Mobile News 24 Hours

Last updated: July 3, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

Mobile Devices & Software

Samsung is preparing to remove the Vascular Load feature from its US smartwatches with the upcoming Samsung Health version 7.0 and One UI 9 Watch updates, expected in late July. This move comes as rumors suggest Apple has halted development of AirPods Ultra, which were expected to feature cameras for Siri integration. In other mobile news, T-Mobile will discontinue its 2G network in August, requiring customers to upgrade to newer devices. Meanwhile, rumors indicate that One Plus's Oxygen OS and Realme UI may merge into ColorOS, potentially signaling an end to the distinct software branches for these brands. The Nothing Phone 1 has received its final software update, marking the conclusion of support for the company's inaugural device.

Smartphone Rumors & Launches

The upcoming Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 is rumored to come with a higher price tag, a development not entirely unexpected given current market trends. Global variants of the Redmi 17 5G have received certifications, revealing its RAM, storage, and battery specifications. The Xiaomi 18 series is anticipated to be the first to launch with Qualcomm's new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 chips, expected to be unveiled at the Snapdragon Summit in September. Oppo's Reno16 has undergone review, while leaks detail the main telephoto camera for the upcoming Oppo Find X10 Ultra. The vivo X500 is tipped to feature a 50MP main rear camera, with the full X500 line expected to launch in China around September. Samsung may also equip all Galaxy S27 models with its Privacy Display feature, and the S27 Pro and Ultra variants are rumored to receive a new selfie camera. The iQOO Z11i has debuted in China with a 6,500mAh battery and a Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 SoC.

Tablets & Wearables

Amazon has refreshed its Fire HD 10 tablet, adding a modest RAM upgrade. T-Mobile is offering a limited-time deal that allows customers to purchase a Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE for just $99 when adding a qualified tablet line. Lenovo is teasing a new Legion gaming tablet 5G, a successor to the Y700 (Gen . Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Glasses are rumored to feature touch controls and deep integration with the broader Galaxy ecosystem.

International & Regional Tech

International versions of Google Pixel phones differ from their American counterparts in specific ways. One Plus devices are reportedly experiencing stock shortages in another market, adding to recent reports of restructuring across several regions. Motorola has launched its new Global Connect eSIM app in partnership with Gigs, currently available in select Latin American countries including Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina.

Feature Phones & AI Integration

HMD is continuing its focus on feature phones with the announcement of four new Nokia models: the Nokia 200 4G, 210 4G, 215 4G 2nd Edition, and 235 4G 2nd Edition. These new devices come equipped with an on-device AI assistant, indicating a move to integrate AI capabilities even into simpler handsets.

Gaming & Entertainment

The Space Shuttle Endeavour is scheduled to go on public display at the California Science Center later this year, after being housed in Los Angeles since 2012. The Summer Games Done Quick 2026 speedrunning marathon is set to begin on July 5, with details on how to watch available. Sony is reportedly converting its PlayStation disc factory in Europe into a plant for optical microlenses, following an investment of $34 million. The Engadget Podcast this week discusses first impressions of Valve's Steam Machine and Sony's plans to discontinue PlayStation discs in 2028.

Platform Updates & Services

Instagram has updated its Edits app, introducing support for bilingual captions and new templates. Users can now learn how claim WhatsApp username as the platform prepares for a more social-media-like handle system. Google Home speakers and other smart home products are reportedly experiencing incredibly slow response times, impacting user experience.

Automotive & Enterprise

Tesla has begun taking orders in the US for the Model Y Long Wheelbase, which will feature six seats and is priced at $62,000. Microsoft's financial filings reveal its methods for shifting profits to reduce, utilizing different national declarations.