Oppo has launched the Reno 16 series, an upper-mid-range smartphone starting at €899. The device features a unique “Bubble” screen accessory.
However, the phone lacks the built-in magnetic Qi2 support that would make the add-on truly seamless.
What happened
Oppo introduced its latest smartphone lineup, the Reno 16 series. The base model carries a starting price of €899.
The device packs solid upper-mid-range specifications. Alongside the phone, Oppo revealed an unusual new accessory called the “Bubble” screen.
This add-on provides extra display functionality for the handset. It attaches to the device to offer a secondary viewing area for notifications or widgets.
However, the phone relies on standard attachment methods rather than built-in magnets. Tech outlet 9to5Google reported on the launch, noting the missed opportunity for magnetic integration.
The publication highlighted the accessory as a neat design concept. Still, the initial analysis pointed out that the hardware execution falls short of its full potential.
Why it matters
The €899 price tag places the Reno 16 in a highly competitive market segment. At this pricing tier, buyers expect premium features and refined hardware ecosystems.
The “Bubble” screen represents a creative approach to smartphone design. Hardware makers constantly look for new ways to make standard glass slabs stand out from the competition.
Accessory integration often determines whether these experimental features succeed or fail. When a company introduces a custom screen add-on, daily usability dictates its adoption rate.
Magnets have become the industry standard for attaching smartphone accessories. They offer a quick, secure connection without requiring bulky clips, adhesive, or specialized cases.
A secondary screen needs to snap on and off effortlessly. Without that ease of use, a novel accessory quickly becomes a forgotten gimmick in a desk drawer.
The catch
The Reno 16 does not include Qi2 magnets inside the device. Qi2 is the latest wireless charging standard developed by the Wireless Power Consortium.
This standard includes a specific magnetic power profile. It functions similarly to Apple’s MagSafe system, aligning internal coils perfectly for efficient charging.
Crucially, these magnets also allow accessories to snap securely onto the back of a phone. Without Qi2 support, the Bubble screen accessory requires a much clunkier attachment method.
This omission makes the neat design concept feel less refined in practice. The lack of built-in magnets severely limits the accessory’s overall appeal.
Shoppers spending nearly €900 generally expect modern magnetic mounting as a standard feature. Leaving it out creates unnecessary friction for users trying to adopt the new Bubble screen.
What to verify
Check official Oppo documentation for the exact attachment mechanism used by the Bubble screen. The company must clarify how the accessory secures to the phone without magnetic force.
Look for the complete list of specifications to see the exact processors and cameras included. These specific hardware details will determine if the device truly justifies the €899 price.
Confirm regional availability for the Reno 16 series. Oppo devices often see limited releases and may not launch simultaneously in all global markets.
Review upcoming hands-on tests to see if the accessory connection remains secure during daily use. Real-world testing will reveal if the lack of magnets ruins the experience.
Source trail
This information comes from a June 25, 2026, report by tech publication 9to5Google. The outlet detailed the new smartphone hardware and its accompanying accessory lineup.
The initial report highlighted the contrast between the solid phone specifications and the missing magnetic features. The publication praised the screen concept but criticized the execution.
For more details on the launch and the accessory limitations, read the full breakdown on the 9to5Google website.