News
Google Bringing Agentic AI to Flagship Android Phones
Google today announced several new AI features for Android, that will start to roll out with new Samsung and Pixel phones this summer. Gemini Intelligence is agentic AI that works across your apps to perform multi-steps tasks for you. Examples include "snagging a front-row bike for your spin class", "finding your class syllabus in Gmail then putting the books you need in your cart", or, while looking at a shopping list in your notes app, "build[ing] a shopping cart with all of the items for delivery". Google Intelligence can continue a task in the background while showing progress via a live notification. It will also stop and ask for final confirmation before completing a task. Create My Widget is a new "generative UI" feature of Gemini Intelligence that will create new, custom widgets for your home screen simply from your description. This might include a countdown to an event, meal suggestions, or a custom weather widget that only includes the specific data you're most interested in. Finally, Google is also making its auto-fill feature smarter, using Gemini's Personal Intelligence to fill in more fields.
Android Auto Gets Revamp
Google has revealed the next version of Android Auto and Google Built-In for cars. A new layout includes edge-to-edge Google Maps navigation that better fits various display shapes, and widgets, such as contacts, weather, or a garage door opener. Google Maps also gains "Immersive Navigation", a vivid 3D view that shows buildings, overpasses, and terrain. It also aims to do a better job highlighting critical details, such as lanes, traffic lights, and stop signs. On supported phones, it will also surface Gemini Intelligence, the new version of Gemini with more agentic features. For example, "if you get a text from a friend asking for an address, Magic Cue will understand the context of the question, find the answer using information from your text messages, email or calendar, and offer to send a reply with the right information". This new version of Android Auto will roll out through the rest of this year.
Samsung Begins Public Beta Testing of Android 17
Samsung is releasing the first public beta version of One UI 9 — the company's spin on Android 17 — this week. Galaxy S26 series users can apply to join the beta program via the Samsung Members app. The beta software will start to become available this week in several countries, including the US. Notable new features in the beta OS include greater Quick Panel customization, as well as enhanced accessibility and security features. The final (non-beta) version of One UI 9 will debut on "upcoming Galaxy flagship devices later this year" and include new "advanced AI features" that may not be included in the beta version. Google is also offering public beta versions of Android 17 for its Pixel devices.
Cross-Platform RCS Messaging Gaining Encryption
Apple and Google have jointly announced the rollout of end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS messaging between Apple and Android devices. When RCS messages are end-to-end encrypted, they can't be intercepted and read while in transit between devices, improving privacy and security. Encryption will be on by default and will be automatically enabled over time for new and existing RCS conversations. On both platforms, a small lock icon will confirm when an RCS chat is encrypted. The feature requires iOS 26.5 or, on Android, the latest version of the Google Messages app. It also requires carrier support. The two companies still describe the feature as in "beta". E2EE was officially added to the RCS standard a little over a year ago, and Apple pledged to support it at that time.
New "Google Health" App to Replace Google Fit and Fitbit
Google is renaming the Fitbit app to "Google Health", adding new features, and positioning it to replace the existing Google Fit app. The new app integrates with other apps and APIs — including Health Connect, Apple Health, and the Google Health APIs — to sync and unify your health data in one place. A new layout offers four main tabs: Today, Fitness, Sleep, and Health. The Today and Health tabs offer customizable dashboards for quick access to your favorite metrics. The app also supports digital medical records and leaderboards for competing with friends on steps and cardio load. Existing users of the Fitbit app will receive an automatic update to Google Health starting May 19. Google will invite Google Fit users to migrate their data to Google Health "later this year".
Qualcomm Makes Modest Updates to its Entry-Level Phone Chips
Qualcomm has announced the Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 and Snapdragon 4 Gen chips intended to power affordable phones. For once, AI is not the focus of these new chips. One new technology in both chips is "Snapdragon Smooth Motion UI". In the 6 Gen 5, this should deliver 20% faster app launches and 18% less screen stutter. In the 4 Gen 5, it should deliver 43% faster app launches and 25% less screen stutter. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 offers the most upgrades compared to the Gen 4 version, although also a few curious downgrades. Graphics performance gets a 21% boost. The CPU has been re-arranged: instead of one "prime" core running at 2.3 GHz plus three "performance" cores, the new chip simply has four performance cores running at 2.6 GHz. There are also still four efficiency cores, now running at 2 GHz instead of 1.8. The camera subsystem gains a new night vision mode, the sole new AI-powered feature. However there are only two 12-bit ISPs, instead the three found in Gen 4. The 5G modem gets some minor upgrades, but removes support for mmWave 5G. The other radios do get upgrades, including Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and support for XPAN, Qualcomm's unique audio-over-Wi-Fi technology. Most other specs carry over from the Gen 4 chip. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 is the first update to the main 4-series chip since the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, announced back in 2023. Even so, it makes surprisingly few changes. Qualcomm promises 77% improved graphics performance. The camera subsystem now has built-in support for face detection. The chip also supports Quick Charge 5 (previously, 4+) and 144 Hz display refresh (up from 120). Otherwise, the new 4-series chip is almost the same as the 2023 version, including Bluetooth 5.1 and Wi-Fi 5. Both new chips are expected to reach consumers in new phones in 2026.
Apple Reaches $250 Settlement for Failing to Deliver AI Siri as Advertised
A class-action lawsuit against Apple for false advertising has reached a settlement of $250 million. Apple showed off a smarter, personalized version of Siri at its WWDC event in 2024 and promised to ship the feature by the end of that year. This was specifically advertised as one several Apple Intelligence features of the iPhone 16 lineup and the iPhone 15 Pro. But the feature never shipped. Apple waited until March 2025 to admit that the feature was delayed. Consumers who purchased a an iPhone 16 or 15 Pro may be eligible for part of the settlement if it's approved by a judge.
Approximate Location Comes to Chrome on Android
Google is updating its Chrome web browser for Android devices to support the sharing of "Approximate" location data with web sites that do not need "Precise" location data, such as web sites offering local weather or news. This is a privacy-enhancing feature. Web sites that do need precise location data will still be able to request that from users. And new APIs will allow web developers to indicate which type of location data they need, to streamline the permissions process for users.
Hands On with the 2026 Motorola razr Lineup
Motorola has refreshed its lineup of razr phones for 2026. Most of the changes are minor, putting a few small upgrades into the same three bodies. We also spent time with Motorola's first book-style foldable phone, the razr fold. With all of its phones, Motorola puts a big focus on CMF: color, material, and finish. So we spent some hands-on time with all four new razrs to check how they look and feel in person. Read on for our impressions.
Motorola Refreshes razr Lineup with Better Batteries & More
Motorola is giving its razr lineup of foldable flip phones an update for 2026. There are no dramatic changes, but each model gets at least a couple of notable spec upgrades. Colors and finishes have of course been refreshed, but otherwise the physical designs of each model remain unchanged. The razr and razr+ both get a battery capacity boost of roughly 13% thanks to new silicon-carbon chemistry that the company has been rolling out across its lineup this year. The razr ultra gets a 6% boost, but that gets it up to 5,000 mAh, which is enough to count as the largest battery capacity of any flip phone. The relatively affordable razr (2026) also gets upgraded cameras, with the wide-angle cam getting upgraded to a 50 megapixel sensor. The razr should also be speedier, thanks to an updated Dimensity 7450X processor from MediaTek, and faster RAM. Unfortunately, storage has been downgraded from 256 to 128 GB, likely due to the ongoing memory-chip shortage. The step-up razr+ (2026) undoes the curious 2024 decision to include a telephoto camera instead of a wide-angle one. So the wide-angle camera is back, and it's also a 50 megapixel sensor. The razr ultra (2026) gets a few upgrades, including a main camera sensor with new LOFIC technology. This expands the range of light levels a pixel can measure by 6x, which enables HDR with a single exposure, and improves shooting speed and power efficiency. Motorola has also upgraded the cover glass to Gorilla Glass Ceramic 3, which it claims offers 75% better drop resistance. As usual, Motorola is offering a variety of unique finishes and fresh Pantone colors. The new razr comes in four colors: Hematite (warm gray) with a "woven-inspired" finish, Violet Ice (pink) and Sporting Green with "leather-inspired" finishes, and Bright White in an "acetate" finish. The new razr+ comes only in Mountain View (green) with a "woven-inspired jacquard" finish. The new razr ultra has two options: Cocoa in a natural wood finish, or Orient Blue (purple) in Alcantara (faux suede). Most of the new razr phones will be available for pre-order May 14 and go on sale May 21, unlocked from motorola.com and third-party retailers, as well as some US carriers. Unfortunately, Motorola has raised prices across the board. The razr (2026) will list for $800 and be offered by Boost, Spectrum, Verizon, Visible, Xfinity Mobile, Consumer Cellular, Google Fi, Cox Mobile, T-Mobile, and Cricket. The razr+ (2026) will retail for $1,100 and be offered by AT&T and T-Mobile. The razr ultra (2026) will be offered unlocked for $1,500.
Motorola Prices razr fold at $1,900
Motorola will start selling its new flagship foldable, the razr fold, on May 21, with pre-orders available May 14. The device will also come to T-Mobile, Xfinity Mobile, and Verizon "in the coming months".
Supreme Court Takes on Geofence Warrants
The US Supreme Court is hearing arguments today on whether "geofence warrants" violate the Fourth Amendment's ban on unreasonable searches. Geofence warrants request info on all persons whose phones can be placed within a certain area at a certain time, without naming a specific person of interest. In this case, the warrant was served to Google, and used to find someone who robbed a bank in Virginia. The Supreme Court previously weighed in on phone location data in 2018 when it ruled that getting location data for a specific person required a warrant.
Verizon Opens up Dedicated First Responder Network to Mobile Devices
After a successful but limited launch of its dedicated virtual network for first responders last year, Verizon is now opening up the network to compatible smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Verizon started its rollout of the network almost exactly one year ago with 30 markets, expanding "nationwide" to 50 major markets last June. However, access to the network has been restricted to connected vehicles, a restriction being removed today. The company calls the network the Verizon Frontline Network Slice. As the name implies, it uses network slicing, a new feature of 5G networks that lets operators create virtual networks that can deliver dedicated resources and specific performance guarantees. First responders can get priority 5G network access regardless of how busy the regular, public network gets. Verizon can also scale the Frontline slice in real time based on the operational needs of first responders. T-Mobile also offers a dedicated 5G network slice for first responders that it calls T-Priority, which started rolling out in late 2024. AT&T has operated FirstNet for first responders since 2018. FirstNet is set up slightly differently, using dedicated spectrum in band 14.
Xfinity Mobile Remixes Plans
Xfinity Mobile has replaced its two old mobile service plans with two new ones, with restructured pricing and (mostly) upgrades to what's included. The new entry-level plan is Mobile Select, replacing the old "Unlimited" plan. While the old plan was $40/month for the first line and $20 for additional lines, the new plan is simply $30/month for each line. It has several improvements: Full high-speed data is now capped at 50 GB instead of 30 GB. It also now includes 15 GB of high-speed hotspot data. Unlimited international talk/text/data has now expanded to 215+ countries, instead of just Canada and Mexico. Finally, video streaming quality is being bumped from 480p (SD) to 720p (technically HD). The higher-end plan is now called Mobile Plus, replacing "Premium Unlimited". The new plan runs $45/month for each line, instead of $50 for the first and $30 for additional lines. This means a price hike for everyone except solo lines. One all-new included feature is Mobile Care Plus, which covers repairs, replacements, and live tech help for devices connected to your account. High-speed data remains truly unlimited, while high-speed mobile hotspot data has been upped from 30 to 50 GB. It includes 215+ country international service and 4K video streaming. As before, the premium plans gets you Call Guard spam protection. Regular phone upgrades are also included, but now just once per year instead of twice. As always, Xfinity Mobile is only available as an add-on for existing Xfinity home internet customers. The new plans are available starting today.
AT&T Launches New Sonim Phones, Including Thermal-Imaging Model
AT&T has started offering the Sonim XP Pro Thermal and XP5plus 5G. The XP Pro Thermal has FLIR thermal imaging camera on the back and comes with a dedicated thermal camera app with a wide range of tools for taking and analyzing thermal data in the field. Otherwise, the phone is similar to the standard XP Pro, a rugged Android phone with a relatively sleek design, extra shortcut buttons, support for pro field accessories, and extra-loud speakers. AT&T also launched the XP5plus 5G, a new 5G version of the XP5plus, Sonim's bar-style rugged feature-phone model that, uniquely, is available with or without physical knob controls on top. The new model doesn't just add 5G, but also upgrades the display, processor, and memory. Both phones are available from AT&T today. The XP Pro Thermal sells for $650 while the XP5plus 5G sells for $330. Sonim was recently acquired by Social Mobile, which has also rebranded itself Nexa.
Amazon Gets Serious About Satellite Service for Phones with Purchase of Apple's Service Provider
Amazon is purchasing GlobalStar, the legacy satellite operator that powers the "Emergency SOS via satellite" feature of iPhones. Amazon will continue to operate GlobalStar's existing and upcoming satellites and services, and they will continue to power the satellite functions of Apple devices. These services will compliment Amazon's own "Leo" broadband data satellite constellation that it is in the middle of building. Going forward, Amazon will blend the two networks by adding D2D (Direct-to-Device) capabilities (similar to what GlobalStar offers for iPhones today, but more advanced) to its own, next-generation Leo satellites. Amazon cites GlobalStar's radio spectrum licenses and operational expertise as key enablers for adding D2D capability to Leo. First-generation Leo satellites started launching to orbit one year ago. Amazon plans to start launching next-gen Leo satellites with D2D in 2028. Leo competes with SpaceX's Starlink, which already offers D2D service for T-Mobile. Amazon Leo will not only continue to work with Apple, but will court mobile network operators "and additional partners", competing with both SpaceX and AST SpaceMobile to provide satellite service for carriers where their land-based networks don't reach.
TCL NXTPAPER 70 Pro Lands at T-Mobile
TCL continues to makes inroads in the US market with its NXTPAPER matte-display technology, with T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile now offering the new NXTPAPER 70 Pro. The 70 Pro is an affordable 5G phone at just $200, yet offers TCL's unique NXTPAPER 4.0 display technology in a large 6.9" format with 120 Hz refresh, 50 megapixel camera with OIS, 5,200 mAh battery with 33W fast charging, an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, 8 GB of RAM, and 128 GB of (expandable) storage. It also supports Bluetooth Auracast, is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, and launches with Android 16. A dedicated NXTPAPER switch on the side makes it easy to activate to special display modes like Color Paper Mode and Ink Paper Mode. TCL claims the battery can last up to 7 days with the display set to Reading Mode. The phone is also compatible with an optional stylus.
Insta360 Launches Screen Accessory for Better Selfies
The Insta360 Snap is a new phone accessory with a display (and optional ring light) that makes it easy to frame and shoot photos of yourself using your phone's higher-quality rear camera. The Snap can attach to the back of a phone magnetically (via MagSafe) and uses a wired connection to the phone via USB-C. The display is a touchscreen that mirrors the phone's main display, allowing full camera control. This also makes it compatible with third-party camera and social media apps. It's compatible with iPhone 15 and newer, as well as higher-end Android phones (that support DisplayPort via USB-C Alt Mode.) A magnetic ring is included to add magnetic attachment to phones that don't already have it. The version with integrated lighting lets the user adjust the light color and brightness. The Insta360 Snap is available now for $90 with light, and $80 without.
Samsung Brings Back the Galaxy Z TriFold
This Friday, Samsung will once again sell its exotic $2,900 phone with two hinges that unfolds into a 10-inch tablet. Samsung started selling the device in the US this January in limited quantities, then "ended" sales a few weeks ago.
Motorola Updates its Stylus Phone
Motorola has announced the 2026 moto g stylus, a minor update to last year's model. Improvements include a larger battery (5,200 mAh) and improved water resistance (up to IPX9, and the touch screen works when wet). Other features and specs are largely unchanged, including a 6.7-inch OLED display with 1.5K "Super HD" resolution, Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor, 8 GB RAM, 128 GB base storage, 50 megapixel main camera, and 13 megapixel wide-angle camera. Similarly, it keeps wired fast charging up to 68W and 15W wireless charging. The powered stylus is included and integrated into the body, supporting features like "Quick Clip" to send any text to the Notes app, Hover to Magnify, and Google's Circle to Search feature. It also still includes a 3.5mm headset jack and expandable storage via memory card. The new moto g stylus will go on sale in the US starting at $500 unlocked on April 16. Google Fi will also launch it that day, with subsequent availability at Spectrum, Cricket, AT&T, Xfinity, and Optimum. Motorola will offer a launch promotion that throws in a free 4-pack of moto tags with 128 GB version; the 256 GB version will come with a free pair of moto buds loop earbuds, a moto watch, and a moto tag.
Samsung Sets End Date for its Own Messages App
This July, the Samsung Messages app for texting will stop working. Samsung's recommended replacement for its Android phones is Google Messages, which offers more functionality. Samsung started this transition last year when it made Google Messages the default messaging app on its new phones.
AT&T Launches New Home+Mobile Bundle Plans
AT&T has introduced a new set of service plans that bundle mobile and home internet service. The new plans are unique in allowing up to four mobile devices per person at no extra cost, but also have a long list of restrictions. These new "OneConnect" plans are only available where AT&T offers fiber-to-the-home service, and only for new wireless customers; existing AT&T wireless customers are ineligible. The plans include unlimited data, but the wireless 5G data is not "premium", meaning it may be de-prioritized (slowed) when the network is busy. Mobile phones used with the plan must be bring-your-own, AT&T-compatible, and support eSIM. Extra cellular devices can include tablets or wearables, but mobile hotspot (via phone or separate device) is not supported. There are three specific plans: The Individual plan allows one mobile phone plus up to three other cellular devices, for $90/month. The Duo plan allows up to eight total cellular devices — two of which can be phones — for $120. The Family plan runs $225/month and allows up to 20 cellular devices, up to ten of which can be phones. All of these plans include 1 Gig home internet speeds. Taxes and fees are included, but auto-pay is required.
Google Brings Smart EV Route Planning to Maps in Android Auto
Google is updating Google Maps to include smarter route planning — including charging stops — for electric vehicles with Android Auto. You can now tell Maps your car model and current charge level to get a route that takes that info into account to estimate range, and suggest the best charging stops with compatible plugs. It can also recommend a charging duration at each stop, show an estimated charge level at each point of the trip, and give a trip duration that includes charging time. The feature is now available for "hundreds" of EV models from more than 15 brands, with more coming "soon".
Verizon Offering Lenience to Unpaid Federal Workers
Verizon today announced that customers affected by the ongoing partial government shutdown can call Verizon to receive waived late fees and "flexible payment arrangements".
Samsung Gives its Mid-Range A37 a Minor Refresh
Samsung has announced the Galaxy A37 5G and Galaxy A57 5G, replacing the A36 and A56, respectively. The new models are mostly similar to the models they replace, and similar to each other, for that matter. One upgrade is an IP68 dust/water rating (up from IP67 last year). Both have a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution and up to 120 Hz refresh. Both have a 5,000 mAh battery, 50 megapixel main camera, wide camera, macro camera, and 12 megapixel front camera. Samsung is switching from a Snapdragon processor to one of its own Exynos chips in the A37, while the A57 is powered by a higher-end Exynos chip. While the A37 is the same size as the A36, the A57 is slightly smaller (in every dimension) than the A56, which also means slimmer bezels around the display. On the software side, Samsung is adding Voice Transcription to the Voice Recorder app, and the company promises "more natural results" with its AI-powered Object Eraser photo-editing tool. Samsung promises six years of software updates for both phones. Both phones launch in the US on April 9th. The A37 will come to numerous US carriers in a charcoal color. It will also be available unlocked, starting at $450, in charcoal or lavender. Best Buy will carry an exclusive "Graygreen" color while Amazon will offer an exclusive white color. Like the A56, it appears that the A57 will only be sold in the US as an unlocked phone from Samsung, in navy, starting at $550.
Samsung Brings Support for Apple's AirDrop to S26 Series
Samsung is starting to bring compatibility with Apple's AirDrop to its Android phones via a phased software update. Google announced last November that it was adding AirDrop compatibility to Android's similar Quick Share feature. At the time, Google said rollout of the feature would start with its own Pixel 10 series, then expand to "more Android devices" over time. Quick Share and AirDrop are both designed to allow easy wireless sharing of files and content between two nearby devices, but were previously not compatible between iOS and Android. Samsung's rollout will start today with the Galaxy S26 series — the company's newest flagship phones — in South Korea. It will then expand to other regions, including North America, and then expand to other Samsung devices.
Google Explains New Process for Side-Loading Unregistered Apps
As promised, Google has announced the details of how users will be able to side-load apps that are not registered with a "verified" developer. Google's new developer verification program is designed to combat malware that scammers convince their victims to install (side-load). The new "Advanced Flow" lets "power users" bypass this protection, but puts up several barriers designed to stymie scammers. Users must confirm that they are not being guided or instructed by someone else (a scammer) and that they understand the risks. Crucially, they must also restart their phone and wait 24 hours, interrupting the flow of a typical scam. They can then choose to enable the bypass for seven days, or indefinitely. As previously announced, there will also be a "limited distribution" developer account option, intended for students and hobbyists. This will let those developers register their apps without the full verification requirements and fee. Those apps will then be eligible for side-loading without requiring the "Advanced Flow", but will be limited to installation on no more than 20 devices.
Samsung Discontinues Galaxy Z TriFold
A Samsung spokesperson has confirmed to Bloomberg that the company will no longer sell the Galaxy Z Trifold after current inventory — which is already limited — sells out. It debuted in the US less than two months ago, sold exclusively by Samsung for $2900.
AT&T Updates Unlimited Plans, Mostly for the Better
AT&T has updated its core wireless plan offerings, in most cases lowering prices while offering more data. These unlimited plans for postpaid customers offer the usual multi-line discounts for families, but can be mixed-and-matched. This means one family member can choose the top-end plan, while three others pick the mid-range plan, and still get the cheaper four-line price for each plan. AT&T's new Value 2.0 plan replaces the old Unlimited Starter SL plan. It is the cheapest unlimited plan at $30/month with four lines, up to $50/month for one line. This is down from $36 – $66 for the plan it replaces. It now includes 5 GB of premium high-speed data (versus none before), however the included hotspot data is reduced from 5 GB to 3 GB. The new mid-range plan is Extra 2.0, replacing Unlimited Extra EL. It also sees a price reduction, albeit a more minor one. It runs $70 – $40/month, depending on number of lines. This compares to $76 – $41 for the old plan. High-speed data has been upped from 75 to 100 GB, and hotspot data is increased from 30 to 50 GB. The new top-end plan is Premium 2.0, replacing Unlimited Premium PL. This plan actually sees a price increase of $4/month, regardless of how many lines. For example, the two-line price goes from $76 to $80/month. The hotspot data has been upped from 60 to 100 GB, but the rest of the plan remains unchanged. This includes truly unlimited high-speed data, high-def video streaming (up to 4K), and unlimited talk, text & high-speed data in 20 Latin American countries.
Game Trials Coming to Google Play
Google has announced a new feature of its Google Play app store that will let users download a paid game and play it for free for a limited time. Unlike separate demo games, this Game Trial feature will let users download the full paid game but restrict play to a fixed amount of time before requiring payment to continue. Users will then be able to pick up right where they left off. Developers must opt in to the feature. Google is working on adding more options for developers, such as a custom time limit or an in-game event to end the trial. Google is also expanding its push to make Google Play a cross-platform games store, serving PC games in addition to Android. It biggest change in this area is "buy once play anywhere", which allows a single purchase, at a single price, that includes both Android and PC versions of the same game.
Nothing Phone (4a) Pro Offers Bold Design for $499
Nothing has announced its newest mid-range phone for the US, the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro. Like most Nothing phones, it has a unique look, although this model is mostly unibody metal with the transparent features limited to the large camera plateau. For this model, the "Glyph" arrangement of customizable notification LEDs is implemented as a circle with a matrix of 137 white LEDs. The Phone (4a) Pro sports a 6.83-inch AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution, 144 Hz refresh rate, and peak brightness of 5000 nits (HDR), protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 7i. It has a 5080 mAh battery and 50W fast charging. The main camera is 50 megapixel with a Sony sensor and OIS. It's accompanied by a 3.5x optical zoom periscope telephoto camera, also 50 megapixel with OIS. There's also an 8 megapixel wide-angle camera, and the front camera is 32 megapixel. The Phone (4a) Pro has decent support for AT&T's 4G/5G network and excellent support for T-Mobile's 4G/5G network. It's powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chip, paired with 8 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 128 GB storage. That version will sell for $499, available unlocked from Nothing's web site. A step-up variant with 12/256 GB will also be available for $599. Nothing promises three years of full OS updates and six total years of security updates. It will come in black, silver, or pink. The Nothing Phone (4a) Pro will ship March 27 in most markets, with pre-orders opening up March 13. Nothing also announced a non-Pro Phone (4a) today, but that model will not be coming to the US.
Google Lays Out Details, Timeline for New App Store Rules and Fees
Following its settlement with Epic Games, Google has announced the details and timeline of how its new (and improved) app store fees and rules will work. Google will now charge a Google Play Billing Fee of 5% (in the US, UK, and Europe) that is separate from the "Service Fee". Developers will also be able to offer non-Google billing options to avoid the Billing Fee, both within their app and externally. Even so, the total fees Google will collect will drop by 16–42% for many developers, especially larger ones. The standard Service Fee for in-app purchases will drop from 30% to 20%. For developers who participate in the Google Play Games Level Up program or the new Apps Experience Program, the Service Fee will be only 15%, although only for "new installs" after the new rules go into effect later this year. These two programs are designed to "incentivize building great software experiences across Android form factors associated with clear quality benchmarks and enhanced user benefits". The Service Fee for recurring subscriptions will be 10%. Google also continues to offer even lower rates for the first $1M in annual earnings, effectively giving smaller developers a discount. For those developers, total fees might not change as much, but they won't increase. Most of these changes will go into effect in the US, UK, and Europe by June 30, adding Australia and the two new app-quality programs by Sept. 30. Other countries will follow, with full global rollout by Sept 30, 2027. Google is also introducing a Registered App Store program. To qualify, a third-party app store must "meet certain quality and safety benchmarks". Such stores will then enjoy a "a more simplified installation flow" when downloaded/sideloaded from a web site. Google will launch Registered App Stores "with a version of a major Android release by the end of the year", although it will initially be enabled only outside the US, then brought to the US at a later date.
Android's New Update Brings New Find My Features
Google is starting to release a new quarterly update to Android 16. This update introduces several new features, but the two biggest are related to location sharing. The first is the ability to share your phone's location with someone else directly in the Messages app. The location continues to update for any specified period of time, or whenever you choose to stop. The second is the ability to share the location of a tracking tag with an airline (or other entity), to help find lost luggage. A new "Share item location" option in the Find My hub will generate a unique web address that can be shared with most major airlines on their lost-luggage forms. The update is known as Android 16 QPR3 (QPR = Quarterly Platform Release) and, according to Google, has started rolling out. Newer Google Pixel devices will get the update first, and now other manufacturers can prepare their own updates.
Aliro 1.0 Standardizes Digital Door Keys
The Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) has announced the formal launch of Aliro 1.0, a new industry standard for digital door keys. Similar to digital car keys, the technology allows your phone or watch to unlock a smart door lock. Digital keys are stored in the device's native Wallet app, so no third-party apps are required. Samsung, Google, and Apple have all agreed to support the standard, as have many lock companies. The standard is designed not only for residential settings, but also offices, campuses, hotels, and more. It does not require Internet connectivity, so it can work even in underground parking garages and elevators. It supports multiple access modes: NFC for tap-to-unlock, as well as UWB + Bluetooth for complete hands-free access (walk toward door to unlock). A third mode relies only on Bluetooth but is "user-initiated", meaning the user must interact with their phone or watch to unlock. A future version of Aliro will support key sharing. The CSA is the same organization behind the Matter smart-home standard.
iPhone 17e Brings Multiple Upgrades
Apple this week is launching the iPhone 17e, a replacement for last year's iPhone 16e. Apple previously offered an "iPhone SE", refreshed every few years, but has now switched to annual release cycle for its more-affordable iPhone model. Apple is keeping the $599 price while upgrading many of the specs. The chip is upgraded to an A19 chip like the iPhone 17 (though with four GPU cores instead of five). The base level of storage is also doubled to 256 GB. The wireless charging is also upgraded to the newer MagSafe/Qi2 standard at up to 15W. The 5G cellular modem is updated to Apple's new C1X chip, which Apple claims is up to 2x faster than last year's C1. Like the 16e, the iPhone 17e sports a 48 megapixel camera, satellite service, IP68 dust and water rating, and Face ID biometric security. The iPhone 17e will be available in black, white, and soft pink, shipping next Wednesday, March 11th.
Motorola Reveals More Razr Fold Details
After "previewing" the Razr Fold two months ago at CES, Motorola has now revealed full details of its forthcoming book-style flagship foldable phone. Motorola claims that several of the specs are "industry-leading", including 6200 nits peak brightness for the large inner display. It's also the first smartphone with Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic 3 protecting the outer display. Motorola says its tests show "75% better drop performance". The Razr Fold is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chip and a 6,000 mAh battery. It supports fast charging at up to 80 watts. The phone will also sport an IP49 rating for dust and water resistance. The phone is still slated for US release "this summer", and pricing has yet to be announced.
Qualcomm Intros New Wearable and Modem Chips
Qualcomm has announced the Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset for high-end wearable devices, as well as the X105 5G cellular modem and FastConnect 8800 Wi-Fi / Bluetooth modem. The Snapdragon Wear Elite is designed for smartwatches, pins, pendants, and other wearables, as well as more stationary "hub" devices. It supports six-radio connectivity, including 5G RedCap, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NB-NTN satellite, UWB, and GNSS (GPS). Its Hexagon NPU supports on-device AI models with up to 2 billion parameters. It also has an eNPU for always-on AI. Qualcomm claims it is the fastest wearable platform on the market. The company names Google, Motorola and, Samsung as partners "supporting the platform". The X105 5G modem-RF chipset sports a new RF transceiver that uses 30% less power and is 15% smaller. It also introduces 5G over NTN, for satellite connectivity that includes voice, data, and more, not just basic messaging. Qualcomm says it is also the first chipset to support quad-band GNSS (GPS, etc.). Although Qualcomm doesn't expect to create any actual 6G hardware before 2028, the company says the X105 "lays the groundwork for 6G development". Finally, the FastConnect 8800 chipset supports the very newest local-area radio standards, including Wi-Fi 8, Bluetooth 7, UWB, and Thread. It also supports newer features of those standards, such as Bluetooth Channel Sounding and Wi-Fi Ranging. A new 4x4 Wi-Fi radio configuration enables peaks speeds of up to 11.6 Gbps, and gigabit speeds at up to the 3x the range. Qualcomm typically introduces dedicated modem chips like these with the most advanced features, then later integrates those modems into new Snapdragon processor chips for phones and similar devices.
Google Reveals Key New Features of Android 17
Google has released the second beta version of Android 17 for developers. In doing so, it has revealed a list of new features that users can expect in the new OS. The first is Bubbles, which is a full multi-window capability, like a desktop OS. Although most useful on large-screen devices like foldables and tablets, it will work on regular phones as well. "Users can create an app bubble ... by long-pressing an app icon on the launcher." Also new is a Contacts Picker, which gives apps a more privacy-oriented way to gather specific contact data. It works similarly to the Photo Picker introduced in Android 13, in that it puts the OS in-between apps and contacts data, so that only minimum necessary contact data is shared with the app, instead of the app being given unrestricted access to all contacts data. A new "Handoff" API will enable cross-device app handoff, where users can start a task in an app on one device (such as an Android phone) and seamlessly continue the same task on another device (like an Android tablet). The API supports both native app-to-app handoffs, and app-to-web handoffs as a fallback. Android 17 will also support two new ranging technologies: UWB DL-TDOA for indoor navigation, and the Proximity Detection feature of the newest Wi-Fi standards. Another new privacy-enhancing API is the EyeDropper, which lets apps gather a color sample from any visible pixel without needing to "see" other apps. Finally, Android 17 introduces new restrictions on messaging APIs, intended to keep third-party apps from maliciously accessing one-time passcodes (OTP).
Google Beta-Testing Agentic AI in Android
Google is beginning to roll out an "agentic" version of Google Gemini AI for Android, meaning you can ask Gemini to perform multi-step tasks on its own on your phone. Gemini will carry out these steps in a "virtual window" in the background, with a live notification showing progress on the task over time (with the option to stop at any time). The feature is strictly limited to select apps and devices for now, and is only in "beta" testing status. The feature is launching first on the Google Pixel 10 series and Samsung Galaxy S26 series. Initially, it is designed to work only with "select apps in the food, grocery and rideshare categories". As an example, you could ask Gemini to "reorder your last meal on DoorDash".
Samsung's S26 Series Saves the Big Upgrades for the Top-End Ultra Model
Samsung has announced its Galaxy S26 series of flagship phones for 2026. The company has seemingly reverted to its traditional arrangement of models: S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra, with no mention (yet) of a thinner "Edge" model. All models sport updated specs, including the custom Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chipset. The S26 base model also has a larger battery (4,300 mAh, up from 4,000) but at the expense of mmWave 5G support. Samsung has saved its biggest upgrades for the top-end S26 Ultra. This includes a first-of-its-kind Privacy Display. This feature limits visibility of on-screen content from side angles. But unlike traditional privacy films, it can be switched on and off dynamically, and works in both portrait and landscape orientations. Furthermore, it can be controlled on a pixel level, so it can obscure only your notifications (that might contain one-time codes), for example. The Ultra model also has main and telephoto cameras with wider apertures, enhancing photo quality. The Ultra also supports the new APV video codec, enabling "visually lossless video quality that stays true even after repeated editing." The S26 Ultra also sports Samsung's 60-watt "Super Fast Charging 3.0", which can reach "up to 75% charge in just 30 minutes." Most other specs of the lineup are similar to last year's models. While the Ultra still starts at $1,300, the S26 and S26+ are now $100 more expensive, at $900 and $1,100, respectively. (This increase comes as the whole industry faces skyrocketing memory prices due to the boom in AI datacenter construction.) The S26 series will come in Cobalt Violet, White, Black, and Sky Blue. Samsung.com will also exclusively offer the Pink Gold and Silver Shadow colors. The Galaxy S26 series will ship March 11th.
More articles in the Archive ›
What do you want to hear about? We're already working on a number of articles for the coming months, but we want to write about the things you're most interested in. So sound off: tell us what you want to know more about!
