<?xml version="1.0"?>
<rss version="2.0"><channel><title>News: Mobile News</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/?d=2</link><description>News: Mobile News</description><language>en</language><item><title>Google upgrades Android's migration tool to transfer passwords and eSIM from iPhone</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/google-upgrades-androids-migration-tool-to-transfer-passwords-and-esim-from-iphone-r35914/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	The upgraded Android migration tool now transfers your Google Account, saved passwords, Wi-Fi credentials, and even your eSIM from your iPhone.
</h3>

<p>
	Google is using <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/how-to-watch-samsung-unpacked-today-as-galaxy-z-fold8-lineup-and-more-unveiled/" rel="external nofollow">today’s Galaxy Unpacked news cycle</a> to push a more capable way to move from iPhone to Android. The upgraded migration tool now brings over more data types, which should make the switch less annoying for anyone leaving iOS. Samsung’s new foldables are among the first phones getting it, alongside select Pixel devices.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Previously, Android's built-in migration tool covered photos, videos, contacts, messages, and calendar data. The updated version adds several new categories on top of that, including your Google Account, saved passwords, Wi-Fi credentials, and even your eSIM.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Here's how the transfer works:
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<ol>
	<li>
		Make sure both your new Android phone and your old iPhone are turned on and fully charged, then choose to <strong>Set up with an iPhone</strong>.
	</li>
	<li>
		A QR code appears on your new Android phone. Scan it using your old iPhone's camera to pair the two devices.
	</li>
	<li>
		Once paired, select which types of data you want to transfer, and keep both phones side by side until the process finishes.
	</li>
	<li>
		After your data transfers, you'll be prompted to move your eSIM over as well. If your old iPhone doesn't have a transferable eSIM, you can download a new one instead or fall back to a physical SIM card. eSIM transfer availability depends on your phone's brand and carrier.
	</li>
	<li>
		Once this process is completed, and the phone you transferred data to boots up, you’ll be prompted to also transfer WhatsApp messages, which happens as part of a separate process.
	</li>
</ol>

<figure class="image image--expandable">
	<img alt="Transfer iOS to Android" class="ipsImage" height="405" width="720" src="https://cdn.neowin.com/news/images/uploaded/2026/07/1784737769_google_transfer_ios_to_android.webp">
	<figcaption>
		Image: Google
	</figcaption>
</figure>

<p>
	The upgraded migration feature is rolling out now to select Pixel devices, and it'll also be available on <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/galaxy-z-fold-8-ultra-and-galaxy-z-flip-8-announced-with-snapdragon-8-elite-gen-5/" rel="external nofollow">Samsung's new Galaxy Z Flip 8 and Z Fold 8</a>, with support for more Android devices expected soon, although we have no official dates yet.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	You can check the full list of compatible devices on <a href="https://support.google.com/android/answer/13626960?hl=en" rel="external nofollow">Google's support page</a>.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/google-upgrades-androids-migration-tool-to-transfer-passwords-and-esim-from-iphone/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Thursday 23 July 2026 at 7:13 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35914</guid><pubDate>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 21:14:37 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>How does the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra compare with the Galaxy Z Fold 7?</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/how-does-the-galaxy-z-fold-8-ultra-compare-with-the-galaxy-z-fold-7-r35913/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra's base price increased by $100 this year due to the RAM and memory shortage.
</h3>

<figure class="image image--expandable">
	<img alt="Galaxy z fold 8 ultra" class="ipsImage" height="480" width="720" src="https://cdn.neowin.com/news/images/uploaded/2026/07/1784734140_us-galaxy-z-fold8-ultra-f976-600251-sm-f976uzvaxaa-553839126.webp">
	<figcaption>
		<em>Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra - Image via Samsung</em>
	</figcaption>
</figure>

<p>
	Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is Samsung's newest foldable, announced at today's Unpacked event <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/galaxy-z-fold-8-ultra-and-galaxy-z-flip-8-announced-with-snapdragon-8-elite-gen-5/" rel="external nofollow">alongside the Z Flip 8</a>. The phone comes as the successor to the Z Fold 7.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	If you're wondering why the device has an "Ultra" suffix in its name, it's because Samsung also unveiled a new foldable today with a passport-style form factor, marketed as the<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/samsung-unveils-galaxy-z-fold8-heres-how-much-it-costs/" rel="external nofollow"> Galaxy Z Fold 8</a>.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is Samsung's most expensive and highest-end foldable phone so far. It starts at $2,099, which is $100 more expensive than last year's Galaxy Z Fold 7. Let's see how Samsung's newest foldable compares to its predecessor.
</p>

<h3>
	Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs. Galaxy Z Fold 7 specs overview
</h3>

<p>
	Foldable phones cater to a specific niche of users, and their high prices have put them out of reach for many interested buyers. If you've set aside more than $2,000 to buy a flagship smartphone for the first time, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra could be one of the most compelling options to consider.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width:100%">
	<thead>
		<tr>
			<th scope="col">
				Specs
			</th>
			<th scope="col">
				Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra
			</th>
			<th scope="col">
				Galaxy Z Fold 7
			</th>
		</tr>
	</thead>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>
				Display
			</td>
			<td>
				8-inch Dynamic AMOLED (2504 x 2256), 422ppi, 120Hz Adaptive Refresh Rate / 6.5-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED cover display (1080 x 2520), 422ppi 120Hz Adaptive Refresh Rate
			</td>
			<td>
				8-inch Dynamic AMOLED (2184 x 1968) main display, 120Hz refresh rate, 368ppi / 6.5-inch Dynamic AMOLED cover display (2520 x 1080) 422ppi
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
				processor
			</td>
			<td>
				Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
			</td>
			<td>
				Snapdragon 8 Elite
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
				Memory &amp; Storage
			</td>
			<td>
				12/16GB of RAM / 256GB, 512GB, 1TB storage options
			</td>
			<td>
				12/16GB of RAM / 256GB, 512GB, 1TB storage options
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
				Battery &amp; charging
			</td>
			<td>
				5,000mAh / 45W wired / 20W wireless (Qi2.2)
			</td>
			<td>
				4400mAh / 25W wired / 15W wireless
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
				Dimensions / weight
			</td>
			<td>
				<p>
					Unfolded: 158.4 x 143.2 x 4.1 mm
				</p>

				<p>
					 
				</p>

				<p>
					Folded: 158.4 x 72.8 x 8.9 mm
				</p>

				<p>
					 
				</p>

				<p>
					215 g
				</p>
			</td>
			<td>
				<p>
					Unfolded: 158.4 x 143.2 x 4.2 mm
				</p>

				<p>
					 
				</p>

				<p>
					Folded: 158.4 x 72.8 x 8.9 mm
				</p>

				<p>
					 
				</p>

				<p>
					215 g
				</p>
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
				Camera
			</td>
			<td>
				200 MP, f/1.7, 24mm (wide) / 10 MP, f/2.4, 67mm (telephoto) / 50 MP, f/1.9, 120˚ (ultrawide) / 10MP selfie camera
			</td>
			<td>
				200 MP, f/1.7, 24mm (wide) / 10 MP, f/2.4, 67mm (telephoto) / 12 MP, f/2.2, 13mm, 120˚ (ultrawide) / 10MP selfie camera
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
				Price
			</td>
			<td>
				Starts at $2,099
			</td>
			<td>
				Starts at $1,999
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is not a revolutionary upgrade over its predecessor, as Samsung has focused on improving the user experience and refining the design with this generation. Since the device is more expensive than the previous model while offering only moderate improvements, some customers may decide to skip it and wait for future generations of Samsung’s flagship foldable phones.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<em>What do you think about the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra? Would you be willing to spend more than $2,000 on Samsung’s new flagship foldable smartphone? Let us know in the comments. </em>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/how-does-the-galaxy-z-fold-8-ultra-compare-with-the-galaxy-z-fold-7/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Thursday 23 July 2026 at 7:12 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35913</guid><pubDate>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 21:13:23 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Samsung unveils Galaxy Z Fold8, here's how much it costs</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/samsung-unveils-galaxy-z-fold8-heres-how-much-it-costs-r35912/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold8 has been unveiled. This big foldable will cost you at least $1,899, depending on the storage size you choose.
</h3>

<figure class="image image--expandable">
	<img alt="The Galaxy Z Fold8" class="ipsImage" height="480" width="720" src="https://cdn.neowin.com/news/images/uploaded/2026/07/1784728726_fold8.webp">
</figure>

<p>
	We have already covered two of the three new phones from Galaxy Unpacked, you can check out that coverage <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/galaxy-z-fold-8-ultra-and-galaxy-z-flip-8-announced-with-snapdragon-8-elite-gen-5/" rel="external nofollow">here</a>. What we didn’t cover, however, was the new and iconic passport-style Galaxy Z Fold8. Samsung says that the new form factor is designed to help you move easily from quick interactions on the cover screen to “deeper viewing, reading and gaming on the main display.”
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Despite the unusual passport-style design, the Korean phone maker says that the phone uses intuitive display ratios that are designed around how you naturally consume content. Samsung says that this gives you a more immersive experience across activities.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	When the device is folded, the cover screen has a 10:16 ratio. Samsung says this is ideal for those short moments you return to often, such as messaging, social updates, browsing, and short-form video. When unfolded, the main display uses a 4:3 ratio. This larger canvas helps to create a more immersive experience.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<div class="videostyle">
	<video controls="" preload="metadata" data-controller="core.global.core.embeddedvideo">
		<source type="video/mp4" src="https://img.global.news.samsung.com/global/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/22220556/Samsung-Mobile-Galaxy-Unpacked-July-2026-Galaxy-Z-Fold8-Ultra-Galaxy-Z-Fold8-Galaxy-Z-Flip8-A-First-Look_main7.mp4">
	</source></video>
</div>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	When you hold the device rotated, the phone becomes naturally suited to reading, making it more comfortable to get into articles, ebooks, and long-form content without the need for a Kindle.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Not only does Samsung promise a more immersive experience, it also says that this is the lightest Galaxy Z Fold yet. Despite this, it still manages to pack a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform for Galaxy with a larger 4,800 mAh battery. Together, this gives you smooth, responsive performance and lasting power to get you through the day.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	In terms of build, Samsung has opted for Flex Titanium to make the device thinner and maintain durability. The display also supports up to 3,000 nits of brightness, Vision Booster, and a low-reflection display finish; all this helps the screen stay vivid and easy to see, even when outdoors.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The <a href="https://news.samsung.com/global/samsung-galaxy-z-fold8-ultra-fold8-and-flip8foldables-perfected-for-every-way-of-living" rel="external nofollow">Galaxy Z Fold8</a> also features dual 50MP cameras on the rear, giving great detail across wide and ultra-wide perspectives This helps to preserve image quality across different scenes and shooting conditions. On the front of the cover screen there is a 10MP camera, and there is a 10MP camera on the front of the main screen.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	This phone also supports dual recording letting you capture both sides of a moment. It also has My FanCam which auto tracks a selected subject and reframes footage into a preferred aspect ratio, making dynamic scenes into videos ready for social media.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Pricing for this model starts at $1,899 on <a href="https://www.samsung.com/us/smartphones/galaxy-z-fold8/buy/galaxy-z-fold8-256gb-unlocked-sku-sm-f971ulvaxaa/" rel="external nofollow">Samsung.com</a>. It's available in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB configurations in Pistachio, Lavendar, Cream, and Graphite colors.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/samsung-unveils-galaxy-z-fold8-heres-how-much-it-costs/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Thursday 23 July 2026 at 7:11 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35912</guid><pubDate>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 21:12:36 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Samsung unveiled Galaxy Watch 9 and Watch Ultra 2</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/samsung-unveiled-galaxy-watch-9-and-watch-ultra-2-r35911/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	Samsung's new smartwatches come with a price hike this year, though they also include some notable upgrades.
</h3>

<p class="img-center">
	<img alt="galaxy watch ultra 2" class="ipsImage" height="540" width="720" src="https://cdn.neowin.com/news/images/uploaded/2026/07/1784726682_005-samsung-galaxy-watch-ultra2-and-watch9_-your-health-companion-on-the-wrist-newsbody-950x713.webp">
</p>

<p>
	Galaxy Watch 9 and Watch Ultra 2 are the latest generation of Samsung smartwatches, officially unveiled at today’s Unpacked event. These new watches pack a new 3nm chip, larger batteries, and several other upgrades.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 launches as the successor to last year's Galaxy Watch 8. It comes in a 44mm model with a 1.47-inch display and a 40mm variant with a 1.34-inch display. Both screens are Super AMOLED panels with a maximum brightness of up to 3,000 nits. The 44mm model has a 445mAh battery, while the 40mm model packs a 390mAh battery. Both models support Fast Charging.
</p>

<figure class="image image--expandable">
	<img alt="galaxy watch ultra 2" class="ipsImage" height="540" width="720" src="https://cdn.neowin.com/news/images/uploaded/2026/07/1784726689_002-samsung-galaxy-watch-ultra2-and-watch9_-your-health-companion-on-the-wrist-newsbody.webp">
</figure>

<p>
	Watch Ultra 2 also launches in a 47mm variant and packs a 1.52-inch Super AMOLED full-color always-on display with peak brightness of up to 5,000 nits. It comes with an 800mAh battery with support for Fast Charging.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Both watches are powered by the Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset and 2GB of RAM. The Watch 9 has 32GB of internal storage, while the Ultra variant has 64GB. As for the software, all new Samsung watches run Wear OS 7 with One UI 9 Watch. They're also compatible with devices running Android 13.0 or later with more than 1.5GB of RAM.
</p>

<h3>
	Price and availability
</h3>

<p>
	Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is priced at $699. The Galaxy Watch9 also starts at $379 for the Bluetooth model and $429 for the LTE model.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 will be available in Titanium Silver and Titanium Gray. The Galaxy Watch 9 also launches in Graphite, Silver, and Cream. Both watches are available for pre-order in the U.S. starting July 22, with general availability starting August 7.
</p>

<figure class="image image--expandable">
	<img alt="galaxy watch ultra 2" class="ipsImage" height="540" width="720" src="https://cdn.neowin.com/news/images/uploaded/2026/07/1784726697_001-samsung-galaxy-watch-ultra2-and-watch9_-your-health-companion-on-the-wrist-newsbody.webp">
</figure>

<p>
	As for the health monitoring sensors, this year's models feature an AI-powered BioActive Sensor for collecting health data. There's a Vitals feature for tracking vital signs during sleep. Heart health monitoring, Nutrition Alert, daily cardiac workload tracking, Fitness Index, and a hearing health support function are among the other health-related features of the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and Galaxy Watch 9.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Samsung has also promised to release a dedicated app for divers, co-developed with diving equipment manufacturer Mares. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is certified IP69K for water and dust resistance, with a water resistance rating of up to 10 ATM. The Watch 9 offers IP68 certification and a 5 ATM water resistance rating.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/samsung-unveiled-galaxy-watch-9-and-watch-ultra-2/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Thursday 23 July 2026 at 7:10 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35911</guid><pubDate>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 21:11:21 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Samsung unveils intelligent eyewear from Gentle Monster and Warby Parker</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/samsung-unveils-intelligent-eyewear-from-gentle-monster-and-warby-parker-r35910/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	Samsung has unveiled two smart glasses from Gentle Monster and Warby Parker. No pricing or availability were given.
</h3>

<figure class="image image--expandable">
	<img alt="Samsung Glasses" class="ipsImage" height="405" width="720" src="https://cdn.neowin.com/news/images/uploaded/2026/07/1784726752_1.-samsung-brings-galaxy-ecosystem-into-everyday-eyewear_gm.webp">
</figure>

<p>
	Samsung is hosting its Galaxy Unpacked event today in London, and we <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/samsung-sends-out-invites-for-upcoming-unpacked-event-heres-what-we-know/" rel="external nofollow">already knew</a> that it was going to show off phones and watches, but one thing that wasn’t as loudly talked about was glasses. Nevertheless, the company has unveiled its screenless “intelligent eyewear” which it has built with the assistance of Google, Qualcomm, Gentle Monster, and Warby Parker.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	These glasses rely on a Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 Gen1 chip platform, which helps to balance power consumption and thermal control within the glasses’ thin frame. Samsung decided to omit a display, so the processing is just working on voice, touch, and remote gestures. Regarding the battery life, these glasses promise nine hours on a single charge, with up to seven additional full charges from the charging case.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Commenting on the collaboration between Samsung and Google, Sameer Samat, President of Android Ecosystem at Google, <a href="https://news.samsung.com/global/samsung-brings-galaxy-ecosystem-into-everyday-eyewear" rel="external nofollow">said</a><span>:</span>
</p>

<blockquote class="QuoteNewsStyle">
	<p>
		“Google and Samsung have a shared vision to bring helpful and context-aware intelligence into everyday life. Built on the Android XR platform, the intelligent eyewear blends world-class designs with Gemini’s advanced assistance that naturally responds to what you see, delivering all-day, hands-free help. We’re excited to continue this momentum and bring this experience to people soon.”
	</p>
</blockquote>

<p>
	With these glasses, you can summarize long messages, read key information aloud, and get live translations. When prompted, the glasses can also capture what you’re seeing through the built-in camera. For example, if you’re looking at a whiteboard or a meeting discussion, the glasses can help you organize key information in Notes and make it easier to review, share, or follow up on later.
</p>

<figure class="image image--expandable">
	<img alt="Samsung Glasses" class="ipsImage" height="405" width="720" src="https://cdn.neowin.com/news/images/uploaded/2026/07/1784726757_2.-samsung-brings-galaxy-ecosystem-into-everyday-eyewear-wp.webp">
</figure>

<p>
	Another nice use of these glasses is that you can ask for guidance based on your location. You can ask for a route to your destination or ask for information about things around you. If you join a video call with the glasses, then you can show people what you’re seeing through the camera to help communication feel more immediate while staying hands free.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The two models are simply referred to as the Gentle Monster edition and the Warby Parker style. The first features a slim frame in black, paired with a straight upper rim with softly rounded lower edges. The latter features a subtly upswept brow line in a rich brown hue.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Unfortunately, Samsung has not given us any pricing details or availability dates for these glasses.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/samsung-unveils-intelligent-eyewear-from-gentle-monster-and-warby-parker/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Thursday 23 July 2026 at 7:09 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35910</guid><pubDate>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 21:09:54 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and Galaxy Z Flip 8 announced with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/galaxy-z-fold-8-ultra-and-galaxy-z-flip-8-announced-with-snapdragon-8-elite-gen-5-r35909/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	Both devices offer modest upgrades compared to last year's models.
</h3>

<figure class="image image--expandable">
	<img alt="galaxy z fold 8" class="ipsImage" height="480" width="720" src="https://cdn.neowin.com/news/images/uploaded/2026/07/1784726088_h.webp">
</figure>

<p>
	After months of rumors and speculation, Samsung has finally unveiled the latest generation of its foldable devices, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and Galaxy Z Flip 8.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is the successor to the Z Fold 7, and the new "Ultra" suffix comes a Samsung has also unveiled a new foldable phone with a passport-style design and lower specs. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is Samsung's highest-end foldable for 2026.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	For starters, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra has a 6.5-inch outer AMOLED display and an 8-inch inner display, both with a 120Hz refresh rate.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The device packs a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor with 12GB or 16GB of RAM. Users can choose between 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage options. A 5,000mAh battery with 45W charging also powers the device.
</p>

<p class="img-center">
	<img alt="galaxy z fold 8" class="ipsImage" height="480" width="720" src="https://cdn.neowin.com/news/images/uploaded/2026/07/1784726104_9.samsung-galaxy-z-fold8-ultra_camera-specs-872x581.webp">
</p>

<p>
	For the rear camera setup, Samsung has opted for a 200MP wide sensor, a 50MP ultrawide sensor, and a 10MP 3x telephoto camera. A 10MP selfie camera is also there to capture your moments.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Samsung has also pulled back the curtain on the Galaxy Z Flip 8. The device is not a massive departure from last year's model, though it still offers some upgrades. The Z Flip 8 features a 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, as well as a 4.1-inch Super AMOLED outer display.
</p>

<p class="img-center">
	<img alt="galaxy z fold 8" class="ipsImage" height="480" width="720" src="https://cdn.neowin.com/news/images/uploaded/2026/07/1784726097_12.samsung-galaxy-z-flip8_camera_flexcam-872x581.webp">
</p>

<p>
	The device is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processors, accompanied by 12GB of RAM and 256GB or 512GB of internal storage. A 4,300mAh battery with 25W charging is also found under the hood. As for the camera, you get a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide sensor, and a 10MP selfie camera. Both the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and Z Flip 8 launch with Android 17 and One UI 9.
</p>

<h3>
	Price and availability
</h3>

<p>
	The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra will be available in Graphite, Cream, Violet Shadow, and Green Shadow. The Z Flip 8 comes in Cream, Graphite, and Pink.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	As for pricing, Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra starts at $2,099, and the Z Flip 8 base price is $1,199. Pre-orders for Samsung's new foldable phones begin today and the devices will hit store shelves on August 7, 2026.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/galaxy-z-fold-8-ultra-and-galaxy-z-flip-8-announced-with-snapdragon-8-elite-gen-5/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Thursday 23 July 2026 at 7:08 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35909</guid><pubDate>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 21:08:57 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>The latest iOS 27 beta reportedly hints at a dual-battery iPhone</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/the-latest-ios-27-beta-reportedly-hints-at-a-dual-battery-iphone-r35889/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	Apple's foldable iPhone is expected to feature a passport-style design, making a dual-battery configuration possible.
</h3>

<p>
	iPhone Fold is one of the most anticipated devices Apple is expected to unveil this September. So far, we've heard numerous <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/iphone-fold-may-not-go-on-sale-right-after-launch-analyst-suggests/" rel="external nofollow">rumors and reports about Apple's first foldable device</a>, but the latest leak comes from the iOS 27 beta code and hints at a dual-battery iPhone project.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Apple recently <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/ios-27-and-ipados-27-beta-4-is-now-available-to-developers-and-early-testers/" rel="external nofollow">released the iOS 27 beta</a> to developers. A deep dive into the software by Macworld has revealed some interesting references to an iPhone with two internal batteries, which could point to the upcoming iPhone Fold.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The outlet <a href="https://www.macworld.com/article/3195170/ios-27-beta-code-reveals-apple-is-preparing-a-dual-battery-iphone.html" rel="external nofollow">says </a>it found new “Battery Health” strings in the iOS 27 beta that refer to an iPhone with multiple internal batteries. One of the strings reads, "The batteries in this iPhone are performing as expected," while another states, "The health of the batteries in this iPhone has significantly degraded." Another string explicitly mentions that one of the batteries is not verified as a genuine Apple battery.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Fold this September. Realistically, you can not put two batteries in conventional iPhones, although reports suggest <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/iphone-18-pro-and-18-pro-max-are-rumored-to-get-bigger-batteries-this-year/" rel="external nofollow">Apple will increase battery capacity</a> across the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro lineup.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The iPhone Fold, however, is rumored to feature a passport-style foldable design, making a dual-battery configuration much more practical. Moreover, Chinese tipster Digital Chat Station <a href="https://weibo.com/6048569942/R82ilujPp" rel="external nofollow">previously claimed</a> that the iPhone Fold would use a dual-cell battery, with the two cells rated at 1,921mAh and 2,962mAh, respectively. Combined, the foldable iPhone could offer a total battery capacity of 4,883mAh.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	For comparison, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 packs a 4,400mAh battery, while the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold features a 5,015mAh battery. Apple supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has also previously <a href="https://mingchikuo.craft.me/84AOn3Ll8Zah6f" rel="external nofollow">reported </a>that the iPhone Fold will use the same high-density battery cell technology as the ultra-thin iPhone 17.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/the-latest-ios-27-beta-reportedly-hints-at-a-dual-battery-iphone/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Wednesday 22 July 2026 at 7:37 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35889</guid><pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 21:37:57 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>X launches new Android app built from scratch, some features still pending</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/x-launches-new-android-app-built-from-scratch-some-features-still-pending-r35887/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	X has released a brand new version of its app for Android which should make it easier to launch new features faster.
</h3>

<p>
	Over the last year, X has been rebuilding its Android app under the leadership of Head of Product at X, Nikita Bier. Today, the company has finally released that new updated app, promising that it is faster, smoother, and way more reliable.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The company has not yet completed the upgrade, it said that more improvements are to come including hosting <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/twitter-spaces-roll-out-to-users-with-over-600-followers-more-features-coming/" rel="external nofollow">Spaces</a> and performance improvements for older devices. Bier called this the “completion of one of the largest engineering projects in the company’s history.”
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Bier says that the app has been built entirely from scratch so that new features can be built at “lightning speed.” He thanked 11 other engineers who helped him build the app so it seems that the team was around 12 in total, and the development took “well over a year”, according to Bier.
</p>

<div data-oembed-url="https://x.com/X/status/2079275370742677949">
	<blockquote align="center" class="QuoteNewsStyle" data-conversation="none" data-dnt="true">
		<p dir="ltr" lang="en">
			more upgrades to come including hosting Spaces and performance improvements for older devices<br>
			<br>
			feel free to reply with any bugs that you catch <span class="ipsEmoji">👇</span>
		</p>

		<p>
			 
		</p>
		— X (@X) <a href="https://x.com/X/status/2079275370742677949?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="external nofollow">July 20, 2026</a>
	</blockquote>
</div>

<p>
	He admitted that the app still has some rough edges so the team wants feedback from users, however, they are working quickly to bring hosting Spaces and improve the performance on older devices.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Responding to a comment from the public, Bier said that other new features being worked on for the app include React with Video, Video Editor, and Spaces. The app also includes several new features right now including Cashtags, Custom Timelines, and more. Bier also said that when other new features land, they will hit Android before iOS.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	This whole development is great for international users where Android tends to be more widely used than iPhones. For many years, some popular apps have brought new features to iOS first, but by targeting Android users first, X could make itself more appealing to Android users.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<em>Let us know in the comments if you are still using X and what you think of this new update if you’ve received it.</em>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Source: <a href="https://x.com/nikitabier/status/2079273272274026718" rel="external nofollow">Nikita Bier</a>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/x-launches-new-android-app-built-from-scratch-some-features-still-pending/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Tuesday 21 July 2026 at 5:23 pm AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35887</guid><pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 07:23:57 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 Beta 4 is now available to developers and early testers</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/ios-27-and-ipados-27-beta-4-is-now-available-to-developers-and-early-testers-r35875/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	Apples continues to refine Siri AI and other upcoming features in iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 Beta 4. Now available for download.
</h3>

<p>
	Apple has released iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 Beta 4 to registered developers. The new beta arrives two weeks after<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/apple-releases-beta-3-for-ios-27-and-ipados-27-to-developers-and-early-testers/" rel="external nofollow"> Beta 3</a>, and continues to refine the upcoming features and address known issues, ahead of the software’s fall release.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	If you want to download the latest beta, go to <strong>Settings </strong>&gt; <strong>General </strong>&gt; <strong>Software Update </strong>&gt; <strong>Beta Updates</strong>, then choose iOS 27 Developer Beta. You can download iOS betas on more than <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/does-your-iphone-support-the-latest-ios-version-heres-the-ios-27-compatibility-list/" rel="external nofollow">30 supported iPhones</a>.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Some of the more notable additions to the beta cycle are still worth knowing about, if you haven't kept up. For instance, Apple added system-wide support for Sony's PlayStation Access controller across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. Users can build custom input profiles for the adaptive controller directly in Game Controller settings and save them to their device.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Another change introduced earlier in the cycle concerns Apple Intelligence in the Home app, and some users are not going to be happy with it. Namely, using Apple Intelligence camera features in the Home app will require an iCloud+ account of at least 2TB of storage. This is a fairly steep paywall for a feature tied to hardware people already own.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	As for what's actually new in Beta 4, Apple continues to refine Siri AI, security features, first-party apps, and more. Beyond that, this build is largely focused on bug fixes across Siri, CarPlay, Messages, Photos, and Safari. It also includes stability improvements for devices that could previously freeze or panic while sitting idle.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	When it comes to discontinuing features, AirPort Utility will no longer be available for new downloads from the App Store. If you already have it installed, it'll keep working, but Apple doesn’t guarantee it will stay stable for long.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Along with betas for iOS and iPadOS, Apple has also released Beta 4 for macOS 27 Golden Gate, watchOS 27, tvOS 27, and visionOS 27.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	You can read all the changelogs on the <a href="https://developer.apple.com/download/os/" rel="external nofollow">Apple Developer page</a> (requires sign-in with an Apple Developer account).
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/ios-27-and-ipados-27-beta-4-is-now-available-to-developers-and-early-testers/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Tuesday 21 July 2026 at 7:20 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35875</guid><pubDate>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 21:20:42 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Welcome to the end of budget smartphones &#x2014; thanks to AI</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/welcome-to-the-end-of-budget-smartphones-%E2%80%94-thanks-to-ai-r35872/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	Rising RAM and memory prices have significantly eroded profit margins for budget smartphone makers.
</h3>

<p>
	From groceries to gas and electronic devices, everything is becoming more expensive these days. If you’ve been in the market for a smartphone, tablet, or PC, you may have noticed that prices have gone up by a few hundred dollars. The current situation in the market likely has one main culprit, and that’s AI.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Since the launch of ChatGPT in late 2022, every Big Tech company has made AI a top priority by <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/google-is-investing-10-billion-in-hot-ai-startup-anthropic/" rel="external nofollow">pouring billions of dollars</a> into AI-driven solutions and AI agents. These companies are now <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/these-are-the-biggest-ai-data-centers-owned-by-big-tech/" rel="external nofollow">building massive AI data centers</a> to provide the computing power needed for their chatbots.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	These data centers require a significant amount of memory chips, which are mainly supplied by three companies: Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron. Prior to the AI boom, smartphones <a href="https://www.trendforce.com.tw/presscenter/news/20211012-10963.html?" rel="external nofollow">accounted for roughly 40% of global DRAM demand</a>. However, in 2023, Server DRAM's share <a href="https://www.trendforce.com.tw/presscenter/news/20230220-11569.html?" rel="external nofollow">reportedly reached 37.6%</a>, surpassing Mobile DRAM at 36.8%..
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Today, AI companies have <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/microsoft-deepens-sk-hynix-partnership-as-it-seeks-to-reduce-reliance-on-nvidia/" rel="external nofollow">lined up</a> at Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron's doorsteps with cash in hand to buy up their entire production capacity for AI data centers.
</p>

<h3>
	When did the RAM and memory shortage actually begin?
</h3>

<p>
	Consumers might have felt the impact of RAM and memory shortages over the past year. However, the roots of the shortage go back even further. According to a <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/micron-ceo-says-low-price-push-by-customers-fueled-the-memory-shortage/" rel="external nofollow">recent interview with Micron CEO Sanjay Mehrotra</a>, memory manufacturers began cutting back on investments in expanding production capacity in 2023 after some customers pushed for lower prices. Mehrotra said that in 2023, memory prices fell to one-third of what they had been before.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Hence, just as memory chip manufacturers had scaled back their investments in expanding production capacity, the AI boom began. Suddenly, these companies had a new group of customers eager to expand their AI data centers as quickly as possible. And doing so required large volumes of memory chips.
</p>

<figure class="image image--expandable">
	<img alt="Samsungs 9th gen QLC V-NAND memory chips" class="ipsImage" height="405" width="720" src="https://cdn.neowin.com/news/images/uploaded/2024/09/1726127459_9th_gen_qlc_v-nand_1.jpg">
	<figcaption>
		<em>Image via Samsung</em>
	</figcaption>
</figure>

<p>
	Major memory manufacturers now had to meet demand not only from smartphone and PC makers but also from the rapidly growing AI market. However, there was one catch: customers had to be prioritized. In this situation, memory suppliers chose to put AI companies first. Unlike traditional customers, AI firms were not pushing for lower prices and were willing to pay premium prices to secure access to memory chips.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	As a result, the PC and smartphone markets faced memory supply shortages, as the industry's leading memory manufacturers prioritized AI companies over their traditional customers.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	It’s <a href="https://news.mydrivers.com/1/1134/1134013.htm" rel="external nofollow">estimated </a>that in 2026, nearly half of all available DRAM wafers will be used for AI computing, and next year, that share may exceed 60%.
</p>

<h3>
	RAM and memory shortages could spell the end of budget smartphones
</h3>

<p>
	PC and smartphone manufacturers <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/samsung-just-raised-prices-on-many-galaxy-phones-and-tablets-heres-the-full-list/" rel="external nofollow">have raised prices</a> to offset part of the impact of the RAM and memory shortage. Recently, <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/apple-raises-macbook-and-ipad-prices-as-memory-costs-surge/" rel="external nofollow">Apple raised the prices of its Macs and iPads</a> by up to $300, marking one of the biggest price hikes for Apple products in the past decade.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	DRAM prices have risen by as much as 700% since 2022, and they show no signs of slowing yet. It’s estimated that memory costs account for up to 60% of the price of low-end smartphone models, which directly impacts smartphone manufacturers' profit margins.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	However, one of the biggest risks posed by the ongoing RAM and memory shortage is not higher prices, but the disappearance of budget devices from the market. This would make electronic devices far less accessible to many people, particularly users in developing countries and those with lower incomes.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Until recently, people could buy a smartphone with solid hardware and long-term software support for $400 or less. However, these budget-friendly devices are now becoming more expensive, and some manufacturers of affordable smartphones may even stop offering them in certain markets.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	OnePlus <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/oneplus-is-reportedly-planning-to-pull-out-of-the-us-and-european-markets/" rel="external nofollow">announced </a>last week that it’s pulling out of the U.S., Canada, Europe, and India due to market shifts. CMF, Nothing's budget-focused sub-brand, has also <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/nothing-kills-cmf-phone-2-pros-successor-due-to-rising-memory-prices/" rel="external nofollow">confirmed</a> it will not release the Phone 3 Pro in 2026 due to rising memory costs.
</p>

<figure class="image image--expandable">
	<img alt="honor 600" class="ipsImage" height="443" width="720" src="https://cdn.neowin.com/news/images/uploaded/2026/05/1778672949_20260513_125745.webp">
</figure>

<p>
	Chinese manufacturers are generally known for offering competitively priced products, but even they have not been spared from the impact of rising memory prices. In fact, because Chinese OEMs operate with thinner profit margins, they are even more vulnerable to increases in component costs.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	According to an estimate by <a href="https://counterpointresearch.com/en/insights/2026-smartphone-shipment-forecasts-revised-down-as-memory-shortage-drives-bom-costs-up" rel="external nofollow">Counterpoint Research</a>, DRAM price hikes have already increased the bill of materials (BoM) cost of low-end smartphones by 25%, making it much harder for Chinese OEMs to balance market share and profit margins.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://omdia.tech.informa.com/blogs/2026/july/global-smartphones-priced-below-400-dollars-will-decline-by-22percent-as-memory-costs-soar" rel="external nofollow">Research by Omdia also suggests</a> that shipments of smartphones priced below $400 have declined by 22% this year, which is directly related to rising DRAM and NAND prices. Also, memory's share of total costs nearly doubled in the sub-$400 segment in 1Q26 and increased by more than 100% for products priced above $400.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	But things might get even worse. Omdia <a href="https://omdia.tech.informa.com/pr/2026/july/global-smartphone-market-down-4-percent-in-2q26-while-apple-and-samsung-soared" rel="external nofollow">says </a>normal seasonal demand peaks, such as the holiday season, will collide with constrained memory chip supply in the coming quarters, forcing companies to focus on offering higher-priced products while limiting their budget-friendly options.
</p>

<h3>
	Perhaps things will never be the same again
</h3>

<p>
	It remains unclear when the memory market will finally stabilize. What is clear, however, is that as long as AI data centers continue to expand, the market is unlikely to regain its balance.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	One senior Samsung executive has even <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/samsung-expects-ram-shortage-to-continue-in-2027-and-beyond/" rel="external nofollow">warned </a>that the shortage of DRAM and NAND memory could persist through 2027 and potentially well beyond. However, Le Xuan Chiew, Research Manager at Omdia, <a href="https://omdia.tech.informa.com/pr/2026/july/global-smartphone-market-down-4-percent-in-2q26-while-apple-and-samsung-soared" rel="external nofollow">believes </a>memory prices might start to decline in the second half of 2027, though shoppers should probably not expect prices to return to pre-2025 levels.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	To meet the market's rapidly growing demand, memory manufacturers have committed to massive investments in expanding production capacity. Samsung and SK Hynix recently <a href="https://www.thelec.net/news/articleView.html?idxno=11770" rel="external nofollow">announced</a> plans to invest approximately $570 billion to boost production capacity.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	But the problem is that building advanced semiconductor and memory fabrication plants takes years. Even under the most optimistic timeline, these new facilities are not expected to come online until 2029 or 2030.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Some companies, such as Apple, have also sought to source part of their <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/apple-devices-sold-in-china-could-get-in-house-cxmt-chips-report-suggests/" rel="external nofollow">memory supply from Chinese manufacturers</a>. However, the plan has <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/congress-could-ban-apple-from-acquiring-chinese-memory-chips-over-national-security-concerns/" rel="external nofollow">faced political backlash</a> and may ultimately never materialize.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/opinions/welcome-to-the-end-of-budget-smartphones--thanks-to-ai/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Monday 20 July 2026 at 12:30 pm AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35872</guid><pubDate>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 02:30:51 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Google might not kneecap the Pixel 11a with an old processor</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/google-might-not-kneecap-the-pixel-11a-with-an-old-processor-r35852/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	The leak also suggests the Tensor G6 will feature a more reliable MediaTek modem.
</h3>

<p>
	<a href="https://t.me/mysticleaks/191" rel="external nofollow">Mystic Leaks</a> suggests that the Pixel 11a will return to featuring a <a href="https://www.androidheadlines.com/2026/07/google-pixel-11a-hardware-specs-leak-tensor-g6.html" rel="external nofollow">flagship-grade processor</a> with the Tensor G6. Rather than the Tensor G5 found in the <a href="/reviews/772813/google-pixel-10-review" rel="">Pixel 10</a> and <a href="/reviews/766613/google-pixel-10-pro-review-ai-magic-cue-camera-pro-res-zoom" rel="">10 Pro</a>, the <a href="/tech/880400/pixel-10a-hands-on-a-little-too-much-like-pixel-9a" rel="">Pixel 10a</a> shipped with the previous generation Tensor G4. That was a huge disappointment since, typically, the Pixel a lineup kept the modern processor, but cut corners in other places to keep costs down.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The Tensor G6 is rumored to feature the same PowerVR DXT-48-1536 GPU as the G5, but it should still be an improvement over the Mali-G715 in the Tensor G4. The big upgrade is that the G6 moves on from Samsung’s Exynos modems and instead uses a MediaTek M90 modem. That should help with two serious problems that have plagued Tensor chips for a long time — battery drain and dropped signals.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The Pixel 11a is expected to have a slightly smaller battery, 4,870mAh, compared to 5,000mAh, but efficiency improvements from the new processor mean that battery life should remain the same or even improve slightly. The display will still be a 6.3-inch 1080 x 2424 panel with a variable 60 to 120Hz refresh rate. But it will get a bump to a peak brightness of 3,350 nits, up from the 3,000 on the 10a.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.theverge.com/tech/967612/google-pixel-11a-tensor-g6-leak" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Sunday 19 July 2026 at 7:28 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35852</guid><pubDate>Sat, 18 Jul 2026 21:28:41 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>New leak confirms variable aperture support for Apple's iPhone 18 Pro Max</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/new-leak-confirms-variable-aperture-support-for-apples-iphone-18-pro-max-r35837/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	While adding variable aperture to Apple's top-of-the-line iPhone is good news, the feature may make the device even more expensive.
</h3>

<p>
	Apple’s September product event is inching closer, at which the Cupertino-based tech giant is expected to pull back the curtain on the iPhone 18 Pro series and its first foldable iPhone. The latest rumors about the upcoming premium iPhone models hint at variable aperture support for the iPhone 18 Pro Max's main camera.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	This isn’t the first time leakers have suggested that the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max will get a <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/apples-iphone-18-pro-rumored-to-feature-a-teleconverter-as-part-of-camera-upgrade/" rel="external nofollow">variable-aperture lens</a>. However, this time, a deep dive into Apple’s leaked materials following the <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/apple-and-tesla-trade-secrets-reportedly-exposed-following-a-tata-electronics-cyberattack/" rel="external nofollow">Tata Electronics data breach</a> provides more details on the upcoming iPhones' camera specs.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	According to <a href="https://www.notebookcheck.net/Exclusive-Diagnostics-log-confirms-iPhone-18-Pro-Max-camera-specs-ahead-of-launch.1344805.0.html" rel="external nofollow">Notebookcheck</a>, the iPhone 18 Pro Max will feature a Sony IMX905 sensor in its main camera. The sensor will replace the IMX903 variant used on last year’s iPhone 17 Pro Max, while the pixel size remains 1.22 μm.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The ISP diagnostics log seemingly confirms variable aperture support for the iPhone 18 Pro Max's camera, and the feature is “backed by a calibration block that reads actuator data tied to the aperture mechanism from the sensor's non-volatile memory.” The log also suggests that the telephoto, ultrawide, and selfie cameras, as well as the LiDAR receiver on the iPhone 18 Pro Max remain unchanged from last year's model.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	In addition to <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/iphone-18-pro-and-18-pro-max-are-rumored-to-get-bigger-batteries-this-year/" rel="external nofollow">larger batteries</a>, the variable aperture lens might be one of the few upgrades we see in Apple's iPhone 18 Pro series this September. The <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/iphone-18-pro-drop-test-video-and-photos-leak-on-the-dark-web-following-a-data-breach/" rel="external nofollow">leaked images from the Tata Electronics files</a> show that the iPhone design might remain unchanged, though the <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/iphone-18-pro-maxs-larger-battery-reportedly-comes-at-a-cost/" rel="external nofollow">overall thickness might increase slightly</a> to accommodate larger batteries.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The iPhone 18 Pro Max is Apple's most expensive model and is more likely to support variable aperture. It remains to be seen whether the feature will also come to the Pro model.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Meanwhile, previous reports suggest that adding variable aperture lenses to the 2026 iPhones won’t come cheap. The average selling price of variable-aperture lenses <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/iphone-18-pros-variable-aperture-lens-reportedly-costs-50-more-price-hike-expected/" rel="external nofollow">reportedly increased by 50% this year</a>, which might impact the retail price of the iPhone 18 Pro series. After the <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/apple-raises-macbook-and-ipad-prices-as-memory-costs-surge/" rel="external nofollow">recent price hikes for Macs and iPads</a>, the upcoming iPhones could be next to become even more expensive.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/new-leak-confirms-variable-aperture-support-for-apples-iphone-18-pro-max/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Saturday 18 July 2026 at 7:17 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35837</guid><pubDate>Fri, 17 Jul 2026 21:18:28 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>OnePlus is reportedly planning to pull out of the U.S. and European markets</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/oneplus-is-reportedly-planning-to-pull-out-of-the-us-and-european-markets-r35806/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	Parent company Oppo is consolidating OnePlus and Realme into its core brand by bringing ColorOS to all of their devices.
</h3>

<p>
	In the good old days, OnePlus gained a reputation in the smartphone market for its affordable yet powerful devices. At one point, the brand was even called a flagship killer. However, OnePlus is now leaving the U.S. and EU markets and might even shut down its entire operations in the rest of the world.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	According to a report by Bloomberg, citing people familiar with the matter, OnePlus will cease its operations in the United States and Europe as soon as this week. Parent company Oppo is reportedly undergoing a major restructuring, and pulling OnePlus out of the U.S. and European markets is part of that plan.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	OnePlus will remain active in its home market of China, but Bloomberg says the shutdown might expand to other markets, including India, next year. Realme, another subsidiary of Oppo, will also exit the Chinese market.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/samsung-and-apple-lead-the-global-smartphone-market-in-2q26/" rel="external nofollow">latest data</a> shows that Oppo and its subsidiary brands rank fourth in global smartphone shipments in the second quarter of 2026. However, Oppo's market share reportedly declined to 10% this year, down 2 percentage points from last year.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The lack of momentum in the U.S., European, and Indian markets, as well as concerns about Chinese brands selling smartphones in the U.S., are said to be the reasons behind Oppo's decision to pull OnePlus from these markets.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	While OnePlus is leaving the European market, Oppo will reportedly focus its resources on Central Europe and the Nordic region (Finland, Denmark, Sweden, and Iceland).
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Earlier this month, it was <a href="https://www.smartprix.com/bytes/exclusive-oxygenos-and-realme-ui-being-discontinued-ending-a-golden-era/" rel="external nofollow">reported </a>that Oppo is planning to consolidate OnePlus and Realme into its core brand. As part of this, OxygenOS on OnePlus devices and Realme UI will be phased out, and all Oppo, OnePlus, and Realme devices will use ColorOS. Of course, the consolidation actually began in 2021 after Oppo and OnePlus agreed to use a shared software codebase.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	In recent years, OnePlus has shifted its focus <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/oneplus-reveals-five-upcoming-devices-including-the-nord-5/" rel="external nofollow">toward producing more affordable devices</a>. However, the RAM and memory shortage have disrupted those plans as well. Chinese brands generally have thinner profit margins than companies like Apple and Samsung. Thus, rising costs <a href="https://counterpointresearch.com/en/insights/2026-smartphone-shipment-forecasts-revised-down-as-memory-shortage-drives-bom-costs-up" rel="external nofollow">make them even more vulnerable to market shifts</a>.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Source: <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-07-15/oneplus-once-popular-with-tech-fans-to-pull-out-of-us-and-europe" rel="external nofollow">Bloomberg</a>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/oneplus-is-reportedly-planning-to-pull-out-of-the-us-and-european-markets/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Thursday 16 July 2026 at 7:40 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35806</guid><pubDate>Wed, 15 Jul 2026 21:41:22 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Samsung teases the "next evolution" of Galaxy Watch ahead of Galaxy Unpacked</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/samsung-teases-the-next-evolution-of-galaxy-watch-ahead-of-galaxy-unpacked-r35790/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	Samsung has teased an AI-focused Galaxy Watch series, with spec leaks revealing Snapdragon chips, bigger batteries, and a 5,000-nit display.
</h3>

<p>
	As we draw near the July 22nd date for the next Galaxy Unpacked, Samsung has started teasing what it calls the "next evolution" of the Galaxy Watch.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Spoiler alert: Just like with previous models, it will be absolutely jam-packed with AI. According to the Korean tech giant, the new Galaxy Watch represents an "always-on gateway" for tracking how we sleep and move by working continuously in the background:
</p>

<blockquote class="QuoteNewsStyle">
	<p>
		As AI becomes an integral part of daily life, mobile devices serve as the primary entry point for unlocking its full potential. What matters most is how AI can be meaningfully integrated into everyday life, seamlessly, intuitively and in ways that truly offer support. We are focused on bringing these intelligent experiences to our entire ecosystem, with Galaxy Watch playing a critical role as a health-first, always-on gateway for advanced, personalized AI.
	</p>
</blockquote>

<p>
	While Samsung did not directly name the models it will be showcasing, rumors have it that we will see the standard Galaxy Watch 9 in both 40mm and 44mm sizes and a follow-up to 2024's Galaxy Watch Ultra. The 44mm Watch 9, according to leaks, features a 445mAh battery and a 480 x 480-pixel display. The small 40mm version will supposedly come with a smaller 325mAh battery and a 438 x 438-pixel screen.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The premium Watch Ultra 2 will ship with a relatively massive 800mAh battery housed in a durable titanium casing, while its display peaks at an incredibly bright 5,000 nits. For many years, Samsung's Watch models have relied on its own Exynos processors, but it looks like the upcoming generation will pivot to a 3nm Snapdragon Wear Elite chip, maybe because of its great performance (up to 12 TOPS) when it comes to on-device AI processing.
</p>

<figure class="image image--expandable">
	<img alt="Leaked renders of Galaxy Watch 9 models" class="ipsImage" height="405" width="720" src="https://cdn.neowin.com/news/images/uploaded/2026/07/1784022597_samsung-galaxy-watch-9-and-watch-ultra-2-ah-exclusive-featured-1154x649.webp">
	<figcaption>
		<em>Image via <a href="https://www.androidheadlines.com/samsung-galaxy-watch-9" rel="external nofollow">Android Headlines</a></em>
	</figcaption>
</figure>

<p>
	As for the prices, a recent leak showed that the 40mm Wi-Fi Watch 9 will cost €409, the 44mm Wi-Fi version will retail for €439, and the Ultra 2 will sit at €749, a €100 increase over the original Ultra model.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	In case you haven't heard, Samsung has <a href="http://www.neowin.net/news/samsung-will-delete-your-health-data-if-you-dont-let-them-use-it-to-train-ai/" rel="external nofollow">started warning</a> its Health app users that they must accept the new AI training terms and conditions or face the loss of cloud syncing alongside the total deletion of their existing health data stored on company servers. This data includes highly personal information like cycle tracking, medical records, clinical test results, and prescriptions. Human reviewers may read this information to evaluate the AI.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<em>Source: <a href="https://www.samsungmobilepress.com/articles/new-galaxy-watch-ai-powered-health-companion" rel="external nofollow">Samsung Newsroom</a></em>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/samsung-teases-the-next-evolution-of-galaxy-watch-ahead-of-galaxy-unpacked/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Wednesday 15 July 2026 at 7:45 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35790</guid><pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2026 21:45:54 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Six Pixel 11 models listed on FCC ahead of Google's August launch</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/six-pixel-11-models-listed-on-fcc-ahead-of-googles-august-launch-r35766/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	Google Pixel 11 leaks reveal FCC listings for six devices, MediaTek modem switch, satellite messaging support, and an August launch.
</h3>

<p>
	One thing that's pretty consistent in the tech world year after year is the fact that Google's hardware secrets are about as safe as a screen door on a submarine. Every summer, someone forgets a phone in a coffee shop or a retail database leaks the price before the keynote even starts. Now, it appears that almost every Google Pixel 11 model has finished its regulatory rounds on the FCC website.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	According to what's on the FCC's website, the regulatory documents list model numbers GPQQ7, GUJ0N, G7SWN, GBC0H, and G4HCD, plus GZDQ6 for the Pixel 11 Pro Fold. Google might finally dump Samsung's modems for the MediaTek M90 modem. This switch matters because the previous Exynos-based components often overheated or dropped signals. The new modem uses advanced MediaTek algorithms that should maintain a stable connection even in areas where older phones struggled.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Other stuff we can gather from the filings includes the presence of NTN NB IoT support on specific bands like B23 and B255, which confirms that the upcoming phones support satellite-based emergency messaging. Only three of the five listed phones feature Ultra-Wideband (UWB) and Thread support. While all models support 5G mmWave and NFC, the GPQQ7 and GUJ0N models specifically lack the high-frequency UWB components found in the Pro variants.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	We're at least a month away from the official unveiling of Pixel 11 (Google set the "Made by Google" 2026 event for August 12), and we're already drowning in leaks regarding the internal components. The Tensor G6 chip codenamed Malibu supposedly utilizes TSMC's 2nm process to provide better battery life. Leaked Amazon listings suggest that the base storage now starts at 256GB.
</p>

<figure class="image image--expandable">
	<img alt="Google Pixel 11" class="ipsImage" height="720" width="720" src="https://cdn.neowin.com/news/images/uploaded/2026/07/1783973754_pixel-11-amazon-leak-7.webp">
	<figcaption>
		<p>
			<em>Leaked image of the Pixel 11</em>
		</p>

		<p>
			<em>Image via <a href="https://9to5google.com/2026/07/13/this-might-be-the-pixel-11-in-three-colors-gallery/" rel="external nofollow">9To5Google</a></em>
		</p>
	</figcaption>
</figure>

<p>
	Aside from the internals, we also saw a redesigned camera bar that might include an RGB notification strip called Pixel Glow. Some reports suggest it could provide visual cues for Google Assistant, but that hasn't been confirmed. Others <a href="https://9to5google.com/2026/07/12/pixel-11-pro-pine-color-leak/" rel="external nofollow">think </a>it might simply be a flashlight or another camera bar feature. Remember, this is just a leak, so take it with a grain of salt. The Pro models likely use Samsung's latest M16 OLED material to provide higher peak brightness for outdoor use.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The baseline Pixel 11 is expected to start at $899 (up from the $799 debut price of the <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/google-announces-pixel-10-pixel-10-pro-and-pixel-10-pro-xl-with-tensor-g5-soc/" rel="external nofollow">older sibling</a>). Buyers interested in the Pixel 11 Pro should prepare to spend $1,099. The massive Pixel 11 Pro XL likely commands a $1,299 price tag, and the Pixel 11 Pro Fold remains the most expensive option at $1,899.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<em>Source: <a href="https://fccid.io/A4R" rel="external nofollow">FCC</a></em>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/six-pixel-11-models-listed-on-fcc-ahead-of-googles-august-launch/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Tuesday 14 July 2026 at 8:04 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35766</guid><pubDate>Mon, 13 Jul 2026 22:05:05 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Apple and Samsung benefit as memory shortage pushes smartphone shipments to historic lows</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/apple-and-samsung-benefit-as-memory-shortage-pushes-smartphone-shipments-to-historic-lows-r35765/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	The biggest smartphone makers keep on trucking in the face of component shortages and economic uncertainty.
</h3>

<p>
	Smartphone shipments started to plateau a few years back, ending the days of guaranteed double-digit growth for any company that wanted to make phones. Fewer smartphone manufacturers exist today, and they’re facing new pressure in the age of AI. A new report claims that smartphone shipments cratered 11 percent in the last quarter. Some are weathering the storm better than others, though.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://counterpointresearch.com/en/insights/global-smartphone-shipments-q2-2026" rel="external nofollow">According to Counterpoint</a>, this substantial drop brings smartphone shipments to their lowest second-quarter level since 2013. Analysts place the blame for this drop squarely on the <a href="https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2026/01/high-ram-prices-mean-record-setting-profits-for-samsung-and-other-memory-makers/" rel="external nofollow">increasing price</a> of DRAM and NAND chips. Manufacturers have largely shifted to supporting the AI computing boom, which leaves <a href="https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2026/01/the-ram-shortages-silver-lining-less-talk-about-ai-pcs/" rel="external nofollow">fewer components for consumer devices</a> like smartphones and PCs. As prices climb higher, fewer people are interested in buying new phones.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	This problem has been particularly vexing for people who are happy to purchase budget devices. A <a href="https://omdia.tech.informa.com/blogs/2026/july/global-smartphones-priced-below-400-dollars-will-decline-by-22percent-as-memory-costs-soar" rel="external nofollow">recent report</a> from market research firm Omdia noted that higher memory costs are particularly bad for phones priced at $500 or less. In these segments, memory can now easily account for half of the total manufacturing cost. These devices have seen quicker and larger price increases compared to flagship devices, for which memory is now more than a quarter of the cost. That’s a significant increase in the past year, but there’s still more profit to be had at the high end.
</p>

<h2>
	Samsung back at the top
</h2>

<p>
	Most of the top five smartphone makers have seen sales decrease in 2026. Based on Counterpoint’s analysis, that list currently includes Samsung, Apple, Oppo, Vivo, and Xiaomi. While Apple and Samsung shipments have held up, Oppo, Vivo, and Xiaomi are all down in Q2 2026. Apple saw shipments grow by 3 percent last quarter—it managed to keep smartphone prices stable for its current generation as most OEMs resorted to raising prices. That may not hold true when it releases new iPhones in the coming months.
</p>

<figure class="ars-wp-img-shortcode id-2162842 align-fullwidth">
	<div>
		<div class="ars-lightbox">
			<div class="ars-lightbox-item">
				<img alt="2026 Q2 sales comparison" class="ipsImage" decoding="async" height="720" width="720" src="https://cdn.arstechnica.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/f4767e70-7eb6-11f1-afbf-c59e4fc8b4cc-1024x561.png">
				<div class="pswp-caption-content" id="caption-2162842">
					<div class="ars-gallery-caption-credit">
						<em><em>Credit: Counterpoint</em></em>
					</div>
				</div>
			</div>
		</div>
	</div>
</figure>

<p>
	Samsung’s shipments were up as well, once again making it the largest global smartphone OEM by shipments, at 24 percent. Samsung’s focus on flagship phones has apparently helped it even as it raised prices on budget devices. The Galaxy S26 series, and particularly the Ultra variant, have sold better than last year’s models in spite of higher prices. Samsung is also strong in markets like India and the Middle East where lower prices and aggressive promotions have buoyed sales.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	For what it’s worth, <a href="https://omdia.tech.informa.com/pr/2026/july/global-smartphone-market-down-4-percent-in-2q26-while-apple-and-samsung-soared" rel="external nofollow">Omdia is reporting</a> a smaller 4 percent drop for Q2 smartphone shipments, but it, too, shows Samsung and Apple sustaining sales as other OEMs fall. In its report, Omdia puts Samsung at 22 percent of all smartphone shipments, with Apple just behind at 20 percent.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Like other OEMs, Samsung has boosted prices on its mid-range and budget offerings, which has depressed sales. Budget-conscious buyers are just holding onto their current devices longer, taking advantage of a recent shift toward longer update support. Samsung and Google, for example, now support phones for seven years. That’s on par with Apple’s support window.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Speaking of Google, the company’s Pixel phones don’t get it anywhere close to the top five list, but its shipments are still growing at an impressive rate. Counterpoint says Google saw a 16 percent year-over-year increase in Q2 thanks to strong Pixel 10 sales.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Increasingly, it looks like AI hysteria is going to be a watershed moment for smartphone makers. Every analysis (including Counterpoint’s) expects the component shortage to continue at least into next year. Even if AI is a bubble, smartphone makers will probably spend the next year eliminating budget phones with low margins and increasing prices on the models that remain. This will encourage people to treat smartphones more like appliances, purchased less often and with the expectation of lengthy support.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2026/07/apple-and-samsung-benefit-as-memory-shortage-pushes-smartphone-shipments-to-historic-lows/" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Tuesday 14 July 2026 at 8:02 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35765</guid><pubDate>Mon, 13 Jul 2026 22:03:55 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>iPhone 18 Pro Max's larger battery reportedly comes at a cost</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/iphone-18-pro-maxs-larger-battery-reportedly-comes-at-a-cost-r35720/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	The iPhone 18 Pro series might also get a stainless steel vapor chamber for better cooling.
</h3>

<p>
	The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are Apple's newest flagships, set to be unveiled in September this year. The devices are expected to get a slew of upgrades, including larger batteries. However, fitting a larger battery into the iPhone 18 Pro Max's body reportedly comes at a cost.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	This week, a 3C certification <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/iphone-18-pro-and-18-pro-max-are-rumored-to-get-bigger-batteries-this-year/" rel="external nofollow">leaked by a Chinese tipster</a> revealed the alleged battery capacities of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Accordingly, the iPhone 18 Pro Max for the U.S. market is listed with a 5567mAh battery, which is quite a notable bump compared to the iPhone 17 Pro Max's 5088mAh battery.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Now, <a href="https://weibo.com/5673255066/R7SFuF16r" rel="external nofollow">Ice Universe on Weibo</a> claims that the iPhone 18 Pro Max's larger battery could increase the device's weight and thickness. The leaker says the iPhone 18 Pro Max will weigh 240 grams and be 9mm thick. In comparison, the iPhone 17 Pro Max weighed 233 grams and measured 8.75mm thick.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/iphone-18-pro-drop-test-video-and-photos-leak-on-the-dark-web-following-a-data-breach/" rel="external nofollow">drop-test video leaked after the Tata Electronics data breach</a> gave us a first look at the thickness of the iPhone 18 Pro or iPhone 18 Pro Max. In that video, the device appeared to be noticeably thicker than its predecessor.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	At 240 grams and 9mm thick, the iPhone 18 Pro Max will be on par with the iPhone 13 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro Max in terms of weight. It will also be the thickest iPhone Apple has introduced since the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S (9.3mm).
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	So far, the larger battery appears to be the main reason for the increase in the thickness and weight of the iPhone 18 Pro models. However, a previous report by Chinese leaker <a href="https://weibo.com/6048569942/Q4WIggihJ" rel="external nofollow">Digital Chat Station suggested</a> that Apple plans to use a stainless steel vapor chamber cooling system in the iPhone 18 Pro series, which might also make the devices thicker and heavier.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/iphone-18-pro-maxs-larger-battery-reportedly-comes-at-a-cost/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Friday 10 July 2026 at 8:08 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35720</guid><pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2026 22:09:21 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>WhatsApp wants to be your new birthday reminder app</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/whatsapp-wants-to-be-your-new-birthday-reminder-app-r35719/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	WhatsApp is introducing a feature that will notify you when a contact's birthday is coming up. The feature is currently in beta on Android.
</h3>

<p>
	Back in the golden days of Facebook, birthdays were a big thing. You couldn’t wait for your birthday to come, not because you’d see people who are close to you in person and receive gifts, but because your wall would get populated with best wishes by a good chunk of your friends list.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	However, as the platform changed and generations moved away from the platform, the tradition of writing on someone’s wall for their birthday has died down. But it looks like Meta is looking to bring that tradition back, only not on Facebook, but this time on WhatsApp.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	WhatsApp is developing a feature that will notify users when it's a contact's birthday. The addition was spotted in the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.27.3, available now on the Google Play Store. The feature is still in early development, so we don’t know the official release timeline yet.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The feature works through a dedicated section where users can see a list of upcoming birthdays from their contacts. When one of those dates arrives, WhatsApp sends an in-app notification as a reminder. And given how many people already use WhatsApp to send birthday messages in the first place, a built-in reminder makes sense.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The birthday reminders are tied to a separate feature that WhatsApp is also testing. That feature is age verification, which is supposed to confirm a user meets the minimum age required by law, but also collect their birthday info in the process. So, if a contact never entered their birth year, there's simply no data for WhatsApp to work with, so the reminder feature depends heavily on adoption of that earlier system.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Meta has been going aggressive when it comes to WhatsApp data collection, with<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/whatsapp-is-getting-usernames-and-you-can-reserve-your-preferred-one-now/" rel="external nofollow"> the introduction of usernames</a> being far the biggest change. So, it’s normal that people are now concerned about privacy. While <a href="https://www.neowin.net/reports/can-anybody-message-you-on-whatsapp-if-they-know-your-username/" rel="external nofollow">WhatsApp implemented security measures for usernames</a>, there are no such controls for birth year visibility yet. To be fair, it's possible WhatsApp adds that option before launch, since the feature is still early, but nothing as it exists in the current beta.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	For now, this remains an Android-only feature in testing, with WhatsApp saying it'll share more once the birthday section gets closer to a wider release.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Via: <a href="https://wabetainfo.com/whatsapp-is-testing-birthday-notifications-for-contacts-on-android/" rel="external nofollow">WABetaInfo</a>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/whatsapp-wants-to-be-your-new-birthday-reminder-app/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Friday 10 July 2026 at 8:07 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35719</guid><pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2026 22:08:17 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Samsung will launch its new wide foldable on July 22nd</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/samsung-will-launch-its-new-wide-foldable-on-july-22nd-r35698/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	The Galaxy Unpacked invite teases a new shape for Samsung’s foldable phones.
</h3>

<div class="ipsEmbeddedVideo" contenteditable="false">
	<div>
		<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="113" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/NFbBXMVwvaY?feature=oembed" title="[Invitation] Galaxy Unpacked July 2026: A New Shape Unfolds" width="200"></iframe>
	</div>
</div>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Samsung has <a href="https://news.samsung.com/global/invitation-galaxy-unpacked-july-2026-a-new-shape-unfolds" rel="external nofollow" target="_blank">announced</a> that its next Galaxy Unpacked launch event will be held on July 22nd, with the tagline: “A new shape unfolds.”
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	It’s long been rumored that Samsung is about to expand its foldable phone line to a <a href="/tech/959372/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-wide-image-leaks" rel="">third format</a>, with a shorter and wider version of its big book-style foldables, to match <a href="/tech/914807/huawei-pura-x-max-launch-price-specs-availability" rel="">Huawei’s Pura X Max</a> and <a href="/tech/907856/iphone-fold-dummy-design-delay-production" rel="">Apple’s expected foldable iPhone</a>. Today’s announcement adds to that impression, showing a tall ticket with the stub torn off, leaving it shorter than before.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Alongside the wider foldable, Samsung is expected to announce updated versions of its existing Flip and Fold phones, with the latter potentially rebranded to the Z Fold 8 Ultra to differentiate it from the new form factor. <a href="/tech/955599/samsungs-new-watches-might-look-just-like-its-old-watches" rel="">New Galaxy Watches are likely too</a>, with potential updates to both the mainline Galaxy Watch and the more premium Ultra model.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Galaxy Unpacked will be held in London, UK, kicking off at 9am ET on July 22nd.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.theverge.com/tech/962658/samsung-galaxy-unpacked-wide-foldable-watch-july" rel="external nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Wednesday 8 July 2026 at 6:19 pm AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35698</guid><pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 08:21:44 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Google&#x2019;s Pixel 11 launch event is set for August 12, with possible price increases</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/google%E2%80%99s-pixel-11-launch-event-is-set-for-august-12-with-possible-price-increases-r35689/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	Google’s new phones could feature glowing LEDs and higher price tags.
</h3>

<p>
	Google has announced its next Made By Google event, taking place on August 12 in New York City. Google’s invite doesn’t name names, but the imagery clearly shows a new Pixel phone that looks a whole lot like last year’s phone. Some new rumors, however, suggest the updated phones will come with inflated price tags courtesy of the <a href="https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2026/01/high-ram-prices-mean-record-setting-profits-for-samsung-and-other-memory-makers/" rel="external nofollow">AI-driven component shortage</a>.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The sleek lines of the phone in the teaser image are a dead ringer for Google’s last few Pixel phones, and that matches some early rumors. Google’s new phones will have similar shapes, with the Pro and Pro Fold models perhaps shaving off a little thickness. The most notable design change will probably be the rumored “Pixel Glow” lights, a rear-facing notification and status light.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.androidauthority.com/google-pixel-11-storage-colors-price-leak-3684868/" rel="external nofollow">Recent reports</a> claim that Google is finally doing away with the base 128GB storage option for the smaller phones. In 2025, both the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro started at 128GB of storage, a bit lacking for a modern flagship device at a time when people don’t upgrade as often. Google will reportedly move to 256GB as the base storage for both phones.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The leaks also include alleged pricing for the European market, but that’s offset by the higher (by 100 euros) base storage for the Pixel 11 and Pixel 11 Pro, which will apparently start at 999 and 1,199 euros, respectively. That’s the same as the 256GB upgrades last year, but there won’t be a cheaper storage option this time around. The Pixel 11 Pro XL and Pixel 11 Pro Fold are also getting 100 euros more expensive at the base 256GB level, making it a straight price increase.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	If Google’s pricing conversion strategy holds, we can expect the Pixel 11 in the US to start at $899, which is $100 more than last year. The Pixel 11 Pro should clock in at $1,099. The Pixel 11 Pro XL could start at a hefty $1,299 if the pattern holds. As for the top-of-the-line foldable, that could hit an eye-watering $1,899, but that should still be a little cheaper than Samsung’s flagship foldables.
</p>

<figure class="ars-wp-img-shortcode id-2114349 align-fullwidth">
	<div>
		<div class="ars-lightbox">
			<div class="ars-lightbox-item">
				<img alt="Pixel 10 back all" class="ipsImage" decoding="async" height="720" width="720" src="https://cdn.arstechnica.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Google-Pixel-10-7-1024x576.jpg">
				<div class="pswp-caption-content" id="caption-2114349">
					<em>The Pixel 10 series included three flat phones, and the sizes will probably be unchanged for the Pixel 11. </em>

					<div class="ars-gallery-caption-credit">
						<em><em>Credit: Ryan Whitwam </em></em>
					</div>
					<em> </em>
				</div>
			</div>
		</div>
	</div>
</figure>

<p>
	We were only beginning to see the full impact of the AI infrastructure hype train in 2025 when Google released the <a href="https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/08/google-pixel-10-series-review-dont-call-it-an-android/" rel="external nofollow">Pixel 10 series</a>. Things are different in 2026, though, with numerous brands <a href="https://arstechnica.com/apple/2026/06/apple-ratchets-up-prices-blames-the-cost-of-memory/" rel="external nofollow">announcing price increases</a>. So rumors of a Pixel price bump certainly ring true.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Google will likely also reveal the Pixel Watch 5, and again, you should not expect any major design changes. Every Pixel Watch generation has looked nearly identical, with the addition of a 45mm option in gen-three being the most notable change. The new wearable may move to a Google-designed Tensor chip instead of Qualcomm Snapdragon, and that transition for Google’s phones was a bit rough. Time will tell if Tensor can provide enough power in a wearable without draining the battery.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The only change from last year’s Made By Google event is that all the action happens in the evening—the reveal will start at 6 pm ET on August 12.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2026/07/googles-pixel-11-launch-event-is-set-for-august-12-with-possible-price-increases/" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Wednesday 8 July 2026 at 7:29 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35689</guid><pubDate>Tue, 07 Jul 2026 21:30:16 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Apple releases Beta 3 for iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 to developers and early testers</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/apple-releases-beta-3-for-ios-27-and-ipados-27-to-developers-and-early-testers-r35675/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	Beta 3 for iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 brings more Apple Intelligence features across the system, fixes known issues, and brings new ones.
</h3>

<p>
	Apple has released iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 Beta 3 (build 24A5380h) to registered developers. The new update arrives two weeks after<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/apple-releases-ios-27-beta-2-for-developers-and-power-users/" rel="external nofollow"> the second beta</a>, and continues to refine Apple’s upcoming operating systems, which are set to arrive this fall.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	If you want to download the latest beta, go to <strong>Settings </strong>&gt; <strong>General</strong> &gt; <strong>Software Update</strong> &gt; <strong>Beta Updates</strong>, then choose iOS 27 Developer Beta. You can download iOS betas on <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/does-your-iphone-support-the-latest-ios-version-heres-the-ios-27-compatibility-list/" rel="external nofollow">more than 30 supported iPhones</a>.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	This beta brings a fix for one of the more serious bugs floating around in earlier builds. Devices with a deeply discharged battery were getting stuck on the red dead battery icon indefinitely. Testers would need to reboot their devices or unplug and replug the charger to recover. That’s resolved now.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	When it comes to new features, Beta 3 continues to integrate Apple Intelligence across the OS. New features have landed in Photos, Safari, Shortcuts, Wallet, and Passwords, and Apple has also introduced a standalone Siri app that keeps a history of your conversations.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Write with Siri is now available system-wide, so you can draft a few lines from almost anywhere. Visual Intelligence now lives inside the Camera app, and Dictation gets a new on-device model, which should improve its accuracy. Besides these, the new beta brings dozens of new smaller updates and improvements.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	As usual with Beta updates, this one carries an extensive list of known issues, as well. As Siri is getting the biggest overhaul in iOS 27, it also carries the most issues in betas. Developers installing Beta 3 will have to deal with everything from misidentifying contacts with similar names, to slower response times in CarPlay under heavy load or poor signal.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Along with betas for iOS and iPadOS, Apple has also released new betas for other products, including <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/does-your-mac-support-the-latest-macos-here-is-the-macos-27-golden-gate-compatibility-list/" rel="external nofollow">macOS 27 Golden Gate</a>, <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/is-your-apple-watch-supported-check-the-watchos-27-compatibility-list/" rel="external nofollow">watchOS 27</a>, tvOS 27, and visionOS 27.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	You can read all the changelogs on <a href="https://developer.apple.com/download/os/" rel="external nofollow">the Apple Developer page</a> (requires sign-in with an Apple Developer account).
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/apple-releases-beta-3-for-ios-27-and-ipados-27-to-developers-and-early-testers/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Tuesday 7 July 2026 at 8:30 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35675</guid><pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:30:50 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are rumored to get bigger batteries this year</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/iphone-18-pro-and-18-pro-max-are-rumored-to-get-bigger-batteries-this-year-r35674/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	The iPhone 18 Pro Max's battery for the U.S. market could get a roughly 500mAh bump compared to its predecessor.
</h3>

<p>
	As we’re getting closer to Apple’s September event, more rumors about the upcoming iPhone 18 series are appearing online. The latest rumors stem from a 3C certification for Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max that allegedly reveals the devices' battery capacities.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The information found in the 3C certification hints at bigger batteries for this year’s iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Accordingly, the iPhone 18 Pro for the Chinese market is listed with a 4056mAh battery, while the U.S. version has a 4288mAh battery. In comparison, last year’s iPhone 17 Pro for the Chinese market had a 3988mAh battery, while the U.S. version featured a 4252mAh battery.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Also, the iPhone 18 Pro Max (Chinese version) is listed with a 5391mAh battery, marking a notable increase from the iPhone 17 Pro Max's 4823mAh capacity. As for the U.S. market, the iPhone 18 Pro Max reportedly gets a 5567mAh battery, compared to the 5088mAh battery found in the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Increasing battery capacity is good news for users, especially in a market where <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/this-chinese-company-is-reportedly-developing-a-feature-apple-and-samsung-can-only-dream-of/" rel="external nofollow">Chinese brands are introducing ridiculously large batteries</a> in their devices. However, a bigger battery could also mean the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will become thicker and heavier. Newly <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/iphone-18-pro-drop-test-video-and-photos-leak-on-the-dark-web-following-a-data-breach/" rel="external nofollow">leaked images and videos from Apple's factory in India</a> could confirm these speculations.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will debut this September alongside <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/iphone-fold-may-not-go-on-sale-right-after-launch-analyst-suggests/" rel="external nofollow">Apple's first foldable iPhone</a>. As for the design, the devices are unlikely to get a major makeover, and Apple is expected to maintain the same familiar look, though <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/heres-first-look-at-the-iphone-18-colors-including-the-all-new-dark-cherry/" rel="external nofollow">new colors might be added to the lineup</a>. A 2nm A20 Pro chip and a new <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/iphone-18-pros-variable-aperture-lens-reportedly-costs-50-more-price-hike-expected/" rel="external nofollow">camera system with a variable aperture lens</a> are other rumored upgrades for the 18 Pro series.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	But the biggest controversy surrounding the upcoming iPhones is pricing. After <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/apple-raises-macbook-and-ipad-prices-as-memory-costs-surge/" rel="external nofollow">Apple raised the prices of some Mac and iPad models</a> by up to $200, customers are expecting a price hike for the iPhone 18 series. <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/this-is-how-much-iphone-18-pro-could-cost-after-apples-price-hike-confirmed/" rel="external nofollow">Estimates suggest</a> the iPhone 18 Pro's starting price could soar to $1,399.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Source: <a href="http://m.weibo.cn/detail/5316883085788374" rel="external nofollow">Weibo</a>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/iphone-18-pro-and-18-pro-max-are-rumored-to-get-bigger-batteries-this-year/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Tuesday 7 July 2026 at 8:29 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35674</guid><pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:30:08 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>iPhone Fold may not go on sale right after launch, analyst suggests</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/iphone-fold-may-not-go-on-sale-right-after-launch-analyst-suggests-r35670/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	The iPhone Fold will reportedly cost between $2,300 and $2,500, while delivery times may stretch to 4-6 weeks.
</h3>

<p>
	iPhone Fold is one of the most anticipated devices of the year and is expected to launch this September alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series. However, if you're planning to buy one after launch, the bad news is that you might have to wait until the end of the year to get your hands on Apple's first foldable iPhone.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo <a href="https://x.com/mingchikuo/status/2073770705905123705" rel="external nofollow">said </a>in a recent post on X that the iPhone Fold will have a limited supply after launch, with Apple planning to ship roughly 8 million units in the second half of the year.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Kuo added that roughly 1 million units of the iPhone Fold will hit the shelves in the third quarter. In comparison, up to 22 million units of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will be available to buyers during the same period.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	It seems that Apple is repeating its iPhone X playbook with the iPhone Fold, meaning <a href="https://www.neowin.net/reports/report-iphone-fold-will-be-thinner-than-expected-launching-in-fall-2026/" rel="external nofollow">the device will be unveiled in September</a>, but pre-orders and sales will start later. Kuo says the foldable iPhone may not be available for pre-orders or officially go on sale until Q4 2026, and delivery times could be four to six weeks or even longer.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Kuo suggests that the iPhone Fold's limited supply after launch stems from its innovative features, which make it more challenging to manufacture. Previous reports have <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/these-two-key-features-will-set-apart-apples-foldable-iphone-from-its-competition/" rel="external nofollow">hinted at a crease-free display</a> for Apple's first foldable iPhone, while more recent reports say <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/apple-is-reportedly-struggling-with-iphone-fold-hinges/" rel="external nofollow">Apple is struggling with the device's hinge design</a>.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	At a price between $2,300 and $2,500, Kuo expects the iPhone Fold to sell out immediately after launch. However, the best time to assess the true demand for Apple's first foldable will be in late 2026 or the first quarter of 2027, when production challenges and supply chain constraints are expected to ease, and the initial excitement surrounding the device has settled.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Apple has recently <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/apple-raises-macbook-and-ipad-prices-as-memory-costs-surge/" rel="external nofollow">raised the prices of iPad and Mac models</a>, though iPhones have not yet been affected. However, CEO Tim Cook has already <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/apple-ceo-tim-cook-confirms-looming-price-hikes-due-to-memory-shortages/" rel="external nofollow">said price hikes are unavoidable</a>, and the iPhones due to be unveiled this September, including the foldable iPhone, may not be immune.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/iphone-fold-may-not-go-on-sale-right-after-launch-analyst-suggests/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Monday 6 July 2026 at 6:17 pm AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35670</guid><pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:17:58 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>This is how much the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series is expected to cost in the EU</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/this-is-how-much-the-galaxy-z-fold-8-series-is-expected-to-cost-in-the-eu-r35650/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra with 1TB of storage is expected to see the biggest price increase.
</h3>

<p>
	Samsung is reportedly preparing to hold its second Unpacked event of the year on July 22 to pull back the curtain on the latest generation of its foldable phones. The lineup includes the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Galaxy Z Flip 8. The company will also unveil the Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 LTE at the upcoming event.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Before Samsung officially announces its devices, the folks at <a href="https://winfuture.de/news,159751.html" rel="external nofollow">WinFuture </a>have revealed some leaked information how much the <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-8-flip-8-z-fold-wide-everything-you-need-to-know/" rel="external nofollow">Galaxy Z Fold 8 series</a> will reportedly cost in the EU. To no one's surprise, Samsung's 2026 foldables are expected to be hit by inflation and will reportedly get a price hike due to the current memory and RAM shortage. Samsung also <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/samsung-just-raised-prices-on-many-galaxy-phones-and-tablets-heres-the-full-list/" rel="external nofollow">raised the prices of some of its phones and tablets in April</a>.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The price hike for the upcoming Samsung foldables ranges from €100 to €280, depending on the model and storage option. Here's the alleged pricing of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series in the EU:
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<ul>
	<li>
		Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra (256 GB) = €2,199 (+€100)
	</li>
	<li>
		Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra (512 GB) = €2,399 (+€180)
	</li>
	<li>
		Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra (1TB) = €2,799 (+€280)
	</li>
	<li>
		Galaxy Z Fold 8 (256GB) = €1,999
	</li>
	<li>
		Galaxy Z Fold8 Wide (512 GB) = €2,199
	</li>
	<li>
		Galaxy Z Fold8 Wide (1TB) = €2,599
	</li>
	<li>
		Galaxy Z Flip8 (256 GB): €1,299 (+€100)
	</li>
	<li>
		Galaxy Z Flip8 (512 GB): €1,499 (+€180)
	</li>
</ul>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The leaker has also revealed the alleged pricing of Samsung’s upcoming smartwatches:
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<ul>
	<li>
		Galaxy Watch9 40 mm BT = €409 (+€40)
	</li>
	<li>
		Galaxy Watch9 40 mm LTE = €459 (+€50)
	</li>
	<li>
		Galaxy Watch9 44 mm BT = €439 (+€30)
	</li>
	<li>
		Galaxy Watch9 44 mm LTE = €489 (+€30)
	</li>
	<li>
		Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 LTE = €749 (+€50)
	</li>
</ul>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is the successor to last year's Galaxy Z Fold 7, while the regular Galaxy Z Fold 8 adopts a new passport-style form factor. It reportedly features a smaller cover screen and two rear cameras, which explains the price difference compared to the Ultra version.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/this-is-how-much-the-galaxy-z-fold-8-series-is-expected-to-cost-in-the-eu/" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Saturday 4 July 2026 at 9:08 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35650</guid><pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 23:09:19 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>iPhone 18 Pro drop-test video and photos leak on the dark web following a data breach</title><link>https://nsaneforums.com/news/mobile-news/iphone-18-pro-drop-test-video-and-photos-leak-on-the-dark-web-following-a-data-breach-r35612/</link><description><![CDATA[<h3>
	The leaked data is classified as sensitive by Apple, and the company is concerned about it being shared on the dark web.
</h3>

<p>
	Apple is seemingly facing one of the biggest data breaches in its history, and just a few months before the official debut of the iPhone 18 Pro series, photos, a drop-test video, a supplier list, and key phone components have reportedly been leaked by hackers.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Last week, we reported that Tata Electronics, an Apple supplier and iPhone producer in India, <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/apple-and-tesla-trade-secrets-reportedly-exposed-following-a-tata-electronics-cyberattack/" rel="external nofollow">was hit by a data breach</a>. As a result, it was reported that more than 200,000 trade secrets and confidential documents belonging to Apple and Tesla were stolen by the ransomware group World Leaks. According to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/apple-iphone-18-pro-supplier-list-parts-photos-exposed-tata-data-leak-2026-06-29/" rel="external nofollow">Reuters</a>, the group has now leaked supplier lists, component details, and photos of the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro models on the dark web.
</p>

<div data-oembed-url="https://x.com/UniverseIce/status/2071801062210859079">
	<blockquote align="center" class="QuoteNewsStyle" data-dnt="true">
		<p dir="ltr" lang="en">
			This is easily the biggest leak in Apple's history.<br>
			You're looking at the drop test of the iPhone 18 Pro.<br>
			Durability seems solid, but it's still surprisingly thick, and the weight remains a concern. The new color looks pretty good, though.<br>
			The real star this year is the iPhone… <a href="https://t.co/0GyJZ5CxaB" rel="external nofollow">pic.twitter.com/0GyJZ5CxaB</a>
		</p>

		<p>
			 
		</p>
		— Ice Universe (@UniverseIce) <a href="https://x.com/UniverseIce/status/2071801062210859079?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="external nofollow">June 30, 2026</a>
	</blockquote>
</div>

<p>
	One of the materials <a href="https://x.com/evleaks/status/2071681836237901887" rel="external nofollow">leaked </a>by the hackers is a drop-test video of the <a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/this-is-how-much-iphone-18-pro-could-cost-after-apples-price-hike-confirmed/" rel="external nofollow">iPhone 18 Pro</a>, which is due to launch this September. The phone is shown in a gray color and has the same familiar design we saw on last year's iPhone 17 Pro series. The device also appears to be quite durable, though it seems to be thicker than last year's model. One possible explanation is that Apple may be using a larger battery in the iPhone 18 Pro series.
</p>

<figure class="image image--expandable">
	<img alt="iphone 18 droptest" class="ipsImage" height="405" width="720" src="https://cdn.neowin.com/news/images/uploaded/2026/06/1782813472_iphone-18-pro-drop-test.webp">
</figure>

<p>
	Moreover, Reuters says it has seen at least six documents mapping many components in the iPhone 18 Pro models to their respective suppliers, including details on chips on the main circuit board and on battery and camera components. The documents reportedly detail hundreds of parts that will be used in the iPhone 18 Pro models.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	A person familiar with the matter told the outlet that Apple classifies this data as sensitive and “is concerned about the documents being shared on the dark web as they relate to unreleased models.” Apple is reportedly investigating the issue but has yet to issue an official statement.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<em><strong>Update</strong>: The Tweet was removed, but we uploaded a still from the video.</em>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	<a href="https://www.neowin.net/news/iphone-18-pro-drop-test-video-and-photos-leak-on-the-dark-web-following-a-data-breach/?utm_source=rss" rel="external nofollow">Source</a>
</p>

<hr class="ipsHr">
<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Hope you enjoyed this news post. Feedback welcome.</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>Posted Wednesday 1 July 2026 at 8:07 am AEST (my time).</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><em>News posts: 2023 5,800+ | 2024 5,700+ | 2025 5,700+ | 2026 (to end of June) 2,475</em></span>
</p>

<p>
	<strong><span style="font-size:12px;"><a href="https://nsaneforums.com/topic/459202-remember-matrix/" rel="">RIP Matrix</a></span></strong>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">35612</guid><pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2026 22:08:29 +0000</pubDate></item></channel></rss>
