Mobile News 3 Days

Last updated: August 2, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

Samsung's Latest Foldables and Smartwatches

Samsung has opened pre-orders for its Galaxy Z Fold8 series, including the Galaxy Z Fold8, Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, and Galaxy Z Flip8, alongside new smartwatches. Galaxy Z Fold8 emerged as the most popular foldable in a recent poll, though its price point remains a significant consideration for many. Samsung is positioning the Z Fold8, Z Fold8 Ultra, and Z Flip8 as distinct options catering to different consumer needs. It is currently unclear if cases designed for the Galaxy Z Fold 7 will be compatible with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra.

New Smartphone Launches and Rumors

iQOO's CEO has teased the upcoming launch of the Z11 in India. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE is confirmed to be launching this year, with camera specifications recently surfacing. Leaks suggest the Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra will feature a substantial overhaul, including a large 5,700mAh silicon-carbon battery and a redesigned camera island. However, subsequent indicate that the Galaxy S27 Ultra might omit two significant upgrades previously anticipated. Samsung also reportedly working on a surprise device for next year, potentially including four new foldable models like the Flip9 and Fold9 series. Motorola Moto Pad 70 Groove has been unveiled, featuring a 12.1-inch display, JBL Pro Speaker System, and a 10,200mAh battery. OnePlus has launched the N6x in India, an affordable variant featuring a Dimensity 6360 Apex chipset and a 7,000mAh battery. Tecno has revealed a concept phone with zero display border, positioning it as the closest thing to an all-screen phone. global Redmi Note 17 lineup's full specifications have been released alongside leaked images.

Google's Pixel Lineup and AI Features

Google is expected to unveil its Pixel 11 family on August 12th, with promotional renders of the Pixel 11 Pro Fold already leaked, showcasing a familiar design with a refined camera bar and a new Pine finish. Android Central waiting until August 12th to see what Google will offer with the Pixel 11 Pro Fold. Google also addressed a Pixel battery drain issue, stating a July update resolves the problem on recent devices, with Pixel 9a and 8a receiving 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. Google's Gemini with a blurred UI is now rolling out to Android phones, providing a cleaner interface. Rumors suggest is developing a tracker called "Pixel Tag" to help users keep tabs on their belongings. Google Earth incorporating Nano Banana, allowing users to utilize AI for city reworks and estate plans. However, Google rolled back AI generation tools that were temporarily added to Google Earth. Reddit's CEO expressed frustration with Google's AI overviews, stating users want the platform itself, not a summary.

Other Mobile and Tech News

Apple's iPhone Apple Watch users in Oklahoma will soon be able to add their driver's licenses and IDs to the Apple Wallet app. Smart glasses being explored as a potential "next frontier" in technology, though their widespread adoption remains uncertain. 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 AI videos no longer appearing in public recommendations. LinkedIn testing a reporting tool for content perceived as "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. $2 sticker reportedly bypasses the anti-creep feature on Meta's smart glasses, which are designed to alert bystanders when recording.

Audio and Wearable Technology

CMF Nothing is preparing to launch its Clip Pro OWS earbuds in August. Samsung is reportedly working on Galaxy Buds with an ear hook design, potentially offering a secure option for workouts and competing with brands like Shokz. Casio has introduced a new ring watch that functions as an Oura competitor.

Gaming and Entertainment

Sony will with discontinuing PS5 game discs despite backlash. Sony secured sufficient RAM for its projected PS5 sales this year. Super Mario is slated to be a Game Cube addition for the Nintendo Switch. Electronic Arts set to become a private company next week following a $55 billion deal. games can now be played on Hisense TVs and other VIDAA OS-powered televisions without a console. Lumines, a classic PSP puzzle game, has been released on iOS and Android with a free trial option.

EVs and Batteries

Honda is partnering with a new entity to advance solid-state battery technology for its future EV lineup. Slate's minimalist EV is reportedly on track to meet its promises. SpaceXAI stated it will take a year to remove unpermitted gas turbines from its Mississippi data center, following accusations of Clean Air Act violations.

Connectivity and Storage

tethering can offer better performance than a Wi-Fi hotspot in certain situations, and instructions on how to enable it are available. Information on how to safely recycle old USB cables is also provided. TP-Link router is being reviewed, with considerations for FCC involvement. Tips are available to speed up router performance for slow downloads.

Component and Chipset News

Qualcomm officially confirmed a price increase for its Snapdragon chipsets across the board. Xiaomi is reportedly developing a new model, the Xiaomi Pad 8S Pro, which will feature the company's next self-developed chipset.

Mobile Network and Service Updates

RedPocket Mobile offering plans starting at $10, allowing users to select their preferred network from the "Big Three". WhatsApp planning a new folder to organize messages from large businesses, addressing chat list clutter. Spotify has introduced a new Running Mode for its iOS app, available to Premium subscribers in select countries. Google Voice subscriptions offer additional features beyond just a phone number.

Miscellaneous Tech and Industry News

Global smartphone have decreased by six percent due to a memory cost crisis, although Apple and Samsung have seen their market share increase. EU's Right to Repair directive is now in effect, aiming to make it easier to fix electronic devices. Apple is reportedly unable to meet customer demand in Q3 due to supply chain limitations. Ayaneo has revealed the Konkr Pocket Advance, a Game Boy Advance remake handheld console. DJI has expanded the global availability of its Osmo Pocket 4P vlogging camera. Lenovo's upcoming devices have been previewed through leaked renders. A new drone design is so fast that the human eye can barely perceive its movement. Amazon's Zoox steering wheel-free robotaxi, has received regulatory approval for paid rides, marking a first for an autonomous vehicle without manual controls.