Mobile News 3 Days

Last updated: July 19, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

Google Pixel 11 Series and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Face-Off

Google has begun sending out invites for its Pixel 11 series launch event, scheduled for August 12th in New York City sent invites. The upcoming Pixel 11 Pro XL is expected to feature a "glowing upgrade" over its predecessors, with leaks suggesting a new "Pixel Glow" design showcased in a Google Store teaser. The Pixel 11a specs have also leaked, hinting at a potentially strong offering in the "a-series" lineup. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is reportedly experiencing a red screen issue that Samsung is working to fix, and early comparisons suggest it will compete closely with the Pixel 11 Pro XL, offering "big style vs big features". Google Pixel 10 series devices, including the Pixel 10 Pro XL, are currently on sale with significant discounts ahead of the Pixel 11 launch, with Amazon slashing $300 off the Pixel 10 Pro. The Pixel Watch 4 has also returned to its Prime Day price.

Motorola and Nothing Face Scrutiny Over Device Strategy

Motorola's Edge 70 Max is generating mixed reactions, with a poll indicating interest despite a confusing software update policy that the company has since clarified reached out to us to clarify. The device itself boasts a powerful chipset and a large battery with Qi2.2 support, making it more appealing than initially anticipated turning heads in the best way possible. Conversely, the Nothing Phone (4b) is facing grim prospects, with poll results suggesting it desperately needs a price cut to remain competitive. However, Nothing is also recognized as one of India's fastest-growing smartphone brands reveals. Tecno's Pova 8 5G is noted for mimicking Nothing's aesthetic with a massive battery and AI features, including a unique rear Active Matrix display.

Foldable Phone Market Heats Up with New Releases and Leaks

Samsung is gearing up for its Galaxy Unpacked event on July 22nd in London, where the Galaxy Z Fold8, Fold8 Ultra, and Flip8 are expected to be unveiled expected to unveil. Leaked specifications suggest the Galaxy Z Fold8 series will receive a significant battery life boost, though camera upgrades for the Z Flip, Fold, and Fold 8 Ultra appear minimal appear to be slim. Despite Samsung's official reveal being imminent, a luxury version of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is already available for purchase at an extravagant $13,130. Xiaomi's Mix Fold 5 has been spotted running Hyper OS, fueling speculation for an August 2026 release. Huawei's Mate XT2 is also hinted at with a new design and folding mechanism based on a leaked patent. Samsung is also rumored to be adding yet another preinstalled app to its Galaxy phones, though there may be a silver lining. The Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra, however, appears to not have significant changes based on leaked renderings.

Audio and Accessory Innovations Emerge

Chinese audio maker dd HiFi has released new entry-level in-ear monitors, the Iris and Skyfall, which are being praised for their exceptional quality at a budget-friendly price have outdone itself. Meanwhile, some of the best open-ear earbuds are currently at their lowest price ever on Amazon after a 33% discount. For Apple users, Mophie's latest travel charging kit highlights a desire for similar accessories for Google Pixel users.

Android Ecosystem Updates and Features

A vulnerability in Android's lockscreen has been identified, allowing Gemini to send SMS messages without verification. Google's Health app is receiving an update that focuses on Nutrition Logging, introducing "custom foods" for easier tracking of meals. Google Find Hub features are highlighted as a valuable tool for keeping track of devices, including phones, watches, and earbuds. Signal is testing a new feature that will enable users to add an Android phone or tablet as a secondary device, simplifying multi-device usage. Wireless Android Auto utilizes both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to function.

Other Tech News and Developments

US government devices will no longer have a TikTok ban in place. OpenAI will notify parents if their teen accounts violate policies, such as those related to violence. The EU is making updates to its climate policy, which may allow for increased pollution. Zoox has issued a software recall for its robotaxis, as they may be confused by smoke. Tesla is selling a balance bike for toddlers. The UK's communications regulator, Ofcom, is investigating TikTok's child safety measures. Apple's streaming box, the Apple TV 4K, is now more expensive, prompting consideration of alternatives like Fire TV or Roku. Vital Signals has developed a ring capable of continuous blood pressure monitoring.