Bigme has launched the HiBreak Dual smartphone, which it previously teased as a world-first dual-screen phone.
The phone has a color E-Ink screen on the front and a tiny, circular LCD panel on the back.
We expected the phone to offer a full-sized LCD screen on the back.
E-Ink device manufacturer Bigme teased the arrival of a dual-screen phone last week. The firm said it would be the world’s first phone with both a color E-Ink display and an LCD screen. The HiBreak Dual smartphone is now official, and I’m rather disappointed.
When Bigme first revealed that it would launch a dual-screen phone with a color E-Ink display and an LCD screen, I immediately thought that it would have two full-sized screens. After all, devices like the YotaPhone series and Hisense A2 Pro both took this route over a decade ago, featuring a full E-Ink screen on the front and a full-sized LCD panel on the back.
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The Hibreak Dual indeed features a full-sized color E-Ink display, but eschews a full rear LCD panel in favor of a watch-sized rear screen. You can use this circular rear display to view the time, notifications, music playback info, call details, and the weather. An official promo video also shows that you can use this rear display to interact with a virtual pet and preview selfies. You can also use any app on the rear screen, although the promo clip reveals that apps like Gmail have significant black borders.
My biggest reason for wanting a full-sized LCD screen on the HiBreak Dual is because video playback and gaming isn’t a smooth experience on most E-Ink screens (color or monochrome). However, the aforementioned video clip shows that you can still view YouTube and TikTok videos via this rear panel. Why would you want to watch videos via this tiny rear screen? I have no idea. What makes things worse is that the screen seems to have a choppy refresh rate, resulting in juddery videos and camera previews.
Bigme HiBreak Dual: Hot or not?
15 votes
Otherwise, the HiBreak Dual specs suggest some budget-tier internals on par with other Bigme phones. Expect a low-end Dimensity 1080 processor, 8GB or 12GB of RAM, 128GB or 256GB of storage, a 4,500mAh battery, a 20MP camera on one side, and a 5MP camera on the other. Bigme adds that the phone supports an optional stylus pen. Keen on the phone? It has a recommended retail price of $519 for the 8GB/128GB variant, while early bird pricing for this model ranges from $359 to $409.
In any event, I’m pretty disappointed that Bigme didn’t offer a dual-screen phone with both full-sized LCD and E-Ink displays. So fans of this form factor will need to keep waiting for a proper successor to these phones. If it’s any consolation, Bigme suggested that this type of phone isn’t out of the question.
“We’ve also heard your requests for a full-screen dual E-Ink + LCD phone (both displays large), and we will include that in our future product planning,” the company explained in a YouTube comment.
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You know that annoying moment when you step outside on a sunny day, pull out your phone, and suddenly can’t see a single thing on the screen? You’re squinting, cranking the brightness slider all the way to the max, and watching your battery percentage nosedive in real-time. It’s a struggle we all deal with. Well, a team of researchers over in South Korea might have just fixed that for good, and they managed to do it without turning our sleek phones into bulky bricks.
A group from KAIST, led by Professor Seunghyup Yoo, just published some pretty massive findings in Nature Communications. Basically, they have figured out a way to make OLED screens—the kind found in most high-end phones and TVs these days—significantly brighter. And the best part? They didn’t have to sacrifice that ultra-thin, flat look that we all love.
Here is the thing about current OLEDs
They are actually kind of inefficient. We love them because the colors pop and the blacks are super deep, but there is a hidden flaw. Apparently, nearly 80% of the light these screens generate never actually makes it to your eyes. It gets trapped inside the display layers, bouncing around and eventually just turning into heat. That is why your phone gets hot when you are watching high-res videos, and it’s a huge waste of battery power.
Phone displayUnsplash
In the past, engineers tried to fix this by slapping tiny lenses on top of the pixels to help the light escape. Think of it like putting a magnifying glass over a lightbulb. It works, but it has issues. The lenses either made the screen too thick (nobody wants a bumpy TV) or they messed with the picture quality by blurring the pixels together.
The KAIST team took a completely different approach. Instead of treating the light source like some infinite, theoretical thing, they redesigned the screen structure based on the actual, finite size of real pixels. They created this new “near-planar” structure that acts like those old bulky lenses but stays incredibly thin. It effectively guides the light straight out toward you without letting it spread sideways and muddy up the picture.
For us regular users, this is huge
It means future phones could be twice as bright without using any extra battery power. Or, flip that around: you could keep the same brightness you have now but use way less energy, meaning your phone might actually last through a whole day of heavy use. Plus, since trapped light causes heat and heat kills electronics, these new screens should last longer before degrading or getting that dreaded “burn-in.”
Phone displayUnsplash
The researchers are also saying this tech isn’t just for today’s OLEDs. It could work with next-gen stuff like quantum dots too. It feels like we are finally moving past the era of choosing between a battery that lasts or a screen we can actually see.
On an iPhone: Tap and hold on the home screen until the icons wiggle, then drag them around to rearrange or tap the X to uninstall them.
Add Shortcuts for Useful Tasks or Apps
One of the best things you can do is place shortcuts on the home screen to make it easier for them to call or message their closest contacts with a single tap.
On an Android phone: Tap and hold on the home screen and select Widgets, choose the Browse tab, then scroll down to Contacts, choose Direct dial, and select a contact. You can place the shortcut anywhere on the home screen, and they can call that person simply by tapping it. You can add Direct message shortcuts in the same way.
On an iPhone: Use the Shortcuts app. If you create a folder for the home screen, you can potentially add multiple shortcuts. You can tap the plus (+) icon at the top right to add a new shortcut, search for or scroll down to Phone or FaceTime, tap on it again, then tap Contact and pick the contact you want to add. Tap at the top and choose Rename to give the shortcut a name, choose the icon, and Add to Home Screen. You can also tap and hold on the home screen until the icons wiggle and tap Edit at the top left, then Add Widget, and choose Contacts, then select the contact you want to add, but this will require an extra tap when they want to call.
Call contact shortcut on Android
Screenshots: Simon Hill
Consider a Simple Launcher (Android Only)
With Android phones, you can change the “launcher,” which determines the look of the whole interface, including things like app icons and font size.
Samsung phones have an alternative launcher called Easy Mode built in. To toggle it on, go to Settings, Display, and choose Easy Mode. There are loads of alternative Android launchers that you can install, and several simplify the phone experience with big icons. Simple Launcher, Big Launcher, or Senior Home are all worth a look.
On an Android phone: Go to Settings, Display and touch, and choose Display size and text, then drag the slider to adjust. You can also get there via Settings, Accessibility, then Display size and text.
Google’s Pixel 6a has been a winner in many respects, but a new issue with the smartphone’s battery may pose a safety concern. After Android Authority reported on a pair of instances where a Pixel 6a battery overheated to the point where the device caught fire, the publication spotted some details in the latest Android 16 beta indicating that as a precaution, the Pixel 6a battery capacity and charging speed will be reduced. In addition, Android Authority received this statement from Google:
A subset of Pixel 6a phones will require a mandatory software update to reduce the risk of potential battery overheating. The update will enable battery management features that will reduce capacity and charging performance after the battery reaches 400 charge cycles. We’ll contact impacted customers next month, with all the information they need to address the issue.
The Pixel 6a is due to receive software support until July 2027, but it’s just the latest entry in this device line to have battery problems this year. In January, Google rolled out an update that reduced battery life of the Pixel 4a to increase stability for the 2020 phone model. Then in April, the company launched a program of repairs and payments after some instances of batteries “swelling” in the Pixel 7a.
All those fancy new premium phones are exciting, but I am not that hyped up about paying a grand or more for them. Especially when there are plenty of great phones for much less, especially if you can take advantage of a deal like this one. If I were to buy a phone today, I would spend my hard-earned cash on a Google Pixel 9, which you can currently get for just $599.
The Pixel 9 rocks a 6.3-inch display, Tensor G4 chipset, 12GB of RAM, and at least 128GB of internal storage.
Many of you will argue that the Google Pixel 9a is a better deal. The thing is, Google’s budget phone is not on sale, and it is only $100 less than the standard Google Pixel 9. At $599, we would recommend upgrading to the Pixel 9.
For starters, the Google Pixel 9 is still considered a high-end phone. It is actually in our list of the best Android phones. It is just the smaller, less expensive model in the Pixel 9 series. It lacks some of the bells and whistles the bigger brothers tout, but it is still an awesome device, and many of you may not even need those added capabilities.
This handset checks most of the boxes that make a high-end smartphone. It has a really nice, sleek design, featuring an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 construction. It also keeps that IP68 rating many of you really care for, as it offers some peace of mind, knowing it is both dust and water resistant.
C. Scott Brown / Android Authority
Pixel 9
Additionally, the Google Pixel 9 is no slouch. It packs the same Google Tensor G4 chipset found in the other Pixel 9 series smartphones. It also comes with 12GB of RAM, which is plenty to keep most users happy. You would really have to push it to its limits to see a difference, and most of you won’t.
The display is certainly smaller at 6.3 inches, but it also isn’t tiny, and some of us happen to like smaller phones. That said, it is still a quality OLED panel with a Full HD+ resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. It also doesn’t get the same battery life as its bigger brothers, but we were still able to make it last about a whole day per charge. It can charge at up to 27W, which means it will get from zero to 100% in about 85 minutes.
Furthermore, it also has a pretty good camera. Pixels have long been known for being some of the best camera phones, and while this one isn’t as good as the Pixel 9 Pro models in this department, it still shoots really nice photos. It has a 50MP primary camera and a 48MP ultrawide shooter.
C. Scott Brown / Android Authority
Pixel 9
If you need more convincing, the Google Pixel 9 gets among the best upgrade promises in the industry. Google has given it a seven-year update commitment, which is only matched by Samsung.
At $599, you really can’t go wrong with such a good phone. That’s a $200 discount on one of the top industry favorite smartphones! Catch this deal while you can.
For $599, it’s hard to match all the value the Google Pixel 9 offers. Again, this is a record-low price we’ve only seen once in the past, in March. We don’t see the price dropping lower anytime soon, so take advantage of this sale while you can! It’s still a record-low price, so we’ve never seen a better price on it.
Extra deal: You can upgrade to the Pixel 9 Pro for $799
The Google Pixel 9 Pro is the Pixel device many have been begging for for a long time: Google’s very best smartphone hardware and software features, in a more compact form factor. With identical dimensions to the regular Pixel 9, it retains the same great specs as the much larger XL model, plus 16GB of RAM, up to 1TB of internal storage, and the Tensor G4 chipset.
If you really want a higher-end experience, the Google Pixel 9 Pro is also $200 off, bringing the cost down to $799. It’s not a bad deal. The experience will be pretty similar, but there are some upgrades you may like.
The biggest difference is that it has 16GB of RAM, giving you better multitasking capabilities. This device also gets an extra 48MP periscope shooters, and autofocus is a bit better thanks to multi-zone laser support. The selfie camera is also upgraded to a 42MP camera, instead of the 10.5MP one found in the Pixel 9. Additionally, wireless charging is faster at 21W, instead of 15W.
Simply put, this is Samsung’s very best phone for 2025. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a 6.9-inch QHD+ device with 12GB of RAM, 256GB+ of storage, embedded S Pen, and the overclocked Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC. The key upgrade over the lower S25 models is a 200MP main camera and 100x Space Zoom.
If you’re a demanding user who wants no compromises, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is undoubtedly your top choice. It’s not only the best of the Galaxy S25 series, but it is also all but guaranteed to end up in our list of the best Android phones, overall.
This device is truly something else. Samsung loaded it up with the best of everything. Of course, Samsung’s best phone is naturally also pretty expensive, so this $200 discount is definitely a welcomed treat.
The performance is top-notch, thanks to the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy and 12GB of RAM packed inside. Raw power aside, the phone is pretty impressive in every other aspect. We love the large 6.9-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X screen, which has a really crisp QHD+ resolution and a buttery smooth 120Hz refresh rate. It’s a great phone for gaming, watching movies, or general browsing. Not to mention, you can really take advantage of the screen real estate by using the S Pen. This is the only device in the series that comes with one.
C. Scott Brown / Android Authority
Another great thing about the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is that it has a stunning camera system like all its predecessors in several years. In fact, we’re also nearly sure it will soon make it to our list of the best camera phones. It gets a 200MP primary camera, as well as 50MP ultrawide and persicope shooters. The extra 10MP telephoto camera is also a nice addition.
We found the battery life to be outstanding. We were able to use it for about two full days without looking for an outlet.
Of course, there’s also the design, which is worthy of the Galaxy S name. It is made with a titanium frame, and has Gorilla Glass 2 in the back and front. Like other flagships, it gets an IP68 rating, so it can handle both liquids and solids very well.
Another great thing about the whole Galaxy S25 series is that all of these phones get a seven-year update commitment. This is still among the best update promises in the industry, matched only by Google itself.
A powerful 6.7-inch phone, with 7 years of updates
The middle offering of Samsung’s 2025 flagship launch, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus is a 6.7-inch QHD+ device with a 50MP camera, 12GB of RAM, 256GB+ of storage, and the Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC. UWB connectivity, a 4,900mAh battery, and ProScaler for QHD+ round out the upgrades over the base model phone.
As awesome and exciting as the Galaxy S25 Ultra is, I know it’s a bit too much for my needs. I would rather save some money on something less impressive, but still really good. That’s the balance the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus offers. In fact, it makes very few sacrifices, yet still has a $200 discount right now. This means you can get it for just $799.99.
Don’t underestimate this one. It still has a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite and 12GB of RAM, so it is just as powerful. Not only that, but it also gets a pretty large 6.7-inch display. It’s a tiny bit smaller, but that’s still a large phone, and it keeps that sharp QHD+ resolution and smooth 120HZ refresh rate.
Of course, there are a few sacrifices made. It has no S Pen, but we know not everyone cares for those. I know I never really used it when I had one. Additionally, the camera system isn’t as Impressive as the Ultra’s. It’s still a really good camera, though. It also comes with a slightly smaller 4,900mAh battery, but that won’t make a significant difference, really.
You can learn more about it in our Samsung Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus review, if you want our full thoughts. In my opinion, though, it offers the best value out of the Galaxy S25 series. It brings a high-end experience close to the Ultra’s, but is only $100 more than the base Galaxy S25 right now.
Refined software, AI smarts, and next-gen hardware
With an emphasis on AI features, and a move to Gemini, the Samsung Galaxy S25 is an exciting update to the Galaxy S line. Equipped with a 6.2-inch FHD+ display, Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC, 12GB of RAM, a powerful 50MP camera, and updated hardware materials, we expect big things from the base model of Samsung’s 2025 flagship phone.
The Samsung Galaxy S25 is the smallest and cheapest in the series, but again, don’t underestimate it, either! Its performance will be just as good, as it carries the same premium Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxcy processor and 12 GB of RAM.
I happen to be a fan of smaller smartphones, so the 6.2-inch panel can be a pro for many of you, as well. Call me crazy, but I like manageable phones that actually fit comfortably in my pocket. And while it has a lower Full HD resolution, it still looks great. The Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2x panel and 120Hz are unchanged, too.
C. Scott Brown / Android Authority
The general design doesn’t change much. Like the Galaxy S25 Plus, it is made with an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2. The camera system is also the same as the Plus model’s.
What does change is the battery size, and sadly, this one is a more significant drop. It has a 4,000mAh battery, but we found it could still last a full day on a single charge. Just don’t expect the same two-day battery life the bigger brothers offer. Oh, and charging speeds are also lower at 25W, instead of the 45W the other models are capable of.
We didn’t expect the Samsung Galaxy S25 series to go on sale so soon. These only launched last January, so we can only assume these deals will be short-lived, and they’ve already stayed active nearly all week. You might want to act quickly if you want a Samsung Galaxy S25 series phone without paying full price.
Make sure to check out our many MagSafe guides for compatible accessories, but I’ll also be adding more to this list since not all MagSafe accessories will work with the Galaxy S25’s unique camera placement. If it’s a simple, circular accessory, it will likely be OK, but larger square or rectangular magnetic accessories like MagSafe wallets will not fit well.
Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
ESR HaloLock Qi2 Mini Wireless Charger for $23: We have several great Qi2 magnetic chargers in our Best Wireless Chargers guide but in the interest of ensuring optimal compatibility since the Galaxy S25 camera module may interfere with some magnetic accessories, I can say for certain that this mini Qi2 charger works perfectly. It didn’t get too hot, and I like the extra protection added to the area where the cable meets the charging puck. The 5-foot cable is braided.
ESR MagSafe AirPlane Phone Holder for $16: This fun little gadget is a phone stand that can clamp onto various surfaces. It folds up and doesn’t take much space in a bag, but if you find yourself using your phone a lot on a plane to watch media, you can affix it to the tray table for more ergonomic hands-free viewing. The clamp doesn’t extend a ton so it won’t work on thick tables, but the magnetic connection is strong and you can tilt the angle quite a bit.
Other Good Screen Protectors
Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
Here are several other screen protectors I’ve tested. They’re all easy to apply, which is the most important thing to look for. There’s no point in recommending a screen protector that’s hard to install. Remember, you have to re-add your fingerprints after applying the screen protector for biometric authentication to work.
Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
ESR Tempered Glass Screen Protector (3 Pack) for $13: Three tempered glass screen protectors for $13? That’s shockingly cheap. I kept looking for a catch, but this ESR protector was visually similar to many of the others I’ve tested and boasts many of the same claims. It’s incredibly easy to install—like the Dbrand, you pull a tab once you place the phone in the applicator tool. This ensures perfect installation and I had zero air bubbles. Unfortunately, it’s only available for the Galaxy S25 Ultra, or I’d have recommended it over the pricier Dbrand. It comes with the full cleaning kit including alcohol wipes, a microfiber cloth, dust removal stickers, and a squeegee. I also tested ESR’s Privacy Screen Protector, but I didn’t like it: it noticeably affected the screen quality, making it dimmer overall and showing muted colors.
BodyGuardz Pure 3 Screen Protector for $45 (Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, Galaxy S25 Ultra): Kudos to BodyGuardz for being one of the only companies offering a cardboard install tool instead of plastic. Seriously, screen protectors produce so much plastic waste but this one is minimal. Even the tempered glass screen protector is made from 30 percent recycled glass. It comes with the usual cleaning kit, and the application was super easy. This one doesn’t cover the selfie camera but has a little gap for it, unlike the ESR. Too bad you only get one.
Spigen GlasTR EZ Fit Screen Protector (2 Pack) for $19: Spigen’s tempered glass screen protectors are just as easy to install as the others in this list, and come with the usual cleaning tools for prepping your device. I did have a few air bubbles after installation but they all disappeared minutes later. You get two in this pack.
More Cases to Consider
Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
UAG Pathfinder Magnetic Case for $55: I tested a bunch of other UAG cases, from the Monarch Pro and Civilian to the Plyo Pro, but I think the Pathfinder has the best aesthetic, especially in the bright yellow color. The buttons are clicky, there’s a magnet embedded in the middle for Qi2 support, and the edges around the screen and cameras are raised fairly well. The case is a bit slippery, but that’s my only complaint if you like the loud design.
Spigen Nano Pop MagFit Magnetic Case for $19: It’s only available for the Galaxy S25 Ultra right now, but this is a simple magnetic case that’s very affordable. It works with Qi2 and Qi chargers, the S Pen is easily accessible, and the buttons are clicky.
BodyGuardz Paradigm Pro Heat-Regulating Magnetic Case for $60: Only available for the Galaxy S25 Ultra, this case is designed to vent heat away from the back of the phone so that there are no hot spots when you’re gaming. I’ve tested this case before for the iPhone and didn’t really notice a difference, but what I actually like this case for is the directional bottom speaker—it makes the bottom-firing speakers of the Galaxy S25 Ultra shoot upward to your face when holding the phone, which is actually really nice when gaming in landscape orientation because my grip often blocks the phone’s speakers. It also has a built-in lanyard, comes with a magnet for Qi2 charging, and has clicky buttons. The plain black design is boring though, and the material is slippery. I also tested the BodyGuardz Ace Pro, but I found it hard to access the S Pen stylus.
ESR HaloLock Classic Hybrid Case: Only available for the Galaxy S25+ and Galaxy S25 Ultra right now, this is my second favorite clear case after the Dbrand recommendation above. The material feels nice, smudges are easy to wipe away, and it has built-in magnets. I can confirm it works on my Qi2 as well as my basic Qi charger. The buttons are responsive and it’s easy to access the S Pen stylus.
Mous Clarity 3.0 Magnetic Case for $70: This is a solid clear case (available for the entire S25 series), though it was already scuffed a little when I unboxed it, which doesn’t bode well for how it will look after months of use. Especially considering how much the case costs. It does have magnets for Qi2 charging and is an otherwise perfectly fine case.
Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
Latercase Thin Case for $59: Here’s another super-thin case for people who hate traditional bulky cases. It’s made from aramid fibers and will keep your phone scratch-free (at least, the back of it). There’s no protection for the bottom edge, the buttons, or the top edge, so it’s quite minimal. I like the soft texture of the material though, and it looks pretty. There are sadly no magnets for Qi2 functionality. The good news is that unlike many thin cases I’ve tested, this one is very easy to remove.
Tech21 EvoArmor and EvoClear Magnetic Cases for $50: These are some solid, simple, and smart-looking magnetic cases with Qi2 functionality. The edges around the screen are raised to protect it, the buttons are responsive, and there’s a spot to attach the lanyard. The Evolite is a solid clear case if that’s what you’re looking for, though I prefer the Dbrand and ESR to it. I also tested the EvoLite case, which is very basic and doesn’t have magnets if you want something simple. but it’s a bit slippery.
Samsung Standing Grip Phone Case for $55: I actually like the big grip on the back of this case. It slides nicely and you can fit several fingers through it. However, the plastic sides of the case feel a little out of place and make it feel cheap. The edges around the screen are also barely raised, so it doesn’t feel very protective. Surprisingly, wireless charging works, though there are no magnets here, so you don’t get Qi2 support. The bottom edge is also weirdly not protected.
Samsung Silicone Case for $30 and Rugged Case for $60: Samsung’s official Silicone case does the job, but I’m not sure what it does more than the cheaper options above. The same goes for the Rugged Case, which is way too expensive for what you get, especially considering there are no magnets in either of these for Qi2 support. They’re functional cases, just too expensive.
Speck Presidio Perfect-Clear and Presidio2 Grip Magnetic Cases for $50: These cases check off all the boxes in terms of functionality, and they’re a little more interesting to look at. They also have magnets for Qi2 support. However, both of them just feel a bit cheap—the Presidio2 Grip specifically has these cheap-looking plastic accents on the corners that ruin the aesthetic. Then again, I’m also nitpicking.
Zagg Santa Cruz Snap Magnetic Case for $50: I tested several cases from Zagg, including the Luxe, Milan, Denali, and Crystal Palace with Kickstand. They’re all OK. The buttons on all of these are slightly stiffer than on the other cases I’ve tested—not terrible, but just enough to notice. Many of these don’t have magnets in them but the Santa Cruz Snap does, and it worked well on my Qi2 and Qi charger. The edges are grippy, which is why I like it.
Benks ArmorAir Case for $40: This case is another ultra-thin case but it’s made from Kevlar fiber, though how much durability that provides when it’s this thin is questionable. What bugs me is that the camera module shifts ever so slightly. It’s one of those things that once you notice, you won’t stop feeling and seeing it shift every time. At least it covers more edges than the Latercase, and it also has magnets built in for Qi2 support.
Casetify Impact Magnet Cases for $64: You can get Casetify’s Impact cases in any style—with a mirror finish, a clear finish, or a crazy design. These are solid magnetic cases with clicky buttons, decently raised edges, and a good grip. The ring around the camera module is a bit thick though and disrupted charging on my Qi charger on occasion, but not consistently. That shouldn’t be much of an issue if you use a Qi2 charger.
Every year, I test more than 30 smartphones to see which ones are worth your hard-earned dollars. Guess what? The following Cyber Monday and Black Friday phone deals include many of my top-rated recommendations—now at a more reasonable price. If your current device is on its last legs, this is the best time of the year to upgrade. (I don’t expect prices to drop much more on Cyber Monday, but don’t quote me.) Whether you need a new Samsung phone, Google Pixel, or even an iPhone, this list has all the top discounts, even deals on cases and accessories. All these smartphone deals are for unlocked devices (except for the iPhones).
Updated December 1: We’ve added a couple deals and updated prices.
WIRED Featured Deals
WIRED’s Gear team tests products year-round and handpicked these Black Friday deals. I’ve covered sale events like Prime Day and Black Friday for nearly a decade, as have many of my colleagues. We’ll update this guide regularly throughout Black Friday and Cyber Monday by adding fresh deals, correcting prices, and removing dead deals.
WIRED’s Black Friday 2024 Coverage
Flagship Phone Deals
The entire Pixel 9 series is seeing its first major discount, and these Pixel deals are pretty fantastic, especially on the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL (9/10, WIRED Recommends). The difference between these two is purely size and battery—the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s screen is 6.8 inches versus the Pixel 9 Pro’s 6.3 inches, and its battery can comfortably last a little more than a full day. Everything else is the same. However, there’s a bigger gap between the Pixel 9 and the Pro phones. The cheapest in the lineup, the Pixel 9 lacks the 5X zoom camera and the vapor chamber cooling system, meaning it will get warmer faster. I say go Pro, but if your budget doesn’t stretch as high, consider the Pixel 8A (see below). Read our Best Pixel 9 Cases guide to keep it safe!
Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series is its flagship phone range of 2024, comprised of the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and the Galaxy S24 Ultra (8/10, WIRED Recommends). Keep in mind that Samsung is expected to debut a successor in just about a month and a half—the Galaxy S25 series. If you don’t need the latest and greatest, then these are solid Galaxy deals. I’m partial to the Galaxy S24 Ultra because it has a 5X optical zoom camera and the S Pen stylus baked inside (which you can use as a remote shutter for the camera. It also looks a little more interesting.
OnePlus, like Samsung, is also rumored to be releasing a successor to its OnePlus 12 flagship in January 2025. But that phone will probably cost closer to $1,000, and it will be many more months before it’s at a price like the OnePlus 12. This 2024 Android flagship is a heck of a phone (8/10, WIRED Recommends). It’s super smooth, supports wireless charging, and I was even able to hit two days of battery life on a single charge. Oh, and the OnePlus 12 can even recharge to full in just 30 minutes. How crazy is that?
Phone Deals Under $500
This is my top smartphone pick for most people. It’s well-rounded—you can call it the Renaissance Phone because it does a bit of everything well. The Pixel 8A (8/10, WIRED Recommends) has a sharp, colorful, and bright AMOLED display, water resistance, wireless charging, seven years of software support, and excellent performance. It was already fantastic value at its MSRP, but this deal makes it a steal. I didn’t even touch on the many great software features that will make you keep coming back to Pixel phones. For more, read my Google Pixel buying guide.
The brand-new Galaxy S24 FE—which stands for “Fan Edition”—is a bit of a tough sell at its MSRP because it’s not far in price from the flagship Galaxy S24, but it’s an absolute beast of a phone at this sale price. Seriously, a triple-camera system with a 3X optical zoom for under $500? That’s rare. It’s kind of like the Galaxy S24+ but with lesser specs all around, though you won’t feel the difference all that much. The screen is still a 120-Hz AMOLED panel, and the Exynos processor is quite chipper.
If you’re a heavy gamer, then I think the OnePlus 12R is a better fit for anyone on a budget. It packs last year’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, which can handle most demanding games without too much issue. The AMOLED screen is large at 6.78 inches (and sports a 120-Hz screen refresh rate), and the 5,500-mAh battery lasted me roughly two days. The camera is decent, but the charging speed is more impressive—like the OnePlus 12, it goes from zero to 100 in around 30 minutes. Just know that its water resistance is lackluster (IP64), there’s no wireless charging, and software support isn’t as long as the Pixel 8A.
The Moto G Power 5G (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is hands-down the best value in a smartphone right now. Not only is this the best Moto G smartphone Motorola has ever made, but at this discounted price, you’re getting a fantastic device all around. Performance with the MediaTek Dimensity 7020 is good enough that I never got frustrated or annoyed, the 120-Hz 6.7-inch LCD screen gets bright enough in the sun, and there’s even wireless charging (NFC too, finally). The biggest downside is once Motorola updates it to Android 15, that’s all the software updates you’ll get, except for two more years of security updates. But hey, it’s $200.
The Motorola Edge is a much more reasonable buy at $350, though I’d first steer you to the Pixel or OnePlus above. It will only get two Android OS upgrades and three years of security updates, but at least you get all the perks you’d want in a phone, from wireless charging, IP68 water resistance, NFC for contactless payments, and an AMOLED 6.6-ich screen with a 144-Hz refresh rate. Performance is pretty great thanks to the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chip. My main gripes are that the cameras aren’t great, and I’m not a fan of waterfall displays that curve the glass at the edges. But that’s literally the point of this phone. Edge. Get it?
The Moto G Stylus 5G has the same big fault as the Moto G Power 5G above—it will only get one Android software update to Android 15 (though 3 years of security updates). If you’re cool with that, performance is a smidge better and largely lag-free, and there’s a nice faux leather back that’s fun. The screen gets an upgrade to OLED (120 Hz), but the one trick that makes this one unique is in the name. Yep, like the Galaxy S24 Ultra, there’s a stylus built into the bottom of this phone for ultimate doodling. Did I mention there’s a headphone jack? Remember those?
What the Samsung Galaxy A35 5G (7/10, WIRED Recommends) has over the Motorola phones above is longer software support. Samsung promises four Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates, not to mention there’s an IP67 water resistance rating, a microSD card slot to expand storage, and a 120-Hz screen. Too bad the performance can be a little choppy.
A $100 smartphone that won’t make you want to rip out your hair? Yep, it exists. The Moto G Play only supports 4G LTE, which there’s still plenty of, so it shouldn’t give you connectivity problems. Performance, all things considered, is surprisingly solid. Apps launch slow and it might feel laborious moving from one app to another, but it’s not frustrating. Just don’t bother with the camera.
Folding Phone Deals
Flip phones! Like the good ol’ days! Except this one’s a smartphone too. The Razr+ (7/10, WIRED Recommends) is Motorola’s latest folding flip phone and, yes, it comes in hot pink. The exterior screen is nice and large, enough to even use some apps in a quick pinch. Open it up and the 6.9-inch OLED screen feels like a normal phone. Performance is great and the cameras are better than before, though battery life is still a bit lackluster. Still, it’s too stylish and fun to use for that to be a deal-breaker. You can save even more if you go with the standard Razr, on sale for $425 ($275 off), but the performance isn’t as smooth and the external screen is smaller and less useful.
I really wish the Pixel 9 Pro Fold (6/10, WIRED Recommends) had the same camera system as the standard Pixel 9 Pro (it’s very similar, but the results aren’t as crisp), but it’s otherwise my favorite folding phone that’s shaped like a book. The front screen is nearly identical to the Pixel 9 Pro’s 6.3-inch display, meaning it feels like a normal device, and it helps that the whole thing is so thin. Open it up and you get a vast 8-inch OLED panel for streaming shows, multitasking, and gaming. I’d never buy a phone that costs nearly $2,000 but at this price? Maaaaybe.
I think Samsung might have made a mistake. You can currently get the company’s latest, priciest folding smartphone—the Galaxy Z Fold6 (7/10, WIRED Recommends)—directly from Samsung.com for a little more than $1,000. Wha? Seriously, this is a massive drop on the book-like folding phone, which has an improved and larger front screen and slimmer design. I like the Pixel 9 Pro Fold more, but this price is far too tempting. Samsung also has been making folding phones far longer than most brands, so it’s easier to repair if something goes wrong.
I prefer Motorola’s Razr+ but Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip6 (7/10, WIRED Recommends) bests it in a few ways: longer software support, better build quality, better cameras, and faster performance. But I still think the Razr+ has more charm and has the more useful and larger external cover screen. Still, this is a great price for a relatively new flagship folding phone.
Deals on Last Year’s Phones
Black Friday iPhone Deals
Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
I always recommend buying an unlocked smartphone. However, Apple never discounts the iPhone, and Americans overwhelmingly buy smartphones from carriers directly. So, today I’m going to break my one rule. Below are a few of the best offers the big US carriers have on the iPhone. Make sure you look at the fine print; there are hoops to jump through to get the savings.
T-Mobile: If you switch to T-Mobile, you can get four iPhone 16 models for free when you activate four lines for $25 per line. The caveat? The savings come as bill credits over 24 months, and if you cancel your account before it’s over, the credits stop flowing and you’ll need to pay a balance. You also have to trade in four eligible devices to get the deal.
Verizon: Buy an iPhone 16 Pro or iPhone 16 Pro Max with a new line on the Unlimited Ultimate plan (you can upgrade your phone plan too), and you can get a free 10th-gen iPad and Apple Watch Series 10. You need a phone to trade in first, and you’ll need a plan for the iPad and Apple Watch for cellular connectivity too (that’s how they get you). These “savings” arrive as bill credits over 36 months, so you’re locked to that contract. Be wary of activation fees. Honestly, my head hurt reading the fine print.
AT&T: You can get an iPhone 16 for free if you trade-in an eligible device and upgrade or choose a select unlimited plan. The savings are in the form of bill credits, applied over 36 months. (This also applies to the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max.)
Folding smartphones have come a long way since the original Samsung Galaxy Fold came out in 2019. They’re smaller, more durable and, even if they aren’t exactly the most budget-friendly phones, they’re more affordable now, too. Whereas you may not have considered a foldable phone as your daily driver five years ago, they’re much more viable options today — and you have many more to choose from. If you’ve been toying with the idea of switching to a folding phone, or you’re ready to upgrade the foldable you already have, we at Engadget can help with your decision-making process. We’ve spent hundreds of hours and many days testing and reviewing the best foldable phones on the market right now — here’s everything you need to know before picking one up.
Note: For this guide, we’re focusing on devices that are widely available in North America and Europe. That’s because while there are even more options for people who live in Asia (especially China), they are often difficult to buy from abroad and may not support your local carriers.
How we test foldable smartphones
When evaluating foldables, we consider the same general criteria as we do when we’re judging the best smartphones. Devices need to have good battery life (at least a full day’s use), bright displays (peaks of at least 1,000 nits), sharp cameras and responsive performance. That said, foldable phones come in different shapes (and sizes); there are varying designs that may appeal to different types of people.
For those who prefer more compact and stylish devices, flip-style foldables resemble old-school namesakes but with flexible interior displays (typically six to seven inches diagonally) and smaller exterior screens. Alternatively, for power users and people who want to maximize mobile productivity, there are larger book-style foldables (with seven to eight-inch main displays) that can transform from a candy bar-style phone to essentially a small tablet when opened.
Are foldable phones worth it? A note on durability
Aside from their displays, the biggest difference between foldable phones and more traditional handsets is durability. That’s because while some models like the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Samsung’s Galaxy Z line offer IPX8 water resistance (which is good for submersions of up to five feet for 30 minutes), their flexible screens – which are largely made from plastic – present some unique challenges.
Most foldables come with factory-installed screen protectors. However, unlike regular phones, users are instructed not to remove them without assistance from approved service centers. Thankfully, Samsung does offer one free screen protector replacement for its foldables, while Google charges between $29 and $129 depending on the warranty status of your device. That said, while we can’t do long-term testing for every foldable phone on the market, after personally using the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Fold 4 each for a year, I’ve found that Samsung’s pre-installed screen protector tends to start bubbling nine to 12 months after purchase. So you’ll probably want to factor in that your foldable may need some sort of servicing after about a year unless you plan on removing the screen protector entirely (which is possible, but goes against most manufacturers’ instructions).
Furthermore, foldable phone owners need to be mindful about keeping sharp objects away from their flexible displays, as rocks, keys or even pressing down very hard with a fingernail can leave permanent marks. In the event that you need to get a flexible screen serviced, you’re potentially facing a much higher repair bill when compared to a typical phone (up to $500 or more depending on the model and the severity of the damage). In short, while the ruggedness of foldable phones has improved a lot, they’re still more delicate than traditional handsets, which is something you need to account for.
Full screen size: 8 inches | Folded screen size: 6.3 inches | Storage capacity: Up to 512GB | Weight: 9.1 oz | Max battery life: Up to 27 hours
The small but mighty improvements Google brought to its second-gen foldable have pushed it to the front of the pack. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold turns the somewhat unfinished original Pixel Fold into a solid handset ready for prime time. Google refined its design to have an aspect ratio that mimics the standard Pixel 9 smartphones, with a familiar 6.3-inch, 20:9 external display, that’s both easier to use and hold. The internal display has a more square aspect ratio as well with a bit more screen real estate than before. The handset overall has a more premium feel and certainly a more polished look thanks to its matte back and satin metal frame.
Along with solid performance (and battery life) and an upgraded design to match, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold still has the best cameras out of any foldable handset we’ve tried, despite not having any hardware upgrades from the original version. Plus, Google’s AI image editing tools like Magic Editor give you more control over your photos, and Pixel-only software like Made You Look make Google’s handset a more compelling foldable. — Valentina Palladino, Deputy Editor
Full screen size: 7.6 inches | Folded screen size: 6.3 inches | Storage capacity: Up to 1TB | Weight: 239g | Max battery life: Up to 23 hours
While we would have liked to see some more drastic design changes, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 remains one of the most versatile and well-rounded examples of a big, premium foldable phone. Its new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip delivers strong performance and improved energy efficiency while its Enhanced Armor Aluminum chassis is noticeably lighter than before (and a bit more durable too). There’s also a new ultra-wide angle camera sensor and a boatload of AI-powered features scattered throughout the phone. Plus, the Z Fold 6 remains one of the few foldables with native stylus support, though you’ll need to pay extra for one of Samsung’s S Pens. Perhaps the biggest downside is that Samsung’s latest flagship now costs $100 more than its predecessor. — Sam Rutherford, Senior Reporter
Full screen size: 7.8 inches | Folded screen size: 6.3 inches | Storage capacity: Up to 512GB | Weight: 239g | Max battery life: Up to 25.5 hours
For those who want a big foldable that isn’t quite as expensive, the OnePlus Open is a very interesting option. Starting at $1,700, its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip offers similar performance to the Z Fold 5, but the Open features displays that are slightly larger and brighter. It’s also thinner and lighter while packing a larger battery and its Open Canvas software delivers an innovative tile-based UI for multitasking. Sure, its triple rear camera module is bulky, but image quality is as good if not slightly better than the Z Fold 5 (though, still short of the Pixel Fold). But the best part is that, thanks to OnePlus’ trade-in deal, you can exchange any old phone you have lying around for $200 off, which brings the Open’s final price down to $1,500. That still isn’t cheap, but it pushes the Open closer to being somewhat affordable. — S.R.
Full screen size: 6.7 inches | Folded screen size: 3.4 inches | Storage capacity: Up to 1TB | Weight: 187g | Max battery life: Up to 23 hours
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 6 has an upgraded camera and a larger battery than its predecessor. Those two specs alone make the latest Galaxy flip-phone a more tempting option, in the face of rival flagship phones. The leap from a 12-megapixel to 50MP camera means you can choose to capture more detail, or crop in for, effectively, a digital zoom. The front screen has plenty of space for framing your selfie shots, and a new Auto-Zoom feature means it can even frame unsupervised group shots for you. Photography is augmented by Samsung’s improved AI photo editing tools, which is much easier to use.
The Z Flip 6 now has a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, so it’s just as powerful as the S24 Ultra and Z Fold 6. Unfold the main screen and you’ll find one that’s brighter than ever (up to 2,600 nits). Samsung says this is its brightest foldable display yet, making it easier to use and read outdoors.
The design hasn’t changed much and a focus on new AI software and tricks comes at the cost of limited cover screen utility, but it’s still as pocketable as ever and is still the most mainstream foldable yet. — Mat Smith, Editor, UK Bureau Chief, Newsletter
Full screen size: 6.9 inches | Folded screen size: 3.6 inches | Storage capacity: Up to 256GB | Weight: 189g | Max battery life: Up to 23 hours
While the Razr+ (or the Razr 40 Ultra for those outside North America) may not be quite as sophisticated as the Galaxy Z Flip 5, what it lacks in tech it makes up for with its personality. It’s available in three colors, with the magenta model featuring a soft vegan leather back. In addition, its exterior display features a neat cutout that wraps around its cameras and compared to Samsung’s flip-style foldable, it’s actually a touch easier to use. There’s no need to fool around with extra settings just to view all your favorite Android apps. And for those who are nostalgic for the original Razr from the early 2000s, Moto even included an easter egg that features a retro UI. Unfortunately, its water resistance is much less substantial, as it’s only rated to withstand spills or small splashes. — S.R.
Pros
Useful and roomy external display
Folds in half to become very compact
Can be own tripod for photos or videos
Cons
Cameras cannot compare to flagships
Long-term durability and security remains a concern
Full screen size: 6.9 inches | Folded screen size: 1.5 inches | Storage capacity: Up to 256GB | Weight: 189g | Max battery life: Up to 23 hours
The non-plus Moto Razr (aka the Razr 40 internationally) is the company’s first attempt to make a more affordable flip-style foldable. Starting at £800 (U.S. pricing still TBA), it’s one of the least expensive options on sale today. However, it features a much smaller 1.5-inch exterior display along with a slower Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 chipset and somewhat underwhelming cameras. On the bright side, it features the same display you get on its more expensive sibling. The one difference is that it’s limited to 144Hz instead of 165Hz due to its less powerful processor. And, similar to the magenta Razr+, all the colors of the basic Razr (Sage Green, Vanilla Cream, Summer Lilac) come with a soft vegan leather back. — S.R.
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