In 2025, one of the prominent trends for smartphones is the continued integration of artificial intelligence (AI). In 2024, AI made significant strides, especially in devices like Android smartphones and notebooks, making them smarter through generative AI. However, the development of AI in devices is just beginning, and this is evident in the expected trends for the smartphone market.
Smartphone Chips: Enhanced Performance for On-Device AI
The core of every smartphone is the processor, also known as the System-on-a-Chip (SoC). It combines various components like CPU, GPU, and NPU, responsible for different computing tasks. In the AI sector, which is expanding in 2025 for both Android and iOS, the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) is crucial, especially for tasks performed directly on the device.
The new processors from Qualcomm, such as the X Elite, and the Mediatek Dimensity 9400, are expected to boost this area further. They are on par with Apple’s A18 Pro in terms of performance, which is noteworthy.
Smartphones Evolving into AI Gadgets
There is anticipated growth in AI capabilities. Both Apple and Google are enhancing their mobile operating systems with additional generative AI features. With Android 16, most smartphone operations can be voice-controlled via Gemini. Apple’s iOS 19 aims to transform Siri into a chatbot.
Larger Batteries Without Increasing Size and Weight
Although new processors are faster and more energy-efficient, AI computations on devices still consume significant power. To maintain battery life during AI usage, many manufacturers are opting for larger batteries using silicon-carbon cell chemistry. This chemistry has a higher energy density than traditional lithium-ion batteries, allowing for greater capacity without increasing size.
Manufacturers like Oppo and Xiaomi have introduced models for 2025 with batteries reaching up to 6,000 milliampere-hours, compared to the previous 5,000 milliampere-hours. Insiders suggest batteries might even reach 7,000 milliampere-hours.
Thinner Smartphones as the Next Trend?
In 2025, we might see a trend towards thinner smartphones, aided by new battery chemistry. Both Apple and Samsung are rumored to be releasing particularly slim models. The silicon-carbon batteries should help maintain battery life despite the slimmer design. Manufacturers are also working to reduce the size of camera bumps on the back of devices, as seen with the Oppo Find X8 Pro.
New Standards and Longer Lifespan
Several innovations are expected to provide smartphones with new capabilities. For instance, devices equipped with the new Bluetooth 6.0 standard will appear in 2025. This standard will improve precision for “Find My” solutions and digital key functions for cars and door locks.
A new protection class, IP69, will allow smartphones to withstand higher water pressure, making them safe for use in showers. IP69 protects devices against high-pressure water jets up to 100 bar.
From mid-2025, EU regulations will require smartphone manufacturers to provide software updates for five years, benefiting users and the environment. Some companies, like Samsung and Google, are already complying, while others are yet to follow suit.