Missed Out on an Upgrade? Here are 5 Upcoming Android Phones You’ll Be Glad You Waited For!

By Stephen Radochia

Which upcoming phone has you most eager?

255 votes

While it might be unexpected to feel excited about the Motorola Signature 27, this device represents a significant change for the brand and could fill a gap in the U.S. market. Although Samsung may not regain its former glory as a relentless innovator, more competition is definitely a positive thing, and Motorola has a unique offering to present.

This upcoming model is anticipated to showcase the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chipset, a robust camera arrangement, and a large battery. Additionally, Motorola promises up to seven years of software support, something a flagship should certainly include. Unfortunately, the pricing is likely to be on the higher end.

However, Motorola has an opportunity to provide a real alternative. Their devices are widely available at carrier outlets, leading to potential discounts and financing options, appealing to buyers accustomed to adding a monthly fee to their bills.

While the Signature 27 may not be a game changer, it adds a vital option alongside Samsung and Google that fans of the Razr series have long appreciated.

It feels peculiar to express excitement about a new Samsung phone that isn’t foldable, but here we find ourselves with the impending Galaxy S27 Ultra. Many anticipated a fresh design, and it seems this phone will deliver exactly that.

The Galaxy S27 Ultra will feature a redesigned camera bar, along with substantial internal upgrades. Samsung recently explored silicon-carbon batteries in the latest Z Fold 8 series, and the S27 Ultra is expected to fully embrace this innovation, though its battery capacity, presumably 5,700mAh, may lag behind other global competitors.

While criticisms can be leveled at Samsung’s hardware, their software has generally been reliable. One UI 9 is already appreciated among users, and One UI 10 appears promising. Improving AI integration into daily usage would be beneficial, but overall, Samsung’s software efforts coupled with refreshed hardware indicate the S27 Ultra might impress.

The Pixel 11a draws my interest not for its anticipated advancements, but to see how Google will evolve its midrange offering. Recently, the Pixel 10a experienced a notable price increase to $600. While prices flux, this jump raises eyebrows for a midrange device.

Despite the challenges, Google could still impress with the Pixel 11a. I tolerated the Pixel 10a’s unchanged specifications due to my focus on keeping the price steady. Should the Pixel 11a also command a higher price, I expect some compensatory upgrades. While more RAM might not be realistic, bringing back the Tensor G6 chipset would certainly alleviate some concerns.

While the Pixel 10a faced criticism, it still provided value with unique Pixel features, though the $600 price point warrants higher expectations.

The decision by OnePlus to exit the U.S. market this year is unfortunate, especially with the anticipated OnePlus 16 shaping up to be outstanding. This upcoming device is rumored to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chipset, an upgraded camera, and a massive 9,000mAh silicon-carbon battery, signaling a potential battery powerhouse for the coming year.

It’s frustrating that U.S. buyers may find it challenging to acquire this device, yet dedicated fans can still seek out import options. I’ve had success using international phones on U.S. operators, which should remain feasible.

While it may have seemed like only a select few experienced the Galaxy Z TriFold, I was fortunate enough to be one of them. The device transforms how you interact with a smartphone, offering a vast 10-inch display that enhances productivity, entertainment, and web browsing. Although its high price is a deterrent, it certainly deserves consideration if budget permits.

The excitement surrounding its sequel is palpable. Anticipating the usual upgrades, I hope Samsung addresses pricing as well. Releasing the Galaxy Z TriFold 2 at a competitive level could broaden its availability and desirability, enhancing the user experience.