Mobile News 3 Days

Last updated: July 14, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

Smartphone Launches and Leaks

Samsung is gearing up for its July 22nd Unpacked event in London, where it's expected to unveil the Galaxy Z Fold8, Fold8 Ultra, and Flip8. The company is also hinting at an AI-powered "Health Companion" feature for its upcoming Galaxy Watch. Leaked listings reveal US pricing and key specifications for the Pixel 11 series, with renders showing the Pixel, Pro, Pro XL, and 11 Pro Fold in various colors, including a potentially "hot pink" option. Further leaks suggest the Pixel 11 series will feature the first 2nm smartphone SoC and a new modem, and the Pixel 11 Pro Fold may finally adopt a Media Tek modem. Huawei's Pura 90s Pro Max and Pura 90s Pro are going global with a 200MP telephoto camera. Redmi is teasing new color options for the Note 17 and Note 17 Pro ahead of their official launch in China, with further leaks detailing the chipset, charging speed, and IP rating for the Note 17 series, which will feature an 8,000mAh battery. The global phone market saw a drop in Q2 2026, with projections suggesting a continued decline for the rest of the year.

Wearables and Audio

Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Watch9 and Watch Ultra2 are expected to feature new chipsets and larger batteries. However, users might need to agree to AI training of their health data to access Samsung Health cloud sync features. Hisense has unveiled the A10, an E Ink phone with a detachable, full-color LCD screen that attaches magnetically to the rear, facing competition from Big Me's upcoming hybrid E Ink phone. Huawei announced the Free Clip 2 S Signature Edition alongside the MatePad Air (2026). Sony has launched its Link Buds Clip in India for INR 18,990. Marshall's Bromley 450 is highlighted as a top-tier portable party speaker. Oppo's Watch X3 is noted for its impressive battery life and versatility.

AI and Software Updates

X's algorithm will now prioritize replies from followed accounts, aiming to boost visibility for friends' comments. Google is expanding Gemini integration into Chrome for UK users, enabling AI-powered summarization and task management directly within the browser. Meta has removed its Muse Image AI from Instagram following a significant privacy backlash. Google is also adding labels to AI-generated ads across its Search, YouTube, and Discover platforms to increase transparency. Microsoft is making improvements to the Windows 11 Search Box to enhance its usability. The TV-logging app TV Time is relaunching as Bingers, with its parent company pivoting towards AI.

Data Centers, Privacy, and Security

New York has become the first US state to implement a moratorium on new data center construction. In an effort to offset its emissions, Google has purchased the entire electrical output of a major solar farm. WhatsApp is testing an encrypted cloud storage backup solution for iOS users, following a similar feature for Android. A ransomware negotiator has been sentenced to 70 months in prison for colluding with attackers and scamming victims out of over $75 million.

Other Tech News

The HMD Fusion 2 modular smartphone may have been canceled, as rumors suggest it hasn't materialized as expected. One Plus is reportedly considering a significant global retreat, with potential exits from Europe and the US. Samsung is allegedly increasing smartphone repair prices in South Korea due to rising component costs. Amazon is offering deals on external storage devices for the Back to School season. Apple's iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 17e are on sale, and Nothing's Phone (4b) is now available for pre-order. Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra is available for under $1,000, with the S26 and S26+ also on sale. The correct positioning of router antennas can significantly improve home Wi-Fi coverage. Games Done Quick has canceled an SNK stream due to ties with Saudi Arabia and will no longer work with the company. The annual Summer Games Done Quick event successfully raised over $2 million for Doctors Without Borders.