A Quick Look at What’s New This Year
Smartphones in 2025 are smarter, faster, and more powerful than ever. Whether you’re chasing the best camera, want the longest battery life, or just need something reliable for everyday use, there’s a perfect phone for you.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top phones of the year, what makes them stand out, and who each one is best suited for.
If you’re planning an upgrade soon — or just curious what’s out there — this list will help you find the right fit.
1. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra leads the way for Android phones this year. It’s packed with a massive 6.9-inch display, a powerful 200MP main camera, and the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. You also get handy tools like the S Pen for note-taking and Galaxy AI to make everyday tasks easier.
- Display: 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X
- Camera: 200MP main sensor
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
- Battery: Up to two days of battery life
- Extras: S Pen support, Galaxy DeX, Galaxy AI features
This phone is best for: People who want the best of everything — a huge screen, pro-level cameras, and powerful tools for work or creativity.
See a full review of the Galaxy S25 Ultra here.
2. Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro Max pushes what’s possible with a smartphone. It offers stunning photography, smooth performance with the A18 Pro chip, and a bright, colorful OLED display. With iOS 18, everything feels even faster and more polished.
- Display: 6.9-inch OLED
- Camera: 48MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, 12MP telephoto (5x zoom)
- Processor: A18 Pro
- Battery Life: Around 17.5 hours of web browsing
- Extras: MagSafe charging, iOS 18
This phone is best for: Anyone who loves a polished Apple experience, needs top-notch cameras, and wants a phone that lasts for years.
Check out a full iPhone 16 Pro Max review here.
3. Google Pixel 9 Pro
Google’s Pixel 9 Pro is all about smart features. It offers a clean Android experience with extra AI tricks to make photos better and life easier. Plus, Google promises software updates for seven years, which is rare in the phone world.
- Display: 6.3-inch OLED
- Camera: Advanced AI-powered camera system
- Processor: Tensor G4
- Software Support: 7 years of updates
- Extras: AI tools like Best Take and Add Me
This phone is best for: Android fans who want a simple, smart experience with a camera that never misses a shot.
Read the full Pixel 9 Pro review here.
4. OnePlus 13
OnePlus keeps delivering great phones at lower prices than you’d expect. The OnePlus 13 gives you a huge screen, a powerful processor, and a big battery that charges incredibly fast — perfect if you’re always on the move.
- Display: 6.82-inch 120Hz AMOLED
- Camera: Triple 50MP sensors
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
- Battery: 6000mAh with 80W fast charging
- Extras: IP69 water resistance, Oxygen OS 15
This phone is best for: Anyone who wants premium features without paying premium prices.
See a detailed OnePlus 13 review here.
5. Google Pixel 9a
The Pixel 9a proves that a great phone doesn’t have to break the bank. It brings solid performance, a great camera, and wireless charging at a price that’s hard to beat. It’s an excellent pick for students or anyone looking for a good deal.
- Display: 6.3-inch
- Camera: 48MP main, 13MP ultra-wide
- Processor: Tensor G4
- Battery: 5100mAh with wireless charging
- Price: About £499
This phone is best for: Anyone looking for a budget-friendly smartphone that still delivers great photos and reliable performance.
Learn more in the Pixel 9a review here.
Quick Comparison
| Phone | Display | Camera Setup | Battery Life | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S25 Ultra | 6.9″ AMOLED | 200MP main, ultra-wide, telephoto | 2 days | S Pen, Galaxy AI, DeX |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | 6.9″ OLED | 48MP main, ultra-wide, 12MP telephoto | 17.5+ hours | MagSafe, iOS 18 |
| Pixel 9 Pro | 6.3″ OLED | AI-enhanced camera system | All day | 7 years of updates |
| OnePlus 13 | 6.82″ AMOLED | Triple 50MP sensors | 2 days | 80W fast charging, IP69 rating |
| Pixel 9a | 6.3″ | 48MP main, 13MP ultra-wide | All day | Affordable, AI features |
Need a Phone Repair?
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