Mobile News 24 Hours

Last updated: June 27, 2026, 11:31 AM ET

AI & CHIP DEVELOPMENTS

OpenAI launched GPT-5.6 in a limited preview for trusted partners, featuring three variants including its most powerful and affordable models to date. Amidst this advancement, Apple is reportedly seeking clearance to purchase chips from a Chinese company linked to the military, a move that would require U.S. government approval. In a significant move for the augmented reality sector, Apple's Vision Pro chief is reportedly leaving to establish a hardware division at OpenAI. Meanwhile, Anthropic received U.S. government permission to redeploy its Mythos cybersecurity AI model, restoring access for select organizations.

MOBILE HARDWARE & EARBUDS

Moto Pad 70 Pro, powered by a Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 SoC with a 144Hz screen and a 10,200 mAh battery, succeeding last year's Moto Pad 60 Pro. vivo also launched its premium TWS 5 Pro buds alongside the X Fold6 in China, offering advanced features beneath an unassuming exterior. Oppo's Enco Air5 and Air5s earbuds are now available for unboxing, with the Air5 positioned as a slightly lower-tier model than the Air5 Pro, featuring active noise cancellation. Separately, Apple is rumored to equip the iPhone 18 and 18e with a surprising amount of RAM, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

SMART HOME & AUDIO

Google has begun rolling out a patch to address a persistent Sirius XM radio issue affecting several of its smart speakers. In a move to enhance event experiences, Ticketmaster is collaborating with Google Wallet on customizable passes designed to benefit Android users attending events. For those seeking superior audio, Amazon's Echo Studio smart is available at a significant discount, offering room-filling sound and Alexa integration, potentially outperforming Google Home speakers. Furthermore, Google's Nest Wi-Fi Pro router is on sale, providing an opportunity to upgrade home networks at nearly half its retail price.

GAMING & ENTERTAINMENT

The gaming industry is seeing shifts in pricing, with Microsoft increasing Xbox prices in a year, impacting the 512GB model. This follows a previous hike in October and May of last year. Consumers looking for gaming deals should note that it is currently an unfavorable time to buy an Xbox, even with anticipated price adjustments. For indie game enthusiasts, a selection of sidescrolling roguelites and Steam Deck air hockey titles are recommended, particularly as the Steam Summer Sale continues. The debate over audio formats continues, with guidance offered on differentiating Dolby Digital, DTS for optimal home theater setups.

WEARABLES & FITNESS TRACKERS

The Oura Ring 4 is heavily discounted during Prime Day, with the deal effectively including up to three years of membership for free. For fitness-conscious users, Garmin's Venu 4 is on sale, with an even more compelling offer available on the Forerunner. Google is pushing the first update for Fitbit Air, aiming to resolve early issues reported by users. Additionally, Google's Pixel Buds 2a have become a popular workout choice, especially with prices dropping below $100.

TABLETS & E-READERS

Apple has increased prices on its iPads, with the 11-inch iPad Air seeing a $150 hike. This makes a heavily discounted Samsung tablet a more attractive alternative, priced at less than half the cost of the iPad Air. For younger readers, Amazon's kids' Kindles are recommended as a more beneficial gift than "brainrot tablets," especially during Prime Day promotions. Samsung's Galaxy Tab A11 Plus is also available at a significant discount, offering a transformative travel experience for under $200.

OTHER MOBILE NEWS & DEALS

Uber is implementing more stringent background checks for drivers and couriers across the US in response to sexual assault lawsuits. In a move that could tighten shared account policies, Netflix is testing profile-specific email logins for easier access, though it raises concerns about stricter account sharing enforcement. Apple has begun selling refurbished MacBook Neo models, returning prices to their pre-increase levels after a recent $100 price hike on most products. Meanwhile, Samsung is facing another lawsuit from a patent troll, with Tau Ceti Ventures LLC alleging patent infringement.

DEALS WRAP-UP

Prime Day deals are winding down, with several popular Android products seeing significant discounts. Consumers looking for smaller devices can find deals on compact smartphones that are currently receiving notable price reductions. The Beats Solo 4 headphones are available at half price, offering 50-hour battery life for under $100. Additionally, Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 are on sale for $160, representing a substantial saving for Pixel users seeking active noise cancellation. A discounted Anker MagGo wireless charger is also available.

DEEP SPACE & INFRASTRUCTURE

NASA is testing a 'cryocoupler' developed by L3Harris for in-orbit refueling, a critical step for future deep space missions. Separately, Samsung plans to charge for SmartThings API access, signaling a potential shift in how developers interact with its smart home platform.