2025's Highest Rated Tech: Phones, AI, and Deals

In 2025, leading smartphones like the iPhone 17 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro, and Galaxy Z Fold 7 emerged as top performers based on high review scores. Other standout devices included the Switch 2, AirPods Pro 3, and DJI's premier drone, following extensive testing across categories.

OpenAI introduced an app directory inside ChatGPT, available on iOS, Android, and web, categorized into Feature, Lifestyle, and Productivity. Users can connect to services like Booking.com, Spotify, and Dropbox, enabling tasks such as summarizing documents with AI assistance. Developers monetize via external links, with internal options under exploration.

Trump Mobile's anticipated T1 smartphone remains unreleased, yet the company now sells refurbished models including Samsung Galaxy S24, S23, iPhone 15, and 14, often at prices matching or exceeding competitors.

Sony acquired an additional stake in the Peanuts franchise, reaching 80 percent ownership for $460 million, building on its 39 percent holding from 2018. Additional stories covered last-minute holiday gifts, Avatar: Fire and Ash review, Big Tech's interactions with political figures, and the OnePlus 15R evaluation featuring a 165Hz display and large battery for $700.

The iPhone 17 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro, and Galaxy Z Fold 7 stand out as premier smartphones of 2025, earning the highest review scores in their category.

Comprehensive evaluations across various devices highlighted additional favorites. The Switch 2 gaming console, AirPods Pro 3 earbuds, and DJI's leading drone model cater to diverse user needs.

Unexpected Favorites

Anker's Laptop Power Bank, equipped with two built-in charging cables, gained popularity among users. Four editors selected it as their preferred power bank, attributing its appeal to the retractable cable design.

• Switch 2: High scores in gaming performance.
• AirPods Pro 3: Top audio quality and features.
• DJI drone: Excellence in aerial imaging capabilities.

These selections reflect thousands of hours dedicated to testing gear in multiple categories.

OpenAI rolled out an app directory integrated directly into ChatGPT, enhancing functionality for users on iOS, Android, and web platforms.

The directory organizes apps into three main categories: Feature, Lifestyle, and Productivity. This setup allows seamless connections to popular services and websites.

Integration Examples

Users can link ChatGPT with apps like Booking.com for travel planning, Spotify for music organization, and Dropbox for document management. For instance, the Dropbox integration enables gathering insights, preparing briefs, and summarizing reports or internal documents using AI capabilities.

Some apps utilize locally stored data, while others facilitate tasks such as organizing Apple Music songs.

• Monetization: Developers earn through links to native apps or websites outside ChatGPT.
• Future Plans: OpenAI is considering internal monetization methods.

This development expands ChatGPT's utility in everyday applications.

The T1 smartphone from Trump Mobile continues to be unavailable, classified as vaporware despite initial announcements.

Despite the delay, Trump Mobile has begun offering refurbished phones for purchase through its website. Available models include the Samsung Galaxy S24, S23, iPhone 15, and iPhone 14.

Pricing Details

These refurbished devices are priced at levels comparable to or higher than those at other retailers. This approach allows Trump Mobile to generate revenue while the flagship T1 remains in development.

• Samsung S24 and S23: Flagship Android options.
• iPhone 15 and 14: Popular Apple models in refurbished condition.

The move highlights ongoing challenges in bringing new hardware to market.

Sony, known for products like the Walkman and PlayStation, has acquired an 80 percent stake in the Peanuts franchise for $460 million.

This purchase builds on Sony's existing 39 percent ownership obtained in 2018. The deal encompasses iconic characters such as Snoopy and Charlie Brown.

Acquisition Background

The transaction represents a significant expansion into entertainment intellectual property for Sony. It positions the company to leverage the franchise across media and consumer products.

Other notable 2025 stories include recommendations for last-minute Christmas gifts, a review of Avatar: Fire and Ash suggesting potential closure for the Pandora series, analysis of Big Tech's engagements with political leaders, and praise for the OnePlus 15R with its 165Hz display and substantial battery at $700.

These developments underscore the intersection of technology, entertainment, and commerce in 2025, setting the stage for continued innovation and strategic partnerships in the coming year.