What you need to know

• Google Pixel 11 Pro users on Reddit have started voicing problems with the device's recording capabilities when Video Boost is active.
• A report states statis bursts every "five seconds" emerge in recordings when this enhancement feature is active, completely ruining the end-product.
• A Google support team member has responded, curious to learn more; however, users have discovered an at-home fix for this problem.

It's the end of August, and we're all unpacking our Pixel 11 phones, but some users say there's already an issue. Reports highlight a video enhancement feature that's working in reverse.

Over the past week, reports on the Pixel Phones subreddit have emerged, highlighting a problem with Video Boost on the Pixel 11 Pro (via 9to5Google). The original poster (OP) said that after recording, they noticed "static bursts" in the audio "every five seconds." The report specifies that this has only occurred with videos recorded with Video Boost enabled.

The OP followed up with a better example, showing how egregious these static bursts are every few seconds. Users entered the thread. Some say they've encountered the same problem when Video Boost is active. Another questioned the OP, wondering about their video quality. The user was recording in FHD at 6fps, not 4K. However, another recording at 4K displayed signs of these disruptive static bursts.

Users lamented the problem, stating it's disheartening to have such a problem on top of the phone's price. The OP considered returning their device, but they stuck with it and reportedly found a fix. They say, "I went in and cleared the cache on the camera app and turned off zoom audio. No static on the videos tonight." One user found no issues at 30fps, but toggling 60fps on and off seemed to help.

Interestingly, Google is aware of the problem—or at least, the issues users have voiced. A member of the Google product support team for Pixels responded, inquiring for more information.

Video Boost is designed to help users record better videos. It works by submitting your recording to Google's Cloud services to "enhance it" before returning to your phone. When Google first introduced this for the Pixel 8 Pro, it seemed like a straightforward process. However, there appears to be some disconnect between the Pixel 11 Pro and Video Boost's original purpose. With Google chiming in, hopefully it'll look into a more permanent solution that doesn't involve extra steps from users.

These early issues are frustrating, as they're souring an otherwise well-received Pixel 11 launch. While Google has integrated some useful hardware upgrades, the company's also raised the bar significantly for Pixel AI. Of course, these are optional tools, so the final judgement is up to the end-user.

What you need to know

• The Galaxy S27 Ultra could replace its 3x and 5x telephoto cameras with a single new 4x f/1.9 zoom camera.
• The rumored 4x telephoto camera would match the native optical zoom of the iPhone 17 Pro.
• Leaked CAD renders appear to show room for only one telephoto camera alongside the Galaxy S27 Ultra's main sensors.

A new leak may have revealed the new zoom camera Samsung is planning for the Galaxy S27 Ultra.

The Galaxy S27 Ultra is finally starting to take shape. We recently saw CAD renders of the Galaxy S27 Ultra that revealed a redesigned camera module with an iPhone 17 Pro-like horizontal camera plateau. Another leak also suggested that Samsung might finally increase the battery capacity on its upcoming flagship.

Now, the same leaker who claimed Samsung is working on self-healing display glass for the Galaxy S27 Ultra has shared on X that the phone could feature a new 4x telephoto camera with an f/1.9 aperture.

Until now, Samsung has used two different zoom cameras on its recent Ultra flagships, traditionally offering a combination of 3x and 5x telephoto lenses. But with the Galaxy S27 Ultra, it looks like Samsung could be changing that strategy.

The company will reportedly switch to a single telephoto camera offering 4x optical zoom. Interestingly, that's also the zoom level Apple offers on the iPhone 17 Pro.

The recently leaked CAD renders also appear to leave room for only one telephoto camera inside the pill-shaped module next to the two main cameras on the horizontal camera plateau, so that could be where this new 4x camera sits.

The leaker hasn't revealed the megapixel count or any other specifications of the new sensor just yet. But with the Galaxy S27 Ultra still around six months away, we expect to learn much more about the camera setup as we get closer to launch.

Of course, there's still plenty of time for Samsung to change things before the hardware is finalized. But between the redesigned camera module, rumored larger battery, self-healing display glass, and now this new 4x telephoto camera, we're finally starting to get a clearer picture of the direction Samsung could be taking with the Galaxy S27 Ultra

The memory crisis is affecting the mid-range phone category to a noticeable extent in 2026, and that is evident with the launch of the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max. Previous models in the series stood out for delivering the best hardware and value, but that hasn't been the case for the last two years at least.

While the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ had a great design and 200MP camera, it debuted with outdated software and shortsighted moves like missing 4K60 video. The Redmi Note 15 Pro+ had similar issues, and it cost even more while offering less in the way of features.

Annoyingly, the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max is even worse. Xiaomi is distracting buyers by adding a huge 9,210mAh silicon-carbon battery that ostensibly lasts up to three days, but there's no getting around the fact that this phone is slower, doesn't have as much memory, and isn't as good in daily use as its predecessor. The Note 17 Pro Max costs $499 at launch, and honestly, your money is better spent on just about any other phone.

Look, there are areas where the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max is better than other phones, particularly with battery life. Thanks to a 9,210mAh silicon-carbon battery, the phone lasts two and a half days with medium use, and even with heavy usage, you can get it to last two entire days. And when you need to charge it, there's 100W USB PD 3.0, so it takes just an hour to get to a full charge. Battery life is unquestionably the best feature on this phone, and Xiaomi even sells a model with a 10,000mAh battery (if the 9,210mAh unit isn't adequate).

I like that the phone doesn't feel like a brick; it has a flat design and is good to hold and use, and it has similar dimensions as the Galaxy S26 Ultra, if a bit chunkier and 14g heavier. That said, it isn't unwieldy to use in the least, and Xiaomi deserves credit for the design. Also, the Note 17 Pro Max has better durability thanks to a new polycarbonate mid-frame, and it gets IP68 and IP69K ingress protection — like the best Android phones. But in classic Xiaomi fashion, IP69K isn't available on all global models.

The Cloud Blush color looks good too. It has an iridescent pattern that subtly shifts as light reflects the body, and it adds a bit of elegance to the phone. The 6.83-inch OLED has good colors out of the box, and it gets bright in daily use. While a few Xiaomi phones had issues with HDR content, that thankfully isn't an issue here, and the 120Hz panel on the Note 17 Pro Max is pretty good overall. It doesn't get quite as bright as the 15 Pro+ when using both phones side-by-side, but I didn't notice any issues in outdoor use.

Okay, that's it for the positives. Xiaomi made a lot of changes to the hardware this time around, starting with the use of silicon. Last year's model came with a Snapdragon 7s Gen 4, so it is annoying to see Xiaomi move to the Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 with the Note 17 Pro Max. What's particularly insidious is that this chipset still uses the A78 and A55 cores, which are positively ancient at this point.

To give you some context, last year's model has the newish A720 and A520 cores, so the Note 17 Pro Max is a clear downgrade — and it shows in everyday use. There is noticeable lag when you're multitasking, and high-end gaming is an exercise in futility. Device manufacturers have made plenty of positive strides in bringing decent hardware to mid-range phones, but Xiaomi reversed all of that with the Note 17 Pro Max.

The Note 17 Pro Max starts with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of UFS 2.2 storage, and that is just not good enough in 2026. It is yet another area where this year's phone is a downgrade. On that subject, the 50MP main camera is decent if you take photos, but it once again misses out on 4K60 video — at this point, it's clear that Xiaomi doesn't want to offer this feature. It isn't quite as good in low-light situations, and the cameras overall don't hold a candle to the Pixel 10a.

Then there's the software. The Note 17 Pro Max runs Android 16 out of the box, and I just don't get it. Google released the stable Android 17 build 74 days before Xiaomi introduced the Note 17 Pro Max, so it isn't like the brand had enough time to pre-install the latest version of Android. This is once again a choice, as it means Xiaomi doesn't need to deliver quite as many platform updates.

Yes, the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max has the best battery life of any phone I used in 2026, and it looks and feels good to hold and use. The OLED panel is vibrant, and the main camera is decent enough in this category. However, the downgraded hardware combined with 8GB of RAM and annoying bloat-ridden software means there isn't much of a reason to buy this phone — the Note 15 Pro+ is still a better choice in every area other than battery life. If you're looking to get a mid-ranger in 2026 and need something made by Xiaomi, my recommendation is the POCO X8 Pro.

Google finally upgraded the base storage with the Pixel 11 series, among other notable upgrades and modifications. One thing remains constant, though, and that's the number of models launched. There's the basic Pixel 11, the more advanced but petite Pixel 11 Pro, and the larger-than-life Pixel 11 Pro XL.

Upgrades like increased internal memory, a faster processor, and the fancy HiLight in its RGB glory come at a cost; the Pixel 11 series starts at $100 more than the Pixel 10 series. The spike in RAM prices may also be to blame, but it doesn't matter who the culprit is. You're here to decide which of the three Pixel 11 models deserves your money the most.

So, how do you decide which Google Pixel 11 model you should buy? Each phone has something to offer and caters to a particular kind of user. Let's compare all three devices and come to a conclusion.

At a glance

The base Pixel 11

The baby Pixel 11 is the entry point to Google's 2026 flagship series. Following the across-the-board price increases, it sells for $899 with 256GB of storage and $1,019 for the 512GB variant. Both memory options come with 12GB of RAM. Unlike the Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL, the Pixel 11 has different colorways.

The Pixel 11 supports faster 25W wireless charging than the Pixel 10. Other changes include the new Tensor G6 chipset, all the latest Gemini features, and some camera upgrades, though you still get the lowest-resolution cameras in the Pixel 11 family and no HiLight RGB light. Notably, the Pixel 11 has a slightly larger 4,985mAh battery compared to the Pixel 11 Pro's 4,850mAh.

For the price that you pay, the year-over-year upgrades aren't significant enough, making it really hard to recommend the base Pixel 11. It just doesn't make sense. You're better off purchasing the last-gen Pixel 10 at a much lower price, or adding $200 to score the Pixel 11 Pro.

The new and improved Pixel 11 Pro

The Pixel 11 Pro retails at $1,099 for the 12GB/256GB variant. Meanwhile, the 512GB and 1TB variants bump the RAM to 16GB, priced at $1,219 and $1,449, respectively. The 11 Pro shares the same charging specs as the base Pixel 11, but for some reason it has a smaller battery than the Pixel 10 Pro and the Pixel 11.

The HiLight adds a glowing dot to your Pixel 11 Pro, so you can get more info about your notifications without picking up your phone. It has the same Tensor G6 chipset and advanced Gemini features as the rest of the Pixel 11 family.

The Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL are nearly identical in every way except for size, battery capacity, and charging speeds. This is a rare instance where you truly get two different size options for the exact same flagship phone, including identical colorways. You get the same cameras on both phones, which is a huge bonus if you want a small phone that doesn't compromise on camera quality.

Choosing between the Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL comes down to size preference, then. If you're not keen on carrying a 6.8-inch device that is an ounce heavier than the petite Pro model, there's no need to upgrade to the larger, more expensive Pro XL. You might get a smaller battery, but the smaller display should consume less power than the Pixel 11 Pro XL, which should average out the uptime to some extent. Overall, this is the ideal Pixel 11 model for most people, as it delivers the most value for money.

The specs-maxxing Pixel 11 Pro XL

Google stuffed the Pixel 11 Pro XL with features like a turkey stuffed with fillings on Thanksgiving, making it the most feature-rich model in the Pixel 11 series. Like the rest, the Pro XL starts at $100 more. The base memory variant costs $1,299 for 256GB of storage and a lower 12GB of RAM than the last-gen Pixel 10 Pro XL. The other two variants come with 16GB of RAM and are priced at $1,419 for 512GB and $1,649 for 1TB of storage.

The Pixel 11 Pro XL is equipped with all the latest features you would expect: the advanced Tensor G6 chipset with the Titan M3 security chip, Gemini's latest capabilities such as Rambler and Magic Capture, and the HiLight notification LED. The cameras have also been upgraded, elevating what was already a brilliant photography and videography experience.

Google pulled all the stops with this one, giving it the largest battery and fastest charging speed of the Pixel 11 trio. The big screen does make this the heaviest Pixel 11, though, and it has a smaller battery compared to the older Pixel 10 Pro XL. If you want the biggest, most powerful Pixel 11, this is the model to get.

What about the Pixel 11 Pro?

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is technically part of the Pixel 11 family, but it sort of exists in its own sphere. However, if you're interested in foldables and curious about the Pixel 11 Pro Fold, we've got you covered in a separate article that discusses whether you should buy one. Just be prepared to pay a pretty penny if you do!

Samsung's book-style foldables have historically featured squarish (1:1) aspect ratios for their main displays, but the Galaxy Z Fold 8 changes that. It's a wider foldable with a 7.6-inch folding display that uses a 4:3 aspect ratio. As a result, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is better for widescreen video and mobile games, such as modern TV shows, movies, and game titles you're likely to play on an Android foldable. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 makes a handful of compromises to get there, so it's not for everyone.

Luckily, the Android foldable market is ripe with options — and Apple is said to be gearing up to launch a wide "iPhone Ultra" foldable as well. For now, there are five Android phones I'd consider instead of the Galaxy Z Fold 8. Whether you're looking for great displays, long battery life, sharp cameras, or maximum durability, there's something for everyone here.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 is fun to use, but it isn't the flagship foldable of 2026. That would be the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, which is a pricey pick at $2,100. This phone uses the same Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and runs the same One UI 9 software. However, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra offers enough upgrades to be your top alternative to the Galaxy Z Fold 8.

The nearly square folding display is better for multitasking, but it's also larger, with an 8-inch folding AMOLED screen. The cover screen is bigger, too, at 6.5 inches, and its aspect ratio makes the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra feel like a traditional smartphone.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is almost a millimeter thinner and is crazy light, weighing only 215 grams. Somehow, Samsung managed to cram a 5,000mAh silicon-carbon battery in this slim chassis — larger than the one in the regular Galaxy Z Fold 8.

Plus, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra includes a triple-camera system on the rear, headlined by a 200MP primary shooter. The ultrawide camera is upgraded to a 50MP sensor this year, and the system is rounded out with a 10MP telephoto. All these spec bumps combine to make the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra a more well-rounded foldable than the Galaxy Z Fold 8, as long as you can live without the wide form factor.

Motorola Razr Fold

If battery life is your main priority, there's no better choice than the Motorola Razr Fold. It runs on a 6,000mAh silicon-carbon battery that charges at blazing 80W wired charging speeds and 50W wireless charging, as long as you use a proprietary charger. The Razr Fold has the largest foldable battery you'll find in the U.S., and it's still only 9.89mm thick. It is on the heavier side, but Motorola makes up for that with stylish vegan leather materials and a premium look.

The Razr Fold uses an 8.1-inch folding display that's larger than every other foldable on this list. It's also really bright at up to 6,200 nits. What's interesting is that the Razr Fold's 6.6-inch cover screen has a 165Hz refresh rate, making it more responsive than the Galaxy Z Fold 8.

Another perk of Motorola's first book-style foldable is its camera system, which we even compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series. Every rear camera lens, from the primary shooter to the ultrawide and telephoto, uses a 50MP sensor. This gives you plenty of versatility, whereas the Galaxy Z Fold 8's ultrawide camera is low-resolution and lacks a telephoto.

The Razr Fold's base Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chip might give you pause, but it shouldn't. Even without an "Elite" processor, the Razr Fold performs as it should.

Google Pixel Fold

Samsung is trying to start a new foldable trend with the Galaxy Z Fold 8. Apple might introduce a wide foldable of its own with the iPhone Ultra, but until then, there's only one widescreen alternative to the Galaxy Z Fold 8: the original Google Pixel Fold. Released in 2023, the Pixel Fold has a 7.6-inch folding display with a wide 6:5 aspect ratio that feels similar to the Galaxy Z Fold 8.

If you're set on trying a widescreen foldable, the Pixel Fold is the only real alternative. The Tensor G2 chipset is showing its age, but the Pixel Fold's other core specs still hold up in 2026. You get a 4,821mAh battery, a triple-camera system, and a 5.8-inch cover screen. The phone is still fully supported with Android updates. You can run Android 17 on it today, and it's guaranteed to get at least Android 18.

What makes the Pixel Fold truly appealing is the price. If you can find it in new or refurbished condition, it'll be around $500 or less. On the secondhand market, it's not hard to find a Pixel Fold for $300 or less. That's a steal for a foldable, even one that's a few years old. It might be worth your while to track down an original Pixel Fold to get a Galaxy Z Fold 8 competitor with a wide-folding display at a low price.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8

Part of the appeal of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is its compact form factor when closed. Though it's a little wide, the Galaxy Z Fold 8's 5.5-inch cover screen is much more compact than modern Android phones. If you're intrigued by the smaller footprint, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 might be worth a look. As a flip phone, it's certainly a different experience than the Galaxy Z Fold 8, but it comes with practical benefits of its own.

The Galaxy Z Flip 8 is lighter than the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and measures only 85.7 tall when shut, making it disappear in your pocket. Plus, it has the same Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chipset, meaning you can expect similar performance across the two phones.

Samsung kept the same 4,300mAh battery in the Galaxy Z Flip 8, but it charges fairly fast at 25W via cable. That gets you about 55% of the battery in exchange for a 30-minute charge. The phone has a 6.9-inch display when unfolded, putting it in the Galaxy S26 Plus and Galaxy S26 Ultra territory. The 4.1-inch cover screen is usable, and the software is slowly getting better.

At $1,200, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 is about $700 cheaper than the Galaxy Z Fold 8. It might not be exactly what you had in mind when you started searching for a new foldable, but flip phones are fun, functional, and more affordable.

Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold

Google's Pixel 11 Pro Fold does two things better than any other foldable sold in the U.S.: durability and wireless charging. It's still the only foldable to be completely dustproof thanks to IP68 certification, meaning you don't have to worry about dust or sand working their way into your folding display assembly or hinge and causing trouble.

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold also has Qi2 magnets inside. This allows you to connect the Pixel 11 Pro Fold to Qi2, MagSafe, or Pixelsnap chargers and accessories without needing a third-party case. This time, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold isn't overtly thick because of its internal magnets. The foldable measures 10.1mm thick, which is respectable. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is thinner, but doesn't have internal magnets.

Google has a few more tricks up its sleeve, like the Pixel 11 Pro Fold's HiLight feature, a colorful LED on the back flash that glows when you receive a call from a favorite contact or start chatting with Gemini. It's a bit gimmicky, but it makes the Pixel 11 Pro Fold unique. This is one of many Pixel-exclusive features on the Pixel 11 Pro Fold, such as Magic Capture and Camera Looks.

If you value IP68 and Qi2 as foldable features, you should choose the latest Google foldable over the Galaxy Z Fold 8.

Take your pick

If none of these foldables catch your eye, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 may indeed be the best option for your needs. Otherwise, consider traditional flagships, like the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL and the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra. While they don't have the large folding displays of the other phones on this list, these models are just as capable and cost hundreds of dollars less.

Google’s Pixel smartphones have never been the strongest in terms of raw power or customization, but they represent something of a consumer-friendly, accessible option for those who want an easy Android experience. The Pixel 11 is the latest representation of Google’s software and hardware coming together to showcase how far Android has come and how useful AI can be, even if we love to hate it.

I’ve been using the Pixel 11 for a few weeks now, and it feels like Google is navigating an interesting intersection between AI and social media, one that companies like Samsung are also starting to hone in on. The result is a phone that feels fresh, fun, and functional while remaining one of the best flagship options for your wallet.

It’s the small things

At first glance, the Pixel 11 looks and feels as small and pocketable as the Pixel 10. Unfortunately, the Pixel 11 is still quite thick at 8.6mm, making it chonkier than even the Galaxy S26 Ultra. It’s also pretty hefty, weighing closer to the S26 Ultra than the base S26.

On the plus side, Google made some small but welcome changes to both the design and some of the internals, which I think sort of make up for its hefty design.

For example, the camera housing doesn’t protrude nearly as much as the Pixel 10, so it lies flatter on a table than its predecessor, despite having roughly the same camera sensors. The battery is also slightly larger, although Google probably should have opted for denser silicon-carbon batteries, which likely could have helped shave off some thickness. Still, battery life hasn’t been a problem for me, and I generally get a full day of use before needing to plug in.

Fortunately, charging got a bit of a boost. The Pixel 11 still features 30W wired charging, which isn’t the fastest on the block, and I definitely find myself waiting longer than I’d like for it to charge.

Extreme Charging can help with this, although only somewhat. The hidden feature pauses apps in the background to keep the phone cooler for longer and allows for higher sustained charging speeds. Thus, I did see a 10% boost after 30 minutes of charging, bringing the phone from 0 to 50%.

Wireless charging is also much better, with seemingly stronger Qi2 magnets and faster 25W speeds, making it nearly as useful as wired charging.

The Pixel 11 gets social

AI has been Google’s main focus with the Pixel lineup, but social media is also becoming more important, as seen in the latest Android 17 features like the built-in Creator Suite and Screen Reactions. In fact, two of my favorite new Pixel 11 features are at opposite ends of social media, with one that aims to give me the perfect photos to post while another prompts me to step back from scrolling.

Magic Capture is a new built-in Camera feature that sits just to the left of Photo mode. With it, you tap the shutter button and start recording a video, while AI works in the background to automatically find the best moments and save images. This essentially automates the manual still-capture feature already available in Video mode, letting you focus on capturing the moment.

I used the feature at a party, and despite the challenging lighting, Magic Capture highlighted some great social media-worthy moments of my friends. I was also able to capture some cute images of harbor seals swimming in a waterway.

On the other hand, I know that Instagram is my biggest weakness and the main source of my procrastination. That’s why I actually appreciate what Pause Point is doing. This Digital Wellbeing feature activates when I open apps I find distracting, giving me a moment to breathe and reflect on whether I really need to open that app right now.

I enabled it specifically for Instagram, so that each time I try to open the app, it cycles through several options, prompting me to take a moment to breathe, think about what really matters to me, set a timer for the app, state how I feel while opening the app, or try another less distracting app instead.

When it’s done, I can continue to the app, but I often find myself not opening Instagram, mostly because of the friction of having to complete a task first. It’s surprisingly effective.

There’s AI too

You can find Gemini everywhere on the Pixel 11 if that’s what you want, and it actually feels more helpful than anything. When I wake up, Daily Brief pulls from my connected accounts and apps like Calendar and Gmail, keeping me abreast of upcoming events and things I need to remember.

Gemini Intelligence also makes it easy to do things like order Uber Eats just by using my voice, and it helps when I least expect it. For example, a friend of mine texted me to ask if I was busy this weekend. Before I could respond, Gemini prompted me to check my calendar, which revealed I was planning to go to a festival.

In another message, a friend asked what my team name is for an upcoming 5K I'm planning to run. Gemini suggested a previous team name I used during my last 5K, which just so happens to be the name I'm using for this new run.

It all happened without leaving Google Messages, which is the kind of frictionless AI interaction that I can appreciate.

Rambler is also surprisingly useful, and it picks up the nuances of speech quite well, adding the appropriate punctuation and even quotation marks when it detects that I'm quoting something. It also separates my text into paragraphs at the right moments, and I haven't had to correct it once.

This is all powered by the Tensor G6, which prioritizes AI performance over anything else. Day-to-day use is fine, although don’t expect the Pixel 11 to be a gaming powerhouse. It also doesn’t sport the same vapor chamber as the Pixel 11 Pro, so it does get quite warm when gaming.

What about the cameras?

The Pixel 11 has the same camera layout as its predecessor, so there’s not much difference here. Compared to the Pixel 10, images from the Pixel 11 are largely the same but tend to lean toward the warm side, resulting in somewhat more vibrant images.

This is also the case when compared to the Pixel 11 Pro, which takes cooler photos. However, the Pro also benefits from slightly better imaging capabilities, and images at any zoom level tend to have more detail than on the Pixel 11.

Should you buy the Pixel 11?

The Pixel 11 costs $100 more than its predecessor, and while $899 isn’t cheap, you’re now getting double the base storage, faster charging, and the latest Tensor chip. Sure, it misses out on things like HiLight, which would have been really great to have, and there are still no Pro Camera features. However, you get most of the AI features, the same base 12GB of RAM as the Pixel 11 Pro, and the same charging specs, but for much less.

If you can go without those Pro features, the Pixel 11 feels like the one to buy.

Last year's Pixel 10 Pro Fold debuted a few surprising firsts for a foldable. It was the first foldable with IP68 water and dust resistance, and the first with Qi2 magnets inside. And while those were certainly cool, the thick and heavy build was a bit off-putting, and the cameras were more than a little disappointing.

This year, Google is slimming everything down, dropping the weight, and upgrading plenty more. While the cameras aren't quite as good as those on the non-folding Pixel 11 Pro models, the rest of the experience is solid and offers a more compelling package than those phones, with better multitasking.

The price increase isn't as offensive as the rest of the Pixel 11 Pro series. While it's $100 more than the Pixel 10 Pro Fold's launch price, it retains 16GB of RAM, the same storage capacity, and offers better overall specs — not just a better processor. That's a solid upgrade, but increased competition in the space makes this a harder decision than ever.

Pixel favorites you'll love

The best part of choosing the foldable Pixel 11 is that you don't have to miss out on any of the best Pixel 11 features. It's got Pixel Satellite SOS, Pixel VPN, and the Pixelsnap Qi2/MagSafe magnets built in, all of which are some of the best reasons to get a Pixel.

It also comes with a handful of really excellent Pixel Fold-exclusive features, such as additional options in the camera viewfinder. If you've got kids, you're going to love Made You Look, a feature that uses the front display (while the phone is unfolded) to show silly animations, so you can get a perfect picture of your kids grinning, not sulking.

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is also the best at multitasking in the Pixel family (though it's not as good as the Motorola Razr Fold). That's not just because of the large inner display, which feels like a small tablet, but also because of features like the pinnable taskbar, 90:10 split, and the new dock, which lets you easily manage floating app windows as if it were a laptop.

And all my favorite new Pixel 11 features are here too, including Live Translate for Video, Rambler (the Gboard voice-to-text upgrade everyone is raving about), Creator Suite, and Magic Capture (which I detail below).

Some genuinely good upgrades this year

Google also improved quite a few things between the Pixel 10 Pro Fold and the 11. Both displays are now LTPO OLEDs with the same 3600 nit brightness levels as the other Pixel 11 Pro models. That's a big step up from last year, when the Pixel 10 Pro Fold used the base Pixel 10's dimmer LTPS display.

I genuinely love the size and aspect ratio of the Pixel 11 Pro Fold when compared to other tall book-style foldables, but the sides are too flat for their own good. This makes it harder to open than it should be; something you don't want on a folding phone!

The phone is nearly 1mm thinner this year, but the back half is thinner than the front. It looks really weird if you compare them, but a thin case (from a brand like Thinborne or Pitaka) mostly fixes the issue.

At the least, Tensor G6 delivers some truly solid new AI features. My favorite new feature (that's Pixel 11-exclusive) is Magic Capture, a camera mode that automatically saves photos while recording video.

It's a perfect use of AI to capture wonderful moments you might otherwise miss, and it means you get great photos and video every time you use it.

For this review, I compared the cameras on the Pixel 11 Pro Fold with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, Motorola Razr Fold, and Honor Magic V6. I found the main camera was fine enough, but dynamic range isn't the best, and the lovely texture detail from the Pixel 11 Pro/XL's cameras isn't here, so fine detail is softer than I'd like.

Likewise, the improvements to the portrait mode on the Pixel 11 Pro/XL don't appear to be present on this phone, as the cutouts around the subject are quite messy, similar to the Pixel 9 and 10 series.

The ultrawide camera is also decent but took an easy third place among the four foldables I tested. Details are soft and edge warping is pretty bad, but it has nice exposure that verges slightly on the darker side.

Telephoto camera processing is a little more raw than the competition, and I can see people liking this a lot. It creates a more "lens-like" appearance at the expense of detail, but that more natural look is a good one. Zoom maxes out at 30x while Honor and Razr go much further, but you may not care much.

Front-facing camera resolution is excellent, but dynamic range can be an issue. Like the main camera, the portrait mode is messier than the non-folding Pixel 11 Pro models, leaving annoying artifacts around the edges of subjects.

But many of the same old problems

Unfortunately, while there are a ton of improvements this year, many of the same old Pixel problems still exist on this phone. Tensor G6 might be 15% faster than G5, for instance, but it's still around 30% slower than rivals. That gap widens even further to around 50% slower in gaming, which is further worsened by the lack of support for newer Vulkan features, meaning several games will disable advanced graphics settings on this phone.

The PWM dimming rate on this phone is still abysmal compared to any non-Samsung foldable (meaning Motorola, Honor, Xiaomi, Vivo, etc.), making it impossible to use for anyone who is flicker-sensitive. Charging speed is also quite slow. Even the new Extreme Charging feature doesn't save it. And the only way you're getting Google's promised "30+ hour battery life" is if you barely use it during that time.

Lastly, I've found that HiLight and Gemini Proactive Assistance — two of the Hallmark Pixel 11 features — aren't very useful for me. I rarely saw Proactive Assistance give me any help, and HiLight feels mostly like a waste of space on the back since you can't customize it at all. The LED just illuminates for calls and texts, or when talking to Gemini. Definitely a disappointment.

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is definitely a good phone, but in a year with rising prices, increased competition, and eroded trust after plenty of bad software updates, it's tough to recommend unless you really love a specific feature like Magic Capture or the new Creator Studio tools.

What you need to know

• The latest One UI 9 beta brings the Galaxy Z Fold 8's marquee My FanCam tool to the Galaxy S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra.
• My FanCam lets you crop and reframe pre-recorded Gallery videos to lock focus on specific people for social media, though it doesn't work on pets or animals.
• The update also adds customizable routine cards, real-time security risk alerts, and smarter contextual task suggestions.

The latest One UI 9 beta update for the Galaxy S26 series is here, and it's finally bringing some of the best AI tricks from the Galaxy Z Fold 8 to Samsung's flagship slab phones. Starting today, beta program participants can download an update packed full of features that puts the new My FanCam front and center.

If you’ve ever filmed a fantastic video, only to realize that your subject wasn’t perfectly framed, My FanCam is the tool for you. This AI-powered tool lives inside the Gallery app and can take any video you have, track a person you select, and automatically reframe the footage to keep them in the middle. It is ideal for social media creators and can crop the video to various aspect ratios for platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and more.

There’s a catch: My FanCam is made for tracking people, not pets or other animals. If the feature has trouble finding someone, you can scrub through the video to a frame where the person is easier to find. The feature also requires a Samsung account, and Samsung does not guarantee it will work on every clip.

Additionally, Samsung is improving the Now Brief experience beyond my FanCam. This personalization hub now offers customizable cards pulling together useful insights based on your routines, interests, and daily needs.

It's also getting a security boost, with new cards surfacing potential risks and suggesting actions you can take to protect your device. The Now Nudge feature is also getting smarter, with more contextual suggestions to help you complete everyday tasks more efficiently. And as a bonus, this update finally lets you declutter your home screen by removing the dedicated Google Search bar.

The Galaxy S26 FE will ship with My FanCam out of the box and will arrive with One UI 9 on September 4. This beta rollout means the core S26 lineup won’t be left behind before that happens.

The update is limited to a handful of markets for now, and there’s no word on when it will be rolled out broadly. If you’re on the beta, keep an eye on your notifications and be ready for a roughly 1.28GB download.

What you need to know

• Leaks on social media suggest that Xiaomi is working on a "smart privacy display" feature, similar to Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra.
• This feature would stop prying eyes from viewing your screen from angles; however, it could also alert the user about another person's gaze.
• An automatic function, dubbed "page privacy display" in the leak, states Xiaomi's version would automatically protect your payments, texts, logins, and more.

Following Samsung's Privacy Display for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, rumors said Xiaomi was looking to do the same. A glimpse at how this could work surfaced on social media, claiming Xiaomi is going the "smart" privacy display route.

To end the week, Polish tipster Kacper posted what's been alleged as Xiaomi's upcoming "smart privacy display" on X (via GSMArena). This page is likely tucked into the software's settings page with the following description: "screen visibility is reduced. Your device will alert you when another person's gaze is detected." The "reduced" visibility concerns others peeking at your screen from the side. However, Xiaomi is preparing a little more.

The tipster claims Xiaomi is working on a group or "scenario" feature for its smart privacy display. With this, users can group multiple apps or notifications under the privacy display's protection. If users don't go this route, the tipster suggests Xiaomi will automatically turn on its protections for "specific sensitive pages." A screenshot highlights "page privacy display."

This would turn the feature on in a case-by-case situation. If you're texting, digitally paying, or logging into an account, the privacy display would activate. It appears that users would need to enable this feature.

Taking inspiration

Rumors that Xiaomi might pursue a privacy display like Samsung's started in February. Funnily enough, these rumors surfaced just before Galaxy Unpacked, where the Galaxy S26 Ultra and co. were revealed. A tipster alleged a privacy display similar to Samsung's was being "tested domestically." Xiaomi and Honor were two major companies that might've started chasing this new tech. A few months later, in May, Xiaomi's interest came to the forefront.

It was stated that HyperOS 4.0, Xiaomi's software skin for Android 17, could introduce its privacy display. This could be revealed in October, which might also coincide with its next phone series: the Xiaomi 18, as GSMArena also notes. These phones (18 Pro, 18 Pro Max) are expected to continue that magic back display that was clearly popular for the company.

Android Central's Take

Early rumors said Xiaomi was going to make its version "like" Samsung's, and the rumors now clearly show the angle it's trying to take. Imagine using your phone and seeing a notification that someone is trying to peek at your screen. It's already weird as it is, but if Xiaomi's version goes off without a hitch, it could help. I'm eager to see how this works. What I really need is Xiaomi's live demo, which probably won't happen until October, unless we get teasers beforehand.

What you need to know

• Samsung launched the Galaxy S26 FE with a 6.7-inch display, and One UI 9 (Android 17), beating the rest of the Galaxy S26 series to the newest software.
• While the display remains the same to the S25 FE, the battery is also similar, arriving at 4,900mAh with 45W wired charging.
• The S26 FE features a 50MP main lens, and Samsung equipped it with the flagship series' Nightography and My FanCam from its latest foldables.
• Consumers can find the Galaxy S26 FE for $699 starting on September 3 at "select carriers" before a wider market debut on September 4.

This morning (Aug 27), Samsung fully unveiled the Galaxy S26 FE, and this slightly more affordable phone is bringing the latest software before its flagship siblings.

In a press release, Samsung states the Galaxy S26 FE runs One UI 9 (Android 17) out of the box before the flagship S26 series. According to Samsung, One UI 9 brings more "intuitive" Galaxy AI features. Consumers will recognize several features, such as Google's Circle to Search, Samsung's Now Nudge, and Now Brief. Now Nudge suggests actions you can take above your keyboard. Now Brief is more personalized, displaying quick weather insights or wellness insights daily.

Something you can immerse your eyeballs in is the S26 FE's 6.7-inch AMOLED display, like its predecessor. Samsung states the screen can reach a maximum 120Hz refresh rate. Internally, the phone is equipped with the company's Exynos 2500 SoC. This was Samsung's 2025 chip that debuted a month before its foldables. It said it upgraded the chip with "powerful" AI capabilities and CPU performance.

What's also remained the same between the S26 FE and the S25 FE is the battery. The latest model offers a 4,900mAh cell with 45W wired charging and 15W wireless charging.

Samsung carved out space for the Galaxy S26 FE's camera features. The device offers the following rear cameras: a 50MP main lens, 12MP ultra-wide camera, and an 8MP telephoto. The selfie lens arrives at 12MP.

Consumers will find Super Steady and the flagship series' Nightography available for the S26 FE. The former helps capture fast-moving subjects so everything looks smooth in playback. Nightography is Samsung's night mode for capturing "clear shots in low light." One camera feature the S26 FE has received that Samsung's latest foldables have is "My FanCam."

Imagine going to a concert and wanting to capture your favorite member fully without any distraction. Samsung says My FanCam can focus on a singular subject, "intelligently reframing video as the scene moves, so users can turn dynamic moments into social-ready content with less manual editing." Photo Assist helps freshen up your images after the fact, while Gemini Omni lets users create quick photos based on content in their Gallery.

If you're considering the Galaxy S26 FE, Samsung says it has committed to seven years of software updates (security patches, too). What if you're switching from iOS to Android? Samsung highlights the upgrades to Smart Switch, which makes it easier for users to swap from an iPhone to a Galaxy S26 FE by scanning a QR code. Users can wirelessly transfer their files over Wi-Fi, including passwords, passkeys, call history, and more.

Samsung Care is an option for consumers when purchasing the device, as well as a 6-month free trial of Google AI Pro.

The Galaxy S26 FE will be available on September 3 for "select carriers." On September 4, consumers can find it at samsung.com, carriers, and retailers across the U.S. for $699. The S26 FE can be found in Pistachio, Blueberry, and Graphite with the following RAM/storage options: 8/126GB and 8/256GB.

TL;DR: Sign up for T-Mobile's Essentials 4 Line offer and you'll get four Galaxy S26 phones and four lines for only $25/month per line.

It's not unusual to find T-Mobile deals that could land you a free phone, but more often than not, these offers require a trade-in or expensive data plan before you see any real savings. Fortunately, that's not the case with T-Mo's latest offer.

For a limited time, if you add four lines with the Essentials 4 Line offer, you'll get four Samsung Galaxy S26 phones for FREE, while the wireless coverage will be dropped to only $25 per month for each line. That's four 2026 Samsung phones with unlimited coverage for the whole family, and it'll only set you back 100 bucks per month. Sounds pretty good, if you ask me.

The Galaxy S26 may not be the most eye-catching device on the planet, but don't judge the book by its cover. The Samsung flagship is all power under the hood, with a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, 12GB of RAM, and all of the latest AI-boosted software features. The phone also sports IP68 water-and-dust resistance, while the butter-smooth 6.3-inch FHD+ AMOLED display is simply a joy to behold.

T-Mobile's Essentials plan is no slouch, either. Although it lacks some of the premium perks included in the carrier's more expensive phone plans, you still get unlimited talk, text, and data on T-Mo's vast network, in addition to 50GB of premium data for each device every single month.

Sure, this T-Mobile deal isn't for everyone, but if you were searching for a good way to get your four-person family set up with some new devices in 2026, it's going to be pretty tough to beat.

What you need to know

• The Galaxy S27 is expected to retain almost the same design and dimensions as the current Galaxy S26.
• The Galaxy S27 Pro could share the Galaxy S27 Ultra's new iPhone-like horizontal camera plateau design.
• Leaked renders suggest the smaller Galaxy S27 Pro won't feature an S Pen slot, unlike the Galaxy S27 Ultra.

Following the Galaxy S27 Ultra renders leak, we're now finally starting to see the base Galaxy S27 and Galaxy S27 Pro as well.

Over the past few days, we've seen several leaks surrounding the Galaxy S27 Ultra's new design. Samsung appears to be moving away from its familiar vertical camera layout in favor of an iPhone-like horizontal camera plateau, with two prominent camera lenses on the left and a vertical pill-shaped module next to them.

From everything we've seen so far, it's hard not to notice the inspiration from Apple's iPhone 17 Pro lineup.

And now, we're starting to get a look at the Galaxy S27 and Galaxy S27 Pro as well.

Renders of the base Galaxy S27 were shared by OnLeaks in collaboration with Android Headlines, and unfortunately, it looks like Samsung isn't changing much from the Galaxy S26.

The phone still features three vertically arranged cameras inside a raised camera island in the top-left corner, with an overall design that looks extremely similar to its predecessor. Even the dimensions are reportedly more or less identical. This seemingly confirms that Samsung is keeping its new design exclusive to the more expensive models.

And that theory has gained even more weight thanks to a separate Galaxy S27 Pro leak from Ice Universe on X. The leaker shared outline renders comparing the Galaxy S27 Ultra and Galaxy S27 Pro, showing that the two phones will reportedly share a very similar design.

That isn't entirely surprising, since the Galaxy S27 Pro is expected to share several design elements and specifications with the Ultra. However, the renders also appear to confirm one major difference: the smaller Pro model won't come with an S Pen.

There's no S Pen slot visible on the Galaxy S27 Pro, and Samsung will also reportedly reposition the speaker grille and microphone on the smaller model.

In a separate post, Ice Universe also claimed that the Galaxy S27 Ultra will feature a more rounded frame than the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which should make the larger phone feel more natural and comfortable in the hand.

Overall, these Galaxy S27 and Galaxy S27 Pro leaks seem to clear up one major question about Samsung's 2027 lineup. The new horizontal camera design will apparently remain exclusive to the Galaxy S27 Pro and Ultra, while the regular Galaxy S27 and Galaxy S27 Plus will stick with Samsung's more familiar design.

What you need to know

• Samsung is reportedly rolling out its August 2026 security update late this month, including an important fix.
• Users on X highlight a Samsung official's notice online, stating a fix for the Galaxy S26 Ultra's red screen or "red stain" issue is in this update.
• Galaxy S26 Ultra users overseas noticed this problem when the device is at maximum brightness, often resulting in a red band or stain across their screen.

No, you didn't miss it. Samsung is just now rolling out its August security update for stable Galaxy S26 users, and with it comes a long-awaited bug fix.

Late this week, SamMobile spotted the August 2026 security update rolling out for Galaxy S26 users overseas. The update is reportedly rolling out for users in South Korea first, which is typical for Samsung. Users on its Korean community forum pointed this development out, posting a screenshot of the patch hitting their S26. The publication highlights a hefty number of fixes involved in this August patch, but we're putting that on hold.

SamMobile and Tarun Vats on X state this patch will likely hold the long-awaited fix for the red screen or red tint issue that's plagued the Galaxy S26 Ultra. A Samsung official has started informing Korean users that a fix is now rolling out.

As for what the security patch fixes, Samsung's changelog states it's rolling out seven "Critical" and 30 "High" level fixes. Among them, the notes state there's a fix that could let malicious attackers "cause device inoperability" on a Galaxy device. Several fixes for the Samsung Contacts app are rolling out, alongside a fix to stop hackers from accessing a Galaxy phone's SIM card. Once again, Google has not listed its extensive changelog for Framework fixes and more on the Android Security Bulletin.

Fixing some struggles

It was in July that reports about a red screen/red stain on the Galaxy S26 Ultra surfaced. Users in Korea noticed this issue when the phone produced bright colors or when at maximum brightness. The area of redness varied. Some users noticed it appeared vertically on their S26 Ultra, while others reported wide strips across the display. What was a bummer was Samsung's investigation.

According to its discovery, the S26 Ultra's "new technology" was to blame. The only "new tech" to hit the Ultra this year, especially its display, was the Privacy Display. This tech is purely software, which is why we needed a patch to fix it. The good thing is that it seems that this issue should be fixed as of this week (keep your eyes out for the patch).

But the Privacy Display, while useful and incredibly attractive, isn't all rainbows and sunshine. After the device launched, a report quickly surfaced, stating the Galaxy S26 Ultra's screen isn't as bright because of the Privacy Display. Compared to the S25 Ultra, the S26 Ultra is noticeably darker.

Google Pixel 11 Pro vs. Pixel 9 Pro: Design and display

It wasn't until I dug out the Pixel 9 Pro that I realized just how little has changed with Google's phones in the last two years. The Pixel 9 Pro has nearly identical dimensions to the Pixel 11 Pro, and while the latter is 5g heavier, that isn't immediately noticeable.

In fact, other than the new design around the camera bar, there isn't an easy way to distinguish both phones — they're that similar. This is a good thing, as it solidifies Google's visual identity and ensures models are consistent between generations.

To give you a little bit of contrast, there aren't any design similarities between last year's Find X8 Ultra and the 2026 Find X9 Ultra; they could be made by different brands. While a constantly-changing design is interesting in its own way — I have no idea what the Find X10 will look like — that isn't an issue with Pixels; Google clearly has its design language dialed in, and it isn't going to change that anytime soon.

Anyway, the Pixel 11 Pro is a standout small flagship, and the Pixel 9 Pro is the same. I like the smaller design, and while I inevitably gravitate to larger phones, there's no denying that there's an audience that wants a smaller device with high-end internals, and other than the 6.3-inch panel size and smaller battery, the Pro devices are unchanged from their Pro XL siblings.

The 6.3-inch OLED panel is great in its own right; both phones have good color vibrancy and class-leading brightness figures. The only difference is that the 11 Pro gets brighter in outdoor use, but other than that, they're identical. Also, both devices get IP68 dust and water resistance, and they're built to last.

Google Pixel 11 Pro vs. Pixel 9 Pro: Hardware and cameras

The Tensor G6 powering the Pixel 11 Pro is faster and does a better job overall, but it's still not set up for any intensive gaming, and at this point, it's clear that it just isn't a priority for Google. That said, it is reliable in everyday use, and the device itself has good fluidity. The same is true on the Pixel 9 Pro as well, and I still don't see any issues with the device in regular tasks.

Similarly, battery life is about the same, but the 11 Pro gets Qi 2.2 integration, going up to 25W — the 9 Pro is limited to standard 12W Qi charging. Connectivity is the same on both devices, and while the 11 Pro is using a new modem, I don't see much of a difference in daily use.

The Pixel 11 Pro has a new camera, and it takes slightly better photos and videos. But like previous years, the best features are software-related: Camera Looks lets you change the tonality of the photos to a significant degree, and I like the feature quite a bit. There's also Magic Capture, which automatically takes the best photo while shooting a video, and it makes a lot of sense if you have kids that are constantly moving.

Google Pixel 11 Pro vs. Pixel 9 Pro: Which should you buy?

There is a lot to like in the Pixel 11 Pro, and the new software features go a long way in differentiating the phone. That said, Google is likely to bring most of these to older Pixels — including the Pixel 9 Pro — so you're not really missing out on much there.

Other than that, I don't see many differences to the Pixel 9 Pro. It's still a fabulous phone two years after its launch, and if you're using the device, there's no reason to get the Pixel 11 Pro.

What you need to know

• Motorola has detailed the new features coming to its phones with the upcoming Android 17 software update.
• Android 17 will bring stackable widgets, themed icons, Live Updates, and AI-powered notification summaries.
• More than 50 Motorola phones are confirmed to receive Android 17, including recent Razr and Edge models.

We finally know what features Motorola is bringing to its phones with the Android 17 update.

Now that Google has rolled out Android 17 for Pixel phones, more brands are starting to detail their own updates. We recently saw Nothing showcase Nothing OS 5.0 based on Android 17, and now Motorola has revealed some of the features coming to its devices.

As detailed on Motorola India's support page, the Android 17 update will bring changes to the home screen and notifications, alongside several new security features. One of the biggest additions is stackable widgets, which will let users combine multiple widgets into a single block on the home screen. Users will also be able to use themed icons and hide labels from Quick Settings tiles.

In terms of notifications, Motorola is finally adding support for Live Updates, alongside notification summaries that can condense longer notifications into a single sentence for quicker reading.

Motorola also says eligible devices will use machine learning models to identify low-priority notifications and bundle them into a separate quiet section under silent notifications.

You can check out Motorola's full Android 17 changelog below:

Home screen and quick settings improvements

Stackable widgets

You can now stack widgets, combining multiple widgets into a single block on your home screen. Instead of taking up several grids on your home screen for your weather, calendar, battery and music player, stack them and swipe the stack to switch between them.

Themed icons

You can now use an icon theme that coordinates with your overall theme. Touch & hold a blank space on your Home screen, then tap Home settings > Themed icons.

Hide quick setting labels when using Classic style

If you're using Classic style for quick settings, you can now hide labels on the settings tiles. Hiding them frees up screen space if you already recognise the icons.

Improved notifications

Live updates

Live updates let apps to display real-time, ongoing data. Instead of sending multiple notifications, an app can now continuously update a single live snippet in your status bar or notifications. You can turn these on or off.

Notification summaries

You can now peek at your notifications for a one-sentence summary of a lengthy group chat or a rapid-fire thread from messaging apps (like WhatsApp or Messages).

Organised notifications

Your phone now organises your notifications to separate your personal messages from clutter and automated alerts. It uses machine learning to screen lower-priority notifications and bundles them into separate, quiet folders under the Silent section of your notifications.

New settings

Enhanced HDR brightness control

When you view HDR content – like an Ultra HDR photo in Google Photos, a HDR video on YouTube or an HDR feed on Instagram – your phone's display automatically sets brightness to its highest limits to make the highlights pop.

You can now limit this brightness to a more comfortable level by adjusting the intensity of Enhanced HDR brightness or turning it off to force HDR photos and videos to play at a normal brightness level.

New sharing features in Connected devices

There are two new ways to share in Settings > Connected devices:

To share a photo or file with one other person, use Tap to Share by placing your phones together. To share with a reusable group, use Quick Drop to send photos or files to friends or a team simultaneously.

Other improvements

Android system upgrades add more than new features. Using the latest Android update provides other improvements such as:

Enhanced security and protection to defend against evolving threats like malware, phishing and data breaches.

App compatibility with newer apps, which often require the latest Android version to function correctly.

Performance improvements that optimise your phone's operating system for smoother performance, better stability and, in some cases, longer battery life.

Bug fixes and stability enhancements to resolve known issues and improve overall reliability and stability

There are a few other changes coming as well. As highlighted in a report by FoneArena, Motorola's Android 17 update will bring improvements to cross-platform Quick Share, although that still doesn't include AirDrop compatibility with iPhones. You can also expect features like Audio Sharing, a refreshed Quick Settings panel, and improved HDR brightness management.

Motorola has already confirmed that Android 17 will roll out to more than 50 devices, including several recent Razr and Edge models. You can check out the full list of Motorola phones getting Android 17 right here.

What you need to know

• Counterpoint Research published its report concerning the top 10 best-selling phones globally for Q2, and the Galaxy S26 Ultra surprised the results.
• The Galaxy S26 Ultra, a premium phone, topped the charts for Android, marking the first time such a device has done so.
• While Samsung and Apple dominated the top 10 in Q2 2026, Apple's iPhone 17 was number one.

Research data is taking a look back at individual phone performance for Q2 2026. The discovery? A premium phone topped Android's charts for the very first time.

This week, Counterpoint Research published its research into the global best-selling phones for Q2 2026, and one device was a surprise (via 9to5Google). The Galaxy S26 Ultra turned heads this past quarter, as the device claimed the top spot in the best-selling Android phone sector. Counterpoint cites its senior analyst, Harshit Rastogi, who said the S26 Ultra's performance "marks the first time an ultra-premium Android device has led Android sales in a June quarter."

Rastogi highlighted the Ultra phone's Q2 performance over Q1 2026. Considering Samsung's first Galaxy Unpacked this year, sales "shifted more into Q2." What's more, research shows that the S26 Ultra not only outperformed the S25 Ultra, but it also accounted for "more than half of the series' sales" this year. While this is a first for Android, Samsung isn't at the top of the global best-selling phone list in Q2.

That belongs to Apple's iPhone 17. The iPhone 17 Pro Max followed up in second, then it's the 17 Pro. The Galaxy S26 Ultra sits in fourth place, with the more expected Android leader, the Galaxy A07 (a mid-range phone), in fifth. Compared to this time last year, Apple and Samsung dominate the top 10 best-selling phones. In Q2 2025, Xiaomi snuck into the eighth spot, but not this time.

Counterpoint adds that Apple and Samsung total 26% of the global smartphone sales, a 2% increase YoY.

A downward trend

Samsung and Apple's positive Q2 2026 was highlighted in another research report published by Omdia in July. It noted a 2% and 4% increase, respectively, for the companies. Omdia reported that the global smartphone market dipped 4% in Q2, placing the blame on the memory crisis. The current outlook on the smartphone market isn't a pleasant one. According to Omdia's projections, the market may continue to drop into Q3, then Q4.

This would be significant, considering the holiday season is when the market tends to rise. In its report, Runar Bjorhovde, principal analyst at Omdia, said the "sharpest volume decline" is expected in the two upcoming quarters. "Contrained memory chip" supply and the issues that accompany it could sour a time when there are multiple device launches, festivities, and sales.

While Google provided a modicum of upgrades with the rest of the Pixel 11 models this year — the Pixel 11 Pro, 11 Pro XL, and 11 Pro Fold have new camera modules, brighter OLED panels, and faster charging — the standard Pixel 11 is basically unchanged to its predecessor.

So, I'll make this easy: don't buy the Pixel 11 if you're using a phone that's less than two years old. Most of the new features revolve around the software, and those will trickle down to older models anyway, so you're not getting a whole lot that's new with the Pixel 11.

Yes, the new Tensor G6 is a little faster, but it is still hobbled when it comes to gaming, and in my usage, I didn't see much of a difference between the Pixel 11 and Pixel 10. There is better fluidity on the Pixel 11, but that alone doesn't justify an upgrade. Annoyingly, you still don't get decent thermal management on the device — that is limited to the Pro models.

I like the Hibiscus color that Google introduced this year, and the Pistachio model is similarly vibrant. The overall design hasn't changed, but the camera bar looks a little cleaner this year, and it is a little better to hold. On that note, I like the size of the Pixel 11; the 6.3-inch OLED panel gives you enough real estate, but it's much better to use one-handed.

The base Pixel 11 now comes with 256GB of storage, but you're paying $899 — $100 more than last year — so it evens out. There isn't a whole lot new with the battery either. The Pixel 11 has a slightly bigger 4,985mAh battery, and it uses the same 30W USB PD charging tech. There's 25W Qi 2.2 integration this time, and this is a decent benefit to using modern Pixels — you don't need to use a case to charge the phone with a Qi 2.2 charger.

It has the same trio of cameras as last year, including a 48MP main camera, 13MP wide-angle, and 10.3MP tele lens with 5x optical zoom and OIS, and it takes slightly better photos thanks to a new ISP and tuning changes, it isn't a huge difference to the Pixel 10. Google's new Camera Looks feature gives you greater control in customizing the look and feel of the resultant photos, and I like it quite a lot.

The Pixel 11 only makes sense if you're using an older phone and want to upgrade this year, or if you have a carrier deal that gets you the phone without paying an additional fee. Outside of that, I don't see a need to buy the device.

If anything, the Pixel 10a is a better choice if you just need a phone that nails the basics, and you don't necessarily want a dedicated tele lens. There's a reason the Pixel A series sells a lot more than the numbered devices; you're getting a lot of the same features at roughly half the price, and there's no way to beat that kind of value.

Google's 2026 phone lineup is here, but if you were hoping to snag the best Pixel 11 deals, you better act fast. From now through August 27th at 11:59pm PST, Amazon will give you a free $100 gift card when you buy the base model Google Pixel 11 on its website. Go with the Pixel 11 Pro instead and your gift card balance will increase to $200. No trade-in required, no strings attached!

We've seen a lot of Pixel 11 deals since the phones were unveiled earlier this month, but few offers have been this straightforward. The only tricky part now is grabbing the deal before it expires. Once this free gift card promotion ends, it's gone for good. 

It's your last chance to get a free Amazon gift card with the purchase of a Google Pixel 11

• See the top deals available at Amazon today

Unlike some smartphone releases, the Google Pixel 11 is more about careful refinement than dramatic transformation. The device takes the stellar foundation of last year's Google Pixel 10 and adds a new Tensor G6 chipset for faster performance, twice the base storage, and an upgraded camera system. You also get faster charging and Android 17 straight out of the carton.

The 2026 flagship also keeps a lot of the specs that make Google Pixel phones so desirable, from the AI-boosted camera tech to the seven years of guaranteed OS and security upgrades. 

Indeed, this offer from Amazon may not be as flashy as the many carrier deals and trade-in opportunities that are floating around right now, but if you value simplicity, here is an easy way to get a powerful Pixel device and some free spending money without all of the pesky fine print. 

Once upon a time, Pixels pioneered fast charging standards, shipping with 18W chargers in the box, leaving most other smartphone companies in the dust. But over the years, as phone charging standards have evolved, Pixels have remained alongside Samsung and Apple phones as the slowest-charging smartphones on the market.

The Pixel 11 series charges noticeably more slowly out of the box than the Pixel 10, even with the same charger, but a hidden setting fixes the issue if you meet certain conditions. It's called Extreme Charging, and it's the first time we've seen Google directly address this problem with a unique, non-hardware-based solution.

All four Pixel 11 models support Extreme Charging, although not every model uses it as effectively. During our testing, only the Pixel 11 Pro XL truly benefits from the setting, while the other Pixel 11 Pro phones show a much smaller difference in charging time. Here's how to use it to help alleviate battery anxiety if your phone suddenly runs low on battery.

What is Extreme Charging?

Extreme Charging is a new Pixel 11 family feature that enables the fastest charging that Google's hardware supports. In addition to charging at the highest supported wattage, Extreme Charging pauses many apps while charging.

This ensures that your Pixel isn't getting extra hot while charging (since charging and running lots of apps at once can have that effect) and also means your phone can charge much faster.

Extreme Charging needs to be enabled every time you plug the phone in and when it's below 50%, but once enabled, it's a 1-tap action. To get the most out of Extreme Charging, ensure you're using one of the best fast chargers, preferably at least a 45W model with 21V PPS. You can also use Google's official charger to ensure full compatibility.

How fast is Extreme Charging?

For most Pixel 11 models, Extreme charging makes little to no difference. I have all three Pixel 11 Pro models in my possession and have drained each to 0%. I then plugged them into a supported 45W Anker charger (like this one) and tapped the Extreme Charging button to enable it (more on how to find it below).

I then set a 15-minute timer and recorded the charging percentage at the end of the timer. After a second 15-minute timer, I recorded that charging percentage. This test is identical to our in-house battery-charging test used for all smartphone reviews. Android Central's Derrek Lee also performed the same test with his Pixel 11 and the 67W Dual Port charger.

The results were fascinating, but it's clear that the Pixel 11 Pro XL is the only Pro model that genuinely benefits from Extreme Charging. The other models see a small boost after 15 minutes, and a larger difference is noticeable after 30 minutes, so there is some benefit to Extreme Charging for the rest of the Pixel 11 models, but nothing compared to the Pro XL.

How to enable Extreme Charging on a Pixel 11

Extreme Charging is only available on Pixel 11 phones when your phone's battery is under 50%. Once your battery is low enough, plug it into a compatible 30W, 45W, or even faster charger, then follow these steps:

1. When your phone's battery is under 50%, plug it into at least a 30W charger.

2. Open system settings by tapping the Settings icon in your app drawer, or swiping down on the status bar twice, then tapping the gear icon at the bottom of the screen.

3. Scroll down to and tap Battery & charging.

4. Scroll down and tap Extreme Charging Mode.

5. Tap the button to turn on Extreme Charging.

You must enable Extreme Charging every time you want to use the feature, but don't worry. You don't have to go through all that nonsense again. Once you enable the option in system settings, a handy shortcut appears on your lock screen whenever your phone is plugged into a charger and the battery is under 50%.

1. When your phone's battery is under 50%, plug it into at least a 30W charger.

2. On the lock screen, tap the Use Extreme Charging button at the bottom of the screen.

Additionally, you could enable the Extreme Charging tile in Quick Settings by following these steps:

1. Swipe down on the status bar twice. That's the area at the top of the screen with the clock and battery/connection icons.

2. Tap the pencil icon below the grid of quick toggle buttons to open the edit menu.

3. Scroll down to Extreme Charging and tap the plus button next to it to add it to the Quick Toggles collection.

4. Scroll back up and resize the Extreme Charging button to your liking.

This gives you multiple ways to enable Extreme Charging the next time you plug it in, making it easy to get the fastest charging possible on your Pixel 11 Pro XL.

It has been a year of iterative updates for book-style foldables (as my Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra review points out), and the Pixel 11 Pro Fold is no different. Google went with a slightly thinner design and shaved 19g from the weight, but it did so by decreasing the battery size. Then there's the price: the Pixel 11 Pro Fold starts at $1,899, a $100 increase over its predecessor.

There are some upgrades though. The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is powered by the new Tensor G6, it is faster in daily use, and the foldable finally has a new main camera; in my limited testing, it took better photos in just about every scenario.

Ultimately, does the Pixel 11 Pro Fold do enough to justify an upgrade? I think so. I used the Pixel 10 Pro Fold extensively over the course of the last year, and the 11 Pro Fold addresses several pain points. It's easier to hold and use, takes better photos, has better durability, and while I was initially worried about the smaller battery, the phone managed to last just as long as the 10 Pro Fold, so this hasn't proven to be a problem.

I'm highlighting the things that stood out in my week-long usage of the Pixel 11 Pro Fold. This should give you a better indication as to what you're getting with Google's latest foldable, and whether it's worthy of an upgrade.

Intelligent software

While Google's claims of delivering an Intelligent OS are nebulous at best, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold comes with plenty of new software tricks that make a difference. Gemini Intelligence has a suite of decent features, and Rambler is my favorite — it takes your dictation and polishes it into structured text, and it made me want to actually use voice dictation.

Bubbles multitasking is great, and the floating windows mode provides greater flexibility when using the inner panel. The UI in general is clean and uncluttered, and I like the customizability of the quick tiles, ability to tweak colors throughout the interface, and all the unique software extras that come as standard on Pixels, like Now Playing. Another thing Google got right is the fluidity; the 11 Pro Fold feels better than its predecessor when using both next to one another.

Better durability

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is heavier than other foldables, but the upside is that it is built to last. With an IP68 rating, you're getting a device that's guaranteed to withstand dust and water ingress, and that is a big deal.

Notably, the 11 Pro Fold is the only foldable in the U.S. that delivers this guarantee — the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and Moto Razr Fold get IP48, and while they do a good job against water, they don't prevent dust from getting into the hinge.

I know just how well IP68 resistance holds up in real-world use, and there's no doubt that the added durability absolutely makes a difference when using it at the beach or near the pool.

It's magnetic

Battery life is in line with the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, even though the 11 Pro Fold has a smaller 4,800mAh battery. Annoyingly, you get the smallest battery of any book-style foldable, and I really want Google to do better in this area.

The 11 Pro Fold lasts an entire day with medium use, but I had to plug in the foldable by the evening on most days. Thankfully, this is where the built-in Qi 2.2 tech makes a big difference. The 11 Pro Fold has 25W Qi 2.2 charging, and as the magnets are integrated into the chassis, you don't need any accessories to use a Qi 2.2 charger or power bank — unlike the Galaxy Z Fold 8.

Bright spots

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold gets brighter than previous generations, and the inner and outer OLED panels are among the best you'll find in this category. There are no issues with either screen when it comes to brightness or color vibrancy, and the slightly wider 6.5-inch cover panel is a delight.

The only problem with the inner screen is that there's no anti-reflective coating, so you will notice glare while using it outdoors. This is something the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra does a lot better, and Google needs to go the same route next year.

Usable cameras

In my opinion, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold doesn't do much to justify the Pro moniker when it comes to the cameras. Vivo's X Fold 5 and the OPPO Find N6 are still my go-to choices if you need a foldable with great cameras, but these aren't available in the U.S.

The 10 Pro Fold measures favorably against the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and Moto Razr Fold, but it's annoying that Google chose to limit its latest camera tech — like Instant Night Sight and 120x zoom — to the Pixel 11 Pro and 11 Pro XL. The way I see it, the 11 Pro Fold is the costliest device in Google's portfolio, so it should get the best cameras, but that's clearly not the case.

Ultimately, deciding to get the Pixel 11 Pro Fold comes down to preference. I like it better than the Z Fold 8 Ultra and Razr Fold because of the software and durability, but there's no doubting that they are faster, last longer, and lighter. The 11 Pro Fold may not be the best foldable if you go by the numbers, but it is the one that I enjoy using the most.

Android 17 is still fresh, and Nothing is already rolling out its first major Android 17 update to Nothing Phone 3 customers who enroll in the open beta. I got to try out the beta update ahead of the public launch, so you know what to expect as your Nothing Phone 3 downloads it. Head to Nothing's official website to sign up.

Nothing OS 5 focuses on five pillars: design, personalization, performance, Essential AI tools, and, of course, Android 17. Both the lock screen and home screens get a visual refresh with (you guessed it) a new frosted glass look. This look is optional, and I had to enable it specifically after the update, but it adds yet another style to Nothing's repertoire of customizable styles in its OS.

This also includes a new system-wide font, more lock screen customization (including a better depth effect, new clock faces, widgets, etc.), wallpaper-adaptive colors, and finally a way to batch edit things on your home screen. I particularly enjoyed the new "Away Time" widget, which shows how much of the day you didn't spend on your phone via a fun visual timeline.

Quick Settings can now be split, if you prefer that sort of thing, giving you full-screen notifications or Quick Toggles, with a convenient left/right swipe to move between them. Speaking of convenience, Glyph Timers can be started right from the new home or lock screen widget, which I find pretty handy.

Bluetooth controls have also been simplified, with additional controls added to the pop-up in Quick Toggles, so you don't have to hop into settings just to perform basic Bluetooth tasks.

Essential Apps finally has a proper app that ships on Nothing OS 5, so you can vibe code your next favorite widget straight from your phone without having to use a computer. Likewise, the Glyph interface now has its own app that lets you quickly jump into Glyph customization (and Glyph Toys!).

One of my absolute favorite new additions is the new AI privacy indicator, which adds a new yellow icon in the top-right of the status bar any time AI is processing data. This should more readily help identify when your data is leaving your phone to be processed in a data center, and it works perfectly in conjunction with the AI usage graph.

Essential Voice got a nice speed boost in this release, with substantially faster voice processing once you're done (it's pretty close to instant now). Nothing says you're supposed to see results in real-time as you speak, but I didn't see that in my pre-beta release. This build was missing just a few things, so it's possible this one wasn't quite ready yet.

And I can't forget the new Essential Key customization, which lets you enable an accidental-press feature, switch the functions between translate and transcribe, or disable it altogether. That first one helps cut down the number of accidental button presses to zero, which is a godsend.

You'll also find a number of new options for Essential Space, including Smart Collections (to group together relevant content), plus a new Model Context Protocol that lets compatible AI platforms access data from your personal Essential Space.

All of this is in addition to the normal Android 17 upgrades like the updated 3D emoji, iOS-to-Android QuickShare upgrades, and more, plus performance and animation upgrades. The new homescreen design and Micrographics clock face won't be rolling out until the Nothing OS 5 general release in October, but you can test everything else out on your Nothing Phone 3 right now by enrolling in the beta.

What you need to know

• Samsung is reportedly rolling out One UI 9 Beta 6 to enrolled Galaxy S26 users in South Korea, India, the U.K., Germany, and Poland.
• The update is just under 1GB, and features a small selection of fixes for display errors and Expert RAW.
• Funnily enough, One UI 9.5 rumors have surfaced online, despite One UI 9 still not available for stable users.

It's been almost two weeks since the last One UI 9 beta, and now a sixth edition is rolling out to enrolled Galaxy S26 users. All we're wondering about is a stable launch.

Earlier this morning (Aug 25), Samsung started rolling out One UI 9 Beta 6 to enrolled Galaxy S26 series users (via SamMobile). Samsung is only fixing a handful of problems its devices have experienced, but users will still have to download an 851MB file. According to its patch notes, Beta 6 is fixing a "display error" with the Now Brief widget. Similarly, the notes highlight another pair of display errors being fixed: one for the Home Screen and another for the camera widget.

What's more, the changelog details a fix for an issue where "images are saved differently at specific focal lengths when shooting with Expert RAW 24MP."

On X, tipster Tarun Vats states One UI 9 Beta 6 is rolling out in South Korea, India, the U.K., Germany, and Poland. Any enrolled testers in the U.S. should begin seeing it as the week progresses. Vats states Beta 6 lacks any new features for Galaxy S26 users. It seems like, once again, Galaxy S26 users are treated to a beta full of bug fixes and nothing new.

The one thing many are waiting on is a stable launch of One UI 9, and there's still no telling when that could be.

Still a One UI 9 waiting room

A couple of weeks ago, Samsung rolled out One UI 9 Beta 5 to Galaxy S26 users. This patch was larger, rolling in at 1.1GB. However, it consisted mostly of bug fixes (and there was a long list of them). Beta 5 also included the August 2026 security update, so that was a welcome addition to testers. While another beta was fine, what shone brighter earlier this month were One U 9.5 rumors. A tipster on social media claimed that a test build for One UI 9.5 for the Galaxy S26 was discovered.

Additional rumors quickly surfaced, as Samsung could chase a familiar UI redesign for its next major release. Samsung's One UI could take after Apple's Liquid Glass for "visual depth" across multiple elements. Taking after Apple seems to be the running trend for Samsung as of late. What's more, App Lock was reported for One UI 9.5, meaning users could lock apps behind biometrics, a password, and more.

What you need to know

• GrapheneOS announced in a Mastodon thread that it is planning to roll out its software on regular, next-gen Motorola phones in 2027.
• The company says a lot of work is being done on its end and Motorola's to ensure this happens next year.
• GrapheneOS states it also plans to support Moto's next-gen foldables (Razr Fold, Razr Ultra) after it hits slab phones.
• Motorola announced a partnership with GrapheneOS during MWC 2026 to bring a more secure, private OS to consumers.

GrapheneOS is an Android alternative that is much more security/privacy-focused. For this reason, many have awaited updates from GrapheneOS about Motorola phones, which it has now provided.

This week, GrapheneOS posted a lengthy thread on Mastodon about its partnership with Motorola and when those consumers can find its software (via GSMArena). According to its thread, GrapheneOS expects to have everything ready for Motorola's phone launches in 2027. A few moving parts need to align for this to work properly. GrapheneOS states that Motorola is "doing a large portion of the work" to port its software onto its phones.

It's been stated that this privacy-focused version of Android should arrive on "non-folding devices" first, per its partnership with Motorola. However, GrapheneOS says it's working to bring the experience to foldables, such as future Razr Folds and Razr Ultras. What's more, the thread highlights Qualcomm's upcoming Snapdragon chips. These SoCs have "more mature support for MTE" (memory tagging) and "secure element support."

This should help GrapheneOS arrive smoothly on Motorola's phones next year. The company responded to a comment, clarifying that future iterations of the Moto Signature, Razr Fold, and Razr Ultra should support GrapheneOS. The post says "current generation Motorola devices don't meet our requirements." So anyone looking forward to the software should keep their eye on 2027 reveals.

The thread quickly mentions that GrapheneOS support is headed to Google's Pixel 11 series, too.

A more secure phone

It's been a few months since we've had this conversation about Motorola and GrapheneOS. During MWC 2026, the House of Moto Indigo announcement was shored up by an exciting GrapheneOS partnership reveal. The partnership would involve Motorola's "security expertise, real‑world user insights, and Lenovo’s ThinkShield solutions." The prime focus here is user security/privacy, and Motorola stated that it was beginning a joint research project with GrapheneOS for this reason.

The company teased that more information would become available in the future, which we're seeing now via a Mastodon thread. This is a huge development from Motorola that will likely put a spotlight on it moving into 2027.

What you need to know

• New Galaxy S27 Ultra renders show Samsung moving away from its familiar vertical camera design.
• The Galaxy S27 Ultra could feature a horizontal camera plateau that looks similar to the iPhone 17 Pro.
• Samsung is expected to finally add native Qi2 magnets, enabling MagSafe-compatible accessories without a case.
• The redesign could also make room for a larger battery, while Samsung may finally ditch the old 10MP 3x camera.

Newly leaked renders of the Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra have now given us our best look yet at what the device could look like in real life.

It was recently reported that Samsung is cooking up a major redesign for the Galaxy S27 Ultra next year. The leak suggested Samsung is planning to move away from the vertical camera layout we've seen for years in favor of a horizontal camera plateau, similar to the iPhone 17 Pro series.

And now, new renders from OnLeaks in collaboration with Android Headlines give us a much better look at that design.

As you can see in the renders, Samsung is indeed moving away from its familiar vertical camera layout. Instead, the Galaxy S27 Ultra features a large horizontal camera plateau across the back, with two prominent camera lenses on the left and a vertical pill-shaped section next to them housing the remaining sensors and LED flash.

And honestly, it's pretty hard to look at these renders and not see the similarities with Apple's latest iPhones. The Galaxy S27 Ultra definitely seems to take some design inspiration from the iPhone 17 Pro lineup.

Alongside the renders, the publication has also shared the alleged dimensions of the device, which reportedly measure around 163.76 x 78.25 x 7.97mm. That's pretty close to the Galaxy S26 Ultra, so despite the major camera redesign, the overall size of the phone shouldn't change dramatically. The report also suggests Samsung may finally ditch the aging 10MP 3x telephoto camera.

One benefit of the new design could be native Qi2 support. The Galaxy S27 Ultra's new design should allow Samsung to finally integrate the Qi2 Magnetic Power Profile directly into the phone, meaning you'll be able to attach Qi2 and MagSafe accessories without needing a magnetic case.

That said, it remains to be seen whether Samsung actually takes advantage of the extra space and adds native Qi2 support this time around. The redesigned internals could also reportedly give Samsung more room for a larger battery, although we don't have concrete details about the capacity just yet.

What do you think of the Galaxy S27 Ultra's new look now that we've seen these renders? Do you like the redesign, or does it look a little too much like an iPhone? Let us know in the comments.

Mint Mobile has finally announced its Google Pixel 11 deals, and they're no joke. Whether you want the base model Pixel 11 or the gargantuan Pixel 11 XL, you can save a ton of cash when you sign up for Mint, especially if you bundle the phone with some wireless service in bulk.

Pair the purchase of the base model Pixel 11 with one year of the Unlimited plan, for instance, and you'll get $275 off the phone AND 50% off the wireless. In other words, you're getting a full 12 months of T-Mobile-powered mobile coverage and a brand new flagship phone for just $804 (or $67 per month when you use affirm). Considering that the retail cost of the Google Pixel 11 starts at $899, you're essentially getting a full year of unlimited talk, text, and data for free with the purchase of the phone.

I'd argue that the base model device offers the best value here, but there are similar deals available for the Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL. Regardless of the Google phone you choose, if you were looking to get a new phone and a new wireless plan in one fell swoop, Mint Mobile's offers are unmatched.

Mint Mobile is an approachable MVNO carrier owned and operated by T-Mobile. It utilizes a unique buy-in-bulk plan system that lets you purchase wireless in 3, 6, and 12-month increments of time. The annual Unlimited plan, which is easily the best value, gives you 12 months of unlimited talk, text, and data on T-Mo's vast 5G network, plus you'll get a free mobile hotspot and calls to Mexico, Canada, and the UK at no additional cost.

Sure, you miss out on some of the premium perks offered by more-expensive unlimited plans, but if you just want cheap and straightforward wireless coverage, Mint Mobile is one of the best providers around.

The Pixel 11 deals described here are only available for new customers, but if you've been looking for a good time to switch phone plans, this might be it.

More Google Pixel 11 deals at Mint Mobile

Which Google Pixel 11 should I choose?

It depends on what you want in a smartphone. The base model Google Pixel 11 takes the stellar foundation of its predecessor, the Pixel 10, and adds a new processor, faster wireless charging, and an upgraded camera system. You also get Android 17 straight out of the box, in addition to the standard features you'd expect in a Pixel phone, such as a vibrant AMOLED display and seven years of OS/security upgrades guaranteed.

Going with the Google Pixel 11 Pro gets you all of the above alongside an upgraded camera system, brighter display, and the new HiLight LED light array around the camera bump. Do you prefer larger phones? The Pixel 11 Pro XL adds a 6.8-inch AMOLED display and a larger battery than the rest of the flagship lineup.

What you need to know

• Qualcomm's next-generation Oryon CPU will reach clock speeds of up to a whopping 5GHz.
• The new Oryon CPU uses a fully custom design, giving Qualcomm greater control over performance and efficiency.
• Qualcomm's new FlexCache lets CPU cores dynamically share cache, helping improve gaming and multitasking performance.
• Qualcomm is expected to unveil two new Snapdragon 8 Elite chipsets at its Snapdragon Summit in September.

Ahead of the Snapdragon Summit next month, Qualcomm has shared more details about its next-generation Oryon CPU, sharing that it will be capable of reaching a whopping 5GHz clock speed.

Smartphone chipsets have become ridiculously powerful over the past few years. Apple continues to push its A-series chips forward, while Qualcomm's Snapdragon flagships have steadily brought desktop-level performance to Android phones.

Of course, we can't say the same about everyone (looking at you, Tensor G6). Now, Qualcomm looks ready to push things even further with its next-generation Oryon CPU.

Qualcomm hasn't revealed its full next-generation Snapdragon platform just yet, but says the new Oryon CPU uses a fully custom design, with the company controlling everything from the microarchitecture to the entire CPU subsystem. According to Qualcomm, that level of control is one of the reasons it can push clock speeds all the way up to 5GHz.

But Qualcomm says higher clock speeds aren't the only reason for the performance gains. The company is also focusing heavily on IPC (instructions per clock), which determines how much work the CPU can complete per clock cycle. Improvements here should translate into better performance across everyday tasks, from opening apps and browsing the web to more demanding workloads.

Qualcomm has also introduced Oryon FlexCache, a new cache architecture that allows different CPU cores to access the same dynamically allocated cache pool. Instead of assigning a fixed amount of cache to individual cores, FlexCache allows the Prime cores to access the entire available pool whenever a workload needs it.

The company says this should particularly help with workloads that constantly move between different CPU cores. In gaming, for example, better access to local cache could help stabilize frame rates and reduce stutters, while the same architecture should also help with heavier multitasking.

Qualcomm still hasn't revealed the complete details of its next Snapdragon flagship platform. The company has already teased that we'll see two Snapdragon 8 Elite chips at Snapdragon Summit 2026, though, so we should learn much more about both chipsets soon.

Snapdragon Summit 2026 is scheduled to take place from September 22 through September 24 in Hawaii.

It took me a while to like the Pixel 10 Pro Fold; I didn't like that Google basically retained the same feature-set as the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and just added a bigger battery and IP68 ingress protection. At 258g, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is one of the heaviest foldables — only my Huawei Mate XT is heavier, and that's basically a tablet that folds down to a phone.

The heft notwithstanding, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold has other issues: the cameras are underwhelming compared to the Vivo X Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, battery life is average, and cellular connectivity isn't quite as stable as I'd like. But having used the foldable on and off for the better part of a year now, I will say that it is much better to use than its specs would suggest, and the software continues to be among the best around.

Software matters

Google's software is why I used the Pixel 10 Pro Fold instead of other foldables. I like the bright colors and customizability that's available in Material You, and Google does a great job with the interface in general, delivering a clean UI without any clutter. And with the 10 Pro Fold, Google optimized the software a little better, and there's better fluidity than in previous generations, which makes a noticeable difference when navigating the interface.

Magic Cue is one of my favorite additions, and I like that it pulls up any contextual detail without me having to dig for it. Whether that's sharing waybill details when calling DHL about recent deliveries or surfacing reservation details, it is genuinely useful. Google does a good job bringing most Gemini features to other phones, but there are a few exclusive to Pixels, like Magic Cue.

The software has gotten better with Android 17, and Bubbles multitasking is easily my favorite feature. It's annoying that it won't be coming to other phones, but the floating windows mode makes it easy to maximize the real estate of the 8-inch inner panel, and I use it constantly. Other foldables do a great job with multitasking in general — ColorOS' Open Canvas is the gold standard — and while Google should have stolen the feature, it's good to see some progress in this area.

Shining bright

I also like the size of the cover screen; the 6.4-inch panel is slightly wider than its predecessor, and it's the ideal size. While Google had its share of screen-related issues in the past, I didn't see any problems with the outer or inner panels in the year I used the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Both panels are among the brightest in the category, and they have good color vibrancy.

After a year of unfolds, the crease hasn't deformed, and the hinge articulation is just as smooth as the day I set up the device. A lot of that has to do with IP68 dust and water resistance. While I didn't submerge the foldable in water, dust ingress is a constant problem on these devices, and thankfully, I didn't have to worry about that in the slightest.

Not quite point-and-click

With plenty of tuning updates over the course of the year, the cameras on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold still don't pass muster. It has been a regular source of frustration with the foldable, and in a year where other brands made huge strides in this area — the X Fold 5 and Find N6 have outstanding cameras — the 10 Pro Fold is distinctly second-best.

I carry two phones, and for most of the last 12 months, the secondary phone was the iPhone 17 Pro, so I had an alternative whenever I needed to take photos. That doesn't make it any less annoying that a $1,799 foldable can't take reliable photos or videos.

Rounding out

The 10 Pro Fold is heavy enough as it is, so I didn't bother with a case. The foldable took its share of tumbles, but it is unscathed. There are some scratches that have accumulated over the course of the year, but on the whole, the Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection did its job. If anything, I don't put a case on any phone that has Victus 2, and it's proven to be reliable — at least in the way I use my devices.

While I didn't think much of the design, the rounded corners definitely make a difference. They make holding the 10 Pro Fold a little easier, and there's enough thickness at the sides to open the inner screen. This is an issue on the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the Z Fold 8 Ultra, and not just because they're thinner — the X Fold 5 and Find N6 are just as easy to unlock as the 10 Pro Fold. I'm chalking it up to the way Samsung designs its foldables.

I'll admit that the Pixel 10 Pro Fold doesn't have the best internals. It's continually annoying that Google prioritizes other areas like the TPU instead of CPU and GPU performance, and this means the Tensor G5 isn't suited for playing demanding games.

That said, it held up a lot better than I imagined. While I test visually-intensive games as part of a review, I don't play high-end games on my phone all that much, and the ones I actually play the most — Balatro, Ball x Pit, and CloverPit — run without any issues. There is some overheating with gaming sessions lasting over an hour, but that's the case with every foldable, and not unique to the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.

Another bugbear is connectivity. The Exynos modem that Google went with isn't as good at maintaining a signal, so I frequently saw cellular connectivity issues while at home.

The single biggest annoyance with the Pixel 10 Pro Fold proved to be the cameras. Other than that, the foldable was better than I imagined. Thankfully, I didn't run into many software bugs; outside of Magic Cue getting disabled by an update, I didn't notice any problems. I know that's an outlier considering the thousands of messages on Google's troubleshooting pages, but it hasn't been much of an issue in my usage.

While I enjoyed using the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, I wouldn't necessarily recommend the foldable. There isn't a single feature that truly stands out, and while that's not a bad thing, it doesn't make for an exciting phone.

Look, I generally prefer Google's software and don't mind some of the annoyances that come along the way, but it may not be what you're looking for in a device that costs over $1,700 — particularly when there are better all-round choices available.

If you're a Pixel fan and are considering a foldable, I'd suggest getting the 11 Pro Fold; I'm switching to it now, and it addresses a lot of the 10 Pro Fold's issues around imaging. And if you don't have a brand allegiance and just want to try out a book-style foldable, the Moto Razr Fold continues to be fabulous.

What you need to know

• Samsung and Corning are reportedly developing self-healing display glass for the upcoming Galaxy S27 Ultra.
• The new Gorilla Armor could recover from everyday micro-scratches instead of focusing purely on scratch resistance.
• Self-healing tech isn't entirely new, but the Galaxy S27 Ultra could bring it to a flagship phone's front display.
• The Galaxy S27 Ultra is also rumored to feature a major redesign with an iPhone 17 Pro-like horizontal camera plateau.

Rumors and leaks surrounding the Samsung Galaxy S27 series are starting to pick up, and the latest one claims Samsung could be working on a self-healing display for the Galaxy S27 Ultra.

Samsung already introduced a major display upgrade with the Galaxy S26 Ultra, adding its Privacy Display technology that prevents people around you from easily seeing what's on your screen. With the Galaxy S27 Ultra, though, Samsung could be preparing another major upgrade, this time allowing the display to recover from minor scratches on its own.

According to leaker Schrödinger on X, Samsung and Corning are reportedly working on a new self-healing surface for the next generation of Gorilla Armor. The goal, according to the post, is to create a display that can recover from a certain level of everyday micro-scratches over time.

Instead of simply making the glass harder and more scratch-resistant, Samsung and Corning could take a different approach. According to the leak, the surface itself may be slightly softer than the tempered glass we're used to, but would gain the ability to recover from smaller scratches on its own.

If the technology works as intended, Samsung could essentially move Gorilla Armor from focusing purely on scratch resistance to scratch recovery.

The leaker doesn't reveal much more about how the technology works or how far along Samsung and Corning are in its development. However, the feature is explicitly said to be intended for the Galaxy S27 Ultra, meaning we could potentially see it debut within the next six months.

This wouldn't be the first time we've seen self-healing technology on a smartphone. More than a decade ago, LG introduced the LG G Flex 2 with a self-healing back panel that could recover from smaller scratches. But we haven't really seen the idea make its way to the front display of a mainstream flagship, which could make Samsung's implementation particularly interesting.

There have been a few other Galaxy S27 Ultra leaks recently as well, including one suggesting a major redesign that looks eerily similar to Apple's iPhone 17 Pro lineup. Samsung could reportedly ditch its familiar vertical camera arrangement for a horizontal camera plateau stretching across the back, with two large camera lenses on the left and a pill-shaped module next to them.

Of course, nothing is set in stone just yet. The Galaxy S27 Ultra is still months away, and plenty could change before launch. But with leaks now starting to pick up, we're finally getting a better idea of what Samsung might have planned for its next flagship.

What you need to know

• Samsung may revive its luxury foldable strategy with a Galaxy Z Fold 8 special edition planned for the second half of 2026.
• Thom Browne is reportedly a top contender, potentially bringing back a partnership that last appeared with the Galaxy Z Fold 5.
• Availability will likely be limited, with select-market launches and a substantial price premium over the standard Galaxy Z Fold 8.

Samsung has never treated its foldables as just another smartphone. Over the years, the company has collaborated with fashion labels like Thom Browne and Maison Margiela to give its Galaxy Z lineup a more exclusive edge. That approach could be making a comeback with the Galaxy Z Fold 8.

According to reliable tipster Lanzuk on Naver Blog, Samsung is working on a luxury-brand collaboration for the Z Fold 8, with a special edition reportedly aimed at the second half of 2026. Samsung hasn’t confirmed any partnership, but Thom Browne is one of the leading candidates.

That would make sense, considering the companies’ history. Samsung has previously launched Thom Browne editions of the original Galaxy Z Flip, Z Fold 2, Z Fold 3, and Z Fold 5. These weren’t just simple reskins, either. They were available with custom hardware finishes (pebble gray, matte white, and even a sleek black suit-inspired design for the Z Fold 5), along with deep software customizations that extended even to the packaging and accessories like watches and S Pens. The last two generations of Folds missed this treatment, but it looks like the runways are clearing for a return.

Samsung’s last Thom Browne release is a good hint of how things might go. The Z Fold 5 edition wasn't simply a different paint job: Samsung included a matching Galaxy Watch 6 and exclusive accessories, hinting at how these collaborations can transform a phone launch into a broader lifestyle package.

Of course, Thom Browne is not the only option available. Samsung has previously partnered with Maison Margiela on the Z Flip 4 and Z Flip 5, so the tech giant could easily opt for another collaborator or someone entirely new. The gray-and-stripe look has become a collector's hallmark, and given how much previous bundles commanded eye-watering prices — the Z Fold 2 Thom Browne Edition retailed for $3,299 and still trades at a premium on secondary markets — it’s safe to say the Z Fold 8 luxury edition won’t be a budget-friendly affair.

Whoever it is, expect the usual limited quantities, rollout in select markets, and a price tag that's a significant jump from the standard model. The Fold 8 is on a roll, so a designer drop would be the perfect way to keep it in the limelight. We should hear more concrete details over the coming weeks.

What you need to know

• Recent rumors suggest Samsung's Exynos 2700 has posted positive scores that outperform Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 chips in "early benchmarks."
• These reports state the Exynos 2700 has beaten Qualcomm in the graphics department (GPU), as well as its CPU performance and AI capabilities.
• Earlier Exynos 2700 rumors claim the chip is progressing with better HPB tech for better heat dispersion and more.

Samsung's placed more focus on its in-house chip brand, Exynos, over the past couple of years. A rumor surfaced online this week, claiming the next chip could top Qualcomm's flagships.

These rumors about the Exynos 2700 started swirling after a post by Yonhap News (Korean), which highlighted "early benchmarks" (via SamMobile). What's incredibly interesting is what these tests have allegedly shown regarding GPU performance. The publication cites "industry sources" in saying the Exynos 2700 has surpassed Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 chip. In a test, Samsung's SoC outperformed Qualcomm by 5% in a peak performance scenario.

What's more, the Exynos 2700 also recorded "24% higher performance" over the 8 Elite Gen 6 and "22% higher" than the (rumored) 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro. In a multi-core CPU performance test, the Exynos 2700's scores were roughly 9% better than the Gen 6 Pro. AI, especially Galaxy AI, has been a focal point for Samsung in developing its next-gen phones.

The company reportedly tested Qualcomm's chips and its in-house brand for AI performance and prompt understanding. In another test, Exynos 2700 generated responses and understood prompts faster than Qualcomm's chips. If this report is accurate, Samsung's chips could be in a better position compared to recent years.

A brighter future for Exynos?

In a bit of house cleaning, it's worth mentioning that Samsung created a "task force" to spearhead its Exynos chip creation. Samsung got serious about its in-house chip in 2025 in an "urgent" push for the Exynos 2600. What we received was an Exynos 2600 that was a major step in the right direction for Samsung. Exynos chips haven't always been the greatest, grappling with various performance and overheating issues. It's the latter point that Samsung is reportedly looking to solve with the Exynos 2700.

Rumors in March said Exynos 2700 development was progressing with upgraded HPB (Heat Path Block) tech. This upgrade would help phones disperse heat better. Elsewhere, we heard speculation about the chip's performance in April. It was alleged that the chip could sport a 10-core structure with its fastest cores clocking in at ~2.88GHz. A ~12% performance boost could make the difference for the 2700 over the 2600.

Android Central's Take

Now this is interesting. I want to reserve my thoughts for when the Exynos 2700 gets announced, and we see its performance for real. To think that Samsung's chip could outperform Qualcomm's in graphics is interesting, but I'm going to be skeptical. Would I like for this to be true? Absolutely. Imagine the competition there. Imagine both sides pushing to improve their gaming graphics, pushing to improve CPU performance. Exynos has always been behind the crowd. If it's trying to step up, let it.

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL vs Pixel 9 Pro XL: Design and display

Honestly, there isn't much of a difference between both phones. Google retained similar dimensions over the last two years, and the result is that the Pixel 9 Pro XL is nearly the same size and weight as the Pixel 11 Pro XL.

This is easily noticeable while holding the phones next to each other. If anything, I like the in-hand feel of the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Google sent me the all-matte Obsidian model of the 11 Pro XL, and it is dull. I like the matte texture, but the phone itself doesn't look exciting, and I would've preferred the vibrant Canyon model instead.

The one key difference is that the camera bar on the Pixel 11 Pro XL doesn't jut out as much, so it looks a little more elegant. Both phones have the same IP68 dust and water resistance, so they're equally good at weathering anything to do with daily use.

Interestingly, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is when we saw the Actua display tech, and Google is using a continuation of the same this year as well. The 11 Pro XL gets brighter, but the 9 Pro XL does a terrific job as well, and the panel has vibrant colors and has zero issues in outdoor use.

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL vs Pixel 9 Pro XL: Hardware and software

The Pixel 11 Pro XL runs Google's latest 3nm Tensor G6, and it is using new cores and is noticeably better in everyday use than the Tensor G4-powered 9 Pro XL. It has better efficiency as well, and even though both phones have similarly-sized batteries, my Pixel 11 Pro XL is lasting a few hours longer on average.

Where I see the biggest advantage is Qi 2.2 integration in the Pixel 11 Pro XL; having these magnets built into the phone means I can use any Qi 2.2 charger or power bank and get 25W charging, and it genuinely makes a big difference. Look, I didn't care about this at all in the past as wireless charging was limited to 12W — as is the case on the Pixel 9 Pro XL — but with 25W, it's close enough to the standard 45W USB PD charging standard that I use it all the time now.

Other than that, there honestly isn't much to differentiate both phones. While the Pixel 11 Pro XL has a little more power, it still isn't a gaming phone by any measure, so if that's what you're after, you should look at Pixel 11 Pro XL alternatives. It's a similar story with the software; both phones get seven years of software updates, and outside of a few extras that are exclusive on the Pixel 11 Pro XL, the software is identical.

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL vs Pixel 9 Pro XL: Cameras

Both phones have a similar set of cameras: a 50MP main camera, 48MP telephoto lens with OIS and 5x optical zoom, and 48MP wide-angle lens. While the auxiliary lenses are unchanged between both, the Pixel 11 Pro XL has a new 50MP camera with better light intake, and it does a better job in taking photos and videos in challenging scenarios.

However, the best part about using Pixels is the camera software; Google introduced Camera Looks this year, and it gives you much greater control in tailoring the look of the photos.

There's also Magic Capture, which automagically gives you the best shot each and every time. If you have little children that constantly move about, this mode is definitely handy.

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL vs Pixel 9 Pro XL: Which should you buy?

The Pixel 11 Pro XL is $100 costlier this year, and while it has some new features, the fundamentals are pretty much unchanged from the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Honestly, with the 256GB model coming with 12GB of RAM instead of the 16GB that was standard for the last two years, I'd argue that you're getting less for your money. If you're using the 9 Pro XL and are mulling an upgrade, I'd wait — I don't see enough of a change to make the move.

If you're on an older phone and are considering an upgrade, however, the Pixel 11 Pro XL could be a good choice — unless you can get a good deal on the 9 Pro XL. While Google launched the 9 Pro XL two years ago, the phone is built to last, and it will get regular updates and new features for at least another five years.

What you need to know

• Early Galaxy S27 Ultra leaks point to a major redesign with a horizontal camera plateau similar to the iPhone 17 Pro.
• Samsung could finally bring native Qi2 support to the Galaxy S27 Ultra, with magnets seemingly visible in leaked renders.
• The Galaxy S27 Ultra could reportedly launch in two sizes, potentially giving buyers a smaller Ultra option for the first time.

With the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series out of the way, attention is now turning toward Samsung's next flagship smartphone lineup. And if the latest round of leaks is anything to go by, the Galaxy S27 Ultra could be getting a major redesign that looks a lot like Apple's latest iPhones.

For the past few years, Samsung has stuck with a vertical camera layout across its Galaxy S lineup. In fact, the company has been criticized several times for shipping very similar-looking Galaxy S Ultra phones year after year. It now looks like Samsung is finally planning to move away from that design, but perhaps not in the direction everyone expected.

Leakers Sonny Dickson, Max Jambor, and Ice Universe have shared what is claimed to be the Galaxy S27 Ultra's new design on X, and it's hard not to see the resemblance to Apple's iPhone 17 Pro lineup.

The leaked design shows a horizontal camera plateau across the back, similar to the latest iPhones, with two large camera rings and an elongated section that will likely house the remaining cameras and LED flash.

It's pretty clear where Samsung may be taking some design inspiration from this time around. On the bright side, though, the leaked renders also appear to show a Qi2 magnetic ring on the back, suggesting Samsung could finally build native Qi2 support directly into the Galaxy S27 Ultra.

The leaks also suggest Samsung could offer the Galaxy S27 Ultra in two different sizes, something we've heard rumored previously. If true, that could mean we're finally getting a more compact version of Samsung's Ultra flagship alongside the larger model.

Of course, we're still months away from the Galaxy S27 series launch, and plenty could change before Samsung makes anything official. But these early leaks certainly suggest Samsung is preparing a pretty major design shake-up, even if the inspiration appears to be coming straight from Cupertino.

What do you think of the rumored design? Let us know in the comments below.

Motorola may have kickstarted the modern flip phone, but Samsung popularized it, and for years the Galaxy Z Flip series was the standard for a stylish, pocketable foldable. Now that the Galaxy Z Flip 8 is out, it arrives at a tumultuous time for both flip phones and smartphones in general.

On the plus side, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 undercuts and is, in some ways, the better buy than Motorola’s Razr Ultra 2026, something I never thought I would say. And despite rumors suggesting the Flip 8 may be the last of its kind from Samsung, it receives some notable changes that I think even Motorola can learn from.

However, with the price increase, few actual hardware upgrades, and the launch of the very compelling Galaxy Z Fold 8, it’s becoming harder to justify buying the Galaxy Z Flip 8.

If it ain't broke...

I didn't get to use the Galaxy Z Flip 7, but I was jealous of its thin profile, especially when compared to the Razr Ultra 2025. The Galaxy Z Flip 8 goes further with an even thinner chassis, and it's noticeably lighter than the Razr Ultra 2026. It's pretty impressive, especially since flip phones become quite thick when folded in half, so this goes a long way towards making it truly pocketable.

That said, that thinness comes at a bit of a price: the battery is much smaller than the Razr's, clocking in at just 4,300mAh. That's unchanged from its predecessor, and while it can get me through a day, I haven't been able to squeeze much more out of it. Also unchanged is the charging speed, which, at 25W, feels quite slow for a $1,200 smartphone.

Fortunately, performance is anything but slow, thanks to the beefed-up Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and 12GB of RAM, which is as snappy as you'd expect. I play Honkai: Star Rail on the highest available settings and the phone doesn't falter. The only thing I notice when doing any heavy gaming is the top half of the phone getting rather warm, but that's nothing new for flip phones, given their limited internal space for things like a copper vapor chamber.

Beyond the overall performance, a benefit of the newer chip is better AI capabilities and access to newer features. Galaxy AI and Gemini Intelligence are found throughout the experience, and features like Now Brief and Now Nudge keep me up to date on my day and make it easier to grab the information or content I need when I need it.

Gemini Screen Automation also supports more apps, though I rarely find much need for it, aside from ordering food when I'm too lazy to open an app myself (is this what we've come to?).

The main display hasn't changed much, and unfortunately Samsung's new Titanium Flex isn't available here, so the crease isn't as inconspicuous as on the Galaxy Z Fold 8. That said, the crease feels very shallow, and dare I say, it feels even better than my Razr Ultra 2026.

My only annoyance is that the hinge joint protrudes quite a bit on either end of the screen, which sort of ruins the seamless feel of the display.

That said, the hinge remains relatively stiff, so I can open the Flip 8 to as wide as 45 degrees before it falls back. It's also much easier to flip the phone open with one finger and slam it shut, thanks to the redesigned display bumpers and a more forgiving hinge mechanism.

The cover screen gets (mostly) fixed!

That said, how the main display feels doesn't matter much to me, because most of my time with the Galaxy Z Flip 8 has been spent with the cover screen. Previous versions of Samsung's cover screen that I used felt half-baked, but the company did something new this year by integrating Now Brief into the cover screen and making it the default home screen. It's honestly pretty smart, and it turns the cover screen into a hub for updates on your day and activities.

But that's just the start of Samsung's cover screen overhaul. The company revamped the experience so that it acts more like the main UI. That means swiping down enables the Quick Settings menu, while swiping up reveals the app drawer. This differs from previous versions, where apps were available on a separate panel.

What I like about this is that it defaults to Samsung's first-party apps while providing easy access to third-party apps, which are sectioned off underneath. Samsung also makes it easy to access third-party apps, with a button to download the MultiStar module from Good Lock when you first set it up.

I find this new UI quite effective, making the cover screen much more accessible and useful than previous versions. I think Motorola could even take a note from Samsung's revamped UI, as it still keeps its apps on a separate panel.

Plus, any additional panels you create can be filled with app widgets, and some, like Spotify, will take up an entire widget panel. Unfortunately, not every widget is available on the cover screen, but there's a good amount to make them useful.

As for using apps, the experience is largely the same, but with some interesting updates. Apps can now open in three different aspect ratios: full screen, cropped up (to avoid the cameras), or in portrait mode for a more full app experience with black bars on either side.

There's a button at the bottom that lets you easily change the app's aspect ratio, which comes in handy depending on the app you're using. The only downside is that, for some reason, the app doesn't stay that way if I switch apps or go back to the home screen and then back to the app, and I find myself constantly switching views.

Of course, you can still use the camera with the cover screen for selfies, and you get quick access to photos, videos, and portrait mode. There's also an interesting Flip Shot feature that I didn't understand at first, but I think it's meant to add a little razzle-dazzle to your mirror selfies by displaying various graphics on the cover screen. And since I take a lot of mirror selfies with the camera preview on, this could be a good way to show off the Z Flip 8.

But as for the actual cameras, they're largely the same, and image quality is good but not spectacular. In good lighting, photos look fine, and the cameras even do a good job of freezing time, so you can be sure your dog photos should come out well enough. The downside is that you can't get too close to your subjects, as there's no Macro Mode, unlike on the Razr Ultra.

I also love the My FanCam feature, which can take any video and reframe it to focus on one subject, such as your kid or a friend. It's easily one of the best editing features Samsung has released in recent years, and a great way to make social-media-ready clips.

Should you buy the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8?

On the outside, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 is a minor update from its predecessor. A new chipset and smaller chassis are welcome changes, although I wish the battery and cameras had been upgraded.

The software is the star of the show, and Samsung's One UI continues to be more useful, whether you're using the main display or cover screen. That said, for $100 more than the Galaxy Z Flip 7, I'm not sure it's worth spending this much on a phone that Samsung seems largely uninterested in these days.

The Galaxy Z Flip 8 is good, but it's not $1,200 good. If you can find a discount, however, I would say go for it, or grab the Motorola Razr Ultra 2026 if you can find a good enough deal.

Samsung, Google, and Apple might be the biggest players in the North American market, but Motorola does pretty well for itself. In fact, Motorola has consistently had a larger market share than Google in the U.S. over the last five quarters.

And yet, when you head to a store or open an online shopping platform, Google Pixel cases, screen protectors, and accessories are much easier to find than Motorola accessories.

Mainstream brands like Spigen, OtterBox, and CASETiFY happily cater to Pixel phones, including the more niche ones like the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. But when it comes to Motorola flagships and foldables like the Razr Fold and Razr Ultra 2026, most of these name brands are MIA. It's a real head-scratcher.

I can't fault an accessory maker for skipping a phone brand because of profitability concerns. Companies exist to make money, and when they fear losses due to demand concerns, it's sensible to remain pragmatic.

What I can't make sense of is the apparent lack of confidence that these phone case and accessory brands seem to have in Motorola. Why are these companies still not catering to them, especially now that Motorola holds about 50% of the foldable smartphone market in the U.S.?

I reached out to dozens of the top, most popular case makers who regularly offer products for Samsung, Google, and Apple to get some answers. My question was simple: Why aren't name-brand case makers prioritizing Motorola's flagships and foldables?

Almost all of them replied, but Android Central has kept some of their names anonymous to protect the source's identity.

Demand is a major concern for most accessory makers

OtterBox was one of the few brands that went on the record, citing demand as the key reason. They weren't alone; at least five to six others echoed the same sentiment, including one of the most respectable case makers in the business.

"We evaluate our device case portfolio based on customer demand and overall device adoption. While OtterBox has supported Motorola devices in the past, our current focus is on delivering protection for the devices used most widely by our customers."

An up-and-coming high-end case maker also doubled down on demand holding them back, but mentioned that they might open up support for Motorola devices in the future:

"From a case maker's perspective, product coverage decisions are primarily driven by device demand, market scale, and the broader ecosystem adoption rather than any individual brand preference. For major launches, we typically prioritize devices that demonstrate the largest global user base and strongest accessory demand at scale, which currently tends to concentrate around a small number of flagship smartphone lines.

Motorola’s recent foldables and flagships have certainly generated interest within the industry, particularly around design and form factor innovation. However, compared to the leading platforms, the overall installed base and accessory demand for these devices is still relatively limited at this stage."

The brand went on to say that they might consider expanding their accessory range to support Motorola once there is "clear and sustained traction for specific models or form factors."

Adding support for new smartphones comes is a costly venture for accessory brands

Another affordable accessory brand that focuses more on chargers said it mainly comes down to resource prioritization. This brand offers cases and screen protectors, but charging tech for Apple and Samsung is their primary concern.

They stated that launching an entirely new phone case lineup "would require additional investment, such as product design, manufacturing, and human resources. Our company may not be able to fully support this at the present stage."

TORRAS, a brand that focuses on magnetic phone cases as much as it does on chargers and power banks, shared that focusing on a single foldable makes it easier to perfect their craft.

"TORRAS’ focus in the foldable category has been on building long-term engineering experience within the Samsung Fold ecosystem over multiple generations. Each generation brings different mechanical and structural challenges, which helps us continuously refine key areas such as hinge protection, ultra-thin structures, magnetic alignment, and overall durability performance.

By staying consistent within a single foldable architecture, TORRAS is able to deepen our R&D in a more systematic and iterative way, improving product reliability through continuous optimization over time."

One brand saw this lack of support as an opportunity and took a personal request from Android Central's Nicholas Sutrich to heart.

Texas-born case maker Thinborne had initially scrapped its plans to launch a Moto Razr Fold case, just weeks after announcing it. I was very disappointed, because there are very few premium-grade cases that match the thinness and lightness of something from Thinborne.

Sutrich reached out to Thinborne after hearing the news, concerned about the lack of decent cases for Motorola foldables. Thinborne admits that their entire $32,000 investment in making this happen could very well result in a loss.

"After hesitating twice, we decided to make it happen — not for profits, but to make sure there is still an option for people looking for a premium minimalist case for their Motorola Razr Fold."

It is truly admirable that while bigger name brands shied away from the task, a small company like Thinborne stepped up. It created perhaps the best Motorola Razr Fold case we could ask for: a thin, lightweight aramid fiber case with MagSafe support, so you can take advantage of MagSafe accessories. Plus, it comes in different colors like Crimson and Navy, so you can give your Razr Fold a bit of life.

Motorola's own lack of enthusiasm is also a contributing factor

Dbrand shed more light on this topic, noting that, beyond demand, Motorola's lack of support for third-party retailers is another limiting factor.

"Motorola doesn't engage 3rd party consumer accessory manufacturers the way other OEMs do. Google has Made for Google. Microsoft has Designed for Xbox. Samsung has SMAPP. These structured programs give established brands the lead time to be ready at launch (not to mention, B2B opportunities that amplify attach to the hardware TAM). With Motorola, our starting gun for development is when consumer hardware hits shelves. By that point, we're already too late."

The brand went on to acknowledge that scale and numbers aren't everything. Far smaller, more niche brands like Minimal have approached Dbrand to make accessories for their devices happen. It's the effort that the smartphone maker put into collaborating with Dbrand that materialized into Dbrand skins for Minimal phones.

"Motorola's lack of engagement with the 3rd party ecosystem makes it structurally challenging to show up at the 'peak of interest' launch moment that matters."

Motorola could easily do the same, but seemingly chooses not to.

What does Motorola have to say about this?

I went to Motorola to hear it straight from the horse's mouth and asked whether they were aware of how accessory brands felt about Motorola's devices, and whether they were planning to address these concerns about demand and collaborative efforts.

Motorola's response was very vague. They don't seem to recognize that they have an accessory problem. In fact, Motorola emphasized that they "actively [develop] a robust partnership program to expand the range of high-quality accessory options for [their] customers".

The rest of the response felt like standard boilerplate and did not even seem to address the concerns from top accessory brands:

"Today, we proudly collaborate with a number of partners to anchor our official licensed cases and accessories initiative. Through this established program, we co-develop and validate products with trusted third-party accessory makers. This collaborative approach ensures that every product adheres to Motorola’s strict standards for quality, safety, and seamless customer experience. We are continuously expanding this ecosystem and welcome deeper strategic partnerships with leading accessory brands to deliver the premium experience our customers expect."

It's a perception problem

At the end of the day, I learned that most brands still perceive Motorola as having low demand, even when the numbers suggest otherwise. Meanwhile, Motorola is wearing rose-colored glasses or has seemingly convinced itself that it is doing a fine job of it and that there is no accessory support problem.

This can be fixed, however. Perhaps if Motorola were to extend an olive branch, it might move things along. If they want third-party accessory support to improve, they will have to put in the effort and make it easier for accessory and case makers to cater to their devices.

Based on everything I have heard, I hope Motorola will follow through. It could also improve smartphone sales, as accessory support is a major concern for consumers when buying phones. Perhaps if official "Made for Moto" accessories were to appear in the wild, a lot more people would be interested in buying Motorola phones, especially if they came from top-tier brands like Dbrand, Spigen, and CASETiFY.

The Google Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL are two very full-featured smartphones. If you're a new Pixel user, you're going to spend days sifting through all the available options and features to find your favorites, but before you begin that long (but fun!) journey, you should focus on securing the freebies that come with every Pixel 11 phone.

I'm specifically talking about the 6-month Gemini Pro subscription that comes for free with your Pixel 11. In the past, I was always prompted to activate this trial during the first-time setup when I got a new Pixel, but this year was different. I had to hunt for the offer to make sure it still existed and, thankfully, it does!

With the Pixel 9 and 10 series, Google offered a full year of Gemini Advanced (now known as Google AI Pro), but the Pixel 11 series lowered that to 6 months. Still, it's hard to argue with 6 free months of Google's AI Pro service, which is roughly a $120 value you get just for owning a Pixel 11.

What is Google AI Pro?

Google renamed Gemini Advanced to Google AI Pro in 2025, and with it came a slew of new tools and benefits compared to the free Gemini model and the Google AI Plus subscription. Here's everything Google AI Pro gets you in 2026:

• 4x higher usage limits in the Gemini app
• 1,000 Google Flow credits (Google's creative studio)
• Gemini 3 Pro in Google Search
• Access to the Jules coding agent with higher limits
• Google Antigravity (Google's agentic development platform)
• 5x higher limits on Gemini Notebook (formerly NotebookLM)
• Gemini in Gmail, Docs, and more
• Google Home Premium (30 days of event history for your Nest devices)
• Gemini in Chrome
• YouTube Premium Lite
• 5TB of cloud storage

There's a lot included with Google AI Pro, but I find only a few things particularly useful. Google Home Premium and YouTube Premium Lite are easily my favorite two features. Subscribing to those features by themselves would normally run you $18 a month, so you can already see how good of a value the Google AI Pro subscription is at the normal $19.99 a month rate.

I don't use the vast majority of the advanced Gemini features here, like Jules, Flow, Antigravity, or Notebook, but those would all be incredible values for anyone who might want to take advantage of everything Gemini offers.

How to activate your free Google AI Pro subscription

Now that you understand why Google AI Pro is worthwhile (and why a free 6-month trial is such a great deal), here's what you need to do to activate the trial:

1. Open the Gemini app. You can find it in your app drawer.

2. Click the menu button in the top-left corner, then tap the settings gear at the bottom next to your account name.

3. Tap the Start trial button underneath the "Manage subscription" button.

4. Make sure the screen says "With your Pixel 11, you get 6 months for $0," then tap the blue Start trial button.

Beginning a Google AI Pro trial starts a subscription through Google Play, so the next screen will ask you to select a payment method for when the trial ends. Don't worry, you're not going to pay anything right now; Google just wants to set up the subscription so that it cycles through the credits you get with your Pixel 11.

Remember, you can always cancel the subscription before the trial ends if you don't want to pay anything by the listed payment start date.

1. Verify that "6-month free trial" is listed under the "Starting today" section on the subscription screen.

2. Note the starting date for payments. I recommend asking Gemini to set a reminder for this date so you can cancel the subscription if you'd like.

3. Select the payment method you want to use when the trial ends, then hit Subscribe.

4. Congrats! Now you have Google AI Pro for the next 6 months for free!

Now, when you open the Gemini app, you can select from more advanced Gemini models (plus, use Gemini a lot more before you hit the daily limit), use new Gemini tools in Google apps like Gmail and Google Drive, watch YouTube videos ad-free, see 30 days of smart home history (and make advanced queries in the Google Home app), and lots more. Have fun!

I knew Samsung hadn't changed the design with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, but it was still surprising to see just how similar it is to last year's model — I had to double-check the box to confirm I wasn't sent the Z Fold 7 again.

That sums up the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra in a nutshell; at the surface-level, it is indistinguishable from the Z Fold 7. It is just as thin and light, weighs the same, and has the same in-hand feel. I was holding out on Samsung moving to a design with rounded edges — similar to what Google does with the Pixel 11 Pro Fold — but that isn't the case.

Thankfully, there are a few upgrades. Samsung finally moved to silicon-carbon battery tech, and was able to slot in a bigger 5,000mAh battery in a chassis that's the same size as last year. There's also 45W charging, a crease that isn't quite as noticeable as last year, a new rear camera, and Android 17 with One UI 9 out of the box. But is that enough to warrant a price hike to an eye-watering $2,099? Let's take a look.

It's the little things that matter

Samsung didn't make any outward changes to the design, but the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra has a new hinge that feels better to use, and it allows the foldable to be fully flat. It's another thing that it took Samsung eight years to get to this point while Chinese brands have managed it in less than half that time, but at least there's some progress in this area.

The other side effect of the new hinge is the crease, which is barely noticeable now. It's still evident in daily use, and it isn't quite as creaseless as the Find N6, but there is a difference from the Z Fold 7. Samsung didn't change the panel sizes this year, so you get a 6.5-inch outer and 8.0-inch inner screen, and they're a little brighter this year.

What I like is that the inner panel has an anti-reflective coating, and it makes a difference when using it outdoors. It also gets a higher resolution (2504 x 2256), and as I prefer reading to watching media on my phone, I like these changes — that's one of the reasons I'm using the Z Fold 8 Ultra instead of the Z Fold 8.

There isn't anything missing when it comes to the internals as well. You get the latest Qualcomm silicon, 12GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. I think a foldable that costs over $2,000 needs to have at least 512GB of storage, but with the RAM shortages, I'm glad Samsung didn't move the base model to 128GB and call the 256GB edition an upgrade.

While it has the same silicon as the S26 Ultra, the inherent foldable nature means the Z Fold 8 Ultra is thermally constrained, so it throttles sooner, and tends to get hot in extended gaming sessions. This is the case with all foldables and isn't something unique to Samsung. I didn't see any issues with connectivity (thankfully), but the only change in this area is that the foldable has a single SIM slot, with the secondary slot requiring an eSIM.

We need to talk about the wobble

The one thing Samsung should have changed with the design is the placement of the rear camera module. The Z Fold 8 Ultra has an oblong camera housing that sits to the left, and because the modules protrude quite a bit from the body, you get a constant wobble when using the foldable on a table.

It doesn't matter if you're using the phone folded or unfolded, the wobble is ever-present and a routine source of frustration. This is why all other brands have switched to center-mounted cameras; I didn't see this problem with my Find N6, Vivo X Fold 5, Moto Razr Fold, or the Pixel 11 Pro Fold.

I just don't understand why Samsung continues to be obstinate about this; clearly, this is a major design flaw, yet the brand chooses to ignore it. On that note, the foldable once again misses out on IP68 dust and water resistance. You get IP48 instead, and while it's decent, it doesn't prevent dust ingress.

Samsung upgraded the wrong camera

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra uses the same 200MP main camera as last year, and it has a 10MP telephoto and a new 50MP wide-angle lens. Okay, great, but just one question: who uses the wide-angle camera? I take plenty of photos, and I predominantly use the 2x or 3x lenses while framing, and I think Samsung should've upgraded the ageing 10MP lens instead — this is the same module that's being used from the Galaxy S21 days.

Also, the tele lens is particularly useful as a portrait shooter, and I use it all the time because of this. To have a distinctly average tele lens on a foldable dubbed an Ultra is egregious to say the least, and the Z Fold 8 Ultra doesn't measure up to the Find N6 or the Vivo X Fold 5 in this regard. Shots at 3x don't have much in the way of definition, and anything shot at 10x and beyond is just a blotchy mess without any detail.

Thankfully, the other cameras are quite good, and you get decent shots with Samsung's traditional oversaturated look. It does a good enough job in low-light situations as well, and while the cameras aren't on the same level as regular phones — or current-gen Chinese foldables — they are pretty good for the most part.

The battery is better

Samsung finally started using silicon-carbon batteries, and the Z Fold 8 Ultra gets a 5,000mAh unit. The foldable manages to last a day as a result, and while I still had to plug in before the end of the day at times, it wasn't anywhere as frequently as previous years.

What I like even more is the 45W charging. It may not seem like a big deal, but the move means the battery gets to a full charge in just an hour, which is 30 minutes less than its predecessor. A 30-minute charge gives you a 40% charge, and it's just refreshing to be able to get decent charging speeds on a Samsung foldable. However, Samsung once again missed out on adding Qi 2 magnets, so if you want to use a Qi 2 or Qi 2.2 power bank or charger, you'll need to buy a case.

Double dose of AI

Just like the physical design, Samsung isn't changing things too much with One UI 9, its Android 17-based interface. The UI should be immediately familiar if you've used a Samsung phone, and while there are a few tweaks, the design as a whole is unchanged.

Galaxy AI (once again) is the key focus, with Samsung shoehorning on-device AI into just about every corner — and there's Gemini Intelligence as well if you wanted even more AI. The agentic model is designed to take actions on your behalf, but it isn't quite useful just yet.

You get good fluidity and an exhaustive feature-set, including intuitive multi-tasking modes to maximize the real estate. Just like previous years, the foldable will get seven years of software updates, similar to what Google offers on the Pixel 11 Pro Fold.

Should you buy it?

It irks me that Samsung calls this foldable an Ultra — the only thing fitting of that moniker on the Z Fold 8 Ultra is the pricing. At $2,099, this is the costliest phone around (at least until the iPhone Fold shows up), and I'm not sure you're getting anywhere close to a good value.

Of course, this is a moot point in the U.S.; generous trade-in deals and carrier subsidies make getting the foldable a lot easier. That isn't the case in other regions, and I think the Find N6, X Fold 5, and the Moto Razr Fold are a better all-round deal if you're ready to move to a foldable. There's no denying that Samsung has a strong foldable in the Z Fold 8 Ultra, but the pricing makes it hard to recommend, and I'd suggest looking at other choices before making a decision — you'll be surprised to see just how good the competition is these days.

TL;DR: Amazon has launched a bunch of deals on TCL's eye-friendly smartphones and tablets, just in time for Back to School 2026.

Considering how much time we spend staring at screens throughout the day, it's no wonder that many folks are concerned about their eye health. Some brands would pack the latest eye-friendly display technology into their most expensive devices, but not TCL.

The company's NXTPAPER lineup is full of fast and feature-packed smartphones and tablets that are built with your vision in mind, and they're often way cheaper than the competition. These devices boast cutting-edge 120Hz displays with customizable settings, anti-reflective finishes, and up to 61% less blue light than traditional screens.

Whether you're shopping for an eye-friendly Android phone or a versatile tablet to take with you to class, Amazon's Back to School sale is slashing prices on a bunch of our favorite TCL NXTPAPER devices. Keep reading for all of my top picks today.

Editor's pick - best smartphone

Editor's pick - best tablet

More TCL NXTPAPER deals today

Google got a lot right with the Pixel 11 Pro XL; it has better cameras, a cleaner design, brighter OLED panel, and is faster in just about every scenario. And with Google focusing on Gemini Intelligence, there's a lot of great AI-assisted software features that make the phone stand out.

That said, there are plenty of annoyances as well — if anything, the decrease in RAM and battery size along with the underwhelming GPU make the Pixel 11 Pro XL a downgrade in many ways. So if you're a Pixel user and are looking to switch, there are plenty of great choices available. I used all phones launched in the last 12 months, so all the options listed here are devices I used extensively.

Annoyingly, the two phones I consider to be the best choices — the Find X9 Pro and Vivo X300 Pro — aren't available in the U.S., but they are sold in plenty of western countries, including the U.K. The U.S. phone market is distinctly lackluster compared to most regions, and that's down to the chokehold carriers have in the country. That makes getting a hold of the best phones harder, and in some cases, it's just not worth the hassle. Having accounted for all of that, these are the six phones I suggest buying instead of the Pixel 11 Pro XL.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

I don't like using Samsung phones, but there's no doubting that they're immensely popular. The Galaxy S26 Ultra isn't too different to the Pixel 11 Pro XL in that it is also mostly unchanged to its predecessor, but you get faster internals powered by Qualcomm.

Outside of the silicon, the S26 Ultra is very similar to the Pixel 11 Pro XL; both phones have cameras that are at the same level, battery life is largely identical, and you get the same IP68 ingress protection. The biggest difference is with the software: Samsung's One UI 9 doesn't look anything like what you get on Pixels, and it has a lot of extras that are tied into Samsung's ecosystem.

Look, if you like Samsung's software and want all the unique extras that you get — and Galaxy AI — then the S26 Ultra continues to be a solid choice. It'll get the same seven years of software updates, and has a strong ecosystem of wearables and connected devices.

Redmagic 11S Pro

If you intend to play games on your phone or need a device that's just about the fastest available today, you should get the Redmagic 11S Pro. The 16GB/512GB model of the phone costs $899 in the U.S., which is $520 less than what you'd pay to get an equivalent Pixel 11 Pro XL. Now, the Redmagic 11S Pro's cameras are decidedly average, and they don't measure up to what Google is offering. But given the price difference, you may as well just get a dedicated camera if you're interested in taking a lot of photos and videos (I'm partial to the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV).

Other than that, the Redmagic 11S Pro is a beast. It doesn't have a cutout, so you get an all-screen design that I like quite a bit — it's one of the main reasons why I like using these phones. And I get that the design may be a little ostentatious (it is a gaming phone, after all), but the cameras sit flush with the body, and I like the in-hand feel. Oh, and there's legitimate liquid cooling on the device, and it holds up to marathon gaming or Netflix binge sessions without breaking a sweat.

You also get a huge 7,500mAh battery that lasts up to two days, better connectivity than the Pixel 11 Pro XL in any situation, the best Qualcomm silicon available today, a vibrant OLED, and an IPX8 ingress protection.

The software is pretty good too! Redmagic cleaned up its act two years ago, and you get a plain interface that doesn't have any overt styling, but with great optimization and a good range of customizability. The only issue is that the phone will get just two Android OS updates, which is pitiful next to Google and Samsung. But if you're okay with that limitation, the Redmagic 11S Pro is a great choice.

POCO F8 Ultra

Okay, POCO doesn't sell the F8 Ultra in the U.S., but you can easily get it via resellers on Amazon for $889. That's the 12GB/256GB edition, and it is close to what the phone costs in the U.K. (£599 ($818)). The F8 Ultra has a trio of 50MP cameras, and they're great; you get good photos in any lighting condition, and the versatility of the lenses means you get usable shots from 0.6x to 10x without any issues.

Then there's the design. POCO went with a unique denim finish, and it makes holding the F8 Ultra decidedly different (but in a good way). The texture feels great, and the phone is lighter than the Pixel 11 Pro XL in spite of having a bigger 6,500mAh battery. There's 100W fast charging as well, and as it uses a standard USB PD profile, you can use any 100W GaN charger with the phone.

Oh, and the F8 Ultra has the best onboard sound of any phone I tested in the last two years. It is tuned by Bose, and there's a dedicated woofer unit that adds a lot of character to the sound. The software is decent as well, and you don't get much in the way of AI. The UI is relatively modern, and while there is a lot of bloatware out of the box, it can be easily uninstalled. The phone will get four Android OS updates, which is decent in this category.

iPhone 17 Pro

If you're looking to switch away from Android altogether, the iPhone 17 Pro is the way to go. I use it as my secondary phone, and while battery life isn't as good as a Pixel, you get good software features, guaranteed stability, and a strong ecosystem of accessories.

Switching to an iPhone is easier than ever, but it isn't just about buying another device — you'll also need to think about your digital purchases. If you're like me and bought hundreds of apps and pay for subscriptions via the Play Store, you will need to set up all of that again on the App Store, and that's daunting. That's one of the reasons why moving to a different mobile OS is difficult; you're basically starting from scratch if you haven't used iOS in the past.

The upside is that the iPhone 17 Pro isn't usually plagued by software issues, and as a daily driver, it's one of the most stable phones around.

OPPO Find X9 Pro

The Find X9 Pro is my second-favorite phone of 2026 — only bettered by its even costlier sibling, the Find X9 Ultra — and it is a fantastic phone. The cameras are on another level entirely, the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 platform is noticeably faster than the Tensor G6, and you get a massive battery.

Now, a big limitation with Chinese phones in the past was the software, but that isn't an issue in 2026. ColorOS 16 has a modern design, plenty of great features, and it's just as good to use as the Pixel Launcher. In fact, it is the Android skin I used the most in 2026, and features like AI Bill Manager are genuinely useful.

The Find X9 Pro costs £1,099 ($1,500) in the U.K., and that's the 16GB/512GB model — the equivalent Pixel 11 Pro XL is £1,419 ($1,936!). Additionally, you get the Watch X3 bundled with every phone, which is pretty great in its own right.

Vivo X300 Pro

The X300 Pro is the only phone that has the same caliber of cameras as the Find X9 Pro. Vivo did a great job with the phone in general, and I really like the design — even though the camera housing is gigantic. The phone costs €1,089 ($1,274) for the 16GB/512GB edition, so you're not paying as much as the Pixel 11 Pro XL (€1,329 ($1,553)).

What I like the most about the X300 Pro is that Vivo brought its excellent OriginOS software to global regions. The UI is clean and highly customizable, and it makes using the X300 Pro a delight. It doesn't quite get as many updates as the Pixel 11 Pro XL, but Vivo guarantees five Android OS updates.

Which should you buy?

If you just need one recommendation and don't mind going the reseller route, I'd suggest getting the POCO F8 Ultra — it is a pretty good all-rounder. The Find X9 Pro and Vivo X300 Pro are costlier and harder to get in the U.S., and while they have better cameras, you're ultimately paying too much.

The Redmagic 11S Pro is also a solid choice if you need something with plenty of raw power. And if you want the closest feel to a Pixel and are interested in buying a broader ecosystem of devices, then the Galaxy S26 Ultra or the iPhone 17 Pro are your go-to choices in the U.S.

What you need to know

• Overseas reports claim TSMC has developed a new 1.6nm process intended for a new A16 chip.
• At present, this chip isn't designed for phones, but rather for AI and "high-performance computing" devices.
• TSMC could begin mass production of this chip in Q4 2026, which could help bring the 1.4nm process into reality for mobile devices.

There are reports from overseas sources that claim TSMC is taking significant steps toward a 1.6nm chip.

This report, highlighted by Chosun Biz, claims the Liberty Times' sources suggest TSMC has "completed" its development for a 1.6nm chip (via Android Headlines). Apparently, this 1.6nm process is intended to work with the company's new A16 chips. It's been stated that TSMC increased the A16's chip density by ~8% (or higher). Moreover, its performance could be ~10% better than its 2nm process and ~15% more power-efficient.

While this new A16 chip running on the 1.6nm process switches how it manages its power (for efficiency and performance), the report claims TSMC isn't targeting the usual crowd. The publication purports that TSMC's A16 chips are designed for AI and "high-performance computing" devices as its "main market." With that, it looks like we shouldn't expect this 1.6nm process in a phone chip anytime soon. Which, if you consider the timing, would put us in 2027.

Mass production of these A16 chips could begin in Q4 2026.

However, TSMC is supposedly using what it's done with its A16 chips and the 1.6nm process to develop a 1.4nm process. This version is suspected to make its way into phones.

Chips are getting better, stronger, faster

It's almost that time of the year when Qualcomm's next chip comes out. Hearing about 1.6nm is funny (even 1.4nm) since we're just on the edge of 2nm with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6. Expectations say this chip should feature TSMC's 2nm process. What's more, the SD 8 Elite Gen 6 could feature a 2+3+3 CPU structure. Another 2nm process chip we're expecting is MediaTek's Dimensity 9600. That should also debut soon, as we push into the final four months.

Rumors aside, Qualcomm started teasing its next Snapdragon chips for its Summit 2026 event in Maui, Hawaii. We've heard rumors about Qualcomm making two flagship chips, and the company says we can expect "Dual 8 Elites" this year. It hasn't said what the other chip will be called; however, earlier reports said it would be the "Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro."

I enjoyed using the Reno 15 Pro, and the new imaging hardware was a revelation: the new 200MP camera and dual 50MP auxiliary lenses meant it could measure up to the likes of the Find X9 Pro. As is tradition with OPPO, the brand is following up the phone with the launch of a new model, the Reno 16 Pro — just in time to challenge the Xiaomi 17T Pro.

The Reno 16 Pro isn't too different to the 15 Pro; it has the same cameras, and retains the delightful compact design. You get a bigger 6,700mAh silicon-carbon battery, but only in select markets — Europe gets a smaller 6,000mAh battery this time.

The biggest change is the rear design, or as OPPO calls it, the 3D Pop Planet Design. The rear glass uses a custom three-layer structure, and it creates a unique floating effect of a planet that seemingly shifts around as you move the phone around. It is undeniably cool, and I like that OPPO is constantly bringing fresh designs to its phones. The effect is limited to the Pop White model, and if you don't care for it, there's also a black model with a standard matte texture.

As striking as the design is, what I like the most about the Reno 16 Pro is its compact form factor. The phone retains the 6.32-inch AMOLED panel, and it is an absolute delight to use. The in-hand feel is just right, and it's using a similar choice of materials as the Find X9 Ultra and X9 Pro. Oh, and it retains IP68 and IP69K dust and water resistance as well, which is great to see. The only issue is that the fingerprint sensor is located a little too low on the panel, and that makes accessing it a bit of a hassle.

There's no doubt that the 6.32-inch AMOLED is one of the best in its class. It is one of the brightest in outdoor use, colors are vibrant out of the box, and you get all the usual customization options. There was an intermittent lag when I initially set up the phone, but a software update sorted that out.

The Reno 16 Pro comes with MediaTek's Dimensity 8550, which is identical to the Dimensity 8400 but with a slight boost in frequencies. OPPO should have used the Dimensity 9500 — like Xiaomi did with the 17T Pro — instead, because that platform uses the latest C1-Ultra cores and Mali-G1 Ultra, and is much better at gaming.

As it stands, the Reno 16 Pro is quite good at mundane tasks and handles demanding workloads, but it throttles during intensive gaming sessions, and it doesn't quite measure up to the 17T Pro in this area. That said, the 17T Pro is much bigger, so if you need a small phone with standout gaming potential, I'd suggest getting the Xiaomi 17 — it's now selling for the same price as the Reno 16 Pro.

Where the Reno 16 Pro truly comes into its own is the cameras. The sensors are unchanged, but you get a slate of new filters and effects. There's a 200MP Samsung HP5 main camera, 50MP tele lens, and a 50MP wide-angle module. You get a 50MP camera at the front, and it is one of the best you'll see on a phone today.

Predictably, the Reno 16 Pro does an outstanding job in just about any scenario. The main camera is fantastic by any measure, and it easily outshines other phones in its class. But what I like the most is that the telephoto and wide-angle lenses aren't just an afterthought; they're genuinely good in their own right. The tele lens has 3.5x optical zoom, and you get usable shots up to 7x without any visible grain or noise.

The phone doesn't quite manage shots on the same caliber as the Find X9 Pro or X9 Ultra, and that's the only shortcoming I can think of. Basically, you're getting flagship cameras, but the phone itself doesn't cost as much as Find X models, so if you intend to take a lot of photos and videos, the Reno 16 Pro is easily worthy of your consideration.

Reno models always sold well with younger audiences, and OPPO did a good job adding unique filters to the 16 Pro. You get 4K60 video out of all the lenses — including the selfie camera — and there's a new Pop mode that brings a little bit of vintage camera flair to the device. With eight filters available, you can heavily customize the look and feel of the shots when using this mode, and there's even the option to tailor the balance of each filter. I enjoyed using AI Remix Collage as well; it uses AI to create stickers effortlessly, and it's a fun tool.

Battery life is reliable; I'm using the model with a 6,700mAh battery, and I easily got over a day even with heavy use. I was able to eke out a day and a half on average with medium use, and with 80W charging tech, there's no need to plug in this phone overnight.

I like ColorOS 16 a lot, and it has the right blend of modern design, customizability, and fluidity. I used the skin predominantly in 2026 — thanks to the Find X9 Pro and X9 Ultra — and it is one of the best around on Android. The only issue is that the device won't get as many software updates, and that's annoying.

Now, let's get down to pricing. While the Reno 16 Pro debuted at an exorbitant £899 ($1,195) in the U.K., it's down to £749 ($996), and this is for the 12GB/512GB edition. It's a similar situation in other countries in the region, with the Reno 16 Pro now down to €899 ($1,022) from its €1,099 ($1,250!) launch price. Incidentally, this brings the phone in line with what the Reno 15 Pro debuted for earlier this year, and that model is still available for €799 ($908).

This is how much Find X flagships used to cost just a few years ago, but phone prices are getting increasingly higher, and the Find X9 Pro was introduced at €1,299 ($1,477). With RAM and storage demand exceeding availability, we should see even higher prices in the next 12 months. It makes sense, then, that OPPO didn't launch the Pro model in India, with the standard Reno 16 selling for ₹61,999 ($647) in the country.

The Reno 16 Pro isn't a sizeable upgrade, and if you're in a country where the 6,000mAh model is sold, you're not even getting as big a battery as its predecessor. There's also the fact that the 15 Pro is still a solid phone, so if you can get it on a deal, I'd suggest buying it while it's still available. Otherwise, the Reno 16 Pro is your best bet if you want flagship-level cameras in this category.

Google's newest smartphones are finally available in stores, but if you missed the preorder period, fear not: there are still quite a few impressive Pixel 11 deals worth checking out today. 

Head to Verizon, for instance, and you can get the base model Google Pixel 11 for 100% free when you add a line with the Unlimited Welcome, Unlimited Plus, or Unlimited Ultimate plans. No trade-in required!

• See my complete guide to the best Google Pixel 11 deals on the web

I wouldn't call the Pixel 11 a dramatic upgrade from its predecessor, but Google did introduce a few thoughtful improvements that make the base model a worthwhile purchase in 2026. The phone comes equipped with the new Tensor G6 chipset, an upgraded camera system, and considerably faster wireless charging than the Google Pixel 10. The new model is also a few grams lighter than the 2025 flagship, despite the fact that the Pixel 11 actually comes with twice the base storage.

Aside from those upgrades, the Google Pixel 11 is largely indistinguishable from the 10. You get the same AMOLED display size and brightness, the same 12GB of RAM, and the same seven-year OS upgrade guarantee.

If you already own the Pixel 10, in other words, don't feel compelled to upgrade right away. But if you've never bought a Google phone before, the Pixel 11 is a great starting point — particularly when it's paired with an excellent Verizon deal like this one. 

Need more power?

More Google Pixel 11 series deals

What you need to know

• Huawei's Pura X View delivers a wider screen real estate in a non-foldable body.
• Its 96.1% screen-to-body ratio and 1.05mm bezels maximize usable display space.
• Huawei is taking orders through VMall and JD.com ahead of the August 28 retail launch in China.

The all-new Pura X View from Huawei breaks the rules of standard flagship design, a wide, non-foldable smartphone that places pure screen real estate above traditional form factors.

Ahead of its retail debut, the Huawei Pura X View is now up for preorders, but there’s still one big piece missing: the price. The company has opened preorders through its official VMall and JD.com stores, giving buyers an early look at the storage configurations and colors before the phone hits brick and mortar stores on August 28.

Unlike Huawei's foldable phones, the Pura X View has a different take on getting more screen real estate. It's a wide, non-foldable smartphone built around a display that reaches much closer to the edges. Huawei claims the phone has a 96.1% screen-to-body ratio, while the bezels around the panel are just 1.05mm.

Huawei says the Pura X View provides 16% more screen space for watching videos and 21% more for browsing in portrait mode than typical flagship phones. That could make the phone especially attractive for people who spend a lot of time reading, scrolling or watching content on their phones.

There are three storage configurations available for preorder, all paired with 12GB of RAM: 256GB, 512GB, and a 1TB model. Buyers can also opt for red, gray, white, and black.

To reiterate, Huawei hasn’t announced pricing yet. That leaves shoppers ordering the phone without knowing just how much this unusual design will cost. A previous rumor claimed that the Pura X View could arrive at around 7000 yuan, but that is unconfirmed.

Huawei has not even revealed the complete specs of the phone, so there is still a lot we don’t know. It's highly likely the phone won't be sold outside of China anytime soon. The Pura X View is, for now, looking like an experiment in making a traditional smartphone feel more expansive without a hinge.

The preorder period has come to an end, but there are still a few Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold deals hanging around if you know where to look. From trade-in opportunities to free gift cards, keep reading for all of the best Pixel 11 Pro Fold deals on the web (so far).

The long-awaited Pixel 11 Pro Fold comes equipped with the new Tensor G6 processor, 16GB of RAM as standard, and one of the most advanced camera systems ever built into a foldable phone. It's also thinner and lighter than its predecessor while sporting a new reinforced hinge and IP68 durability straight out of the box.

At $1,899 for the 256GB configuration, the Pixel phone is also pretty expensive, which is why the following deals are so essential. Keep reading for the best offers so far, and don't forget to check back later: I'll keep adding new deals to this list as they go live.

Quick links

• The best Google Pixel 11 and Pixel 11 Pro deals
  
• Verizon: Up to $1,100 off with trade-in, new line
• T-Mobile: $900 off with most plans
• Amazon: free $350 gift card with purchase
• Best Buy: free $350 gift card with purchase
• Google Store: Up to $1,000 off with trade-in

Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold deals

FAQ

How much does the Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold cost?

The Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold starts at $1,899 for the 256GB configuration. That's obviously not cheap, but I was delighted to see that the foldable phone didn't receive a price increase this year (unlike some 2026 phones). All Pixel 11 series devices also come with six free months of the Google AI Pro plan.

How does the Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold compare to other foldable phones?

The Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold is being presented as the ultimate multitasking device, coming complete with the new Tensor G6 processor, 16GB of RAM, and useful productivity features like Split Screen and Drag & Drop.

You get two gorgeous Super Actua displays that are 20% brighter than last year's Pixel 10 Pro Fold, plus an upgraded hinge, scratch-resistant glass, and a design that's 10% lighter than the previous generation. The Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold is also equipped with an upgraded battery that's supposed to last up to 30 hours on a single charge.

These are some bold claims from Google, but we'll need to test the phone ourselves before we can attest to their veracity. If they're accurate, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold might be the best foldable phone that the company has ever produced.

Google's latest flagship lineup has finally hit store shelves, and I'm hard at work tracking down the best Pixel 11 deals (and Pixel 11 Pro deals) so you don't have to go searching. Whether you're interested in the base model Pixel 11, the powerful Pixel 11 Pro, or the super-sized Pixel 11 Pro XL, there are already quite a few deals and leftover preorder promotions that could make these AI-powered flagships pretty cheap (or even free) if you play your cards right.

The new generation of Pixel phones takes the stellar foundation of the Google Pixel 10 series and adds a new processor, an upgraded camera system, and a set of stylish new color variants. The Pixel 11 Pro and 11 Pro XL also feature the new HiLight LED system, a fancy light array around the camera bar that's sure to turn heads.

Another bit of good news is that, other than the Pixel 11 Pro XL (which now starts at $1,299), Google's 2026 lineup wasn't hit with a price increase this year. Still, the phones aren't exactly cheap, which is why the following deals are so important. Whether you're looking for a trade-in opportunity or a free gift card, keep reading for all of the best Pixel 11 discounts on the web (so far).

Quick links

• Google Pixel 11 hands-on review
• Google Pixel 11 Pro official review
• The best Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold deals
  
• T-Mobile: FREE Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro with eligible line
• Verizon: FREE Pixel 11 with eligible line
• AT&T: FREE Pixel 11 phones with trade-in, new line
• Amazon: free gift cards worth up to $200
• Best Buy: free gift cards worth up to $200
• Google Store: up to $600 off with trade-in
• Xfinity Mobile: FREE Pixel 11 with trade-in, new line

Google Pixel 11 deals

Google Pixel 11 Pro deals

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL deals

FAQ

How much does the Google Pixel 11 series cost?

The base model Google Pixel 11 is set to retail for $899 / €999, while the Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL will cost $1,099 / €1,199 and $1,299 / €1,399, respectively. The 128GB storage configuration has been removed with the Pixel 11 series, which means all three phones now start with 256GB of onboard storage.

The Google Pixel 11 Pro XL is the only phone in the flagship lineup to receive a price hike this year, selling for $100 more than its predecessor.

Which Google Pixel 11 phone should I choose?

It depends on what you're looking for! If you want something compact and affordable, the base model Google Pixel 11 is a great choice, with a stunning display, Tensor G6 processor, and a seven-year software promise.

If you want the same size but more power, you can upgrade to the Google Pixel 11 Pro and get a brighter display, better cameras, and the new HiLight LED light array. Last but not least, the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL takes the foundation of the Pixel 11 Pro and supersizes it, adding a 6.8-inch display with a larger battery and up to 16GB of RAM. Despite the higher cost, it's a great choice if you like using large phones (consider it Google's answer to the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra).

No matter which device you choose, you're getting a powerful AI-boosted Android phone with an efficient Tensor G6 chipset, at least 12GB of RAM, and seven years of OS and security upgrades guaranteed.

I already own the Pixel 10. Should I upgrade to the Google Pixel 11?

This is always a tough question whenever new phones come out. On the one hand, I'm generally of the opinion that manufacturers don't need to be producing new phones every single year, particularly when most flagship releases come with seven years of OS upgrades as standard.

If you already own the Google Pixel 10, you won't see a massive upgrade with the Pixel 11. I'd only jump to the new phone if you're particularly interested in the latest and greatest Pixel experience.

If, on the other hand, you own an older device and can score a good deal through the channels listed above, then by all means go for it. After all, these phones are sure to rank among the best Android phones ever built, so you won't be disappointed.

What you need to know

• Honor is bucking the slowdown, with shipments jumping 35% in the Middle East even as the overall market fell 13%.
• Honor is also gaining across multiple regions: Shipments climbed 53% in Africa and 15% in Southeast Asia, with strong growth in Malaysia and the Philippines.
• Competitors like Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo suffered double-digit global shipment drops in Q2 due to their heavy exposure to budget segments hit by component costs.

While the smartphone market is getting squeezed from both sides, with weaker demand and rising memory costs, one Chinese phone maker seems to be finding room to grow across some of the industry's toughest markets.

New data from market research firm Omdia finds the Middle East smartphone market fell 13% overall in the first half of 2026, but Honor grew its shipments 35% year-over-year. That raised its market share from 10% to 15%, keeping it in second place for a second consecutive quarter.

Globally, Counterpoint Research says Samsung reclaimed the smartphone lead in Q2 with a 24% share and recorded the strongest year-over-year growth among the top five brands. The Galaxy S26 series, especially the Ultra, helped cushion weaker demand for cheaper phones.

Xiaomi, Oppo and Vivo haven't had such a lucky run. All three saw double-digit shipment declines globally in Q2 due to rising memory costs that have hit their heavier exposure to entry-level and midrange phones, according to Counterpoint. Oppo and Vivo came in fourth and fifth places, while Xiaomi still had 12% of the global share.

Honor’s expansion is not confined to one region. Its shipments rose 53% in Africa in H1, while Southeast Asia grew 15% in a shrinking market. The brand also ranked as the fastest growing major vendor in Malaysia and the Philippines in Q2.

An important exception is Huawei. Counterpoint says its Q2 shipments in China rose 24%, giving it a 23% market share and the top spot. Apple also gained 23% in China, showing that premium phones are holding up better than the broader market.

Honor is also leaning hard into that same premium trend. IDC reported that in Q2 it captured 53% of the foldable market in Malaysia, 67% in Singapore, and an incredible 89% in Hong Kong.

That makes Honor's 9% global H1 shipment growth all the more interesting: it was the only Chinese Android manufacturer among the top brands to post year-over-year growth, according to IDC.

The trick now is to sustain that momentum amid ongoing memory shortages and rising component prices that continue to squeeze the industry.

What you need to know

• Samsung will hold its next Galaxy Event on August 27, where it is expected to unveil the Galaxy S26 FE.
• The Galaxy S26 FE is expected to feature a 6.7-inch 120Hz display and Samsung's Exynos 2500 chipset.
• Leaks point to a 50MP main camera, 3x telephoto lens, 4,900mAh battery, and support for 45W charging.

It's the day the Pixel 11 series officially goes on sale, but Samsung isn't keeping quiet either. The company has confirmed its next Galaxy launch event for August 27, 2026.

Samsung has sent out invites to the media for its "Galaxy Event August 2026." Interestingly, the company isn't calling this one Galaxy Unpacked. Samsung says it will introduce the latest addition to the Galaxy S26 family at the event. While it hasn't officially named the device, all signs point toward the Galaxy S26 FE.

Samsung says the keynote will also be livestreamed for anyone watching from home. You'll be able to catch the event on Samsung's website as well as the company's YouTube channel, with the keynote scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. KST (8 a.m. ET) on August 27.

As with almost every Samsung launch these days, though, there probably isn't much left to surprise us. A massive leak recently gave us our clearest look yet at the Galaxy S26 FE, including what appear to be Samsung's official marketing materials, revealing both the phone's design and most of its specs.

According to those leaks, the Galaxy S26 FE will feature a 6.7-inch FHD+ display with support for up to a 120Hz refresh rate. The phone is expected to be powered by Samsung's Exynos 2500 chipset, the same processor that powered the Galaxy Z Flip 7 last year. It's also expected to come with 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage.

On the back, the Galaxy S26 FE is rumored to feature a triple-camera setup consisting of a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultra-wide, and an 8MP telephoto camera with up to 3x optical zoom. The phone is also expected to pack a 4,900mAh battery, the same capacity as last year's Galaxy S25 FE, along with support for 45W wired charging.

There's no word on pricing just yet. But with the ongoing RAM crisis and memory shortage affecting smartphone makers across the industry, it wouldn't be surprising to see the Galaxy S26 FE arrive at a higher starting price than its predecessor.

Thankfully, we don't have much longer to wait. Samsung's next Galaxy event is just a week away, and if everything points in the direction we expect, the Galaxy S26 FE will finally make its official debut on August 27.