Samsung is expanding its One UI 8.5 beta testing to include more Galaxy devices such as the Galaxy M56, F56, and A15 5G, with a stable release expected alongside the Galaxy S26 series next year. The update features a redesigned software update interface, UI enhancements, and improved user experience, while Samsung continues to address issues with the Galaxy Watch 4 series after initial rollout problems.
Apple has released release candidate versions of watchOS 26.1, tvOS 26.1, and other updates, signaling that the official launches are imminent within the next week, with notable improvements in iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, and minimal changes in tvOS, watchOS, visionOS, and HomePod.
Google is launching a 'Trusted Tester' program allowing 15 passionate Pixel enthusiasts to test the upcoming Pixel 11 before its official release, providing feedback under strict confidentiality to help shape the device's development.
Apple is beta testing iOS 26.1, which introduces several new features and interface changes for iPhone users, including redesigned alarms, expanded language support for Apple Intelligence and AirPods Live Translation, new customization options for the Fitness app, and visual updates to the Settings and Home Screen folders, with a likely release in late October or early November.
Apple has released the second public beta of macOS Tahoe 26.1, which includes performance improvements, bug fixes, and support for new features like MCP and third-party AI models. Users can install it by enrolling in Apple's beta program and updating via System Settings.
In the Black Ops 7 beta, the words 'Arc Raiders' are censored in the in-game chat, unlike the uncensored Battlefield 6, highlighting a peculiar censorship choice by Activision. The censorship was temporary and related specifically to the combined term, not the individual words. The beta is well-received overall, with new updates and game modes added, and both games are set for release later this year.
Microsoft is preparing to launch a free, ad-supported Xbox Cloud Gaming tier that will allow users to play select titles without a subscription, featuring short ads and session limits, initially tested internally and expected to roll out publicly soon.
Apple has released release candidate versions of macOS Tahoe, iPadOS 26, and other updates to beta testers, aiming for these to be the final versions before public launch, with potential for additional RC builds if needed.
Amazon is developing a new AI-powered workspace software called Quick Suite, aimed at enhancing decision-making and automation for businesses. The platform, which integrates existing AWS products and introduces new features like Quick Flows, is currently in beta testing with early users including BMW, Intuit, and Koch Industries. This move marks Amazon's strategic push into the enterprise AI and SaaS markets, competing with other tech giants in the agent-driven automation space.
Google Maps is testing a new Live Updates feature on some devices, which keeps navigation progress visible on the screen during travel, potentially improving the user experience by preventing navigation slips. The feature is currently limited to a small group of users and is in the testing phase.
WhatsApp is testing a new AI-powered feature called 'Writing Help' on iOS, which offers users alternative message phrasings based on different tones, aiming to improve message clarity and tone. The feature is opt-in, privacy-focused, and currently in beta via TestFlight, with no fixed release date.
Apple's upcoming iOS 26 introduces a new call screening feature that helps users block spam calls by asking unknown callers for their reason for calling, which can be enabled in settings. The feature is available on compatible iPhones and can be set to ask callers, silence calls, or allow all calls, with the recommended option being 'Ask Reason for Calling.' Users are advised to test the beta on secondary devices due to potential bugs and battery impact.
The article provides an early review of iOS 26, highlighting its bold new Liquid Glass look, significant UI changes in apps like Camera and Photos, and new features such as Call Screening and live translation. The author appreciates the fresh design and improvements but notes some rough edges and a desire for more daring enhancements, especially in Siri's capabilities. Overall, the update is seen as a positive step forward, with anticipation for future refinements.
Apple accidentally released the macOS Tahoe public beta to some users ahead of the official launch, but it was quickly pulled. The beta was distributed to select testers and showed up for Apple silicon Mac users without Rosetta 2. Apple has not officially released the beta yet, but its accidental appearance suggests an imminent launch, expected before the end of July.
