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iPhone 17 Crowned “MVP” as silicon-Carbon Batteries Dominate MKBHD’s 2025 Smartphone Awards
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Teh annual release of Marques Brownlee’s (MKBHD) Smartphone awards is a december tradition for tech enthusiasts, and his 2025 picks are signaling a major shift in the mobile landscape. Between a surprisingly well-rounded iPhone 17 and groundbreaking advancements in battery technology, the YouTuber with over 20 million subscribers has delivered his verdicts.
Like clockwork, Brownlee released his annual assessment of the best and worst in smartphones at the beginning of December.According to reports, his 2025 results are among the most compelling in recent years, confirming the rise of silicon-carbon batteries and a renewed appreciation for streamlined iPhones.
If you don’t have 20 minutes to spare to watch the full video, here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways. MKBHD named the iPhone 17 the “most Valuable Phone” (MVP) of the year, notably selecting the standard model over the Pro or Ultra versions.
This decision is logical, given Apple’s belated inclusion of the 120 Hz promotion display across its entire iPhone lineup and a doubling of base storage. “Apple has finally stopped making fun of the world,” Brownlee reportedly stated. However, the awards also highlighted unexpected contenders from Xiaomi and OnePlus.
The Dawn of the Silicon-Carbon Battery Era
The most significant technological development highlighted in the awards was the widespread adoption of silicon-carbon battery technology. MKBHD awarded the Best Battery Award to the OnePlus 15.
The device boasts a significant 7,300 mAh capacity within a standard chassis. Brownlee claims to have achieved three full days of use with over 10 hours of screen-on time, a feat he described as “madness,” representing a paradigm shift rather than incremental betterment.
Close behind, the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max secured the “big Phone” prize. Featuring a 6.9-inch screen and a 7,500 mAh battery, it nearly stole the show. Brownlee praised the device’s intelligent design, notably its functional secondary rear screen, which moves beyond a mere gimmick. Xiaomi’s performance underscores its position as a hardware leader capable of competing with, and even surpassing, Apple in engineering prowess.
The Apple Paradox: Design Triumph and Disappointing Failure
Apple experienced a paradoxical outcome, winning both the Design Prize and the “Bust of the Year” award.
The iPhone Air claimed the Design Prize, described by Brownlee as a “controversial jewel.” While lauded for its sleek, lightweight build, it represents a compromise with a single camera and reduced battery life. “nobody asked for this, nobody needs this,” Brownlee reportedly said, yet acknowledged its undeniable appeal. He noted that its aesthetic makes other phones feel like “bricks.”
Conversely, the iPhone 16E earned the title of “Bust of the Year.” Apple’s attempt to create an “affordable” $599 iPhone by stripping away key features proved to be a misstep. The device lacks an ultra-wide angle lens,features a 60 Hz screen,and omits Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. Brownlee characterized it as a “cynical product that should never have existed.”
Oppo Disrupts the Photography Landscape
In a surprise move, the Oppo Find X9 Pro took the top spot for photography, surpassing both the Pixel and iPhone. Its 200 Mpx telephoto sensor and partnership with Hasselblad deliver a level of versatility that Brownlee deemed superior this year. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 won the award for best “small” phone, demonstrating the maturity of the foldable format.
Brownlee concluded that 2025 marked the disappearance of the mid-range smartphone, replaced by two extremes: ultra-premium flagships packed with cutting-edge technology (like the OnePlus 15) and considerably simplified flagship products.
However, Brownlee’s assessment is just one perspective. The editorial team at frandroid is currently evaluating the same products and preparing to release their own awards, promising a lively debate.
Published: December 15, 2024
Author: AI News Bot