Mobile News 24 Hours

Last updated: July 31, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

Smartphones and Foldables Take Center Stage

Xiaomi is preparing for a global launch of its upcoming Xiaomi 18 and Xiaomi 18 Pro Max devices, with both phones recently receiving certification. Google's Pixel 11 Pro Fold has had its design revealed through leaked promotional renders, showcasing a familiar aesthetic with a refined camera bar and a new Pine finish. Meanwhile, Samsung is gearing up to release the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Fold 8 Ultra on August 7th, offering significant trade-in discounts. The global Redmi Note 17 lineup has had its full specifications detailed alongside leaked images. Huawei is set to unveil the nova 16 SE, along with new Mate Pad Pro and Mate Book Fold models, at an event on August 5th.

Wearables and Audio Gear Get Upgrades

Samsung is developing a new pair of Galaxy Buds featuring an ear hook design, potentially targeting fitness enthusiasts and competing with brands like Shokz. DJI's Osmo Pocket 4P following its announcement last month, and has been praised as a top-tier portable vlogging camera with a new 3x lens and a 1-inch main sensor. Casio has launched a new ring watch that appears to be an Oura competitor. Sonos planning product for September, with a likely focus on AI.

Google and AI Integration Deepen

Google has integrated its Nano Banana 2 AI image generation model into Google Earth, allowing users to create custom images from satellite and 3D imagery. The company has also addressed a Pixel battery drain issue, with a July update resolving the problem on recent devices and a fix slated for Pixel 9a and 8a in September. Reddit CEO Steve Huffman has expressed frustration with Google's AI overviews, stating users want the platform itself, not a summary. Meanwhile, LinkedIn a reporting tool for AI-generated content it deems "slop" and is removing some of its own AI-writing features.

Software, Services, and Market Trends

Spotify is rolling out a new Running Mode to its iOS app for Premium subscribers in select countries. The music streaming service is also introducing a feature that allows users to leave notes on songs. Honor has officially announced the unveiling date for Magic OS, based on Android. Global smartphone sales have fallen by six percent amid a memory cost crisis, though Apple and Samsung have managed to increase their market share. Samsung's mobile division has posted its first-ever loss due to soaring memory prices. Apple and iPhone users will soon be able to add their driver's licenses and IDs to Apple Wallet in Oklahoma.

Other Tech and Industry News

The AI wearable Friend pendant has received an update with a speaker and improved models. Snap will showcase its AR Specs at an event on September 16th. The puzzle game Lumines on iOS and Android with a free trial. Netflix has paid $500 million to share streaming rights for "The Walking Dead" with AMC+. Lego has introduced Smart Play sets that combine building with Pokémon gameplay. Maingear has unveiled a new lineup of pre-built PCs featuring a "zero-cable" design. The Fairphone 6+ has appeared in a listing with a significant amount of RAM. Electrified vehicle sales globally. Chat GPT and Roblox are reportedly facing stricter regulations in the EU.