Speculation is growing that Chinese device maker OnePlus is set to unveil another smartphone this month, coming shortly after the debut of its latest flagship (OnePlus 2).

According to speculation, the new device will be a lower-tier sibling for OnePlus 2, with pricing of around $250, compared with $329 for the cheapest OnePlus 2. Mooted specifications include 5.5-inch screen (the same size as OnePlus 2), with 1.9GHz processor.

However, it has also been suggested the device will be a “mini” sibling to the OnePlus 2, with a 5-inch screen with a slightly slimmed-down specification. Interestingly, it has been mooted it will include NFC, one of the features that was a notable omission from the flagship announced earlier this year.

There have been a number of other discrepancies between reports. Some suggest a MediaTek processor, while others name an older Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 chip – OnePlus 2 is powered by a Snapdragon 810. Camera specifications have also varied.

Styling is reminiscent of Apple’s older iPhone 5.

The planned launch is significant as it is the first time OnePlus is moving away from a single product strategy, and also shows a quickening of pace between product introductions. It seems likely that OnePlus will launch the device using an “invitation” campaign, similar to its earlier efforts, which it said has enabled it to more effectively manage inventory.

India manufacture
Separately, OnePlus inked a deal with Foxconn which will see devices manufactured in India, becoming the latest vendor to assemble product in the country. Earlier this year Xiaomi did similar, with its Redmi 2 Prime being constructed there.

According to Reuters, OnePlus said that the move will enable it to “reach our Indian customers faster”.

“India being one of our biggest markets worldwide, we are committed to a long-term sustainable growth path. This move will strengthen our presence and help us step up momentum in India,” said Pete Lau, Founder and CEO of OnePlus.