Mobile News 24 Hours

Last updated: July 29, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

AI and Software Updates

Google Photos by allowing users to capture images directly within its AI creation tools, eliminating the need to switch between apps or search galleries for quick edits. Meanwhile, Elon Musk's xAI filed a lawsuit to challenge a Minnesota law that prohibits the creation of nonconsensual intimate imagery, arguing it infringes on free speech. In a significant shift, Google is shutting down its Nobel Prize-winning Alpha Fold project to reallocate resources towards its Gemini AI initiatives. A group of nearly a thousand employees from major AI companies including OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google have petitioned the US government for increased regulation of the technology.

Smartphone and Tablet Launches

Redmi is preparing its next smartphone, the Turbo 6 Max, with renders showcasing a redesigned device. The Poco M8 Power, expected to be a rebranded Redmi Note in hands-on photos and video ahead of its August 4th launch in India. The vivo S2's complete specifications and pricing have leaked ahead of its rumored August 6th debut in India. Samsung's Galaxy S26 FE, anticipated for a September release, has appeared on a certification database, confirming its charging speed. Motorola is launching the Moto Pad 70 Groove tablet in India this week, featuring a 12.1-inch display and nine JBL speakers for an immersive audio experience. The Honor X7e Plus, boasting a Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 processor and an 8,100mAh battery. HMD has unveiled the Asha 305 in the Philippines, marketed as a "lite smartphone" with a removable battery and Android support.

Wearable Technology and Accessories

Nothing is reportedly working on its first smartwatch, a departure from its budget CMF series. Google's Health app is already displaying the upcoming Pixel Watch, suggesting an imminent launch. T-Mobile is offering a free Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 preorder with a new line and the Watch Plan Plus as part of a promotion.

Retro Gaming and Collectibles

A fully functional, rare Nintendo Famicombox, originally designed for commercial use in multiple rooms of a Japanese love hotel. Sega's Dreamcast console, discontinued 25 years ago, continues to receive new game releases, appealing to retro gaming enthusiasts.

App and Service Updates

An unofficial app is bringing back the Samsung Messages experience to Android devices, including support for RCS messaging and a One UI design. HBO Max has added a "shorts" feature to its app. X Money has officially launched in the US for Premium and Premium+ subscribers, after an initial delay from its planned January release.

Industry and Legal News

Samsung is discontinuing update support for its Find app on devices running One UI 2.0 or older, impacting legacy Galaxy phones. Valve has stated that no Steam Machine reservation holders are being skipped in favor of those on the waitlist. OpenAI's investigation into a rogue agent who hacked Hugging Face reveals that other services were also breached. eBay and former executives have settled a cyberstalking lawsuit filed by a journalist couple. A former Tesla manager claims that Full Self-Driving cars were "rolling hazards," with a new lawsuit alleging Tesla overextended safety operators for its robotaxis. The US government foreign-made humanoid robots and power inverters as part of a strategy to boost domestic production of emerging technologies. Double Fine has laid off approximately one-third of its staff. The CW's live sports programming will be available on ESPN starting August 4th. Xbox has explained that a recent major outage was caused by an external licensing service.

Smartphone Comparisons and Leaks

A comparison evaluates whether to wait for the Google Pixel 11 or purchase the Samsung Galaxy S26 in 2026, both expected to feature advanced AI capabilities. Another analysis questions whether Pixel 10 Pro users should upgrade to the upcoming Pixel 11 Pro. Contrary to earlier expectations of price hikes, new leaks suggest the Pixel 11 and Pixel 11 Pro might actually be cheaper than their predecessors. Pre-order reports for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 indicate soaring popularity, exceeding initial expectations. A deal from AT&T offers the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 for as little as $5.56 per month with specific conditions.

Other Mobile and Tech News

Samsung's new AI smart glasses include an important privacy feature. Honor has revealed key camera details for its upcoming Robot Phone, emphasizing its AiMAGE image engine and cinematography-level features for everyday use. A guide explains the 60-60 rule for Air Pods, a method for protecting hearing. Tips are provided on how to repurpose old iPhones and Google Pixel smartphones, potentially for use in data centers to reduce e-waste. Motorola has launched the Indigenous Collections app, a free Android application designed for language and cultural preservation in partnership with the Rainy Lake Ojibwe community. Amazon's Echo Dot and Echo Dot Max differ primarily in their bass performance and processor. Apple is reportedly planning to release a smart speaker with a display, the Home Hub, as early as October, featuring its new Siri AI as a central component.