As we kick off 2023, it’s a good time to reflect on the past year and see how the world of technology has progressed. In the U.S., consumers were forecasted to spend nearly $75 billion on smartphones in 2022. Apple and Samsung phones were the leaders in the U.S. market this last year, with a combined market share of almost 70%.
This past year was certainly a busy one for smartphones, with the new release of the iPhone 14 and the Galaxy Z Flip 4 — both popular devices. If you kept up with the newest releases in 2022, you’ll likely want to stay on top of new upcoming phones in 2023. If you’re on the hunt for a new cell phone, we’ve compiled a list of some confirmed and rumored new phone releases that you can keep your eyes peeled for.
The Best Upcoming Smartphones Releases In 2023
As a tech enthusiast or consumer excited about new phones to be released, this list will certainly pique your interest. Here are the new smartphones coming out in 2023.
1. Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
While the Samsung Galaxy S phones are quite popular, the Galaxy A series is ideal for those who have a bit of a tighter budget. One of the highly anticipated upcoming Samsung phones is the Galaxy A54 5G, following the A53 that was released in 2022. The A54 5G is expected to have moderate improvements over its predecessor.
Though it’s predicted to come with a 6.4-inch screen, which is slightly smaller than the A53’s 6.5-inch screen, it’s rumored to have a slightly larger battery and a triple rear camera. Though the screen is a hair shorter, this smartphone may have a wider and thicker build, although the materials used to craft this device have not been confirmed.
As suggested in the name, the Galaxy A54 5G is also expected to come with 5G connectivity to increase the speed and responsiveness of the device. In addition, this smartphone may come with an improved chipset that boosts processing speed and overall performance. Though this chipset is ideal for efficiency, it may have some limitations that may not be a strong fit for multitaskers. However, the price point of the Galaxy A54 5G will likely be the same as its predecessor. This device is rumored to be released around spring 2023.
2. Google Pixel Fold
Because Google already makes foldable phones for Android, such as the Galaxy Z Fold 4, some believe it doesn’t need to make its own version of this device. However, a foldable Pixel phone would create interesting competition between the two tech giants. There is much speculation surrounding the potential Pixel Fold, which could likely launch around May 2023 with the new Pixel Tablet. May is also the month that Google revealed its Pixel 6a and Pixel 7 phones, so this release date would be fitting.
Rumors have been swirling for years around Google’s attempt at a bendable device — even the Pixel 6 was expected to fold — so there’s no telling whether these designs have been scrapped or simply postponed until 2023. Though this device is commonly referred to as the Pixel Fold, some industry experts claim it could be called the Pixel Notepad. As for cost, rumors suggest this smartphone could be priced less than or equal to the Galaxy Z Fold series, ranging from $,1400 to $1,700.
Most predictions also point out that the foldable Google phone will likely cost much more than the Pixel 7 smartphone range. If the predictions are true, consumers can expect a premium, sleek design that mirrors the Android experience and folding setup. Users may also benefit from a triple camera, a large power button and a 7.6-inch OLED screen.
3. Samsung Galaxy S23 Range
The information swirling online about Samsung’s next flagship is based on rumors, but many expect these devices to come with significant hardware improvements while maintaining a similar visual aesthetic. Potentially, the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23 Plus and Galaxy S23 Ultra may come with faster charging, a pixel-packed main camera and an improved front-facing camera. Some bet that the release date for these devices could be around January or February 2023, which could make them the earliest new smartphones coming soon.
These new mobile phones may be priced higher than the Galaxy S22 range due to larger screens, more internal storage and the elimination of the battery drainage issues the predecessors have experienced. These devices are also predicted to have 12 GB of random-access memory (RAM) so users can quickly switch between apps without pauses or delays. These Galaxy models may also be supported by 5G connectivity.
4. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
The Galaxy Z Fold is one of the most anticipated upcoming phones of Samsung for 2023. It’s arguably the best folding phone Samsung has ever released, which is why many are excited about the fifth generation of the Z Fold — the new Galaxy Z Fold 5. Though there are very few rumors surrounding this device, it’s expected to have a built-in pen for drawing and doodling, faster charging, a slim build and a larger unfolded display. Right now, it’s only a guess if this phone-tablet hybrid will be released in 2023. Since the last two generations were both released in the month of August, consumers can keep an eye out during that time.
This upcoming phone is predicted to come with an improved camera and processor. Users may even be able to use the bottom portion of the device’s screen as a mini trackpad when the phone is folded halfway. Finally, rumors suggest that the cell phone will provide better heat management to ensure the device doesn’t heat up as much with heavy use. Since the previous models have maintained the same price, it’s unlikely that the Galaxy Z Fold 5 will be offered at a reduced cost.
5. Rumored Apple® iPhone 15
The rumored iPhone 15 is one of the upcoming iPhones with a fair amount of information available to consumers. There are a few predictions, thanks to the consistency of Apple’s launches. This upcoming Apple® iPhone is due to launch in September 2023 and may even come with models like the Ultra or the Pro Max. Users are expecting to see 8K video recording, a periscope zoom camera and 10x optical zoom to compete with the Galaxy S22 Ultra. According to the rumors, Apple is also deciding to launch a USB-C port so users can charge their iPhones, iPad and MacBooks with the same connector.
Apple may also change the look and feel of the volume buttons and make them similar to the trackpad on MacBooks. One of the most interesting ideas is that the rumored iPhone 15 may be the first foldable iPhone. While this prediction is merely speculation, we may yet see a 2023 or 2024 foldable iPhone with either a fold-out hybrid tablet or a clamshell design. However, Apple’s foldable devices will likely see a large price hike. Aside from foldability, we’re likely to see routine improvements such as a new processor and camera upgrades.
6. Google Pixel 7A Range
Based on Google’s tradition, we may see a more affordable version of the Pixel 7, known as the Pixel 7A, sometime next year. Most rumors point to a potential release around May 2023 as the earliest users may see this new device. Some predictions suggest there are significant upgrades in store, such as wireless charging and a higher refresh rate — two features missing from the Pixel 6A. The Pixel 7A will likely have a very similar design to its predecessors but include a more efficient and powerful processor and a better camera setup with ultra-wide sensors.
Since this device will likely be more budget-friendly, it may not have all the bells and whistles. However, if Google boosts the specs and quality up just enough, they can push up the price for consumers. Ultimately, we’ll need to wait to hear more about the 7A series, but keep your eyes peeled for upcoming smartphone news, such as a spring or summer announcement next year.
7. Google Pixel 8
While some believe the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro won’t be launched anytime soon since the October 2022 release of the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, many Pixel lovers are ready to get a peek at the new smartphones launching in 2023. Though there is no confirmed launch date for the Pixel 8, most of the Google models have been announced in October. This has led many in the industry to expect a mid-October 2023 unveiling and late October access for consumers.
The launch of the Pixel 7 series has made many users excited as a result of the impressive performance, which makes them even more interested in the Pixel 8 range. According to speculation, the Pixel 8 may have a new chipset, stronger software performance, better camera quality and support satellite communication.
There’s also a rumor this device could come with a 10x optical zoom camera and other enhanced features from the standard Pixel lineup. As for price, the past Pixels have all remained similar, so it’s likely Google will stick with the starting point of $599. However, they may push the price up a bit.
8. Samsung Galaxy A74 5G
If you’re waiting for new upcoming Android phones, The Samsung Galaxy A74 5G device is one that remains a mystery. It has already been unofficially announced for release in India and other countries, but there is no concrete announcement as of now. It’s possible that Samsung is dealing with technical issues or delayed updates, but many eager Galaxy users are likely looking forward to this official launch in 2023. The Samsung Galaxy A74 5G may come with a boxier yet smooth design with aluminum and glass makeup. This smartphone is expected to have similar dimensions and weight to the already launched A73 5G model.
This device is also rumored to give users an immersive experience with more pixels per inch and vibrant colors to optimize viewing. In addition, this model may come with dual microphones and a headphone jack. The Galaxy A74 5G may even have enhanced capabilities for processing three camera streams at once, which will support 4K HDR video. While this phone is not likely to come with any water or dust resistance, it’s predicted to have strong speed, ultra-fast charging and long battery life.
9. Pixel G10/Pixel 7 Ultra/Pixel 8 Pro
Google appears to have code-named a new Pixel device as G10, which many believe to be the new Pixel 7 Ultra or the Pixel 8 Pro. Some assume this device will share the same characteristics as the rest of the Pixel 7 or Pixel 8 models, such as the horizontal metal camera bar, while others believe this device will be extremely improved. This smartphone is rumored to have an identical display size — 6.7 inches — to the Pixel 7 Pro, but improved camera quality and overall performance.
There is much speculation about the release date of the Pixel 7 Ultra/Pixel 8 Pro since the Pixel Tablet has already been confirmed to launch in 2023 and the Pixel Fold may also take the spotlight. Some industry rumors state it was supposed to be unveiled around October 2022 but never did, which makes many tech enthusiasts wonder if the launch will wait until 2024.
Experts have uncovered new information surrounding G10, including that the “G” in “G10” stands for the German word “gepard” which means “cheetah”. This will certainly give consumers something to buzz about and may hint at rumored speed enhancements!
10. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5
The Galaxy Z Flip 5 is expected to come with many enhancements compared to the Galaxy Z Flip 4 and Z Flip 3, such as a larger, 3-inch cover screen that would be an upgrade from the Z Flip 4’s 2-inch cover screen. This upcoming Samsung phone in 2023 may also have a less noticeable crease at the fold with an updated hinge design. This would give the smartphone a sleeker, smoother look for users and provide a more subtle function.
There’s also a chance users may get improved camera quality, software capabilities and a new processor. As for the release date, it’s possible consumers can expect this upcoming Samsung phone in 2023 to reveal this new smartphone sometime around early August 2023 and give customers access toward the end of August, the typical schedule for this model.
Since the Z Flip 4 and Z Flip 3 maintained the same pricing — starting at $999 for 128GB — the Z Flip 5 is forecasted to either follow this pricing or be slightly more expensive as a result of the larger screen and other improvements.
Trade in Your Phone in the New Year With Gazelle
If you’re unsatisfied if your current device, 2023 is sure to bring plenty of new smartphones that will fit your needs and preferences. However, there’s no doubt that some of the new releases on the market can be pricey. Consider trading in your cell phone with Gazelle for secure, safe payment that you can put towards a new smartphone. At Gazelle, we aim to provide all customers with honest pricing, fast payment and no hidden fees so you can quickly trade in your phone.
Simply visit our sell and trade-in page, choose your device, get an offer and we’ll take care of the rest. If your current cell phone is on its last leg and you can’t wait for the unveiling of the 2023 smartphones, consider buying a certified pre-owned device from us. We carry a wide range of newer Apple® iPhones, Samsung Galaxy phones and Google phones sure to meet your needs. Browse our products online and see what models we offer.