In the ever-evolving world of technology, Android Authority's team members recently shared insights into their personal smartphone preferences post-review. The survey revealed a diverse range of devices favored by the staff, with Google Pixels leading the pack, followed closely by Samsung Galaxy phones. Additionally, some team members opted for iPhones or other brands like OPPO and vivo. This exploration not only highlights individual preferences but also sheds light on common praises and criticisms regarding these devices.

Smartphone Preferences Among the Android Authority Team

During a crisp autumn season filled with vibrant foliage, Android Authority conducted another round of its annual smartphone preference poll among its staff. Out of fifteen participants, six individuals chose Google Pixel phones as their daily drivers, making Google the most popular brand for the second consecutive year. Among these, the Pixel 7 Pro emerged as the top choice, used by two team members. Other models included the Pixel 7, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL, each selected by one person. Notably absent were any foldable Pixel devices or those from the A series, possibly due to the tech-savvy nature of the team who prefer flagship options.

Samsung secured the second position with four team members opting for Galaxy phones. The Galaxy S25 Ultra was particularly favored, chosen by two individuals. YouTube Producer Paul Jones appreciated its anti-reflective display and LOG video support, while Managing Editor Bogdan Petrovan highlighted the well-rounded cameras and battery life. However, both expressed concerns about certain aspects such as missing Qi2 magnets and lack of specific software features.

Three team members embraced Apple products, using either the iPhone 11 or the newer iPhone 16 Pro. Senior Writer Kaitlyn Cimino valued the seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem despite acknowledging her aging iPhone 11's limitations. On the other hand, Senior Writer Aamir Siddiqui and Contributor Pranob Mehrotra preferred the iPhone 16 Pro primarily for its reliability and ecosystem compatibility, though they too had grievances concerning notification handling and intelligence features.

Other notable mentions included the OPPO Find N5 praised for its excellent battery life and build quality by Paul, and the vivo X200 Pro used as a secondary device due to its superior camera performance and large battery capacity. Despite these positives, users noted drawbacks like excessive bloatware and dependency on internet connectivity for AI functionalities.

From a broader perspective, it became evident that all listed phones except the iPhone 11 featured OLED screens and eSIM support. Yet, none possessed headphone jacks or memory card slots, reflecting current industry trends. Water resistance was universal except in the case of the OPPO Find N5 which lacked dust resistance.

Insights and Future Considerations

This detailed analysis offers valuable insights into what professionals prioritize when selecting personal devices beyond professional reviews. While Google Pixels stood out for their exceptional cameras, AI capabilities, and software updates, complaints about slow charging speeds persisted. Similarly, Samsung Galaxy users appreciated robust hardware but desired improvements in design details and software customization. Apple enthusiasts emphasized ecosystem cohesion yet criticized certain usability issues.

Looking ahead, many team members expressed interest in upcoming releases like the Google Pixel 10 series and vivo X200 Ultra, indicating anticipation for advancements in camera technology and overall performance. Conversely, Jonathan and Matt see no immediate need to upgrade given their satisfaction with current models. Overall, this exercise underscores how personal needs and experiences shape technological choices even among seasoned reviewers.