Mobile News 24 Hours

Last updated: July 7, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

Mobile Operating Systems & Software

Apple has released the third developer beta of iOS 27, two weeks after the previous iteration. This latest update introduces several bug fixes, performance improvements, and a small number of new features, signaling continued refinement of the upcoming mobile operating system. Google, meanwhile, is adjusting how Android backup data is counted, now including all backup data toward a user's overall storage cap. The company is also using uploaded search media to train its AI models, though users can opt out via settings adjustments.

Foldable Phone Market

The foldable phone segment is seeing increased activity with multiple manufacturers preparing new devices. Honor is reportedly developing a wide foldable phone to challenge rivals like Apple and Samsung. Samsung is expected to launch its Galaxy Z Fold8 on July 22nd, with rumors suggesting significant display upgrades aimed at eliminating the screen crease. The company is also preparing its Wearables app with a new look for upcoming watch releases. Meanwhile, Huawei is slated to release a dual and a tri-foldable this year, with a new wide-foldable arriving next.

Smartphone Launches & Rumors

Several brands are gearing up for new smartphone launches. iQOO has teased the upcoming Z11 Lite, positioned for students, while its Z11 model is expected to launch in India with potentially different specifications than its Chinese counterpart. vivo is preparing to launch its X500 family in China in September, with the X500 Pro Max receiving certification for Indonesia. The company has also officially launched the Y500 4G in Pakistan and Nepal, featuring a large 8,100 mAh battery. Redmi is launching its Note 17 series in China this month, with global models of the Redmi Note 17 and its variants potentially arriving later.

AI and Tech Company Restructuring

Artificial intelligence continues to be a major focus, with companies like xAI officially rebranding to SpaceXAI following its merger with SpaceX. AI is also influencing other areas, with a feature-length movie reportedly set to star an AI character named Tilly Norwood. Reddit is employing AI to combat AI-generated content on its platform. On the corporate restructuring front, Microsoft is cutting an additional 3,200 jobs across its divisions, separate from the previously announced layoffs in its gaming sector. Xbox has confirmed plans to lay off 3,200 workers as part of a broad restructuring effort.

US State Lawsuits and Google's AI Training

Meta is facing significant legal challenges, with four US states filing lawsuits over the alleged addictive designs of its social media platforms, seeking damages that could total $1.4 trillion. Google is also making adjustments to its user data policies, now using uploaded search media to train its AI models, though users can opt out. Furthermore, Google Maps is reportedly preparing to integrate Gemini for ordering food deliveries, potentially streamlining the process and reducing reliance on third-party apps.

European Market Developments

In Europe, Nintendo will cease selling the original Switch in the region by 2027 to comply with battery regulations. One Plus is facing increasing warranty issues with EU customers, leading some to seek recourse through the European Consumer Center. Meanwhile, Comcast-owned Sky is set to acquire ITV's media and entertainment divisions in a £1.6 billion deal, which would create a combined entity that could rival YouTube for second place in the UK market.

Wearables and Audio

Samsung is preparing for new wearable releases, with upcoming watch names confirmed including the Galaxy Watch9, Galaxy Watch Ultra2, and Galaxy Able. The company's Wearables app has also seen a revamped design leak, suggesting an imminent refresh. In the audio space, Nothing is expected to announce its Ear (3a) earbuds alongside a new phone tomorrow. Amidst discussions about the resurgence of wired audio, a report explores why some users are ditching wireless earbuds.

Chip and Connectivity Standards

The global chip market continues to evolve. Samsung's Galaxy S27 Pro is rumored to use a Snapdragon chip in select regions, with the Exynos 2700 powering the device elsewhere. The complexities of USB-C connectivity are also being discussed, with an article explaining USB-C port doesn't guarantee and the benefits of investing in higher-quality USB4 cables.

Gaming and Entertainment

Razer is building anticipation for an Axon Mobile launch on Google Play, with pre-registration for an Axon Wallpaper Engine now open. In the UK, Comcast's Sky is acquiring ITV, the country's largest commercial broadcaster, in a £1.6 billion deal. This consolidation aims to create a stronger media entity in the British market.

Other Notable Developments

Alibaba has received a temporary reprieve from the Pentagon's Chinese military ban, following a judge's ruling. Bentley has teased its first electric vehicle, the Torcal, signaling its entry into the EV market. The debate around AI continues, with a report on an AI golem reportedly starring in a movie. A digital frame called the Homture Magic Frame is being used to create Harry Potter-style moving portraits.