Latest Mobile & Gadgets News

📅February 17, 2026 at 1:00 AM
Apple enables Android-to-iOS transfer in iOS 26.3, Samsung Galaxy S26 launches February 25, and major smartphone releases include Pixel 10a and Vivo V70 series this week.
1

Apple iOS 26.3 Introduces Native Android-to-iOS Transfer Feature

Apple's new iOS 26.3 launching this week includes a streamlined native transfer feature that allows users to move data directly from Android devices to iOS, marking a significant shift in Apple's ecosystem approachSource 1. The feature comes under pressure from EU regulators requiring Apple to make it easier for users to switch to other platformsSource 1. Additionally, Apple announced surprise integration with Samsung Galaxy S25 ecosystem, representing an unprecedented collaboration in the smartphone marketSource 1.

2

Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Unpacked Event Scheduled for February 25

Samsung has confirmed its Galaxy Unpacked event for February 25, 2026, which will showcase the new Galaxy S26 series with heavy AI integrationSource 1. This launch is expected to be a major release with significant updates to Samsung's flagship lineupSource 1.

3

Google Pixel 10a Pre-Orders Begin February 18

Google's Pixel 10a pre-orders officially begin on February 18, 2026, with pricing expected to exceed Rs 50,000 in IndiaSource 2. The phone is rumored to be powered by the Tensor G4 chipset with 8GB RAM and up to 256GB storage, featuring Android 16 out of the box with eight OS upgrades promisedSource 2.

4

Vivo V70 Series Launches in India February 19

Vivo has confirmed the launch of its V70 and V70 Elite series for February 19, 2026, featuring redesigned square camera modules and flatter bodiesSource 2. Both phones include 120Hz AMOLED displays, IP68 and IP69 ratings, and represent a complete refresh for the brandSource 2.

5

Infinix Note Edge with 3D Curved Display Launches This Week

Infinix is launching the Note Edge device this week, featuring a 3D curved AMOLED display and MediaTek Dimensity chipset with 8GB RAMSource 2. The device packs a 6,500mAh battery with Android 16-based XOS and is expected to be priced in the sub-Rs 25,000 segmentSource 2.

6

Anthropic Secures $20 Million Funding at $250 Billion Valuation

Anthropic is reportedly closing a $20 million funding round at a staggering $250 billion valuation, marking another major investment in the competitive AI sectorSource 1. The funding reflects intense competition in the AI industry as companies race to develop advanced modelsSource 1.

7

Amazon Commits to Massive AI Investment Amid Cloud Competition

Amazon CEO outlined massive AI investments to revive AWS growth amid intense competition from Microsoft and Google Cloud AI servicesSource 1. The announcement reflects the ongoing competition in cloud and AI infrastructure marketsSource 1.

8

Amazon Ring Ends Flock Safety Partnership Over Privacy Concerns

Amazon Ring terminated its integration partnership with Flock Safety due to privacy and surveillance concerns following backlash, including a Super Bowl ad controversySource 1. The move represents growing scrutiny over surveillance technologies and data sharing practicesSource 1.

9

Airbnb Reports One-Third of US/Canada Support Now AI-Handled

Airbnb announced that approximately one-third of customer support in the United States and Canada is now handled by AI, with further expansion planned into search and discovery functionsSource 1. This milestone reflects the broader adoption of AI across the travel and hospitality sectorSource 1.

10

Poco X8 Pro Global Release Confirmed with Dimensity 8500

The Poco X8 Pro has surfaced on Geekbench with confirmed global release specifications, featuring a Dimensity 8500 series chipset, 12GB RAM variant, and Android 16 out of the boxSource 4. The device is expected to retail for €479 (~$569) for the 512GB storage variant, with a base model starting at €399 (~$475)Source 4.

11

Samsung Mobile Technology Connects Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Games

Samsung is providing mobile technology solutions across the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games, including Galaxy Charging Stations for spectators and an interactive Samsung Victory Truck featuring AR experiences with Olympic mascotsSource 5. The technology enables athletes, volunteers, and fans to stay connected throughout the GamesSource 5.

12

Physical AI and eSIM Technology Drive Mobile Ecosystem Evolution

CES 2026 highlighted a fundamental shift in mobile perception, with AI moving from screens into physical devices including robots, wearables, and vehiclesSource 3. New eSIM standards like GSMA SGP.32 enable manufacturers to reduce logistical complexity while maintaining connectivity flexibility across regions and operatorsSource 3.

13

iPhone 17 Pro Named Best Smartphone for Photography with DXOMark Score of 168

The iPhone 17 Pro achieved the highest DXOMark score of 168 among current flagship phones, with testers praising its best-in-class video experience and consistency across zoom modesSource 6. The Pro Max variant became the best-selling member of the iPhone 17 family according to Counterpoint ResearchSource 6.

14

Google Pixel 9a Emerges as Best Budget Camera Phone for 2026

The Google Pixel 9a, priced at $599, is ranked as the best budget camera phone by multiple testers due to its software and post-processing capabilities that deliver vibrant and detailed photosSource 6. Despite featuring only dual cameras, its computational photography prowess compensates for the lack of hardware zoomSource 6.