Apple iPhone 15

Any Apple product introduction deserves a prominent spot when compiling a list of the most anticipated upcoming smartphones. This year, enthusiasts can eagerly anticipate the unveiling of the iPhone 15 series. The scheduled launch date is set for September 2023, a timeframe consistent with Apple's renowned history of predictable launches and release schedules. Notably, the sophisticated Dynamic Island notch design will extend its presence to the standard iPhone 15 models, with the likelihood of an iPhone 15 Plus variant being introduced as well. Additionally, the inclusion of 8K video recording capabilities (for the simple reason of "why not?") is something we eagerly anticipate. Furthermore, there's a desire for the incorporation of a periscope zoom camera, aiming to rival the remarkable 10x optical zoom devoid of quality loss, a feature boasted by the formidable Galaxy S23 Ultra.

On that note, we could see the launch of an iPhone 15 Ultra instead of the iPhone 15 Pro Max, if the latest rumours are to be believed. And that’s the one that will have the periscope lens. In the meantime, the iPhone 14 Pro Max remains top dog in Apple world.

Samsung Galaxy S24

Samsung's trio of Galaxy S phones continue to stand as some of the most sought-after smartphones that do not bear the Apple insignia. The latest iterations, namely the S23, S23+, and S23 Ultra, did not mark significant leaps ahead of their predecessors. As a result, anticipation is running high for Samsung to unveil something extraordinary for the year 2024. The prevailing rumors hint that the S24+ might not meet expectations, prompting the company to focus on a streamlined two-phone lineup.

Nevertheless, since nothing is firmly established until next February, there remains ample opportunity for plans to evolve. For those who are not keen on enduring such a lengthy wait for a fresh mobile device, the S23 series remains highly compelling. These phones boast remarkable cameras and offer a notably respectable battery life, a trait often sought after in flagship phones.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5

Scant details are available regarding OnePlus' inaugural foldable device, which is anticipated to be introduced later this year. The company has yet to initiate an extensive teaser campaign, but various indicators strongly suggest that it will bear resemblances to the design of its counterpart under the sister brand, Oppo, specifically the Find N2. This implies that the device will likely feature a book-style folding mechanism, characterized by a display that is wider than it is tall – a contrast to the Galaxy Z Fold 5. Moreover, it's expected to be equipped with high-end hardware components, aligning with flagship standards.

As the name suggests, Asus’ latest effort really is the ultimate gaming phone. Not only does it pack the latest Snapdragon silicon, but it has an optional active cooling add-on that uses TEC chilling. It pretty much guarantees flawless performance, and the rest of the phone is pretty epic too. There’s a 6.78in OLED display, a second screen on the back for notifications and funky effects, and a giant 6000mAh battery. The trio of rear cameras are just OK for the cash, though, and the phone is mighty expensive. Only dedicated gamers need apply.

Asus Zenfone 10

One of the final holdouts still making powerful yet pocket-friendly phones, Asus has played the greatest hits for the Zenfone 10. The design is a minor evolution over last year’s Zenfone 9, as is the camera hardware. The rest of the internals are as cutting-edge as it gets, though, and a gimbal-stabilised main snapper makes it surprisingly capable at shooting video.

Last year’s phone

• Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max: Apple revamps its flagship phone in many meaningful ways – but it comes at a significant price
• Apple iPhone 14: Apple’s latest non-Pro iPhone is superb – it’s just that it’s strikingly similar to last year’s effort.
• Asus ROG Phone 6: With its imperious power and some specialised accessories thrown in, can the latest chunky Asus set a new standard for gaming phones?
• Asus Zenfone 9: With superb specs and smaller dimensions than most modern mobiles, this a powerhouse that’s easier to pocket.
• Google Pixel 6a: Another wallet-friendly stunner. Good luck getting better performance for less.
• Google Pixel 7: Gives up a few luxuries versus its bigger brother, but the price is right and its camera credentials are still top notch.
• Google Pixel 7 Pro: Superb cameras and lustworthy hardware make this the obvious choice for well-heeled Google fans.
• Motorola Edge 30 Ultra: Impressive hardware and effortless style look good on this top-tier Moto handset.
• Motorola Razr 2022: First-rate foldable that improves significantly over Moto’s original efforts.
• Nothing Phone 1: Unique styling and clever lighting put a refreshing twist on the affordable phone formula
• OnePlus Nord 2T 5G: Does the new Nord continue the trend of top-notch mid-range phones, or is it a middling update?
• OnePlus 10T: A solid sub-flagship in a crowded market, provided you don’t need best-in-class camera skills.
• Realme GT 2 Pro: a winning package of flagship specs and impressive value.
• Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus: a reliably good phone, with a great screen, premium design and nippy internals.
• Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra: not cheap, but easily the most fully-featured smartphone you can buy.
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4: Tweaking the weak points of its predecessor, first impressions suggest the Z Flip 4 is every bit the everyman clamshell foldable.
• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4: A slicker, more streamlined folding phone that majors on productivity.
• Sony Xperia 1 IV: unapologetically premium, Sony’s no-compromise flagship is cleverer than ever.
• Sony Xperia 5 IV: A multi-lens shooter that makes Sony’s camera smarts available to more creators.
• Sony Xperia 10 IV: The most affordable version of Sony’s “does it all” smartphone ticks plenty of boxes
• Sony Xperia Pro-I: an impressive camera phone that’s made niche by its high price.
• Xiaomi 12 Pro: a refreshingly gimmick-free flagship, although performance hiccups hold it back
• Xiaomi 12s Ultra: A quirky, China-only handset with class-leading Leica camera hardware.
• Xiaomi 12T Pro: A massive 200MP camera and plenty of power, at a very tempting price