---

The iPhone 16 launch event should be just around the corner, and the internet is eagerly waiting for Apple to drop some official details. Yesterday, the hype hit a new level when a supposed leaked invite for Apple’s September event made the rounds online. The tech world, naturally, went into a frenzy. But as it turns out, the invite was a complete hoax.

The invite was initially shared on X (formerly Twitter) by Majin Bu, a leaker who has recently been in the spotlight for various Apple-related leaks. The image of the invite looked quite convincing, featuring an Apple logo in a bronze hue that matches the rumored new colorway for the iPhone 16 Pro models. The tagline, “Ready. Set. Capture.,” had everyone thinking it was a clever nod to the rumored Capture button that might be coming to all iPhones this year.

However, another X/Twitter user, @lorevfx, revealed today that they had created the “leaked” invite in under ten minutes using Figma and an AI-generated texture. They admitted to sending it to Majin Bu out of boredom and shared a timelapse video showcasing the image’s creation. They also shared the entire chat, which convinced Majin Bu that the leak was the real deal.

Thankfully, this was all in good fun, but it’s a good reminder that not everything we see online is what it seems — especially when it comes to leaks. While some leaks may be genuine, the ease with which sophisticated fakes can be created makes it increasingly difficult to separate fact from fiction. Not to mention, such incidents could have severe consequences if they involve financial scams or phishing attempts.

As we await more reliable details about Apple’s upcoming event, the most credible information we have so far is that the event might take place on September 10, based on educated guesses by industry insiders. Alongside the iPhone 16 series, there’s also talk of Apple launching a few new AirPods models this year. But as always, when it comes to leaks, it’s wise to take them with a pinch of salt — or maybe a whole shaker’s worth.

---

Google has just rolled out the Pixel Watch 3, and it’s already being hailed as the company’s best smartwatch yet. The Pixel Watch now offers a unique blend of Google’s top-tier software and Fitbit’s legendary fitness tracking, making it one of the most well-rounded smartwatches to date. But here’s the kicker: it might be the only smartwatch you’ll be seeing from Fitbit moving forward.

In an interview with Engadget, Sandeep Waraich, senior director of product management for Pixel Wearables, hinted at the future of Fitbit’s smartwatch lineup. When questioned about the potential for new Fitbit smartwatches, Waraich stated, “Pixel Watch is our smartwatch part of the portfolio.”

Before you gasp, Fitbit isn’t disappearing altogether. The report notes that while the Fitbit brand will stick around, its focus will be solely on fitness trackers like the Inspire, Luxe, and Charge series, leaving the smartwatch game to the Pixel Watch line.

We reached out to Google for a comment, and the company had this to say:

“We are very committed to Fitbit, and even more importantly to the customers that use and depend on those products and technology. It’s also worth noting that many of the health and fitness features we launched in Pixel Watch 3 were because of Fitbit’s innovation and ground-breaking fitness advancements. In addition, we just launched Fitbit Ace LTE, and you’ll continue to see new products and innovation from Fitbit.”

Now, while this statement shows Google’s love for Fitbit, it doesn’t really address the elephant in the room. The statement keeps things vague about whether we’ll actually see any new Fitbit *smartwatches*. Instead, it talks up Fitbit’s fitness features being integrated into the Pixel Watch — a detail that, while true, leaves the original report’s assertion basically unchallenged.

When you look at what Google's been doing with Fitbit recently, it kind of makes sense.

The company never explicitly announced any plans to phase out the brand. However, there have been clear signs, like the Fitbit Sense 2 being an objective downgrade from the original Sense. Ever since the Pixel Watch came along, it felt like Fitbit smartwatches were being nudged out of the spotlight. The older Fitbit Versa 3 and Sense models boasted features like third-party app support, Wi-Fi connectivity, and Google Assistant integration, which are absent in the newer Versa 4 and Sense 2.

Given these developments, one could argue that rather than continuing to release diluted versions of Fitbit smartwatches, Google might be better off retiring the Fitbit smartwatch line entirely. This would preserve the brand’s reputation rather than risking it with subpar offerings. For fans of Fitbit, there is still hope that the brand’s legacy will continue through its fitness trackers, like the Fitbit Charge 7.

---

Samsung recently unveiled its latest foldable smartphones and the innovative Galaxy Ring, but the flagship Galaxy Tab S10 series was notably missing from the event. The company has since confirmed that the Tab S10 series will be coming later this year. Current rumors are pointing to a possible October release for the new tablets, and a recent sighting on the 3C certification website seems to support this timeline.

MySmartPrice has identified two of these upcoming devices — the Galaxy Tab S10 Plus and the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra — appearing on the 3C certification platform. The Galaxy Tab S10 Plus carries the model number SM-X820, while the S10 Ultra is listed as SM-X926C. These certifications reveal that the tablets will continue to support 45W wired charging, but we don’t see any other specifications appearing in the listings.

However, the real noteworthy news is around what’s not appearing in leaks and rumors. The 11-inch Tab S10, a staple in previous Galaxy Tab lineups, seems to be conspicuously absent from all the leaks so far. This has fueled speculation that Samsung may be discontinuing its smallest flagship tablet, and the 3C listing takes it one step closer to being true. The company also offers the lower-spec Tab FE series, which includes an 11-inch model (at least for now). Perhaps Samsung has recognized that users who prefer smaller tablets are typically casual users who don’t require all the advanced features of the flagship Tab S series.

In terms of specifications, another significant change expected in the Galaxy Tab S10 series is a shift to the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 Plus processor. This would mark a departure from the Snapdragon 8-series chips that Samsung’s flagship tablets have traditionally used.

For now, we’ll have to wait for official confirmation from Samsung to see if the 11-inch Tab S10 model is indeed absent this year and what other surprises the company has in store for its tablet lineup.

---

Google has recently given the Google Assistant experience in Android Auto a facelift. The new look, which pops up during voice chats with the Assistant, is drawing comparisons to Apple’s Siri on CarPlay. We’ll let you decide if that’s indeed the case.

First spotted by 9to5Google, Google Assistant on Android Auto seems to be getting a new circular hovering UI with a dynamic, colorful wave that animates in response to voice activity, occupying the lower portion of the screen. Notably, this new interface doesn’t replace the Google Assistant bar at the bottom of the screen, which is still your go-to for starting commands. Instead, this new design takes center stage when the Assistant is waiting for your response — like when it needs you to pick which coffee shop you actually want directions to.

However, this design choice bears a close resemblance to Siri’s visual representation on CarPlay. Siri on CarPlay also features a colorful, animated circular wave UI that appears during voice interactions and is positioned in the lower part of the screen. Google’s version, naturally, uses its distinctive color palette.

While some might wonder if a new UI is really necessary when Google Assistant is already occupying the bottom bar, it definitely adds a bit of visual flair to the Android Auto experience. But let’s be honest, the resemblance to Siri’s interface is hard to miss, and it’s certainly got people talking.

It’s not clear yet how widely this new look has been rolled out or if it’s here to stay as the default for Google Assistant on Android Auto. It’s worth noting that Google is gradually transitioning to Gemini as its default assistant on mobile devices, though Android Auto has yet to experience this shift.

---

With Samsung’s top-tier flagship launches wrapped up for 2024, the company is gearing up to launch the Galaxy S24 FE. The device has been the subject of several recent leaks, shedding light on its potential specifications and color variants. Now, there’s further evidence pointing towards an impending launch.

91mobiles spotted the Galaxy S24 FE lurking on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification website. The model number listed there (SM-S721B/DS) aligns perfectly with the model number that was previously leaked via Samsung’s own support page.

While the BIS listing doesn’t disclose specifics about the hardware or design, its appearance strongly indicates that the Galaxy S24 FE could soon be making its debut in India. Since Samsung usually rolls out its FE models globally, we can bet on a US launch around the same time. Current rumors suggest the Galaxy S24 FE will hit the global markets in October, so a launch event announcement and official teasers should be popping up any day now.

On the specifications front, the phone is expected to be powered by an Exynos 2400e chipset. A notable change this year could be a larger 6.7-inch screen compared to the 6.4-inch display on the Galaxy S23 FE. We’ve already seen leaked promo material and images for the phone, suggesting that it will look a lot like the regular S24 and offer at least five colors.

---

T-Mobile customers have recently been receiving unusual-looking links from its support channels, sparking concerns about potential phishing scams. However, these links are legitimate, though their appearance and origin have raised questions.

The Mobile Report has discovered that T-Mobile’s support teams, particularly T-Force, the social media support team, are now using a third-party service, Khoros, to host secure forms for customers. The links to these forms appear suspicious due to their unfamiliar domain name. One particular example highlighted involved a customer being directed to a “Handset Upgrade Form” shown below, but through a link that looked questionable at first glance.

T-Mobile employees have spoken to The Mobile Report, assuring that these links are indeed legitimate and part of a new process to handle sensitive information more securely. Previously, T-Mobile hosted similar forms on its own servers using a T-Mobile domain. The shift to an external platform, particularly one unfamiliar to most customers, has understandably caused confusion and concern.

Adding to the unease, Khoros, the company hosting the forms, describes itself as a company that uses AI and automation to analyze “a treasure trove of data.” While this may be standard practice for many data-driven companies, we can’t downplay the potential risks associated with sharing sensitive information with third-party platforms.

While these links are legitimate in this case, customers should always exercise caution when clicking on links, even if they appear to come from a trusted source. If in doubt, it’s always best to contact the company directly through official channels to verify the legitimacy of any communication.

---

Google recently unveiled a series of exciting updates for its AI assistant, Gemini, during the Pixel 9 series launch event. While the introduction of Gemini Live mode stole the spotlight, Gemini is also getting a shiny new floating overlay panel for Android. (h/t: 9to5Google)

This new interface, currently being rolled out to Android users, features a visually pleasing glow animation that surrounds the panel whenever Gemini is activated. This subtle glow not only looks neat but is also a sign that your Gemini’s got a new trick up its sleeve: a contextual overlay that understands what you’re up to without taking over your whole screen.

This update was initially teased at the I/O 2024 conference in May and allows Gemini to deliver responses directly within the app you’re using rather than hijacking your entire screen. This design change aims to help users maintain focus on their current tasks while still benefiting from Gemini’s assistance. For those who prefer the more traditional, immersive experience, a quick tap on the top-right corner of the overlay will still expand it to full screen.

Additionally, the update also includes a new “Ask about this video” chip, replacing the previous “Ask about this screen” prompt, which appears when Gemini is triggered on YouTube videos. This feature allows users to request summaries or pose follow-up questions about the video’s content.

As for the glowing floating overlay, it’s still in the process of rolling out, so if you haven’t seen it yet, hang tight. Google says it’ll be hitting more Android devices in the coming weeks, both for regular Gemini users and those with Gemini Advanced subscriptions.

All in all, these updates are setting the stage for a more seamless and engaging Gemini experience. If you’re an Android user, keep an eye out for that glow.

---

Meta has rolled out a new app, Meta Quest HDMI Link, designed to extend the functionality of its VR headsets. The app is available for Meta Quest 2, Quest 3, and Quest Pro models. It allows users to connect their headsets to various HDMI or DisplayPort-equipped devices, such as gaming consoles, laptops, and even smartphones, effectively turning the headset into a virtual display. (via The Verge)

The Quest headsets have traditionally been positioned as standalone devices for VR experiences. With HDMI Link, the company is acknowledging users’ desire to access content from other devices within their VR environment.

HDMI Link supports 1080p content with low latency, providing a customizable virtual screen experience. Users can resize and reposition this screen within the VR environment, making it suitable for gaming, watching movies, or even working privately.

Setting up HDMI Link, however, isn’t as straightforward as plugging a USB cable into your phone or gaming console. It requires a compatible capture card — a small device that connects your HDMI source to your headset via USB — adding an extra layer of complexity and cost. Meta acknowledges this in its blog post, cautioning users that it’s not quite as plug-and-play as they might expect.

Another important drawback to HDMI Link is its inability to display content protected by HDCP, which is common with many streaming services. This limitation means that while the feature is versatile, its utility for streaming movies and TV shows might be limited.

Meta emphasizes that HDMI Link is not meant to replace existing features like Air Link or Xbox Cloud Gaming, which offer wireless streaming options under ideal network conditions. Instead, it’s intended to provide a solution for situations where Wi-Fi is unreliable or unavailable or when users want to connect devices that aren’t supported by other methods. The app is currently available on App Lab, which indicates that it’s still in development and might need some work to iron out some kinks.

---

It seems like 2024 will be remembered as the year when every tech giant raced to make its version of AI chatbot a staple of our daily lives. While Google Gemini and ChatGPT are currently the top contenders, Meta has been slowly integrating Meta AI into its popular apps — Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp — making it easier than ever to chat with Meta’s take on an AI chatbot.

But what about the rest of us who don’t have the patience to type in long, tedious prompts for AI chatbots? I’m glad you asked because WaBetaInfo has uncovered a new feature in the WhatsApp beta for Android (version 2.24.16.10) that will allow users to send voice messages to Meta AI. Previously, communication with Meta AI was limited to text and image-based interactions.

A screenshot shared by the publication gives us a glimpse of what this might look like, with a voice message button appearing right in the Meta AI chat interface. This suggests that sending voice messages to Meta AI could work very similarly to how it works in regular conversations. While there are no details about the languages that Meta AI will support for voice messaging, given WhatsApp’s popularity in South Asian countries, Meta is likely to prioritize multilingual support.

The big question now is whether the new voice chat feature will enable Meta AI to perform specific functions within WhatsApp, such as replying to messages or suggesting responses, or if it will primarily act as a general voice assistant for tasks like web searches and recommendations. If it leans towards the latter, Meta AI may face stiff competition from the default voice assistants that our smartphones already come with.

We’ll be eager to see how this new feature unfolds in the coming months. The voice chat feature is currently available to a limited number of beta testers, but it should soon be available to a broader user base.

---

It seems like 2024 will be remembered as the year when every tech giant raced to make its version of AI chatbot a staple of our daily lives. While Google Gemini and ChatGPT are currently the top contenders, Meta has been slowly integrating Meta AI into its popular apps — Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp — making it easier than ever to chat with Meta’s take on an AI chatbot.

But what about the rest of us who don’t have the patience to type in long, tedious prompts for AI chatbots? I’m glad you asked because WaBetaInfo has uncovered a new feature in the WhatsApp beta for Android (version 2.24.16.10) that will allow users to send voice messages to Meta AI. Previously, communication with Meta AI was limited to text and image-based interactions.

A screenshot shared by the publication gives us a glimpse of what this might look like, with a voice message button appearing right in the Meta AI chat interface. This suggests that sending voice messages to Meta AI could work very similarly to how it works in regular conversations. While there are no details about the languages that Meta AI will support for voice messaging, given WhatsApp’s popularity in South Asian countries, Meta is likely to prioritize multilingual support.

The big question now is whether the new voice chat feature will enable Meta AI to perform specific functions within WhatsApp, such as replying to messages or suggesting responses, or if it will primarily act as a general voice assistant for tasks like web searches and recommendations. If it leans towards the latter, Meta AI may face stiff competition from the default voice assistants that our smartphones already come with.

We’ll be eager to see how this new feature unfolds in the coming months. The voice chat feature is currently available to a limited number of beta testers, but it should soon be available to a broader user base.

---

Although the OnePlus Open remains one of the best foldable phones on the market, many of us have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the OnePlus Open 2. Recent leaks hinted that the Open 2 might not debut until 2025, and it seems OnePlus might have just confirmed this delay. To keep the original model in the spotlight a bit longer, the company is launching a fresh variant of the OnePlus Open, ensuring it stays relevant while we wait for the next big thing.

The OnePlus Open Apex Edition, set to launch officially on August 7, is primarily a cosmetic refresh. The most notable change is the new “Crimson Shadow” colorway, a classy red hue with a faux leather texture that OnePlus claims was inspired by the iconic Hasselblad 503CW 60 Years Victor Red Edition camera. Combined with the phone’s large black camera island, the new colorway gives off a strong Deadpool vibe, which I’m absolutely down for.

Beyond the eye-catching exterior, OnePlus is teasing “enhanced storage” and “AI image editing features” on the Apex Edition. The former could be hinting that the Apex Edition will surpass the already generous 16GB/512GB configuration of the standard OnePlus Open by offering more RAM and/or storage space. The AI image editing features likely point toward the upcoming OxygenOS features, which may eventually be available on the standard OnePlus Open as well.

Interestingly, the official product page lists the Apex Edition’s software update policy as “3 years of OS upgrades,” while the standard OnePlus Open enjoys “4 years.” This could be an indication that the Apex Edition will come with Android 14 pre-installed, whereas the original OnePlus Open came with Android 13 out-of-the-box (though it has since been updated to Android 14).

As for pricing, we’ll have to wait for the official launch on August 7 to find out. But since the regular OnePlus Open () is mostly selling at discounted prices currently, there’s a chance the Apex Edition could launch at the OnePlus Open’s original $1,799 price tag.

This new variant of the OnePlus Open will definitely reignite interest in the original model for a while. However, we’re still crossing our fingers that the OnePlus Open 2 isn’t too far off. In the meantime, if you’re eager for a fresh foldable option this summer, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is set to make its debut in just a few days.

---

It’s August, which means it’s officially Pixel launch month. While Google’s big launch event is just around the corner, the internet can’t seem to keep a secret. Thanks to a deluge of leaks, we’ve already seen everything there is to know about the Pixel 9 series and details about what to expect from the Pixel Watch 3. And now, the latest leak from Android Headlines spills the beans on the final piece of the puzzle: the pricing for Google’s new smartwatches.

If you’re just catching up, we expect Google to launch two new smartwatches this time around. A standard Pixel Watch 3 and a larger variant, possibly called the Pixel Watch 3 XL. The smaller model (likely 41mm) will reportedly be priced at $349 for the WiFi-only version and $449 for the LTE model. While the WiFi model’s price remains unchanged from last year, the LTE model sees a $50 increase, potentially to accommodate the larger, presumably 45mm variant.

This bigger Pixel Watch 3 XL will reportedly retail for $399 for the WiFi model and $499 for the LTE model. This pricing strategy places the Pixel Watch 3 in a higher price bracket compared to its competitors, such as the recently launched Samsung Galaxy Watch 7, which starts at $299 for the 40mm WiFi-only variant.

While the premium pricing might raise some eyebrows, it’s worth noting that Pixel Watches have historically commanded a higher price point than other Android smartwatches. This trend seems to be continuing with the Pixel Watch 3.

Beyond the pricing, some earlier leaks also suggest that the Pixel Watch 3 will come packed with a slew of new features and upgrades. We expect all our questions to be answered at the August 13 launch event.

The OnePlus Open has quickly become a favorite in the foldable phone market, impressing users with its sleek design, powerful performance, and innovative software features. However, choosing the right screen protector for a foldable phone is inherently more complex than for a standard smartphone.

---

OnePlus’ first attempt at an Android tablet, the OnePlus Pad, was a hit thanks to its excellent balance of price and performance. But over a year has passed since its release, and everyone’s been itching to know what’s next. Well, it looks like OnePlus might have just given us a clue.

In a Weibo post, OnePlus announced the launch of the OnePlus Pad Pro in China, marking the brand’s first tablet release in the Chinese market. We can safely assume that this new tablet, or a variant of it, will also make its way to the US, possibly under the name OnePlus Pad 2.

As translated from Chinese, OnePlus is calling the Pad Pro ‘the most powerful Android tablet,’ strongly suggesting that it will come with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. This would be a significant upgrade from the Dimensity 9000 chip found in the original OnePlus Pad and would make it the first Android tablet to feature the 8 Gen 3 chip.

The official teaser image also reveals a glimpse of a new keyboard cover accessory, complete with a laptop-style touchpad. We can also see a new black-colored stylus pen along with the tablet.

While we don’t have confirmation of any other specs so far, leaker Digital Chat Station has shared real-life images of the alleged OnePlus Pad Pro, which indicate that the tablet might not differ much physically from the original OnePlus Pad.

Unfortunately, it appears that the screen will still be an LCD panel. While the original OnePlus Pad’s LCD was impressive for its price, boasting Dolby Vision support and a 144Hz refresh rate, an OLED display is generally preferred for the ultimate multimedia experience.

Nevertheless, we can expect OnePlus to continue its tradition of competitive pricing for the OnePlus Pad Pro (or Pad 2) if and when it launches in the US. The price is expected to be higher than the original OnePlus Pad ( ), but if OnePlus can undercut the upcoming Galaxy Tab S10 series, it could have another winning tablet on its hands.

A new OnePlus Watch 2?

Alongside the OnePlus Pad Pro, OnePlus also confirmed the launch of the OnePlus Watch 2 in China. From the image, it seems like this watch would be slightly different in terms of physical design compared to the OnePlus Watch 2 that’s available in the US.

This could be the alleged OnePlus Watch 3 that has been surfacing online in recent weeks. However, since the OnePlus Watch 2 launched just a few months ago, it’s uncertain whether OnePlus will release a new version in the US so soon.

These product launches, including the OnePlus Ace 3 Pro, are scheduled for June 27. The Ace 3 Pro is set to debut with the innovative Glacier Battery technology, promising significant improvements in battery performance and efficiency.

---

As the anticipation builds for Samsung’s summer Unpacked event, rumors and leaks about the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 have started pouring in. The latest one comes from 9to5Google, who have obtained images of both phones’ prototype units (via Sonny Dickson), dashing some of the high hopes we previously had from Samsung’s next-gen foldables phones.

The leaked images of the Z Fold 6 reveal a design that appears to be an iterative upgrade from the current Z Fold 5. While earlier reports hinted at a slightly wider outer screen, the aspect ratios of both displays remain largely unchanged, and the crease on the inner display doesn’t seem to have seen significant improvement.

As widely expected now, the Z Fold 6 does seem to have a more boxy form with flat edges and squared-off corners, but the rest of the design, including the triple camera layout and button placement, remains borrowed from the Z Fold 5.

Similarly, the Z Flip 6 images showcase a more boxy design, but the display crease is still quite visible. One noticeable change is the slightly more protruding dual cameras on the back, potentially emphasizing the upgraded main camera sensor. Both phones do appear to fold flat without any gap, but their predecessors have already achieved that feat.

It’s crucial to remember that the leaked images depict prototype or “dummy” units, meaning they are subject to extensive changes throughout the design process. The final versions of the devices may differ significantly from what is seen in these images.

We anticipate Samsung will soon confirm the July 10 date for its Galaxy Unpacked event, where all details about the new foldables will be officially unveiled.

---

We recently reported that users who used a VPN to subscribe to YouTube Premium were receiving notifications about their subscriptions being canceled. Now, the company has officially confirmed that it is taking action against such subscriptions.

YouTube Premium subscriptions are priced differently across various countries to reflect the purchasing power parity of different currencies. However, many users have been circumventing YouTube’s standard subscription fee (e.g., $14 per month in the US) by using VPNs to appear as though they are in regions where the subscription is cheaper.

In a statement to TechCrunch, a YouTube spokesperson said, “To provide the most accurate plans and offers available, we have systems in place to determine the country of our users. In instances where the signup country does not match where the user is accessing YouTube, we’re asking members to update their billing information to their current country of residence.”

Although YouTube declined to comment to TechCrunch on specific cancellations, a Google support agent confirmed to PCMag that accounts identified as having falsified signup country information are being terminated. Affected users have been receiving an email and in-app notification informing them of the cancellation.

This move is part of what seems like YouTube’s broader effort to enforce its policies more strictly. Recently, the company also began injecting server-side ads to combat the widespread use of ad blockers on its platform.

---

Samsung’s highly anticipated summer Unpacked event could be announced any day now, with a tentative date set for July 10. As the countdown continues, new information about the products expected to debut is emerging, including the next generation of Samsung’s wireless earbuds.

Recent leaks suggest that the Galaxy Buds 3 might feature a design reminiscent of Apple’s AirPods, and now we have our first glimpse of these new earbuds. X/Twitter user @Teqhnikacross spotted what looks like the official product images of the Galaxy Buds 3 on Coupang, an e-commerce site in South Korea. These images give us a preview of the sleek new design of Samsung’s earbuds, and we’re here for it. (h/t: Sammobile)

First things first, the images showcase the Galaxy Buds 3 in a polished grey color variant, which looks absolutely slick. The charging case has undergone a redesign, transitioning from a horizontal to a vertical layout, with a transparent lid that adds a futuristic touch to the design.

The earbuds themselves look stunning. They appear to sport a wider earbud section and a rectangular stem, which makes them look much less like the Airpods or the OnePlus Buds Pro 2. Even though the two Buds 3 models might look similar to one another, word on the street is that the Pro version could have ‘blade lights’ running down the stems to set them apart from the standard Galaxy Buds 3.

In terms of specifications, the Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro are rumored to share several features, including active noise cancelation (ANC), an IP57 rating for dust and water resistance, and ultra-high-quality sound (24bit/96kHz).

For me, this is the best look Samsung has come up with for its earbuds so far. Let’s hope they sound just as good as they look.

---

Apple’s WWDC announcements about iOS 18 mainly revolved around Apple Intelligence and the company’s implementation of AI in its core products. The feature that got me the most excited was that iOS 18 is finally bringing T9 dialing to iPhones. Is this a sign that I’m getting old? Maybe. But am I still thrilled about it? Absolutely.

What is T9 dialing?

T9, short for “Text on 9 keys,” is a predictive text technology that revolutionized typing in the pre-smartphone era. With T9, users could type in English words using a numeric keypad by pressing a single key for each letter (instead of having to multi-tap numbers to register letters), and the software would intelligently predict the word.

💾

---

Apple’s highly-anticipated WWDC keynote delivered on its promise of AI announcements, unveiling a suite of features set to land on iPhones with iOS 18 later this year. One of the prevailing themes among the announcements was the sense of déjà vu, with many of the new features mirroring similar existing functionalities on Android devices.

From the ability to personalize your home screen layout to AI-powered image editing in the Photos app, it seemed like Apple was playing catch-up with many old Android features. One such new ‘old’ feature is coming to Apple’s built-in voice recorder app, Voice Memos.

---

As expected, Apple’s WWDC kickoff keynote focused on the Apple Intelligence features coming to all Apple products. Apple announced a slew of exciting updates for iOS 18, and notification management has also improved slightly.

Traditionally, iOS users have grappled with a horrible notification management system that is objectively subpar compared to Android’s more intuitive approach. With iOS 18, Apple is addressing these concerns (or at least trying to) by leveraging the power of artificial intelligence.

---

Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024 has kicked off, delivering a slew of exciting announcements, especially regarding the much-anticipated iOS 18. One of the big early announcements was the introduction of a long-requested feature: the ability to lock individual apps on the iPhone.

This new functionality will allow users to lock individual apps, including the built-in Apple apps and third-party apps. A good use case would be when you hand your phone to someone, locked apps will remain secure and locked, even if your phone itself is unlocked.

Apple’s app lock feature differs from Android’s longstanding App Lock mode. Android’s version locks the phone to the current running app, allowing the user to access only that app unless biometrics or a PIN is used to exit. In contrast, Apple’s app lock secures specific apps that you have previously selected.

---

The OnePlus Watch 2 is one of the best smartwatches currently on the market, and it appears that OnePlus is gearing up for another wearable release.

91Mobiles has spotted a new OnePlus Watch model on India’s Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification site. The model number for this device is OPWWE234, strikingly similar to the OnePlus Watch 2’s OPWWE231. This close resemblance in model numbers suggests that the upcoming device could be very similar to the Watch 2.

---

In a curious development, the 8K branding has gone missing from the PlayStation 5’s packaging. Initially spotted by John Linneman, the updated PS5 packaging now only highlights 4K/120 fps and HDR capabilities, omitting any mention of 8K output.

The exact timing of this packaging update remains uncertain. Notably, when Sony released the PS5 Slim model last November, the boxes still featured the 8K branding. A quick look around online reveals that most PS5 Slim ( ) listings now reflect the new packaging, although I could still find older 8K-labeled boxes on Best Buy. Interestingly, none of the boxes displayed on Sony’s PlayStation Direct store mention 8K anymore.

---

Samsung phone owners might be disappointed to learn that the company’s repair partnership with Best Buy has come to an end. This change ends Best Buy’s status as an authorized service provider (ASP) for Samsung, meaning they can’t use genuine Samsung parts, tools, or training anymore.

The news initially surfaced on a Geek Squad subreddit, where employees discussed the discontinuation of the program. The Verge then confirmed the news with a Best Buy insider who shared an internal memo announcing the end of the Samsung ASP program at all locations.

---

Qualcomm might be shaking things up with its next-generation Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chip, teaming up with both Samsung and TSMC to manufacture it. This tidbit came from Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon during a media briefing in Taiwan on June 4, as reported by Business Korea.

During the briefing, Amon responded to a question about the risks of relying on a single manufacturer by suggesting of a partnership with both Samsung and TSMC for future chip fabrication. He did not elaborate on the specific reasons behind this shift, but it’s likely driven by a combination of factors, including cost considerations, the desire to diversify manufacturing partners, and confidence in Samsung’s recent advancements in chip manufacturing.

---

Samsung is getting ready for a wave of wearable releases this summer, with the highly awaited Galaxy Ring and Galaxy Watch 7 series on the horizon. However, rumors have been swirling about a more budget-friendly addition to the lineup, and a recent leak seems to confirm this speculation.

First spotted by MySmartPrice, a support page for a Galaxy Watch with the model number SM-R861 has gone live on Samsung’s UK and Latin America websites, all but confirming the presence of a new model joining the Galaxy Watch series.

---

Earlier this year, Google announced the shutdown of its Google One VPN service, recently confirming that the service will cease to function on June 20, 2024. However, while “VPN by Google One” is going away, Google will continue to offer a virtual private network for Pixel owners. In preparation for that, the company has started rebranding its VPN service.

First spotted by 9to5Google, the app’s Play Store listing has been updated accordingly, reflecting the shift from “Pixel VPN by Google One” to “Pixel VPN by Google.” This change includes a fresh icon featuring a blue shield with a “G” at its center, replacing the previous Google One icon.

---

Apple’s much-anticipated Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024 is just around the corner, ready to kick off on June 10. The real showstopper this year is expected to be iOS 18, which is predicted to be one of the most significant updates in iPhone history.

Apple has already teased new AI features that are coming to its platforms, generating considerable excitement. According to MacRumors, Apple also plans to enhance the iMessage experience in iOS 18 with a new text effects feature.

---

Google’s Search Generative Experience (SGE), launched last year to enhance search queries with AI-generated summaries and answers, recently culminated with the rollout of its new AI Overviews feature in the United States. The new search tool, designed to revolutionize search by providing concise AI-generated summaries to complex queries, found itself in hot water just a week after its US launch.

The Internet was flooded with AI Overview responses ranging from bizarre to concerning. Some of the most notable ones advised users to eat rocks for essential nutrients, use glue to secure cheese on pizza, and drink urine to address kidney stones. In one particularly alarming instance, the AI suggested jumping off a bridge as a solution for depression.

---

MediaTek recently announced the launch of its latest chipsets, the Dimensity 7300 and 7300X. These new processors are built on a 4nm process, designed for high performance and energy efficiency. However, what truly caught our attention was MediaTek announcing that “…the Dimensity 7300X is designed with flip-style foldable devices in mind, providing support for dual displays.”

This could have significant implications for the smartphone market, as it hints at the possibility of more affordable flip-style foldable phones becoming available in the near future. While MediaTek hasn’t disclosed which specific phones will be powered by these new chips or provided a timeline for their launch, current rumors point towards the upcoming Motorola Moto Razr (2024) featuring the Dimensity 7300X.

---

Spotify has confirmed it will issue refunds for its discontinued in-car streaming device, Car Thing. The company announced last week that the device will become non-functional starting December 9, 2024, a decision that will leave many users with bricked gadgets and considerable frustration.

Car Thing, Spotify’s dedicated music streaming device, gained popularity among a dedicated fanbase but was discontinued soon after its launch. Spotify assured users at the time that the device would remain operational, making the news of its impending deactivation in December 2024 even more of a bummer.

---

T-Mobile is marking the eighth anniversary of its T-Mobile Tuesdays program with a weeklong “Thankiversary” event, offering substantial prizes and new perks to its customers. This year’s celebration, starting on Tuesday, June 4, will see T-Mobile giving away eight grand prizes to eight lucky customers.

These prizes include $80,000 in cash, $8,000 in Shell gas cards, eight years of movies with Atom Tickets, a new Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, a dream vacation for four valued at up to $117,000 (including flights, hotel, and $10,000 in spending money), a Samsung mega bundle featuring a Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus, Galaxy Watch 6, and $20,000 in Samsung e-Certificates, “a year of coffee”, and a “year of concerts.”

---

Nothing, the tech company known for its transparent gadget designs, has just unveiled its latest offering: the Phone 2a Special Edition. This new variant of Nothing’s affordable Android phone introduces a vibrant twist by combining red, yellow, and blue — colors that have previously been used individually in Nothing products — into a single, attention-grabbing device.

Adam, Design Director at Nothing, described the Phone 2a Special Edition as a celebration of primary colors within the brand’s identity. He emphasizes its unique aesthetic, which draws inspiration from design influences of the past while offering a fresh take on smartphone design.

The design has certainly sparked strong reactions online. Personally, I find the colored accents add a nice contrast to the phone’s transparent back, making it quite eye-catching. However, the internet seems divided on this opinion, with some loving the bold new look while others find it jarring or even downright ugly.

The pattern on the back has even been compared to a side view of someone on a toilet, showcasing the range of reactions this design is eliciting. Tech YouTuber Marques Brownlee (@MKBHD) summed up the divided opinions perfectly in his tweet: “You’re only allowed to love or hate this Nothing Phone 2a special edition design, no in between.”

Availability and Pricing

Aside from the new colorway, the Phone 2a Special Edition shares the same specifications as the standard model. It features a 6.7-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, a MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro chipset, a dual 50MP rear camera system (main and ultrawide), a 32MP front-facing camera, and a 5000mAh battery with 45W wired charging.

The Phone 2a Special Edition has 12GB RAM and 256GB storage and is priced at £349 / ₹27,999 INR / €379. Limited quantities are available now through nothing.tech, and a first-come, first-served in-person drop will take place at the Nothing Store in Soho, London, on June 1.

For US buyers, the standard Nothing Phone 2a is available for $350 through Nothing’s developer program. However, the Special Edition colorway is not yet available for direct purchase, but interested buyers can sign up to receive an alert when it becomes available in the US.

With opinions split, the Phone 2a Special Edition has certainly sparked curiosity and debate among the tech community. Whether it’s a hit or miss, one thing is clear — it’s got everyone talking.

---

Google has reinstated a popular feature in the Google Home app: the ability to adjust the volume of multiple speakers simultaneously. This functionality, which Google had to remove in the wake of a legal dispute with Sonos, is now back, surely to the relief of many users.

The original removal stemmed from a lawsuit filed by Sonos, accusing Google of infringing on various technological patents. Sonos claimed that Google’s entire Nest and Chromecast product lines were utilizing proprietary Sonos technology, including features like phone-based music streaming control, speaker group management, and automatic equalization.

For the past few years, users had to adjust the volume for each speaker individually. However, with the reinstatement of multi-speaker volume control, it seems Google has found a way to address Sonos’s concerns while restoring a much-loved feature for its users.

To use the restored feature on an Android device, users should follow these steps:

• Open the Google Home app.
• Start a playback session.
• Tap on the mini-player.
• Access the output selector to add or remove speakers or choose from preset speaker groups.
• Adjust the volume for the selected devices collectively.

Additionally, users can now use Google Assistant voice commands to manage group volumes. Commands such as “Hey Google, turn it up” (which increases the volume by 10%) or “Hey Google, set volume to X%” will seamlessly adjust the audio output across all connected devices.

Google has also hinted at further enhancements to group volume control, with plans to integrate it directly into Android smartphone lock screens and smart displays like the Nest Hub.

---

Samsung could announce the Galaxy Z Fold 6 launch event anytime now. Adding to the excitement, renowned tipster Ice Universe on X/Twitter has leaked a new partial image of the upcoming foldable device. This follows a previous leak where Ice Universe revealed another partial image, which appears to be a cropped section of the same photo.

While the images don’t offer a complete view of the outer display, they do confirm the presence of a familiar centered camera cutout and a metal frame. We can also see that the Z Fold 6 will move to sharper and more squared-off corners, echoing the boxier design language of the recent Galaxy S24 Ultra.

The hinge also seems to have undergone a slimming treatment, not protruding out of the sides as much as it does on the Z Fold 5. But perhaps the most welcome leak is the hint of a wider outer display. The change in width seems to be minimal from this previously leaked photo below, but it’s still a step in the right direction to address a common gripe about the Z Fold 5’s cramped outer screen.

The Z Fold 6 has been a subject of much speculation, with early rumors suggesting the possibility of multiple models, including a high-end “Ultra” variant or a budget-friendly “FE” foldable. However, as the launch date draws near, it appears more likely that the Z Fold 6 will be a single model representing an incremental upgrade over its predecessor.

Yet, Samsung may still have a few surprises up its sleeve. Recent reports suggest the company could be working on a brand-new foldable form factor that could debut alongside the Galaxy S25 series next year instead.

The Z Fold 6 is rumored to launch on July 10, alongside the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and other new products.

---

Samsung is gearing up for a summer filled with wearable launches, with the highly anticipated Galaxy Ring and the Galaxy Watch 7 series set to launch in a couple of months. However, recent Federal Communications Commission (FCC) filings have unveiled a surprising addition to the lineup: a potential Galaxy Watch FE.

The FCC listings, spotted by DroidLife, confirm model numbers for the Galaxy Watch 7. Model numbers SM-L300 and SM-L310, presumably the 40mm and 44mm Bluetooth-only versions of the Galaxy Watch 7, respectively, align with Samsung’s previous naming conventions. The SM-L305 and SM-L315 are likely their LTE counterparts, as indicated by the inclusion of cellular connectivity in the FCC documents.

---

The iPhone 16 series launch is still a few months away, but whispers of a groundbreaking 2025 iPhone could already be stealing the spotlight from Apple’s 2024 launches. A recent report from The Information, citing sources directly involved in the project, reveals that Apple is actively developing a radically thinner iPhone model.

While we had previously reported about a slim variant joining the iPhone 17 lineup, the latest report suggests a more ambitious vision. This ultra-thin iPhone, code-named D23, is poised to be an entirely new product, much like the iPhone X.

---

After months of anticipation and speculation, we are nearing the arrival of Snapdragon X Elite-powered laptops. Samsung recently launched its Galaxy Book 4 series of laptops, and it seems like the company is gearing up to add a couple of new Snapdragon-powered models to the lineup.

A WinFuture report offers a first look at Samsung’s upcoming laptop models, revealing key specifications and high-resolution images of the upcoming devices.

---

Samsung is extending a helping hand to Galaxy smartphone users who missed the initial window to sign up for its comprehensive device protection program, Samsung Care Plus. This first-ever open enrollment period, available from now until June 30, offers a second chance for peace of mind for owners of the Galaxy S24 series, Z Fold 5, and Z Flip 5.

Traditionally, Samsung Care Plus enrollment is limited to the first 60 days after purchase. The program offers a suite of benefits, including unlimited repairs for accidents such as drops and spills, mechanical breakdowns, and even theft and loss (depending on the plan).

---

In what seems like a significant move for the future of artificial intelligence and the online community in general, Reddit and OpenAI have announced a new partnership aimed at enhancing user experiences on both platforms.

Generative AI models, such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, rely heavily on real-world data and conversations to learn and refine their language generation capabilities. Reddit, with its millions of active users engaging in discussions on virtually every topic imaginable, is a treasure trove of authentic, up-to-date human interaction. This makes it an ideal resource for OpenAI to train its AI models, potentially leading to more nuanced, contextually aware, and relevant interactions with users.

---

AT&T and AST SpaceMobile have announced a formal commercial agreement to develop a space-based cellular broadband network. This ambitious venture aims to provide direct-to-cell phone service, bypassing traditional cell towers and potentially ensuring seamless communication across the continental United States, even in remote or challenging locations.

The companies have been working together since 2018 and have now formally entered an agreement till 2030. AST SpaceMobile is preparing to send its first five commercial satellites to Cape Canaveral for launch into low Earth orbit. Notably, in 2023, the companies achieved industry firsts by facilitating a voice call, text message, and even a video call between regular smartphones using their space-based connectivity technology.

---

The tech world is on high alert as Qualcomm’s highly anticipated Snapdragon X Elite chips are nearing their market debut. ASUS recently announced a launch event for its brand-new AI PCs, which are expected to feature the new chips. However, its Vietnamese store site appears to have prematurely leaked details of the upcoming device.

---

Apple’s recent embrace of retro game emulators on its App Store continues to bear fruit. RetroArch, a free, open-source, and cross-platform frontend, has made its debut on Apple devices, bringing a vast library of classic games to iPhones, iPads, and Apple TVs.

While not an emulator itself, RetroArch serves as a versatile platform where users can load various emulation cores, enabling users to play games from a multitude of consoles. The platform supports a plethora of emulators, known as libretro cores, allowing users to revisit beloved titles from over 50 gaming systems spanning generations.

From the Atari 2600 and Commodore 64 to the PlayStation Portable and Nintendo DS, RetroArch’s extensive list of supported systems caters to a wide range of retro gaming enthusiasts. Popular cores include FinalBurn Neo for arcade games, Beetle PSX for PlayStation, and Mupen64Plus-Next for Nintendo 64, etc.

The app also boasts an array of modern features. Netplay enables online multiplayer sessions, and soft patching allows for game modifications. Features like save states, MFi controller support, and key remapping offer customization options, while gyro controls, cheats, and custom overlays further enhance the gaming experience.

However, users should be aware of a few caveats. Transferring game files (ROMs) to RetroArch requires manual steps, and certain emulation cores that are available on RetroArch’s other platform versions are absent in its iOS avatar.

Despite these minor hurdles, RetroArch’s debut on Apple’s ecosystem represents a major victory for retro gaming accessibility. RetroArch is now available for free on the App Store for devices running iOS/iPadOS 14.2 or tvOS 11.0 and later, and also the Vision Pro headset.

---

If listening to long presentations about the latest Android 15 update isn’t your style, Google has a more engaging alternative for you. The company has taken a playful approach to introducing the latest features of Android 15 by partnering with the McLaren Formula 1 team to create the “Game On” suite of mini-games.

This interactive experience allows users to explore upcoming Android functionalities while enjoying some lighthearted fun, even featuring appearances by McLaren F1 drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.

“Google Play Protect” challenges players to navigate a McLaren F1 car through a track laden with scam apps, highlighting the upcoming on-device fraud protection feature. This new feature promises live threat detection to identify and steer users clear of apps engaging in malicious behavior.

“Theft Detection Lock” takes a playful jab at phone theft with a Whack-a-mole style game, where successfully defending your virtual phone reveals Android’s AI-powered theft detection capabilities. This feature will automatically lock down the phone upon detecting a snatching attempt, safeguarding user data.

The third game, “Gemini on Android,” takes inspiration from rhythm games like Tap Tap Revenge. It challenges players to keep their Gemini ball in the correct lane to receive tasks. As expected, the new feature spotlight falls on enhancements to Gemini here, making it more context-aware, integrated, and helpful on Android devices.

The Game On suite offers three additional games: Google Cast, Private Space, and Circle to Search, my favorite. For those who prefer a more in-depth overview of the announced features, check out our comprehensive coverage of Google’s 2024 I/O announcements.

---

Industry giants T-Mobile and Verizon are in discussions to purchase separate portions of regional carrier US Cellular, according to a recent Wall Street Journal report.

Sources close to the negotiations state that T-Mobile is already nearing the finalization of a $2 billion deal for a significant part of US Cellular. Simultaneously, Verizon is considering a purchase of the remaining assets, although discussions remain less advanced.

---

Just about a year after its initial foray into the Windows handheld gaming space, ASUS is revving up for an upgraded successor to the ROG Ally. The company dropped a YouTube video titled “The next ROG Ally is coming” today, hinting at some major upgrades, with additional details confirmed in an interview with The Verge.

The ROG Ally X isn’t a next-gen upgrade to the original, but it directly addresses key areas where users wanted more from the ROG handheld. While it will retain the same AMD Z1 Extreme chipset and 7-inch VRR screen as the Ally, it directly addresses many of its pain points.

---

Chromebooks offer impressive versatility, with the ability to run PWAs (Progressive Web Apps), Android apps, and even Linux apps. Until now, there was no single source to browse through and install all these various kinds of apps for Chromebooks, but that’s about to change. Currently in the preview stage, the new App Mall promises a centralized location featuring the best apps and games for Chromebooks.

The folks at Chrome Unboxed discovered that the App Mall is currently available for preview, even if you’re not on a Chromebook. Chromebook users wishing to access the App Mall will need to enable the chrome://flags/#cros-mall flag within the Canary channel of ChromeOS 126. This should add the App Mall icon to their shelf and app launcher.

---

Google’s innovative Circle to Search feature has been a popular topic of discussion. This feature, which allows users to initiate searches by simply circling on-screen content, is already available on select Pixel and Galaxy devices. Now, it appears Google Chrome users will soon be able to enjoy a similar search experience.

Google Chrome’s current integration with Google Lens empowers users to find more information about text or images on web pages and discover visually similar images elsewhere online. It seems like Google is working on an upgrade that promises to streamline this experience further.

---

Industry giants T-Mobile and Verizon are in discussions to purchase separate portions of regional carrier US Cellular, according to a recent Wall Street Journal report.

Sources close to the negotiations state that T-Mobile is already nearing the finalization of a $2 billion deal for a significant part of US Cellular. Simultaneously, Verizon is considering a purchase of the remaining assets, although discussions remain less advanced.

---

Just about a year after its initial foray into the Windows handheld gaming space, ASUS is revving up for an upgraded successor to the ROG Ally. The company dropped a YouTube video titled “The next ROG Ally is coming” today, hinting at some major upgrades, with additional details confirmed in an interview with The Verge.

The ROG Ally X isn’t a next-gen upgrade to the original, but it directly addresses key areas where users wanted more from the ROG handheld. While it will retain the same AMD Z1 Extreme chipset and 7-inch VRR screen as the Ally, it directly addresses many of its pain points.