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We're expecting to see new phones from Apple and Samsung in the second half of 2023.
Lisa Eadicicco Senior Editor
Lisa Eadicicco is a senior editor for CNET covering mobile devices. She has been writing about technology for almost a decade. Prior to joining CNET, Lisa served as a senior tech correspondent at Insider covering Apple and the broader consumer tech industry. She was also previously a tech columnist for Time Magazine and got her start as a staff writer for Laptop Mag and Tom's Guide.
Expertise Apple, Samsung, Google, smartphones, smartwatches, wearables, fitness trackers
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7 min read
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It's already been a busy year for smartphone launches. Samsung kicked off 2023 with the Galaxy S23 lineup, and Google introduced the Pixel 7A and Pixel Fold at its developer conference in May. But as we approach the second half of 2023, there should be even more to look forward to, especially if you're interested in foldable phones.
Though it's hard to predict exactly what's in store for the phone industry, it's possible to make some educated guesses since many companies stick to the same launch routine. The iPhone 15 lineup, for example, is expected to arrive in September, possibly with USB-C charging for the first time. Samsung is holding its next Unpacked event in late July, meaning we may see new Galaxy Z Flip and Z Fold devices soon. Google's rumored Pixel 8 could launch in the fall, likely with a new Tensor processor.
Such launches would follow the subtle but important progress that phones made in 2022. The iPhone 14, for example, gained satellite connectivity for emergencies and car-crash detection, while Google found more ways to make use of its custom Tensor chip in the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. Samsung, meanwhile, gave its flagship Galaxy S lineup a fresh look and an upgraded camera last year, while this year's S23 is a modest step forward.
Here are the new phones we're likely to see in 2023, based on previous launch cycles, rumors and reports.
Apple iPhone 15 lineup
What we're expecting: Apple's new iPhone family usually launches in September, and we have no reason to believe 2023 will be any different. The adoption of USB-C charging is one of the biggest changes we're expecting to see on Apple's next-generation iPhones.
The European Union recently mandated that all new phones sold in the region must support USB-C charging by 2024. Apple said it would comply with these rules but did not specify whether that means we'll see a shift to USB-C starting in 2023. It's also not confirmed if a USB-C iPhone would get a global release, or if it would remain solely a European model.
Otherwise, we're likely to see routine changes such as some camera upgrades and a new processor. TF International Securities Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who is known for making pretty accurate predictions about upcoming Apple products, tweetedthat Apple may do more to distinguish the iPhone 15 Pro from the regular iPhone 15.
It already made a step in that direction with the iPhone 14 generation by keeping features like the Dynamic Island and new A16 Bionic processor exclusive to thePro line. What's more interesting, however, is the idea that Apple could further differentiate the larger iPhone 15 Pro Max from the smaller iPhone 15 Pro, according to Kuo.
The main difference between the regular Pro and Pro Max comes down to screen size. Giving the Pro Max some extra perks could further convince shoppers to splurge on Apple's biggest (and most expensive) iPhone. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman also believes Apple could change the name of the iPhone Pro Max to the iPhone Ultra in the future to better align with other products like the Apple Watch Ultra.
Why I'm excited about it: The iPhone's long-anticipated transition to USB-C is arguably the biggest reason to get excited about Apple's next smartphone. The switch means iPhone users will finally be able to charge their iPhone, iPad and Mac with the same type of charging cable, reducing friction and making the iPhone that much more convenient. I'm also looking forward to seeing whether Apple further distinguishes the iPhone 15 Pro Max from the iPhone 15 Pro. I've argued that Apple needs to give its supersized iPhones more functionality that takes advantage of their larger screens, similar to the iPad.
Watch this: The Most Exciting Phones I Want to See in 2023
OnePlus Foldable Phone
What we're expecting: OnePlus plans to launch its first foldable phone in the second half of 2023, the company said before its event at Mobile World Congress in February. Unfortunately, we don't know much else. The company has yet to announce any details about the device itself, precisely when it plans to launch the phone, or how much it could cost.
Why we're excited about it: Like Google, OnePlus has a reputation for beating Samsung and Apple on price. That makes me hopeful that OnePlus' foldable phone will be significantly less expensive than the $1,800 Galaxy Z Fold 4. The Oppo Find N2 from OnePlus' sister brand has also been well received, with CNET's Sareena Dayaram calling it the lightest foldable she's ever carried, so there's a chance OnePlus could follow in its sibling's footsteps. Plus, it'll be nice to see Samsung face more competition in this space.
Google Pixel 8 lineup
What we're expecting:Rumors have already started to surface about what to expect from the Pixel 8 family, which is expected to arrive this fall. German tech blog WinFuture reportsthat it found references to two unreleased Pixel smartphones in publicly available code. The findings indicate that these two devices are codenamed "Shiba" and "Husky" and that they're powered by a new processor codenamed "Zuma." The code also suggests these devices will run on Android 14 and include 12GB of RAM, according to WinFuture.
Prolific leaker Steve Hemmerstoffer also partnered with the tech blogs MySmartPrice and SmartPrix to publish what are said to be renderings of the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. Based on these images, both phones will have a similar design with softer edges compared to the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro.
Why I'm excited about it:There haven't been many rumors about the expected Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, which means there isn't too much to get excited about yet. But what I'm most interested in is what new features Google's next-generation chip will bring to its future phones. Google's current Tensor chips have enabled features that seem practical and useful in everyday life, such as Magic Eraser and Face Unblur for improving photo quality and the ability to add speaker labels to transcripts in the Recorder app. That makes me excited about where Google could take things next.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
What we're expecting: Even though foldable phones are still new to most people, Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold will be on its fifth generation in 2023. The next version of Samsung's phone-tablet hybrid could have a slot for storing Samsung's S Pen stylus, a lighter design and a less noticeable crease, according to Korean news outlet The Elec. The report didn't definitively say the Z Fold 5 will have these improvements, but did say Samsung has cited them as barriers that must be overcome to make foldable phones more popular.
Other more recent reports from The Elec, ET News and well-known leaker Ice Universe suggest Samsung could implement a water drop-shaped hinge on the Galaxy Z Fold 5. That new hinge would likely help with minimizing the device's crease and thickness.
Otherwise, we can probably expect to see routine improvements to the camera and processor in the Galaxy Z Fold 5. Samsung also added some new multitasking features to the Z Fold 4this year, such as the ability to use the bottom portion of the screen as a mini trackpad when the display is folded halfway. So there's a chance we'll see other software enhancements in the future, too.
Samsung's next Unpacked event will take place in Seoul, South Korea in late July, and we're expecting to see new foldables since the company typically releases Fold and Flip devices around that time.
Why I'm excited about it: The Galaxy Z Fold 5 needs a lot more than an included S Pen to bring foldables into the mainstream. But making the S Pen a bigger part of the experience could go a long way in further defining who the Z Fold is for and why it exists in the first place. Samsung is promoting the Z Fold 5 as a productivity-oriented device, so having an embedded S Pen seems like a natural move. The Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Fold 3 are both compatible with the S Pen, but they must be purchased separately.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5
What we're expecting: Samsung's next flip phone may have a larger cover screen and a less noticeable crease, according to Ross Young, cofounder and CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants. Ross recently tweeted that the Z Flip 5 will have a cover display measuring around 3 inches and a new hinge design that could make the crease more subtle. That would represent a sizable increase from the current Z Flip 4's 1.9-inch cover screen. Like with the Z Fold 5, there's a chance we'll see general improvements to camera quality and software as well as a new processor.
Why I'm excited about it: Enlarging the cover screen would address one of the Z Flip's biggest shortcomings, while making it more competitive with the new Motorola Razr Plus. As my colleague Patrick Holland wrote in his review of the Z Flip 4, the cover screen is the biggest area where Samsung could be doing more. I'm also hoping to see longer battery life from the Z Flip 5 considering that's another area where Samsung's current flip phone could use some improvement.
Overall
It seems like some of the biggest improvements we're expecting to see across the board on new smartphones in 2023 will have to do with battery and charging improvements, as well as camera and design upgrades. We'll know more throughout the year as more reports and rumors arrive, and as Samsung, Apple and Google actually debut their devices.
FAQs
Which phone is best in 2023? ›
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4. ...
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4. ...
- Google Pixel 7 Pro. Best Camera Phone. ...
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. Most Versatile Camera Phone. ...
- Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max. Best Big Phone. ...
- Apple iPhone 13 Mini. Best Small Phone. ...
- Asus Zenfone 9. Best Small Android Phone. ...
- Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate. Best Gaming Phone.
Apple's iPhone and Samsungs's Galaxy have different strengths and weaknesses, so which one is better depends on your needs. Samsung phones tend to have better cameras, battery life, and display quality, even on budget models. However, iPhones do offer better software support and data security.
What is the best phone in the world right now? ›The best premium Android phone is the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. A gorgeous design, superb cameras, even an integrated S Pen stylus for added versatility, Android phones don't get any more sophisticated than this. The best phone for most people is the Google Pixel 7 Pro.
Why people still choose iPhone over Samsung? ›Most people who buy iPhones do so because of the well-integrated Apple ecosystem and the seamless user experience. iPhones handle core functionalities like calling, video recording, system navigation, and web browsing more reliably.
Which iPhone is best value for money in 2023? ›Apple iPhone 13
If you're buying an iPhone in early 2023, the smartest choice might just be 2021's iPhone 13. This is especially true if you're paying some or all of the cost out of pocket and not getting an “iPhone on us” carrier deal.
In Short. Apple is said to drop software support for three iPhones in 2023. The iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone X may not get iOS 17 update. Three old iPads will also reportedly lose software support from Apple.
Do Samsung phones last longer than iPhones? ›Average lifespan of a smartphone: A smartphone has an average life span of 2.58 years. According to reports, iPhones last 4-10 years, while Samsung phones last 3-6 years. Many factors affect a smartphone's lifespan, including the condition of the screen, the hardware, and the battery's health.
Is An Android better than an iPhone? ›You Want More Freedom, Control, and Customizations
Since Android is an open-source platform, it offers more freedom and customization options than iOS. You can customize almost anything on your Android device, from how your home screen looks to how you interact with your phone.
Ease of use.
If you want simplicity, iPhone still reigns supreme. Android has gained ground with its latest operating system update, but Apple knows how to create an easy-to-use, intuitive interface.
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: The best smartphone overall. ...
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 11: The best budget buy. ...
- Google Pixel 7: Pixel perfect. ...
- Motorola Edge 30 Ultra: Best value flagship smartphone. ...
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4: The best folding phone. ...
- Nokia C21 Plus: The best smartphone for £100.
Which is the top 1 smartphone? ›
- Best iPhone: Apple iPhone 14 Pro (buy now) ...
- Best affordable smartphone: Google Pixel 7a (buy now) ...
- Best small smartphone: Apple iPhone 13 Mini (buy now) ...
- Best folding phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 (buy now)
Apple iPhone 15
It's due to launch in September 2023 (as Apple's launches and release dates are, mercifully, very consistent). The fancy Dynamic Island notch will make its way down to the base iPhone 15 models (there will almost certainly be an iPhone 15 Plus as well).
Android is the leading mobile operating system with 72% global market share compared to 28% for iOS. In terms of handset manufacturers, Samsung is the global leader with 32% market share, followed by Apple with 28%.
Why do people like iPhone better than Samsung? ›The iPhones have a series of processors that reportedly deliver better performance than most Android phones. In addition, Apple blends hardware and software well, making the iPhone more efficient and effective.
Which iPhone has longest battery life? ›Best iPhone Overall: iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max
They offer better value for money, especially if you hold on to your iPhone for the long run. The iPhone 14 Pro model hosts a 120Hz display, a 3X zoom lens, excellent battery life, and no to skip - the latest A16 Bionic processor.
US-based tech giant Apple Inc may exclude the iPhone SE 4 from its new product planning for 2024/2025.
What iPhone no longer works? ›This means any phones introduced in 2016 or earlier, including the iPhone 6S, iPhone SE and iPhone 7, won't be getting Apple software updates anymore. It's not an unexpected move, given that the company regularly retires software support on older devices.
Which iPhones will be supported in 2024? ›The earliest that Apple would introduce a higher-end Ultra iPhone is 2024, which would make it part of the iPhone 16 lineup. As 2024 is the soonest that we'll see the model, there is a possibility that it could be delayed until the iPhone 17 lineup or beyond.
How often should you buy a new phone? ›Upgrading Your Phone Every Three Years
Most people upgrade their phones every two to three years. By then, the battery starts to become bothersome and Android phones stop receiving updates. It's also usually enough time for tech companies to introduce some new features you might want on your next phone.
How often should you change your mobile phone? ›
Nonetheless, replacing your device every two years is still a good idea. Even if the phone functions well, the hardware and operating system are antiquated by the time the phone is two years old.
What will I miss switching from Android to iPhone? ›- iOS is more secure than Android.
- iPhones receive regular and timely OS updates.
- Apple's App Store has more strict quality control.
- iPhones have a more uniform and fluid user experience.
- iPhones support other Apple products.
- iPhones have better build quality.
More Storage Options
Android is a blessing if you need a phone with more storage options. Unlike iPhones, all Android devices come with Expandable storage, thus allowing you to use a Micro SD card to save important files without taking up your phone storage.
Google Pixel 7
If you don't need the features of a 'Pro' model, the Pixel 7 is a smaller (and only slightly less powerful) handset that is the closest rival to the iPhone 14.
Fast software updates for many years: The biggest advantage iOS has over Android is its software updates: Apple generally supports new iPhones and iPads with iOS updates for five to six years after their release date, and all of those devices get the same updates at the same time.
Which phone is more user friendly iPhone or Android? ›User Interface and User Experience
The iPhone has a reputation for a simple and intuitive interface, while Android offers a more customizable and flexible experience. The iPhone's UI is consistent across all of its devices, making it easy for users to navigate their way through the system.
For low light and macro shooting, the Samsung seems to produce slightly better results, but for Portrait mode, the iPhone just about edges it. Video quality is great between both models, but again, the Samsung has greater flexibility and also has the headline specification of 8K, just in case you need it.
Should Android users switch to iPhone? ›Fewer Security Risks
iOS devices have the upper hand when it comes to cybersecurity. iPhones have tighter security than Android, thanks to the exclusive Apple App Store, closed ecosystem, and prompt updates.
The best-selling touchscreen phones are the Apple iPhone 6 and 6 Plus, both released in 2014. Together, they have sold over 222 million units. The best selling flip phone is the Motorola RAZR V3, released in 2004. It sold over 130 million units.
Which is the best phone in Android? ›- Our pick. Google Pixel 7. Best Android smartphone. ...
- Upgrade pick. Google Pixel 7 Pro. A more powerful Android phone. ...
- Budget pick. Google Pixel 7a. A less expensive Android phone. ...
- Also great. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. A no-compromises Android phone. ...
- Also great. Samsung Galaxy S23. A smaller Android phone.
Which one is best mobile phone? ›
1. Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max. On September 7, 2022, Apple launched their iPhone 14 series and pretty much changed the landscape of premium smartphones.
What is the number one selling smartphone in the US? ›As of January 2023, Apple's iPhone 14 Pro Max was the most popular smartphone model sold in the United States, accounting for 17 percent of total smartphone sales.
Which smartphone is best to buy? ›- Google Pixel 7.
- Apple iPhone 14 Pro.
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra.
- Google Pixel 7a.
- OnePlus 11.
- Apple iPhone 14.
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4.
- Motorola Moto G62.
However, as of 2021, Samsung remained one of the world's largest mobile phone brands. According to Statista, the company sold around 256 million units in 2021. Samsung was the world's largest mobile phone vendor in terms of market share in Q1 2021, with a 21.8% share of the market.
What is the best time to buy phone? ›The optimum time to get a new phone is around a month before the most recent model is released because that is typically the time when merchants start to give discounts to get rid of their stock. Right after the new phone reaches the market, discounts are frequently offered, sometimes even higher ones.
What will be the new phone in 2024? ›The Galaxy S24 Plus and Galaxy S24 will be Samsung's "regular" flagships for the first half of 2024, which will take the reins from the Galaxy S23 series as the main heavy-hitters in the giant's portfolio.
What Samsung phone will come out in 2023? ›Introducing Samsung Galaxy S23, The Latest Samsung Phone 2023. The flagship Samsung Galaxy S23 series breaks the rules of technology and innovation with a fresh new look, both inside and out.
How many people choose Samsung over iPhone? ›US smartphone market share breakdown
Apple has a strong lead over its closest rival, Samsung. Its market share of 29.47% is 27.34 percentage points lower than Apple's. Apple and Samsung have a huge lead over other brands in the US. Their total smartphone market shares amount to 86.28%.
- Cost: The iPhone is one of the most expensive smartphones on the market. ...
- Non-Removable Battery: The iPhone's batteries are non-removable, which means that users cannot replace them. ...
- Limited Customization: One of the disadvantages of the iPhone is that it has limited customization options.
But of course the CEO of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg uses the iPhone and it is believed that he receives free iPhones from Apple from time to time because of his personal connection with many Apple executives.
What phone does Beyonce use? ›
Beyonce with her BlackBerry Porsche, which cost a mere $2000.
Which phone do most celebrities have? ›- Hyderabad: In our country, almost all celebrities, politicians and socialites have an iPhone. ...
- Privacy and security.
- Apple Eco System.
- Camera quality excellent.
- Ease of use.
- Regular software updates.
The OnePlus 11 Series is expected to be released in early 2023. The upcoming OnePlus 2023 Series will use Snapdragon 8 Generation 2 chipset. According to the rumors, the OnePlus 11 Series would have 6.7 inches display with AMOLED display. The RAM can be 16 GB, along with a 5000mAh battery.
Which Android phone is best in 2023? ›- Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. Best overall. ...
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus. Runner-up. ...
- Google Pixel 7a. Best Value. ...
- Samsung Galaxy A54 5G. Best mid-range pick. ...
- OnePlus 11. Best Software and Speed. ...
- Google Pixel 7 Pro. Best point-and-shoot camera. ...
- Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate. Best Gaming Phone. ...
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4.
- Asus Zenfone 9 - the best compact Android phone on the market.
- Sony Xperia 1 IV - the first phone with a variable zoom camera.
- OnePlus 11 - back to the flagship-killer roots of OnePlus.
- Google Pixel 7a - best budget Android flagship.
- Apple iPhone 13 mini - best compact iPhone.
Release Date. The iPhone 15 models will likely be released in September 2023 if Apple follows its traditional September launch timeline.
Which phones last the longest years? ›Apple models generally last much longer than what is expected of most smartphones, which typically only last two to four years. iPhones are also considered to have the highest lifespan among all smartphone brands in the industry.
Which phones last longer Apple or Android? ›When it comes to the lifespan of a phone, Apple has always been the clear winner. And by lifespan, I'm talking about software and security updates.
What to expect from smartphones in 2023? ›Overall. It seems like some of the biggest improvements we're expecting to see across the board on new smartphones in 2023 will have to do with battery and charging improvements, as well as camera and design upgrades.