Sure, Apple and Google's smart speakers have beautiful aesthetics compared to the Amazon Echo Dot. But walk into any store selling smart home gear and check the box. "Works with Alexa" appears on ...

However Samsung kept whittling it down even stripping the slot from the A5,3 series of devices leaving the slot on the A16.

A mix of expected sequels and out-of-nowhere indie gems made 2025 a joy.