The smartphone market in 2018 continues to innovate with stunning designs, powerful performance, and diverse options across all price points. From feature-packed premium devices to reliable budget options, here’s a comprehensive guide to the top smartphones released in Australia this year.
Premium Smartphones
The year’s premium devices push the boundaries of design and functionality, offering cutting-edge technology:
- Samsung Galaxy S9
Release Date: 16 March 2018
Price: $1,199 AUD
Key Features: Exynos 9810 or Snapdragon 845, 4GB RAM, 5.8-inch Super AMOLED Infinity Display, 12MP Dual Aperture rear camera, stereo speakers, water resistance, AR Emojis. - Samsung Galaxy S9+
Release Date: 16 March 2018
Price: $1,349 AUD
Key Features: Larger 6.2-inch display, dual rear cameras, and a bigger battery, while retaining the S9’s standout features. - Apple iPhone XS
Release Date: 21 September 2018
Price: $1,629 AUD
Key Features: A12 Bionic chip, 5.8-inch Super Retina OLED display, dual 12MP rear cameras, Face ID, stainless steel frame, and water resistance. - Apple iPhone XS Max
Release Date: 21 September 2018
Price: $1,799 AUD
Key Features: A massive 6.5-inch OLED display, dual cameras, and top-tier performance, perfect for those who want the biggest iPhone yet. - Huawei P20 Pro
Release Date: May 2018
Price: $1,099 AUD
Key Features: Kirin 970, 6GB RAM, 6.1-inch OLED display, triple Leica cameras (40MP + 20MP + 8MP), 24MP front camera, and AI camera features. - Google Pixel 3
Release Date: 18 October 2018
Price: $1,199 AUD
Key Features: Snapdragon 845, 5.5-inch OLED display, single 12.2MP rear camera with exceptional software, water resistance, and stock Android. - Google Pixel 3 XL
Release Date: 18 October 2018
Price: $1,349 AUD
Key Features: A larger 6.3-inch OLED display with a notch, the same outstanding camera, and a bigger battery.
Mid-Range Smartphones
Mid-range phones in 2018 deliver excellent performance and features at a lower price point:
- OnePlus 6
Release Date: May 2018
Price: $749 AUD
Key Features: Snapdragon 845, 6.28-inch AMOLED display, dual 16MP/20MP rear cameras, OxygenOS, and incredible value for its specs. - Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018)
Release Date: February 2018
Price: $649 AUD
Key Features: Exynos 7885, 4GB RAM, 5.6-inch Super AMOLED display, 16MP rear camera, dual front cameras (16MP + 8MP), and water resistance. - OPPO R15 Pro
Release Date: April 2018
Price: $779 AUD
Key Features: Snapdragon 660, 6GB RAM, 6.28-inch AMOLED display, dual 20MP/16MP rear cameras, 20MP front camera, and VOOC Flash Charge.
Budget Smartphones
Affordable yet capable, these budget smartphones deliver reliable performance without the hefty price tag:
- Nokia 5.1
Release Date: August 2018
Price: $329 AUD
Key Features: MediaTek Helio P18, 3GB RAM, 5.5-inch Full HD+ display, 16MP rear camera, Android One, and durable aluminium body. - Xiaomi Redmi Note 5
Release Date: March 2018
Price: $299 AUD
Key Features: Snapdragon 636, 3GB/4GB RAM, 6.0-inch Full HD+ display, dual 12MP/5MP rear cameras, and a large 4000mAh battery. - Motorola Moto E5
Release Date: May 2018
Price: $229 AUD
Key Features: Snapdragon 425, 2GB RAM, 5.7-inch Max Vision HD+ display, 13MP rear camera, 4000mAh battery, and great value for its price.
Key Takeaways
For premium users, the Samsung Galaxy S9+ and iPhone XS Max offer unmatched performance and stunning designs. Mid-range options like the OnePlus 6 and OPPO R15 Pro deliver incredible value, while budget-conscious buyers should consider the Nokia 5.1 or Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 for reliable, affordable performance.
2018 brings a phone for every budget and preference—making it a fantastic time to upgrade!