TechCapsules

Nick, a veteran tech writer and former IT professional, has long championed Android devices and VR gear. He recently discovered a Pixel 11 camera setting that resolves his persistent PWM sensitivity issue, a problem that has plagued many modern smartphones. By adjusting the camera’s exposure compensation, the Pixel 11 eliminates flicker and improves low‑light performance, allowing users to capture clearer images without the distracting artifacts that often arise from LED backlighting. This tweak demonstrates the device’s potential for serious [...]

Xiaomi unveiled Transparent Special Editions of its flagship 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max smartphones, featuring a red, see‑through aesthetic achieved through micron‑level film embossing that reveals a three‑dimensional relief of internal components. Both models retain the standard hardware: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6/Extreme Gen 6 processors, Leica triple‑camera arrays (200 MP main, 200 MP periscope, 50 MP ultrawide), 7,000 mAh (Pro) or 8,500 mAh (Pro Max) batteries, 100 W wired and 50 W wireless charging, and run HyperOS 4. Each edition is offered in a single configuration [...]

Samsung has begun distributing its Android 17‑based One UI 9 update to Galaxy S26 devices in the United States after a brief, unexplained delay. The rollout, first announced earlier this month, initially failed to appear for many users, prompting Samsung to acknowledge a postponement in some regions. Early reports from Reddit indicate that a small group of U.S. owners, primarily on T‑Mobile, have received the roughly 4 GB update, while unlocked phones remain untouched. Carrier‑specific pushes typically precede broader availability, suggesting [...]

Apple is developing an iOS 27 update to address a bug affecting iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models, where Face ID failures trigger kernel panics and forced restarts. Users reported crashes when opening the Wallet app and after Face ID misidentification. Apple confirmed the issue is software‑related and plans a fix for early next week, while also offering replacements for affected devices. Additional reports include call‑blocking on AT&T and previously patched Apple Watch restarts.

Apple is testing iOS 27.0.1 for iPhone, with analytics from 9to5Mac and MacRumors showing the update in circulation. The patch is expected to address a bug that forces iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max units to reboot after a failed Face ID attempt, a problem that surfaced when unlocking apps like Passwords. Apple confirmed it will release the update early next week, likely fixing this issue and other minor bugs in iOS 27.

Harish Jonnalagadda, Android Central’s Senior Editor, began his tech career by modifying Windows XP systems and later earned a computer‑science degree. He transitioned from PC hardware reviews to mobile coverage after switching from iPhone to Nexus 4, joining Android Central in 2014. Over a decade, he has tested every major global phone, specializing in Chinese manufacturers, and now oversees coverage of Chinese phones, audio gear, networking, and storage. Outside work, he reads sci‑fi and follows Arsenal.

A tiny subset of iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max owners on AT&T are unable to place or receive cellular calls, though Wi‑Fi Calling works and the signal may stay on SOS. The problem, reported by AppleInsider listeners and Reddit users, appears linked to eSIM activation and began immediately after the devices’ launch. AT&T has acknowledged the issue and suggested affected customers revert to an older iPhone model, while Apple has not confirmed the fault. Some users have received [...]

Xiaomi launched its 18 Pro series in China, offering the 18 Pro Max with a 6.9‑inch AMOLED front display and a 2.9‑inch rear screen, and the 18 Pro with a 6.4‑inch front display and a 2.7‑inch rear screen. Both models feature a new privacy screen that activates via location‑based triggers to conceal sensitive content. The Max is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6, while the Pro uses the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6. Prices start at 6,999 CNY ($1,042) [...]