Mobile News 24 Hours

Last updated: August 15, 2026, 5:35 AM ET

AI and Imaging

Google is now allowing users to remove the visible watermark from images generated by its Nano Banana AI. While the underlying Synth ID watermark will remain invisible, this change addresses concerns about the conspicuous branding on AI-created visuals. This move makes the output from Google's image generator more versatile for users. Separately, Google will now allow users to remove visible watermarks from AI content generated through its services, with the invisible Synth ID watermark persisting. This update aims to provide users with cleaner AI-generated images for various applications.

Smartphone Launches and Leaks

Poco is preparing to launch another device in its M8 series, teasing the upcoming Poco M8x 5G. This will be the fifth member of the M8 family, following the M8, M8 Pro, M8s, and M8 Power. In other smartphone news, Huawei is reportedly gearing up to launch a new non-folding smartphone with a 16:10 screen aspect ratio, following the success of its Pura X. This device is expected to be released in September. Meanwhile, leaks suggest that the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset has appeared in an AnTuTu benchmark run, indicating its impending arrival. Qualcomm is anticipated to unveil this next-generation flagship processor at its annual Snapdragon Summit next month. Additionally, the vivo Y31T has surfaced in leaks, with images and specifications suggesting an imminent launch in India. Motorola has launched the Moto G Max in India, featuring a different set of specifications compared to its Brazilian counterpart.

Wearables and Accessories

For owners of large smartphones, investing in screen protectors is crucial. The best Google Pixel 11 Pro XL screen protectors are recommended to safeguard against drops and damage. Similarly, the new foldable Pixel demands robust protection, and the best Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold screen protectors are essential for its delicate displays. In a head-to-head comparison, the Google Pixel Watch 5 is being evaluated against the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 to determine which Android smartwatch offers the superior experience for most users. Samsung's upcoming One UI 9.5 is rumored to feature a "glass UI" with enhanced detail and depth, potentially offering a more visually appealing interface. Tecno has introduced the Pova AI Buds Pro, which include AI-powered features like recording and call summarization.

Gaming and Entertainment

A remarkable feat has been achieved where an Android phone was transformed into a desktop PC, capable of running demanding titles like The Witcher. This demonstrates the advanced capabilities of smartphone chipsets when properly managed for heat dissipation. On the streaming front, Google TV Freeplay has added over 10,000 free on-demand movies and more than 300 live channels, offering a significant alternative to paid streaming services. Fans of the Star Wars universe can mark their calendars, as The Mandalorian and Grogu will be available to stream on Disney+ starting September 2nd.

Automotive and Transportation

Waymo has received approval to expand its autonomous ride-hailing services, gaining permission to offer rides in Sacramento and San Diego. The company also plans to increase its fleet presence in more areas of the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles. In the electric vehicle market, the Kia EV3 is set to launch in the US with a starting price under $31,000, making it the most affordable EV in Kia's lineup. LG and Nvidia are forging a partnership to develop AI-powered robots and hardware for self-driving cars, a collaboration that could significantly advance autonomous vehicle technology. Drivers should be aware that the legality of using dash cams varies by state, and it is advisable to check the specific regulations for any state you plan to drive through.

Software and Services

A U.S. judge has criticized the Google Play Store, stating that Google is not doing enough to help users discover alternative app stores. This ruling implies that Google needs to improve the visibility of competing platforms within its store. In other news, DeepSeek has announced significant price increases for its V4 AI models, with prices expected to quadruple. France's highest court has overturned a ban on social media use for children under, prompting President Macron to request a revision of the proposed legislation. T-Mobile is offering discounts on non-smartphone devices as part of its "Beyond the Smartphone" sale, providing deals for Back to School 2026.

Upcoming Devices and Features

The next generation of Google's flagship phones, the Google Pixel 12 series, is anticipated in 2027 with several upgrades. For those looking to purchase the latest Pixel, there are currently preorder deals that could potentially allow users to get the Google Pixel 11 Pro for free. To optimize the longevity of Apple's laptops, users can adjust certain settings to improve MacBook battery life. Instagram has unveiled a new wordmark, its first significant visual update in over a decade, featuring a refreshed font and styling that retains elements of the original design.

Market and Industry

Meta has introduced a refreshed wordmark for Instagram, marking the first change to its visual identity in more than ten years.