I found the best early Memorial Day phones deals: Save big on Samsung, Google, Apple and more
Original reporting by ZDNet
Memorial Day weekend has officially arrived, bringing with it not just a moment for remembrance and relaxation, but also one of the year's most opportune windows for smartphone shoppers. As major retailers unveil substantial discounts across a broad spectrum of popular models, these few days stand out as an ideal time to secure an upgrade. Indeed, purchasing a new phone in 2026 is more intricate than ever before. Beyond current economic factors, consumers face a veritable deluge of strong options—from cutting-edge flagships to surprisingly capable mid-range devices—each vying for attention and making a confident choice challenging without expert guidance.
Curating the best At ZDNET, our team rigorously reviews every significant smartphone release and diligently tracks mobile device deals year-round. Understanding the complexities of this evolving market, we've undertaken the exhaustive process of sifting through the numerous Memorial Day sales. Our goal is to identify and highlight only those offers that genuinely provide exceptional value and performance, ensuring our readers make informed decisions. Whether you're eyeing the refurbished power of an iPhone 17 Pro Max, the innovative design of Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra, a flexible foldable like the Z Fold 7, a dependable budget-friendly option, or even a rugged device built for adventure, our curated selection presents the finest opportunities to enhance your mobile experience this holiday weekend. We’ve meticulously done the research, so you can shop smarter.
The Memorial Day weekend deals highlighted in this roundup underscore a pivotal moment for smartphone consumers. From the high-performance iPhone 17 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra to innovative foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Motorola Razr Ultra, and capable mid-range options such as the iPhone 16e and Google Pixel 10, the market offers unprecedented choice. These discounts provide an opportune moment for an upgrade, making advanced technology more accessible across various budgets and preferences. The sheer breadth of devices, catering to everything from elite performance needs to robust outdoor durability with the Blackview Xplore 2, illustrates a vibrant and competitive landscape.
Evolving Mobile Landscape
Beyond the immediate savings, these sales reflect several significant trends shaping the smartphone industry's future. The deep integration of AI, as seen with Apple Intelligence in the iPhone 16e and Gemini AI in the Pixel 10 series, is no longer a niche feature but a core differentiator, promising more intuitive user experiences and personalized functionalities. The continued maturation of foldable technology, exemplified by Samsung and Motorola, suggests a future where device form factors are increasingly fluid and adaptable. Furthermore, the remarkable capabilities now found in mid-range devices, like the camera prowess of the Galaxy A37 or the premium feel of the Motorola Edge, indicate that high-end features are rapidly democratizing. Consumers can expect a future defined by powerful, AI-driven devices, innovative designs, and diminishing compromises even at more accessible price points, pushing manufacturers to continuously innovate and differentiate in a fiercely competitive market.