Top Phones to Expect According to Lisa Eadicicco, a senior editor for CNET who specializes in covering mobile devices, major phone-makers like Apple, Samsung, and Google are expected to incorporate more AI into their phones by 2024. As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, it’s no surprise that these companies are looking to leverage artificial intelligence to enhance the user experience and improve the functionality of their devices. With almost a decade of experience writing about technology, Eadicicco is well-positioned to track these developments and provide insights into how they will impact the mobile industry in the years ahead.
Top Phones to Expect in 2024
The previous year witnessed a surge in smartphone releases, and it is anticipated that 2024 will be equally eventful. The major players in the phone industry like Apple, Samsung, and Google typically unveil new devices during a specific period each year. These devices are known for their improved camera capabilities, faster processors, and enhanced designs.
However, there may be a difference in 2024. Technology companies are seeking innovative ways to incorporate generative AI into their products. This form of artificial intelligence can generate conversational responses (although not always accurate) based on training data. As we approach the end of 2023, we catch a glimpse of this technology making its way into smartphones through the Pixel 8 series and the latest mobile chips from Qualcomm and MediaTek.
In 2023, generative AI became widely popular, but it will be in 2024 when the practicality of these AI-powered features will be put to the test. The success of ChatGPT has made AI the latest trend, leading every tech company to integrate it into their products. Now, we have to determine if it meets expectations.
iPhone 16 lineup
What to expect
Every September, Apple introduces new versions of its iPhones, and there is no indication that next year will be any different. According to respected analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, all models in the iPhone 16 lineup are expected to receive upgraded microphones in order to enhance Siri performance. This change aligns with reports from Bloomberg suggesting that Apple is focusing on improving the iPhone’s artificial intelligence capabilities. In addition to this, analyst Jeff Pu, as reported by MacRumors, suggests that the upcoming iPhone 16 family will feature a new A18 chip, with the Pro models receiving an enhanced version called the A18 Pro Bionic. It is also rumored that the regular iPhone 16 Pro will have a tetraprism telephoto lens similar to the one found on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, as stated by Kuo. This would likely result in a 5x telephoto zoom instead of the current 3x zoom.
Why we’re excited about it
The upcoming iPhone 16 appears to offer only minor improvements compared to the previous iPhone 15 models. However, what piques my curiosity is Apple’s approach to enhancing the smartphone experience with artificial intelligence (AI). It is anticipated that Siri will play a significant role in this endeavor, and I am eagerly anticipating witnessing Siri’s transformation into more than just a convenient tool for setting timers or checking the weather forecast for the following day.
Samsung Galaxy S24 series
What to expect
Samsung’s upcoming flagship smartphone is expected to have a strong emphasis on AI. In November, the South Korean tech giant introduced Galaxy AI, which promises an immersive AI experience for mobile devices. With the launch of the Galaxy S24 series projected for January, it is likely that Galaxy AI will play a significant role in this new device. Alternatively, leaked information from sources such as David Martin and SuperRoader on X (previously known as Twitter) suggests that the Galaxy S24 Ultra may feature a flat screen instead of a slightly curved one. Additionally, users can anticipate regular camera and processor upgrades, along with the possibility of the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip from Qualcomm powering these phones. The inclusion of this chip enables AI processing without relying on cloud services.
Why we’re excited about it
I have eagerly anticipated Samsung’s development of innovative software features, similar to what Google has done for its Pixel devices. Galaxy AI might be the solution, but we can only confirm this once Samsung officially unveils their new phones.
Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro
What to expect
There have been few rumors circulating about the upcoming Pixel phones from Google so far, as they usually release them in October. However, based on Google’s product strategy, it is reasonable to assume that we can anticipate the introduction of new AI-powered features similar to those that were first seen in the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. Just recently, Google unveiled its latest AI model called Gemini, which operates on the Pixel 8 Pro and enables functionalities like conversation summaries in the Recorder app. It seems plausible that Google will expand upon this by incorporating more AI-driven capabilities into their next generation of Pixels. Additionally, we can expect routine upgrades such as a new Tensor processor and improvements in camera technology. According to a post on X, Ross Young, CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants, also suggests that the new phones will feature larger screens compared to the previous Pixel 8 models.
Why we’re excited about it
CNET typically regards Google’s Pixel phones as some of the best phones of the year. The Pixel 8 generation served as a glimpse into Google’s new emphasis on artificial intelligence in smartphones, and I anticipate that Google will incorporate the knowledge and feedback obtained from the Pixel 8 into the development of the Pixel 9. Additionally, since CNET reviewer Andrew Lanxon expressed disappointment with the camera quality of the Pixel 8 Pro, it would be great to see Google make improvements in that aspect with the Pixel 9 Pro.
OnePlus 12
What to expect
The newest flagship phone from OnePlus has already been launched in China, with plans for an international release in early 2024. The OnePlus 12 offers several improvements compared to its predecessor, the OnePlus 11. It is powered by Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and features a higher resolution 64-megapixel telephoto camera, similar to the OnePlus Open. In addition, the base model now comes with more storage at 256GB instead of 128GB and boasts faster 50-watt wireless charging. These are just a few of the changes that have been made to enhance the overall user experience.
Why we’re excited about it
OnePlus has gained a commendable reputation for providing smartphones with exceptional charging speeds, and it seems that the OnePlus 12 will continue this trend. Apart from featuring 50-watt wireless charging support, it also offers 100W wired charging. Additionally, it is one of the pioneer phones to operate on Qualcomm’s latest chip, which has been specifically optimized for AI-driven tasks such as enhancing image details beyond the frame to create an illusion of being captured by an ultrawide lens. I am eagerly anticipating how OnePlus will utilize this chip in its upcoming devices.
Oppo Find X7 series
What to expect
If Oppo follows the same release schedule as in 2023, it is likely that the Oppo Find X7 will be launched in early 2024. According to The Tech Outlook, a tech blog, there is speculation that the Find X7 and X7 Pro have been spotted on a Chinese certification database and may feature 100-watt fast charging. Additionally, the Find X7 series is expected to incorporate the Hasselblad Hypertone camera system, which utilizes computational photography techniques to reduce distortion and image noise. Furthermore, it is possible that the Find X7 could be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, as mentioned in an Oppo press release regarding their upcoming flagship phone.
Why we’re excited about it
Oppo has gained recognition for providing phones with stylish hardware and high-quality cameras. We will soon find out if the Find X7 lives up to this reputation. However, since the Find X6 was only released in China, it is unlikely that we will see a global launch for the Find X7.
Xiaomi 14 series
What to expect
At the end of October, Xiaomi unveiled its latest flagship phones, claiming that they are the first to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. In addition, the Xiaomi 14 boasts a display capable of reaching a peak brightness of 3,000 nits and a camera sensor that can capture 180% more light compared to the Xiaomi 13. The regular Xiaomi 14 supports fast charging up to 90 watts, while the Pro version supports up to 120 watts. Both phones are powered by Xiaomi’s new HyperOS software, which is designed for mobile devices, cars, and smart home devices. Typically, Xiaomi releases new phones in China before expanding to other markets; however, it is unlikely that these phones will make their way to the US.
Why we’re excited about it
Xiaomi is renowned for its smartphones that offer impressive performance, large cameras, and fast charging capabilities. As the third-largest phone manufacturer globally, following Apple and Samsung in terms of shipment volume, the company’s upcoming devices and technologies are expected to have a significant impact on the industry. According to rumors, reports, and official announcements thus far, next year’s smartphones are anticipated to strike a balance between introducing new AI features and updating existing ones such as charging speeds. While the effectiveness of AI in smartphones is yet to be fully proven, the concept of software features that genuinely introduce fresh and practical elements to smartphones is invigorating.
Which phones are coming in 2024?
Upcoming 2024 flagship smartphones, Samsung Galaxy S24 and OnePlus 12, are generating buzz with leaked details promising impressive features. Choosing between these would depend on various factors including preference for operating system, camera quality, design, and unique functionalities.
What is the best phone to buy in 2024?
The best smartphones of 2024
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.
- iPhone 15 Pro Max.
- Google Pixel 8 Pro.
- Sony Xperia 1 V.
- OnePlus 11 Pro.