Last updated: August 20, 2026, 2:22 AM ET
Smartphone Launches and Leaks
The rumor mill is spinning fast for Xiaomi's upcoming flagship lineup, with the Xiaomi 18 Pro and Xiaomi 18 Pro Max both reportedly certified for sale in China, featuring 100W wired charging and UWB support. Samsung is also gearing up for a major launch, with the Galaxy S26 FE unveiling set for August 27 during its "Galaxy Event August 2026." Leaked marketing images and renders have already revealed nearly everything about the device, including design, specs, and software features. The Galaxy S26 FE has also appeared in a hands-on video and on the Google Play Console, suggesting an imminent launch. Meanwhile, Oppo's wide-screen phone is rumored to feature a 200MP camera, potentially under the name Reno X. Realme P4s is set to debut next week with an 8,000mAh battery and the Dimensity 7400 Ultra chipset. vivo Y31t has officially launched in India with a 7,200mAh battery and Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 SoC. Redmi M100 has gone official in China with a 7,900mAh battery and Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 processor. iQOO Neo11 Ultra and Z11S have launched in China with Media Tek Dimensity chipsets and IP68/IP69 ratings. Honor Pad 20 Pro was announced with a Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset and a massive 10,100mAh battery. Honor Robot Phone is now available in China with a 200MP gimbal camera. Poco M8x 5G will be powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 SoC, according to Flipkart teasers. Tecno Pova 8 Pro is now listed on Flipkart ahead of its India launch later this week. CUBOT KINGKONG Dura is teased as a rugged phone with a swappable battery system. HMD 102 4G Pro specs have leaked, showing key upgrades over its predecessor. HMD 2760 Flip design and key specs have also leaked, reportedly running Android 13 Go. Motorola Edge 70 Max is in for review, shipping with 256GB storage and 8GB or 12GB RAM. Motorola's magnetic charger has leaked, hinting at broader Qi2 magnetic charging adoption. Fairphone 6+ is now official and coming to the US with 12GB RAM and Snapdragon 7s Gen. Fairphone Gen 6 Plus rocks Murena's /e/OS and emphasizes sustainability. Huawei MatePad Air (2026) is now available in Malaysia and the Middle East. Moto Pad 70 has launched in India at a price point of ₹34,000. vivo V80 Lite 5G teaser images show part of its front design. Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra render leaks suggest an upcoming launch. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE stars in a hands-on video, further confirming its near-future release. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE European Energy Label has also leaked. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE is listed with 7 SKUs in Poland. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE is now listed on the Google Play Console alongside A08 and A07s. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE massive leak reveals almost everything ahead of launch. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE European Energy Label has also leaked. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE is listed with 7 SKUs in Poland. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE is now listed on the Google Play Console alongside A08 and A07s. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE massive leak reveals almost everything ahead of launch. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE European Energy Label has also leaked. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE is listed with 7 SKUs in Poland. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE is now listed on the Google Play Console alongside A08 and A07s. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE massive leak reveals almost everything ahead of launch.
Apple Developments
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in early September, possibly on September 8 or. Interestingly, iPhone 17 Pro cases may fit the iPhone 18 Pro due to similar dimensions. The iPhone 18 Pro Max is rumored to be the only model featuring a variable-aperture camera. The iPhone 18 Pro chipset is tipped to be 18% faster than its predecessor and may cost up to $1,399. Apple is also reportedly developing a HomePad smart speaker with a display, potentially launching later this year. Details about the Apple HomePod display were revealed through mac OS beta code, showing watch-like "Faces." Apple may have also leaked its camera-equipped AirPods in a mac OS Tahoe 26.7 video. Apple and the EU have agreed on new app store fees and third-party app store rules. Apple has new in-app transaction commission rates for EU developers. Apple is losing the antitrust battle and may soon stop charging commissions from external payment platforms. Apple's macOS Tahoe preview may have leaked unreleased products. Apple's iPhone Air and iPhone 16e are currently discounted at Best Buy. Apple's iPhone 15 may still be worth buying in 2026. Apple's focus modes are highlighted as the ultimate productivity tool. Apple's iPhone battery health can be checked through built-in tools.
Google Pixel and Android Ecosystem
Google's Pixel 11 Pro camera review highlights a return to greatness with improved photo quality and AI features. The Pixel 11 Pro hands-on review showcases its specs and pricing. The Pixel 11 Pro review emphasizes Google AI as an enabler, despite not meeting predecessor standards. The Pixel 11 Pro review notes compelling new features at a higher price point. The Pixel 11 review describes it as a $100 more expensive incremental upgrade. The Pixel 11 Pro Fold review notes welcome upgrades but disappointing lack of major design changes. The Pixel 11 can be purchased for as little as $99 at Best Buy with trade-in. T-Mobile is giving away the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL for free without trade. The Pixel 11 Pro vs Galaxy S26 comparison helps buyers choose the better small flagship. The Pixel 10 Pro one-year review finds it better but bug-ridden. Google is reportedly planning to move all Pixel production out of China to India and Vietnam by 2027. Google wants to end Pixel production in China very soon. Google's Tensor G6 brings considerable upgrades and AI boosts. Google's Scam Detection feature is expanding to vivo phones beyond Pixels and Samsung flagships. Google's Gemini auto-browse is now available in Chrome for Android. Google's AI Pro plan is free for US college students for a year. Google's Googlebooks new OS will launch on September 15. Google is hosting a Googlebook event in New York on September 15. Google's Smart Switch is causing RCS issues for Galaxy users. Google Messages RCS is breaking for Galaxy users after using Smart Switch. Google's YouTube view counts will likely get higher starting next week. Google Home outage left Nest devices stuck and unresponsive globally. Google's Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 targets call fraud and scam prevention. Google's Scam Detection is expanding to vivo phones. Amazon's Alexa+ AI chatbot is now free for eligible Fire TV devices. Amazon's Alexa+ AI assistant is now free for Fire TV users in the US. Amazon is bringing drone deliveries to Chicago and Atlanta metro areas. Amazon's Prime Air will serve nearly 500 US towns and cities by year-end.
Samsung Galaxy Updates
Samsung's Galaxy S26 FE unveiling is scheduled for August 27. Samsung is making device repairs easier on Galaxy phones with One UI. Samsung's One UI 9 adds a new Warranty and care menu. Samsung's One UI 9.5 screenshots show smooth animations. Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 success reportedly inspires two new wide foldables for 2027. Samsung Wallet Digital Key support is now available for Volkswagen EVs. Samsung's Galaxy S26 FE stars in a hands-on video. Samsung's Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra render leaks suggest an upcoming launch. Samsung's Galaxy S26 FE European Energy Label has leaked. Samsung's Galaxy S26 FE is listed with 7 SKUs in Poland. Samsung's Galaxy S26 FE is now listed on the Google Play Console. Samsung's Galaxy S26 FE massive leak reveals almost everything ahead of launch. Samsung is preparing two wide foldables for 2027. Samsung's Galaxy S26 FE stars in a hands-on video.
Gaming and Entertainment
The Binding of Isaac: Repentance+ Online release goes head-to-head with GTA 6 on November 19. GTA 6 gameplay has leaked ahead of its new trailer, with Rockstar taking down videos. Deus Ex and Dishonored designer Harvey Smith has launched a new studio, Black Pony Immersive, focused on immersive sims. Warren Spector has retired from game development. Guerrilla is reportedly overhauling Horizon Hunters Gathering to make it more of a traditional co-op game. Sony live-service game faces reports of poor player feedback. PlayStation's Pulse Elevate wireless speakers arrive November 12 for $220. Peacock is raising subscription prices for the fourth time in as many years. Reddit is experimenting with video and audio versions of posts. Vine reboot Divine is now open to everyone without an invite code. Spotify expands User Notes and adds Playlist Notes to editor-curated playlists. Spotify's Running Mode is now available on Android. YouTube will start tracking views the same way across video formats. Spotify's Running Mode is now available on Android.
Hardware and Accessories
Valve Steam Frame videos show how to wear the headset, perfect the fit, and sign in. Waymo Ojai vans are now available for all riders in San Francisco, Phoenix, and Los Angeles. Qualcomm confirms two Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 SoCs are coming. Qualcomm teases "Dual 8 Elite" chips for the Snapdragon Summit. Pokémon and Polaroid are collaborating on three new adorable cameras for their 30th anniversary. A robot could eventually conduct blood draws at doctor's offices, with the FDA approving the first automated device. Mattel is releasing a full-scale building brick set of the original Xbox for $330. IKEA is teasing Xbox-themed gaming furniture. Framework Laptop 12 now ships with Intel Core Series 3 chips. NVIDIA GeForce Now adds Firefox support on Windows. Comcast's Xfinity Shield uses Wi-Fi to detect motion for home protection. Starlink Mini can be used at home but will cost extra. Nimble SharePower review highlights two battery packs for the price of one. Lenovo Idea Tab Plus is discounted 11% at Amazon, making it a good student pick. Amazon Fire 7 Kids Edition crashed to $69.99 for a limited time. UGREEN DXP4800 Pro NAS scores a 15% discount at Amazon. HP Omnibook X (2026) review praises its reliable ultraportable design. Whoop's Advanced Labs health screenings will no longer require a subscription. CMF Buds Neo will be unveiled on August 20. Nothing's CMF teases a new pair of earbuds. Xiaomi Redmi Watch 6 Lite and Active specs and pricing have leaked. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE stars in a hands-on video. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE European Energy Label has leaked. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE is listed with 7 SKUs in Poland. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE is now listed on the Google Play Console. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE massive leak reveals almost everything ahead of launch. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE European Energy Label has leaked. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE is listed with 7 SKUs in Poland. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE is now listed on the Google Play Console. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE massive leak reveals almost everything ahead of launch.
AI and Software
Meta AI now has a dedicated desktop app for Mac. Meta faces a $1.4 trillion reckoning in a latest trial over social media addiction. Google AI tests contrail avoidance in UK skies with Operation Blue Skies. OpenAI reportedly disbanded its preparedness team as part of restructuring. ChatGPT stricter teen mode starts rolling out today. GitHub was down for most of the day, affecting developers. GitHub main outage is fixed, but Copilot remains down. Gmail verification program lets political campaigns escape its spam filter. Gmail verification program helps political campaigns bypass spam filters. Gmail verification program helps political campaigns bypass spam filters. Gmail verification program helps political campaigns bypass spam filters. Gmail verification program helps political campaigns bypass spam filters. Gmail verification program helps political campaigns bypass spam filters. Gmail verification program helps political campaigns bypass spam filters. 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Business and Industry News
Xiaomi Q2 2026 report shows smartphone sales down as average selling prices go up, with revenue at CNY 108.9 billion ($16.2 billion) and a 19.8% gross profit margin. ByteDance and Tencent have reportedly been allowed to import 10,000 H200 chips each from China. ByteDance has agreed to rein in its AI models to protect Hollywood IPs. Uber aims for 1 million daily drone deliveries with a Zipline partnership. Uber Eats will start Zipline drone deliveries later this year. Flock is testing an AI tool that tracks and identifies people based on driving habits. ICE agents are warned not to wear Meta glasses while on duty due to privacy concerns. NASA images show a crater on the moon caused by a SpaceX Falcon 9 crash. SpaceX Falcon 9 crash created a visible crater on the moon. ABC sues the FCC to stop an early review of its TV licenses. Study finds a 15% increase in traffic deaths after major music streaming releases. Study finds the X algorithm prioritizes ragebait that disproportionately impacts Democrats. AI-generated bills are reportedly causing problems in the Capitol. Retro games may still be worth money depending on condition and rarity. Retro game consoles value depends on various factors including condition and model. Flash drive capacity keeps increasing as smaller drives become rare. 4K Blu-ray always beats 4K streaming for picture quality. Bluetooth has two types: Classic and Low Energy, each for different uses. Passkeys are more secure than passwords, even with a password manager. App tracking collects data that can be used in various ways. Curved TVs failed while curved gaming monitors thrived. Gaming monitors succeeded where curved TVs failed. PC audio can be improved beyond laptop speakers. Phone charging without an outlet is possible with the right accessories. Electronics storage in garages exposes devices to moisture and temperature extremes. Smart glasses raise privacy concerns in various settings. Motion detection via Wi-Fi is Comcast's new home protection method. Starlink Mini can be used at home but isn't ideal for residential use. Battery packs like Share Power offer versatility for travelers. NAS servers like the UGREEN DXP4800 Pro provide powerful storage solutions. Laptops like the Framework Laptop 12 now feature Intel Core Series 3 chips. Tablets like the Lenovo Idea Tab Plus are discounted for students. Tablets like the Huawei Mate Pad Air (2026) expand availability. Tablets like the Honor Pad 20 Pro offer high-capacity batteries. Tablets like the Moto Pad 70 launch in India. Tablets like the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra leak renders. Tablets like the Honor Pad 20 Pro offer high-capacity batteries. Tablets like the Moto Pad 70 launch in India. Tablets like the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra leak renders.
Deals and Discounts
Best Buy is offering $160 discounts on iPhone Air and iPhone 16e models. Best Buy is offering up to $700 off the Google Pixel 11 with trade-in. Best Buy kicks off a massive 60th Anniversary Sale with numerous tech deals. Amazon Fire 7 Kids Edition crashes to $69.99 for a limited time. UGREEN DXP4800 Pro NAS is 15% off at Amazon. Lenovo Idea Tab Plus is 11% off at Amazon. Back to School deals include discounted phones and wearables for students. T-Mobile offers the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL for free without trade.