Review of Top Phones With Dynamic Island-Style Features
In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, the Dynamic Island has emerged as one of the most innovative features since its debut on the iPhone 14 Pro in 2022. This pill-shaped cutout isn't just a notch—it's a dynamic hub that morphs to display notifications, music controls, timers, and more, seamlessly blending hardware with software for an intuitive user experience. As we head into late 2025, Android manufacturers have caught up with their own interpretations, like Realme's Mini Capsule and Tecno's Dynamic Port, turning what was once an Apple exclusive into a competitive landscape.
If you're searching for the best phones with Dynamic Island-style features, whether you're an iOS loyalist or an Android enthusiast, this review breaks down the top contenders. We'll cover performance, display, battery life, cameras, and why these devices stand out. From flagship powerhouses to budget-friendly options, there's something for every budget. Let's dive in and find the perfect phone to elevate your daily interactions.
What Makes Dynamic Island-Style Features a Game-Changer?
Before we spotlight the top picks, a quick primer: The Dynamic Island replaces the outdated notch with a flexible "island" that expands and contracts based on your activities. Swipe it to expand for quick controls, or let it shrink into the background. Android equivalents mimic this with software animations around punch-hole cameras, offering similar perks like glanceable alerts without the premium price tag.
These features shine in multitasking—imagine checking a ride-share ETA or pausing a podcast without leaving your current app. In 2025, with AI integrations like Apple Intelligence and enhanced Android 16 updates, these notches are smarter than ever. Now, onto the reviews.
1. Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max: The Gold Standard of Dynamic Island
As the pinnacle of Apple's lineup, the iPhone 16 Pro Max refines the Dynamic Island to perfection. Now standard across all non-Pro models too, it handles everything from FaceTime calls to Live Activities with fluid animations.
Key Features:
- Display: 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 120Hz ProMotion, up to 2,000 nits brightness.
- Performance: A18 Pro chip—blazing fast for gaming, editing, and AI tasks.
- Camera: 48MP triple setup with 5x telephoto; cinematic video at 4K 120fps.
- Battery: 4,685mAh with 25W MagSafe wireless charging; lasts 20+ hours.
- Dynamic Island Perks: Expands for maps, timers, and sports scores; integrates with Apple Intelligence for predictive alerts.
Pros: Unmatched ecosystem integration, top-tier cameras, titanium build for durability. Cons: Starts at $1,199—premium pricing. Verdict: If you're in the Apple world, this is the best Dynamic Island phone for seamless iOS magic. Ideal for creators and power users.
2. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: Premium Android with Adaptive Brilliance
Samsung's Galaxy S25 Ultra brings a Dynamic Island-like experience through its Edge Panels and adaptive notifications around the pill-shaped selfie cutout. It's not a direct copy, but Android 16's updates make it feel equally responsive.
Key Features:
- Display: 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz LTPO, HDR10+ certified.
- Performance: Snapdragon 8 Elite—handles heavy multitasking and ray-tracing games effortlessly.
- Camera: 200MP main sensor with AI-enhanced zoom up to 100x.
- Battery: 5,000mAh with 45W fast charging; all-day endurance.
- Dynamic Island-Style: Floating windows for media controls and alerts; expandable for quick app switching.
Pros: S Pen stylus included, superior zoom photography, customizable UI. Cons: Bulkier design at 232g. Verdict: The top Android phone with Dynamic Island features for productivity pros. At $1,299, it's a beast for note-takers and photographers.
3. Google Pixel 10 Pro: AI-Powered Notifications on a Budget(ish)
Google's Pixel 10 Pro leverages Tensor G5 for Dynamic Island-esque smart notifications, expanding the pill cutout for Gemini AI summaries, call transcripts, and real-time translations.
Key Features:
- Display: 6.7-inch LTPO OLED, 120Hz, always-on with Material You theming.
- Performance: Tensor G5 chip optimized for AI; smooth for everyday use and photo editing.
- Camera: 50MP triple array with Magic Editor—best computational photography.
- Battery: 5,050mAh with 30W wired; adaptive charging for longevity.
- Dynamic Island-Style: AI-driven expansions for weather, stocks, and voice commands.
Pros: Pure Android experience, unbeatable software updates (7 years), excellent value at $999. Cons: Not the fastest for gaming. Verdict: Perfect Pixel with Dynamic Island features for AI lovers who want stock Android smarts without the bloat.
4. Oppo Find X8 Pro: Sleek Design Meets Innovative Animations
The Oppo Find X8 Pro introduces "Dynamic Port," a fluid animation system that rivals Apple's, expanding from the pill cutout for calls, music, and even AR previews.
Key Features:
- Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED, 120Hz, Dolby Vision for cinematic viewing.
- Performance: MediaTek Dimensity 9400—efficient and powerful for global markets.
- Camera: Hasselblad-tuned quad setup with 50MP per lens.
- Battery: 5,700mAh with 80W SuperVOOC; charges in under 40 minutes.
- Dynamic Island-Style: Morphing port for notifications; supports split-screen multitasking.
Pros: Massive battery, stunning cameras, IP69 water resistance. Cons: Limited U.S. availability. Verdict: A hidden gem among phones with Dynamic Island-style notches for international travelers seeking speed and style at $1,099.
5. Realme GT 7 Pro: Budget-Friendly Entry to Interactive Notches
For those on a tighter budget, the Realme GT 7 Pro offers "Mini Capsule"—Realme's take on Dynamic Island, animating around the punch-hole for alerts and controls.
Key Features:
- Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED, 144Hz for gaming, 4,500 nits peak brightness.
- Performance: Snapdragon 8s Gen 3—great for mid-range power.
- Camera: 50MP Sony IMX906 main with OIS.
- Battery: 6,000mAh with 120W charging; full in 20 minutes.
- Dynamic Island-Style: Mini Capsule for music, calls, and battery status.
Pros: Insane charging speed, vibrant screen, under $600. Cons: Software bloat in ColorOS. Verdict: The best budget phone with Dynamic Island features—fun, fast, and feature-packed for casual users.
Honorable Mentions: Quick Hits on Other Contenders
- OnePlus 13: Fluid "Floating UI" animations; top performance for $899.
- Xiaomi 15 Ultra: Rear "camera island" doubles as a secondary display; pro-level photography.
- Tecno Pova 6 Pro: Entry-level Dynamic Port for under $300—great starter.
Which Phone Should You Choose? Buyer's Guide
Choosing the best phone with Dynamic Island-style features boils down to your priorities:
| Feature | Best For | Top Pick | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ecosystem Integration | iOS Users | iPhone 16 Pro Max | $1,199+ |
| Photography & AI | Creatives | Google Pixel 10 Pro | $999 |
| Battery & Charging | Heavy Users | Oppo Find X8 Pro | $1,099 |
| Value & Speed | Budget Gamers | Realme GT 7 Pro | $599 |
| Multitasking Power | Pros | Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra | $1,299 |
Consider your OS preference, budget, and must-haves like camera quality or battery life. All these devices run the latest software updates, ensuring your Dynamic Island stays fresh.
Elevate Your Smartphone Experience
The Dynamic Island and its Android cousins have transformed notches from annoyances to assets, making 2025 a golden era for interactive displays. Whether you opt for the polished iPhone 16 Pro Max or the affordable Realme GT 7 Pro, these phones prove that small design tweaks can lead to big usability wins.
