Mobile News 24 Hours

Last updated: August 22, 2026, 8:42 PM ET

Autonomous Driving

Waymo's robotaxis operate at Level 4 automation, but what does it take to reach Level 5? The distinction comes down to operating conditions: Level 4 works in geofenced areas, while Level 5 must drive anywhere a human can, under any weather or traffic. That's a much harder problem because it demands handling unpredictable edge cases, which is why no automaker has achieved it yet.

AI Safety

OpenAI is calling for California to strengthen its AI safety laws, saying the state's SB 53 framework should "be amended to expand safeguards." The company argues that current proposals don't go far enough to address the risks of advanced models, and it wants more robust requirements for developers.

Privacy & Regulation

You can limit Instagram from using your activity outside the app to influence ads and train AI, a useful step for privacy-conscious users. In the Netherlands, Uber was fined 824.9 million euros by a Dutch data protection authority for automatically deactivating drivers, a violation of the GDPR's data protection rules.

Smartphone Launches

vivo T5 5G is being teased with a 3D curved display ahead of its official unveiling, expanding the T5 series beyond the existing 4G model. Sony Xperia 10 VIII is expected to be announced on August 25 at 11 AM local time, according to Sony's teaser. Meanwhile, Redmi Note 17 Pro and Redmi Note 17 Pro Max launch details have leaked for India, including pricing. And vivo V70 Lite 4G has arrived with a huge 8,100mAh battery and an IP69 rating.

Smartphone Reviews & Durability

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold failed a durability test, with Jerry Rig Everything showing Google repeated the same design mistake four times in a row. The Fold 8 Ultra does just enough to be called an upgrade, offering a bigger battery, a brighter display, and faster performance over last year's model.

Tablets

iQOO is reportedly working on a small but powerful tablet, entering the compact slate space and competing directly with the Red Magic tablet.

Wearables & Fitness

In a 5K fitness test, the Pixel Watch, Galaxy Watch, and Garmin Cirqa were taken on a run and a 5,000-step walk to compare their tracking accuracy. The results highlight differences in GPS precision, heart rate monitoring, and step counting.

Audio

The CMF Buds Neo cost just $20 and sound surprisingly good, making them an easy recommendation for budget buyers. But for gaming, Bluetooth headsets should be avoided — 2.4GHz wireless and wired headsets offer lower latency and more reliable audio.

Gaming

Nintendo Switch Online is still worth it in 2026 if you want online play, cloud saves, and access to retro titles. If you're shopping for a used Game Cube, check the region lock first — buying the wrong console can prevent you from playing certain games. New indie game releases include a Darkest Dungeon DLC, a Bio Shock-style shooter with clowns, and a platformer with randomized controls.

Cameras & Displays

Digital cameras are still worth buying in 2026, but only if you're willing to put in the work and money for better photos. Understanding the difference between Shot with IMAX and Filmed for IMAX can help you decide which movies make the most of the format.

Streaming & Screen Mirroring

To watch Netflix in 4K on Chrome, you'll need a compatible display, a supported graphics card, and the right software extensions. For mirroring, AirPlay lets you send video and audio from an iPhone or MacBook to your TV with just a few taps.

In-Car Apps

Android Auto YouTube has limitations that make it worth reconsidering for in-car use. Video playback is heavily restricted while driving, and the interface isn't designed for quick glances, so audio-only apps may be a better choice.

Pixel Tips

If you bought a Pixel 11 Pro, activate your free Google AI Pro trial immediately — it's a 6-month perk that you have to manually enable. And if you're dealing with Bluetooth problems, a built-in Pixel Bluetooth tool can help diagnose connection issues.

Deals & Trade-ins

Apple's trade-in program accepts older iPhone models than you'd think, so even a device you haven't touched in years could earn credit. Meanwhile, Amazon devices like the Echo, Kindle, and eero are getting price hikes due to the memory shortage. The Pixel 11 lineup is now on sale at Amazon US, and Samsung's latest Galaxy foldables and S-series phones are also discounted.

Industry & Layoffs

Apple cut more than 200 jobs across its Vision Pro and Siri software teams as it shifts focus to smart glasses and next-gen AI technology.