Remember the Diwali season of 2018? Gully Boy hadn’t dropped yet, PUBG Mobile was delivering cold chicken dinners, and OnePlus launched the 6T—an upgraded powerhouse with innovative in-display fingerprint scanning and the then-rare teardrop notch. Fast forward to 2025, and somehow, the OnePlus 6T isn’t just alive; it’s thriving.
Sounds a bit absurd, right? A phone from 2018 still being discussed amid foldables, 200MP camera beasts, and AI-infused marvels? But here’s the twist — the 6T has aged not like milk but like a fine Old Monk bottle tucked away for winters.
Let’s explore what keeps this classic relevant and why it’s quietly resurfacing as a solid choice, particularly among gamers, phone modders, and nostalgic tech enthusiasts.
Custom ROMs: The Lifeline of the OnePlus 6T
Let’s start with the obvious — most budget flagship killers from back in the day have faded into obscurity. But not the OnePlus 6T, and it owes much of its enduring appeal to its dedicated fanbase of custom ROM developers and Android tinkerers.
You know what’s hotter than a limited edition gaming skin? Running Android 15 on a phone from 2018.
Thanks to LineageOS 22.1, the OnePlus 6T is now equipped with Android 15 — complete with regular security updates and all the benefits of modern Android, minus the bloatware. For those in pursuit of a pure Pixel experience, the Pixel Experience ROM not only delivers a smooth UI but also exclusive features like unlimited Google Photos storage. Trust us, that’s a sweet win.
In tech jargon, a rooted 6T with a stable ROM transforms into your personal lab — mod it, overclock it, theme it, GCam it. It’s the freedom that many modern flagships cage behind locked bootloaders.
Performance Still Holding Up? Yes, Surprisingly So
Okay, we’re not claiming the Snapdragon 845 is cutting-edge in 2025. But daily use? General gaming? Streaming media on platforms like Netflix or JioCinema? Still smooth as butter.
This phone isn’t chasing 144Hz refresh rates, but its AMOLED display still impresses. With deep blacks, vibrant colors, and no ghosting, it shines while watching highlights or streaming your favorite shows. With up to 10GB RAM in select models, this was not just a fast phone in 2018 — it continues to outpace many current mid-range devices that look good on paper but struggle under multitasking.
Pop in a lightweight custom ROM, and you’ll feel the difference. No lag, no stutter. Games like PUBG New State and Call of Duty Mobile? Totally playable, with settings optimized for smooth performance.
Battery Life: Older but Wiser
3700mAh may not seem like a power source for Gen-Z gamers used to 5000+ mAh beasts. But paired with optimized ROMs and streamlined animations, the 6T holds its own.
It’s not an all-day warrior by 2025’s standards, but drop in a ROM with efficient battery profiles, and you’ll enjoy your binge-watching sessions without battery anxiety. Bonus? The 6T’s battery is replaceable by most local mobile repair shops — the kind you trust for cracked screen rescues and charging pin repairs.
That Nostalgic Kick: More Than Just Sentiment
Tech nostalgia is a real phenomenon. Think of that one old phone tucked away in a drawer, half-functional but overflowing with memories.
The OnePlus 6T exhibits a core reliability — like the Bullet your cousin refuses to sell even after upgrading to a Ducati. It serves as a solid secondary phone for travel, work, or simply lounging around your home during lazy weekends.
Moreover, it’s perfect for testing Android mods without risking your pricey Xiaomi 13 Ultra or Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.
Photography: Pleasantly Surprising When Handled Right
If you’re expecting DSLR-level shots — then this might not be the device for you. However, with the right software (Pixel ROM or Google Camera mods, also known as GCam ports), your photos can start to exceed expectations. Enjoy sharper edges, enhanced low-light performance, and better exposure control — all courtesy of its dual 16+20MP rear cameras.
And yes, Snapchat and Instagram Stories run smoothly, without any green screen glitches or blurriness, even from the front camera.
Security Without Sacrifice
For those who stay updated on data breaches and vulnerabilities, here’s some comfort: with developer-supported ROMs like LineageOS and timely security updates, your 6T could be safer than some newer budget phones stuck on outdated Android versions.
Community support for this device appears to be eternal — like your favorite reruns or viral memes.
Who Should Still Use the OnePlus 6T in 2025?
Let’s be clear — this isn’t for those chasing periscope cameras or Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 performance.
However, if you find yourself identifying as:
- A mobile gamer seeking clean, lightweight Android?
- An enthusiast of custom ROMs, root modding, and kernel tweaks?
- In search of a dependable secondary device for travel?
- A developer needing a stable testing platform?
- Someone longing for a reliable, no-nonsense phone?
Then this phone remains a hidden gem.
And don’t underestimate it — with a little knowledge, this device can multitask better than some interns fueled by triple-shot espressos.
The OnePlus 6T Resurgence: A Culture, Not Just a Comeback
Some phones define an era. The 6T? It epitomized a mindset.
Its appeal extended beyond specifications — it symbolized the modding playground, blending power with minimalism. Fast forward to 2025, and it still maintains this ethos, thanks to community-driven innovation and remarkable durability.
So if you’re scouting on OLX or still have it stashed away, dust it off. Charge it up. Install a custom ROM. Let this classic roar back to life.
Or better yet, pass it on to a curious cousin. One bootloader unlock later, you might inspire the next big name in Android modding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can the OnePlus 6T run Android 15?
A: Absolutely! Thanks to custom ROMs like LineageOS 22.1, it runs Android 15 efficiently, complete with essential security updates.
Q: How’s the gaming performance in 2025?
A: For casual to mid-level gaming (think Asphalt, PUBG, CoD), it performs admirably, especially on lightweight ROMs devoid of bloat.
Q: Is the camera still functional?
A: Definitely! With GCam mods, you can achieve impressive results that surpass its original capabilities.
Q: Is it still a worthy investment in 2025?
A: For enthusiasts of ROM customization or those in need of a reliable backup phone — definitely.
Q: Can you still repair a OnePlus 6T easily?
A: Yes, local repair shops typically maintain stock for parts like batteries and screens.
Q: Does it support safety nets and banking apps after custom ROM installations?
A: Using Magisk and the right modules, even custom ROM’d 6Ts can securely run banking applications.
Q: Is the Pixel Experience ROM stable for daily use?
A: Yes, very stable! Plus, it includes perks like unlimited Photos storage — not a bad bonus for a free upgrade.
Final Word: Old Flagship, New Gameplan
The OnePlus 6T in 2025 resembles that underestimated IPL team — lacking star players but excelling with heart, strategy, and adaptability. It teaches us that tech doesn’t have to be flashy to garner respect.
It won’t collect awards. But it just might earn your loyalty once more.
So, go ahead — charge that 6T — and give it another chance to shine. Your inner tech expert will express gratitude!
