The world of smartphones is always evolving, with manufacturers constantly striving to create the next big thing. Whether it’s a flagship model packed with cutting-edge technology or an affordable mid-range device that offers incredible value, there’s no shortage of exciting smartphones on the horizon. As 2025 approaches, several highly anticipated devices are set to hit the market. From the latest innovations in mobile chips to advancements in camera systems and software features, these smartphones coming in 2025 promise to offer something for everyone.
With new releases scheduled over the next 12 months, there’s plenty to look forward to in the smartphone world. From flagship devices that push the boundaries of performance and design to mid-range phones that offer excellent value, these upcoming models will cater to various needs and budgets. Here’s a look at some top smartphones to watch out for, including confirmed releases, rumored devices, and what we can expect from these upcoming gadgets.
7 Exciting Smartphones Coming in 2025
1. OnePlus 13
OnePlus is gearing up to release its next flagship device, the OnePlus 13, which is expected to arrive in China in December 2024. A global launch will likely follow in 2025. Early rumors suggest that the OnePlus 13 will feature a massive 6000mAh battery, the largest seen in a mainstream smartphone to date, making it ideal for those who need their devices to last all day. The OnePlus 13 is also rumored to be powered by Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, which promises improved performance, better AI capabilities, and superior gaming experiences.
The phone will sport an AMOLED display with subtle curves on all four sides, offering vibrant colors and deep contrast. The design will follow the current trend of flat sides, similar to the iPhone, and will be available in three color options. The rear camera will likely feature Hasselblad technology, continuing OnePlus’ partnership with the camera giant. Though there are no confirmed details on the camera sensors yet, the OnePlus 13 is expected to be a solid contender for those looking for a high-performance device with an eye-catching design.
For those who don’t want to wait, the OnePlus 12 remains a fantastic choice, offering similar value and performance.
Expected Launch: December 2024 (China) | Early 2025 (Global)
- Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED screen with curved edges
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset
- Battery: 6000mAh – one of the largest in the industry
- Camera: Hasselblad partnership for stunning camera capabilities (Details still under wraps)
- Design: Flat sides with a sleek, modern look and three available colors
- Other Features: It will likely include fast charging, 5G capabilities, and excellent gaming and media consumption performance.
2. Asus ROG Phone 9
Asus is making waves in the gaming phone market with the upcoming release of the Asus ROG Phone 9, slated for November 2024. This smartphone will be one of the first to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. While details are still sparse, the ROG Phone 9 will likely feature a triple-sensor camera setup on the rear, optimized for gaming and content creation. The device will also showcase a signature LED lighting design and dual USB-C ports for charging and connecting peripherals.
Asus is known for creating smartphones with gaming-centric features, and the ROG Phone 9 will likely follow that tradition. Expect features like high refresh rate displays, extensive cooling systems, and customizable options for gamers who want to take their mobile gaming to the next level. If you can’t wait for the ROG Phone 9, the ROG Phone 8 Pro remains an excellent option that combines top-tier performance with a premium gaming experience.
Expected Launch: November 2024
- Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED, likely at a 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
- Camera: Triple sensor setup at the rear with enhanced AI capabilities
- Design: Gamer-focused aesthetics with LED dot-matrix lighting
- Unique Features: Dual USB-C charging ports, gaming-friendly peripherals
- Battery: Likely to feature a large 6000mAh battery for extended gaming sessions
3. Xiaomi 15 Series
The Xiaomi 15 series is set to be the first commercially available smartphone powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. This new series promises lower power consumption, faster AI processing, improved gaming capabilities, and better performance than previous models. It will be released in China at the end of 2024, with a global launch expected in early 2025.
Xiaomi will stagger its release with a standard Xiaomi 15 model followed by the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, which is expected to focus heavily on photography. Xiaomi has a strong reputation for providing excellent value in terms of hardware and software, and the Xiaomi 15 series is likely no exception. If you’re looking for a compact and powerful Android phone, the Xiaomi 14 remains an excellent choice, especially if you can find it at a discounted price.
Expected Launch: December 2024 (China), Early 2025 (Global)
- Display: Likely a 6.7-inch AMOLED panel with 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: First commercially available Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset
- Battery: Expected to support fast charging with a large battery
- Camera: Expect enhanced photography features, especially with the Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s successor
- Other Features: Focus on power efficiency, AI capabilities, and advanced gaming performance
4. Honor Magic 7
Honor is preparing to launch the Magic 7 series, featuring Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite CPU. This device will introduce a new open-standard AI for on-device processing, enhancing everything from gaming to productivity. The Honor Magic 7 will debut in China with a big reveal scheduled for October 2024, though a global launch will likely follow in early 2025.
The Magic 7 is expected to be a powerhouse in photography, with significant improvements over previous models. The design will shift away from the curved edges Honor is known for, opting for a flat-edged design popular among flagship devices this year. Honor’s latest phone will likely offer competitive performance, camera capabilities, and software features, making it a solid choice for brand fans. In the meantime, the Magic 6 Pro remains a top-tier option for anyone looking for a great camera phone at a lower price.
Expected Launch: October 2024 (China), Early 2025 (Global)
- Display: 6.7-inch OLED screen with slim bezels
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset
- Camera: High-quality multi-lens camera with AI capabilities for improved photography
- Design: Flat edges, a shift from Honor’s previous curved designs
- Battery: Expected to feature fast charging and long battery life
- AI Features: Generative AI for a unique gaming experience
5. Apple iPhone SE 4
Apple’s iPhone SE series has always offered an affordable entry into the iOS ecosystem, and the iPhone SE 4 will continue this trend. Expected to launch in March 2025, the iPhone SE 4 will adopt the design language of the iPhone 14, featuring flat sides and a 6.1-inch OLED display. This is a significant upgrade over the current model, which still uses the older 4.7-inch display and Touch ID.
While features like Dynamic Island and the Action Button are unlikely to make it to the SE 4, it’s expected to come with a notch and the traditional alert slider. The iPhone SE 4 will also be one of the first Apple devices to feature USB-C connectivity, as new European regulations will soon prevent the sale of devices with Lightning ports. Though it may be priced higher than the previous SE, it will offer modern features and a much more up-to-date design. If you need an affordable iPhone now, the current SE remains an excellent option, especially if you’re on a budget.
Expected Launch: March 2025 (Possibly alongside iPhone 16)
- Display: 6.1-inch OLED screen
- Processor: A15 Bionic chip, similar to the iPhone 14
- Camera: Dual-camera system with improved photo quality
- Design: iPhone 14-inspired flat sides and a modern look
- Features: USB-C port, no Dynamic Island or Action button, traditional alert slider
- Price: Likely to be priced higher due to the updated hardware
6. Samsung Galaxy S25
Samsung’s next flagship series, the Galaxy S25, is expected to arrive in January 2025. This lineup will likely feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset across all models, boosting performance, battery life, and AI processing. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is expected to have a more refined design with smaller bezels and less of a squared-off shape, possibly with new rear camera technology.
Although charging speeds may not improve significantly, the Galaxy S25 Ultra will continue to feature top-tier OLED displays, fast performance, and the usual suite of Samsung’s custom Android features. Samsung will likely focus on AI advancements as part of the Galaxy AI system, a feature that could further enhance the user experience. In the meantime, the Galaxy S24 Ultra remains one of the best flagship smartphones available today.
Expected Launch: January 2025
- Display: 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED with a 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset
- Camera: Likely to include a new suite of high-quality sensors
- Battery: Fast charging, wireless charging capabilities
- Design: Smaller bezels and a refined, sleek design
- Other Features: Samsung’s Galaxy AI and flagship software features
7. Google Pixel 9a
The Google Pixel 9a may not be the flagship of the Pixel family, but it’s shaping up to be a more affordable option for those who want the best of Google’s hardware and software. Priced around $500/£500, the Pixel 9a will likely feature the same Gemini AI and camera technology found in the Pixel 9, but at a more accessible price point. It’s expected to be a scaled-down version of the Pixel 9, with a few compromises in design and performance.
If the Pixel 9a does launch, it will likely offer excellent value for money, especially for users who don’t need all the bells and whistles of the higher-end models. Until then, the Pixel 8a remains an excellent option for anyone looking for a compact, affordable Android phone that still delivers a great experience.
Expected Launch: 2025 (If it happens)
- Display: Likely 6.1-inch OLED display
- Processor: Google’s Tensor G4 chipset
- Camera: Excellent rear cameras with computational photography enhancements
- Price: Estimated to be in the $500/£500 range
- Design: Modern design, similar to the Pixel 9
Stay Tuned for the Next Wave of Mobile Possibilities!
As we look ahead to 2025, the smartphone landscape is poised for exciting advancements catering to diverse user preferences and needs. From OnePlus’ innovative design and remarkable battery life of the OnePlus 13 to the gamer-centric features of the Asus ROG Phone 9 and the impressive capabilities of the Xiaomi 15 series, there’s something for everyone on the horizon. Each of these devices promises to enhance our mobile experience through cutting-edge technology and reflects a commitment to understanding the demands of modern consumers.
As these models begin to roll out, it’s clear that the next generation of smartphones will continue to push boundaries, setting new standards in performance, design, and functionality. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a gamer, or someone who wants a reliable device, 2025 will be a remarkable year for smartphone innovations. Stay tuned and prepare to explore the next wave of mobile possibilities!
