20 February 2026

Smartphone Awards 2025: A Comprehensive Summary

In the latest video from Marques Brownlee, titled Smartphone Awards 2025, the tech enthusiast dives into the most notable smartphones released this year, awarding them in various categories. With the smartphone still reigning as the centerpiece of personal computing, Marques highlights the innovations and advancements that have emerged in 2025, from folding phones to high-end flagships and budget-friendly options.

Key Highlights from the Video

Marques begins by explaining the tradition of the Smartphone Awards, where he recognizes the best devices across several categories. Each winner receives a trophy, and he also mentions honorable mentions and runner-ups. Here’s a breakdown of the categories and winners:

Best Big Phone

• Winner: Xiaomi 17 Pro Max
  • Features a 6.9-inch display, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, and a massive 7500 mAh battery. It boasts triple 50-megapixel cameras and a nearly 3,000 nit 120 Hz screen, making it a standout in the big phone category.

Best Small Phone

• Winner: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7
  • This foldable phone offers a 6.9-inch display when unfolded and a 4.1-inch cover screen when folded, allowing for efficient use without the distractions of a full smartphone experience.

Best Camera

• Winner: Oppo Find X9 Pro
  • Equipped with a 50-megapixel main camera, a 50-megapixel ultrawide, and a 200-megapixel telephoto camera, it excels in photo quality, dynamic range, and color calibration.

Value Award

• Winner: CMF Phone 2 Pro
  • Priced at $279, this modular phone offers a 6.8-inch 120 Hz display, a 5,000 mAh battery, and solid performance, making it an excellent budget option.

Best Battery

• Winner: OnePlus 15
  • Features a 7300 mAh battery, providing exceptional battery life and fast charging capabilities, setting a new standard for smartphone batteries.

Design Award

• Winner: iPhone Air
  • Noted for its incredibly light and thin design, it offers a unique aesthetic that appeals to minimalists, despite some compromises in functionality.

Best Foldable

• Winner: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
  • Recognized for its usability and solid performance, it features an ultra-thin design that enhances the user experience.

Most Improved

• Winner: iPhone 17
  • This model has seen significant upgrades, including a high refresh rate display and improved camera features, making it a well-rounded device.

Bust of the Year

• Winner: iPhone 16
  • Criticized for its lack of features and high price point, it failed to meet consumer expectations.

MVP (Most Valuable Phone)

• Winner: iPhone 17
  • Celebrated for its comprehensive upgrades and value, it stands out as the most complete phone of the year.

Key Takeaways

• The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max and Oppo Find X9 Pro are leading the pack in terms of performance and camera capabilities.
• Samsung's foldable technology continues to evolve, with the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Z Fold 7 showcasing innovative designs.
• The CMF Phone 2 Pro proves that budget phones can still deliver quality and performance.
• The iPhone 17 has made significant strides, making it a top recommendation for consumers.

In summary, Marques Brownlee's Smartphone Awards 2025 encapsulates the year's most exciting developments in mobile technology, providing viewers with insights into the best devices without the need to watch the entire video. For those looking to stay updated on the latest in smartphones, this summary serves as a valuable resource.