iPhone 16, Pixel 9 Pro, and the other best phones we could see in 2024

From the Samsung Galaxy S24 series to the Galaxy Z Fold 6, OnePlus 12, and Google Pixel 8A, this year has seen no shortage of phone launches. But there’s still more to come in 2024.

Google, for example, is holding an event on August 13 to unveil the Pixel 9 family. And Apple’s iPhone launch is typically in September. If OnePlus and Samsung follow in last year’s footsteps, we could see a new foldable OnePlus and a more affordable version of the Galaxy S24 before the end of the year. Of course, this is just speculation based on last year’s smartphone lineup; we won’t know for sure until we hear from the companies.

Read more: The best phone for 2024

In terms of what to expect, AI has been a big theme for phones this year, as evidenced by the Galaxy S24 series and the introduction of Apple Intelligence at WWDC. Generative AI, or AI that can generate content when prompted based on training data, had a breakthrough in 2023 thanks to the success of ChatGPT. But 2024 is testing what these AI-powered features really bring to the phone experience.

In addition to new AI-powered features, new phones typically offer improvements in core areas like cameras, processors and battery life.

Here’s a look at the most anticipated phones from the industry’s biggest players in 2024. The list below includes phones that are most likely to debut this year based on past launch patterns, and we’ll continue to update this list as new rumors and reports emerge.

Read more: iPhone 16 Plus Could Be Apple’s Last Model, Here’s Why

Apple

iPhone 16 line

What to expect: Apple releases new iPhones every September, and we have no reason to believe this year will be any different. According to noted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, all iPhone 16 models are expected to get improved microphones to improve Siri performance. This change comes after Apple announced a suite of Apple Intelligence software features that includes an improved version of Siri.

Otherwise, the iPhone 16 family is rumored to get Apple’s new A18 chip, with the Pro models getting a version called the A18 Pro Bionic, analyst Jeff Pu reports, according to MacRumors. Apple could also bring an action button to all iPhone 16 models, not just the Pro, according to Bloomberg. The camera on the regular iPhone 16 Pro is also expected to get a tetraprism telephoto lens like the iPhone 15 Pro Max, Kuo also reports, meaning it will likely have a 5x telephoto lens instead of a 3x one. And there could even be a new dedicated video recording button, Bloomberg also reports. Read our full iPhone 16 rumor roundup.

Why are we excited about this?: The iPhone 16 sounds like a modest update to the iPhone 15 family. However, the arrival of the Action button on cheaper models could make Apple’s entry-level model an attractive choice for people upgrading from an older phone. I’m also curious to see if Apple announces any new Apple Intelligence features specifically for its latest Pro line of iPhones.

iPhone SE4

What to expect:Apple’s next budget iPhone could get a major makeover, according to reports from MacRumors and a TF International Securities analyst Ming Chi Kuo turn out to be true. Apple could use a modified version of the iPhone 14’s body in the next iPhone SE, meaning it will have a 6.1-inch screen compared to the current version’s 4.7-inch display, according to MacRumors. The site also reports that modern features like Face ID, an action button, and USB-C charging will also make their way to the next iPhone SE.

When it comes to timing, the iPhone SE’s launch pattern is a bit harder to predict than that of the standard iPhones. Apple released the first iPhone SE in 2016, but didn’t release a second model until 2020. The third-generation iPhone SE arrived in 2022, leading to speculation that its successor could arrive in 2024. However, intel from MacRumors suggests it could be on track for a 2025 launch.

Why we’re excited about this: Apple’s tiny iPhone needs an upgrade. While it’s powered by the same A15 Bionic processor as the iPhone 14, its iPhone 8-like design is starting to feel dated. A modern version of Apple’s more affordable iPhone with a bigger screen — and hopefully an extra camera — would be most welcome.

SAMSUNG

Galaxy S24FE

What to expect: If Samsung sticks to last year’s release schedule, a cheaper version of the Galaxy S24 could debut around October or November. The FE line is known for offering an experience similar to the entry-level Galaxy S phone at a lower price point, so we expect Samsung to continue that approach if it releases another FE.

The Galaxy Club blog, which has reported on unreleased Samsung products in the past, claims that Samsung is indeed working on the Galaxy S24 FE for late 2024 or 2025. It is expected to have a 50-megapixel main camera like the Galaxy S24, according to the report, and will likely feature Galaxy AI, given Samsung’s recent focus on AI features. Veteran tech leaker Steve Hemmerstoffer, in collaboration with gadget blog GizNext, has released renders that allegedly show a mint green design for the device.

However, we won’t know if the Galaxy S24 FE actually exists until Samsung announces it.

Why we’re excited about this: We loved the Galaxy S23 FE for its fast performance, solid low-light photography, and value for money. If the Galaxy S24 FE costs the same as its predecessor, $600, it could prove to be a great choice for those who simply want an affordable phone that meets the basic requirements.

Google

Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro

What to expect: Based on what we saw in the case Pixel 8 Family and Galaxy S24, it’s safe to assume we’ll see even more new AI-powered features on the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro. Google’s website actually suggests that Gemini will play a big role in the company’s upcoming smartphone series.

Otherwise, we can expect the usual upgrades like a new Tensor processor and camera improvements. Ross Young, CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants, also says that the new phones will have larger screens than the Pixel 8 generation, according to post on Xalthough a more recent report from Hemmerstoffer and MySmartPrice suggests the Pro model will have a smaller 6.5-inch display. The Pixel 9 Pro could also get a refreshed design with flat edges reminiscent of the iPhone, according to the same report.

Why we’re excited about this: Google’s Pixel phones are typically some of CNET’s favorite phones of the year. The Pixel 8 generation seemed like an early look at Google’s new AI-focused direction for smartphones, and I imagine Google will apply learnings and feedback from the Pixel 8 to the Pixel 9. Plus, considering the Pixel 8 Pro’s camera didn’t impress CNET reviewer Andrew Lanxon as much as he had hoped, I’d like to see Google make up for it with the Pixel 9 Pro.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Foldable

What do we expect: Google isn’t shy about showing off its new phones ahead of their launch. The company’s website has shown images of what its next foldable phone, the Pixel 9 Pro, will look like, suggesting it will feature a new design with a redesigned camera bump on the back. Google’s new Pixel phones typically get an upgraded Tensor processor, so it seems likely that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold will follow the same pattern. Google’s website also suggests that the Gemini will be a major part of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, so we expect to hear a lot about that at Google’s event.

Why are we excited about this?: Google’s Pixel Fold 2023 was a great entry point for the company’s line of foldable phones. The device’s wide screen and high-quality rear camera system made it a tempting choice for those interested in a foldable phone. But I’m eager to see if Google addresses my gripes with the Fold; namely, its internal screen, which had thick bezels that made it look less elegant and engaging than other foldable phones like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold line.

OnePlus

OnePlus Open 2

What do we expect: There haven’t been many leaks or rumors about the OnePlus Open sequel so far, but the company launched the current model in October last year. However, following comments from tech bloggers and leakers Chun Bhai and Kartikey Singh about the X, speculation has been rife that the OnePlus Open 2 won’t launch before next year.

As for what to expect, OnePlus typically upgrades its phones with the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon processor. The company is also known for its impressive battery life and fast charging, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see OnePlus focus on those elements in its next foldable phone. However, OnePlus has yet to discuss its plans for future foldable phones.

Why are we excited about this?:The OnePlus Open impressed CNET’s Eli Blumenthal with its sleek hardware, long battery life, and fast charging. For the second-generation model, we’re hoping to see improved software that takes better advantage of the Open’s large screen and wireless charging. Regardless, OnePlus’ first attempt at a foldable phone impressed us, leaving us curious about what the second-generation model might bring.

Based on the rumors, reports, and teasers so far, this year’s phones should bring a balance of new AI features and updates to existing core elements, like performance and design improvements. While AI has yet to prove its worth in phones, the idea of ​​software features that actually bring something new and useful to phones is refreshing.