Mobile News 24 Hours

Last updated: August 13, 2026, 5:53 AM ET

Google Pixel 11 Series

Google formally unveiled its Pixel 11 lineup at its Made by Google event, introducing the Pixel, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and the Pixel 11 Pro Fold. The standard Pixel 11 features the new Tensor G6 chipset and faster charging capabilities, positioning itself between a flagship and a mid-ranger. The Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL received hands-on attention for their sophisticated design, featuring two new camera sensors and a modern twist on classic indicator lights. However, both Pro models ship with less RAM despite a $100 price increase across the entire family, including the foldable. The camera system is a major highlight, with major upgrades including Instant Night Sight and larger sensors that blend improved hardware with new AI features. Gemini AI and the camera steal the show, according to early impressions. A detailed comparison between the Pixel 11 Pro vs Galaxy S26 Ultra examines their cameras, display, battery, and overall specs, while another analysis finds the Pixel 11 Pro Fold vs Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is not as straightforward as it seems, noting the Pixel is heavier with a smaller battery and less capable cameras.

T-Mobile is already offering the Pixel 11 or Pixel 11 Pro for free with preorder deals that require no trade-in. For those choosing a device, guides are available to help decide on the best Pixel 11 color and the right Pixel 11 Pro Fold color. The best Pixel 11 and Pixel 11 Pro cases are also available, with the two models sharing case compatibility.

Pixel 11 Pro Fold and Charging

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is priced at $1,900 and features the Tensor G6 chip. Hands-on impressions reveal it is great but largely unchanged from its predecessor, with most of the novelty coming from new AI features. Regarding battery, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold charging speed retains the same battery life claim as the Pixel 10 Pro Fold but in a lighter package, with faster wireless charging via Qi2. Indeed, the device supports Qi2 wireless charging at 25W. The standard Pixel 11 also supports Qi2, offering faster wireless charging speeds across the board.

Pixel Watch 5 and Pixel Tag

Alongside the phones, Google launched the Pixel Watch 5, with most of this year's updates focused on health, GPS, and AI rather than hardware changes. A standout feature is a new health monitoring tool that can track blood pressure and insulin resistance, acting as an early warning system for diabetes. Google also introduced the Pixel Tag, which brings UWB precision and Find Hub tracking to Android, though it requires a separate case for keys.

Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Sharing Features

Google announced a new Olive color and new software features for the Pixel Buds Pro, including Dynamic ANC, Gemini controls, and improved Live Translate. The update also introduces sleep syncing and better translation. For file sharing, Google launched Tap to Share, an Android equivalent of Apple's Name Drop, available on Pixels from the Pixel 6 onwards. This makes sharing between Pixel phones as simple as tapping two devices together.

Samsung Galaxy S27, Tab S12, and One UI 9

A new report indicates the Samsung Galaxy S27 series will not copy a rumored iPhone variable aperture feature, despite earlier speculation that the Galaxy S27 Ultra could include a 200MP main camera with variable aperture. On the tablet front, the Galaxy Tab S12+ and Tab S12 Ultra moved a step closer to launch after receiving Bluetooth certification, with a rumored H2 2026 unveiling. Samsung is also rolling out One UI 9 Beta 5 to enrolled Galaxy S26 testers, amid rumors of a One UI 9.5 update. Additionally, Samsung released a new ringtone based on Chopin's Nocturne for One UI, accompanying the Galaxy Z Fold 8 launch. For buyers curious about durability, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 carries an IP48 rating, meaning it is not fully waterproof.

Apple iPhone 18 and Price Hikes

According to analyst Jeff Pu, the iPhone 18 will feature 12GB of RAM, a significant bump from the 8GB in the iPhone, along with a new display technology. Separately, a new rumor claims Apple will raise prices for all existing and upcoming iPhone models by $100.

Honor Magic9 and Robot Phone

At its Robot Phone keynote, Honor teased the Magic9 series, confirming a September launch, which is a month earlier than usual. The company also officially launched the Honor Robot Phone in China, featuring a 200MP titanium gimbal camera.

Motorola, Realme, and Poco

Motorola has started rolling out the Android 17 update for the Signature smartphone, a 5.75GB download. Realme is working on the P4s Lite for India, having received certification. The company also unveiled the Realme 16x with a 7,000 mAh battery, 45W charging, and a 144Hz display. Battery details for the upcoming Poco F9 Pro and F9 Ultra have leaked, ahead of their expected launch.

Gaming and Entertainment

A rare two-player Computer Space arcade machine is up for auction as part of a retro tech collection focused on Steve Jobs. Amazon is severing ties with two MMOs, handing off Lost Ark and Throne and Liberty to other publishers. The Ghost of Yōtei Complete Edition arrives on October 1, including a new story arc.

Streaming, AI, and Privacy

Spotify is now labeling AI artists with a new "AI Persona" tag and removing them from recommendations. In privacy news, a German nonprofit has filed a criminal complaint over Meta smart glasses privacy concerns. Twitch is training AI on user streams, and a guide explains how to stop that and why the company didn't make it opt-in. As of August 2026, the free tier of ChatGPT now allows unlimited texts.

Accessories, Reviews, and Tips

The Insta360 X6 360 camera balances ease of use with pro features like i-Log and 10-bit color. A guide explains the differences between an HDMI splitter vs. HDMI switch. For digital wallets, there is a breakdown of the pros and cons of using Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. A tutorial covers how to clear the cache on your iPhone. Finally, an opinion piece argues that smartphone colors are more exciting than any new features in 2026.