Taking a look back at this week’s news and headlines across the Android world, including Galaxy Z Fold 6 camera details leak, protecting your Pixel 8 Pro, Huawei’s AI plans, OnePlus’ new battery, Redmi Note 13 review, Murena’s crowd-funding, and Samsung’s new News app.
Android Circuit is here to remind you of a few of the many discussions around Android in the last seven days. You can also read my weekly digest of Apple news here on Forbes.
Galaxy Z Fold 6 Camera Details
Thanks to new leaked promotional images, we’ve had a clear look at Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 6, which is expected to launch in early July. While the wider screens and boxier design will be welcome, the camera housing suggests those looking for new hardware will be disappointed:
“Finally, you have the camera island and the three camera lenses. Many in the Samsung community hoped the Z Fold 6 would see an update to the foldable’s optical hardware. The Galaxy Z Fold 4 camera was reused on last year’s Z Fold 5. The latest details pointed to Samsung using the same hardware in a third model, and Ice Universe’s model backs up that information.”
(Forbes).
New Pixel Protection Software
New details in the latest Android beta reveal Google’s plans to help avoid overheating your Pixel. The Adaptive Thermal feature will explain why a Pixel is overheating on top of the current “it’s hot” warning. Mishaal Rahman has more:
“When the battery temperature reaches 49 degrees Celsius (~120 degrees Fahrenheit), the “pre-emergency” alert is triggered. This causes a notification to be posted that says your “phone needs to cool down.” The notification says you “may experience slower performance” and should “try avoiding direct sunlight or close any battery-intensive apps.” A single button to See care steps is included in the notification.”
Huawei Developer Conference Needs AI
This weekend is Huawei’d Developer Conference. Due to its inclusion on the US Entities list, its Android ambitions must be accomplished without US-based services such as Google Play. Canalys’ highlights the growth of its HarmonyOS and the need for AI, which will be on show over the next few days:
“A key strategy for Huawei in 2024 is to focus on building AI capabilities for smart devices from hardware to software at a system level, leveraging its deep R&D capabilities in AI infrastructure and solutions for industry and enterprise customers. With the continued expansion of the HarmonyOS ecosystem, Huawei emerges as the third OS for smartphones and other edge computing devices, breaking the two-horse race of Android and iOS in Mainland China.”
(Canalys Email and Huawei).
OnePlus Glacier Battery Teased
OnePlus has discussed a new battery technology that it hopes will address many of the current issues in powering your smartphone. It’s going to be branded “Glacier,” and looks to focus on packing more into a battery’s footprint:
“OnePlus teased details about the Glacier Battery, claiming it will alleviate common user frustrations such as frequent charging, low battery anxiety, and the need for power banks. The company also hinted at a battery capacity that exceeds current standards, offering a “breakthrough” in battery life experience.
Redmi Note 13 5G Review
The team at Notebook Check have put the latest Xiaomi handset up for review. The Redmi Note 13 brings 5G connectivity, a 120 Hz AMOLED display, and a 108 megapixel camera to market. It’s priced at under €200, but it is sacrificed a lot to get there:
“While the Note 13 5G seems like a decent bet overall, it does have some notable shortcomings. There’s no Wi-Fi 6, no L5 GPS, no VoNR calls, no EIS/OIS, no 60 fps or 4K video recording, no stereo speakers, and features only 33 W fast charge, a USB 2.0 Type-C port, and a slow microSD card reader. We are not too impressed with the battery run times either, although they aren’t bad on their own.”
Murena Opens Equity Crowdfunding
Security-conscious smartphone manufacturer Murena’s latest round of equity is using a crowdfunding model, offering its user base the opportunity to invest as it develops a ‘de-Googled’ version of Android in e/OS/. From the press release:
“The funds raised through the equity-crowdfunding campaign will be used to accelerate Murena’s growth, enhance research and development, and expand the company’s product offerings, including B2B product development, which is continuously requested by its customer base.”
(Murena).
And Finally…
Samsung’s services may not be as visible as those on Google or Android, but the company is celebrating the first anniversary of Samsung News, its portal to the world. As part of the anniversary, the service is bringing in new sources and channels:
“This summer, we are excited to expand our offerings with the introduction of a new product update enabling you to keep up with major upcoming events including the 2024 United States Presidential Election. We are also delivering exciting new sports programming to soccer enthusiasts across the country.”
(Samsung).
Android Circuit rounds up the news from the Android world every weekend here on Forbes. Don’t forget to follow me so you don’t miss any coverage in the future, and of course, read the sister column in Apple Loop! Last week’s Android Circuit can be found here, and if you have any news and links you’d like to see featured in Android Circuit, get in touch!
