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I put this foldable Android phone through the ultimate durability test, and it refuses to die, even after being slathered in mud and tossed in the dishwasher

Nicholas Sutrich — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 06:02:00 +0000

This past weekend, I ran the muddiest Spartan Race I've ever been on. We're talking knee-deep mud in several places on the course, and no shortage of slippery conditions no matter where you go, which made me wonder: what if I dropped my foldable phone into this kind of nastiness?

Since the Honor Magic V6 sports the highest durability among any phone today (not just foldables), I figured it would be a perfect candidate for such a test. The IP68 and IP69K ratings mean it can withstand all sorts of nonsense, from being submerged for long periods of time to taking a nasty mud bath and being tossed into a hot dishwasher afterward.

The test sounded good on paper, and I was certainly a bit hesitant to put such a wonderful phone through such torture, but the two of us came out all the better for it. Here's how the journey went.

That time I dropped my phone in mud

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

For this test, I went out in my backyard and filled an aluminum cooking pan with dirt, then got it nice and wet with rain barrel water to make a lovely, thick mud. After some hesitation, I dropped the Honor Magic V6 into the mix and got to scrubbing in the worst way possible: with mud. I made sure to get all the ports full of mud, and I even opened the phone to get the inside and the hinge covered, as well.

Afterward, I took it over to the grass to wipe it off a bit and see how well it worked when it was this dirty. After a series of spine-tingling crunches from the hinge as it opened and closed, I took it back over to my rain barrel for a wash-off. I'd rather not have this gunk in my dishwasher, after all, so I might as well clear a bit off before I go inside.

Despite all the abuse, the phone worked perfectly. I even took a few pictures with it before going in. The hinge was still a bit crunchy-sounding by this point, but I figured that would work itself out in the dishwasher. This IP69 rating protects it against water jets and hot water, and it's fully dustproof, so things should be fine, right?

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

I purposefully left plenty of room for the phone on the top, so I left it unfolded, loaded the dishwashing soap into the machine, and hit start. I never use heated dry or the extra hot setting for my dishes, so I also kept those off for this test. The dishwasher gets plenty hot without those settings, so we're still getting a great test here.

After the cycle was about half over, I wanted to make sure the phone was still alive, so I popped it open and gave it a quick test. Everything looked great! Since there was room for another phone in there, I stuck my Honor Magic 8 Pro (no, this article is not sponsored by Honor) in the rack and hit record.

That phone features the IP69K rating, after all. Here's the brief footage it captured before the water clicked the stop button. Make sure to turn your sound DOWN:

Another hour later, and the dishwasher was finally done. A quick pop of the hatch, a waft of steam later, and a brand new phone emerged from the rack. Unsurprisingly, the phone had an alert message about potential overheating, which makes a lot of sense since dishwashers run at 120-140F (48-60C) while running, depending on the cycle.

Despite the warning, the phone never turned off and doesn't seem worse for wear because of it. The glass surfaces all had a bit of soap spots left on them, but a brief wipe from the kitchen towel took care of that.

Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central

Unfortunately, rubbing mud on the inner display caused the screen protector to gain a few minor scratches. Thankfully, they only appear when held at a certain angle, so I don't think they'll annoy me too much while using the phone.

The hinge also makes almost no noise when I open and close it now, a bit of an improvement from when it was slathered in mud. I'm going to assume this will continue to work its way out as I use it. Just to make sure everything functioned correctly, I also took a few pictures of my cat using each of the three cameras on the back.

Android Central

I don't see any debris or water damage on any of the lenses, and the pictures look as flawless as always from this phone. I'd say the Honor Magic V6 passed this rather extreme test with flying colors! I guess Honor wasn't joking when they talked about this one's durability.

Last chance! Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 preorder deal could get you the foldable for as little as $699.99, but you're running out of time

patrick.farmer@futurenet.com (Patrick Farmer) — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 17:25:40 +0000

The latest foldable phones from Samsung hit store shelves in just a few days (August 7th), but there are plenty of preorder deals for the folks who don't want to wait to save.

One such offer comes from Samsung itself, where you can score up to $1,200 off the Galaxy Z Fold 8 when you trade in an old or broken device. Don't have anything to trade in? The company will still hook you up with a $200 credit when you order the Z Fold 8 through its site. There are also some bundle discounts up for grabs if you pair your preorder with a Samsung watch. The promotion ends in just a few days, however, so you better act fast if you're interested.

Score up to $1,200 off your Galaxy Z Fold 8 preorder at Samsung

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 256GB: ~~$1,899.99~~ From $699.99 with trade-in at Samsung

Samsung changed things up with the Galaxy Z Fold 8, giving the foldable phone a 16:10 aspect radio that's perfect for reading, streaming, or browsing the web. The innovative device also boasts a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset with 12GB of RAM, a seven-year software promise, and all of the latest Galaxy AI features.

Buy the phone directly from the source and you'll be eligible for up to $1,200 of trade-in credit, potentially dropping the price of the foldable to as low as $699.99. Skip the trade-in process altogether and you'll still receive a $200 Samsung credit.

Interested in the powerful Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra? Samsung is also running a similar deal on that phone ahead of its August 7th launch. View Deal

What about the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8?

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 256GB: ~~$1,199.99~~ From $599.99 with trade-in at Samsung

Easily one of the best flip phones ever built, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 takes the foundation of last year's Flip 7 and adds a slightly thinner build, a powerful Snapdragon chipset, and the latest Galaxy AI software features.

The iterative upgrades mean that you shouldn't give up on last year's Galaxy Z Flip 7 just yet (if you can find a good deal), but if your heart is set on ordering the 2026 flip phone, you can score up to $600 off by trading in at Samsung. Alternatively, skip the trade-in and you'll score a $150 credit. View Deal

More Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Z Flip 8 deals

Back to school already? I've been testing ePaper notebooks all week so you can start the year off right

Nicholas Sutrich — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 15:06:53 +0000

Whether you're just starting high school or finishing up your college Master's Program, a good note-taking tablet can make all the difference in class success. The latest note-taking tablets from companies like TCL and Boox sport technology that looks and feels a lot like paper, but each gives you all the best features of a modern smart device.

If you've never used a digital note-taking device, know that these are tablet-sized (not e-reader size), so you probably won't want to hold them up for long periods. They are also both powered by Android and include the Google Play Store, so you can download all your favorite apps.

The TCL Note A1 NXTPAPER and the Boox Go 10.3 Gen II both ship with styluses that magnetically attach to the side of the tablet, so you can take notes anytime you need to. Whether that's bedside journaling or attempting to jot down everything important during a lecture, both tablets will give you quick access to recording and handwritten notes, and I've spent the last week putting these two through rigorous tests to find out which should be in your backpack this year.

Not all ePaper is created equally

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

E Ink is the most common type of ePaper display you'll find today, but TCL's NXTPAPER displays give it a run for its money in several ways. The TCL Note A1 features a special type of NXTPAPER display that works just as well for black-and-white notes as it does for YouTube videos.

The matte display is wonderful for cutting glare from those annoying overhead classroom lights, and the fluid 120Hz refresh rate feels fast and smooth. This makes using apps feel like any normal Android tablet, and it may prove nicer for note-taking for people who want something smoother than E Ink.

While these tablets are primarily designed for handwriting, you can also use any virtual keyboard you choose. I always love using Gboard, but typing on it always feels slow on E Ink. NXTPAPER is fast and fluid and feels like typing on a normal tablet.

Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central

But that's about where the positives end and where the Boox Go 10.3 Gen II's E Ink display takes over. One of the inherent advantages of E Ink is that it doesn't need a backlight to illuminate the screen. It's got one just in case you need it, but I rarely find that I need to use it.

If I'm taking notes outside, the Boox Go is the clear winner. That black-and-white E Ink display perfectly absorbs and reflects sunlight, so you can see the display even better in direct sunlight than elsewhere. The built-in front light also gets extremely dim when you need it, which I found important for lecture rooms that can sometimes be too dim.

The TCL Note A1's display is really only easy to see in moderate indoor lighting. It doesn't get bright enough to see outdoors, and it doesn't get dim enough to comfortably use in a low-lit room. There's also no dark mode, curiously enough, which probably would have helped a lot in those dim rooms.

Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central

Both displays' lights are fully flicker-free, but TCL's NXTPAPER display uses something called temporal dithering to enhance the colors. This effect can give some people splitting headaches, and since there's no way to disable it, I can't recommend the tablet for anyone sensitive to dithering.

That makes the Boox Go 10.3 Gen II the best display of the two, despite the advantages that color and a faster refresh rate on the NXTPAPER might otherwise seem.

Note-taking gets leveled up

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Displays affect more than just readability, too. Boox's E Ink technology looks a lot more like traditional paper and pen, but typing on the display isn't as nice since the refresh rate is lower. Likewise, typing on the TCL Note A1 feels smoother, but I wouldn't say there's any meaningful latency difference when writing.

In fact, I far prefer writing on the Boox Go 10.3 Gen II because the stylus feels like writing with a marker, and the display's textured surface also feels uniquely wonderful to swipe on. TCL's Note A1 stylus offers an incredibly unique built-in haptic engine (yes, into the stylus!), but writing on the screen still feels too much like writing on glass for my liking.

Taking notes is faster on the Boox Go, and I find the default note styles and options are better than TCL's. Both companies offer some great template options to get you started, as well.

Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central

Boox also offers a superb handwriting-to-text engine that even understands my terrible chicken-scratch writing. TCL offers some truly fantastic AI writing tools built in, but curiously doesn't offer a direct handwriting-to-text option — the only way to achieve this is to have TCL's AI rewrite your notes, which isn't always preferable.

But TCL offers a suite of AI tools that Boox simply does not. If you're a student who enjoys utilizing AI to help give you better writing, summarize your notes, make things searchable, or even add live transcription of lectures to your notes, TCL is the easy winner in this category. The Boox Go can record audio directly to a note, but there's no transcription option at all, something I thought was very odd in this day and age.

Lastly, the Boox Go 10.3 Gen II passes all Google Play Integrity tests, which means any apps that require an extra layer of security (think banking apps) run just fine on it. TCL's Note A1 doesn't pass any of them, which I thought was curious. I haven't run into issues with normal apps on TCL's tablet, but there are undoubtedly some more secure ones that simply won't work on it.

Boox to replace your notebooks

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

While the TCL Note A1 offers far better built-in AI tools and a faster refresh rate, I like everything else about the Boox Go 10.3 Gen II better. This even includes the hardware design, as the TCL Note A1 feels like a heavy iPad while the Boox Go is sleeker, lighter, and more ergonomic, with curved sides that rest comfortably in my hands, a lighter overall weight, and a luxurious vegan leather back.

Boox and TCL are running a back-to-school sale this month to sweeten this deal further. The Boox Go bundle I'm using is currently $40 off, while the TCL Note A1 is $50 off. This still makes the Boox Go 10.3 Gen II $100 cheaper than the TCL Note A1, and that's easily enough of a reason for me to recommend it.

Boox

Go 10.3 Lumi Gen II

Boox's latest E Ink tablet ships with a brilliant stylus that feels like writing on paper with a marker. It's got an impressively light and thin frame, with ergonomic curves and a vegan leather back. With support for 26 file formats, great note-taking software, and full Google Play Support with Android 15 built-in, you'll love toting this around school instead of 45lbs of books on your back.

TCL's new budget tablet just landed in the US with a surprising launch discount

patrick.farmer@futurenet.com (Patrick Farmer) — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 15:04:10 +0000

TL;DR: the TCL Tab A1 Plus NXTPAPER tablet just dropped in the United States, and it already has a $100 discount at Amazon.

It took a while for TCL to release its newest Android tablet in the United States, but now the Tab A1 Plus NXTPAPER is here with an impressive launch discount in tow.

For a limited time, you can score $100 off the 256GB device by clipping the coupon on Amazon's product page. If you want to save even more, you can go with the 128GB version and pay as little as $219 for the device (provided you have an Amazon Prime account).

It's rare for a brand new tablet to receive a straight discount at launch — especially since the Tab A1 Plus was already pretty affordable — but TCL has never been one to play by the rules.

TCL Tab A1 Plus NXTPAPER 256GB: ~~$399.99~~ $299.99 with coupon at Amazon

TCL has produced a lot of cheap tablets, but the Tab A1 Plus NXTPAPER might be its greatest creation yet. The device boasts an eye-friendly display with smooth performance and an included stylus, and you can already save $100 by clipping the coupon at Amazon.View Deal

Whether you need a new tablet for Back to School season, a presentation at work, or as a road trip companion, the TCL Tab A1 Plus NXTPAPER is a great pick that won't break the bank.

Straight out of the box, the device boasts a unique 12.2-inch display that's specifically designed to reduce eye strain, letting you instantly switch into Ink Paper or Color Paper mode as needed.

The tablet comes with a stylus for drawing and taking notes, a solid Snapdragon processor, and a huge 10,000mAh battery, all of which are rare specs for a device in this price range. You also get stereo speakers, some onboard AI features, and 256GB of storage (up to 2TB when you expand using microSD).

The Tab A1 Plus may not be the most powerful Android tablet ever built, but if you're concerned about eye strain and you want a device that offers good old-fashioned bang for the buck, it's pretty unmatched. And with a $100 launch discount knocking the price down to only $299.99, the TCL device is really starting to feel like a no-brainer purchase in 2026.

'The best Android phone for students': why I decided to buy the Google Pixel 10a ahead of the Pixel 11 launch

patrick.farmer@futurenet.com (Patrick Farmer) — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 15:59:12 +0000

TL;DR: Amazon has given the top-rated Google Pixel 10a a rare 15% discount, just in time for Back to School season.

The Pixel 11 series is set to be unveiled on August 12th — just in time for Back to School shopping — but for folks who don't want to wait, last year's Google Pixel 10a remains a tempting and budget-friendly alternative.

Currently selling for just $424 at Amazon (a 15% discount), the Google Pixel 10a is easily one of the best Android phones for students in 2026, with exceptional battery life, flagship-level camera tech, and an approachable price tag that won't break the bank. We probably won't see another A series Pixel phone until early 2027, so I'm grabbing this discounted Pixel 10a while I can — the Google Pixel 11 can wait.

The best Android phone for students was already cheap, and Amazon just made it even cheaper

Google Pixel 10a 128GB: ~~$499~~ $424 at Amazon

The Google Pixel 10a was unveiled earlier this year with an agreeable $499 price tag, and now Amazon is making the midrange masterpiece even more approachable by slashing 15% off the 128GB device. At a time when tech seems to be getting more and more expensive, no-strings discounts like this are a refreshing sight.View Deal

The Google Pixel 10a is a cheap Android phone that punches way above its weight class. The phone impressive with a stunning 6.3-inch pOLED display and IP68 durability out of the box, while under the hood you get the tried-and-tested Tensor G4 chipset, Android 16, and seven years of guaranteed OS and security updates.

The Pixel 10a also comes with the same main and ultrawide camera lenses found in the more-expensive Google Pixel 10, while the cheaper phone actually boasts a bigger battery than its flagship counterpart.

It's not the most powerful Android phone on the market, but if you're shopping for a new smartphone on a student's budget and you don't want to sacrifice the latest specs and features, the Google Pixel 10a is an unbeatable device.

(Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)

Again, the only real catch with this deal is that the Google Pixel 11 lineup is going to be revealed on August 12th with some preorder deals in tow. These early offers will largely be confined to wireless carriers, but if you want to wait and try to get a Pixel 11 through your phone plan, go for it.

However, if you want an unlocked phone ASAP, I'd jump on this Google Pixel 10a deal while you can. The Pixel 11 isn't going to get any straight discounts any time soon, and as it's expected to start at $899, the new device is not nearly as cost-effective as the Pixel 10a offer described here.

It's your last chance to get a FREE Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 preorder at T-Mobile — the deal ends this week

patrick.farmer@futurenet.com (Patrick Farmer) — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 14:54:59 +0000

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 finally hits store shelves on Friday, August 7th, which means you only have a few more days to take advantage of the many preorder deals that are available for the eye-catching foldable.

As usual, T-Mobile is hosting one of the best early offers, giving away the device for free when you process a trade-in and add a line with the Experience Beyond plan.

Don't have anything to trade in? Skip that part of the process and you can still score $1,100 off the Galaxy Z Fold 8 when you add a line with the Experience More or Experience Beyond plans on T-Mobile's website.

Sure, T-Mobile's Experience plans aren't exactly cheap, but when I'm looking at grabbing a $1,900 smartphone, I'll take just about any deal I can get. It doesn't hurt that they are also two of the best unlimited plans in the business. If you're interested in one of the most innovative phones of 2026 and you were planning to update your wireless service anyway, this deal is worth grabbing ASAP.

Last call: grab a FREE Galaxy Z Fold 8 before the preorder period ends

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 256GB: ~~$1,899.99~~ FREE with eligible trade-in and new line at T-Mobile

Trade in an old or broken phone and add a line with the Experience Beyond plan and T-Mobile will give you up to $1,900 off the new Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, enough to make the innovative foldable phone completely free!

Don't have anything to trade in? Skip that part of the process altogether and you'll still enjoy $1,100 off the phone with any Experience plan, or you can save $900 by adding a line with "most plans" on T-Mobile's site. View Deal

See my guide to the best T-Mobile deals of the month

Samsung just unveiled the Galaxy Z Fold 8 (alongside the Z Fold 8 Ultra and Z Flip 8) during a Galaxy Unpacked event a few week ago, and the phones are already turning heads. For starters, it's hard to describe the Z Fold 8 as a true successor to last year's Galaxy Z Fold 7, as Samsung has given the phone a shorter and wider, "passport-style" design.

This new look makes the phone easy to pocket and use with one hand while folded, while unfolding the device gives you an experience akin to an Android tablet. And as usual, the foldable phone's two AMOLED display are absolutely stunning and smooth as butter.

Under the hood, you still get the powerful Z Fold experience that we've all come to know and love, with a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, 12GB of RAM, and all of the latest AI-boosted software tricks. The phone does clock in at $1,899, however, so deals like the T-Mobile promotion above are essential.

What about the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra?

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra 256GB: ~~$2,099.99~~ From $200 with trade-in and new line at T-Mobile

If you prefer the narrower form factor of last year's Z Fold 7, the new Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is the answer, coming complete with an ultra-thin design, upgraded 5,000mAh battery, and the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip. It's also quite expensive, which is why T-Mobile is offering up to $1,900 off the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra when you trade in and add a line with the Experience Beyond plan.

Don't have anything to trade in? Just like the Z Fold 8, T-Mobile will give you $1,100 off the Z Fold 8 Ultra when you add a line with an Experience plan on its website. Other plans will still secure you $900 off, so take your pick. View Deal

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs. Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold: Built thin vs. built to last

sanujb6@gmail.com (Sanuj Bhatia) — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 01:02:08 +0000

Samsung

Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

Minimal upgrades

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra focuses on incremental upgrades rather than a full redesign. It comes with a similar overall design as the last year's Z Fold 7, but incorporates a newer chipset, a larger 5,000mAh battery with faster charging, and a new 50MP ultra-wide camera.

Pros

More powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
Faster 45W charging
Less visible crease
Much sharper 50MP ultrawide sensor

Cons

Similar design to the Galaxy Z Fold 7
No IP68 dust and water resistance
No S Pen support

Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold

Best Pixel foldable

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is Google's most refined foldable yet, bringing an IP68 rating, a redesigned hinge, slimmer bezels, and a faster Tensor G5 chip. It also supports PixelSnap Qi2 for magnetic wireless charging and comes with Google's AI features and Pixel-exclusive tools.

Pros

IP68 dust and water protection
Built-in Qi2 magnets
Upgraded Tensor G5 chipset
Clean software experience with day-one updates

Cons

Slower wired charging speeds
Thicker, heavier, and bulkier design
Pricey in many regions

After months of leaks and rumors, Samsung finally unveiled its Galaxy Z Fold 8 lineup, including the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, to last year's Galaxy Z Fold 7. The Pixel Fold, meanwhile, was once close in form factor to the standard Z Fold 8, but the Pixel 10 Pro Fold has since shifted closer to the Z Fold 8 Ultra's dimensions.

If you're in the U.S. and looking to buy a top-tier Android foldable, your choice may come down to Samsung and Google: the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Now that the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is official, the real question is which foldable is actually right for you.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs. Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold: Pricing and availability

(Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

Samsung officially introduced the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra on July 22, 2026. Unfortunately, what we expected is now true: Samsung has increased the Z Fold 8 Ultra's price by $100 this year, so it starts at $2,100 in the U.S, with 256GB of storage and only 12GB of RAM.

On the other hand, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold was announced alongside the Pixel 10 series on August 20, 2025. It starts at $1,799 for 256GB, undercutting the Fold 8 Ultra by $300. It's also available in 512GB and 1TB variants at higher prices, but all variants offer 16GB of RAM.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs. Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold: Design and display

(Image credit: Shruti Shekar / Android Central)

Compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 7, the company has kept minimal upgrades for the Fold 8 Ultra. That means you get a triple-camera setup on the back, arranged vertically in a pill-shaped module, along with a clean back and squared edges.

What's great is that Samsung has made the Z Fold 8 Ultra even slimmer than before, coming in at just 4.1mm when unfolded, while fitting in a larger battery, which we'll get to later.

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold also sticks to the same design as the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Compared to the Z Fold 8 Ultra, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold remains thicker and heavier. The former measures 8.9mm when folded and weighs just 215 grams, while the latter is about 10.8mm thick and weighs around 258 grams.

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold leads in durability, offering IP68 dust and water resistance, which is rare for foldables. Samsung, on the other hand, despite the upgrade to the hinge mechanism, offers only IP48.

(Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

Compared to the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra has a much less visible crease on the inner foldable display, thanks to its new Flex Titanium technology.

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold features a slightly smaller 6.4-inch cover display, but the inner display is also around 8 inches. Both phones offer high-brightness displays, offering up to 3,000 nits of peak brightness.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs. Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold: Hardware and specs

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

Samsung leads the pack, powering the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. This is currently the best chipset for Android phones, so you can expect the best performance.

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is powered by the Tensor G5, the same chip used across the Pixel 10 lineup. It's Google's first TSMC-made 3nm chipset, and while it's a big step up over the Tensor G4 in terms of performance and efficiency, it falls behind the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in raw power.

Specifications
Category	Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra	Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold
Operating System	One UI 9 (Android 17), seven years of OS upgrades	Android 17, six years of OS upgrades
Display	Inner: 8-inch LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz, crease-less, 3000 nits (peak); Outer: 6.5-inch LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz	Inner: 8-inch LTPO OLED, 120Hz, 3000 nits (peak); Outer: 6.4-inch LTPO OLED, 120Hz
Processor	Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy	Google Tensor G5
RAM	12GB, 16GB	16GB
Storage	256GB, 512GB, 1TB	256GB, 512GB, 1TB
Rear Cameras	200MP wide, 50MP ultra-wide, 10MP telephoto (3x zoom)	48MP wide, 10.5MP ultra-wide, 10.8MP telephoto (5x zoom)
Front Camera	10MP	10MP
Battery	5,000mAh	5,015mAh
Charging	45W wired, 20W wireless	30W wired, 15W wireless, Qi2 support
IP Rating	IP48	IP68
Weight	215g	258g
Dimensions	Unfolded: 158.4 x 143.2 x 4.1 mm; Folded: 158.4 x 72.8 x 8.9 mm	Unfolded: 155.2 x 150.4 x 5.2 mm; Folded: 155.2 x 76.3 x 10.8 mm
Colors	Graphite, Cream, Violet Shadow	Moonstone, Jade

Internally, Samsung has also upgraded the battery to silicon-carbon tech, which means the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra now features a 5,000mAh cell. In terms of charging, Samsung has upgraded to 45W wired charging, which is much faster than what you get on the Pixel Fold.

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold already comes with a 5,000mAh battery, so it's still too early to say which one offers a better battery life. But one area where the Pixel clearly has an advantage is charging convenience. It supports PixelSnap, Google's take on Qi2, with built-in magnets, meaning you can use MagSafe accessories without needing a case.

This is something Samsung skipped on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, which requires a case for Qi2 magnetic charging.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs. Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold: Cameras

(Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

Samsung upgraded the primary camera on the Galaxy Z Fold 7 to 200MP, and this time it upgraded the Fold 8 Ultra's ultrawide sensor to a 50MP unit, alongside the same 200MP primary sensor as before and a 10MP 3x telephoto lens.

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold comes with a 48MP primary sensor, a 10.5MP ultra-wide, and a 10.8MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. It's still too early to say which one will perform better, but considering Samsung has been refreshing its camera setup over the past couple of generations, I do expect the Fold 8 Ultra to have an edge here.

That said, we'll be doing a proper camera comparison soon, so do keep an eye out for the same.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs. Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold: Which foldable is better?

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

All things considered, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra brings some genuine upgrades this year, including a less creased inner display and, finally, a much more capable battery. But Samsung has also raised the price by $100, and the omission of Qi2 magnetic charging still stings on a phone at this price point.

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold, on the other hand, not only costs less to begin with, but it's also often available at a discount for even less. Add in better durability and the promise of day-one Android updates, and it's hard not to see the Pixel as the more lucrative pick on paper.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs. Galaxy Z Fold 6: Better in (almost) every way

bradypsnyder@gmail.com (Brady Snyder) — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 00:30:57 +0000

Samsung

Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

Thinner and lighter

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is a major leap over the Galaxy Z Fold 6, offering a svelte form factor, a new chip, a 5,000mAh silicon-carbon battery, and similar camera hardware to the Galaxy S26 Ultra.

Pros

Faster Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor
Silicon-carbon 5,000mAh battery
Only 8.9mm thick, weighs 215 grams
200MP main camera, 50MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto

Cons

No S Pen
More expensive
No Qi2 magnets or IP68

Samsung

Galaxy Z Fold 6

For the S Pen lovers

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 doesn't have much that'll help it beat the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, but the one exception is its support of the S Pen. If you want a phone with a stylus, this is the Samsung foldable to get. Another perk is the price, which is about $500 refurbished.

Pros

Still has many years of upgrades left
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy processor is still capable
Last Samsung foldable to support the S Pen
Excellent deals on used and refurbished Galaxy Z Fold 6 phones

Cons

Much thicker than Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra
Less comfortable display aspect ratios
Worse camera hardware; no 200MP main sensor
Smaller battery, slow charging, no Qi2 support of any kind.

Samsung found a hit with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 last year, and the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra does even more to solidify its spot as the best North American foldable. It's the first Samsung foldable to bear the Ultra name, and for good reason.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra proves to be a major upgrade over the Galaxy Z Fold 6 — in every way but one. The latter is the last Samsung foldable to support the S Pen. If you're a Galaxy Z Fold 6 user wondering if it's time to upgrade, the answer is probably yes... unless you need the S Pen.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 vs. Galaxy Z Fold 6: Pricing and availability

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra launched in July 2026 at a Galaxy Unpacked event. It hits store shelves Aug. 7, 2026. The new foldable retails for $2,099.99 with 256GB of storage. You can optionally upgrade to 512GB and 1TB of storage for an additional cost. Out of all the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra colors, Green Shadow is exclusive to Samsung's online store.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 was released on July 10, 2024, for $1,899. It was available in Pink, Navy, Silver Shadow, Crafted Black, and White colorways. Now, the phone is mostly unavailable in new condition, but refurbished and used models are enticing — they'll only run you about $500.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 vs. Galaxy Z Fold 6: Design and display

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra keeps the same general design language as the Galaxy Z Fold 7, but it has a different chamfer that makes it easier to open. Compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 6, though, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is considerably thinner and lighter. The new model measures 4.1mm thick opened and 8.9mm closed. That's quite the jump from the Galaxy Z Fold 6, which is 12.1mm folded and 5.6mm unfolded.

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is also heavier than the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, with the older foldable measuring 239 grams versus 215 grams. The thinner and lighter form factor makes the Fold 8 Ultra feel like a regular phone that happens to unfold, rather than two phones stuck together.

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra has an 8-inch main screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. Compared to newer models, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 has a more visible crease.

The older foldable's main screen is only 7.6 inches, but it supports the same 120Hz refresh rate and uses identical OLED technology. The outer screen is narrower than the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, as Samsung has finally settled on a slightly wider cover-screen aspect ratio. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 features a 6.3-inch outer screen, while the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra comes with a 6.5-inch cover screen.

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

Both devices are covered by an IP48 water and dust resistance rating, despite higher levels of protection from other foldables. However, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra adds anti-reflective properties to the folding display cover.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 vs. Galaxy Z Fold 6: Hardware and specs

(Image credit: Shruti Shekar / Android Central)

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is still supported with Android OS upgrades and has a capable Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy processor with 12GB of memory. However, the latest Qualcomm chips are major leaps over older Snapdragon platforms. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is faster and more capable than the Galaxy Z Fold 6, thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chipset.

Specs
Category	Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra	Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Operating System	One UI 9 (Android 17)	One UI 6.1.1 (Android 14) [upgradeable]
Display	Inner: 8-inch LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz, reduced crease Outer: 6.5-inch, LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz	Inner: 7.6-inch LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz, 2160 x 1856 resolution, 20.9:18 aspect ratio, 374 ppi, 2600 nits peak brightness Outer: 6.3-inch, LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz, 2376 x 968 resolution, 22.1:9 aspect ratio, 410 ppi, 2600 nits peak brightness
Stylus support	No	Yes
Processor	Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy	Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy
RAM	12GB (16GB with 1TB variant)	12GB
Storage	256GB, 512GB, 1TB	256GB, 512GB, 1TB
Rear cameras	200MP wide camera, 50MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto 3x zoom	50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto (3x optical zoom)
Front camera	10MP (cover display) + 10MP (folding display)	10MP (cover display) + 4MP (folding display)
Battery	5,000mAh	4,400mAh
Charging	45W wired	25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, 4.5 reverse wireless
IP rating	IP48	IP48
Weight	215g	239g
Dimensions	Unfolded: 158.4 x 143.2 x 4.1 mm Folded: 158.4 x 72.8 x 8.9 mm	Unfolded: 132.6 x 153.5 x 5.6 mm Folded: Folded 68.1 x 153.5 x 12.1 mm
Colors	Violet Shadow, Graphite, Cream, Green Shadow (online)	Silver, Shadow, Pink, Navy

Samsung upgraded the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra's battery by increasing the capacity to 5,000mAh and using silicon-carbon battery tech. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 has a 4,400mAh capacity, which is the same as the Galaxy Z Fold 7. It also has slower charging, supporting 25W speeds over a cable and 15W wirelessly.

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

The Galaxy Z Fold 6's camera system is already behind the curve. It offers a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultrawide sensor, and a 10MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom capabilities. By comparison, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra's primary camera is a 200MP sensor. Even the secondary lenses are better, with a 50MP ultrawide camera and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 vs. Galaxy Z Fold 6: Which should you buy?

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is quite capable for 2026, even though its form factor might feel outdated as foldables chase thinner and lighter designs. The thicker build makes the Fold 6 feel more premium and lets its hinge stay open at more angles without tipping over. The S Pen support is an added bonus, since the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra ships without it.

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra builds upon the upgrades already introduced with the Fold 7. That means you get great performance, a thin and light design, a superb camera system, and excellent software. It may be tough — if not impossible — to justify spending $2,000 on a new foldable if you already shelled out for the Galaxy Z Fold 6 two years ago.

That said, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is tempting. Almost everything is better, and if you get a good trade-in deal, the upgrade could be worthwhile.

Pixel 11 Made by Google 2026 launch event: How to watch and what to expect

sanujb6@gmail.com (Sanuj Bhatia) — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 00:14:39 +0000

The wait is almost over. Google has confirmed that its next Pixel hardware launch event will take place on August 12th in New York at 6:00 PM ET. We're expecting big reveals around the Pixel 11 series, of course, along with some new wearables and possibly a few surprises from the brand.

If you're wondering how to watch the event live and what to expect, here's everything you need to know.

How to watch the Made by Google event on August 12

(Image credit: Nick Sutrich / Android Central)

Google has confirmed that its Made by Google event is taking place in New York on August 12 at 6:00 PM ET. As always, the company has invited select media, journalists, and a handful of influencers to join the event in person, where it'll be unveiling its new phones and wearables.

For the rest of us at home, Google will once again be streaming the launch event on its Made by Google YouTube channel, so you'll be able to tune in live and watch everything unfold in real time.

The company hasn't set up a YouTube event listing for the Pixel 11 series just yet, though we'd expect that to go live closer to the date. Once it does, we'll be embedding the live stream directly above, so you'll be able to access it right here.

What to expect from Google's next Pixel hardware launch event

Made by Google is where the company unveils its next-generation hardware. This year, we're expecting the Pixel 11 series to take center stage, alongside the Pixel Watch 5 lineup, new wearables, and a handful of software announcements.

Based on the multitude of leaks we've seen over the past few weeks, here's a complete roundup of everything we're expecting Google to announce at its August 12 event.

Pixel 11 series

(Image credit: Google Store)

It's no surprise that the Pixel 11 series will be the star of this year's Made by Google event. While leaks were relatively quiet at first, the floodgates have opened over the past few weeks, giving us a pretty clear picture of what to expect from Google's next flagship phones.

In terms of design, the Pixel 11 lineup is expected to look very similar to the Pixel 10 series, with the same rounded corners, flat sides, and signature camera bar. The only new hardware change, design-wise, is expected to be the new Pixel Glow LED, which the company has even been teasing on the Google Store.

Google is also expected to stick with the same four-model lineup: the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and the Pixel 11 Pro Fold.

(Image credit: 9to5Google)

The new phones are rumored to arrive in a range of fresh colors, but the bigger changes are expected under the hood. Google may finally switch to a new 2nm Tensor G6 chip built by TSMC, which should address many of the performance and efficiency complaints surrounding previous Tensor processors.

There's also expected to be a modem upgrade, with Google reportedly moving to a MediaTek modem for the first time.

Unfortunately, like many smartphones launching in 2026, the Pixel 11 series is also expected to get a price hike. Current leaks suggest every model could cost around $100 more than its predecessor.

The silver lining is that Google is also rumored to double the base storage to 256GB. Thankfully, we won't have to wait much longer to find out how accurate the leaks have been.

Pixel Watch 5

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

The Pixel Watch 5 first leaked in perhaps the most unexpected way possible, after a diver reportedly found one on the ocean floor near St. Martin. Since then, a number of other leaks have filled in the rest of the picture.

In terms of design, the Pixel Watch 5 is expected to retain the same curved, circular display we've seen on previous Pixel Watch models. Google is also reportedly sticking with the same 41mm and 45mm size options.

Under the hood, however, the report suggests there won't be a new chipset this year, meaning we won't see the new Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear Elite chip that debuted on Samsung's latest Galaxy Watches. That said, Google is reportedly increasing the RAM, which should help with the new on-device AI features.

As for pricing, leaks suggest Google is planning a small price increase compared to last year's models. If that proves true, it would mark the first time Google has raised Pixel Watch prices since the lineup debuted.

More wearables? New software features?

(Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)

Made by Google is never just about the hardware that's already leaked. In fact, Google almost always has a few surprises up its sleeve, and this year is unlikely to be any different. We're expecting the company to show off a few more devices alongside the Pixel lineup.

Could we finally see the launch of Google's Android XR smart glasses developed in collaboration with Xreal? It's certainly possible, but we'll have to wait until the keynote to find out.

Google is also expected to debut its partner hardware for Googlebooks this fall, but perhaps we can expect a look at first-party Googlebook hardware this year at the Made by Google event.

And, of course, Pixel launch events are never just about new hardware. Google also spends a significant amount of time showcasing the software experiences that power its latest devices. That means we can expect to hear much more about Android 17, including new features like Rambler, new emojis, and Gemini Intelligence coming to the Pixel 11 series.

As in previous years, Android Central will be on the ground at Google's Made by Google event, bringing you full coverage and live updates from the keynote. We'll also be running a live blog throughout the event, so you can follow along in real time as Google unveils its next generation of Pixel devices.

This app let me turn my phone into a mouse for my PC, and it was ridiculously easy

namerah.saud-fatmi@futurenet.com (Namerah Saud Fatmi) — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 00:04:48 +0000

There are many reasons why you would want to use your smartphone as a mouse to control your computer. Maybe you're watching something, and it's just easier, or maybe you can't get a physical mouse at the moment. Regardless, I can teach you how I turned my Android phone into a remote mouse that connects to my Windows laptop seamlessly. You'll see just how simple the steps are and will find no trouble doing it yourself!

All of this is possible thanks to Unified Remote, an Android and iOS app that works with Windows, Linux, and macOS. The app's basic, most essential functions are free to use, but if you want more customization and features, you can always purchase the premium version. This tutorial uses the free basic version on a Pixel 10 Pro running Android 17 and an HP laptop running Windows 11.

How to use your phone as a mouse for your laptop or computer

(Image credit: Namerah Saud Fatmi / Android Central)

There are two parts to this tutorial. The first half is done on your computer, and the next half is completed on your phone. Although slightly different depending on the OS, the steps are more or less the same across platforms in essence.

Let's begin with the initial setup on your PC.

1. Go to the Unified Remote download page on desktop and download the Unified Remote Server setup file.

(Image credit: Namerah Saud Fatmi / Android Central)

2. Run the Unified Remote Server setup file and to install it.

Namerah Saud Fatmi / Android Central

3. After installation is complete, launch Unified Remote on your computer.

(Image credit: Namerah Saud Fatmi / Android Central)

4. You should see your server status and information once the Unified Remote Server has been launched on your computer. If the server is up and running, this is what it should look like:

(Image credit: Namerah Saud Fatmi / Android Central)

The next steps are to be carried out on your phone.

5. Download and install the Unified Remote app on your phone. Be sure to grant the necessary permissions to the app.

6. Launch the app and select "I'VE INSTALLED THE SERVER".

Namerah Saud Fatmi / Android Central

7. Your phone should connect to your computer's server automatically, so you can immediately start using the app's interface to control your computer.

Unified Remote is a fantastic free-to-use app that works perfectly well without paying for the premium version

(Image credit: Namerah Saud Fatmi / Android Central)

It's really that easy and doesn't require any money. The touchpad in the app works like a laptop's touchpad. You can scroll, right-click, single-click, double-click, move the pointer on the computer screen, and even pull up a keyboard and type! A bonus feature is that swipe texting works in the app, so you don't need to tap individual keys.

If you want to have access to remote controls beyond the basic touchpad, keyboard, and media controls, or if you want to get rid of ads, you'll have to subscribe to the premium version of the app. The ads aren't even that invasive, so you shouldn't stress about that aspect too much.

Unified Remote

Unified Remote is a foolproof app that enables Android users to convert their phone into a remote mouse that works seamlessly with any computer, whether it runs Windows, Linux, or macOS.

Free w/IAP: Google Play Store | Unified Remote for PC

I can't get the Pixel's Now Playing feature on my Android phone, but one of my long-time favorite apps gets the job done

derrek.lee@futurenet.com (Derrek Lee) — Sun, 02 Aug 2026 15:06:00 +0000

There's a lot to like about Google Pixel phones, but Now Playing is perhaps one of the best features on these devices. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like Google is interested in extending this functionality to other Android phones any time soon. On the plus side, you probably have an app installed on your phone that can perform a similar function to Now Playing: Shazam.

Shazam has been around for as long as I can remember, and it's my go-to app when I need to identify a song that I like. Normally, using Shazam requires you to open the app and tap a button to start the song recognition process, but you may not know that it also has an Auto Shazam feature that functions similarly to Now Playing, and it's available on just about any Android phone.

What is Now Playing

(Image credit: Namerah Saud Fatmi / Android Central)

If you own a Pixel smartphone, you're likely familiar with Now Playing. It's a built-in song recognition software that works in the background on your Pixel. Whenever there's music playing nearby, the Pixel microphones will pick it up and identify it without you needing to do anything.

The feature has been available for years, but it's so subtle that it goes mostly unnoticed. However, if you glance at your lock screen while music is playing nearby, you may notice a song title pop up, which means Now Playing is working its magic.

The best part is that it works on-device, so you don't have to worry about Now Playing sucking up your battery life or data. And when you need to figure out what that song was that was playing at the bar, you can easily access your library to find the list of songs your Pixel has identified.

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

Auto Shazam works similarly, in that it runs in the background to identify songs for you. However, since it's a third-party app, it's not as seamless as on a Pixel. It will show you songs playing, but it will clog up your notification panel a bit unless you do a little tweaking.

It's also not an on-device solution, so it will utilize quite a bit of battery power and data. However, you can easily toggle the feature on and off, which is helpful for moments when you don't need it sucking up battery and for times when you find yourself somewhere playing good music you might be interested in but don't want to have to manually identify each song.

How to enable Auto Shazam

(Image credit: Android Central)

1. Open Shazam and tap Library.

2. Tap the Settings icon in the top-left corner.

3. Tap the Auto Shazam toggle.

(Image credit: Android Central)

Note: Alternatively, you can press and hold the Shazam button on the home screen to enable Auto Shazam.

4. A pop-up menu will appear asking if you want to end Auto Shazam after one song or if you want to leave it on continuously.

5. From your notification panel, you can see a persistent notification informing you that Auto Shazam is on. Tap Turn off if you no longer want to use it, or Change if you want to manage any settings.

(Image credit: Android Central)

Finally, you can also add an Auto Shazam tile to your Quick Settings menu, which lets you quickly toggle the feature on and off.

Other ways to easily trigger Shazam

(Image credit: Android Central)

Still, if Auto Shazam isn't for you, or if you just want to quickly identify one song, Shazam makes it easy to do so without digging for the app. One of the main ways I use it is by adding the Shazam tile to the Quick Settings menu. Unlike the Auto Shazam tile, this one lets you identify just one song, and once you tap it, it runs in the background without opening the app.

In fact, it's probably one of my favorite ways to identify songs whenever I hear something interesting, especially because it's one of the few third-party tiles that works on the Motorola Razr's cover screen Quick Settings. That means I don't even have to open the phone for it to work.

Android Central

The other option is to add a Shazam pop-up to your screen. This adds a floating Shazam button that you can move around and tap whenever you need it. To add this, go to the Shazam settings and enable Pop-up Shazam. You may need to grant the app permission to draw over other apps; once you do, the floating button will appear on your screen.

We need more Now Playing on more phones

(Image credit: Android Central)

I sorely wish Google would bring Now Playing to the Pixel, or at least that other Android OEMs would implement their own versions of the feature. What makes it superior to Shazam's offering is that it works on-device and in the background, so you don't really need to do anything or worry about it constantly burning through your battery.

Newer chips like the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 have gotten quite good at on-device tasks such as this; it's kind of crazy that Google is seemingly the only company doing it (that I know of).

Still, Shazam is a great alternative if you don't own a Pixel smartphone, and it's one of those apps I always download first whenever I set up a new phone, becoming a staple for me when building up my music library.

Which Galaxy Z 8 phone should you buy? Here's what I think after using all three

derrek.lee@futurenet.com (Derrek Lee) — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 23:43:37 +0000

Samsung recently unveiled three new foldable phones, and for the first time, that includes two book-style foldable models. This year, we have the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Galaxy Z Flip 8, all of which Samsung says target different types of consumers. However, what does that mean, and which Galaxy Z 8 model is right for you?

It's never an easy answer, but I've used all three Galaxy Z 8 phones, and I feel like I have a pretty good idea of who these devices are for. And with the Galaxy Z 8 phones going on sale on August 7, this should hopefully help you get a better idea of which device you should buy.

In the meantime, check out the latest Galaxy Z Fold 8 promotions and Flip 8 deals to see how you can spend less on these incredible phones.

Samsung GAlaxy Z 8 series: Spec comparison

Specifications
Category	Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8	Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8	Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra
Operating System	One UI 9 (Android 17), seven years of OS upgrades	One UI 9 (Android 17), seven years of OS upgrades	One UI 9 (Android 17), seven years of OS upgrades
Display	Inner: 6.9-inch LTPO AMOLED, 1-120Hz, 1080x2520 Outer: 4.1-inch AMOLED, 60-120Hz, 948x1048, pixels, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2	Inner: 7.6-inch LTPO AMOLED, Titanium Flex, 1-120Hz, 1,848x2448 Outer: 5.5-inch LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz, 1248x1972, Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic 3	Inner: 8-inch LTPO AMOLED, Titanium Flex, 1-120Hz, 2,504x2,256 pixels Outer: 6.5-inch LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080x2520 pixels, Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic 3
Processor	Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, Exynos 2600	Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy	Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy
RAM	12GB	12GB/16GB	12GB/16GB
Storage	256GB, 512GB	256GB, 512GB, 1TB	256GB, 512GB, 1TB
Rear Cameras	50MP Wide, ƒ1.8, OIS, 85˚ 12MP Ultrawide, ƒ2.2, 123˚	50MP Wide, ƒ1.8, OIS, 85˚ 50MP Ultrawide, ƒ1.9, 120˚	200MP Wide, ƒ1.7, OIS, 85˚ 50MP Ultrawide, ƒ1.9, 120˚ 10MP Telephoto, 3x zoom, ƒ2.4, 36˚
Front Camera	10MP Wide, 85˚	Internal: 10MP Wide, 100˚ External: 10MP Wide, 85˚	Internal: 10MP Wide, 100˚ External: 10MP Wide, 85˚
Battery	4,300mAh	4,800mAh	5,000mAh
Charging	25W wired, 15W wireless	45W wired, 20W wireless	45W wired, 20W wireless
IP Rating	IP48	IP48	IP48
Weight	180g	201g	215g
Dimensions	Folded: 85.7 x 75.4 x 13.1mm Unfolded: 166.9 x 75.4 x 6.1mm	Folded: 123.9 x 81.9 x 9.7mm Unfolded: 123.9 x 161.4 x 4.5mm	Folded: 158.4 x 72.8 x 8.9mm Unfolded: 158.4 x 143.2 x 4.1mm
Colors	Pink, Graphite, Cream, Mint	Lavender, Graphite, Cream, Pistachio	Violet Shadow, Graphite, Cream

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8: Short and sweet

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is Samsung's newest fold factor, taking what we love about the Galaxy Z Fold series and shrinking it. The result is something in between the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip: a more pocketable, book-style foldable. When folded, it's roughly the size of a passport, and when open, it provides a wider, more tablet-like view than its larger Ultra sibling.

This makes the Galaxy Z Fold 8 a great tablet for things like reading articles and other content, as you can easily flip it vertically for less scrolling. And in addition to e-books and other similar content, this makes the inner display better suited for vertical games like Pokémon Go.

It also makes content like videos look less awkward, as you have fewer black bars on the top and bottom of the screen when the phone is unfolded, at least compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. And videos seem to fit perfectly on the external display.

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is easily one of the most accessible foldables. It's for anyone who wants the utility of a book-style foldable in a lighter, more comfortable form factor that feels more natural to use. It also helps that at $1,900, the phone is cheaper than the Z Fold 8 Ultra, while still sporting the same Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, a crease-less folding display, and a great pair of cameras.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra: Productivity powerhouse

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

Even though I've been using the Z Fold 8 for most things, I realized that I subconsciously defaulted to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra when it came time to get work done. That's indicative of how Samsung is positioning the Ultra; it's for anyone who wants to get work done using the absolute best that Samsung has to offer in a foldable in a larger form factor.

The 8-inch display makes it an ideal canvas for multitasking, and while there is no S Pen support, the Ultra makes up for it with its stronger battery life and thinner profile. Then there's the 200MP camera, which gets you much more detail in every shot, while the 3x telephoto sensor can get you closer to your subject without sacrificing quality.

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

And of course, you can do everything the Z Fold 8 can do, just on a larger screen. That means reading, watching videos, scrolling through apps, drafting papers, and more. And who doesn't like showing off their photos and videos on a large tablet-like display that you can fold in half when you just need a phone?

Of course, the Ultra comes with an ultra price tag, starting at an eye-watering $2,100. But if you need a phone that can keep up with your busy lifestyle, this is likely the one for you.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8: Fashionable and nostalgic

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

For years, flip phones have leaned on nostalgia to attract sales, but it's a bit more than that. The Galaxy Z Flip 8 continues to build on Samsung's expertise by introducing an even thinner model than last year's, making it not only extremely pocketable, but also a very good-looking phone.

The Galaxy Z Flip 8 is for anyone who doesn't need the extra screen real estate of a larger book-style foldable, but still wants the utility of a foldable. With the Galaxy Z Flip 8, you can use apps on the cover screen instead of the main screen, which can potentially save battery and makes using apps less conspicuous than on a larger display.

There are also other benefits, such as Camcorder mode, which makes recording videos really easy and smooth. Taking selfies is also a better experience on the Flip 8, as you can just use the main 50MP camera and larger 4.1-inch cover screen to take high-quality selfies.

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

Perhaps one of the biggest selling points, aside from its stylish and pocketable design, is the price tag. The Galaxy Z Flip 8 is the cheapest of Samsung's Galaxy Z 8 phones, costing "just" $1,200, while still offering a powerful chipset, the latest AI features, and seven years of software updates.

Can you use Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 cases on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra?

namerah.saud-fatmi@futurenet.com (Namerah Saud Fatmi) — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 18:47:42 +0000

Can you use Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 cases on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra?

Best answer: No you cannot use Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 cases on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. Though they might look very similar in shape and size, minor differences in the camera module and hinge make this impossible.

A more in-depth explanation about the incompatibility of older cases with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

When you hold the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and the last-gen Galaxy Z Fold 7 in your hand, or look at pictures of them next to each other, it is very reasonable to think they could share cases. After all, their dimensions are nearly identical, even on paper.

Here's a comparison of the measurements of the two large-form foldable devices.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
Dimensions	Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra	Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
Folded	158.4 x 72.8 x 8.9 mm	158.4 x 72.8 x 8.9mm
Unfolded	158.4 x 143.2 x 4.1 mm	158.4 x 143.2 x 4.2mm

Looking at the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, the numbers hint at potential backward compatibility of cases. After all, the measurements match almost perfectly.

When folded, both the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the Z Fold 8 Ultra measure 158.4 x 72.8 x 8.9 mm, and when unfolded, they're almost identical too, 158.4 x 143.2 x 4.2mm and 158.4 x 143.2 x 4.1 mm. Even their displays have the same sizes, 8 inches internally and 6.5 inches externally.

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

So what gives? Why can't you use the phone cases for the Galaxy Z Fold 7 on the Z Fold 8 Ultra? Well, if you can't tell from the pictures, the raised unit housing the camera lenses does not match, differing in sizing and placement.

The second difference hindering backward compatibility of cases between the two Z Fold models is the hinge. Because of these two small but important discrepancies between the two Z Fold devices, you cannot use cases for either foldable on the other.

It's hard to say whether these were functional design changes, or alterations that were made to warrant purchasing new phone cases so Samsung could make more money. Regardless, if you've taken advantage of the excellent Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra preorder deals and are waiting for your new foldable, be sure to check out the best Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra cases to go with it too.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

The true Z Fold successor

Unlike its wider counterpart, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is the true successor to the Galaxy Z Fold 7. It has similar dimensions, a robust IP rating, incredibly powerful hardware under the hood, and almost no crease to speak of. If you want a slim and tall foldable, this is the one to get. Just don't forget to buy device specific cases for it, since older Fold 7 cases are incompatible with it.

Should you wait for the Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold?

harish.jonnalagadda@futurenet.com (Harish Jonnalagadda) — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 12:58:32 +0000

There's a decent amount of choice if you're looking to buy a foldable right now. But if you're into Google's ecosystem and are mulling a switch, you should wait until the Pixel 11 Pro Fold becomes available. Google will unveil the foldable alongside the Pixel 11 models on August 12, and the foldable should go on sale shortly thereafter.

Between the Motorola Razr Fold, Samsung's all-new Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and the wide Z Fold 8, and the upcoming Pixel 11 Pro Fold, you're pretty much covered if you want a solid book-style foldable. It's a little annoying that the Find N6 and the Vivo X Fold 5 — two of my favorite foldables — aren't available in the U.S., but it's clear by now that these brands don't want to branch out into North America.

There's also the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, and I like Google's foldable quite a lot even though it doesn't take the best photos, isn't the lightest, or the fastest. It has delightful software, and I like the build quality and durability. That said, I wouldn't recommend buying one at this moment in time — Google is set to roll out decent upgrades this year to the Pixel 11 Pro Fold.

Evan Blass / Leakmail

Recent leaks point to a thinner design, which is honestly something Google should have done last year itself. The rest of the industry made huge strides in this area, and even Samsung started using silicon-carbon battery tech to slot in a 5,000mAh battery in a body that's roughly the same size and weight as last year's Z Fold 7 (which had a 4,400mAh unit).

Google absolutely needs to have a noticeably-thinner and lighter foldable, and it needs better cameras. Thankfully, the leaks point to Google delivering a new main camera, so the Pixel 11 Pro Fold should take better photos out of the box. I also want to see a bigger battery, but information has been light on that — what we do know is that Google is using a brand-new Tensor G6 platform that's built on a 2nm node, so it should have better energy-efficiency, allowing the foldable to last longer.

(Image credit: Evan Blass / Leakmail)

Where Google absolutely nailed the brief with the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is with the inner and outer OLED panels. They're calibrated well, have vibrant colors, and get brighter than other foldables, and I want this to continue with this year's device. Where Google needs to do better is the crease; OPPO showcased how to make a foldable with no visible crease in the Find N6, and Samsung came mighty close to it with the Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Google now has to show how its efforts in this category have panned out over the last 12 months.

If you don't want to wait and want a foldable right now, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra would be the obvious choice. It has the best design, an extensive feature-set, and great cameras. But if you prefer Google's software and are ready to finally switch to a foldable, I'd suggest waiting until the Pixel 11 Pro Fold goes on sale — we don't have to wait too long.

Samsung

Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

Like previous years, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is the go-to choice if you need a foldable and like using Samsung's software. Otherwise, I'd recommend waiting to see what Google has in store with the Pixel 11 Pro Fold this year.

Gemini’s new blurred UI is finally reaching Android phones

techkritiko@gmail.com (Jay Bonggolto) — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 12:40:40 +0000

What you need to know

Google is rolling out a refreshed Gemini AI overlay, which was first teased at Google I/O.
The updated interface is appearing on both Pixel devices (like the Pixel 10 Pro XL) and Samsung hardware (like the Galaxy S26 Ultra).
The signature visual tweak replaces the basic floating box with a prominent blurred backdrop.

Google is quietly rolling out another Gemini makeover on Android, this time tweaking the AI’s overlay. The new interface was announced at Google I/O and is now starting to roll out to some Pixel and Galaxy owners.

A Reddit user spotted the refreshed Gemini UI on their phone, while others reported receiving it on devices including the Galaxy S26 Ultra and Pixel 10 Pro XL. That hardware mix means the update isn’t a Pixel-exclusive update. It also appears to be server-side controlled, so an update to the Google app may not instantly enable it for everyone.

The most significant change is that instead of just placing the assistant’s compact interface over an unchanged screen, the new design applies a prominent blur to whatever is underneath. The background is blurred and softened but still identifiable, visually separating Gemini from whatever app or home screen is open but not hiding it completely.

(Image credit: Vulkaan34 / Reddit)

That’s on top of the Gemini overlay Google has been steadily reworking this year. Previous changes included thinner icons, a redesigned plus menu sheet, and Dynamic Color support. Gemini Live also stopped jumping to a separate screen, instead keeping the interaction within the overlay.

There’s no obvious switch to turn it on yet, so if your Gemini overlay still looks the same, you’ll probably just have to wait for Google to flip the switch.

Android Central's Take

I like the new look, especially because the blur makes Gemini feel more integrated into Android rather than just some random panel layered on top of what you're doing. It retains enough of the background to provide context while keeping the assistant front and center, which should make quick Gemini interactions feel cleaner and less distracting. My only complaint is the usual Google server-side rollout lottery, which makes it hard to get excited about a redesign when two people with the same app version can open Gemini and somehow end up living in different design eras.

Never lost: rumors claim a 'Pixel Tag' is on the way from Google to keep tabs on your stuff

nickodiaz@sbcglobal.net (Nickolas Diaz) — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 11:53:00 +0000

What you need to know

An alleged rendering of an oblong "Google Pixel Tag" has surfaced, showing a tracker in all white with a "loud speaker."
Rumors claim there isn't a place to mount the tracker, meaning consumers will have to slip it into their bags or wallets.
There's still a lot that's unknown about the tracker; however, there's speculation that Google could debut it at its Pixel 11 reveal event in August.

A rumor taking us into the weekend suggests Google is working on a tracker to finally enter competition with some big-name brands.

A render of the alleged "Google Pixel Tag" was posted by 9to5Google, who state the name has started circulating across various online sources. According to the publication, the Pixel Tag could feature an oblong shape (rounded corners, not quite like a football), and Google's classic "G" icon in the center. What's more, the post claims there aren't any "mounting mechanisms" on the tag.

This gives the impression that consumers would pop this into their bag and go. One of the sources where the Pixel Tag has leaked is a Slovenian retailer. The folks at 9to5 snagged the tag's alleged description, which says the Pixel Tag is a "smart tracker that helps you quickly and reliably locate your lost items." As you might expect, this would work over the Find My Device (Find Hub) network.

The tag's description highlights items we're used to attaching smart trackers to: wallets, keys, and luggage. What's more, the Pixel Tag will reportedly feature a "loud speaker" to help users quickly pinpoint its location.

A Pixel tracker

(Image credit: 9to5Google)

Android Central's Take

As far as trackers go, it doesn't look too bad. It's simple. That's pretty much all you can expect from a device like this. If, as the rumors say, this is preparing to launch alongside the Pixel 11, it'd be smart. "Here's the new Pixel 11 series! Grab a tracker so you don't lose you stuff, too!" I feel like I can already hear the keynote.

One of the immediate comparisons we can make with the Pixel Tag is the Moto Tag 2 or even Apple's alternative. The Moto Tag 2 debuted at the end of June, and it was probably the biggest upgrade Motorola's announcements had to offer. The Tag 2 offers Bluetooth 6.0 and UWB support. Additionally, Google Find Hub was fully integrated with the tracker, alongside a whopping 500 days of battery life on a replaceable CR2032 battery.

Seeing how the Moto Tag 2 shapes up has us wondering about the true form of the Pixel Tag 2. There's still a lot that's under wraps. Rumors assume Google could have a reveal on the way that lines up with the Pixel 11, but nothing's certain. If true, then that means we'll have the Pixel Glow and this Pixel Tag to wow us during the Made by Google event on August 12. Google teased the Pixel 11 Pro recently, showing off Pixel Glow: an LED indicator that sits beside the phone's cameras in the camera bar.

Rumors suggest Gemini would have a heavy presence here, offering bright indicators for various happenings from alerts to order tracking.

Nano Banana 2 in Google Earth lets users go wild with AI in cities and more

nickodiaz@sbcglobal.net (Nickolas Diaz) — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 11:21:00 +0000

What you need to know

Google Earth is receiving an update this week that brings Nano Banana 2 into its AI portfolio.
Users can zoom in on a place and click "create image" to prompt Nano Banana 2 to create an infographic with Gemini or a rendering in an empty plot of land.
Google Earth's recent major AI update was about helping researchers predict and understand disasters and weather patterns.

Google Earth is getting another round of AI updates late this week. This time, the company is leaning on its next-gen image generation model.

Imagining, or rather seeing what's possible, is something Google Earth is bringing to users this week. Gemini's image generation model, Nano Banana 2, is rolling out in Google Earth. The post states users can "generate custom images using satellite, aerial, and 3D imagery." Google states Nano Banana 2 can be helpful in a few different ways, such as bringing history to the present. If you're interested in seeing what a city looked like centuries ago, Google says Nano Banana 2 can create "a hyper-realistic" render of that place.

While the history can be fun, users can change a landmark, city, or building with an entirely different aesthetic. Google states users can type "transform X into a futuristic sci-fi utopia with glowing walkways..." For companies, Google says Nano Banana 2 can help "create estate plans" using empty lots you find in the Earth app. Moreover, this extends to any user looking to "visualize" a backyard project or what a home would look like secluded in the woods near the lakefront.

An AI update in a place like Google Earth wouldn't be complete without a chance to learn. Nano Banana 2 can lean on Gemini to generate infographics about a specific city directly in the app.

To get started, users need only head to Google Earth on their computer, zoom in on a location, hit "create image," and type their prompt.

Our World

(Image credit: Google)

Android Central's Take

I could see the infographic generation being helpful in schools. But also, the idea of helping people visualize larger projects feels like an extension of what Gemini can do already. On my phone, I could ask Gemini to fill a room with specific furniture, so I have an idea of how to design my living room or kitchen. Google Earth literally took that and made it bigger for empty plots on stretches of land.

Google Earth received an important AI update for researchers. Disasters are a reality we have to deal with on this big blue ball; however, they don't always have to catch us off guard. Google Earth's Gemini-based update brought "deeper insights" about the planet's weather patterns. At the time, the company said Gemini could help "instantly find objects and discover patterns from satellite imagery." Sandstorm predictions were mentioned, as well as the ability to monitor clean drinking water conditions.

As our planet is complex, Google was also preparing to introduce a Geospatial Reasoning update for Trusted Testers. This would help researchers and Earth AI answer more complex questions, leveraging weather forecasts, population maps, and satellite imagery.

Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra leak reveals massive camera and battery overhaul

techkritiko@gmail.com (Jay Bonggolto) — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 03:21:07 +0000

What you need to know

A new Galaxy S27 Ultra leak suggests Samsung could ditch its long-running floating camera ring design in favor of a unified camera module.
A rumored 5,700mAh silicon-carbon battery could deliver a major boost in battery life over previous Ultra models.
Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro for Galaxy and up to 16GB of RAM are tipped to power the flagship.

Samsung may finally be moving away from small incremental updates to make some serious structural upgrades with its next flagship model. Freshly leaked specs shared by tipster Anthony (@TheGalox_) on X suggest the upcoming Galaxy S27 Ultra could bring major hardware upgrades in multiple areas.

The tipster says that Samsung seems set to take on the silicon-carbon battery tech with a massive 5,700mAh capacity. That's a big jump over previous generations, promising much longer endurance for heavy power users.

Galaxy S27 Ultra | Updated leaks• 6.9 inch QHD+ Privacy Display• Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro for Galaxy • 16mp selfie camera with OISOIS• 200mp main, 50mp UW, 50mp 5x Telephoto & Second Telephoto• 5700mah Silicon-Carbon battery• 12/16GB memory pic.twitter.com/1t8qW9wMuuJuly 31, 2026

Like the Galaxy S26 Ultra, the phone is said to feature a 6.9-inch QHD+ Privacy Display, designed to keep prying eyes away from your sensitive screen content. The flagship is said to feature a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro for Galaxy silicon under the hood, with either 12GB or 16GB of RAM. That said, a recent rumor claims the device might miss out on LPDDR6 RAM and UFS 5.0 storage upgrades.

On the front, we might see an upgraded 16MP selfie shooter that now packs optical image stabilization (OIS) for steady video logging and crisp low-light shots. Samsung could put a 200MP main sensor on the back, paired with three 50MP lenses: an ultrawide, a 5x telephoto camera, and a second dedicated telephoto sensor for extended zoom ranges.

(Image credit: @TheGalox_ / X)

The leak also hints at a new design for the Galaxy S27 Ultra’s camera module. The next flagship is said to feature a redesigned camera housing that brings the rear sensors into a more unified module, moving away from the familiar layout Samsung has used since the Galaxy S22 Ultra.

If true, that would be one of the largest visual changes to the Ultra lineup in years, although this information should be taken with a pinch of salt despite the leaker's decent history with phone leaks.

Likewise, early leaks can change before official production lines are rolled out. But if these specs hold up for the official reveal, Samsung is poised to set an aggressive high-water mark for premium smartphones.

Android 17 QPR1 Beta 8 is here, and Pixel users get a much-needed audio fix

techkritiko@gmail.com (Jay Bonggolto) — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 01:15:24 +0000

What you need to know

Android 17 QPR1 Beta 8 eliminates the long-running audio bug that caused random crackling, distortion, and loud static on Pixel devices.
The audio issue lingered across multiple beta releases and generated 30+ reports in Google's issue tracker before this fix.
Build CP31.260623.010 arrives two weeks after Beta 7, focusing purely on system stability and bug fixes ahead of the official September Feature Drop release.

Google has released Android 17 QPR1 Beta 8, fixing one of the most frustrating bugs Pixel testers have been dealing with: distorted audio that would randomly blast loud static during media playback or notifications.

The update, build CP31.260623.010, comes a little over two weeks after Beta 7 and is another cleanup release before the Pixel Feature Drop in September.

Google’s changelog says the biggest fix is for an issue with managing buffers in the audio framework that could cause unexpected crackling, corruption, and bursts of static. It’s a problem that has persisted over many QPR1 beta releases, spawning more than 30 separate tickets in Google’s issue tracker.

Android 17 QPR1 was already at Platform Stability with Beta 6, so developers have been working against finalized APIs while Google turns its attention to stability.

Beta 8 is available for eligible Pixel devices enrolled in the Android Beta Program, including the Pixel 6 series through the latest Pixel 10 lineup. There is, however, one big exception. Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro owners still get this QPR1 Beta 8 update, but it’s basically the end of the line for those phones. Google has already confirmed that those models won’t be moving on to Android 17 QPR2, with the stable Android 17 QPR1 release expected to be their last major software update this September.

Beta 8 might finally make the preview stable enough for you to use on a daily basis if you’ve been putting off trying it because of audio glitches. Otherwise, you might want to hold off a little longer because the polished, stable QPR1 release is now just around the corner.

Here's your first look at Lenovo's upcoming Googlebook devices

sanujb6@gmail.com (Sanuj Bhatia) — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 20:59:20 +0000

What you need to know

A new leak reveals Lenovo's first Googlebook lineup, including two laptops and a detachable 2-in-1 tablet.
The leaked devices feature Google's new Pixel Glow Bar design and a familiar Chromebook-inspired look.
Lenovo's 2-in-1 Googlebook appears to support a keyboard case, kickstand, and stylus for productivity.

Lenovo is set to launch its first lineup of Googlebook devices later this year, and a new leak has given us our first look at all of them.

Earlier this year, Google unveiled its vision for Googlebook, a new Android-based laptop platform with Gemini and AI at its core. At the time, the company confirmed that the first wave of Googlebook devices would come from partners including Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo.

Now, a new leak from Android Headlines appears to reveal what Lenovo has been working on.

Android Headlines

According to the leak, Lenovo is preparing three Googlebook devices in total: two laptops and a 2-in-1 tablet.

The laptops look fairly similar to Lenovo's existing Chromebook lineup. Based on the leaked renders, one of them features a white finish with Lenovo branding on the lid, along with what appears to be Google's new Pixel Glow LED near the top. The larger model also seems to include both a USB-A port and a USB-C port, while the speaker grilles are positioned along the sides.

The leak also gives us our first look at Lenovo's Googlebook 2-in-1 tablet. It resembles a fairly typical Android tablet paired with a keyboard cover and kickstand case, with support for a stylus as well. The Googlebook branding is visible next to the trackpad, while the Pixel Glow Bar appears to have been integrated into the camera housing on the back.

Lenovo hasn't confirmed when these devices will be officially announced. However, since Google previously said the first Googlebooks would arrive this fall, it's likely we won't have to wait much longer.

There's also no word on pricing yet. That said, with RAM prices continuing to climb throughout the year, I wouldn't be surprised if Lenovo positions these devices firmly in the premium segment.

We may also learn more about Google's Googlebook ecosystem at the upcoming Pixel launch event on August 12.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra could finally have some serious competition from Motorola

sanujb6@gmail.com (Sanuj Bhatia) — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 18:44:29 +0000

What you need to know

Leaked renders suggest Motorola is preparing a premium Moto Watch Ultra to rival Samsung's Galaxy Watch Ultra.
The Moto Watch Ultra is rumored to feature a 46mm stainless steel case with a rotating crown and LTE support.
The smartwatch is also expected to offer built-in GPS, Wi-Fi, IP68 protection, and 5ATM water resistance.
It's still unclear whether the Moto Watch Ultra will run Wear OS or Motorola's own smartwatch platform.

Motorola could be cooking up a proper Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra competitor.

Samsung launched the Galaxy Watch Ultra back in 2024 as its answer to the Apple Watch Ultra. Since then, the smartwatch has received a couple of meaningful upgrades and has established itself as one of the best premium Android smartwatches you can buy. Now, though, it looks like Samsung could soon have another competitor on its hands.

As revealed by The Mac Observer, the Moto Watch Ultra has leaked in a series of renders, giving us our first look at Motorola's upcoming flagship smartwatch.

From the leaked images, the Moto Watch Ultra looks very much like an upgraded version of the Moto Watch (2026), but with a much more premium design. It features a large circular display surrounded by a numbered bezel, similar to what we've seen on Samsung's Galaxy Watch Ultra.

The Mac Observer

The watch is also expected to feature a 46mm stainless steel case, giving it a noticeably more premium finish than Motorola's current smartwatch lineup. You can also spot a rotating crown on the side alongside an additional hardware button.

Similar to Samsung's flagship smartwatch, the Moto Watch Ultra is expected to offer LTE connectivity, built-in GPS, and Wi-Fi. The leaked specifications also point to an IP68 rating along with 5ATM water resistance.

The renders show the watch paired with a black leather-style strap featuring red stitching, although Motorola will likely offer additional color options at launch.

One big question still remains, though. Motorola moved away from Wear OS earlier this year, and it's currently unclear whether the Moto Watch Ultra will return to Google's smartwatch platform or continue using the non-Wear OS software.

Personally, though, I think launching a direct Galaxy Watch Ultra competitor without Wear OS would be a risky move, especially if Motorola plans to position it in the premium smartwatch segment.

CMF by Nothing's first OWS earbuds, the Clip Pro, are going to shake up August

nickodiaz@sbcglobal.net (Nickolas Diaz) — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 18:28:15 +0000

What you need to know

CMF announced the Clip Pro, a set of OWS (open-wearable stereo) earbuds, that will launch on August 4 at 9 am EDT (6 am PDT).
Interested consumers can sign up at nothing.tech in preparation for the launch event.
CMF is no stranger to audio devices, as it's developed the Headphone Pro and the Buds 2 Plus in recent history.

The teasers continue for CMF's next product, but now there's a date we can attach to it.

This morning (July 31), CMF by Nothing shared the details of its next product launch: the Clip Pro. The company states the Clip Pro will be its first "OWS" earbuds. These are open-wearable stereo earbuds for the "open" market. Devices like this will sit outside of your ear canal. Traditionally, devices will have a silicone tip that you slide in, but these, since they're outside, might feel more comfortable while you're outside or exercising.

CMF states the Clip Pro will launch on August 4 at 9 AM EDT (6 am PDT). We can expect these buds to clip onto our ears, funneling high-quality sound into our ears. CMF is still keeping the full design under wraps; however, its announcement teaser shows off a bit of its body.

The company says anyone who wants to be kept up-to-date about the launch can sign up.

No stranger to audio

Clip Pro. 4 August. pic.twitter.com/ig2yi2xfJiJuly 31, 2026

CMF had a bit of interesting news last year when Nothing spun it off as an independent entity. Headquartered in India, a joint venture with Optiemus saw a $100 million investment and the creation of 1,800 jobs. As always, CMF will continue to focus on budget devices under $200. The company's Clip Pro will likely sit under that line, too. Also, CMF is used to developing audio devices, though OWS will be its first.

The company announced the Headphones Pro a few days after its spin-off was announced. These are over-ear headphones for $99 with a roller for ANC/volume, an Energy Slider to control bass and treble, and a shortcut button. CMF highlighted the Headphone Pro's strong battery with 100 hours of life with ANC disabled. What's more, it claims users can get four hours of audio after five minutes of charging.

If you're looking for a more "traditional" earbud, there's the CMF Buds 2 Plus.

Android Central's Take

Open earbuds sound interesting, but never interesting enough for me to grab a pair. I' sure it's probably easier on your ears. There's always been that thing growing up about not leaving earbuds in for too long. So, I can see comfortability with open buds, as well as better ear health. Nothing's launches are always good to keep an eye on, and CMF is no different.

Moto's Razr 2026 leaks with Swarovski crystals that shimmer like stars in space

nickodiaz@sbcglobal.net (Nickolas Diaz) — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 17:16:33 +0000

What you need to know

Motorola is allegedly preparing another Swarovski crystal edition phone, and it looks like the Razr 2026 is being fitted.
The device is highlighted with a deep black colorway with shimmering crystals, diverging from Moto's previous white variants.
The Razr 2025 had its crystal edition debut in August last year, and there's a chance this could happen again.

Motorola's latest flip foldable, the Razr 2026, finds itself in leaks late this week that claim it's getting the Swarovski crystals treatment.

The folks at The Mac Observer pointed this out to us, highlighting a few alleged renders of a Moto Razr 2026 rocking a set of Swarovski crystals. Typically, Motorola's collaboration with Swarovski delivers a quilted design, studded with clear crystals. This will reportedly continue with the Razr 2026; however, there's a change: the special edition's gone dark.

The Razr 2026 could feature a black quilted back panel covered with crystals. The bar right above the phone's cover display is said to feature three crystals, while the rear panel offers 31. Everything else about the phone is rumored to remain the same, which would be the norm for this Moto x Swarovski collaboration. The Razr 2026 features a 6.9-inch Extreme AMOLED internal screen and a 3.6-inch cover display.

The publication surprises with more, offering a glimpse into the box's contents. Rumors claim Moto's Swarovski collaboration will include the Razr 2026, a clear phone case, a USB-C cable, and a 33W adapter. Nothing's been pinned down about a release date, but we have last year's to look back on.

Shine bright

(Image credit: The Mac Observer)

Motorola has even created a Swarovski Edition variant of the Edge 70. The design language remains the same: a quilted back, studded with crystals. One major difference is that this collaboration is usually done in white. Now, as we've seen alleged for the Razr 2026, Moto's changing it up to black. For history's sake, the Razr 2025 had its Crystal Edition debut in August last year. Again, this was in a PANTONE Ice Melt color.

Swarovski and Motorola announced the phone together, stating consumers would find "35 precisely hand-positioned Swarovski crystals, including a larger one with 26 facets on the hinge." Paired with this brilliant phone was a premium crossbody case. The rumors for the Razr 2026 don't mention a crossbody case, only the clear case and other items inside the box. If Motorola is doing anything extra, perhaps we'll hear about it soon.

Our favorite last-gen Sony headphones are $150 OFF during Best Buy's Back to School sale

Zachary David — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 15:21:08 +0000

As part of its back-to-school sale, Best Buy has launched a $150 discount on the Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones, marking a certified good deal for those who don't mind going last-gen.

Despite being older than the top-rated Sony WH-1000XM6, the WH-1000XM5 headphones include nearly identical hardware, albeit at a substantially lower price and with regular price drops like this. They feature a powerful sound profile with advanced active noise cancellation (ANC), impressively long battery life with fast charging, as well as a range of other features like multi-point connection. The current deal is available for all four of the device's colors, which include Black, Blue, Silver, and Smoky Pink.

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones: ~~$398.00~~ $248.00 at Best Buy

End of summer back-to-school deals are going live left and right, including a $150 discount on these powerful last-gen wireless headphones at Best Buy. While they may not be the latest-gen version of Sony's top noise-cancelling headphones, they still hold up in 2026, offering plenty of high-quality listening modes that most casual users will find mind-blowing.View Deal

See our TOP 20+ deals from Best Buy's Back to School sale

✅Recommended if: you're looking for a powerful pair of wireless noise-cancelling headphones with comfortable ear cups and a battery life that can handle long periods of listening; you're looking for headphones for around $250 but you still want to get a high-quality pair with access to high-res listening codecs; you're looking for headphones with high-quality microphones for video conferencing, phone calls, and easy-to-use voice commands.

❌Skip this deal if: you need headphones with a dust and water resistance rating for concern-free outdoor excursions in a variety of weather conditions; you're not looking for industry-leading audio quality and you'd prefer to go with something even more affordable than these, even at this discounted rate; you'd prefer a smaller overall design that's easy to stow for optimal portability.

The Sony WH-1000XM6 may be our top pick for the best headphones on the market today, but they're not that different from their predecessor. The Sony XM5 offer super comfortable speaker cups, up to 30 hours of battery life, and fast charging that can replenish up to 3 hours' worth of battery life in just 3 minutes. Built with eight different mics, these sport a powerful ANC suite, and crystal-clear audio for phone and video calls.

While they aren't known for being very collapsible or easy to stow, the WH-1000XM5 headphones do still come with a carrying case that can at least protect them when transported in a backpack or other bag.

Not what I wanted to hear: rumors now say Galaxy S27 Ultra could miss a huge upgrade

nickodiaz@sbcglobal.net (Nickolas Diaz) — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 10:17:00 +0000

What you need to know

Rumors now claim Samsung might hold off on a RAM/storage upgrade for the Galaxy S27 Ultra.
A Korean tipster suggests Samsung might provide LPDDR6 RAM upgrades to other companies' "limited edition" phones.
As a result, Samsung might leave this and a UFS 5.0 storage upgrade out of the S27 Ultra.
This walks back previous rumors; however, those same reports said Samsung was concerned about pushing the cost of the phones too high.

The phone industry has been through it with memory issues, and now rumors say an upgrade we thought we'd get might not happen.

A consistent tipster on Naver (Korean), Lanzuk, says "details have emerged" about the situation regarding Samsung's storage and memory (via SamMobile). Lanzuk speaks first about Samsung's LPDDR6 RAM, citing information obtained from Weibo. They claim this hardware is "expected to be featured in flagship models from major manufacturers next year." These "flagship models" from major companies might only involve "limited edition commemorative" (machine-translated) phones.

When we see "limited edition," we think limited quantities, and that's exactly what Lanzuk claims. It seems this will involve Samsung's UFS 5.0 storage, too. It's this upgraded storage tech and LPDDR6 RAM that Lanzuk says might not be in the cards for the Galaxy S27 Ultra.

Lanzuk claims it's "not good" for the S27 Ultra to receive these major upgrades next year. If true, this would be a bummer. Also, the situation must've changed drastically, considering this tipster said the opposite in April.

Things have changed

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

A few months ago, rumors got underway about a possible UFS 5.0 storage upgrade for the Galaxy S27. This was an upgrade that many believed would hit the Galaxy S27 Ultra at the very least. Rumors only said this would affect "some models," and Samsung's top player seemed like the best fit. UFS 5.0 would bring "an increase to a device's sequential performance to 10.8GB per second," while also taking AI into heavy consideration.

On the surface, this seems like a major and worthwhile upgrade. However, those same reports were a little hesitant to go all in. Samsung reportedly had a lot on its plate to consider. The phone's price, as well as its mass production costs, could've hindered this possibility. Since the rumors have walked back on what was said in April, maybe these worries became a reality for Samsung.

Cost concerns might make the base Galaxy S27 more of a mild phone than we want. Talk online says Samsung might "freeze" any major upgrades for the S27. This could include its cameras and display materials.

Android Central's Take

If you haven't seen my coverage of Samsung's Q2 earnings, I'd suggest you give a quick little gander. Basically, the concerns that have been "expressed" in previous rumors about Galaxy S27 upgrades were mentioned. Rising costs. RAM and storage. It's a tricky climate that companies have had to navigate. For consumers, we're trying to hold onto our wallets. We want new devices, sure, that's fine, but there comes a point where we have to make a decision that truly benefits us. Samsung knows the number one issue is price, as do many others.

This Android phone maker just built the closest thing to an all-screen phone

sanujb6@gmail.com (Sanuj Bhatia) — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 09:35:10 +0000

What you need to know

Tecno has revealed a new concept phone with a next-generation, truly bezel-less display ahead of its debut at IFA 2026.
The concept features a 0mm display border, which fully removes the physical black edge around the smartphone's screen.
Tecno says achieving this required advanced internal stacking, structural re-engineering, and new screen-packing techniques.

We've all been dreaming about a bezel-less smartphone, and thanks to Tecno's new concept, we may be closer to that dream more than ever.

While brands like OPPO, Xiaomi, and Vivo usually grab the headlines, Tecno has quietly been innovating behind the scenes. Last year at IFA, the company showcased its ultra-slim Spark concept, which eventually launched earlier this year as an iPhone Air competitor.

Now, ahead of IFA 2026, Tecno is back with another concept, this time focusing on a next-generation bezel-less display.

(Image credit: Tecno)

For those unfamiliar with the term, the bezel is the black border that surrounds your smartphone's display. Smartphone makers have spent years trying to shrink it as much as possible, but even today, devices like Google's Pixel A-series phones and several mid-range Samsung smartphones still have fairly noticeable bezels.

Tecno is now claiming to have eliminated them entirely. Ahead of its IFA 2026 ShowStoppers debut in September, the company has unveiled a concept phone with what it calls a true 0mm display border, essentially removing the visible black frame around the screen.

(Image credit: Tecno)

According to Tecno, "eliminating the bezel required rethinking the smartphone from the inside out." The company says it achieved this through advanced internal stacking, structural re-engineering, and new screen packing techniques.

Tecno says this will allow for a genuinely unique experience, since content like videos will now fill the entire screen. And for gamers, it should provide an even more expansive view during gameplay.

Based on the concept renders the company has shared with the media, it's still pretty hard to picture exactly how the device might look in real life and in the hand. That said, we'll be going hands-on with Tecno's concept smartphone once it's showcased at IFA 2026.

Wait—Samsung's Ballie isn't gone? Its app UI might've leaked

nickodiaz@sbcglobal.net (Nickolas Diaz) — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 18:56:00 +0000

What you need to know

A rumor claims to have discovered early "design illustrations" for a Ballie app from Samsung.
The illustrations lay out Samsung's supposed plans for an app, showing battery, location, status icons, as well as a "Streaming" button for the robot's built-in camera.
It's unclear if this means that Samsung hasn't completely abandoned Ballie, as the last report said the company "delayed" Ballie to figure out "its place in the home" and to likely handle that intense price point.

This certainly wasn't on our bingo card. A leak has surfaced online, offering a glimpse of what could be Samsung's companion app UI for its smart home assistant, Ballie.

Earlier today (July 30), SammyGuru posted a series of alleged "UI design sketches" for what would be Samsung Ballie's companion app. The illustrations give us a good look at the app's main screen. Taking up the center is Ballie's circular frame with its battery percentage, location, and an "Error"/"Ready" icon. There's a chance this could be used in scenarios when the device gets stuck, since it rolls around. If everything's all green, users can likely launch Ballie.

There is a hard-to-miss "Streaming" button. Earlier info about Ballie suggested it would feature a camera. There's a chance this app could let users see what Ballie sees in real-time. "Home Monitoring" seems to be quite an important aspect of this app and of Ballie as a smart home assistant. According to the post, the "monitoring" aspect could involve a setup process in which Ballie maps out its routes, maps out your home for navigational purposes.

Taking another look at the initial icons: battery, location, Error/Ready icon, Home Monitoring might play more of a role than we think. This app could give users every ounce of information they need to view their home, understand where Ballie is, and handle any scenarios that might occur.

Oh, Ballie, Ballie

(Image credit: SammyGuru)

Android Central's Take

I never would've thought that Ballie would make a "return" via app design drawings. This isn't even a real app (yet?). Ballie looked cool. By that, I mean it reminds me of sci-fi movies where there's a robot that rolls around, quips, and beeps. I know that sounds like R2-D2. Maybe Samsung delaying it was the right call. You see that suspected price? A $2,000 price tag? I don't think I know anyone who would splurge on something like that for a little yellow ball.

This is quite surprising. The last time we heard anything about Ballie was when a report suggested Samsung delayed it to "find its place in the home." It gave the impression that Samsung was questioning the right place for Ballie within the home. The company reportedly expressed "caution" about the AI companion. Other concerns, such as a potential high price point and whether consumers would truly engage with Ballie or not, ranked high on its list of worries.

Speculation claimed Ballie could cost consumers ~$2,000, and with everything going on in the world, that might've been too steep a price. Samsung hadn't officially said anything about Ballie. This report was in July, and nothing more has come of the little rolling robot. However, if we want to get real, Ballie was first introduced at CES 2020. Samsung was said to have a "human-centric vision" for robots, and Ballie was the start of it. The company said Ballie "understands you, supports you, and reacts to your needs."

Its built-in camera would be its "eye" into your life, your home, and your needs. There was an announcement that saw Google and Samsung working together to bring Gemini into Ballie for enhanced AI support.

Samsung suffers Q2 loss, looks to Galaxy S26 FE, Tab S12 later this year

nickodiaz@sbcglobal.net (Nickolas Diaz) — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 18:23:00 +0000

What you need to know

Samsung posted its Q2 2026 earnings, stating it recorded KRW 171.5 trillion in consolidated revenue, a 28% QoQ increase.
The company's DS division recorded an all-time high thanks to its Memory Business; however, it MX (phone) division marked a decline.
The smartphone market has been struggling all year, but Samsung has been hanging in there, partly due to its Galaxy S26 series.

It's about that time when earnings calls take place. Samsung is reporting its Q2 performance, and the company has confirmed a loss in its mobile division.

Samsung announced its Q2 2026 earnings, highlighting consolidated revenue of KRW 171.5 trillion (28% QoQ increase) and operating profit of KRW 89.5 trillion. Initially, the report begins well. As a company, Samsung says Q2 delivered "another all-time quarterly high." A majority of this concerns the company's DS (device solutions) division. Of course, we're talking about Samsung's Memory Business, which reportedly set "an all-time high for quarterly revenue and operating profit."

Its DS division posted KRW 127.5 million in revenue (56% QoQ increase). According to the company, "The Memory Business achieved another record-breaking quarter by proactively addressing AI demand despite limited capacity with a primary focus on server products." Samsung expects this trend to continue into the second half of 2026, as the adoption of Agentic AI and AI infrastructures continues.

Where there's a plus, there's a minus, and Samsung's MX (mobile eXperience) division took a hit. Samsung says it saw KRW 33.2 trillion in revenue, marking growth YoY (year-over-year) thanks to the Galaxy S26 series and good sales for its A-series phones. However, operating profits dropped in Q2 "due to increased cost burdens across the industry, such as rising component costs," which can only be attributed to the memory issues.

Seeking Alpha's transcripts of the earnings call see Samsung mention what it's looking forward to in 2026, teasing new devices (via 9to5Google). Samsung says it expects the Galaxy S26 series to retain its "momentum" in the second half with the Galaxy S26 FE launch. What's more, it's looking to "ensure the successful launch of new premium products," such as the Galaxy Tab S12 series later on.

Samsung did mention its Intelligent eyewear smart glasses, stating it's "bringing a new form factor experience for the AI era..." A date wasn't given, but it seems we can still expect it later in the year.

The 2026 trend

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

It's hard to say we're surprised by Samsung's Q2, especially when we look back at 2026 so far. In Q1, Omdia's research report about the state of the U.S. smartphone market showed a 3% YoY dip. Rising memory and storage costs were attributed to this decline. Samsung was the top OEM; however, it posted a 5% decline in smartphone shipments. Omdia said that this decline was likely kept to a minimum by the Galaxy S26 series. The latest series may have performed well, but Samsung was reportedly in crisis mode in March.

The Galaxy S26 saw record pre-orders, but that didn't help its outlook. It was still estimated that Samsung's smartphone profits would fall in 2026, and we're seeing that here in Q2. This memory crisis is taking a toll on the phone industry as a whole. A Q2 market report showed a 4% global decline. Still, the Galaxy S26 series' "resilient demand" helped Samsung post a 2% increase.

Android Central's Take

This has "become the norm" in the industry. AI is causing a bit of a sitr in more ways than memory and storage issues. Some companies see the light at the end of the tunnel. That things will get better. Others are trying to buckle down and figure out a way to weather the storm. The issue is pricing. I'm sure we can all agree on that. Companies start struggling, and it's often the consumer that gets the worst of it.

Pixel 11 Pro Fold renders surfaced, and Google is sticking to what works

techkritiko@gmail.com (Jay Bonggolto) — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 17:28:20 +0000

What you need to know

Fresh Pixel 11 Pro Fold renders suggest Google is refining, not redesigning, its next foldable.
Official-looking renders reveal a new Pine green finish with a light gold frame, matching the Pixel 11 Pro lineup.
A redesigned camera bar moves the cutouts closer to the edge and reshuffles the autofocus sensor beneath the flash.

Google’s next foldable doesn’t seem to be trying to reinvent itself, though a new leak suggests it’s getting a more polished look ahead of its expected debut next month. Official-looking renders of the Pixel 11 Pro Fold have now been leaked, and they reveal a familiar design with subtle refinements that may make a bigger difference than they appear.

Evan Blass shared images of the upcoming foldable in a new Pine finish via his Leakmail newsletter. This color has been revealed in a previous leak, showing a muted green paired with a light gold frame and Google’s signature “G” logo. The same paint job is also expected to match the Pine option coming to the Pixel 11 Pro and the Pixel 11 Pro XL.

At first glance, the phone looks almost identical to the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. That’s not surprising, as Google previously said it plans to refresh Pixel hardware designs every two to three years rather than overhauling them annually. Instead, the company appears to be shifting its focus to enhancing what works well.

The biggest visual difference is the new camera bar. The camera cutouts now stretch closer to the edge instead of being surrounded by extra metal. The camera array has also been shifted, with the autofocus sensor now located under the flash zone, next to the ultrawide and main lenses, but the telephoto lens still sits in the top right corner.

Evan Blass / Leakmail

The other thing that jumps out is the much larger camera flash. That's almost as big as one of the camera lenses, sparking new speculation that Google's rumored Pixel Glow notification system could be built into the flash module rather than around the camera bar. Nothing is confirmed yet, but the hardware certainly leaves room for that possibility.

Will a millimeter trim and a stylish coat of dark green paint lure upgrade-wary shoppers? It won't be long before we know. Google is officially pulling back the curtain at its upcoming launch event on August 12.

Samsung could finally build Galaxy Buds with ear hooks for workouts

techkritiko@gmail.com (Jay Bonggolto) — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 16:36:00 +0000

What you need to know

Samsung's first open-ear Galaxy Buds may finally be on the way, with a secure ear-hook design aimed at fitness enthusiasts.
Leaked renders show a major design shift, ditching Samsung's traditional stem and bean-shaped earbuds for a workout-friendly fit.
Expected features include USB-C charging, water and dust resistance, and possibly active noise cancellation.

Samsung may finally be delivering what fitness lovers have been asking for years: a set of Galaxy Buds built to stay put during workouts. Newly leaked images hint at the company’s first open earbuds, offering our best look yet at what might be Samsung’s take on the rising open-ear trend.

Beats and Shokz, among others, have long ruled the open earbuds segment with secure wraparound ear hooks, but Samsung has stuck with traditional stems and compact bean shapes. Now, fresh graphics discovered by SamMobile reveal a pair of earbuds with a distinctive ear-hook design that wraps around the outer ear. The buds are codenamed "Buds Canal 5."

The overall shape is very similar to products like Anker’s Soundcore workout earbuds or Shokz’s OpenFit buds. This isn’t the first time we’ve heard about Samsung’s open-ear earbuds efforts. Previous leaks have pointed to a clip-on design, under the code name “Galaxy Buds Able,” that will reportedly use bone conduction technology.

However, the latest hardware renders suggest Samsung is considering a different design. These earbuds are closer to traditional open-ear styles that direct sound into your ears while leaving the ear canal open. Users could also expect modern essentials like a USB-C charging case, dust and water resistance, and likely active noise cancellation.

(Image credit: SamMobile)

The branding is still a bit of a mystery as well. Earlier leaks suggested that Samsung’s clip-on earbuds could launch as the Galaxy Buds Able, while more recent leaks have indicated the name Galaxy Buds On. Similarly, if the product is released to the public, Samsung may rename the Buds Canal 5.

Regardless of what Samsung ultimately calls them, the model number SM-U600 and repeated software references indicate the earbuds are a real product rather than an abandoned prototype. Multiple reports suggest that the earbuds have faced several delays.

If these leaks are true, Samsung is gearing up to enter a market already packed with the best workout earbuds and headphones.

Android Central's Take

Open-ear designs are smart if you want to be aware of your surroundings while you’re running, riding your bike, or commuting. That said, Samsung can’t afford to be late to the party with a “me too” product. Sony, Shokz, and Bose have already been here for a while, so good sound and a comfortable fit won't be enough on their own. If these are to stand out from the competition, Samsung will have to provide a compelling reason for people to pick them up rather than just a familiar logo on the charging case.

I've been waiting for the Google Pixel 10 Pro to get a good discount ahead of the Pixel 11 launch, and Amazon has finally delivered

patrick.farmer@futurenet.com (Patrick Farmer) — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 15:51:53 +0000

TL;DR: Less than two weeks before the Pixel 11 series launch, Amazon is slashing up to $250 off the unlocked Google Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro.

It's official: Google will be unveiling the Pixel 11 series on August 12th, but if you don't wait to wait, there are plenty of Google Pixel 10 deals worth checking out today. In fact, since so many retailers are trying to clear stock ahead of the 2026 phones' launch, some of the deals on display meet or exceed the offers we saw during the holiday season last year.

Most of the best offers are coming from wireless carriers, but if you prefer the simplicity of unlocked phones, you're in luck: Amazon is slashing $200 off the Google Pixel 10 and $250 off the Google Pixel 10 Pro, representing the best discounts I've seen since Prime Day in June. Stock appears to be low — the Pixel 10 Pro XL is completely sold out, in fact — so don't wait too long if you're interested: these are likely among the final discounts we'll see for the unlocked devices.

Last chance! Score up to $250 off the Pixel 10 series

Google Pixel 10 256GB: ~~$899~~ $699 at Amazon

Days before the big Pixel 11 launch on August 12th, Amazon is attempting to clear its remaining Google Pixel 10 stock by slashing a straight $200 off the price of the flagship phone.

Although it's about to reach last-gen status, the Google Pixel 10 remains an excellent device in 2026, with a powerful Tensor processor, long-lasting battery, and a suite of exclusive AI-boosted camera features. It's also the first Google phone to receive full Qi2 magnetic charging support. View Deal

Google Pixel 10 Pro 256GB: ~~$1,099~~ $849 at Amazon

If you need a bit more power, the Google Pixel 10 Pro is the answer. Currently $250 off at Amazon, this feature-packed flagship takes the foundation of the base model Pixel 10 and adds a better display, more RAM, and an upgraded camera system.

As of writing, only the Jade color variant is receiving the $250 discount, so be sure to hop on this deal before it sells out. View Deal

The big question now is whether you should buy the Pixel 10 or wait for the Google Pixel 11 to go on sale on August 12th. While we don't have any official spec sheets just yet, we've seen so many leaks come down the pipeline that we have a pretty good idea of what to expect when the phones get unveiled next month.

For starters, it's almost certain that the Pixel 11 lineup will receive a price increase this year, with most reports suggesting a $100 hike for the Pixel 11 Pro XL and Pixel 11 Pro Fold. The phones will also come with the new Tensor G6 processor, and the design has been updated with a new LED light array surrounding the camera bar. Other rumors suggest an upgraded battery and camera system, in addition to all of the latest AI features we've come to expect from the brand.

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

Are these upgrades enough to justify the increased price? It's hard to say. If you don't mind buying a phone through your wireless carrier, I expect there to be plenty of great Google Pixel 11 preorder deals starting August 12th, so it might be worth waiting.

If, however, you prefer to buy phones unlocked, the Google Pixel 10 discounts above deserve some serious consideration. After all, it's unlikely that the Google Pixel 11 lineup will receive any no-strings discounts until the Fall sales start kicking off in October, so if you need a new phone today, why wait?

Back to School season is upon us, and this class-ready Lenovo Chromebook is now cheaper than ever with 17% OFF at Amazon

Zachary David — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 14:53:30 +0000

Cheap Chromebooks often rise to the surface during the year's biggest sales events, and right now, Amazon has sliced 17% off the price of the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 Chromebook, just in time for the new school year.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 Chromebook was a pleasant surprise for us upon its release, especially because it boasts better-than-expected performance speeds and a nice 1080p touchscreen display. It also sports a slim and lightweight design that users like, and it regularly gets discounts like these. This particular deal is for the blue version of the device, and it also marks the laptop's lowest price ever seen at Amazon to date.

All that to say, those who are looking for a performant and affordable Chromebook for school, work, and overall transportability will be hard-pressed to find better options at this price, while battery life feels a lot like the icing on the cake here.

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 Chromebook: ~~$359.98~~ $299.98 at Amazon

As the school year approaches, Amazon is offering a wide range of deals, such as this 17% discount on the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 Chromebook, dropping the price to its lowest point ever at just under $300. The IdeaPad Slim 3 is a surprisingly impressive Chromebook, boasting better-than-expected performance, a responsive, 14-inch touch display, and the easy-to-use Chrome OS.View Deal

✅Recommended if: you want a lightweight, netbook-style touchscreen laptop that's thin and easy to transport and has a user-friendly operating system; you're working with a budget of around $300, but you don't want to compromise on overall performance; you want something with a screen of around 14 inches that offers 1080p picture quality.

❌Skip this deal if: you need a laptop with a higher-quality front-facing camera than 720p, or with more storage than 64GB; you're looking for a device with a fingerprint reader built in; you're in the market for one of the best Chromebooks available and you have the budget to upgrade.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 Chromebook is a basic net-book that's perfect for web browsing, video streaming, and basic work and school tasks. Plus, it comes with a 1080p touchscreen that measures 14 inches, up to 13.5 hours of battery life, and connectivity including a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a microSD slot, and a 3.5mm microphone and headphone jack.

To be sure, it isn't a perfect laptop, but it'll definitely get the job done for most casual users performing basic, browser-based tasks, especially when you're heading back to class.

I used DJI's Osmo Pocket 4P for a month, and it is now my go-to video camera

harish.jonnalagadda@futurenet.com (Harish Jonnalagadda) — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 12:21:14 +0000

My main phone is the Find X9 Ultra, and my wife is using the Vivo X300 Ultra, so when we go on vacation, we just use our phones to take photos and videos. It's just convenient, and this year's flagships do a magnificent job in this regard.

But I generally prefer using a dedicated device to take photos. In the past, that used to be Sony's RX100 cameras, but I wanted something even smaller, and one that took better videos. That's where the DJI Osmo Pocket 4P comes into the picture; I have several friends in the industry who swear by their Osmo Pocket, and I wanted to see how good it is for myself.

(Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

So ahead of its global launch, I got the Osmo Pocket 4P along with a whole lot of accessories, and I used it extensively while attending a destination wedding in Bali, Indonesia. It didn't take long to understand the usefulness of the Pocket 4P; the gimbal system makes shooting videos significantly easier, and there's an immediate difference in stabilization versus what you'd get while shooting handheld with your phone.

The Osmo Pocket 4P has an added advantage: a secondary camera with 3x zoom. The dual-lens pocket gimbal camera has a new f/2.0 1-inch 20mm CMOS main sensor with LOFIC — similar to the Xiaomi 17 Ultra — and 17 stops of dynamic range, alongside an f/1.8 60mm lens with 3x optical zoom. The secondary lens gives the Pocket 4P much greater versatility, and it is a decent enough differentiator even against the standard Pocket 4.

Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central

There are three features that stood out the most in my month of testing the Osmo Pocket 4P: image and video quality, how stable it is in challenging situations (like walking around on a beach while shooting video), and just how easy it is to use. You don't need to wade through a dozen settings to get started: just hit the power button, choose the orientation, and shoot.

Video is obviously the main focus, and the Osmo Pocket 4P takes stunning 4K content, going up to 4K240. It shoots 10-bit D-Log 2 color profile, and the quality of the HDR footage in general is much better than I imagined. It did pretty well in low-light situations as well, but the thing that stood out the most is the 3-aixs stabilization — there's no hint that you're using a handheld shooter in the resultant videos. More than anything else, this is where the Osmo Pocket 4P has a clear advantage over phones, and it's no wonder that both OPPO and Vivo are set to be making products to rival DJI.

(Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

It does a decent job taking photos as well, with the 37MP images coming out with plenty of detail and accurate color rendition. Another thing I like is the tracking mode; this makes it easy to shoot moving subjects. There's a dedicated low-light shooting mode as well, and with 103GB of built-in storage, you can easily record a few hours of footage without any accessories. There's a MicroSD slot as well (thankfully), and I used Lexar's excellent 2TB MicroSD card with the Pocket 4P.

The 5D joystick makes it effortless to pan around while shooting videos, and there's a dedicated button to switch between the 1x and 3x lenses. The 2-inch OLED panel does a great job as a viewfinder, and the Pocket 4P is astonishingly light considering what it has to offer. It's just 230g, and the small size means you can use it just about anywhere.

(Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

Battery life is decent enough, and a 20-minute charge gives you three hours of runtime. Oh, and a new update adds automatic footage transfer to your iPhone, provided you're using the iPhone 16 and above. I would've liked a similar feature with Android devices as well, but that isn't available just yet.

The standard edition of the Pocket 4P costs £529/€599, and then there's a vlog combo that retails at £605/€689. There's no U.S. pricing, because this device isn't available in the region.

(Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

The vlog combo is the one I'm using, and if you're eyeing this camera, it is the bundle I'd suggest buying. It comes with the Pocket 4P, a mini tripod, fill light, DJI Mic Mini 2 transmitter and windscreens, a remote viewfinder and shutter button, two carrying bags, and all the associated charging cables. Honestly, it's a lot of stuff, and even after a month, I didn't use all the accessories yet.

(Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

Overall, I liked the Osmo Pocket 4P a lot more than I imagined. It's easy to take anywhere, takes great photos and videos, and has a ton of extensibility. If you need a portable camera with a built-in gimbal to use outdoors and the versatility of a 3x lens, the Osmo Pocket 4P gets my recommendation.

DJI

Osmo Pocket 4P

Thanks to a new 3x tele lens, the Osmo Pocket 4P has much better versatility than its predecessors, and it is the portable gimbal camera to beat in 2026.

Samsung's July patch causes problems for Galaxy S24, S25 Ultra, and users have proof

nickodiaz@sbcglobal.net (Nickolas Diaz) — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 10:17:00 +0000

What you need to know

Galaxy S25 Ultra users on Samsung's Community forums report severe battery drain problems after downloading the July patch under normal use.
Other S25 Ultra users say their phone is now overheating, alongside this battery drain issue (S24 Ultra users are struggling, too).
The Galaxy S25 Plus and Ultra experienced a charging issue last February, which Samsung said it could fix with a software patch.

Users aren't having the best time with two of Samsung's past-gen Ultra phones after downloading its current July security update.

Galaxy S24 and S25 Ultra users have created threads on Samsung's Community forum about issues they've experienced following the July update (via NotebookCheck). Users with an S25 Ultra have been hit with a double-whammy, as one report states their device's battery is draining severely while idle. The user says, "I am experiencing a critical and sudden battery drain issue on my Galaxy S25 Ultra that began immediately after installing the July Security Patch update."

The user's screenshot shows their S25 Ultra's battery plummeting from 85% (while asleep) to 5% by midday. To make matters worse, the user states their analytics show their phone is losing roughly 5% to 7% battery per hour without proper use. Curiously, this user didn't mention an overheating issue, something another report did. In conjunction with a severe battery drain, one user says their phone "becomes very hot." Other users have reported similarities with their S25 Ultra; however, the S24 Ultra and the S24 Plus were mentioned.

The publication spotted a Galaxy S24 Ultra thread, highlighting similar battery drain issues S25 Ultra users are experiencing. This report states that they're unable to make it a day with "similar usage." Users have tried to help each other, offering your standard flavor of troubleshooting/at-home fixes. Nothing's worked thus far. Users have reported the required logs and other details to Samsung.

There were charging issues before...

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Android Central's Take

These issues suck; plain and simple. I've also not experienced these issues on my Galaxy S25 Ultra, though. I downloaded the July patch a week or so ago, and nothing drastic has changed. Battery life has remained consistent. The phone gets hot when playing games, but that's normal. I hope Samsung can get this fixed for users who are experiencing these issues. No one wants to be glued to their charger or feel like they can't use their phone.

Regarding its battery, the Galaxy S25 series had its issues. The Galaxy S25 Plus and Ultra gave users quite a headache with charging issues. These problems were reportedly encountered with Samsung's cable and adapter. Users on social media said the 45W adapter and 5A cable would either force their device to charge slowly or not charge at all. What's more, these phones would display their charging status even when the cable wasn't plugged in.

Samsung responded to these issues relatively quickly last year. It confirmed that a software patch would fix the issue to the relief of many. Hopefully we're looking at a similar occurrence for users experiencing problems today.

Set the tempo: Google's Lyria 3.5 debuts with updates to AI musicality in Flow Music

nickodiaz@sbcglobal.net (Nickolas Diaz) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 18:35:00 +0000

What you need to know

Google debuts Lyria 3.5, its next-gen AI music generation that takes its musicality, lyrics, and vocal quality up a level in Flow Music.
Creative control was highlighted as a strong point for Lyria 3.5, as users can control tempo, vocals, drums, and bass, alongside tools for track length.
Google's Lyria 3.5 is rolling out in Flow Music today (July 29

The middle of the week features another AI model announcement from Google, aiming to advance its music generation capabilities.

This afternoon (July 29), Google's press release highlights its newest AI music generation model, Lyria 3.5. According to the company, this should "deliver higher-quality song generation." A subsequent blog post continued, stating that Lyria 3.5 advances the model's "musicality, lyrics, and vocal quality." Regarding the AI's musicality, Google states users can create more complex sounds that feel more "natural."

Prompt adherence and structural awareness are two key areas Google says it focused on for Lyria 3.5. Of course, the former should help keep the AI on topic and avoid lyrics that have nothing to do with your prompt. Lastly, Lyria 3.5's vocals are said to deliver "more expression," alongside updates to its AI's pronunciation.

All of this is wrapped in Lyria 3.5's updated creative control system. Google states users can control the song's tempo and duration a little more easily than before. Users will find options to alter their AI-generated song's vocals, drums, and bass. Moreover, the length of a track can now range from 30 seconds to three minutes.

Google states its Lyria 3.5 model is rolling out today in Flow Music.

Keep the beat with AI

(Image credit: Google)

In February, Google got off to a fast start with the launch of Lyria 3. Its highlights included generating songs up to 30 seconds long based on text prompts or photos. Lyrics, style control, and "more realistic audio" were also detailed in its debut. Some aspects of AI music generation continue with Lyria 3.5. Users should still be able to describe the feeling or vibe of the song they want, such as saying "a goofy R&B jam about a lonely sock."

Shortly after Lyria 3's launch in February, Google said it was preparing to roll it out for Dream Track in YouTube Shorts. Similarly, a few months later, Google Vids welcomed Lyria 3 and Veo 3.1 models. Lyria's involvement was particularly useful for users creating videos and looking for a short 30-second to three-minute-long beat or soundtrack.

Visible wants to give you a year of Unlimited 5G wireless for only $19 per month — but you'll need this code

patrick.farmer@futurenet.com (Patrick Farmer) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 18:18:02 +0000

TL;DR: Visible by Verizon just launched a deal that gets you a full year of unlimited talk, text, and data for only $19 per month when you use the code SAVE6 at checkout.

At a time when nearly everything is getting more expensive, it's refreshing that you can still get a cheap phone plan if you know where to look. Sign up for Visible today and you can get a full year of unlimited coverage for as little as $19 per month when you use the code SAVE6 on the carrier's site. All of Visible's unlimited plans are eligible for the deal, from the base tier to the comprehensive Visible Plus Pro plan.

Visible by Verizon: get a year of unlimited wireless for as little as $19/month with code SAVE6 at checkout

Sick of paying an arm and a leg for wireless service every month? Switch to Visible and you can drop your phone bill to as little as $19 per month for a year when you use the code SAVE6 on the carrier's site. Visible's plans come with unlimited talk, text, and data powered by Verizon, plus you'll get an unlimited mobile hotspot, international benefits, and more. View Deal

Once the promo code is applied, the discount appears as $6 off your phone bill every month for 12 consecutive months. That may not seem like a lot, but considering that Visible's unlimited plans start at just $25 per month, the savings can really add up.

Owned and operated by Verizon, Visible uses its parent company's vast 5G/4G LTE network to deliver unlimited talk, text, and data for cheap. All plans come with unlimited coverage, plus you get an unlimited mobile hotspot, talk and text in Mexico and Canada, and Verizon-powered spam protection.

Going with the higher-tier Visible Plus and Visible Plus Pro plan will give you added monthly benefits like premium data, 4K UHD streaming, and additional international coverage.

After all, there's a reason we selected Visible as one of our favorite MVNO carriers, even if it isn't technically an MVNO any longer. After all, Visible offers a lot of the benefits that you'd expect from a prepaid carrier. The wireless is cheap, the plan system is straightforward and easy to understand, but the backing of Verizon means that Visible doesn't skimp on the premium features that you'd normally get from a large provider. I'd call it the best of both worlds.

Samsung preps a Galaxy Z Fold 8 app-level feature that's the icing on the cake

nickodiaz@sbcglobal.net (Nickolas Diaz) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 17:49:00 +0000

What you need to know

A leaked One UI 9 feature suggests Samsung is working on an "App Screen Zoom" feature for the Galaxy Z Fold 8.
The feature lets users alter the "screen zoom level for each app" with varying options from "Smallest" to "Largest," with the former displaying even more content.
Recent reports claim the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is smashing Samsung's pre-order expectations, and some retailers are displaying delayed shipping dates.

It's been a week since Galaxy Unpacked revealed everything from foldables to watches. Samsung's wide Galaxy Z Fold 8 is here, but a tipster claims the company is working on an app option that takes its experience up a level.

This week, tipster Ice Universe on X discussed an "app-level display customization" option that Samsung is reportedly testing for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 in One UI 9 (via 9to5Google). The leak highlights an "App Screen Zoom" feature that might find its way into Samsung Labs, an environment for testing early content. The company's early description says this option lets users "set a separate screen zoom level for each app." In the tipster's report, YouTube is used as an example.

They state, "YouTube normally shows only two rows of video recommendations on the screen." However, this is using the "Small" app zoom-level option (the default). At one point, Ice Universe swaps this to "Smallest." While we instinctually think everything is tiny—thumbnails, text, etc.—the "Smallest" option isn't that bad. By default, YouTube on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 displays two large video thumbnails (long-form content) side by side.

When switched to the "Smallest" option, those thumbnails are slightly reduced to fit three videos in a row. Additionally, the tipster adds, "...it can show three rows of videos at the same time, allowing me to browse more content without constantly scrolling." The leak continues, stating App Screen Zoom offers Smallest, Small, Medium, Large, and Largest levels. Considering this is a leak, and since we don't even have the Galaxy Z Fold 8 yet, we might have to wait a while before this rolls out.

Making it better

Galaxy Z Fold8 has a very useful feature: app-level display customization.For example, YouTube normally shows only two rows of video recommendations on the screen. After reducing the display size, it can show three rows of videos at the same time, allowing me to browse more… pic.twitter.com/0iXHEggNo9July 28, 2026

How apps respond to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 was an area of concern when it debuted. My colleague Derrek Lee was curious about this, too, and his hands-on quickly abated his worries. In his experience, apps "resize well." When it comes to vertical videos, users might notice the black bars. However, another major plus about the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is its ability to host three apps on its internal screen. This could be boosted by this App Screen Zoom leak, since users can alter the zoom and potentially enhance the amount of content they see when multitasking.

On a related note, reports claim the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is incredibly popular, smashing Samsung's expectations in South Korea. Specific numbers weren't given; however, it was said that the Fold 8 is selling out in online and offline retailers, with some stores showing delayed shipment dates.

Android Central's Take

Am I turning into a foldable enjoyer? I remember how the Fold 7 almost got me to convert from a regular slab phone to that style of device. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is an appealing phone. This device seems to tick some important boxes for app enjoyment. For scrolling and video watching. Apps resize well, which is a plus, and now Samsung is reportedly testing this zoom level feature. That means apps would (ideally) look even better in this wider format.

Samsung’s Galaxy S26 FE pricing leaks, and it’s bad news for budget hunters

techkritiko@gmail.com (Jay Bonggolto) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 16:45:00 +0000

What you need to know

The Galaxy S26 FE could launch on September 1, 2026, but a new leak suggests buyers may have to pay significantly more than last year's model.
Price hikes may hit every storage tier, with the 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB variants reportedly costing €50, €90, and €150 more, respectively.
Three color options are expected, including Graphite, Aqua Green, and a new deep blue-purple finish.

Samsung's next Fan Edition phone could end up costing more than expected, at least if a new leak from France is accurate. The Galaxy S26 FE has already leaked a few times in terms of its design and hardware, but now we might have the clearest look yet on how Samsung intends to price it, and buyers in search of the cheapest model might be in for an unwelcome surprise.

According to a new report from Dealabs, the Galaxy S26 FE will hit retail shelves on September 1, 2026. The release schedule for that timeline is similar to last year’s, but the price tag on this year’s model may not be familiar to bargain hunters.

According to the report, European buyers in France could face steep price hikes across every storage configuration. The base 128GB Galaxy S26 FE is said to start at €749, or €50 more than its predecessor. Going for the 256GB version will reportedly set you back €809, a €90 increase. If you’re looking to go all-in on local storage, the top-tier 512GB model could cost you €929, a hefty €150 bump.

And while Samsung dropped the 128GB option on the flagship Galaxy S26 series to justify higher base prices, the S26 FE is said to retain 128GB onboard as its base tier. Presumably, the changes are a result of industry-wide component shortages and increasing RAM prices.

Storage is not the only thing coming in for attention. The leak also hints at three colour options: Graphite, Aqua Green, and a mysterious third colour that sounds like a deep blue-purple hybrid.

Previous leaks have indicated that the Galaxy S26 FE will have a design much closer to the flagship Galaxy S26 family than previous Fan Edition models. It’s already been spotted in a Wireless Power Consortium listing, showing Samsung’s reworked raised camera housing, so the budget model shouldn’t look out of place next to its pricier siblings. The phone is also said to be powered by Samsung’s Exynos 2500 chip, although the company has not confirmed the final hardware.

Android Central's Take

If Samsung really is giving buyers something meaningful in return, I don’t mind paying a little more. If these leaked prices are true, Samsung will need to find a way to convince users that the Galaxy S26 FE is more than just an FE in name. Otherwise, it risks making the Galaxy lineup’s once-value pick yet another phone that’s slowly creeping out of “affordable” territory.

Score $1,100 OFF the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 with new T-Mobile deal — no trade-in required!

patrick.farmer@futurenet.com (Patrick Farmer) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 15:45:20 +0000

TL;DR: T-Mobile just dropped a deal that slashes $1,100 off the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8 when you add a line with the Experience More or Experience Beyond plan.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 was just unveiled last week, and we've already seen plenty of preorder deals that make the innovative foldable much cheaper or even free if you can meet the eligibility requirements. The problem is that most of these deals required a trade-in — until now.

Add a line with the Experience More or Experience Beyond plan and T-Mobile will give you a straight $1,100 off the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 when you place your order ahead of the phone's August 7th release date. Of course, if you do have an old or broken phone to trade in, T-Mobile will increase your potential discount to $1,900 with the Experience Beyond plan, effectively making your preorder free.

Either way, the potential savings here could be immense. Considering that the foldable phone starts at a hefty $1,899.99 for the 256GB version, I'll take just about any deal I can get. The less fine print, the better.

Score $1,100 off the Galaxy Z Fold 8 with new line at T-Mobile

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 256GB: ~~$1,899.99~~ From $799.99 with new line at T-Mobile

Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 ahead of its August 7th release date and you'll score $1,100 off when you add a line with the Experience More or Experience Beyond plan at T-Mobile. This is one of the few preorder deals that doesn't require a trade-in, and it's a positive sign of things to come after the Z Fold 8's official release next week.

Even if the Experience plans are too expensive for you, it's worth mentioning that T-Mobile will also give you $900 off when you add a line with most plans on its site. View Deal

See my guide to the best T-Mobile deals of July 2026

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 completely changed up Samsung's long-running Z Fold series, introducing a wider, passport-style design with a 16:10 aspect ratio, while under the hood you get the new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, 12GB of RAM, and all of the latest Galaxy AI features. The phone also comes with a long-lasting 4,800mAh battery and seven years of OS and security upgrades guaranteed.

If you preferred the look of previous Z Fold phones, the new Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra remains a great (albeit more expensive) choice, but if you want a thin and ultra-lightweight smartphone that's perfect for multitasking or streaming video, the new-and-improved Galaxy Z Fold 8 offers one of the best Android experiences around.

More Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 preorder deals - quick links

Verizon: new line savings, trade-in deals
Samsung: up to $1,200 of trade-in credit
Amazon: free $350 gift card with purchase
Best Buy: trade-in savings, free gift cards
AT&T: FREE Z Fold 8 with eligible trade-in, new line
Xfinity Mobile: up to $1,000 off with trade-in, new line

Ends tonight! This eye-friendly drawing tablet has slid back to its lowest price EVER, just in time for Back to School

Zachary David — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 13:50:48 +0000

Some of the best drawing tablet deals are popping up weeks ahead of the new school year, meaning you don't have to break the bank to get a device that's great for drawing and note-taking. This includes the second-gen TCL NXTPAPER 11 tablet, which has slid back to its lowest price ever at Amazon with a 28% discount that brings it down to just $180.

The TCL NXTPAPER 11 features an 11-inch, matte touchscreen display, a stylus, a built-in camera, and a carrying case. Users appreciate the device's long-lasting battery, while the screen is great for those who are extra sensitive to blue light and glare. Meanwhile, it includes a selfie camera that can be used for a biometric unlock feature instead of utilizing an onboard fingerprint scanner.

It also boasts a super-thin, lightweight design that makes it a good tablet for students and professionals on the go, along with stereo speakers and microphones for video calls, voice commands, and more.

TCL NXTPAPER 11 Gen 2: ~~$249.99~~ $179.98 at Amazon

This Gen 2 version of the TCL NXTPAPER has an 11-inch touchscreen, a carrying case, and an included stylus, and it just landed its biggest price drop yet for Amazon's early back-to-school sale. This brings the price down to just $180, representing a solid 28% discount for $70 in overall savings.

The deal ends in at midnight tonight, however, so don't wait too long to make your move!View Deal

✅Recommended if: you're looking for a solid drawing tablet with a matte display that measures around 11 inches; battery life is a major priority to you when it comes to buying a drawing tablet, and you want something that can easily outlast long drawing periods; you need a drawing tablet that also comes with a first-party stylus and a carrying case.

❌Skip this deal if: you'd rather spend more money to upgrade to one of the best drawing tablets on the market, or at least a model with a super high-res display; you need something with decent onboard cameras and super swift performance speeds; you aren't looking for something with a matte-style paper display.

The TCL NXTPAPER lineup offers a great range of devices, and this one is perfect for anyone who needs a drawing tablet with a roughly-11-inch screen. TCL says the 8,000mAh battery will net users over eight hours of battery life per charge, while it also comes with 18W fast charging capabilities and a reverse charging feature that can be used to power phones and other devices.

It's worth noting that the NXTPAPER 11 doesn't have the highest-resolution screen on the market, nor does it have fast performance or Wi-Fi speeds. Still, at just $180, you'd be hard-pressed to find anything that's going to offer mind-blowing performance, so this pick is perhaps best saved for those who aren't too terribly picky.

Google Photos fixes a stupidly annoying step for AI edits

techkritiko@gmail.com (Jay Bonggolto) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 11:00:30 +0000

What you need to know

Google Photos removes an annoying extra step by letting you capture a photo and jump straight into AI editing.
Generative AI tools like Remix and Photo to video are now easier to access, making spontaneous edits much faster.
The new in-app camera workflow eliminates the need to switch between the camera app and Photos.

Google Photos is cutting out a frustrating detour in its mobile app, making generative AI features like Remix and Photo to video much more convenient for the average user.

The company has unveiled a new camera experience that lets you take a photo and go straight to AI-powered editing tools without first rooting around your gallery.

Until now, feeding a fresh snapshot into Photos’ generative suite required an awkward multi-step dance. If you wanted to turn a quick funny expression into an animated clip or stylized portrait, you had to leave Google Photos, open your phone’s dedicated camera app, take the photo, then reopen Google Photos and hunt through your album to select it. That friction made spontaneous edits feel like too much work.

The updated flow allows you to take a new photo within the app and jump directly into Google Photos’ editing interface, where AI tools are at the ready. That eliminates the usual routine of opening the gallery, finding the photo you just took, and then firing up the editor.

In the year since, the app has transformed from a simple cloud backup tool to an AI-first photo hub featuring things like Magic Editor, Reimagine, Auto Frame, and Ask Photos. The latest shortcut doesn’t add a brand new editing capability, but it takes away some of the friction getting to the tools that already exist.

For those who routinely touch up photos before posting them, the new workflow could save an astonishing amount of time.

Android Central's Take

I personally like this direction because it removes one of those small annoyances that tend to add up over time. If I know I’m going to clean up a photo before sharing it, I’d rather jump straight into editing than hop around the app. That said, Google does seem intent on bringing AI into every nook and cranny of Photos, whether you asked for it or not. This shortcut is genuinely useful, but I’d still rather Google spend those same efforts fixing the core camera and gallery experience instead of assuming every shot needs an AI makeover.

Miss Samsung Messages? This unofficial app brings it back, including RCS

sanujb6@gmail.com (Sanuj Bhatia) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 10:23:05 +0000

What you need to know

Samsung Messages no longer works in the U.S., but a new app aims to recreate the familiar One UI messaging experience.
Messages by OzarksMade supports SMS, MMS, RCS, group chats, and conversation categories.
You'll still need Google Messages installed since Google's RCS infrastructure isn't open to third-party apps.
The app is currently in beta, with a public release planned later for a one-time purchase price of $0.99.

Samsung discontinued its Samsung Messages app in the U.S. earlier this month, but a new third-party app aims to bring back the same experience, complete with the familiar One UI design and RCS support.

Earlier this year, Samsung confirmed that Samsung Messages would stop working in the U.S. beginning in July 2026, encouraging users to switch to Google Messages instead. That deadline has now passed, and Galaxy users in the U.S. can no longer send or receive messages through Samsung Messages.

Thankfully, a developer has stepped in to fill the gap.

A new app called Messages by OzarksMade has been built specifically for Samsung users who miss the old Samsung Messages experience.

According to the developer, the goal is to recreate Samsung's messaging app as closely as possible, complete with the familiar One UI design, while also supporting modern RCS messaging and bringing back many of the features Galaxy users have come to expect.

This feels surprisingly close to Samsung Messages

(Image credit: OzarksMade)

The current beta already supports SMS, MMS, RCS, group chats, group messaging, scheduled messages, and more. It also includes Samsung Messages features like conversation categories. Chat themes are still missing for now, but the developer says they're already planned for the next update.

Since Samsung retired its own messaging app, the company has been directing users towards Google Messages as the default messaging app on Galaxy phones. And while Google Messages has improved significantly over the past few years and now offers many of the same features, it still doesn't completely replicate the Samsung Messages experience. That's exactly the gap this app is trying to fill.

There is one important limitation, though. Because Google doesn't allow third-party apps direct access to its RCS infrastructure, you'll still need Google Messages installed in the background for RCS to work. Even so, you'll continue using Messages by OzarksMade as your primary messaging app.

I haven't had a chance to try the beta myself just yet, but I'll be going hands-on with it very soon. If you're interested, you can already sign up for the beta through the developer's website.

Once development is complete and the app leaves beta, the developer says it will be available for a one-time purchase of $0.99.

Your older Galaxy phone just lost another piece of Samsung support

techkritiko@gmail.com (Jay Bonggolto) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 10:18:39 +0000

What you need to know

Samsung Find is losing support on older Galaxy devices, meaning phones and tablets running One UI 2.0 (Android 10) or older will no longer receive app updates.
Existing device tracking, SmartTags, and connected accessories will still work, and you can reinstall the latest compatible version from the Galaxy Store or Google Play.
Samsung recommends upgrading to a newer version of One UI to keep receiving Samsung Find updates and long-term support.

If you’re hanging on to an older Galaxy phone, Samsung has some bad news: it’s drawing a line in the software sand. Following its decision to drop Samsung Messages, the tech giant is also removing support for updates for the Samsung Find app on any device running One UI 2.0 or older.

A new notice in the app says that Samsung Find is not getting updates on Galaxy phones and tablets running One UI 2.0 or older, which is based on Android 10. That means no new features, no bug fixes, no performance upgrades, and no future compatibility updates for those devices, as spotted by SamMobile.

Well, the good news is that Samsung is not shutting down the service. And if you have an older Galaxy phone, Samsung Find will work just like it does now. Compatible Galaxy devices, SmartTags, earbuds, and other connected products are still available. You can reinstall the app from the Galaxy Store or Google Play if you uninstall it, but you'll only have access to the most recent version compatible with your software.

(Image credit: SamMobile)

There are a couple of caveats, though. Samsung says over time the app may not work with older devices and newer Galaxy hardware as it develops. Since unsupported versions won’t get compatibility updates, newer features added for recent Samsung phones may never appear on older phones.

Samsung says the move is intended to deliver a "more stable and high-quality service experience" for users on supported devices. If your Galaxy phone qualifies for a newer version of One UI, the company recommends updating both the firmware and the Samsung Find app so you can continue receiving new features and ongoing support.

Android Central's Take

Honestly, I'm not buying the "stable and high-quality experience" excuse. What Samsung is really telling us is that they’d rather you buy a new phone than keep squeezing an old one. Yes, supporting old-school software is a pain, but let's face it, this is a power play for planned obsolescence under the guise of a service upgrade.

A 'Nothing Watch' has been alleged, and I really don't know if I'm excited or not

nickodiaz@sbcglobal.net (Nickolas Diaz) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 10:11:00 +0000

What you need to know

Rumors on X claim Nothing is working on its first smartwatch with a starting price "under" $300.
A tipster suggests the watch could feature Nothing's typical DNA (likely in design), but it might only launch in "limited markets."
Nothing has technically made watches before, but under CMF with the Watch 3 Pro and other predecessors that use RTOS, not WearOS.

Rumors have started on social media about a new Nothing product. The company is allegedly working on its first smartwatch outside of its CMF brand.

Tipster Yogesh Brar on X claims that Nothing is developing its first smartwatch (via GSMArena). There aren't a ton of details we can sink our teeth into, but Brar claims the watch will rock "typical Nothing DNA." This is likely referring to its design. The watch is supposedly eyeing a release in "limited markets" at a starting price that's under $300.

This is a price that would put the watch a bit under others, like the Galaxy Watch 9, which starts at $379. Brar suggests that there's more to come, with alleged details forthcoming. Rumors end by purporting a September launch for this Nothing Watch (or whatever it'll be called). Many users are reacting to this rumor on X, much like we are. A major concern that we've seen mentioned is the watch's software.

Users wonder if the device will sport Google's WearOS software, or if the watch will settle for a proprietary RTOS.

Is this where we're headed?

(Image credit: CMF by Nothing)

Android Central's Take

This has me a little concerned. I generally like Nothing's phones. I think they're really cool, and their features and UI look so nice. But a watch seems strange to me. I think about its "flagship" phone, which doesn't feature a true flagship chip. Its phones are nice, but lack true power for gaming. What chip would a Nothing Watch feature? Will it have features that could contend with a Pixel Watch or Galaxy Watch 9? Perhaps it doesn't have to, but it needs something.

Smartwatches aren't technically a "new thing" for Nothing. What's been alleged now would be new, as Nothing hasn't released a watch from its main portfolio. Instead, what we've gotten are devices from CMF, its sub-brand that generates devices for affordability. CMF launched the Watch 3 Pro last summer, which offered a few noteworthy upgrades. CMF improved its heart sensor and sports modes, rolling out 131 supported activities.

The watch features a 1.43-inch AMOLED display, 120 customizable watch faces, and dual-band GPS. What's more, CMF states users can get ~13 days out of its battery for "typical use." That'll look more like 10 days with "heavy use." These specs are fine, especially considering the market CMF is in. But what's always stuck out is its software. CMF's Watch 3 Pro doesn't use WearOS; it uses an RTOS. While this hasn't always sat well with people, the device isn't that bad.

CMF's watch lacks depth. Depth that you would receive from a fully connected device running WearOS from Google, Samsung, or Garmin. Considering the rumor, if Nothing is working on a "flagship" watch, there are expectations.

Google Pixel 11 vs. Samsung Galaxy S26: Which AI phone should you buy in 2026?

derrek.lee@futurenet.com (Derrek Lee) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 09:46:33 +0000

Google

Pixel 11

The next big AI phone

The Pixel 11 is expected to take AI to another level, thanks to a new chip and potentially a mysterious new Pixel Glow. However, it could come at a cost, as it's expected to be priced higher than its predecessor.

Pros

Same iconic design
Nice new colors
Qi2 wireless charging
2nm Tensor G6
256GB as base storage
Gemini Intelligence

Cons

No more Indigo
No major battery changes
Outdated GPU
May miss out on Pixel Glow

Samsung

Galaxy S26

Some old, some new

The Galaxy S26 is Samsung's latest "small" flagship, stuffing a ton of performance and AI into a relatively pocketable phone. However, even with an exciting new chip, other important specs remain sadly unchanged.

Pros

Great performance
All-day battery
Good mix of Samsung and Google AI
Fantastic software

Cons

No built-in Qi2 magnets
No major camera upgrades
Relatively slow charging
Missing some useful specs

Samsung's Galaxy S26 has been out for some time now, but it's about to get some fierce competition from Google with the upcoming Pixel 11 series. With newer chips and more capable AI, the battle between these two phones (and the companies making them) is surely going to be pretty interesting.

That said, we don't know all there is to know about the Pixel 11. Google has released small teasers, but most details are left up to leaks and rumors. Still, there's enough speculation to paint a pretty good picture of what we can expect from the Pixel 11 and how it will stack up to the Galaxy S26.

One has the more effective design

(Image credit: Android Headlines)

Like the Galaxy S26 and its predecessor, the Pixel 11 is expected to look just like the Pixel 10. The leaked renders show a device that, if you didn't know any better, could easily pass for the Pixel 10, save for some small details. For example, the camera housing on the back will reportedly be fully glass this time.

There are also rumors of new colors, which may include Midnight Haze (black), Light Sterling (gray), Moss (green), and Fuchsia (pink), although the color names may not be final. I am a bit sad that Indigo likely won't be back this time around, but the pink color looks quite good.

(Image credit: Android Authority / Amazon)

One benefit the Pixel 11 should have over the Galaxy S26 is built-in magnets for Qi2 charging. It helps that the Pixel camera bar sits higher and horizontally, allowing for more space. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S26 camera bar sits vertically to one side, which limits internal space and is likely why Samsung has yet to fully adopt Qi2.

Furthermore, the Galaxy S26 tends to wobble when you put it face up on a flat surface, something you likely won't get with the Pixel 11.

(Image credit: Google)

We've also heard rumors of a mysterious Pixel Glow, which appears to be part of the LED camera flash. It will likely be a notification light of sorts and have something to do with Gemini. That said, it's unclear if it will be limited to the Pro models or if the base Pixel 11 will get it, too.

But the hardware favors another

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

The Pixel 11 is expected to be powered by the Tensor G6, which should be the first chip to use TSMC's 2nm process. That means the phone should be more powerful and much more efficient, although we'll have to wait until we test it to see how much of an improvement it is.

The phone will likely be paired with 12GB of RAM and, for the first time, 256GB of base storage. That all sounds great, especially since you're getting double the storage of the Pixel 10, although for a higher price.

Meanwhile, the Galaxy S26 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, perhaps the most powerful smartphone chip on the market right now. It, too, has 12GB of RAM, so it's pretty speedy and likely may have the upper hand in performance over Google's Tensor G6.

Category	Google Pixel 11	Samsung Galaxy S26
Processor	Google Tensor G6	Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy
Display	6.3-inch Actua OLED, 1080 x 2424, 422 PPI, 60-120Hz, 3000 nits	6.3-inch, Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, Corning Gorilla Glass
OS	Android 17, 7 years of OS and security updates	One UI 8.5 (Android 16), 7 years of OS and security updates
Storage	256GB, 512GB	256GB, 512GB
RAM	12GB	12GB
Cameras	50MP Wide + 13MP Ultrawide + 10.8MP 5x Telephoto	50MP Wide + 12MP Ultrawide + 10MP 3x Telephoto
Security	Ultrasonic fingerprint sensor	Ultrasonic fingerprint sensor
Connectivity	Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth v6, NFC, Dual-band GPS, 5G mmWave (NA only), 5G Sub-6, LTE	5G (sub-6, mmWave), Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, NFC
Battery	4,980mAh	4,300mAh
Charging	30W wired, 15W Qi2 Pixelsnap wireless	25W wired, Qi2 15W wireless, 4.5W reverse wireless
Dimensions	---	71.7 x 149.6 x 7.2 mm
Weight	---	167g
Colors	Midnight Haze (black), Light Sterling (gray), Moss (green), and Fuchsia (pink)	Cobalt Violet, Sky Blue, Black, White, Silver Shadow, Pink Gold

It's unlikely Google went with a silicon-carbon battery, which is disappointing.

The Galaxy S26 has a smaller battery but can still last all day. The downside is that it has relatively slow 25W charging, and the Pixel 11 is expected to retain 30W charging. The upside is that the Pixel should still have Qi2 magnetic charging, while the Galaxy S26 needs a case.

Who has the better camera?

(Image credit: Android Headlines)

The Galaxy S26 has a triple camera setup, and the Pixel 11 is expected to also have three cameras, although the details of these sensors are expected to be quite different.

It's been rumored that Google could bump the main sensor to 50MP. That would bring it in line with the Galaxy S26, although with the added benefit of a 5x telephoto camera, whereas the S26 only has a 3x optical camera.

Google also tends to do better with camera processing, although the Galaxy S26 can hold its own.

(Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)

The Pixel 11 is likely to introduce more camera and image editing features. It's unclear what they will be, but they could bring more social features

One gets the best of both worlds

(Image credit: Sanuj Bhatia / Android Central)

The software experience is very different on Samsung and Pixel phones. While Android 17 is rolling out to Pixel phones, many features expected to arrive with the Pixel 11 are still pending, along with any unannounced additions.

Google has a nice suite of AI capabilities, and Android 17 is slowly making Pixel phones more creator-focused with features like Camera Coach, Screen Reactions, and more.

(Image credit: Android Central)

The Galaxy S26 doesn't have any of these features, but it still gets some of Google's latest, such as Gemini Screen Automation. Samsung also has its own suite of Galaxy AI features, many of which are baked into the Gallery app for easy access to powerful editing tools.

Furthermore, both phones are expected to receive Gemini Intelligence features, which will provide even more advanced AI features.

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

Aside from the AI, the Pixel 11 will likely receive seven years of software updates. The Galaxy S26 should receive Android 17 any day now, and both phones will likely receive software support until 2033.

Google Pixel 11 vs. Samsung Galaxy S26: Which should you buy?

(Image credit: Namerah Saud Fatmi / Android Central)

Overall, choosing between the Pixel 11 and Galaxy S26 comes down to your priorities. It sounds like the Pixel 11 Tensor G6 will be a nice step up, although if you're looking for raw power and not just AI prowess, the Galaxy S26 might be the phone for you.

The Galaxy S26 also has the upper hand in software, taking advantage of solutions from both Google and Samsung, although the Pixel 11 should have an impressive suite of features. Additionally, the Pixel is expected to have the better camera and magnetic charging, but the Galaxy S26 is no slouch.

It's not an easy decision, but once the Pixel 11 is launched, we should have a clearer picture.

Pixel Watch 5 shows up again before launch, this time in one of Google's own apps

sanujb6@gmail.com (Sanuj Bhatia) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 08:48:48 +0000

What you need to know

The Pixel Watch 5 has appeared again ahead of launch, this time inside Google's official Google Health app.
The listing appeared for setup for one user, suggesting Google has quietly added pairing support.
The setup screens still use Pixel Watch 4 artwork, likely because Google hasn't updated the images yet

The Google Pixel Watch 5 has surfaced once again ahead of its expected launch next month.

If you remember, the Pixel Watch 5 made headlines earlier this year after a unit was reportedly found on the ocean floor by a scuba diver in St. Martin, giving us our first real-world look at the smartwatch.

Since then, we've seen several more leaks confirming its sizes and expected pricing. Now, with the Pixel 11 series launch just around the corner, the Pixel Watch 5 has shown up in one of Google's own apps.

Another Pixel Watch 5 leak before launch

(Image credit: @sameera_s_w on Telegram / Android Authority)

As spotted by a user on Telegram (via Android Authority), the Pixel Watch 5 appeared briefly towards the top of the device list when pairing a new wearable through the Google Health app. In the screenshot shared, the "Google Pixel Watch 5" is listed above the Fitbit Air in the device selection menu.

Tapping on it even takes the user through the next setup screens, suggesting Google has already added support for the upcoming smartwatch.

That said, the setup process doesn't reveal anything new about the watch's design. The artwork shown in the app is still identical to the Pixel Watch 4, which could simply be a placeholder since the two watches are expected to look very similar. It's also possible that Google just hasn't updated the artwork yet.

Either way, this is another appearance of the Pixel Watch 5 ahead of its expected debut next month. With Google's Pixel 11 launch event now only a couple of weeks away, we're likely to see even more leaks surface.

So far, though, everything points to the Pixel Watch 5 being a fairly iterative upgrade, albeit one that may come with a slightly higher price tag than its predecessor.

Google Pixel 11 Pro vs. Pixel 10 Pro: Should you bump your Pixel Pro to the newest one when it comes out?

namerah.saud-fatmi@futurenet.com (Namerah Saud Fatmi) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 08:26:46 +0000

Google Pixel 11 Pro

New sheriff in town

Google might have a tough sell on its hands with the Pixel 11 Pro. Allegedly, the upcoming flagship will feature almost identical specs to the Pixel 10 Pro, with some downgrades and brand-new Pixel Glow LED lights embedded in the camera bar. There could also be some upgrades like 256GB base storage and the Tensor G6.

Pros

Base model finally starts with 256GB
Pixel Glow expected to be a fun feature
Google's 7-year software update guarantee
Dependable cameras, hardware, magnetic Qi2.2, and IP68 rating
Upgraded Google Tensor G6 2nm chipset
Should support Vulkan leading to gaming performance boost

Cons

Price increased by $100
Base 256GB model comes with lower 12GB RAM
Selfie camera downgraded to 13MP
Smaller battery and unchanged charging specs
Poor PWM rate
Probably still doesn't keep up with Qualcomm flagships

Google Pixel 10 Pro

Old and reliable

The Google Pixel 10 Pro might be turning a year old, but it could have some advantages over the Pixel 11 Pro. If rumors are true, you get the same display, camera, charging speed, and hardware specs with a bigger battery, more RAM for the base model, and a superior selfie camera.

Pros

16GB standard RAM across the board
Retails for $100 cheaper and frequently discounted for a lot lesser
7 years of OS and security updates
Fantastic cameras and solid hardware all around, with magnetic Qi2.2
IP68 water and dust resistance
Bigger 4,870mAh battery and same charging speed as Pixel 11 Pro

Cons

Base model starts with 128GB
Doesn't support the latest version of Vulkan
Low PWM rate
Doesn't keep up with Qualcomm flagships

We're a few weeks away from the launch of the upcoming Pixel 11 series, prompting Pixel owners and those interested in owning one to start researching. Whether you own a Pixel 10 Pro or are looking to become the proud owner of one, should you be considering the Pixel 11 Pro? I'm here to help you answer the question based on everything we know so far. Mind you, this is all purely speculative, so take in this info with a pinch of salt.

Thanks to a healthy number of leaks, we have a pretty good idea of what the Pixel 11 Pro will look like. This is great because once August 12 rolls around, we'll all be well informed about the merits and demerits of the Google Pixel 11 Pro vs. Pixel 10 Pro. Here's what you need to know.

Google Pixel 11 Pro vs. Pixel 10 Pro: A familiar face

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

So far, leaks and rumors paint a familiar picture of the Google Pixel 11 Pro. The only noticeable design difference is the fun Pixel Glow light expected to sit inside the Pixel 11 Pro's camera bar, though we still don't know how useful it will be. Perhaps Google will play around with custom notification lighting, like the Glyph Interface on Nothing phones.

The Pixel 11 Pro may retain the Google Pixel 10 Pro's Moonstone and Obsidian colorways, although recent leaks reveal that the Pixel 11 Pro may come in Dune, Light Fog, Midnight Haze, and Pine.

(Image credit: Android Headlines)

Both phones are expected to share the same 6.3-inch 120Hz Super Actua OLED display, IP68 water and dust resistance, 30W wired fast charging speed, magnetic Qi2.2, and an identical main camera setup. We've also heard tell that the 10 Pro's 4,870mAh battery will be reduced to 4,850mAh in the 11 Pro.

A major change that I'm excited for is the upcoming Tensor G6 2nm SoC built by TSMC. Rumors indicate that the new chip might adopt a more efficient 1+4+2 core structure. It's also supposed to have a new MediaTek-built modem, so connectivity should be better. The Pixel 11 Pro should also support Vulkan, leading to improved gaming performance. Unfortunately, the Pixel 11 Pro might come with a five-year-old, outdated GPU.

Category	Google Pixel 11 Pro (rumored)	Google Pixel 10 Pro
OS	Android 17, 7-year update promise	Android 16, 7-year update promise
Storage options	256GB, 512GB, 1TB	128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
RAM	12GB	16GB
Display	6.3-inch 120Hz Super Actua OLED	6.3-inch 120Hz Super Actua OLED, 3,300 nits
Processor	Google Tensor G6	Google Tensor G5
Battery and charging	4,850mAh, 45W wired, 15W Qi2 Pixelsnap wireless	4,870mAh, 30W wired, 15W Qi2 Pixelsnap wireless
Cameras	50MP main, 48MP 123-degree ultrawide with macro focus, 48MP 5x telephoto, 13MP ultrawide PD AF selfie, 4K/60 10-bit HDR on all cameras, 8K/30 on rear cameras	50MP main, 48MP 123-degree ultrawide with macro focus, 48MP 5x telephoto, 42MP 103-degree Dual PD AF selfie, 4K/60 10-bit HDR on all cameras, 8K/30 on rear cameras
Connectivity	Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth v6, NFC, Dual-band GPS, 5G mmWave (NA only), 5G Sub-6, LTE	Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth v6, NFC, Dual-band GPS, 5G mmWave (NA only), 5G Sub-6, LTE
Colors	Dune, Light Fog, Midnight Haze, and Pine	Moonstone, Obsidian, Jade, Porcelain

The Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro are expected to share the same rear cameras, so the photography and videography experience should be just as spectacular on both phones. However, the newer 11 Pro ditches the 42MP 103-degree Dual PD AF selfie camera for a 13MP ultrawide lens instead.

While the 11 Pro finally starts at 256GB instead of 128GB on the base model like the 10 Pro, it's also $100 more expensive at its $899 starting price.

Google Pixel 11 Pro vs. Pixel 10 Pro: Software and AI features

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Google promises seven years of OS and security updates on both phones, and Pixels are always first in line for the latest updates. Pixel users also enjoy monthly feature drops, keeping them fresh.

The Pixel 10 Pro runs Android 16 out of the box, but the Pixel 10 series has already started to receive the Android 17 over-the-air update. This means that the software on the Pixel 10 Pro and 11 Pro should be almost identical, if not exactly the same. Owners of both will get to enjoy the best features of Android 17 like Bubbles, custom widgets, Rambler, an improved new UI, lots of Gemini goodies, and more!

Naturally, the 11 Pro will also retain all of the Pixel 10 Pro's AI features while gaining some exclusive capabilities. We're also expecting the 11 Pro to go all-in on agentic AI with Gemini Intelligence. However, many of the new features on the 11 Pro will likely flow over to the 10 Pro eventually via updates.

Google Pixel 11 Pro vs. Pixel 10 Pro: Which Pro phone is better and is it worth upgrading?

(Image credit: Namerah Saud Fatmi / Android Central)

Based on everything we know so far, the Google Pixel 11 Pro may have improved gaming performance, but will likely still pale in comparison to the best Qualcomm chipsets. Performance-heavy gaming has never been a priority for Google.

It is puzzling that the 11 Pro will likely see a downgraded battery and selfie camera. Even if the newer chipset is more efficient and performs better, and the base model starts with more storage, I'm not so sure it's worth $100 more.

If you've already got a Google Pixel 10 Pro, I don't suggest upgrading. I daily drive a 10 Pro, and I know the Pixel Glow lighting and a few menial spec bumps aren't worth the upgrade, so I'm going to wait for the Pixel 12 series.

In fact, if you do want a Pro-grade Pixel, I suggest waiting for the Pixel 11 to launch and taking advantage of the Pixel 10 discounts that will follow to get an even better deal on the 10 Pro. You'll get an outstanding phone with Pixelsnap, awesome software and hardware all around, and six more years of updates to go.

Galaxy Z Fold 8's popularity might've skyrocketed after almost a week of pre-orders

nickodiaz@sbcglobal.net (Nickolas Diaz) — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 18:33:00 +0000

What you need to know

Early reports claim that the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is capturing audiences overseas, as pre-orders are shattering expectations.
The device is seemingly outpacing Samsung's Fold 8 Ultra and Flip 8, as inventory sells out online, forcing shipping delays.
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 features a 5.4-inch cover display with a 16:10 aspect ratio in a more comfortable and pocketable form factor.

It's been almost a week since Galaxy Unpacked, and almost a week since pre-orders began for its next-gen foldables like the (wide) Galaxy Z Fold 8. Early reports claim this device is seeing popularity that's stunning Samsung.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8's popularity is reportedly shattering Samsung's expectations. Rumors about its performance started appearing on X, courtesy of tipster Ice Universe (via 9to5Google). The tipster alleges that the "pre-order volume" of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 has "far exceeded the Fold 8 Ultra." This information reportedly comes from early numbers out of South Korea. Users in the thread commented, offering their experience.

See Android Central's guide to the best Galaxy Z Fold 8 preorder deals

One user states that as soon as the pre-order period began in South Korea, "the site crashed, and within less than 30 minutes, the dates got pushed back from August 4 to 28." They added that the device was seemingly sold out (or pushed back due to severe popularity) on Samsung's official website. The Flip 8 and the Fold 8 Ultra are reportedly still on schedule to ship/arrive by August 4.

Similarly, a report by another tipster, Lanzuk, on Naver suggests more of the same. They state sales for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 are "exceeding expectations," reportedly based on a "preliminary tally" of the first round of pre-orders. Online stock is apparently sold out, and many offline channels for procuring the device are backlogged. Users in the comments seemed to agree with the Fold 8's purported popularity.

Don't jump to conclusions

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

Some people were understandably skeptical about the Galaxy Z Fold 8, like Android Central's Derrek Lee. The Fold 8 is the wide addition to the foldable lineup, which means the Fold 8 Ultra is actually the successor to the Fold 7. These two look pretty much identical; however, the bigger story here is the Galaxy Z Fold 8. Samsung went smaller to go wider. The Fold 8 offers a 5.4-inch cover display with a 16:10 aspect ratio.

In Derrek's experience, the Fold 8 fits very well in the palm of his hand, and its thin profile (9.7mm) makes it quite a pocketable phone. One concern was how apps would react to a phone of this size, but they resize well on the Fold 8. Long-form videos look a bit better on the taller Fold 8 Ultra, due to its size, but if you flip the device sideways, it's all gravy. Multitasking also took a step up, as the Fold 8 can fit three apps side-by-side.

What's also caught our attention is the S Pen, or rather the lack thereof. Neither the Fold 8 nor the Fold 8 Ultra features Samsung's stylus. If you consider how multitasking-heavy these phones are, and how Samsung pushes users to take advantage of it, you'd imagine the stylus would be there. Other tools on the phones probably make the lack of a stylus sting less, so it's not a huge problem.

Android Central's Take

I feel that the main thing consumers will have trouble with is their choice. Which decision will you make? Are you more interested in a taller, "bigger" foldable or something a bit smaller and wider? A more pocketable phone. I like the wide Galaxy Z Fold 8. And this is where things get interesting because I mentioned this during the live blog. We see how popular the Fold 8 is and how the Flip 8 is supposedly sliding back. The Fold 8 seems to nail what consumers are looking for out of a foldable. I'm still curious on specific numbers if these reports are true.

Honor's new era is cinema: major Robot Phone camera details, AiMAGE image engine confirmed

nickodiaz@sbcglobal.net (Nickolas Diaz) — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 17:46:00 +0000

What you need to know

Honor held an Image Technology event in Hengdian, China today (July 28) where it highlighted the camera tech behind the Robot Phone.
The phone will feature its in-house AiMAGE imaging engine, alongside a partnership with ARRI to fuel cinematography for "everyday scenarios."
The Robot Phone will launch on August 12.

Honor is entering a "new era" ahead of its Robot Phone launch. Today (July 28), the company unveiled what its future as an "AI terminal ecosystem company" will look like, beginning with the cinema photography.

In Hengdian, China, Honor held its Image Technology Launch event, where it detailed its mobile technologies and how it intends for professionals to use its "cinema workflow." Honor shared that information with us this morning, highlighting its chip-device-cloud imaging engine, AiMAGE, and a partnership with ARRI.

During the keynote, the company said: "...mobile imaging progress depends on the combined evolution of physical image capture and intelligent processing: optical and sensor capabilities define the foundation of image quality, while AI, algorithms and cloud capabilities amplify what users can create."

This is the driving force behind the AiMAGE chip-device-cloud imaging engine. The chip side of its development is handled by its in-house Transformer-based native AI ISP, which helps "reconstruct the image processing pipeline from the ground up." Since this technology is headed to the Robot Phone, Honor says it's taking full advantage of its titanium alloy three-axis gimbal, "precision" sensing hardware, and more to improve image quality and motion control.

It's almost time

(Image credit: Honor)

Honor's partnership with ARRI delivers "a more professional color and workflow foundation to the HONOR Robot Phone." Most of this is thanks to ARRI Look, LogC3, and Wide Gamut 3.

The company wanted to nail mobile imaging technology for true, cinematic creative scenarios. At the keynote, Honor says it invited Claudio Miranda to use the Robot Phone's camera to "recreate" a cinematic scene. Regarding the device's performance, cinematographer Wang Boxue said, "What impressed me is not only the image quality, but also how a compact mobile device can enter spaces that traditional camera setups cannot. This gives creators more freedom in camera movement and helps reduce the burden of production while expanding creative possibilities."

These are "long-term" ambitions Honor has set out to accomplish for the Robot Phone's AI and cinematography for "everyday scenarios." Pushing us further will be the device's 200MP main lens, 50MP ultrawide, and a 200MP telephoto sensor (via NotebookCheck). The Robot Phone is preparing to debut on August 12 to "redefine" our mobile devices.

Honor's been slowly but surely giving consumers and others information about the Robot Phone. The device was in Barcelona during MWC 2026, where the Robot Phone was said to debut globally in Q3 2026. The main highlight of this phone is its curious gimbal camera, which observes the world. The camera can automatically track movement using many of the technologies that Honor discussed at its event in China today.

Android Central's Take

When Honor posted that teaser about the Robot Phone months ago, it reminded me of WALL-E. The way it looks around curiously. I can almost hear WALL-E quips and whirrs. The Robot Phone is different. Maybe we need that right now. One feature Honor first teased was that users could flip up the camera, and it would "watch the world" as you move around. The phone might even take pictures or record videos for you. Imagine that.

How to get the 'spectacular' Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 for the price of a monthly latte

patrick.farmer@futurenet.com (Patrick Farmer) — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 16:25:09 +0000

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 is set to hit store shelves next week, but for folks who don't want to wait, AT&T just dropped one of the best preorder deals I've seen yet.

Process a trade-in and add a line with an eligible data plan and AT&T will give you up to $1,000 off the Galaxy Z Flip 8. That knocks the price of the innovative foldable down to just $5.56 per month for 36 months! Think of it as the large latte that you order every month, except it's not a latte: it's an incredible 2026 flip phone.

AT&T deal drops the Galaxy Z Flip 8 to just over $5 per month

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 256GB: ~~$1,199.99~~ From $5.56 per month with eligible trade-in, new line at AT&T

Add a line with a qualified unlimited plan and trade in an old or broken phone (Galaxy S22 Plus or higher) and AT&T will hook you up with $1,000 in promo credits over 36 months. That drops the Galaxy Z Flip 8 to only $5.56 per month, days before the flip phone officially hits store shelves on August 7th. View Deal

AT&T has listed the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus, Z Flip 4, and Galaxy Z Flip 3 (or higher) as devices that will earn you the full $1,000 of trade-in credit, while older devices dating all the way back to the Samsung Galaxy S10 series will guarantee you $500 off your preorder. A new line on the carrier's Extra 2.0 plan or higher is also required to earn the full discount.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 takes the foundation of last year's excellent Z Flip 7 and adds a thinner and more lightweight build along with the incorporation of a custom Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. The finished product is a powerful flip phone with a sleek, sophisticated design, outstanding performance, and seven years of OS and security upgrades guaranteed.

It also retails for $100 more than last year's version, which is why Galaxy Z Flip 8 preorder deals like the offer above are so important. Sure, this deal isn't for everyone, and there's probably no urgent reason to upgrade if you already own the Galaxy Z Flip 7. But if you've had your eye on Samsung's latest masterpiece and you're looking to upgrade your wireless service, this AT&T deal is one of the best on the web.