What you need to know

• Omdia research published its expectations for the foldable display shipment market in 2026, suggesting it could increase by 44%.
• The company says this is due to the sharp rise in wide foldable phone popularity off the back of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and the iPhone Duo.
• Other research states the phone market in Q3 saw its largest drop in over 14 years, as it plummeted by 20% YoY.

Foldables have been around for years now, but the most recent trend to take over is the "wide fold." New research states foldable shipments could continue to climb in 2026, and it's the wide ones that might lead the charge.

Today (Oct. 21), Omdia published its latest forecast about how display shipments could perform in these final months. It states LTPO AMOLD foldable displays are expected to grow 44% in 2026. Researchers suggest the foldable display market may "rebound" in 2026 following strong performance by Samsung and Apple. The company's principal analyst, Brain Huh, said, "Display shipments for wide-screen foldable smartphones are expected to account for 44% of total foldable panel shipments in 2026."

It's hard not to think about Samsung and Apple when discussing "wide-screen foldable" phones. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 and the iPhone Duo were two major product releases for their respective companies, and that's where Omdia focused. It states Samsung is expected to "strengthen its leadership in the foldable smartphone display market" this year.

Omdia likens this performance to the Fold 8 and iPhone Duo, as Samsung supplies the necessary displays for these "exclusively." Elsewhere, research shows that Samsung could hold solid ground over BOE, China Star, Tianma, and Visionox.

The company highlights other research, which shows a positive reception of these wider foldables, contributing to its overall (forecasted) display growth this year.

At least this looks positive... right?

Maybe this is a little light at the end of the tunnel? Who knows how this will affect the overall smartphone market as a whole, but hey, at least display shipments are booming! It's worth remembering that the phone market has been dropping this year. And we mean it's really, really been dropping this year. It downright plummeted off a cliff in Q3. Researchers said this is the lowest it's been in 14 years.

A report said that the phone market dropped 20% YoY in Q3; however, Samsung came out on top, thanks to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and the Fold 8 Ultra. A major cause of this decline is the "extreme memory shortage." Research suggests rising prices are causing consumers to change their mentality about buying phones. With the market on struggle street, Samsung reportedly increased its market share by 23%, the largest amongst OEMs.

Apple lagged in second, but it was speculated that this was due to the iPhone 18 series missing a base (entry) model, with the 18 Pro and Pro Max.

What you need to know

• RayNeo announced its collaboration with Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, which brings a unique black-and-gold GT Max.
• The glasses feature a black-and-gold camo that mirrors the game's aesthetic, and users can find that same design across its UI.
• Consumers will find exclusive goodies for the GT Max (unique USB-C cord, cleaning cloth, etc.) once the collaboration drops on November 19 on RayNeo and Amazon.

If you didn't catch the beta earlier this year, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 is launching this week on October 23. To prepare, RayNeo announced a pair of limited-edition AR glasses in collaboration with COD.

RayNeo announced a collaboration with Call of Duty (COD) to launch a limited-edition pair of its GT Max AR glasses for MW4 (Modern Warfare 4). The company states it designed these glasses to mirror the gear you'd find in MW4. RayNeo states, "...the glasses feature an iconic compass heading bar across the top of the lenses and a matte black frame with gold-yellow camo on the temples, echoing the game's theme."

While exciting enough to feel like a must-have collectible, the RayNeo GT Max x COD: MW4 collaboration does its job of immersing you in the experience.

Aside from the MW4 camo design, RayNeo says it designed a custom MW4 on-screen display (OSD). This appears as a black-and-gold UI for the device's "display mode switching," picture settings menu, and Spatial Surround Sound. Other exclusives include a braided USB-C cable that matches the MW4 aesthetic and a MW4 logo cleaning cloth.

Prepare for exfil

The RayNeo GT Max hardware matches what the company revealed in August. The glasses retain their 59-degree FOV, 267-inch virtual display, Bang & Olufsen audio, and a light 78g frame. Consumers will find a 120Hz refresh rate, 1,200 nits of peak brightness, and "vivid color accuracy." What's more, the GT Max's spatial tracking "adapts to any tactical scenario with three display modes" (Steady, Pinned, Follow).

However, this particular version of the GT Max is only available in Size M. RayNeo reminds consumers that the GT Max is naturally available for purchase in Sizes S, M, and L.

Since the RayNeo-COD collaboration is here, the company says users can enjoy the MW4 campaign in a new way. Keep in mind that you will need to connect the Limited Edition GT Max to your PC or your console in order to enjoy the MW4 campaign. What's more, RayNeo suggests using the Pinned display mode for the story mode. Once multiplayer drops with the game's full release on October 23, RayNeo suggests opting for the Follow display mode.

The RayNeo X Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 Limited Edition GT Max glasses launch on November 19. Consumers can enter their email to be notified once the device is available. MW4 launches this week on October 23 (Friday) with multiplayer and will become available. Currently, if you've pre-ordered the game, you can enjoy the campaign and its new game mode, DMZ.

What you need to know

• Google announced that it's bringing Gemini's Personal Intelligence to vehicles.
• The feature mirrors the experience in AI Mode or on your phone, as the AI can connect to your Workspace apps, Gmail, Photos, Search, and more for tailored help that matters to you.
• Gemini can pick up old conversations with you through Personal Intelligence, and it can look for restaurants to eat and bring directions straight to your car's display.
• None of this works without your permission, and Google says drivers remain in control of what they share.

Sorry, Microsoft: Apparently Gemini is your new copilot.

This afternoon (Oct. 20), Google announced that Gemini's Personal Intelligence is rolling out for Android Auto. The post states Personal Intelligence does nothing without your express permission. But once given, the feature will mirror the experience you'd receive on your Android phone.

Google states that connecting Personal Intelligence opens access to Gmail, Photos, Maps, Search, Workspace apps, and more. Gemini will tailor its responses to your voice queries using your data as its knowledge base. Since Personal Intelligence is connected to your Gmail (if given permission), users can ask whether their flight is on time and what their gate number is. Google says drivers won't have to do much else.

The AI will dive into your emails and find that information for you. What's more, since Personal Intelligence is arriving in vehicles, Google says Gemini can "suggest curated dinner stops" along the driver's route when asked. If you're a vegetarian, Google says Gemini can tailor its responses for your needs.

Driving got a little easier

Another key feature is users can "pick up where they left off" with Gemini. If you asked Gemini about a coffee shop, the next time you get into your car, you can bring it up. Google states Gemini will resurface those details for you and create a route in Maps to get you there.

Google says your privacy remains at the center of this feature, and you don't have to share anything if you don't want to. Personal Intelligence will arrive for cars with Google built-in "in the next few months." For users with this feature already set up on their phone, you won't have to do much once it hits your car.

If you haven't set it up, Google says you can do so from Gemini's settings.

Google has been bringing Gemini's Personal Intelligence to more places since its arrival in January. Most recently, the company added the feature to AI Mode. It works the same as you'd expect on your phone through the Gemini app and, as announced today, for Android Auto. Users can ask Gemini about specific questions that pertain to them or their situation. If you're looking for meal ideas but you have an allergy, for example, Gemini would tailor its responses.

What's more, you can ask Gemini to find information about your car's tires. The AI would look into your photos to find them and search for relevant information.

What you need to know

• Google Home Speaker users have noticed that the device has consumed an enormous amount of data in the background.
• The device was reportedly spotted consuming several terabytes of data in a single month without much use.
• Google is reportedly aware of the problem and has started rolling out a fix.

Users on social media are waking up to a startling truth: their Google Home Speaker has been incredibly active in the background. There's no clear reason why, but the amount of data is staggering.

Posts on the Google Home subreddit draw attention to an unfathomable amount of data being consumed by the Home Speaker (via 9to5Google). The user states that they've "got one old Google Mini and three of the new Google speakers." What's more, these devices aren't used for more than 20 minutes a day. This is strange, considering the user reports one of their Google Home Speakers consumed over 140GB of data in a day.

Combined, the user states their three speakers consumed 6TB of data "in under a month." Another user with a Home Speaker reported the same, stating, "Something’s up with them. This just started in the past 2 weeks for mine." This issue appears to be confined to the Google Home Speaker, as a user with a Nest Audio couldn't find an unusual amount of data consumption.

The publication speculated on this, too, but one Redditor said their speaker downloaded 20GB in a single day. However, they added that "It kept downloading firmware and failing to install it." This makes it seem like the device got caught in the worst possible loop of downloading and failing.

Google reportedly informed the publication that this is an issue with the Home Speaker. It adds that "a fix is already rolling out" to address this problem. Android Central has reached out to Google for more information, and we will update this post when we hear back.

Hungry, hungry speaker

The Google Home Speaker is the company's new beginning for AI in the home. Gemini is integrated throughout the product to assist users with daily queries and more. While the device has gotten off without a hitch (for the most part), the Home Speaker did struggle this summer. Users reported incredibly slow response times from Gemini.

A latency problem was the culprit. Users reported that on the first day, there were no issues; however, after the second, "...every single question (even 'hello') needs at least 30s of answer time." Many queries that users would have for Gemini would time out, as the AI couldn't respond within a meaningful time. What's more, Google's smart home devices beyond the Home Speaker struggled, too.

Google had to roll out a software update to solve this issue, which is strange. Shortly before these issues appeared, the company rolled out a Gemini update for its smart home devices to make it "snappier." That seemingly backfired and required more tuning to get it right.

What you need to know

• A tipster discovered that Android Auto could bring full work profile support, mirroring what users experience on Android phones.
• Android Auto could roll out "Work Accounts" sometime in the future, delivering notifications and more from a user's work profile.
• A recent Android Auto update brought a refined Play Store with curated apps and more, as well as upgraded YouTube playback.

A dip into Android Auto's app code suggests Google is working on bringing full work profile support to drivers.

Tipster AssembleDebug and Android Authority discovered a new feature in the works for Android Auto called "Work Account." It's speculated that this would work similarly to how work profiles operate on your Android phone. Users can separate their profiles, keeping work-related apps and things in their own corner. The tipster discovered that Google is working on a Work Account toggle inside Android Auto's Quick Settings.

When toggled, users would begin receiving notifications on their car's display while driving. The feature may also display a briefcase icon on Android Auto's home screen so you know it's been enabled.

Much of what Work Account will support and do is still under speculation. AssembleDebug states that the feature isn't working properly; only the icons are present in their deep dive. However, the tipster assumes Work Account would support Google Meet and potentially other Workspace apps.

Better driving experiences

For the good, Android Auto recently rolled out a redesigned Play Store with new apps and improved YouTube playback. The Play Store is now much easier to browse on your car's display. Google also included "featured picks, new releases, and curated collections." On YouTube's side, videos will automatically switch to audio-only when you start driving.

This keeps drivers involved in what they were doing, but minus the distracting elements videos tend to have.

On the downside, October got off to a rocky start for drivers. The funny thing is this issue had been going on for months. Users on Reddit said that Android Auto wouldn't alert them about incoming notifications if their foldable was closed. The reports involved the Motorola Razr series quite heavily, forcing users to open their foldables for proper functionality.

Motorola and Google were aware and started reaching out to users to help fix it.

What you need to know

• A rumor on social media suggests Samsung's foldable lineup could double in size with six phones in 2027.
• The company is allegedly preparing a TriFold 2, a Galaxy Z Fold 9 Pro, and a "Galaxy Z Slide."
• At CES 2025, Samsung Display showed off two slidable phone concepts: the "Slidable Flex Duet" and "Slidable Flex Solo."

Samsung's latest wave of foldables was incredibly popular. Okay, the Fold 8 took everything by storm, but that might not stop the company from doubling up on its offerings next year.

A rumor on X from tipster TheGalox claims Samsung is preparing for its "biggest foldable lineup ever" in 2027 (via 9to5Google). To start things off, TheGalox claims the Galaxy Z TriFold 2 could start Samsung's huge foldable stampede in 2027. This would succeed the original Z TriFold, which Samsung stopped producing after three months. Elsewhere, the tipster claims the foldables we typically expect could expand.

Currently, Samsung offers three foldables: the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Fold 8 Ultra, and Flip 8. The Fold 8 is its short, wider addition, and the Fold 8 Ultra is its standard book-style foldable. However, the tipster suggests Samsung could slip in a "Galaxy Z Fold 9 Pro." It's unclear what this would be. What's more, we're unsure about how Samsung would position this device between the Fold 9 and Fold 9 Ultra.

While we also expect to see a Flip 9, rumors say Samsung could introduce a new type of foldable: the "Galaxy Z Slide." It's almost a shame that the most interesting-sounding device is shrouded in the largest shadow, but that's only half true. If we want to at least fathom where we might go, we'll have to look back to CES 2025.

Sliding into 2027?

Samsung Display was at CES 2025, if you remember our coverage about it (if you don't, here it is). As usual, the company, like other companies, showed off several prototypes. On display were the "Slidable Flex Duet" and "Solo." The Slidable Flex Duet (YouTube) would let users pull (or slide) its display out from the left and right. The device would sit at 8 inches when compact, but sliding out its display would bring it to 12.4 inches—very tablet-like.

Alternatively, you have the Solo, which would go from 13 inches to 17.3 inches. Whether or not Samsung develops one of these concepts remains to be seen. This only serves as a base to get our minds thinking.

Rumors about a TriFold sequel got underway quickly after Apple's iPhone Duo launch. Allegedly, this phone could debut in 2027 with a thinner, lighter, and more durable design. However, its price tag might remain pretty hefty at $2,800.

What you need to know

• Rumors claim Samsung could launch the Galaxy S27 series earlier in 2027, in January; however, February could be the next best bet.
• Other rumors suggest Samsung is still struggling with the ongoing memory crisis, and it's "unsure" if it can bring upgrades to the Pro and Ultra.
• Storage and RAM upgrades were rumored throughout this year, but the tale's been consistent with Samsung's apparent uncertainty behind it.

The beginning of the year (Q1, really) is when we expect Samsung's next flagships. Rumors claim the company could start 2027 off with a bang.

A report by tipster Lanzuk on Naver (Korean) over the weekend suggests Samsung could debut its phones within the first two months (via Android Authority). Here's where things get tricky. The tipster suggests Samsung is leaning toward a January launch; however, things could get pushed into "February at the latest." While exciting, Samsung is still grappling with a few internal problems.

We've seen a Galaxy S27 Pro rumored for next year's series quite often, and this report concerns it, too. The post alleges that Samsung is still trying to sort out the memory/storage specifications for the S27 Pro and the S27 Ultra. The current crisis with these two pieces of hardware is a contributing factor, with the tipster stating Samsung must decide and consider the "scope of implementation."

The post states Samsung wants to implement UFS 5.0 (storage) and LPDDR6 (RAM) in the S27 Pro and Ultra.

Trying times for flagships

You might remember that the Galaxy S26 series launched in late February. However, the Galaxy S25 series launched in mid-January. We've seen Samsung bounce between these early months before, so we'll have to see where it lands next year.

As far as the RAM/storage rumors go, the UFS 5.0 rumor was brought up earlier this year, claiming not every S27 phone would get it. But we've seen many of the same topics brought up: "price and mass production." It wasn't clear which phones would get it, but speculation sided with the Galaxy S27 Ultra, at least. The RAM upgrade was a bit of a mixed bag. One report said the next Ultra might miss it completely as Samsung shifted gears toward other companies' "limited edition" phones.

Now it's back on the table, but it's still anyone's guess as to whether the Pro and Ultra will see it. The publication (Android Authority) brought up Samsung's chip issue: reports claimed Qualcomm's Elite Extreme was overheating, and Samsung might have to consider its Exynos instead. It found that Qualcomm has recently denied such claims. Who knows by this point. We'll have to wait and see.

What you need to know

• YouTube is reportedly planning to launch audiobooks for its Premium subscribers.
• Audiobooks could arrive for the platform's ad-free $16 subscription plan in 2027 if this goes without a hitch for Google/YouTube.
• YouTube would run into competition with the likes of Spotify (audiobooks arrived in 2023) and Audible.

Audiobook-enjoyers might have something to celebrate on YouTube. There are rumors that the platform is looking to enter a new market for its Premium subscribers.

A post by the Wall Street Journal (paywalled) highlighted rumors that YouTube Premium could soon offer audiobooks in one of its subscription plans (via GSMArena). Supposedly, Google has been "talking with publishers" about bringing audiobooks onto the platform in 2027.

Early reports allege YouTube Premium would offer audiobooks in its ad-free plan, which currently runs consumers $16 a month. What's interesting is that this could solve an issue: piracy. GoodEReader brought this up in its coverage, highlighting data that shows "45% of listeners" consume "audiobooks" on YouTube. The air quotes (and literal quotes) are warranted here, as the publication states these are AI-narrated, not authentic.

Audiobooks in YouTube Premium would give users the best experience possible, away from false creations. However, it's worth remembering that these are rumors, and nothing's been confirmed by YouTube yet.

YouTube's branching out

Many should be well-acquainted with Audible's audiobook offerings. In recent history, Spotify has joined that market, taking the fight directly to Audible with over 200,000 "free" titles. That was how it all started, anyway. When audiobooks launched for Spotify Premium in 2023, the platform gave its subscribers in the U.S. and the U.K. 15 hours of listening per month.

After you exceeded your limit, you could pay an additional $12.99 to get 10 more hours "or buy them a la carte." Spotify's library exceeded that initial 200,000 for Premium subscribers. But if you wanted more, you'd have to buy them individually. Spotify then launched its "Audiobook Access" tier for $9.99, giving users the same 15 hours of listening per month deal.

It goes without saying that YouTube will have its work cut out for it by stepping into this new world.

What you need to know

• A report claims that Samsung's Galaxy S27 Ultra has run into extreme overheating issues with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6.
• These issues have reportedly caused "throttling" in the device, lowering its performance significant; a problem Samsung has reached out to Qualcomm to solve.
• Reports say time is ticking, and if these issues aren't solved, Samsung might have to go with the Exynos 2700.
• These issues are familiar, considering Samsung's own chips have struggled in the past with overheating problems, but the Exynos 2600 tried to solve that.

While we're eagerly awaiting the next Ultra flagship from Samsung, a report states the company's run into a problem. The issue lies with its chip and its supposed performance hiccups.

A report late this week by SEDaily (Korean) claims that Samsung's run into problems with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 on the Galaxy S27 Ultra (via SamMobile). Samsung reportedly observed that the chip pushed the phone's temperatures beyond acceptable thresholds. Much like a computer, if the device begins to overheat, performance issues will occur.

Samsung has reportedly experienced "throttling" with the Galaxy S27 Ultra. This hasn't sat well with the Korean OEM. The publication reports that Samsung holds the device to the highest standards and that it must "stably run high-performance cameras, graphics, and AI features" (machine-translated).

Presently, if the S27 Ultra continues to experience issues with the SD 8 EE Gen 6, then Samsung may switch to the Exynos 2700. This is a reality that has yet to happen.

The post states that Samsung has reached out to Qualcomm about these issues. Time is of the essence; however, the OEM has given the chipmaker until "mid-October" to rectify the problems. The problem Samsung experienced is interesting, considering it mirrors the gripes consumers have had with its Exynos series in the past.

Overheating chips

Qualcomm split its flagship chips going into 2027 with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 and the 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6. The latter is designed to push the boundaries of mobile phone technology and targets Ultra phones. Qualcomm built the chip on a 2nm process with its new Adreno Neural Fusion technology. This leans on AI to boost graphics performance for gamers during longer sessions.

As we alluded to before, Samsung's Exynos chips were infamous for overheating. We'd like to remind you of the Exynos 2600 from 2025. This chip was a significant step for Samsung in the right direction compared to previous generations. Not only was it the world's first 2nm chip, but its CPU and GPU upgrades were also important. What's more, the company introduced a new Heat Path Block (HPB) to fix overheating and performance issues.

While these overheating fixes did well, Samsung could do better. Rumors about the Exynos 2700 say the company wants to introduce a next-generation HPB, reducing heat generation further.

Android Central's Take

This is textbook tech. If it can output graphic or whatever at a higher strength, it will generate more heat. Look at gaming PCs. Why do you think they have so many fans? Why do you think the graphics card has its own fan—or maybe two or three! There's a chance that Samsung and Qualcomm will have to reconfigure some things in the Galaxy S27 Ultra and the chip. Beyond this, there's also public perception. Samsung hesitates to drop an Ultra with Exynos in the States because it could impact sales.

Then there's overall performance. Can the Exynos 2700 go blow for blow with the SD 8 EE Gen 6?

What you need to know

• Amazon launched the Bee Frontier and Bee Eclipse wearable AI products that listen in on your conversations for transcription, summary, and reminder creation.
• The Bee Eclipse magnetically attaches to the back of your phone and can listen in on your calls, while the Frontier is a wrist-bound wearable for conversations.
• Privacy is a huge topic for Bee, and the company said your conversations are encrypted on your phone and never leave unless you share them.
• The Bee Frontier starts at $74, while the Eclipse runs for $99.

Amazon unveiled the next generation of wearable AI with two new products from Bee. The idea is to turn what's been said throughout the day into "insights and reminders."

Today (Oct. 15), Amazon launched the Bee Frontier and Bee Eclipse wearable AI products. For context, the post states, "Bee gathers context from your conversations and connected apps to provide insights and recommendations." Everything the devices capture can be accessed in the Bee mobile and desktop apps. The Bee Eclipse magnetically attaches to your phone and is no bigger than a credit card.

Essentially, the Bee Eclipse is dialed into your phone calls. Everything you're talking about is condensed into useful notes, summaries, or reminders for future use. Amazon states users will need permission from the person they're calling before the Bee Eclipse can record.

This device features a battery with over 21 days of power.

The Bee Eclipse is available for $99 in Silver, Midnight, Honey, and Blush.

An alternative (and truly a wearable) is the Bee Frontier. Consumers can clip the Frontier onto their wrist or clothes for comfort and all-day capture. Amazon states the more the user wears the Bee Frontier, the smarter it becomes. This is likely because, when activated, the Frontier is constantly listening to your conversations, saving important details, plans, or reminders for items you need to purchase.

The Bee Frontier features a seven-day battery, IP67 water resistance, and a USB-C charging port.

You can purchase the Bee Frontier for $74 in Onyx, Lavender, and Sage on Amazon, like the Bee Eclipse. While there's some use in these devices, privacy is a major concern. Amazon and Bee highlighted these concerns, while also expressing that users remain in control.

Could it be a problem?

Amazon states the Bee Frontier and Bee Eclipse feature the same privacy safeguards to ensure users remain in control and that no one can access their data. The first safeguard involves a button that users can press to turn the Frontier and Eclipse on or off. If on, the LED light will let you know.

On the other hand, Bee stresses that the audio these devices capture is "never stored." It explains that "Audio is processed into insights in real time and deleted after processing." These insights are sent directly to your phone. From there, Bee says your transcriptions are encrypted "using keys that only your device creates and controls." It adds that no one can access these unless you share them.

Users can also connect their Bee device to Alexa. The ability to delete transcriptions/summaries remains within your realm of control.

What you need to know

• Google is rolling out several updates for Search AI (AI Mode and AI Overviews) to help fuel user confidence when searching.
• Search AI will now feature inline source links higher in responses, while also displaying "more engaging" links with thumbnail photos.
• Timely news articles in Search AI will be housed in a carousel for quicker perusal.

AI Mode and AI Overviews are two prominent features in Google Search nowadays, but they're far from flawless. Google states it's rolling out updates to improve its inline source links.

This morning (Oct. 15), Google announced that it's rolling out updates to how AI Mode and AI Overviews help users discover the right information. No matter which feature you're using, Google's AI offers links back to its sources; however, it's never been perfect. According to the post, Google is moving its inline links "higher up in responses more frequently."

Users will find quicker access to true, verified sources for information across their searches. Additionally, if you're diving deeper into topics with AI Mode, Google says it's now displaying "more engaging and prominent" links. Users will notice links with thumbnail photos and a more click-encouraging design.

Elsewhere, the company detailed a test it's preparing to run for its AI responses. Some users may notice a new display at the top of some responses under a "Quick results from the web" category. Google says these links will feature a quick explanation of why they're the "best" sources for what you've searched.

These changes should help Search AI

Aside from your standard searches, Google is updating how published news stories appear. Preferred Sources helps users find content from websites they enjoy much more easily in Search. Google says it's rolling out a "prominent carousel" of news stories for timely articles. If you've searched for a recent event or a breaking news story, you will likely see this carousel of articles ready for your perusal.

Elsewhere, Google has now rolled out clickable creator and publisher profiles in video results. This will send users to their Search Profile, which holds the full scope of their content and more. Search Profiles gave us social media vibes when Google launched the feature in June. Primarily for your Discover feed, creators and publishers will feature a "Follow on Google" button in their knowledge panel.

Their profile will host their articles, social media posts, and videos.

These updates to Google's Search AI will roll out throughout October, so keep an eye out

What you need to know

• A Delaware jury sided with Qualcomm this week, finding Arm guilty of breaching a licensing agreement and "interfering" with business relations.
• Qualcomm was awarded $1 in damages for each offense, but the shouting will continue: the companies will likely find themselves in court over royalty payments.
• This started over Qualcomm's allegations that Arm "violated its contract" after its 2021 acquisition of Nuvia.

Qualcomm's court case with Arm was settled this week, and the former came out the victor ... in a way.

Reuters reported this week that a recent court case between Qualcomm and Arm over an alleged licensing breach has been settled. A Delaware jury found Arm guilty of the breach and of "interfering" with Qualcomm's business relationships, and as a result, Qualcomm was awarded $2 in damages — $1 for each offense.

While the jury officially sided with Qualcomm, Arm saw it differently. In a statement, the company said "the jury’s verdict confirms that Arm operated in ​good faith under its technology license agreement and its award of only two dollars confirms the merit of Arm’s arguments in the ‌case."

This likely won't be the end of Qualcomm and Arm's court dates. According to Reuters, Qualcomm has more to bring up, which it will likely do in court with Judge Maryellen Noreika. Since Arm neglected its responsibilities of providing the necessary tools for its chips, Judge Noreika could rule that Qualcomm can "stop paying royalties to Arm for five years." This is something Qualcomm has been after since this dispute began.

So far, Arm is against such a ruling. It remains to be seen what will happen.

Qualcomm's allegations

Qualcomm and Arm's court case began in early October. The former wants to freeze royalty payments for up to five years, a ruling Judge Noreika will have to decide in the future. But it all started after Qualcomm’s 2021 acquisition of the chip startup Nuvia. As stated before, Qualcomm alleged Arm "violated its contract" by withholding its chip-testing tools.

Beyond this were Qualcomm's business relationships. The company claimed Arm "leaked its threat to end a key license in 2024." This reportedly hurt Qualcomm's potential chip deal with Meta that year. Qualcomm said this leak dropped $170 million off its deal with Meta. Arm denied that it was linked to any of this. Instead, Meta's change of heart from VR headsets to AI glasses was the real reason, the company claimed.

There's still a concern that the fallout of these cases could impact future phone prices. Price negotiations and control over CPU technology could be hit the hardest.

What you need to know

• Samsung announced that it's rolling out an update for its Health app in October for the Sleep and Running coaches.
• The Sleep Coach now only requires three days' worth of data from the past two weeks (down from seven days in a month), and it introduces a new glanceable graph for sleep insights.
• The Running Coach's training levels have been increased from 10 to 12, and Samsung states its Strava partnership supports imported running routes.

Samsung is changing up its two in-app coaches for user health in an October update. The company states the changes are to help make "weekly guidance" easier.

Samsung revealed the contents of its October Health app update in a Newsroom post. It got off to a fast start with the changes arriving for the Sleep Coach. Samsung says "sleep tracking tells users how they slept"; however, the coach is designed to turn "personal sleep goals and data into daily habits," but that's never been easy. In today's update (Oct. 14), users can launch the Sleep Coach using three days of sleep data (within the past two weeks).

This is a stark change from the old requirement: seven days within a month.

Users will need to fill out a quick survey regarding their "sleep regularity." This will also involve sleep interruptions, caffeine intake, and more. The Sleep Coach will use this info (and your three days of data) to create a "tailored four- to eight-week coaching program" to meet your goals. What's more, Samsung is introducing a Sleep Balance graph.

It states this graph will include sleep time, sleep regularity, awake time during the night, sleep satisfaction, and Energy Score. While this graph provides a glanceable look at how you're sleeping, the app's morning daily insights will offer tips based on your sleep trends.

For the runners

Samsung states that its Running Coach has risen in popularity, pushing it to overhaul its systems for a better experience. According to the post, the Running Coach's training tiers have expanded from 10 to 12. This increase is aimed at intermediate and advanced runners.

These users can push their limits by setting "higher benchmarks, challenge themselves, and steadily improve their performance." On the other hand, the company states it's continuing its partnership with Strava. This update lets users import Strava Routes (running, trail running, cycling) into the Samsung Health app.

These updates should begin rolling out soon.

Before the Galaxy Watch 9 launched, Samsung detailed a major Health app update for features like "Vitals." Vitals focuses on five key heart metrics: heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, skin temperature, and blood oxygen. By comparing your current data with your previous trends, Vitals can help users identify important changes. Health Heart Score dials into your heart analytics to point out meaningful changes that you can bring up with your doctor.

Samsung also revamped its app's Energy Score with AI.

What you need to know

• Rumors on social media claim Nothing is working on two smart glasses variations: one with a camera and one without.
• The "audio-equipped" version will reportedly let users place/receive calls and feature transition lenses.
• The camera version would offer similar capabilities to the audio-only one; however, it may feature translation capabilities, ChatGPT, and more.
• Earlier rumors this year suggested Nothing's CEO Carl Pei moved the company down this route with a potential release in 2027.

Nothing has made Android phones, headphones, and earbuds. However, recent rumors claim the company wants to branch out into smart glasses.

Rumors got underway on Bluesky by tipster Roland Quandt, who claims Nothing is working on a pair of smart glasses (via GSMArena). The tipster suggests the brand could launch two variations of its smart glasses: one with a camera and one without. Regarding the "audio-equipped" glasses, rumors purport Nothing's take could feature "auto-tinting photochromic lenses."

Otherwise known as "transition lenses," Nothing's smart glasses could darken (like sunglasses) when outside before clearing once you're inside. Quandt adds that these glasses would closely integrate with your phone's AI assistant and let users place/receive calls.

The alternative is the alleged camera-equipped version. Rumors on Bluesky state this pair would also provide translation capabilities and ChatGPT. There's little else about these alleged Nothing-branded smart glasses, so take these rumors with a grain of salt.

Nothing Glasses 1 (remember that?)

This would be the second time we've heard rumors about Nothing smart glasses (or a Nothing Glasses 1, as we've joked before). Earlier this year, a report claimed that Nothing CEO Carl Pei began making moves within the company to bolster the development of AI smart glasses. It was alleged that these lenses would feature a camera, speaker, and microphone.

Compared to what we've seen on Bluesky, some of these aspects could be separated. That report suggested that these smart glasses wouldn't be able to "handle everything" on their own. They would lean/rely heavily on your phone. For example, it was speculated that the glasses would rely on your phone for "the cloud to handle AI processing." It's unclear if things have changed, but Nothing might reveal these glasses in 2027.

It'll be interesting to see how Nothing handles a camera on smart glasses. We've seen the major backlash Meta has received. Cameras on smart glasses raise serious privacy concerns for many people. No one wants to be recorded constantly without their consent.

Android Central's Take

I'm really interested in what Nothing smart glasses would look like. I like the design its given its phones. It's different, and might seem like an acquired taste to some. I wonder if Nothing would go the transparent route, or would it try and match whatever design its next phones are going with? A unified direction could work out nicely for a brand that's already turning heads with its aesthetic.

What you need to know

• Counterpoint Research states Q3 for the global phone market reached its lowest point in 14 years.
• Research states the market dropped by 20% YoY, and Samsung took the number one spot, thanks to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra.
• Counterpoint and Omdia suggest that Q4 might not show any meaningful improvements.

The global phone market looked bleaker and bleaker after every quarter in 2026. And new research states this is the worst it's been in 14 years.

Counterpoint Research analysts have published their Q3 2026 findings, which show just how far global phone shipments have plummeted. According to the research, global shipments saw a 20% YoY decline — and the culprit is clear. "The extreme memory shortage is pushing the smartphone market into a more selective phase," said Counterpoint senior analyst Shilpi Jain.

It states this is the lowest global phone shipments have been since 2012. While a sharp decline, Counterpoint states Samsung has retained its top position in the past quarter with a 3% YoY decline. What's more, Samsung's market share reportedly increased by 23%, "the largest share gain among major OEMs." Researchers attribute this to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra sales and its Galaxy A series.

Apple sits right behind Samsung in Q3, and the iPhone lineup is informative: The iPhone 18 series lacks a base option, offering only an 18 Pro and an 18 Pro Max. Counterpoint's analytics suggest this warranted the decline. Additionally, Chinese OEMs (Xiaomi, OPPO, and Vivo) round out the top five with massive declines of their own.

While a shortage of DRAM and NAND (courtesy of AI) is a key player in the market's decline, Counterpoint states "consumer behavior" has also changed as a result. Jain said, "Consumers are holding on to their devices longer than estimated, increasingly considering refurbished devices and prioritizing higher-value devices."

Q4 2026 remains dire for global phone shipments, with the post stating a recovery isn't likely "until component costs and supply conditions improve."

Struggling times

Sentiments surrounding Q3 and Q4 of 2026 have not changed. In July, Omdia posted its research on the global phone market for Q2. The market dipped by 4% YoY in Q2; however, Samsung and Apple saw growth of 2% and 4%, respectively, compared with other OEMs. While Omdia highlighted that the memory crisis caused the Q2 decline, it also forecasted continued turbulence for Q3 and Q4.

Even the budget phone market is a little sketchy.

Today, Counterpoint brought up an interesting point. It said OEMs are starting to focus on "profitability over shipment volumes amid elevated component costs and weaker affordability." Samsung is reportedly taking this path, asking suppliers to cut Q4 phone production by 20% to 30%.

What you need to know

• Nothing's General Release for its Android 17 update (OS 5.0) is rolling out now for the Phone 3.
• Nothing OS 5.0 brings major updates to the Phone 3, such as deeper phone customization, improved Essential AI tools, a Glyph Interface app, and a brand-new typeface, Geist.
• An updated roadmap reiterates the Open Beta for several more phones (Phone 4a and 3a series), ahead of an eventual General Release.

It's been two months of testing for Nothing's Android 17 software, and the update is finally rolling out.

Nothing announced in a community post that its OS 5.0 upgrade (Android 17) is rolling out for Phone 3 users. This "General Release" brings the "full experience" to all users—those who participated in the beta and those who didn't. Nothing states users should expect a "staggered release" for Nothing OS 5. While some users have received the update since Nothing announced its rollout, others will have to wait.

Certain regions and users in those regions will see the patch before others. So have patience this week and into next. If you're curious, Nothing states Phone 3 users should head into Settings > System > System Update to check if their device is ready to download/install.

Nothing OS 5 is huge—beyond the fact that it's Android 17. In late August, the company launched the software's open beta, encouraging Phone 3 users to join. Highlights include the system's new typeface, Geist. This typeface is "cleaner and easier to scan." It joins other refreshes to the device's UI's status bar, camera, Settings, and Gallery.

Elsewhere, you'll find the Glyph Interface inside a dedicated app. All features and sounds are housed in one place.

Nothing's Essential AI tools have been upgraded in OS 5. AI features have become a focal point for the company, and its Android 17 update sees it doubling down. Real-time transcriptions have been improved, and Smart Collections can "suggest and organize content for you automatically."

All of this and more (deeper personalization, lock screen upgrades, etc.) are packaged neatly in Nothing OS 5.

One down, more to go

The Phone 3 was the first to enter Nothing's Android 17 Open Beta, and it's the first to exit. However, we're still waiting on several more updates. Nothing's updated roadmap shows that the Phone 4a, Phone 4a Pro, and the Phone 3a and 3a Pro are still in their respective Open Betas. These devices entered the Open Beta program in September.

There's a chance a General Release could arrive later in October or November for these phones.

What you need to know

• Alongside the Fitbit Edge launch, Google announced a partnership with Flo Health to improve health features for women.
• Women will find a more personalized experience across topics that don't get enough attention, i.e. perimenopause, postpartum recovery, and more.
• The Fitbit Edge launched with a starting price of $180.

Google's latest partnership will strengthen the health features available for women's health on the new Fitbit Edge and Pixel Watch.

This morning (Oct. 12), Google announced that it's entering a multi-year partnership with Flo Health. This platform is reportedly used by over 80 million women every month to improve their health, an area that Google feels it should improve too. Google states, "we’re building a personal health experience that adapts to your lifestyle, habits, and biology — which is especially important for women."

Google Health wants to give women a complete view of their well-being from top to bottom. As such, it states that its partnership with Flo Health will focus on "ground-breaking research." Google's focus will lie in topics that don't get enough attention, such as perimenopause, polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), pregnancy, and postpartum recovery.

Since Flo Health is coming on board for a few years, Google Health will continue to rely on its cataloged insights and algorithms to improve its systems for new products tailored for women.

Flo Health data integration with the Google Health app will offer personalized guidance and suggested actions for women based on sleep, cycle health, and recovery data.

Your information and privacy will be kept under lock and key, the companies said. Beginning in early 2027, users will have the option to sync their Flo Health data with Google Health. Google says its Flo Health partnership will work to help women manage their well-being on the Fitbit Air, Fitbit Edge, and Pixel Watch 5.

Flo Health for Google's wearables

The Fitbit Edge is Google's latest launch. It's a fitness tracker that improves upon what consumers enjoyed from the old Charge 6. Google states the Fitbit Edge offers a touchscreen and the same advanced health features you'd expect from a more powerful smartwatch. Comparing it to the Charge 6, the Fitbit Edge's OLED is 45% larger and 40% brighter.

Users will find several key features, such as built-in GPS, heart rate monitoring, ECG, blood oxygen tracking, and more. Additionally, the Fitbit Edge features a replaceable battery that should extend its life beyond what we'd normally expect. If you've got a Fitbit subscription, the Gemini-powered AI Health Coach is available for the Fitbit Edge.

Android Central's Take

It's always good to have more personalized care or in this case, understanding and insight. This is an issue that anyone can run into. You're trying to understand or see a snapshot of what's going, but you're unsure of where to look. Google partnering with Flo Health is a good place to a start. It's a platform that's already well-known with years of data and understanding. Everyone deserves care, and improving that starts with steps like this.

What you need to know

• A rumor claims that Samsung may introduce DC dimming to the Galaxy S27 Pro and S27 Ultra.
• The company is reportedly working with "various safety firms" to understand how to reduce eye strain on its future Galaxy phones.
• Nicholas Sutrich dove deep into PWM dimming and DC dimming once upon a time, and his feelings side with the latter that's more human-friendly.

Amongst all of the Galaxy S27 series rumors, this one deserves some attention. Rumors claim Samsung might start taking eye strain reduction seriously.

Rumors about this stem from tipster Walle on X, who states Samsung is looking to integrate new eye strain reduction tech into the Galaxy S27 Pro and S27 Ultra (via Android Headlines). The post claims both devices could benefit from DC dimming. It's been reported that Samsung is allegedly beginning to "collaborate" with "various safety firms to understand how to lessen eye strain problems."

Walle adds that these improvements (and more) will arrive for Samsung's Eye Comfort Shield. Currently, you can find this option in your Galaxy device's Display settings. When toggled, your device will limit its blue light by using warmer colors. Moreover, it will automatically adjust your screen's colors based on the time (if set to automatic).

On the surface, this rumor sounds like a win for people who suffer from headaches and eye strain when using their phones for extended periods. But there's more to know, considering Samsung's Galaxy phones already use PWM dimming.

PWM or DC dimming?

My former colleague Nicholas Sutrich was the person to go to whenever PWM dimming was brought. But what is it? In Sutrich's own words, "...modern smartphone displays don't dim like they used to, or even like a traditional lightbulb. Instead, they often rapidly turn on and off to fool your eyes into seeing a dimmer image."

This is Pulse Width Modulation (PWM dimming). This is a piece of technology most commonly used in OLED and AMOLED. Sutrich said, "Companies use PWM dimming because OLEDs can exhibit visual problems when trying to dim them like a traditional light source." However, the most clever ones realize they could "just turn it on and off very rapidly, and the human brain does the rest."

While PWM dimming is fine, Sutrich felt that DC dimming is better. DC-like dimming on OnePlus phones activates when your brightness is over 25%. If it dips below this line, the phone reverts to the crazy flickering of PWM dimming. Why? Sutrich said, "This is because, unlike PWM dimming, DC-like dimming never turns the entire display off when it refreshes. There's just a small brightness drop as each pixel is refreshed."

Hopefully we see this change for the Galaxy S27 Pro and S27 Ultra, but who knows.

What you need to know

• CMF launched its first speakers: the CMF Speaker S and Speaker M in various colors in a classic milk carton design.
• The Speaker S is designed for portability, while CMF empowered the Speaker M with more in-depth audio and clarity for rooms.
• Users can take off the Speaker S and Speaker M's volume knobs and panels and 3D print their own designs.
• The Speaker S is available for $59, while the Speaker M begins at $109.

CMF recently became its own company in India, divesting from Nothing. The company is now moving quickly with a new product launch that looks like a fresh carton of milk.

This morning (Oct. 12), CMF announced its first wave of speakers: the Speaker S and Speaker M. These speakers take inspiration from classic cartons of milk, but they're packed full of sound for any occasion. CMF says it went with a design that was "something unique" and fit its brand. The Speaker S looks like the milk cartons you'd get in school for lunch. It features a custom-tuned 45 mm driver in a short form factor.

CMF states it worked to enhance the lower frequencies on the Speaker S to achieve "deeper, more resonant bass." What's more, the Speaker S is aimed at portability since it's a bit smaller than the Speaker M. If you have two of the same model (Speaker S, in this case), CMF says users can turn them into "dedicated left and right channels" with Stereo Mode. Users can fill an area with more sound, as if they were using a standard sound system.

If you're sticking with one speaker, CMF's Wide Soundstage brings more audio depth to that solo device. Adaptive Tuning handles the speaker's EQ; however, users can create custom EQs using the Nothing X app.

Party Mode leans on Android's Auracast to sync multiple speakers. CMF states this will work with its speakers and devices from other companies.

The CMF Speaker S features 18 hours of audio playback "at 50% volume with Ultra Bass on." A quick 10-minute charge reportedly delivers one hour of audio. Speaker S supports Tap to Pair, Bluetooth 6.0, and USB-C lossless audio.

The CMF Speaker S is available in white, dark grey, orange, and turquoise. Consumers can purchase the speaker for $59.

Speaker M

The CMF Speaker M retains many of the same features as the Speaker S. Consumers will find Ultra Bass, offering "controlled low-end impact for playlists that need extra weight." This feature toggles on and off, letting users fine-tune their audio experience at a moment's notice. The Speaker M also provides Party Mode, Stereo Mode, Wide Soundstage, Adaptive Tuning, and Custom EQs.

However, the primary difference lies in its design. The Speaker M is taller, with a dedicated subwoofer and tweeter. CMF wanted to up the ante with the Speaker M's audio capabilities over the Speaker S. The post states the Speaker M pushes its clarity and bass for a "balanced" experience when broadcasting in larger rooms.

The Speaker M supports USB-C lossless audio, Tap to Pair, Bluetooth 6.0, Dual Device connection, and more. Its battery will support 18 hours of audio at 50% volume with Ultra Bass enabled, similar to the Speaker S.

Consumers can pick up the CMF Speaker M today (Oct. 12) in white, dark grey, orange, and turquoise for $109.

While the CMF Speaker S and Speaker M may look like completed products, the company says consumers can change their designs. CMF states users can take off the Speaker S and Speaker M's volume knobs and panels and switch them out. You can "mix and match," or you could 3D print your own designs.

CMF has provided users with the STL files required to begin 3D printing.

What you need to know

• Early Kindle 2026 owners report a "light bleeding" problem with the device when in dark mode.
• Users state that the edges of the device experience a bright glow while in dark mode, and Amazon says this "was expected."
• In a statement, Amazon said this "issue" was expected to "achieve a color bezel." Users can limit this problem by lowering the brightness in dark mode.

We're about eight days into Amazon's new line of Kindles, and users are already reporting problems with its display.

While the 2026 Amazon Kindles bring notable improvements over previous iterations, users have started reporting display oddities (via Android Authority). One user on Reddit provided a photo of their basic Kindle, showcasing the "light bleed" effect they're experiencing. The post reads, "I wanted to ask if you think these very bright lights around the edges of the new basic Kindle are normal."

The problem only seems to appear when the Kindle is in dark mode. This "light bleed" is most apparent along the edges of the device's bezels. Since it's in dark mode, the glow mirrors the white text that you'd read. As the user states, their other device doesn't have such an issue, as the black background presses against the bezels. However, this 2026 edition falters in this regard.

Others believe this is not normal, as they recount experiences with a Paperwhite 2024, which didn't have this problem. Users report similar problems with their 2026 Kindle; however, some haven't noticed an issue. Many call for those with this light bleed issue to contact Amazon for a replacement, but that might be easier said than done.

Amazon delivered to Android Authority: "It’s correct that when a device is in dark mode with brightness at max in a dark setting, customers may see a glow around the edges of the book. However, this was expected in order for us to achieve a color bezel, and only appears in certain conditions like when in dark mode with high brightness."

If the light bleed becomes too much of an eyesore, Amazon recommends lowering your brightness in dark mode.

New Kindle problems

Many users on Reddit have voiced their frustrations with this development. Amazon's 2026 Kindle lineup is its most redesigned series in years. The company overhauled its display, delivering a reverse-stack that drops the raised bezels so everything sits flush. As a result, Amazon made the Kindle lighter and thinner.

The six-inch Kindle for $150 delivers 16GB of storage, six weeks of battery, and quickens its book-opening speed by 30%. Consumers will also find a $200 Kindle Paperwhite and a $250 Signature Edition. Another major announcement was the Bluetooth page-turner remote. Amazon calls this the Kindle Click. Many of the current Kindles are available now for shipping.

If you're looking at the Paperwhite and Colorsoft models, you'll have to pre-order them.