Mobile News 24 Hours

Last updated: July 11, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

Wearables and AR/VR

Samsung's Galaxy XR headset has arrived in the UK, available through Samsung's online store after initial launches in Korea and the US. Xreal's new a01+ AR glasses for $299, targeting gamers and movie enthusiasts with a portable big-screen experience. The X by Xreal smart glasses offer an affordable option with a modular design and micro-OLED panels. In other wearable news, the Honor Watch 6 Plus received a new Motorcycle Edition for bike and racing fans.

Smartphones and Tablets

The Tecno Camon 50 Ultra will launch in India on July 17, positioned as a device for creators. Lenovo is teasing its Legion Y700 Ultimate gaming tablet, with a full announcement expected in August. The vivo T5 Lite, featuring a 6,500mAh battery, is set to debut next week in India. Reports suggest the iPhone Ultra could feature a dual-battery setup, possibly indicating a foldable design. Concerns about a pricier Galaxy S27 may have boosted sales for Samsung's Galaxy S26 series in South Korea. Mint Mobile is offering a significant deal on the Samsung Galaxy S26, including $500 off the phone and 50% off a year of its Unlimited plan.

Software and Services

Meta has deactivated its Muse Image feature, which allowed users to generate AI deepfakes of public Instagram accounts. OpenAI's browser functionality has been integrated into the Chat GPT app, indicating a strategic shift rather than an abandonment of the market. Netflix is bringing back free trials, with durations varying from 7 to 30 days depending on the user. Disney might introduce a free, ad-supported tier for its Disney+ streaming service. Microsoft Teams' new "Workspace Check-in" feature, rolled out last month, is facing questions about employee location tracking.

Automotive and Connectivity

Verizon will provide 5G connectivity services for new BMW vehicles in the US through a partnership. Volkswagen plans significantly its model lineup and factory footprint.

Industry and Policy

New York City has implemented a "Click-to-Cancel" rule, reviving a previously abandoned FTC protection. Stubhub CEO Eric Baker is reportedly investing millions into the ticket-scalping market on his own platform. Microsoft's AI expansion resulted in a 25% increase in carbon emissions in 2025, impacting its goal to be carbon negative by 2030. The FCC has granted approval for a controversial sun-reflecting space mirror project.

Gaming and Computing

Lenovo showcased the Legion Y700 Ultimate gaming tablet in a video. Steam has made it easier for users to determine game compatibility with the Steam Machine. HP's Omni Book Ultra 14 is being reviewed as a premium Windows ultraportable. Huawei is working on a successor to its Mate Book Fold laptop, expected in the latter half of the year. Microsoft's Xbox division experienced layoffs, discussed on the Engadget Podcast.