110 Smartphones, Tablets, Notebooks Due for Updates in 2017
2Apple’s Big iPhone Update
Rumors have been swirling for months that Apple has big plans for at least one iPhone model this year. The device, believed to be the iPhone 8, could come with an OLED-based curved screen and a new, all-glass design, according to reports. It would go on sale alongside the iPhone 7s and iPhone 7s Plus, which would include minor updates over last year’s model.
3LG Has Big Plans for the G6
LG reportedly is hard at work on a high-end handset dubbed the LG G6. The company, which plans to unveil the device at Mobile World Congress in February, has been hinting at its plans of late with an ad that suggests the G6 features a screen that covers its face entirely. It’s also possible the device will have a super-high-resolution display and an always-on screen. LG’s G6, however, might ditch the removable battery found in the G5.
4Samsung’s Galaxy S8 in the Works
The Samsung Galaxy S8 might be the worst-kept secret in the mobile market. Over the last few months, the rumor mill has been springing leaks everywhere. So, it seems likely there will be two versions of the Galaxy S8 (including one with a curved screen) with display sizes up to 6.2 inches. In addition, the Galaxy S8 is expected to ship without a physical home button, which instead will be baked into its touch-screen. Several reports say it will be available in April.
5Could A Galaxy Note 8 Show Up?
Samsung wants everyone to forget the Galaxy Note 7, but that doesn’t mean it is turning its back on the large form-factor smartphones. In fact, several reports have suggested that Samsung is planning to bring back the Galaxy Note line with the Galaxy Note 8. The device will is expected to come with the same S Pen stylus support and deliver high-end performance, to win back buyers with safe and reliable performance.
6Apple May Try Out a New Screen Size
Apple reportedly is planning several new iPads this year, including updates to its 9.7-inch and 12.9-inch models. However, Apple also is reportedly planning to offer a version with a 10.5-inch screen. The move is part of a broader push by Apple to appeal to customers who want larger display sizes, and could mean the company plans to phase out the 9.7-inch option. Look for the new iPads to be announced sometime within the next few months.
7Look for a New and Improved Google Pixel
The Google Pixel took the Android ecosystem by storm in the latter part of 2016. Now, Google is said to be planning a big update to the device. The 2017 Google Pixel could come with an improved design, faster performance and a better display. It also will work to ensure its self-appointed title of best camera in the smartphone business.
8HTC 11 Promises Tons of RAM
The HTC 11 could make an appearance at Mobile World Congress in February. And when it does, its biggest feature might be its power. According to several reports, the HTC 11 will come with a high-end Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, powerful graphics and a whopping 8GB of onboard RAM. It will be HTC’s latest attempt at regaining lost market share.
9Microsoft Keeps Introducing New Surface Models
Microsoft made the somewhat surprising decision last year to announce a new Surface Book and other Surface entrants, but ignore the Surface Pro 4. But now, Microsoft is said to be ramping up big improvements for its Surface line, including all-new Surface Books and an update to the Surface Studio. And, perhaps most important, there are reports of a new Surface Pro. It’s unknown, though, when those computers will be available.
10OnePlus Takes Another Stab at Smartphones
OnePlus has been making interesting smartphones for the last few years in the hope of breaking out of its boutique status to being a go-to, high-end device maker. While that hasn’t happened yet, the company reportedly is planning another top-of-the-line device this year. Details on that product are slim, but look for the company to do its best at matching (if not surpassing) the iPhone and Samsung’s Galaxy handsets.
11All-New Hybrids Seem Likely
If CES proved anything, it’s that two-in-one hybrids are still important. Going forward, it’s exceedingly likely that companies big and small will be announcing and delivering new hybrids to customers. From Chromebooks to Windows-based options, look for hybrids of all types and sizes to find their way to store shelves this year—and for hybrids to continue to sell well throughout 2017.