I just finished checking out one of Aaron's 30-day challenges, and it was interesting to see his take on the Lumia 920 and Windows Phone overall. We're pretty much in agreement when it comes to the end assessment, as I've reviewed the phone myself, but then I got to thinking that even with its shortcomings, it still might be someone's dream phone. In fact, I've read a few user accounts regarding switching to Windows Phone from the iPhone or a nice Android device. This lead me to think, "What is your dream phone?"

We can sit around and nitpick all day about the devices we like and the ones we don't. Sometimes it comes down to platform preference, like Android or iOS, and sometimes it's down to hardware details, like cameras or displays. My dream phone two years ago would've included an awesome camera that can perform really well in low light, like the Lumia 928 or HTC One, and smooth and consistent performance regardless of the type of processor inside the phone. Most of the things I could've wanted already exist today, but smartphones have taken a direction that I never thought I'd ever want, like the large, sharp and vivid display on the HTC One. 

Smartphones seem to be heading in the same direction, anyway. If we weren't so into the details and nitty gritty of the devices, we'd see tons of similarities between most of the devices that Samsung, HTC, LG and Motorola are cranking out. Displays are becoming larger and sharper than what I thought was possible. Processors are becoming more powerful, opening up more possibilities for software and accompanying hardware. The tiny little camera sensors stuffed into our devices are producing images that make point-and-shoot cameras from just six years ago look bland. My mom probably can't tell much of a difference between the large slabs of smartphones that have been churned out in the last six months outside of obvious design choices (i.e. color, material type, slight curves).

With devices becoming more amazing, and more homogenous, it's still obvious that there will never be a perfect or dream device for any one person. The iPhone 5 could have a bigger display. The HTC One could keep its big pixels, but figure out a way to double its resolution without having to beef up the phone and make it thicker for a larger camera sensor or module. Samsung could use a material other than plastic for once. Nokia could start a new line of high-end devices running Android. I could go on forever, but then again, I could be wrong. 

Does your dream device already exist? If so, what is it and why? For all the years I've been doing this, I'd be filthy rich if I'd gotten half a penny for every argument I've seen about which platform is best, or which device trumps the rest. And although many articles have been written about fanboyism, examining its origins and what drives people to become so loyal to a particular product, have you reached the point where you no longer care what anyone tells you about their own devices? Whether it's better than yours or not?

If there were five things you would absolutely love in a new smartphone, given today's pace and trends, what would they be? I'm really looking forward to seeing all your responses!