Crystaline reads the runes to bring you the phones set to make waves over the next 12 months.
Sure, you could buy yourself a new phone now. Or you could hold out and get something even fancier later in the year. Here’s our pick of the five best devices to keep an eye out for in 2016.
Apple iPhone 7
Apple is due to give the next iPhone a major design overhaul, 2016 being a so–called ‘tick’ year for the Cupertino company. That’s opposed to ‘tock’ years when improvements are restriced to the phone’s internal components and software.
As usual, the company seems highly likely to reveal the 2016 handset in autumn, allowing it to have a clear run at pre–Christmas sales.
As far as specifications go, the iPhone 7 is expected to feature an improved screen, possibly using OLED tech, an improved camera and will likely come in 4.7 and 5.5–inch sizes, just like the current crop of Apple handsets.
There’s plenty of chat of facial recognition and improved security to go alongside Touch ID.
Whatever happens, expect plenty of new features to entice updaters and Android switchers.
Samsung Galaxy S7/Galaxy S7 Edge
Now available for pre-order!
Apple iPhone 6C
Dreamt of by Apple fanboys and shareholders alike, a new, cheap iPhone is one device everyone will be keeping an eye out for in 2016.
One well connected tech industry business analyst reckons Apple will pull the trigger on the handset in spring, and predicts it will feature a metal frame and a slew of features brought across from the iPhone 6.
However, 3D Touch is not believed to be on board. And the screen will apparently remain at four inches, seemingly confirming that the purpose of Apple’s ‘C’ phones is to retain the custom of those who prefer a smaller, more pocketable handset.
LG Nexus 2016
Google’s Nexus 5X, one of 2015’s best phones, was made by LG. And word is that the Korean giant has been retained to make 2016’s Nexus flagship handset.
It’s not yet clear what the device will include, but with LG likely to release its own top–end phone early in the year, we should get a better idea very soon.
However, given LG’s past form, we’d bet a rear button control, edgeless display and a snappier processor will all feature.
Sony Xperia Z6
Sony is no longer as mainstream as the likes of Samsung and Apple when it comes to smartphones. But it does make killer devices. And the Xperia Z6 could well be its best yet.
As with the Galaxy S7, Sony is said to be including a 3D Touch-style pressure sensitive display, as it looks to keep up with Apple in the smartphone stakes.
Elsewhere, the phone is likely to be a relatively minor improvement on the Xperia Z5, with a similar camera and design.