The year 2025 proved unexpectedly exciting for smartphones, according to WIRED's phone reviewer. Devices ranged from affordable $130 models to high-end $2,000 options, offering diverse styles not seen in recent years. iPhones and Pixels appeared conventional compared to thinner, more transparent, and foldable newcomers.
Smartphones in 2025 defied expectations of stagnation, delivering a "surprisingly fun year," as noted by WIRED's resident reviewer. The category, often labeled as stale or plateaued, saw the tester evaluate nearly every major handset released.
These included budget-friendly devices starting at $130 and premium ones reaching an astonishing $2,000. The variety stood out: while iPhones and Pixels seemed vanilla, the next generation introduced thinner designs, increased transparency, and phones that fold in half—innovations the reviewer deemed a positive development.
"I don’t think there’s been a year filled with as many varied styles in quite some time," the reviewer observed, highlighting a refreshing shift in the market. This diversity suggests smartphone makers are pushing boundaries beyond the ordinary, potentially revitalizing consumer interest in the sector.
