Mobile News 3 Days

Last updated: August 2, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Samsung's Foldable Future and Pixel's Next Steps

Samsung has launched its new foldable, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, which is positioned as a significant improvement over previous models. This new device nearly perfects the big-screen Samsung foldable experience, although users of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 might still find reason to hold onto their S Pen. For those considering a foldable, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold, Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Galaxy Z Flip 8 are currently available for pre-order. Notably, select variants of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 are part of current deals. Samsung is also rumored to be preparing a surprise device for next year, potentially including four foldables: the Flip, Fold, Fold 9 Ultra, and the Tri Fold. In terms of design, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is being compared to the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold, with the Samsung device arriving with a focus on thinness, while the Google model is noted for its durability.

The Google Pixel 11 series and Pixel Watch 5 are expected to be unveiled at an upcoming Made by Google event in 2026. For those interested in the Pixel foldable line, waiting until August 12th may be advisable to see what Google will deliver with the Pixel 11 Pro Fold. Google is also rumored to be developing a tracker called the "Pixel Tag" to help users keep tabs on their belongings. Gemini's new overlay, featuring a background blur for a cleaner interface, is now reaching Android phones. Google Earth is also receiving an update with "Nano Banana," enabling users to leverage AI for city reworks and estate plans. However, Google rolled back some of its AI generation tools that were added to Google Earth after users had them for less than a day.

Smartphone Innovations and Battery Technology

The vivo S2's full specifications have leaked ahead of its expected August 6th launch in India, featuring a 6.83-inch 1.5K 120Hz curved display. iQOO Z11's India launch has been teased by the company CEO, following the recent release of the Z11 Lite. Motorola's Razr 2026 is rumored to be getting a Swarovski Edition, featuring crystals that shimmer in a deep space-like colorway. Tecno has unveiled a concept phone with a 0mm display border, aiming to create the closest thing to an all-screen phone ahead of its debut at IFA 2026. One Plus has officially launched the N6x in India, featuring a 6.8-inch display and a 7,000mAh battery powered by a Dimensity 6360 Apex chipset. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE's camera specifications have surfaced, with a Samsung executive confirming its existence and hinting at a launch this year.

Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra is rumored to feature a massive camera and battery overhaul, including a 5,700mAh silicon-carbon battery and a redesigned camera island. However, some rumors suggest that the Galaxy S27 Ultra might miss out on two significant upgrades. Silicon carbon batteries are gaining traction, with several major Chinese smartphone makers adopting them, and Samsung has now incorporated this technology into its new Fold lineup. Honda is collaborating with a new partner to advance solid-state battery technology, signaling significant changes for its future EV line. The question of whether using a phone while charging affects its battery life is a common one, with various myths and truths surrounding smartphone and tablet charging practices.

Gaming and Console Market Updates

Xbox consoles have become more expensive in the European Union and the United Kingdom, with the entry-level price now starting at €499.99/£429.99. Microsoft has begun rolling out the Xbox app to Hisense TVs and other TVs powered by VIDAA OS, allowing users to play Xbox games without a console. Sony has confirmed it will proceed with plans to stop producing PS5 discs, despite facing widespread criticism. Sony also stated that it has secured enough RAM for all the PlayStation 5 consoles it expects to sell this year, addressing concerns about potential shortages. Super Mario Sunshine is slated to be the Nintendo Switch 2's next Game Cube addition. Electronic Arts is set to become a private company next week, as its $55 billion deal is expected to close by August 4th. Ubisoft shutting down its NFT game, Champions Tactics: Grimoria Chronicles, which was released two years after the NFT craze subsided.

Connectivity, Adapters, and Data Center News

USB-C continues to become the standard across most devices, it's time to re-evaluate which USB adapters are still necessary in 2026. For those with a surplus of old cables, there are responsible ways to recycle them. tethering offers a more stable connection than a Wi-Fi hotspot in certain situations, and understanding how to enable it is key for mobile hotspot functionality. If Wi-Fi speeds are sluggish, several tweaks can help speed up your router before considering an upgrade. Space XAI has stated it will take a year to fully remove unpermitted gas turbines from its Mississippi data center, following accusations of violating the Clean Air Act. For those concerned about noise, utility costs, or pollution from data centers, there are ways to take action against their development.

Social Media, AI, and Emerging Technologies

Meta, TikTok, Snap, and Google are facing a wrongful death lawsuit from four US families, with the Social Media Victims Law Center accusing the companies of creating addictive and dangerous platforms. Snapchat is implementing a crackdown on AI-generated content in its Spotlight feature, meaning videos made with AI will no longer appear in public recommendations. The EU will mandate labels on authentic-looking AI content starting August 2nd, a measure described as crucial for customer and democracy protection. Australia's social media ban for individuals under 16 has had limited impact so far, with no statistically significant change in AI chatbot use. Meta's smart glasses are supposed to alert bystanders when recording, but a simple $2 sticker can bypass this anti-creep feature, raising privacy concerns. The tech world is exploring smart glasses as a potential "next frontier" beyond smartphones, though their mainstream adoption is still developing.

The hover Air Versa is an innovative product that combines a gimbal camera and a drone. Researchers have designed a drone that spins so fast it is barely visible to the human eye, bringing "invisible" drones closer to reality. Amazon's Zoox received regulatory approval from the NHTSA to offer paid rides, making it the first autonomous vehicle without a steering wheel to do so. Qualcomm officially confirmed a price hike for its Snapdragon chipsets across the board. CMF Nothing has announced the Clip Pro, a set of OWS earbuds launching in August. Ayaneo Konkr Pocket Advance is a remake of the Game Boy Advance, set to be released in navy and orange colorways.

Other Notable Tech News

Bluetooth speaker issues like audio dropout or pairing problems can often be resolved by addressing common troubleshooting steps. iPhone stickers offer a personalized way to enhance conversations, and managing a sticker library involves creating new ones while deleting old ones. Apple CarPlay can be a finicky system, and first steps to troubleshoot if it's not working involve checking basic connections and settings. EU's Right to Repair directive, which aims to make fixing broken gear easier, comes into force today. Pandora's ad-free Pandora Premium, is priced at less than $10 a month in 2026 and may be worth it for some users. Red Pocket Mobile allows customers to choose their network from the Big Three carriers, with plans now starting at $10. Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones, despite being last-gen, still offer one of the best audio profiles and are currently $150 off during Best Buy's Back to School sale. A Samsung executive has confirmed the existence of the Galaxy S26 FE, hinting at a launch this year. Samsung's upcoming Smart Tag3 is expected to feature a new shape.