Samsung is about to kill another built-in Galaxy feature, and this time it's the news feed that many users probably haven't noticed anymore.
In a confirmation from the company spotted by SamMobile, the Samsung News app will be discontinued on December 21, 2026, at 00:00 UTC — leaving Galaxy phone and tablet owners bereft of one of the platform’s familiar ways to catch up on daily headlines.
(Image credit: Samsung / SamMobile)
The shutdown will affect more than just the Samsung News app. Its home screen widget will no longer get updated with new content, and the media page you can access by swiping right from the leftmost home screen will be gone.
Samsung has already begun sending shutdown notices to users in India and South Korea, urging them to remove the widget before the service is discontinued.
Samsung will also erase all user data related to the service after the shutdown. This includes personal information, account profiles, and personalization settings. Some information may be kept temporarily, as mandated by local law, but Samsung says it will be deleted eventually.
Samsung News is not new. It launched in April 2023, succeeding Samsung Free, and continuing a surprisingly long line of shuttered news-feed services. Samsung Free replaced Samsung Daily in 2020 and Bixby Home replaced Samsung Daily in 2019. That's quite a few rebrands for something that ultimately ended up on the chopping block.
So, what comes next? Samsung hasn’t announced a direct replacement, but Google Discover is a likely candidate. The service is already available as an alternative on Galaxy devices, so this is a convenient option if Samsung chooses to simplify its software experience.
While these confirmed shutdown notices are for India and South Korea, owners in other markets should be watching for similar announcements, rather than assuming their regional service will disappear on the same schedule. In any case, it seems Samsung’s native news experience is headed for its final headline.
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Strava announced that it's rolling out a Connected Apps experience with Google's Gemini for subscribers.
Once connected, users will receive details about their progress, and uncover new insights through Gemini's integration with your running data.
A major Strava update brought AI Performance Prediction to subscribers, which requires at least 20 tracked activities before it can begin.
Strava is starting to roll out new ways for users to interact with their wellness data by joining forces with Google Gemini.
In a press release, Strava announced that users can enjoy a Connected Apps experience in Google's Gemini, beginning this week. Subscribers can reportedly connect their Strava account to view their "progress and uncover insights." The company adds that Gemini will personalize its answers based on your Strava data.
Strava runs users through a few examples, stating they can ask if they're "getting faster at the same heart rate." The post states Gemini will compare your heart rate and speed across your "volume, consistency, and mix of sports." What's more, Strava's Gemini integration can break down your racing performance per mile.
Strava has rolled out recent updates for its Gemini integration, too. According to the post, users can ask Gemini if the weather was why they felt sluggish, or if it was their body.
Subscribers can connect their Strava accounts with Gemini this week in the U.S. The company states this feature is available for all Gemini plans. If you're getting started, users should navigate to Personal Intelligence in Gemini > Strava (in Connected Apps) > Sign In.
Get your steps in (or run)
(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)
The Strava app is primarily where users have gotten their daily insights; however, there was a major update that brought its Athlete Intelligence, which turned some heads. Athlete Intelligence was locked away in beta for four and a half months. After launching, it delivered improved accuracy and new insights to users. As part of its "tailored" experience, Athlete Intelligence could interpret a user's "non-GPS activities."
Such activities include running on a treadmill or cycling power. What's more, Athlete Intelligence will "note how your pace or speed compares to other times on that route." In our initial testing, we noticed some errors with Athlete Intelligence early on, but its insights were pretty spot on. Shortly after, Strava brought AI Performance Predictions to its subscribers.
The company's software would estimate how long it would take the user to run a "5K, 10K, and half & full marathons." This data requires a hefty background to begin. Strava states users should catalog around 20 activities before AI Performance Predictions can begin.
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Google is rolling out a late October patch for Gemini for Home and its smart home app, upgrading its capabilities and introducing major fixes.
The patch notes state Gemini's "Sorry, I didn't understand" response has been fixed, as users would receive this when nothing was explicitly said.
Fixes for "zero-volume" alarms and timers are rolling out, alongside new additions for Matter devices on Android.
Google concludes the week with a substantial update for Gemini for Home and its smart home app that users should keep an eye out for.
The company detailed the update in a lengthy changelog today (Oct. 29). Gemini for Home, which is still in early access, spearheads the list of fixes this week. According to Google, this week's patch includes a fix for Gemini's frustrating "Sorry, I didn't understand" error messages. The funny thing is, this was happening when users hadn't said anything. This issue reportedly affected displays and speakers, and should be patched in this update.
Gemini should now better understand when a user tells it to switch music to a device in another room. Google states it's rolling out more "reliable" commands for YouTube TV. It says this should help content play as intended whenever the user asks for it. Volume control is another area where Gemini has been shaky.
Google states it's rolling out a fix for "zero volume timers and alarms." In some cases, users would set an alarm, but its volume would drop to zero, meaning they'd never hear it. Elsewhere, Google is solving an issue "where asking to adjust the volume on a speaker or display in another room could accidentally change the volume on the device you were speaking to if the other device couldn’t be found."
(Image credit: Google)
The Google Home app is also receiving quite a few bug fixes/updates this week, beginning with Matter devices. The patch notes state Android devices can now view energy data for supported Matter products. It adds that compatible plugs and energy monitors will soon "display both real-time power (mW) and total energy consumed (kWh) directly on their device tiles and controller screens."
Additionally, users can quickly shift their devices into power-saving modes through the app. Improved icons and controls are also rolling out for Matter devices on Android. Google says the Home app will now organize devices by type: garage doors, gates, windows, blinds, cabinets, and more.
Google Home Premium users can now find their benefits by tapping on their Profile > Google Home Premium > Features (to enable, too).
There are also extensive updates for smart home cameras
(Image credit: Google)
A long road of changes
Google's been down a long road with Gemini for its smart home environment. The company has rolled out purposeful patches to fix issues users have experienced with the AI's responses. In one update, Google worked on improving Gemini's response times. It stated that it quickened the AI by 40%, but it also rolled out additional fixes to make good on that promise.
In a patch in April, Google improved Gemini's smart home understanding. Users won't have to bore themselves with exact commands. The company said Gemini could understand "casual phrases and context better."
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Google's been busy with its Android 17 development cycle, pushing multiple Quarterly Platform Release updates and still working on bug fixes across Pixel devices. QPR3 went into beta testing in early October, and the first two releases focused primarily on squashing stability, connectivity, and performance bugs. Now Android 17 QPR3 Beta 3 is here with 26 more fixes, the return of the app lock, and some handy interface improvements.
It’s not a massive visual overhaul by any means, but Google is clearly using these beta releases to tidy up the Android experience ahead of the next big update.
This new release follows QPR3 Beta 2, which was released just over a week ago and also included its own set of bug fixes. According to its release note shared on Reddit, Google has listed 26 fixes ranging from display glitches and app crashes to connectivity and system stability issues this time around.
App lock and bubbles get another shot
The changes to the usability side are more interesting. As noted by one Reddit user, app lock is making a comeback, offering users another way to keep sensitive apps safe from unwanted access. Google is also making app bubbles easier to use by letting users launch them from the Recents menu, rather than having to dig through other interface options.
Quick Settings is also receiving a camera shortcut. That’s a small addition, arguably, but it gives users another way to launch the camera without hunting down its app icon. Google has also fixed the AM/PM display for lock screen alarms and brought back some of the lock screen blur that was lost in a previous update.
A bigger cleanup under the hood
The new fixes cover a number of annoying issues, including random screen flickering, black inner displays when unfolding foldables, poor webcam video quality, and crashes when viewing mentions in X threads. Google has also fixed broken force-stop controls, missing notification elements, crashing Bluetooth scans, and WPA-Enterprise Wi-Fi authentication failures.
Android 17 QPR3 Beta 3 is available for Pixel 6a and newer devices. Most supported models receive build DP11.261016.003, while Pixel 11 models get DP11.261016.004.
If you want to, you can sign up through Google's Android Beta Program, but it’s always a good idea to back up your data prior to installing beta software.
Android 17 QPR2 is expected to reach stable status around the end of 2026, and QPR3 is looking to be another round of meaningful refinements ahead of its anticipated 2027 release.
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Amazon announced a refreshed list of 2026 smart home devices: the Echo Dot, Echo Studio with Home Camera, Echo Time, Echo Show 16, and the Alexa Photo Frame.
The Echo Dot offers a built-in smart home hub that connects it to "thousands" of available smart home devices, such as lights and locks.
The Echo Show 16 is ~40% thinner than before, and delivers a 16-inch HD screen that users can use a family or meal planner.
Amazon's Alexa Photo Frame sync directly with your Amazon Photos account, and brings your latest photos to the forefront.
Amazon is dropping another round of fresh smart home devices at the end of Techtober. The company announced four new Echo devices and an Alexa Photo Frame to digitize years of memories.
Today (Oct. 29), Amazon debuted its latest line of smart home devices, beginning with four new Echo devices, such as the new Echo Dot. Amazon states the 2026 Echo Dot "includes a built-in smart home hub" for the first time. This hub lets its AI, Alexa, connect to "thousands of compatible devices" (think smart lights, locks, etc.). Furthering the Echo Dot's AI ambitions is Amazon's new AI Accelerator for a sharp, quick experience.
If you're playing music or listening to audiobooks, Amazon says the Echo Dot now has 50% more bass and crisper vocals. The Echo Dot is available for $99; however, there is a Kids Echo Dot that starts at $109 with a year of Amazon Plus included.
Elsewhere, we have the 2026 Echo Studio. The design remains similar to that of its 2025 counterpart. Amazon says the Echo Studio features a House Camera to give it a "better understanding" of what's happening around it. In turn, it enhances Alexa's capabilities for homeowners. Users can check in on their house through the Echo Studio, peering in through its included camera.
The Echo Studio boasts "a high-excursion woofer and Dolby Atmos with Advanced Room Adaptation." The Echo Studio with House Camera starts at $249 and is shipping today (Oct. 29). The company states Fire TV support will bring video calling to users in a future update.
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The Echo Time has been refreshed with Omnisense, Amazon's sleep-sensing tech. The post states the device can "sense when you're in lighter sleep and wake you within 10 to 60 minutes of your scheduled alarm." In terms of design, the Echo Time features a digital clock face that users can customize with analog or modern themes.
The Echo Time is available starting at $199, and the Kids Echo Time starts at $209 with a year of Kids Plus included.
Rounding out the "Echo" devices is the Echo Show 16. Amazon calls it its "most powerful" version. The device is roughly 40% thinner and features a 16-inch HD screen. There's also a Nanomatte variation to reduce screen glare from sunlight. Amazon highlights "Screen Styles," which lets users turn it into a family planner, meal planner, and more.
The Echo Show 16 can even double as a family picture frame. Then you have the smart home dashboard with the Alexa Home Map. This gives users a clear picture of where every connected smart home device is in their house. Fire TV support is built-in, and the Echo Show 16's camera has been upgraded with a wider FOV, auto-framing for pictures, and more.
The Echo Show 16 can be pre-ordered for $499.99 or for $599 if you're getting the Nanomatte version. However, Amazon states that if you're pre-ordering now, you could get $100 off.
Framing the memories
(Image credit: Amazon)
The final overall product from Amazon is the 10-inch Alexa Photo Frame.
This digital photo frame has Alexa built into its core, connecting to your Amazon Photos account with automatic image sync. The post states that as you take photos, they will appear on the Photo Frame. Alexa reportedly works its AI magic, surfacing photos where people are smiling, skipping over screenshots and other content.
Consumers can purchase the Alexa Photo Frame for $199.99 in black, while its Birch or Walnut wood frames start at $229.00.
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Google announced "Immersive Explorations" in Gemini, which gives students a visual way of learning a subject by unraveling its contents layer-by-layer.
Users can learn about the complexities of Quasars and more in space, or about dinosaurs, the molecular structure of life, and more.
Google's previously brought huge updates for teachers in the Classrooms app for students through Gemini to help create lesson plans, Rubrics, and quizzes.
Gemini and astrology go hand-in-hand—it's in the name, after all. Google announced that it's rolling out a new library in Gemini's student hub for stellar topics.
This week, Google announced in a blog post that it's bringing "Immersive Explorations" to the Gemini student hub. This library will reportedly give users an "interactive, visual way to explore topics layer-by-layer..." In a press release, Google states users can forget about scrolling and reading through giant walls of text. Immersive Explorations is more visual (though it comes with a few paragraphs to explain what you're seeing).
Users can "click through layered visuals" to educate themselves about a range of topics. If we're going down the stellar route, users can learn about Quasars, and zoom in to learn about Host Galaxies or Interstellar Dust Lanes. Clicking on different parts of an image unlocks more details. Users can see the bigger picture as a whole, and dive in to learn about every tiny fragment that makes it whole.
Students in the Gemini hub can also learn about dinosaurs, the molecular structure of plants, the "physics of lightning," and more. Google says Immersive Explorations are available now in the Gemini app.
Users can begin exploring in English, Indonesian, Hindi, Brazilian Portuguese, French, and simplified Chinese. Google states users in other languages will default to English until support for those languages arrives at a later time.
More ways to learn
(Image credit: Google)
When Google rolled out Gemini for teens using school accounts, it did so with guardrails and the ability to fact-check the AI's results. The AI was made available in over 100 countries, alongside "Coach." This was a "step-by-step tool to help students build their knowledge of various subjects through quizzes and games." The other side of Google's work to build better AI for educational purposes was its tools for the Classrooms app.
It was a Gemini-focused patch that brought the AI's assistance to NotebookLM (now Gemini Notebook). Teachers could create an AI "expert" for a specific topic to help students if they're struggling with a certain subject. What's more, teachers can create a Rubric and quizzes with ease using the educational material they have.
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Ultrahuman announced that its Ring Pro is available now in the U.S. without delay and without pre-order.
Consumers can purchase the device at online storefronts from Ultrahuman, Target, Walmart, and Best Buy; however, 300 Best Buy stores will also have it for fitting purposes.
The Ring Pro features a 15-day battery life (45 days with the case), "Enhanced memory" for health data, a titanium build, and more for ~$479.
Ultrahuman's latest smart ring debuted in February. However, the U.S. was excluded from its "global" debut—that changes today (Oct. 29).
Ultrahuman announced in a press release that the Ring Pro is now available to U.S. consumers. Consumers can purchase the Ring Pro online at Ultrahuman's storefront, Target, and Walmart. Additionally, you can grab it at Best Buy online or in-store at one of 300 locations. Ultrahuman states the Ring Pro's presence at Best Buy stores gives users a unique advantage.
You can try on the Ring Pro in-store, have it sized to your finger, and "take it home the same day." The smart ring was announced at $479 at launch in February, so consumers should see similar pricing online and in-store. The company states that it's working on bringing the Ring Pro to Target and Walmart stores "over the next few weeks," so you can try it on and have it sized in person.
To celebrate the Ring Pro's U.S. arrival, Ultrahuman's CEO and founder, Mohit Kumar, said, "We’re delighted to be on sale in the U.S. so customers can get hold of Ring PRO without pre-orders or delays."
Pro-level Ring
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Ultrahuman reminds us that the Ring Pro features up to 15 days of battery life. However, paired with its charging case, users can get up to 45 days. The Ring Pro and its charging case feature a pairing so strong, you can find it if you've lost it. Ultrahuman says users will benefit from "Find My Case" and At-a-glance feedback on the case. This feedback delivers "confirmations and alerts via haptics, and view battery level status via an LED indicator."
Plus, users won't need a subscription to unlock its many continuous health-tracking features. Returning to its original launch, Ultrahuman said it will sell the Ring Pro in sizes five through 14.
The Ring Pro was also built with "enhanced memory." Ultrahuman says it can remember up to 250 days of data to "assist with your health history." The company redesigned its heart rate sensor to be more useful when you're sleeping or recovering.
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Google's Android Dev Summit is going on, and it announced a Connected Apps Platform in preview for developers.
This platform lets developers bring their apps into the Connected Apps experience for Gemini or Search, or both.
Users should expect apps from Adobe, Experian, Localiza, and Peloton in Search in the coming weeks, as well as Calm.
This afternoon (Oct. 28), Google announced a new developer platform en route for Connected Apps in Gemini and Search.
From what Google announced, it looks like users should prepare for an influx of Connected Apps. According to its post, the Connected Apps Platform is launching in preview this week for developers looking to integrate their products into Gemini and Search. Google states this preview gives developers an "opportunity to build once and reach high-intent users..."
After integrating with a cloud-hosted MCP server and running through the required review process, Google says devs can decide whether their app is available in Gemini or Search (or both). Developers will have all the tools they need to understand the stability of their app. They can "track traffic, latency, and error rates," among other pieces of data, to keep everything smooth.
While Google is rolling out the Connected Apps Platform in preview to developers today, it states everyday users at home should expect more goodies, too. The company highlighted partnerships with Adobe, Experian, Localiza, and Peloton in Connected Apps. Many of these are already live in Gemini; however, in the weeks ahead, Google says it will roll them out in Search.
Additionally, Google is preparing to integrate Calm (the mental health app) into Gemini and Search soon. If you're a developer and you're interested in the new platform's preview, you can sign up and get started.
Groceries, music, and more
(Image credit: Google)
Android Central's Take
Useful AI is useful. This is a good spot for AI to be: one where it can help take the mundane out of the mundane. It'll shop, and then notify you at the important parts. However, watching what the AI does can't be stressed enough. It's not foolproof, so keeping a watchful eye to ensure disaster doesn't strike is a good rule of thumb. Also, you don't have to connect anything you don't want to. Be mindful, and stay safe with your information.
As far as Connected Apps go, things have improved recently. And by "improved," we mean the fact that Google brought in Instacart and YouTube Music to AI Mode's experience this summer. Even Canva got in on the fun. With all Connected Apps, users are letting Google's AI take the reins. With Instacart, users can say, "get me all the things I need for my BBQ and add them to my grocery cart."
You'll see everything the AI is doing, and you can also intervene if something goes awry. What's more, the AI will notify you when it reaches a critical point: payment. You'll be prompted to open Instacart and complete the transaction once the AI is done shopping. The AI can assist with creating new playlists if YouTube Music is connected.
Google teased that there would be more partnerships in the future, and we've gotten a small glimpse of that today with its new platform preview.
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Xreal Aura launch day is here, and the company announced a surprising price drop that will run for a limited time (through December 2026).
The Aura XR glasses can be purchased for $1,099 (12/256GB) and $1,299 (16GB/512GB) in the U.S., Canada, Japan, and South Korea.
The Xreal Aura delivers access to millions of apps on the Google Play Store, the NBA app for Android XR, the NASCAR XR app, a 70-degree FOV, a 1200p resolution Sony Micro-OLED display, Sound by Bose, and more.
The day has finally arrived for Xreal's Aura. The company announces that its wired Android XR glasses are available for consumers in the U.S., Canada, Japan, and South Korea.
This afternoon (Oct. 27), Xreal surprised consumers with a limited-time offering. To celebrate its launch, the Aura XR glasses 12/256GB version can be purchased for $1,099. What's more, users will find its 16GB/512GB variant for $1,299. Prices have fallen by roughly $200 from what Xreal originally announced earlier this month. Xreal states these prices will remain through December 2026. After that, pricing will return to normal: $1,279 and $1,499, respectively.
A press release states that the Xreal Aura is expected to begin shipping in mid-November.
The company's co-founder and CEO Chi Xu said, "This is a defining moment for XR. We built AURA for people who want the power of spatial computing without being removed from the world around them." Chi Xu adds, "XREAL AURA is finally here, and we're so proud to unlock new ways for people to work, watch, play, and build."
Since the Aura features Android XR, the glasses have integrated technologies from Google and Qualcomm. The glasses are powered by Google's AI Gemini and a Snapdragon Reality Elite chip. Xreal states the Aura can go from work to play in a snap. Users will have access to "millions of familiar mobile apps and games from Google Play" and tailor-made XR experiences.
If you're a sports lover, there's the NBA app for Android XR, delivering multiview (NBA League Pass subscription), matchups, stats, and more. The NASCAR XR app brings users closer to the high-speed racing action with a live 3D track map, driver telemetry, and more. The Xreal Aura delivers a 70-degree FOV, Sony Micro-OLED display (1200p resolution at 120Hz), and Sound by Bose, among a slew of additional features.
The day has arrived
(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)
Consumers can order their pair on Xreal's storefront. However, the company states the glasses are also available at Best Buy today (Oct. 27). In 2027, Xreal plans to distribute the Aura XR glasses to other retailers and to select Google Stores in the U.S. and Japan.
Many have been waiting for launch day, and Xreal's CEO was quite pleased with its early positive reception. According to Chi Xu, reservations for the Xreal Aura topped 10,000 units around August. A couple of its reservation packages sold out, as consumers seemed to like Xreal's promise that the final price wouldn't exceed $1,500 before taxes. Chi Xu said the company felt "encouraged" by the early turnout, but it still had more to detail.
The Xreal Aura will have a selection of games available on launch, such as Project Hail Mary: Journey Among the Stars, thanks to an Amazon MGM Studios partnership, and Fallout: Factions from Modiphius Entertainment. Chi Xu said, "XREAL AURA sets a new benchmark for OST XR glasses, bringing powerful AI-driven experiences to both work and everyday life."
Android Central went hands-on with the Xreal Aura during Google I/O 2026, and we were blown away by it. The device felt like Xreal found a way to cram an entire VR headset into a pair of glasses (which weigh 95g, by the way).
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Samsung’s $229 Galaxy Buds On arrive in the US in early November, bringing clip-on, open-ear listening to more buyers.
Each bud weighs 6.65 grams and wraps around the ear, with Samsung using over 119 million ear data points to refine the fit.
TwinBoost speakers and automatic volume adjustment aim to improve listening, while Audio Leakage Reduction helps limit sound leakage.
Samsung will start selling its Galaxy Buds On in the US in early November. The company’s first clip-on, open-ear earbuds combine an unusual design with AI-powered features for people who want to stay aware of their surroundings while listening, and at $229, they’re not cheap.
As we saw earlier this month with the reveal of the earbuds, the Galaxy Buds On are a departure from Samsung’s traditional in-ear Galaxy Buds. Each earbud clips around the ear with a flexible band for a secure, comfortable fit, instead of sitting inside the ear canal. Samsung says it used more than 119 million ear data points, AI-assisted optimization, and physics simulations to optimize the design for different ear shapes. Each earbud weighs only 6.65 grams.
The open design makes the Buds On a potentially useful pick for runners, commuters, and anyone who would rather hear approaching traffic or a coworker calling their name than shut the world out completely.
Better sound, fewer interruptions
The Buds On use TwinBoost speakers for richer sound, automatically adjust the volume to compensate for ambient noise, and use Audio Leakage Reduction technology to keep your music from becoming everyone else’s problem.
Three microphones use a Voice Pickup Unit sensor and machine learning to recognize your voice and separate it from background noise for calls. This means the system can make calls sound better in noisy environments.
Battery life is rated at up to 9.5 hours on a single charge and up to 38 hours using the charging case. That should be sufficient for several days of normal listening depending on usage.
Galaxy AI gets hands-free update
The Buds On also play to Samsung’s Galaxy ecosystem. Users with compatible devices can launch Gemini Live using voice commands, long-press an earbud to record quick voice memos, and search recordings using Bixby via voice commands. With Head Gestures you can nod to accept a call or shake your head to decline a call.
Some features require compatible Galaxy devices and newer One UI software, so Android users outside of the Samsung ecosystem may not get the full experience.
Samsung has already released the earbuds in South Korea, and listings from European retailers have hinted at broader availability.
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The FTC has reportedly imposed a $15 million (20 billion KRW) fine against Samsung for misleading mobile gamers with the Galaxy S21, S22, and Tab S8.
It states that the devices featured a GOS (game optimization service), which would handle heat generation for the devices; however, it was found to hinder gaming performance regardless of temperature.
The devices would suffer from decreased graphical performance, lag, and freezes.
Samsung has reportedly been served a hefty fine in South Korea over its "misleading" gaming experience on a few past-gen devices.
According to Yonhap News (Korean), the FTC has imposed a $15 million fine (20 billion KRW) for misleading mobile gamers with the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S22, and Galaxy Tab S8 series (via SamMobile). In a statement, the FTC said, "Gaming performance was one of the most effective indicators for showcasing the capabilities of premium smart devices through rapid screen transitions and elaborate graphical effects."
However, in Samsung's old advertisements, it showcased an experience that users seldom received.
It was reported that the devices in question featured a GOS: a game optimizing service. The post states that this service was responsible for the "heat management system" for games. The FTC found that Samsung's GOS wasn't an aid to gamers, but a hindrance. The GOS would begin limiting the device's performance when a game was launched, resulting in reduced graphical performance, freezing, and lag.
One would imagine that a phone's performance would decline a bit (or, at least lower its quality) if it was generating too much heat. After all, these devices have internal systems to avoid total failure. But what's strange is that the FTC states the GOS would hinder GPU and CPU performance no matter whether the phone (or tablet) was hot or cold.
The FTC states its move "...reaffirms the need by companies to clearly inform consumers of important factors affecting performance..." Samsung reportedly disagrees with the FTC. Yonhap News obtained a statement in which the company says the GOS was put in place to "...allow users to enjoy games stably for extended periods." Moreover, Samsung reportedly plans to defend itself against the FTC's fine.
Heat management, you say?
(Image credit: Nick Sutrich / Android Central)
Android Central's Take
We all know that I'm a gamer by this point. Nothing is more frustrating than purchasing a device because of its alleged gaming performance to then be disappointed. What did I buy this phone for, then? You can say the same for any aspect of a phone, tablet, or PC. If the advertised or stated performance is not up to par, it's a problem. And it's a bigger problem when the company itself didn't inform users about the glaring limitations.
Gaming has gotten better on phones. If we're thinking about Samsung's flagships, it's definitely improved, but it could be better. The Galaxy S25 Ultra can run intensive games like Wuthering Waves; however, you will need to lower some settings for a stable, smooth FPS (frames per second). Of course, there are other devices out there better equipped to handle these strenuous games.
What's most curious to me about the FTC's fine is that the GOS was a heat management system. Samsung has been no stranger to overheating devices, and its Exynos chip was a major culprit. Phones are going to get hot no matter what, but Exynos was infamous for overheating in the blink of an eye. Samsung has taken strides to improve that with the Exynos 2600, and we've seen rumors about even more updates for the 2700.
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An overseas report alleges that Samsung's Exynos 2700 is "outperforming" Qualcomm's Snapdragon Elite Extreme chip in early tests.
The chip has reportedly scored "20% higher" in its CPU and GPU tests.
This is the second time rumors about its performance has surfaced, as early reports mentioned the Exynos 2700 could beat Qualcomm in AI capabilities, too.
There's a rumor that says Samsung's next in-house chip features a CPU that can beat Qualcomm's latest flagship.
These allegations stem from an overseas report by EB News (Korean), which claims Samsung's Exynos 2700 might "outperform" the Snapdragon Extreme (via SamMobile). The company reportedly ran Exynos 2700 tests using the Xiaomi 18 Pro Max and the 18 Pro. According to the publication, the chip's CPU scored 13,000 on Geekbench.
Compared to the Snapdragon Extreme, the Exynos 2700 scored "20% higher" inside the 18 Pro Max. Another focus for Samsung in its early testing was the chip's GPU performance. Supposedly, its chip performed roughly 20% better than Qualcomm's Extreme chip.
However, the post states that for "basic graphics computation capabilities" in gaming, the Exynos 2700 outpaced Qualcomm by a much smaller 5%.
These are early numbers, and it's always better to see how chips perform in the real world during more practical scenarios. Right now, it's best to take this with a grain of salt. Moreover, this isn't the first time we've heard that the Exynos could outperform Qualcomm's flagships.
For the second time...
(Image credit: Samsung)
Android Central's Take
If we're hearing it for a second time, it must be true, right? I'm kidding. I want to wait and see. One thing that I am curious about is the chip's heat generation. I know there were rumors about Samsung integrating a new HPB, but then we have rumors that Qualcomm's chip was overheating (which it denied very quickly, mind you). So, if Samsung's Exynos is performing better... does that mean it has its overheating issue under control, too?
If we're to consider all that the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 provides, these rumors might seem a bit audacious. But this is technically the second time we're hearing about it. During the summer, rumors claimed the Exynos 2700 showed positive test scores that "outperformed" Qualcomm's next-gen chips. Similar to this overseas report, the Exynos 2700 beat Qualcomm in CPU, GPU, and AI.
Previously, it was said that the chip "recorded "24% higher performance" over the 8 Elite Gen 6 and "22% higher" than the (rumored) 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro." We've now come to know the "Pro" as the Extreme. Either way, there's still a multitude of variables we're unsure about. A true comparison is best left for when the chip is here, and we can see for ourselves.
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Google is rolling out v5.11 of the Health app to Android and iOS users, rolling out the expected Health Guardian update for the Fitbit Air.
Fitbit Air users receive Blood Pressure and Insulin Resistance trends in this update, which requires them to wear the tracker for several days before insights are available.
What's more, v5.11 updates automatic tracking for Fitbit Air and several Pixel Watches, as well as sleep tracking updates and Glucose.
Google Health is rolling out a late October update that finally adds a major feature for Fitbit Air users.
This feature aims to be your "Health Guardian." In a community post, Google detailed what Fitbit Air users will find in v5.11, which is rolling out on Android and iOS. Health Guardian isn't a new feature, per se; however, it is something new that Fitbit Air users can finally experience. If you are a Health Premium subscriber, you will be able to "set up the new features in app version 5.11 and receive your first monthly health summary at the beginning of November."
Health Guardian introduces Blood Pressure and Insulin Resistance trends. Regarding the former, Google reminds us that Blood Pressure trends let you track changes that could "put strain on your heart." If you've worn your Fitbit Air for five days or more, you'll find this info listed in the app. Insulin Resistance trends highlight "monthly shifts" in your metabolic well-being. Insights for this require users to wear the Fitbit Air for seven days or more.
While this feature is rolling out now for the Fitbit Air, Google states Fitbit Edge users can expect it on/around October 27.
Aside from the Health Guardian, Google is rolling out three additional updates in v5.11. Automatic activity tracking takes a step forward, as Google improves its context (i.e., it uses your routines and history better). Workouts that meet the minimum duration threshold (15 mins or more) are automatically logged so long as it captured a sustained elevated heart rate. Fitbit trackers and Pixel watches can also automatically detect up to 100 activities in v.5.11.
Glucose tracking has been renamed to "Glucose" across the Health app. Google states it upgraded the link between the app and Lingo by Abbott for faster syncing. What's more, sleep tracking gets a little TLC. Google says it improved devices' ability to capture "awake detection" and made it easy for users to edit their naps.
Many of these updates are rolling out for the Fitbit Air and the Pixel Watch 3, 4, and 5. The automatic tracking update is coming to Fitbit Edge users; however, that should begin on October 27, like Health Guardian.
It takes time to understand
(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)
You might remember Health Guardian from an update Google shared in September. Originally, Google announced Blood Pressure, Insulin Resistance, and sleep breathing quality tracking for the Pixel Watch. These were all wrapped in a Health Guardian blanket. Google said the purpose of these features is to analyze "long-term" pattern changes over several weeks.
This differs from the more expected "in-the-moment" snapshots of what's going on. Google states these insights can serve as "wellness indicators instead of direct medical diagnostic tools." These features are available for free for Pixel Watch 3, 4, and 5; however, we already knew Fitbit Air users would need to pay for it via a Health Premium subscription.
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It's hard to emphasize just how good the Oppo Find X10 Pro Max is. As a tech journalist for the past 20 years, I've heard many comments wishing a company would just put everything into a phone, and while we've seen that before, no one has done it as successfully as Oppo.
The company's return to global markets comes with a phone that does it all. Most phones have one or two 200MP cameras; the Find X10 Pro Max uses 200MP sensors on all three cameras. Some phones struggle with battery life; the Find X10 Pro Max lasts for days. Some flagships struggle with performance, even when they're high-priced; the MediaTek Dimensity 9600 Pro inside the Find X10 Pro Max has never faulted during my weeks of use.
This is the Find X10 Pro Max in a nutshell. Oppo made the best phone it could, designed for those who want the best. The Find X10 Pro Max is an Ultra in all but name, but like any phone, it has a few things worth noting.
Normally, it's easy to find flaws when writing a review. However, the Find X10 Pro Max is so good that, aside from a slightly smaller EU battery and discoloration on the included white case, it has only one major downside: its high price, made even higher by the ongoing RAM crisis.
If you want the best phone that money can buy, look no further than the Find X10 Pro Max.
Nirave Gondhia
Starting at £1,499 in the UK and €1,799 in Europe, this is amongst the most expensive phones you can buy, at least the non-folding kind. There are some deals, and you can get the excellent Teleconverter Kit for free (worth £500), plus further trade-in discounts, but you'll still pay a sizable price. That said, this phone promises everything and delivers, and although it’s expensive, I think it’s worth it.
The Find X10 Pro Max is the most complete Android phone I've ever used, and it sets an extremely high standard for other companies to match. It has all the hardware you need, ColorOS is my favorite user interface, and Oppo is beefing up its after-sales service alongside six years of updates. If you've ever loved a OnePlus phone, this is the successor you’ve been waiting for, and you'll thoroughly enjoy it.
If you want the best phone that money can buy, look no further than the Find X10 Pro Max. Here’s why it's likely the best Android phone of the year.
The most complete camera on a smartphone
(Image credit: Nirave Gondhia / Android Central)
Our review of the Find X9 Ultra earlier this year said its camera system was on another level entirely, and in six months, Oppo has raised the bar considerably. Yes, the Find X10 Pro Max doesn't have a 1-inch sensor or the secondary telephoto lens, both of which I presume will come in a future Find X10 Ultra, if at all, but it has everything else you want, starting with triple 200MP cameras.
The Find X10 Pro Max camera does it all, and you won't need much else.
Nirave Gondhia
I’ve always wondered what would happen if a company built the first phone with only 200MP cameras. The answer is obvious: you get stunning photos and videos across all three lenses, at various zoom levels, in a variety of conditions. In short, the Find X10 Pro Max camera does it all, and you won't need much else. If you do, the Teleconverter Kit takes it to a new level, making it the best free gift if you can choose.
The main camera uses a 200MP f/1.5 Samsung ISOCELL HPC 1/1.28-inch sensor, co-developed by Oppo and Samsung, paired with a 24mm focal length, phase-detection autofocus, and OIS.
What makes the Oppo Find X10 Pro Max truly unique is its ultrawide and telephoto cameras, both using the same /2.2 200MP Samsung Isocell HP5 1/1.56-inch sensor you’ll find in many phones. It’s smaller than the sensors you might find in other telephoto cameras, but that hasn’t affected telephoto performance. The ultrawide has autofocus, while the telephoto has autofocus, OIS, a 10 cm minimum focal distance, and 3x optical zoom.
In virtually every scene I tested, the Find X10 Pro Max camera excelled. The processing can be somewhat aggressive, especially with sunset hues, but that applied to less than 0.5% of the 1,000 photos and videos that I captured. Thanks to Oppo’s new LUMO True Image Engine and its ongoing, multi-year partnership with Hasselblad, you get fantastic, true-to-color photos across every use case I tried, from landscapes while on a boat in the Spanish sea to capturing portraits of people and pets at a variety of focal lengths in a range of conditions.
The same goes for video recording, with Oppo stacking the Find X10 Pro Max camera to make it ideal for video creators. You can record up to 4K at 60fps, 4K at 120fps, and even 8K at 30 fps. It supports Dolby Vision, ACES-certified O-Log2, and, for the first time on an Oppo smartphone, Open Gate Capture.
This is a big deal for capturing memories: it records in 4:3 and uses the full imaging area, unlike most smartphones that crop the camera sensor, so you can easily reframe between horizontal and vertical videos in editing later. This means you can edit the same video into a widescreen YouTube video or a vertical Instagram Reel without the awkward framing and cropping you’ll find on most phones and cameras.
The Teleconverter will further enhance the camera
(Image credit: Nirave Gondhia / Android Central)
What really surprised me about the Find X10 Pro Max is its teleconverter kit. Oppo has struggled to make this stable enough to be reliable in past generations, but this year's teleconverter kit is outstanding.
The kit includes a teleconverter that offers 10x optical zoom, which is also available in the fourth lens on the Find X9 Ultra, plus up to 40x zoom that's surprisingly capable.
The biggest improvement is its stability, especially at 10x and 20x. This is a big step up, especially in video. Previously, I wouldn't have used the teleconverter kit for video, at least not without the tripod mount, but the Find X10 Pro Max changes that; I captured the following video handheld, without a tripod, and it speaks volumes.
The kit also includes a protective case, a tripod adapter ring, a storage bag, and a camera shoulder strap. One downside I noticed: the white protective case shipped with the Luna White phone discolored considerably within a few days.
Priced at £549 in the UK, the Teleconverter Kit isn’t a must-have purchase as the cameras are so capable without it, but it will significantly enhance your experience. It also comes with a beautifully designed soft vegan leather carry pouch, a first for Oppo’s teleconverters and a welcome surprise.
The kitchen sink of smartphone hardware
(Image credit: Nirave Gondhia / Android Central)
If you could put together a wishlist for what a smartphone should have, you would inevitably end up with Oppo. They’ve picked up the mantle from companies like Huawei and Samsung in past eras, and the Find X10 Pro Max is the latest in an incredible smartphone lineup.
The Find X9 Ultra is this year’s best Ultra phone, mostly for its 1-inch sensor, but the Find X10 Pro Max performs better thanks to its triple 200MP setup and a more optimized experience in ColorOS 17. Last year, the Find X9 Pro marked the start of Oppo’s new direction and set a standard that the Find X10 Pro Max clearly outperforms, while this year's Find N6 is arguably the year’s best folding phone. With this pedigree, it’s no surprise that the Find X10 Pro Max has everything you could want in a smartphone.
If you were to put together a wishlist for the complete phone, you would probably end up with the Find X10 Pro Max.
Nirave Gondhia
The Dimensity 9600 Pro delivers premium, flagship performance, and with Oppo’s optimizations, I haven't experienced a single slowdown. It’s paired with 12GB or 16GB of RAM and between 256GB and 1TB of storage; my review sample has 16GB and 512GB, respectively. This goes beyond the processor, and I’ve found the network and call performance superb, including while roaming with Google Fi in the UK and with both EE and Fi in Spain. The under-display ultrasonic fingerprint scanner is easy to set up and unlocks extremely fast, but you probably won’t even get to it, since facial unlock is also superb.
It also has an IR scanner, and I love carrying Oppo phones for that reason. On numerous occasions, I’ve used Oppo phones, including the Find X10 Pro Max and Find N6, to bypass locked-down hotel TV remotes or control my Apple TV when I forget the remote and can’t connect via my iPhone. It’s a timely reminder of a use case that’s becoming more frequent: infrared remotes are a good thing that should never have gone away.
Outstanding battery life and efficiency
(Image credit: Sanuj Bhatia / Android Central)
Oppo is known for large batteries, superfast charging, and incredible battery life, and the Find X10 Pro Max delivers on all three, with a couple of caveats.
First, the global model has an 8,000 mAh battery, but the EU model has a smaller 7,150 mAh capacity. I’m testing the 8,000 mAh model, and it's proven to be an absolute champion, but the EU model will likely offer slightly less battery life. Another point: it’s smaller than last year’s Find X9 Pro, which had a 7,500 mAh battery in the EU.
The Find X10 Pro Max offers outstanding battery life, among the best in the industry.
Nirave Gondhia
The global Find X10 Pro Max offers outstanding battery life, among the best in the industry. I haven’t run my full battery benchmark suite yet, so I can’t quantify exactly how much it beats the competition, but it has the best battery life of any flagship I’ve tried. The large capacity and 10W reverse wired or wireless charging also make it a strong emergency power bank, and I’ve used it to charge other devices with strong results: wired charging is straightforward, but aligning devices for wireless reverse charging can be hard. It’ll probably work, but it’s a last resort.
Charging is the other caveat: on paper, it matches other Oppo flagships, but the company has taken a conservative approach, and it’s much slower than previous generations. A full charge takes about 72 minutes, for an average charge rate of 111.11 mAh/minute. Meanwhile, the Find X9 Ultra's 7,050 mAh battery charges to full in about 48 minutes, for a charge rate of 146.88 mAh/min, or ~32% faster.
Device
Size (mAh)
Max speed
15-min %
30-min %
Oppo Find X10 Pro Max
8,000
80W
27%
53%
Oppo Find X9 Ultra
7,050
80W
44%
76%
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
5,000
60W
49%
83%
Google Pixel 11 Pro XL
5,115
45W
45%
77%
Honor Magic 8 Pro
6,270
100W
46%
82%
This is even more pronounced at the 15- and 30-minute marks. I’ve previously tested the Galaxy S26 Ultra, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and Find X9 Ultra, and when I ran the same test on the Find X10 Pro Max, I was surprised it trailed the competition in both.
Notably, these are only 1-2% lower than the Find X9 Pro, so it’s not a major year-on-year downgrade, but it's surprising to see Oppo trail the competition given how far ahead it has been in the past.
Stand-out design and a vibrant display
(Image credit: Sanuj Bhatia / Android Central)
The Find X10 Pro Max follows a similar design to last year’s Find X9 Pro, though Oppo has extended the camera module horizontally. The key difference is the new Lumo Camera Island, an additional aluminum camera island that houses the True Color Camera and LED flash. Like past Oppo phones, it also has a subtle orange accent that nods to Hasselblad’s iconic camera designs.
In the hand, the Find X10 Pro Max is the most balanced phone I’ve used in years. It feels premium, flagship, and solid, which is exactly what you want from a £1,500 phone. The flat aluminum frame has slightly contoured edges, which make it surprisingly comfortable to grip for extended periods.
The Find X10 Pro Max measures 8.4mm thick and weighs 233 grams. Neither is groundbreaking, but it is thicker and heavier than the Galaxy S26 Ultra. That’s not exactly surprising, as the Find X10 Pro Max is a considerable upgrade. It's also thinner and lighter than the iPhone 18 Pro Max, and its weight distribution makes it feel less top-heavy.
The 6.78-inch display is nearly the perfect size for comfortable one-handed use, but it does require some stretching, far less than rival devices with bigger screens. The display is similar to the Find X9 Pro, but it does reach 144Hz. Oppo also says the brightness is slightly higher, and an increased PWM Dimming rate of 3,840Hz should make it easier on people with sensitive eyes.
During its launch and briefings, Oppo specifically called out the bezels around the display. At 1.15mm thick, they’re among the thinnest on any smartphone, for a more immersive viewing experience. This is even better for streaming, with HDR10+, HDR Vivid, and Dolby Vision all supported. In daily use, the screen is excellent in all conditions, and I’ve had no legibility issues, even on the water under overcast sun.
The software has plenty to like
(Image credit: Nirave Gondhia / Android Central)
The only issue I have with the software on the Find X10 Pro Max is that it won't get as many software updates as Google and Samsung phones. With a guarantee of five major version updates and six years of security updates, Oppo has improved over the four years offered with the Find X9 Pro, but still lags behind the seven years of updates offered by Google, Motorola, Samsung, and Honor.
I tested the global Find X10 Pro Max model with Android 17-based ColorOS 17 and encountered no issues using any part of the software. Oppo's ColorOS 17 interface is its most refined yet, and it is extremely reliable when using Gemini and Google AI features.
ColorOS is my favorite Android interface right now, as Oppo pairs a smart set of default choices with the ability to customize virtually everything. Most Android makers offer a smart set of defaults, but lack the latter, which is key: the ability to tweak, change, and optimize for your workflow is a throwback to why we love Android.
In my opinion, this is the gold standard of smartphone interfaces, and its ability to integrate and quickly share to other devices, including AirDrop between iPhone and Mac, is also the most polished I've seen on any Android phone.
The Find X10 Pro Max defines what a true flagship is
(Image credit: Nirave Gondhia / Android Central)
My biggest takeaway with the Find X10 Pro Max is that it’s hard to find any real faults. It’s rare to call a phone perfect, and while no phone ever is, the Find X10 Pro Max is the closest attempt yet at building the perfect smartphone. A few small negative asides; this review is particularly glowing for a reason: the Oppo Find X10 Pro Max is the best Android phone I’ve ever used.
The cameras are the best you’ll find in this class of phone in 2026, only surpassed in certain specific conditions by Oppo’s own Find X9 Ultra. The display is fantastic, battery life is superb, and MediaTek delivers true flagship performance. Add in some neat improvements in ColorOS 17, and you have the leading contender for phone of the year.
The Find X10 Pro Max is also getting Oppo’s largest global Find series release yet, and it will be available in over 60 countries, though the US isn't one of them. That means it’ll compete with the Galaxy S27 Ultra, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and models from Vivo, Honor, and Xiaomi. It’s hard to see how any of those phones will beat Oppo, as the Find X10 Pro Max is just that good.
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