Phones Regained Their Style in 2025

Gone are the days of monotonous black slabs.

Vibrant Innovations in Mobile Design

Just a couple of years back, every review unit phone that I received seemed to only come in black, gray, or if lucky, white. Fast forward to 2025, and the landscape has dramatically changed. This year, I've seen phones boasting real wood textures, mesmerizing deep blue hues, and matching accessories alongside them, all pointing to a revolutionary change in an industry that had settled for producing dull, rectangular black devices.

A Nostalgic Trip to Colorful Beginnings

Phones weren't always plain-looking, practical gadgets. Cast your mind back to the original bright pink Motorola models that were iconic in their time. Even more recently, the bold-colored variants stood out sharply — you simply couldn’t ignore them. My own iPhone, once embraced vivid colors like orange, yellow, and blue — my partner couldn't part with their yellow model until it became absolutely essential. Yet, some five years ago, manufacturers shifted to a more somber palette, removing the vivacious options from their lineup.

Motorola Leading the Aesthetic Revival

If one brand deserves applause for reintroducing style, it's Motorola. The MountainTrail model was, in my opinion, the most visually appealing handset I've touched this year. I may be biased towards its wooden rear cover, but the bronze edging and the exquisite sound of closing its flip were delightful. Motorola hasn't just been a trendsetter with foldables; they've been innovating with bright shades and distinct finishes for over a year now. While I'd prefer their software to mirror this excellence — lately it's been lacking — their external designs are an undeniable success.

Even traditionally color-resistant series embraced more vibrant choices this year. The bold among us welcomed the startling colors introduced by the iPhone 17 series, a stark departure from the pale tones of previous models. Google's offerings were more adventurous too, presenting options like Moonstone, a subtle gray, and a gentle greenish-yellow Jade.

The Accessory Renaissance

This year's transformation wasn't limited to the phones themselves. Manufacturers tapped into the notion that phone accessories could be stylish as well. Apple launched their new iPhones with accessories in color varieties matching their cases, while the iPhone Pocket, launched in collaboration with designer Issey Miyake, made its debut. Although priced at $229 for the extended version, and not for everyone, it certainly demanded attention.

Google, not to be left behind, unveiled a series of magnetic accessories complementing their Pixel 10 line. This included an array of MagSafe-like magnets on the back. I frequently used my Pixel 10 Pro Fold with the practical ring grip, reducing hand fatigue from extended use while also adding an elegant touch to its rear. For case-averse users like myself, it's an ideal blend of function and fashion.

A Reflection on Preferences

Of course, not everyone wants their phone to scream in color or wear flashy add-ons, and that's perfectly acceptable. Yet, it's equally valid to desire a device that reflects a little flair and transcends the utilitarian black rectangle. We gaze at our phones countless times daily, so loving their appearance seems only logical. The creative spark that fueled this year’s aesthetic transformations is one we can only hope continues into 2026.