Mobile News 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: October 21, 2026, 3:20 AM ET
Apple Hardware & Supply Chain
Apple has begun selling iPhone 18 Pro repair parts and tools, following new partnerships with American suppliers. The company also expanded its U.S. supplier network for the iPhone Duo and iPhone 18 Pro. Separately, UK regulators want Apple to open up iPhone NFC technology and lower the fees it charges.
Foldables & Upcoming Launches
Ahead of launch, five key points about the iPhone Duo are worth knowing, including software limitations and pre-sale deals. Early reports suggest its display may feel soft above the hinge despite lacking a visible crease. Huawei's next foldable, the Mate X8, has reportedly leaked ahead of its launch, while Xiaomi's 18 Pro may cost more globally with a smaller battery. One Plus confirmed its Ace 7 series will use a dual-airflow fan design when it launches in China. Oppo's wide-screen phone is tipped to pack an 8,000mAh battery, and Doogee previewed its Note60 W at the Canton Fair. Karbonn is preparing a comeback with the Rebel 5G.
Software, Operating Systems & Updates
Samsung's Galaxy A36 owners can now download the stable One UI 9 update, while Google's upgraded 3D emojis are rolling out to older Pixel phones. Google is also bringing Gemini's Personal Intelligence to drivers through Android Auto, and Android Auto may add work accounts. AMD is bringing FSR 4.1 upscaling to Xbox, and Samsung is improving Exynos modem efficiency for the Galaxy S27. Users have reported that the Google Home Speaker is consuming huge amounts of data, and a fix is rolling out.
Gaming & Consoles
The next Xbox could cost $1,800, according to a report, with Microsoft targeting a 2028 release. Hackers may have already cracked the latest PS5 firmware ahead of GTA.
AI, Privacy & Platforms
OpenAI added a PIN-protected locked chats feature to Chat GPT to safeguard sensitive conversations. Meta suspended its Muse chat sharing feature after researchers accessed 6,800 shared conversations. A lawsuit from Sam Altman's sister was dismissed by a judge. Spotify removed 50 million AI tracks from recommendations but keeps them on the platform, and it launched podcast memberships to compete with Patreon. TikTok faces hundreds of lawsuits after employees warned about child exploitation risks.
Memory Chips & Hardware Costs
Samsung has reportedly signed a five-year deal for DRAM and HBM chips. With RAM prices running high, buyers are being advised against 8GB laptops.
Wearables & Accessories
Oura has added cardio fitness tracking to its smart rings, and Google's Fitbit Edge sits between a basic tracker and a full smartwatch. Apple Watch Ultra 4 owners can explore its action button for several hidden uses. Antigravity's A1 drone gained a Follow Me bundle with gesture controls.
Buying Guides & Tips
A 1kW wind turbine can offset part of a home's power bill, though output depends on wind conditions. Straight Talk upgraded its unlimited plans with more data and 5G without raising prices. Owners of older iPhones can speed up performance with a few adjustments, and the original Steam Deck's expected lifespan is worth considering. Amazon's Alexa gained new capabilities for Prime members. Windows users can stop fake virus pop-ups that push phone numbers or fake scanners.
Coming Up
The iPhone Duo launches soon, with pre-sale deals already available. One Plus's Ace 7 series arrives in China later this month.