With the arrival of Samsung’s Galaxy S24 lineup, the OnePlus 12 and 12R, Oppo’s Find X7 Ultra, and the global launch of the Xiaomi 14 series, it’s already been a busy year for the smartphone world. But there are still plenty of new phones to expect in 2024, provided Apple, Samsung, and Google follow their usual patterns.
Samsung, for example, usually introduces new foldable phones around August, while Apple typically holds its annual iPhone launch event every September. Google follows in October with new Pixels.
AI-Powered Phones
As for what to expect, artificial intelligence (AI) will likely be a big theme in this year’s phones. We’ve already seen that with the Galaxy S24 family, which is the first to include Samsung’s new Galaxy AI features, as well as last year’s Pixel 8 series.
Generative AI, or AI that can generate content when prompted based on training data, had a breakout moment in 2023 thanks to the success of ChatGPT. But 2024 will test how truly useful these AI-powered features are, particularly when it comes to smartphones.
Aside from new AI-powered features, we’re expecting companies like Apple, Samsung, and Google to continue improving the cameras and processors inside their upcoming phones.
Here’s a look at the most anticipated phones from the industry’s biggest players in 2024. The list below includes phones that seem likely to debut this year based on previous launch patterns, and we’ll continue to update this list as new rumors and reports emerge.
Apple
iPhone 16 lineup
What to expect: Apple launches new iPhones every September, and we have no reason to believe this year will be any different. All iPhone 16 models are expected to get upgraded microphones to improve Siri performance, according to well-known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The change would come as Apple is said to be ramping up the iPhone’s AI features, Bloomberg reports.
Otherwise, the iPhone 16 family is rumored to get a new A18 chip from Apple, with the Pro models getting a version called the A18 Pro Bionic. The camera on the regular iPhone 16 Pro is also expected to get a tetraprism telephoto lens like the iPhone 15 Pro Max, meaning it would likely have a 5x telephoto zoom instead of 3x.
Why we’re excited about it: The iPhone 16 sounds like it will be a modest upgrade over the iPhone 15 family, but we’re interested in seeing Apple’s take on how AI can improve the smartphone experience. Siri is expected to be a big part of that, and we’re looking forward to Siri evolving into more than just a quick way to set timers or check tomorrow’s weather forecast.
iPhone SE 4
What to expect: Apple’s next budget-friendly iPhone could get an overhaul, with a larger screen and modern features like Face ID and USB-C charging. Reports suggest it could arrive in 2024.
Why we’re excited about it: Apple’s tiny iPhone is in need of an upgrade. A modern version of Apple’s more affordable iPhone with a larger screen and updated features would be much appreciated.
Samsung
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
What to expect: The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is expected to launch around August and could include Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and Galaxy AI features. There are also rumors of a boxier shape with flat edges and the possibility of an S Pen slot.
Why we’re excited about it: Samsung has refined its design and functionality over the last couple of years, and we’re looking forward to seeing whether there are any exclusive and new software features coming to the next Galaxy Z Fold.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
What to expect: The Galaxy Z Flip 6 is likely to inherit some of the Galaxy S24’s characteristics, such as a new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and Galaxy AI features. We may not see dramatic design changes, but we hope to see more use cases for the cover screen and a lower price.
Why we’re excited about it: The Galaxy Z Flip 5 is already one of our favorite foldable phones, and we’re hoping for even more improvements and a lower price with the Galaxy Z Flip 6.
Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro
What to expect: The Pixel 9 and 9 Pro will likely bring new AI-powered features, routine upgrades like a new Tensor processor, camera improvements, and potentially a refreshed design with flat edges for the Pro model.
Why we’re excited about it: Google’s Pixel phones are usually among the favorites, and we’re looking forward to seeing how they build on the AI-focused direction for smartphones. We’re also hoping for camera improvements on the Pixel 9 Pro.
Google Pixel 8A
What to expect: The Pixel 8A is expected to be similar to the Pixel 8 in terms of design and processor. It may differ in terms of cameras and screen sizes.
Why we’re excited about it: Google’s Pixel A phones have raised the bar for affordable phones, and we’re hoping the Pixel 8A continues that trend with a great design, camera, and smooth performance.
Based on the rumors and reports so far, this year’s phones should bring a balance of new AI features and updates to existing staples like performance and design upgrades. Although AI still has to prove its purpose in phones, the idea of software features that truly bring something new and useful to phones is refreshing.
FAQs
Q: Which companies are launching new phones in 2024?
A: Apple, Samsung, and Google are expected to launch new phones in 2024.
Q: What can we expect from the iPhone 16?
A: The iPhone 16 is rumored to come with upgraded microphones, a new A18 chip, and a tetraprism telephoto lens, among other improvements.
Q: Will there be a new iPhone SE?
A: There are reports suggesting that a new version of the iPhone SE with a larger screen and updated features could be launched in 2024.
Q: What can we expect from Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6?
A: The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is expected to come with Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, Galaxy AI features, and possibly a boxier shape with flat edges.
Q: What about the Google Pixel 9?
A: The Pixel 9 is likely to bring new AI-powered features, a Tensor processor, camera improvements, and potentially a refreshed design.
Conclusion
2024 is shaping up to be an exciting year for smartphones. With companies like Apple, Samsung, and Google expected to launch new phones, we can anticipate a range of new features and improvements. From AI-powered capabilities to better cameras and processors, these phones are set to push the boundaries of what smartphones can do. Stay tuned for more updates as rumors and reports continue to emerge.
