Best Phones for VR & AR: Reviewing the Latest Innovations

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are transforming how we interact with digital content, from immersive gaming to professional applications like design and training. To experience these technologies at their best, you need a smartphone with cutting-edge hardware—high-resolution displays, powerful processors, and advanced sensors. In this blog post, we review the latest innovations in smartphones optimized for VR and AR in 2025, highlighting top models and their key features.

Why Your Phone Matters for VR & AR

VR and AR demand significant computational power. A phone suited for these technologies needs:

• High-resolution displays (preferably AMOLED or OLED) for crisp visuals.
• Powerful processors (like Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Apple A18 Bionic) to handle complex rendering.
• High refresh rates (90Hz or above) for smooth motion.
• Advanced sensors (gyroscopes, accelerometers, and cameras) for precise tracking.
• 5G connectivity for cloud-based AR/VR experiences.

With these requirements in mind, let’s dive into the best phones for VR and AR in 2025.

Top Phones for VR & AR in 2025

1. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a powerhouse for VR and AR, boasting a 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 3200x1440 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, it delivers exceptional performance for rendering VR environments and AR overlays.

• Key Features:
  • Display: 6.9-inch AMOLED, 3200x1440, 120Hz.
  • Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.
  • AR/VR Support: Enhanced ARCore integration, excellent for apps like Google’s AR experiences.
  • Sensors: High-precision gyroscope and accelerometer for accurate motion tracking.
  • Battery: 5000mAh, ideal for extended VR sessions.
• Why It’s Great: Its large, vibrant display and robust processing power make it perfect for VR headsets like the Samsung Gear VR or third-party options. The S25 Ultra’s ARCore support ensures seamless AR experiences, from gaming to 3D modeling.
• Drawback: Premium price point may deter budget-conscious buyers.

2. iPhone 16 Pro Max

Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro Max continues to lead in AR performance, thanks to its A18 Bionic chip and LiDAR scanner. The 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion (up to 120Hz) ensures smooth visuals, while the LiDAR sensor enhances depth mapping for AR applications.

• Key Features:
  • Display: 6.9-inch OLED, 2868x1320, 120Hz.
  • Processor: A18 Bionic with Neural Engine.
  • AR/VR Support: LiDAR scanner for precise AR spatial mapping; ARKit 7 support.
  • Sensors: Advanced motion sensors and TrueDepth camera.
  • Battery: ~4600mAh with optimized power management.
• Why It’s Great: The iPhone 16 Pro Max excels in AR applications like interior design (e.g., IKEA Place) and gaming (e.g., Pokémon GO). Its LiDAR scanner makes it a top choice for developers creating AR content.
• Drawback: Limited native VR support compared to Android; requires third-party VR headsets.

3. Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

Google’s Pixel 9 Pro XL is a strong contender, particularly for AR, thanks to its deep integration with Google’s ARCore platform. The 6.8-inch LTPO OLED display with a 1344x2992 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate delivers stunning visuals, while the Tensor G4 chip optimizes AI-driven AR tasks.

• Key Features:
  • Display: 6.8-inch LTPO OLED, 1344x2992, 120Hz.
  • Processor: Tensor G4.
  • AR/VR Support: ARCore with enhanced machine learning for real-time object recognition.
  • Sensors: Upgraded motion sensors and multi-camera system.
  • Battery: 5100mAh for long AR/VR sessions.
• Why It’s Great: The Pixel 9 Pro XL shines in AR applications, such as Google Maps’ Live View, and supports VR headsets like the Google Cardboard. Its AI-driven features make it ideal for experimental AR apps.
• Drawback: Slightly less powerful GPU compared to Snapdragon-based competitors.

4. OnePlus 13

The OnePlus 13 offers a budget-friendly yet high-performing option for VR and AR enthusiasts. Its 6.8-inch AMOLED display with a 3168x1440 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, paired with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, ensures smooth performance.

• Key Features:
  • Display: 6.8-inch AMOLED, 3168x1440, 120Hz.
  • Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.
  • AR/VR Support: ARCore compatibility; optimized for VR gaming.
  • Sensors: High-quality gyroscope and accelerometer.
  • Battery: 6000mAh, the largest among top contenders.
• Why It’s Great: The OnePlus 13 balances price and performance, making it a great choice for VR headsets like the Oculus Go or budget AR experiences.
• Drawback: Limited native AR ecosystem compared to Apple or Google.

Latest Innovations in VR & AR Smartphones

In 2025, smartphone manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of VR and AR with these advancements:

• Improved Displays: LTPO AMOLED panels with adaptive refresh rates (up to 120Hz) reduce motion sickness in VR and enhance AR fluidity.
• AI Integration: Chips like the Tensor G4 and A18 Bionic use AI to optimize real-time rendering and object tracking, critical for AR applications.
• LiDAR and Depth Sensors: Apple’s LiDAR and improved ToF (Time-of-Flight) sensors on Android devices enhance spatial awareness for AR.
• Cloud-Based VR/AR: 5G-enabled phones allow streaming of complex VR/AR content, reducing the need for onboard processing.
• Haptic Feedback: Enhanced haptic systems provide more immersive VR experiences, simulating touch in virtual environments.

Choosing the Right Phone for You

• For AR Enthusiasts: The iPhone 16 Pro Max is unmatched due to its LiDAR scanner and ARKit ecosystem. The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is a close second for Android users.
• For VR Gamers: The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and OnePlus 13 offer the best balance of display quality and processing power for VR headsets.
• For Budget Buyers: The OnePlus 13 provides near-flagship performance at a lower price, ideal for casual VR/AR users.
• For Developers: The iPhone 16 Pro Max or Pixel 9 Pro XL are top choices due to their robust AR development platforms (ARKit and ARCore).

The best phones for VR and AR in 2025 combine powerful hardware with specialized features like high-refresh-rate displays, advanced sensors, and optimized software ecosystems. Whether you’re diving into virtual worlds or overlaying digital content onto the real world, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, iPhone 16 Pro Max, Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, and OnePlus 13 stand out as top contenders. Choose based on your budget, preferred ecosystem, and specific VR/AR needs to unlock the full potential of these immersive technologies.

Have a favorite VR or AR app? Let us know in the comments which phone you’re using to experience it!