Category: News

Up‑to‑date Android news, smartphone launches, software updates and industry trends, written in a clean, editorial style for informed readers.

Advanced Protection mode will come in Samsung’s One UI 8
From strong, integrated security features like Samsung Knox to optional anti-theft settings that you must manually activate, Samsung phones come with an extensive array of security safeguards. It can be difficult to find and activate all of these security toggles, but the upcoming major One UI update offers a simpler method to increase the security of your device.

An optional Advanced Protection security mode, a one-click toggle that turns on a number of system and app-level security protections, will be included in the One UI 8 update. It permits, for instance, USB data protection, 2G network protection, and sideloading protection. Advanced Protection is available to anyone who want to better protect their data, even though it is intended for high-risk customers who might be the target of skilled attackers.

Advanced Protection feature comes in Android16

To turn on Advanced Protection, follow these steps on your Samsung phone running One UI 8:
1. Open Settings and select Google
2. Tap the All services tab
3. Scroll down to the Personal & device safety category and open Advanced Protection
4. Toggle “Device protection”
5. Tap Turn on
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, 512GB
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Building on Google’s Advanced Protection Program, which offers further protections against unwanted account access for high-risk users, this new mode is a feature of Android 16. While Advanced Protection does not yet handle any of Samsung’s unique security settings, it does activate the functions stated on its page. That might alter, though, if Samsung incorporates the Advanced Protection API, which enables third-party services and apps to verify whether the mode is enabled and activate their own security features.

Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.
July 6, 2025
Has the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chip been discontinued? Qualcomm is rumored to be developing a new chipset.

Previous rumors claimed that Qualcomm and Samsung were working together to produce a 2nm Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chip that would power next-generation flagships. But it looks like the project has been canceled. Rather, a new chip is being developed.

The competition for the fastest and most efficient processor is constantly getting more intense in the very competitive smartphone market. And for a split second, it appeared as though Samsung might be ready to take the lead. According to rumors, Qualcomm and Samsung were making headway in producing a 2nm version of the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, the company’s next-generation powerhouse. It was anticipated that this generation will be even more sophisticated than the 3nm CPUs seen in the majority of Android flagships. certain even thought it will power certain of the Galaxy S26 lineup’s models. However, those preparations seem to have ended abruptly.

Qualcomm has now canceled the 2nm version of the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chip that was made by Samsung, according to a leaker on X, now known as Twitter (@Jukanlosreve). The chip, known internally as SM8850-S, is no longer listed on Qualcomm’s website. Two distinct versions were previously included in Qualcomm’s documentation: the now-missing 2nm Samsung version and the SM8850-T, a 3nm chip manufactured by TSMC.

The fact that just the base model SM8850 is left suggests that the 3nm chip manufactured by TSMC is the only one that has survived. The leak makes it abundantly evident that Qualcomm has quietly removed Samsung from the manufacturing equation, at least for this flagship chip, even if the firm has not provided an explanation for the move.

According to the move, the TSMC version of the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 will be included in all major Android phones that arrive in late 2025 and after. It’s a setback for Samsung, which was hoping to show off its 2nm prowess and catch up in the semiconductor industry. For now, we can only surmise as to whether the decision was made due to basic strategy realignment, performance issues, or production constraints.

The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 prototype, which developers and OEMs utilize for early testing, has witnessed a significant price increase, according to related news from the same source. Its current price of $15,000 indicates both great demand and limited supply. That’s a big jump, and it might be Qualcomm’s strategy to limit the chip to exclusive partners in the early stages.

It’s also important to note that Qualcomm is currently changing the specifications for its SM8845 chip, which is probably going to be marketed as the Snapdragon 8s Gen 5. Although specifics are still unknown, this chip is anticipated to function as a more affordable flagship choice, potentially aiming for upper-mid-range phones with performance that falls just short of the Elite series.

A 2nm Snapdragon manufactured by Samsung would have made headlines, but it appears that the story has changed. For Qualcomm’s flagship goals, TSMC’s 3nm technology is currently the preferred platform. Although this leak implies it won’t be with the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, Samsung may still have a 2nm moment in the future.

Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.

July 6, 2025
Get up to $524 for your Google Pixel 6a
With Google’s surprise and abrupt hike in trade-in prices, now is an excellent time to exchange your damaged Pixel 6a for $524. You won’t find a better deal elsewhere.

The Pixel 6a’s battery will be throttled by a necessary update that Google is releasing on July 8th, for those who are unaware. This is a reaction to earlier this year’s allegations of phones overheating. The Pixel 4a experienced a similar issue, and the upgrade eventually reduced the phone’s battery life to a few hours.

According to Google, the Pixel 6a’s battery capacity will be lowered after 400 charge cycles or if the device is found to be impacted by the issue. Depending on where you live, the search company will replace your battery for free. But, utilizing the greatest trade-in offer I’ve seen this year is a better choice.

Google U.K. introduced a new campaign last week that increases trade-in pricing, meaning that phones that are effectively dead will get a sizable payoff. The regular Pixel 9 costs up to £675 ($920.50), the Pixel 9 Pro and XL versions cost £820 ($1118.24), and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold costs £1,045 ($1425.07). In addition to its standard trade-in assessments, Google claims that this adds a bonus of between £200 ($272.58) and £400 ($545.16).

Google will give you more money for your old phone

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The company will pay £384 ($523.78) for your Pixel 6a. You won’t get anything like that for a Pixel 6a unless you con someone on eBay by sending them a broken Pixel 6a instead of an iPhone 14 (don’t do that). This is a good offer that I haven’t seen from Google or any other manufacturer before, if you’re not put off by their battery-related antics.
- Google Pixel 7 Pro – £454 ($618.75)
- Google Pixel 6 Pro – £415 ($565.60)
- Google Pixel 5 – £377 ($513.81)
- Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max – £657 ($895.42)
- Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max – £447 ($609.21)
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra – £517 ($704.62)
- Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus – £373 ($508.36)
Google releases the battery restricting update on July 8th, which also happens to be the day the offer finishes. But don’t worry, there will be more in the future given the scope and regularity of Google, Samsung, and Amazon’s promotional offers.
July 5, 2025
One UI 8 Watch Beta brings more design changes

The One UI 8 Watch Beta update for the Galaxy Watch 7 and Watch Ultra, which is based on Wear OS 6, was released by Samsung a few hours ago. According to the changelog, the firm wants to improve the Galaxy Watch experience by adding smarter controls, new health features, simpler notification management, and other significant updates. Early previews of the major new upgrade, featuring the revised user interface, are now available.

A first look at key changes in One UI 8 Watch

People will notice a cleaner, more polished interface as soon as they install One UI 8 Watch. The system’s user interface has been completely revamped by Samsung. The screen seems smoother and more layered thanks to a blurred backdrop effect, and the battery icon now resembles the one seen on Galaxy phones running One UI 7. Additionally, a stylish new charging animation has been included, which gives even the act of plugging in your watch a more contemporary vibe.

Now Bar is also included to Samsung’s watch platform with this upgrade. The Now Bar, which provides instant access to ongoing tasks and important information, is located at the bottom of the watch face, just like on Galaxy phones (thanks, @DalgleishGX!). Its style can be altered to better fit your requirements.

One UI 8 Watch significantly improves tile usability. To cut down on screen clutter, you can now group related tiles into one. You can also make custom tiles that show the information you care about most, like the weather, upcoming events, or reminders, all in one location. Although it’s a little adjustment, it greatly streamlines daily use.

Additionally, Samsung updated the Apps screen, enabling users to alternate between list view and grid view. You may now choose whether you want a traditional scrolling list or a condensed overview of your apps on the screen. Notifications have also been changed; they are now simpler to view and use, with clearer formatting that highlights alerts without being obtrusive.

A more organized Settings menu

Finding what you need is now faster thanks to a redesigned and more structured Settings menu. Additionally, Samsung is adding Routines to its portfolio of Galaxy Watches. For users who prefer their devices to anticipate their requirements, this automation function allows you to set rules such as turning off notifications when you go to bed or changing modes based on time or activity.

Last but not least, the Double Pinch gesture is new to the One UI 8 Watch. You can start apps, control music, activate the Now Bar, and scroll through notifications by just pinching your thumb and index finger together twice. Particularly for accessibility and fast interactions without touching the screen, it’s a potent addition. As we discover more intriguing improvements in the initial One UI 8 Watch beta, we’ll keep you informed.

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Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.

July 5, 2025
When to expect Android 16-based Nothing OS 4.0

As its first real flagship, Nothing announced the Nothing Phone (3) yesterday, promising seven years of security patches and five years of operating system upgrades. However, the Nothing Phone (3) runs Nothing OS 3.5, which is based on Android 15, even though Google has released Android 16 in a stable version. Nothing has disclosed the timeline for the distribution of Android 16 for its handsets, but it has not given a precise release date.

Carl Pei, the founder and CEO of Nothing, stated during yesterday’s unveiling that Nothing OS 4.0, which is built on top of Android 16, will be available “later this autumn.” It’s safe to assume that the Nothing Phone (3) will get Nothing OS 4.0 first, with earlier variants receiving the update later.

Pre-orders for the Nothing Phone (3) will open on July 4 and sales will commence on July 15. The Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 SoC, a 6.67″ 120Hz 1,260p OLED screen, four 50MP cameras, and a 5,150 mAh battery (or 5,500 mAh in India) are the main features of the Phone (3).

Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.

July 4, 2025
According to EU data, Samsung phones support twice as many charges as the Pixel and iPhone.
We are especially concerned about battery health because Google recently announced that its Battery Performance Program for the Pixel 6a will begin next week. Although it may seem strange to consider your smartphone a consumable, that is essentially what it is, and each time we put one of our gadgets through a complete charge cycle, the batteries get a little worse for wear. You’ll start to notice those losses if you repeat that process hundreds and hundreds of times.

Not all batteries are made equal, which is something that the whole controversy surrounding the Pixel 4a and now Pixel 6a has really brought home to us. The issue is that we typically only hear about battery-operated devices that cause issues years later. When you first buy a phone, isn’t there a good way to set your expectations for battery life? We recently received one, as expected.

The European Union, and more especially its new energy label program, is to thank for this regulation, as it is for many other recent consumer-benefitting smartphone laws. These marks help convey power efficiency, hardware durability, and—most importantly for today’s discussion—a rating for the number of charge cycles the phone should be able to withstand, just like you might see an Energy Star rating on a new appliance.

Are you curious about how the battery life of your phone stacks up against the competition? We created this graphic to illustrate how many charge cycles these labels promote for a few well-known products because we have been curious ourselves.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
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Google
- 1,000 charge cycles: Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9a, Pixel 8a
Samsung
- 2,000 charge cycles: Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25 Plus, Galaxy S25 Ultra, Galaxy S25 Edge, Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24 FE, Galaxy A56, Galaxy A36, Galaxy XCover7, Galaxy XCover7 Pro, Galaxy Tab Active5, Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro, Galaxy Tab S10 Plus, Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, Galaxy Tab S10 FE, Galaxy Tab S10 FE Plus
- 1,200 charge cycles: Galaxy A26, Galaxy A16
Fairphone
- 1,300 charge cycles: Fairphone 5
- 1,000 charge cycles: Fairphone (Gen. 6)
Motorola
- 1,200 charge cycles: Edge 50, Edge 50 Neo
- 1,000 charge cycles: Razr 60, Razr 60, Ultra, Edge, 60, Edge 60 Pro, Moto G86, Moto G75, Moto G56, Moto G35, Moto G15, Moto G15 Power, Moto G05, Moto E15
- 800 charge cycles: Moto G55
Nothing
- 1,400 charge cycles: Phone 3, Phone 3a, Phone 3a Pro, CMF Phone 2 Pro,
OnePlus
- 1,200 charge cycles: OnePlus 13R
- 1,000 charge cycles: OnePlus 13
Sony
- 1,400 charge cycles: Xperia 1 VII
All of these numbers have been confirmed by the European Product Registry for Energy Labeling of the EU. We’ve gone through the entire database and included even more gadgets you might find useful, thanks to Reddit user FragmentedChicken for compiling an early version of this list.

Wondering how things stand with the batteries on the other side of the platform fence? We also looked up the ratings for Apple products, and every device in the EU system, including the iPad Air M3 and iPhone 16 Pro Max, has a 1,000 charge cycle rating.

Right now, the vast majority of devices fall in the 1,000–1,400 cycle range. So how did Samsung manage to push so many of its phones and tablets up to 2,000 cycles? That is a very, very good question, and we would love to see a more technical analysis into how these numbers are put together, and just how accurately they may reflect real-world conditions. And what impact does different battery chemistry, like the silicon-carbon battery in the OnePlus 13, have on the cycle count?

This database offers a great jumping-off point, but we would sure love to see a whole lot more battery information provided by the manufacturers behind these devices.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
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Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.
July 4, 2025
The Honor Magic V5 makes its debut as an incredibly thin foldable device

Honor has now officially unveiled the Honor Magic V5, a foldable phone that, at least on paper, makes headlines as the thinnest of its kind. When the increased camera hump and material variations among its color options are taken into account, the company’s claim that it is the thinnest foldable in the world is a touch stretching the truth.

Honor Magic V5 specs:

When folded, the Honor Magic V5 measures 8.8mm (as opposed to 8.9 on the Oppo Find N5), giving it a 0.1mm edge over its competitor. However, due to its unique fiber finish, the white version alone meets this criterion. Measuring roughly 9mm, the other color is made of substitute materials like vegan leather. Still elegant, but by no means a record-breaking all-rounder.

In terms of features, the Magic V5 is excellent. This boasts a huge 5,820mAh battery, up to 16GB of RAM, and the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite CPU. Both displays have IP58 and IP59 resistance and are 120Hz LTPO OLED screens. It is a good all-around package because it also supports wireless charging.

Camera

But thickness is more than just a numerical value. Despite having a thin overall design, the V5 feels chunkier due to the back camera module protruding significantly more than the Oppo one. Honor responds to it with a well-designed camera that has higher megapixels and a slower shutter speed, which is a compromise that many consumers will find acceptable.

With an opening thickness of only 4.1 mm, the Magic V5 narrowly outperforms its rival’s 4.2 mm frame. The Huawei trifold Mate XT, on the other hand, continues to hold the record for the thinnest open design, measuring only 3.6mm, but it does so by giving up the USB-C connection in one of the hinge locations.

Even though Magic V5 may be nearing the end of its design possibilities, it shows that Honor is still pushing the envelope, although slightly.

Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.

July 3, 2025
How you can find out if the battery in your Pixel 6a is broken.

Some of the greatest Android phones available today were developed by the Pixel 9 series. However, this kind of achievement takes time, as Google has had a number of unsuccessful phone releases in the past. Although they weren’t all awful, they lacked the sophistication of more recent models.

We are now beginning to witness how durable these phones from the previous generation are, even if the majority will have switched from those older models to something new. The brand replaced the Pixel 7a’s battery due to problems, and the Pixel 4a received a surprise upgrade that decreased battery life. Additionally, we learned last month that the Pixel 6a would also receive a battery update.

You can check to see whether you’re affected

Having said that, Google has officially announced its Pixel 6a Battery Performance Program, which is scheduled to debut on July 8 (via Droid Life). Droid Life had previously reported that Google has withdrawn firmware for the Pixel 6a. Regarding the specifics, Google has concluded that an upgrade is necessary for some Pixel 6a smartphones to “lower the risk of potential battery overheating.”

This update will now lower battery capacity and charging performance, much like Google’s earlier moves, although it will only impact devices that have completed more than 400 charging cycles. Once more, you will only receive this update if you have a device that is impacted. This update won’t be required for all Pixel 6a phones.

Naturally, this is a rather awkward situation, and it seems like Google is making amends by providing “a repair at no cost to you, a cash payment, or a Google Store hardware discount credit.” To find out if you qualifies, you must input your IMEI on the support website.

You can visit a support center in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Singapore, Japan, and India if you would like to have your battery changed and your device is eligible. In order to receive assistance, people in the US and India will also be able to mail in their device.

It will be disheartening for Pixel owners to go through this, but at least Google is making some efforts to make sure that its previous devices aren’t putting users at risk of any major problems. Additionally, it offers a range of options that will enable impacted consumers to receive the assistance they need.

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
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Of course, we have some advice to assist you protect the battery inside your device if you have a different phone or tablet and want to be proactive about keeping it healthy.

July 3, 2025
Smoother performance along with HyperOS 2.2 Launcher update
A new version of the HyperOS 2.2 launcher, RELEASE-5.39.40.11322-06202031, has been released by Xiaomi. Although this version doesn’t have any noteworthy improvements, it’s nonetheless crucial because its main goals are system speed optimization and stability enhancement. These maintenance releases are essential to Xiaomi’s continuous dedication to user pleasure and a smooth experience throughout their ecosystem, as the firm has millions of users depending on its platform every day.

his update is all about improving the fundamentals. The HyperOS launcher, which serves as the main interface for all Xiaomi devices running the latest firmware, is now running smoother thanks to:
- Greater system stability and fewer crashes
- Improved memory management for enhanced multitasking
- Smoother animations due to optimized resource allocation
- Several bug fixes targeting launcher-related issues
- Better compatibility with third-party apps
These adjustments help ensure the user interface remains responsive and reliable, especially for those using older Xiaomi devices.

It’s easy to update. Users can update via the built-in system updater or by downloading the APK if they would rather install it manually. The MemeOS Enhancer app on the Play Store offers extra tools for system app administration and update access for professionals who are in charge of several devices or who are searching for more sophisticated features.

Performance benefits for HyperOS 2.2 Launcher

Several performance snags noted in earlier releases have been fixed in this upgrade. Users should anticipate a discernible improvement in system responsiveness overall, as well as quicker home screen loading and seamless app transitions. In commercial settings, where device efficiency and dependability are non-negotiable, these enhancements are especially beneficial.
July 3, 2025
Did Samsung fixed battery drain bug with June 2025 patch?

Many Samsung Galaxy users reported that their phones’ batteries began to drain more quickly than normal after updating to One UI 7. This problem primarily impacted premium phones such as the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and S24 series. According to recent data, the most recent security patch has resolved the One UI 7 devices’ battery depletion problem.

Despite One UI 7’s improved appearance and additional functions, some phones’ batteries died significantly more quickly than they used to. It appears that Samsung may have quietly resolved this issue with the June 2025 security patch.

Users of the Z Fold 5 and Galaxy S24 have reported that installing the June 2025 security update significantly improved their battery life. One user even claimed that the battery life of his Galaxy Z Fold 5 had increased by “400%.” Users of the Galaxy S24 and S24+ also reported gains, albeit they weren’t that significant.

Earlier this month, the June update for the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and S24 series models began to trickle out. With this update, consumers are now seeing longer battery life.

Security updates are typically created to address vulnerabilities and issues. However, occasionally they also aid in enhancing the phone’s functionality, such as battery life. In order to include new features, bug repairs, and upgrades, it also updates a number of apps to the most recent version.

Although Samsung has not formally addressed the battery problem, several customers think the update was helpful. You might wish to see if the June update is available for your phone if the battery has been rapidly depleting after the One UI 7 update. Better battery life is already being noticed by certain users.

Has your phone improved with the upgrade, or are you still having battery problems? Share your experience with us by leaving a comment on our social media platforms.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
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Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.

July 2, 2025