13 Smartphone Models You'll Want To Steer Clear Of In 2026
Some smartphones are easy to recommend. Others come with enough compromises that you'll probably wish you picked something else after a few months.
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2023
Jordan Wirth
SlashGear Editorial Policies
SlashGear's content hails from a group of experienced technology and automotive editors and a wide-ranging team of writers, engineers, enthusiasts, and experts across consumer tech and transportation. Our goal is to provide up-to-the-minute breaking news coverage as well as original and engaging opinion and editorial content that serves as the ultimate resource for those who want to stay up to date on the latest and greatest the industry has to offer.
Our editors, advisors, and fact-checkers conduct regular reviews to ensure the accuracy, timeliness, and completeness of our articles. Complete information on our editorial process available here.
Stories By Jordan Wirth
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17 Features You Probably Didn't Know Came With Your Google Pixel Phone
If you just got your first Pixel or are upgrading from an older model, these are some of the features that come with your phone.
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12 Advancements In Battery Tech That Could Define The Next Decade
Today's batteries are only the beginning. These emerging technologies could change everything from EV range to phone battery life and future of clean energy.
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5 Devices You Should Always Connect To 5 GHz Wi-Fi
If your streaming keeps buffering or your games keep lagging, the culprit could be as simple as picking the wrong Wi-Fi band.
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5 Devices That Work Just Fine On 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
Before connecting every gadget to your fastest Wi Fi network, it's worth knowing which devices are actually better off staying on 2.4 GHz.
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5 Downsides To Buying A Google Pixel Phone
Thinking about switching to a Google Pixel? These five drawbacks could change your mind before you spend flagship money on Google's latest smartphone.
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14 Useful, No-Fuss Gadgets That Just Work Right Out Of The Box
Skip the complicated setup and endless menus. These gadgets are built for people who want useful tech that works right out of the box.
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11 Browsers That Still Support Ad Blocking (Now That Google Chrome Doesn't)
Google is happy to ban ad blockers in its browser, but there are still options for privacy-minded individuals who have had enough ads.
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5 Worthwhile Ways To Use Your Smartphone's Dual SIM Feature
There's a good chance your phone supports dual SIM, but are you making the most of it? These ideas can help you get far more value from it.
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We Tried The New Siri Beta - Has Apple Finally Delivered On Its Promises?
Apple promised a much smarter Siri back in 2024. The latest beta suggests it's finally catching up, so we put it to the test to see what's changed.
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All The Hidden Features Of Your Android Phone's Volume Buttons
Chances are you're only using your Android phone's volume buttons for one thing. Here's how they can handle much more with the right settings.
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5 Must-Try Samsung Galaxy Watch Features That Don't Come Enabled By Default
The best part of owning a Galaxy Watch might not be the features you see first. Some of its smartest tools need to be enabled manually.
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5 Useful Accessories That Can Upgrade Your Google Pixel Phone
A few well-chosen accessories can change how your Pixel feels day to day. These are the ones most likely to earn a permanent spot.
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5 Devices You Probably Didn't Realize You Can Charge With A Samsung Phone
That battery in your Samsung phone could be helping more than just your handset. See which devices can tap into it when needed most.
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5 Everyday Tech That Can Track Your Activity
We all know that apps and smartphones can track us, but that's just the tip of the iceberg.
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5 Things You Should Know Before You Buy Google's Fitbit Air
The Fitbit Air promises distraction-free fitness tracking, but a few less obvious details could change whether it's the right fit for you.
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6 Awesome Apple Features Android Still Doesn't Have
Android offers more freedom, but Apple still has a few built-in features that Google hasn't matched. Some of them are surprisingly useful day to day.
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16 New Pieces Of Portable Tech On Amazon Worth Checking Out In 2026
Portable tech is having a strong year. If you're thinking about upgrading your everyday gear, start with these noteworthy 2026 releases.
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Your Android Phone Just Got 5 New Features In June 2026
The latest Android update doesn't add a lot, but we bet that at least one feature will feel like it was made for you.
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5 Weapons & Vehicles The US Military Operates With XBOX Controllers
Modern video game controllers are sophisticated devices, enough to be the best option for some military applications.
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5 Features The iPad Pro Has That An iPad Air Doesn't
The gap between the iPad Air and Pro is smaller than Apple suggests, but a few exclusive features still tip the scale if you care about the details.
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5 Features The MacBook Air Has That The MacBook Neo Doesn't
A quick comparison shows how the Neo trades away small but meaningful features that influence typing, charging, and the overall feel of using a Mac every day.
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5 Reasons Why Someone Might Not Want To Wear A Smartwatch
From battery anxiety to privacy concerns, some of the biggest smartwatch drawbacks only become obvious after you've lived with one for a while.
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5 Ways To Get The Most Out Of Your iPhone's Weather App
Few things are less interesting than the weather, but the iPhone's Weather app has no shortage of surprising features.
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5 Older Apple Products Still Worth Buying In 2026
There’s a strong case for skipping the latest Apple releases. Some older models still feel fast, capable, and perfectly usable for most people today.
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15 Of The Worst Tech Gadgets We've Ever Seen
A mix of overhype, poor execution, and timing issues turned these gadgets into cautionary tales. The story behind each is more interesting than you’d expect.
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5 Reasons An iPhone May Not Be The Best Smartphone For You
Choosing an iPhone means buying into a system with tradeoffs. From ecosystem limits to fewer budget options, here's what might make you think twice.
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