Mobile News 24 Hours

Last updated: August 14, 2026, 8:32 PM ET

Google Pixel and Android Updates

Google has officially unveiled the Pixel 11 series, featuring the new Tensor G6 chip, which is now confirmed to be a 3nm chip, not 2nm as previously speculated. Consumers looking to get their hands on the Pixel 11 Pro might be able to snag it for free through various preorder deals. For those concerned about device longevity, screen protectors are highly recommended, with specific guides available for the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL and the Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold. In other Google news, the company is enabling users to remove visible watermarks from AI-generated content, though the invisible Synth ID will remain. However, a U.S. judge has criticized the Google Play Store for not adequately directing users to rival app stores. details about the upcoming Google Pixel 12 series suggest four new models are expected in 2027 with significant upgrades. Google TV's Freeplay service now offers over 10,000 free movies and 300 live channels without requiring a subscription, streaming directly to the home screen.

New Smartphone Launches and Leaks

The smartphone market continues to heat up with new leaks and releases. The upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 Pro chipset has appeared in an AnTuTu benchmark, hinting at its imminent arrival. Samsung's next iteration of its custom Android skin, One UI 9.5, is rumored to feature a more glass-like aesthetic with enhanced depth. Meanwhile, detailed leaks for the Poco F9 Pro and Poco F9 Ultra have surfaced, including renders, specifications, and pricing. The vivo Y31T is also reportedly on its way to India, with images and specifications leaking. In China, iQOO is preparing to launch the Neo11 Ultra and Z11s on August 18th, with chipset details for both devices now revealed. The Motorola Moto G Max has launched in India with a different specification set compared to its Brazilian counterpart. Finally, the Fairphone 6+ is rumored to launch on August 18th with a price point around €685.

Electric Vehicles and Automotive Tech

The electric vehicle sector is seeing significant developments. Kia's EV3 will be available in the US starting under $31,000, making it the most affordable EV in Kia's current lineup. In the realm of autonomous driving, Waymo has received approval to offer rides in Sacramento and San Diego, and will also expand its services in the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles. LG is partnering with Nvidia to develop AI-powered robots and hardware for self-driving cars, with a memorandum of understanding signed between the two companies. Meanwhile, users should be aware that dash cam laws can vary significantly by state, and drivers should verify the regulations in the areas they plan to travel.

Wearables and Accessories

The wearable market continues to evolve with new offerings and comparisons. A review of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 highlights its features and battery upgrades, positioning it in comparison to the Google Pixel Watch 5. T-Mobile's "Beyond the Smartphone" sale offers discounts on non-smartphone tech, including wearables, for the Back to School season. In audio tech, the Tecno Pova AI Buds Pro are set to introduce AI features like recording and call summarization.

Industry News and AI Developments

The artificial intelligence landscape is experiencing shifts. DeepSeek has announced significant price increases for its V4 models, with costs expected to quadruple. On a different note, Apple has begun issuing warnings to users who have been targeted by mercenary spyware attacks.

Entertainment and Social Media

In entertainment news, the highly anticipated series The Mandalorian and Grogu will be available on Disney+ starting September 2nd. Instagram has unveiled a refreshed wordmark, its first update in over a decade. In France, the country's top court has struck down a ban on social media access for children under, prompting President Macron to request a rewrite of the proposed legislation.

Miscellaneous Tech

A unique demonstration shows a Nubia Z70 Ultra transformed into a desktop PC capable of running Linux and The Witcher, highlighting the potential of smartphone chipsets when thermal limitations are addressed. For MacBook users seeking to maximize their device's longevity, there are several settings to optimize battery life.