G’day, mate! Why New Mobile Phones Matter in 2025
When it comes to staying connected, a new mobile phone isn’t just a gadget – it’s your daily sidekick. From snapping the perfect beach sunrise to video‑calling the fam back home, the right phone can make life smoother than a freshly buttered toast. In 2025, manufacturers have cranked up the tech, and the price tags reflect a range of choices for every budget. Whether you’re after a flagship that can handle high‑octane gaming or a budget-friendly device that still streams Netflix without a hiccup, we’ve got the lowdown.
How We Picked These Phones
We’ve scoured the market, tested performance, battery life, camera quality, and of course, price. Our Aussie‑centric lens also looks at network compatibility (5G rollout is still humming across the country) and durability – because we all know a phone can take a tumble at the surf or a spill at the pub.
Top 5 Flagship Phones Over $1,000
- Samsung Galaxy S35 Ultra – AU$1,499
The latest Samsung beast packs a 6.9‑inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and a 200MP main sensor. Battery life hits 5,000 mAh, and the phone supports fast‑charging at 65W. Perfect for gamers and photo‑enthusiasts alike. - Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max – AU$1,749
Apple’s newest flagship boasts the A18 Bionic chip, a 6.7‑inch Super Retina XDR display, and a triple‑camera system with a 48MP main lens. iOS 18 brings smarter widgets and better privacy controls. - Google Pixel 9 Pro – AU$1,299
Pixel lovers will appreciate the Google Tensor G3 processor, a 6.4‑inch OLED panel, and the legendary Night Sight camera mode. Stock Android with timely updates is a big plus. - OnePlus 12 Pro – AU$1,199
OnePlus continues its reputation for speed with a 120Hz Fluid AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and a 5,000 mAh battery that lasts a full day with heavy use. - Xiaomi 14 Ultra – AU$1,099
Xiaomi’s premium offering features a 6.8‑inch LTPO display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and a 108MP primary camera. It’s a solid flagship at a slightly lower price point.
Best Mid‑Range Phones Between $500 and $1,000
If you’re after solid performance without splashing the big bucks, these mid‑range models hit the sweet spot.
- Samsung Galaxy A74 5G – AU$699
A 6.5‑inch Super AMOLED display, Exynos 1380 processor, and a versatile quad‑camera set‑up make it a great all‑rounder. - Apple iPhone SE (2024) – AU$649
The classic design packs the A18 Bionic chip, delivering flagship speed in a compact body. - Google Pixel 8a – AU$599
Pixel’s AI‑powered camera shines, and the Tensor G2 chip offers smooth performance for everyday tasks. - OnePlus Nord 3 – AU$579
A 90Hz Fluid AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2, and a clean OxygenOS UI make it a standout in this price bracket. - Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro – AU$549
Large 6.67‑inch display, MediaTek Dimensity 9200, and a 108MP camera for those who love photography on a budget.
Budget Picks Under $500 – No Compromise on Core Features
For students, first‑time phone owners, or anyone looking to save a few bob, these budget phones still deliver the essentials.
- Motorola Moto G Power (2025) – AU$329
A 6.4‑inch LCD, Snapdragon 7c Gen 2, and a massive 5,000 mAh battery that can stretch to two days. - Realme 12 – AU$299
6.5‑inch 90Hz display, MediaTek Helio G99, and a decent 64MP camera for snapping weekend trips. - Nokia G60 5G – AU$349
Robust build, Android One experience, and 5G connectivity for future‑proofing. - Samsung Galaxy M34 – AU$379
A 6.6‑inch display, Exynos 1380, and a 6,000 mAh battery for those long days at work. - Apple iPhone 14 (refurbished) – AU$449
Certified refurbished iPhone 14 models give you iOS reliability at a fraction of the new price.
What to Look for When Choosing a New Phone
Before you click ‘Add to Cart’, keep these Aussie‑friendly considerations in mind:
- Network Compatibility – Make sure the phone supports the 5G bands used by Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone.
- Battery Life – If you’re often on the move, aim for 4,500 mAh or higher.
- Camera Needs – For Instagram‑ready shots, look for at least a 48MP main sensor and good low‑light performance.
- Software Updates – Apple and Google guarantee longer OS support, while Android OEMs vary.
- Durability – Consider water‑resistance (IP68 is ideal) and a sturdy build if you’re a beach‑lover.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which new phone has the best battery life?
The Samsung Galaxy S35 Ultra and Motorola Moto G Power (2025) lead the pack, offering 5,000 mAh and 5,000 mAh respectively, with fast‑charging capabilities.
Are 5G phones worth the extra cost?
In 2025, 5G is becoming mainstream across Australia. If you stream a lot of video or play online games, a 5G‑enabled phone future‑proofs your purchase.
Can I get a good camera without spending over $1,000?
Absolutely! The Google Pixel 8a and Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro deliver impressive photography for under $600.
Do refurbished phones come with a warranty?
Most certified refurbished models from reputable sellers include a 12‑month warranty, giving you peace of mind.
How long do software updates usually last?
Apple typically offers 5‑6 years of iOS updates. Google promises 5 years for Pixel devices, while Android OEMs like Samsung now provide up to 4 years of major OS updates.
How to Get the Best Deal
Here’s a quick cheat‑sheet to snag a bargain:
- Check for seasonal sales on The Australian Store – they often run “End of Summer” promos.
- Bundle accessories (cases, power banks) to lock in discounts.
- Consider trade‑in programs; many carriers give you credit toward a new device.
- Sign up for newsletters – you’ll get early access to flash sales.
Why Buy From The Australian Store?
Shopping locally means faster shipping, easy returns, and support Aussie businesses. Plus, you can pick up your new phone in‑store if you’re nearby, saving on delivery fees.
Ready to upgrade? Browse the latest selections on Best Australian Store and find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
External Resources for More Tech Insight
For deeper dives into mobile tech trends, check out the experts at Strategies Beer. Their articles break down specs in plain English, helping you make an informed choice.
Final Thoughts – Pick the Phone That Fits Your Life
Whether you’re a student, a busy professional, or a weekend adventurer, there’s a new mobile phone in 2025 that fits your budget and needs. Remember to weigh performance, camera quality, battery life, and future‑proofing against price. And don’t forget – buying from a trusted Aussie retailer like The Australian Store gives you local support and speedy delivery.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a cuppa, head over to the store, and treat yourself to a phone that’ll keep you connected, entertained, and ready for anything the day throws at you.