Mobile News 3 Days

Last updated: August 11, 2026, 2:51 AM ET

Apple iPhone & Watch

Rumors of an all-glass 20th anniversary iPhone have reportedly been killed by Cupertino, according to one analyst. Meanwhile, the iPhone 18 Pro could see its bill-of-materials cost jump by up to 40% due to memory chip shortages. In a separate leak, luxury modifier Caviar may have spilled details on the iPhone Ultra and iPhone 18 Pro’s design and release date. Apple’s Watch ECG feature remains a lesser-known heart rate tool. Meanwhile, AirTags carry an IP67 rating that handles splashes but not submersion.

Samsung Galaxy & Wearables

Full specs for the Galaxy S26 FE have leaked, detailing changes from its predecessor. The Galaxy Z Fold8 is so successful that Samsung is boosting production by 1 million units. Jerry Rig Everything’s durability test put the foldable through sand and blades. The Galaxy A18 appeared on Geekbench revealing key specs. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S23 FE will get Android 17 as its final major OS update. In his two‑week review, the Z Fold 8 convinced one writer it’s the foldable most people should buy. T‑Mobile is offering a free Galaxy Watch 9 with a qualifying watch plan. Meanwhile, Samsung India has raised prices on entry‑level Galaxy A, F and M series models.

Google Pixel & Wear OS

The Pixel 11 series is approaching launch, and a buyer’s guide helps decide whether to wait. Leaked images show the Pixel 11 Pro XL in matte black with a new “HiLight” flash. The Pixel Watch 5 will arrive in a Stephen Curry edition. Android Central’s live blog covers the Made by Google 2026 event. A comprehensive what‑to‑expect roundup covers the Pixel, Pixel 11 Pro Fold, Watch 5 and potentially a smart tag.

Other Handsets & Tablets

The Minimal Phone 2 swaps E Ink for a 90Hz AMOLED display while retaining a tactile QWERTY keyboard. Leaked images reveal the Fairphone 6+ in Cobalt Blue with 12GB RAM. Lava’s Smart 4 launches with specs reminiscent of 2016. The REDMAGIC Astra 2 gaming tablet goes on sale August 26, with early‑access discounts. The Moto G Max comes to India with a Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 and a 7,000mAh battery. Xiaomi’s Redmi 17 4G and 5G models are official. iQOO has confirmed the launch of the Neo11 Ultra and Z11s in China. Renders of upcoming Asus and Lenovo Googlebooks have surfaced ahead of IFA. A leak roundup includes the Redmi K100 Pro and Galaxy S27. One Plus is leaving Europe and offering a free 50W wireless charger as a parting gift. Motorola’s Moto Pad 70 sports a 12.1‑inch 90Hz display and 10,200mAh battery.

Carriers & Connectivity

Verizon suffered an outage in Southern California after vandals cut fiber cables. NYC Mayor Mamdani announced support for the Delivery Protection Act, which Amazon opposes. The difference between MagSafe and Qi2 wireless charging is explained. Meanwhile, a guide compares Bluetooth, Wi‑Fi and 2.4G wireless devices. For in‑car use, wired vs. wireless CarPlay has its own pros and cons.

Software & Services

YouTube is doubling the watch hours or Shorts views required for new creators to earn ad revenue. X will replace its revenue‑sharing program with an original content rewards scheme after September 7. Google Play now accepts Venmo payments. Anthropic’s Claude gains voice mode. A comparison with ChatGPT highlights key differences. Valve warned that data of European Steam hardware customers was likely compromised.

Deals & Pricing

The Galaxy Z Flip8 and Z Fold8 are seeing early discounts. Meanwhile, a separate deals roundup includes the Galaxy S26 Ultra and iPhone 17 Pro on Amazon UK.

Industry Trends & Analysis

This week’s weekly poll asks whether you use a feature phone. Additionally, smart glasses are described as a solution looking for a problem. A guide explores what a $100 smartphone gets you in 2026. The Dell XPS 13 (2026) is reviewed as a MacBook Neo alternative that needs more RAM. Supernatural’s head of fitness discusses relaunching the VR exercise app after leaving Meta. New indie games highlighted include Big Walk and retro electronic repairs. The pros and cons of switching to digital games are weighed. A Mario Kart 64 VR mod brings the classic racer to first‑person.

Tips, Tricks & How‑To

Before discarding old storage, securely wipe USB drives first. Formatting a USB drive on Windows is straightforward. Pair your Roku remote with simple steps. Hide and unhide apps on iPhone or iPad for privacy. Consider the downsides of switching from iPhone to Android. Connect your retro GameCube to a modern TV with a single adapter. Maximize battery life on retro handheld consoles. Your phone’s USB‑C port does more than charge — explore data transfer and accessories.