Top Smartphone of the Year: Tech Advisor’s 2025-26 Picks

2025 has proven to be a monumental year for smartphones, with artificial intelligence taking center stage and the ultra-thin phone trend gaining momentum. The introduction of the iPhone Air, along with significant advancements in camera performance and battery technology, has shaped the landscape of mobile devices.

However, a truly exceptional phone must excel in various aspects such as design, display, performance, battery life, and software to be considered the best. It is now time for Tech Advisor to crown the best phone of 2025, along with two distinguished runners-up.

Best New Phone of the Year – Winner: Google Pixel 10 Pro XL

Google has achieved a significant milestone with the Pixel 10 Pro XL, marking the pinnacle of their Pixel phone lineup. Despite being one of Google’s most expensive non-folding phones, it stands out as their best offering yet.

The Pixel 10 Pro XL boasts exceptional build quality, durability, and a sleek design that sets it apart from its predecessors. The 6.8-inch OLED screen delivers a superior viewing experience, complemented by the innovative use of the pill-shaped camera module for an outstanding photography experience. While the hardware may not be the absolute best, the ease of capturing great photos and the inclusion of useful AI features make it a standout device.

Battery life is robust, charging is efficient, and the integration of Qi2 technology opens up a world of magnetic accessories, including those designed for Apple’s MagSafe. The software experience is top-notch, with Android 16 out of the box and a promise of seven years of updates.

In summary, the Pixel 10 Pro XL justifies its price tag as one of the few flagship phones that excels in all aspects, making it the best choice in the market.

Best New Phone of the Year – First Runner-Up: Oppo Find X9 Pro

The Oppo Find X9 Pro emerges as Oppo’s finest creation yet, setting a new benchmark for camera phones and battery life. The phone’s four lenses, including a 200Mp telephoto lens and a 50Mp selfie camera, deliver exceptional photo quality. The optional teleconverter kit further enhances the telephoto lens with an impressive 9.8x optical zoom capability.

With top-tier performance, intuitive software, a stunning 6.78-inch OLED screen, and a premium yet durable design, the Find X9 Pro comes close to matching the Pixel 10 Pro XL in overall excellence.

Best New Phone of the Year – Second Runner-Up: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, while offering minimal upgrades from its predecessor, remains a top contender in the smartphone market. With outstanding performance, a captivating 6.9-inch display, and versatile cameras, the S25 Ultra stands out for its built-in S Pen stylus, making it a productivity powerhouse.

Despite its higher price point compared to the Pixel 10 Pro XL and Find X9 Pro, the S25 Ultra is a compelling choice for users seeking a well-rounded smartphone experience.

For more options and detailed guides on the best phones of 2025, stay tuned for Tech Advisor’s upcoming announcements on winners across various categories.