ZDNET Unveils 2025’s Most Innovative Tech Products
ZDNET recently announced its annual “Breakthrough” Awards, highlighting the most innovative technology products of 2025. Over the past year, ZDNET editors analyzed a wide range of tech developments, from foldable smartphones to advanced smart glasses and multifunctional robots. This year’s awards celebrate products that not only excel in performance but also redefine their categories, offering a glimpse into the future of technology.
Huawei Mate XT Ultimate: The Tri-Foldable Revolution
Leading the pack is the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate, a pioneering tri-foldable smartphone that launched globally in February 2025. This device features two inward-folding hinges, allowing a 6.4-inch display to expand into a tablet-sized 10.2-inch screen. Following its debut at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, the device garnered significant attention.
While the absence of Google services remains a hurdle, the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate has set a new standard for tri-foldable phones. ZDNET’s Prakhar Khanna commented, “The Huawei Mate XT Ultimate sets a new benchmark for tri-fold phones, showing they’re no longer just experimental but a bold step toward the future of mobile computing.”
Roborock Saros Z70: A New Kind of Household Helper
Next up is the Roborock Saros Z70, a robot vacuum designed to go beyond cleaning. Launched in 2025, this model features a mechanical arm capable of detecting and picking up lightweight objects, such as socks and tissues, weighing under 300 grams. The vacuum can be remotely controlled via a smartphone app, allowing users to navigate and operate the arm like a claw machine.
ZDNET’s smart home expert, Maria Diaz, praised the Saros Z70, stating, “The Saros Z70 is the next level in robot vacuum technology, pioneering the idea of a functional, multipurpose household robot that you can truly rely on.”
Samsung Micro RGB TV: A Leap in Color Precision
The Samsung Micro RGB TV marks a significant advancement in television technology. This model, featuring micro-scale RGB LEDs measuring less than 100 micrometers, provides exceptional color accuracy and brightness. Unlike traditional displays, this TV employs individual backlights to achieve its color precision, resulting in a picture quality that surpasses even OLED sets.
The 115-inch Micro RGB TV offers the full spectrum of the BT.2020 color standard, positioning it as a formidable contender in the market. As noted by ZDNET, this model represents both an end to the era of backlit LCDs and a promising prelude to mini LED technology.
Meta Ray-Ban Display: The Future of Smart Glasses
In the realm of wearable technology, the Meta Ray-Ban Display has made waves with its innovative features. Launched during Meta’s Connect event, these smart glasses combine stylish design with advanced technology. They include hands-free photo and video capabilities, along with a waveguide display that projects contextual information, showcasing the potential of AI in wearables.
The accompanying EMG neural wristband allows users to navigate the display using hand gestures, making it intuitive to control. Priced at $799, the Ray-Ban Display has seen overwhelming demand, with reservations pushed back for months after its release.
Antigravity A1: A Game-Changer in Drone Technology
Finally, the Antigravity A1, launched by Insta360’s sub-brand, has set a new standard for drones. With an 8K sensor and weighing just 249 grams, the A1 allows users to capture stunning aerial footage without exceeding the US government’s recreational flying limit.
ZDNET’s Cesar Cadenas tested the drone in Los Angeles, praising its ease of use and high-quality video capabilities. “Yes, it’s expensive at $1,599, but I’d still recommend the A1 to anyone interested in drones,” he noted, emphasizing its appeal for both newcomers and experienced creators.
As technology continues to evolve, these products exemplify the spirit of innovation that will drive the industry forward in the coming years. The ZDNET Breakthrough Awards for 2025 shine a spotlight on developments that not only enhance functionality but also redefine user experiences across various sectors.
