10 Best New Phones 2026 in the United States

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra offers an impressive 6.9-inch, high-resolution display that provides sharp and vibrant visuals, great for watching videos or browsing. Its 5000mAh battery is quite large, promising long usage times and includes fast and wireless charging, so you won't be tied down for long when recharging. Camera quality stands out with AI features like Night Mode and Audio Eraser, which help capture clear and vibrant photos and videos even in low light while reducing background noise. The advanced portrait mode enhances photos with natural-looking skin tones.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and 12GB of RAM, this phone handles multitasking and demanding apps smoothly. With 256GB of storage, there's plenty of room for apps, photos, and videos without worrying about running out of space. It runs on the latest Android 15 with Samsung’s One UI 7, offering a user-friendly interface and useful smart features like an AI assistant and easy data transfer tools. The build quality feels premium, featuring a sleek titanium black design and a built-in S Pen stylus that adds productivity options.

The phone supports 5G for fast connectivity and is water-resistant, adding durability. On the downside, this phone is quite large and might feel heavy for some users, and its premium price might not suit all budgets. Also, the lack of a standard headphone jack means you'll need USB-C or wireless headphones. For those seeking a high-performance phone with a top-tier camera, long battery life, and productivity features, the Galaxy S25 Ultra represents a strong choice.

The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is a strong choice for anyone looking for a high-end Android phone with an impressive mix of features. Its 6.8-inch Super Actua display offers bright, sharp visuals with a 120 Hz refresh rate, making everything from videos to scrolling look smooth and clear, even outdoors thanks to its high brightness level. Battery life is solid with a large 5200 mAh capacity, providing over a full day of use with fast-charging support to quickly get you back up and running.

The standout feature is the advanced triple rear camera system, producing detailed 50 MP photos and offering impressive zoom up to 100x, along with ultra-stable 8K video recording. It’s great for photography enthusiasts and everyday users who want consistently good shots in various lighting conditions. Powered by Google’s latest Tensor G5 chip and paired with 16 GB of RAM, this phone handles multitasking and demanding apps smoothly. The 256 GB storage is ample for most users, allowing plenty of room for apps, photos, and videos. Running the newest Android 16, the Pixel 10 Pro XL benefits from the latest software improvements and security updates. Build quality is premium, combining durable aluminum and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for good protection against drops and scratches.

One unique aspect is the Gemini AI assistant, which supports natural conversations and helps you interact with your phone in new ways. The phone is unlocked, so it works with major carriers, giving you flexibility. On the downside, it’s a relatively large and somewhat heavy phone, which might not suit those who prefer compact devices. Also, premium features come with a higher price tag, which could be a consideration. This phone suits users who want a top-tier camera, a bright and smooth display, powerful performance, and the latest Android experience, especially if they appreciate AI-powered features and carrier freedom.

The Google Pixel 9a is a solid choice for anyone looking for a well-rounded smartphone that balances performance, camera quality, and battery life without an extreme price tag. Its 6.3-inch display offers sharp Full HD+ resolution, featuring a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz, which provides a smooth visual experience. Powered by Google's Tensor G4 processor with 8 GB of RAM, it handles everyday apps and multitasking smoothly, though it may not match the speed of the highest-end phones.

The standout feature is the camera: Google's AI-powered system excels at taking clear, vibrant photos and offers helpful tools like Macro Focus and group photo enhancements, making photography easy and enjoyable. Battery life is impressive, lasting over 30 hours on a single charge, and with Extreme Battery Saver mode, it can stretch up to 100 hours when needed, which is ideal for heavy users or travelers. The phone is built tough too, with water and dust resistance (IP68) and a scratch-resistant screen, so it can handle everyday wear and tear. Storage is a generous 128 GB, providing plenty of space for apps, photos, and videos.

Running the latest Android 15, the device guarantees seven years of security and OS updates, ensuring it stays secure and functional longer than many competitors. Additionally, the Pixel 9a includes unique safety features like automatic car crash detection and theft protection, adding peace of mind. On the downside, it lacks a headphone jack and its charging speed is standard rather than fast-charging. While the design is durable, it might feel less premium compared to higher-priced models. For those seeking a dependable phone with excellent camera capabilities, solid battery life, and Google's smart AI features, the Pixel 9a is an excellent pick, especially for users who prefer an unlocked device compatible with most US carriers.