart.
  11. Update successful.

Sydney Mugerwa is a seasoned consumer tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with a passion for reviewing the latest gadgets and smart devices. From smartphones and wearables to smart home products and cameras, Sydney breaks down the complexities of consumer tech, making it easy to understand through detailed reviews and how-to guides. His mission is to simplify tech jargon and help readers make informed decisions in the ever-evolving world of technology.

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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.

This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.

This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.

READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda

“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”

Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”

The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:

  • SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
  • Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
  • Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
  • Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.

Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.

Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]

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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.

The key launches included:

  • CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
  • MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
  • MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
  • TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.

Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”

“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”

Laury Bai, TECNO CMO

Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”

James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek

CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography

TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.

Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer

The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”

Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud

The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.

TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability

To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”

Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK

Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.

MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers

The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.

World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14

Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.

TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.

Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm

In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.

The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series

TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.

TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future

Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.

Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.

Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.

With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.

Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]

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