Derrek, Android Central’s managing editor, shares his expert recommendations on which Galaxy Z Fold 8 phone to purchase after extensively testing all three available models. With a background in tech journalism dating back to 2013 and a degree in Film & Digital Media, Derrek brings deep industry knowledge to his reviews. He has covered Google, Android, and Wear OS since becoming news editor in 2020. His expertise spans various devices, including phones, smartwatches, and fitness tech. As [...]

A recent poll of 6,310 Pixel readers reveals that 62.7% claim Google Tensor’s performance gap does not influence their purchasing decisions. While this majority appears comfortable, the article argues this statistic is misleading and not a mandate for consumer behavior. The focus on raw performance metrics overlooks critical user experience factors, specifically heat management and battery life. These practical issues often impact daily usage more significantly than benchmark scores. The analysis suggests that fans are missing the [...]

Apple is slated to unveil its iPhone 18 in 2027, marking the next major iteration of the flagship smartphone line. Leaked specifications suggest a reduced‑size Dynamic Island that will occupy less screen real estate while retaining interactive functionality. The device is expected to be powered by a new A20 processor, touted as faster and more energy‑efficient than its predecessor, and to feature upgraded RAM capacity for smoother multitasking. Apple may also introduce enhancements to camera modules, battery [...]

Apple has launched Apple Upgrade in the U.S., a lease‑to‑own program for iPhone, Mac, iPad and Apple Watch, partnered with Klarna. Samsung runs a similar Galaxy Forever scheme in India that blends financing with a guaranteed buyback. Both initiatives aim to counter longer device‑keeping cycles—average premium‑phone replacement in the U.S. has risen to 42 months and global forecasts predict a four‑year cycle by 2026. Higher prices and slower hardware gains have reduced sales frequency and pressured the [...]

Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max on September 12, according to a fresh leak. The premium devices would feature Apple’s first 2 nanometer A20 processor, a revamped camera system, a reduced‑size Dynamic Island and larger batteries. Rumors also suggest the event could introduce Apple’s inaugural foldable iPhone alongside the Pro models. Unlike previous years, Apple may limit the September showcase to the Pro line, postponing the standard iPhone 18 series to [...]

Harish Jonnalagadda serves as Android Central’s Senior Editor for mobile, bringing more than a decade of hands‑on experience to the role. He began tinkering with Windows XP as a child, which sparked a lifelong passion for hardware modification and led to a computer‑science degree. After reviewing motherboards, graphics cards and DRAM at VR‑Zone, he switched from iPhone to Nexus 4, igniting his interest in Android and prompting his 2014 move to Android Central’s newsroom. In his current position, Jonnalagadda [...]

Google has released Android 17 QPR1 Beta 8, build CP31.260623.010, addressing a persistent audio bug that caused distorted static during media playback and notifications. This update resolves issues with audio framework buffer management, fixing over thirty reported tickets. The release arrives more than two weeks after Beta 7, serving as a final cleanup before the September Pixel Feature Drop. Android 17 QPR1 reached Platform Stability with Beta 6, allowing developers to work with finalized APIs. Beta 8 [...]

Leaked specifications for the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra indicate significant hardware upgrades, moving beyond incremental improvements. Tipster Anthony suggests the device will feature a 5,700mAh silicon-carbon battery, a substantial increase in capacity for enhanced endurance. The phone is expected to retain a 6.9-inch QHD+ Privacy Display and utilize the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro for Galaxy chipset. Memory options may include 12GB or 16GB of RAM, though LPDDR6 and UFS 5.0 upgrades might be absent. [...]

The article evaluates six leading business laptops optimized for 2026 AI workloads, addressing procurement challenges for CIOs balancing NPU performance, memory, and thermal design. It compares devices from HP, Lenovo, and Dell, highlighting specific use cases such as content development, data analysis, and software engineering. Key models include the HP ZBook X G2i, featuring a 50-TOPS NPU and RTX Pro graphics for AI-assisted productivity, and the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition, equipped with an [...]

Lenovo has officially launched the ThinkCentre Neo 50a Gen 7 all-in-one desktop globally, succeeding the recently released Gen 6 model. This new iteration shifts from Intel’s Lunar Lake architecture to the Wildcat Lake family, featuring Core 5 320 and Core 7 350 processors. The system supports up to 32 GB of LPDDR5X-7467 RAM and offers dual M.2 2280 slots for PCIe 4.0 x4 SSDs, allowing for expanded storage configurations. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, Gigabit [...]

Apple is preparing to launch the MacBook Ultra, slated for spring 2027, with a starting price of $2,999. The new laptop could replace the MacBook Pro or create a distinct premium tier. Rumors indicate it will feature a tandem OLED display with 10‑120 Hz variable refresh, higher brightness, deeper contrast, and improved energy efficiency. For the first time, the MacBook line may include touchscreen support, with macOS offering touch‑optimized tools and an option to disable the feature. The [...]

Lenovo’s first Googlebooks models have surfaced ahead of the fall launch, revealing two white laptops and a 2‑in‑1 tablet. The laptops feature a top-edge protrusion reminiscent of the Chromebook Plus 14, a blue glowbar, and minimal branding—only a Lenovo logo on the palm rest. The larger model includes USB‑A, USB‑C, a headphone jack, and a light‑up power button, while the smaller lacks a left speaker grill. The tablet incorporates the glowbar beside the camera, dual speaker cutouts, [...]

Leaked images suggest Lenovo is developing the Yoga 9n, potentially the first convertible laptop powered by NVIDIA’s RTX Spark platform. The device replaces Intel processors with NVIDIA’s Arm-based RTX Spark N1X system-on-chip, merging CPU and GPU into a single unit. The Yoga 9n retains the series’ signature 360-degree rotating soundbar hinge and premium aluminium chassis in Cosmic Blue. It features a 2.8K PureSight Pro OLED display, an infrared webcam with a privacy shutter, and compatibility with the [...]

Apple’s Mac sales surged 28.66% in Q3 2026, driven almost entirely by the newly available MacBook Neo. The device, championed by incoming CEO John Ternus, ramped up to full availability just before the quarter, boosting revenue to $10.35 B from $8.05 B in the same period last year. A $100 price increase announced on June 25 added only two days of higher margins. No other new Mac models launched, underscoring the Neo’s pivotal role in the quarter’s performance.

Apple’s upcoming MacBook Pro, launching early 2027, introduces a tandem OLED display with touchscreen capabilities, exceeding 2,000 nits in brightness and featuring a 1Hz–120Hz adaptive refresh rate. Samsung Display is the exclusive supplier for these panels, producing only 2.5 million units, which grants the Korean firm significant pricing leverage over Apple. This monopoly arises because competitors LG and BOE were excluded due to yield issues and capacity constraints. Consequently, Apple is delaying the launch from late 2026 [...]

A small community of ThinkPad enthusiasts is turning 2008 X200/X201 chassis into modern Windows 11 PCs by installing custom TP Art mainboards that house Intel Core Ultra processors, DDR5 RAM, dual M.2 SSDs, Thunderbolt 4, and HDMI 2.1. The X210Ai kit, priced at $1,299, includes a new motherboard, daughterboard, and necessary chassis modifications, while optional high‑resolution displays start at $299. Demand has surged as RAM and storage prices climb, pushing order backlogs to six months.

Meta has reportedly removed a controversial feature from its Ray-Ban smart glasses that enabled users to identify children by simply looking at them through the device’s camera. The deleted function allowed wearers to access sensitive personal information, including a child’s full name, school affiliation, and home address, raising immediate privacy concerns among parents and advocacy groups. This incident has intensified scrutiny on the ethical implications of wearable technology and artificial intelligence integration in consumer electronics. The company’s [...]

Motorola is reportedly developing a premium smartwatch dubbed the Moto Watch Ultra, aiming to challenge Samsung’s 2024 Galaxy Watch Ultra. Leaked renders show a 46 mm stainless‑steel case, a rotating crown, an extra side button, and a circular display framed by a numbered bezel reminiscent of Samsung’s design. The device is expected to support LTE, built‑in GPS, Wi‑Fi, IP68 dust‑proofing and 5 ATM water resistance, and will ship with a black leather‑style strap featuring red stitching. Motorola has not confirmed whether [...]

Avi Schiffmann’s AI wearable Friend returns as Friend 2.0 with a built‑in speaker that delivers a consistent personality. The upgraded device, priced at $249, replaces the original $99 model and can converse about personal topics, as shown in a new commercial featuring a woman discussing her ex and a man talking about filmmaking. Schiffmann emphasizes the product as a confidant rather than an assistant or lover, while the company’s prior viral billboard campaign highlighted resistance to digitized companionship. [...]

Leaked images of the Pixel Watch 5 confirm that Google will keep the same 41 mm and 45 mm case dimensions as its predecessor. The watch retains the contact‑pin charging system introduced last year, the identical sensor layout, band attachment, button arrangement, and rotating crown. The analog face will feature the Gemini icon and Neural Expressive background, hinting at multi‑step app automation via Gemini Intelligence on Wear OS. No changes appear to the domed glass or bezel design.

Apple is reportedly developing its first smart ring, potentially named the iRing, marking its entry into the expanding wearable market. The device emphasizes health tracking, gesture controls, and seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem. Designed as a compact, screen-free alternative to the Apple Watch, the iRing targets users preferring minimalist yet functional wearables. Leaked information and patent filings indicate early-stage development, featuring advanced sensors for heart rate, activity, and sleep monitoring. Gesture control technology allows intuitive interaction with [...]

Samsung’s upcoming “Galaxy Buds On” have resurfaced in a fresh leak that reveals an open‑ear form factor and a charging case resembling the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro. The images, obtained by SamMobile, show the earbuds accented in green or gray and suggest a possible light feature, though details remain vague. Industry observers note the design aligns Samsung with competitors such as Motorola and Bose that already offer open‑ear audio. The name “Galaxy Buds Able” has also circulated, but “Galaxy [...]

The Pixel Watch 5 resurfaced in Google’s own Google Health app ahead of its slated launch next month, appearing in the device‑pairing list for a user and leading to functional setup screens. The listing sits above the Fitbit Air and uses the same artwork as the Pixel Watch 4, indicating Google has added pairing support but has not yet updated visual assets. The watch first attracted attention earlier this year when a unit was recovered from the ocean floor, and subsequent leaks [...]

Rumors circulating on X claim Nothing is developing its first standalone smartwatch, priced below $300 and slated for a September launch in limited markets. Tipster Yogesh Brar, citing GSMArena, says the device will carry “typical Nothing DNA,” likely referencing the brand’s minimalist design language. Unlike the company’s CMF sub‑brand, which previously released the Watch 3 Pro running a proprietary RTOS, the new model could adopt Google’s Wear OS, though the software platform remains unconfirmed. If priced under $300, the watch would [...]

Port Manor Care Home in Seaford has introduced 360-degree virtual reality headsets within its newly opened Memory Lane Community, a specialist environment for dementia care. The technology enables residents to virtually visit calming beaches, gardens, and other meaningful locations without leaving the facility. Deputy General Manager Ellie West stated that the initiative aims to enhance resident lives by sparking conversations and providing comfort. Resident Sue was among the first to use the headsets, experiencing familiar surroundings that [...]

The official mobile travel guide for Wat Pho, titled Insight Wat Pho, has been launched to enhance visitor engagement at the historic Buddhist temple complex located in Bangkok’s Phra Nakhon district. Released on August 1, 2026, this free application serves as a comprehensive digital companion for tourists and pilgrims alike. It features high-quality audio narration that provides detailed historical and cultural context for the site’s numerous monuments. Additionally, the app includes interactive maps to help users navigate [...]

Nearly a decade after its initial release, Stardew Valley is now fully playable in three dimensions thanks to the Stardew 3DVR mod. Developed by GingasVR and published on Nexus Mods, the update transforms the beloved farming simulator into a 3D experience without using handcrafted models. Instead, the mod automatically generates voxel-like depth from existing sprites, giving buildings and objects a distinct aesthetic reminiscent of Minecraft. Trees and plants are constructed from intersecting flat planes. This approach ensures [...]

Smith+Nephew announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted De Novo classification for its TESSA Spatial Surgery System. This regulatory approval marks the first device in a new FDA category for intra-articular orthopedic stereotaxic navigation instruments. The system utilizes AI, augmented reality, and real-time tracking to enhance arthroscopic procedures. It generates patient-specific 3D anatomical models from preoperative scans, overlaying them onto live 4K video to assist surgeons. The initial indication is for femoral tunnel placement during [...]

Snap will host a Los Angeles event on September 16 to unveil its standalone augmented reality glasses, known as Specs. The company promises the first in-depth look at the $2,195 device, with CEO Evan Spiegel demonstrating its AI assistance, work tools, and entertainment capabilities. Pre-orders opened last month, with shipments expected in the US, UK, and France this fall. Specs feature two sizes, a four-hour battery life, a built-in browser, and AI support from OpenAI and Google. [...]

In a comparative review of budget augmented reality glasses, the XREAL A01 Plus outperforms the Rayneo Air 4 Pro in the $300 price segment. Jason Howell’s analysis highlights the XREAL model’s superior stabilization, effective heat management, and lightweight, portable design featuring swappable faceplates. These attributes make it a practical choice for extended daily use. Conversely, the Rayneo Air 4 Pro distinguishes itself through premium Bang & Olufsen audio and intuitive dual rocker controls, appealing to users prioritizing [...]

Samsung reported its first mobile‑division loss in Q2 2026, citing rising memory costs amid an AI‑driven server shortage. The company announced new products to counter the downturn, including the Galaxy S26 FE, Galaxy Tab S12, and foldable releases slated for the second half of the year. It also previewed Android XR “Intelligent eyewear” developed with Google, with a launch planned later this year. Samsung emphasized sustaining S26 momentum and expanding premium offerings to offset profitability pressure.

The University of Portsmouth has introduced an augmented reality scavenger hunt, shifting engagement from indoor environments to outdoor spaces. This initiative is part of the institution’s broader recruitment and student experience strategy, coinciding with the opening of Clearing for September 2026 starts. The university promotes its unique "Connected Degrees" program, which allows students to integrate a fourth-year placement directly into their three-year course structure. Unlike traditional universities that restrict placements to the third year, Portsmouth offers this [...]

TCL unveiled its Q95K soundbar system in China, featuring an 11.1.4‑channel layout, 22 drivers, and a 1,420‑watt peak output, paired with a wireless subwoofer and two rear speakers. Samsung refreshed its flagship HW‑Q990F for 2026, also offering an 11.1.4‑channel configuration but with 16 speaker drivers, a lighter subwoofer, and a mixed‑material bar. Both units support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X and integrate with their respective brand TVs through TCL’s T‑Chord and Samsung’s Q‑Symphony. TCL collaborated with Bang & [...]

Astell & Kern has released the PD20, a high-end portable audio player priced at £1,799. The device features 256GB of internal storage, expandable up to 2.25TB, and utilizes a quad ESS DAC with a twin headphone amplifier. It supports major streaming services and Roon. While the PD20 maintains the brand’s reputation for superior electronics and metalwork, it distinguishes itself from the previous PD10 model by revisiting its core functionality. The PD20 is designed primarily for mobile headphone [...]

Leaks from Evan Blass indicate that Google will not release Pixel Buds Pro 3 alongside the upcoming Pixel 11 launch. Instead, the company is introducing a new dark green color variant for the existing Pixel Buds Pro 2. The leaked images confirm the earbuds are identical in design to the current model, dispelling earlier speculation about hardware changes. This follows a pattern where Google updates colors annually, such as the 2023 and 2025 releases. The Pixel Buds [...]

Samsung is reportedly developing a new line of open‑ear Galaxy Buds featuring ear‑hook designs that secure the earbuds during workouts. Leaked images show the “Buds Canal 5” model, which resembles existing workout earbuds like Anker’s Soundcore and Shokz’s OpenFit. The buds are expected to include USB‑C charging, dust and water resistance, and possibly active noise cancellation. Samsung has previously hinted at a clip‑on, bone‑conduction model, but the current design suggests a shift toward a more traditional open‑ear format. [...]

Samsung’s Galaxy Buds lineup expands with a newly leaked model, codenamed “Buds Canal 5,” featuring a traditional eartip combined with ear‑hooks for secure fit. The design, first spotted in a Samsung app by SamMobile, mirrors styles used by JBL, Anker, and Beats but marks Samsung’s first foray into hook‑style earbuds. No physical prototype or case details are available yet, and the product’s official name remains unknown. The release is expected alongside other Galaxy Buds updates and upcoming Galaxy [...]

Winamp announced a partnership with Deezer to power a new premium music subscription service embedded in its next‑generation player, slated for release in the first half of 2027. The deal gives Winamp access to Deezer’s white‑label streaming technology and global licensed catalog while preserving Winamp’s brand and user interface. The upcoming app will blend premium streaming with users’ local libraries, internet radio, podcasts, and cloud collections, offering a highly customizable experience with social features and advanced discovery [...]

Samsung’s upcoming “Galaxy Buds On” have resurfaced in a fresh leak that reveals an open‑ear form factor and a charging case resembling the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro. The images, obtained by SamMobile, show the earbuds accented in green or gray and suggest a possible light feature, though details remain vague. Industry observers note the design aligns Samsung with competitors such as Motorola and Bose that already offer open‑ear audio. The name “Galaxy Buds Able” has also circulated, but “Galaxy [...]

Amazon is offering month‑end Apple promotions that slash the cost of three AirPods lines. The standard AirPods 4 without active‑noise cancellation now sell for $99, a $30 reduction from the manufacturer’s suggested retail price. The same model with ANC is listed at $144.99, reflecting a $35 discount. AirPods Pro 3 are priced at $199.99 after a $50 cut, and Prime members in select regions can receive them as early as the same day. The biggest rebate applies to the over‑ear [...]

Samsung Galaxy Tabs command over 20% of the global tablet market, trailing only Apple’s 55% share. The diverse lineup ranges from the high-performance Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra to budget-friendly options like the Galaxy Tab S10 Lite and Galaxy Tab A series, alongside rugged models such as the Galaxy Tab Active 5 Pro. To enhance productivity, convenience, and security, users are advised to select specific accessories. While Samsung offers official add-ons, third-party manufacturers often provide superior value and [...]

IQUNIX has launched the MQ80, a low-profile mechanical keyboard designed to bridge the gap between traditional mechanical switches and laptop-style membrane comfort. The device features an 80% layout that fits across a 14-inch MacBook, utilizing Kailh Pom Gold Linear Red Switches and PBT keycaps for a smooth, sturdy typing experience. Its Le-Tray gasket mount provides a plush feel and creamy sound, distinguishing it from competitors like the ND75 LP. The keyboard supports VIA software for macro customization [...]

JLab Audio has expanded its peripheral lineup with the Epic Wireless Mouse, an ergonomic device currently available at Best Buy for $51.77 through a third-party seller. The mouse features a 2,400 DPI sensor, nine silent and customizable buttons, and a rechargeable battery lasting approximately four months. It supports connectivity to three devices via Bluetooth or a USB dongle, compatible with Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and mobile devices. The unit includes a small OLED status screen and offers a [...]

Sony has officially reduced the price of its premium DualSense Edge controller, aiming to broaden access to this high-end peripheral beyond professional gamers and enthusiasts. Previously priced around two hundred dollars, the significant discount targets consumers who desired customizable hardware but were deterred by the initial cost barrier. This strategic shift seeks to expand the user base during a strong sales season, moving the product away from a purely competitive niche. The controller features extensive physical and [...]

Twelve South has updated its Valet MagSafe charger and catch-all tray, addressing previous performance criticisms by introducing faster charging speeds and a new, smaller form factor. The revised lineup includes the original 7.5-inch model and a new 4.25-inch option, both featuring a solid zinc alloy base wrapped in soft Nappa leather. Users can customize their device with interchangeable magnetic frames in black, brown, or ecru, creating 18 total color combinations. The new models support Qi2.2 standards, delivering [...]

A tech reviewer initially intended to use Satechi’s new ChargeView 140W Desktop Charger at their home workstation but unexpectedly packed it for a family road trip. The device proved surprisingly effective as a travel accessory, powering multiple gadgets including a Nintendo Switch 2 and smart glasses during a six-hour drive. Despite its desktop designation, the charger’s compact 3 x 3 x 1.5-inch form factor allowed it to fit easily into a bag alongside its power cord and [...]

AAWireless has quietly increased prices for its popular wireless Android Auto adapters, the TWO and TWO+, across its official website and Amazon storefront. The base AAWireless TWO, which supports only Android Auto, now costs $64.99, returning to its original 2024 price point after a previous reduction. The dual-function AAWireless TWO+, compatible with both Android Auto and CarPlay, has risen to $69.99 on the company’s site, up $5 from its late 2025 debut. On Amazon, the TWO+ is [...]

Pebblebee has launched two new battery-free identification products: the Link Bag Tag and the Collar ID. These items utilize the company’s Link QR code system to assist in recovering lost luggage and identifying missing pets. The Bag Tag features a TSA-friendly, tamper-evident design suitable for luggage, while the Collar ID is durable, waterproof, and chew-resistant for animal use. Both tags allow finders to scan a QR code and communicate with the owner privately through Pebblebee’s network without [...]