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Best Smartphones Launched in 2023 That Remain in Headlines

By Himani Jha | Updated Jul 30, 2024, 1:53 PM IST
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2023 has been a year for smartphones, with several new and interesting devices hitting the market. From foldable phones to high-end phones, and mid-rangers: there's something for everyone. Here are some of the best smartphones launched this year that have grabbed the attention of mobile enthusiasts for its exceptional features and design.

Best Smartphones Launched in 2023 That Remain in Headlines
Best smartphones launched in 2024
It’s safe to say that 2023 has been an absolute banger for smartphone enthusiasts. From lofty performance aspirations of the Apple iPhone 15 Pro to the Galaxy Z Flip 5’s intention of drawing eyeballs. The year 2023 has given consumers across all price categories, something to look forward to. As 2024 looms on the horizon, it only makes sense for us to revisit the heroes of this year and pick the best of them.

The year began with Samsung showing the rest of the industry how to do a proper flagship smartphone experience and soon enough it was followed by the likes of OnePlus, Realme, Xiaomi and even Apple. However, it was Google who surprised us the most by integrating AI into the heart of its smartphone experience (we are talking about the Google Pixel 8 Pro.

Hence, in a year where the variety of smartphones is at its widest, we have undertaken the most difficult task of choosing the best out of them all. Let’s take a look at our most prized list of best smartphones launched in 2023.

Best smartphones launched in 2023
From Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra to iPhone 15 Pro Max and Galaxy Z Fold 5; check out these best smartphones launched in 2023.
SmartphonesMain camera
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra200MP
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max48MP
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 550MP
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 550mp
OnePlus Open52MP
OnePlus 11 5G50MP
Xiaomi 13 Pro50MP


1. Best overall: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Samsung defined the rules of the game in 2023 with the Galaxy S23 series and its Galaxy S23 Ultra marked the pinnacle of the smartphone's evolution with the mighty powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, a brilliant 6.78-inch immersive AMOLED display that came with its S-pen stylus. The Galaxy S23 Ultra covered all the crucial aspects. It even has a 200-megapixel main camera alongside its versatile multi lens setup and it’s safe to say it is one of the best camera smartphones we have seen this year. Hence, despite being almost a year old, the Galaxy S23 Ultra continues to be a highly recommended flagship phone and even after its successor drops in, this will continue to be a superstar in its segment.

Specifications:
Display: 6.1-inch, FHD+
SoC: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 128/256/512GB
What we like about this product: The phone has a compact size offering a great inhand feel. Additionally, the display and the camera system are also great.

Users’ review: Users have liked the camera, and premium build quality of the phone as well as its compact form factor.
Pros:
  • Solid performance
  • Versatile camera
  • Compact form factor
  • Reverse wireless charging
Cons:
  • The phone offers average battery life and slower charging than many of its competitors in this price range.

2. Best in performance: Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max

In a year where Samsung pulled off an incredible job with its flagship Galaxy S23 Ultra, it was only expected from Apple to come up with a befitting reply. The Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max introduced new trends in the industry and shattered expectations of what the most feature-loaded smartphone should be like. Although, titanium took center stage at the launch event, the iPhone 15 Pro Max assured into an era of 3-nm chips with its A17 Pro. Other than being fast, this chipset offers so much power that you can play console games (not console quality) directly on the device. The smartphone also improved its camera zoom performance with its brand-new 5X telephoto lens. It also replaced the iconic mute slider with a customizable action button. But the biggest reason why it may be pulling people to the showroom is because of the tiny new USB-C port liberating users from the shackles of the lightning port.

What we like about this product: iPhone 15 is a complete package. We like its lightweight, display, performance and of course the iOS interface.

Users’ review: Users liked its good battery life, dynamic island and lightweight.

Pros:
  • Powerful A16 Bionic chipset
  • iOS interface
  • Impressive camera
  • Great battery life

Cons:
  • There are no cons

3. Best in multitasking: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5

If the Galaxy S23 Ultra is Samsun’s best conventional flagship, you can consider the Galaxy Z Fold5 the same for the foldable segment. This year’s Fold 5 is all about refinements. While Samsung made it lighter as well as more practical, the smartphone retained the safest formula that Samsung has been using for this range since 2020’s Fold 2. Nonetheless, the 7.6-inch main display with its hidden video call camera and a peak brightness of 1,750 nits made it an immersive to consume regular smartphone stuff. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy offers fast and reliable performance and despite having an average capacity, it can easily last an entire day with moderate usage.

Specifications:
Display: 7.6-inch inner display and 6.2-inch cover display
Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
RAM: 12GB
Storage: 256/512/1,024GB
What we like about this product: We like the multitasking ability of the phone, and the immersive tablet like viewing experience. The support for S-pen stylus just add a cherry on top of the cake.

Users’ review: Users have loved its form factor and the expansive display. They also liked its performance.

Pros:
  • Immersive viewing experience,
  • Multitasking capabilities
  • Good camera
  • Support for S-pen stylus

Cons:
  • Battery life could have been better.

4. Best in design: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5

The Galaxy Z Flip 5 was an exact contrast to the Galaxy Z Fold 5. With an entirely new persona, courtesy of its larger and improved 3.4-inch cover display. This display also brought more functionality by allowing users to run apps in a smaller form. Hence, you have a Flip smartphone that you don’t always need to flip open. Featuring the same Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset, the smartphone is one of the fastest flip smartphones in the market and its superior ISP also gives a fresh breath of life with a slightly dated dual 12-megapixel cameras. Although it can barely last an entire day on a single charge, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 makes up for it with its styling.

Specifications:
Display: 6.7-inch FHD+ and 3.4-inch HD+
SoC: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 256/512GB

What we like about this product: We liked its stylish looks, handy form factor, and powerful and efficient chipset.

Users’ review: Users have loved the striking design of Galaxy Z Flip 5 and the 120Hz AMOLED display.

Pros:
  • Striking design
  • Great performance
  • Decent cameras
  • Clean UI experience

Cons:
  • Though Samsung has increased the size of outer cover display on the Galaxy Z Flip 5, it offers access to limited apps on the cover display.


5. Best in features: OnePlus Open

The OnePlus Open, despite being a latecomer to the foldables’ party but ended up being the best of its kind. A familiar and conventional aspect ratio makes both the main and cover display comfortable to use despite featuring a complex hinge mechanism. It may not feature support for a Stylus like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, but it makes up for it with its well-tuned and more capable triple rear camera system tuned by Hasselblad. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip takes care of the flagship levels of performance expected from a big foldable. The efficient optimization allows for an all-day battery life and it even charges much faster than any other foldable smartphone with its 67W wired charging. But its biggest draw continues to be its unmatchable style. All in all, this is the best foldable smartphone we saw in 2023.

Specifications:
Display: 6.7-inch FHD+ and 3.4-inch HD+
SoC: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 256/512GB

Users’ review: Customers like the battery life, screen, sound quality and value of the cellular phone. They mention that it has an awesome battery life and decent battery optimization.

What we like about this product?
  • This mini tablet offers great viewing experience
  • Hasselblad lenses offer great quality pictures
  • The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is a powerhouse enabling phone to handle the multitasking at ease

Pros:
  • Hasselblad camera
  • Fast charging support
  • Great in-hand feel

Cons:
  • The phone lacks wireless charging


6. Best in camera: OnePlus 11 5G

OnePlus went back to its roots of making splendid flagship killers with the OnePlus 11. Launched earlier this year as a reasonably priced, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 equipped Android flagship, the OnePlus 11 focuses on all the key aspects that its fans have been demanding for years. It features a brilliant 6.7-inch Quad HD+ AMOLED display, a reliable set of Hasselblad-tuned triple cameras at the back, and a massive 5,000mAh battery. All of which made the OnePlus 11 5G an easier-to-recommend premium Android smartphone. The ColorOS-inspired persona of OnePlus’ Oxygen OS may have not found favor with the brand’s loyalists but its ultra-fast 100W wired charging and unmistakably stylish design made up for any of these shortcomings.

Users’ review: Users liked its good battery life, fast charging and performance.

What we like about this product?
  • OnePlus 11 5G offers a stand-out design
  • It's premium features and a robust processor that can manage even the most demanding tasks at ease
  • It supports 100W wired fast charging

Pros:
  • Powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset
  • 100W fast charging
  • 4 years of OS updates and 5 years of security updates

Cons:
  • Though there are no major cons, but the UI could have been more polished

7. Best in charging support: Xiaomi 13 Pro

The Xiaomi 13 Pro is a high-end smartphone that offers several impressive features. It stayed in the news for its critically acclaimed Leica-tuned camera system. Being the only phone to feature three 50-megapixel cameras for its main, ultrawide, and telephoto lenses respectively, Xiaomi made most of its partnership with Leica to give us a phone that does impressive photography. Other than the camera system, the Xiaomi 13 Pro also stood out for its unusual design complemented by its bio-ceramic back. Like all flagship phones of 2023, it featured the mighty Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and a 6.73-inch 120Hz QuadHD AMOLED display. It featured a 5,000mAh battery and ended up being one of the fastest-charging flagship smartphones with its 120W wired charging system.

Overall, the Xiaomi 13 Pro is a great smartphone with a lot to offer. It has everything that you would want from a flagship one including a powerful processor, a beautiful display, a versatile camera system, and a long-lasting battery.

Specifications:
Display: 6.7-inch FHD+ and 3.4-inch HD+
SoC: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 256/512GB

What we like about this product: We liked its stylish looks, handy form factor, and powerful and efficient chipset.

Users’ review: Users have loved the striking design of Galaxy Z Flip 5 and the 120Hz AMOLED display.

Pros:
  • Striking design
  • Great performance
  • Decent cameras

Cons:
  • UI could have been better



Disclaimer: Times Shopping Guide is committed to bringing you the latest products from the best brands. Our selection is based on market research and positive consumer feedback. Times Shopping Guide is also a part of an affiliate partnership. In line with this, we may receive a portion of the revenue from your purchases. Please note that the product prices are subject to change based on the retailer's deals.




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Best Wireless Power Banks in 2024 for On-the-Go Charging

By Himani Jha | Updated Oct 15, 2024, 2:12 PM IST
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Wireless power banks have become increasingly popular for their convenience and ease of use. Look no further if you're searching for a dependable and effective mobile device charger. This article will help you find the best wireless power bank for your needs and budget in 2024. Check out the best wireless power banks in India here.

Best Wireless Power Banks in 2024 for On-the-Go Charging
Best Wireless Power Banks in 2024
Staying connected is crucial in the fast-paced world of today, and nothing is more annoying than running out of battery just when you need it most. Wireless power banks can help in this situation. These portable, cordless chargers provide the ideal way to recharge your electronics while on the go. Whether you're on the go, traveling, or just out and about, a wireless power bank guarantees that your tablet, smartphone, or earphones stay charged without the inconvenience of cords.

By 2024, wireless power banks will have even more sophisticated designs, greater capacities, and quicker charging times. Nowadays, multi-device charging is a feature on many models, which makes charging multiple devices at once simple. These power banks are made to meet the demands of the modern tech world with features like magnetic attachments and compatibility with fast wireless charging standards.

In this article, we will talk about the top wireless power banks for 2024. Our top picks will keep your devices charged no matter where you go, whether you're searching for a powerful device for extended travels or a small option that fits into your pocket. Check out the flexibility of wireless charging while on the go and bid adieu to battery anxiety!

Best wireless power banks in India
Wireless power banks in IndiaBattery Capacity
Ambrane 10000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank10,000mAh
pTron Dynamo Quanta 10000mAh Wireless Power Bank10,000mAh
ZEBRONICS MW62 Wireless Power Bank10,000 mAh
Amazon Basics 5000mAh Li-Polymer Wireless Power Bank5,000mAh
pTron Dynamo Arc 10000mAh Wireless Power Bank10,000mAh
ZEBRONICS MW63 10,000 mAh Wireless Power Bank 10,000 mAh

1. Best overall: Ambrane 10000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank


The Ambrane 10000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank is a convenient and portable charging solution for your compatible devices. With its powerful 10000mAh battery capacity and magnetic attachment feature, this power bank offers a hassle-free charging experience. It supports wireless charging for compatible smartphones and other devices.

Users' feedback: Customers liked the power bank's functionality, charging speed, and value for money, customers have negative things to say. They mention that it gets hot, that it doesn't work, and that the wireless charging doesn't work.

2. Best in design: pTron Dynamo Quanta 10000mAh Wireless Power Bank

The pTron Dynamo Quanta 10000mAh Wireless Power Bank is a portable charging solution designed to keep your devices powered up on the go. With its high capacity and wireless charging capability, this power bank offers a convenient and efficient way to charge your smartphones, tablets, and other compatible devices. It includes both a USB-A and a USB-C output port for charging multiple devices simultaneously.

Users' feedback: Consumers appreciate the power bank's portability, build quality, and rate of charge. They state that it provides convenient, quick charging without the need for wires. Some people think it's a great balance of power, portability, and convenience and like how light it is.

3. Best in features: ZEBRONICS MW62 Wireless Power Bank

ZEBRONICS MW62 is a versatile wireless power bank designed to keep your devices charged on the go. With its sleek design and powerful features, it's a convenient and reliable companion for your mobile lifestyle. The MW62 features both wireless and wired charging options, allowing you to charge multiple devices simultaneously. The power bank supports fast charging technology, ensuring your devices are charged quickly and efficiently.

Users' feedback: Buyers like the power bank's size, charging speed, and construction quality. They say it is robust, long-lasting, and requires only a few hours to fully recharge. Some people value the value and longevity of the battery.

4. Best in budget: Amazon Basics 5000mAh Li-Polymer Wireless Power Bank

The Amazon Basics 5000mAh Li-Polymer Wireless Power Bank is a compact and portable charging solution designed to keep your compatible devices powered up on the go. This wireless power bank offers a convenient way to recharge your smartphone, tablet, or other wireless charging-enabled devices without the need for cables. It supports Qi-compatible devices for effortless charging.

Users' feedback: Users like the power bank's portability, longevity of battery life, and overall quality. They highlight its sturdy construction, strong battery backup, and portability. Some people also enjoy the appearance, usability, and performance.

5. Best in functionality: pTron Dynamo Arc 10000mAh Wireless Power Bank

The pTron Dynamo Arc 10000mAh Wireless Power Bank is a portable charging solution designed to keep your devices powered up on the go. This sleek and compact power bank offers both wired and wireless charging capabilities, making it a versatile accessory for your smartphones, tablets, and other compatible devices.

Users' feedback: Users like the power bank's portability, longevity of battery life, and overall quality. They highlight its sturdy construction, strong battery backup, and portability. Some people also enjoy the appearance, usability, and performance.

6. Value for money: ZEBRONICS MW63 10,000 mAh Wireless Power Bank

ZEBRONICS MW63 is a compact and powerful wireless power bank designed to keep your devices charged on the go. With a generous capacity of 10,000mAh, this power bank can provide multiple charges for your smartphone, tablet, or other compatible devices. It's equipped with multiple output ports, including USB-C and USB-A, to charge various devices simultaneously.

Users' feedback: Buyers loved the power bank's size, charging speed, and construction quality. They say it is robust, long-lasting, and requires only a few hours to fully recharge. Some people value the value and longevity of the battery.

Disclaimer: Times Shopping Guide is committed to bringing you the latest products from the best brands. Our selection is based on market research and positive consumer feedback. Times Shopping Guide is also a part of an affiliate partnership. In line with this, we may receive a portion of the revenue from your purchases. Please note that the product prices are subject to change based on the retailer's deals.




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Must Have Mobile Accessories for Content Creators

By Srishty Kumari | Updated Oct 4, 2024, 4:04 PM IST
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Mobile content creation has become increasingly popular in today's digital age, empowering individuals to produce high-quality content, podcasts, and social media posts directly from their smartphones. The right mobile accessories for creators are not just tools but the key to enhancing your creativity and streamlining the content creation process.

Must Have Mobile Accessories for Content Creators
Must Have Mobile Accessories for Content Creators
For content creators, the right mobile accessories can significantly affect production quality. Essential items include gimbals or stabilizers, which help achieve smooth, professional-looking video footage. High-quality external microphones capture clear audio, which is crucial for podcasts and vlogs. Tripods provide stability for shooting in various environments, while portable lighting solutions ensure excellent visibility even in low-light conditions. Additionally, lens attachments can enhance smartphone camera capabilities, allowing creative shots to stand out.

Investing in these top mobile accessories for creators can elevate your work, engage your audience effectively, and streamline their workflow, making the most of their mobile devices.

Must-Have Smartphone Accessories


AccessoriesSpecial Features
DIGITEK ED Ring Light with 5ft Stand and Smartphone MountUSB Connectivity
DJI OSMO Mobile SE Intelligent GimbalUpgraded Active Track 5.0
Mobilife LED Video LightUSB Type C Charging
VOOK Dual Channel Wireless-MicBattery Indicator Light
SKYVIK SIGNI X Mobile Camera 20x Macro Lens KitUltra-wide angle 14 to 24 millimeters
Creative Arts n Frames Long MirrorCrystal Clear Reflection

1. DIGITEK ED Ring Light with 5ft Stand and Smartphone Mount


Every creator first needs a good-quality ring light with a tripod and mobile holder. The DIGITEK 14-inch Multi-Color LED Ring Light is perfect for content creators, offering vibrant RGB lighting options to enhance your videos and photos. It caters to various creative needs with adjustable brightness levels and multiple color modes. The included 5ft stand ensures stability, while the smartphone mount makes it easy to capture stunning shots.

Users’ Review:
Users praise the ring light for its versatility and ease of use. Many appreciate the rich color options and adjustable brightness, noting that it significantly improves lighting for selfies and videos. The sturdy stand and compact design make it a favorite for beginners and experienced creators.

2. DJI OSMO Mobile SE Intelligent Gimbal


A gimbal is next on the list of mobile accessories; if you want to create videos while moving, it is a must-have. The DJI OSMO Mobile SE Intelligent Gimbal is a portable, foldable 3-axis smartphone stabiliser compatible with Android and iPhone devices. Featuring ActiveTrack 5.0, it effortlessly follows subjects, making it perfect for vlogging and creating dynamic YouTube videos. The built-in ShotGuides offer helpful shooting tips, ensuring stunning results every time. Its sleek grey design combines functionality with style, making it an essential tool for content creators on the go.

Users’ Review:
Users rave about the gimbal's smooth stabilization and ease of use, highlighting its effectiveness for vlogging. Many appreciate the ActiveTrack feature, noting it consistently keeps subjects in focus. The compact design is praised for portability, making it a must-have for creators seeking high-quality video production.

Read More: Best Gimbals in 2024 for Smooth, Cinematic Video on Any Budget.

3. Mobilife LED Video Light


Content creators who shoot their videos with a selfie camera and feel a lack of light or blur quality go for a mobile LED light. The Mobilife LED Video Light is a versatile lighting solution perfect for photography, Zoom meetings, and vlogging. This mobile accessory for creators features 100 bright LED beads to clip easily onto laptops, tripods, and selfie sticks, providing customisable illumination for any setting. Its compact design makes it portable and convenient for on-the-go use, ensuring you always look your best in photos and videos.

Users’ Review:
Users love the Mobilife LED Video Light's brightness and adjustability, which make it ideal for indoor and outdoor use. Many also appreciate the easy clip-on feature, which fits securely on various devices.

4. VOOK Dual Channel Wireless-Mic


You must use a microphone for a clearer voice in your videos. The VOOK Dual Channel Wireless Mic is a powerful tool for video recording, designed with noise reduction to ensure clear audio quality. Compatible with Type-C Android devices and iPhones, this lapel mic is perfect for YouTube, Facebook, vlogging, live streaming, and Instagram content creation. Its compact design makes it easy to use on the go, while the dual-channel feature allows for seamless audio capture from multiple sources, enhancing your recordings significantly.

Users’ Review:
Users appreciate the VOOK mic for its excellent sound quality and ease of setup. Many commend its noise reduction capability, making recordings crisp and clear. The lightweight design is favoured for portability, and content creators find it invaluable for live streaming and vlogging.

5. SKYVIK SIGNI X Mobile Camera 20x Macro Lens Kit


A creator who struggles with high-quality close images and videos should have a microlens. A microlens for phone is an innovative mobile accessory to enhance your smartphone photography. Featuring a powerful 20x magnification, the SKYVIK SIGNI X Mobile Camera 20x Macro Lens Kit allows you to capture stunning close-up details, bringing small subjects to life with clarity and precision. The kit includes a clip-on design for easy attachment to most smartphones, ensuring quick setup for spontaneous shots. Compact and portable, it’s perfect for photographers, hobbyists, and nature enthusiasts looking to explore macro photography.

Users’ Review:
Users rave about the lens's impressive clarity and detail, noting it’s perfect for capturing intricate textures. Many appreciate the easy attachment and portability, making it a go-to accessory for on-the-spot photography.

6. Creative Arts n Frames Long Mirror


Last but not least, a must-have is a mirror. This mobile accessory for creators is a manipulation that helps you use your back camera for shooting to enhance your quality compared to a selfie camera. Just have your setup ready and fix the mirror in front of your mobile screen, and you are set to see your screen reflection in camera. The Creative Arts n Frames Long Mirror features a stunning mosaic black design, making it a striking addition. Crafted with durable materials, this wall-mount mirror enhances the illusion of space while adding a modern touch to your shooting area. Its sleek and stylish look complements various interior styles, making it a versatile decor piece.

Users’ Review:
Customers love the mirror's elegant design and quality craftsmanship. Many appreciate how it effortlessly brightens up rooms and creates a sense of depth. The easy installation is frequently praised, with users noting that it adds a sophisticated flair to their decor.

FAQs
1. What essential mobile accessories do content creators need?
Content creators typically benefit from accessories such as gimbals for stabilization, external microphones for better audio quality, portable lights for improved illumination, tripods for stability, and lens attachments for enhanced camera capabilities.

2. Are mobile accessories compatible with both Android and iPhone?
Most mobile accessories for creators, such as tripods and lens attachments, are designed to be compatible with both Android and iPhone devices. However, specific items like microphones may require adapters or specific connectors, so always check compatibility before purchasing.

3. Can I use portable lights for outdoor shoots?
Potable lights are great for outdoor shoots, especially in low-light conditions. Look for battery-operated options that are lightweight and easy to set up, ensuring you can achieve optimal lighting anywhere.


Disclaimer: Times Shopping Guide is committed to bringing you the latest products from the best brands. Our selection is based on market research and positive consumer feedback. Times Shopping Guide is also a part of an affiliate partnership. In line with this, we may receive a portion of the revenue from your purchases. Please note that the product prices are subject to change based on the retailer's deals.