10 Best New Smartphones 2025 in the United States

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is packed with features aimed at providing an exceptional user experience. Its 6.8-inch edge-to-edge display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth, vibrant visuals, making it perfect for streaming and gaming. The display is also brighter and flatter, offering more viewing area. Powering the device is the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, coupled with 12GB of RAM, which promises fast and seamless multitasking. The 512GB storage is ample for most users, and the Android 14 with One UI 6.1 provides a user-friendly interface.

The S Pen adds a layer of convenience for note-taking and precision tasks, enhancing productivity on the go. The 200MP camera with 100x zoom and advanced Nightography feature make it a strong contender for photography enthusiasts, capturing detailed and clear images even in low light conditions. The fast-charging 5000mAh battery provides impressive longevity, with up to 45 hours of talk time, minimizing downtime.

The build quality is robust, with a sleek Titanium Black design that is both stylish and durable. However, at 233 grams, the phone is slightly on the heavier side, which might be a concern for some users. Additionally, the price point may be high for budget-conscious buyers. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is a top-tier choice for those seeking a feature-rich, high-performance smartphone.

The Google Pixel 8a is a solid choice if you’re looking for an unlocked Android phone with strong AI capabilities. Its 6.1-inch Actua display is both bright and responsive, ideal for smooth scrolling and video streaming. The phone boasts a 24-hour battery life, making it reliable for daily use without frequent charging. Camera quality is a standout feature, with Google AI enhancing photo clarity and group shots. The 8 GB RAM and A-Series processor ensure smooth performance, handling most tasks efficiently.

Storage at 128 GB is ample for many users, although there is no mention of expandable storage, which might be a limitation for those needing extra space. The phone operates on the latest Android OS, providing a seamless and up-to-date user experience. Build quality is sturdy with a sleek design in a 'Bay' color, weighing just 6.7 ounces which makes it lightweight and easy to carry. Security features are robust, helping to protect your data effectively.

However, those requiring higher storage or a larger screen might find it lacking. Additionally, while the camera and AI features are impressive, they may not appeal to users who don't prioritize these aspects. The Google Pixel 8a is ideal for users who value AI integration, camera quality, and a reliable battery life in a compact, well-designed smartphone.

The OnePlus 12 is a high-performance smartphone designed for users who prioritize speed, display quality, and camera capabilities. It features a 6.82-inch 2k Super Fluid Display with a 120Hz refresh rate, which provides incredibly smooth scrolling and vibrant visuals, making it ideal for media consumption and gaming. The display is exceptionally bright at 4500 nits, ensuring visibility in various lighting conditions.

Under the hood, the device is powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, paired with 12GB of RAM, which ensures quick and responsive performance across applications. This is further enhanced by OnePlus's Trinity Engine, which optimizes the device's software to improve efficiency and speed, making it suitable for users who run multiple applications simultaneously or play graphics-intensive games.

The OnePlus 12 also excels in photography with its advanced Hasselblad camera system. It includes a 50MP primary sensor, a 64MP periscope lens for enhanced zoom capabilities, and a 48MP ultra-wide lens, all designed to capture high-quality images with excellent color accuracy. This setup is perfect for photography enthusiasts who require versatility in their smartphone cameras.

Battery life is another strength of the OnePlus 12, with a substantial 5400 mAh battery supporting fast 50W wireless charging, ensuring the device can quickly regain power, reducing downtime. This feature is beneficial for users who are often on the go and require a quick recharge.

In terms of design, the phone is available in a sleek 'Silky Black' finish, offering a sophisticated look. It runs on Android 14, providing the latest features and security updates. While it offers numerous benefits, potential drawbacks could include its large size, which may not be comfortable for all users, and a premium price point that reflects its high-end specifications.