Samsung’s Galaxy Watch is off to a rough start for 2026 with a 28% drop

9to5google.com Jun 18, 2026

Samsung’s Galaxy Watch is off to a rough start for 2026 with a 28% drop

Curated by Shubham · TechCapsules · Jun 18, 2026

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

Samsung's Galaxy Watch series has experienced a 28% year-over-year drop in shipments in Q1 2026, resulting in a decline in market share from 7% to 5%. In contrast, the global smartwatch market grew by 4% during the same period, with competitors such as Apple, Huawei, and Xiaomi seeing gains. Apple Watch shipments increased by 21%, driven by growth in China and Europe, while Huawei and Xiaomi saw 12% and 9% growth, respectively. Samsung's decline comes ahead of the launch of its next Galaxy Watch series, the Galaxy Watch 9, in July. The company faces an uphill battle to regain market share.

💡 Why It Matters

· Samsung's struggles in the smartwatch market threaten its position as a major player in the wearable technology sector.
· Falling behind competitors like Apple undermines Samsung's ability to drive innovation and sales in a key growth area.

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Android 17 review: Bubbling with excitement

Android 17 brings a refined user experience to Google's software, with a focus on usability and consistency across devices. The update introduces a novel way to use floating windows with bubbles, usable parental controls, and customization tweaks. While not groundbreaking, the features in Android 17 are enough to excite Pixel users. The stable build is now available on eligible Pixels, with other manufacturers' devices to follow in the coming months.

💡 Android 17's emphasis on usability and consistency sets a new standard for the broader Android ecosystem, making it easier for users to navigate and interact with their devices across different form factors. This shift in focus underscores Google's commitment to refining its software, rather than introducing radical new features.

9to5google.com · Jun 18

Pixel Screenshots no longer exclusively uses on-device AI

Google's Pixel Screenshots app is transitioning away from solely using on-device AI for processing. The latest update, version 1.26.134.11, introduces a change in settings that allows users to opt for cloud processing instead of on-device processing. This shift is made possible by Google's Private AI Compute technology, which ensures data security and privacy. The update also includes NotebookLM integration, Read aloud for articles, and Material 3 Expressive tweaks.

💡 Google's move to cloud processing in Pixel Screenshots highlights the company's commitment to balancing AI capabilities with user data security. By leveraging Private AI Compute, Google can offer more advanced AI features while maintaining user trust and control over their data.

androidcentral.com · Jun 18

Google’s extensive June security update fixes tons of lingering Pixel problems

Google has released a June security patch for its Pixel phones, addressing various issues that have plagued the devices. The update, marked as vCP2A.260605.012, fixes problems with display and graphics, camera app freezes, and battery charging issues. It also resolves issues with unstable audio, app crashes, and backup settings. The patch is rolling out for Pixel 6 and newer devices, including the Pixel 10 series, Pixel 8 series, and Pixel Fold. Google's patch notes detail several fixes, aiming to resolve lingering problems with Pixel phones. The update is part of Google's June Drop, which includes new features like "Bubbles" and "Screen reactions".

💡 Google's swift action to address Pixel phone issues underscores its commitment to user experience. By fixing critical problems, Google aims to restore user trust in its devices.

androidpolice.com · Jun 18

Google solves the biggest headache of switching from iPhone to Android

Google has introduced a new version of Android Switch, making it easier to switch from an iPhone to an Android device. The updated feature directly integrates with both operating systems, solving major pain points of transferring data. This improvement is part of Android 17, which brings several new features and enhancements to Pixel devices. According to Paul Dunlop, Product Lead for Onboarding, Settings, and Switching of Android at Google, the new Android Switch addresses significant issues. The update aims to simplify the switching process, providing a more seamless experience for users transitioning from iPhone to Android, with key details including direct integration and improved data transfer.

💡 Simplified data transfer removes a significant barrier for iPhone users considering a switch to Android. Google's direct integration with both operating systems streamlines the process.

techcrunch.com · Jun 18

How to turn off AI in your Google Docs

A Google Docs user encountered an AI pop-up inviting them to "write with Gemini" and struggled to remove it, prompting them to write an article on how to disable the feature. The AI assistant, Gemini, is part of Google's smart features, which can be disabled through Gmail settings. To turn off Gemini, users can access their Gmail settings and disable smart features, preventing AI pop-ups from appearing in Google Docs. This solution allows users to avoid individually disabling each AI feature. The process is straightforward, providing relief to users who find the AI pop-ups disruptive. Google Docs users can now disable Gemini and other smart features easily.

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9to5google.com · Jun 18

Gemini for Android using Bubbles to let you multitask & continue chats

The Gemini overlay on Android has introduced Bubbles to enable multitasking and continuous conversations. Users can access this feature by starting a conversation from the Gemini overlay, which then minimizes into a Bubble featuring the spark logo when the screen is tapped elsewhere. Tapping the Bubble expands it back into the full Gemini overlay, allowing users to resume their conversation. This update aims to let users keep talking to Gemini while performing other tasks. The feature is currently available on Android 17 QPR1 Beta, although its wider rollout has not been confirmed. The update brings a similar experience to Gemini Live's floating waveform circle.

💡 By integrating Bubbles, Gemini enhances its usability and convenience, allowing for seamless conversation continuity. This streamlined experience strengthens Gemini's assistive capabilities.