2017's best handhelds to be released: Samsung Galaxy S8, iPhone 8 and Google Pixel 2

Last year was a rollercoaster for smartphones, with the market seeing hits, misses and controversies. But it looks as if 2017 is the year for retribution as some of the most exciting handhelds are expected to debut, including the Samsung Galaxy S8, the Apple iPhone 8 and the Google Pixel 2.

Samsung Galaxy S8: The comeback kid

In 2016, Samsung experienced a public recall of the Galaxy Note 7, which was unlike anything in recent history. The recall itself, while it cost the company millions of dollars, was also detrimental to its reputation. Nevertheless, the South Korean tech giant is expecting to turn this all around with the upcoming Galaxy S8.

As NDTV Gadgets has reported, the Galaxy S8 is expected to be unveiled on March 29 and then launch on April 21. The rumours surrounding its specs include 4GB of RAM and at least 64GB of internal memory, which can be expanded to 256GB via a microSD card. The latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 is expected to power the device, and it is also estimated to sport an 8 megapixel and 12 megapixel front and rear camera respectively. Battery options of 3000 mAh and 3500 mAh will reportedly be available.

Apple iPhone 8: The anniversary device

While the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus were generally well-received smartphones, members of the public criticised Apple for its lack of innovation. The public was largely expecting a design overhaul, but it might be that the Cupertino-based tech giant is simply saving these ideas for its anniversary handheld, the iPhone 8.

The iPhone 8, which is likely to be announced in September, is rumoured to feature an all new design and will introduce several new features to the market. According to Techno Buffalo, the upcoming smartphone will feature a fingerprint reader underneath the touchscreen. Moreover, it is estimated that the unit will feature an edge-to-edge OLED screen that is virtually bezel-less.

Google Pixel 2: Coming back for more

The first 100 percent Google-built smartphones, the Pixel and Pixel XL, are highly regarded in the industry. Both devices sport stunning specs and delivered on what the company promised. Nevertheless, the public is on its toes to see what the search engine giant will do to improve its current flagships and impress the market even more.

According to 9to5Google, the Pixel 2 might feature waterproofing, which has become the standard for Apple and Samsung. Furthermore, the camera -- which has already been hailed as one of the best in the market -- will get an update in terms of low light photography. More modern and powerful specs are also expected of the unit.

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