The smartphone industry in India has experienced significant changes this year, making it a thrilling time for buyers seeking the latest devices. With familiar brands like Xiaomi and Realme launching a range of budget-friendly options, newcomers like Motorola and Infinix have aggressively entered the market, adding to the excitement. Meanwhile, Xiaomi has been pushing further into the mid-range and higher budget segments.
In 2023, the competition between Samsung and OnePlus has reached new heights, particularly with OnePlus introducing its first book-style foldable, the OnePlus Open, despite facing delays. Other brands, such as Oppo and Motorola, have also stepped up their game with premium offerings and foldables. Samsung, on the other hand, has focused on delivering a robust camera-centric flagship in the Galaxy S23 Ultra. Google has attempted to integrate AI into its smartphones but has notably missed the foldable trend that has gained traction in India this year.
With an overwhelming variety of options available, choosing the right smartphone can be daunting. While not all devices reviewed in the past year received high scores, several standout models have successfully met user expectations. Here’s a curated list of some of the best smartphones worth considering as we approach the new year.
1. OnePlus Open
The OnePlus Open has emerged as a refreshing contender in the foldable space, traditionally dominated by Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series. This device has exceeded expectations across the board—not just as a foldable, but as a reliable smartphone overall. It features a slimmer and lighter design compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 5, along with an IP rating for durability. The Open also boasts impressive battery life, fast 80W wired charging, and a unique software feature called Open Canvas that enhances multitasking. It offers a more functional compact form factor and cover display, positioning itself as a worthy competitor at a more accessible price point.
2. Motorola Razr 40 Ultra
The Motorola Razr 40 Ultra has also made waves in the clamshell foldable segment. Despite not housing the latest Snapdragon processor, it excels with its well-optimized cover display software, setting a benchmark for compact devices. With an IP52 rating, it feels lighter and more refined compared to its rivals like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5. Its innovative floating camera design on the large cover display adds a distinctive flair, while its camera performance and battery life meet expectations for daily use and gaming.
3. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
For those seeking top-notch camera capabilities, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is unmatched. Priced at Rs. 1,24,999, it solidifies its position as a premium flagship, filling the gap left by Huawei’s absence in this market. It retains the best features of the now-defunct Galaxy Note series, including the integrated S-Pen and a massive, stylus-compatible display. With an outstanding 200-megapixel camera and a customized Snapdragon SoC, the S23 Ultra is a powerhouse for photography and productivity, although its size may be cumbersome for some users.
4. Samsung Galaxy S23
The Samsung Galaxy S23 continues to be the compact flagship to beat, priced at Rs. 74,999. While it resembles its predecessor, it packs numerous under-the-hood enhancements, including an upgraded SoC and improved battery life, making it capable of lasting a full day even under heavy use. Its camera performance remains exceptional, meeting the high standards expected from the Galaxy S series. Despite lacking significant new features, its compact form factor keeps it relevant and desirable in a market leaning toward larger devices.
Conclusion
As we move toward the new year, these standout smartphones showcase the diversity and innovation present in India’s smartphone market. Whether you’re interested in foldables, premium flagships, or compact devices, there’s no shortage of impressive options to suit various preferences and budgets.
