OnePlus opened up applications for The Lab: OnePlus Nord 2T

Reviewers may be able to keep the device. You can apply until 18th May 2022 23:59 HKT.
Adhiraj S. Chauhan

"The Lab" is a unique concept OnePlus first introduced in May 2016 with the OnePlus 3. The OnePlus 6/6T, 7- & 7T-series, 8T-series, 9-series, Nord 2 & Buds Pro, and the 10 Pro were a part of the program. This unique concept contains writing a relatively thorough review of ~10000 words (older "The Lab" editions had a word limit of ~250), as well as answering some questions regarding the required skills of reviewing a product. OnePlus decides which applications they approve, and they'll send devices to the selected reviewers. Assuming all goes well and you complete your review on time, you get to keep the device.

The 7T-series' had it slightly different — participants had to buy the device first, and winners could choose between a full reimbursement of their purchase, or a custom device with their name engraved. This year's iteration (for the Nord 2T) is similar to previous ones — there are 7 devices available.

OnePlus also posted a very useful thread explaining the selection process (including dos & don'ts), so give that a read as well.

Timeline

  • May 12: Open for Application
  • May 12 – May 18: Community reviews your application
  • May 18: Application Closes
  • May 19: Announcement of Lab Reviewers
  • May 19: Ship out devices
  • May 22: Unboxing
  • May 23 onwards: The Lab Review commences

Only 7 reviewers will be selected, so make sure your application stands out. Try adding links to your existing work, if you have any (photography, news articles, blog posts, YouTube videos, etc). You can also check out this thread (was posted 2 years ago), where OnePlus explains the story behind The Lab. A user on OnePlus Forums who was also a Lab Reviewer for the 7T, gave some tips when writing an application (they made that post for the 9-series Lab, but it applies here as well).

Who can apply?

Both OnePlus and non-OnePlus users can apply, as well as community and non-community members. In the past, OnePlus reserved some spots for community members, but this time they haven't specified anything about that. Also, only EU & India users are eligible.

How can you apply?

Head to this website and fill the form.

Application deadline

Until 18th May 2022 23:59 HKT (GMT +08:00).

FAQ

OnePlus posted the following FAQ:

  • Q: Who is eligible?
    A: Only users residing in EU and IN region are eligible for The Lab - Nord 2T Edition.
  • Q: What criteria will OnePlus use to select the winners?
    A: Your entry will be reviewed based on your photography and writing skills. Other criteria include your tech gadget experience, review history, blogging, and related user-generated content highlighting your writing proficiency. This allows us to determine whether you qualify as a Lab reviewer.
  • Q: How many devices have you prepared for the Lab?
    A: We have prepared 7 devices for this edition of The Lab.
  • Q: When will you ship out the review devices?
    A: We will ship out devices according to the schedule. Depending on the user’s region, Lab Reviewers should receive devices in three to seven calendar days.
  • Q: For how long do reviewers get to create their review thread after receiving the device?
    A: Upon receiving the devices, we allow approximately seven calendar days for reviewers to write their reviews. A follow-up review after using the device for one month is also required.
  • Q: Will reviewers be able to keep the devices?
    A: Yes, provided both reviews are completed and submitted on time.
  • Q: Are Lab reviewers allowed to write critical reviews of the products they received?
    A: Our top priority is to elicit honest feedback, we are committed to publishing user feedback – positive or critical – with zero censorship or influence.

If you're looking for some inspiration, check out previous reviews by The Lab reviewers:

Keep in mind, however, reviewers will have to sign an NDA before they receive the devices. Check out the official post on OnePlus forums, which contains more information, and a sign-up link as well (which we also linked to above).

This iteration of The Lab seems to have a stricter selection process, so put some effort into your application as well as your review of the devices.

Best of luck! If you'd like to know more about the upcoming devices, you can do a quick Google search for "OnePlus Nord 2T rumours", and you can check our article on the phone as well. According to rumours the launch date of the Nord 2T was supposed to be mid-February, but it turned out to be false. We'll be writing another article confirming the specs, pricing, and availability of the Nord 2T around the launch of the device.

Source: OnePlus Forums