Image source: zdnet.com
Overview: Summer Savings on Smartphones
Major discounts on flagship and budget devices as July 4 approaches
As Amazon Prime Day winds down, the 4th of July weekend brings a fresh wave of smartphone deals across major retailers. For consumers in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Europe looking to upgrade their mobile devices, this period offers significant savings on top-tier models from Samsung, Google, Apple, and others.
According to ZDNET's analysis, the current market is more complex than ever in 2026, with rising prices, economic uncertainty, and a crowded field of excellent options at every price point. This makes targeted deals particularly valuable for buyers seeking the best value. The promotions highlighted below are based on verified retailer listings and independent testing, ensuring readers can make informed decisions.
Apple iPhone Deals: Pro Models and Budget Options
From renewed iPhone 17 Pro to carrier-exclusive offers
Several iPhone models are seeing notable discounts. A standout is the renewed iPhone 17 Pro, available in multiple configurations. The 512GB model in Cosmic Orange is particularly recommended. Powered by the A19 Pro chipset, it supports Apple Intelligence features and delivers top-tier performance for gaming and video editing. Its 6.9-inch ProMotion OLED screen offers a 120Hz refresh rate, vibrant colors, and high outdoor brightness. The titanium design and advanced camera system mirror the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
T-Mobile is offering a free iPhone 17 when signing up for the Experience Beyond plan, plus a $35 device connection fee. This deal applies to both 256GB and 512GB models. The iPhone 17 is the first base model to include a ProMotion display, along with a dual 48MP camera system and a 24MP selfie lens, making it a compelling entry point.
Best Buy is running its own sales event, including deals on the iPhone 16e. This model marks a design shift from the iPhone SE to a style resembling the iPhone 14. It features the A18 chipset, supporting Apple Intelligence features like Genmoji and Image Playground, a 6.1-inch OLED screen, and a single 48MP main camera. While the camera lacks advanced video features of the Pro models, it captures sharp, vibrant photos.
The iPhone Air, Apple's thinnest and lightest smartphone at 5.6mm thick and 165 grams, is also on sale. It packs the A19 Pro chipset and a 6.5-inch OLED screen with 120Hz refresh rate. Trade-offs include a single rear camera and average battery life, but overall performance remains strong.
Samsung Galaxy Deals: S26 Ultra and Z Fold 7
Flagship performance with privacy and productivity features
Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra is available at reduced prices. While not a major upgrade from its predecessor, it refines the formula with a sleeker design, smarter software, and meaningful improvements. A key feature is Privacy Display, which obscures the screen at certain angles to protect sensitive information. Powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, it delivers flagship performance for multitasking and gaming. The 5,000 mAh battery lasts a full day, with ZDNET testing showing about 25% remaining after heavy use.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7, also discounted, sits at the premium end of foldable smartphones. It runs on the same Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, enabling multitasking and AI-powered features. When closed, it functions as a traditional smartphone with a 6.5-inch outer display; when opened, it becomes an 8-inch mini tablet, ideal for reading, gaming, and productivity.
Context and Buyer Considerations
Navigating the 2026 smartphone market
The 2026 smartphone market is characterized by rising prices and a wide array of choices, making deals like these crucial for budget-conscious consumers. Economic instability in global markets, including the US, UK, and Europe, adds pressure on buyers to find value. ZDNET's recommendations are based on extensive testing and comparison shopping, not on affiliate commissions, which support the site but do not influence editorial content.
Uncertainties remain: deal availability may vary by region and retailer, and carrier-specific offers like T-Mobile's require service plan commitments. Buyers should verify terms, including device connection fees and plan requirements, before purchasing. The deals highlighted here represent some of the best current offers, but consumers are advised to compare across retailers for the best price.
Based on reporting from zdnet.com
