Mobile News 3 Days

Last updated: July 15, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

New Smartphone Launches and Rumors

One Plus is gearing up to in its N6 series, the One Plus N6x, shortly after the initial launch of the N6. Meanwhile, the Poco M8 Power is reportedly on its way, appearing as a rebranded Redmi device in firmware. iQOO is set to on July 24, confirming it will feature 44W charging and a substantial 6,500 mAh battery. The iQOO 16 is also rumored for a September release, with details about its camera and battery emerging, alongside news that the Z12 series and Neo12 may pack larger batteries. Honor's Robot Phone's key specifications have also leaked, offering a glimpse into the device's hardware. Huawei has globally launched the Pura 90s Pro Max, featuring a 200MP telephoto camera, alongside the Pura 90s Pro.

Samsung's Upcoming Releases and Updates

Samsung is preparing for its Galaxy Unpacked event, with appearing online, showcasing the latest Galaxy Z foldables and Galaxy Watches. Ahead of the event, Samsung has also teased upgrades for the Galaxy Watch, addressing shortcomings of the previous model. Rumors suggest the Galaxy Z Flip8 will be lighter than its predecessor, the Z Flip7, and the Galaxy Watch9 and Watch Ultra2 are expected to arrive with new chipsets and bigger batteries. Samsung is also reportedly increasing smartphone repair prices in South Korea due to rising component costs. A new rumor suggests that the anticipated redesign of the Galaxy S27 Ultra's rear camera island might not be happening.

Google's Android and Pixel Ecosystem

Google is set to on Android starting July 22. The company may also be preparing a redesign for the Android Auto media player to shrink the album art. Google Images is celebrating its 25th anniversary with updates and an AI Overview featuring a "Nano Banana." The Pixel 11 series is anticipated to feature the first 2nm smartphone SoC, Google's Tensor G6, and a new modem. Leaked renders of the Pixel 11 have surfaced in three colors, and a hot pink variant has also been rumored. Official press renders of the Pixel Watch 5 have also leaked, revealing pricing and color options. Deals for the Google Pixel 10 series are currently available, and Verizon is offering a free Google Pixel 10 Pro with eligible plans.

AI and Data Privacy Concerns

Meta has from Instagram following a significant privacy backlash. Former employees are suing Meta over the company's alleged use of biased AI systems during layoffs. Separately, three publishers are challenging Google over copyright infringement related to AI training materials. Samsung has provided clarification on its use of Samsung Health data for AI training, with some users reporting that cloud sync may require consent to AI training. This move has been criticized as holding health backups "hostage." Chat GPT is now available in WhatsApp in Europe again, following a decision by the European Commission. Google is labeling AI-generated ads across its platforms, though transparency for third-party AI disclosures still relies on advertiser cooperation.

Smart Home and Audio Devices

Withings' new ultra-premium bathroom scale, promising clinical-grade monitoring, is now on sale for $600. Starlink's latest V5 residential dish is smaller and more energy-efficient, though it does not increase data speeds. The Wii M Sound is being highlighted as a smart speaker that outperforms offerings from Google, Amazon, and Sonos in terms of sound quality and connectivity. Marshall's Bromley 450 is being touted as the ultimate portable party speaker. Huawei announced the Free Clip 2 S Signature Edition and the Mate Pad Air (2026) at an event in Malaysia.

Storage and Connectivity Updates

Storage prices continue to rise, but new Amazon deals are available for external storage devices ahead of the Back to School season. Roku TVs can still offer functionality without internet access, providing options for offline use. The correct positioning of router antennas is crucial for optimal home coverage.

Other Tech News

The global phone market experienced a drop in Q2 2026, with projections suggesting a continued decline. Apple has released the first public beta of iOS, along with public betas for iPad OS 27 and watch OS. PlayStation's Flex Strike wireless fight stick has been delayed indefinitely. The WGA is also suing to block the Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery merger. A ransomware negotiator has been sentenced to 70 months in prison for colluding with attackers and scamming victims out of over $75 million. Games Done Quick abruptly canceled an SNK stream due to ties with Saudi Arabia, and later raised over $2 million for Doctors Without Borders during its Summer event.