The landscape of smartphones in 2016 was a pivotal moment in mobile history, marking the transition from established ecosystems to the modern era of computational photography and bezel-less designs. This year saw manufacturers pushing boundaries not just with incremental updates, but with fundamental shifts in how devices were structured and experienced. Consumers were presented with a compelling array of options, ranging from the polished refinement of Apple’s ecosystem to the ambitious hardware experiments from Google and Samsung.
The Flagship Contenders
At the pinnacle of the market stood the Apple iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, devices that redefined user expectations with their water resistance, dual-lens camera systems, and the controversial removal of the headphone jack. These phones cemented iOS as a premium, stable platform where software and hardware were meticulously integrated. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge offered a compelling counterpoint with their stunning curved displays, IP68 water resistance, and dramatically improved cameras that finally kept pace with their premium pricing, setting a new standard for Android flagship photography.
Camera and Performance Showdown
Photography became the defining battleground in 2016, with Google leading the charge. The Pixel and Pixel XL, launched later in the year, demonstrated that software could outperform hardware through computational imaging, capturing unparalleled dynamic range and color accuracy that left competitors scrambling. On the performance front, Apple’s A10 Fusion chip delivered efficiency and power that ensured the iPhone 7 series remained responsive for years. In contrast, Samsung countered with the Exynos 8890 and Snapdragon 820, processors that handled multitasking and gaming with ease, proving that raw power was no longer the sole domain of iOS.
Design and User Experience Evolution
2016 was the year of the slim, waterproof chassis. Devices shed thickness without sacrificing battery life, incorporating nano-coating technology that allowed for greater internal density. The introduction of pressure-sensitive displays, as seen in the 3D Touch feature on iPhones and the Edge panels on Galaxy S7 Edge, added a new layer of interaction, allowing users to access shortcuts and peek at content without fully launching apps. This focus on ergonomics and durability marked a shift away from the fragile, glass-heavy designs that preceded them.
Apple iPhone 7: Iconic aluminum unibody with IP67 rating and stereo speakers.
Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge: Curved QHD display with Always-On Display and seamless app continuity.
Google Pixel: Minimalist design with exceptional camera software and timely Android updates.
Mid-Range and Innovation Holdouts
While the flagships dominated headlines, 2016 also saw the mid-range market mature significantly. Devices like the OnePlus 3 and Moto Z series offered flagship-tier performance at accessible price points, challenging the notion that premium features were exclusive to the top tier. Innovation persisted in niche areas, with modular concepts from LG and Lenovo, though not universally adopted, hinted at a future where personalization and repairability were valued alongside sleek aesthetics.
Looking Back, Looking Forward
Examining the best phones of 2016 provides crucial context for understanding the trajectory of mobile technology. The year established the foundational elements of today’s smartphones: advanced multi-lens cameras, high-refresh-rate displays, and the expectation of seamless software support. These devices were not merely tools but catalysts, pushing the entire industry toward a future defined by intelligent cameras, robust build quality, and a relentless pursuit of user-centric design.
