What you need to know

• Google extends free Satellite SOS by one year for Pixel 9 owners, with no additional charge.
• Satellite SOS launched in 2024 and lets users contact emergency services and share their location without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage.
• Regional availability varies, so the feature may not be accessible everywhere.

Google is giving Pixel 9 owners another year of free Satellite SOS access, pushing back the question of whether emergency satellite connectivity will eventually become another smartphone subscription. The extension comes just as the original two-year free-access period approaches its end, offering some welcome breathing room without answering the bigger question about long-term costs.

Google confirmed the expansion to PCMag when asked about plans for the service. “Confirming that we’ve extended this offering, at no additional cost, for one additional year,” a company spokesperson said, adding that Google had no further details to share.

Satellite SOS launched with the Pixel 9 series in 2024. For those unfamiliar, it lets users contact emergency services and send their location when there are no cellular networks or Wi-Fi available, making it particularly useful for hikers, travelers, and anyone involved in an emergency in an area with poor coverage.

The feature makes use of satellite connectivity hardware built into compatible Pixel phones, including Google’s Tensor G4 chip, which contains the Exynos 5400 modem. Users position their phone toward a satellite and send emergency messages following on-screen instructions, instead of using nearby cell towers. It’s the kind of feature you hope you never need, but you’re glad it’s there if things go sideways.

That said, Satellite SOS is not available on all Pixel phones. The Pixel 9a is excluded, while supported devices include the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Additionally, availability is also dependent on the region.

The extra year is good news, but what happens next is a rather important detail that Google is keeping quiet about. The company hasn’t announced subscription pricing or confirmed whether the service will eventually be a paid offering. It has also continued to refer in its published specifications to the original period of two years.

For now, Pixel 9 owners can continue using Satellite SOS at no extra charge for another year. What happens next is anybody’s guess, and Google still owes customers a clearer answer on the future of a feature designed for emergencies.

What you need to know

• Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2 has added a toggle to require PIN/fingerprint authentication before anyone can touch Airplane Mode, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Mobile Data on a locked phone.
• Non-security tiles like Flashlight, Auto-rotate, and Battery Saver stay unlocked and accessible without extra friction.
• The latest Android 17 beta release also resolves random reboots, system crashes, Bluetooth pairing failures, idle battery drain, and buggy internet tiles.

Google is finally giving Pixel owners a way to stop thieves from disabling their phone’s connectivity right from the lock screen.

The new security feature is coming in Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2, which will let users require authentication before anyone can toggle Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, mobile data, or airplane mode. It's a small change, but it could make a stolen phone a little less useful to whoever walks away with it.

This update, which came on October 20 with build number DP11.261002.005, does more than just fix a number of bugs. The Android Beta team says on Reddit that it also fixes intermittent device crashes and unexpected reboots, Bluetooth pairing failures, excessive idle battery drain, and issues with the Internet Quick Settings tile. Below is the complete list of issues fixed in the latest beta round.

• Devices intermittently crash and reboot during normal use. (Issue #570031572, Issue #570031155, Issue #569529428, Issue #569222433, Issue #570414567, Issue #570725957, Issue #569237164, Issue #572493638)
• Internet Quick Settings tile displays persistent text when mobile data is active without Wi-Fi. (Issue #354469154, Issue #367059437)
• Media output dialog ignores the monochrome system theme when external audio devices are connected. (Issue #476304142)
• Pin icon glitches position next to pinned apps in the share sheet. (Issue #476234992)
• Internal PublishedApi declarations trigger unexpected API lint and source compatibility check errors. (Issue #562178518)
• Device unexpectedly shuts down during WhatsApp video calls. (Issue #554451749, Issue #559966303)
• Lock screen in-progress notifications overlap with other UI elements and cause stuttering panel animations. (Issue #547371609, Issue #548539836, Issue #562186670)
• Cellular data, MMS, and hotspot services fail to connect on Dish Network. (Issue #537736046)
• Screen recording freezes and stops capturing frames after screen rotation. (Issue #541325203)
• System UI, fonts, and apps render at an abnormally small scale regardless of configured display size settings. (Issue #563321433)
• Display turns black and becomes unresponsive after ending a phone call. (Issue #564953545)
• Terminal app fails to launch the Linux development environment virtual machine after installation. (Issue #551657934)
• Wi-Fi Aware fails to establish subsequent data paths with a no interfaces available error after releasing an accept-any responder network request during connection confirmation. (Issue #550726291)
• Paired watch continues to ring after an incoming call is answered on the phone. (Issue #564594780)
• Airbnb app fails to connect when attempting to send messages. (Issue #563024453)
• Quick Settings Bluetooth subtitle is misaligned to the right. (Issue #559417120)
• App drawer unexpectedly closes when switching keyboard language. (Issue #558774933, Issue #540389222, Issue #533125590)
• Bluetooth pairing fails due to a connection timeout when attempting to pair with a device. (Issue #563675080)
• VoLTE, VoNR, and Wi-Fi calling are unavailable on the IT&E network. (Issue #556432987)
• High idle battery drain caused by motion sensors remaining active after using Face Unlock or the camera. (Issue #568078965)
• Wi-Fi Calling unavailable on the OXIO network. (Issue #563089593)

A more interesting addition is the connectivity restriction, as noted in a few replies to the Reddit post. Sometimes thieves can disable a phone’s network connections from the lock screen, making it more difficult for owners to track down a lost device. It’s another hurdle to force you to unlock before changing these settings, though it obviously won’t prevent all theft or ensure recovery.

To enable it, go to Settings > Security & privacy > Device unlock or Settings > Display & touch > Lock screen, then turn Lock Quick Settings connectivity on. Once enabled, you must unlock the device before you can change any of the four protected connectivity settings.

Google is also leaving common shortcuts like flashlight, auto-rotate, and Battery Saver accessible, so the security feature doesn’t relegate the lock screen to a glorified clock. Locking each and every Quick Settings tile would be way too limiting for those who enjoy shortcuts without unlocking their phone. So it’s a more targeted way to protect the settings that could interfere with connectivity and tracking.

Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2 is available for eligible Pixel devices enrolled in Google’s Android Beta Program. As with any beta software, users should expect the possibility of bugs and avoid installing on a device they can’t afford to have misbehave.

What you need to know

• Samsung is expanding the stable One UI 9 (Android 17) update to the Galaxy A36 globally, landing in Europe after its initial South Korea launch.
• The over-the-air update (version A366BXXUCDZIF) weighs in at over 2.3GB and bundles the September 2026 security patch.
• The Galaxy A36 release is rolling out alongside updates for other A-series models, including the Galaxy A56, A37, and A27.

Samsung is rolling out its stable One UI 9 update to the Galaxy A36 in global markets, with Europe among the first regions outside South Korea to get the software. The rollout started on October 19, so owners of midrange phones can now enjoy Android 17 and Samsung’s latest interface improvements without having to buy a newer Galaxy device.

The update carries firmware version A366BXXUCDZIF and includes the September 2026 security patch, as spotted by X user @Kailash0729 (via SammyGuru). The download is over 2.3GB, so make sure you have a good Wi-Fi connection and enough free storage before you begin installing. Just don’t expect Samsung to port every flagship feature to its more affordable hardware.

One UI 9 brings interface tweaks, more customization features, and security improvements. The update also is based on Android 17, while Samsung continues to customize some features for individual devices. The more advanced Galaxy AI features are still largely limited to compatible higher-end phones, so the A36 misses out on some of the more fancy additions.

It starts with a first stable release in South Korea on October 15, where the Galaxy A36 was shipped with the firmware version A366NKSU9DZIF. Samsung has since started to roll out availability outside of its home market, as well as updates for other Galaxy devices, including the Galaxy A56, A37, and A27.

But a global rollout doesn't mean every country gets the update at once. Samsung typically releases major software updates in phases, so some owners may have to wait days or longer for the download to appear.

Ready to go with your Galaxy A36? Tap Download and install. Then, go to Settings > Software update. Check again in the next few days if nothing shows up yet. Samsung is expected to release One UI 9 to more eligible Galaxy phones in the coming weeks.

What you need to know

• The Xiaomi 18 Pro is rumored at €1,449 for 12GB/256GB and €1,649 for 512GB. The 18 Pro Max reportedly lands at €1,849 with 12GB/512GB.
• Global models may get smaller batteries, with the Pro dropping to 6,000mAh and the Pro Max to 7,050mAh.
• Battery endurance looks promising on paper, with reported runtimes of up to 66.5 hours for the Pro and 70 hours, 40 minutes for the Pro Max.

Xiaomi’s new flagship phones could be headed to global markets with eye-watering price tags and smaller batteries than their Chinese counterparts. The Xiaomi 18 Pro may start at €1,449 for the 12GB RAM/256GB storage variant, with the 512GB model potentially costing €1,649, according to a new report from YTechB. Meanwhile, the Xiaomi 18 Pro Max reportedly starts at €1,849, with 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.

Xiaomi hasn’t confirmed those prices, but they do indicate the company is pushing its Pro line more firmly into premium territory. To recap, the regular Xiaomi 17 launched in Europe at €999, while the Xiaomi 17 Ultra launched at €1,499. That leaves the global 18 Pro just €50 shy of last year's Ultra flagship, which is not exactly the kind of pricing that shouts bargain.

Larger bills, smaller batteries

The pricing news comes with another possible compromise. The global Xiaomi 18 Pro may feature a 6,000mAh battery, a decrease from the 7,000mAh capacity found in China, according to YTechB's report citing listings on the European Product Registry for Energy Labeling. It’s also said that the Pro Max will go down from 8,500mAh to 7,050mAh.

The charging speeds may also differ. The global Pro is expected to support 90W wired charging rather than the 100W in China. The Pro Max is said to keep 100W wired charging, whereas both models are expected to retain 50W wireless charging.

The listings also reportedly state a battery life of up to 66 hours and 30 minutes for the Pro and 70 hours and 40 minutes for the Pro Max. Both batteries are also rated to hold 80% of their capacity after 1,000 charging cycles. The numbers are reassuring, but in the real world battery life will, of course, be dictated by how people use their phones.

Premium hardware needs premium justification

The Xiaomi 18 Pro series was unveiled in China with dual 200MP Leica cameras, dedicated rear screens, and hardware-based privacy screens. The Pro Max also gets Qualcomm’s more powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chip.

Xiaomi has another reason to hike prices, as rising DRAM and NAND prices are likely putting pressure on smartphone makers. But buyers paying flagship money are going to want more than impressive specs on paper.

What you need to know

• Google is automatically linking your phone number to every signed-in account on Android, including secondary work and alternate profiles.
• Surprise verification emails are raising privacy concerns. Users say they received notifications without explicitly opting in.
• You can disable automatic verification under Settings > Google > All services > Phone number verification, though some users report the setting switches itself back on.

Google is automatically linking phone numbers on Android to every Google account signed in on that same device, even if they are secondary work accounts or alternate profiles. The feature is meant to keep Google services running smoothly, but its default-on nature is raising questions about how much control users actually have over their personal information.

Some users took to Reddit to report that they're getting surprise emails from noreply-phone-verification@google.com saying their numbers have been verified (via TechRadar).

The setting allows Google and mobile carriers to periodically re-verify numbers, according to Google’s official documentation. The process enables services such as account recovery, RCS messaging, emergency features, and Quick Share. The problem is that the setting also links those numbers to every Google account signed in on the device.

That could be a problem for anyone that consciously splits out personal, work, and disposable accounts. Another relationship that a user may want to keep separate between profiles is a phone number associated with a secondary account. And since the feature doesn’t require an explicit opt-in prompt, users might not know anything has changed until they get a verification email.

Back on Reddit, users shared their experiences and theorized about why the process occurs on its own. You can fortunately check the setting yourself. Head over to Settings > Google > All services > Phone number verification and disable "Verify phone numbers automatically." Menu labels may vary slightly depending on the device.

But some users also say the setting sometimes turns itself back on after being turned off.

It's worth noting that just turning it off will not delete the current links. Go to the Personal Info page of your Google Account, select Contact info > Phone, and delete your number from any accounts you don’t want it to appear on.

Google says it is for practical reasons. But convenience is no substitute for informed consent. The company hasn’t said why it made such a sharp turn or if it plans to reverse it, officially. Until then, it’s up to you to repeatedly babysit your privacy settings and scrub your number from accounts where it doesn’t belong.

Android Central has contacted Google for comment and will update this story when we hear back.

What you need to know

• YouTube Music will label AI-generated songs to help listeners identify AI involvement.
• YouTube combines partner disclosures with AI detection tools to identify tracks, even when creators leave disclosure fields blank.
• YouTube plans to bring AI labels to its main video platform, extending transparency beyond music streaming.

YouTube Music is rolling out new labels that tell listeners when generative AI played a big part in making a song, the company announced Wednesday. The labels will appear directly on the music player, providing users a more transparent idea of what they are listening to without having to sift through descriptions or wonder if a track was created by a human artist or an AI model.

The feature covers music created largely with AI, including songs where generative models contribute both the composition and vocals. Tap a label, and a menu appears with more information about the song’s AI participation. YouTube says the labels will eventually reach its main video platform as well.

The move comes as generative AI makes it easier to produce music at scale. The challenge for streaming services is to help listeners distinguish between AI-assisted work and AI-made work, without treating all uses of AI the same.

YouTube pairs creator disclosures with detection tools

YouTube is using a mix of disclosure from its music partners and its own detection tools instead of relying on artists and music distributors to flag AI-created content. Partners can identify delivered tracks as “Fully Gen AI”, “Partly Gen AI”, or “No Gen AI” through supported metadata workflows.

This distinction is important since an artist using AI to help in a certain part of the production is not the same as a fully AI-generated song. The labels are not intended to lump every AI-assisted track into one category but rather to provide more context for listeners about that difference.

YouTube's help page says it may use additional signals when partners don't provide AI information. If the platform can detect that a track has content created by AI, it could be marked as fully or partially AI-generated. Therefore, not entering anything in the disclosure field is no guarantee a song won’t be tagged.

Not an AI-free listening experience, but transparency

The new labels are not a prohibition on AI-generated music. Instead, YouTube is providing listeners with more information on how tracks were made and letting them choose what belongs in their playlists.

That approach puts the spotlight on transparency as AI music becomes more prevalent across streaming platforms.

I would love to see AI labels become the standard for everything I consume online, from music and videos to news articles and social media posts. I’m not necessarily against content produced by AI, but I want to be told that I’m hearing or seeing it before I decide what I think about it.

YouTube Music adding these labels is moving in the right direction, and I’d welcome the additional transparency. I just hope the labelling on YouTube is accurate; a disclosure system is only useful if listeners can trust it.

What you need to know

• Google is updating older Nest speakers with firmware version 3.79.550760, which is being tested through the Home Preview Program.
• The original Google Home, Home Mini, Nest Mini, and Nest Audio are eligible for the update.
• Google expects to release the update more broadly over the next few weeks, but it hasn’t announced an exact date.

Some love is coming to a few of Google's older Nest speakers in the form of updates designed to make them more useful around the house — but don't expect a dramatic transformation from hardware that has been around for years.

The update, version 3.79.550760, is now in testing through Google's Home Preview Program. This includes the original Google Home from 2016, Home Mini, Nest Mini and Nest Audio. The Google Home Max isn’t included in this testing round.

The release comes as Google continues to refine its smart home experience, where voice commands and connected devices are supposed to work together without users having to fight their setup. It’s especially the case for older smart speakers, which still have utility for basic tasks as Google’s newer hardware and software evolve.

The original Home Mini was released in 2017, followed by the Nest Mini in 2019 and Nest Audio in 2020. These speakers can still handle everyday requests, but their age means they’re not necessarily getting the same attention as Google’s newer products. That said, better software can extend their usefulness.

For owners, the bigger question is whether these changes will just keep existing speakers ticking over or make them more reliable and convenient. Smart speakers are only as good as the assistants inside them, and Google’s software updates could help older Nest speakers remain useful, even as newer hardware and features arrive.

But software updates can only go so far. Older speakers can still manage basic smart home tasks and play audio; in other words, anyone expecting a major upgrade should temper their expectations.

Google’s latest moves prove it hasn’t totally forgotten about its older Nest lineup. That’s good news for those who would rather keep a perfectly functional speaker than replace it just to stay “current.”

Owners can join the preview

Owners who want to give it a try can go to the Google Home app, tap on their speaker, go to Settings > Device information > Preview program, and sign up if they are eligible. The firmware will install automatically overnight. Google expects to roll it out more widely over the next few weeks but hasn’t given a specific date.

There’s a separate October Google Home update too, improving Gemini for Home conversations, voice commands, weather responses and device controls in the app.

What you need to know

• Vehicles with Google built-in are getting a redesigned Play Store, new apps, and improved YouTube playback over the next few weeks.
• The updated Play Store will make its catalog of apps easier to browse, with featured picks, new releases, and curated collections.
• YouTube will automatically switch to audio-only playback when drivers shift into drive, letting videos continue without distracting visuals.

Google is rolling out a more useful entertainment experience for cars with Google built-in, including a redesigned Play Store, new apps, and a YouTube upgrade that lets you keep listening after shifting into drive. Drivers will not have to do anything themselves to install it, as the changes will come automatically over the next few weeks.

The Play Store refresh is meant to make the app-finding process less painful. Google notes that there are already more than 700 available apps on compatible vehicles, but the new interface should help make browsing that catalog a lot easier. You'll see featured apps, new releases, and useful app details directly on the homepage, and curated collections will help you find options depending on whether your car is parked or moving.

Google is also moving on from one-size-fits-all interfaces. The new storefront will be able to adapt to the size, shape, and orientation of each vehicle’s infotainment display. One-tap downloads will make it easier and quicker to get new apps.

And there’s more to come. STARZ, Firefox, Ludo King, and JioHotstar are coming to the in-car app lineup, giving you more ways to stream shows, browse the web, and play games while you’re parked. These additions should make the charging stops and waiting periods more useful for passengers and drivers taking a break.

YouTube finally makes driving less annoying

The bigger improvement might be YouTube’s new background playback behavior. Previously, starting a drive would stop YouTube playback. In the new update, you can watch a video while parked and automatically switch to audio-only playback as you shift into drive.

That means podcasts, interviews, and other videos can continue to play without distracting visuals on the dashboard. The catch is, you’ll need a YouTube Premium subscription to take advantage of the feature.

Google has talked about this park-to-driving functionality before, but the latest announcement confirms it’s coming to YouTube on cars with Google built-in. Don’t confuse this with Android Auto, which shows compatible phone apps on a car’s display. Google has not said if the same automatic background playback feature is coming to Android Auto.

The updates will be pushed automatically to eligible vehicles over the next few weeks.

What you need to know

• Samsung’s Galaxy Glasses could weigh just 41 grams with standard lenses, making them lighter than earlier leaks suggested.
• Battery life could reach nine hours, with the charging case extending total runtime to 72 hours.
• Gentle Monster reportedly offers six frame designs across 16 variants, while Warby Parker plans three styles with multiple color and lens options.
• A November launch is reportedly planned, with Gentle Monster models targeting South Korea and the US, and Warby Parker versions initially limited to the US.

Samsung’s first AI-enabled smart glasses might be lighter than previous leaks have suggested, and they look to be available in a wider range of designs than we’ve seen so far.

New information obtained by SammyGuru reveals that the upcoming Galaxy Glasses weigh around 41 grams with standard lenses, alongside a detailed look at frame options from Gentle Monster and Warby Parker. For context, official regulation golf balls max out at 45.9 grams — meaning these smart glasses are actually slightly lighter.

Previous reports put the glasses in the range of 46 to 50 grams. Of course, prescription lenses will certainly add some weight, but the exact amount will depend on the model. By keeping the hardware this light, Samsung can make its smart glasses comfortable enough for everyday wear.

The glasses are powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 chip inside, with 2GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. The 12MP camera captures video at 3K resolution and 30 frames per second, and there are four microphones for calls and talking to Google Gemini. The audio comes through two open-ear speakers so you can still hear the world around you.

These glasses do not include a display but instead focus on hands-free AI assistance, photography, and audio instead of information in front of your eyes. It boasts a 155mAh battery that lasts up to nine hours, while a charging case offers a total of 72 hours of battery life. The IPX4 rating should also protect the glasses against sweat and light splashes, but the case itself is not water-resistant.

Samsung seems to be working just as hard on the styling. SammyGuru reports that Gentle Monster has six frame designs in 16 variants, including black, burgundy, cream, and pale lilac.

Warby Parker is also expected to have three named styles — Alden, Reid, and Wren — in colors like dark green, reddish brown, and black. Clear lenses and sunglasses are also said to be available depending on the frame.

The glasses are expected to run Android XR, Google’s operating system for extended reality, with AI features powered by Gemini.

Samsung is reportedly targeting a November release. Gentle Monster models are expected to be available in South Korea and the US, while Warby Parker versions will be US-only at launch. The glasses will be available for purchase through the brands’ stores and websites and Samsung Experience Stores in the US. Pricing and a definitive launch date have yet to be confirmed.

The big question is whether Samsung can assemble a competitive smart glasses offering against Meta’s well-established products without sacrificing comfort, style, or battery life. At 41 grams, its upcoming eyewear could have a promising starting point, but its success will ultimately depend on how useful Gemini proves in everyday situations.

What you need to know

• Google’s new fitness tracker offers a touchscreen and advanced health features without the price of a full smartwatch.
• Its replaceable battery could extend the device’s lifespan and reduce electronic waste.
• The OLED screen is 45% larger and over 40% brighter than the Fitbit Charge 6’s display, according to Google.
• Preorders are live now for $180 ahead of an October 27 launch, alongside a $220 Stephen Curry Special Edition.

Google has announced the Fitbit Edge, a new fitness tracker with a proper touchscreen, advanced health monitoring, and week-long battery life in a slim design.

Available for preorder for $180 starting October 12, the Fitbit Edge is targeting those who want more than the screenless Fitbit Air but don’t want to pay more for a full-blown smartwatch. It also addresses one of the biggest frustrations with wearable devices: battery replacement.

Google says the Edge is its first repairable fitness tracker, with a replaceable battery meant to extend its useful life rather than force owners to replace the whole device when the battery capacity declines.

The Fitbit Edge has an OLED touchscreen that’s 45% bigger and over 40% brighter than the screen on the Fitbit Charge 6, according to the Fitbit Edge product page. It also has a built-in GPS, heart rate monitoring, blood-oxygen tracking, ECG readings, skin temperature sensing, and an altimeter to measure elevation on outdoor workouts. The tracker can automatically detect more activities and gives you the option to track your menstrual cycle on your wrist.

Google is also bringing its Gemini-powered Health Coach to the Edge via a Google Health Premium subscription. It gives you recommendations on what workouts to do and adapts your training plans to your routines and goals. Google Health Premium is free for three months for buyers.

Battery life is another strong selling point. Google says a single charge will last up to seven days, and five minutes of charging will provide a full day of use. It also has a water resistance rating of up to 50 meters and is compatible with Android phones and iPhones running iOS 16.4 or later through the Google Health app.

The Edge is available in Obsidian, Fog, Olive, and Canyon finishes, with bands sold separately for interchangeability. A Stephen Curry Special Edition, developed with the four-time NBA champion, costs $220.

But there are trade-offs. The Edge lacks NFC for contactless payments and has no microphone or speaker, so it won’t be a smartwatch replacement for everyone. That said, the Fitbit Edge will be on sale October 27.

What you need to know

• Googlebook is finally adding Better Together support for Samsung Galaxy phones after leaving them out at launch.
• Samsung phones running One UI 9.0 based on Android 17 can access Continue On, Cast My Apps, Quick Access, and Notification Sync.
• A separate Google Play services update fixes a pairing bug that leaves the QR code onscreen after a successful connection.

Google is finally addressing one of the biggest issues with Googlebook at launch by bringing some of Googlebook’s Better Together features to Samsung Galaxy phones and making the initial setup less frustrating.

The big draw for the Googlebook is its deep integration with your phone. You can stream mobile apps to the laptop, sync notifications, access phone files, and use Continue On to pick up supported activities on another device. However, Samsung users were left out when Googlebook launched, despite Samsung being one of the biggest names in the Android ecosystem. Google had promised support would come in the next few weeks.

The rollout, as revealed by Google’s Mishaal Rahman on Reddit, is essentially a fix for a pairing bug, but Galaxy owners will need the right software versions before their phones can fully take advantage of the laptop’s Android integration.

This update works with Samsung smartphones with One UI 9.0 based on Android 17. Supported features include Continue On, Cast My Apps, Quick Access, and Notification Sync.

Another separate update to Google Play services should make the setup process easier and fix an annoying bug that sometimes leaves the pairing QR code onscreen even after the phone has connected.

Google says the changes will be rolled out automatically in the coming days via updates through Google Play and background services. To get everything working sooner, make sure Google Play services is version 26.37 or newer and Cross-device services is version 1.0.1346 or newer. Both devices need to use the same Google account, with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi turned on.

Your network can make a difference too. Google recommends using a private home network because connections between devices may be blocked on public Wi-Fi networks at hotels, offices, and cafes. Disabling a VPN or DNS blocker temporarily can also help with pairing issues.

Early feedback indicates the rollout is already making a difference. Some Galaxy S26 Ultra owners have reported that app casting now works while others wait for compatibility on their devices.

The update is a welcome fix but also points to a problem with the launch of Googlebook: core features weren’t ready for a large percentage of Android users. Samsung support would make the platform more convincing if Google can deliver a consistent experience across supported phones.

What you need to know

• A fresh leak claims that Samsung's adding a mid-tier Galaxy S27 Pro to its early 2027 roster, slotting between the Plus and Ultra models.
• Preliminary U.S. launch targets start at $899 for the base S27, $1,099 for the S27 Plus, $1,299 for the S27 Pro, and $1,399 for the S27 Ultra.
• Samsung could reserve its newer M16 OLED panels (and their built-in privacy features) for the Pro and Ultra, leaving the standard S27 and S27 Plus on older M14+ panels.

The Samsung Galaxy S27 lineup could be a relief for shoppers worried about another round of flagship price hikes, but the good news may come with a catch. A fresh leak indicates the company will introduce four models in early 2027, with more sophisticated OLED displays reserved for its two priciest phones.

According to pricing details shared by tipster @phonefuturist on X, the Galaxy S27 could start at $899 in the US. The S27 Plus may cost $1,099, followed by the S27 Pro at $1,299 and the S27 Ultra at $1,399. Pricing is expected to vary internationally, with the Ultra potentially priced as high as $1,499 depending on configuration.

The leaked lineup would be a change for Samsung, which may be adding a Pro model between the Plus and Ultra. The company, though, has not confirmed the phones or their prices, and the tipster describes the figures as preliminary targets.

The more interesting detail is the split display. The regular S27 and S27 Plus are said to come with Samsung’s M14+ OLED panels, while the Pro and Ultra are said to have the newer M16 panels. That difference could see the privacy-display tech included on the more expensive models, while the cheaper-phone buyers miss out.

There is also a financial reason to be cautious. If prices rise, Samsung may have to tweak them pre-launch, possibly negating the perceived savings on the entry-level model. And here’s the awkward flip side: Samsung’s chip business is enjoying a boost from surging AI demand and tight memory supply — but those same market pressures could make its next phones more difficult for regular buyers to afford.

As someone who wants a reliable phone without spending over $1,000, I’d welcome a cheaper standard Galaxy S27. But I’d be annoyed if good screen tech were used as an excuse to push buyers toward more expensive models. Most people shouldn’t have to pay Ultra money to get a premium everyday experience.

These numbers could change as Samsung's next-generation flagship is still months away. Until the company makes an official announcement, buyers should consider the leak as an early pricing guide.

What you need to know

• Samsung has reportedly asked suppliers to cut Q4 smartphone production by 20% to 30%.
• The cuts could drop Samsung’s total 2026 production from an expected 270 million units down closer to the 200-million range.
• Skyrocketing smartphone DRAM prices are said to be squeezing margins, forcing Samsung to absorb higher manufacturing expenses or risk alienating buyers with steep price hikes.

Samsung looks set to do something counterintuitive in the smartphone market: make fewer phones rather than continue to build devices that barely make money.

A report from Korean outlet Money Today claims the company has asked suppliers to cut smartphone production by 20% to 30% in the fourth quarter, with rising memory costs making some models harder and harder to sell profitably.

Samsung was previously expected to produce around 270 million smartphones in 2026. The latest cuts could push that total into the 200-million range, the report said. Some seasonal slowdown is expected as buyers wait for the next Galaxy S series, but this year's drop is said to be significantly more than expected.

Based on estimates from TrendForce cited in the report, Samsung produced around 240 million smartphones in 2025, which put it on par with Apple as the world’s biggest smartphone maker by volume. This demonstrates the scale that Samsung has been able to hold onto even as competition gets tougher.

The issue apparently has to do with memory chips: Smartphone DRAM prices have skyrocketed, forcing manufacturers to either raise prices or take a hit on their margins.

That makes a dirty equation for Samsung. Raising phone prices too quickly risks cooling demand, while taking on the higher component costs leaves less cash on every device sold. Making millions more of them doesn’t resolve the problem of a phone making little or no profit.

For consumers it could mean fewer low-margin models, higher prices, and even more focus on Samsung’s premium Galaxy lineup.

Samsung has not officially confirmed the production cuts it is reportedly planning, so the next few months will show if the change is a temporary adjustment or a bigger shift in its smartphone strategy.

What you need to know

• Qualcomm and Arm are engaged in a five-day jury trial in a Delaware federal court.
• The conflict stems from Qualcomm’s 2021 acquisition of the chip startup Nuvia. Qualcomm alleges Arm subsequently violated its contract by withholding mandatory chip-testing tools.
• Qualcomm is seeking to halt its royalty payments to Arm for up to five years.
• A secondary bench trial is investigating whether Arm negotiated its next-generation architecture in good faith. The two companies are currently locked into a contract through 2033.

The stakes in the smartphone sphere have just gotten a billion dollars higher. Qualcomm and Arm are back in a Delaware federal court this week for a five-day jury trial that threatens to upend how the chips that power your phone are licensed and built.

Reuters reports that Qualcomm is battling to halt its royalty payments to Arm for as long as five years, a huge financial blow for the chipmaker, which makes up about 9% of Arm’s fiscal 2026 revenue based on market research firm Intellectia's figures.

The heart of the disagreement is Qualcomm's 2021 acquisition of chip startup Nuvia, which had its Arm license. Qualcomm said Arm declined to provide the tools necessary to test chips, as required in its contract. Qualcomm also said Arm leaked its threat to end a key license in 2024, which hurt talks on a potential chip deal with Meta.

The dispute with Meta could serve as one of the trial’s most concrete measures of damages. Qualcomm says the leak helped knock $170 million off the eventual value of its Meta deal. Arm denies that link, saying the economics of the deal changed because Meta shifted away from virtual reality headsets to AI glasses.

The fight over royalty is even bigger. Qualcomm wants to avoid paying Arm for as long as five years, risking billions of dollars of royalties. Judge Maryellen Noreika is considering whether that five-year provision should stand, which could dramatically affect how much Qualcomm can collect.

Qualcomm says Arm undercut its business after the Nuvia deal, and Arm says the suit is just leverage in a business dispute and Qualcomm can’t prove it was damaged.

Another bench trial is investigating whether Arm negotiated in good faith over its next-generation architecture. They are currently under contract through 2033.

The five-day trial may end up deciding a lot more than one royalty bill. It could also change the way Arm and the biggest chipmakers negotiate the price and control of future CPU technology.

What you need to know

• The Galaxy S27 Ultra will reportedly launch in Black, White, Blue, and Light Pink.
• These initial options are designated as "base" colors, meaning they should be available through general carrier and retail channels rather than locked to Samsung’s website.
• Following Samsung's typical playbook, additional store-exclusive finishes will likely follow at launch beyond the core four.

The rumor mill is already buzzing with Samsung's next high-end flagship, and the latest details are about the color options. According to a new leak, the upcoming Galaxy S27 Ultra will be available in four standard colors: black, white, blue, and light pink.

These colors, as per leaker Ice Universe, are said to be the four “base” colors of the phone. That language may suggest that they're meant for broader retail distribution rather than being exclusive to Samsung's online store.

The exact shades, however, are still unknown, so there’s still no confirmation whether the blue will be like the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s Sky Blue or if the pink will be anything like its Pink Gold finish.

Samsung could have even more colors in store. The Galaxy S26 Ultra came in four standard colors: Black, Cobalt Violet, Sky Blue, and White, plus Pink Gold and Silver Shadow, which are only available on Samsung's online store. That said, more S27 Ultra color options are a real possibility.

What’s particularly interesting here is the rumor that Pink Gold might be moving from an online-exclusive finish to Light Pink possibly being one of the S27 Ultra’s main colors. If Samsung does release it widely, pink could be a much more prominent color in its Ultra lineup than in recent years.

The color leak also arrives as Samsung is reportedly gearing up for a bigger visual overhaul for the S27 Ultra, including a horizontal camera bar instead of the current camera setup.

Samsung hasn’t officially confirmed the colors or the phone yet. More leaks are expected before the Galaxy S27 Ultra arrives in early 2027.

What you need to know

• Google's September Pixel Drop is live, hitting Pixel phones, tablets, and watches with home screen upgrades, fraud protections, and new watch gestures.
• Pixel VIPs gets a proper home-screen upgrade: one-tap calls and texts, notification badges for unread or urgent messages, and a floating nav bar to swipe between contacts.
• Scam Detection now covers more languages and regions for chat notifications, and Gboard flags suspicious messages as you type.

Google today rolled out its September Pixel Drop, which includes a new batch of updates for Pixel phones, tablets, and smartwatches. The latest release brings updated home screen tools, improved fraud protections, new smartwatch gestures, and a spellbinding audio partnership to tie it all together.

Google has been working on its VIP contact concept for some time, but this update makes it really useful. The tech giant is giving the feature a new home-screen experience, letting you call or text your favorite contacts with a single tap. New notification badges indicate unread messages or urgent messages, and a floating navigation bar lets you swipe between VIP profiles without having to dig through menus.

The update works on Pixel 6 and newer phones worldwide, provided the required Contacts and Pixel VIPs app versions are installed.

Scam Detection is also expanding to more languages and regions for chat notifications, and Gboard can now flag suspicious messages from supported chat apps directly as you type. Availability varies by country and language, so this isn’t a universal rollout just yet.

Pixel Watch gets a smaller but useful upgrade. Raise to Talk gets enhancements on Pixel Watch 4 and newer. On Pixel Watch 3 and newer, you can launch and scroll through the notification tray with a one-handed pinch gesture.

There’s also a much less serious addition: Harry Potter Audiobook Packs can change a Pixel’s wallpaper, icons, and sounds, and eligible users will receive a two-month Audible trial. The packs are good through December 31.

What you need to know

• Steam Frame starts at $1,059 for 256GB, while the 1TB model jumps to $1,299.
• Android games are supported, giving the headset access to existing Android APKs without requiring completely separate ports.
• Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 + 16GB RAM powers the headset, with SteamOS handling native games and compatibility layers.

Valve has finally put a price tag on the Steam Frame, its new wireless VR headset that aims to blur the line between a standalone gaming device and a PC accessory. The catch? It won’t be as simple as clicking “buy” to get one.

The Steam Frame starts at $1,059 for 256GB, with the 1TB model costing $1,299. Each headset has tracked controllers, and Valve is bundling Half-Life: Alyx with the device, the company announced. It can play supported games locally or stream more demanding titles from a PC.

It’ll also support Android games, with developers using the same Android APKs they already use to bring mobile titles to the Meta Quest. This could give the Frame access to a much larger game library without developers needing to build entirely separate versions for Valve’s headset.

The Frame also supports wireless PC streaming with the 6GHz dongle that Valve bundles in.

Under the hood, the Frame is packed with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and 16GB of RAM, with native software and compatibility layers handled by SteamOS.

The storage options are also worth a closer look. You can upgrade from 256GB to 1TB for $240, but the Frame also has a microSD slot. So if your main game stream is from a PC, there may be little reason to pay extra for the bigger model.

Valve had originally said it wanted the Steam Frame to cost less than the $999 Index, but the final starting price puts it $60 above that benchmark. Rising memory and component costs have complicated the pricing strategy of Valve’s hardware, as seen with the Steam Machine.

Availability will also be controlled by a reservation system, with sign-ups running until September 17 and purchase invitations starting September 18.

The Steam Frame is clearly not aimed at the budget VR crowd at $1,059. Valve is betting its Steam library, Android support, wireless PC streaming, and standalone abilities will justify the premium.

What you need to know

• Meta’s Project Phoenix is finally coming into focus after more than a year of rumors about a lightweight, high-end mixed-reality headset.
• Phoenix looks more like smart glasses than a traditional VR headset, using nose pads and temple-mounted sensors.
• An external compute puck appears to be part of the design.

Whispers about Meta working on a lightweight, high-end mixed reality headset codenamed Project Phoenix have floated around the tech sphere for over a year. Now, we finally get our first real look at what Mark Zuckerberg's hardware team has been cooking up, and it seems Meta accidentally left the key under the mat.

The images were revealed through Meta’s HorizonOS Prescription Lens package, which first appeared in August as a mostly blank system package, as noticed by UploadVR. An update in September showed detailed pictures of how prescription lens inserts attach to the Phoenix and how users scan a QR code to set them up.

Interestingly, the hardware looks less like a traditional VR headset and more like chunky glasses. Phoenix uses nose pads instead of the bulky face interface of the Quest 3 and other XR headsets, with sensors along the temples. There’s also a cable coming from the left temple, seemingly confirming previous reports that Phoenix will use an external compute puck.

It's a design that could change the way people think about wearing a mixed reality headset. If you’ve been using more traditional XR headsets, you’ll probably find it comforting to realize potential benefits here, like less weight on your face, but the compromise moves elsewhere: you’ll need to deal with a separate computing unit and a cable.

For Meta, the greater challenge might be getting that extra hardware to feel invisible enough that Phoenix still feels like something you can casually wear, rather than another device you have to gear up for.

There's another interesting clue here. The leaked setup stuff seems to be based on prescription inserts and controller-free interaction.

Meta hasn’t officially announced Phoenix yet, but Meta Connect 2026 starts September 23 and has a session dedicated to controller-free interaction on its agenda. If Phoenix shows up there, we might finally learn whether Meta’s push toward lighter mixed reality headsets is a real shift in headset design, or just a clever way to move the weight somewhere else.

What you need to know

• LG denies its smart TVs secretly record or transmit your conversations, calling recent coverage misleading.
• The firestorm started with a lengthy Gamers Nexus video alleging LG TVs capture audio while idle or offline, plus device, IP, location, and nearby Wi-Fi data.
• LG's defense rests on one distinction: listening for a wake word isn't the same as recording you. Audio without the wake word gets discarded locally, never sent to LG servers.

Recent reports that LG smart TVs can secretly record people in their homes have put the company's privacy practices under a microscope. LG is now pushing back hard, stating its TVs do not continuously record or transmit users’ conversations and that some of the recent coverage has misrepresented how its privacy features really work.

The dispute follows a lengthy Gamers Nexus video on YouTube that raised concerns about LG TVs capturing audio while idle or disconnected from the internet, as well as collecting information about networked devices, IP addresses, locations, and nearby Wi-Fi networks.

LG’s explanation hinges on the distinction between listening for a wake word and recording conversations. On supported TVs with hands-free voice control enabled, the microphone can supposedly listen locally for a wake word even when the TV is in standby. LG says audio that does not include the recognized wake word is discarded immediately and not sent to its servers. Real speech-to-text processing only starts when voice recognition is enabled.

There is also Automatic Content Recognition, or ACR, that identifies what is playing so that LG can offer services related to viewing and audience analysis. ACR uses audio fingerprinting rather than screenshots or video recordings, is optional, and requires user consent, LG says. It can also be turned off in the settings of the TV.

Does LG's wording leave wiggle room? Perhaps. Saying TVs don't "continuously" record isn't the same as saying they never do. The company’s documentation is unusually explicit, however, about things like session limits, local processing, and what happens when you decline optional agreements. You can still use streaming apps, live TV, and HDMI devices without turning on any data-driven services.

This controversy comes after a separate dispute over LG monitors, where some models were found to be installing the LG Monitor App Installer on Windows PCs and displaying pop-ups for promotional content, including McAfee ads. Microsoft intervened, and LG agreed to disable the McAfee promotion.

The latest controversy highlights the fine line between helpful smart features and invasive data harvesting. LG claims its hardware isn’t part of some hidden surveillance network, but it’s unlikely privacy advocates and hardware reviewers won’t be monitoring future webOS updates.

What you need to know

• The iQOO 16 is set to debut as the first smartphone with a 2K resolution OLED display running at a 165Hz refresh rate.
• Co-developed with Samsung Display on a dedicated production line, the panel marks the Android debut of Samsung's latest M16 luminescent material and LEAD 2.0 architecture.
• The screen reaches 2,800 nits global peak brightness (10,000 nits local peak), features 508 PPI, and delivers sub-pixel-level calibration for color accuracy.

Rumor has it that the iQOO 16 will be released soon, and iQOO has now confirmed one of the upgrades that could make this gaming-focused flagship stand out from the crowd. The next phone from the company is said to be the first to sport a 2K OLED panel with a 165Hz refresh rate from Samsung, which iQOO is calling a smartphone first.

The announcement also confirms earlier reports that the iQOO 16 would sport Samsung’s newer M16 OLED technology. The company says the phone will be the first Android smartphone to use the material, along with its new 2K LEAD 2.0 technology.

For context, we saw the original LEAD OLED panel debut with the iQOO 15. LEAD 2.0 has been developed in partnership with Samsung, built on a dedicated production line just for iQOO’s flagship.

The two companies also designed a custom high-refresh-rate display IC and a dedicated production line for the phone.

The panel is rated at 2,800 nits for global brightness and 10,000 nits for local brightness. It also offers 508 ppi, wide P3 color coverage, DC dimming, and better brightness and color uniformity than the iQOO 15. iQOO also claims sub-pixel-level calibration leads to extremely tight color accuracy.

There is also a less obvious upgrade here: Samsung recently said the new display uses roughly 31 percent less power at 150 nits than a similarly sized 1.5K panel. That’s particularly useful, as improving both resolution and refresh rate often comes with a battery cost.

The target is clearly gaming. The display features 500Hz multi-touch sampling and 5,000Hz instantaneous sampling rate, while iQOO’s Q-Flex technology focuses on reducing input lag. There’s also 3,300Hz PWM dimming and many eye-comfort features.

The iQOO 16 is expected to launch in China sometime near the end of September. If the rest of the hardware is up to the mark as this display, the top gaming flagships out there will have a serious new competitor on their hands.