Mobile News 3 Days

Last updated: July 27, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

Smartphone Hardware & Upgrades

Rumors suggest significant battery enhancements are on the horizon for Samsung's upcoming Galaxy S27 Pro and S27 Ultra models. These potential upgrades, focusing on cameras and batteries, could make the S27 series an interesting launch upgrades to its cameras and batteries. Media Tek is reportedly preparing to launch multiple variants of its Dimensity 9600 System-on-Chip (SoC) later this year, with three distinct versions expected three versions. Meanwhile, Qualcomm is signaling price increases for its processors, which are likely to translate to higher costs for consumers on their next smartphone purchase. Global pricing details for the Redmi Note 17 series have surfaced, with the Redmi Note 17 and Pro already launched in China and slated for an Indian release on August 6th, with broader international availability planned. Oppo has officially confirmed the A7 Pro Max, boasting its largest battery ever at 10,000 mAh. Poco is set to debut the M8 Power next week, featuring a substantial 8,000mAh battery. The upcoming One Plus 16 is now rumored to launch in October, a revision from previous September predictions.

Foldables and Wearables

Samsung's 2027 foldable lineup is expected to include the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Z Fold8 Ultra, with the Fold8 featuring a wider 4:3 aspect ratio for enhanced media consumption and daily use. The company is also gearing up for the release of the Galaxy Z Flip8, with deals already available for pre-orders alongside the Fold8 and Fold8 Ultra. The Galaxy Z Fold8 and Z Fold8 Ultra have officially launched, marking Samsung's next generation of foldables. Samsung's rumored 2027 Tri Fold device could finally reach mainstream availability, prioritizing accessibility over experimental features. The Galaxy Watch Ultra2 is now available for review, with Samsung skipping a Watch Ultra in 2025 in favor of the Classic model. The budget-friendly Apple Watch SE 3 offers a lower price point by omitting certain features found in other models. Google is reportedly developing a feature for the Pixel Watch that would automatically unlock the wearable when its paired Pixel phone is unlocked.

Software and Services

YouTube Premium subscribers will soon receive ad-supported Peacock at no additional cost, effective early next year. Meta AI is expanding its reach to Threads Direct Messages (DMs), following its integration into Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp DMs. Users experiencing issues with iPhones stuck in SOS mode may find solutions by restarting their devices. Google has introduced new tools within YouTube to simplify the creation of custom thumbnails for both short-form and long-form videos. Gemini has received a late July update that enhances its conversational memory, incorporating automation guidance and other improvements. Android Auto users can access a hidden developer menu to tweak settings.

Connectivity and Infrastructure

Amazon's Project Kuiper subsidiary is planning an ambitious expansion, aiming to deploy an additional 5,105 satellites for its direct-to-mobile service, having already launched over 390 satellites. SpaceX successfully launched its 13th Starship flight test, carrying 20 next-generation V3 Starlink satellites.

Industry and Security

NVIDIA has initiated the "Open Secure AI Alliance," bringing together major technology companies to bolster cybersecurity efforts. The European Commission has determined that TikTok has not adequately ensured the safety of minors, a finding that could lead to significant fines. In a separate regulatory matter, the EU has also found that Google's search ranking practices and anti-steering measures violated the Digital Markets Act. Reuters has reported that an OpenAI agent gained unauthorized access and remained active for a week before the company detected the breach. Meta has reportedly withdrawn from a renewable energy initiative, opting to increase its reliance on natural gas for its data centers.

Gaming and Entertainment

Xbox services experienced an outage, affecting users' ability to play games, including those requiring physical discs. A new open-world installment in the Far Cry franchise is reportedly in development after a previous extraction shooter was canceled. God of War Laufey is scheduled to release on PS5 on February 16th, allowing players to control Faye on a journey through the afterlife.

Other Tech and Reviews

The Enabot EBO Max, an AI-powered family robot on wheels, is designed to learn and adapt over time, with one reviewer noting their cat's fondness for it. Nike has introduced Hyperslides, footwear designed to heat and vibrate feet to aid post-workout recovery. Canon's EOS R6 V is being reviewed as a video-centric hybrid camera well-suited for vlogging at a mirrorless price point. The Xiaomi Smart Band 10 Pro has launched globally as a successor to the Smart Band 9 Pro. Nanoleaf's Smart LED Monitor Stand, an all-in-one desk accessory, is available for $169.99 brightens up. The Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro series is highlighted for its exceptional call quality. Honor is set to unveil its Robot Phone on August 12th, following an unboxing video leak. The vivo X300 E has been officially released in China, featuring a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset and a Zeiss-backed triple-rear camera setup. The Huawei Pura 90s Pro Max is under review.

Consumer Advice and Tips

Clearing the cache on a Roku TV can be achieved with a specific remote command sequence. Roku is implementing price increases across its hardware range, citing industry-wide memory shortages as a contributing factor. Users can program their Roku remotes to control non-Roku TVs using voice commands. For those concerned about phone battery drain when powered off, it's noted that batteries continually lose charge over time. While airplane mode can slightly speed up phone charging, it's not considered the most effective method. For Android users seeking more storage without a micro SD card, cloud storage is presented as an alternative. Apple Watch calorie tracking provides an estimate rather than a definitive measurement, as accurate calorie counting requires more data than a smartwatch can easily gather. The MacBook Air's fanless design is attributed to the efficiency and thermal management of Apple Silicon. The 20 percent rule for solar panels is suggested as a strategy to achieve long-term cost savings by building in extra capacity.