How Smartphone Technology Will Change in 2022

With new releases, technology upgrades and 5G advancements, 2022 is an exciting year for smartphone users. Major manufacturers like Apple and Samsung have new phones ready to launch while providers join the 5G network. As security concerns continue to rise, smartphone companies have promised to take more steps to protect their customers' privacy.

Which Phones Are Slated for Release?

iPhone 14

While Apple hasn't released the official specs, rumors claim that the iPhone 14 will eliminate the notch at the top of the phone for Face ID scanning. The phone still houses the Face ID equipment but without the visible display. Other upgrades may include 8K video recording and 48-megapixel cameras.

Samsung Galaxy S22

Recent leaks suggest that the Samsung Galaxy S22 has a 6.1-inch display and 50-megapixel camera with ultra-wide and telephoto capabilities. The SS2 Ultra may come with a holder for the S Pen stylus and an impressive 108-megapixel sensor. Another leak reveals an extra-fast charger for the SS2 Ultra.

Google Pixel 6A

According to leaks, the Google Pixel 6A is a more affordable version of the Google Pixel 6. Possible features include a fingerprint scanner, 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera and a compact battery. 128 GB of storage and 6GB of RAM might come standard with the Google Pixel 6A.

OnePlus 10

According to rumors, the OnePlus 10 offers three camera lenses in 8-, 48- and 50-megapixels. The OnePlus 10 also has a 32-megapixel lens for front-facing shots. Unlike the OnePlus 9 Pro, which maxed out at 65 watts, the OnePlus 10 supports 80-watt fast charging.

Which Manufacturer Has the Biggest Market Share?

Currently, Samsung owns nearly a fifth of the global market share, making it the biggest smartphone company in the world. Other brands like Huawei, Apple and Xiaomi climb the ranks but have yet to overtake Samsung. The company plans to expand its market share in 2022 with new releases like the Galaxy A53 and Galaxy S22 series.

Samsung aims to hold 21.9% of the global market share by the end of 2022. As more people return to work and start spending money again, Samsung expects sales to rise throughout the year. However, as their market shares increase, Chinese manufacturers like Oppo and Vivo could threaten Samsung in the months ahead.

Will All Phones Join the 5G Network?

According to CNN, 5G could make up half the network by 2025. It's unlikely that all phones will join the 5G network in 2022, but as major carriers like T-Mobile and Verizon prepare to shut down their 3G networks, smartphone users will have to switch to updated devices. This increases the demand for 5G throughout the year.

Others will switch to 5G due to faster loading speeds, increased bandwidth and the ability to handle more devices. Carriers are installing 5G systems in cities throughout the United States. Eventually, virtually everyone in the U.S. will have access to 5G networks.

How Are Manufacturers Protecting Their Users' Security?

In addition to the usual security patches, Apple and Google are taking steps to protect customers' privacy by strengthening their rules. When a developer builds an app, they must give users the ability to delete their accounts through the app itself. If they don't meet this requirement, Apple will remove the app from the Apple Store.

Similarly, Google will require developers to fill out a Data Safety form. Google lists this information in the Google Play Store so customers see how the app collects and shares their data. This transparency gives customers more control over their personal information. Starting in February 2022, customers will be able to view the Data Safety sections on the app pages.