Mobile News 24 Hours

Last updated: July 8, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

AI and Software Updates

OpenAI will release GPT-5.6 Sol, Terra, and Luna to the public on July 9. Google Photos is rolling out "Video Remix," which uses AI to alter videos. Separately, Google is developing an automatic backup feature for Android phones to PCs that works over Wi-Fi, though it excludes Samsung devices. Wear OS 7 is now available for eligible Pixel Watch models, bringing new features to smartwatches. Pixel phones are receiving their first Android 17 update, focused on security and bug fixes. Duck Duck Go Browser will now block video ads, including those on YouTube, by default.

Smartwatch and Wearable Tech

The upcoming Pixel Watch 5 may see a price increase, disappointing potential buyers. Meta's smart glasses will automatically disable their camera if the privacy light is tampered with, a change being mandated through a firmware update. Rollme has launched the Air Cam, open-style earbuds with a built-in 8MP camera. Samsung's rumored "clip-on" earbuds might be called "Galaxy Buds On," according to conflicting reports.

Smartphones and Mobile Devices

The Redmi Note 17 series is scheduled for a July 14 launch, with teasers showing the Pro model enduring a football impact and a firehose blast. Xiaomi's upcoming Redmi Note 17 and Pro models will feature Gorilla Glass Victus. The Moto G77 Power has debuted in India, featuring a 7,000mAh battery and a 6.72-inch 120Hz LCD screen. The vivo T5 Lite 5G is also teased for launch in India, packing a 6,500mAh battery. Huawei is teasing the Pura 90 series for a global release next week, showing off gradient backs. The Redmi Turbo 6 Max is reportedly in development, following the Turbo 5 Max released in January.

Televisions and Streaming

LG's 77-inch OLED TV is available at Best Buy with a 50% discount, representing $1,500 in savings. Roku remains the most popular streaming device, but it lags behind competitors in several areas. A lesser-known Roku feature can benefit night owls watching content late at night.

Automotive and Autonomous Tech

Volkswagen is using 100 sheep to manage vegetation at a solar farm in Poland. Waymo plans to operate fully autonomous vehicles without human supervisors in San Diego, Las Vegas, Tampa, and Denver soon.

Gaming and Computing

Microsoft has reportedly canceled a sequel to Obsidian's Avowed, with the studio now focusing on a Fallout game. The Valve Steam Machine is reviewed and deemed not worth its current asking price, especially considering it would have been more relevant five years ago.

Social Media and Business

Elon Musk stated that X will send direct messages to users about posts that receive a Community Note, aiming to increase visibility for crowd-sourced corrections. A judge approved a $1.5 million settlement between the SEC and Elon Musk concerning his past investment in Twitter. The US government is reportedly looking to restrict American companies from using Chinese AI models due to cost-cutting measures. Amazon is working on a project codenamed 'Moonraker' to create a more capable agentic Alexa assistant that can handle multi-step tasks.

Deals and Discounts

Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7 is available with a $500 discount, even as the company prepares to launch newer foldables. Amazon is offering discounts across the entire Samsung Galaxy S26 lineup, separate from Prime Day promotions.

Other

Fi's new pet tracker, the Ultra, will utilize T-Mobile's Starlink satellite service for coverage in rural areas.