Mobile News 3 Days

Last updated: June 21, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

Android OS & Pixel Updates

Google's latest Android 17 update is proving problematic for Pixel users, with reports of serious touchscreen issues emerging across several devices. These glitches are so significant that some owners are advised to delay updating their phones until a fix is released. Beyond the touchscreen woes, some Pixel users are also experiencing vanishing widgets after the Android 17 installation, though Google is reportedly working on a solution. The update also introduces new multitasking features, with Google's implementation of floating windows, known as Bubbles, making multitasking more enjoyable for some. Android 17 also aims to improve social media workflows through a new feature called Screen Reactions for Pixel devices, and users can also simplify their home screen appearance by adjusting a specific setting in Android 17. However, the rollout is not without its setbacks, as some Pixel users have also reported losing 5G connectivity following the update to Android 17.

Smartphone Launches & Deals

The smartphone market continues its rapid pace with new device announcements and ongoing sales. Sharp has unveiled its Aquos R11 flagship, featuring a notable 38.5MP telephoto camera with 2.8x optical zoom. Meanwhile, the Redmi Turbo 5 has gone on sale in India after its earlier announcement. Samsung's current generation of foldables, the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, are seeing discounted prices as the next-generation models are anticipated next month. Early Prime Day deals have also brought price cuts to devices like the Galaxy S26 Ultra and S25 Ultra along with Poco models. Further deals include price drops on the Samsung Galaxy S25 FE, One Plus 15 and 15R, and Nothing phones ahead of Prime Day. Motorola has also been active, with the Edge 70 Pro now available and the Edge 70 Fusion receiving a storage bump to 512GB with a new variant. The global launch date for the Oppo Reno16 series has been confirmed, with India set to receive four models from the lineup as part of the series. Infinix is also preparing for the India launch of its Note 60 Pro 5G Pininfarina Limited Edition following the Ultra's release.

Foldable Phone Market & Pricing

Samsung's upcoming foldable devices are expected to carry higher price tags. Rumors suggest that the next-generation Galaxy Z Fold8 lineup could launch at increased prices compared to their predecessors. This trend of rising costs may also impact the base Galaxy S27, with suggestions that Samsung might limit upgrades to mitigate these expenses. The increased cost of components, particularly memory, could also affect Apple's pricing strategy, with the iPhone 18 Pro potentially seeing higher prices due to a memory shortage.

Wearable Technology & Health

The wearable market is seeing steady growth, with global smartwatch shipments increasing by 4% in Q1 2026 year-over-year. Apple continues to lead this segment, despite a significant number of older models losing support in the upcoming watch OS 27 update which will roll out this fall. The Honor Watch 6 has been released and is available in Twilight Brown or Shadow Black for review. Ultrahuman has launched its M2 Live platform, offering continuous glucose monitoring for metabolic health tracking. Meanwhile, the question of whether fitness trackers can accurately function on tattooed skin remains a complex issue, and some consumers are reconsidering smartwatches altogether, opting for simpler devices.

Gaming & Entertainment

The gaming industry is gearing up for major releases. Grand Theft Auto VI pre-orders are set to begin on June 25, with official cover art already revealed. Steam Next Fest is featuring demos of new indie games, including a Virtual Boy-inspired shooter among other titles. Valve has also indicated that some Steam Controller orders may not ship until next year due to production timelines. In a significant loss for the gaming community, Bobby Prince, the composer for Doom, has died. Separately, Claude Guillemot, a co-founder of Ubisoft, also passed away in a plane crash. Spotify is introducing a new feature called Reserved in the US, which will offer dedicated fans the chance to purchase advance concert tickets for their favorite artists.

Space Exploration & Technology

NASA's Perseverance rover has achieved a significant milestone, traveling the distance of a marathon on Mars in just five years. The space agency is also testing a new prototype rover named Ernest, which is designed to drive faster and can lift its wheels to overcome obstacles during its Martian journeys. NASA's Swift Boost mission is scheduled to launch later this month with the objective of rescuing a falling space telescope.

Artificial Intelligence & Policy

The regulatory landscape for artificial intelligence is evolving. Norway is reportedly planning to ban young children from using AI in elementary schools. In a move to make immersive technologies more accessible, Meta is establishing dedicated areas within 50 Best Buy stores to allow customers to try out VR and smart glasses. Amazon is reportedly investigating three engineers who testified against the construction of more AI data centers, with the engineers alleging their jobs were threatened for their public statements. Separately, Amazon has dropped a Sam Altman biopic focused on OpenAI's 2023 leadership crisis.

App & Software Development

Google is adjusting its timeline for changes to Android's app sideloading, with users now facing a 24-hour waiting period for verification. Epic Games is undertaking a significant overhaul of its launcher, with plans for a 'ground-up rebuild' of Launcher V2 that is anticipated to be five times faster. Apple is continuing to open its iOS ecosystem, now allowing third-party app stores and non-Apple payment processing for developers in Brazil, following similar mandates in the EU and Japan.

Other Mobile & Tech News

Polymarket, a platform for user-generated betting videos, has reportedly been paying creators to post fabricated content. The automotive industry is seeing shifts in in-car technology, with reports indicating that car manufacturers will begin ditching Android Auto in 2026. Nothing's budget CMF brand will not release a new phone this year, a decision attributed to concerns about maintaining affordable pricing. However, Nothing has also teased a new product through its Community Review program and a cryptic teaser. Amazon is offering early Prime Day deals on various Samsung phones, including the Galaxy S26 Ultra and S25 Ultra among others. Samsung has also confirmed the upcoming launch of the Galaxy M47 5G in India with design teasers released, and fresh renders have surfaced for the expected Galaxy A27 smartphone.