Waveform: The MKBHD Podcast The Phone of the Year is...
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Dec 12, 2025 The crew dives into the hottest smartphone picks, revealing their choices for best camera, value, and design awards. They discuss innovative devices like the new Pebble smart ring and the impressive Xiaomi SU7. Hot takes on Android XR features and Google's upcoming AR headset add spice. The coveted title of Phone of the Year goes to the iPhone 17, praised for its display and improved features. Expect lively debates on user preferences and the latest in tech sustainability!
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Awards Reflect Tested Perspective
- Waveform's Smartphone Awards drive spirited online debate and reflect Marques's long-term testing perspective.
- The awards prioritize devices Marques actually tested and the experience those phones delivered throughout the year.
Android XR Moves To Rolling Platform
- Android XR is shifting from single big releases to rolling updates and multiple device classes.
- Google aims to unify AR/VR behaviour across headsets, glasses, and displays to reduce developer fragmentation.
Gemini-Powered Glasses As Companion Computers
- Project Aura (Xreal + Gemini) demonstrates glasses-as-compute with a companion puck acting as a trackpad and battery.
- Immediate Gemini integration could make always-on assistant interactions the key differentiator for XR devices.