Mobile News 3 Days

Last updated: August 1, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

Samsung Foldables and Battery Tech

Samsung is preparing to release its latest foldable devices, including the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Fold 8 Ultra, which will offer distinct options for consumers. Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Fold 8 Ultra are slated to hit shelves on August 7th, with trade-in discounts available from Samsung starting at $699.99. Compatibility of older cases, such as those for the Galaxy Z Fold, with the new Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is a consideration for potential buyers. In terms of battery technology, Samsung has adopted silicon carbon batteries in its new Fold lineup, a technology that some major Chinese smartphone makers have also embraced for improved smartphone battery life. upcoming Galaxy S27 Ultra is rumored to feature a significant overhaul, including a large 5,700mAh silicon-carbon battery and a redesigned camera island, though some reports suggest certain upgrades might be omitted. Samsung also reportedly working on a surprise device for next year, potentially including models like the Flip9, Fold9, and Fold9 Ultra, as well as a Tri Fold.

Google Pixel and AI Developments

Google is preparing to unveil its new Pixel 11 family on August 12th, with promotional renders of the Pixel 11 Pro Fold leaking, showing a familiar design with a refined camera bar and a new Pine finish. Pixel 11 Pro Fold is expected to be a compelling option for those in the market for a foldable device. Google's Gemini is rolling out a new Android overlay that provides a blurred background for a cleaner, more integrated user experience. Rumors suggest is developing a tracker called "Pixel Tag" to help users keep tabs on their belongings. Earlier this week Google rolled back AI generation tools it added to Google Earth after less than a day, following user concerns about misleading imagery. Separately, Google announced that a July update has fixed a Pixel battery drain issue, though some users report ongoing problems, with Pixel 9a and 8a expected to receive a fix in September. Amazon is offering discounts of up to $250 on the Google Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro ahead of the Pixel 11 series launch. Android 17 Beta 8 has been released, addressing a long-standing audio bug for Pixel users and improving the usability of the preview before the stable September release.

Smartphone Launches and Leaks

iQOO Z11 is reportedly launching in India, following the recent release of the Z11 Lite. Samsung's Galaxy FE is confirmed to exist and is expected to launch this year, with camera specifications beginning to surface. global Redmi Note 17 devices have had their full specifications revealed alongside leaked images. Xiaomi Pad 8S Pro is reportedly in development, featuring Xiaomi's next self-developed chipset. Huawei is set to launch the nova 16 SE, along with updated Mate Book Fold Ultimate Design and Mate Pad Pro devices, on August 5th. The Oppo A7 Pro Max, confirmed to have a 10,000mAh battery, will launch soon with its date and additional details now revealed. Honor has introduced the X6e, adding to its extensive X6 lineup of smartphones, with this new model featuring a 7,500 mAh battery. OnePlus N6x has officially launched in India, offering a more affordable version of the One Plus N6 with a 6.8-inch display and a 7,000mAh battery.

Wearables and Audio Devices

Motorola is preparing to enter the premium smartwatch market with the Moto Watch Ultra, according to leaked renders. Casio has released a new ring watch that appears to be an Oura competitor, offering a stylish design. Samsung is rumored to be developing Galaxy Buds with an ear hook design, which would provide a more secure option for workouts and compete with brands like Shokz. Leaked illustrations that Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Buds On will feature a clip-on form factor. CMF Nothing has announced the Clip Pro, a set of OWS earbuds scheduled for release in August. Last-generation Sony headphones are available for $150 off during Best Buy's Back to School sale.

Gaming and Entertainment Devices

Ayaneo has revealed the Konkr Pocket Advance, a handheld device that is a remake of the Game Boy Advance. Super Mario is confirmed as the next Game Cube addition for the Nintendo Switch. Electronic Arts set to become a private company next week as its $55 billion deal is expected to close by August 4th. Sony is proceeding with its plan to discontinue PS5 game discs despite backlash from consumers. Sony confirmed it has secured sufficient RAM for its projected PS5 sales this year, addressing concerns about memory shortages. Microsoft is now rolling out the Xbox app to Hisense TVs and other TVs running VIDAA OS, allowing users to play Xbox games without a console.

Regulatory and Industry News

The European Union will begin mandating labels on authentic-looking AI content starting August 2nd, a move described as crucial for customer and democracy protection. Meta, TikTok and Google are facing a wrongful death lawsuit from four US families who accuse the companies of creating addictive and dangerous platforms. Snapchat is implementing a crackdown on AI-generated content in its Spotlight feature, with AI-made videos no longer appearing in public recommendations. LinkedIn testing a reporting tool for content that appears to be "AI slop" and is also removing some of its own AI-writing features. Australia's social ban for individuals under 16 has shown limited impact so far, with no statistically significant change in AI chatbot use observed. Bloomberg reports that Chat GPT and Roblox will be subject to tighter regulations in the EU and added to the list of 'very large online platforms'. EU's Right to Repair directive is now in effect, aiming to make it easier to fix electronic devices. Qualcomm officially confirmed a price increase across its Snapdragon chipsets. Samsung's mobile has posted its first-ever loss, attributed to soaring memory prices, while its chip division is experiencing profit growth. Global smartphone have fallen by six percent due to the memory cost crisis, although Apple and Samsung have seen their market share increase.

Miscellaneous Tech and Gadgets

USB tethering is a wired connection method that can offer better performance than a Wi-Fi hotspot in certain situations. Engadget's recent include the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Meta Glasses, among other products. stickers can be created and deleted to personalize conversations. Information on how to safely recycle old USB cables is available. Apple's CarPlay may require troubleshooting if it is not working correctly in a vehicle. Honda is partnering with another company to advance solid-state battery technology for its future EV lineup. A new drone has been developed that spins so rapidly it is barely visible to the human eye. SpaceXAI anticipates it will take a year to fully remove unpermitted gas turbines from its Mississippi data center following accusations of violating the Clean Air Act. Meta Glasses' anti-creep feature, which is intended to alert bystanders when recording, can be bypassed with a simple sticker. Information on how to fight against data centers concerning noise, utility costs, or pollution is provided. The HoverAir Versa is a new product that combines a gimbal camera and a drone. Amazon's Zoox has received regulatory approval from the NHTSA for paid rides, making it the first autonomous vehicle without manual controls to achieve this. Users can play Xbox games on Hisense TVs without needing a separate console. Lenovo's upcoming devices have been revealed through leaked renders. Maingear has introduced a new line of pre-built PCs called 'Zero' that feature hidden cables for a clean aesthetic. Slate Truck an electric vehicle, is described as a minimalist's delight based on a first drive. company CMF by Nothing announced its Clip Pro OWS earbuds, set to launch in August. Motorola's Razr is rumored to be getting a Swarovski Edition with a unique colorway. Apple is facing supply chain constraints that may prevent it from meeting customer demand in the third quarter. iPhone Apple Watch users in Oklahoma will soon be able to add their driver's licenses and IDs to Apple Wallet. Sonos planning a product event for September, likely focusing on AI-related features. TP-Link routers subject to scrutiny regarding FCC matters. PSP classic Lumines has been released on iOS and Android with a free trial option. DJI's Osmo 4P vlogging camera is now available globally, featuring a 3x lens and a 1-inch main camera. DJI Osmo Pocket 4P is praised for its dual lenses, dynamic range, and optical zoom capabilities. NASA's LINK sent to rescue the falling Swift observatory, is facing its own operational challenges. Fairphone 6+ has appeared in a listing with a notable amount of RAM, despite the ongoing global memory chip crisis. Electrified vehicle have reached new highs globally, with 50 countries reporting quarterly records in Q2 2026. Samsung has confirmed the Galaxy Tab S12 series will launch this year. new Friend pendant wearable features a speaker and updated AI models, continuing its approach to human AI interaction.