Mobile News 3 Days

Last updated: July 15, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

Samsung's Foldable Future and Screen Woes

Samsung is reportedly investigating a discoloration defect affecting some Galaxy S26 Ultra screens internally investigating. Meanwhile, full specifications for the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra have leaked, suggesting a potential shift in pre-order perks, with the popular "free" storage upgrade possibly absent for these new foldables. This follows a rumor that Samsung might remove its free storage upgrade for future foldables altogether. In other Samsung news, the company is pre-installing Amazon Music on Galaxy phones, a move that may irk users who don't intend to use the service installing it for you anyway. Samsung is also clarifying its use of Samsung Health data for AI training, with cloud sync potentially requiring user consent for this purpose. Leaked renders have also showcased Samsung's entire Galaxy Unpacked lineup ahead of the event, and teasers for the Galaxy Watch 9 highlight major upgrades. The Galaxy Watch 9 and Watch Ultra 2 are expected to feature new chipsets and larger batteries. A new leak also suggests the Galaxy Z Flip8 will be lighter than its predecessor.

Google's AI Push and Pixel Pipeline

Google is expanding its AI offerings, with Gemini rolling out to Chrome users in the UK to act as a browser-based assistant. The company is also facing scrutiny, as a study found that Google's AI features pose "unacceptable risks" for children. Google Images is celebrating its 25th anniversary with updates to its "dynamic gallery" and AI Overviews. In terms of hardware, Google has opened Pixel Care Plus enrollment for the Pixel 10 and, though enrollment is time-limited. The Pixel 11 series has seen significant leaks, with renders showing the phones in three colors and a possible hot pink variant. The Pixel 11 devices are also rumored to feature the first 2nm smartphone SoC and a new modem. The Pixel 11 Pro Fold has also leaked, revealing a Pine green finish and redesigned camera module, but still lacking a rumored Pixel Glow LED feature. FCC filings for the Pixel 11 Pro Fold hint at a significant modem upgrade, potentially moving away from Samsung's modems to a Media Tek solution. Meanwhile, the global phone market dropped in Q2 2026, with predictions suggesting the rest of the year will remain challenging. Google is also preparing to allow third-party app stores on Android starting July 22.

Apple's Car Play and Subscription Services

Apple has quietly introduced a significant change for Car Play with iOS 27. The company has also released the first public beta of iOS, alongside public betas for iPad OS 27 and watch OS. The public beta of iOS 27 offers practical but plain AI features with Siri. For subscription management, iCloud+ and Apple One offer distinct benefits, with the choice depending on individual user needs.

New Devices and Leaks from Huawei, Realme, and Honor

Huawei has introduced its Pura 90s series globally, including the Pura 90s Pro Max with a 200MP telephoto camera. Alongside the phones, Huawei also announced the Free Clip 2 S Signature Edition and the MatePad Air (2026). Realme has expanded its Narzo series with the unveiling of the Narzo 100x, featuring a 144Hz screen and an 8,000 mAh battery. Honor's upcoming Robot Phone has had its key specifications leaked ahead of its official reveal.

Audio and Smart Home Innovations

Spotify is enhancing user interaction with a new "Talk to Spotify" feature that allows voice commands for playlist creation and song information. The company is also rolling out a built-in AI chatbot that enables users to converse with Spotify on mobile devices. For smart speakers, the Wii M Sound is presented as a superior alternative to offerings from Google, Amazon, and Sonos, boasting better sound and connectivity. For party needs, the Marshall Bromley 450 is highlighted as the ultimate portable party speaker.

Gaming and Connectivity Updates

Nvidia GeForce Now is now available in India with free, Performance, and Ultimate tiers, a timely launch given the rising cost of gaming hardware. Valve appears to be discontinuing self-repair parts for the LCD Steam Deck at iFixit, with no plans to stock replacement OEM batteries. Starlink's new V5 residential dish is smaller and more energy-efficient, though it does not boost data speeds.

Other Notable Tech News

OpenAI has launched a physical keypad for controlling AI agents, available for order today. Hinge is introducing a new feature that allows users to get recommendations from friends for their profiles. The FCC is reportedly planning to dismantle local TV station ownership rules. California's MyFirst EV program is offering a $3,500 instant rebate to first-time EV buyers. The XGIMI Elfin Flip 4K is reviewed as an ultra-portable laser projector with sharp video quality. Withings' new ultra-premium bathroom scale, promising clinical-grade monitoring, is now on sale for $600. A hacker reportedly accessed Suno source code detailing how the company scraped millions of songs, though Suno states no sensitive personal information was compromised. Carrier-financed iPhones in the US are now locked to the originating carrier. The WGA is suing to block the Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery merger. Former employees are suing Meta over alleged use of biased AI systems during layoffs. Three publishers are challenging Google over AI copyright infringement, seeking compensation for training materials. The next wave of emoji could offer new ways to express emotions. PlayStation's Flex Strike wireless fight stick has been delayed without a firm release date. Samsung's slower version of the 990 Pro SSD is more expensive than the original. Roku TV functionality without internet access is explored. The meaning and confusion surrounding the leaf icon on Google Maps are explained. AI earbuds that use AI to provide insights and transcribe meetings are tested. The Poco M8 Power is on its way, appearing as a rebranded Redmi device. iQOO Z11 Lite's battery details have been revealed ahead of its launch, packing a 6,500 mAh battery and 44W charging. The iQOO 16's camera and battery details are tipped, with the Z12 series and Neo12 also expected to feature larger batteries. A rumor suggests a downgrade in the chipset for the upcoming Redmi K100 Pro Max. Opera has become the most popular alternative browser on Android, surpassing Chrome in some usage metrics. X's algorithm will now prioritize replies from followed users. Google has purchased all output from a major solar farm to offset data center emissions. TV Time is functionally relaunching as its parent company pivots to AI, expected to launch as Bingers by the end of July. Hisense is teasing its hybrid E Ink phone, offering a detachable LCD to compete with BigMe's upcoming device. Meta has removed Muse Image AI from Instagram following a privacy uproar. An unlikely Chinese company claims to have the first "AI Agentic Phone". Games Done Quick abruptly canceled an SNK stream due to ties with Saudi Arabia. Verizon is offering a free Google Pixel 10 Pro with specific plan additions. Both Android and iOS now allow users to scan QR codes from screenshots. Display innovations are highlighted from a lesser-known company with impressive eye care solutions. The Motorola Edge 2025 has received a $150 discount at Best Buy best Motorola phone just landed an EPIC $150 discount REF