Imagine stepping into 2025 and finding a smartphone that feels like it was custom-built just for your lifestyle—whether you're chasing epic photos, folding screens, or unbeatable battery life. The year brought us an exciting array of releases from top players like Apple, Samsung, Google, and OnePlus, each pushing the boundaries of what's possible in a pocket-sized device. But here's where it gets controversial: not every new gadget lived up to the hype, with some falling flat in surprising ways. Stick around, and you'll see why these standout phones might just change how you think about your next upgrade.
Apple, Samsung, Google, and OnePlus all stepped up their game with fresh smartphone launches in 2025. Sure, not every feature or design choice hit the mark perfectly—some devices left users scratching their heads over missed opportunities. Yet, no matter if you're eyeing a budget-friendly beast, a sleek foldable that doubles as a mini-tablet, or anything in the sweet spot between, 2025 delivered a treasure trove of solid choices that cater to diverse needs and preferences.
Dive in with us as we round up the top smartphones released in the last year, highlighting what makes each one shine. And this is the part most people miss: these picks aren't just about specs; they're about how they fit into your daily routine, making tech feel less like a chore and more like an ally.
OnePlus 15
It might look a bit ordinary on the surface, but that's hardly a deal-breaker. Credit: Joe Maldonado/Mashable
For several years now, the Chinese company OnePlus has been winning fans with flagship phones that punch above their price point. If you're ready to break free from the usual Apple, Google, or Samsung worlds and try something fresh (and let's be honest, potentially superior), the OnePlus 15 is an excellent entry point.
What sets it apart isn't flashy gimmicks—just a dependable Android phone that gets the basics right. At $899, it boasts a trio of capable rear cameras for capturing life's moments, a massive screen with a jaw-dropping 165Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth scrolling and gaming, and a massive 7,300mAh battery that keeps going through long days of use. Think of it like a marathon runner that never tires out.
As the newest addition to our list, the OnePlus 15 holds its own against the competition, proving that you don't need eccentricity to excel. But here's where it gets controversial: some argue that OnePlus's ecosystem lock-ins are just as restrictive as the big names—do you agree, or is the price and performance a fair trade-off?
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
The sheer slimness of this device is almost unbelievable. Credit: Joe Maldonado/Mashable
One major hurdle with tablet-style foldables—like the ones that unfold into larger screens (which I personally favor over the clamshell flip models)—is their bulkiness when folded. You can use the outer screen as a standard phone, but for many, it feels cumbersome and less enjoyable.
Enter the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, which flips the script by solving this issue head-on. Their secret? Crafting an incredibly thin design that feels revolutionary. This phone's physical build is the standout of the bunch; you really have to experience it to grasp how transformative it is. Beyond that, it's a versatile tool in many ways, but the way it mimics a regular phone when closed is the real innovation. For foldable enthusiasts, this is hands-down the best one out there.
Motorola Razr Ultra
While Samsung's Z Flip 7 has stolen the spotlight in the foldable scene, the premium Motorola Razr Ultra deserves a closer look.
It excels with battery stamina, easily surpassing 24 hours in our intensive tests. Plus, it kicks off with 512GB of storage and runs on a Snapdragon processor, setting it apart from the Z Flip 7.
In essence, the Razr Ultra exudes flagship quality, making Samsung's flip model feel like a downgrade compared to the superior Z Fold 7. Early Razr foldables had their share of flaws, which we've detailed extensively, but the 2025 iteration addresses those, resulting in a compact flip phone that slips comfortably into your pocket.
This gem helped persuade our tech editor that foldables are primed for everyday users, earning it the nickname "unsung hero" of the year. And this is the part most people miss: could this be the foldable that finally convinces skeptics, or do you still see battery and durability issues as roadblocks?
Google Pixel 10 Pro
The color choices leave a bit to be desired, unfortunately. Credit: Joe Maldonado/Mashable
As an iPhone loyalist who's probably sticking with it forever, I have to admit that if I switched to Android, Google's Pixel series would be my first choice.
The Pixel experience is known for its clean, user-friendly software, and Google often prioritizes Pixels for early access to Android updates. On top of that, their cameras are among the finest in the industry, capturing stunning shots with ease.
The Pixel 10 Pro carried this legacy forward in 2025, delivering top-notch daytime photography and handy AI tools like the Daily Hub. Google kept changes minimal this time, but that's because it didn't need a overhaul to impress.
But here's where it gets controversial: is Google's tight control over software updates a blessing for security or a sneaky way to lock you into their ecosystem? Share your thoughts below—do you value the AI perks over potential restrictions?
iPhone 16e
It skillfully merges classic elements with modern flair. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable
Apple's mid-range iPhone line used to revolve around the SE series, which were solid picks for those missing the physical home button.
Sadly, Apple didn't keep up with annual releases, and the SE faded away. The silver lining? Apple didn't abandon mid-range options. The iPhone 16e marks the start of what looks like a yearly series of affordable iPhones. At a $599 starting price, it's a tad steep for the category, but the device delivers in spades.
For significantly less than a top-tier iPhone, you get a robust A18 chip ensuring smooth performance, excellent battery endurance, and access to all the latest Apple Intelligence features. As a beginner-friendly option, think of it like a reliable car that gets you where you need to go without the fancy extras.
Hopefully, Apple builds on this and elevates the iPhone e-series to match the next item on our list.
Google Pixel 9a
A pleasing color choice indeed. Credit: Joe Maldonado/Mashable
Google's Pixel A-series has long been the go-to for affordable options, and the Pixel 9a upheld that tradition. Despite a somewhat bland makeover, this $499 phone is nearly on par with the standard Pixel 9.
It includes all the AI capabilities, decent cameras that won't disappoint, a long-lasting battery, and even a fun pink variant. For budget shoppers, it doesn't introduce groundbreaking features, but the fact that you sacrifice little from the pricier model is a compelling argument.
iPhone 17 Pro Max
We missed out on the orange version, alas. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable
Of course, we couldn't wrap this up without spotlighting 2025's flagship iPhone. Rest assured, it's included.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is a true titan. It offers up to 2TB of storage, boasts some of the industry's premier smartphone cameras for professional-grade shots, and performance worries are nonexistent thanks to its potent internals.
And don't overlook the battery—it provides up to 39 hours of video playback time. It's not inexpensive, but if your budget allows, this phone is an investment that pays off.
So, there you have it—the standout smartphones of 2025 that blend innovation with practicality. But here's the big question: with so many options from different ecosystems, are you team iOS, Android, or something entirely different? Do you think foldables are the future, or are they still a novelty? And what about the price-performance balance—does value trump brand loyalty for you? Drop your opinions in the comments below; we'd love to hear your take and spark a discussion!
