The age where regular upgrades ruled the smartphone market is fading. Nowadays, users hold onto their devices for longer, making the battle for market share tougher by the day.
In the quest to shine and capture attention, some brands stick to their trusted formulas while others experiment with new technologies or make recent innovations more affordable. 2023 showcased a blend of both strategies. While iconic designs persisted despite aging, the top phones kept elevating their game, intensifying the competition.
Determining the best phone is a complex task at Android Authority. We weigh objective factors like testing data, specs, and update policies against subjective elements such as camera performance, UI design, and unique software features. Our team spends exhaustive hours dissecting each device, setting a standard for excellence.
After meticulous evaluation, we’ve chosen the winner of our Editor’s Choice award for the best smartphone of 2023. The competition was tight, with every vote counting. However, for the third consecutive year, a Pixel clinched the top spot: the Pixel 8 Pro.
Our review lauded the Pixel 8 Pro as Google’s most complete smartphone yet. It impressed with on-device AI, outstanding photography (now with improved video capabilities), and a remarkable software policy challenging even Apple. Despite a $100 price hike, the Pixel 8 Pro justified its flagship-tier cost through refinements in design, enhanced Tensor chipset performance, and a guaranteed seven-year support period promising continual software updates and feature enhancements.
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The OnePlus Open, emerging as the runner-up, embodies the spirit of the OnePlus-OPPO merger. It’s essentially an OPPO Find N3 rebranded with OnePlus finesse. Released globally, including in the US at a competitive $1,699 (reduced to $1,499 with a trade-in offer), the OnePlus Open introduced OPPO’s impressive foldable technology to a wider audience without compromising quality.
While the Galaxy S23 Ultra didn’t clinch the top spot, it remains the pinnacle of Android quality. A year of refinement amplified its Note-inspired vision, earning it a perfect rating with stellar cameras, top-notch performance, timeless design, and comprehensive software support.
Surprisingly, the Pixel 7a, with added features like wireless charging and a 90Hz refresh rate, claimed a spot in the top five. It’s now the go-to budget choice under $500, edging out the Pixel 8 due to its price hike.
Motorola’s Razr Plus stole the spotlight in the foldable clamshell trend, surpassing the Galaxy Z Flip this year with its impressive cover screen and stylish, dust-resistant design.
As we wrap up 2023, expect more exciting lists and retrospectives from Android Authority, including the Editor’s Choice award for Wearable of the Year and glimpses into what 2024 might offer in the tech world. Stay tuned for our usual analysis, opinions, and reports, and from our team to yours, happy holidays!
In 2023, the smartphone landscape witnessed fierce competition, where established players stuck to their strengths while others sought innovation. Google’s Pixel 8 Pro claimed the Editor’s Choice award for its comprehensive package of AI smarts, exceptional photography, and a groundbreaking software policy. Yet, the margin between success and near-victory was razor-thin, with OnePlus Open as the impressive runner-up, heralding OPPO’s foldable technology under the OnePlus banner.
Meanwhile, stalwarts like the Galaxy S23 Ultra maintained their standard of excellence, and unexpected contenders like the Pixel 7a made a mark in the budget segment. Motorola’s Razr Plus shone in the foldable domain, overshadowing industry favorites.
As we bid adieu to 2023, Android Authority promises more thrilling insights into the best of the year across various categories and a peek into the future of tech. Keep your eyes peeled for our ongoing analysis, opinions, and reports. From our team to yours, warm holiday wishes!