Mobile News 24 Hours

Last updated: August 31, 2026, 10:16 PM ET

Legal & Regulatory

Apple has escalated its trade secrets lawsuit against OpenAI, adding fresh allegations that a former employee used proprietary files for the AI company — claims Apple says are backed by evidence found on a laptop. Meanwhile, the FTC and 22 states have sued Amazon for allegedly overcharging advertisers since 2019 through hidden surcharges, with the agency asserting the company's "deception continues to this day." In a first for prediction markets, Kalshi issued a lifetime ban to former congressman George Santos, citing his failure to cooperate fully with an investigation into alleged insider trading.

Over in Europe, Chat GPT, Reddit, and Roblox are now subject to the EU's strictest platform rules, a designation that brings significant compliance obligations around content moderation, transparency, and systemic risk management.

Smartphones & Mobile

Samsung's upcoming Galaxy S27 Ultra is at the center of fresh speculation, with reports suggesting the company may drop its dual 3x and 5x cameras in favor of a single new zoom sensor. A separate leak indicates Samsung could replace two zoom cameras with just one 4x lens, a significant departure from the current quad-camera layout.

Google's Pixel 11 Pro launch is off to a rough start, as users report static audio issues when recording video with the Video Boost feature enabled. If you're torn between Pixel 11 models, our comparison guide breaks down the merits and shortcomings of all three to help you decide.

Xiaomi's Redmi Note 17 Pro Max boasts a massive 9,210mAh battery that lasts two and a half days between charges — the best of any phone — but significant downgrades elsewhere make it hard to recommend. The vivo T5 5G is set to debut in India this week, with the company confirming a 50MP main camera and 32MP front shooter. An alleged photo and hands-on video of the vivo X500 Pro Max reveals a massive camera island that could dwarf even the imposing X300 Ultra's setup.

If Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 isn't quite what you're looking for, here are five foldable alternatives worth considering.

Tablets & Computing

Samsung's Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra has surfaced on Geekbench, confirming the Dimensity 9500 chipset that was widely expected. Huawei is bringing its Mate Pad Pro 2026 tablet to global markets this Wednesday, September 2, following its China launch earlier this month. Xiaomi's Pad 9 Pro Max also made a Geekbench appearance, scoring an impressive 3,471 points in single-core tests with the brand's own Xring O3 chip.

Gaming & Entertainment

Sony is adding free ad-supported TV channels to the PS5 in the US starting today. A PlayStation State of Play double bill is scheduled for September 3,with expectations of a Final Fantasy 7 reveal. The Arc X1, an Android-powered handheld gaming console from a new Indian company, has partnered with Qualcomm for its open-design approach.

Nintendo's Game Cube may have been a flop at launch, but it has since gained a cult following. Enterprising modders have even managed to install Windows NT 4.0on the 25-year-old console. As for the original Nintendo Switch, it should keep working even after hardware sales stop and new games stop being made for it.

Wearables & Audio

Honor's experimental Robot Phone packs a gimbal camera into a smartphonewith promising results in our hands-on testing. Garmin's new Cirqa smart band is fine but inessential,lacking the software and AI insights to truly rival Whoop. Don't overlook the smartwatch flashlight feature — several Garmin watches offer a built-in LED,and even other brands likely have a decent light on your wrist.

Apps & Platforms

Instagram is revamping its AI labeling, requiring clear labeling for AI-generated contentor facing consequences. The platform will also demote AI-generated influencerswho don't clearly label their accounts, though it isn't cracking down on other kinds of AI slop. Phil Schiller is reportedly stepping down as Apple's App Store chief, though he'll remain an Apple Fellow focusing on unspecified initiatives.

Mobile Accessories & How-Tos

The Slate Truck is an affordable EV because you have to bring your own tech. If you're switching from Windows to Mac, expect a learning curve —and be aware of the downsides. Wondering about Bluetooth and Wi-Fi interference? Turning off Bluetooth might help in some cases. If your Bluetooth device's volume behaves unpredictably, try disabling absolute volumein Android settings.

Laptop shoppers should consider dual USB-C charging ports — some models omit them for cost reasons,but the convenience is significant. Need to add or remove cardsfrom Apple Wallet? It's straightforward,and they don't have to stay once you're done. If you lose your phone, you can disable your digital walletto be safe, even though lock screen protection is already in place. You can even turn your iPhone into a Bluetooth controllerfor PC gaming.

Upcoming Launches

Poco has revealed more specs for the X8 and X8 Power ahead of their September 4 launchin India. The Poco F9 Ultra's EPREL label promises 80-hour battery lifebut warns of worse drop resistance —it launches tomorrow alongside the F9 Pro. Huawei has opened pre-orders for the Mate XT 2 tri-folding smartphonein China, revealing its color and storage options.

Audio & Home

Subwoofer placement can make the difference between bass that swallows youand bass that seems localized —here's the best direction to face it. Android Auto users can use a call screen featureon some phones to keep spam calls from distracting them while driving.