GoKawiil
Tech News
Unlike iPhones, which let users lock individual apps behind Face ID with a simple long-press, Samsung's Galaxy phones have no built-in one-tap app-lock feature. Instead, Samsung splits the function across two separate tools: Secure Folder, which hides and protects a set of apps behind authentication, and app pinning, which restricts the phone to a single app until unlocked.
Samsung has added a new 'Warranty and care' section to Settings on devices running One UI 9, letting users view coverage type, expiration dates and Samsung Care+ enrollment details in one place. The menu also links other Galaxy devices tied to the same Samsung account and includes hardware diagnostics for the battery, screen, camera and sensors, plus a Bixby-based troubleshooting option.
Samsung's One UI 9 update, introduced alongside its August foldable launches, is now widely rolling out to recent Galaxy flagship devices. The update is the first version of Samsung's interface built on Android 17 and includes several new features, including AI tools and a contextual-information feature called Now Nudge.
Samsung and Motorola have issued guidance on maintaining foldable phone hinges, recommending users clear debris from the inner display before closing the device and avoid excessive pressure. Samsung notes its Galaxy Z Fold8 and Z Flip8 carry IP48 ratings, meaning protection from objects 1mm or larger but not full dust resistance, while Motorola warns that dust buildup can shorten hinge life and damage internal displays, advising against pressurized air dusters.
Foldable phones like Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold8 and Apple's new iPhone Duo include a factory-installed protector on their flexible inner displays, since the screens use layered flexible material rather than rigid glass. Apple's version adds a nano-texture coating that creates a matte finish and reduces crease visibility. Both companies warn against removing or replacing this protector yourself, offering official repair channels instead.
Amazon has cut the price of Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra by 32%, bringing it down to $949.99 for a limited time. The deal represents one of the steepest discounts seen on the flagship phone since its release.
Amazon is selling the 256GB black Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra for $949.99, down from its usual $1,399.99 price. The phone features an adjustable privacy display that can obscure part or all of the screen from onlookers, along with a built-in stylus and upgraded camera hardware.
Trend Micro's Zero Day Initiative concluded Pwn2Own Ireland 2026, awarding $1,262,000 across three days as researchers demonstrated 98 zero-day vulnerabilities in devices including the Samsung Galaxy S26, Google Pixel 10, OpenAI Codex and Oracle's Autonomous AI Database. Ikotas Labs won the contest overall with $361,000 and 42.5 Master of Pwn points, including a $300,000 payout for a chained exploit against the Pixel 10, ahead of runners-up Xint and Team ZyGoat.
Samsung quietly increased prices on some of its smartphones last week without public explanation. New reporting now points to a likely cause tied to trade tariffs affecting device costs.
Amazon is selling the 44mm Bluetooth version of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 for $249.99, an $80 reduction from its list price. The deal is open to all shoppers and does not require an Amazon Prime membership.
Amazon’s fall Prime Day event concluded on October 7, but shoppers can still access a selection of discounted products, including flagship smartphones and laptops. The sale featured notable deals like the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra at $950 and the MacBook Air M5 at its lowest price since June, with verified discounts based on thorough price tracking. These offers are part of Amazon’s effort to clear inventory and attract consumers even after the official event ended.
During the second day of Pwn2Own Ireland 2026, security researchers successfully exploited the Samsung Galaxy S26 three times, with multiple teams including KAIST Hacking Lab and others demonstrating zero-day vulnerabilities. The event awarded a total of $232,500 for various exploits across different devices and categories.