Mobile News 3 Days

Last updated: July 16, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Mobile Photography and App Updates

Hasselblad's Phocus Mobile has finally arrived on Android, more than 16 years after its iOS debut. Netflix has incorporated AI into approximately 300 titles this year, with that number expected to grow. T-Mobile's T-Satellite service offers emergency connectivity even in remote areas, and eligibility can be checked online. Meanwhile, Caviar is already selling a Messi-themed Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra for $13,130, ahead of Samsung's official July 22nd unveiling. Samsung is preinstalled app to Galaxy phones, though the specific app and its utility are not detailed.

EVs, AI, and Gaming Industry News

Honda is discontinuing its sole EV offering in the US, an electric SUV that was a collaboration with GM. Major League Baseball has banned the use of dugout iPads for AI-powered in-game strategy calls. Video game unions in the US and Canada have filed unfair labor practice charges against Microsoft and Xbox, alleging bad-faith bargaining. The NTSB has confirmed that a Tesla driver overrode the Full Self-Driving system in a fatal crash, with NHTSA also investigating.

Android and Wearable Tech Developments

Android 17 QPR1 Beta 7 is now available, addressing several long-standing issues for Pixel users. The EU has introduced exemptions to its removable battery rule for smartwatches, fitness trackers, and earbuds, with new legislation taking effect in February 2027. SpaceX is deorbiting 260 Starlink satellites, a process scientists are monitoring for environmental impacts. Google is expanding its Connected Apps experience in AI Mode to include Instacart and YouTube Music for AI-assisted grocery shopping and playlist creation. The Pixel Watch 4 has returned to its Prime Day price on Amazon, weeks before the Made by Google 2026 event.

Marshall's latest mid-range headphones, the Milton ANC, have disappointed due to a significant drawback. Sonos has rolled out quality-of-life updates to its mobile app, including tab navigation and speaker sorting. In a speculative look, the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL is being compared against the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, highlighting their differing approaches to design and features. The Infinix Xpad 30 Pro has surfaced in a retailer listing, revealing its key specifications ahead of an official announcement. Google's Pixel Glow design for the Pixel 11 has been showcased in official teasers from the Google Store.

Samsung Foldables and Tablets

New renders and confirmed specifications have emerged for the Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra. Google is building anti-tampering protections into Android XR from day one, recognizing that user trust is crucial for the adoption of AI glasses. Suno has brought its generative AI music capabilities to iMessage. Leaked information about the Galaxy Z Flip 8 suggests a significant price hike with no hardware upgrades, utilizing a cheaper Exynos chip. The Lenovo Idea Pad Flex 3i Chromebook, a durable touchscreen device at a 40% discount on Amazon.

Smart speakers could exacerbate OpenAI's financial losses, as they may not prove to be a viable revenue stream. Ofcom, the UK's communications regulator TikTok's child safety measures. EU ratings reveal a significant battery life boost for the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra. The vivo T5 Lite has launched in India with a Dimensity 6300 SoC and a 6,500mAh battery. The best Google Pixel 10 deals for July 2026, including free phones and discounts, have been compiled.

Motorola's software update policy is facing scrutiny due to issues with the Edge 70 Max. Wireless Android Auto utilizes both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to deliver its functionality. Vital Signals is introducing a ring capable of continuous blood pressure monitoring, aiming to revolutionize hypertension management. The nubia Navi X Ultra is positioned as the company's take on an AI Agentic phone. Hyundai is reportedly looking to acquire full control of the robotics giant Boston Dynamics.

The Infinix Hot 70 Pro has been unboxed, revealing its included 45W charger and USB-A to USB-C cable. The Oversight Board has stated that leading AI models might be restricting free expression. Netflix is releasing a VHS-quality version of Stranger Things' first season, with potential for more seasons if viewership is high. Realme India has confirmed that future devices will launch with Color OS 17 as the brand ceases operations in China. The Muse, a desktop DAC, features a custom OS and a distinctive design.

Smartphone and Component Leaks

Renders and specifications for the Redmi 17 4G, detailing its design and color options. Xiaomi has unexpectedly rolled out the stable Android 17 update to the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and Xiaomi, though it's based on Hyper OS 3.0. A teardown video of the Redmi Note 17 Pro offers a look at the phone's internals. Skullcandy's Crusher 1080 headphones combine haptic bass with quiet ANC. Elon Musk has acquired a gas turbine company, likely for powering Space XAI's data centers.

A comparison between the Google Pixel 11 and Pixel 10 is offered, assessing whether an upgrade is worthwhile after a year with the Pixel. Samsung investigating reports of red discoloration on some Galaxy S26 Ultra screens. Huawei's Mate Pad Air (2026) has had a hands-on preview following its Malaysian event. Full specifications for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra from a reliable source. A rumor suggests Samsung may discontinue its free storage upgrade perk for upcoming Galaxy foldables.

Apple has quietly introduced a significant change for Car Play with iOS, following Google's similar Android Auto update. Google is offering Pixel Care Plus enrollment for the Pixel 10 and, with a limited enrollment period. Spotify is making Managed Accounts free for all parents, providing a music-only experience for younger users. Samsung is pre-installing Amazon Music on Galaxy phones, regardless of user preference. Samsung's best pre-order perk will not be available for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series and Flip.

Valve appears discontinuing self-repair parts for the LCD Steam Deck at iFixit, with no plans for OEM battery stock. A hacker accessed Suno source code, reportedly detailing how the company scraped millions of songs, though Suno states no sensitive personal information was compromised. Mint Mobile has dropped a significant Google Pixel 10 deal with a limited time window. The FCC is planning to dismantle local TV station ownership rules, potentially leading to broadcast TV monopolies. Hinge is allowing users to get friends to endorse their profiles.

Nvidia GeForce Now is now available in India with various pricing tiers. iOS 27's public beta, featuring a practical but plain Siri AI. A study has found that Google's AI features pose "unacceptable risks" to children. The leaf icon on Google Maps signifies eco-friendly routes, though its meaning can confuse users. Viaim's Rec Dot earbuds are enhancing meeting productivity with AI-powered call recording and insights. The Realme Narzo 100x is launching with a 144Hz screen and an 8,000 mAh battery.

Audio, Projectors, and Smart Home Devices

The XGIMI Elfin Flip 4K is a portable laser projector offering sharp video quality at a good price. A new One Plus N6 series model, the One Plus N6x, is being teased for an upcoming launch. Withings' new ultra-premium scale, priced at $600, is now on sale, promising clinical-grade monitoring. Google will permit third-party app stores on Android starting next week. Starlink's new V5 residential dish and more energy-efficient, though it does not increase data speeds.

The Wii M Sound is presented as a superior smart speaker option to those from Google, Amazon, and Sonos, offering better sound and connectivity. Samsung is providing clarification on the use of Samsung Health data for AI training, with users needing to consent for cloud sync. Google may be redesigning the Android Auto media player to offer a more streamlined experience. Official-looking renders for Samsung's entire Galaxy Unpacked lineup. The Poco M8 Power as a rebranded Redmi device.

The iQOO Z11 Lite's ahead of its launch, confirming a 6,500 mAh battery and 44W charging. The WGA 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 introduce expressions for beauty and existential dread.

Gaming and Storage Updates

PlayStation's Flex Strike wireless fight stick has been delayed without a new release date. Samsung's