The new LG G Flex could be a big improvement. Photo: LG

We’ve already heard whispers that LG’s second-generation G Flex will be making its debut at CES 2015 next week — and now a new report from South Korea promises the device will be powered by Qualcomm’s latest 64-bit Snapdragon processor and have LTE-Advanced connectivity for ultra-fast data speeds.

Is the iPhone 6 Plus the best smartphone of 2014?. Photo: Jim Merithew/Cult of Android

Smartphone innovation may have stalled in recent years, but that hasn’t stopped manufacturers from updating and improving upon their best devices. This year, we’ve seen big changes to devices like the iPhone, the Galaxy Note, and the LG G — as well as new contenders like the OnePlus One. But what are the best smartphones of 2014?

Here are our picks.

Samsung beat Apple and HTC in consumer satisfaction. Photo: Killian Bell/Cult of Android

While Samsung’s smartphone sales may be falling, those who are buying its devices couldn’t be happier with them. In a new satisfaction study, the South Korean electronics giant beat even Apple to the top spot of the smartphone category, while Nokia ranked higher than BlackBerry, LG, and even HTC.

A new Moto G with LTE is one its way. Photo: Killian Bell/Cult of Android

Been waiting for the second-generation Moto G to get LTE connectivity before investing? According to a page that has popped up on Motorola’s Brazilian website this week, that wait may soon be over.

Android 5.0 running on the Galaxy S5. Video: SamMobile

Samsung may have failed to deliver its Android 5.0 Lollipop update for the Galaxy S5 before Christmas for the vast majority of users, but millions across Europe will see it before the New Year. The update is currently rolling out over-the-air in Spain following its initial debut in Poland earlier this month, while other European countries can expect to see it soon.