Unveiling the Most Innovative Smartphones of 2023
SMARTPHONES – In this article, you will know the smartphones that showcased the highest level of innovation in 2023.
The past year has brought an intriguing twist to the world of smartphones. Despite the perception that phone advancements have reached a plateau, 2023 unveiled some unexpected surprises from unlikely sources.
These particular smartphones distinguished themselves in various ways, demonstrating that there’s still room for creativity and excitement in the realm of mobile devices. Explore the most inventive smartphones of the year 2023.
Winner: OnePlus Open
While Samsung has been the dominant force in the foldable market in the U.S. for several years, 2023 witnessed the emergence of foldable offerings from competitors such as Google and OnePlus. Surprisingly, the OnePlus Open has quickly risen to prominence as the leading foldable phone, despite being OnePlus’s inaugural foray into the foldable category.
The specifications of the OnePlus Open are undeniably impressive, featuring Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage. This powerful configuration enables the OnePlus Open to handle a wide range of tasks effortlessly. Additionally, it boasts a substantial 4,805mAh battery that ensures a full day of usage and supports 67W fast charging.
The device sports a 6.31-inch AMOLED cover display and unfolds to reveal a 7.82-inch AMOLED inner display, both offering up to 120Hz refresh rates and a peak brightness of 2,800 nits. The inner display incorporates an anti-reflective coating, enhancing usability in bright sunlight. OnePlus’ Flexion Hinge minimizes the visibility of the crease, a common issue with many folding phones.
Equipped with a potent triple-lens Hasselblad camera setup—including a 48MP primary camera, a 48MP ultrawide camera, and a remarkable 64MP telephoto camera—the OnePlus Open delivers impressive photography capabilities. The device also features 32MP and 20MP selfie cameras on the cover and inner displays, respectively.
The OnePlus Open’s standout feature is its innovative multitasking capability, facilitated by the Open Canvas feature in OxygenOS 13.2. This feature enhances productivity by enabling the simultaneous use of up to three apps in split-screen and floating windows, complete with a persistent taskbar for seamless navigation. Open Canvas introduces a virtual screen space, allowing users to stretch, resize, and manipulate windows as needed, providing a novel approach to multitasking.
In essence, the OnePlus Open not only impresses with its high-end specifications and appealing design but also introduces a groundbreaking approach to multitasking, making it one of the most innovative foldable phones of the year.
Runner up: Fairphone 5
When contemplating smartphones, the notions of high repairability and environmental sustainability are not typically associated with them. However, the Fairphone 5 defies this expectation by embodying a commitment to the planet and sustainability, designed with longevity in mind.
While the Fairphone 5 may not boast remarkable specs compared to its competitors, featuring a Qualcomm QCM6460 processor, 8GB RAM, and 256GB internal storage (expandable via a microSD card), its value lies in its enduring nature. The dual-lens camera system on the rear comprises 50MP primary and ultrawide cameras, accompanied by a front-facing 50MP selfie camera, albeit with some limitations in photo-taking capabilities. Nevertheless, the Fairphone 5 is not acquired for cutting-edge hardware; rather, it appeals to those seeking a phone that will endure over the years.
The standout features of the Fairphone 5 revolve around sustainability and repairability. This device allows users to personally repair certain components, including the screen, USB port, camera, and battery, with reasonably priced replacement parts. The repair process is straightforward, requiring only a 00 Phillips screwdriver and a suitable workspace.
Notably, Fairphone commits to supporting the Fairphone 5 with five major Android updates and general software support until 2031. This long-term ownership approach sets the Fairphone 5 apart, earning it commendation for addressing sustainability and durability in a manner unlike any other phone on the market.
Honorable mention: Motorola Razr (2023)
Finally, we’d like to acknowledge the Motorola Razr (2023) with an honorable mention. Its innovation lies not in groundbreaking specifications for folding flip phones, but rather in its revolutionary pricing. Remarkably, this marks the inaugural folding phone available for a mere $700.
When delving into the realm of folding phones, cost is often the foremost consideration. Most foldable devices commence at $1,000, and flagship models can soar to nearly $2,000, or even more, contingent on storage configurations. What distinguishes the Motorola Razr is its appealing affordability, being the sole folding phone priced below $1,000. Despite its budget-friendly tag, it doesn’t compromise on features.
The device boasts a simple yet elegant design, incorporating vegan leather available in vibrant colors. When closed, there’s no noticeable gap, and the cover display provides convenient access to time and notifications at a glance. The screens exhibit vivid clarity, and the overall performance is commendable considering its cost. Even the cameras, all things considered, deliver a solid performance.
The Motorola Razr (2023) breaks new ground as the first folding phone that feels accessible to a broad audience. Despite featuring relatively mid-range specifications, its affordability is undeniably impressive.