Latest Mobile & Gadgets News
2026 Mobile Tech Predictions: AI Shifts, Higher Pricing, Fewer Sales
Analysts predict 2026 will see agentic AI integration in smartphones, evolving features in flagships and foldables, but fewer sales due to economic pressures and supply issues. Manufacturers may charge over $1,000 for premium devices packed with new capabilities, while some might exit consumer markets.
Enthusiasts should prepare for potential stock shortages and higher costs.
iPhone 17 Series Delivers Solid 2025 Upgrades with ProMotion Displays
The iPhone 17 features a larger 6.3-inch 120Hz ProMotion display in the same 6.1-inch body, plus a 48MP Fusion camera for better zoom. iPhone 17 Pro models include an A19 Pro chip and vapor chamber cooling for sustained performance.
However, iPhone Air sales have been lackluster, potentially influencing 2026 designs.
SK Telecom Launches A.X K1, Korea's First 500B-Scale Hyperscale AI Model
SK Telecom unveiled A.X K1 (519B-A33B) on Dec. 27, aiming to position Korea as a top-three global AI player. The model will integrate into services via A. app for 10M+ users, enhancing search, manufacturing, gaming, and robots.
Over 20 institutions, including SK hynix, have committed to real-world testing.
OnePlus 2026 Outlook: Better Cameras, Nord Return to U.S., Foldables
OnePlus 16 expected late 2026 with hopes for improved cameras to match Asian rivals like Vivo X300 and return of alert slider. Company should reintroduce affordable Nord series to U.S. market for budget appeal.
Anticipated OnePlus Open 2 foldable and possible flip phone to re-enter foldable space.
Samsung Unveils 2026 Audio Lineup with Q-Series Soundbars and Music Studio Speakers
Samsung announced enhanced Q-Series soundbars and new Music Studio 5/7 Wi-Fi speakers on Dec. 28, featuring Q-Symphony for multi-device sound. Speakers sport iconic dot design by Erwan Bouroullec, Wi-Fi connectivity, and SmartThings integration.
Lineup to debut at CES 2026, complementing recent Sound Tower models.
Google's Ask Photos Named Best Smartphone Feature of 2025, Now on All Phones
Google's AI-powered Ask Photos, initially Pixel-exclusive, rolled out to all Android and iPhone via Google Photos app. Feature excels in contextual photo editing like background replacement, saving time over manual methods.
Potential expansion to video editing eyed for 2026.
Samsung Plans Major Galaxy A Series Upgrades for 2026, Including 6000mAh Batteries
Samsung's 2026 mid-range Galaxy A phones, like A37 and A57, may feature newer camera sensors and a budget model with 6000mAh battery. These enhancements aim to boost competitiveness in the affordable segment.
Upgrades will not come free, signaling premium pricing for improvements.
2025 iPhones Review: Hardware Matches Android, But AI Lags Behind
iPhone 17 lineup praised for hardware parity with Android flagships, including better cooling and displays. Apple Intelligence remains underwhelming compared to Galaxy AI and Google features.
iPhone Air's single camera and poor sales noted as potential 2026 pivot point.
OnePlus Flagships Shine with Batteries and Charging, Eyes Foldable Comeback
OnePlus 13 and 15 impress with large batteries and fast charging, setting expectations for 2026's OnePlus 16. Push for U.S. Nord series revival to offer budget options like Nord 4 at half flagship prices.
Foldables like Open 2 could leverage Oppo's thin designs for market re-entry.
Mobile Tech Market Braces for 2026 Slowdown Amid Economic Pressures
Fewer smartphone sales projected for 2026 due to economy, supply constraints, and rising costs for AI/feature-packed devices. Foldables from Samsung, Google, Motorola, and possibly Apple expected to evolve.
Consumers advised to skip upgrades if needed, eyeing 2027 rebounds.
SK Telecom's A.X K1 to Power National AI Ecosystem Across Industries
A.X K1 enables 'AI for Everyone' via phone, text, web, and apps, partnering with Liner for multilingual search. Applications span A. Biz for manufacturing, Krafton games, and humanoid robots.
Consortium led by SKT drives Korea's AI ambitions with broad institutional support.