Mobile News 3 Days

Last updated: July 15, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

Mobile Devices and Software Updates

Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Z Fold8, Fold8 Ultra, and Flip8 series will not include the popular storage upgrade pre-order perk. Meanwhile, the company is pre-installing Amazon Music on its Galaxy phones, regardless of user preference, which has been labeled as bloatware. Samsung is also clarifying its use of Samsung Health data for AI training, noting that users must consent to AI training for cloud sync functionality. The company is also preparing to launch a new One Plus N6x smartphone, expanding its N6 series lineup. Additionally, the entire Samsung Galaxy Unpacked lineup has appeared in leaked renders ahead of the expected July 22nd event. Samsung's Galaxy Watch 9 and Watch Ultra 2 are expected to feature new chipsets and larger batteries.

In software updates, the first public beta of iOS 27 is now available for download, offering a preview of its features, including a practical but plain Siri AI. Apple has also released public betas for iPad OS 27 and watch OS. Samsung has rolled out One UI 9 Beta 4 for Galaxy S26 users, aiming to fix several Android 17 bugs. Google is preparing a redesign for the Android Auto media player, potentially shrinking album art for easier navigation. On July 22nd, Google will allow third-party app stores on Android.

Smartphone Launches and Rumors

The Realme Narzo 100x has been unveiled, boasting a 144Hz screen and a substantial 8,000 mAh battery. The Poco M8 Power is reportedly on its way as a rebranded Redmi device. iQOO is set to launch the Z11 Lite on July 24th, with details revealing a 6,500 mAh battery and support for 44W charging. The iQOO 16 is rumored for a September launch, with leaks suggesting camera and battery improvements, while the Z12 series and Neo12 will feature larger batteries. The Huawei Pura 90s Pro Max is launching globally with a 200MP telephoto camera, alongside the Pura 90s Pro. Honor's Robot Phone key specifications have also leaked, providing a glimpse into the unannounced device.

Several rumors are circulating about Google's Pixel lineup. The Pixel 11 series is expected to feature the first 2nm smartphone SoC and a new modem. Official press renders for the Pixel Watch 5 have leaked, hinting at pricing and color options. A massive Pixel 11 leak has revealed almost everything about Google's next phones, including pricing, specs, colors, and storage options. The Pixel 11 Pro Fold has also leaked, revealing a Pine green finish and a redesigned camera module, though a rumored Pixel Glow LED feature appears to be missing. FCC filings for the Pixel 11 Pro Fold suggest a significant modem upgrade. New renders show the Pixel 11 in three colors ahead of its August 12th announcement. Samsung may be ready to release the Galaxy Smart Tag, potentially in September alongside the S26 FE.

Audio and Entertainment

Spotify is rolling out a new feature that allows users to interact with the app using voice commands. This "Talk to Spotify" feature enables users to create playlists and learn about songs through voice commands. Additionally, Spotify has made Managed Accounts free for all parents, offering a music-only experience for younger users. Nvidia GeForce Now is now available in India, offering free, Performance, and Ultimate tiers for its game streaming service.

In the smart speaker market, the Wii M Sound is presented as a superior alternative to offerings from Google, Amazon, and Sonos, boasting better sound quality and connectivity. Marshall's Bromley 450 is highlighted as the ultimate portable party speaker, capable of lasting all night. The XGIMI Elfin Flip 4K projector offers an ultra-portable design with sharp video quality at a competitive price. Sony has launched the Link Buds Clip in India, priced at INR 18,990.

AI and Data Concerns

A hacker reportedly accessed Suno's source code, detailing how the company allegedly scraped millions of songs, though Suno claims no sensitive personal information was compromised. Meta has removed its Muse Image AI from Instagram following a privacy uproar from users. Three publishers are suing Google over alleged AI copyright infringement, adding to existing efforts to seek compensation for AI training materials. Former employees are suing Meta over claims of biased AI systems used during recent layoffs. A study found that Google's AI features pose "unacceptable risks" for children, placing the company under scrutiny from regulators.

Google is bringing Gemini to Chrome users in the UK, aiming to transform the browser into an AI assistant capable of summarizing and handling tasks on the page. Google is also labeling AI-generated ads across its platforms, though transparency relies on advertiser cooperation. The TV logging app TV Time is functionally relaunching as parent company Bingers pivots to AI. An unlikely Chinese company claims to have developed the first "AI Agentic Phone".

Industry and Market Trends

The global phone market experienced a drop in Q2 2026, with projections indicating a continued decline for the remainder of the year. One Plus is reportedly considering an exit from the US and European markets, pending confirmation from OPPO. Storage prices continue to rise, but new Amazon deals aim to alleviate costs for the Back to School season. Valve appears to be discontinuing self-repair parts for the LCD Steam Deck at iFixit, with no plans for replacement OEM batteries.

Carrier-financed iPhones in the US are now locked to the specific carrier, a change from previous policies where iPhones purchased directly from Apple were unlocked. The FCC is planning to dismantle local TV station ownership rules, a move that could lead to broadcast TV monopolies. The WGA is suing to block the Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery merger, citing concerns over media consolidation.

Other Tech News

Mint Mobile is offering a significant deal on the Google Pixel, though the offer is time-sensitive. Verizon is offering a free Google Pixel 10 Pro with the addition of a new line on select Unlimited plans Verizon really