Month: September 2025

AYANEO Unveils Pocket AIR Mini: The Initial Gaming Handheld Under $100

AYANEO has made a notable entry in the portable gaming arena by introducing the AYANEO Pocket AIR Mini, its inaugural gaming handheld priced below $100. This gadget is equipped with the MediaTek Helio G90T processor, offered with either 2GB or 3GB of RAM, and showcases a 4.2-inch LCD screen with a 4:3 aspect ratio. The Pocket AIR Mini serves as an economical choice starting at $89, with a promotional pre-order cost of $69. It boasts features such as Hall Sticks and Triggers, audio vibration, customizable performance modes, and active cooling. Offered in Retro White, Aurora Black, and Retro Power shades, the Pocket AIR Mini establishes AYANEO as a formidable contender in the budget gaming handheld sector, taking on rivals like Anbernic and Retroid. For additional details and to subscribe for notifications, check out AYANEO’s official website.

Read More
iPhone 17 Pro Specification Key Features Google Pixel 10 Pro’s Benefits

When Google initially unveiled the Pixel 10 series, many applauded the Android brand for being the first major player to embrace Qi2 magnets. Others lauded the upgraded Tensor G5 processor, the quicker charging, and the greater battery capacities. In general, the [Google Pixel 10 Pro](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/google-pixel-10-pro-review) appeared to be a success, but I had my doubts for a single reason: the device’s thickness and weight.

Google Pixel phones have consistently packed features and battery life into bulky designs, but the Pixel 10 Pro seemed to push the limits. With a thickness of 8.6mm and a weight of 207 grams, the Pixel 10 Pro overshadowed competing models from Samsung and [Apple](https://www.androidcentral.com/tag/apple), adding an additional tenth of a millimeter and seven grams to the already hefty Pixel 9 Pro. To me, this was a dealbreaker.

Then, Apple surprised everyone by making the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max thicker and heavier than virtually any rival on the market — including the Pixel 10 Pro and XL, [Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-review), and [OnePlus 13](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/oneplus-13-review). I haven’t exactly changed my perspective, but the enormous dimensions of the iPhone 17 Pro series have certainly led me to value [the Pixel 10 Pro and XL models](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/google-pixel-10) more.

If you’re only just hearing about the large size of the iPhone 17 Pro, you’re not the only one. We’ve all been intensely focused on the iPhone Air and its divisive design, allowing Apple’s Pro models to go unnoticed. Here’s a brief overview: both the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max measure 8.75mm, making them the thickest iPhones since the iPhone 5c launched way back in 2013.

This measurement doesn’t include the camera *plateau*, which contributes additional thickness to the overall design. Apple also increased the weight of the iPhone 17 Pro by eight grams and the iPhone 17 Pro Max by six grams. In other words, these are indeed massive smartphones that will occupy a significant amount of space in your hands, pockets, or bags. Compared to the 8.25mm [iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/apple-iphone-16-pro-max-review), this represents a significant shift.

I’m fully supportive of consumer choice, and there are those who will be excited that the Pro models offer more features and enhanced battery life. There’s the iPhone Air for individuals like me, who desire a sleek and lightweight option. Then you have the iPhone 17 as a middle ground, with the sturdy Pro and Pro Max at the other end of the spectrum.

It’s an impressive lineup of iPhones, but I can’t help but feel that the [Google Pixel 10](https://www.androidcentral.com/tag/google-pixel-10) Pro and Pro XL present a much more compelling design and engineering accomplishment when compared to the sheer size and weight of the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max.

It was simple to critique Google upon the release of the Pixel 10 Pro, as it was clearly larger than the iPhone 16 Pro and [Galaxy S25 Ultra](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-review). Now that the iPhone 17 Pro is available and it’s a giant, the situation feels different. On paper, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro share quite a bit in common — comparable battery capacities,

Read More
Crucial Actions to Perform After Obtaining the iPhone 17

Today marks the official debut of the iPhone 17 (and iPhone Air). If you intend to pick up a new iPhone today or in the near future, there are several steps you should take to enhance your experience. After all, to fully benefit from the new design, processor, and cameras on these pricey devices, it’s wise to provide them with some extra protection and adjust a few settings to enjoy these products to the fullest.

The iPhone 17 series and the iPhone Air feature some of the top specifications available today, and anyone upgrading from any previous iPhone will likely notice a number of differences. Most notably, if you are transitioning from an iPhone 15 or an earlier model, you will also gain the Action Button, the Camera Controls, and Apple Intelligence. With that in mind, here are a few activities you should think about engaging in once you receive your new iPhone 17.

Prioritizing care is the first step to take with your new iPhone

iPhone 17 Pro Max Drop Test Outcomes: Glass Endures Every Impact, Even from High Drops

from MadMatt, presenting an unforeseen outcome. Both the front and back glass endured every drop from typical heights (knee to head height), with merely the aluminum frame showing scuffs depending on the impact zone.

At the conclusion of the evaluation, the YouTuber began tossing the iPhone 17 Pro Max into the air to test if he could induce the glass to shatter. It remained intact. The Ceramic Shield glass on both the front and back withstood being tossed and landing on concrete. The iPhone 17 Pro Max continued to function. The cameras were unaffected. The only significant damage was to the aluminum frame, which sustained considerable wear. Nonetheless, the key takeaway is that the iPhone 17 Pro Max is far more robust than anticipated, as will be demonstrated below. The iPhone 16 series did not fare as well during initial drop tests nearly a year ago.

What makes the iPhone 17 Pro Max so robust?

<iframe class="gallery-image-video oembed" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5KJopx13g58?v=5KJopx13g58" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen data-slide-url="https://www.bgr.com/1972591/first-iphone-17-pro-max-drop-test-glass-survives-everything/" data-slide-num="1" data-post-id="1972591" data-slide-title="First iPhone 17 Pro Max Drop Test: Glass Survives Everything, Even Being Thrown In The Air: What makes the iPhone 17 Pro Max so robust?

Read More
Samsung Starts Testing Galaxy S25 with One UI 8.5, As Per Recent Leak

Reports are surfacing that Samsung has initiated internal evaluations of its forthcoming One UI 8.5 update, utilizing the Galaxy S25 series as the testing ground. This comes on the heels of the recent official introduction of One UI 8, based on Android 16, which implemented noteworthy security and customization improvements for the Galaxy S25. A source on X (formerly Twitter) disclosed that the initial test versions for One UI 8.5 have been created, with version identifiers S938BXXU5CYIA, S938BOXM5CYIA, and S938BXXU5CYIA for the S25, S25 Plus, and S25 Ultra, respectively. Nevertheless, specifics regarding the nature of these tests and the likelihood of a public beta remain ambiguous.

The One UI 8.5 update is anticipated to deliver significant enhancements, potentially coinciding with the debut of Samsung’s Galaxy S26 series next year. Speculations indicate that One UI 8.5 might provide users with the choice of gesture or button navigation during the initial device setup, thereby improving user experience. Concurrently, the existing One UI 8 update is being distributed to the Galaxy S25, aligning it with the capabilities of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7, and incorporating enhanced privacy features through Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection. As Samsung continues to push the envelope, users are keenly looking forward to the prospective upgrades that One UI 8.5 could introduce.

Read More
Samsung’s TriFold Anticipated to Debut in the US at Alleged Concurrent Event

A departure from Samsung’s typical strategy.

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)
Disclaimer

Love our content? Be sure to make Android Central a preferred source in Google Search, and discover why this is essential to keep you informed on the latest news, reviews, features, and more.

Key information

  • Samsung’s Trifold phone could launch at the same time in the U.S. and South Korea, challenging conventional launch patterns.
  • The upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event is speculated to showcase the Galaxy Z TriFold and a groundbreaking XR headset this September.
  • The Trifold features a distinctive U-shaped fold, constructed with a titanium frame, and boasts high-end specifications like 16GB of RAM.

Samsung’s Trifold has been making headlines recently and for all the right reasons. Now, a recent report suggests that Samsung will introduce this novel design to the U.S. market. A “source familiar with the company’s intentions” <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://edition.cnn.com/2025/09/18/tech/samsung-trifold-phone-galaxy-s26-edge" data-url="https://edition.cnn.com/2025/09/18/tech/samsung-trifold-phone-galaxy-s26-edge" target="_blank" referrer

Read More
YouTube Offers Creators Improved Resources to Tackle AI Deepfakes

YouTube enhances facial recognition feature.

(Image credit: Sanuj Bhatia / Android Central)
Disclaimer

Appreciate our content? Be sure to set Android Central as a preferred source in Google Search to learn why you should so that you remain informed about the latest news, reviews, features, and more.

Essential information

  • YouTube introduces a facial recognition tool to prevent unauthorized use of creators’ images.
  • The tool, initially piloted with leading creators, is now available to everyone in the YouTube Partner Program.
  • YouTube is also launching Ask Studio, title A/B testing, auto-dubbing, and lip-syncing tools for creators.

With the increase of AI tools, creators are facing heightened threats of their work being replicated or misused. In response, YouTube is introducing a new tool that shields creators from unauthorized exploitation of their videos.

YouTube has revealed that it is deploying the “likeness detection” feature in open beta for all creators. This tool was initially publicized last year and subsequently rolled out to select high-profile creators, such

Read More
New Kindle Upgrade Improves eBook Reading Experience

Amazon’s September update enhances its 11th and 12th-gen eBook readers with options to optimize each reading experience.

(Image credit: Amazon Kindle)
Disclaimer

Appreciate our content? Ensure you add Android Central as a favored source in Google Search, and discover the reasons to do so in order to stay informed on the latest updates, reviews, features, and more.

Key information

  • Amazon is said to be deploying a new Kindle update for its 11th and 12th-gen models.
  • The update centers on enhancing the reading experience of its Kindles, providing users the ability to adjust the font size of its interface and the overall spacing of eBooks to improve readability.
  • Amazon has also been observed rolling out its Kindle Assistive Reader to all users.

Amazon is reportedly introducing an update for its 11th and 12th-generation Kindle tablets that offers numerous quality of life improvements to the e-book reading experience.

The update was noted as it began to appear on these Kindle devices by <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://goodereader.com/blog/kindle/new-kindle-software-update-has-as-ton-of-new-features" data-url="https://goodereader.com/blog/kindle/new-kindle-software

Read More
Thorough Manual for the Best iPhone 17 and iPhone Air Covers [Revision #3]

# Top iPhone 17 Cases: An In-Depth Guide

The iPhone 17 series from Apple has officially debuted, with pre-orders already dispatched to enthusiastic customers. As individuals begin to receive their new gadgets, the quest for the finest protective cases commences. This article emphasizes some of the best cases on the market for the iPhone 17, including selections from both Apple and reputable third-party brands.

## Summary of iPhone 17 Cases

Apple has launched a diverse selection of cases for the iPhone 17, featuring silicone variations in fresh hues, transparent cases with MagSafe, and two innovative designs: the iPhone Air Bumper Case and the TechWoven Case with MagSafe tailored for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. These cases aim to provide safeguarding while preserving the elegant look of the iPhone.

### Apple’s Authorized Cases

1. **iPhone Air Bumper Case** – $39
2. **iPhone Air Case with MagSafe** – $49
3. **iPhone 17 Silicone Case with MagSafe** – $49
4. **iPhone 17 Clear Case with MagSafe** – $49
5. **iPhone 17 Pro TechWoven Case with MagSafe** – $59
6. **iPhone 17 Pro Silicone Case with MagSafe** – $49
7. **iPhone 17 Pro Clear Case with MagSafe** – $49
8. **iPhone 17 Pro Max TechWoven Case with MagSafe** – $59
9. **iPhone 17 Pro Max Silicone Case with MagSafe** – $49
10. **iPhone 17 Pro Max Clear Case with MagSafe** – $49

## Alternatives from Third-Party Vendors

### Nomad
Nomad presents a selection of leather cases that blend aesthetics with resilience. Key offerings include:
– **Rugged Leather Case** – $75
– **Modern Leather Case** – $55-$85
– **Traditional Leather Case** – $65-$85

### Totallee
Renowned for its ultra-slim cases, Totallee features:
– **The Scarf** – 0.02” thin, tested for drops up to 3 feet.
– **The Spy** – 0.04” thin, tested for drops up to 6 feet.

### SANDMARC
SANDMARC’s full-grain leather cases are both chic and practical, including:
– **Pro Leather Case** – $54 (with discount code).

### UAG (Urban Armor Gear)
UAG’s durable cases are crafted for optimum protection, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

### Mous
Mous provides an array of protective cases, such as:
– **Limitless Leather Case** – $80
– **Super Slim Carbon Fibre Case** – $70

### ZAGG
ZAGG offers a variety of cases, including:
– **Crystal Palace Lite Case** – $30
– **Luxe Snap Case** – $40

### Other Remarkable Brands
– **CASETiFY**: Known for customizable styles and impact resistance.
– **Burton Goods**: Handcrafted leather cases exuding a premium touch.
– **Moment**: Cases geared towards photography, supporting lens attachments.

## Final Thoughts

With the iPhone 17 entering the market, a wide array of case options exists to meet every user’s preference, from sleek designs to rugged durability. Whether you opt for the official Apple cases or the extensive choices from third-party manufacturers, there’s a case available that will protect and enhance your new device. Make sure to look out for exclusive deals and special offers as you decide on your selection.

Read More
Following a Two-Month Period of Utilization, Marshall’s Emberton III Demonstrates Its Remarkable Sound in a Compact Form.

With a unique design and impressive audio, the Emberton III has become one of my preferred Bluetooth speakers. I own over two dozen Bluetooth speakers at home, yet I’ve always been drawn to Marshall products. A decade ago, I purchased the Stanmore, which has performed excellently over the years — I still use it regularly, and its sound quality is remarkable. I also appreciate the Kilburn II; however, it’s not the most travel-friendly option.

This is where the Emberton III shines. It’s not the tiniest Marshall speaker — that title goes to the Willen II — but its natural portability gives it a clear edge. Priced at $149 on Amazon, it’s significantly more budget-friendly compared to Marshall’s other offerings. The size is a crucial reason why I love the Emberton III, and in the past two months, I’ve utilized this speaker more than virtually any other.

Marshall’s speakers feature a striking design reminiscent of the brand’s legendary amplifiers, and the Emberton III follows suit. I appreciate that the brand adapted the design principles into a compact form, and the metal grille at the front, adorned with the embossed Marshall logo, enables the Emberton III to stand out aesthetically.

However, the real draw isn’t the appearance; it’s the audio quality where the Emberton III truly excels. The speaker delivers 20W of sound through dual 10W full-range drivers, alongside dual passive radiators. While 20W might seem modest compared to portable speakers like the Tribit StormBox Blast 2 that boast up to 200W, the Emberton III intelligently leverages its internal design to generate a much louder output than one might assume from its specifications.

Consequently, the Emberton III performs exceptionally well for its size; most of the time, I didn’t need to raise the volume above 60%. The sound profile is quintessentially Marshall; a prominent bass paired with a tight sub-bass is delightful, a detailed mid-range allows vocals and ensemble instruments to shine, and a clean treble free of sibilance rounds it out.

The drivers are positioned at an angle within the chassis, providing a captivating stereo soundstage. While there are no controls to adjust bass and treble levels like those on the Stanmore, the Marshall app allows for switching between three EQ modes. It may not offer extensive customization, but if you’re seeking additional bass emphasis, there’s an EQ setting for that purpose.

Essentially, the Emberton III delivers audio quality that matches its visual appeal, and I was continually impressed by its performance in this regard. Achieving this in an enclosure measuring just 160mm wide and weighing 1.2lb is a feat, and Marshall has done a fantastic job overall. Its compact size makes it effortless to carry the Emberton III anywhere, and the design clearly emphasizes durability. The speaker has endured its share of falls in the past two months and emerged unscathed.

There are additional perks; the Emberton III features IP67 ingress protection, making it perfect for poolside or shower use. It includes a built-in microphone for taking calls on the speaker, which is a worthwhile feature. You’ll also find convenient onboard controls; a multi-function knob on top allows you to adjust volume, play or pause media, and navigate tracks. A dedicated Bluetooth button activates pairing mode, and there’s a power button along with a battery life indicator.

Battery performance is commendable too; I achieved over 24 hours of use at higher volumes, surpassing most other speakers within this category. Charging the battery via USB-C takes just over two hours, and a quick charge delivers up to six hours of music playback with a 20-minute charge.

It connects using Bluetooth 5.3, and I encountered no issues with range or connectivity. I tried the Emberton III with my Pixel 10 Pro XL, Galaxy Z Fold 7, Vivo X200 Ultra, and various Android phones. The only drawback regarding connectivity is the absence of AptX codecs; it supports only the standard SBC and AAC.

If you’ve already committed to Marshall’s products or are seeking a standout portable Bluetooth speaker, the Emberton III is an obvious choice. Its compact size makes it transportable, and the robust design, coupled with IP67 dust and water resistance, prepares it for any environment.

The audio quality is where the Emberton III surpasses other products I’ve used in the past year; it gets louder, offers more detail, and produces an unexpectedly rich sound given its size. The asking price of $149 is at the higher end, but you’re investing in a speaker that outperforms nearly everything else in this category.

Don’t let its compact dimensions deceive you;

Read More