Galaxy S26 Edge Scrapped Due to Weak Sales of Galaxy S25 Edge
Recently, a report emerged from Korea suggesting that Samsung has reinstated the Galaxy S26 Plus model for the upcoming Galaxy S26 series, following lackluster sales of the Galaxy S25 Edge. Samsung is concerned that the Galaxy S26 Edge may not achieve sales levels comparable to those of the Galaxy S25 Plus. Initially, Samsung had intended to phase out the Plus model next year. According to the report, Samsung’s Galaxy S26 lineup might consist of four devices: the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Edge, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra. However, a few weeks later, the Korean-language outlet Newspim stated that Samsung has decided to cancel the Galaxy S26 Edge, despite the development phase being finalized.
The new report asserts that the Galaxy S25 Edge only shifted 190,000 units in its first month post-launch, citing figures from Hana Investment & Securities. In contrast, the Galaxy S25 achieved sales of 1.17 million units, the Galaxy S25 Plus reached 840,000 units, and the Galaxy S25 Ultra recorded sales of 2.55 million units during the same timeframe. By August, sales of the Galaxy S25 Edge totaled merely 1.31 million units, while the other three models sold 8.28 million, 5.05 million, and 12.18 million units, respectively.
The report indicates that Samsung only recently informed its staff about the decision to cancel the Galaxy S26 Edge, which took some employees by surprise. It was noted that since the development of the Galaxy S26 Edge is finalized, a separate launch could still be feasible.
Galaxy S26 Unpacked event scheduled for January
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Read MoreFactors Contributing to the Large Exodus of NASA Staff
conference, Nye encapsulated it quite concisely: “We’re not discussing delays in scientific discovery, we’re referring to its conclusion.”
These cuts to NASA’s budget are included in Donald Trump’s budget proposal for the fiscal year 2026. The proposal suggests a 47% decrease in NASA’s funding and a one-third reduction in its staff, yet despite this proposal not being ratified by Congress as law, NASA is already initiating steps to adhere to it. This entails a cut of more than 4,000 NASA employees by January 2026.
While it’s unfortunate for anyone to be unemployed, and the implications for the future of space exploration appear grim, numerous individuals are deeming this action unconstitutional. In September 2025, the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation released a whistleblower report criticizing NASA’s conduct: They stated that adhering to budget reductions that haven’t been formally enacted is immoral and illegal. At present, NASA’s future is under scrutiny.
The particulars of NASA’s workforce reduction
Google Maps Navigation Now Fueled by Gemini AI
Here’s how Google Maps is utilizing Gemini while you drive.
What you should know:
– Google is officially substituting Google Assistant with its newer Gemini AI within the Maps application, beginning with the navigation microphone.
– Gemini will manage intricate voice commands for route modifications (such as avoiding tolls) and respond to inquiries about weather or local attractions, all without leaving the navigation view.
– A broader rollout appears to be on the horizon, as Google continues to integrate its ecosystem under Gemini and phase out Assistant.
Google is subtly altering Google Maps, indicating its intention to replace Google Assistant with Gemini across more of its services. The team at Android Authority has detected Google’s AI assistant carefully taking over Google Assistant within the Maps app, marking one of the most definitive indications that Gemini is assuming control for navigation.
In the most recent beta version of Google Maps (25.41.03.815390258), the publication observed that pressing the mic icon during navigation no longer invokes Google Assistant. Instead, it triggers Gemini, complete with the new spark-shaped emblem that replaces the recognizable four-color microphone.
Gemini subsequently manages voice commands for route adjustments, such as circumventing toll roads or highways, without the need to navigate through menus. It can also respond to queries regarding the weather, local locations, or even general subjects, all while keeping you within the Maps interface.
The update connects directly to the Gemini app, allowing users to modify the AI’s configurations from there. While the feature is still undergoing limited beta testing, the latest finding suggests that a broader release is on the way.
Google’s larger objective:
This aligns with Google’s extensive plan to consolidate its ecosystem under Gemini, gradually retiring older Assistant-based functionalities. Late last year, Google unveiled a revamped search experience inside Maps that enables you to pose more natural questions like “Locate 4-star restaurants open right now” or “Display parks with playgrounds nearby” with assistance from Gemini. The shortcut for this feature is being introduced right alongside standard categories like “Restaurants” or “Gas.”
The timing aligns perfectly with Google’s choice to discontinue Assistant’s Driving Mode earlier this year, which had already been stripped of most of its functionalities in 2024. With Gemini now managing calls, messages, and even media playback across Android devices, it is only logical that navigation is next on its agenda.
There are initial indications that this AI integration might extend to Android Auto as well, enabling you to inquire about local restaurants or traffic conditions directly from your vehicle’s dashboard.
Read MorePixel Buds 2a and Pixel Buds Pro 2 Come with Swappable Cases
An inquiry indicates that the cases for Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Buds 2a can be interchanged. A video illustration demonstrated that users can interchange the earbuds between the cases of both models while still maintaining charging capabilities. Although this compatibility is not officially acknowledged by Google, the video verifies that each earbud fits and charges in the alternative case. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 recently underwent a major update, introducing features such as Adaptive Audio, Loud Noise Protection, and Head Gestures, improving the overall user experience. This unforeseen compatibility emphasizes a possible transition towards more universal accessory designs, akin to the common use of USB-C chargers across various smartphone brands.
Read MoreChromeOS Flex: An Alternative to Windows 10
There is still hope, and you can keep your wallet closed.
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Annual Purchasing Occasion: Black Friday
What is Black Friday and when is it this year?
Black Friday always occurs on the final Friday of November and follows immediately after Thanksgiving. It marks the beginning of a weekend filled with promotions from various retailers.
However, merchants often don’t wait for the official date to begin their promotions. For many, discounts start appearing as early as October and can continue beyond Black Friday. It’s essential to keep an eye on these offers as they represent some of the most sought-after bargains of the year.
How we are going to assist you this year
The Android Central team is dedicated to monitoring incoming deals and will ensure that we highlight the finest offers that deserve your attention. We have several hubs and promotions that activate daily leading up to Black Friday, so don’t hold off until the weekend to begin your shopping.
While some promotions are already live, we can’t assure that those prices will decrease further during the actual Black Friday weekend. However, if this does occur, we will do our best to keep you updated.
Continue to check this page, and visit our home page for all the top deals currently available.
Remember, we’ll also be sending out daily newsletters so you don’t miss any updates, so be sure to sign up.
When is Cyber Monday?
Cyber Monday is always the Monday that comes right after Black Friday. This year, it takes place on Monday, December 2, 2025.
Cyber Monday primarily targets online digital retailers rather than brick-and-mortar stores. Many of these discounts expire when Monday concludes, although sometimes these deals will linger throughout the week.
The promotions are usually comparable in price to those offered during the Black Friday sales, but certain items may even experience additional discounts. We will keep you informed about all the Cyber Monday offers as they arrive.
Read MorePixel 10 Pro Fold Bursts During JRE Durability Examination
**Becoming the First Phone in a Decade to Actually Detonate on Camera, According to Zack Nelson**
In a shocking development, the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold has emerged as the first smartphone in ten years to detonate on camera during a durability assessment carried out by Zack Nelson, the host of the well-known YouTube channel JerryRigEverything. Renowned for his thorough testing techniques, Nelson subjected the Pixel 10 Pro Fold to various durability tests, culminating in a disastrous failure.
**What You Should Know:**
– The Pixel 10 Pro Fold underwent Nelson’s notorious durability examination, leading to an explosive malfunction during the bend assessment.
– In spite of assertions of IP68 dust and water resistance, the hinge’s performance raised alarms after encountering abrasive conditions.
– The distinctive bend test resulted in the device breaking and releasing smoke, signifying a catastrophic durability result.
**The Test Overview:**
Initially, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold performed as anticipated, with its cover display (Gorilla Glass Victus 2) revealing scratches at level 6 on the Mohs Hardness Scale and deeper marks at level 7. However, the inner display showed susceptibility to scratches from a fingernail, indicating the necessity of a screen protector. The phone’s outer edges also lost their color coating when scraped.
In the dust-resistance trial, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold’s inner display exhibited dust-proof features, yet the hinge struggled with sand particles. The real excitement unfolded during the bend trial. Despite Google’s assertions of a sturdy hinge mechanism, the phone fractured along the antenna lines rather than at the hinge. Nelson admonished Google for not moving these lines, which played a role in the malfunction.
As Nelson endeavored to bend the device further, it started to emit smoke and ultimately exploded, marking the first instance of a smartphone exploding in his ten-year testing history. Despite the explosion, Nelson persisted in evaluating the device’s other panel.
**Conclusion:**
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold’s explosive malfunction during the durability assessment serves as a stark warning about the potential hazards linked to foldable technology. While the device offers remarkable features, its durability under extreme conditions remains in doubt. Users are advised to treat their devices with caution and seek professional help if their phones exhibit any signs of damage.
Threads Unveils Group Direct Messaging and Improves Messaging Functions in the EU
**Meta Enhances Messaging Functions on Threads: Group DMs Now Accessible**
After the launch of private direct messages on Threads last July, Meta is elevating its messaging features by adding support for group direct messages (DMs) and expanding this functionality to users within the European Union (EU). This enhancement is aimed at boosting user engagement and offering greater control over messaging.
### Include Up to 50 Members, Provided You Follow Them
Meta’s introduction of a dedicated direct messaging system for Threads, independent from Instagram, represents a notable advancement in user communication. The organization has pledged to further enhance this feature with extra messaging controls, group messaging, and inbox filtering.
With the newest update, users can establish group chats that accommodate as many as 50 members. However, to minimize potential misuse, members can only be included if they follow the user on Threads. This strategy is intended to uphold a certain degree of security and ease during group communications. Moreover, groups can be personalized with distinctive names, and Meta is working on introducing link-based invitations to facilitate the addition of members without manual input.
### Launch in the EU
Meta has revealed that in the upcoming days, it will start rolling out the full messaging experience in the EU, encompassing both private and group chats, messaging settings, privacy options, a hidden folder for unwanted messages, and media support. This rollout is part of Meta’s persistent efforts to enrich user engagement and communication on the platform.
In a blog entry, Meta mentioned, “This provides individuals throughout the region access to the complete messaging experience, including private and group chats, messaging settings, privacy options, the hidden folder, and media support.” The company has also expressed its aim to keep refining the messaging features in response to user feedback.
### Summary
With the launch of group DMs and upgraded messaging features, Threads is positioning itself as a more comprehensive platform for user engagement. As users increasingly rely on direct messaging for private discussions, these updates are expected to elevate the overall experience on Threads. Users are urged to share their experiences and insights as Meta continues to evolve and enhance its messaging features.
Read MoreApple Omits Trade-In Choice for M5 Vision Pro Enhancements
# Upgraders of M5 Vision Pro Must Seek Alternatives to Discard Apple’s Initial Model
Are you an early adopter of Vision Pro eager to upgrade to the latest M5 version? While trade-in is a typical choice for other Apple devices, the company regrettably does not provide a trade-in option for those purchasing the new Vision Pro.
Apple has just unveiled the M5 Vision Pro, showcasing numerous incremental enhancements over the prior M2 model. If you’ve been hesitant about acquiring a Vision Pro, there’s likely nothing about the M5 version that will compel you to buy. However, if you possess and cherish the original Vision Pro model, utilizing it extensively in your daily routine and work, you may be curious about the cost of upgrading to the M5.
The new M5 Vision Pro retains the same starting price of $3,499 as the M2 version. Trading in the original model should, in principle, reduce that price. However, if you wish to do so, you’ll need to seek alternatives outside of Apple. Unlike almost every other item Apple offers, the company currently does not provide an option to trade in the original Vision Pro.
This implies that anyone aiming to upgrade to the M5 version will have to sell their original Vision Pro through a third-party marketplace such as eBay or find a friend or family member interested in it. It’s unfortunate that Apple is not granting its most dedicated Vision Pro enthusiasts a first-party trade-in option, particularly as the company could gain from offering refurbished Vision Pro models at reduced prices.
Regardless, the number of affected users is likely minimal. Yet, if you are considering trading in your Vision Pro for a new M5 version, we’d be eager to hear your thoughts. Would you contemplate trading in your Vision Pro for the M5 variant? If so, share your thoughts in the comments.
## Top Vision Pro Accessories
Read MorePinterest Unveils ‘Reduced AI Clutter’ Toggle Option; Users Push for Off Switch in Every App [Poll]
As apps for sharing photos and videos become increasingly saturated with AI-created content, Pinterest has launched a new feature designed to tackle user worries about the abundance of such images in their feeds. This initiative responds to a rising wave of complaints from users who believe that AI-generated visuals compromise the platform’s original aim of offering true inspiration and creativity from real individuals.
The r/Pinterest subreddit has emerged as a venue for users to express their discontent. Numerous users have voiced their unhappiness with the surge of AI-generated images, arguing that it diminishes the authenticity they desire. Comments reflect a feeling of letdown, with users mentioning that the AI content often does not align with their standards for quality and relevance. For example, one user expressed, “I use Pinterest for real life inspiration, art and ideas. From REAL people,” signifying a preference for authentic creativity over algorithm-driven visuals. Another user pointed out the challenge of distinguishing AI images from genuine content until it’s too late, resulting in disappointment when the images fail to satisfy their needs.
In light of these issues, Pinterest has implemented a “refine your recommendations” setting. This functionality enables users to lessen the prominence of AI-generated content across multiple categories, such as art, architecture, beauty, fashion, entertainment, health, home decor, and sport. Pinterest acknowledges that these areas have experienced a notable rise in AI-generated content and assures users that options will expand in the future.
Nevertheless, a significant limitation exists: users presently cannot minimize the volume of AI-generated videos in their feeds. This is especially pertinent considering the recent spike in AI video content following the introduction of Sora, a tool aimed at video creation.
The rollout of this feature signifies Pinterest’s awareness of user input and the increasing need for enhanced control over the content appearing in their feeds. While providing the option to turn off AI-generated images is a positive advancement, the lack of similar functionalities for video content may leave some users feeling discontented.
In summary, Pinterest’s new setting to limit AI-generated content serves as a response to user concerns regarding the authenticity and quality of visuals on the platform. As the photo and video sharing landscape continues to transform, the craving for genuine creativity remains robust, and users are optimistic for further improvements that emphasize real human artistry over AI-generated options.
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