Where did 2025 go? The year felt like a whirlwind. In one moment, it was January, and then, after an excruciating blink, it’s December once again. Though it doesn’t feel that way, a lot of newsmakers happened in 2025.

And it’s not just all about AI. We saw so many developments in the world of technology, gaming, and enterprise. This, as with every year, is your one big ICYMI for 2025.

TikTok shuts down for a day

The year started with a dark interlude for the chronically online. For a single day right before the start of Donald Trump’s second term as president, TikTok went down in the United States.

The brief shutdown was in anticipation of a potential ban from the Trump presidency. It was sparingly brief, though. After a day, TikTok came back online, albeit with the added burden of finding an American buyer to fully stave off a definitive ban. The saga is still ongoing today.

Tri-fold phones have arrived

Last year ended with a potential teaser for the first tri-fold phone. The year then quickly started with its official launch. In February, Huawei debuted the Mate XT. The foldable smartphone features three screens and two hinges, creating the world’s first tri-fold device.

Currently, Huawei still holds a strong grip over the niche segment. However, the year was filled with rumors of future developments from competitors. This December, Samsung announced the strongest challenge to the Mate XT. The Galaxy Z TriFold is already available in South Korea and will debut early next year.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is here

Console gaming got a wake-up call this year. Nintendo has launched the much-awaited follow-up to the globally successful Switch. The Switch 2 immediately turned heads, promising a deserved upgrade to the dated predecessor’s hardware.

Plus, this is without massively changing the formula. The Switch 2 is more of a moderate upgrade, rather than an entirely new segment. It’s a classic example of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” And yet, the console is already on its way to breaking the Switch’s records.

Nano Banana takes over the internet

By the end of 2024, it was clear that AI has (and will continue to have) an iron grip over the world of tech. This year, generative AI photos and videos took the internet by storm, none more so than Nano Banana.

Nano Banana is a massively popular service that turns static photos into realistic figurines, among other uses. Everyone wanted to turn their photos real with the service, earning it one of the most used AI services this year.

Valve enters the console wars

The Steam Deck is still a popular option for handheld gaming consoles. But that segment is only a portion of the entire gaming industry. Now, Valve wants to have its hands in more niches. Earlier this year, the company announced the upcoming Steam Machine.

As opposed to the portable Steam Deck, the Steam Machine is meant for desktop use. A dedicated mini-PC for gaming, it aims to introduce more affordable rigs for beginning gamers. Though it’s still slated for next year, the Steam Machine is already making so many waves for gamers.

Silksong is finally out

As is evident from the recent Game Awards, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 owns this year. However, one massive title deserves its flowers, too — Hollow Knight: Silksong.

After six long years, Team Cherry, the developer behind the original Hollow Knight, finally released the much-awaited sequel, Silksong. Even if you aren’t a fan of the series, you would have definitely felt its palpable effect. On the day of its launch, players who sought to buy the title simultaneously caused all major platforms, including GOG and Steam, to crash. It also helped that the game itself was a masterpiece of a sequel.

RAM sales are going up

Even if you’ve successfully avoided the nauseating flood of AI-powered features, the pull of AI is now affecting the entire industry. As of late, the prices of RAM skyrocketed due to the demand put forward by AI data centers.

Unfortunately for everyone, the trend means that consumer chips will escalate beyond what people are usually comfortable paying for. And it’s not just for those building a PC, either. Smartphone makers, including Xiaomi, are already predicting that phone prices will also spike next year.

Netflix bids for Warner Bros.

Almost like a post-credits scene, Warner Bros. and Netflix made a huge splash this December. Earlier this year, Warner Bros. Discovery decided to put the first half of its name up for sale. The company will split into Warner Bros. and Discovery next year.

This month, Netflix made a blockbuster bid to claim the Warner library for itself. Of course, there’s still a lot of legal hurdles before the deal pushes through. But, in its wake, the announcement heralds a future where one of the biggest entertainment libraries in the world passes to one of the biggest streaming services.

What should we look out for in 2026?

There isn’t a single thing that binds 2025 together. There are so many different developments in the whole industry, some good and some bad. However, it’s pretty clear that what happened this year will have big effects for 2026.

For one, we still need a conclusion to the Warner Bros. saga. Who will buy the library? Does Netflix have it locked in?

Secondly, how will the rising RAM prices affect consumer technology? Which industries will feel the sting of price hikes?

Last year, we grumbled about how smartphone technology seemingly plateaued and obsessively relied on pushing AI onto hapless consumers. When it comes to AI, this year felt no different. Then again, we also saw a lot of breakthroughs for smartphone hardware.

From tri-fold phones to ultra-thin profiles to snazzy rear designs, 2025 marks a return to what we loved about the smartphone space in the first place: those oh-so-subtle design differences that make us go “my smartphone is better than yours.”

Now, it’s fair to say that everyone here at GadgetMatch has experienced their share of premium and flagship phones this year. Though you might not agree with everything here, these are what we consider as the Best Premium Smartphones of 2025.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge

As with every year, Samsung is one of the first ones out with a competitive flagship series. The Galaxy S25 series is a lineup that needs no introduction. And while we can go on and on about how the flagship remains a solid choice this year, we need to give the Galaxy S25 Edge its flowers.

The ultra-thin model, released later in May, kickstarted a trend for thinner form factors. Despite how thin the phone is, it still packed hardware worthy of the Galaxy S25 name.

Unfortunately, the ultra-thin phone trend is seemingly short-lived. The Galaxy S25, and its similarly slim compatriots, have supposedly canned future iterations because of poor sales. Still, Samsung’s spirited attempt is impressive enough to make it on this list.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro / Pro Max

Every year, this list always has the latest iPhone generation, specifically from the more premium Pro duo. This year is no different, but it’s for an even better reason.

For the first time in a while, the two Pro models feature a substantial redesign. It comes with a large camera island that packs three 48-megapixel lenses together to give off the equivalent of eight pro lenses. It also supports up to 8x optical zoom on 200mm.

Oh, and of course, who can forget that beautiful orange color?

ROG Phone 9 Pro

Hands down, the ROG Phone 9 Pro was the best gaming smartphone we’ve tried this year. It was a near-perfect experience. Every time we put it through the ringer, the phone came out looking stronger than ever. Inside, it’s got the purest smartphone experience with a high-performance chipset, an impressive array of cameras, and a superior battery.

On the surface, though, the ROG Phone 9 Pro also comes with AniMe Vision. It’s a unique feature that makes the phone stand out. Though it’s not a perfect feature, it’s still a bold addition that adds some flair to an already perfect phone.

Nothing Phone (3)

Still technically the new kid on the block, Nothing came out with the Phone (3) this year. Like the previous two generations, the Phone (3) features a unique rear design with the new Glyph Matrix. It’s a circular dot-matrix screen on the rear of the phone, which can show notifications or a number of Glyph Toys.

Inside, it’s still an impressive Android experience bolstered by a clean custom skin. Even better, Nothing consistently keeps the phone updated with substantial fixes and new features. It’s well supported, even if it’s a relatively new brand. The only things that mar its spotless records is its bigger price tag and an Essential Key that’s still struggling to find its niche.

vivo X300 Pro

2025 has already reached the pinnacle of smartphones: superior camera system, gargantuan battery capacities with long-lasting endurance, faster than ever performance, displays and speakers that truly satisfy one’s audiovisual cravings.

The vivo X300 Pro is a great embodiment of that. Not only do you get the best in class cameras, but the smartphone itself is just a refined version of a smartphone that was already superior to begin with.

Some “refinements” might look iterative such as a slight battery bump and support for 4K/120fps with Dolby Vision, but they make the X300 Pro heaps better than its predecessor.

Best of all, vivo is listening to its community by finally bringing in the OriginOS 6 to the international units – bringing in a more seamless software experience and unlocking the smartphone’s full potential.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 is the most refined and capable Flip yet, bringing subtle but meaningful upgrades that make it feel stronger, smoother, and more practical in daily use.

It’s an easy step-up for older Flip users or anyone wanting a fresh alternative to traditional slab phones, delivering flagship power, reliable cameras, and a distinctive personality that fits a wide range of lifestyles. 

OPPO Find X9

The OPPO Find X9 delivers outstanding performance with excellent cameras, reliable zoom, smart AI tools, smooth sharing, and a huge battery that lasts through long days.

It’s dependable, versatile, and consistently produces beautiful photos and videos anywhere you go.

OPPO Find N5

OPPO came right out the gate this year and set the standard for thin but extremely capable book-style foldables. It had everything from smart implementations of multi-tasking, performance to keep up, and cameras that won’t leave you wanting. 

There’s the minor issue of the volume buttons being placed too high but it is just a tiny setback in what set the tone for what 2025 book-style foldables should be like.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7

The Galaxy Z Fold7 is the biggest change in design of Samsung’s prime book-style fold line. It finally captured the right balance of proper smartphone when folded and mini-tablet while unfolded. And they did it while keeping the device’s footprint as thin as possible. One of their influencers/ambassadors has even started calling it “Skinny Legend” which is very fitting. 

On top of that, One UI is better than ever, the AI features are improved, and they even added the same main 200MP camera on the thing. 

It’s just a joy to use and hold and was definitely tough to put down despite the emergence of arguably better foldables from OPPO and HONOR.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

Concerts. We went to a handful of K-Pop concerts in 2025 and, without fail, we had to have the Galaxy S25 Ultra with us. Samsung still has a firm hold for this specific use-case, but they have to significantly level-up to keep the crown. Other brands are starting to include a Stage Mode, most notably vivo, in their flagship offerings and are bound to catch up if not zoom past what Samsung has to offer. 

Elsewhere, it’s an excellent flagship that has also figured out the right ratio of weight and overall footprint. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is another offering from Samsung that was hard to put down. Here’s to hoping they can build on the momentum they built in 2025 for their upcoming releases.

HONOR Magic V5

This is HONOR’s most incremental release of the Magic V line to date. But that’s because they have long figured out the form factor side of things. The Magic V5 maintains the look of its predecessors while making improvements to performance and camera. 

What it lacked in “headline-grabbing”’features, it more than made up for with consistency and a steady device offering much of the same excellent overall foldable experience. 

Honorable Mentions

POCO F8 Ultra. The POCO F8 Ultra made waves last month by offering a denim-fitted rear panel. Inside, it’s a capable flagship that comes with a more affordable price.

Xiaomi 15. Bigger isn’t always better. The Xiaomi 15 makes the case for a flagship that can still fit in your jeans pocket.

vivo X300. While some flagships tout professional-level photography, sometimes all you need is a point-and-shoot that gets the job done. That’s the vivo X300.

HONOR Magic7 Pro. Released early this year, the HONOR Magic7 Pro is a vestige of 2024’s “AI + camera” trend.

Consumers are getting far more from even cheapest smartphones today. Think decent cameras, improved water and dust resistance, and even basic AI integration.

Still, always keep in mind that these are budget devices. The key to appreciating them is knowing their limits and intended purpose. That does not mean all budget smartphones are cut from the same cloth.

From unique features to niche-specific strengths, standout affordable handsets throughout the year prove budget-conscious buyers don’t need to spend a fortune to get more from their devices.

Across categories — from rugged builds to gaming-focused designs — here are the Best Budget Smartphones of 2025:

realme C85

The budget segment has become some sort of battleground proving how tough and long-lasting the smartphones can be. The realme C85 confidently enters the competition with some swag.

It sports a subtle but notable back design while offering water resistance that won’t leave you worried if you, for whatever reason, subject it to some splashing.

Performance and camera capability is… decent. Par for the course for any smartphone in its price category.

Infinix GT 30

Like its lower midrange sibling, the GT 30 Pro, the “standard” model brings steady gaming performance and extra perks to the table.

What makes the Infinix GT 30 an essential daily carry is primarily its optimized performance and battery consumption.

It handles the most demanding mobile games at lower settings and breezes through light multitasking and other uses without hiccups.

The immersive display is a steal for about US$ 200, and the main camera is likewise capable enough for more than documentation.

nubia Neo 3 series

Among ZTE’s releases this year, the nubia Neo 3 series as a whole stands out by delivering solidly on what their marketing promises. Designed chiefly for gaming, the Neo 3 and Neo 3 GT both perform well on that front.

Performance is complemented by a sharp and clear display. The 50MP camera on the Neo 3 GT is a bonus, edging into lower midrange territory with the way it processes shots.

The cybernetic mecha design is just a fun plus for those who prefer such a look, but these phones are all about delivering on what matters.

HONOR X7d

The HONOR X7d is HONOR’s latest all-around budget utility device. What’s great is that while you don’t expect it to overperform, it consistently delivers.

We’ve mentioned value-for-money several times but it’s exactly what the X7d is all about: straightforward dependability. Plus points for AI integration, a serviceable camera, spacious internal storage, and features you don’t find often elsewhere like HONOR to iPhone file sharing.

TECNO Slim

The iPhone 17 Air was kind of a bust commercially. But it didn’t stop Android manufacturers from turning in their take on super skinny smartphones. The kicker? They’re A LOT more affordable than what the Cupertino company has to offer. Leading the charge is the TECNO Slim.

This Baymax-coded offering from TECNO has similar strengths and drawbacks to the iPhone 17 Air but undercuts it heavily with a US$ 200 price tag.

The TECNO Slim is a smexy, antifragile slim smartphone that delivers the basics while letting more users experience a crazy thin build.

nubia Air

The nubia Air pretty much follows the same refrain as the TECNO Slim. A slight but premium-feeling build that won’t burn a hole in your wallet.

It’s 5.9mm thin and 172g light yet it’s surprisingly solid. Casual users will enjoy smooth performance, the display is bright and immersive, and the battery easily lasts a full day.

The sleek finish and refined look gives it a cooler and more premium feel in hand as well, making everyday use just a bit more stylish if that matters.

Redmi 15C

Lastly, the Redmi 15C continues the Xiaomi sub-brand’s tradition bang-for-buck devices. This particular release appeals to buyers with a large display, long battery life, and reliable performance.

It’s as stunning on the outside as it is dependable inside. Scrolling feels smooth and responsive. The camera package feels consistent for its asking price.

Overall, it handles basics with ease and can still stay steady under pressure at times — proof that even at the lowest price tier (starts at PhP 5,299), there are options that can exceed modest expectations.