Mobile News 3 Days

Last updated: July 3, 2026, 11:31 PM ET

Mobile Devices & Ecosystems

Samsung is reportedly nearing a deal with Anthropic for the Korean tech giant to manufacture the AI company's custom chips. This potential partnership highlights the growing demand for specialized AI hardware and Samsung's ambition to solidify its position in the semiconductor manufacturing sector. Meanwhile, Samsung is also preparing to remove the Vascular Load feature from its smartwatches in the U.S. with the upcoming Samsung Health version 7.0 and One UI 9 Watch rollout. This move suggests a shift in health monitoring priorities or a response to regulatory considerations. In a separate development, leaks suggest the iPhone 18 Pro and a foldable iPhone Ultra are on the horizon for Apple's fall launch, indicating continued innovation in premium smartphone and foldable device markets. However, Apple has reportedly suspended development of AirPods Ultra, a product that was rumored to feature cameras for enhanced Siri integration, signaling a potential rethinking of augmented audio accessory features.

Further details on upcoming Samsung devices have emerged, with rumors indicating that the Galaxy Z Fold 8 could see a price increase, a trend not uncommon for flagship foldable devices. Samsung might also be planning to equip all Galaxy S27 models with its built-in Privacy Display, a feature previously exclusive to the Ultra variant, aiming to enhance user privacy across its flagship line. The Galaxy S27 Pro Ultra are also slated to receive a new selfie camera. Leaked videos offer a clearer look at Samsung's Galaxy Glasses, suggesting advanced touch controls and deep integration with the wider Galaxy ecosystem, potentially paving the way for a more cohesive smart device experience. In contrast, Samsung's budget offerings are seeing adjustments, with reports indicating the company will skip Exynos chips for both 4G and 5G variants of the Galaxy A18, opting for Media Tek and other chipsets. The Samsung Messages app is also slated to stop working on most Galaxy phones this month, signaling a transition to a new messaging solution.

On the software front, insiders claim that OxygenOS Realme UI will be merged into Color OS, a move that would further consolidate One Plus and Oppo's software offerings. This integration aims to streamline development and provide a more unified user experience across the brands. Nothing has officially announced the end of support for its first smartphone, the Phone, marking the conclusion of its initial product cycle. The company has, however, revealed the design of a special RCB Edition of its upcoming Phone (4b). In India, the Oppo Reno16 series has debuted, featuring a "Bubble tag" alongside the Reno16 and Reno16c models, while the global Reno16 series was released a week prior. The Oppo Reno16 has also received a review.

Google's Pixel line faces its own set of challenges, with users reporting that Pixel phones aren't receiving, an issue potentially linked to the Google Phone app. The company is also preparing for the full rollout of Android 17 QPR1 with the release of Beta 6 for Pixel devices. Meanwhile, international Google Pixel models differ from their American counterparts in specific ways detailed how. The Redmi 17 5G has received certifications revealing its RAM, storage, and battery capacity, with the Redmi Note 17 series also confirmed for a July launch.

Networking & Connectivity

T-Mobile is preparing to shut down its 2G network in August, requiring customers with compatible devices to upgrade. This move signifies the ongoing shift towards newer network technologies and phasing out legacy infrastructure. The carrier has also announced the discontinuation of its KickBack program, potentially leading to increased costs for some long-term customers. In a separate move, AT&T is expanding its Build-A-Plan program to include home internet services, offering customers more flexibility in customizing their plans.

Motorola has launched a new Android app, Global Connect eSIM, in partnership with Gigs, initially available in select South American countries, with plans for broader expansion. This initiative aims to simplify international connectivity for users. X is making a concerted effort to boost live video content by introducing a new creator payouts system and a live streaming command center, signaling a renewed focus on video engagement. WhatsApp has responded to an order from the Indian government to pause username feature rollout, a move that could impact the broader adoption of privacy-enhancing communication tools.

Computing & Tablets

Amazon has refreshed its Fire HD 10 tablet with an increase in RAM, a modest upgrade in the competitive tablet market. T-Mobile is offering a limited-time deal on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE for just $99 with a qualified tablet line, presenting a significant discount for interested consumers. Lenovo is teasing a new Legion gaming tablet with 5G connectivity, hinting at further advancements in mobile gaming hardware. Apple is reportedly planning a visual refresh for its entry-level MacBook Pro next year, suggesting a design evolution for its core laptop lineup.

Gaming & Entertainment

Xbox is reportedly testing a feature to digitize disc-based games, a move that could help preserve physical media collections in an increasingly digital future. Valve's Steam Machine is under discussion on the Engadget Podcast, alongside Sony's plans to cease PlayStation disc production in 2028 and its investment of $34 million to repurpose its EU PlayStation disc factory into a plant for optical microlenses detailed Sony's plan. The speedrunning marathon Summer Games Done Quick is scheduled to begin on July 5. Capcom has decided to move up the release date for Onimusha: Way of the Sword to avoid the crowded pre-Grand Theft Auto VI release window.

AI & Emerging Technologies

The United Nations has released a report stating that policymakers struggling to keep pace with the rapid development of AI, highlighting the challenges in establishing effective safeguards. Cloudflare announced it will begin to filter out web crawlers used by AI companies, giving website owners more control over how their content is utilized for AI training. Meta has released an app called Pocket, designed for making generative AI games, though it is currently unavailable in the U.S. Meta is also reportedly building its own cloud business, which would position it to compete directly with major cloud providers like Amazon and Google.

Samsung is detailing its upcoming 2nm semiconductor nodes, with plans for 1.4nm nodes by 2029, indicating significant advancements in manufacturing technology that will power future mobile devices. HMD is introducing new Nokia feature phones with on-device AI assistance, integrating artificial intelligence into more basic communication devices.

Automotive & Transportation

Tesla has begun taking orders for the Model Y Long Wheelbase in the U.S. and Puerto Rico, offering a six-seat configuration and a starting price of $62,000. Future Hyundai and Kia vehicles may benefit from UV technology to eliminate odors, potentially reducing the need for traditional air fresheners.

Other Notable News

The Space Shuttle Endeavour is set to go on public display later this year at the California Science Center in Los Angeles. Instagram has updated its Edits app with support for bilingual captions and new templates. Amazon's competitor to Starlink, the Amazon Leo satellite broadband, is nearing deployment, though its constellation remains significantly smaller than SpaceX's Starlink. A recent attempt to revive the 3DO console has already failed. Visa, Mastercard, and Coinbase have launched a new global stablecoin venture. Fujifilm has released special waterproof and black-and-white editions of its retro QuickSnap instant cameras. Microsoft is reportedly planning to cut 2.5% workforce in another round of layoffs.