Prime Day is nearing an end, but there are still plenty of great Android phone deals hanging around if you know where to look. That said, there's one product category that hasn't received enough attention during the sale: small phones. 

As you probably noticed, Android phones have been getting bigger and bigger in recent years. That's cool if you're into that kind of thing, but there is a growing population of users who would prefer something compact and powerful over a giant display that you can barely use with one hand. Fortunately, there are plenty of options available if you prefer small phones, and many of them are on sale today. 

Since it's ending tonight at midnight PST, I'll start by showcasing Prime Day deals — but if you missed Amazon's sale, don't forget that Best Buy and Walmart are also running their own rival sale events. The picks below range from no-frills budget phones to clamshell devices, so without further ado, let's dive right in. 

What is considered a small phone?

Nowadays, small phones are considered any device with a screen that's less than 6.4 inches. Considering how many modern Android phones are 6.7-inch or larger, the category is smaller than you might think. 

What time does Prime Day end?

Prime Day 2026 is set to formally end at 11:59pm PST. That means you only have a few more hours to take advantage of the best Prime Day deals until they're gone for good (or until Amazon decides to launch another sale event later this year). 

More Prime Day 2026 - quick links

• Phones: major savings on Pixel, Samsung, and beyond
• Wearables: up to 50% off Garmin, Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit
• Tablets: Galaxy Tab, Kindle, and Amazon Fire tablets from $50
• Chromebooks: discounts on ASUS, HP, and Lenovo
• Smart Home: up to 60% off Alexa devices
• Headphones/earbuds: huge discounts on Beats, Sony, and more
• Smart TVs: cheap smart TVs from $69.99

There are plenty of reasons to grab a new pair of earbuds. Whether yours are just getting old or you accidentally dropped one down a sewer drain (ask me how I know), Prime Day is one of the best ways to grab a new pair for cheap, and there's no better deal than this $19.99 CMF Buds 2a deal!

If you haven't tried Nothing's CMF buds before, get ready to be impressed with how good earbuds can be for this price. We've been praising this brand's buds since 2024, and Nothing goes above and beyond delivering a simply "good" experience, despite the price.

The Buds 2 series has several entries, so I've narrowed it down to three options for you to choose today: the entry-level Buds 2a, the mid-range Buds 2, and the more premium-style Buds 2 Pro.

• Prime Day 2026 is LIVE June 23-26: see the full list of deals

✅Recommended if: You're looking for a quality pair of active noise-cancelling (ANC) earbuds for a ridiculously low price.

❌Skip this deal if: You're an audiophile who needs high-res audio quality. These are great, but they're no $500 Bose headphones. Also, keep in mind that ll three of these are water-resistant (IP54 or IP55), which means they're just fine for rain and sweat, but not for getting submerged.

The cheaper Buds 2a and Buds 2 offer identical case designs with a rotating "fidget wheel" that includes spots to attach a lanyard to. This case will charge your buds fast. I'm talking 5-10 minutes of charge for hours of use. It's pretty wild!

Upgrading to the Buds 2 Pro will turn that wheel into a bona fide volume adjustment wheel, so you can easily adjust music volume in your pocket by using the wheel. It's one of those little charming traits you'll delight in using every time. Plus, it doubles as a customizable button that you can assign several functions to in the CMF app.

As you might expect, the Buds 2 Pro will deliver the best audio quality of the three on sale today, so choose wisely depending on how much you care about top-quality audio. But don't wait too long, because this sale ends when the clock strikes midnight on Friday, June 26!

More Prime Day 2026 - quick links

• Phones: major savings on Pixel, Samsung, and beyond
• Wearables: up to 50% off Garmin, Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit
• Tablets: Galaxy Tab, Kindle, and Amazon Fire tablets from $50
• Chromebooks: discounts on ASUS, HP, and Lenovo
• Smart Home: up to 60% off Alexa devices
• Headphones/earbuds: huge discounts on Beats, Sony, and more
• Smart TVs: cheap smart TVs from $69.99

What you need to know

• OnePlus may bring back the full smartphone experience by including a 45W charger and a clear silicone case in the N6 box.
• The bundled charger matches the phone's 8,000mAh battery and 45W fast charging, so buyers won't need to purchase a compatible adapter separately.
• The leaked unboxing confirms the mint colorway already teased by OnePlus, with a black variant also expected at launch.

OnePlus looks poised to bring back a small convenience many smartphone brands have ditched. Just days before the official launch of the OnePlus N6, a leaked unboxing has offered a glimpse of what customers will find inside the retail box, and it's shaping up to be more generous than what you'll find with many flagship phones today.

The images, shared by tipster Abhishek Yadav on X, show the complete retail bundle alongside the handset itself (via Android Authority). The OnePlus N6 will come with a 45W SuperVOOC power adapter, a USB-C charging cable, a clear silicone protective case, documentation, and a SIM ejector tool, according to the post. That’s notable at a time when many manufacturers have dispensed with charging bricks in the box altogether, often leaving customers to reuse an older charger or buy a new one separately.

The charger included also meets specifications OnePlus has already confirmed. The company says the N6 is powered by a massive 8,000mAh battery with support for 45W wired fast charging, so consumers won’t have to hunt for a compatible adapter on day one.

The leaked photos don’t hold many surprises on the phone’s design, as OnePlus has already shown it off ahead of launch. The device shown in the unboxing matches the mint color finish that the company teased earlier, and official promotional material also hints at a black color option.

Don't be fooled by the camera bump

One thing to check out is the rear camera module. At first glance it seems to have three cameras, but that doesn’t mean the phone has a triple-camera setup. So far, OnePlus has officially announced only a 50MP main rear camera and an 8MP front-facing camera. The extra cutouts could be used to house decorative elements or auxiliary sensors rather than the cameras.

Earlier leaks have also helped clarify the rest of the hardware, in addition to the official announcements. The OnePlus N6 is rumored to sport a 1,570 x 720 display, a MediaTek Dimensity 6100 Plus (MT6835) chipset, 6GB of RAM, and Android 16 at launch. OnePlus has yet to confirm those specs, but they align with the phone's status as an affordable entry-level device.

Pricing is expected to be sub Rs 20,000 (roughly $212), which will surely keep the N6 in the budget segment. OnePlus has already announced that the phone will be launched in India on June 30, but the company has not confirmed whether it will launch in other markets, including the U.S.

Android Central's Take

I’m glad OnePlus is fighting the industry’s tendency to strip essentials out of the box. A charger and a basic case aren’t premium extras; they’re things most people actually need on day one. If this leak holds, the OnePlus N6 will save buyers a little money and a trip to the accessories aisle. That's more than I can say for plenty of brands that sell you a $1,000 phone and then expect applause for letting you buy the charger separately.

Android phones are exceptionally capable these days, but they are also more deeply connected to everyday life. Banking, shopping, messaging, travel bookings, work accounts and even smart home controls now live inside the same device people carry everywhere.

All this integration has changed the nature of Android security threats and moved risks beyond the category of suspicious pop-ups or obviously malicious downloads.

Fake parcel delivery texts arrive through SMS, phishing links spread through messaging apps, and harmless-looking apps can quietly request access to photos, microphones, contacts or location data without users fully realising what they’re agreeing to.

At the same time, Android remains one of the most flexible mobile platforms available, which is part of its appeal. The ability to sideload apps, customise devices and install software outside traditional app stores gives users more freedom, but it can also create additional opportunities for bad actors to exploit.

That’s why mobile security in 2026 increasingly focuses more on reducing exposure in the background before problems escalate, which is exactly where Bitdefender Mobile Security for Android can help you.

TL;DR

Bitdefender Mobile Security for Android focuses on the risks Android users increasingly face every day, including malicious apps, phishing links, risky permissions, and unsafe public Wi-Fi networks. Its protection tools work across apps rather than just in browsers, with background scanning helping to reduce exposure without constantly interrupting normal phone use.

Android threats no longer live inside the browser

Many modern Android threats now appear inside everyday apps rather than through traditional desktop-style malware attacks.

Phishing attempts increasingly arrive through WhatsApp messages, Instagram DMs, Telegram chats and fake delivery texts designed to look legitimate at first glance. In some cases, users may never even open a web browser before exposing personal information.

Fake Android app updates have also become more convincing, with some imitating banking apps, streaming platforms or productivity tools closely enough to fool users into downloading malicious software or entering login credentials into cloned interfaces.

Sideloading remains another area where Android users need to stay alert. Installing APKs outside official storefronts can sometimes provide access to useful apps unavailable elsewhere, but unofficial downloads may also contain hidden malware, spyware, or aggressive advertising software that runs silently in the background.

This is where modern mobile security increasingly shifts towards prevention rather than reaction. Instead of waiting for a device to become obviously compromised, Bitdefender Mobile Security for Android proactively identifies suspicious activity, risky downloads and malicious links before they cause wider problems.

What are risky Android permissions — and why do they matter?

App permissions control what software can access on an Android device, including microphones, cameras, contacts, files and location data. The problem is that many users grant permissions automatically without questioning why an app needs them in the first place.

A photo-editing app requesting permanent location access or a flashlight app asking to read contacts may not sound too risky, but permissions can potentially expose far more personal information than you think.

Android has significantly improved permission transparency in recent years, with clearer controls and better visibility into what apps access behind the scenes. That said, permission requests have become so common that many people automatically tap “Allow,” creating opportunities for malicious actors to quietly collect unnecessary data over time.

Bitdefender’s Mobile Security for Android can help users identify suspicious behaviour patterns without requiring deep technical knowledge or overwhelming them, and by simplifying decision-making while keeping people in control of their devices.

Web protection now needs to work across apps

The way people use the internet on Android has changed dramatically over the past few years. Many users now spend more time inside apps than traditional web browsers, which means phishing protection can no longer focus solely on browser-based threats.

Malicious links are increasingly spreading through messaging platforms, social media apps, QR codes, and SMS conversations. A fake delivery notification, concert ticket update or password reset request can appear convincing enough to encourage users to click before questioning its legitimacy.

This is one reason why cross-app web protection has become increasingly important for Android security platforms.

A dedicated solution for your mobile phone, such as Bitdefender Mobile Security for Android or a Bitdefender multi-platform security solution, can detect suspicious links across multiple apps and services, reducing exposure wherever a potentially harmful link appears.

Background protection matters because modern phishing attempts often rely on speed and distraction rather than sophisticated hacking techniques.

Android security works best when it stays out of the way

The best mobile security tools are often the ones users barely notice day to day. Constant warnings, intrusive pop-ups and complicated settings menus can quickly lead people to disable protections altogether, particularly on personal devices used for work, travel and entertainment throughout the day.

That’s why many modern Android security platforms now prioritise quieter background monitoring designed to reduce friction during normal usage. Background scanning, malicious app detection, and automated web protection enable security tools to operate continuously without forcing you to constantly manage alerts.

This is especially beneficial for families or households with several Android devices, like shared tablets and family phones, where not all users may be able to recognise risky download suggestions or suspicious links.

Fortunately, Bitdefender's system can manage this automatically, operating in the background without requiring users to surrender control over their privacy settings and permissions.

Why public Wi-Fi still creates privacy risks

While public Wi-Fi remains convenient, it’s also a security risk for mobile users. Airports, cafés, hotels and train stations all rely on shared wireless networks, yet users often have limited visibility into how secure those connections actually are.

In some situations, attackers may attempt to intercept unsecured traffic, impersonate legitimate networks, or redirect users to malicious login pages designed to steal credentials or payment details.

Mobile devices are particularly exposed because they frequently connect automatically to previously used networks, sometimes without users realising it.

For Android users who regularly work remotely or travel with sensitive personal information stored on their devices, Bitdefender's secure browsing remains an important way to reduce exposure on unfamiliar networks.

Does Android still need antivirus software?

Android is considerably safer than it was a decade ago, thanks to stronger built-in protections, stricter app store policies and improved permission management. That said, modern mobile threats have evolved alongside the platform itself.

Rather than focusing solely on traditional “viruses,” many attacks now target phishing, account theft, malicious links, fake apps, and data-harvesting techniques that rely heavily on user behaviour rather than technical exploits alone.

As Android devices increasingly replace laptops for banking, shopping, communication and work, the amount of sensitive information stored on phones continues to grow.

That’s why modern mobile security tools increasingly focus on broader privacy and exposure reduction rather than simply scanning devices for malware signatures.

• Explore how Bitdefender security solutions can help protect your devices, identity and privacy — all in one place.

What you need to know

• Samsung's Galaxy S27 Pro has allegedly appeared in a GSMA database listing alongside the other three models.
• The listing directly mentions the phone by name with a model number that's uniquely its own.
• Previous rumors claim Samsung wants to expand the Galaxy S27 series with a fourth model, and it could feature a 6.4-inch display with "Ultra-like" features.

Rumors have been drumming up what we might see from Samsung's Galaxy S27 series for months. Now there's a report that says one alleged device could be real.

The eagle eyes of OVRPlus claim that the GSMA database now (allegedly) lists a new Galaxy S model that we've seen rumored: the Galaxy S27 Pro (via SamMobile). The publication states the device was listed with model number SM-S957B/DS. What's more, the listing details the manufacturer, which is Samsung, and the device's "market name" as "Galaxy S27 Pro."

Usually, listings from GSMA bear weight, but keep in mind that nothing's confirmed until Samsung says so.

The publication kept searching and found that the database listing contains model numbers and names for the other Galaxy S27 series phones. The company has posted listings for the base Galaxy S27, S27 Plus, and S27 Ultra. These three phones were expected, as they've become commonplace for Samsung's flagship series.

Pro on the way?

The latest leak surrounding the Galaxy S27 Pro came from a South Korean report that said it could bring "Ultra-like" features. The report got things going by stating Samsung was looking to expand its Galaxy S series next year with one additional model: the S27 Pro. While rumors suggest it could offer an experience that's closer to the Ultra, the Pro wouldn't feature an S Pen.

What's more, Samsung could give the S27 Pro a Privacy Display. This wouldn't be the first time we've seen a fourth model injected into the Galaxy S line. My colleague Sanuj Bhatia reminded us all of the Galaxy S25 Edge, which didn't perform as well. Whether the S27 Pro is simply an experiment or not remains to be seen. On the other hand, specification rumors surfaced for the S27 Pro, stating it could offer a 6.4-inch display.

A screen like this would place it between a base Galaxy S model and a Galaxy S Plus, if we're going by Samsung's history. The Pro could also grab the Ultra's main and ultrawide cameras; however, the difference could be in its telephoto.

Android Central's Take

A Galaxy S27 Pro would shake things up for sure. I think the display size, from what these rumors have said, would make it interesting, too. The Pro wouldn't be as big as the Ultra, but would carry features like it. I can see this phone grabbing the attention of people who love the Ultra's features, but don't enjoy holding such a big phone all day everyday.

When Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Fold 7 last year, it pushed the foldable even further into premium territory with a price close to $2,000. But thanks to Amazon's Prime Day sale, that price is no longer as hard to justify, with Samsung's flagship foldable now discounted by more than $500.

Right now, you can grab the Galaxy Z Fold 7 for just $1,470 in the U.S., a massive 27% discount from its original $2,000 price. When we reviewed the Galaxy Z Fold 7, we said it was an excellent foldable but difficult to recommend at full price. We also suggested waiting for a big sale, and that sale has finally arrived.

• Prime Day is back June 23-26: see the full list of deals

✅Recommended if: you want a thin and light foldable, a cover display that feels like a regular smartphone, flagship performance, an excellent OLED display, and Samsung's Galaxy AI features.

❌Skip this deal if: you want the biggest battery, ultra-fast charging, or need stylus support on a foldable.

The timing also makes this deal particularly interesting. Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy Z Fold 8 next month at Unpacked, but current rumors suggest it won't be a massive upgrade over the Fold 7. Instead, Samsung appears to be focusing most of its attention on a new, wider foldable designed to compete with Apple's rumored foldable iPhone.

That's exactly why this Galaxy Z Fold 7 deal is so compelling. You're essentially getting what will still be one of Samsung's best foldables for well over $500 less than its launch price, without giving up much compared to what's expected from the Z Fold 8.

Samsung made some meaningful changes with the Galaxy Z Fold 7, making it thinner and lighter than previous generations while also widening the cover display so it feels much closer to using a regular smartphone. It's one of the biggest reasons I'd still recommend it today, because you get the convenience of a normal phone that unfolds into a proper tablet when you need it.

Sure, it doesn't support a stylus anymore, but you still get Samsung's Galaxy AI features, one of the fastest chipsets available on Android in Snapdragon 8 Elite, and a polished foldable software experience.

If you thought the Galaxy Z Fold 7 was simply too expensive at launch, this Prime Day deal finally makes it feel like the value it should have been all along.

More Prime Day 2026 - quick links

• Phones: major savings on Pixel, Samsung, and beyond
• Wearables: up to 50% off Garmin, Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit
• Tablets: Galaxy Tab, Kindle, and Amazon Fire tablets from $50
• Chromebooks: discounts on ASUS, HP, and Lenovo
• Smart Home: up to 60% off Alexa devices
• Headphones/earbuds: huge discounts on Beats, Sony, and more
• Smart TVs: cheap smart TVs from $69.99

What you need to know

• Samsung detailed its Galaxy A27 5G in its launch ahead of its July 14 availability for $349 in the U.S.
• The device's main highlight is its revamped display, which offers a punch-hole camera and much thinner bezels than the A26.
• Samsung also switches to Qualcomm's Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 SoC, but retains its 5,000mAh battery.

Sending us into the end of the week is Samsung's latest mid-range phone launch that looks much more appealing this time around.

The Korean OEM launched its next-generation budget phone, the Galaxy A27. The phone begins at $349 and will be available in the U.S. on July 14. While Samsung continues to place its suite of Galaxy AI features into this phone for budget-conscious consumers, the main highlight is the A27 5G's display. Samsung says it's integrated "more screen" onto this A-series phone. After the A26 5G, this was needed.

Consumers will find a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED screen with up to 120Hz refresh rate. However, Samsung introduced a punch-hole (12MP) selfie camera, which you'd see on its flagship models. While there's now more available screen toward the top-middle of the A27 5G, Samsung also reduced its bordering bezels. The company states this change "adds screen space and removes distractions to keep content front and center."

At a slim 7.8mm in thickness, the company intends to offer a more favorable mid-range this summer. On the back, users will find a 50MP ultra-wide, a 50MP OIS (optical image stabilization) wide, and a 2MP macro camera.

Trying to be "awesome"

Looking inward, the Galaxy A27 5G features Qualcomm's mid-range Snapdragon 6 Gen 3. Performance is the phone's focal point. Samsung says this chip facilitates "more responsive" app switching and multitasking in the A27. More importantly, it delivers a graphical boost to the phone for "smoother" gaming sessions. The phone is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery and 25W fast charging support.

Elsewhere, the A27 5G offers a wide selection of Galaxy AI features we've become accustomed to in other phones. Object Eraser for clearing blemishes from your captures, as well as Voice Transcription, find their way onto the device. Google's Circle to Search and Gemini are featured for easy lookup and AI assistance. What's more, users will have the choice to swap Gemini for Perplexity if they prefer. Let's also not forget about Samsung's Bixby, which is a third option for users looking to utilize artificial assistance.

The A27 features quite the downgrade in water/dust resistance, dropping to IP64, instead of retaining the A26's IP67.

For its support, Samsung says the A27 5G receives six generations of Android OS (One UI) upgrades and six years of security updates.

The A27 5G launches July 14 for $349 in the U.S. in black for its 6/128GB (RAM/storage) option.

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is an incredible phone with one very big problem — its price. With a starting retail tag of $1,299.99, the device was simply out of reach for a lot of people at launch, which means many were waiting for Prime Day to see if an Amazon discount could lessen the blow. 

Thankfully, Prime Day didn't disappoint, and the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is currently chilling with a whopping 29% discount through June 26th. That price drop puts the 256GB configuration at $919.99, which is well below the previously held lowest price ever recorded.

Still, 900 bucks isn't exactly small change, so many folks are wondering: is the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra worth the price yet? It's not an easy question to answer, so let's break it all down. 

• Prime Day is LIVE June 23-26: see the full list of deals

✅Recommended if: you want a powerful Samsung phone with a large display, built-in stylus, and top-tier Snapdragon performance; you're a Samsung enthusiast who simply can't miss the latest and greatest creations from the OEM.

❌Skip this deal if: you don't necessarily need the most powerful smartphone on the market; you can get a better Galaxy S26 deal through your wireless carrier; you need the best camera tech in your smartphones.

It's no surprise that the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is one of the most powerful Android phones ever built. It's basically Samsung's everything-but-the-kitchen-sink phone, sporting the latest Snapdragon processor, unbelievable charging speeds, and a gorgeous 6.9-inch AMOLED display. The phone also comes packed with new features like Privacy Display, plus you get all of the latest AI-boosted software tricks and 12GB of RAM as standard.

But the question here isn't whether or not the Galaxy S26 Ultra is a good phone; the question is if it's worth the $919.99 price tag during Prime Day. After all, it does has some flaws. The camera hardware is a bit underwhelming, for instance, and the Ultra's slim frame means that the battery size isn't much of an upgrade over its predecessor. 

Indeed, with regular day to day use, it's unlikely that you'll notice a difference in performance between the Galaxy S26 Ultra and say, the base model Galaxy S26 (currently just $669.99 during Prime Day) or even the Google Pixel 10 (discounted to $684 today). 

If you're a Samsung enthusiast who's had your eye on the Galaxy S26 Ultra for a while, then by all means jump on this deal while you have the chance. After all, it's unlikely that we'll see an unlocked S26 Ultra deal this good again until the Fall sales kick off in October. But if you just want a great phone deal this Prime Day, there are plenty of other Samsung deals that won't cost you over $900 out the door. The choice is yours. 

More Prime Day 2026 - quick links

• Phones: major savings on Pixel, Samsung, and beyond
• Wearables: up to 50% off Garmin, Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit
• Tablets: Galaxy Tab, Kindle, and Amazon Fire tablets from $50
• Chromebooks: discounts on ASUS, HP, and Lenovo
• Smart Home: up to 60% off Alexa devices
• Headphones/earbuds: huge discounts on Beats, Sony, and more
• Smart TVs: cheap smart TVs from $69.99

What you need to know

• Nothing revealed what its Phone 4b will look like ahead of its July 7 launch, and it will rock a "unibody" design with a clear camera bump.
• The phone features two vertical camera lenses and the Phone 4a's Glyph Bar LED system.
• Nothing's co-founder, Akis Evangelidis, recently discussed the Phone 4b, stating it will feature its own distinct voice, while potentially sitting below the a-series.

Throw away your sketchbooks. Nothing revealed the design of its upcoming Phone 4b in full before launch, and it's taking a new approach.

Nothing appears to be pushing the envelope with its next device, the Phone 4b. On X, the company fully revealed the phone's design ahead of its July 7 launch. The video shows an illustrator "designing" the phone, placing its camera lenses, volume buttons, power button, and SIM tray. The back of the Phone 4b is turning heads, as a community post states it features a "unibody design."

What would be the "clear camera bump" is pretty flush to the phone's back panel. The camera lenses rise off the bump a tad, but Nothing has kept those specifications under wraps. An LED flash and another sensor are set beside that (horizontally) in a pill-shaped container. Nothing also draws attention to the Glyph Bar, which we've seen debut on the Phone 4a. The company says this design approach was done to facilitate "a minimal rear design that feels distinctly Nothing and smooth in your hands."

The video on X gives us a good look at the phone's screen, too. The UI is distinctly Nothing OS, of course, but its bezels are a talking point. They seem rather thick. A user on X noticed this, too, but points out another aspect: a rather large chin (via Gizmodo). There could be more to this, and we'd have to look at what the company's co-founder said a few days ago.

Phone 4b in progress...

Earlier this week, Nothing posted an image straight out of a blueprint or a sketchbook. The company said it "accidentally" designed a new phone, and that seems to ring true after this reveal. Nothing clearly tried to merge certain aspects of its Phone 4a and 4a Pro to make a phone that still keeps its own identity. However,, the company's co-founder, Akis Evangelidis, discussed the true intentions of the Phone 4b.

According to Evangelidis, the Phone 4b is a "continuation of our naming system." The phone is intended to stand on its own, while using lessons learned from the a-series. What's more, it looks like this phone could sit below (price-wise) the Phone 4a and other a-series devices. Evangelidis says the a-series is a "premium line" beneath the main flagship Nothing phones. This could be why the Phone 4b's bezels seem thick. How that sways public opinion is up to the public.

The phone is set to debut on July 7, where we'll undoubtedly learn everything we need to.

Android Central's Take

The Phone 4b has a simpler design compared to the Phone 4a and 4a Pro—especially the 4a Pro. It seems like Nothing is trying to nail a lower price point with this phone. Maybe that's why it's made the choices it has with its design. I think the simple design looks clean. Again, it's different than other devices and what Nothing's done before. What I will say is I don't think this phone's going to be a beast for games. If we're talking lower priced, something under the a-series... well.

This year has been filled with awful price increases on everything, but Prime Day seems to be the one event that's still dropping prices to record lows. The Pixel 10 Pro, for example, is at its lowest price ever for Prime Day, dropping a whopping 32% off for the special event.

Of all the Pixel 10 models released last year, the Pixel 10 Pro is by far my favorite. It packs everything in that makes the Pixel 10 Pro XL good — the same display, the same amazing triple rear camera system with periscope camera, top-tier haptics, and the same processor and RAM configurations — all in a size that's actually usable with one hand. It's like finding a unicorn phone that appeared when all the stars aligned!

• Prime Day 2026 is LIVE June 23-26: see the full list of deals

✅Recommended if: You've been looking to switch to a Google Pixel but didn't want to shell out $1,000 (or more) to do it, want a flagship phone without the enormous size, or just want one of the best cameras ever on a smartphone.

❌Skip this deal if: You need the fastest processor for gaming. Google's Tensor processor runs most games just fine, but there are better options for this purpose.

One of the many perks of being a Pixel owner is getting the latest versions of Android first. Android 17 is already available for Pixel phones, while most other phones won't be getting it for a few months.

Android 17 brings a bunch of great updates and improvements, including some incredibly handy social media features that you're going to love. Google has done a great job partnering with companies that make the most popular apps (like TikTok and Instagram) to ensure Pixel owners get the best experience possible, and you can enjoy it all on your $315 cheaper Pixel 10 Pro on Prime Day!

More Prime Day 2026 - quick links

• Phones: major savings on Pixel, Samsung, and beyond
• Wearables: up to 50% off Garmin, Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit
• Tablets: Galaxy Tab, Kindle, and Amazon Fire tablets from $50
• Chromebooks: discounts on ASUS, HP, and Lenovo
• Smart Home: up to 60% off Alexa devices
• Headphones/earbuds: huge discounts on Beats, Sony, and more
• Smart TVs: cheap smart TVs from $69.99

The Galaxy S26 Ultra is arguably the best Android phone Samsung makes right now. With features like the Privacy Display and the company's latest Galaxy AI tools, it's about as complete a flagship as you can get. But if there's one deal that makes you seriously question spending Ultra money, it's the Galaxy S26 this Prime Day.

Samsung has knocked a massive $230 off the base Galaxy S26, bringing it down from $900 to just $670. That's the lowest price we've seen on the phone so far, and at this price, the base model suddenly becomes one of the most compelling Android phone deals around.

• Prime Day is back June 23-26: see the full list of deals

✅Recommended if: you want a compact flagship Android phone with long software support, top-tier performance, and the latest Galaxy AI features.

❌Skip this deal if: you want a large display, the longest battery life possible, or built-in Qi2 support.

When Samsung launched the Galaxy S26 earlier this year, it increased the prices of both the base and Plus models by $100. That meant a phone we were used to seeing at around $800 suddenly started at $900, making it feel like a tougher sell. Prime Day changes that completely, dropping the phone to its best price yet.

The Galaxy S26 may not be a huge upgrade over its predecessor, but if you're buying a new flagship this year and prefer a phone that's compact and easy to carry, it's one of the best options available.

You get Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset along with One UI 8.5 out of the box, giving you access to Samsung's newest Galaxy AI features. And when it comes to the display, our reviewer Brady Snyder actually found the base Galaxy S26 to reach higher peak brightness than the Galaxy S26 Ultra.

Sure, you miss out on the Ultra-exclusive Privacy Display and the larger battery, but if your priority is getting a reliable flagship that fits comfortably in your hand and pocket, the Galaxy S26 is arguably one of the best Android phone deals available right now.

More Prime Day 2026 - quick links

• Phones: major savings on Pixel, Samsung, and beyond
• Wearables: up to 50% off Garmin, Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit
• Tablets: Galaxy Tab, Kindle, and Amazon Fire tablets from $50
• Chromebooks: discounts on ASUS, HP, and Lenovo
• Smart Home: up to 60% off Alexa devices
• Headphones/earbuds: huge discounts on Beats, Sony, and more
• Smart TVs: cheap smart TVs from $69.99

So you're using an older iPhone or Android device, and while it's running fine, it doesn't quite last a day, takes longer to charge, and the software is starting to lag even in regular use.

While flagships now cost over $1,000, there really is no reason to spend anywhere as much if all you want is a reliable phone that handles the basics. And in that regard, there isn't a better phone than the Pixel 10a.

I didn't really get the point of the Pixel 10a when it launched; it was too similar to its predecessor, so I didn't use it. But it's only when I started using the phone recently that I realized it has a lot of small changes that make a noticeable difference in daily use: slightly faster charging means it doesn't take as long to fill the 5,300mAh battery, Bluetooth connectivity is better overall, and it holds up better in demanding tasks.

Basically, the Pixel 10a is a great choice if you need a new mid-ranger in 2026, and now is the best time to get your hands on the phone. The Pixel 10a debuted at $499, and it just got a major discount to $399, so if you're thinking of buying a new phone, I'd suggest getting the Pixel 10a while it's still on sale. The one caveat is that the $399 price is only on the fog, berry, and lavender color variants; the obsidian model is costlier at $424. This doesn't matter that much as you'll inevitably use a case, and if you need my recommendation, get the fog model.

✅Recommended if: You want a reliable phone that nails the basics. The Pixel 10a has one of the best cameras in its class, I really like the design, the battery life is outstanding, and you get the best software — with meaningful AI features should you need it.

❌Skip this deal if: You want a gaming phone. While Google got a lot right with the Pixel 10a, gaming isn't really something the phone does well, so if you need better hardware, you should get the OnePlus 15R.

Google did a great job with the design of the Pixel 10a. The camera housing sits flush with the body, and that just feels great when you're holding and using the phone. As someone who's used to phones with massive camera islands like the Find X9 Ultra and Vivo X300 Ultra, this is a refreshing change of pace.

I also like the color variants available this year; the berry and lavender models have bright designs and look great. The phone has IP68 dust and water resistance, better glass protection this year, and it retains the aluminum mid-frame.

Google didn't change the cameras, so you get the same 48MP main camera and 13MP wide-angle lens. The sensors aren't new, but Google's image tuning means you get great photos in any lighting situation, and it's the consistency where the Pixel 10a really shines.

The Tensor G4 is decent enough, but I would've liked the G5 in the device — it does a better job with gaming in general. Regardless, the Pixel 10a doesn't have issues in regular use, and the 6.3-inch 120Hz OLED panel is among the best in this category; it gets very bright outdoors, and has great colors. Oh, and if you need a suggestion, get the 8GB/256GB model; you'll run out of storage on the 128GB model in a matter of months.

Battery life is great, and the software is the real star of the show. Unlike Samsung's Galaxy A57 and A37, the Pixel 10a doesn't come with any bloatware whatsoever, and that in itself is a huge deal. Combine that with all the Google extras that are available on the phone, and the fact that you can install Android 17 right now, and you start to realize why the Pixel 10a is Google's best-seller.

I'm annoyed that Google didn't do enough with the Pixel 10a, but the underlying fundamentals are great, and it is a good all-round choice in this category — particularly if you're using an older phone. And with the device now down to $399, this is the best time to buy it.

The whole world is watching soccer (or football, depending on where you are) right now, and I was fortunate enough to attend a game here in Seattle, courtesy of Motorola, the Official Smartphone Partner of the FIFA World Cup 2026. I took a few Razr phones with me, including the Razr Ultra 2026, the Razr Fold, and last year's Razr Ultra 2025, to capture the game while using some of Motorola's best camera features, and one of them happens to be heavily discounted for Prime Day.

The Razr Ultra 2025 launched in 2025 for $1,299, but thanks to Prime Day, you can get nearly half off at just $684. The Razr Ultra 2026 and Razr Fold aren't on sale for Prime Day, but Motorola still has some enticing trade-in discounts and hundreds of dollars worth of freebies you can get if you purchase either phone.

You can also check out this incredible deal on the Razr 2025 FIFA World Cup Edition.

• Prime Day returns June 23-26: see the full list of deals

Motorola Razr FIFA World Cup camera samples

Action Shot freezes each moment in time

Getting a good, clean image when players are constantly moving around can be tricky. Fortunately, Motorola's Action Shot feature saved the day on multiple occasions by increasing the shutter speed and freezing every moment in time.

Fortunately, Motorola made the button easy to access, right in the bottom-right corner of the viewfinder. And if you have a Razr Fold, you can take Action Shot further by zooming into the scene, so you can really get the shot from way up in the stands.

Camcorder Mode gives you smooth video

If you prefer capturing video, Camcorder Mode is the best way to get smooth video. Just fold your phone at a 90-degree angle and begin recording. On the Razr Ultra 2025, you can slide your thumb up and down or forward and back to smoothly zoom in and out at any moment. With the Razr Ultra 2026, you can do the same thing by tilting the device slightly to either side, all while keeping the video locked to the horizon with Horizon Lock.

And don't forget to turn on Dolby Vision for an extra pop of color, and make sure your resolution is set to 4K60 for extra smooth video.

Active Photos gives each image more context

Capturing fast-moving images and high-quality video is one thing, but Active Photos is a sweet in-between that captures the moments before you snap the photo. This is perfect for intense moments, especially if you capture someone scoring a goal, giving you additional context leading up to that special moment.

This feature is easy to access on the Razr Ultra 2026 and Razr Fold; just tap the Active Photos icon above/next to the viewfinder (two circles and a dot). After you capture each Active Photo, you can tap the Motion button while previewing it in Google Photos to play the video, and choose to save the moment as a separate still, a GIF, or a video. Just remember to turn on Active Photos when you return to the camera app, as it doesn't stay on.

The Cover Screen lets you take the best selfies

Perhaps my favorite way to use the Motorola Razr flip phones is to take selfies with the rear cameras and the cover screen. The external display serves as a viewfinder, allowing you to take high-quality selfies without opening the phone. You can also do this when taking photos of others: just turn the external viewfinder on using the button in the top-left corner, and your friends can see themselves before you snap the photo.

But for the best zoom...

The Razr Ultra flip phones have a decent zoom range for photos and video, but if you want some serious close-up action, you'll want the Razr Fold. I was able to capture some great images of the players and spectators with up to 10x zoom. With Super Zoom Pro, the Razr Fold can also take incredible photos at up to 50x zoom, but I found I didn't need it here. Still, the option to use up to 100x zoom is here, and whether you're shooting close-up images or video, the Razr Fold can get the job done.

What you need to know

• Commodore steps forward after its Callback 8020 debut to address a major consumer issue: its price.
• The company says it has managed to reduce the phone's price by $100 just in time for pre-orders to begin on June 30.
• Commodore had to address several issues across accessories, RAM, and privacy, but states it will introduced "tiered pricing" and choices during checkout.

Commodore's Callback 8020 was a blast from the past when it debuted, but the issue wasn't the phone. It was the price. The company comes forward to fix that.

A week ago, the Callback 8020 surprised consumers with its Y2K aesthetic, bringing back the classic flip phone style. However, the device launched at a high price point: $500. Today (June 24), Commodore reached out in a press release, stating it will drop the Callback 8020's price by $100, meaning the "BASIC Beige, ProtoPET White, SX Silver, and the translucent blue Starlight Edition" will now start at $399.

Commodore International's CEO and president, Peri Fractic, commented about the public's reception, stating, "The worldwide response to the Commodore Callback has been an incredible endorsement of our vision. Alongside that excitement, many of you told us you wanted a more accessible entry point. We listened."

The company says this past week has been filled with communications between it and its partners to fix this clear pricing issue. However, this wasn't cut-and-dry. Commodore states it had to identify key areas that contributed to the higher phone price: privacy, the current worldwide RAM issue, and accessories. While the Callback 8020 is dropping by $100, Commodore says this was possible by introducing "tiered pricing."

If you want to add the brand's custom-designed Hi-Def IEM earphones, you will have that choice. Additionally, Commodore will give the option to add "premium memory." Both of these choices will be available during checkout once pre-orders open on June 30. This date is important, as consumers looking to pre-order day one can save another $50, meaning the price would be $349.

Sign up for a launch day code to be eligible for this extra money off.

Wake up, it's almost 2000

Commodore's Callback 8020 debuted a week ago. The company wanted to solve a couple of issues with tech nowadays. The flip phone cuts off doomscrolling, so you're not going to hop on Twitter (X) all day, nor will you lose yourself in Instagram's Reels. What's more, the phone is de-Googled. Fret not, Commodore's Sailfish OS can run 99% of Android apps. You'll still have access to WhatsApp, Signal, Spotify, iMessage, and more.

The company's patent-pending blocks internet browsers alongside social media apps. Commodore also redesigned alerts into its dome-shaped LED notification system to help reduce daily distractions.

Android Central's Take

There's a nostalgia itch that Commodore's Callback 8020 scratches for me. Aside from that, the phone looks damn cool. The privacy tech it's worked into the phone is a breath of fresh air, but also it tries to help limit the user's phone exposure. Some of us might need that. A tech cleanse, if you will.

The TCL NXTPAPER 70 Pro is easily my favorite budget-friendly phone of 2026, a title that's more important than ever with the ever-increasing onslaught of technology price hikes. Yet, somehow, TCL and Amazon have made this fantastic phone even better by dropping the price to just $259.99, a $70 savings over the normal unlocked phone price.

That last part is important because, while you can get the phone for $199 or less from T-Mobile, that cheaper price tag comes with caveats like a service contract and a carrier-locked device. This Amazon price is fully unlocked and ready to go on any carrier you choose.

Plus, if you haven't used an NXTPAPER display yet, you're in for a treat. As I said in my TCL NXTPAPER 70 Pro review, "If you enjoy reading, are looking for a display with less flicker than an OLED, want something that's anti-reflective and textured, or just enjoy the soft glow of an LCD (vs the harshness of OLED), this is a display you're going to love."

• Prime Day 2026 is LIVE June 23-26: see the full list of deals

✅Recommended if: You need an inexpensive phone that's better than others at this price, or you want a flicker-free screen that isn't as intense as OLED.

❌Skip this deal if: You can't stand bad haptics or are OK with getting the cheaper carrier version from T-Mobile or Metro.

The NXTPAPER 70 Pro is the first North American phone to launch with NXTPAPER 4.0 display technology, something previously only offered on the global NXTPAPER 60 Ultra phone. But a lot of people found the 60 Ultra to be far too large of a phone, so the 70 Pro downsizes things a bit to make the overall package much nicer to use.

On top of that, I was thoroughly impressed with how fast this phone is. I'm used to phones in this price range exhibiting stutters and lag, but the 70 Pro exceeded every expectation I had. It's even got a great camera system with a main and ultrawide lens on the back, plus satellite connectivity and 5G speeds.

More Prime Day 2026 - quick links

• Phones: major savings on Pixel, Samsung, and beyond
• Wearables: up to 50% off Garmin, Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit
• Tablets: Galaxy Tab, Kindle, and Amazon Fire tablets from $50
• Chromebooks: discounts on ASUS, HP, and Lenovo
• Smart Home: up to 60% off Alexa devices
• Headphones/earbuds: huge discounts on Beats, Sony, and more
• Smart TVs: cheap smart TVs from $69.99

Good news: Prime Day is still going on, and as we're heading into the last day, this is your reminder that if you want to save a decent chunk of cash on a phone, now is the time to do so. If you're on a shoestring budget, it may seem challenging to find an affordable device that doesn't skimp on important features. That's why I'm here. Below you'll find my top recommendations for performant Android phones that are currently priced at $400 or less during Amazon's big sale.

The cheap Android phones below include premium specs like AMOLED displays, AI features, and powerful chipsets, while some of them boast a few features that may surprise you, such as built-in stylus pens and headphone jacks. Keep reading for my top picks, and don't forget that many of the best deals will only be available for Prime members. Don't feel like paying for yet another subscription? Amazon is offering a 30-day free trial that lets you take advantage of Prime Day deals (and other membership benefits) without paying a penny. Just be sure to cancel your account before the first bill is due.

• Prime Day is LIVE June 23-26: see the full list of deals

When does Prime Day end?

Prime Day 2026 began on June 23rd and is set to run through Friday, June 26th. That gives you four full days to explore Amazon's best deals, although it's worth mentioning that Best Buy and Walmart are running rival sales that extend through Sunday, June 28th.

What is the best cheap Android phone?

We generally consider the Google Pixel 10a to be the best cheap Android phone for most people. The device boasts the perfect blend of premium specs with good old-fashioned bang for the buck, coming complete with a powerful Tensor chipset, flagship-level cameras, and a bunch of useful AI-boosted software tools. The Pixel 10a also sports a lovely AMOLED display, and like other Pixel phones, you're guaranteed seven years of OS and security upgrades straight out of the box.

More Prime Day 2026 - quick links

• Phones: major savings on Pixel, Samsung, and beyond
• Wearables: up to 50% off Garmin, Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit
• Tablets: Galaxy Tab, Kindle, and Amazon Fire tablets from $50
• Chromebooks: discounts on ASUS, HP, and Lenovo
• Smart Home: up to 60% off Alexa devices
• Headphones/earbuds: huge discounts on Beats, Sony, and more
• Smart TVs: cheap smart TVs from $69.99

TCL NXTPAPER technology is one of the coolest display upgrades we've seen in years, and that display truly shines when it's on a big device like a tablet. All of TCL's NXTPAPER devices have always been affordable, but Prime Day is taking those prices down to a historic low, with tablets up to 36% off until June 26th.

Out of all the tablets on sale, though, I love two more than the rest. The first is the uber-affordable NXTPAPER 11 Gen 2, which packs an 11-inch NXTPAPER 4.0 display that you'll love reading or watching videos on, and it does it all for just $169. That's the lowest price ever for this tablet, and it even includes the case and stylus!

✅Recommended if: You need a cheap tablet that can get things done, including an eye-friendly screen that won't give you a headache.

❌Skip this deal if: You're looking for a high-end tablet. This one's strictly mid-range and won't run games very well.

The NXTPAPER 11 Gen 2 is about as good as a ~$200 tablet can get, including a huge battery, fantastic anti-reflective matte display with NXTPAPER 4.0 technology, and an included case and stylus. That stylus is no joke, either, as it supports 4096 pressure levels and feels great to write with on the textured NXTPAPER display.

And while that tablet works just fine for note-taking and sketching, TCL recently debuted its first note-focused tablet, the Note A1 NXTPAPER. This tablet upgrades the note-taking experience with an even better stylus that offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, sub-5ms latency, and built-in haptics to make it feel even more like writing on paper.

The first time I used the stylus on my Note A1 NXTPAPER, I was blown away. I've never used a stylus with built-in haptics, and it felt like a true game-changer!

✅Recommended if: You want one of the best digital note-taking experiences, need a tablet that's great for work and meeting recording, or want a tablet for reading anything from books to manga.

❌Skip this deal if: You're looking to play games on this tablet. It's just not built for that.

TCL's Note A1 NXTPAPER offers an incredible alternative to E Ink writing tablets with a 120Hz display that delivers the full 16.7-million color palette. That means it's just as responsive and ghost-free as standard displays, all with the anti-reflective matte coating that makes NXTPAPER look so great.

Of course, that means sunlight performance isn't nearly as good as E Ink, but that may not bother you, depending on how you plan to use it. TCL preloads the tablet with its own browser and note-taking app, all of which have lots of AI-powered features designed to make your life easier. Plus, this one has eight microphones onboard, meaning it's perfect for recording every meeting you'll ever attend.

If you want to show your World Cup pride and turn heads at games or watch parties, the Motorola Razr FIFA World Cup 26 Edition is certainly one way to do that. I'm shocked that you're not paying a markup for the FIFA logo, either. In fact, the FIFA World Cup 26 Edition is $150 off for Prime Day, bringing the cost of this great flip phone down to just $550.

As a phone reviewer, I didn't expect to switch to a phone completely designed around the FIFA World Cup — but that's exactly what happened. This special-edition Motorola Razr is the same Razr 2025 I reviewed last year, but with a soccer-inspired design and exclusive features. I dove into the FIFA World Cup 26 Edition and found five hidden Easter eggs you only get with this special-edition variant.

• Prime Day 2026 is June 23-26: see the full list of deals

This phone has a custom FIFA startup animation

The Razr 2025 has a 3.6-inch cover screen, a 6.9-inch main screen, and a generally compact form factor. For the FIFA edition, the green color and gold World Cup logos on the back stand out. However, these are far from the only changes Motorola added to the FIFA World Cup 26 Edition. The first subtle Easter egg I noticed after unboxing the device was the phone's startup animation.

Instead of seeing only the basic "Motorola" and "Powered by Android" startup logos, the FIFA World Cup 26 Edition boots up to a background image of stadium stands and a soccer ball. You see this unique animation every time you turn your FIFA edition Razr on, and it's a cool touch. It appears whether the phone is folded or unfolded, but so you can't miss it.

Hear a custom ringtone with World Cup cheers

By default, the Razr FIFA World Cup 26 Edition comes with a custom ringtone you can only get on this phone. It's the "official tournament jingle," and I'd describe it as hype music. The sounds you hear on World Cup broadcasts or in a stadium, you can hear from your phone every time you receive a call. It quickly becomes a party trick that makes your Razr stand out and instantly highlights your World Cup fandom.

Enjoy a World Cup 2026 wallpaper

While perhaps not as special as the startup animation or ringtone, the FIFA wallpapers you get with this limited-edition Razr 2025 phone tie the entire experience together. The default one is a green wordmark design with the "26" logo in green, of course symbolizing the FIFA World Cup 26 games.

When you power on the Razr FIFA World Cup 26 Edition and see the exclusive wallpaper, the front and back of your foldable perfectly match to show your tournament pride.

Watermark your photos with a FIFA World Cup border

I've always found the camera watermarks offered by select Android brands to be a neat way to brand your photos. With this Razr special edition, you can add the FIFA World Cup logo as part of the watermark for your photos. There's nothing cooler than commemorating a World Cup win or remembering your gameday experience with a custom watermark.

Hold a rear case that looks like a field

I'd be remiss if I didn't specifically mention one last Easter egg on the back of the phone. Motorola says this special-edition colorway is inspired by the look of a field, and I definitely see it. The back of the phone is textured and full of shades of green and turquoise. The sides are aluminum in a green finish, adding to the grassy aesthetic.

On top of the field-inspired design, you get the Motorola and FIFA World Cup 2026 logos in gold. The entire experience feels thoughtful, and it's something World Cup fans can appreciate.

Best of all, this is a standout phone under the hood. It's not a sloppy device using the FIFA logo for clout — I gave the Razr 2025 a 4/5 star rating, and it definitely holds up in 2026. Getting this phone for $550 during Prime Day when most flagships start at over $1,000 feels too good to be true.

All Prime Day 2026 - quick links

• Phones: major savings on Pixel, Samsung, and beyond
• Wearables: up to 50% off Garmin, Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit
• Headphones/earbuds: huge discounts on Beats, Sony, and more
• Smart Home: up to 60% off Alexa devices
• Tablets: Galaxy Tab, Kindle, and Amazon tablets from $50
• Smart TVs: cheap smart TVs from $69.99
• Chromebooks: discounts on ASUS, HP, and Lenovo

2026 has been increasingly plagued by the ongoing RAM crisis; as companies focus their resources on building more data centers for AI, smartphone prices get higher. Fortunately, some of last year's models are largely unaffected, and phones like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus remain viable options in 2026. In fact, the Galaxy S25 Plus is down to its lowest price thanks to this Prime Day deal, and it's quite an incredible steal.

The Galaxy S25 Plus launched at a relatively high price of $999, which is $100 less than the Galaxy S26 Plus's launch price. As a very powerful phone, it was priced pretty reasonably, but still eye-watering. However, at 34% off, you can grab this powerful AI phone for just $664.

• Prime Day returns June 23-26: see the full list of deals

I've reviewed the last few Galaxy S "Plus" models, and the S25 Plus is still an incredible smartphone, even with its more powerful successor available. It's powered by a Snapdragon 8 Elite and sports 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, which is a sweet spot for most consumers.

The Galaxy S25 Plus is something of a middle child of the S series, sporting a large QHD+ display and a big, all-day battery, but without the big 200MP quad-camera system of the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

Still, it features an impressive triple-camera system with a 50MP primary sensor and a 3x telephoto camera. It also comes in an array of colors, my favorite being the Navy hue.

One of the great things about the Galaxy S25 Plus is that it still gets many of the latest One UI 8.5 features found on the Galaxy S26 Plus. There are plenty of AI editing tools, upgraded camera features, and even a new AI-powered Bixby. And thanks to Samsung's generous update policy, the Galaxy S25 Plus will still receive years of OS upgrades and security updates.

There are plenty of reasons why you should still grab last year's Galaxy, especially at this price. However, if you wanted the latest model, the Galaxy S26 Plus is also on sale. The phone, which originally cost $1,099, is now down to as low as $759, which is a lot more reasonable for a phone with the latest Agentic AI features.

What you need to know

• A new leak suggests Samsung is expanding color choices across the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series and Galaxy Z Flip 8.
• The Galaxy Z Fold 8 could arrive in Butter, Graphite, Lavanda, and Pistacchio, while the Fold 8 Ultra may get exclusive Green Shadow and Violet Shadow finishes.
• The Galaxy Z Flip 8 is expected to launch in Cream, Graphite, Mint, and Pink.

Samsung’s next foldables are still weeks away from being launched, but a new leak may have already revealed one of the most important details for buyers: the color options.

According to new information that has surfaced via Digital Citizen, Samsung is preparing for a larger color palette for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 family and the Galaxy Z Flip 8. Some of the familiar shades are here to stay, but a few new ones might add a little more personality to the line-up.

Standard Galaxy Z Fold 8 is said to come in four finishes:

• Butter
• Graphite
• Lavanda
• Pistacchio

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is said to be getting its own exclusive colors:

• Cream
• Graphite
• Green Shadow
• Violet Shadow

Samsung's clamshell foldable will be no different, apparently. The Galaxy Z Flip 8 colors may be cream, graphite, mint, and pink.

Cream and graphite appear to be the common thread across all three devices, but Samsung is giving each model a pair of unique colors to help distinguish them.

Storage options have also reportedly surfaced. The Galaxy Z Flip 8 is expected to come with either 256GB or 512GB of storage. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra are also expected to get a 1TB variant along with 256GB and 512GB options. Fortunately, the leak indicates that Samsung will not restrict certain colors to certain storage configurations.

While Samsung has yet to formally announce its next Unpacked event, recent FCC filings indicate that launch preparations are already underway. The rumors now indicate July in London.

Of course, all these details are based on leaks, and so there is always a chance Samsung could change things before launch. But if the info pans out, the company's 2026 foldable lineup could be more diverse than we've seen in years — and buyers sick of playing it safe with black and silver phones may finally have some new options.

Android Central's Take

For one, I’m glad to see Samsung putting a little more thought into color options this year. Foldable phones are pricey devices, and owners deserve something that feels a little more personal than another shade of gray. More variety gives users the chance to pick a phone that really speaks to their style instead of taking whatever neutral option is left in the shop. That said, colors alone won't sell people on an upgrade. Samsung can paint these phones Pistachio or Violet Shadow or whatever fancy marketing name it comes up with next, but if the hardware and software improvements don’t feel meaningful, a fresh coat of paint will just look like a distraction rather than real progress.

If you're an iPhone user and are willing to switch to Android, now is the best time to do so. The Pixel 10 Pro XL is the best Android flagship you can buy in the U.S., and while I prefer the Find X9 Ultra and Vivo X300 Ultra, you don't get those devices Stateside, so if I have to choose between the Galaxy S26 Ultra, Motorola Signature, the iPhone 17 Pro Max, and the Pixel 10 Pro XL, Google's phone wins out.

There's just one issue: the pricing. The Pixel 10 Pro XL debuted at $1,199, and that's way too much. Thankfully, the phone is down to $884 during Prime Day, a huge $315 discount that makes this the ideal time to get your hands on the Pixel 10 Pro XL. Google's phones always sell well during these sale, and it's no different this time. And what about the iPhone, you ask? There aren't any deals around this year, so you'll need to shell out the full $1,199 to get your hands on the 17 Pro Max.

✅Recommended if: You want the best phone in the U.S. The Pixel 10 Pro XL has better cameras than the Galaxy S26 Ultra and iPhone 17 Pro Max, the software is cleaner, and you get an extensive set of AI features if that's what you want in a phone.

❌Skip this deal if: You're used to the iPhone. I get that it's hard to change, and with the iPhone, you get an interface that's essentially unchanged over the last decade.

Google sorted out a lot of the lingering issues this time, and the result is that the Pixel 10 Pro XL is noticeably better than its predecessors. The fundamentals haven't changed; you still get great cameras, clean software with plenty of meaningful features, good battery life, and a bright OLED panel.

It's the software where the Pixel 10 Pro XL truly comes into its own. The phone just got the Android 17 update, and alongside a slate of new features and a new floating windows mode called bubbles, the update made the phone a little faster, making it even better to use.

Google has a dominant lead when it comes to phone-based AI features, so much so that Apple is using Google's models on the iPhone now. But if you're not a fan of generative AI or don't need these features, you don't have to use any on the Pixel 10 Pro XL — I don't. Outside of the software, the Pixel 10 Pro XL cameras continue to stand out, and you consistently get great photos and videos.

The OLED panel is among the brightest of any phone around, and I like its color vibrancy. Battery life is decent, and while it doesn't measure up to Chinese rivals, I still get a day's worth of use consistently.

Google has been making phones for the better part of a decade now, and with the Pixel 10 Pro XL, it's clear that the brand has a phone that's among the best around. If you're not satisfied with your iPhone and want to try something new, the Pixel 10 Pro XL would be my recommendation — get the phone while it's still down to $884.

What you need to know

• Nothing drops a Phone 4b sketch teaser, stating the phone will be revealed on July 7.
• The device features a new take on its camera bar design with a vertical camera array and what looks like Nothing's Glyph Bar.
• The company's co-founder says the Phone 4b is a "continuation of our naming system" with its own distinct voice.

Nothing's walking us through the alphabet this week with a major phone teaser that has us entering a new series.

Early this morning (June 23), Nothing continued its streak of teasers for a new product, and this one is the most substantial we've gotten yet. The company officially teased the Phone 4b, set to debut July 7. True to Nothing's brand and sense of humor, the post states, "Kept sketching the Phone (4a) series and accidentally made a new phone." The post on X features a cropped schematic with various sketches of the Phone 4a series that we know.

The top left features the Phone 4a, while the bottom, sliding into view, is the Phone 4a Pro. However, the center of the sketchboard offers a glimpse at a phone's camera bar we've yet to see. From what's been shown, it looks like the Nothing Phone 4b features a vertical camera system, which could hold two lenses. Beside it appears to be its LED flash.

The bottom of the camera bar seems to host the phone's Glyph Bar, which is the company's new take on the Glyph Matrix or Lighting system. Giving us more to think about is Nothing's co-founder, Akis Evangelidis. In a recent post, Evangelidis says, "What does (b) stand for? Nothing." He says this isn't some major departure from what consumers are accustomed to, but rather a "continuation of our naming system." This new Phone 4b will build upon what we've received through Nothing's a-series, but with its own clear voice.

Evangelidis adds that the A series will continue to be Nothing's "most premium line" below its flagship segment. It's not clear how the Phone 4b will line up price-wise, but if the A-series is premium below the flagships, then perhaps this next device sits under both.

4b or not 4...

Nothing's been teasing this new product on its account for India for a few days now. Things started with a couple of Pokémon images, which is textbook Nothing, as it often teases new devices with the powerful monsters. Nothing used images of Jumpluff and Blastoise. That wasn't the kicker. Nothing also announced the Community Review Program, aimed at bringing in consumers passionate about its brand and devices to get devices early for feedback.

In that post, Nothing featured a photo of Jumpluff, the same Pokémon it used to begin its new streak of teasers. We now know that Nothing's been teasing the Phone 4b; however, on its India account, what got the teasers started was Blastoise. There's a chance that Jumpluff is code for another device entirely. July 7 is when we'll see the Phone 4b revealed and have all of our answers.

Android Central's Take

Nothing really wants to have a hand across every price point for consumers, don't they? If you consider the Phone 3 as its flagship, then the Phone 4a series is its "premium line" under that, which settles somewhere around mid-range. What will the Phone 4b satisfy? I'm curious. I'm always pretty curious about what Nothing does. Its designs are always different, and it generally makes pretty interesting phones to begin with. July 7; remember it.

What you need to know

• Samsung announced UFS 5.0 storage, stating it has achieved up to 9.5 GB/s writing and up to 10.8 GB/s reading speeds.
• The company states UFS 5.0's power efficiency rose by 40% compared to the 4.1 solution, and it's 16.7% smaller.
• Samsung also states UFS 5.0 upgrades on-device AI, providing quicker response times and lower latency, and it intends to enter mass production by Q4 2026.

The next generation of phone storage is on the way. Samsung announced the "fastest" solution for mobile phones, which means its next Galaxy series could get it.

This week, Samsung announced the UFS 5.0 storage solution for mobile devices. The latest memory standard can reportedly achieve "up to 10.8 gigabytes per second" (reading speed). The company adds that its development pushes UFS 5.0's writing speeds up to 9.5 GB/s. Samsung touts that its 5.0 solution is roughly "twice as fast" as the UFS 4.1 storage, which you'd find in the OnePlus 15.

Power efficiency has shot up with UFS 5.0 by "more than" 40%. What's more, Samsung was able to minimize its storage by ~16.7%, meaning thin phones aren't going anywhere anytime soon. Samsung states this advancement is not only a boon for phones, but smaller storage solutions mean better applications in wearables and XR devices.

While this aims to benefit phones and more, Samsung is eyeing another key aspect of mobile devices nowadays: AI. UFS 5.0 is said to facilitate "much faster storage and processing of large data" for on-device AI. Reduced latency and quicker response times from LLMs (large language models) will see improvements, too. With the announcement in June, Samsung states it aims to enter mass production of UFS 5.0 storage in Q4 2026. It will produce this in various sizes, up to 1TB of storage.

Much like its application outlook, Samsung intends for UFS 5.0 to be used in flagship phones, hoping to meet next-gen demand/growth.

Everybody loves good storage

The announcement and Samsung's intentions for UFS 5.0 are interesting when you think back to those Galaxy S27 rumors. Mid-April reports claimed Samsung was shifting its mindset, moving to integrate UFS 5.0 into the Galaxy S27 series. However, while intriguing (and interesting now after the full reveal), the upgrade might not enhance the entire series. Apparently, UFS 5.0 will only arrive for "some"of Samsung's S27 series.

It's still unclear which devices would see it, but we're at least expecting the S27 Ultra to have it. Samsung states in its post that it plans to mass-produce UFS 5.0 late this year, but pricing is still a concern (per the rumors). We've seen how the phone market's been trending. Samsung reportedly has a lot to consider before applying this solution to its next phones.

Android Central's Take

Reading and writing speeds for a hard drive are crucial when it comes to computers. I never want my PC lagging behind during a download or while transferring files. It's the same sentiment when it comes to phones. Why get an expensive phone if it's lacking in its storage solution? If it's slow and takes too long for basic processes? This upgrade is double whammy, as Samsung's not only quickening its memory usefulness, impacting apps and more, but it also helps AI (more Galaxy AI anyone?).

While everyone is waiting for Samsung's rumored Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide and Apple's foldable iPhone, those phones might not be the best buys right now. Amazon's Prime Day sale has kicked off, and one of the standout deals is a massive $400 discount on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, bringing the foldable down to just $1,400.

If you're looking for one of the best foldable phones of 2026 and want it at a price that doesn't completely destroy your wallet, this Pixel 10 Pro Fold deal is hard to ignore. Not only does it undercut most competing foldables, but with price increases expected across Samsung's and Apple's upcoming lineups, grabbing a discounted foldable right now feels like a pretty smart move.

✅Recommended if: you want a foldable Android phone at a reasonable price, you value durability, want fast Android updates, and are looking for something that'll comfortably last for years.

❌Skip this deal if: you want top-tier gaming performance, extremely fast charging speeds, or prefer a wider, squarer foldable design.

With smartphone prices continuing to rise across the board, and even higher prices expected from upcoming flagship launches, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold starts making a lot of sense.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is expected to start around $2,000, and Apple's first foldable iPhone likely won't be any cheaper. Meanwhile, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold launched less than a year ago and is already seeing a discount of several hundred dollars. That's what makes this one of the more compelling Prime Day deals around.

And the phone itself is still excellent. You get IP68 water and dust resistance, which remains one of the best durability ratings available on a foldable phone. That means you don't have to worry nearly as much about rain, splashes, or everyday accidents. Similar to the rest of the Pixel 10 lineup, it also comes with built-in Qi2 magnets, allowing it to work with MagSafe-style accessories without needing a special case.

Like other Pixel phones, you also get one of the best software experiences on Android, complete with day-one Android updates. In fact, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is currently one of the only foldables running Android 17, giving you access to features like App Bubbles and the latest multitasking improvements.

Sure, the Tensor G5 isn't the most powerful chip on the market, and if you're buying a foldable primarily for gaming, there are other options out there. The 5,000mAh battery also isn't the largest you'll find in a foldable. But for everyday use, productivity, photography, and media consumption, it's more than capable.

Those compromises become a lot easier to overlook when you're saving this much money. And with newer foldables expected to launch at even higher prices later this year, this might end up being one of the easiest foldable phone deals to recommend during Prime Day.

More Prime Day 2026 - quick links

• Phones: major savings on Pixel, Samsung, and beyond
• Wearables: up to 50% off Garmin, Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit
• Tablets: Galaxy Tab, Kindle, and Amazon Fire tablets from $50
• Chromebooks: discounts on ASUS, HP, and Lenovo
• Smart Home: up to 60% off Alexa devices
• Headphones/earbuds: huge discounts on Beats, Sony, and more
• Smart TVs: cheap smart TVs from $69.99

Everyone is looking to save money this year, which means $1000-plus phones aren't the way to go. That's why companies like Nothing specialize in creating phones that not only look cool and run well, but also come in at a great price. Best Buy's TechFest sale is slicing $80 off the 128GB model, making it $419.99 out the door.

TikTokers have been swapping their iPhones out for Nothing Phones for a lot of reasons these days, and while price is certainly a factor, the reality is that Nothing Phones are a lot of fun to use. Not only do they look unique and offer fun toys like the Glyph Matrix display on the back, but Nothing has been at the cutting edge with AI features that actually matter.

✅Recommended if: You're tired of boring phones and want something new and interesting, want a phone with a solid camera and lots of great updates, or you just don't want to spend a ton of money on a new phone.

❌Skip this deal if: You play a ton of graphics-intensive games or you need the absolute best cameras on the market.

Nothing recently debuted the Essential Voice feature, which utilizes the Essential Key and Nothing AI to create the best text-to-voice you'll ever use. It's monumentally better than what Apple offers on iPhones, and it's even better than Google's voice-to-text service on Android.

Nothing also has Essential Apps, a unique feature that puts tiny apps on your home screen that are designed to meet very specific needs. You can grab them from Nothing's huge community of talented minds, or even build them yourself with a few words and Nothing AI's impressive app-building capabilities. I'm not a coder, but I "built" a handful of cool apps using this feature for things like tracking my reps at the gym, logging food, and more.

And those are just a handful of clever ideas from Nothing and one of the many reasons Nothing Phones are so fun to use. The company also delivers regular updates and exciting new features, and, given the growth they've experienced over the past year or so, I fully expect to see that trend continue.

We're on the final day of Prime Day is now, and thankfully there is still no shortage of outstanding Samsung Galaxy deals to explore. Whether you're trying to upgrade your smartphone, wearable, or add a little extra storage to your laptop, hundreds of dollars of savings are up for grabs right now.

Naturally, I've included a selection of my favorite Samsung Galaxy deals from Prime Day 2026 into this guide. Many of the offers on display are breaking records too — clobbering even Black Friday prices — so be sure to place your order before Prime Day wraps up at the end of the day today, June 26th.

Don't forget that many of the best Prime Day discounts are exclusive to members. Haven't signed up for Prime just yet? Fear not: Amazon is running a 30-day free trial that lets you explore the ins and outs of a membership without paying a penny. You can even cancel at any time.

Prime Day quick links

• Phones: major savings on Pixel, Samsung, and beyond
• Wearables: up to 50% off Garmin, Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit
• Tablets: Galaxy Tab, Kindle, and Amazon Fire tablets from $50
• Chromebooks: discounts on ASUS, HP, and Lenovo
• Smart Home: up to 60% off Alexa devices
• Headphones/earbuds: huge discounts on Beats, Sony, and more
• Smart TVs: cheap smart TVs from $69.99

Samsung Galaxy deals

Prime Day FAQ

When is Prime Day 2026?

Prime Day 2026 kicked off on June 23rd and concludes today, June 26th, which means you have only today to take advantage of some of the year's best deals at Amazon.

Can you shop Prime Day deals with an Amazon Prime free trial? 

Yes! If you're not an Prime member, you can sign up for Amazon's 30-day free trial to enjoy all of the benefits of a subscription, including free shipping, unlimited streaming, and access to all of the best deals during Prime Day 2026. The best part is that you can cancel your membership at any time, which means you can sign up for the free trial today, do a bunch of shopping during Prime Day, and cancel your account after the sale without paying a cent.

Not much time is left until Prime Day 2026 comes to an end, and yet we're still going strong with some of the best tech deals this side of Black Friday. This year's sale is particularly notable for Google fans, as the retailer is slashing prices on many of the best Pixel devices ever built, from phones and wearables to wireless earbuds.

Needless to say, I've added a selection of my favorite Google Pixel deals from Prime Day 2026 into this guide. Just remember that the majority of the best Amazon offers will be exclusive to Prime members. Haven't signed up yet? No worries: Amazon is offering a 30-day free trial that lets you enjoy all of the benefits of a Prime membership without paying a dime. You can even cancel at any time, which means you can sign up today, do a bunch of Prime Day shopping, and delete your account with zero hassle.

Prime Day quick links

• Phones: major savings on Pixel, Samsung, and beyond
• Wearables: up to 50% off Garmin, Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit
• Tablets: Galaxy Tab, Kindle, and Amazon Fire tablets from $50
• Chromebooks: discounts on ASUS, HP, and Lenovo
• Smart Home: up to 60% off Alexa devices
• Headphones/earbuds: huge discounts on Beats, Sony, and more
• Smart TVs: cheap smart TVs from $69.99

Google Pixel deals

Prime Day FAQ

When is Prime Day 2026?

Amazon launched Prime Day 2026 on June 23rd this year, and it and runs through June 26th. This means that you have only a few more hours to take advantage of the members-only sale event.

Do I need to be a Prime member to shop during Amazon Prime Day?

Although select discounts are available to the general public, the vast majority of deals during Prime Day are exclusive to Amazon Prime members. Haven't joined yet? Sign up for Amazon's 30-day free trial to enjoy all of the benefits of a Prime membership without paying a cent. The cost of a membership is $14.99 per month once the trial period is up, but you can cancel at any time with zero hassle.

Schools are out for the summer, which means it's only a matter of time before back-to-school shopping is underway. Prime Day is the perfect way to get a head start, and I'm taking advantage of it by upgrading my younger brother's aging smartphone to the Google Pixel 10, which is currently on sale.

The Pixel 10 isn't yet a year old, and it originally launched at $799 with plenty of notable upgrades over its predecessor. A rather steep 31% discount gets you a pretty sweet deal on the Pixel 10, bringing it down to just $549. For a high school kid, that's a pretty reasonable price for a new smartphone, especially one as good as the Pixel 10.

• Prime Day returns June 23-26: see the full list of deals

✅Recommended if: You want a fun AI phone with a great camera, first-class software support, and iPhone features like AirDrop support and Qi2 magnetic charging.

❌Skip this deal if: You prefer larger smartphones or don't want to miss out on features reserved for the Pixel 10 Pro.

I've been using the Pixel 10 on and off since it launched last year. While I've been pleased with previous base model Pixels, the Pixel 10 is by far the best Google has produced. It comes with a triple-camera setup that includes a 50MP primary sensor and a 5x telephoto camera that delivers some pretty impressive zoom shots.

The Tensor G5 may not be the fastest chip on the block, but it's more than enough for a high school teen. My brother is 16 years old and has been using a OnePlus Nord for years. While he's not too concerned about having the latest smartphone, it's probably time for him to upgrade. He mostly just plays games and watches videos, but I think he would get a kick out of the improved camera and fun AI features.

And because he tends to keep smartphones for a long time, the seven-year upgrade promise means he can keep the Pixel for years to come and still get many of the latest features and security updates. His OnePlus phone stopped getting updates years ago, making his need for a new phone even greater.

For anyone looking to upgrade their high schooler before the 2026-27 school year begins and not wanting to spend an arm and a leg, the Pixel 10 fits the bill pretty well. Alongside the recent update to Android 17, the Pixel 10's newest features basically turn it into the iPhone of Android. RCS makes messaging effortless with high-quality images and other features; AirDrop support makes sharing media simple and quick, and Qi2 support means you can use many of the same MagSafe chargers and accessories.

So even if you're an iPhone family, a Pixel 10 means your high schooler doesn't have to miss out.

What you need to know

• A recent leak suggests Google is working on a new memory-based feature for Pixel phones, known as "Audio Memory."
• While reports claim it would capture music you've heard, it might also keep its ears open for "important conversations" and transcribe them.
• Google has a few "memory" features for its AI, such as Personal Intelligence and "personal context" in the Gemini app.

A report states that, after some digging, a new Pixel feature was spotted, which could let your phone "remember" what you've heard.

The report was posted by 9to5Google, stating Google is working on an "Audio Memory" feature for its Pixels. One major Audio Memory function that was discovered is "Music Recognition." This isn't a new capability for Pixels. Many of Google's phones can keep their "ears" open for music, so it can have its name available for the user. Think of it like Shazam, but it's always on.

For Audio Memory, it will function mostly the same, as it'll provide "info about songs playing nearby displays on your device's lock screen," per the leaked description. Users can tap these logged titles to bring them to Pixel's Now Playing app. However, 9to5 kept digging and found that the latest version of Android System Intelligence for the Pixel 10 held breadcrumbs about additional uses.

Reportedly, Google plans for Audio Memory to "keep track of what you hear throughout your day." This could include "your important conversations." There wasn't much else about this rumor, as it's still early. However, the publication assumes this feature (if enabled) would transcribe conversations you're having to "generate notes."

How broad its coverage will be is still unknown. As the post notes, there's a chance that this could only apply to phone calls.

Pixel "Memory"

"Remembering" has become commonplace for Google and its AI services. Last year, the company updated Gemini with "memory" that leveraged the user's "personal context." The latter concerns old chats you've had with the AI. If you were talking about new shoes or a place to travel to this summer, and you're asking about it again, Gemini would "remember" old conversations for better answers.

What joined this was "Temporary Chats," which let users ask quick, one-time questions that it doesn't want affecting Gemini in any way. Users can turn off Gemini's memory for your personal context. It seems wise to believe Google would produce something similar for Audio Memory, especially since having your phone "always listening"—or remembering—might not sit well. On the other hand, we have Personal Intelligence.

This has been talked about quite a bit these past few months. Gemini can use the user's photos, emails, and more to understand their interests. When you ask a specific question about a date you need to remember, Gemini would, for example, dip into your emails for you. We still need to see Google's true intentions with Audio Memory, but it might sit on a "useful" front like these other memory-based features.

Android Central's Take

I could really see Audio Memory useful for people who frequent meetings or for reporters. It's like always having your Recorder app active. If I were to hazard a guess, I'd figure Google would go this route. Transcriptions and all. It's still early, so maybe I'm way off base.

It's getting harder and harder to find a genuinely good mid-range Android phone, but Amazon's Prime Day sale has arrived at exactly the right time. Right now, the Google Pixel 10a is down by $75, making one of the best budget Android phones even easier to recommend.

With memory prices continuing to rise across the tech industry, budget and mid-range smartphones have been hit especially hard. Companies already operate on thinner margins in this segment, which means meaningful discounts on the best mid-range Android phones are becoming increasingly rare.

Thankfully, Google doesn't seem too concerned about that. The company has knocked 15% off the Pixel 10a during Prime Day, and after using the phone for nearly three months, I can confidently say it's about as good as it gets if you're looking for a clean Android experience without spending flagship money.

• Prime Day is June 23-26: see the full list of deals

✅Recommended if: you want a mid-range Android phone with long software support, fast Android updates, a compact design, and excellent battery life.

❌Skip this deal if: you want built-in Qi2 magnets, thinner display bezels, or top-tier gaming performance.

The Pixel 10a may not look dramatically different from the Pixel 9a, but Google has made enough improvements to keep it competitive. One of my favorite things about the phone is that it's still the only Android phone around with virtually no camera bump. The cameras sit flush with the back, which means you can comfortably use it without a case and not worry about the camera housing sticking out.

Google has also added a slightly larger 5,100mAh battery and bumped wired charging speeds up to 30W. And if you're someone who keeps phones for years, another important addition is Emergency SOS via satellite. That means you can still contact emergency services even if you're somewhere without cellular coverage or Wi-Fi.

Of course, it's not perfect. Some AI features available on the flagship Pixel 10 lineup are missing here. You also don't get the built-in Qi2 magnets found on the rest of the Pixel 10 family. And while the Tensor G4 remains perfectly fine for everyday use, it isn't the most powerful chip if gaming is a priority.

Still, if you're looking for a phone that gets Android updates quickly, already runs Android 17, and should remain supported for years to come, the Pixel 10a is one of the easiest Prime Day deals to recommend.

More Prime Day 2026 - quick links

• Phones: major savings on Pixel, Samsung, and beyond
• Wearables: up to 50% off Garmin, Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit
• Tablets: Galaxy Tab, Kindle, and Amazon Fire tablets from $50
• Chromebooks: discounts on ASUS, HP, and Lenovo
• Smart Home: up to 60% off Alexa devices
• Headphones/earbuds: huge discounts on Beats, Sony, and more
• Smart TVs: cheap smart TVs from $69.99

Prime week is here, but Amazon's sale isn't the only way to find a ton of great Android deals this week. Known as Tech Fest, Best Buy's sitewide sale is carving up to 50% off some of our favorite Android devices, from smartphones and wearables to wireless headphones and smart TVs.

The best part is that, unlike Amazon Prime Day, you don't need to be a member to enjoy the majority of Best Buy's discounts this week. Keep reading for all of my top picks from the sale event. Who knows? Find the right deal and you might even get to skip Amazon's event altogether.

• Best Buy's Tech Fest sale ends Sunday: see the full list of deals

Android phones

Wearables

Tablets

More Best Buy deals

When does Best Buy's Tech Fest end?

Best Buy's Tech Fest sale kicked off today, June 22nd, and will run through Sunday, June 28th.

When is Amazon Prime Day?

Amazon Prime Day is set for June 23-26, giving you four days to explore some of the best tech deals of the year.

More Prime Day coverage

• Prime Day Google Pixel deals
• Prime Day Samsung Galaxy deals
• Prime Day Garmin deals
• Prime Day storage deals
• Prime Day Headphones/Earbuds deals
• Prime Day Kindle deals
• Prime Day Amazon Fire deals

What you need to know

• A new leak claims Samsung is testing the Privacy Display feature for the smaller Galaxy S27 Pro.
• Samsung is rumored to launch four Galaxy S27 models next year, including a new Pro variant.
• The Galaxy S27 Pro could feature a 6.47-inch display while retaining several Ultra-level features.

According to a new leak, Samsung could bring the Privacy Display feature from the Galaxy S26 Ultra to the rumored Galaxy S27 Pro next year.

It's only been a few months since the Galaxy S26 Ultra launched, but rumors surrounding the Galaxy S27 lineup have already started appearing. We recently heard reports suggesting Samsung could skip major hardware changes for the Galaxy S27 series due to rising component costs. At the same time, another rumor claimed the company may finally bring native Qi2 support to the Galaxy S27 lineup.

Now, a new leak from Digital Chat Station suggests Samsung could expand the Privacy Display feature beyond the Ultra model. For those who haven't been following the rumors, Samsung is reportedly planning to launch four Galaxy S27 models next year: the base model, Plus, Ultra, and a new Pro variant.

The Galaxy S27 Pro is said to bring many of the Ultra's premium features to a smaller form factor, something Samsung fans have been asking for for years. According to the leak, Samsung is currently testing a 6.47-inch display for the Galaxy S27 Pro with Privacy Display technology built in.

For those who don't remember, Privacy Display is one of the new features of the Galaxy S26 Ultra. It prevents people viewing your screen from the side from seeing what's displayed by limiting visibility angles at the hardware level. When enabled, the person directly in front of the screen can see everything normally, while anyone viewing from the side mostly sees a darkened display.

This could be the Galaxy phone I'd actually buy

The leak also claims that the Galaxy S27 Ultra will feature a 6.89-inch 2K display, which would be very similar to the panel found on the Galaxy S26 Ultra. The Galaxy S27 Pro, meanwhile, would offer a much more manageable screen size at just under 6.5 inches.

Of course, it's still far too early to treat any of this as confirmed. Samsung could easily add, remove, or change features before launch. We saw something similar happen with the Galaxy S26 lineup, where plans reportedly shifted late in development. There's also no guarantee that the Galaxy S27 Pro itself will actually launch.

That said, if Samsung does go ahead with the Galaxy S27 Pro, it could end up being one of the most interesting Galaxy phones in years. A smaller flagship with the Privacy Display feature is something I've wanted Samsung to build for a long time.

What you need to know

• Former CIA officer Jason Hanson says government agencies have the capability to access phones and laptops.
• Hanson claims he uses a flip phone to reduce tracking, but says surveillance is still technically possible.
• The former CIA officer stressed that capability doesn't necessarily mean agencies are actively listening.
• Hanson also warned against using public Wi-Fi without a VPN due to potential risks.

Everyone has wondered about this at some point: can someone listen to you through your phone? Can government agencies access your phone's microphone or camera? I've had the same question for years, and now a former CIA officer has weighed in with his perspective.

Former CIA officer Jason Hanson recently spoke to LADbible Stories about modern smartphone surveillance and privacy. Hanson, who says he spent seven years working for the CIA, was asked a question many people have wondered about for years: can government agencies listen to you through your phone?

According to Hanson, every government agency on Earth has the capability to access devices such as smartphones, laptops, smartwatches, and even cameras if they choose to. He argued that it doesn't really matter what device you own or how private you believe it is.

Hanson went on to explain that because he's more privacy-conscious than most people, he personally carries an old-fashioned flip phone to avoid app tracking and data collection from companies. That said, he still claims that intelligence agencies could potentially access his communications if they specifically wanted to.

As Hanson put it: "If you think, 'Hey, I'm not going to have surveillance on me, I'm not going to have somebody listening on me,' they can do it if they want to." He made the remarks around the 10:41 mark of the interview.

Importantly, Hanson doesn't suggest that governments are actively listening to everyone all the time. His point is that the capability exists, not that constant surveillance is taking place. In other words, agencies can potentially monitor or surveil a target if they choose to.

The conversation also touched on public Wi-Fi networks. Hanson said he never connects to public Wi-Fi without using a VPN.

According to him, someone doesn't need to be a government agency to intercept information on an unsecured network. He argued that skilled hackers can potentially access data and communications if proper protections aren't in place, which is why he recommends taking extra precautions whenever using public Wi-Fi.

What you need to know

• Nothing launched its Community Review Program for consumers passionate about its devices, and are willing to review them early and offer feedback.
• The company has also started teasing a new product on X, posting a simple "(b)" and two Pokémon, Jumpluff and Blastoise.
• Nothing also features Jumpluff on its Community Review Program post, potentially signaling this mysterious device will be there.

Nothing has had a busy week. The company has now unveiled a new early access program for consumers who are passionate about its devices.

On its community forum, Nothing announced that its Community Review Program is now accepting applicants. This program is for consumers passionate about Nothing and helping it cultivate products that mean something. Nothing says, "This is your chance to get your hands on and review our latest products before everyone else!" Not only should applicants be interested in tech and design, but expertise in cameras, software, and product reviews is encouraged, too.

To sweeten the deal, Nothing says that the review device that it sends you (for which it will cover the shipping cost) can be kept by you, the reviewer. Anyone interested can submit their application.

However, this announcement could be more significant than we think. Late this week, Nothing posted a couple of teasers on X, which might hint at a new device and series. If you're new to Nothing's brand of "teasers," the company often uses Pokémon for this. This time, the company has posted Jumpluff and the classic water boy himself, Blastoise. Following that, Nothing posted a simple teaser: (b). Usually, we've seen the company use "a" for its devices (think Nothing Phone 4a, 4a Pro).

What makes this even more interesting is that Nothing used one of these Pokémon, Jumpluff, in its Community Review Program post. We're not trying to get ahead of ourselves, but perhaps what Nothing is teasing will be in this program.

What's cooking?

We're in an interesting time for Nothing right now. On Thursday, the company's CEO, Carl Pei, posted a video on TikTok that's textbook for the type of person he is. Pei directly called out Apple, stating he was going to steal away all of its "bored iPhone users." Pei continues to position Nothing as a true Apple competitor, stating its iPhones have become "repetitive and uninspired." That's not all. Recently, the company's co-founder, Akis Evangelidis, had some sad news about the CMF Phone 3 Pro.

As RAM continues to skyrocket, CMF will not produce a Phone 2 Pro successor to avoid placing higher costs on consumers. However, Evangelidis says CMF still has new things planned this year and that consumers should look forward to "more to come" from the flagship Nothing line. It feels like the company is cooking something up, and its recent public statements continue that narrative.

Android Central's Take

Nothing is cooking something up, and I'm here for it. The brand's past few launches have been pretty interesting. The Phone 4a and 4a Pro were pretty incredible, even if I don't agree with the choices for SoC (I know, they're more budget-focused). Still, even that's a plus. Despite focusing on the affordability line, the 4a and 4a Pro were good devices that didn't feel like a budget choice.

What was once a niche enthusiast brand, OnePlus has evolved into a heavy-lifting mainstream player that's all about packing absolute max performance and insane battery life into its hardware. Its main focus is on its Android-based OS, OxygenOS, and its native AI system, OnePlus AI. It is well known for its flagship phones, the sleek R series, and more affordable Nord devices.

Beyond phones, OnePlus has also established a sizable hardware portfolio that spans earbuds, smartwatches, and tablets. Given that OnePlus and OPPO share R&D resources, their products are often very similar, though they differ depending on the markets they serve. OnePlus was co-founded by Carl Pei, who is now the CEO of Nothing.

OPPO is a China-based tech giant that produces some of the most innovative and groundbreaking devices. Focusing on smart AI and camera technology, the company is known for its flagship Find X series, stylish Reno series, and foldable N series. The company uses heavy-duty on-device AI to completely reinvent how your phone takes photos.

The company also has its Android-based OS, ColorOS, which is the basis for OnePlus's Android software. However, despite the popularity of OPPO phones globally, the company has no presence in the United States, where its sister brand, OnePlus, currently operates. The two brands often share design aesthetics and hardware, but are targeted at different markets.

Nothing is a U.K.-based "anti-boring" tech brand founded by former OnePlus founder Carl Pei. The company entered the market to disrupt traditional smartphones with its transparent, retro-futuristic hardware and heavily customized software, inspired by Pei's mission to make consumer tech fun again. Nothing focuses on clean design and an "AI-native" future, a strategy that centers on moving away from a million different standalone apps toward smart, built-in features.

Nothing also carries its design philosophy across its other products, such as earbuds. Meanwhile, the company has a sub-brand, CMF, that takes a different, more colorful approach to design, while still offering affordable smartphones and audio products. However, the availability and carrier support for Nothing and CMF phones remain points of contention for fans as the brands continue to expand their presence.

Apple is Google's biggest competitor. The Cupertino, California-based company makes premium tech products, such as its iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and AirPods. Along with its premium hardware, the company also has its own operating system and chips to power its devices. Apple has focused on a primarily privacy-first ecosystem and, more recently, has introduced a host of AI capabilities powered by popular models such as Gemini and ChatGPT.

Beyond phones and traditional computing, Apple has also entered other markets to expand its device portfolio. More recently, the company introduced Apple Vision Pro, its premium XR headset, making it a direct competitor to Meta and, more recently, Google's Android XR. The company is also expected to introduce foldable devices and smart glasses to round out its hardware offerings.

What you need to know

• Nothing's co-founder, Akis Evangelidis, said on X that CMF will not produce a Phone 3 Pro this year as RAM prices skyrocket.
• The company says it cannot build a true successor that feels "like a genuine step forward at a price that makes sense" for the CMF title.
• Nothing's CEO, Carl Pei, has made similar statements in the past about how higher RAM (thanks to AI) can hamper smartphones and back consumers into a corner, and he's done so again alongside Evangelidis.

Early this morning (June 19), Nothing's co-founder wanted to get transparent about CMF's phone line, as consumers question a Pro successor.

Co-founder Akis Evangelidis on X led off with CMF Phone 2 Pro praise. CMF is the company's budget line, and the device was reportedly well received. However, consumers have been wondering about a successor, a would-be CMF Phone 3 Pro, and Evangelidis says that's not happening in 2026. He says, "We were working on a successor, but with memory prices where they are right now, we can't build a phone that feels like a genuine step forward at a price that makes sense for CMF."

Evangelidis adds, "As a result, we've decided not to launch a new CMF phone this year."

Staying true to CMF's branding is key for Nothing. Their post stresses that they wouldn't want to produce something they're "not proud of," rather than making something to make something. CMF focuses on budget, but it can't stick to those ideals if RAM prices force it to raise its cost for consumers. It looks like Nothing's co-founder is placing the blame squarely on the toll the RAM shortage is taking on the smartphone industry, and Nothing's CEO, Carl Pei, built on that narrative.

Pei leads off strong, stating, "Memory is now the most expensive component in a smartphone." According to his data, RAM accounts for 50% of the phone's hardware bill. He states RAM prices doubled when the Phone 4a launched in March, and now they've "doubled again since." Pei adds that the rate at which RAM prices have shot up is exceeding his previous expectations, and that next year could see even higher phone prices as a result.

A conscious decision

The timing of Nothing's transparency is a little unfortunate, considering we were just going over (alleged) CMF Phone 3 Pro leaks late last month. Those rumors said the next Pro edition was "delayed," but was still on the way, as details supposedly emerged. What surfaced was a budget phone with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 7s Gen 4, not MediaTek's Dimensity line. Additionally, rumors said Nothing could boost the phone with a 5,400 or 5,500mAh battery and a 50MP camera.

However, it looks like we'll have to officially put these rumors to rest since Nothing's co-founder has come forward with a statement.

Interestingly, Evangelidis says while CMF is still working on "several new products" this year (just probably not a phone), the main Nothing line has "more to come," too. So far, we've seen rumors about a Nothing Ear 3a in the works, but it sounds like there's more in the pipeline, as Carl Pei said he was going to steal Apple's customers, "one bored iPhone user at a time."

Android Central's Take

CMF by Nothing, or rather CMF these days, positioned itself as a budget line that doesn't feel like a drastic compromise for consumers. It's a brand that's been well received by consumers, and Nothing isn't keen on breaking that. If you've been accustomed to a device that's affordable (whatever that means to you), and then prices soar by 50% or more, all of a sudden, you're not biting. It probably sucks not to deliver another with so many people expecting it, but this is a decision based on the market's climate.

What you need to know

• Rumors from the social media platform Naver suggest Samsung could "freeze" upgrades that would raise the base Galaxy S27's price.
• Such upgrades would be its display, as well as the phone's cameras next year.
• Recent rumors suggest the company could rework its cameras to fit Qi2 magnets in the Galaxy S27 series, as well as a potential UFS 5.0 storage upgrade.

Rumors have started on an overseas social media platform, claiming Samsung's next base-level flagship could be a little underwhelming.

On Naver, tipster Lanzuk claims Samsung has turned away from certain changes/upgrades for the Galaxy S27 (via WccfTech). There's still some uncertainty behind these rumors, but judging by the smartphone market's current climate, perhaps there's merit. The tipster claims Samsung "will not change" the base Galaxy S27's camera in any meaningful way. Speculation pushes us to believe the device could look vastly similar to what we received with the Galaxy S26.

On the other hand, the tipster suggests Samsung won't be able to upgrade the "display materials" for the S27. This is where the market's current climate comes into play. Lanzuk claims that the OEM is "freezing cost increase factors," potentially hinting that any S27 display upgrades would drive up its price.

There's enough of that going on already with tech due to RAM, thanks to AI. The Naver post adds that there's allegedly been no "supply chain activity" from Samsung and that it could seek BOE for its display hardware.

Where to go from here

There hasn't been much about the base Galaxy S27, and maybe that's for a reason. However, there was one rumor that could impact future consumers of this model. Reports claim Samsung could give the next series a UFS 5.0 storage upgrade, but it might not arrive for every phone. Rumors only said that "some" models would see this, which, if we're thinking realistically here, would likely involve the Ultra.

Nothing is set in stone about this (other than this being a rumor). Apparently, Samsung is considering how phone prices would rise with this upgrade, as well as "mass production costs." What's more exciting is a rumor that claims Samsung is working on proper Qi2 integration and a camera redesign to make this happen. It's unclear how drastic this "redesign" could be. What's been said is that the cameras would have to move in order for Samsung to fit the Qi2 magnets into the phones.

Everybody is getting pumped for next week's Prime Day sale event, but if you're on the hunt for an amazing Samsung Galaxy S26 deal, you don't need to wait. Mint Mobile has been running one of the best smartphone promotions on the web for months, and while it's no longer in the headlines, it deserves a second look before it's gone for good. 

Purchase the Samsung Galaxy S26 with one year of the Unlimited plan and Mint Mobile will give you $500 off the phone AND 50% off the wireless. That means you're getting a powerful 2026 flagship phone and a full 12 months of T-Mobile-powered wireless service for only $580 upfront (or $49 per month using affirm). The deal gets even better when you trade in, as Mint Mobile will give you up to $400 of additional savings depending on the age and condition of the device. 

Mint Mobile has my favorite Galaxy S26 deal, and I don't care who knows it

I've been covering Samsung Galaxy S26 deals on a regular basis since the phone first debuted in March, and Mint's offer continues to impress as one of the best on the web. It's really all about the simplicity for me. Unlike most carrier deals, which force you to process a trade-in or sign up for some expensive data plan to receive the savings, all you need to do is hit the Add to Cart button to receive the phone and wireless bundle. 

Activation just takes a few minutes, and again, it'll only cost you $580 out the door to get a new phone AND cover your phone bill until 2027. Considering that the Galaxy S26 usually retails for $900 on its own, it's a pretty remarkable opportunity. 

For a little perspective, think about it this way: according to Camelcamelcamel.com (an Amazon price history tracking tool) the price of the Samsung Galaxy S26 has never dropped lower than $799.99 at Amazon. Let's be generous and say that the upcoming Prime Day sale event drops the flagship phone to $699.99 unlocked. That's still $120 more expensive than Mint Mobile's deal, and it doesn't come with the full year of unlimited T-Mobile-powered wireless. Sounds pretty good, doesn't it?

Sure, if you prefer the simplicity of unlocked phones or you don't want to commit to a full year of Mint, then this deal isn't for you. But if you hate paying your phone bill and you want a great deal on a great Samsung phone, grab this Mint Mobile offer before it disappears.

What you need to know

• Carl Pei publicly challenged Apple, saying Nothing plans to win over "bored" iPhone users one switch at a time.
• Nothing continues to position itself as the anti-Apple brand, arguing that modern smartphones have become repetitive and uninspired.
• Nothing's planned expansion through Best Buy could give the brand a stronger foothold in the US and expose more consumers to its products.

Nothing founder Carl Pei just looked straight into an Instagram camera and declared war on Cupertino. In his latest, highly dramatic social media stunt, Pei said: “This is a message to Apple. My name is Carl. I make phones in London. I'm gonna steal your customers. One bored iPhone user at a time.”

This is peak Pei, but the heart of his message taps into a very real feeling. Pei has been aggressive from the start, positioning Nothing as the ultimate anti-Apple brand. He thinks the smartphone business has flatlined, arguing that Apple lost its creative spark years ago and that modern glass slabs have become far too repetitive.

Instead, this company builds the safe, predictable phones your parents use and mixes eye-catching transparent hardware designs with heavily customized, deeply stylized software to breathe some life back into the market. This is a classic David vs. Goliath playbook.

That strategy may already be showing early signs of traction, with some younger consumers and even TikTok creators reportedly ditching their iPhones for Nothing devices in search of something that feels more distinctive and less predictable.

That said, Nothing is still a relatively minor blip on the global radar compared to the massive volumes Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, and OPPO move on a daily basis. It’s always easier to double your market share when you’re starting from zero.

If Pei actually wants to steal those bored iPhone owners, he needs to meet them where they shop. That's precisely what is happening next. Nothing recently announced plans to significantly expand its US retail presence through Best Buy. And the threat of American consumers getting their hands on physical hardware is a much more tangible threat to Apple and Samsung’s dominance than any Instagram video could ever be.

Android Central's Take

We desperately need wildcards in the smartphone space to keep the titans from getting lazy, and more weird, transparent hardware on store shelves is an undeniable win for buyers tired of identical glass rectangles. But flashing LED lights and a fancy dot-matrix font are not going to magically shatter the iron grip of iMessage, AirDrop, and the Apple Watch ecosystem. Pei can grandstand to his fanboys all he wants, but until Nothing builds a services ecosystem that actually locks users in like Apple’s walled garden, this “war” is just a shiny marketing gimmick.

What you need to know

• Galaxy S23 Ultra users report a strange "pink vertical line" on their screen after downloading the One UI 8.5 upgrade.
• A user states more problems have surfaced, such as glitches, animation bugs, and flickering font sizes/display scaling.
• Recent report say Samsung removed the video filters option from Galaxy phones downloading the One UI 8.5 update.

Samsung has continued to roll out One UI 8.5 to its past-gen phones; however, one series is having problems to user wants to see.

A thread recently appeared on Samsung's Community Forum by a user with a Galaxy S23 Ultra who states the One UI 8.5 update messed up their display (via SamMobile). According to the user's report, after downloading the update, "a pink vertical line" appeared on their screen. The user covers their bases, stating their device has not received any external damage, nor have its internals been exposed to water.

The phone's display was perfectly fine beforehand, but now that One UI 8.5 is here, so is the pink line. It's unclear how widespread the problem is; however, some users have reported experiencing a similar phenomenon on their Galaxy S23 devices. The original poster went into more detail after a community moderator entered the thread.

Alongside the vertical strip, the user states their device's "font size and display scaling keep changing randomly and flickering." What's more, their display will strangely zoom in and out on its own, with stuttering, lag, and animation glitches becoming commonplace.

The moderator offered pretty standard at-home solutions: restart the device, update software (which seems to be the cause), and more. None of these seemed to offer relief. Samsung hasn't acknowledged these issues yet, so S23 users should take this with caution if you're just getting One UI 8.5.

Take a beat

One UI 8.5's stable rollout finally got going early in May. The software has been in testing since late 2025 and first arrived on the Galaxy S26 series. This was expected. The newer devices usually rock the latest software, but we were expecting One UI 8.5 to hit the Galaxy S25 and maybe the S24 shortly after. That didn't happen, as we've only just gotten our hands on it in May. Early on, Samsung started rolling it out for the Galaxy S25 and S24 series, alongside the Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7, and the Galaxy Tab S11 and Tab S10.

Now the patch is hitting the S23, and with a problem no one would ever want. While Samsung seems to have picked up the pace for this software, maybe it's time for it to take a minute to fix this grueling issue. Reports popped up late in May about Samsung seemingly removing video features in One UI 8.5.

A user stated that the company took away the filters option for recordings. Multiple users chimed in, reporting the same.

What you need to know

• Google detailed its June security patch for Pixel phones shortly after Android 17 and its Pixel Drop went live.
• The company is still focused on fixing lingering display problems, as well as battery charging issues that weren't quite solved in May.
• Android 17 brings a few new features for Pixels, but it also bolsters security and threat detection.

Google's busy week continues as a new security patch is rolling out for its Pixels, carrying a series of fixes for the latest software.

Android 17 launched this week, and Pixels are receiving a June Drop loaded with features. Now, a June security patch has been detailed with a substantial number of fixes for Pixel phones. The update is rolling out for Pixel 6 and newer devices, marked as vCP2A.260605.012 for global units. Google's extensive patch notes clue us into several "Display & Graphics" issue fixes that have plagued Pixel phones for the past few months.

The two fixes that apply only to the Pixel 10 series in this category involve a strange "white flickering dot" and "graphical errors" during standard operations. A third graphics fix concerns the Pixel 8 series, Pixel Fold, and the Pixel Tablet. Google says it's rolling out a solution for a device freeze occurring when connected to an external display.

The Pixel camera has been an issue for Pixel users recently, too. The Pixel 9 and 10 series are receiving a fix for a system crash. Fixes for camera app freezes and crashes are also included in this patch. On the flip side, Pixel battery and power consumption problems have continued to plague Google. This month, a slow wireless charging speed issue should be fixed, alongside a fix for failed wireless and wired charging drivers "during device setup."

Unstable audio was another focus for Google that's now being fixed, alongside two problems impacting app crashes and Backup settings.

A laundry list

As usual, this Pixel patch is rolling out gradually to users. We might not all see it at the same time, so be on the lookout for it to hit your phone soon.

We've gone back-to-back now with patches aimed at critical charging and display problems for Google's Pixels. In May, slow wireless charging issues were a primary concern for the company. At the time, users reported experiencing slowed speeds between 75% and 80% battery. Curiously, this same issue was credited for the issues affecting Pixels in June, too, meaning the problem wasn't completely eradicated.

Hopefully these fixes clean up whatever's remaining. Fuzzy, frozen, and strange display artifacts were problematic for the Pixel 10 series in May.

On the bright side, Google's June patch joins the huge Pixel Drop. Android 17 is finally here, and the company has started rolling out the new OS and these new Pixel features to users. "Bubbles" and the "Bubble Bar" are two new features for Pixels and folds, offering a new way to easily multitask between apps. "Screen reactions" lets you place a selfie video of yourself over a screen recording to simulate a green screen without the extra gear.

Android Central's Take

Extensive fixes can often follow Google's Pixel Drops. I feel like it's more now considering Android 17 is here, and any lingering issues from the last minutes of testing are getting fixed with it. Here's to smooth sailing for any users with Pixels affected by crashes and bugs.

While everything else seems to be getting more expensive lately, there's one crucial commodity that's been largely unaffected: wireless service. With the growing ubiquity of prepaid carriers, even the largest mobile service providers are beginning to lower their prices and offer new data plans for the budget-minded consumer.

Verizon already revolutionized the wireless experience with its customizable myPlan program, but the Big Three carrier has just taken things even further by launching its brand new Simplicity plan. Starting at just $30 per month (for new members with AutoPay), the new phone plan provides unlimited talk, text, and data on Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband network, mobile hotspot data, and more.

I've been covering Verizon plans for quite a few years now, but even I have to admit that this sounds too good to be true. Is the new Simplicity plan right for you and your family? Let's discuss. 

In addition to unlimited wireless on Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband network, the new Simplicity plan also comes with 10GB of mobile hotspot data, international roaming and satellite texting, call filter, and optional entertainment bundles that you can mix and match every month. 

These packages include the "For Movie Lovers" bundle, which gives you access to Disney Plus, Hulu, Netflix, and HBO Max for only $23 per month. Other bundles include music streaming, cloud storage, and international benefits for additional monthly fees.

The Simplicity plan also introduces the new Verizon Dollars loyalty program. Whenever you spend money at Verizon, this included perk gets you 3% back in the form of rewards that you can spend on the carrier's site or at one of its many partners, including Starbucks, Target, Hilton hotels, and more. 

So what's the catch? 

The Verizon Simplicity plan offers a ton of value no matter how you look at it, but that doesn't mean it's for everyone. One thing I noticed is that, unlike other Verizon plans, the Simplicity plan doesn't get cheaper the more lines you add. For new Verizon customers, the plan costs $30/month per line, whether you're adding one line or four. This could be a problem for families who try to save money by utilizing multiline discounts.

Furthermore, it appears that video streaming on the Simplicity plan is capped at 720p, and unlike most cheap phone plans offered by MVNO carriers, taxes and fees aren't included in the price listed above. And again, the $30 per month price is only available to new subscribers who use AutoPay — existing Verizon customers will pay $45 per month for each line.

Is the Simplicity plan worth it?

If you're a new customer who is ready to switch to Verizon and you don't need all of the bells and whistles offered by premium unlimited plans, then Verizon's Simplicity plan might be perfect for you. If you're an existing Verizon customer or you're looking to bring the whole family, however, I'd probably look elsewhere. 

What you need to know

• Samsung is reportedly rolling out One UI 9 Beta 3 to a few regions with enrolled Galaxy S26 devices.
• The patch is 1.7GB and includes mostly bug fixes for Galaxy S26 phones.
• Samsung has been speeding ahead with One UI 9, as tests originally began early in May before Beta 2 arrived later that same month.

Samsung's development for One UI 9 continues this week, as reports state another beta is rolling out for its flagships.

This update seems to be restricted to only a few regions. According to SamMobile, One UI 9 Beta 3 is rolling out for the Galaxy S26 series as vS94xBXXU3ZZF7. The patch is quite substantial at 1.7GB. However, the publication states this patch is "available in select markets," like South Korea, the U.K., Poland, and India. This update comes with Samsung's June 2026 security patch to keep testers up-to-date.

The changelog mostly informs users of the fixes Samsung is rolling out. The company states it's rolling out a fix for a device reboot that would occur while streaming videos. Another fix rolls in for a white screen issue that would appear when taking a call on the Galaxy S26.

Background issue fixes continue, as Samsung highlights solving a black background problem when pulling down the status bar. The Files app receives a fix, so now users can finally see a complete list of what's stored on their device, instead of getting stopped partway. The remainder of the patch notes is as follows:

• Improved focus accuracy when using 30x camera zoom
• Fixed an issue where the home screen would not swipe left or right when using the pen
• Fixed an issue where widget information, such as weather and battery on the lock screen, was not updating correctly
• Fixed an issue where part of the camera preview screen was cropped under certain conditions
• Improved errors related to the privacy display when setting routines or toggling the Quick Panel ON/OFF

That makes three

We might see this update hit U.S. Galaxy S26 devices later in the week. Keep your eyes peeled if your device is enrolled.

Samsung's been wasting no time in preparing its next major OS update. Its Android 17-based software got underway in May, then we received Beta 2 late that same month. This update was also quite large at 1.6GB, and its patch notes were no different than what we're seeing today. Samsung continues to implement bug fixes as it fine-tunes its software ahead of release. A Good Lock module (LockStar) received a fix late last month, solving a lock screen clock issue.

Another fix concerned users attempting to delete messages in bulk. Originally, reports discussed new features in One UI 9. It looks like Samsung is working on linking its Contacts app and the Creative Studio, alongside customization tools in the Notes app.

Android Central's Take

Beta 3 is here, and it feels like Samsung's working to meet a deadline. We're kind of expecting Samsung to reveal One UI 9 later this summer, right around Unpacked for its foldables. If that's going to be the case, then it makes sense that it's working tirelessly to get things ready. Samsung's summer event is usually held in July, and we're expecting that this year.

What you need to know

• A new leak claims the OnePlus 16 could feature a 185Hz display, up from 165Hz on the OnePlus 15.
• OnePlus is reportedly testing ultra-slim 1mm bezels on all four sides for a more immersive design.
• The OnePlus 16 is rumored to pack a huge 9,000mAh battery with support for 120W fast charging.

A new leak has shed some light on the display specs of the OnePlus 16, and it looks like OnePlus is going all in on creating a more immersive design.

OnePlus may be going through a bit of turmoil right now, but that clearly isn't stopping the company from working on its next flagship. We recently heard rumors that the OnePlus 16 could launch earlier than usual with a massive 9,000mAh battery, and now a new leak has revealed more details about the phone's display.

According to tipster Digital Chat Station on Weibo, OnePlus is currently testing the OnePlus 16 with a 185Hz refresh rate display. Earlier rumors suggested the company could jump all the way to 240Hz, but that now appears unlikely.

Even so, 185Hz would still be one of the highest refresh rates we've seen on a flagship smartphone. For comparison, the current OnePlus 15 tops out at 165Hz.

The tipster also claims OnePlus is aggressively shrinking the bezels on the upcoming device. According to the leak, the OnePlus 16 could feature bezels measuring just 1mm on all four sides. For context, both the OnePlus 15 and Galaxy S26 Ultra already have very slim 1.5mm bezels, so pushing that down to 1mm would make the display feel even more immersive.

Beyond the display, the OnePlus 16 is also rumored to feature that massive 9,000mAh battery alongside 120W fast charging. The phone could be powered by Qualcomm's next-generation Snapdragon Elite chipset and may even introduce a 200MP periscope telephoto camera for the first time on a OnePlus flagship.

Of course, it's still far too early to treat any of these claims as confirmed. But if even half of these rumors turn out to be true, the OnePlus 16 is shaping up to be a very capable successor to the OnePlus 15.

What you need to know

• Samsung announces a real-world campaign alongside Sony and Spider-Man: Brand New Day that brings the movie's Spidey Tracker to life.
• On June 17, users can interact with the Spidey Tracker to see where our favorite webslinger is, and you might spot hidden easter eggs and more.
• Samsung is showcasing its foldables and watches in the new movie, displaying the line's usability.

We all know the classic Spider-Man song, but this summer's movie is being bolstered by Samsung's devices and an app created by the film's Ned Leeds (played by Jacob Batalon).

Samsung wants to swing with the friendly neighborhood webslinger this summer, announcing the Spidey Tracker powered by Galaxy. The company says it's looking to "expand the narrative beyond the film" with this sticky (I'll stop the puns) collaboration. The Spidey Tracker is an interactive campaign that users can play with to follow Spider-Man sightings and "engage with the story in real time."

The tracker is coming online on June 17 in 35 countries worldwide.

Jeffrey Godsick, executive vice president, Global Partnerships, Sony Pictures Entertainment, said, "Spider-Man has always been a hero defined by his connection to his community. Teaming up with Samsung helped bring that spirit to life both on screen and beyond, integrating the technology people use every day into Spider-Man’s world while also bringing innovative and fun new ways for fans to engage through the Spidey Tracker."

Samsung's campaign with Spider-Man: Brand New Day doesn't stop at the tracker. The post highlights real-world moments where users can spot cast appearances and interviews, hidden easter eggs, content drops, and more. In the film, Samsung says movie-lovers will see the "portability" and usefulness of the Galaxy Z Flip, Fold, and Galaxy Watch in Spider-Man: Brand New Day.

The company teases that users might even see Spider-Man pop up at an Experience Store in this campaign. Spider-Man: Brand New Day is in theaters July 31.

Spider-Man, Spider-Man, does whatever a...

Users should keep an eye out for the Spidey Tracker website tomorrow to begin tracking our favorite webslinger. Story-wise, Ned Leeds developed the tracker and is seen using it on a Galaxy Z Fold 7, as well as Spider-Man's mask on his Galaxy Watch. We'll have to wait for the movie to see how everything works for real in the Marvel Universe.

Samsung's making moves with this decision, and there's no getting around how extremely popular the Galaxy Z Fold 7 was last year. The Fold 7 was made lighter and thinner than previous iterations, and Samsung upgraded its hinge to withstand hundreds of thousands of folds. If you're thinking about the Galaxy Watch, the recent series has been upgraded with better health tracking and features to keep users on top of their wellbeing. Moreover, there was a report about the Galaxy Watch successfully detecting a fainting spell before it happened.

Android Central's Take

Needless to say, I'm a comic book nerd. This is pretty cool. Aside from the comics, if you've ever played the recent Spider-Man games on a PlayStation 5, there's something like a "tracking" aspect with him there. It's more social media based, and Spider-Man has a ton of followers there.

What you need to know

• School is out, and Google's rolling out a parental control update for parents with kids who have phones, as we prepare to download Android 17.
• In the Settings menu, these controls bring a daily limit, app limits, and downtime schedule.
• Parents can also select a rating limit for apps on the Play Store, so if you want the highest restriction, "E" for everyone is ideal.

Amid Google's already packed Tuesday with a Pixel Drop and Android 17, now the company is detailing new parental controls.

This afternoon (June 16), Google highlighted a series of parental control updates for parents managing the summer with kids who have phones. As Android 17 makes its rounds to Pixels, Google says users will find an updated selection of Android Parental Controls on phones that receive this upgrade. Located in the Settings menu, parents can "set the amount of screen time your child can spend on a device each day to help establish healthy habits."

Outside of this screen time, parents will have access to "downtime schedules." This puts a limiter on your child's device, ensuring they're not watching YouTube videos all night. Google states downtime schedules will "automatically lock the device." Google Play Store gets in on these parental controls. Parents will find age ratings similar to those for a game (remember "E" for Everyone?).

Similarly, the "Everyone" setting is the Play Store's "most restrictive" setting. Controls include "Everyone 10 Plus," "Teen," "Mature 17 Plus," "Adult only 18 Plus," and "Allow all, including unrated." As you'd imagine, this final option is the least restrictive, allowing users to see anything and everything on the Play Store.

With so many apps, parents can set limits on app usage on their child's device. Moreover, parents can block apps entirely to ensure they're never opened.

Android's parental controls advance

Google gives parents a heads-up, stating that their controls can be protected by a PIN. What's more, these controls can directly tie into Android's Family Link. This opens a new series of options, such as School Time, which helps make sure your child is focusing on their studies and not scrolling in class. Family Link also brings purchase approvals from the Play Store, location alerts, and more.

These updates should begin rolling out soon.

It's interesting to hear a reference to School Time, as it's a bit of an older feature Google introduced for parents. This gives parents the ability to control when their child's phone should lock down and for how long. Considering school is five days a week, you can decide to activate it Monday through Friday from, say, 8 AM to 2:15 PM. Through Family Link, parents can see the apps their child uses during school. Kids have the ability to see a list of what apps they can use, which parents decide beforehand.

Parents can even curate a list of contacts their kid is allowed to text or call during school hours.

What you need to know

• Google's June Pixel Drop brings a few new features to its Pixel phones and folds, such as "Screen reactions" that integrates selfie videos with screen recordings in Android 17.
• Another Android 17-based feature is "Bubbles," giving Pixel users new ways to hop between apps, which is also known as "Bubble Bar" on Folds.
• Google expands several features to more Pixel phones and users in more countries, alongside an "Emergency Detection" update for Pixel Watch.

Google's Pixels are updating this week as a massive June Drop heads to the brand's phones and watch.

A shared press release breaks down the June Pixel Drop, which will begin rolling out today (June 16) to Pixel phones and the Pixel Watch. What makes this more exciting is that Android 17 is officially here, and it's rolling out to Pixel phones. This is important for the Pixel Drop, as Google highlights "Screen reactions." Google says selfie videos are now integrated with your screen recordings, meaning users can create a "green screen without needing other apps."

This is becoming available on all Pixel phones and folds with Android 17.

Elsewhere, "Bubbles" are the newest feature rolling out to all Android 17 Pixel phones and folds. With Bubbles, users can "turn apps like your browser, calendar, and Gemini into floating bubbles over your main screen." However, eligible Pixel Folds are getting a "Bubble Bar." This is a new UI that brings organization to users' phones, enabling quick access from one bubble to another.

This month's Pixel Drop involves a few notable feature expansions, too. Conversational photo editing in Google Photos is rolling out to Pixel devices in Germany, the UK, France, Spain, and Italy. Now, users in these countries can lean on Gemini to make quick photo edits without having to dive into the tools themselves (Pixel 6 and newer). Voice Translate is expanding to the Pixel 10a, while Quick Share's compatibility with AirDrop extends to the Pixel 9a and 8a.

Manual Call Screen lets users avoid unwanted interactions by telling their phone's Call Screen to answer for them. This feature is headed to India in June. Google says users in the country can expect it on the Pixel 10 series, including the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.

Magic Cue's contextual suggestions while you're operating your phone expand to "additional messaging apps." However, Google states this feature is still mainly supported on the Pixel 10 series. Lastly, we're seeing "Take a Message" appear on Pixel 6 and newer phones in "more markets." For India, this is restricted to the Pixel 10 series. Google adds that this expansion is joined by "Custom Greetings," enabling users to record an outgoing message when you've missed or declined a call.

Your device will still provide real-time transcriptions.

Pixel AI

Google's AI has taken a bit of a backseat in June's Drop, but there are two updates you should know about: Gemini Omni and Lyria 3. Gemini Omni took the stage during I/O 2026, giving us a pretty good preview of the AI's video editing and generative capabilities. Today, Google says Gemini Omni is rolling out on "all devices with the Gemini app for Gemini Pro users." Users can chat with Gemini, telling it what they'd like it to create, and it will provide a "high-quality" result.

Lyria 3 is an AI built around music using your text prompts or submitted images. Users can tell Gemini the style they're going for, as well as vocals and tempo. This is rolling out to all Android 17 Pixel phones and folds.

Pixel Watch comes in clutch

Emergency Detection is the next step for user safety for Google's Pixel Watch. It states that its June Drop will integrate emergency sharing into major features, such as Car Crash, Fall, and Loss of Pulse detection. Google says that if your Pixel Watch detects a "severe event," it will contact emergency services and alert your chosen contacts. Users will find in-depth customization tools for who gets alerted if a severe event is detected, and for which type of event.

Users can expect this feature to begin rolling out on the Pixel Watch on June 16 and beyond.

Android Central's Take

Google's Pixel Drops are always interesting to sift through and see what's new. Many of these features hold a bit more excitement since they coincide with Android 17's launch. Bubbles are a pretty interesting way to manage your apps. It's basically another multitasking tool that's a bit easier to manage. The expanded features is also a plus for users awaiting them, especially that Quick Share/AirDrop expansion.