Mobile News 3 Days

Last updated: July 7, 2026, 2:35 AM ET

Mobile Operating Systems & Software

Apple released the third developer beta for iOS, two weeks after its predecessor. This latest iteration includes several bug fixes, performance enhancements, and a number of new features. Meanwhile, Google is adjusting how it counts Android backup data, now including all uploads toward user storage caps. In a related move, Google is now using uploaded search media to train its artificial intelligence models, though users can opt out via settings. For iOS users, WhatsApp began testing a green dot indicator on iOS to show when a contact is online, mirroring a feature previously rolled out to Android.

Smartphone Launches & Rumors

The vivo X500 Pro Max has received certification in Indonesia, signaling its upcoming global release alongside the X500 family expected in China in September. The iQOO Z11 is also reportedly heading to India, potentially with different specifications than its Chinese variant. In a surprising move, vivo officially launched the Y500 4G in Pakistan and Nepal, featuring a substantial 8,100 mAh battery and a 120Hz AMOLED display. Meanwhile, Huawei is reportedly preparing dual and triple-foldable devices for release this year, with a new wide-foldable expected next year.

Samsung's foldable strategy continues to unfold, with rumors suggesting significant display upgrades for the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Z Flip8. The company is expected to unveil these devices, along with the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, at an event on July 22nd in London, with pricing details for South Korea also emerging. Samsung's upcoming wearables also received attention, with the Galaxy Watch9, Watch Ultra, and Galaxy Able confirmed by name ahead of their July 22nd reveal. The associated Samsung Wearables app has also been spotted with a revamped interface, hinting at new device support.

Further afield, Redmi is preparing to launch its Note 17 series in China this month, with global models potentially arriving later. Leaks detail the Redmi Note 17 series including vanilla, Pro, and Pro Max variants with full specifications and images. The vivo V80 series is also anticipated next month, with early leaks indicating key specifications for at least one model. The Xiaomi 18 Pro Max has had its battery specifications revealed ahead of an expected September launch in China.

In a concerning development for some users, OnePlus is facing warranty issues in the EU, leading to customer complaints and escalations with consumer centers. Apple's foldable iPhone, codenamed 'iPhone Ultra', is rumored to launch in September but may face limited supply and delayed availability for consumers. The upcoming Samsung Galaxy S27 Pro is expected to utilize a Snapdragon chip in select regions, with the Exynos 2700 powering devices elsewhere.

Deals & Pricing

Despite Prime Day concluding, deals persist. The Galaxy S26 Ultra and S26 are seeing further price reductions, while the Xiaomi 17T and 17T Pro have received their initial discounts. Amazon continues to offer deals on Google's Pixel 10 lineup, alongside Xiaomi 17 Ultra and Nothing Phone (4a) devices post-Prime Day. The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic remains at a record low price, with Amazon offering a 33% discount. The Galaxy A57 and A37 are on sale, with discounts also available for the Galaxy Z Flip7 FE and Moto Razr 2026.

AI in Mobile & Beyond

Google Maps is exploring the integration of Gemini to facilitate food ordering directly within the app, potentially reducing reliance on third-party delivery services. In a more abstract application, an AI character named Tilly Norwood is reportedly starring in a feature-length movie. Reddit is employing AI to combat AI-generated content on its platform. Meanwhile, Midjourney is requesting that Hollywood studios involved in lawsuits against it demonstrate their own use of AI in court.

Brand & Corporate News

xAI has officially rebranded to Space XAI, five months after its merger with SpaceX. Microsoft is expanding its layoff efforts beyond the gaming division, cutting an additional 3,200 jobs. Xbox confirmed plans to reduce its workforce by 3,200 employees as part of a broader restructuring. In the UK, Comcast subsidiary Sky plans to acquire ITV, the country's largest commercial broadcaster, in a £1.6 billion deal.

Wearables & Audio

Samsung is preparing to unveil its upcoming wearable devices, including the Galaxy Watch9, Galaxy Watch Ultra, and Galaxy Able. The associated Samsung Wearables app has been leaked with a new design, suggesting upcoming device compatibility. The debate around wireless versus wired audio continues, with a recent article exploring why people are ditching wireless earbuds. Nothing's Ear (3a) wireless earbuds have been leaked just before their expected announcement.

Connectivity & Standards

The promise of universal compatibility with USB-C is becoming complicated, with a new report explaining why a USB-C port does not guarantee high speeds due to varying underlying specifications. Similarly, the proliferation of Wi-Fi 7 labels on routers may be misleading, as router brands could misrepresenting their capabilities. The discussion around USB4 cables also highlights that they are for more than just fast charging.

Gaming & Entertainment

Nintendo will cease selling the original Switch console in Europe in 2027 to comply with battery regulations. In a move to preserve physical media, Sony has stated it will continue to produce physical discs for games released before 2028, with post-2028 releases remaining digital-only.

Automotive & Science

Bentley has teased its first electric vehicle, the Torcal. Tesla is expanding its robotaxi service to a limited area in Miami, with future expansions planned for Orlando and Tampa. In a concerning development, a Tesla driver has been charged with manslaughter following a fatal crash. On the scientific front, a 10-year sky survey has begun filming a "cosmic movie," alongside other science news including cyborg cockroaches. NASA's mission to rescue the falling Swift observatory has been initiated.

Other Mobile News

T-Mobile is offering a free Google Pixel 10 with most plans when adding a new line. Razer is hyping an Axon Mobile launch on Google Play with pre-registration for an Axon Wallpaper Engine. Apple's new Siri AI will only be available on select iPhone models this fall. The Oura Ring 5 is being lauded as a benchmark for other smart rings. Google Home Speaker users can now create surround sound systems by pairing with their Google TV Streamer. The new Google Home Speaker is praised for its AI capabilities and sound quality. A blind flagship camera test was conducted, comparing the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. Users are being advised on how much charging speed their iPad or iPhone port can handle. Some popular smartphones are nearing the end of their software support. The Oppo Reno16 Reno16 Pro are considered overpriced despite being capable mid-rangers.