Mobile News 3 Days

Last updated: August 1, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Samsung's Foldable Future and Competitors

Galaxy Z Fold 8 is the foldable device that has captured the most attention from consumers in a recent poll, though its price point may prove to be a deterrent. offers various foldable options with the Galaxy Z Fold, Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Z Flip, each targeting different consumer segments. Users wondering case compatibility for the new devices should note that Galaxy Z Fold 7 cases may not fit the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. Samsung also reportedly working on a surprise device for next year, potentially including the Flip, Fold, Fold 9 Ultra, and a Tri Fold. In the competitive foldable market, Google is expected to unveil its Pixel 11 Pro Fold on August 12th, with leaked renders showing a familiar design with a refined camera bar and a new Pine finish.

Smartphone Launches and Upgrades

iQOO Z11's India launch has been teased by the company's CEO. Samsung's upcoming S26 FE has had its camera specifications surface, with a company executive confirming its existence and hinting at a launch this year. Leaks suggest the Galaxy S27 Ultra could feature a massive 5,700mAh silicon-carbon battery and a redesigned camera island, though some rumors indicate it might miss out on significant upgrades. anticipated launches include the Xiaomi Pad 8S Pro with a self-developed chipset with a Dimensity 6360 Apex chipset and a 7,000mAh battery Redmi Note 17 devices with full specifications revealed. Huawei is set to launch the nova 16 SE, alongside new versions of the Mate Book Fold Ultimate Design and Mate Pad Pro on August 5th. The Oppo A7 Pro Max, featuring a 10,000mAh battery, is also slated for launch with its date and color options revealed.

Samsung Ecosystem and Accessories

Samsung's mobile has posted its first-ever loss, attributed to soaring memory prices. Despite this has embraced silicon-carbon batteries in its new Fold lineup, a technology also adopted by several major Chinese smartphone makers to address smartphone battery life issues. The company is also preparing to release a new Galaxy Smart Tag 3 with a different shape than its predecessors. Furthermore, Samsung reportedly developing Galaxy Buds with an ear hook design, which could offer a secure option for workouts and compete with brands like Shokz.

Google's Pixel Lineup and Software

Google's Gemini is rolling out to Android phones with a new blurred background for a cleaner look. Rumors suggest is developing a tracker called "Pixel Tag" to help users keep tabs on their belongings. Android 17 Beta 8 has been released, finally fixing a persistent audio bug for Pixel users. Google also addressed a Pixel battery drain issue, although some users report continued problems, with fixes expected for the Pixel 9a and 8a in September. Google Voice subscriptions offer additional features beyond a basic phone number. Ahead August 12th Pixel 11 event, Google has released a teaser showcasing the new "Pixel Glow" feature.

Other Mobile and Tech News

Meta, TikTok and Google are facing a wrongful death lawsuit from four US families accusing them of creating addictive and dangerous platforms. Snapchat cracking down on AI-generated content in its Spotlight feature, with videos made using AI no longer appearing in public recommendations. LinkedIn testing a reporting tool for content that "seems like AI slop" and is also removing some of its own AI-writing features. The EU will mandate labels on authentic-looking AI content starting August 2nd, citing customer and democracy protection. Apple CarPlay feature for music and navigation, can sometimes be finicky and require troubleshooting. iPhone users in Oklahoma will soon be able to add their driver's licenses and IDs to Apple Wallet. Qualcomm officially confirmed a price hike for its Snapdragon chipsets across the board. Global smartphone have fallen by six percent due to the memory cost crisis, though Apple and Samsung have seen their market share increase. CMF Nothing is preparing to launch its Clip Pro OWS earbuds in August.

Gaming and Entertainment

Ayaneo has revealed its Game Boy Advance remake, the Konkr Pocket Advance, which will be available in navy and orange. Super Mario is confirmed as the Switch 2's next Game Cube addition. Ubisoft shutting down its NFT game, Champions Tactics: Grimoria Chronicles, two years after the NFT craze subsided. Sony will with its plan to discontinue PS5 game discs despite backlash. Sony secured enough RAM for its projected PS5 sales this year, addressing concerns about memory shortages. games will soon be playable on Hisense TVs and other TVs powered by VIDAA OS without needing a separate console. PSP classic Lumines has been released on iOS and Android with a free trial option. Lego is introducing new Smart Play sets that offer a unique take on building, training, and battling within the Pokémon franchise.

EVs, Batteries, and Hardware

Honda partnered with a new entity to advance solid-state battery technology, signaling significant changes for its EV lineup. global oil crisis is reportedly driving consumers toward purchasing electrified cars, with 50 countries seeing quarterly sales records in Q2 of 2026. Slate's minimalist EV is poised to meet its promises.

Miscellaneous Tech and Features

tethering can provide better performance than a Wi-Fi hotspot in certain situations, and instructions are available on how to enable it. offers guidance on how to safely recycle old USB cables, noting that many are unnecessary. A new drone has been developed that spins so rapidly it is barely visible to the human eye. EU's Right to Repair directive is now in effect, aiming to make device repairs more accessible over time. Apple's smart the AR Specs, will be showcased in detail at a September 16th event. Sonos planning a product event for September, likely focusing on AI. TP-Link routers being scrutinized, with considerations about their products and FCC involvement. Screen mirroring an Android phone to a Roku device is possible. Netflix has paid $500 million to share streaming rights for "The Walking Dead" and its spinoffs with AMC+. Maingear has introduced a new lineup of "Zero" pre-built PCs featuring hidden cables for a clean aesthetic. spacecraft NASA sent to rescue the falling Swift observatory, named LINK, is now facing its own challenges. The Fairphone 6+ has appeared in a listing with a surprising amount of RAM, despite the ongoing global memory chip crisis.