We are specialists in quality batteries. We have batteries, chargers and accessories for everything you can think of. Low prices, big inventory, expert advice. Find your battery here!
Samsung is taking an aggressive approach to its products and offerings. It is constantly working on improving its technology to better compete with others in the smartphone industry. The company is said to be contemplating a new branding strategy that could mark a significant evolution from its classic approach. It is said to be considering moving away from the Galaxy branding for its flagship phones, which has been there since 2009, in an attempt to create a distinct identity.
Samsung might drop its Galaxy branding for its premium phones and is aiming to revamp the brand identity
When it comes to Samsung’s Galaxy lineup, the company is best known for its flagship models. However, the past year has seen the competition intensify. This year, the lineup of products did not manage to leave a lasting impression on users, who were rather left dismayed by the lack of innovation for the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 models that rolled out in July.
The South Korean tech giant did not hold back from accepting their shortcomings. It even extended an apology and started developing other products to make up for it. It seems that the company will not stop here when it comes to rebuilding the brand, as a report by E-Today shared by a South Korean publication mentioned that Samsung is considering dropping the Galaxy branding for its top-of-the-line smartphones and most likely would include the S-series as well as Z-series.
Samsung’s shift in branding approach is to build a more premium image for its top-tier devices and put them in a better position to compete with Apple and Google’s flagship models. It is not just Samsung that is putting more head on its high-end products to appear more premium. This seems to be an overall trend in the industry where the focus is on building a strong brand identity that resonates with users, especially for the premium models.
The report points towards the discussions regarding a pivoting in a new direction that has been ongoing in the company for a year now. The Head of Global Marketing at Samsung, Lee Young-hee, at CES 2024 said:
Galaxy has so many lineups that I understand people are expecting a new name when there is an innovative turning point.
Given that the Galaxy branding has an array of devices under it, this move does seem important for the premium devices to truly stand out. While many factors would need to be considered before undergoing this change, it could be a game changer for the company.
Xiaomi has unveiled the Xiaomi 15 Pro alongside a whole host of other devices today. Arriving as one of the first devices powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite, the Xiaomi 15 Pro also packs a massive 6,100 mAh battery and a new 120 mm telephoto camera.
The Xiaomi 15 Pro complements Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset with a huge 6,100 mAh battery. (Image source: Xiaomi)
Xiaomi has now fully introduced the Xiaomi 15 Pro, which effectively replaces the Xiaomi 14 Ultra as the company’s premier smartphone. For context, the Xiaomi 15 Pro has arrived alongside the smaller Xiaomi 15, which clocks in with a 6.36-inch display.
By contrast, Xiaomi equips the Xiaomi 15 Pro with a 6.73-inch display that helps it measure 161.3 x 75.3 x 8.4~8.7 mm and weigh 213~219 g. Please note that while the Xiaomi 15 Pro outputs at 1440p and 120 Hz like the Xiaomi 14 Pro, it gets 200 nits brighter thanks to a 3,200 nit peak brightness. Moreover, this brighter display is joined by a 6,100 mAh Silicon Carbon (Si/C) battery and Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset.
Unfortunately, wired charging capabilities have dropped from 120 W to 90 W; 50 W wireless and 10 W reverse wireless charging remain, though. The Xiaomi 15 Pro offers a comprehensive camera system too, although there are upgrades and downgrades compared to theXiaomi 14 Pro.
On the one hand, Xiaomi has swapped last year’s 75 mm telephoto camera for a new 120 mm and 50 MP periscope option powered by a Sony IMX858 sensor. On the other hand, its 50 MP primary camera lacks the variable aperture support its predecessor provided. Seemingly, the underlying sensors inside its primary, ultra-wide-angle and front-facing cameras are unchanged, too.
The Xiaomi 15 Pro is exclusive to China for now. For reference, the handset starts at CNY 5,299 (~Nz $1244) with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. Alternatively, the Xiaomi 15 Pro can be configured with up to 16 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage for CNY 6,699 (~Nz $1572) in its ‘Bright Silver Version’ colour option. As it stands, it remains to be seen whether the Xiaomi 15 Pro will receive a global release.
Google has joined Apple and Samsung in offering certified refurbished models of its phones. These phones come with a warranty and even a charger in the box. However, retailers may sometimes offer better deals.(Google is currently only selling refurbished Pixel phones in the US)
Google is selling refurbished Pixel 7 and Pixel 6 smartphones.
This year Google announced a handful of phones including the budget Pixel 8a and the foldable Pixel 9 Pro Fold. However, it hasn’t stopped selling older models like the Pixel 8 and the Pixel 7a from last year, both of which are available to purchase on the Google Store. Now, it has begun selling certified refurbished units of some older models, too.
Interested buyers can now purchase certified refurbished units of the Pixel 7 for $429 and the Pixel 7 Pro for $629 on the Google Store. There are also refurbished units of the Pixel 6a for $249, the Pixel 6 for $339, and the Pixel 6 Pro for $539.
Google says each device has undergone a careful inspection process and has also been tested to ensure premium quality. Devices that are found to have issues are repaired with original Google parts, and each device is shipped with the latest Android software before repackaging. This should mean the phones will run Android 15 out of the box.
Each refurbished device also comes with a brand-new, one-year warranty and full customer support. In addition, Google is shipping a charger with the refurbished Pixel phones. This is a surprise since Google stopped shipping its phones with a charger since 2021’s Pixel 6 series. The refurbished phones also ship in a 100% plastic-free packaging like the Pixel 9 series.
The refurbished Pixel smartphones will come with the latest version of Android and a charger in the box. (Image source: Google)
Google is selling the refurbished Pixel phones in the US only for now and has not said if they will be available in other regions. However, what it has confirmed is that it plans to update the generation of available refurbished Pixel phones.
While it is nice to see Google sell refurbished Pixel phones, whether they are worth buying is a different question entirely. Buyers will surely find better deals on newer products on online stores. As an example Amazon currently has the Pixel 8 for $499 which is a better deal than the $429 refurbished Pixel 7.
Heck, you’ll even find renewed and refurbished models for much less, such as this Amazon renewed Pixel 7 that’s available for $249. Although it doesn’t come with a charger in the box.
DxOMark’s display analysis for the iPhone 16 Pro is now available, and the results leave much to be desired. Both the S24 Ultra and Pixel 9 Pro pulled ahead of the iPhone 16 Pro, and not by a small margin.
iPhone 16 Pro is outpaced by both its arch rivals – the S24 Ultra and the Pixel 9 Pro XL in DxOMark’s display rating. (Image source: Apple)
DxOMark’s analysis of the iPhone 16 Pro’s display is now online, and, oh dear, Apple fans might want to brace themselves. Similar to the standard iPhone 16, the results are rather disappointing, with the iPhone 16 Pro not only losing to Samsung’s S24 and Google’s Pixel 9 Pro lineup but also to its predecessor, the iPhone 15 Pro.
With a score of just 150 points, the iPhone 16 Pro snags the 17th place in DxOMark’s global ranking and lags well behind the chart-topping 158 points scored by the Pixel 9 Pro XL. The Samsung S24 Ultra rakes in 155 points, while last year’s iPhone 15 Pro managed 151 points in the same test.
It’s not all bad news, however. The iPhone 16 Pro’s display is plenty admirably for a flagship smartphone, and as DxOMark notes, boasts pleasant as well as accurate colors both indoors and outdoors, thereby delivering a visually delightful experience.
That said, there is plenty to chew on in DxOMark’s criticisms. For starters, the luminance and contrast figures of the display are relatively low in certain conditions, which adversely affects the display’s readability. Moreover, the average brightness values for HDR 10 as well as SDR videos were also rather inconsistent.
One of the notable improvements specific to the iPhone 16 Pro lineup was the reduction of the bezel thickness, which seems to have backfired. DxOMark states that the thinner bezels lead to frequent accidental touches, negatively affecting the user experience.
Despite its flaws, however, the iPhone 16 Pro continues to be a robust candidate in the flagship category, as indicated by DxOMark, who, in summary, termed the iPhone 16 Pro’s display as ‘impressive’. However, it is hard to argue that the Pixel 9 Pro XL as well as the S24 Ultra being so far ahead in this category might be a little hard to digest for those who were expecting a better show from this year’s iPhone lineup.
OnePlus has released more details of the OnePlus 13 ahead of the launch later this week. The new official teasers cover communication features such as Bluetooth, network signals, NFC, etc.
The OnePlus 13 will have better communication features. (Image source: OnePlus)
OnePlus is gearing up for the launch of the OnePlus 13 which is scheduled for October 31 in China. Ahead of the launch, it has been posting details of the phone’s features such as the display. More details have now surfaced about the phone, covering features such as connectivity and audio performance.
According to new teasers shared by OnePlus, the OnePlus 13 will come with what it calls ‘Super Signal Engineering 2.0’ which seems to be an updated version of the OnePlus 12’s Smart Link technology. OnePlus says the feature brings enhancements to Bluetooth and network signals.
Like the OnePlus 12 , the OnePlus 13 will have Bluetooth 5.4. However, OnePlus claims that its new flagship has a Bluetooth range of 400 meters and can cover an area of 100m2, thus allowing users to enjoy a strong connection when streaming audio even when their phone is not nearby.
The OnePlus 13 will have improved communication features. (image source: OnePlus)
The improved communication features also extend to connection to cell towers. With a new subway mode, users can expect to see a reduction in lags or buffering when using streaming apps or making video calls during train rides.
In addition, the OnePlus 13 is also confirmed to have 360° communication antennas, multi-function NFC which doesn’t require users to tap specific sides of their phone against a payment terminal, and a USB 3.2 Gen 1 port. OnePlus has also revealed the upcoming flagship will have updated stereo speakers, and an AI-assisted 4-mic call noise reduction.
It will also have an infrared blaster for controlling compatible electronics, and users will be able to easily add a device’s remote by simply taking a photo of the remote. The phone will automatically recognize the remote from the image and add it to your list of remotes.
In addition to the above, the OnePlus 13 will also launch with an upgraded display, the new Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, up to 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, 100W fast wired charging, 50W fast wireless charging, and an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner.
New edition. A bigger battery, more RAM, a new camera button, more vivid colors, and even more power: By Apple’s standards, the iPhone 16 packs an above-average number of new features, making it one of the best compact smartphones on the market. Our review reveals whether it’s worth purchasing or upgrading.
Verdict – Still strict separation between the Pro and non-Pro models With the iPhone 16, Apple might not be reinventing the wheel. Still, it has crammed the newest edition of its smartphone with a comparably large number of updates compared to the previous generation. What remains are plus points such as very premium build quality, powerful cameras, a bright OLED panel, and a long update period.
The Apple A18 makes the iPhone 16 significantly more powerful than the iPhone 15, and users will benefit from the RAM upgrade to 8 GB even though it has nothing to do with the much-heralded AI features. WiFi 7 has now also made its way onto the “base” iPhone, although, like the Pro models, it is limited to a 160 MHz bandwidth. In everyday situations, the 6 percent larger battery ensures slightly better battery life.
With the Action button, the iPhone 16 has not only inherited a feature that used to be reserved for the Pro models but one that also replaces the classic rocker. Another innovation is the haptic camera button that controls the camera. Whether or not it’s actually useful is another question.
One feature criticized on the iPhone 15 has been carried over to the iPhone 16, causing it to also be one of our main points of criticism. Although the smartphone almost has a four-figure price tag, the OLED screen continues to run at a no longer up-to-date 60 Hz. Plus, you will still have to make do without an always-on display. Additionally, you only get a 12-month warranty, it still has the slow USB-C 2.0 and the charging speed is not particularly fast.
One alternative to the iPhone 16 is, for example, the iPhone 15, which is now significantly cheaper and has a very similar feature set. One recommendation on the Android side is the 6.2-inch Samsung Galaxy S24 and, at 6.36 inches, the similarly compact Xiaomi 14.
Processor:Apple A18 6 x – 3.8 GHz Graphics adapter:Apple A18 GPU Memory:8 GB Display:6.10 inch 19.5:9, 2556 x 1179 pixel 460 PPI, capacitive touchscreen, Super Retina XDR OLED, 1600/2000 nits max. brightness (HDR/outdoor), 1 nit min. brightness, glossy: yes, HDR, 60 Hz Storage:Apple 512GB NVMe, 512 GB, 496 GB free Weight:170 g ( = 6 oz / 0.37 pounds) ( = 0 oz / 0 pounds) Price:1329 Euro Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.
Case – Bold colors for the iPhone 16 Apart from the arrangement of the rear camera, Apple has adopted the iPhone 15’s design, more or less 1:1, for its iPhone 16. However, unlike the predecessor, considerably bolder colors are available on day one. Our review device is Teal, with the other colors being Ultramarine, Pink, White and Black.
The iPhone 16 also possesses a stylish unibody case, is excellently crafted, feels very premium, and, in our tests, it proved itself to be exceptionally resistant to any of our attempts to dent or twist it. The chassis is dust and waterproof according to IP68.
The iPhone 16 has an aluminum frame, and the rear is made from matte, solid-colored glass, which hardly attracts fingerprints apart from the Apple logo in the middle. On the front, once again, the Ceramic Shield screen protection has been used. However, this is claimed to 50 percent more robust than the type found in the iPhone 15.
While the predecessor’s main and ultra-wide-angle cameras were offset to the side, they are now located directly on top of one another, the same as the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus. This also means that both devices can now shoot three-dimensional videos. This was not possible with either the iPhone or the iPhone 15 Plus due to the diagonal positioning of both cameras.
Nothing has changed concerning the dimensions. The iPhone 16 is exactly the same size as the iPhone 15 and weighs 1 gram less. This is not likely to be noticeable in everyday use.
Features – The Apple iPhone 16 has 8 GB of RAM To ensure that Apple’s new AI features also run on the “smallest” new iPhone, the iPhone 16 has 8 GB of RAM (iPhone 15: 6 GB). However, price-wise, nothing has changed compared to the iPhone 15. The available storage is also the same:
128 GB mass storage: $799
256 GB mass storage: $899
512 GB mass storage: $1,099
Unlike the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, the iPhone 16’s USB-C port is connected internally using the USB 2.0 speed rather than USB 3.2. This makes data transfer much slower, and this was confirmed by the copy test with our test SSD, the Samsung 980 Pro (38.9 MB/s).
The USB-C port supports the DisplayPort protocol, meaning you can mirror the iPhone’s screen on a monitor. To achieve this, you will also need a USB-C cable (USB 3.1 or higher) as well as a suitable external display.
In addition to Bluetooth 5.3 and an NFC chip (which is only available in read mode), the iPhone 16 also possesses an ultra-wideband chip. One new addition is support for the smart home wireless standard, Thread.
In Europe, Apple continues to offer the iPhone 16 with a nano-SIM slot. Together with an eSIM, dual-SIM operation is possible. Alternatively, 2 eSIMs also work.
Software – The Apple iPhone 16 with iOS 18 and initially without AI The iPhone 16 runs the new iOS 18. In addition to small changes such as the newly-designed photo app, a significantly more customizable control center and a move away from the rigid app grid. Apps can now be placed anywhere on the home screen. However, above all else, it’s the AI functions that set the new operating system apart from iOS 17.
We already presented the AI functions – otherwise known as Apple Intelligence – in our iPhone 16 Plus review. They include AI-generated emojis, photo editing, voice message transcription, websites and other text-based content as well as a smarter Siri voice assistant.
However, due to the Digital Markets Act (DMA) data protection, Apple Intelligence for iPhones won’t initially be available in the EU. Apple wants to play catch-up as soon as an agreement has been reached with the European Commission, something that probably won’t happen before 2025.
Apple hasn’t provided any information on how long the iPhone 16 will receive updates. However, experience shows that you can bank on a 5-year update period. On top of this, older devices still receive updates, if critical security gaps need to be closed.
Sustainability According to Apple, more than 30 percent of the iPhone 16 consists of recycled material. When it comes to gold, cobalt, lithium and rare earth, the recycling quota even manages to hit 100 percent.
The packaging doesn’t contain any plastics and consists 100 percent of wood fibers, which have also either been recycled or sourced from responsibly farmed forests. Apple has provided precise information in this report.
In the past, iPhones weren’t exactly famous for being easy to repair. However, in the meantime, that has changed significantly, since the current iPhones have a modular internal design and can be opened from both sides. Additionally, the iOS-integrated repair assistant helps to avoid software errors after replacing components.
Experienced users can repair their iPhones themselves. Although special tools are required to do this, Apple also provides support with detailed repair manuals.
Telephone functions and voice quaility The iPhone 16 supports both VoLTE and WiFi calls. In addition to a physical SIM, you can also activate an eSIM. Alternatively, you can also have two eSIMs if you wish to do without a SIM card.
In our test, the iPhone 16 delivered good voice quality. Using the mobile and landline, we could hear our counterparts perfectly, and the same level of intelligibility was reported on the receiving end. In hands-free mode, that essentially didn’t change, we just sounded a touch quieter.
If a mobile network or Wi-Fi is not at hand, the iPhone can also make emergency calls via a satellite connection. Once activated, the service is free for the next two years. However, it will presumably remain permanently free of charge. Apple would be put in a very bad light if the life-saving function had to be activated in an emergency due to the lack of an active subscription.
Cameras – A 48 MP camera with 2x zoom
The iPhone 16’s selfie camera still has a 12 MP resolution and takes good shots with a nice bokeh effect. Like the main camera, it can record videos at 4K and up to 60 frames per second, delivering very good image quality in the process.
Apple also has nothing new to report regarding the iPhone’s main camera. It continues to use a 48 MP resolution image sensor and allows you to capture photos at either 12 or 24 MP. You can use the full 48 MP as long as you activate Resolution control in the settings.
The Sony image sensor also allows the iPhone’s main camera to capture telephoto shots at 12 MP, which represents 2x zoom. Photos captured with the main camera also impress in difficult lighting conditions with high image sharpness and balanced color reproduction. When you magnify the images using the 2x zoom, many details are still visible, however, at higher zoom levels – the digital zoom goes up to 10x – things quickly get blurry.
The main camera records videos at a maximum of 4K and 60 frames per second and possesses the same impressive image quality as the photos. The videos are very sharp, and the autofocus responds precisely, easily switching between bright and dark subjects. If you use the cinema mode, the camera automatically focuses on faces and saves additional depth information so that the focus can be adjusted later for blurry effects.
The 12 MP resolution ultra-wide-angle camera uses a new sensor that has a slightly wider f/2.2 aperture (iPhone 15: f/2.4). It does its job well within the limits of its capabilities. You get solid and largely distortion-free shots which don’t show many details.
Accessories and warranty – The Apple iPhone 16 comes with a 12-month warranty
Optional accesories, from left to right: 30-watt charger, MagSafe charger, silicone case With its iPhone 16, Apple has included a USB-C cable (USB 2.0) as well as a SIM tool. Inside the slim packaging, there are also a few booklets with info material. The Apple stickers which came with the previous iPhone models are no longer included.
Apple offers plenty of additional accessories for its smartphone and these include a 30-watt charger ($39), a MagSafe adapter ($39) and silicone cases with MagSafe functionality ($49).
The iPhone 16 comes with a 12-month warranty. Via AppleCare+ and for additional surcharges, this can be extended, starting at $9.99 a month or a one-off payment of $199 for 2 years. If you also wish to provide cover for theft and loss, the prices increase to $11.49 a month or a one-off payment of $219.
Apple iPhone 16: Battery
Like the iPhone 15, the iPhone 16 delivers all-day battery life
Support for faster wired and wireless charging is a welcome addition
Just like with iPhone 15, and every iPhone before that, Apple does not publicly share the battery size for any of its phones – or most of its products. We’ll wait until somebody else tears one apart to get the answer in mAh. Rather, Apple says the iPhone 16 should last for up to 22 hours of local video playback, up to 18 hours of video playback if streamed, and up to 80 hours of audio playback. That’s an additional 2 hours of video playback over the iPhone 15.
Considering those are specific use cases, I’m here to tell you that the iPhone 16 can get you through a full day, from morning to evening, even under more intensive use. After a few days of use I’d estimate 15 to 16 hours of screen time before I needed to recharge my iPhone 16.
You can, of course, engage low power mode to stretch it a bit more and stop it from constantly refreshing in the background. On Future Lab’s battery rundown test, the iPhone 16 lasted for 12 hours and 43 minutes, which is a decent amount of time, but not the best I’ve seen.
On a particularly busy day at a festival filled with a lot of photo capture and video recording, I did need to recharge my iPhone 16 after about 8 hours of use. So, more intense tasks will eat the battery faster. Luckily, it still comes with a braided USB-C to USB-C cable in the box, and you can fast-charge the iPhone 16. I was able to get it from 0% to 48% in about 30 minutes with a standard 20-watt adapter, but plugging it into a 35-watt charger did get to 51% in 30 minutes.
The iPhone 16 also has some new wireless charging tech with support for the new MagSafe charger and the Qi2 standard – you can get up to 25W with MagSafe and up to 15W with Qi2. You’ll also want to pair either of those with at least a 30-watt adapter. I did notice with either wireless charging platform, the iPhone 16 did get a bit warmer than with a wired charge.
Apple iPhone 16: Should You Buy?
The Apple iPhone 16 is a very good smartphone with powerful features and a compact 6.1-inch format that still only continues to rely on a 60 Hz screen.
Buy it if.. You want an affordable, smaller iPhone
At $799 and with a 6.1-inch display, the iPhone 16 is an excellent option for those who don’t want to use two hands or spend a ton. It offers some really nice features and will support Apple Intelligence.
You want more control for taking photos
Camera Control isn’t just a buzzword, but what makes shooting photos and adjusting on the fly a bit easier. If you love taking photos with your iPhone or recording videos, it is an excellent upgrade.
Don’t buy it if… You’re happy with an iPhone 15
If you aren’t desperate for a new button to take photos and Apple Intelligence isn’t calling your name, you don’t need to upgrade to the iPhone 16.
You want a bigger screen
If you want a larger display, consider the iPhone 16 Plus, which boasts a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display.
You want a true zoom lens
The iPhone 16 tops out at 2x telephoto or 10x digital zoom, so if you want to zoom in farther with more clarity, look at the iPhone 16 Pro, Galaxy S24 Ultra, or the Pixel 9 Pro.
Samsung has now presented the W25 and W25 Flip, which line up as the company’s fourth and fifth foldable smartphones of the year. While the W25 Flip is a new version of the Galaxy Z Flip6, the W25 is the long-awaited stablemate of the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition.
Samsung has now officially introduced its new W series foldables, shortly after the pair were both seen in a handful of leaked render images. As expected, the W25 is the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition by another name. By contrast, the W25 Flip effectively serves as a more luxurious version of the Galaxy Z Flip6.
Please note that the W25 and W25 Flip have only been presented in China, where they will also likely remain. Incidentally, Samsung already sells its other current generation foldables in China with which these new models share plenty of hardware. For example, the W25 and W25 Flip contain Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy chipsets and the same underlying hardware as the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition and Galaxy Z Flip6, respectively.
With that being said, the W25’s quoted weight of 255 g is almost 20 g heavier than the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition. However, it seems that no technical differences exist between the two devices. By contrast, it appears that the W25 Flip shares all its hardware with the existing Galaxy Z Flip6. Thus, Samsung has distinguished the W25 and W25 Flip from their regular counterparts with their black and gold finishes, which mirror those of their predecessors. While Samsung has not confirmed pricing for either model yet, we imagine that it will do so in the next few days.
These are the best foldable phones you can buy right now
(Image credit: Future)
When it comes to the best foldable there’s a lot to look at, but all our favorites share something that makes them special. Whether it’s the overall fantastic quality of the OnePlus Open, the wealth of features in the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 or the value of the Motorola Razr 2024. Meanwhile, other devices impressed us due to more specific reasons like the overwhelming brightness of the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, the cameras on the Galaxy Z Flip 6 or the style of the Motorola Razr Plus 2024. Each of these phones has something to love about them and all offer a generally great user experience.
I got my first foldable relatively recently, and frankly, I love it. While it might have taken some getting used to, it is undoubtedly the best in-between for a phone and a tablet. Honestly, I barely watch YouTube or Disney+ on my other standard phone as the experience on a foldable phone’s screen is just so much better. Not to mention the experience of using one to play games from the Xbox library and more.
We have compiled all our reviews and thoughts about all the foldable phones available to help you figure out which is the best for you.
(Image credit: Future) 1. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 Best foldable camera phone Specifications Main screen size: 6.7 inches (2640 x 1080) Secondary screen size: 3.4 inches (720 x 748)
CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 RAM/Storage: 12GB/ 256GB, 512GB Size, opened: 6.5 x 2.8 x 0.27 inches
Size, closed: 3.4 x 2.8 x 0.58 inches Weight: 6.6 ounces Reasons to buy +Durable design +Excellent Galaxy AI features +Excellent low light camera performance Reasons to avoid -Rise in price -Battery life could be better
Samsung makes a second appearance in this guide, this time for the Galaxy Z Flip 6. There is a lot to love about this little device, firstly just the size of it. The Z Flip 6 looks like any other phone normally, but it folds horizontally across the middle, making it tiny when folded. That alone might make it a slam dunk for you, but there’s a bit more to be excited about.
In our review, we praised the overall durable design and the excellent low-light camera performance, not to mention the overall speed of the phone. Our biggest praise was easily for the upgrade from a 12MP main camera to a new 50MP main sensor. It offers brighter visuals, and the ability to simulate a 2x zoom. When we compared it in our 200 photo shoot out between the Galaxy Z Flip 6 vs. Motorola Razr Plus (2024) it pulled ahead with ease.
Obviously, we also need to mention the Galaxy AI features which, while missing some of the Fold’s AI abilities, are still pretty impressive. Finally, this is easily the flip foldable with the best camera options, and with the added AI, it’s a dream to shoot and edit images and videos. However, all this does come at something of a premium, that’s because it’s more expensive than the previous Galaxy Z Flip 5 and MOTOROLA Razr 2024.
2. OnePlus Open The best foldable phone you can buy Specifications Main screen size: 7.8 inches (2440 x 2268) Secondary screen size: 6.3 inches (2484 x 1116)
CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 RAM/Storage: 16GB/512GB Size, opened: 6.03 x 5.63 x 0.22 inches
Size, closed: 6.03 x 2.88 x 0.46 inches Weight: 8.4 ounces Reasons to buy +Outstanding thin and light design +Long-lasting battery with fast charging +Cheaper than comparable foldables Reasons to avoid -Low-light photos are subpar -No wireless charging As our best overall foldable there is a lot to love about the OnePlus Open, which we hope to see recreated in the OnePlus Open 2. When Phones Editor reviewed the OnePlus Open he stated that the phone should be “a wakeup call for everyone.” And I can only agree that the phone comes with so many amazing design choices that it should be the baseline for any future foldable phone.
OnePlus tried to put in as much as it could in this device, including some impressive cameras. If you want to go even further then you could grab the OnePlus Open Apex Edition. Compared to the base model the Apex Edition boosts the storage and adds pretty cool AI cutout features to make stickers from any photo you take. It also features a VIP mode that lets you turn off the camera and microphone for a little extra privacy.
Regardless of which model you pick the phone comes with everything you could want. Both models feature the same thin and light design, the Dynamic Open Canvas multitasking or the frankly amazing battery life (which is great when watching series on some of the best streaming services) and the chance for a pretty good trade-in deal. However, no phone is perfect as the lack of wireless charging might be a turn-off for some and the camera isn’t amazing in low light.
Most feature rich foldable phone Specifications Main screen size: 7.6 inches (2160 x 1856) Secondary screen size: 6.3 inches (2376 x 968)
CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 RAM/Storage: 12GB/256GB, 512GB, 1TB Size, opened: 6 x 5.2 x 0.22 inches
Size, closed: 6 x 2.7 x 0.48 inches Weight: 8.4 ounces Reasons to buy +Thinner and lighter design +Impressive AI features +Great Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 performance Reasons to avoid -Battery life gains not as big as we hoped -Price rise
Samsung is probably the most well-known phone maker when it comes to foldable phones and it knows what it is doing. This is no more obvious than with the Galaxy Z Fold 6, which builds and improves upon the prior Galaxy Z Fold 5 and stands as our most feature-rich foldable phone. When TG global editor-in-chief Mark Spoonauer reviewed the phone, he had a lot of positive things to say, especially about the new design, durability and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip.
While there might be some disappointment about the cameras, as they are basically the same as the prior model, there’s a noticeable difference in actual image quality. If we look at the difference in quality during our 200 photo shoot out with the Z Fold 6 vs. Z Fold 4 we can see a marked improvement. While you might not buy a foldable for the camera, it’s certainly an addition that you want to see.
We also can’t talk about a new Samsung phone without mentioning the Galaxy AI features, including the Sketch To Image feature. This allows you to draw anything you want into the Samsung Notes app and then the Galaxy AI will turn it into anything from water art to a 3D cartoon. The results are, as Mark says, “pretty frickin’ impressive.”
Best foldable phone value
4. Motorola Razr 2024
Best flip phone-style foldable Specifications Main screen size: 6.9 inches (2640 x 1080) Secondary screen size: 3.6 inches (1066 x 1056)
CPU: MediaTek Dimensity 7300X RAM/Storage: 8GB/256GB Size, opened: 6.74 x 2.91 x 0.28 inches
Size, closed: 3.46 x 2.91 x 0.62 inches Weight: 6.63 ounces
Reasons to buy +Long lasting battery life +Larger, more usable outer screen +Affordable close Reasons to avoid -Camera struggles under low light -Short 3 years of software support Motorola might not be the dominant force it was in the past, but it can still create a great phone for good value. This is obvious in the Motorola Razr 2024, which is upgraded in all the right areas compared to the prior Razr and is easily our best-value phone. In our review, we noted that the bigger screen offered far more functionality than before, while also being brighter.
Now, it should be noted that there are two variations of the Motorola Razr 2024, and both appear in this guide. What puts this foldable ahead of its larger cousin is the balance it strikes between features and cost. Everything from the design to the 50MP camera and 13MP ultrawide for as little as $699 is a real steal.
If that was the only change then it would be more than enough for a value phone, but there’s even more thanks to the outstanding battery life and surprisingly snappy performance. When Technical personnel reviewed it he stated that even the Galaxy Z Fold 6 “faces a tough competitor.” However, there are some issues as there is no ultrawide camera, which might be a turnoff for some, as well as shorter software support compared to other Samsung devices.
Best display in a foldable
5. Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Brightest foldable screen Specifications Main screen size: 8 inches (2076 x 2152) Secondary screen size: 6.3 inches (1080 x 2424)
CPU: Tensor G4 RAM/Storage: 16GB/ 256GB, 512GB Size, opened: 6.1 x 5.9 x 0.2 inches
Size, closed: 6.1 x 3.0 x 0.4 inches Weight: 9.1 ounces Reasons to buy +Smart AI features +Thinner, lighter design +Longer battery life Reasons to avoid -Underwhelming Tensor G4 performance -Camera upgrades are minimal Google’s foldable game has made a massive leap in quality with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold after the Pixel Fold — despite Google’s new awkward naming conventions. There’s a lot to love about the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, especially the much bigger and brighter 8-inch main display which is the main reason why it’s managed to snag a spot on this list. When we tested the phone in the TG lab, the display was easily the best of any of the foldables we tested. However, that isn’t the only thing to love about the phone.
In his review, John Velasco mentioned that he loved the longer battery life, durable redesign and the host of AI features that help the phone to stand out from the competition. While it is a pretty great phone, there are a few issues namely the lackluster Tensor G4, although honestly, the average user wouldn’t notice that issue in everyday use.
Having used the Pixel 9 Pro Fold myself a little, I really can’t emphasize just how bright the screen is. When we tested it the screen reached as high as 2,319 nits. Now, normally I would expect this level of brightness to mean that the phone would have a pittiable battery life. However, when we tested the phone it reached 11 hours and 36 minutes, which is more than enough time to watch or play anything you please.
Best flip-style phone
6. Motorola Razr Plus 2024 The best flip-style phone Specifications Main screen size: 6.9 inches (2640 x 1080) Secondary screen size: 4 inches (1272 x 1080)
CPU: Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 RAM/Storage: 12GB/256GB Size, opened: 6.74 x 2.91 x 0.27 inches
Size, closed: 3.46 x 2.91 x 0.6 inches Weight: 6.66 ounces Reasons to buy +The least expensive foldable ever made +Excellent design +Long-lasting battery Reasons to avoid -Tiny cover display -Older Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 chip While the base Motorola Razr 2024 might have been our best-valued phone, its larger cousin easily has the best style compared to the other phones here. Like other flip phones the Razr Plus folds into a compact little square, but where it stands apart is the outer screen, which is much larger than other devices. Not only is it larger, but it also offers way more functionality since you can run any app you like on it rather than simple widgets like the Galaxy Z Flip series. Plus you can even customize the screen to mimic the iPhone’s StandBy Mode with different images and backgrounds when the Razr is set to a tent position.
It’s not just the screens where the Motorola Razr Plus 2024 excels. It offers an improved camera array featuring a 50MP telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom and a 50MP main camera. This meant that when we compared it to its smaller brother in our 200 photo shoot out between the Razr Plus (2024) vs. Razr (2024) it blew it out of the water.
The design also has a smaller hinge, meaning that the crease in the phone is much less noticeable than on other foldable phones (primarily Samsung) and the performance is nothing to sneeze at. However, the Motorola Razr Plus 2024 has some of the same issues as the other Motorola Razr, including no ultrawide camera and a shorter-than-average software support window.
Least expensive foldable phone
7. Nubia Flip 5G Least expensive flip phone Specifications Main screen size: 6.9 inches (2790 x 1188) Secondary screen size: 1.4 inches (466 x 466)
CPU: Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 RAM/Storage: 8GB, 12GB/256GB, 512GB Size, opened: 6.69 x 2.97 x 0.28 inches
Size, closed: 3.45 x 2.97 x 0.59 inches Weight: 7.3 ounces Reasons to buy +Incredible value for a foldable +Fast charging +Attractive and unique design Reasons to avoid -Photography is limited in scope and quality -Lacks performance power the Nubia Flip 5G is a bit of a surprise model from a lesser-known company, but it stands as easily the cheapest foldable you can currently grab for a staggering $499. It’s a great starter device for anyone who doesn’t want to drop hundreds.
When Technical personnel reviewed the device he praised the stylish design and smudge-resistant matte texture. The overall look of the phone suggests you paid a lot more for this flip phone-style device than you did. You’ll also appreciate the 6.9-inch display that’s available when you open up the Nubia Flip 5G.
Battery life seemed so-so in our everyday use, but at least the Nubia Flip 5G offers peppy 33W charging that can top off the phone’s battery quickly. If you want a foldable phone, but can’t afford a more premium model, you certainly won’t feel short-changed by this option.
While the upcoming Galaxy S25 Ultra offers plenty to be excited about, a new report indicates it will fall short in one particular area.
In the past, Samsung was known for shipping the Galaxy series with some of the best and brightest displays. The Samsung Galaxy S24 series shipped with the M13 OLED panel which was, at the time, one of the best available. However, both the iPhone 16 Pro and the Google Pixel 9 were later released with Samsung’s M14 OLED panel, which offers a higher brightness and better power efficiency. We would expect the Samsung Galaxy S25 series to come with the same option, but a recent report indicates this may not be the case.
According to ET News (via Android Police) Samsung will continue to use panels based on the M13 for the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25 Ultra. The report suggests Samsung intends to upgrade its displays every two generations from now. This is reportedly due to the current performance of OLED and the saturation of the smartphone market. A suggestion seemingly backed up in a post on X by Ross Young, the CEO of Display Chain Consultants.
(Image credit: OnLeaks / SmartPrix / MacRumors)
In our tests, we found the M13 OLED on the Galaxy S24 Ultra managed a max brightness of 1,363 nits, while the iPhone 16 Pro with the new display hit a peak of 1,553 while the Pixel 9 Pro hit as high as 1,938 nits. However, most average users won’t really notice that kind of difference in day-to-day use. The reality is that, as speculated, this is a cost-cutting measure to help keep the Galaxy S25 series affordable. Part of the issue is that the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chips will reportedly increase the phone’s price. However, the power of the chip could help the S25 to stand against the iPhone 16 Pro, with leaked benchmark scores exceeding Apple’s latest iPhone in the multicore score.
For the time being, we can only wait for the official release of the Galaxy S25 series. At that point, we will be able to test it ourselves to see if this is a major downgrade, or if the phones will still find a place in our best phones list.
Samsung recently launched the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Special Edition in South Korea, and the W25 Fold, based on the same foldable phone, is expected to launch soon in China alongside the W25 Flip. A new leak has now revealed the design of both smartphones.
Samsung Galaxy W25 Flip and W25 Fold will have gold accents like their predecessors (Image source: Evan Blass on X – edited)
Initially launched in July, the Samsung Z Fold 6 now has a refreshed Special Edition in South Korea. It’s the same phone but with some noticeable upgrades. Among the improvements is an upgraded 200 MP primary camera on the rear and a slightly thinner and lighter form factor.
Samsung is expected to launch the same phone in China as the W25 Fold, and a new leak has revealed the Chinese variant alongside the W25 Flip, which will reportedly debut at the same time. In the leak, the new W25 Fold is shown to feature a black and gold design similar to its predecessor.
As the W25 Fold is said to be based on the Z Fold 6 Special Edition, its specs will be slightly better than the regular edition. Besides the better form factor and camera, the foldable phone will have larger internal and cover displays, measuring 8.0-inch and 6.5-inch, respectively. However, it won’t reportedly have S Pen support, which is something that the normal version has.
Moving to the W25 Flip, it’s not expected to see any major changes compared to the Z Flip 6 as Samsung hasn’t refreshed it as a new fancy Special Edition yet. However, just like the W25 Fold, it will launch in China with a sleek black and gold design.
The leaked images show that the packaging of both the foldable phones will include a charger and a protective case, which is another difference from the regular versions. However, it’s worth noting that a W-series foldable tends to be more expensive than its regular Z-series counterpart in China .
