Android Central’s Best of 2023 Awards: The best phones, smartwatches, tablets, apps, and more

And similar to that, one other yr has ended. This was a formidable yr for tech, with highly effective new smartphones, extra foldables, and spectacular digicam, and underscoring all of it was the brand new generative AI increase that has taken the world by storm. But regardless of the bevy of merchandise, apps, and gadgets that got here out of 2023, these are the objects that we although had been the very best of their classes.The following merchandise are the results of votes from Android Central employees and contributors. Keep in thoughts, this isn’t an exhaustive record of each tech class, and whereas a lot of this record consists of latest merchandise, there are additionally some that launched in earlier years which have had vital or sufficient updates and modifications to warrant being on the record.So with out additional ado, right here is Android Central’s Best of 2023 Awards!Best Android Phone (Overall) — Samsung Galaxy S23 UltraThis yr, you didn’t have to attend lengthy to get the very best Android cellphone cash may purchase. The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra went on sale on February 17, 2023. According to most Android Central employees members, the competitors for the remainder of the yr by no means stood an opportunity. After all, the S23 Ultra has the whole lot you might ever need in a cellphone: a large show, a built-in S Pen, 5 rear cameras that may zoom to house, the very best efficiency on Android, and unbeatable battery life.While it launched with a brand new 200MP digicam sensor that clearly wasn’t fairly prepared for primetime, Samsung patched the digicam just a few months in and now maintains the very best portrait mode, finest zoom element, and finest video seize amongst its friends.Plus, Samsung’s devotion to getting Android updates out rapidly — and with tons of latest options — stays unmatched by everybody however Google. Even then, solely the Pixel 8 sequence has a greater replace dedication, and that cellphone’s efficiency doesn’t maintain a candle to what Samsung provides right here. If I’m going to nitpick the cellphone in any respect, it’s that its show is extremely unfriendly to anybody with flicker sensitivity. Outside of that, although, you’ll discover no higher Android cellphone in the marketplace. Runner-up: Google Pixel 8 ProI’ve lengthy most well-liked Google’s model of Android on its Pixel telephones over most different Android skins, however most individuals would quite have all of the options corporations like Samsung and OnePlus provide on their telephones. Still, the Google Pixel 8 Pro blew us away with its hallmark AI options, high-quality digicam, and the brand new seven-year software program replace promise.Since the launch of Google’s personal Tensor chipset alongside the Pixel 6 sequence, although, the corporate has handled bizarre bugs, glitches, efficiency points, and overheating. The Tensor G3 contained in the Pixel 8 Pro is, little question, the very best chipset the corporate has ever made and solves many of those issues, even when it nonetheless does not provide the very best efficiency on the value. If you are a gamer, I’d suggest shopping for a cellphone with a Qualcomm processor. There’s actually simply no mincing phrases.But Google has tailored its chipset to deal with a formidable AI workload that powers options like Night Sight for Video, real-time translation, Google Assistant name screening, and a lot extra. Features like Magic Editor and Best Take do an unimaginable job of constructing photograph modifying on a cellphone so simple as tapping just a few buttons. It’s scary good, even when it isn’t the very best cellphone of the yr. — Nick Sutrich, Senior Content Producer, Phones & VRBest Android Phone (Value) — Google Pixel 7a(Image credit score: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)This yr, Google proved that you just need not shell out numerous money to get a terrific cellphone. The Pixel 7a has all of the options you want, and also you get the very best cameras this section has to supply. Google made numerous optimistic strides with the Pixel A sequence during the last two years, however even with the Pixel 6a, it felt just like the machine was being deliberately held again — the dearth of a excessive refresh charge panel was proof of that.The Pixel 7a has no such shortcomings; it has highly effective {hardware}, the 90Hz OLED display is fluid in each day use, the battery simply lasts all day, and also you even get IP67 water resistance. The smaller 6.1-inch dimension makes the cellphone quite a bit smaller than its rivals, and that could be a large deal in and of itself — notably for those who’re not a fan of tall and huge telephones just like the Galaxy A54. I additionally just like the design, and Google’s choice to make use of a large digicam bar on the again provides Pixels a definite aesthetic that appears very trendy.Obviously, the most important cause for purchasing the cellphone is the cameras, and the Pixel 7a has a lot to supply on this space. You get all the very best options of the Pixel 7 sequence, and the digicam takes higher images and movies than simply about each different sub-$600 cellphone I used this yr. Software is one other key consideration on this class, and there are far too few telephones which have a clear interface that is not riddled with advertisements. Thankfully, the Pixel 7a manages to supply simply that, and also you get a contemporary UI with all of the Material You design prospers, zero bloatware, and it’ll get updates quicker than another mid-range cellphone. I used all the opposite telephones on this class, and nothing provides the identical worth because the Pixel 7a.Runner-up: Fairphone 5Want a cellphone that is simple to repair and constructed with sustainably sourced supplies? The Fairphone 5 is the plain selection. It does not have the very best {hardware} on this section, and its cameras do not fairly measure as much as the likes of the Nothing Phone (2) and Pixel 7a. That mentioned, it’s a good selection for those who want a tool with a detachable battery — you simply do not get that with another machine. You can simply change out the battery (or another half), and the Fairphone 5 will get eight years of software program updates and 5 assured Android OS updates — that is an enormous deal.And whereas that is all nice, simply know that the display is not fairly as vibrant as different choices on this class, and whereas I just like the detachable battery, the dimensions of the battery itself is on the smaller aspect at 4200mAh, so it does not final as lengthy. But for those who do not thoughts the {hardware} omissions and need a sustainable cellphone that is constructed to final and extremely simple to restore, you need to contemplate the Fairphone 5. — Harish Jonnalagadda, Senior Editor, AsiaBest Android Phone (Camera) — Google Pixel 8 ProOut of 19 whole votes from Android Central employees and freelancers, 15 had been solid for the Pixel 8 Pro. As I mentioned in my Pixel 8 Pro digicam overview, that is the cellphone to purchase if the digicam is crucial factor to you. Google’s new digicam UI that launched with the Pixel 8 Pro is extremely well-designed and provides a faster method to swap between photograph and video seize, plus the bespoke modes for every seize sort.The Pixel 8 Pro provides full guide photograph seize in addition to RAW output, a surprising vary of zoom ranges, and the very best low-light element on any sensor you seize from. The distinction in low mild high quality between the Pixel 8 Pro and the next-best Android cellphone digicam is fairly astonishing at occasions, and it reveals the work Google has put into guaranteeing it retains the digicam high quality crown.Since launch, Google has added nice options like Video Boost, which makes use of the ability of Google Cloud and AI to course of movies after they have been taken, generally considerably enhancing the standard, particularly in low mild. And for all these different occasions you are capturing regular movies or images, you may be frequently impressed with the standard, irrespective of the zoom stage. That’s very true for those who’ve received pets or children, because the Pixel 8 Pro captures the clearest photographs of those squirmy topics when in comparison with another cellphone. Runner-up: Xiaomi 13 UltraWhile Google tries to make use of AI and different tips to create the very best images and movies, The Xiaomi 13 Ultra’s philosophy is all within the title. This cellphone packs essentially the most superior digicam {hardware} of any smartphone in the marketplace, with a pack of 4 completely large 50MP sensors on the again. But do not let that megapixel depend idiot you; these sensors are a lot bigger than what Google or Samsung use on their telephones, even when the megapixel depend seems to be comparable.Those large 1.6µm-sized pixels create a super state of affairs for capturing the very best images and movies you may discover on any trendy smartphone. The most important sensor lies behind a uncommon variable aperture lens that adjusts between f/1.9 and f/4.0 relying on the lighting. Even the telephoto expertise is famous, with a most zoom stage of 120x. Take that, Space Zoom! And it manages to take the very best portrait photographs of any cellphone out there immediately. So, with all this reward, why did not the Xiaomi 13 Ultra win the very best digicam award? Simply put, as a result of you possibly can’t purchase it in most nations. It’s not out there within the U.S. or India, and whilst you can all the time purchase one from an import store (or purchase the Chinese model on a web site like Amazon), it is unlikely going to work properly along with your service of selection. Xiaomi has a world variant on sale in France, Germany, and some areas, nevertheless it is not wherever as extensively out there because the model’s best-selling telephones.— Nick Sutrich, Senior Content Producer, Phones & VRBest Foldable Phone — OnePlus Open(Image credit score: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)It’s not typically {that a} cellphone is able to garnering a unanimous choice. While there have been simply two exceptions, the OnePlus Open was chosen as the very best foldable cellphone of your complete yr. As the foldable market in North America has been dominated for the previous few years, we weren’t positive whether or not any firm would have the ability to make an impression. OnePlus did simply that with its first foldable cellphone, lastly offering followers of this kind issue with a flagship digicam expertise.Arguably extra spectacular is the truth that there are only a few compromises available with the OnePlus Open. It’s been known as the “Goldilocks foldable” for individuals who assume that the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is just too slender and the Pixel Fold is just too huge. OnePlus even managed to launch a foldable with a crease that is barely noticeable, and you’ll even use it with the OPPO Pen.However, there are a few downsides, equivalent to an absence of wi-fi charging and it not being out there by way of carriers. However, OnePlus counters wi-fi charging with 67W wired charging speeds, going from 0-100% in lower than an hour.— Andrew Myrick, Senior Editor, ChromebooksRunner-up: Honor Magic V2With the Magic V2, Honor created one of many best-looking foldables out there immediately. It’s extremely skinny and lightweight — it is simply 3g heavier than the S23 Ultra — and it makes different foldables look outdated. Honestly, if you have not made the change to foldables due to the dimensions, you need to actually give the Magic V2 a attempt; it has modified how I take into consideration the class.It’s not simply the dimensions both; the Magic V2 has a easy hinge that is simple to open, and it stays locked at numerous angles. The again is made out of vegan leather-based and is nice to carry and use, and the inside and outer OLED panels go as much as 120Hz and have beautiful colours. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, has extra reminiscence and storage than you may use, and does not miss out on the connectivity aspect of issues.You even get an ideal set of cameras on the again, and Honor one way or the other slotted in a 5000mAh battery into this factor. I’m nonetheless a bit irritated that Honor hasn’t launched the foldable outdoors China — it is releasing in Q1 2024 — however given what you are getting right here, it’s definitely worth the wait.— Harish Jonnalagadda, Senior Editor, AsiaBest Flip Phone — Motorola Razr Plus(Image credit score: Derrek Lee / Android Central)Motorola was the primary firm to launch a foldable flip cellphone with the enduring Razr model, nevertheless it by no means actually took off because of the underwhelming {hardware} and costly value level. However, after a short hiatus from foldables, Motorola got here again in an enormous approach with the Razr Plus.The firm launched its newest Razr with the concept that you should not be restricted to a handful of widgets when your cellphone is closed. So not solely did Motorola introduce the biggest cowl display we have seen on a flip cellphone so far, nevertheless it additionally lets us do nearly something we wish with it. That consists of opening your favourite apps and video games, taking selfies and movies, making funds and scanning boarding passes with Google Wallet, and extra. You nearly do not should open the cellphone for many duties for those who do not wish to.The Razr Plus additionally has a modern design, and the Viva Magenta colorway has a pleasant fake leather-based again. Internally, the Razr Plus has some spectacular specs, from the nearly-creaseless show to the chipset powering the machine. Sure, it isn’t good, and when pitted towards the Galaxy Z Flip 5, the latter definitely has the higher specs. But after my time utilizing each telephones, the Motorola Razr Plus has the higher expertise, and that makes it a transparent winner.Runner-up: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5That mentioned, now we have to provide the Galaxy Z Flip 5 props. Samsung lastly dropped its drained 1.9-inch cowl display from earlier fashions and gave us one thing a lot greater to work with. The 3.4-inch cowl display provides us a lot extra room for actions… though it is unlucky that Samsung hides its finest capabilities behind menus and apps that do not even come preinstalled.Still, the cellphone has an ideal set of cameras, and Samsung has actually refined its One UI software program. Battery life can be fairly first rate, and the Z Flip 5 has a leg up in terms of equipment like circumstances.If I did not love the Motorola Razr Plus a lot, the Z Flip 5 could be my selection for a flip cellphone.— Derrek Lee, Managing EditorMost Improved Android Brand — Motorola(Image credit score: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)This is not a class we usually have, however we felt it was mandatory, given simply how impressed we had been with Motorola this yr. In earlier years, it felt like the corporate was simply phoning it in (get it?) by launching forgettable midrange telephones and flagships that would barely maintain a candle to the competitors. This yr, it felt like Motorola had one thing of a wake-up name.The Motorola Edge Plus (2023) put the corporate’s improved software program promise on blast whereas providing a modern design that makes my head flip each time I see one. Motorola now provides three OS upgrades and 4 years of safety updates with its flagship gadgets, and whereas that is nonetheless behind choices from Samsung and Google, it is a main step up for the corporate. My Razr Plus has frequently obtained bi-monthly updates, a few of which have even added new options and UI modifications. This is already rather more than I’ve come to anticipate from the corporate, and I hope issues enhance in 2024.Motorola additionally upped its sport this yr by launching among the finest midrange telephones you should purchase in North America, just like the Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) and the brand new 5G-laden Moto G Power. These telephones provide the very best bang in your buck with options like FHD+ 120Hz shows, two-day battery life, and extra. And, after all, there’s Razr (2023), which is one thing of a midrange flip cellphone and at present the most cost effective foldable you should purchase in North America.Motorola has been on a roll this yr, and we won’t wait to see the place issues go from right here.— Derrek Lee, Managing EditorBest Android Tablet — Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra(Image credit score: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)Trying to select the very best pill of the yr was much more tough than anticipated. However, the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra gained out over the remainder just because it nonetheless provides essentially the most well-rounded expertise. An argument may very well be made for the Tab S9 Plus for the straightforward cause which you could get it with LTE, maintaining you linked from wherever.But it is robust to disregard the 14.6-inch Super AMOLED show of the Tab S9 Ultra, which makes it bigger than numerous the very best Chromebooks and laptops. With a display of this dimension, you possibly can take it with you rather than your laptop computer, use it as a second display along with your PC, or simply fireplace up some Netflix and chill.Thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, battery life is even higher than its predecessor. Plus, with the faucet of a button, you may get a desktop-like interface courtesy of Samsung DeX. On high of all of that, Samsung nonetheless consists of its wonderful S Pen within the field, though that is true for your complete Tab S9 lineup.Runner up: Google Pixel TabletWhen the Pixel Tablet was introduced, it rapidly earned a spot on my wishlist as I’ve been hoping for a brand new Google pill for years. What I did not anticipate is for it to change into a extra integral piece of my sensible house.It’s not going to win any awards for efficiency, and the show solely maxes out at 60Hz. But, when hooked up to the Charging Speaker Dock, the Pixel Tablet instantly transforms into a greater model of the Nest Hub Max. We simply want the Speaker Dock may do one thing when the Pixel Tablet is not docked.— Andrew Myrick, Senior Editor, ChromebooksBest Android Smartwatch — Google Pixel Watch 2(Image credit score: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)Even although the Galaxy Watch 6 stays the best-selling Wear OS watch, many of the Android Central staff has a delicate spot for the Pixel Watch 2 and what it achieved. It stored the modern design we beloved from the unique whereas significantly revamping the tech beneath the rounded show floor. By switching from a last-gen Exynos chip to a next-gen Snapdragon chip, Google gave the watch an influence and effectivity enhance whereas additionally guaranteeing that new Wear OS tech would not routinely work higher on Samsung’s {hardware}. It makes Wear OS as a common ecosystem that a lot stronger as a result of third-party manufacturers like Fossil and Mobvoi will profit. The Pixel Watch 2 additionally stole sensors and tips from the Google-owned Fitbit Sense 2, bringing it on par with its rivals for well being information and making it the uncommon smartwatch to stability between conventional smarts and severe health instruments in a single superior package deal. Lastly, we’re followers of Google’s “stock” Wear OS software program and the way seamless and enjoyable it’s to make use of in comparison with One UI Watch. It’s another reason why the Pixel Watch 2 earned our high spot for the very best smartwatch of 2023. But in the long run, we’re simply suckers for a way good it seems to be on our wrists; it feels just like the standing image watch that Android wanted.Runner-up: Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 ClassicI voted for the Garmin Venu 3 for this spot and was overruled. It’s for the very best, although, because the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is rather more of a real “smartwatch” and should not be left off of this awards record. After the Watch 5 Pro final yr, Samsung returned to the svelte, bodily rotating bezel that we beloved from the Watch 4 Classic. It provides Samsung’s watch a singular enchantment and extra correct controls than your typical touchscreen or crown can ship. Plus, after all, the Galaxy Watch 6 upgrades over the Watch 5 with bigger shows, additional reminiscence for a efficiency enhance, and a few helpful software program upgrades. It could not have gained the AC recognition contest, nevertheless it nonetheless has loads of proponents right here, and it claims the highest spot on our greatest Android watch record for a cause: It’s a extremely good smartwatch.— Michael Hicks, Senior Editor, Wearables & VRBest Fitness Tracker — Fitbit Charge 6(Image credit score: Michael Hicks / Android Central)It was a sluggish yr for health trackers in 2023, which made the Fitbit Charge 6 a close to shoo-in for the yr’s award. But that does not imply that Fitbit did not earn it. It helps that it adopted intently within the footsteps of the Fitbit Charge 5, a 2021 trailblazer that added instruments like built-in GPS or superior well being sensors that almost all health bands keep away from to economize. One can argue that the Charge 6, which seems to be precisely like its predecessor apart from the helpful aspect haptic button, did not do sufficient to improve from that design. But why change a system that works?The Charge 6 is our high health tracker as a result of it is nonetheless snug to put on, strikes the fitting stability with a show that is massive sufficient to be useable however not so massive that it is ugly, and comes with all of the Fitbit Premium metrics that athletes wish to get fitter. You simply will not discover a machine this inexpensive that may measure blood oxygen, HRV, passive AFib, respiration charge, and pores and skin temperature at evening for a holistic have a look at your well being after which inform you how laborious it’s important to work out within the morning.  — Michael Hicks, Senior Editor, Wearables & VRRunner-up: Xiaomi Smart Band 8The Mi Band sequence is synonymous with price range wearables, and the Smart Band 8 continues that legacy. Xiaomi is utilizing the identical 1.62-inch AMOLED display as final yr, however it’s brighter, and because of a bigger battery, it lasts a bit of longer. You can simply change up the look of the health band with a a lot wider collection of bands than in earlier years, and Xiaomi even sells leather-based and metal choices that make the machine look rather more upmarket.You get the identical suite of well being monitoring sensors, wonderful exercise monitoring, and thrilling watch faces which can be rather more polished than earlier generations. What’s nonetheless the identical is the terrific battery life — you may solely have to cost it as soon as per week — and the worth. Coming in at beneath $50, that is nonetheless the best-budget health band round. — Harish Jonnalagadda, Senior Editor, AsiaBest Chromebook — Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2023)(Image credit score: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)In an ideal world, the HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook would take the crown, however the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 gained this spherical. The second largest promoting level of the Spin 714 over the Dragonfly Pro is the convertible design.However, the extra necessary cause why the Spin 714 is our decide is due to its cost-to-performance, because it retails for $300 much less, however we have seen it drop beneath $570. With this, you are getting the superb Intel Core i5-1335U SoC, paired with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. While Acer determined to ditch the built-in stylus, the 2023 model nonetheless helps all the finest USI stylus pens, no matter whether or not they’re USI 1.0 or USI 2.0.With this spec sheet and stage of efficiency, it got here as little shock to see the Spin 714 get all the new Chromebook Plus options. The similar is true for the Dragonfly Pro (and others,) however the closing cause why the Spin 714 gained is due to availability. You can solely get the Dragonfly Pro from HP instantly, and that is if it is even in inventory. Meanwhile, there is a good probability that your native Best Buy can have the Spin 714 on its cabinets, letting you stroll in, seize one, and go.Best Smart Home Device — Google Pixel Tablet(Image credit score: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)After years of all however forgetting the house, Google took its candy time to launch a brand new pill. But when it did, Google did not intention to change into the very best Android pill cash can purchase; as a substitute, it made the very best Android pill in your sensible house. The Google Pixel Tablet is an efficient all-around machine that may deal with informal shopping wants and lightweight gaming. It does a strong job of being a media-consuming machine, too. However, the pill takes type when positioned on its dock.Some of the very best sensible shows have come from Google in merchandise just like the Nest Hub Max. But these gadgets are getting alongside in years, and by making a 2-in-1 product within the Pixel Tablet, Google does not want an excellent high-end pill. When the Pixel Tablet is hooked up to the speaker dock, it will get improved audio high quality, stays charged, and goes into Hub Mode, making it act like a sensible show. But the little touches Google put into the software program, like the one pill with Chromecast assist, make it stand out as pill and wonderful sensible house controller to high this yr’s finest sensible house machine class. Best Wireless Earbuds — Sony WF-1000XM5(Image credit score: Ted Kritsonis / Android Central)In a class the place options and efficiency proceed to enhance in each premium and inexpensive pairs, the very best wi-fi earbuds see the Sony WF-1000XM5 routinely on the high of the heap. The mixture of a slimmer design, wonderful audio high quality, and world-class lively noise cancelation (ANC) underpins a pair of buds that additionally embody spatial audio and customization options you possibly can personalize additional. They’re a uncommon case in that they arrive with foam ear ideas for a snugger match, one thing I discovered to be actually very best for trapping extra of the audio in between my ears.The hole is closing quick, although, so there are definitely different aggressive earbuds that may present nice worth in your tastes and price range.— Ted Kritsonis, ContributorBest Streaming Device — Chromecast with Google TV (4K/HD)(Image credit score: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)After a yr or two, a sensible TV can begin to really feel rather less sensible with sluggish menus, unhealthy app efficiency, and a distant that is seen higher days. Chromecast with Google TV may very well be the right antidote with fast and responsive software program expertise and assist for all the hottest apps. The newer 1080p mannequin is available in at simply $30 with the Google Assistant included, due to one of many best voice remotes we have used. In reality, once we reviewed the Chromecast with Google TV, we mentioned the streaming field was simply the very best for most individuals. Not solely that, however Google has continued to assist it with safety updates whereas enhancing Google TV with extra content material, UI modifications, and options. Earlier this yr, Google added the power to entry PS Remote Play from the machine, making it potential to play video games round your property without having to maneuver your console.There are additionally loads of new free channels out there on the Live tab that had been added this yr, so you do not even should spend cash on costlier streaming providers.You have the selection between a 1080p mannequin in white or a 4K mannequin in white, pink, or blue with a distant to match. The 1080p mannequin is a good worth for these with an getting older sensible TV or a dumb TV in want of some streaming chops. Both variations assist HDR10+ output, although you may want the 4K mannequin for Dolby Vision assist. When it involves audio, bit fashions assist Dolby Atmos encompass sound with HDMI passthrough, so you do not have to surrender your soundbar or encompass sound system to make use of it. If your TV is chugging, you need not throw it out when you possibly can simply improve it with among the finest streaming gadgets you may get. — Sam Contreras, ContributorBest Phone Case Brand — Thinborne(Image credit score: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)Somewhat Texas-based indie model, Thinborne is Android Central’s favourite cellphone case maker of the yr. We check lots of of circumstances and covers from each previous and new names within the biz. Thinborne, a sister concern of Caseborne, makes among the sleekest, sturdiest, and most handsome cellphone circumstances we have ever seen. It is significantly insane how skinny the Aramid Fiber circumstances are and that they one way or the other managed to bake MagSafe into them. We commend the truth that such a small staff managed to conceptualize and ship such great-quality merchandise. Runner-up: SpigenThis is lastly the yr when Spigen knocked off Caseology’s crown. We’ve all the time been followers of Spigen circumstances, partially due to their consistency and partially as a result of they give the impression of being so good. Let’s additionally not overlook that the model’s pricing is implausible. What actually gave Spigen the sting over different cellphone case producers this yr is the implausible MagFit equipment lineup and the MagSafe adapter for Android that goes completely with the model’s circumstances. It’s good to see that some of the reliable names within the equipment world helps customers bridge the hole between Android and iOS equipment. — Namerah Saud Fatmi, Editor, EquipmentBest Video Streaming Service — Netflix(Image credit score: Netflix)Despite value will increase and a much-maligned crackdown on password sharing, Netflix one way or the other managed to earn our high spot as the very best streaming video service of 2023. Maybe it is as a result of they weren’t alone in making these unpopular selections — I am unable to even depend the variety of occasions I wrote about streaming service value hikes this yr — or perhaps it is simply due to nostalgia. After all, Netflix was the primary streaming service that almost all of us ever signed up for, and it is laborious to remain mad at your first.Interestingly, 2023 was a comparatively quiet yr for the streaming service. There was no large cultural phenomenon, no “Squid Game” or “Stranger Things” that despatched droves of viewers operating to tweet their responses or chat in regards to the newest twist. Instead, it was a yr that made us contemplate the impression that streaming providers can have on the way forward for leisure and cinema. After all, “All Quiet on the Western Front” gained 4 Oscars this yr, breaking the document for essentially the most awards ever given to a Netflix Original. And now, with difficult, star-studded movies like “The Killer,” “May December,” and “Maestro” dominating the content material library, lightning appears positive to strike twice on the subsequent Academy Awards. And then, after all, there was the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strike that made us lastly have a look at the meager residuals paid out to actors and writers by streaming giants like Netflix. I will not go into all the problems right here, nevertheless it’s protected to say that 2023 was a watershed second for the streaming trade. What will occur subsequent? It’s laborious to say, however it doesn’t matter what, Netflix clearly is not going wherever, particularly because it ventures additional into gaming with titles like Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition.Runner-up: Apple TV PlusThough it was a detailed name, Apple TV Plus has gained out because the second-best streaming video service of 2023. Unlike different streaming service libraries that mix authentic titles with licensed TV reveals and movies from different studios, Apple TV Plus’ largest focus is on its authentic programming. They’ve been fortunate sufficient to strike gold with quite a few titles, equivalent to “Ted Lasso” and the Best Picture-winning movie “CODA,” whereas sequence like “Foundation” have quietly earned their very own piece of the pie with loyal audiences and significant acclaim.Another good factor about Apple TV Plus is its value. With a beginning value of $9.99 per 30 days, the streaming service is quite a bit cheaper than the competitors for an ad-free plan, plus you get a 7-day free trial once you first enroll. That ought to offer you loads of time to discover the service with none large dedication. — Patrick Farmer, Editor, eCommerceBest Music Streaming Service — Spotify(Image credit score: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)There are loads of music streaming providers out there to select from, however which one is value spending cash on each month or yr? Spotify is not with out faults, nevertheless it’s additionally essentially the most expansive, built-in — and presumably essentially the most customized service yow will discover proper now. Spotify Connect is tremendous handy for connecting with different gadgets to take heed to music, and the podcast and audiobook libraries proceed to increase, making the service really feel extra like an all-in-one audio platform quite than only a music streaming one.New options are additionally bringing in different methods to find and take heed to music, together with an AI DJ within the combine that will help you pattern what you may like most. It does not harm that it is also extensively appropriate throughout completely different gadgets and ecosystems, and is straightforward to share an account with a accomplice or beloved oneBest New Android App — ChatGPT(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)ChatGPT took the world by storm when it first got here out, and now it’s achieved the identical with the Android house. In July, ChatGPT made its debut on the Google Play Store and introduced everybody’s favourite AI mannequin to their smartphones. You can use the free model of the chatbot or subscribe and achieve entry to the paid subscription. As some of the used AI chatbots on the planet, it’s simply the very best new Android app of 2023. — Namerah Saud Fatmi, Editor, EquipmentBest New Android Game — Honkai: Star Rail(Image credit score: Derrek Lee / Android Central)To say that Genshin Impact is a profitable sport could be a large understatement. Its mixture of motion packed, open-world gameplay with free-to-play gacha mechanics led to it being a popular culture juggernaut and a free-to-play favourite. Unsurprisingly, there was numerous strain on the follow-up from developer HoYoverse and Honkai: Star Rail greater than lived as much as expectations.Honkai: Star Rail ditches the real-time fight of its predecessor in favor of a traditional, turn-based JRPG battle system, which instantly makes the sport really feel like rather more than simply “sci-fi Genshin Impact.” Each playable character within the endearing solid has each a job and an elemental affinity which makes battles require some honest tactical technique. Couple the participating fight system with beautiful silkpunk visuals and an ever evolving sci-fi story, and it’s simple to see why Honkai: Star Rail is one thing particular.— Nick Ransbottom, ContributorBest New Single-Player VR Game — Asgard’s Wrath 2(Image credit score: Android Central)The first Asgard’s Wrath is a critically acclaimed Oculus Rift PC-only sport that you will have by no means heard of, however there’s an enormous probability that you have heard of its sequel, Asgard’s Wrath 2, at this level. Meta has spent a great deal of advertising {dollars} on this sport, and for good cause. Asgard’s Wrath 2 could be described as the right amalgam of Skyrim and The Legend of Zelda with an enchanting mixture of themes from historic Egypt, Norse mythology, and so many extra sources.I’ve already poured practically 30 hours into the sport as of this writing, and I’m not even on the finish of the second of seven “sagas” that the sport is damaged into. While I do not wish to assign an “official” overview rating but, my feeling at this level is that there is nearly no approach it will not get a 10/10 when I’m achieved with it. Even IGN, a web site that does not spend numerous time on VR gaming, utterly agrees.Asgard’s Wrath 2 is a kind of AAA-level video games that solely comes alongside occasionally and is crammed to the brim with issues to see and do. The builders estimate you may spend at the least 130 hours ending up the principle story and seeing the world, with a seemingly limitless variety of issues to do after you end. It’s the epic RPG we have been ready for in VR, and it is the very best cause to personal a Meta Quest 3 this yr. — Nick Sutrick, Senior Content Producer, Phones & VRBest New Multi-Player VR Game — BreachersThe Quest retailer is swimming in VR shooters, making it laborious to determine the place to begin. Let me make it easy for you: Start with Breachers, particularly for those who’re a fan of tactical team-based shooters like Rainbow Six Siege. Like that sport, it is a 5v5 shooter involving breaking right into a goal location or defending it from incursion. But it feels distinct by advantage of its movement controls, making it actually really feel such as you’re the one scaling buildings, planting explosives, and aiming at foes from round corners. Best of all, it seems to be implausible, even on last-gen Quest 2 {hardware}, however particularly on the brand new Quest 3. You can see the quantity of polish and care that went into making it. As a multiplayer expertise, it is nice since you get the PvP problem whereas additionally working with different gamers to attain your purpose. Even for those who’re new to the sport, you may hopefully produce other gamers to hold you whilst you determine issues out. And in between matches, there’s an ideal foyer system the place you possibly can play minigames like basketball and bond along with your teammates. — Michael Hicks, Senior Editor, Wearables & VR