OnePlus-Realme merger rumor resurfaces: What an internal reorg could mean for Oppo’s smartphone strategy
New reporting from Chinese outlet Leifeng.com claims OnePlus and Realme have been folded into a single operational structure, potentially tightening Oppo’s control over two of its best-known smartphone brands.
The report cites an internal notice and describes newly created departments overseeing both domestic and overseas business.
No company involved has publicly confirmed any merger, and the details remain unverified outside the cited internal communication. Even so, the claim is drawing attention because it follows months of speculation about OnePlus scaling back in some international markets.
What the report says changed?
According to the report, a sub-product center has been set up to coordinate OnePlus and Realme operations in China and abroad. It is said to be led by Li Jie, president of OnePlus China, who reportedly answers to OnePlus co-founder and CEO Pete Lau.
The same report says marketing and service functions for both brands would be handled by a separate unit led by Realme co-founder Li Bingzhong alongside Realme CMO Xi Qi. If accurate, that would suggest closer coordination of product planning and customer-facing work across the two lineups.
Why the timing matters now?
OnePlus has long been part of Oppo’s broader ecosystem under BBK Electronics’ successor structure, while Realme began as an Oppo sub-brand before becoming independent in 2018.
Recent reports in Chinese media have suggested Realme has again been brought more tightly into Oppo’s organization, setting the backdrop for renewed merger talk.
The rumor also lands after earlier stories claimed OnePlus might exit markets such as the US and Europe, which the company previously denied. In recent weeks, OnePlus has continued to release new devices and accessories, complicating any narrative of an immediate shutdown.
If a joint structure is confirmed, analysts will likely watch for signs of product overlap, shared software roadmaps and streamlined after-sales support. For consumers, the key question will be whether a closer OnePlus-Realme alignment improves updates and service, or narrows the differences between the two brands.
