Mobile News 24 Hours

Last updated: July 16, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

Smartphone & Tablet Updates

Samsung is reportedly preparing to launch the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series with a significant battery life boost, according to EU ratings. However, the upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 8 may face a steep price hike despite a lack of hardware upgrades, possibly due to the inclusion of a cheaper Exynos chip. In the meantime, the unreleased Caviar Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, themed after Lionel Messi, is already available for purchase at $13,130, preceding Samsung's official July 22 reveal already available for purchase. Separately, renders and confirmed specs for the Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra have surfaced, suggesting a busy period for Samsung's device releases. Infinix is also set to launch a new tablet, the Infinix Xpad 30 Pro, with its specs appearing in a retailer listing.

AI and Software Features

Google is expanding its Connected Apps feature within AI Mode, now integrating AI-assisted grocery shopping with Instacart and playlist creation with YouTube Music. The company is also focusing on building trust for its AI glasses by incorporating anti-tampering protections into Android XR from day one, recognizing that public comfort is crucial for adoption. Meanwhile, Netflix has disclosed its use of AI in approximately 300 titles this year, with expectations that this number will continue to grow. In a more niche application, Suno has brought its generative AI music capabilities to iMessage. On the regulatory front, the UK's communications regulator, Ofcom, has launched an investigation into TikTok's child safety measures.

Mobile OS and Hardware Developments

Android 17 QPR1 Beta 7 has been released, addressing several long-standing issues reported by Pixel users. Xiaomi has surprised by rolling out a stable Android 17 update to the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and Xiaomi, although it is based on Hyper OS 3.0 without new feature additions. Realme India has confirmed that its future devices will launch with Color OS, following a reported merger of Realme UI with Oppo's Color OS to reduce R&D costs. The Redmi 17 4G has also had its design and specifications leaked, detailing color options and hardware.

Wearables and Audio Devices

The Pixel Watch 4 has returned to its Prime Day price on Amazon, offering a significant discount weeks before the Made by Google 2026 event. The EU is introducing exemptions to its removable battery rule for smartwatches, fitness trackers, and earbuds, with the broader legislation set to take effect in February 2027. In audio news, Marshall's latest mid-range headphones, the Milton ANC, have disappointed with one specific drawback. Sonos has enhanced its mobile app with new features, including tab navigation and speaker sorting. Vital Signals is introducing a ring capable of continuous blood pressure monitoring, aiming to change how individuals manage hypertension and other cardiac conditions.

EVs and Automotive Technology

Honda is officially discontinuing its sole EV offering in the US, an electric SUV that was a product of collaboration with GM. In automotive safety, NTSB investigators have confirmed that the driver in a fatal crash had overridden Tesla's Full Self-Driving system, with NHTSA also investigating the incident. Wireless Android Auto operates using both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, with these technologies working in tandem to enable the wireless experience.

Gaming and Other Tech News

Major League Baseball has banned the use of dugout iPads for AI-powered in-game strategy calls, effectively removing chatbots from tactical decision-making. Microsoft is facing accusations of unfair labor practices from US and Canadian video game unions, with charges filed with the NLRB alleging bad faith bargaining by Xbox. OpenAI's financial situation could potentially worsen with the introduction of smart speakers. The Oversight Board is exploring ways to extend its influence beyond Meta and has suggested that leading AI models might be restricting free expression. SpaceX's deorbiting of 260 Starlink satellites is not a cause for immediate concern, though scientists are continuing to investigate the environmental impacts of frequent satellite deorbits. T-Mobile's T-Satellite service, which can connect users to emergency services even in remote locations, is highlighted as a potentially life-saving feature that doesn't require a T-Mobile subscription to function for emergency calls. Hyundai is reportedly in discussions to acquire full ownership of robotics giant Boston Dynamics.