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Galaxy Watch 8 Ends Support for Quick-Release Bands

Samsung has discreetly eliminated support for older Galaxy Watch bands.

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)
Gadget Weekly

(Image credit: Android Central)

Accompany Namerah Saud Fatmi as she delves into the fascinating, eccentric, and occasionally bizarre realm of smartphone accessories, gadgets, and other geeky toys each week.

The Galaxy Watch 8 and Watch 8 Classic have made their debut with great enthusiasm. While Samsung showcases its newest wearables, highlighting their fitness and health monitoring capabilities, the topic of band compatibility has not received much attention.

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Google to Launch Dynamic Fast Pair Battery Interface for Earbuds

If Google implements the speculated Fast Pair UI redesign, it would perfectly align with the M3 Expressive design language introduced alongside Android 16. The modification, uncovered by a source in the Google Play Services code, indicates a new notification system for battery percentages in Fast Pair. This system would utilize colorful circles to represent battery levels, transitioning from green to yellow and then red as the battery runs low. The design bears a resemblance to Apple’s AirPods UI but is integrated into Google’s wider M3 Expressive framework, which prioritizes a user interface that is intuitive and visually appealing. This prospective update showcases Google’s continuous dedication to improving user experience through considerate design modifications.

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Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite Launched for General Release Following Google’s Month-Long Test Period

Google has revealed the general release of its Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite model, signifying the conclusion of its 2.5 series. This model is acclaimed as Google’s quickest and most economical AI model within the series, with pricing established at $0.10 per 1M token input and $0.40 for output. The Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite, which has transitioned out of its preview phase, has been trialed in practical situations, showcasing its skills in programming, mathematics, science, reasoning, and multimodal comprehension.

Organizations such as Satlyt have adopted the model to improve telemetry data summarization and satellite data management, realizing a 30% decrease in energy usage. HeyGen has harnessed the model to translate video content into more than 180 languages. Other enterprises, including DocsHound and Evertune, have employed it to speed up video processing and report creation.

The Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite model was first introduced in a preview phase in June, together with the public launch of the 2.5 Flash and 2.5 Pro models. Developers can now utilize the Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite in Google’s AI Studio and Vertex AI by inputting “gemini-2.5-flash-lite” in their code. This launch follows a sequence of Gemini 2.5 models, with Google highlighting the model’s rapidity and affordability for developers aiming to enhance their workflows.

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The Galaxy Z Fold 7: A Robust Gadget for Gaming

Playing games on foldable devices is enhanced by their larger screens.

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)
Android Arcade

(Image credit: Android Central | OpenAI)

In Android Arcade, Senior Editor Andrew Myrick from Android Central explores retro gaming, emulation, handheld devices, and much more each week.

The appeal of foldable smartphones lies in their enhanced versatility for gaming. Earlier models featured cover screens that were limited to simpler games due to their narrow size, making them less enjoyable for other activities. However, when unfolded, the device transforms into a tablet format, allowing for a much richer and immersive gaming experience.

During my experience with the <a data-analytics

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iPadOS 26 Beta 4 Launched with Additional Features for iPad

Apple has recently launched iPadOS 26 beta 4 for developers, representing an important advancement in the progression of its newest operating system for iPads. This update is anticipated to be the version that will soon shift into a public beta, enabling a wider audience to experience the new features and enhancements.

### Beta 4 Launches Prior to Expected iPadOS 26 Public Beta

A little over two weeks prior, Apple unveiled iPadOS 26 beta 3, which featured a variety of upgrades and modifications based on developer input. Following a regular biweekly release rhythm, the introduction of beta 4 meets expectations, offering what is expected to be the most reliable version of the new software so far.

This beta iteration is essential not only for developers but is also likely to act as the first public beta of iPadOS 26. Apple has stated that the public beta will be released in July, with industry analyst Mark Gurman hinting that it might debut as early as tomorrow.

As the beta cycle advances, the update today is expected to include further adjustments and feature improvements based on developer feedback. With August on the horizon, Apple is likely to concentrate on stability and bug corrections in preparation for the official debut set for September.

Traditionally, Apple tends to ramp up the frequency of beta releases as the launch date approaches, transitioning from biweekly to weekly updates. This trend indicates that users can expect more frequent updates in the upcoming weeks.

For those who have already installed iPadOS 26 beta 4, sharing feedback on any noticeable changes is encouraged, as community input can be instrumental for further improvements.

### Top iPad Accessories

Alongside the release of iPadOS 26, users might also want to consider exploring the best accessories to enrich their iPad experience. Whether for productivity, creativity, or entertainment, the appropriate accessories can greatly enhance usability and functionality.

As the public beta nears, users are encouraged to remain updated on the latest news and share their experiences with the new software.

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Apple Unveils iOS 26 Beta 4 for iPhone Users

### iOS 26 Developer Beta 4 Has Landed

Apple has officially launched iOS 26 developer beta 4, following several updates that have sparked considerable feedback online. This new beta brings a breathtaking design and robust features, particularly in Apple Intelligence, along with improvements to key apps such as Phone, Messages, CarPlay, Apple Music, Maps, and Wallet.

The earlier beta versions showcased numerous design modifications aimed at enhancing user experience. In iOS 26 beta 2, users observed upgrades like enhanced clarity in the Control Center, better arrangement in Safari menus, and improved accessibility features, including additional borders in High Contrast Mode. Beta 3 carried this forward by introducing opacity to some transparent tab bars and fresh wallpaper hues, while the Notification Center retained its full transparency until completely opened.

### Public Beta Approaching

The gap between developer and public betas has diminished, as Apple has granted wider access to developer versions in recent years. Usually, the public beta arrives about a week after the third developer beta, giving Apple extra time to polish the software post the annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). This year, Apple has chosen to slightly delay the public beta release, ensuring that iOS 26 dev beta 4 accurately mirrors what users should expect in the final version set for September.

iOS 26 is compatible with the iPhone SE (2nd generation), iPhone 11, and newer models. Importantly, iOS 18 will be the final version available for older devices like the iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max. Users wanting to access the latest features will need to upgrade their devices, as particular functionalities that utilize Apple Intelligence are limited to the iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, and the iPhone 16 series.

As beta testing progresses, updates and modifications to iOS 26 will be thoroughly monitored and reported. Users are encouraged to keep an eye out for continuous coverage and insights.

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iOS 26 Beta 4 Improves Liquid Glass Design Capabilities

**iOS 26 Beta 4: The Liquid Glass Design Makes a Comeback**

Apple has launched iOS 26 beta 4, responding to one of the major concerns among testers about the visual design of the operating system. Following a significant redesign in beta 3, which diminished the ‘liquid’ feature of the Liquid Glass interface, beta 4 reinstates a more evident liquid effect, much to the delight of numerous users.

### Enhanced Liquid Glass Appearance

In the earlier beta version, beta 3, Apple decided to lessen the liquid effect, resulting in a design that many users referred to as ‘Frosted Glass.’ This adjustment triggered varied reactions, with a considerable number of beta testers voicing dissatisfaction over the reduced liquid aesthetic that had defined prior versions.

Nevertheless, with the launch of beta 4, Apple seems to have revived the brightness of the Liquid Glass design. The tab bar in the App Store, for example, displays a more translucent appearance, permitting more of the underlying content to show through, reminiscent of earlier beta iterations.

### Visual Comparisons

To demonstrate the updates, comparisons of the tab bar designs from beta 2, beta 3, and beta 4 showcase a clear progression in aesthetics. The visuals from beta 2 and beta 4 reveal a more see-through tab bar, while beta 3’s design presents a significant opacity alteration that results in a less transparent look. This return to a more liquid appearance in beta 4 appears to balance the heavier liquid effect of the initial betas and the frosted look of beta 3.

### User Experience and Expectations

The design in beta 4 has been characterized as a refined equilibrium, aiming to achieve the initial vision of a liquid interface instead of the frosted version seen in beta 3. Apple’s iterative methodology throughout its beta phases often leads to design enhancements, and this latest update is no different.

The release of iOS 26 beta 4 to developers is anticipated to be quickly followed by a public beta version, making the revamped Liquid Glass design particularly significant. The company’s direction seems to favor restoring the original liquid aesthetic that many users appreciated.

### Conclusion

As users navigate the refreshed iOS 26 beta 4, feedback concerning the Liquid Glass design will likely continue to influence forthcoming iterations. The return to a more liquid interface has ignited renewed interest and conversation among beta testers, underscoring the significance of user feedback in Apple’s design approach.

Have you had the opportunity to experience iOS 26 beta 4? What are your impressions of the updated Liquid Glass design?

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iOS 26 Beta 4 Brings Back Apple Intelligence Notification Summaries for News Apps

### iOS 26 Beta 4 Restores Apple Intelligence Notification Summaries for News & Entertainment Applications

Apple has launched iOS 26 beta 4, unveiling multiple new design modifications and restoring the Apple Intelligence notification summaries tailored for apps in the News & Entertainment sector. This function was briefly suspended in January due to problems with incorrect summaries that attracted criticism for their deceptive content.

#### Updated Setup Process for Notification Summaries

Following the upgrade to iOS 26 beta 4, users will face a revamped setup procedure that enables them to opt into notification summaries for News & Entertainment applications. This feature seeks to simplify how users receive updates from diverse news outlets while ensuring they stay informed.

Nonetheless, Apple has incorporated a warning in bright red text: “Summarization may alter the meaning of original headlines. Verify information.” This alert serves as a prompt for users to critically evaluate the summarized information before accepting it at face value. Furthermore, users have the capability to report any issues regarding the notification summaries directly to Apple, thereby improving user feedback and interaction.

#### Background on the Feature’s Suspension

The choice to suspend notification summaries for news and entertainment applications arose from complaints from leading news organizations, including the BBC. These entities expressed concerns about the precision and dependability of the summaries produced by Apple Intelligence. In response, Apple pledged to enhance the feature before reintroducing it in an upcoming software update.

#### Availability of iOS 26 Beta 4

At present, iOS 26 is accessible to developers involved in the beta testing program, with a public beta anticipated to be launched later this month. Users looking to discover the new features and enhancements in iOS 26 beta 4 can find a thorough overview of updates across various tech news sites.

In conclusion, the revival of notification summaries for News & Entertainment applications in iOS 26 beta 4 signifies Apple’s continuous efforts to improve user experience while tackling prior issues related to content accuracy. As users engage with this updated feature, they are urged to remain cautious about the information they absorb.

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iOS 26 Beta 4 Brings Fresh Dynamic Wallpaper Feature for iPhone

### iOS 26 Beta 4: Fresh Features and Dynamic Wallpaper

The release of iOS 26 beta 4 has occurred, with the public beta anticipated to arrive shortly. This update not only refines the Liquid Glass aesthetic but also unveils an intriguing new feature: Dynamic wallpaper. Below are the essential highlights regarding this newest beta iteration.

#### Dynamic Wallpaper Changes Colors Automatically in iOS 26 Beta 4

As expected, Apple has rolled out a new default wallpaper for iOS 26. The earlier beta version provided multiple color choices, and now, with beta 4, users can experience a new Dynamic wallpaper feature.

##### Available Color Options

The fresh default wallpaper showcases the following color selections:

– Dusk
– Halo
– Shadow
– Sky

While the majority of these selections exhibit blue-green tones, Dusk is distinctive with its purple-pink shades.

##### The Dynamic Wallpaper Feature

With the inclusion of the Dynamic option in iOS 26 beta 4, users are no longer required to pick a single color. This feature enables the wallpaper to seamlessly transition through colors during the day, alternating between the four available choices at different intervals.

This capability reflects the Dynamic option launched in iOS 18, which garnered positive feedback from users. The new Dynamic wallpaper appears as a fifth choice when modifying wallpapers, offering a visually captivating experience that evolves with the time of day.

#### Conclusion

The launch of the Dynamic wallpaper feature in iOS 26 beta 4 is a welcomed improvement for users who value personalization and visual diversity on their devices. As Apple progresses in refining its operating system, excitement for the public beta intensifies. Users are invited to express their opinions on the new Dynamic wallpaper feature in the comments.

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iOS 26 Beta 4 Launched with Nine New Features

iOS 26 beta 3 has been succeeded by the availability of beta 4 for developers. This updated version aims to further enhance the overall user experience, stability, and battery usage concerns found in earlier builds. With the anticipated rollout of the first public beta nearing, here’s all the essential information regarding this forthcoming software update.

Apple may still be striving to achieve an effective balance between legibility and the innovative Liquid Glass interface. In the last two betas, the navigation bar in Control Center, Apple Music, App Store, and other applications has been made more opaque. The Liquid Glass design is transitioning to resemble a “Frosty Glass,” but modifications are likely in the subsequent updates.

Additionally, the prior beta introduced fresh wallpaper alternatives, as the new backdrop featured in iOS 26 showcases new hues. These wallpapers are also noticeably different in Dark mode. Apple has enabled Commute Delays in Apple Maps. This functionality was revealed during the WWDC 2025 keynote, but it took several betas before Apple could provide it to testers.

Earlier, Apple incorporated a new ringtone, the order tracking capability within the Wallet app, and a Recovery Assistant mode that allows users to operate without connecting their iPhone to a Mac. In the Messages app, iOS 26 beta 4 continues to advance the new backgrounds for chats and polls. For iPhones powered by Apple Intelligence, the Messages app will propose polls relevant to your conversations. Live Translation is another feature accessible within Messages, Phone, and FaceTime. Apple is also developing multiple new Apple Intelligence functionalities.

iOS 26 compatible devices