Samsung has begun rolling out One UI 9, based on Android 17, starting with the Galaxy S26 series after months of beta testing. The update introduces Galaxy AI features, privacy enhancements, and generative capabilities, with a wider rollout to other Galaxy devices expected in coming weeks.
Samsung Gallery is replacing its OneDrive integration with Google Photos backup support, allowing users to securely sync photos, videos, and albums across devices. The feature is rolling out through updates to the Gallery Cloud Sync app and will maintain OneDrive support through September 30. Google Photos integration has already been adopted by OnePlus, Xiaomi, and other brands in recent years.
Samsung may increase Galaxy S26 series prices by up to $100 starting October 1 in Korea, citing rising component costs and Apple's recent iPhone price hikes. The company states no decision has been finalized but is internally reviewing price adjustments.
Samsung has launched its 'Re-Newed' refurbished Galaxy S26 series with certified devices serviced directly by Samsung, offering discounts of around $200 off retail prices. The Galaxy S26 Ultra starts at $1,099, compared to $1,299 for new models, with all colors available exclusively through Samsung.com.
Samsung's new 'Switchers' ad campaign uses reality TV stars in a couples therapy setting to humorously highlight the process of switching from iPhone to Android, specifically showcasing the Galaxy Z Fold 8's features and addressing common pain points like green bubbles, AirDrop, and data transfer using Google's updated QR code transfer method.
Google has rolled out Motion Assist, a feature for Pixel and Samsung phones running Android 17 that displays adjustable bubble overlays to reduce motion sickness in moving vehicles. Users can enable it through Settings or Quick Settings, customize the bubbles' color, shape, and opacity, and toggle the feature manually or automatically when motion is detected.
Samsung is reportedly considering an early release of the Galaxy Z TriFold 2 in response to Apple's iPhone Duo announcement, potentially moving the launch from 2027. The sequel is expected to be thinner, lighter, and more durable than the original model, with Samsung aiming to maintain a similar price point around $2,900.
Apple's new CEO John Ternus discussed the iPhone Duo foldable in interviews, criticizing Android competitors like Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Google's Pixel 11 Pro Fold for cheap plastic surfaces and praising Apple's nanotexture finish and optimized software approach. Apple highlighted developer partnerships with Slack, Netflix, and Zoom as advantages for the Duo's launch next month.
Samsung is preparing to launch Galaxy Buds On, open-ear earbuds with a clip design similar to products from Bose and Nothing. The leaked Buds Manager app reveals features including Auto Volume, head gesture controls, voice memo recording with AI transcription, and sleep detection.
Samsung is developing its first Android XR glasses with a color display targeting a late 2027 launch, featuring ultra-small microdisplays around 0.2 inches or smaller. The company is still deciding between monocular and binocular designs while balancing performance and price considerations. Samsung's initial Android XR glasses will launch without a display, similar to Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses with only a camera and open-ear headphones.
A user recreated Apple's iPhone Duo unfolding animation on the Galaxy Z Fold 8, mimicking the distinctive blue effect and spatial lock that Apple showcased. The recreation uses hinge extension values and animation frames but cannot currently be integrated into Samsung's SystemUI, though it has generated enthusiasm for potential future refinements in Android foldable design.
Motorola teased a wide Razr Fold foldable phone via Instagram video in response to Apple's iPhone Duo announcement, showing silhouettes of Razr phones through generations ending with a blacked-out device resembling a wider foldable. The teaser suggests Motorola is positioning itself as a competitor in the growing market for compact, wide-format foldable devices.