Mobile News 8 Hours

Last updated: June 22, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

Mobile Hardware & Features

Oura Ring owners on Android can now locate their lost devices with the new "Locate" feature, a tool previously exclusive to iPhone users. This addition aims to provide peace of mind for those prone to misplacing their wearables. In a move that may confuse consumers, Samsung is reportedly planning a redesigned Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, potentially skipping the Galaxy Watch 9 Classic and offering a boxier aesthetic with cleaner software. Meanwhile, the Honor X80 Pro Max has officially launched in China, boasting an impressive 11,000 mAh battery, the largest seen on a mainstream smartphone to date. Motorola's Edge 70 series, already comprising five models, is expected to gain at least one more member, with leaked renders suggesting the Motorola Edge 70 Max could be the next entrant.

Tipster Digital Chat Station suggests that Samsung's Privacy Display feature, initially tested for the rumored Galaxy S27 Pro, might not remain exclusive to high-end models for long. Similar hardware-level privacy enhancements are reportedly being considered for other devices, potentially including the smaller Galaxy S27 'Pro', indicating a broader push for user privacy controls. In a less confirmed development, Nothing has shared a design teaser for its Phone (4b), hinting at a single rear camera and continuing the company's '(b)' branding strategy following the decision not to launch a new CMF phone this year.

Software & Services

Instagram's TV app has expanded its availability to Samsung TVs in the United States, six months after its initial launch on Amazon Fire TV devices. This rollout allows users to access the social media platform directly on their television screens. On the AI front, OpenAI has secured a significant content deal with Getty Images, granting it permission to utilize Getty's extensive image library within Chat GPT and its AI search functionalities. This partnership signifies a growing trend of AI companies integrating licensed multimedia content into their services.

Android 17 is set to introduce a notable upgrade for wireless audio, bringing support for the LHDC v5 codec. This enhancement is expected to significantly improve wireless audio quality for users of compatible earbuds and devices. Amidst growing concerns about digital surveillance, a former CIA officer has offered insights into government capabilities regarding phone monitoring, explaining the practical limitations and possibilities of modern device surveillance.

Gaming & Infrastructure

The independent RPG "Signet City" is poised to offer a unique "fungalpunk" experience to players. Developer Gareth Martin has drawn inspiration from a wide array of sources, including horror manga and a musical by Sting, to create a distinct and potentially political game world. In the realm of electric vehicle infrastructure, Octopus and CATL are planning to deploy a network of battery swap stations across Europe, specifically targeting heavy trucks. This initiative aims to streamline charging processes for commercial vehicles and promote wider EV adoption in the logistics sector.