When the shield icon appears on a Galaxy device, it signifies that Battery Protection is enabled, limiting charging to prolong battery health. Users can select different modes, from basic to maximum, which control the charge cutoff point to reduce battery aging. This feature aims to mitigate the faster degradation caused by maintaining high charge levels over time.
During Amazon's Big Deal Days, Dell's Alienware brand reduced the prices of two top-tier QD-OLED gaming monitors significantly. The 27-inch AW2725DF now costs $469.99, down 28% from $649.99, while the 34-inch AW3426DW is also discounted, offering high refresh rates and excellent color accuracy. Both models are praised for their performance and are considered among the best options for gaming and productivity at these prices.
Samsung has introduced new watch faces for the Galaxy Watch 9, notably the Radial Dashboard, which displays extensive information in a clear layout, and the Premium Analogue, offering a traditional look with smart features. Users can select from these options via the Galaxy Wearables app or third-party sources, customizing complications to suit their preferences.
Samsung has launched the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, highlighting its refined hardware, impressive inner display, and flagship Snapdragon processor. Despite its high performance and sleek design, the device's premium price of over $2,000 may deter many potential buyers.
Samsung has rolled out a new version of its SmartThings app, introducing a redesigned interface featuring personalized summaries called SmartThings Now. The update enhances user experience with a streamlined layout, a floating control bar, and dynamic wallpapers, while also enabling device management over Wi-Fi without internet access. Support for the latest Matter 1.6 standard is included in the update.
Amazon is offering significant discounts on Samsung's 9100 Pro SSD lineup, with prices reduced by up to 41% for models ranging from 1TB to 8TB. The drives feature Samsung's Presto controller, 236-layer NAND, and PCIe 5.0 interface, with performance speeds up to 14,800 MB/s read and 13,400 MB/s write, backed by a five-year warranty and high endurance ratings. These deals are available for a limited time while supplies last.
Samsung warns that dirt, coins, and keys can scratch or puncture the internal screens of its Galaxy Z Fold8 and Fold8 Ultra models, especially when closing the device. The level of protection varies, with these models rated IP48, indicating some resistance to solids but not dust-tight, unlike the IP68-rated iPhone Duo. Users in dusty or sandy environments should exercise caution to prevent damage.
Samsung has announced that its latest SmartTag 3 trackers will be compatible not only with iPhones but also with a broader selection of Android smartphones running Android 12 and above. Previously limited to Galaxy models, the new trackers are now accessible to more users across different device brands. Confirmation from Samsung indicates that support extends beyond Galaxy phones, opening the product to a larger audience.
Leaker WalleGalaxy reports that the Galaxy S27 Ultra will maintain a 60W charging rating but may optimize power delivery to sustain higher wattage levels longer during initial charging. This could enable the device to charge approximately 2-3% faster than the Galaxy S26 Ultra despite its larger battery capacity. The improvements are believed to focus on the charging curve rather than increasing the maximum wattage.
Norway's government has announced plans to introduce a temporary ban on smart glasses in locations where privacy is critical, such as schools, healthcare facilities, and gyms. The proposal aims to restrict device use in these areas while the government assesses the need for permanent regulation and defines which devices would be affected. The move is part of broader discussions on privacy concerns linked to emerging wearable technology.
Samsung has started deploying the Android 17-based One UI 9 update to select Galaxy S25 series, Galaxy Z Fold 7, and Galaxy Z Flip 7 models in the United States. The update, which includes new features like enhanced AI capabilities, privacy improvements, and greater Quick Panel customization, is reaching both carrier-locked and unlocked devices across various carriers.
According to The Elec, Samsung plans to sell the Galaxy S27, S27 Plus and S27 Pro with Exynos 2700 processors in Europe and Korea, while Snapdragon versions go to the US and China. Samsung has reportedly boosted Exynos 2700 production by nearly 10% over the prior generation, and has yet to decide whether the flagship S27 Ultra will also use the chip.