I've stopped caring about camera, display, and battery. Here's what matters to me instead
Key Points:
- Smartphone prices in 2026 are rising significantly due to high RAM costs, making devices like Samsung's latest foldables and the upcoming Google Pixel 11 series more expensive.
- Build quality and durability are crucial factors, especially for users who prefer using phones without cases; materials like aluminum and titanium affect heat dissipation and comfort during extended use.
- Speaker quality and haptics are often overlooked but vital features, enhancing everyday user experience through better audio and precise vibration feedback.
- Small hardware extras such as IR blasters and stylus support can greatly improve functionality and convenience, particularly in foldable phones.
- Beyond headline specs like camera and battery, a combination of build quality, durability, audio, haptics, and thoughtful extras distinguishes a good smartphone from a great one.