Do you think brand recognition is crucial for flagship phones? I personally find it quite significant.
The exterior design stands out as a pivotal aspect among flagship smartphones. If a flagship device lacks distinctive features in its design, it might struggle to justify its existence within the product lineup of a brand.
Take, for instance, the centralized circular camera module, and thoughts might immediately drift towards Huawei. Mention a notch on the screen, and iPhones come to mind. These examples illustrate that the designs of these flagship phones are undeniably successful. This underscores why various smartphone manufacturers have been fervently striving to create designs with high recognizability for their flagship models in recent years.
Actually, various brands have found their unique design signatures now. Huawei, Honor, Vivo, and OnePlus all feature round camera module designs. For instance, Vivo adopts the "Round Sky and Square Earth" design, even incorporating "Sun and Moon Dual Rings" as small details to differentiate models. OnePlus has a round design on the left side, inspired by high-end watches. Honor introduces the "Square-Circle Universe" design. OPPO's "Concentric Universe" design also includes elements of professional cameras, paying tribute to the classics.
Apart from that, manufacturers like Apple, Samsung, OPPO, Realme, and OnePlus mostly position the main camera modules on the left side of the device. Apple is known for its classic rectangular arrangement, Samsung for its separated lens layout, and OPPO for its circular ridge design. However, in the past two years, OPPO has been placing the camera modules of its flagship series in the center, gaining recognition for its unique design.
Improving recognition can also involve paying attention to color schemes. The widely popular "Rose Gold" color comes from the iPhone, with the iPhone 6s being the first model featuring this distinctive shade. It became one of the most beloved colors among Apple smartphones at that time and remains timeless even today. When discussing the Racing and Legendary editions, the iQOO Digital series cannot be overlooked. The lychee pattern stitching brings to mind other series like the OPPO Find X.
Regarding the front design of smartphones, given that the models in the Android camp are either flat screens or curved screens, along with the gradually popularizing foldable screens, it's hard to distinguish them just by looking at the front. However, when you mention the Home button, the notch, or the Dynamic Island, everyone's first thought is iPhone. Even though the products that iPhone has launched in recent years seem to come out at a slow pace, akin to squeezing toothpaste, it hasn't diminished people's recognition of it.
However, the iPhone's Home button and notch have now been removed. If the rumors about the unreleased small-screen SE4 ditching the Home button are true, then it signifies the end of an era for a trendsetting design. So, for users still holding onto models with the Home button and notch, cherish them while you can.
Recognition isn't just about looks; it can also encompass things like ultimate weight control, powerful performance, and standout camera systems. For instance, mention Zeiss, and you'll think of vivo; mention Hasselblad, and OPPO comes to mind. Similarly, when you think of gaming phones, iQOO is likely the first choice.
When it comes to full-range imaging, the vivo X100 series pops into mind. For dual periscope cameras, the OPPO Find X7 series stands out. And for photography that emphasizes realism, the "ghostly" iPhone is a go-to.
Or consider an easy-to-use, lightweight and comfortable system, and you'll think of vivo's OriginOS, which recently introduced its own BlueWhale OS. For a system that's minimalist in style and smooth in operation, OPPO's ColorOS comes to mind. And for a system that, despite being bug-ridden and closed, is noted for its security and simplicity, Apple's iOS is the reference point.
The importance of recognition for flagship phones is undeniable. It greatly influences user choice and is a key competitive area for smartphone companies. It affects the user experience and continuing the same design language also helps strengthen users' impression of the device. Only when a flagship's recognition reaches a certain level does it truly reflect the charm of a flagship device.
What do you think? How important is recognition for flagship phones to you? Which phone leaves the deepest impression on you?
