The most coveted award category at the Indian Gadget Awards is the Phone of the Year award, which recognises the absolute best phone released in that year. This is the award that is given to the phone that delivers on all fronts, from design to performance, and beyond. Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, Vivo, and more, delivered top-notch phones in 2023, but only one can be crowned the best. So, which is the best smartphone of 2023? For this year’s Indian Gadget Awards 2023, over 35 jury members voted for their best picks out of 200+ nominees across 35+ categories. The winner for Phone of the Year 2023 goes to…
Phone of the Year 2023
Winner: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Samsung once again takes the award for Phone of the Year thanks to the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. This is the best phone of 2023, based on the votes from our jury. While the Galaxy S23 Ultra looks similar to last year’s Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra, the phone packs loads of improvements under the hood. Most importantly, it carries the more powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC that even unlocks efficient gaming abilities. The camera department also has some significant upgrades thanks to the new 200MP primary camera sensor. The Galaxy S23 Ultra remains the sole phone on the list that comes bundled with a stylus.
Take a look at the rest of the nominees for the Phone of the Year 2023.
Phone of the Year 2023 nominees
Google Pixel 8 Pro
This year’s Google Pixel 8 Pro carries several improvements backed by AI (artificial intelligence). Some of the key features include Magic Editor in the camera app and improved live translation. Don’t forget seven years of Android OS promise.
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
The Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max made headlines for two key changes: Type-C port for charging and titanium build. It also packs a more powerful A17 Pro chip.
Vivo X90 Pro
Vivo’s camera-focused Vivo X90 Pro continues to get better through the partnership with ZEISS. Its key features include Dimensity 9200 based on a 4nnm process and two 50MP cameras on the back.
Xiaomi 13 Pro 5G
If two 50MP rear cameras aren’t enough, the Xiaomi 13 Pro packs three 50MP cameras on the back. It draws power from Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
This year’s Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is refreshed with a more powerful processor. Also, Samsung has added thoughtful changes that make the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 feel lighter and more portable.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5
On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 received several upgrades, including a much larger cover screen. The bigger cover screen allows users to operate the phone without flipping it.
OnePlus 11 5G
OnePlus revived its “flagship killer” status with the OnePlus 11 5G. Not only does the OnePlus 11 5G pack a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Soc, but it also supports a faster charging speed of 100W.
iQOO 11 5G
Similarly, the iQOO 11 5G is also a value-for-money flagship. It’s best suited for gamers, but the phone also promises reliable camera performance.
OPPO Reno10 Pro+ 5G
The OPPO Reno10 Pro+ 5G is a stylish smartphone, which many young customers may prefer. It has a special focus towards the camera with its 50MP main camera.
OPPO Find N3 Flip
Similarly, its OPPO Find N3 Flip is an equally stylish and reliable phone in the flip-folding space. It draws power from the Dimensity 9200 SoC.
OnePlus Open
OnePlus introduced its first folding smartphone, the OnePlus Open, this year. OnePlus has truly nailed the display tech and offers a near-crease-less display.
Tecno Phantom V Fold 5G
The Tecno Phantom V Fold 5G is the most affordable book-like folding smartphone of this year. The company has also made no compromises and used premium hardware.
Motorola Razr 40 Ultra
Similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5, the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra lets you use the phone in its unfolded form. However, its cover screen is bigger.
