10 Best New Unlocked Cell Phones 2026 in the United States

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 is a cutting-edge unlocked Android phone running the latest Android 16 with Samsung's OneUI 8, offering a fresh and intuitive user experience. Its standout feature is the large, 8-inch foldable display that lets you comfortably multitask with up to three apps visible simultaneously, making it great for productivity or media enjoyment. Despite the bigger screen, it remains slim and light, weighing just 216 grams, which is impressive for a foldable design.

The phone packs a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and 12GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance whether you're streaming, gaming, or editing photos. Storage is generous at 512GB, providing plenty of space for apps, photos, and videos. Camera-wise, the Z Fold7 impresses with a sophisticated 200MP rear camera and Pro-Visual Engine, delivering detailed and vibrant pictures, which is among the best you’ll find on a foldable phone. The 4400mAh battery is designed to last through busy days, supporting long usage without frequent recharging. Connectivity options include 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and USB, guaranteeing broad compatibility with networks and accessories.

The build quality feels premium with an Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2, enhancing durability for daily use. Potential buyers should consider the relatively high price point typical for foldables and that the 4400mAh battery might be less than some larger-screen phones without foldable designs. Additionally, the foldable screen may be more delicate than traditional flat phones, demanding careful handling. This phone is ideal for users looking for a versatile device that combines a large tablet-like screen with phone portability, packed with top-tier specs and innovative features.

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a high-end unlocked smartphone that suits users looking for top-tier performance and versatility. It runs the latest Android 15 with Samsung’s One UI 7, making it user-friendly and packed with smart features like a helpful AI assistant and Now Brief to keep you informed throughout the day. The 6.9-inch display has a sharp 3040 x 1440 resolution, offering a vibrant and immersive viewing experience, great for watching videos or browsing. Battery life is strong thanks to a 5000mAh battery, and you’ll appreciate fast charging and wireless charging options for convenience.

Photography enthusiasts will enjoy the AI-powered camera system, which improves low-light videos and enhances portraits by fine-tuning skin tones and textures. With 12GB of RAM and a fast Snapdragon processor, this phone handles multitasking and demanding apps smoothly. The 256GB of storage provides ample space for apps, photos, and media, while features like 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, and USB-C ensure solid connectivity. The phone’s build is elegant and durable, with water resistance and a stylish titanium black finish. It also includes a stylus, adding extra functionality.

On the downside, the phone is relatively large and heavier than some might prefer, which could affect one-handed use and pocket comfort. Also, while the price reflects its premium status, it might be more than casual users need. For those seeking a powerful, future-proof device with standout camera and AI features and who do not mind the size or premium cost, the Galaxy S25 Ultra represents a strong choice.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 is a standout choice if you want a modern, unlocked Android phone with a twist—literally. Its foldable 6.9-inch screen folds down to fit easily in your pocket, offering convenience without sacrificing screen size. The display is smooth with a 120 Hz refresh rate, making everything look fluid and responsive. Running Android 16 with Samsung’s OneUI 8, the phone brings the latest software experience and customization options, especially with the handy cover screen that lets you check notifications or control apps without opening the phone.

The phone is powered by a strong processor and 12 GB of RAM, so it handles everyday tasks and multitasking quickly and smoothly. Storage at 256 GB is spacious enough to store plenty of apps, photos, and videos without worry. Battery life is supported by a 4300 mAh battery, which should comfortably last through a full day of typical use. Photography is another strong point: its 50 MP high-resolution camera captures sharp and colorful photos even in low light, and the FlexCam feature makes taking hands-free selfies or group shots easier. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and USB, ensuring good compatibility with various networks and accessories.

Build quality is solid with Armor Aluminum and an IP48 rating, which means it’s resistant to water and dust—a plus for durability. The phone is lightweight at 188 grams despite its foldable design. On the downside, foldable phones like this can be more delicate than regular smartphones, and the unique form factor might not suit everyone’s taste. Also, the price tends to be higher compared to standard phones given its advanced features. But if you appreciate style combined with powerful performance and want the latest in phone innovation, the Galaxy Z Flip7 is a compelling option.