Tech & Mobile 8-Hour Briefing
×Tech & Hardware
Last updated: October 17, 2026, 4:20 PM ET
Graphics Cards
ASUS has listed its first Intel Arc card, the UGen Arc Pro B70 with 32 GB of memory, under its new UGen AI brand. NVIDIA, meanwhile, has pushed back on reports that its GeForce RTX 5090 is being discontinued, while admitting supply remains tight.
Processors
Intel's Razor Lake-AX chip is slated to deliver 700 TOPS of AI compute, according to senior vice president Cho Min-sung, who made the claim at a semiconductor conference.
Mobile News
Last updated: October 17, 2026, 4:20 PM ET
Foldables & Upcoming Devices
Apple's iPhone Duo is facing shipping delays, with estimates already pushed back to 2027 after Apple called early demand "nothing short of extraordinary." Anyone considering the device should also note that Apple's official silicone case requires adhesive. Meanwhile, Honor is teasing the Win2 series with what it claims is the world's first 2K 185Hz display, and a follow-up report shows the handset scoring high on AnTuTu thanks to a cooling fan.
Handhelds & Gaming
Anbernic's premium RG DDS is nearly double the price of the original Nintendo 3DS, and it is expected to start shipping in December.
Software, Security & Storage
Samsung's Auto Blocker protects Galaxy phones from untrustworthy apps, while Apple has tightened App Store rules against AI-generated nonconsensual nude imagery. On the Samsung front, a source close to Nokia Power User claims Samsung is planning a complete overhaul of One UI 10 with a focus on AI and the ecosystem. For users running out of room, a guide explains what is eating storage on an Android phone and how to reclaim it.
Smart Home & Connectivity
Verizon will charge $10 a month for iPhone Handoff, which lets users share one number across two devices. Owners of Amazon Echo devices can learn what the yellow light means and how to clear it, and a separate guide covers common Alexa problems and their fixes. On home networking, reviewers weigh whether to use both Ethernet and Wi-Fi, and a separate explainer shows how to check an Ethernet cable's speed.
Everyday Tips & Accessories
Android Auto can be used on a tablet or desk as well as in a car. Google's Fitbit Air is not waterproof, though it can still be worn while swimming. Xiaomi owners frustrated by heavy ad loads can learn why the ads appear and how to block them. Shoppers comparing speakers can read how to interpret Bluetooth wattage, and Google Maps users can find out why some locations are blurred. For productivity, Engadget suggests free Microsoft Office alternatives, and offers ways to repurpose old USB flash drives. Apple Intelligence can power custom iPhone Shortcuts. Finally, EV owners may want to review charging habits that could be degrading their battery, and Slate's compact pickup turns out to tow more than expected.
Coming Up
The iPhone Duo's shipping timeline now extends into 2027. Anbernic's RG DDS is expected to ship in December. Honor will launch the Win2 in China on October 21.
Apple News
Last updated: October 17, 2026, 4:20 PM ET
Product Launches & Accessories
UGREEN has released a 25W MagSafe battery for iPhone with a Qi2.2 charging standard and 10000mAh capacity, and early hands-on coverage highlights its liquid cooling design. Apple's official silicone iPhone Duo case reportedly needs adhesive to stay attached, a detail buyers should note before the device's launch in about a week.
Carrier & Pricing
UK carrier EE has announced pricing details for iPhone Handoff alongside its iPhone Duo preorders, outlining what UK customers can expect to pay.
Legal & Policy
Apple has reshuffled its legal team, hiring Meta VP Scott Tucker as its global litigation chief. Separately, Apple has tightened its App Review Guidelines to target generative AI apps that create pornographic content.
Software & Enterprise
Apple is phasing out Rosetta in mac OS, and IT administrators are being urged to prepare their Mac fleets now.
Week in Review & Deals
It was a busy week for Apple, with HomeView, a new Apple TV 4K, and a HomePod mini headlining announcements, while the iPhone Duo sold out. Meanwhile, weekend discounts include a $50 price drop on AirPods Pro 3 and reductions on other Apple hardware.
Coming Up
The iPhone Duo launches in about a week, so its silicone case and carrier pricing will become more relevant to buyers.