Mobile News 24 Hours

Last updated: August 15, 2026, 2:32 AM ET

Smartphones and Mobile Tech

Poco is expanding its M8 series with the upcoming Poco M8x 5G. This device joins the recently launched M8, M8 Pro, M8s, and M8 Power. While official details are scarce, a glimpse of the M8x 5G's back has been revealed. In other smartphone news, Huawei is reportedly preparing to launch a new non-folding wide-screen phone, expected to feature a 16:10 aspect ratio similar to its Pura X line. The Huawei phone launch is anticipated to occur in September. The vivo Y31T has also had its image and specifications leak, suggesting an upcoming launch in India. Motorola has released the Moto G Max in India, which features different specifications compared to its Brazilian counterpart, the Moto G87.

Further leaks suggest that Samsung is preparing its One UI 9.5 with a focus on a "glass UI" aesthetic, incorporating shiny edges and a sense of depth. Meanwhile, Google's upcoming Pixel 11 series will feature the Tensor G6 chip, which is rumored to be built on a 3nm process, not the previously speculated 2nm. For those interested in protecting their devices, comprehensive guides for the best Google Pixel 11 Pro XL screen protectors and the best Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold screen protectors are available. Google is also reportedly working on the Pixel 12 series, expected in 2027 with significant upgrades. For those looking to acquire a new Pixel, there are four ways to get the Google Pixel 11 Pro preorder for free.

AI and Software Developments

Google is giving users more control over AI-generated content, allowing them to remove visible watermarks from AI images. However, the underlying invisible Synth ID watermarking will remain. In a significant move for the AI industry, DeepSeek's AI models are set to quadruple in price. On the software front, a U.S. judge has criticized the Google Play Store for not adequately assisting users in discovering rival app stores.

Wearables and Automotive Tech

In the wearable market, a comparison between the Google Pixel Watch 5 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 suggests one may be the better choice for most users. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 has also received a dedicated review. LG is forging a partnership with Nvidia to develop AI-powered robots and hardware for self-driving cars. This collaboration aims to leverage Nvidia's AI expertise with LG's hardware capabilities.

Chipsets and Performance

The upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset has appeared in an AnTuTu benchmark test, offering a glimpse of its potential performance. In a surprising demonstration of mobile processing power, a Nubia Z70 Ultra has been modified to function as a desktop PC capable of running games like The Witcher, highlighting the advancements in smartphone chip capabilities.

Consumer Electronics and Services

Google TV's Freeplay service is enhancing its content library, now offering over 10,000 free movies and 300 live channels without requiring a subscription. Tecno has introduced the Tecno Pova AI Buds Pro, which feature AI-driven capabilities for recording and call summarization. For Mac users, optimizing MacBook battery life can be achieved through specific settings adjustments.

Promotions and Legal Matters

T-Mobile is running a "Beyond the Smartphone" sale, offering significant discounts on non-smartphone devices, ideal for the Back to School season. In automotive news, Waymo has received approval to offer its robotaxi services in Sacramento and San Diego, with plans to expand its fleet in the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles. Consumers should be aware that dash cam laws vary by state, and it's crucial to check regulations before driving through different regions. In France, the country's top court has overturned a ban on social media access for children under, prompting President Macron to request a rewrite of the proposed legislation.

Media and Entertainment

Fans of The Mandalorian can mark their calendars, as The Mandalorian and Grogu will be available to stream on Disney+ starting September 2nd. Instagram has unveiled a new wordmark, its first significant redesign in over a decade, featuring a refreshed font and styling. Kia has announced pricing for its upcoming EV3 in the US, with the electric vehicle set to start under $31,000, making it the most affordable EV in Kia's lineup.