2025 Flagship Smartphone Showdown: iPhone 16 vs Samsung Galaxy S25 vs OnePlus 13

The upcoming Apple iPhone 16, Samsung Galaxy S25, and OnePlus 13 are poised to be 2025’s top flagship smartphones. Each promises cutting-edge features and improvements across the board. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll examine every aspect – from design and displays to cameras, performance, battery life, software, connectivity, pricing, and beyond – drawing on the latest news, credible leaks, and expert insights. Engaging yet objective, this report will help you understand how these three anticipated flagships stack up against each other.

Design and Build Quality

Apple’s iPhone 16 is expected to continue Apple’s modern design language with flat edges and premium materials. The iPhone 15 Pro introduced a titanium alloy frame, and the iPhone 16 Pro models will reportedly retain a titanium build for strength and lightness. Overall aesthetics won’t radically depart from the iPhone 15 generation – in fact, Mark Gurman notes that the four iPhone 16 models “won’t look meaningfully different” than current ones. However, subtle tweaks are anticipated: multiple sources claim the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will be slightly larger in size, with display sizes around 6.3″ and 6.9″ (up from 6.1″/6.7″). This size increase gives more internal space for new hardware. Leaked dummy units also suggest Apple is adding a new “Capture” button on the side of the iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max – a dedicated two-stage camera shutter button. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, this button would function like a real camera shutter: half-press to focus, full-press to snap a photo. It could even allow finger-swiping to zoom the camera lens. This Capture button (if it ships) would be exclusive to the Pro models, while the existing Action Button remains for customizable shortcuts. In terms of finishes, Apple may introduce at least one new color option. Leaks claim the blue titanium finish from iPhone 15 Pro will be replaced by a “Desert Titanium” color – a bronze or dark gold tone tomsguide.com – alongside the usual black/gray and silver/white hues. Build quality will be top-notch as always, with IP68 water resistance expected on all iPhone 16 variants.

Samsung’s Galaxy S25 family is likewise expected to refine the solid design of the S23/S24 series. Samsung has trended toward a sleek, minimalist look with separate camera lenses (no big bump) and an Armor Aluminum frame. For Galaxy S25 Ultra, rumors point to a “revised design” with slightly more rounded corners and larger camera housings on the back. Concept renders and early leaks show the S25 Ultra maintaining the squared-off silhouette (due to the built-in S Pen), but the corners may be a touch rounder for comfort. The camera lenses might adopt a “double-layer” design, possibly meaning a new arrangement or partially recessed layout to reduce the camera hump. Notably, Samsung is reportedly exploring a super-slim variant called the Galaxy S25 Slim, focusing on thinness. This S25 Slim model (tipped by leaker Ice Universe) “exists and has an ‘Ultra’ camera”, suggesting it will pack the same 200MP main camera as the Ultra in a thinner body. The Slim is rumored to have a very slim profile (sub-7mm thick) while using lighter materials to cut weight. All S25 models will feature Gorilla Glass Victus (or newer) on front and back, and the Ultra may even use some titanium alloy in its frame if rumors of “Titanium” color naming are any hint (though Samsung has not confirmed a switch from aluminum). The S25 Ultra should retain the integrated S Pen stylus in its chassis, continuing Samsung’s unique Note-like feature. As for colors, leaks point to a broad palette – concept images show Titanium Black, Blue, Gray, Silver for the Ultra, and another leak mentions up to seven color options across the S25, S25+, and Ultra. Samsung will certainly offer the usual Phantom Black and a variety of light tones, possibly some exclusive online colors as they often do. Overall, expect Samsung to deliver a familiar premium build with a few evolutionary tweaks.

OnePlus 13 is set to uphold OnePlus’s reputation for clean yet premium design, while drawing closer to the Oppo family aesthetics. According to reliable tipster Digital Chat Station, the OnePlus 13 will sport a 6.8-inch display with a micro-curved design at the edges, which should make the large phone more comfortable to hold. Unlike Samsung’s pronounced curves, OnePlus is likely using subtle curvature on the glass for a smooth feel. The rear camera module might get a redesign – OnePlus flagships for the past two generations have used a circular camera island, but rumors hint the OnePlus 13 could introduce a new layout or styling. Some leaks suggest the large circular “hob” may remain but without the shiny K-shaped accent seen on recent models. In fact, Digital Chat Station claims OnePlus will drop that “K-shape” decor and possibly use a new glass material on the back panel, giving the OnePlus 13 a fresh look. Build materials will include an aluminum (or stainless steel) frame and tough glass (likely Gorilla Glass Victus) on both sides. OnePlus famously keeps a physical Alert Slider on its flagships, and that continues on the OnePlus 13 – a beloved toggle to quickly switch between silent, vibrate, and ring modes. Another welcome upgrade: OnePlus may switch from an optical in-screen fingerprint reader to a more secure ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, similar to Samsung’s, for faster and more reliable unlocking. Water resistance on OnePlus devices has improved (the OnePlus 11 had an IP64 rating unofficially, and the OnePlus 10 Pro was IP68 for T-Mobile). We expect at least IP68 water/dust resistance on the OnePlus 13 to match its rivals, given its premium positioning. In terms of size and weight, OnePlus 13 will be a large device (around 6.78–6.8″ screen). OnePlus might not chase ultra-thinness if it’s also cramming a bigger battery (as rumored), but it will aim for ergonomic curves and a relatively light feel for its size. Overall, the OnePlus 13’s design should exude a modern, minimalist style – likely with frosted glass finishes and colors such as black, green, or perhaps a special edition. One wild card: OnePlus has been teasing a device codenamed “Pagani.” Some speculate this could be a OnePlus 13 Mini – a compact flagship – possibly in partnership with the Pagani supercar brand. If it exists, a OnePlus 13 Mini would offer a smaller form factor with high-end specs and possibly a special design (e.g. carbon-fiber or automotive-themed accents). However, OnePlus has confirmed no new foldable in 2025, so “Pagani” is likely a limited edition OnePlus 13 variant rather than a foldable. In summary, OnePlus is focusing on premium build (metal/glass), distinctive design tweaks, and practical features like the alert slider – all while keeping the price lower than Apple and Samsung’s equivalents.

Display Specifications and Technology

All three phones are expected to pack gorgeous, high-tech displays, but with some differences in size and technology:

• iPhone 16: Apple is reportedly increasing the Pro models’ screen sizes to 6.3 inches (iPhone 16 Pro) and 6.9 inches (16 Pro Max) – the largest displays ever on an iPhone. The base iPhone 16 and 16 Plus should stick to 6.1″ and 6.7″ sizes, respectively, similar to the current lineup. Apple will continue using OLED (LTPO) panels on Pro models, likely marketed as Super Retina XDR displays with 120Hz ProMotion adaptive refresh. The ProMotion will allow dynamic refresh from 1Hz to 120Hz for smooth scrolling and always-on display features. The regular iPhone 16/16 Plus are expected to use 60Hz OLEDs (Apple thus far has reserved high refresh for Pro). In terms of resolution, expect roughly 1179×2556 on the 6.3″ and 1290×2796 on the 6.9″ (extrapolating from current ~460 ppi densities). One notable rumor is that the iPhone 16 Pro Max (or potentially called iPhone 16 Ultra) will have an even brighter screen and perhaps ultra-narrow bezels, but the big story is simply the size boost. With these new dimensions, the 16 Pro Max would become one of the largest candybar phones on the market, slightly surpassing the 6.8″ Galaxy S24 Ultra in screen size. Despite the larger screen, Apple will aim to maintain or improve durability – Ceramic Shield glass will likely return, and there’s talk of slimmer bezels and the same flat-edge design around the display. As for notch vs Dynamic Island: all iPhone 16 models should have the Dynamic Island cutout (the pill + hole for Face ID and camera) introduced on iPhone 14 Pro. Apple brought the Dynamic Island to all models in the iPhone 15 generation, and that should continue. Rumors have not indicated Apple moving to under-display Face ID or cameras yet for the 16. On the color accuracy and HDR front, the iPhone’s displays will remain industry-leading with support for Dolby Vision HDR. We might see a peak brightness around 2000 nits for HDR (similar to iPhone 15 Pro), and improved outdoor brightness if Apple updates the panel tech. Another incremental upgrade could be in the always-on display functionality, possibly more customization with iOS 18.
• Galaxy S25: Samsung consistently uses some of the best displays available (it helps that Samsung Display actually manufactures them). The Galaxy S25 series will feature AMOLED screens with high refresh rates across the lineup. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is expected to stick with roughly a 6.8-inch panel (or slightly less if the device is “smaller” as rumors suggest). It will surely be a Quad HD+ resolution (around 1440p) LTPO AMOLED, capable of 1–120Hz adaptive refresh (branded as Dynamic AMOLED 2X with Always-On). Samsung might push peak brightness even higher – the S24 Ultra was rumored to target around 2500 nits peak, so the S25 Ultra could equal or exceed that for superb outdoor visibility. The Ultra’s screen will likely have slight curvature at the edges, as Samsung has gradually reduced the curve over generations but not completely flat on the Ultra. The regular Galaxy S25 and S25+ will likely have flat displays around 6.1″ and 6.6″ respectively, with 120Hz and FHD+ resolution, similar to S23/S24 specs. One interesting leak is that Samsung might introduce a “Galaxy S25 Slim” model with a focus on thin design – if so, it could potentially have a slightly smaller display (perhaps ~6.5″) to keep the device super slim. But details are sparse on that variant’s screen. In any case, expect all S25 screens to support HDR10+ and have excellent color calibration (Samsung tends to offer Vivid and Natural modes to either saturate or accuracy-tune the colors). Another likely spec is an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor under the display (Samsung’s 3D Sonic Sensor). The S25 series might use Qualcomm’s latest ultrasonic sensor which is larger and faster, making fingerprint unlock very quick. Also, Samsung could integrate new display-related features like reduced PWM flicker or improved power efficiency with new materials (Samsung’s latest OLED emitters, e.g., “M13” material set, often debut on Galaxy flagships). Resolution: The Ultra will stay at ~3200×1440, while base/Plus around 2340×1080. Samsung will also include stylus support on the Ultra’s display (with the S Pen silo). The S25 Ultra’s slightly more rounded corners won’t meaningfully reduce usable screen area. One rumor to watch: some reports suggest Samsung might adopt an under-display front camera for the S25 Ultra to achieve a full-screen look (they’ve trialed this in Galaxy Z Fold series), but most leaks say the S25 Ultra will likely still use a punch-hole front camera for the sake of image quality. Thus, you’ll probably see the familiar tiny centered hole-punch on all S25 models.
• OnePlus 13: OnePlus is known for high-spec displays at comparatively lower prices, and the 13 should be no exception. It’s expected to feature a 6.7 to 6.8-inch OLED display (the rumor says 6.8″ like the OnePlus 12) with a 2K QHD+ resolution and LTPO technology. That means an approximate resolution of 3200×1440 and an adaptive refresh rate that can drop to 1Hz. OnePlus typically sources panels from Samsung or BOE – the OnePlus 11 had a fantastic 120Hz OLED, and the OnePlus 13 will build on that. Notably, leaks claim the OnePlus 13 will have a “quad-curved” display with minimal bezels. Quad-curved likely means all four edges of the glass are slightly curved (even top and bottom), similar to recent Xiaomi and Vivo designs. This could give an almost bezel-less, “waterfall” effect without large black borders. However, OnePlus will have to balance curves with usability to avoid accidental touches. The display will certainly support HDR (HDR10+ or even Dolby Vision if they partner with an OEM, though typically OnePlus sticks to HDR10+). Brightness-wise, the OnePlus 13 could target around 1500–1800 nits peak, though it may not beat Samsung/Apple’s absolute peak brightness. OnePlus devices often allow tuning of color profiles (Display P3, sRGB, etc.) for accuracy or vibrancy. Another important upgrade: as mentioned in design, the fingerprint scanner may be upgraded to an ultrasonic unit under the screen, which works better through screen protectors and with wet fingers compared to the optical sensor. This would put OnePlus on par with Samsung in fingerprint tech. The OnePlus 13 will also likely have an always-on display feature (an OxygenOS standard now, with customization options). Given the large screen, OnePlus might implement some software features like split-screen, expanded screenshot, and perhaps a desktop mode (Oppo/OnePlus have been rumored to work on a PC connect or desktop interface similar to Samsung DeX). For screen protection, expect Gorilla Glass Victus or Victus 2 on the OnePlus 13’s display. OnePlus usually doesn’t go for fancy additional layers like Apple’s Ceramic Shield, but their screens are sturdy and often come with a pre-applied screen protector out of the box. In summary, OnePlus 13’s display will check all the flagship boxes: large, high-res, 120Hz adaptive, vibrant colors – essentially matching what the more expensive phones offer, which underscores the value proposition.

Display Tech Comparison: All three phones use OLED with deep blacks and vibrant colors. Apple is likely alone in limiting high refresh to Pro models (Samsung and OnePlus give 120Hz even on base versions). Samsung’s Ultra might have a slight edge in absolute brightness and possibly color tuning options. Apple’s strength is color accuracy and smooth animations (iOS is well-optimized for 120Hz). OnePlus will try to wow with the bezel-less look of a quad-curve screen. Importantly, all three will probably support Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, which includes support for high-bandwidth video casting or streaming to take advantage of those high-res screens (both iPhone 16 Pro and Galaxy S25 are rumored to adopt Wi-Fi 7). If you enjoy media consumption or mobile gaming, any of these displays will be superb – but the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s massive 6.9″ canvas and the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s top-notch brightness are bound to be highlights of this generation.

Processor and Performance

Each of these flagships will be powered by the latest and greatest chipsets of their respective ecosystems, promising significant performance and AI capability gains:

• iPhone 16 Series – Apple A18 Chip: Apple’s custom silicon leads the industry in certain metrics, and the iPhone 16 family is expected to debut the A18 chip (likely built on a refined 3nm process). All iPhone 16 models are rumored to get some variant of the A18 tomsguide.com. However, Apple may continue its recent trend of differentiating chips: the standard iPhone 16/16 Plus could get an A18 (standard) while the 16 Pro/Pro Max get a higher-binned A18 Pro with extra GPU cores. In any case, the A18 is expected to deliver moderate CPU improvements and major neural engine improvements. Early reports suggest the Neural Engine could have significantly more cores, delivering a big boost in AI and machine learning performance tomsguide.com. This would support new “Apple Intelligence” features in iOS 18, like on-device generative AI for image creation and advanced speech-to-text (we’ll cover those in the software section) tomsguide.com. In terms of raw performance, leaked benchmarks indicate the A18 (standard) and A18 Pro will continue Apple’s dominance in single-core speeds. One purported Geekbench 6 result showed the A18 Pro scoring ~3570 single-core and ~8492 multi-core, roughly 22–28% faster than the A17 Pro in the iPhone 15 Pro. Apple’s focus might be on efficiency as well – the A18 will be made on TSMC’s N3E process, which could improve power draw and thermal management. Additionally, the A18’s GPU is expected to be powerful (possibly a 6-core or 7-core Apple-designed GPU in the Pro chip). Apple’s GPUs already support hardware ray tracing (introduced in A17 Pro); the A18 Pro should push that further, meaning even better gaming performance and graphics rendering. Combined with iOS optimizations, the iPhone 16 should feel extremely fast and smooth in all tasks. Memory-wise, the Pro models might come with 8GB RAM (up from 6GB on iPhone 15 Pro) to support the new chip and multitasking, while base models may stick to 6GB. But Apple’s memory management is efficient regardless. One more note: there were hopes Apple might use its own 5G modem in this generation, but that appears not to be happening yet. Apple has likely extended its deal with Qualcomm, so the iPhone 16 will use a Qualcomm Snapdragon X70 or X75 modem for connectivity, ensuring top-notch network performance without Apple having to sacrifice time to debug an in-house modem this year.
• Samsung Galaxy S25 – Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 (Snapdragon “8 Elite”): Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series will be powered by Qualcomm’s next-gen Snapdragon chip, at least in all markets if a certain leaker is correct. In 2023/24, Samsung returned to using Snapdragon globally for the S23 series, but there were murmurs that the S25 might reintroduce an Exynos 2500 chip in some regions. However, renowned leaker Ice Universe has “reiterated” that all versions of the Galaxy S25 worldwide will adopt the Snapdragon 8 Elite (the presumptive marketing name for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4). If true, this means no split between Snapdragon and Exynos – every S25 user would get Qualcomm’s top-tier SoC. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 (8 Elite) is expected to be a beast. It’s reportedly built on TSMC’s advanced node (likely N3 or N3E 3nm) and will feature Qualcomm’s custom Oryon CPU cores. These Oryon cores are based on Nuvia technology, promising a substantial jump in CPU performance and efficiency. Qualcomm themselves have hinted at big gains: the new CPU design aims to challenge even Apple’s prowess. For context, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 already closed the gap on Apple’s A16/A17 in multi-core performance; Gen 4 might even overtake in some respects. We don’t have official benchmarks yet, but leaks suggest it’s “immensely powerful”. One source called the early performance “impressive”, with leaked Geekbench scores hinting it could break past 2000 points single-core and 6500 multi (speculative). More interesting is the integrated AI processing: Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 will have an upgraded Hexagon NPU/DSP which, combined with those Oryon cores, will excel at on-device AI. Qualcomm has been emphasizing AI features like generative AI on phones (e.g., stable diffusion image generation on-device). The Galaxy S25 will leverage this for things like advanced camera AI processing and perhaps Samsung’s One UI smart features. On the graphics side, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4’s GPU (likely Adreno 750) will support the latest Vulkan and ray tracing improvements. It should easily handle any mobile game at max settings, and could bring even better sustained performance with lower power draw (thanks to 3nm efficiency). Interestingly, Samsung’s own Exynos 2500 was in development and even showed up in benchmarks for a Galaxy S25+ test unit, but due to poor yield rates on Samsung’s fabrication (reportedly <20% on 3nm), Samsung might have scrapped Exynos for this generation to avoid delays or performance disparity. Thus, all S25 models using Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 means uniform performance for users. Expect the S25 Ultra to pair that chip with 12GB or even 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and the S25 base with around 8GB. That amount of memory plus Qualcomm’s new chip will make multitasking, DeX mode, and heavy apps fly. Ice Universe did caution that the powerful Snapdragon chip is pricier, which “could explain why the Galaxy S25 might launch with a price hike” if Samsung passes the cost to consumers. Overall, the S25 series should deliver Android’s best performance in early 2025.
• OnePlus 13 – Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4: Being an Android flagship launching around the same timeframe, the OnePlus 13 is also slated to use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 (Snapdragon 8 Elite) chipset. OnePlus has confirmed they stick with Qualcomm for their mainline phones. In fact, leaks show OnePlus likely launching in China late 2024, making it among the first wave of Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 phones. This means the OnePlus 13 will enjoy the same CPU and GPU advancements discussed above for the Galaxy S25. OnePlus’s software (OxygenOS) is known for being close-to-stock and bloat-free (at least historically), which should allow the hardware to really shine in speed. The combination of Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 + rumored 16GB RAM in a OnePlus 13 Pro (if a Pro version exists) or 12GB in the regular OnePlus 13 will yield blazing fast app launches and smooth performance even under load. OnePlus often tunes its devices for performance – they have high refresh screens and typically allow games to run full tilt (with features like Gaming Mode, high performance modes, etc.). Early alleged benchmarks of a OnePlus 13 prototype showed impressive performance, matching other Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 phones. Additionally, OnePlus might include an advanced cooling system (vapor chamber cooling) to sustain performance, especially since OnePlus phones are popular among enthusiast users who game. A leak from Digital Chat Station mentioned the OnePlus 13 could ship with a huge battery (5400 mAh) without compromising on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, implying they are confident in managing heat and battery drain. Another aspect is storage speed – OnePlus 13 will certainly use UFS 4.0 storage, just like the others, ensuring very fast read/write which helps overall system responsiveness (app installs, file transfers etc.). In summary, OnePlus 13’s performance will be on par with the Galaxy S25 since they share the same brain. Where OnePlus might edge out is in software fluidity – OxygenOS (ColorOS-based now) tends to have smooth animations and less heavy UI than Samsung’s One UI, which some users feel makes OnePlus devices feel even snappier. On the flip side, Samsung might leverage better optimization in certain heavy tasks or have extra features using that AI power. Apple’s A18 may still hold the crown in single-thread tasks and certain optimized apps (plus Apple’s ecosystem benefits), but in multi-thread and graphics, the gap between Apple and Qualcomm is narrower than ever. All told, 2025 will be a fantastic year for mobile silicon, with the A18, Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, and even Samsung’s own chips all pushing new heights – meaning all three phones will handle anything you throw at them for years to come.

Camera Systems

Camera hardware and computational photography are major battlegrounds for these flagships. Each phone is bringing different strengths: Apple doubling down on sensor upgrades and image processing, Samsung leveraging high megapixel sensors and zoom, and OnePlus partnering with Hasselblad for color tuning and new periscope tech. Let’s break down each:

iPhone 16 Camera Upgrades: Apple made a big leap in 2022 with a 48MP main sensor on the iPhone 14 Pro, and rumors suggest the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will take things further with both new sensors and lens systems. Firstly, the ultra-wide camera on the Pro models is expected to jump from 12MP to 48MP. This would mirror the main camera’s resolution and greatly improve detail and low-light performance for ultra-wide shots. A 48MP ultra-wide (likely binned to 12MP output) means sharper photos and the ability to crop in or use it for macro with more clarity. The main camera on iPhone 16 Pro will likely remain 48MP, but possibly with a larger sensor size. According to a Weibo-sourced rumor supported by MacRumors, the iPhone 16 Pro Max/Ultra will have a 12% larger main sensor (around 1/1.14-inch) than the current 1/1.28″ sensor. This larger sensor can capture more light and yield better dynamic range and natural bokeh macrumors.com. It might be that only the largest model gets the physically bigger sensor due to space, while the smaller 16 Pro uses the existing size – though some reports are conflicting on that. Now, the headline feature: Periscope Zoom Lens on both Pro models. In 2023, only the iPhone 15 Pro Max got a periscope 5x telephoto (using a “tetra-prism” design for 5x optical zoom). In 2024, Ming-Chi Kuo and others confirm that both iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will include the periscope telephoto system, enabled by the slightly larger device dimensions. That means zoom parity: the iPhone 16 Pro (6.3″) will for the first time get the long-range zoom that was exclusive to the Max. Expect around 5× optical zoom and up to 25× digital zoom on both (the iPhone 15 Pro Max does 5× optical, 25× digital, so 16 Pro series should match or exceed that). This eliminates the gap where last year the smaller Pro was limited to 3×. The periscope likely remains 12MP, unless Apple surprises with a higher resolution. Some sources suggest it’s the same “tetra-prism” module as the 15 Pro Max, which was around 120mm equivalent focal length. With two telephotos, Apple might not increase the zoom level beyond 5× yet – but it’s possible Apple could try a slightly longer focal length (maybe 6×) if the internal space allows a bit more periscope length, though nothing concrete has leaked on increasing beyond 5×. On the software side, having both Pros with periscope means Apple’s computational zoom algorithms (like digital crop between 5× and 1×) can be standardized. We should also mention the Capture Button rumor (hardware shutter) – if real, it underscores Apple’s push to make the iPhone 16 Pro feel more like a camera, which pairs with these camera upgrades.

For the regular iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, camera updates will be more modest. They’ll likely inherit what the iPhone 15 Pro had: a 48MP main sensor (but possibly without adaptive optics of the Pro), a 12MP ultra-wide (maybe same as current, not the new 48MP one), and no telephoto lens (Apple keeps telephoto for Pro only). So the base models remain dual-camera. However, even base iPhone 16s benefit from Apple’s image processing advancements in the A18, so improved Smart HDR, Night mode, etc., will apply. All iPhone 16 models should also keep the Photonic Engine pipeline and Deep Fusion for detail. Video capabilities on iPhone remain top-tier: expect [email protected] on all cameras, ProRes video on Pro models (likely at 4K60 with external storage or 4K30 internally), and perhaps new tricks like an “Action Pan” or improved cinematic mode (maybe Cinematic mode in 4K now). One rumor from MacRumors also mentioned that all 2025 iPhones (iPhone 17 series) might get a higher-res 24MP front camera. It’s unclear if the iPhone 16 will change the selfie camera – it’s currently 12MP with autofocus on 15 series. No strong leaks on a new selfie cam for 16, so it likely stays 12MP f/1.9 with minor software enhancements. Overall, Apple’s approach for iPhone 16 seems to be bigger sensors + better zoom + more AI to refine image quality. Mark Gurman has hinted that these “camera hardware improvements” are a key reason for the larger phone size. Apple’s computational photography is already excellent (Smart HDR 5, Deep Fusion, etc. in the current gen); with A18’s neural engine, we might see even better image stacking, faster Night mode, and possibly on-device generative AI features like “Image Playground” to create images from prompts tomsguide.com or edit photos intelligently. That edges into software territory, but it highlights how the camera experience will advance.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Camera System: Samsung typically equips the Ultra model with a quad-camera setup, and rumors suggest the Galaxy S25 Ultra will continue with four rear cameras but with some notable changes. The primary camera is expected to remain a 200MP sensor with OIS – likely an improved version of the ISOCELL HP2 sensor used in the S23 Ultra. Samsung might call it HP3 or a custom variant, but resolution should stay 200MP, which by default bins to 12.5MP images with incredible detail. The real changes seem to be in the secondary cameras: leaks point to the Ultra having a 50MP ultrawide camera, replacing the 12MP ultrawide of the previous generation. A 50MP ultrawide could capture much sharper wide shots and possibly enable macro or crop-zoom usage from that lens. Then, for telephoto, Samsung might shake up their dual-tele setup. The S23/S24 Ultra have a 3× 10MP tele and a 10× 10MP periscope tele. Rumors for S25 Ultra indicate Samsung might use a 3× tele with 10MP (likely similar to before) and a 5× telephoto with a 50MP sensor. That is interesting – a 5× lens with high resolution could effectively replace the need for a dedicated 10× lens by cropping. A 50MP 5× periscope could likely deliver good quality up to 10× digitally (maybe even 12×) because of the extra pixels, thus simplifying the hardware while still covering long zoom ranges. This aligns with some earlier whispers that Samsung was considering dropping the 10× periscope in favor of a single high-res telephoto. If true, the S25 Ultra would have: 200MP main, 50MP ultrawide, 10MP 3× (for mid-range portraits), and 50MP 5× (periscope). These would provide a versatile range from 0.5× ultrawide up to, say, 30× or 50× digital zoom. (Samsung usually offers up to 100× “Space Zoom” on Ultras; with a 50MP 5×, they might still market 100× digital zoom, though the quality at extreme zoom could improve thanks to more sensor data). Additionally, Ice Universe and others have hinted at “Ultra camera” for the S25 Slim variant. That likely means the Slim (if released) would carry the same 200MP main sensor as the Ultra, while its other cameras mirror the regular S25+. In essence, Samsung could ensure even their thin model doesn’t compromise on the primary camera quality.

For the regular Galaxy S25 and S25+, we expect triple cameras: probably a 50MP main sensor (Samsung’s GN3 or GN5 series), a 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP telephoto (3×). That’s been the formula for the last few generations. There’s a chance Samsung could upgrade the main cameras of the non-Ultras to say 108MP or a new 50MP with bigger size, but no strong leaks on that. Most likely, the big camera jumps are reserved for the Ultra.

Samsung’s image processing will leverage that new Snapdragon ISP and their own AI algorithms. One UI 7 may introduce new camera features. According to one tip, Samsung is working on an “AI-powered Image Segmentation” feature and “AFME 2.0 Game Assist” for gaming screenshots – but more relevantly, their AI can be used in post-processing to enhance details (Galaxy phones have Scene Optimizer, etc.). Given the 200MP main, Samsung might allow even more flexible crop-zooming or a new high-res mode. Video-wise, Galaxy S25 Ultra will shoot up to [email protected] (Samsung enabled 8K30 in S23). With Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, maybe [email protected] is possible across all cameras. Samsung also typically offers features like single-take, super slow-mo [email protected], and so on. Don’t be surprised if Samsung pushes its night photography further – perhaps a new Astro mode or improved Night mode stacking thanks to AI. The S25 Ultra’s large sensor and wider aperture (likely f/1.7) should already excel in low light, but computationally Samsung has room to catch up to Google and Apple in night photography, so that could be a focus.

One area Samsung leads is zoom. Even if they go with a 5× periscope, we can expect superb long-zoom shots up to 10× or more. If they somehow retain a 10× lens (less likely based on rumors), then it’s business as usual with unmatched 10× optical reach. Either way, Ice Universe has described the S25 Ultra’s camera upgrade as “massive” with new telephoto capabilities. We might even hear about a new sensor or lens element that improves clarity at high zoom. Also, note that Samsung collaborated with Xiaomi on a 200MP sensor; it’s possible an even newer generation 200MP sensor with better dynamic range could debut in S25 Ultra.

OnePlus 13 Camera System: OnePlus, in partnership with Hasselblad, has been improving its cameras greatly. The OnePlus 11 and upcoming 12 have strong setups, and the OnePlus 13 is expected to refine that further. According to leaks and analysts like Max Jambor, OnePlus is testing advanced zoom tech. The OnePlus 12 (2024) is already rumored to introduce a periscope telephoto (a first for OnePlus). Specifically, the OnePlus 12 is said to have a 64MP 3× periscope lens and a 50MP main + 50MP ultrawide. Now, for the OnePlus 13 (2025), early rumors via Digital Chat Station indicate it will likely keep a similar triple-camera: a high-resolution main sensor (likely 50MP), an ultra-wide, and a telephoto that could be periscope-style. The exact specs might be tweaked – for example, if OnePlus 12 uses 64MP 3×, OnePlus 13 might opt for a higher optical zoom like 5× to catch up with Samsung/Apple. Indeed, there was mention of a “new periscope multi-focal module” being adjusted for OnePlus 13. This could imply OnePlus is refining the periscope to perhaps offer multiple levels of optical zoom (multi-focal lengths) or simply improving the optics. If OnePlus 12 already has 3×, they might increase it to, say, 5× in OnePlus 13, or improve stabilization for long zoom. However, an earlier tip from Yogesh Brar suggested the OnePlus 13 might reuse OnePlus 12’s camera hardware including the same periscope, focusing more on battery upgrades instead. So there’s a bit of uncertainty: will OnePlus 13 get a big camera overhaul or just iterative tweaks? Given competition, I suspect OnePlus will at least fine-tune the sensors and maybe use Sony’s latest IMX series for the main camera (possibly a large 1″ sensor if they can get it – companies like Vivo and Xiaomi have used 1″ sensors in flagships, OnePlus might try that via Oppo’s R&D). If not 1″, a good ~1/1.3″ 50MP with OIS and f/1.7 lens is expected.

The Hasselblad partnership continues, meaning the OnePlus 13 will benefit from Hasselblad’s color science for more natural color rendering. We’ll see features like Hasselblad Pro Mode for RAW capture with manual controls, 12-bit RAW, etc. OnePlus has also included things like XPAN mode (panoramic vintage photography) in past models – those unique modes may return or new ones introduced.

In terms of output, OnePlus tends to favor a bit punchier processing (more akin to Oppo/Samsung style) but with Hasselblad tuning, they have leaned towards accurate colors. They’ll also employ computational techniques – e.g., long exposure Night mode, HDR fusion, and perhaps some AI scene enhancement.

OnePlus 13’s telephoto/periscope, if it stays at ~3× 64MP, will serve for portraits and mid-range zoom with good quality. It won’t match a 10× optical of Samsung, but high resolution can allow some digital zoom reach. If they move to 5×, that’d be more competitive for long zoom. The ultra-wide on OnePlus 13 could be 50MP as in OnePlus 12, which is excellent for detail and maybe offers a macro capability (many Oppo/OnePlus phones use the ultra-wide for macro focus).

For video, OnePlus will likely support [email protected] on main and possibly on the telephoto. OnePlus 11 already did [email protected] and [email protected]. With Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, [email protected] may come onboard as well. Stabilization (OIS + EIS) on OnePlus is generally good, and maybe they’ll add a “Hasselblad” cinematic mode or some color filter modes for video.

One area OnePlus lags a bit is software polish in the camera app and some edge cases of processing compared to Apple/Google. It will be interesting to see if the OnePlus 13, with more AI power, introduces features like on-device photo editing suggestions, better object recognition, or even a ChatGPT-like assistant in the gallery (just speculation, since Oppo has been working on AI too).

Summing up the camera comparison: The iPhone 16 Pro/Max will emphasize balanced performance: not the highest megapixels, but very large sensors (especially the Pro Max’s main sensor), improved optical zoom (5×) on both sizes, and Apple’s best-in-class video recording and seamless camera experience. The addition of a dedicated shutter button (if it happens) could really appeal to photography enthusiasts. Apple’s computational photography, especially with new neural engine improvements, will likely produce superb low-light and HDR results, and possibly new creative tools (like generating images or editing via AI).

The Galaxy S25 Ultra is shaping up to be a spec monster in cameras: ultra high resolution main and telephoto cameras, extreme zoom capabilities, and a versatile setup for every scenario. It will likely remain the zoom king, especially for long range and possibly even for ultrawide if that gets 50MP. Samsung will continue to offer a more saturated, vibrant look by default, which many users love, and they provide a Pro mode for experts (including Expert RAW app for multi-frame RAW shooting). If consistency across lenses and focusing speeds are improved, the S25 Ultra could be the most feature-packed camera phone of 2025. The regular S25 will be solid but not class-leading, mainly there as a high-end option without the crazy zoom.

The OnePlus 13 will try to hit above its weight by offering a flagship-tier camera at a lower price. With the rumored hardware, it should cover most needs: wide, ultra-wide, and short/medium zoom with the periscope. It might not challenge iPhone or Galaxy at 10× or in video stabilization, but we expect it to dramatically close the gap compared to earlier OnePlus generations. Max Jambor and others have praised OnePlus for listening to feedback (e.g., bringing back features like wireless charging, more on that later), so if OnePlus 11/12 had any camera weaknesses, OnePlus will aim to fix those in the 13.

In essence, photographers might lean iPhone for its color accuracy and video, or Galaxy for its zoom and detail, while OnePlus will appeal to those who want almost that level of performance without the premium price tag, plus the Hasselblad color tuning which has its own fan base. It’s an exciting time when even the underdog in this trio can boast things like a periscope lens and huge battery for more shots.

Battery Life and Charging Tech

Battery and charging are areas where we’ll see significant differences, especially with OnePlus known for blazing fast charging, Samsung improving gradually, and Apple being more conservative. Let’s compare what to expect:

• iPhone 16: Apple doesn’t usually quote battery capacities officially, but each year we get slight increases. The iPhone 15 series already improved battery life, and Apple might further tweak chemistry or efficiency for the 16. Rumor has it Apple will employ stacked battery technology for the first time in the iPhone 16 Pro models. A stacked battery (where cells are layered more like a sandwich rather than wound) can allow higher capacity in the same volume and better heat management. If true, the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max could have larger batteries than their predecessors, boosting endurance. For context, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is ~4422 mAh; perhaps the 16 Pro Max might push close to 5000 mAh thanks to its larger chassis and stacked design. The iPhone 16 Pro (6.3″) could also increase from ~3274 mAh (15 Pro) to maybe ~3500+ mAh. Meanwhile, the base iPhone 16/16 Plus should similarly grow a bit (the Plus already had ~4323 mAh, maybe goes to 4500). Coupled with the efficient A18 chip and iOS optimizations, expect even better battery life. The iPhone 15 Pro Max already gave excellent endurance in reviews, and iPhone 16 Pro Max might top that. One thing to note: the larger screen on 16 Pro/Max will consume a bit more power, but Apple likely offset that with a bigger battery and the efficiency gains of new silicon. In terms of charging, Apple is historically behind in raw speed. The iPhone 16 will use USB-C (since iPhone 15 already moved to USB-C due to EU regulations). Charging speeds might remain around 20W-30W wired. We haven’t heard concrete leaks of Apple upping charging wattage – Apple tends to prioritize battery longevity over super-fast charging. Perhaps the Pro models could support slightly higher (maybe 35W) if they include stacked batteries which can handle it, but it’s speculation. MagSafe wireless charging will continue at 15W (or 7.5W on standard Qi). By 2025, we might see Apple adopt Qi2 standard (which is basically MagSafe-like magnetic alignment for all devices). There’s also the possibility of reverse wireless charging – something long rumored for iPhones (to charge AirPods on the back, etc.), but Apple hasn’t enabled it yet. If any iPhone could get it, maybe iPhone 16 with USB-C could quietly have the hardware. No leak explicitly confirms that though. For battery longevity, Apple’s optimization in iOS 18 might introduce smarter charge cycling or AI that learns your usage to preserve battery health (they already have Optimized Charging; maybe it gets more advanced). All said, iPhone 16 should be a reliable all-day device, and the 16 Pro Max likely a two-day phone for moderate users. But if you need a quick top-up, Apple’s ~30W max means about 50% in 30 minutes, which is decent but far from the competition’s speed demons.
• Galaxy S25: Samsung usually equips the Ultra with a 5000 mAh battery, and that’s expected to continue. Some sources even claim the S25 Ultra might get a small bump or just improved efficiency. The S25 and S25+ might have ~4500 mAh and ~4800 mAh respectively (S23 had 3900/4700; S24 rumored ~4000/4900). If Samsung shrinks the Ultra’s body slightly but uses newer battery tech, it likely stays at 5000 mAh. Where Samsung could surprise is charging speed. They have been conservative relative to Chinese brands: the S23 Ultra supports 45W wired charging, which fills it in roughly an hour. There was a leak that Samsung tested 65W fast charging for the S24 Ultra, but it’s unclear if that materialized. By S25 Ultra, Samsung might finally bump to 65W wired charging as a selling point (especially if they see OnePlus at 100W+). If so, the Ultra could charge 0-100% in around 30-35 minutes, which would be a welcome improvement. Even if they stick to 45W, maybe optimizations could shave a few minutes. For wireless charging, Samsung’s flagships have been at 15W wireless for a while (using Qi/PMA). They might adopt the new Qi2 as well (since Samsung is part of that consortium), but wattage likely remains ~15W, with Wireless PowerShare (reverse wireless) to charge earbuds or a watch off the phone’s back at ~4.5W. On the plus side, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4’s efficiency (and possibly all models being Snapdragon with better thermal control) should give the S25 series great battery life. The S23 Ultra already had solid endurance; S25 Ultra with a similar battery and more efficient chip might extend screen-on time further. Additionally, Samsung could use stacked battery tech or new anode materials (some rumors of Samsung exploring new battery tech from their EV division). No concrete leak on stacked batteries for S25 though. Software-wise, One UI has added features like “Light mode” that improves battery by capping performance – expect those options to continue if you want longer life over peak speed. Also, if the S25 Slim model comes out, battery capacity might be sacrificed for thinness. Possibly the Slim could have around 4500 mAh (speculative) but in an ultra-thin frame – that would be a trade-off: less capacity but presumably still enough for a day thanks to efficient internals. In summary: a Galaxy S25 Ultra will reliably get through a day of heavy use with 5000 mAh, and Samsung may inch closer to competitors in charging speed, but likely not to OnePlus levels.
• OnePlus 13: This is where things get exciting in terms of charging. OnePlus has long been known for pushing charging tech boundaries. The OnePlus 11 supports 80W (in the US) / 100W (global) wired charging, filling its 5000 mAh battery in under 30 minutes. The OnePlus 12 is rumored to go further: leaks claim a 5400 mAh battery with 100W fast charging, and even the return of 50W wireless charging which OnePlus 11 omitted. Now for OnePlus 13, one leak (via DCS) suggests an even bigger battery might be in development. Specifically, for a OnePlus 13R variant, a 6200 mAh (dual-cell 2×3000) battery is tipped, but that’s a sub-flagship. The standard OnePlus 13 likely will focus on a balanced large battery and extreme charging. It’s plausible OnePlus 13 sticks with around 5500–5800 mAh capacity (if they manage to increase from 5400 in the 12). One source did say OnePlus is testing a 6000+ mAh dual-cell battery for a device launching alongside the 13. If that technology is ready, the OnePlus 13 could potentially boast the largest battery among these three phones. Even if not, 5400 mAh is already bigger than iPhone’s and on par or above Samsung’s. Coupled with OnePlus’s aggressive optimizations, the 13 should easily be a multi-day phone for moderate use. But the standout is charging: expect 100W wired charging or higher. It could remain 100W if that’s the sweet spot, or possibly bump to something like 150W if OnePlus (and Oppo) feel confident (remember, Oppo has demonstrated 150W and even 240W charging in concept, and released phones with 150W). OnePlus might not go that far due to diminishing returns and battery health concerns, but ~100W is already fantastic – roughly 0-100% in ~25 minutes. Wireless charging: After dropping it in OnePlus 11 to save cost, leaks confirm OnePlus 12 brings back wireless charging (50W). So OnePlus 13 will certainly continue wireless charging, likely the same 50W AirVOOC that can do 0-100% in ~50 minutes on a compatible stand. That outpaces even Samsung’s wired charging. Reverse wireless charging on OnePlus? Possibly – OnePlus hasn’t prominently featured it before, but given the hardware is similar to Oppo (which has had reverse wireless on some models), they might quietly include it. It’s not a must-have for OnePlus’s market, but wouldn’t hurt.

OnePlus batteries historically have good longevity even with fast charging, because they use dual-cell designs that charge in parallel to reduce stress. Expect the OnePlus 13 to continue this and include safeguards like AI temperature regulation and adaptive charging (OnePlus/Oppo phones have algorithms to preserve battery health by learning your schedule, similar to Apple’s Optimized Charging).

Real-world expectations: The iPhone 16 Pro Max will probably have the longest single-charge life under light use (Apple’s standby efficiency is superb), whereas under continuous heavy use, the OnePlus 13 with a giant battery might last the longest. The Galaxy S25 Ultra will be close behind. But if you do run low, the OnePlus 13 will get you back up and running much faster than the iPhone or Samsung. For instance, a 15-minute charge on OnePlus 13 might give ~60-70% battery, whereas 15 minutes on iPhone 16 Pro Max might give ~30% and Galaxy maybe ~40%. So OnePlus is king in quick top-ups – great for forgetful chargers or power users. Samsung’s incremental improvements (possibly 65W) will be welcome but still half the wattage of OnePlus, and Apple’s remain the slowest of the bunch.

One side note: All now use USB-C, so you can share chargers to an extent. OnePlus’s included charger (if they include one) will likely be a proprietary SuperVOOC that also supports PD. Samsung will sell a 45W PPS charger separately. Apple also sells their 30W or higher USB-C bricks separately. With USB PD uniformity improving, you could potentially use a single GAN charger to fast-charge all three, albeit each to its own cap (e.g., a 65W PD PPS charger could do near max for each brand).

In conclusion, OnePlus 13 prioritizes raw battery size and ultra-fast charging, Samsung S25 focuses on solid capacity and moderate fast charge, and Apple’s iPhone 16 emphasizes efficiency and steady improvements while staying cautious on charging speeds. Depending on your usage, all can last a full day, but road warriors might appreciate OnePlus’s approach the most for quick fills.

Operating System and Software Features (incl. AI integrations)

Each phone runs a different operating system ecosystem: iPhone 16 on iOS 18, Galaxy S25 on Android 15 with One UI 7, and OnePlus 13 on Android 15 with OxygenOS (likely version 15 or 16). All three will leverage AI in new ways, as software is the key to differentiating user experiences now.

Apple iPhone 16 – iOS 18 and “Apple Intelligence”: The iPhone 16 will launch with iOS 18, and one of the headline themes for iOS 18 is expected to be advanced on-device AI integration. Apple has reportedly been developing “Apple GPT” and a suite of AI features to keep up with the AI wave. According to Mark Gurman, iOS 18 might introduce a new framework called “Apple Intelligence” tomsguide.com. This could manifest as features like Image Playground (create/edit images via AI), intelligent personal assistant improvements (a much smarter Siri that can handle complex requests using local AI models), and things like live voice transcriptions and predictive text generation system-wide. For instance, iOS 18 is rumored to offer the ability to get transcripts of phone calls and voice notes on the fly tomsguide.com – a privacy-focused, on-device alternative to services like Google’s call screening. Also teased is AI-assisted writing: maybe suggesting full messages or emails for you after understanding context, or helping write Notes. Apple might also integrate generative AI in the Photos app (e.g., the ability to search for “me at the beach” using on-device image recognition or even generate a composite photo). Gurman’s Power On newsletter specifically said Apple was testing image generation and new Siri capabilities for iOS 18 tomsguide.com. With the neural engine core count doubling, these tasks can be done without cloud dependency. Privacy will be Apple’s big selling point: unlike others, Apple will emphasize that your AI data never leaves the device.

Other expected iOS 18 features might include UI tweaks (possibly a redesigned Control Center), but generally Apple doesn’t overhaul UI drastically. Instead, we’ll see feature improvements like a smarter Photos app (Gurman noted Photos changes course in that newsletter), perhaps an upgraded Journal app (announced in iOS 17), and deeper integration of Vision Pro (for those with Apple’s AR headset). For the iPhone 16 specifically, any hardware-exclusive features will be supported: e.g., the Capture Button (if present) will have software integration to launch camera and zoom as described. The Action Button (carried from iPhone 15 Pro) will still be customizable – iOS 18 might allow even more shortcut options for it.

One notable Apple strategy is how they deliver OS updates and longevity. The iPhone 16 will likely receive iOS updates for 5+ years. In terms of fluidity and polish, iOS is known for smooth animations and tight hardware-software integration. That won’t change – the A18’s power plus Apple’s optimizations mean zero lag. Also, by 2025 Apple might lean into satellite services more on the software side. iPhone 14/15 have Emergency SOS via satellite; by iOS 18, Apple could expand that service or introduce new satellite-based features (maybe sending short text messages via satellite to friends, or expanding emergency support to more countries). They already partnered with AAA in the US for roadside assistance via satellite for iPhone 14/15. Possibly that expands globally. This ties connectivity to software.

Samsung Galaxy S25 – Android & One UI: The Galaxy S25 will run Android 15 (or possibly Android 15L) with Samsung’s custom One UI 7.0 skin. Samsung’s One UI is feature-rich and user-friendly, focusing on one-handed ease (with UI elements towards the bottom) and a consistent look. One UI 7 hasn’t been detailed yet, but expected new features include refinements to aesthetics (maybe new notification shade design, lock screen customization akin to what Android 14 offers, etc.) and more AI-driven features. Samsung has been relatively quiet on generative AI in phones, but behind the scenes they have Bixby and other smart features. It’s possible One UI 7 integrates something like Text-to-image AI for wallpapers or photo editing. Samsung’s recent phones already have AI features like Object Eraser (remove unwanted objects from photos with AI) and Photo Remaster (enhance low-res images). These will only get better with the new hardware. In fact, the S25 series’ Snapdragon chip has AI upscaling capabilities – Samsung might highlight how the Gallery app can sharpen and upscale photos or videos via the AI engine automatically.

Samsung is also likely to expand on device personalization: perhaps more Lock Screen customization (taking a cue from iOS lock screen widgets). One UI 7 might also bring better continuity with Windows PCs (Samsung has great integration with Windows via “Link to Windows”). And given the push in AI, Samsung could implement on-device voice dictation that’s faster and more accurate (Google already does that on Pixel with Assistant voice typing; Samsung might leverage Qualcomm’s speech AI).

For the S25 Ultra specifically, one unique software aspect is the S Pen. One UI on the Ultra will have advanced stylus features: Samsung Notes with AI-powered handwriting to text, Air Commands for quick shortcuts, maybe new capabilities like using the S Pen to copy text from the real world (like hover the pen camera to OCR text – just speculation). If Samsung includes satellite messaging, the software will handle that in the background (perhaps integrated in Samsung Messages app or a dedicated app for emergency texts, depending on if they launch that service). There were reports Samsung was working on two-way satellite communication that could send even images eventually. If that becomes ready by S25, the phone might allow not just emergency SOS but actual satellite texting feature (Qualcomm Snapdragon Satellite supports this if OEM enables it). We’ll have to watch Unpacked for announcements on that.

Security and updates: Samsung has improved a lot, promising 4 years of OS updates and 5 years security for flagships. So S25 will get Android 16,17,18,19 through around 2029. They also have Knox security and secure folder features, appealing to enterprise users. Expect One UI 7 to possibly introduce “Knox Matrix” – a new concept Samsung has talked about for multi-device security.

AI in One UI: Samsung’s AI might not be as headline-grabbing as Apple’s or Google’s, but they do incorporate AI suggestions (e.g., Modes and Routines app can automate actions based on context, similar to iPhone’s Focus/Shortcuts). There’s also Bixby Text Call, which transcribes calls and lets you respond by typing (somewhat like Google’s Call Screen) – I suspect they’ll enhance that, possibly making it more natural or adding languages. And with that powerful NPU, real-time translation, voice assistant, etc., will be snappier.

OnePlus 13 – OxygenOS (ColorOS): The OnePlus 13 will run a version of OxygenOS built on Android 15. Internally, since OnePlus merged codebase with Oppo, OxygenOS these days is essentially ColorOS with OnePlus theming. OxygenOS 13 (Android 13) and 14 have already blurred the lines. By the time of OnePlus 13, we might call it OxygenOS 15 or so. The software will offer a lot of customization, and typically OnePlus keeps it relatively clean (no heavy bloat like some other Chinese skins). You’ll see features like Shelf (OnePlus’s sidebar widget thing), Zen Mode (to take a break from phone), and a robust Theme engine (likely leveraging Android’s Material You for color theming).

OnePlus also benefits from Oppo’s investments in AI. For example, Oppo has showcased AI for image processing (MariSilicon X NPU in past phones) and perhaps in ColorOS there might be an AI assistant or enhancements. It’s possible OnePlus 13 gets features from ColorOS 15 such as smart photo album categorization, AI-driven screen content recognition (e.g., if you screenshot something, it might suggest actions).

OnePlus has confirmed that 50W wireless charging is coming back in OnePlus 12, and that implies the software will support battery health modes and scheduling charging times (OnePlus typically includes Optimized Charging like feature, and a UI to show the fast charge speed).

In terms of UI, OxygenOS will feel lighter than One UI because it has less duplicative apps (OnePlus leans on Google’s apps for many functions rather than making their own for everything). Some users love this near-stock feel, albeit with useful additions. Expect quick updates too: OnePlus has started to commit to longer support (recently some models get 4 OS updates). The OnePlus 13 likely will be supported for at least 4 years of Android updates, which is on par with Samsung and just a year shy of Apple’s typical ~5 years.

AI integration on OnePlus might not be as front-and-center as Apple’s announced projects, but Snapdragon’s built-in AI features (like the Stable Diffusion demo) mean OnePlus could enable things like AI wallpaper generation, voice assistant improvements (OnePlus uses Google Assistant primarily), and camera AI as mentioned. If Oppo has any voice assistant in China, globally OnePlus might not push that, sticking with Assistant.

One potential standout is OnePlus’s focus on gaming. With high performance and a big battery, the OnePlus 13 will attract gamers. OxygenOS has HyperBoost gaming engine, frame rate interpolation, etc. They may add an “AI Performance Optimization” that learns your game patterns to balance performance and thermal (some gaming phones do this). Also, OnePlus might have Ray Tracing support in partnership with Qualcomm – maybe a tech demo or optimizing popular games to use the hardware ray tracing of the Adreno GPU.

Another tidbit: Max Jambor has hinted OnePlus is not launching a OnePlus Open 2 in 2025, meaning they’re focusing on the 13 line. So software resources will be dedicated to making the 13 series polished. They might also try to integrate more with the Oppo/OnePlus ecosystem – e.g., seamless connection with OnePlus Pad tablet or their TVs, buds, etc. Think of how Samsung has an ecosystem and Apple has theirs; OnePlus (with Oppo) is building one too, albeit smaller scale.

In summary, iOS 18 on iPhone 16 will bring big leaps in personal AI features and rock-solid user experience but in Apple’s walled-garden, highly optimized style. One UI 7 on Galaxy S25 will be feature-rich, highly customizable, and tightly integrated with Samsung’s hardware like S Pen and Galaxy Watch/Buds, with a growing dose of AI for smart assistance. OxygenOS on OnePlus 13 will deliver a smooth, bloat-free experience with fast updates and some Oppo-derived smart features, plus the enthusiast tweaks (Gaming mode, etc.) that power users enjoy. All three will be 5G phones of course, running the latest network standards (more on connectivity next), and all will support things like mobile payments (Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Google Pay) with secure elements.

One final note: App ecosystems. Apple’s App Store remains unmatched for quality apps and especially phone+tablet optimized apps. Android has closed the gap, but some pro-level apps or games might still run better or first on iOS. If you have investment in either ecosystem, that’s a factor beyond pure OS features. Samsung’s phones will have the full Google Play Store and also Samsung’s Galaxy Store (which has some exclusive apps or games and Samsung’s own apps). OnePlus relies on Google’s store and their own Community app for feedback etc. So, choosing between these will also involve which OS you’re comfortable with – but rest assured each platform in 2025 is mature and capable. All of them will leverage AI as a key selling point, whether it’s Apple’s privacy-focused machine learning or Samsung and OnePlus touting how their phones intelligently adapt to you.

Connectivity (5G, Satellite, Wi-Fi, and more)

When it comes to connectivity, these flagships will support the latest standards across the board: 5G cellular, next-gen Wi-Fi, satellite features, and various local wireless tech. Let’s compare:

• 5G Networks: All three phones are 5G capable (both sub-6 GHz and mmWave, though mmWave availability depends on region/model). The iPhone 16 will likely use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X70 or X75 5G modem-RF system. Qualcomm’s X70 (used in iPhone 15 Pros) introduced AI tuning for better signal and power efficiency; the X75 is the next-gen with even more integration and support for 5G Advanced (3GPP Release 17/18 features). Apple was working on its own 5G modem but, as mentioned, it’s not expected until maybe 2026, so iPhone 16 sticks with the proven Qualcomm part for rock-solid connectivity. Expect excellent 5G performance on iPhone with support for both standalone (SA) and non-standalone (NSA) 5G, plus fallback to LTE with ease. U.S. models will support mmWave (Verizon’s UW, etc.), as Apple has consistently done for its Pro models and likely all models now with the same hardware.

The Galaxy S25 series, if using Snapdragon globally, will likely have the Snapdragon X75 modem integrated with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4. Qualcomm’s X75 supports even more carrier aggregation and is ready for future 5G Advanced networks. European/Asian S25 units, even if Exynos were used, Samsung’s modem tech now also supports similar capabilities. But since Ice Universe says all Snapdragon, we’ll see Qualcomm performance everywhere. Samsung’s recent phones had great cellular reception and speeds, often among the top in speed tests. We can anticipate the S25 phones will maintain that, with support for dozens of 5G bands globally. They will also support Dual SIM (physical + eSIM or dual eSIM) and possibly satellite connectivity. We know Samsung developed two-way satellite communication for phones – according to Samsung’s own statements, their technology can even handle sending “text messages, and high-definition image and video sharing” via satellite on future Exynos modems. The Galaxy S25 might be the device where Samsung introduces this feature, given their competitor Apple has had basic satellite SOS. If included, Samsung would likely market it heavily (and possibly include it regardless of Exynos or Snapdragon, maybe via a separate satellite modem chip if needed). However, a recent rumor suggested the Galaxy S24 series skipped satellite because Qualcomm/Iridium’s deal didn’t pan out in time. For the S25, if it’s all Snapdragon, Samsung could opt to use Qualcomm’s solution called Snapdragon Satellite, which leverages the Iridium satellite network for two-way messaging. Since Snapdragon Satellite was announced for Gen 2 and beyond, the S25 (Gen 4) definitely supports it at the hardware level. It will be up to Samsung to enable it and strike deals for service.

The OnePlus 13, using Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, will also have the integrated X75 modem. OnePlus typically supports a broad range of 5G bands for global markets, though not always as many as Samsung (due to needing to cut a few to save cost). In the US, the unlocked OnePlus 13 will likely support T-Mobile’s 5G fully, and partially AT&T’s (Verizon support might depend, historically OnePlus has had limited Verizon certification but that’s improving). It should support dual SIM (OnePlus 11 had physical dual SIM globally, and eSIM in some variants). As for satellite connectivity, OnePlus hasn’t announced anything, but since it’s on the same Snapdragon platform with Satellite capability, OnePlus could potentially enable Snapdragon Satellite messaging too. However, smaller companies might not launch that service right away due to the complexity of registration and fees with satellite providers. So it’s more likely OnePlus 13 will not tout a satellite feature, focusing instead on terrestrial networks.

• Wi-Fi and Local Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) is the next big thing, and by 2025 flagship phones will adopt it. The iPhone 16 Pro is rumored to upgrade to Wi-Fi 7 support. Apple introduced Wi-Fi 6E in some devices in 2023, so Wi-Fi 7 in 2024/25 for the Pro makes sense to stay competitive. Wi-Fi 7 brings faster speeds (theoretical up to 30 Gbps), lower latency (for gaming, etc.), and multi-link operation (using multiple bands concurrently). The Galaxy S25, with the latest Qualcomm FastConnect 7800 subsystem, will definitely support Wi-Fi 7 as well – Qualcomm has been advertising Wi-Fi 7 in its newest chips. OnePlus 13 likewise inherits that, so Wi-Fi capabilities across S25 and OnePlus 13 should be similar: tri-band (2.4/5/6 GHz) with Wi-Fi 7’s new features enabled. The iPhone 16 family might split features: possibly only the Pro models get Wi-Fi 7, while the base iPhone 16/Plus stay on Wi-Fi 6E, given Apple often reserves newest wireless tech for Pro (just as iPhone 15 Pros got Thread radios while base didn’t, etc.).

All three will have Bluetooth 5.3 or 5.4 with support for LE Audio. Apple uses its own Bluetooth stack with support for AirPods features (e.g., iPhone 16 will work seamlessly with AirPods with auto-switching and spatial audio). Samsung will likely support the latest Bluetooth LE Audio, Auracast broadcasting, etc., through One UI. OnePlus too, and possibly with support for LHDC or other high-bitrate codecs (OnePlus often supports aptX, LDAC, etc., and since they have their own Buds Pro, they may include something like Bluetooth LE Lossless if available).

Ultra-Wideband (UWB): The iPhone 16 will feature Apple’s second-gen UWB chip (U2) that was introduced with iPhone 15. This improves range and precision finding for devices (e.g., Find My network, AirTag tracking). It’s also used for features like car keys, AirDrop direction sensing, etc. Apple’s UWB will likely lead in ecosystem integration. The Galaxy S25 Ultra should also have UWB (the S23 Ultra and S24 Ultra do) for Samsung’s SmartTag tracking and digital car keys (Samsung uses UWB for their SmartTags+ and to unlock luxury cars with Samsung Wallet). OnePlus has not yet included UWB in their phones – the OnePlus 11 did not have it. Will OnePlus 13 have UWB? It’s not confirmed, but as UWB becomes more common (Xiaomi, Google, etc. adopted it), OnePlus might add it to keep up. If they do, they could leverage Oppo’s ecosystem (Oppo and Vivo were exploring UWB for file sharing and AR glasses control). We will see – it’s a maybe for OnePlus 13.

NFC: All devices will have NFC for mobile payments – Apple has Apple Pay (works great anywhere contactless is accepted), Samsung has Samsung Pay (which now basically works like any standard contactless via NFC, since MST magnetic stripe emulation was phased out in many regions), and OnePlus relies on Google Pay primarily. All have the necessary security (e.g., Apple’s Secure Enclave, Samsung’s Knox Vault) to protect payment info.

USB Connectivity: Now that all three use USB-C, it’s worth noting the capabilities:

• iPhone 16 Pro models likely support USB 3.2 or Thunderbolt speeds (iPhone 15 Pro did ~10 Gbps USB 3). The base iPhone 16 might be limited to USB 2.0 speeds (as iPhone 15 non-Pro were limited to 480 Mbps despite USB-C port). That’s a quirk to differentiate models. If that pattern holds, only iPhone 16 Pro/Max get high-speed USB for things like transferring ProRes videos quickly or using for Continuity Camera on Mac, etc.
• Galaxy S25 will have at least USB 3.2 Gen1 or Gen2 (Samsung usually provides USB 3.2 on the Ultra, maybe Gen2 10Gbps). It supports HDMI-out via an adapter and the full DeX desktop experience over USB or wirelessly.
• OnePlus historically sometimes only had USB 2.0 which was a letdown (OnePlus 11 was USB 2.0 I/O despite Type-C). Given backlash, the OnePlus 12 is rumored to upgrade to USB 3.x, so hopefully OnePlus 13 will for sure have USB 3.1+ so that you can output video (maybe even a desktop mode if they implement, since Oppo has PC Connect and basic casting but not a full DeX-like mode yet). In the NotebookCheck related articles we saw a hint of “OnePlus 13R might have flat display while higher-end 13 might not” and another about “OnePlus 13 earlier than 12 in China”, but nothing specifically about USB. So we assume OnePlus will correct that oversight.

GPS and Positioning: All phones will support the typical GNSS (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, etc.). The iPhone 16 Pro might support dual-frequency GPS (L1+L5) for very precise location – actually iPhones have had that since 14 Pro. Samsung Ultras also have dual-band GNSS. OnePlus likely does too in its flagship. So navigation accuracy will be excellent on all – especially in urban environments, dual-frequency helps with multipath errors.

Other Radios: These phones will have everything else expected: NFC (as discussed), likely IR blaster is not common on these (Xiaomi does IR, Samsung/Apple/OnePlus do not bother with IR remote transmitters). OnePlus used to include IR on some models? Not on main flagships usually. So probably none of these have IR.

Sensors: All the usual sensors (accelerometer, gyro, barometer, compass). Possibly some new ones: iPhone has a barometer and high dynamic range gyro for crash detection; Samsung has those too and sometimes extra (e.g., temp sensor on the S24 Ultra for measuring ambient temperature – not sure if that’s a real rumor or just speculation; they did introduce a temp sensor on a variant of S23 for an API to measure skin temp). If Samsung goes that route, S25 Ultra might include a temperature sensor or other experimental sensors to differentiate (like how Pixel has temperature sensor, though not widely used).

Voice and Data Quality: With advanced modems, these phones will support VoNR (Voice over 5G New Radio) where available, or fall back to VoLTE. Call quality will be high. Samsung and OnePlus support Wi-Fi Calling on carriers that allow it. Apple of course does too. And audio enhancements like background noise reduction during calls are present across iOS and One UI.

Satellite Emergency SOS: To compare directly: iPhone 16 definitely has Emergency SOS via satellite (text emergency services when no cell, free for 2 years after activation on iPhone 14/15 and likely 16) – Apple partners with Globalstar for that. They might expand that service or at least continue it. Samsung S25 may introduce their two-way satellite messaging possibly using Iridium via Snapdragon Satellite if they enable it. If they do, it might allow texting specific contacts, which actually goes beyond Apple’s emergency-only use (Qualcomm’s system intends to let you send regular texts via satellite). OnePlus probably none out of the box unless they piggyback on Snapdragon Satellite and set something up later.

Network/Market positioning for carriers: Samsung and OnePlus will release specific variants for different carriers/regions optimized for those bands (e.g., a U.S. model with all the AT&T/Verizon mmWave bands, a Europe model without mmWave but with local 5G bands, etc.). Apple typically makes a few regional models too. All three should cover a wide swath of connectivity options making them viable globally (with the right model).

In a nutshell, connectivity won’t be a weak spot for any of these – they are all top-tier in keeping you connected. If anything, Apple’s caution means they add things a bit later (they just got USB-C, they’re adding Wi-Fi 7 now), whereas Samsung and OnePlus adopt standards as soon as possible. People who want the absolute latest spec (Wi-Fi 7, fastest USB, satellite texting) might lean towards Samsung or OnePlus, but Apple catches up quickly and often implements things in a very user-friendly way. For example, Apple’s Emergency SOS just works seamlessly when you need it, whereas we’ll have to see how user-friendly Snapdragon Satellite is on Android (likely through an app).

Release Date Expectations and Availability

Timing is key for these launches, and each company has its own annual cycle:

• iPhone 16 Release Date & Availability: Apple follows a very predictable schedule. The iPhone 16 lineup is expected to be unveiled in September 2024, likely at Apple’s annual fall event. Mark Gurman noted potential dates around mid-September (one prediction put it around September 20, 2024 for release to consumers). Typically, Apple holds the event in early September (after Labor Day), opens pre-orders by the second Friday, and launches in stores a week later. For iPhone 16, some reports even pinpoint a keynote on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 (just an example – actual date to be confirmed). Once announced, Apple will make all four models (16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max) available in major markets (US, Canada, Europe, China, etc.) in that initial wave, usually within 10 days of announcement. Supply should be fairly robust unless a particular model (like a new color or the largest size) has constraints.

Apple tends to have staggered availability for some colors or configurations if demand outstrips supply, but generally by a month or two in, all models are readily available worldwide through Apple Stores, carriers, and authorized resellers. If any model is introduced later (for instance, if Apple were to introduce an Ultra in spring or a mid-cycle refresh), that would be separate – however, right now it seems all iPhone 16 variants come together in fall 2024. So by holiday 2024, the iPhone 16 family will be in wide circulation in all of Apple’s markets.

• Samsung Galaxy S25 Launch Date: Samsung usually launches the Galaxy S series in the first quarter of the year. In recent years, it’s been trending earlier: Galaxy S23 was announced February 1, 2023. Rumors suggest Samsung might go even earlier for the S25. In fact, a leak pointed to January 22, 2025 as a possible Unpacked event date for the Galaxy S25 series. Samsung has even hinted they could pull it into January 2025. So the expectation is an Unpacked event in late January 2025 (if not, then early February 2025 at the latest). At that event, Samsung will likely unveil the Galaxy S25, S25+ and S25 Ultra, and possibly the new S25 Slim variant if that is ready (or Samsung might choose a separate launch for the Slim in mid-year; one rumor said it could arrive May/June 2025).

After announcement, Samsung typically opens pre-orders immediately, and releases the phones about 2 weeks later globally. So by early February 2025, the Galaxy S25 series should be on sale in regions like North America, Europe, Korea, India, etc. Samsung has very broad distribution – expect availability through all major carriers (with perhaps special carrier deals, colors, or storage options) and unlocked models direct from Samsung. If Samsung does have multiple chipset variants (Snapdragon vs Exynos), they would allocate those by region (Snapdragon in US/China, Exynos in Europe/India, etc.), but since current info says all Snapdragon, it simplifies things.

One point: if the Galaxy S25 Slim is a real product, rumors say it might launch a few months after the main trio, possibly around May or June 2025. That could be a strategy to refresh interest mid-year and perhaps to counter any OnePlus or other releases. The Slim might initially launch in select markets (maybe the US and Europe if aimed at iPhone 17 Air segment). But it’s speculation; for now, count the main S25 models in Q1 2025.

• OnePlus 13 Release Timeline: OnePlus has been adjusting its schedule. The OnePlus 11 was released in early 2023, and the OnePlus 12 is expected to launch in China by end of 2023 (December) and globally by January 2024. Following that pattern, the OnePlus 13 might launch even earlier. According to leaks, OnePlus is keen on being one of the first with the new Snapdragon each cycle. A source indicated that the OnePlus 13 could launch earlier than the OnePlus 12 did in China. The OnePlus 12 is rumored for a December 2023 China launch; so OnePlus 13 might launch in late 2024 (November or December 2024) in China, with a global release in early 2025. One report suggested the OnePlus 13 series would be introduced around the same timeframe as Oppo Find X8 and others, possibly October–December 2024 for China. However, OnePlus also has a cadence of global launches a bit later. The OnePlus 13 could see an international launch event in January 2025 (or even as early as very late December 2024 if they try to get ahead of Samsung). NotebookCheck indicated an “early 2025 launch event” for OnePlus 13, likely alongside the 13R variant.

In terms of availability, OnePlus usually releases in China first, then in India and Europe/North America shortly after. If OnePlus 13 is shown in late 2024 in China, the global launch might be at CES 2025 or a standalone event in January 2025. Max Jambor’s track record suggests OnePlus doesn’t wait too long between China and global now – for OnePlus 12, leaks pointed to a gap of maybe a month or two. So for OnePlus 13, by February 2025 one should be able to buy it in major markets (unlocked through OnePlus or partnered carriers like T-Mobile in the US, which often carries OnePlus flagships). OnePlus phones are widely available in India and Europe (Amazon, etc.), and presence in the US is smaller but T-Mobile has been a strong partner. So likely T-Mobile will carry the OnePlus 13 (as they did with 10 Pro, 11).

OnePlus also tends to do limited edition variants later (like special colorways or themed editions) – those might appear mid-cycle 2025 to keep interest alive. And possibly a OnePlus 13T could come late 2025 if they revive the T-series, but that’s beyond this scope.

Availability caveats: At launch, OnePlus often has constrained stock compared to Apple or Samsung. Apple will ship tens of millions of iPhones in the launch quarter, Samsung too for Galaxies (especially base models). OnePlus being smaller means initial stock might sell out quickly for enthusiasts, but they ramp up production with Oppo’s help so it shouldn’t be too hard to get after a few weeks. Pricing (next section) will also affect how readily available each is – higher prices sometimes mean lower initial demand (like early rumors of price hikes might temper pre-orders for some).

In short:

• Expect iPhone 16 in stores by late September 2024 across the globe. It’ll set the stage for the holiday season 2024.
• Expect Galaxy S25 in hand by early February 2025 (with an unveiling in Jan). Samsung will capture the early 2025 spotlight and likely lots of carrier promotions.
• Expect OnePlus 13 to emerge in China end of 2024 and globally by Jan/Feb 2025, slightly overlapping with Samsung’s timing, but OnePlus often targets just after the new year to steal some thunder as a value alternative.

This means by spring 2025, all three of these phones will be competing head-to-head in the market, giving consumers a wealth of choices.

Pricing and Value

Pricing is where these brands diverge significantly. Apple commands a premium, Samsung covers a wide range with its models, and OnePlus aims to undercut the big names while delivering similar high-end specs.

iPhone 16 Pricing: Apple is expected to maintain or slightly adjust the pricing tiers introduced with iPhone 15. Currently (for iPhone 15 series), base prices in the US are approximately: $799 for the base iPhone (128GB), $899 for Plus, $999 for Pro, and $1199 for Pro Max (128GB). The iPhone 16 lineup will likely slot in similarly. In fact, one report around the iPhone 16 launch time said “there are no price hikes for the base iPhone 16, which starts at $799”. So we can anticipate roughly:

• iPhone 16 (6.1″) – starting around $799 (for 128 GB).
• iPhone 16 Plus (6.7″) – around $899 (128 GB).
• iPhone 16 Pro (6.3″) – around $1,099 (some rumors say $50-$100 more if features justify, but let’s assume $1099 256GB if they start Pros at 256GB storage).
• iPhone 16 Pro Max (6.9″) – around $1,199 (again possibly a base 256GB).

Apple could also introduce a higher-end “Ultra” nomenclature (there was speculation of an iPhone Ultra above Pro Max). If they did an iPhone 16 Ultra with even more exclusive features, it might be priced around $1299+. However, current expectation is that Pro Max remains the top model for 2024 and an Ultra might come in 2025 with iPhone 17. Mark Gurman has hinted bigger changes (like possibly a new Ultra) come after iPhone 16.

Apple’s value proposition is not about low price, but about the ecosystem and resale value. iPhones hold value well and get long updates. So while you pay ~$1000+, you get a device that remains high-end for years. Apple also typically offers trade-in deals and carrier promos (like “get up to $800 with trade-in” etc.). That softens the blow for many buyers who upgrade yearly via plans.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Pricing: The Galaxy S series covers a span: the base S25 will compete more with $799 phones, the S25+ around $999, and the S25 Ultra at the true flagship tier $1199+. If Samsung indeed uses only Snapdragon (which is costlier) and possibly upgrades components, there’s chatter about a potential price hike. As of S23, prices were roughly $799 (S23), $999 (S23+), $1199 (S23 Ultra) in the US. The S24 series might inch up if rumors are to be believed (some say the Ultra might increase by $100 due to new materials like a rumored titanium frame, etc., but not confirmed). By S25, if costs have risen (Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 likely more expensive), Samsung might bump the S25 Ultra to $1299 base. AndroidCentral noted that the Snapdragon 8 Elite being pricier could lead Samsung to consider a price increase for S25. However, NotebookCheck cited a tipster saying next-gen flagships might not see significant price hikes in China despite the chip cost. This was specifically about OnePlus 13 and others staying around same price. For Samsung, globally it’s hard to say.

Tentatively:

• Galaxy S25 (8GB RAM, 128GB) – likely $849–$899. Samsung might start a bit higher than Apple’s base due to the larger base storage or inflation.
• Galaxy S25+ (8/12GB, 256GB) – around $1049 (if base S25 is $849, plus $200 for the +). Could be $999 if they try to keep it just under iPhone Pro price, but last gen S23+ was $999 for 256GB.
• Galaxy S25 Ultra (12GB, 256GB) – expected $1199 if holding steady, or maybe $1249–$1299 if a hike happens. Samsung does sometimes increase Ultra price when they feel the upgrades justify it (S20 Ultra was $1399 at launch, which they later pulled back from in subsequent models).

Samsung often offers early bird deals like free storage upgrades (pay for 256GB model, get 512GB, etc.) and bundles (free Galaxy Buds or a smartwatch at reduced price during pre-order). Those add value. Also, Samsung phones’ prices, unlike iPhones, tend to drop a few months after launch – you might see $100 off deals by mid-year, or hefty carrier subsidies. That means while sticker price might be high, the actual street price can be more attractive if you shop around or wait a bit.

If the rumored Galaxy S25 Slim comes mid-year, its pricing would be interesting – likely positioned between the S25+ and Ultra. Perhaps around $999-1099, offering that thin design and Ultra camera but maybe with other trimmed specs. That could be Samsung’s way to attack Apple’s potential iPhone 17 “Air” next year.

OnePlus 13 Pricing: OnePlus historically undercuts Apple and Samsung. The OnePlus 11 launched at $699 in the US (8+128GB), which was a great value compared to Galaxy S23 ($799) and iPhone 14 ($799). The OnePlus 12 hasn’t launched yet, but rumors indicate they’ll keep pricing competitive. According to a leak by Digital Chat Station, the OnePlus 13 is tipped to launch at around the same price as the previous generation at least in China. That suggests OnePlus doesn’t plan a big price jump. If OnePlus 12 comes at say CNY 3999 (~$550) in China and $749 globally, the OnePlus 13 might be similar or slightly more. Perhaps the OnePlus 13 base model (which likely has 12GB RAM, 256GB storage if they follow current trends) could be around $749–$799 in the US. NotebookCheck explicitly mentioned that tipster (DCS) asserts that even though Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 costs more, “those premium handsets will not see significant increases in price” – implying OnePlus (and Oppo, Vivo) might absorb some cost to stay attractive.

So, a likely scenario:

• OnePlus 13 (12GB+256GB) – $799 (to go head-on with base iPhone 16 and undercut Galaxy S25 Ultra by a good margin).
• If there’s a higher trim OnePlus 13 (say 16GB+512GB or a Pro variant), that might go for $899-949, still below the $1000 mark.

OnePlus might also release a OnePlus 13R (a toned-down version) at a lower price for some markets like India, but that’s separate. The OnePlus 13 (main flagship) is the one we compare here.

In terms of value: OnePlus offers a lot of bang for buck – you often get the same Snapdragon chip, a high-end display, super-fast charging, and a decent camera for hundreds less than an iPhone or Ultra. The trade-offs are usually in things like no official IP68 rating on unlocked models (though T-Mobile versions often are IP68), slightly less polished camera software, and perhaps not the same brand cachet or ecosystem integration. But for tech enthusiasts, OnePlus is often a value choice. For example, a OnePlus 13 at $799 that includes 256GB and 100W charger in the box is a strong value versus an iPhone 16 at $799 128GB no charger (Apple stopped including chargers) or a Galaxy S25 at $849 128GB.

Resale and longevity considerations: iPhones tend to retain value best, which is part of their value proposition (e.g., you can resell or trade-in an iPhone for a good return, effectively lowering net cost of ownership). Samsung’s Galaxy S drop in resale faster, and OnePlus phones a bit faster still, just due to market demand. However, OnePlus’s lower initial price sometimes offsets that if you plan to keep the phone longer.

Software support also plays into value: Apple gives ~5 years of major updates, Samsung gives 4 years Android + 5 years security, OnePlus has moved to up to 4 Android updates for recent flagships as well. So all will be usable for a long time, but Apple still leads in absolute years.

Additional benefits: Apple provides things like the Apple ecosystem (iMessage, FaceTime, Continuity with Macs) which some users value highly. Samsung has its own ecosystem perks (Galaxy Watch integration, SmartThings, etc.) and often bundles cloud storage or services. OnePlus appeals to those who want an unlocked, uncarrier experience with flexibility (their phones are generally SIM-unlocked, dual SIM in global models, and have minimal bloatware).

It’s worth noting that by 2025, competition from Google’s Pixel 9 or Xiaomi 15, etc. might pressure these prices too. But Apple rarely responds to competitors on price; Samsung does through promotions; OnePlus directly positions itself as the cost-effective flagship killer. As a result, OnePlus 13 will likely be the most affordable of the trio for similar specs, representing great value especially for tech-savvy buyers who don’t mind the slightly smaller brand name in some regions.

In conclusion on pricing:

• The iPhone 16 is a premium investment – you pay for the brand, iOS experience, and strong residual value. Base model for those who want an iPhone at under $800, and Pros for those who want the cutting edge (and are willing to pay $1000+).
• The Galaxy S25 offers a range – from a reasonably priced base model up to the Ultra which equals iPhone Pro Max pricing. Samsung gives a lot of deals, so the effective price can be much lower if you utilize trade-ins (Samsung will give hefty credits for old devices at launch) or carrier contracts.
• The OnePlus 13 aims to give you 90% of what the Ultra and Pro Max offer at perhaps 70% of the price. It’s the value champion in raw specs per dollar. For shoppers who prioritize specs and performance per dollar and are okay with a slightly less established camera or ecosystem, the OnePlus is very compelling.

Each buyer’s sense of “value” will differ. If you highly value the Apple ecosystem, an iPhone might be “worth” more to you than its spec sheet suggests. If you value having the absolute best zoom camera or an S Pen, Samsung’s Ultra justifies its cost. If you value performance and fast charging on a budget, OnePlus will likely be your pick.

Market Positioning and Company Strategy

Lastly, let’s zoom out and see how each device fits into its company’s broader strategy and what that means for consumers:

Apple and the iPhone 16:
Apple’s strategy with the iPhone 16 appears to be an iterative refinement before bigger changes in 2025. Mark Gurman described the iPhone 16 line as one that will “keep sales stable until more innovative models are ready next year”. In other words, the iPhone 16 is somewhat a stopgap flagship, delivering solid improvements (bigger screens, new camera features, faster chip) but not a radical redesign. Apple is likely holding off revolutionary changes (like perhaps port-less designs, under-display Face ID, or a new “Ultra” model) for the iPhone 17 and beyond. This means iPhone 16’s role is to entice upgraders, especially those on iPhone 12/13 generations, with enough new features (e.g., the periscope zoom on both Pro models, the larger displays, AI-powered iOS features) to drive sales, but not rock the boat.

Apple’s market positioning remains top-tier/luxury smartphone, with an emphasis on premium build, privacy, and integration. They segment the lineup to cover a wide price band: the standard iPhone 16 and Plus for mainstream and cost-conscious (including a lot of consumers on carrier plans who get those cheaper or free on contract), and the Pro/Pro Max for tech enthusiasts and professionals who’ll pay more. Apple has been increasingly differentiating Pro vs non-Pro: in iPhone 15, only Pros got 120Hz, the new chip, better materials, etc. In iPhone 16 that continues – e.g., only Pros get the new capture button and periscope. This upselling strategy pushes more buyers to the higher margin Pro models. It’s working, as Apple’s average selling price of iPhones has been rising.

Apple also leverages the iPhone to bolster its services (App Store, iCloud, Apple Music/TV+, etc.) and adjacent product sales (AirPods, Apple Watch). The iPhone 16 will seamlessly tie into that. For instance, iOS 18’s new features might encourage use of iCloud (like storing those AI-generated images or transcripts in your iCloud, etc.). They also reportedly are launching a Vision Pro AR headset in 2024 – iPhone 16 will likely serve as a great companion (e.g., capturing spatial videos). Apple’s strategy is a holistic ecosystem where iPhone often acts as the central hub or the camera/processor feeding other devices.

From a competitive standpoint, Apple isn’t trying to beat Samsung or OnePlus on spec sheets; they focus on user experience and brand prestige. The iPhone 16 will be marketed with Apple’s polished approach: highlighting real-world benefits (e.g., “our best camera yet – even longer battery life – magical new AI features – the most durable iPhone ever”, etc.) rather than raw numbers. Apple’s clout with carriers and retail ensures the iPhone 16 will be prominently promoted in stores, often with attractive bundle deals, ensuring it continues to capture a huge chunk of premium phone sales. In many markets, Apple’s main rival for mindshare is Samsung’s S series, so Apple’s strategy is to maintain the narrative of iPhone as the gold standard. The incremental nature of iPhone 16 upgrades suggests Apple is confident in their current formula and is pacing themselves for a bigger leap next cycle.

Samsung and the Galaxy S25:
Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series strategy is about consolidating leadership in the Android market and experimenting with new form factors/variants to address every segment. The inclusion of a possible S25 Slim variant indicates Samsung wants to cover niches – perhaps appealing to those who want a sleek handset without compromising camera (maybe to preempt a rumored iPhone “Slim/Air”). The main Galaxy S25 and S25+ will target the general flagship crowd who might otherwise consider an iPhone 16 or a lower-priced competitor. The S25 Ultra remains Samsung’s all-out flagship, essentially their answer to the iPhone Pro Max and more. It carries forward the Galaxy Note legacy (with S Pen) and Samsung positions it as the ultimate do-it-all device: big screen, pen, long battery, top cameras.

Samsung’s strategy also involves a dual-portfolio: the S series in H1 and foldables (Z Fold/Flip) in H2. The S25 will be the bar phone flagship push, while later in 2025 we’ll see a Galaxy Z Fold6/Flip6 likely. So Samsung wants S25 to be compelling enough that traditional smartphone buyers don’t jump to Apple or others in the spring, while they keep foldables for those wanting innovation in late year. The rumored early launch (January) for S25 is to stay ahead of any spring launches by Chinese competitors and to maximize sales before the smartphone market possibly slows later in the year. It also gives breathing room before the Fold launch.

By possibly going all-in on Snapdragon globally, Samsung shows a strategy shift: prioritize customer perception of quality/performance over the pride of using in-house Exynos chips (which had a mixed track record). This is about restoring trust among enthusiasts that no matter where you buy an S25, you get the best version. It’s a temporary retreat for Exynos, but strategically smart if Exynos 2500 isn’t ready for prime time. Ice Universe even posited that Exynos might make a comeback in 2026 with a 2nm chip, but until then Samsung can’t afford to handicap some S25 units, not when Apple is strong and OnePlus/others are upping their game.

Samsung’s market positioning for the S25 is also about ecosystem synergy. They’ll emphasize how well it works with Galaxy Buds, Watch, tablets, and even PCs (via Samsung DeX and Microsoft YourPhone integration). They often bundle or discount those accessories to add value. Samsung is basically the only Android manufacturer with a comparable ecosystem to Apple (smartphones, wearables, tablets, laptops, TVs, appliances all interconnected via SmartThings). Buying a Galaxy S25 is a gateway to that wider ecosystem for consumers, which is a selling point especially in markets where Samsung’s ecosystem is prevalent.

In terms of branding, Galaxy S has strong recognition and Samsung will play to its strengths: superior displays (“we make the OLED in iPhone, but we reserve the best for our Galaxy!”), strong camera zoom (“Space Zoom 100X”), and features Apple won’t give (like fast charging, expandable storage – though note S-series stopped microSD from S21 onward, so not anymore, but things like split-screen multitasking etc.). They will likely contrast the openness and feature-richness of Galaxy with the closed nature of iPhone to sway those on the fence.

OnePlus and the 13:
OnePlus’s strategy has evolved from “flagship killer” to almost flagship – offering high-end features at a slightly lower price, but not necessarily cheap. The OnePlus 13 is positioned to take on the likes of Samsung’s base S25 and Google’s Pixel 9, by offering top specs at a value price. OnePlus (which is part of Oppo) benefits from Oppo’s R&D and supply chain, allowing them to include tech like periscope cameras and 100W charging that smaller brands might not.

The OnePlus brand still resonates with enthusiasts, especially in markets like India and among Android power-users globally. With the 13, OnePlus will try to regain some of the fervor of its earlier days by ticking all the spec boxes (they listened about wireless charging, camera improvements, etc.). Max Jambor, a reliable OnePlus leaker, indicated features like wireless charging returning in OnePlus 12 due to user demand – showing OnePlus is paying attention to community feedback. That’s part of their strategy: engage the community (forums, feedback) and cultivate loyalty by delivering what fans want at a reasonable price.

However, OnePlus also has to balance being under Oppo’s umbrella. They share resources but also sometimes OnePlus has to differentiate from Oppo’s own flagships (Find X series). Lately, OnePlus seems to handle global markets while Oppo focuses on China/Asia. So OnePlus 13 will be the global face of Oppo’s tech in many regions. It means aggressive pricing to build market share. They might even aim to scoop up former Samsung or Xiaomi users who feel prices have climbed too high.

OnePlus’s marketing message for the 13 will likely emphasize: “Speed” (fastest chip, fast charging, fluid display), “Smoothness” (their OxygenOS taglines historically), and an improved “Hasselblad Camera” experience to show they’re serious about photography. They often use taglines like “Never Settle” – so expect them to claim OnePlus 13 settles for no compromise despite cost less: e.g., “Why pay $1200 when OnePlus gives you everything for $799?”. If they include a high battery capacity and an alert slider, they’ll highlight those differentiators (Samsung and Apple don’t have an alert slider, for instance).

In terms of distribution, OnePlus doesn’t have the retail presence Apple and Samsung do (no widespread physical stores apart from carrier partners in some countries). So their strategy leans on online sales, fanbase marketing, and selective partnerships (like with T-Mobile US, or Amazon in India). They also lean on tech media reviews praising value. If the OnePlus 13 impresses reviewers with how close it comes to $1100 phones at $799, that word-of-mouth is crucial for them.

One risk in OnePlus strategy: the premium market is dominated by Apple/Samsung, and OnePlus is trying to inch into that without a massive marketing budget. They hope specs and price speak for themselves. Also, OnePlus has expanded into other products (Buds, Pad tablet, monitor, even mechanical keyboard) – they are trying to create an ecosystem albeit smaller. The OnePlus 13 will be central to that strategy, possibly bundling with Buds or appealing to those who might buy multiple OnePlus devices.

Comparative strategy summary:

• Apple is about steady innovation and ecosystem lock-in; they’re fine with evolutionary updates as long as they keep iPhone desirable and users within Apple’s world. They carefully segment models to maximize profit (which is why features trickle down slowly from Pro to non-Pro).
• Samsung’s approach is feature breadth and segment coverage; they want to have a phone for every type of user (small flagship, plus-sized, ultra-packed, maybe ultra-thin variant) and use their technological prowess (displays, cameras) to compete. They also must be the standard-bearer for Android against Apple, and they do so by offering things Apple doesn’t (S Pen, extreme zoom, etc.). Samsung’s strategy is also about synergy across its product categories.
• OnePlus is doubling down on its value-performance niche, trying to capture enthusiasts and those who want flagship specs without the flagship price. Their strategy acknowledges they likely won’t outsell Apple or Samsung, but they can build a loyal customer base and a reputation for delivering honest value. They also serve as a halo for Oppo’s tech in Western markets.

All three companies in 2025 face a mature smartphone market with longer replacement cycles. So their strategies also focus on giving enough newness to get upgrades. Apple leans on software/services too, Samsung on new use-cases (like S Pen productivity, or maybe new camera tricks), OnePlus on sheer spec upgrades that entice techies to refresh.

In the grand scheme, consumers benefit from this competition: Apple pushing camera and AI boundaries, Samsung pushing hardware innovation and variety, and OnePlus pushing affordability for high-end hardware. Each strategy has its merits, and your choice might depend on which company’s philosophy aligns with your preferences – be it Apple’s cohesive ecosystem, Samsung’s all-in-one powerhouse approach, or OnePlus’s bang-for-buck focus.

In conclusion, the iPhone 16, Galaxy S25, and OnePlus 13 each represent the pinnacle of their makers’ offerings for late 2024/2025, yet they cater to slightly different audiences:

• The iPhone 16 is for those wanting a polished, powerful device with long-term support, tied into Apple’s ecosystem – and who are willing to pay a premium for that seamless experience.
• The Galaxy S25 appeals to Android users who crave cutting-edge features, versatility (from an integrated stylus to far-reaching zoom), and a device that can truly be called an all-purpose computer in your pocket – essentially, Samsung offers more of everything (cameras, customization, connectivity) to stand out.
• The OnePlus 13 targets savvy buyers who want flagship performance and modern features but balk at spending $1000+ – it’s about delivering 90% of the experience at a lower cost, with a clean software experience and ultra-fast charging that even giants don’t match.

All three will no doubt be among the best phones of 2025, and the competition between them will drive innovation forward. Whether you prioritize design and ecosystem, raw power and features, or value and speed, this trio has something to offer everyone. It will be exciting to watch how each device lives up to the hype and where each company heads next in the ever-evolving smartphone race.

Sources:

• Mark Gurman, Bloomberg, on iPhone 16’s incremental upgrades and new features
• Tom’s Guide on iPhone 16 Pro rumors (display size increase, capture button, A18 chip, camera upgrades, battery tech)
• MacRumors and Ming-Chi Kuo on iPhone 16 Pro larger size for periscope lens and larger sensor
• Android Central and Ice Universe on Galaxy S25 using Snapdragon 8 “Elite” chip globally
• SamMobile on Galaxy S25 Slim with Ultra’s 200MP camera
• NotebookCheck on S25 Ultra design (rounded corners, smaller size) and launch timing
• Digital Chat Station via Smartprix & NotebookCheck on OnePlus 13 specs (display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, periscope camera, battery)
• NotebookCheck on OnePlus 13 pricing and design leaks (maintaining price, new quad-curve screen, dropping “K” camera decor)
• Android Central on potential Galaxy S25 price hike due to chipset costs