Last updated: August 5, 2026, 2:30 AM ET
New Earbuds and Audio Gear
CMF has launched its first pair of open-ear earbuds, the CMF Clip Pro, designed for a more casual listening experience and priced under $100. Sony is adding a new color option, Olive Gray, to its flagship WH-1000XM6 noise-cancelling headphones. For those seeking the best audio quality, Bluetooth multipoint connectivity is highlighted as a crucial feature to look for in modern headphones and earbuds. Adjustments to existing headphones can also improve bass output, meaning a new purchase isn't always necessary. DJI has released the Mic Mini 2S, which is notable for being the first in its Mini lineup to offer internal audio recording with 32-bit float capabilities.
Smartphone Releases and Rumors
OnePlus has officially exited the North American and European markets, with no phones currently available on its official US site. Oppo is reportedly working on the F35 family, with the F35 Pro expected to be a rebranded device featuring a large battery. The Oppo A7 Pro Max has been officially unveiled, boasting Oppo's largest battery to date with a 10,000 mAh capacity and detailed camera specifications, along with a rugged build. Motorola is teasing the upcoming launch of the Edge 70 Neo, a model not previously in their lineup. ZTE's Blade has been listed with specifications that are causing some confusion among observers. The Poco M8 Power has been released, featuring a 120Hz screen, a Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 SoC, and a substantial 8,000 mAh battery. Xiaomi's budget 17 4G is now on sale in Europe, despite not having had an official announcement or release in China yet. Indian manufacturer Lava is preparing for its UK debut with the upcoming Agni 4N smartphone. Honor's Robot is set for a full unveiling on August 12, with camera details already confirmed and further specifications leaking.
Foldable Phones and Deals
Samsung's Galaxy Fold 8 and Z Fold 8 Ultra are available for pre-order, with significant trade-in discounts offered by Samsung, and T-Mobile providing a deal where the foldable phone can be obtained for free with eligible trade-ins and new lines. Samsung is also offering No Cost EMI financing for these foldables in India, allowing customers to spread payments over up to 18 months without interest. Reviewers suggest that while the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra offers nice upgrades like a new processor and brighter screens, the changes may not be enough to justify the "ultra" designation. Comparisons place the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra favorably against its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Fold, with the Ultra being nearly perfect, though Fold 6 users might retain their S Pen. However, Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is also compared unfavorably in some key areas to the previous-generation Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold, which is described as built to last. Deals are also available for select variants of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series and iPhone 17 Pro models.
Google and AI Developments
Google has reportedly killed an unreleased AI app, a move that is noted as being more extreme than their usual app and service cancellations. Gemini Spark has gained Chrome web-browsing capabilities, allowing it to handle web-based tasks using logged-in accounts and saved passwords. Pixel 11 Pro's marketing materials have leaked, showing a design similar to its predecessors, and the upcoming Made by Google 2026 event is expected to feature the Pixel 11 series and Pixel Watch. The Google Pixel 10a is currently on sale with a 15% discount on Amazon, bringing its price down to $424 for a limited time. Users unable to access the Pixel's Now Playing feature can utilize a nearly 20-year-old app that provides similar music recognition functionality.
Microsoft, Xbox, and Gaming
Microsoft is developing emulators to run older Xbox games on PCs and the upcoming Xbox Helix console. Xbox hardware were down 13% and content and services revenue decreased by 10% in the latest quarterly report. Free 25th-anniversary gifts for Xbox users include a dynamic theme and avatars. Xbox 360 are also reportedly coming to PC, suggesting a potential move towards an all-digital future for the platform. The DOJ has extracted $3.2 million from OpenAI concerning allegations of hiring discrimination. It's possible to run Doom within MS Paint. The expected lifespan of a PlayStation 5 console is discussed, along with Sony's future support for the PS5 after the release of the PS6.
Data Centers, Power, and Texas
The governor of Texas has ordered an audit of new data centers due to concerns over their substantial power consumption, with the state already hosting over 500 data centers that require more than 400 gigawatts of power.
Amazon and Legal Issues
Amazon's public with Perplexity regarding its AI shopping bot has been ongoing since November 2025, and Perplexity has successfully overturned an injunction Amazon had placed on its bot. A lawsuit filed in New Jersey accuses Amazon of unlawfully leveraging its power over delivery contractors. Amazon is also developing a Warhammer 40,000 animated series, with Henry Cavill attached to the project. Samsung has announced it will be banning smart TV apps that compromise users' internet connections.
Operating Systems and File Formats
For most users the Pro version of Windows 11 is not necessary, as the Home version suffices for typical needs. The ex FAT file format is recommended for cross-platform usage due to its compatibility. Chromebooks can applications beyond those available on the Google Play Store through sideloading Android APKs.
Wearables and Health Tracking
difference between smartwatches and smart rings for health tracking purposes is explained, helping users decide which wearable best suits their needs. Apple Watch can customize their watch faces with a variety of options to personalize the device.
Other Tech News
Car USB are generally not powerful enough to charge laptops, and alternative charging methods are recommended. Putting a phone in the refrigerator is ill-advised due to the risk of condensation damaging electronics. Using a phone while it is charging has implications for battery life, and common myths and truths about charging are discussed. Spotify has reached 300 million Premium subscribers, which is three times the number of Apple Music subscribers. The European Union has implemented new, enforceable rules concerning AI transparency across the bloc. TCL's Tab A1 Plus NXTPAPER tablet has officially launched in the US with a $100 discount. Anbernic RG SP, a modern Game Boy Advance SP remake, will be available starting August 5, with early bird pricing offered.
TV and Streaming
New Samsung TVs will begin supporting HDR10+ Advanced streaming on Prime Video this month, featuring enhancements like increased brightness and intelligent motion smoothing. The classic science fiction series Babylon 5 is now available to watch for free on YouTube, episode by episode. users can connect their Streaming Stick or TV to Wi-Fi even without their remote.
Laptop and Computing
The Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Ultra Aura Edition is a capable ultralight laptop, though its current price is considered too high. The necessity of carrying various USB adapters is diminishing as USB-C becomes the standard across most devices. An app is available that allows users to easily turn their phone into a computer mouse.
E-Paper Notebooks
The TCL Note A1 NXTPAPER and Boox Go 10.3 Gen II e-paper notebooks have been tested for their effectiveness as note-taking tablets, just in time for the back-to-school season.
Upcoming Events
A Nintendo Direct livestream for Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave is scheduled to begin today at 10 AM ET / 7 AM PT.
Car Technology
2026 Lexus ES 500e sedan offers a comfortable ride and a reasonable price point, but its electric vehicle technology is considered somewhat outdated, particularly its charging speed.
Mobile Charging and Maintenance
Preventing your from overheating in a car involves several steps to avoid dangerous temperatures.
Gaming and Retro Devices
Anbernic RG SP, a remake of the Game Boy Advance SP, will be available for purchase on August 5th, with early bird pricing incentives.
File System Formats
ex FAT file system is ideal for users who need to share data between different operating systems, making it a versatile choice for external storage devices.
AI Transparency Rules
The European Union has enacted new regulations concerning AI transparency, which are now binding throughout the bloc.
Other Tech News and Reviews
CMF Clip Pro earbuds are Nothing's first foray into clip-style audio devices, aiming for affordability. A new rumor suggests the Oppo F35 Pro will be a rebranded model with a substantial battery. ZTE's Blade has appeared with perplexing specifications. Texas Governor Abbott has ordered an audit of new data centers due to their significant power demands. Amazon's injunction Perplexity's AI shopping bot has been overturned. Advertising revenue on X appears to be significantly lower than in previous periods. OnePlus has officially ceased operations in the US and Canada, with no phones available on their official website. Xbox is offering free anniversary gifts, including a dynamic theme and avatars. The Department of Justice has fined OpenAI $3.2 million over hiring discrimination issues. It has been confirmed that MS Paint can indeed run the game Doom. New Jersey filed an antitrust lawsuit against Amazon, alleging unlawful practices with delivery contractors. Car USB are generally insufficient for charging laptops, and alternative solutions are advised. Most users do not require the Pro version of Windows. Samsung's Galaxy Fold 8 preorder deals include discounts, with T-Mobile offering the device for free with specific plans. Motorola is teasing the launch of the Edge 70 Neo in an unconventional manner. ex FAT is recommended for cross-platform compatibility. TCL's new tablet, the Tab A1 Plus NXTPAPER, is launching in the US with a $100 discount. 2026 Lexus ES 500e is a stylish sedan with a slow charging speed. TVs will now support HDR10+ Advanced streaming on Prime Video. The show Babylon 5 is now available for free on YouTube. Instructions are provided for connecting a Roku device to Wi-Fi without a remote. Samsung is offering interest-free EMI options for its latest foldables in India. Microsoft working on emulators to bring older Xbox games to PC. Placing a phone in the refrigerator can cause condensation and damage. Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Ultra Aura Edition is a capable but expensive laptop. Spotify has surpassed 300 million Premium subscribers. Oppo has unveiled the A7 Pro Max with a large 10,000 mAh battery. DJI's Mic 2S includes internal audio recording capabilities. Information on how to watch the Nintendo Direct for Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave is available. Lava is set to launch its Agni 4N smartphone in the UK. The Poco M8 Power features an 8,000 mAh battery and a 120Hz display. Redmi K100 Pro is expected to feature a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 V SoC. Flipkart has announced the launch date for Fire-Boltt's first smartphone. Honor's Robot is scheduled for unveiling on August 12. Sony has introduced a new Olive Gray color for its WH-1000XM6 headphones. Amazon is producing a Warhammer 40,000 animated series. Google Pixel Pro marketing materials have leaked, revealing some specifications. Google has discontinued an unreleased AI application. Tips for achieving better bass from headphones are provided. Xiaomi Redmi 17 4G has gone on sale in Europe before its official launch. Anbernic RG SP, a Game Boy Advance SP remake, will be available on August 5. Xbox 360 may be coming to PC. Apple AirTags pros and cons compared to competing trackers. Gemini Spark includes Chrome web-browsing functionality. Bluetooth multipoint is a highly recommended feature for modern headphones. Google Pixel 10a is on sale for $424 on Amazon. Samsung is banning smart TV apps that compromise user privacy. Oppo Find X10 Ultra is being tested with advanced zoom camera options. Wireless earbuds a saturated market, but top picks are available. Smartwatches and smart rings offer different approaches to health tracking. Samsung's Galaxy Fold 8 preorder deals are available at T-Mobile. Advice is given on how to prevent phones from overheating in cars. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra offers improvements but may not live up to its name. Users can their Apple Watch faces. The EU has implemented new rules for AI transparency. Oppo's F35 and potentially the Find X9s Pro are heading to India. Samsung is considering removing a camera from the Galaxy S27 Ultra. Oppo has detailed the cameras and build of the A7 Pro Max. Galaxy S27 Pro is rumored to feature a 12MP telephoto camera. Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is compared to the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is seen as an improvement over the Galaxy Z Fold. The Made by Google 2026 event is expected to showcase new Pixel devices. An app allows users to easily use their phone as a PC mouse. The expected lifespan of a PlayStation 5 is discussed. Spain Iceland are prime locations to view the 2026 solar eclipse. APKs can be sideloaded onto Chromebooks. Many older USB adapters may no longer be needed due to USB-C standardization. An app can replicate the Pixel's Now Playing feature. Common Bluetooth problems and their solutions are outlined. The vivo S2's full specifications have leaked ahead of its Indian launch. Using a phone while charging can impact battery life. Samsung's Galaxy Fold 8 series and iPhone 17 Pro models are on sale.