As the end of 2023 draws near, leading smartphone makers are set to ring in 2024 with major launches. Some annual iterations of handset lineups, such as the Apple iPhone 16 series, the puported Google Pixel 9 series and the Samsung Galaxy S24 lineup will be the major smartphone launches to look forward to in 2024, OnePlus Vivo and Xiaomi are also geared up to announce their flagship smartphones in January 2024. Samsung is likely to officially unveil its flagship Galaxy S24 line on January 17. Handset makers OnePlus and Vivo are also confirmed to launch their OnePlus 12 series and Vivo X100 series in January, respectively. Xiaomi, on the other hand, will announce its Redmi Note 13 series. If you're considering purchasing a new smartphone, explore the confirmed, anticipated, and rumoured smartphone releases for the year ahead here.
OnePlus 12 Series
A much-anticipated smartphone launch in the first half of 2024 is the OnePlus 12, which is set to debut on January 23. The launch event will officially unveil details about the phone's price and availability. While the OnePlus 12 may resemble its predecessor, significant upgrades are said to arrive internally. There will be the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, an enhanced display, improved cameras and extended battery life. The likely price of OnePlus 12 in India may exceed Rs 60,000. Additionally, the brand is introducing an affordable model, alongside, the OnePlus 12R.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Series
Multiple rumours suggest that Samsung is gearing up to unveil its next-generation flagship Galaxy S24 series of smartphones in January. The early launch hints at heightened competition in the high-end smartphone market, putting pressure on Samsung. Despite limited details available right now, leaks and reports suggest that the Galaxy S24 series will have a top-end Galaxy S24 Ultra, which is expected to feature top-notch features and specifications. The lineup is also anticipated to incorporate various generative AI capabilities, including real-time call translation and a wallpaper generator.
Apple iPhone 16 Series
The Apple iPhone 16 series, which is likely to debut in next fall, is set to undergo significant changes. Apple is mulling to increase the iPhone 16 Pro to 6.3 inches and the iPhone 16 Pro to 6.9 inches, representing the first substantial size upgrade in years. However, these size adjustments will be exclusive to the iPhone 16 Pro models, and the iPhone 16 models will retain the same dimensions as the iPhone 15 counterparts. Apple is said to be developing fresh A-series chips for the iPhone 16 series, utilising the cutting-edge N3E 3-nanometer node. While potential enhancements in efficiency and performance are anticipated, specific details are yet to be disclosed. All four iPhone 16 models might feature capacitive volume buttons, a power button, and an Action Button. Additionally, rumours suggest the introduction of an extra mystery button with an "undisclosed" purpose.
Google Pixel 9 Line
This year's Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro generated significant buzz, offering outstanding performance, a top-notch camera equipped with remarkable AI features and an appealing design -- everything at compelling prices. It's no surprise that after weeks post-release, anticipation is building for the next generation of Pixel phones. According to unconfirmed leaks, Google's upcoming Pixel lineup may feature enhanced charging technology, enabling users to quickly replenish their batteries. This translates to reduced time spent connected to a charger. During the launch of the Pixel 8 series, rumours emerged regarding an extra phone joining the lineup. Google was said to be considering the addition of a smaller Pro version to its upcoming lineup, effectively turning the existing Pixel Pro into a Pixel Pro Max variant. This modest size increase could bring enhanced camera capabilities compared to the regular Pixel. If this concept comes to fruition, strategically positioned between the "big Pro" and the standard Pixel, Google might introduce a compelling phone with an attractive price point.
Vivo X100 Lineup
Handset maker Vivo is also focussing on the high-end smartphone market, and it is gearung up to launch its premium-tier devices in the X100 series. The devices will succeed the X 90 lineup. The X100 Pro has already been released in the brand's home turf China, presenting itself as a robust smartphone. Following the trend of previous X series devices, the new X100 Pro is anticipated to be a camera-centric device, but it will feature a MediaTek Dimensity 9300 processor, instead of a Snapdrgaon 8 Gen 3.
Redmi Note 13 Lineup
Xiaomi is set to launch its mid-range Redmi Note 13 series in India on January 4, featuring the Redmi Note 13, Redmi Note 13 Pro, and Redmi Note 13 Pro+. With these models already available in China, it is highly anticipated that they will share similar specifications for the Indian market. All three variants are expected to sport a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. Regarding the chipset, the Redmi Note 13 is likely to be equipped with the Mediatek Dimensity 6080 SoC, the Pro model is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 SoC whereas the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ could feature the MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Ultra SoC.