Gaming-first phones are just the tip of the iceberg, however. With each new release from Apple and Google, hardware like cameras push the latest frontiers alongside software like voice and face recognition. Still, Android users have unprecedented access to some of the most varied smartphone designs in the world. 

Though Apple just rolled out its latest iPhone 14, the product doesn’t differ greatly from its predecessors in terms of hardware or software. However, Android dominates the global market with around 70% of all usage—and much of that is thanks to the fact that it can be broadly applied to different designs and uses.

Along with Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, Huawei, Vivo, Motorola, and Amazon have all helped evolve and diversify the Android operating system. Each manufacturer has its unique focus, which is based on its demographic. So far, they’ve helped produce some of the world’s most specialized smartphones. Keep reading for the top options in three categories: gaming, business, and creative professionals.

For Gaming

Gaming has taken over the globe. The international craze has led to the organization of eSports leagues and a booming peripherals market. Mobile gaming, though still largely the domain of casual titles like Candy Crush, has helped foster a multi-billion-dollar industry.

Today, some gamers spend hours on their handheld device playing competitive titles like PUBG: Mobile and Garena Free Fire. Meanwhile, more niche industries like casino gaming remain a global staple. As mentioned above, welcome offers let gamers find the top casino titles straight from specialized mobile apps.

If you’re a gamer who might spend hours in a battle royale or playing slots, then keep a lookout for Android phones that have a dual battery for extended battery life, offer a gaming mode that adjusts the screen light for darker scenes, and a fan to keep hardware cool.

Top gaming phones on the market:

• Asus ROG Phone 6D & 5
• Black Shark 5 Pro
• Nubia Red Magic 7

For Business

Unlike a gamer, a businessperson who spends copious amounts of time on their phone might not be interested in a cooling fan or graphics as much as they are a solid interface that can juggle plenty of app usage. In other words, they need a full suite of apps to stay in the loop while on the go.

If you’re an entrepreneur looking for a cutting-edge Android product, keep a lookout for features like added storage that enables you to retrieve any document, a long-lasting battery for overtime calls, and a seamless design that lets you navigate to the app you need quickly. Focus on the latter, as a cluttered layout can cost you time and confusion when in a jam.

Top business phones on the market:

• Nokia XR20
• Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra
• Samsung Galaxy S20

For Creativity

Creative professionals today are increasingly nomadic, especially as freelancer life lets them take their careers on the road. However, just like any creative knows, digital files take up copious amounts of storage on laptops and smartphones. Storage is often a high priority—and many creative professionals pay huge amounts just to store their latest projects.

Even Twitch streamers or social media influencers who have at-home setups to create and edit videos might need to work remotely from time to time. By selecting a smartphone that was designed and manufactured with creativity in mind, professionals from graphic designers to TikTokers can move their workplace out of the office.

If you’re a creative professional, consider looking out for Android phones that offer superior storage space or solutions, vibrant graphics that highlight your work, and large screens that let you work straight from your phone.

Top phones for creative professionals on the market:

• Samsung Galaxy Note 20
• OnePlus 9 Pro
• Google Pixel 4a