Review of the Smartest Smartphones Released This Year

In the fast-evolving world of mobile technology, 2025 has been a landmark year for innovation, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI). The smartest smartphones released this year aren't just about blazing-fast processors or stunning cameras—they're about devices that anticipate your needs, enhance your creativity, and simplify your life through intelligent features. From on-device AI processing that keeps your data private to real-time translation and generative editing tools, these phones redefine what "smart" truly means.

As we approach the end of 2025, we've seen major releases from Samsung, Apple, Google, and others pushing the boundaries of AI integration. Whether you're a photography enthusiast, a productivity pro, or someone who just wants a phone that "gets" you, this review breaks down the top contenders. Based on hands-on testing, expert analyses, and user feedback, here are the smartest smartphones of the year. We'll dive into their standout AI capabilities, performance, and why they might be your next upgrade.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: The AI Powerhouse for Android Fans

Kicking off our list is the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, widely hailed as the best Android phone of 2025. Priced starting at around $1,299, this beast combines a 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED display with the overclocked Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, delivering a 30% boost in CPU performance and a 40% leap in NPU (neural processing unit) capabilities. But it's the Galaxy AI suite that makes it the smartest.

Imagine circling an object in a photo to instantly search for similar items online, or using Live Translate for real-time voice calls in 13 languages without missing a beat. The camera system—featuring a 200MP main sensor, dual telephotos, and AI-enhanced scene recognition—produces lifelike images even in low light, with generative editing tools that remove unwanted elements seamlessly. Battery life lasts up to two days with adaptive AI optimization, learning your habits to conserve power.

Pros: Unmatched multitasking with the S Pen stylus, seven years of software updates, and IP68 water resistance. Cons: It's bulky for one-handed use, and the high price may deter budget-conscious buyers. If you're deep in the Android ecosystem, this is the pinnacle of smart tech in 2025.

Google Pixel 10 Pro XL: Pure AI Magic from the Source

Google's Pixel 10 Pro XL takes the crown for on-device AI innovation, powered by the Tensor G5 chip designed specifically for machine learning tasks. Starting at $1,099, it features a 6.8-inch Super Actua display that's brighter than ever at 3,000 nits, paired with a triple-camera setup that excels in computational photography.

What sets the Pixel apart is Gemini AI integration: Add Me lets you insert yourself into group shots post-capture, while Pixel Studio generates AI artwork from text prompts. Real-time voice translation during calls and video summaries that transcribe and highlight key moments make it a productivity beast. The phone's seven years of updates ensure it stays smart long-term, and its battery endures heavy AI workloads without throttling.

Pros: Clean Android software, exceptional low-light photography, and privacy-focused on-device processing. Cons: Slightly warmer during extended gaming compared to Snapdragon rivals. For Google loyalists, the Pixel 10 Pro XL feels like AI was invented for it—and in many ways, it was.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max: Seamless Intelligence in iOS

Apple's iPhone 17 Pro Max, refreshed in September 2025, blends premium hardware with Apple Intelligence for a refined experience. At $1,199, it sports a 6.9-inch ProMotion OLED display and the A19 Pro chip, which handles AI tasks like image generation and natural language processing with effortless efficiency.

Key smarts include Visual Intelligence for contextual searches (e.g., pointing your camera at a landmark for instant facts) and Writing Tools that rewrite emails or summaries on the fly. The 48MP triple-camera array benefits from AI-driven zoom and portrait modes, delivering pro-level results. Battery life hits 29 hours of video playback, thanks to adaptive power management.

Pros: Ecosystem integration with Mac and iPad, top-tier build quality, and enhanced privacy via Private Cloud Compute. Cons: Apple Intelligence features rolled out gradually via iOS 19 updates, and it's pricier for similar specs. If you live in Apple's world, this is the smartest iPhone yet.

OnePlus 13: Value-Packed AI on a Budget

For those seeking flagship smarts without the premium price tag, the OnePlus 13 delivers at $899. With a 6.8-inch LTPO AMOLED screen and Snapdragon 8 Elite, it matches the S25 Ultra in raw power while adding AI features like Smart Cutout for photo editing and AI Eraser for object removal.

OxygenOS 15 brings predictive text and battery optimization that extends life by up to 40%. The 50MP Hasselblad-tuned cameras shine with AI scene detection, and its 100W fast charging is unmatched.

Pros: Incredible value, smooth 120Hz refresh rate, and expandable storage. Cons: Software support lags at five years, and camera consistency trails Pixels. It's a smart pick for power users on a budget.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7: The Foldable AI Frontier

Folding into our list is the Galaxy Z Fold7, Samsung's thinnest foldable yet at $1,799. Its 7.6-inch inner display unfolds for tablet-like multitasking, enhanced by Flex Mode AI that auto-adjusts layouts.

Galaxy AI shines here with cross-app continuity and real-time transcription. The under-display camera and S Pen support make it a creator's dream.

Pros: Versatile form factor, durable hinge. Cons: High cost and crease visibility. For innovators, it's the smartest foldable of 2025.

Why These Are the Smartest Smartphones of 2025

The smartest smartphones of 2025 excel in AI-driven personalization, from predictive battery management to generative content creation. They prioritize on-device processing for speed and privacy, with batteries that adapt to your day and cameras that "think" like pros. Samsung leads in versatility, Google in pure AI, and Apple in seamlessness—while OnePlus and foldables offer niche brilliance.

When choosing, consider your ecosystem: Android for customization, iOS for polish. All promise seven-plus years of updates, ensuring longevity. With Black Friday deals looming, now's the time to upgrade to a phone that doesn't just keep up—it stays ahead.

In a year where AI went mainstream, these devices prove smartphones are evolving into true companions. Which one will you pick? Share your thoughts below!