Ranking Android OEMs in 2025: North East India Perspective

2025 was a transformative year for the Android smartphone ecosystem, with significant advancements in battery technology, processor performance, and innovative features. In this article, we analyze the performance of major Android brands and evaluate their strategies, products, and updates to rank them from worst to best. As general readers in North East India, it's essential to understand how these rankings impact our region and broader India.

1. Google: Battery Woes and Missed Opportunities

Google's ranking on this list is primarily due to battery issues affecting some older budget Pixel models, including the Pixel 4a, Pixel 6a, and Pixel 7a. These problems resulted in battery swelling, device fires, and Google's controversial battery-nerfing update. Despite the launch of impressive Pixel 10 phones, these battery concerns have led some to question the reliability of Google's mid-range offerings.

Relevance to North East India:

Google's Pixel smartphones have gained popularity in India, including the North East region, due to their exclusive features and integrated Qi2 magnets. However, the battery issues may cause some consumers to reconsider their purchase decisions, potentially impacting the market share of Pixel devices in the region.

2. Samsung: Lazy Releases and a Few Bright Spots

Samsung's 2025 lineup was marked by several lackluster releases, such as the Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus, which offered minimal upgrades. However, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 stood out with its thin and light design, larger screens, 200MP main camera, and excellent software with a great update policy. The Fold 7's success demonstrates Samsung's ability to innovate when it focuses on pushing technological boundaries.

Relevance to North East India:

Samsung is one of the most popular smartphone brands in India, including the North East region. The success of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 could encourage more consumers in the North East to adopt foldable devices, potentially driving growth in this segment of the market.

3. OnePlus: A Mixed Bag of Results

OnePlus had a strong start to the year with the OnePlus 13, which was our phone of the year. The phone offered a world-class camera experience, a huge battery with super-fast charging options, a high-quality screen, and a respectable update policy. However, the OnePlus 15 and 15R were less impressive, with downgraded cameras and reduced screen resolution in the former, and a $100 price hike and lost telephoto camera in the latter.

Relevance to North East India:

OnePlus has gained a significant following in India, including the North East region, due to its high-performance devices at competitive prices. The mixed results in 2025 may impact consumer confidence in the brand, potentially affecting its market share in the region.

4. HMD Global: Trying Different Things but Missing the Mark

HMD Global released several interesting devices in 2025, such as the HMD Aura 2, OffGrid accessory, and the HMD Fusion X1 for teenagers. However, the company's output consisted almost entirely of low-end phones, leaving fans disappointed. HMD also stopped selling phones in the US, depriving the market of much-needed competition.

Relevance to North East India:

HMD Global's struggle to compete in the global market may impact the variety and quality of devices available in North East India. Consumers in the region may have fewer choices when it comes to purchasing affordable and innovative smartphones.

Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond

It's essential for Android OEMs to learn from the challenges and successes of 2025 and strive to improve in 2026. By focusing on innovation, quality, and consumer needs, these companies can create a more competitive and dynamic Android ecosystem that benefits consumers in North East India and across the country.