Smartphone Awards 2025: Analyzing the Best Tech of the Year
2025 Smartphone Awards
Marques, Andrew, and David discuss their official Smartphone Awards of 2025, highlighting the best devices in various categories despite the fierce competition and debate online.
Key Winners and Mentions
• Best Big Phone: The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max took the lead with its massive screen, innovative camera bump display, and powerful silicon carbon battery.
• Best Small Phone: The Z Flip 7 was recognized for its highly usable cover screen, marking a shift in how the hosts view compact phones.
• Best Camera: The Oppo Find X9 Pro won for its consistency, natural bokeh, and versatile lens system. The iPhone 17 Pro received an honorable mention for its undisputed video capabilities.
• Best Value: The CMF Phone 2 Pro was highlighted for its flagship-like experience at an under $300 price point.
• Best Battery: The OnePlus 15 dominated with its incredible battery life and high-speed charging technologies.
• Phone of the Year: The iPhone 17 took the top honors for its balance of high-end features, like 120Hz display and doubled base storage, at a recommended price.
Tech Trends and Industry Analysis
"I feel like we're all buying beta software lately."
The discussion touched upon the broader state of the tech industry, including:
• The Beta Era: The hosts debate whether modern tech, from games like PUBG to smartphones, is consistently released in an unfinished state, a trend they call the "Alpha/Beta trap."
• Android XR: Deep dive into the Android XR ecosystem, focusing on Project Aura smart glasses and why the industry is moving towards ubiquitous platforms rather than siloed devices.
• Wearable Innovation: A discussion on the new Pebble ring, designed to be a "second hard drive for your brain" through voice interaction, despite concerns regarding its single-use battery design.
Noteworthy Hardware
• Xiaomi SU7: The team details the impressive features of the Xiaomi electric vehicle, which includes karaoke microphones, a mini-fridge, and highly responsive touch systems in a price-competitive package.
• Fairphone: Discussions on the expansion of the Fairphone product line, specifically the new headphones, and their commitment to repairability and sustainability.