MKBHD’s Smartphone Awards 2025 reviewed devices released throughout the year and highlighted category winners across several manufacturers. Xiaomi, Oppo, Samsung, OnePlus, and Apple each secured distinctions based on hardware performance and user-focused improvements.
Xiaomi’s 17 Pro Max was recognized in the large-phone category for its feature-dense build, 6.9-inch screen, and its rear display, which was presented as more functional than earlier versions. Oppo’s Find X9 Pro won the camera award for consistent image quality across its main, ultrawide, and telephoto lenses. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 7 was named Best Small Phone for extending the usefulness of its cover display, and the Galaxy Z Fold 7 (from Samsung) received Best Foldable for combining thin hardware with reliable performance when open and closed.
OnePlus’ 15 won the battery category after demonstrating extended use from its 7,300 mAh silicon-carbon battery. Apple’s iPhone Air received the design award for its thin and lightweight construction, while the iPhone 16e was named Bust of the Year after removing several features without a corresponding price drop.
Apple also earned two performance-based recognitions. The iPhone 17 was selected as Most Improved after updates to its display, storage, and front camera, and it received MKBHD’s Phone of the Year designation.
Multiple manufacturers appeared across the award results, reflecting category-specific strengths rather than dominance by a single brand.
Read next: OpenAI Report Finds Deeper Workplace Integration of AI Across Global Industries
Xiaomi’s 17 Pro Max was recognized in the large-phone category for its feature-dense build, 6.9-inch screen, and its rear display, which was presented as more functional than earlier versions. Oppo’s Find X9 Pro won the camera award for consistent image quality across its main, ultrawide, and telephoto lenses. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 7 was named Best Small Phone for extending the usefulness of its cover display, and the Galaxy Z Fold 7 (from Samsung) received Best Foldable for combining thin hardware with reliable performance when open and closed.
OnePlus’ 15 won the battery category after demonstrating extended use from its 7,300 mAh silicon-carbon battery. Apple’s iPhone Air received the design award for its thin and lightweight construction, while the iPhone 16e was named Bust of the Year after removing several features without a corresponding price drop.
Apple also earned two performance-based recognitions. The iPhone 17 was selected as Most Improved after updates to its display, storage, and front camera, and it received MKBHD’s Phone of the Year designation.
Multiple manufacturers appeared across the award results, reflecting category-specific strengths rather than dominance by a single brand.
Read next: OpenAI Report Finds Deeper Workplace Integration of AI Across Global Industries
