An Android smartphone manufacturer has copied the Liquid Glass design introduced in iOS 26, highlighting ongoing design similarities and competition between mobile OS developers.
Apple's new C1 modem has undergone a recent speed test in anticipation of the upcoming iPhone 17 Air, suggesting advancements in mobile connectivity technology.
Apple is considering releasing iPhone 17 models in more countries without physical SIM card slots, potentially replacing them with eSIM technology, signaling a shift in mobile device design and connectivity options.
Originally Published 6 months ago — by Hacker News
Fairphone 6 is adopting a new, more sustainable design, reflecting ongoing efforts in the smartphone industry to prioritize environmental impact and innovative features, amidst ongoing debates about fingerprint sensors and facial recognition technologies.
Google has announced that US passports and state IDs from Iowa, New Mexico, and Ohio can now be uploaded to Google Wallet, following the recent addition of California licenses. This update allows users to store digital IDs and passports for use at select TSA checkpoints, although carrying a physical copy is still recommended. Additionally, Google Wallet now supports select prepaid commuter benefit cards and allows access to passes via the web. The rollout of these features is expected to reach all eligible users in the coming weeks.
Samsung has completed the validation of its 10.7Gbps LPDDR5X DRAM for use with MediaTek's upcoming Dimensity 9400 SoC, offering over 25% improvement in power consumption and performance. This collaboration aims to enhance battery life and on-device AI features for mobile devices, solidifying Samsung's leadership in low-power, high-performance DRAM technology.
The Google Pixel 8A is a budget-friendly smartphone that offers a strong combination of features, including a 120Hz OLED display, solid battery life, and on-device AI capabilities, all for $499. It lacks some high-end features like a telephoto lens and top-tier water resistance but compensates with seven years of software updates and a robust build. The Pixel 8A stands out for its value, making it a sensible choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable smartphone.
Samsung is expanding the language and dialect support for its Galaxy AI features, with plans to add seven languages and five dialects over the course of 2024. This expansion aims to make the AI-powered features more accessible to users globally, allowing them to communicate across language barriers. Samsung's commitment to democratizing mobile AI reflects its goal of providing users with the tools to unleash their potential.
The author, a fan of traditional smartphones, has never purchased a foldable phone due to design and camera compromises. However, rumors of a potential Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Ultra with improved camera specs, possibly including a 200MP sensor, have piqued their interest. They believe that a foldable phone, especially a tablet-sized one, needs an exceptional camera and are excited about the possibility of foldables finally excelling in photography. If the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Ultra lives up to these expectations, the author may consider making the switch to a foldable phone.
Asus is set to release the Zenfone 11 Ultra with a larger display, marking a departure from its tradition of smaller-sized devices. Despite maintaining a 5.9-inch screen in recent models, the company's teaser suggests a shift towards larger sizes, aligning with the trend of bigger smartphone screens. While small phones have their dedicated fan base, the market reality and consumer preferences favor larger displays, leading Asus to join the ranks of big phone manufacturers.
Best Buy is currently offering the Pixel 7a for $374, a $125 discount from its usual price, making it a great deal for a smartphone with excellent software, camera system, and hardware. The phone is praised for its mid-range features comparable to Google's high-end Pixel 7 Pro, including a competitive camera and 90Hz refresh rate display.
Samsung's Galaxy S24 is the company's first AI Phone, featuring Galaxy AI with numerous AI-powered features to enhance daily life, but these features will not be available on phones and tablets released before 2023 due to concerns about performance and reliability. Older devices may not have the necessary CPU, GPU, and NPUs to support the AI features, and some features also require significant server and cloud computing resources. The list of devices set to receive Galaxy AI features includes the Galaxy S23 series, Z Flip 5, Z Fold 5, and Tab S9 series.
Samsung's "Galaxy Unpacked 2024" launch event will focus on the release of "Galaxy AI," described as a comprehensive mobile AI experience, and is set to debut the Galaxy S24 phone line, likely including Galaxy AI. The event will be streamed live on Samsung.com, Samsung Newsroom, and Samsung’s YouTube channel, and is expected to showcase three models of the Galaxy S24 with potential improvements in camera zoom quality, battery life, and the possibility of a titanium frame for the S24 Ultra.
Samsung teases the upcoming reveal of its new product lineup powered by Galaxy AI at Galaxy Unpacked 2024 through a teaser video showcasing the company's history of mobile innovation, culminating in a discussion about the future of smartphones.