Mobile News 3 Days

Last updated: July 20, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

Samsung & Foldables Take Center Stage

Samsung is preparing to launch its new generation of foldable phones and smartwatches at the Galaxy Unpacked event on July 22nd. The upcoming Galaxy Z Fold, Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Galaxy Z Flip 8 are expected to be introduced, with reports indicating that the standard Z Fold 8 will see higher production volumes than its Ultra counterpart and the Flip. Ahead of the official reveal, J-Hope of the band BTS has teased the Galaxy Z Fold. Additionally, renders of the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 have surfaced, confirming upgraded specifications, and the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra, though it appears to retain much of its predecessor's design.

Budget and Mid-Range Smartphone Updates

Qualcomm's next budget chipset, the Snapdragon 4 Gen, is rumored to feature an upgrade in its graphics department. Details about the SM4875, expected to be named the Snapdragon 4 Gen, have leaked, suggesting it will be the successor to the current generation. In other leaks, the Oppo A7 Pro Max with a substantial 10,000mAh battery. Meanwhile, Xiaomi has officially unveiled the Redmi Note 17 and Redmi Note 17 Pro in China, boasting impressive battery capacities of 8,000 mAh and higher, respectively. The Redmi Watch 6 Active and Redmi Watch 6 Lite are also in development, with leaked specs and pricing.

Google Pixel and Android Ecosystem News

Google is reportedly preparing to launch the Pixel 11a, with leaked specifications suggesting it could be one of the best "a-series" devices yet. The Pixel 11 series itself is teased for an August 12th launch, with invites for the event in India. The Pixel 11 Pro XL is expected to offer a significant upgrade over the Pixel 10 Pro XL. In the Android Auto ecosystem, a long-awaited live, color-changing speedometer in Google Maps. For those looking to upgrade, Verizon is giving away Google Pixel 10 Pro phones for free with a new line and Unlimited plan.

Home Energy and Display Technology Advancements

The first UL 3700-compliant plug-in solar microinverter in the US, paving the way for more accessible, renter-friendly alternative energy solutions. On the display front, Amazon's Adaptive Display accessibility feature for Fire TVs. Separately, Chinese solar company LONGi has developed crystalline silicon-perovskite tandem solar cells with a 35.5 percent conversion efficiency. In a seemingly counterintuitive development for cooling high-performance hardware, NVIDIA data center components with water hotter than a hot tub, specifically 113-degree water.

Consumer Electronics and Retail Updates

Netflix is expanding its accessibility features by offering ASL interpretations for dozens of kids' shows and movies, in collaboration with Sign Up Media. For those interested in digital car keys, the setup process for adding one to your iPhone is being explained. Samsung has unveiled a Galaxy credit card offering up to five percent back on its products, just ahead of its Unpacked event. In retail news, Best Buy a "Black Friday in July" sale with significant discounts on tech items.

International Regulations and Device Issues

The European Commission has fined Ali Express €550 million for failing to diligently address the risks associated with selling illegal and counterfeit goods. In a concerning development for some users, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is reportedly experiencing a "red screen" issue, though Samsung has acknowledged the problem and stated a fix is underway. France is doubling down on restricting access to the prediction market Polymarket, with its gambling authority ordering ISPs to block the website.

Charging and Audio Gear Innovations

For those needing powerful charging solutions, Cuktech's 30 Ultra capable of charging multiple devices simultaneously, with two USB-C ports delivering 140W each. Satechi has released a 4-port GaN charger that is compact and offers 140W charging with a built-in panel displaying real-time charging details. In the audio space, Chinese maker dd HiFi's new entry-level IEMs, the Iris and Skyfall, are being praised for their exceptional quality at a budget price point.

Smartphone Lifespan and User Features

The average lifespan of a new iPhone is being examined, with Apple devices generally considered durable. For Android users, a long-underrated feature for faster typing is being highlighted, and the utility of Google Find Hub is being promoted for tracking devices. Additionally, users can now convert their Android Auto to wireless with a simple adapter as detailed.

Other Notable Tech News

The Kodak EC35 is a new pocketable, beginner-friendly 35mm film camera. NASA has shared a captivating timelapse of the Psyche spacecraft's view over Mars. OpenAI will begin parents if their teen accounts violate its policies. TikTok longer banned on US government devices.