The OnePlus 13 is already one of the best Android phones of 2025—packed with a blazing-fast Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, a stunning 6.8-inch display, and a battery that charges in minutes. But beyond the usual specs, there’s a hidden camera feature that most users overlook: XPan Mode.
Tucked away in the “More” section of the camera app, XPan Mode is OnePlus’s tribute to Hasselblad’s legendary XPan film camera from 1998. It lets you shoot ultra-wide 65:24 aspect ratio photos—the same cinematic format used in classic panoramic film photography. At first glance, it might seem like a gimmick, but once you try it, you’ll realize it’s one of the most creative tools on your phone 215.
What Is XPan Mode? A Nod to Hasselblad’s Legacy
Back in the late ’90s, Hasselblad’s XPan was revolutionary—it was the first 35mm camera that could switch between standard and panoramic shots on the same roll of film. OnePlus and Hasselblad revived this concept digitally, letting you capture wide, cinematic shots without needing a $13,000 camera 215.
How It Works
- Aspect Ratio: Unlike standard phone photos (usually 4:3 or 16:9), XPan Mode shoots in a dramatic 65:24 ratio, perfect for sweeping landscapes or moody street photography.
- Film Simulation: The mode even mimics the look of classic black-and-white film, complete with a “negative” effect when you press the shutter—just like developing real film 15.
- Focal Lengths: On the OnePlus 13, you get three options—15mm (ultra-wide), 23mm (wide), and 73mm (zoomed-in)—giving you more flexibility than earlier versions 2.
Why You Should Actually Use XPan Mode
At first, many (including tech reviewers) dismissed XPan Mode as a marketing gimmick. But after testing it, they changed their minds. Here’s why:
1. It Forces You to Think Differently
Most smartphone photography is quick and automatic. XPan Mode, however, requires intentional framing. Because the aspect ratio is so wide, you have to rethink composition—leading to more artistic, cinematic shots 2.
2. It’s Surprisingly Versatile
- Landscapes: Perfect for capturing vast scenes without stitching multiple shots.
- Street Photography: The wide frame adds a dramatic, storytelling feel.
- Portraits (Yes, Really): When used creatively, the elongated format can make portraits look unique and artistic 2.
3. It’s Fun (and Free!) to Experiment
Unlike buying an actual XPan camera (which costs thousands), this feature is already in your phone. You can play around with it anytime—no extra gear needed 15.
The Downsides: Is XPan Mode Practical?
While XPan Mode is cool, it’s not perfect:
- Social Media Unfriendly: The ultra-wide photos look awkward on Instagram or Twitter, where square or vertical crops dominate 2.
- Not for Every Shot: Some scenes just don’t suit the format—it’s a niche tool, not a daily driver.
- Overprocessing Issues: Like other OnePlus camera modes, XPan shots can sometimes look over-sharpened 6.
How to Get the Best Results with XPan Mode
Want to try it? Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Look for Leading Lines (roads, bridges, buildings) to guide the viewer’s eye.
- Shoot in Good Light—low-light XPan shots can get grainy.
- Use Master Mode (not the default Photo mode) for more natural-looking images 6.
Final Verdict: Should You Use It?
Yes—but not all the time. XPan Mode isn’t a replacement for your main camera, but it’s a fantastic creative tool that most people ignore. If you love photography, it’s worth experimenting with—you might just take some of your most striking shots yet.
So next time you’re out shooting with your OnePlus 13, don’t just stick to the usual modes. Dive into XPan Mode and see the world a little less… square
Subscribe to my whatsapp channel