The landscape of smartphones in 2016 was defined by rapid evolution and intense competition, setting the stage for the modern devices we use today. This was a year where manufacturers pushed boundaries, experimenting with new materials, software experiences, and camera technologies to capture the attention of consumers. While the market has advanced significantly, revisiting the best phones from 2016 offers valuable perspective on the foundations of contemporary mobile computing.
The Flagship Contenders
At the pinnacle of the 2016 market stood a handful of devices that represented the absolute peak of engineering and design. These flagships were positioned as aspirational products, featuring the latest processors, expansive displays, and premium build quality that justified their high price points. They served as the primary battleground for major brands vying for consumer loyalty and bragging rights in the tech press.
Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge
Samsung’s Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge remain landmark devices that successfully recaptured the trust of consumers and critics after the difficult Note 7 recall. The S7 Edge, in particular, distinguished itself with its striking curved display that provided an immersive viewing experience for media and gaming. Both models excelled in low-light photography, thanks to a larger sensor and improved lens coating, a significant upgrade that addressed key weaknesses of the previous generation.
Apple iPhone 7 and 7 Plus
Apple disrupted expectations in 2016 by removing the traditional headphone jack from the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, a controversial move that pushed the industry toward wireless audio solutions. The introduction of the W1 chip in the Apple EarPods delivered a seamless, high-quality connection that simplified the pairing process. The 7 Plus stood out with its revolutionary dual-lens camera system, offering genuine optical zoom and a depth-of-field effect that brought professional-looking portraits within reach of the average user.
Innovative Designs and Niche Appeal
Beyond the mainstream giants, 2016 saw the emergence of devices with unique identities that challenged the slab-and-glass norm. These phones often targeted specific user needs or aesthetic preferences, proving that there was more than one way to succeed in a crowded market.
Sony Xperia XZ and Xperia X Performance
Sony catered to photography enthusiasts with its Xperia XZ and Xperia X Performance, which were among the first smartphones to feature triple-image sensing technology. This system combined a standard camera sensor with a dedicated color and monochrome sensor, allowing for richer detail and better performance in various lighting conditions. The devices also boasted 4K video recording at 60 frames per second, a feature that was rare at the time.
Essential Phone and Google Pixel
Though released near the end of the year, the Essential Phone and Google Pixel left a significant mark on the 2016 conversation. Designed by Android co-creator Andy Rubin, the Essential Phone impressed with its nearly bezel-less display and titanium build, focusing on clean software and timely updates. The Pixel, Google’s first self-branded phone, leveraged the company’s computational photography expertise to deliver exceptional image processing, rivaling much more expensive competitors.
Value and Endurance
While the premium segment grabbed headlines, the mid-range and budget sectors offered compelling alternatives for cost-conscious buyers. These phones prioritized battery life and durability, providing a reliable daily driver without the luxury price tag that defined the year’s high-end models.
OnePlus 3 and 3T
The OnePlus 3 and its successor, the 3T, earned a devoted following by combining flagship-level performance with a relatively accessible price. Equipped with ample RAM and swift charging capabilities, these devices addressed two of the biggest pain points for power users: running multiple apps smoothly and minimizing battery anxiety. Their success demonstrated a growing consumer appetite for "flagship killer" devices that punched above their weight.
