3 upcoming phones that could end the 2026 snoozefest
The big names have been at the centre, with Apple, Samsung and Google raising prices on both new launches and existing models, which is unprecedented.
Arguably the only bright spot has been the rise of the wide foldable, with Samsung’s impressive Galaxy Z Fold 8 very quickly followed by the iPhone Duo, Apple’s first-ever folding phone.
So, with all the major launches having already taken place, is it time to write off 2026 as a terrible year for phones? Not so fast. Here are five handsets launching before the end of December which could save the year from being a near-total write-off.
Oppo Find X10 & X10 Pro Max
Official in China
Launching globally on 21 October
After OnePlus’ bombshell exit from Europe and North America, all eyes are on fellow BBK-owned brand Oppo, which is expanding its global operations to hopefully fill the gap.
The Find X10 series was unveiled in China last month, but a dedicated global launch event less than a month later shows it means business. And, while the ‘Pro Max’ rebrand shows Oppo has its eyes set on the iPhone (it’s not the only one), the top-of-the-line phone is all about the cameras.
Oppo
The Pro Max features a trio of 200Mp rear lenses (wide, 3x periscope telephoto, ultrawide) as it seeks to replace the Find X9 Ultra as the best camera phone you can buy. Early results are very promising.