Mobile News 3 Hours

Last updated: June 29, 2026, 2:34 PM ET

Mobile Platforms & Devices

Apple's next iPhone models, reportedly the iPhone, iPhone 18e, and iPhone Air, are rumored to feature updated screen specifications, according to early 2027 projections. Meanwhile, Samsung may launch its first rollable-screen smartphone within the next couple of years, following years of development in the flexible display market. Xiaomi's upcoming 18 is also rumored to receive a battery upgrade, though the extent of this improvement is considered minor.

New Gadgets & Displays

LG's StanbyME 2 Max is now available, offering a portable 32-inch 4K touchscreen display for $1,300, designed for easy movement around the home. In a more niche product, Dbrand's Companion Cube case for the Steam Machine has been revealed to be based on flawed design assumptions, indicating a lack of thorough testing.

Digital Services & Content

Tidal has updated its policy regarding artificial intelligence-generated music, stating that tracks composed entirely by AI will no longer be eligible for payment. On the social media front, a recent report claims that half of child safety features implemented by platforms are not functioning as advertised, raising concerns about online protection for minors.

Communication Apps & Features

WhatsApp is introducing usernames later this year, allowing users to connect without sharing their phone numbers. Global reservations for these usernames have begun this week, offering users an opportunity to secure their preferred identifier and enhance privacy.

Video Platforms

YouTube Shorts has enhanced its user experience by adopting features similar to TikTok, including 2x playback speed, a Clear screen mode, and improved recommendation controls to offer a more streamlined viewing and content discovery process.