AllYouCanTech

Concerns Emerge About Galaxy S26 Performance After Modem Change Speculations

Rumors have persisted that the next flagship might feature the Exynos 2600, and this report brings more to consider.

What you should know

– Reports indicate that the Exynos 2600 lacks an integrated modem, potentially leading to “efficiency concerns” for the Galaxy S26.
– Speculations suggest that a separate modem could produce additional heat and require more power from the S26 series, resulting in efficiency problems.
– While nothing is officially confirmed, Samsung’s Exynos 2600 was unveiled earlier this month with an HPB design aimed at addressing heating issues, featuring a 39% improved CPU and double the GPU performance.

The Galaxy S26 rumors are inescapable, and this recent report highlights a possible issue for the forthcoming series.

This report was issued by The Elec (South Korean), which asserts that the new Galaxy S26 will not only incorporate the Exynos 2600 but will also implement a significant modem alteration (via Android Authority). According to its sources, the Exynos 2600 lacks an “integrated” modem. Because of this, the report suggests the devices could utilize an external modem, potentially compromising their efficiency.

Nothing has been confirmed yet, as these remain speculative, but the publication described how consumers might end up with a Galaxy S26 that is less power-efficient.

The publication notes that, with an integrated design, Samsung could conserve on wiring and space, resulting in a chip that requires less power and operates cooler. However, if the devices (and chip) separate the modem into its own compartment, then “reduced power efficiency and increased heat generation” could be a reality. The post emphasizes an industry insider who conjectures that the “number of functions within the AP increased” in the Exynos 2600, leading Samsung to “remove the modem to save space.”

Nonetheless, this source also expressed caution regarding the potential “performance-to-power” balance of the new flagship series, should this less-efficient phone speculation turn out to be true.

Concerns are present

The Exynos 2600 was launched on December 19 after Samsung previewed its arrival earlier this month. This SoC represents the first product of its kind using a 2nm process, featuring low-power CPU cores and a new CPU configuration designed to deliver superior performance and improved efficiency. Specifically, the Exynos 2600 showcases a 39% CPU enhancement with double the GPU capacity.

Additionally, Samsung has integrated an HPB design (Heat Path Block) into the Exynos 2600. This HPB is expected to address the heating issues that have previously affected numerous Samsung custom chips.

All these factors combined are what we should be wary of with these “less-efficient” Galaxy S26 rumors. Android Authority noted something akin, suggesting that Samsung may have packed sufficient upgrades into the SoC to counterbalance any challenges posed by a separate modem. If that occurs, then consumers might not perceive any difference. Regardless, not every market is rumored to receive an Exynos-powered Galaxy S26.

Other Samsung speculations involve the Galaxy Z Flip 8, with reports indicating that the company might continue to provide the foldable as an Exynos-exclusive model, similar to the Flip 7.

Google Broadens Gemini for Home to Canada and Intends to Incorporate an Additional Language

The transition from Google Assistant to Gemini is progressing rapidly. After being initially limited to the U.S., the early access program for Gemini for Home is now expanding into Canada. Support for the English language is available immediately, while French language support is set to be introduced in early 2026. Canada becomes the first nation outside the U.S. to access Gemini for Home’s exclusive rollout.

Google is moving from Google Assistant to Gemini within its smart home framework. An early access initiative launched for Google Home users in October 2025, starting off in the United States. The rollout necessitated a Google Home linked to a U.S. address, not merely a U.S. Google account.

Currently, Gemini for Home is extending its reach beyond the United States. Anish Kattukaran, Google’s Chief Product Officer for Home and Nest, has verified the expansion for Canadian users. The early access program now offers support for English, with French support anticipated to follow in early 2026.

Invitations for Canadian users who registered for the early access program began on Dec. 18, and the invitation process remains active. Customers who previously expressed interest in early access should expect to receive their invitation shortly.

Individuals can register for the early access program for Gemini for Home via the Google Home app. Access is currently limited to users in the U.S. and Canada.

All Google Home or Nest smart speakers and displays released since 2016 will be compatible with Gemini. Third-party Google Assistant speakers and displays are also capable of transitioning to Gemini. Once enrolled in the early access program, all Google Home and Nest devices within a residence will convert to Gemini, with no option to revert back to Assistant.

Google has expedited its Gemini for Home rollout. As of earlier this month, any Google Home user in the U.S. is able to enroll in early access and gain entry within 24 hours.

Google Photos Improves Search Capabilities for Simpler Retrieval of Pictures of Family and Friends

Google Photos is improving its user experience by launching face group shortcuts, a fresh feature aimed at making it faster and more efficient to find pictures of individuals and animals. This enhancement, accessible on both Android and iOS, simplifies the task of locating specific images by showcasing faces right in the Search tab. Previously, users needed to navigate through the Collections tab followed by People & pets to discover photos of a particular individual, which could be tedious with a vast photo library.

With the updated feature, once Face Groups is activated, users will notice a row of faces prominently featured in the Search tab. By tapping on a face, they can quickly view all photos of that person or pet, removing the necessity for several steps. This functionality highlights the most commonly appearing faces in a user’s library by default. For those interested in viewing images of individuals who appear less frequently, a three-dot menu grants access to the full People & pets page.

To take advantage of this feature, Face Groups must be turned on in Google Photos settings under Privacy. This function automatically consolidates images of the same person into a single collection, making the search experience more efficient. The update is being gradually rolled out, and users are advised to ensure their Google Photos app is up to date to the latest version via the Google Play Store to utilize this new capability.

Leak Indicates Possible Extension of Magic Cue Feature to Additional Android Devices

Google’s AI might delve into your activities, but only to assist you, if that’s your choice.

Key points to consider:
– A leak regarding Android indicates that Google is aiming to extend its Pixel 10-specific Magic Cue feature to additional Android devices through “Contextual Suggestions.”
– This capability would utilize your application data and location to propose songs to play, messages to dispatch, and much more.
– Earlier this year, the Pixel 10 received Magic Cue, accompanied by Google’s explanation that it would access apps like Gmail, Google Photos, Calendar, and more to offer “in-context suggestions” while using your device.

Rumors suggest that one of Google’s latest AI functionalities from its Pixel 10 series is on the verge of rolling out to more Android smartphones.

A breakdown of Google’s Play Services API by leakster AssembleDebug (Android Authority) implies that the Pixel 10’s Magic Cue is being developed for a broader range of devices. The leakster’s findings indicate that this feature may not be branded as Magic Cue but instead as “Contextual Suggestions.” An early code description from the company mentions that users can receive “helpful suggestions from your apps and services based on your routine activities and locations.”

Google is set to utilize both together to enhance phone assistance, such as proposing the appropriate playlist when it detects you’re at a gym, for instance.

This function is akin to how Magic Cue operates between applications on the Pixel 10 to provide its recommendations.

As this is an AI-driven feature, another description emphasizes how the AI will “learn” from your personal data on your phone to generate “predictions.” These predictions are where the usefulness derives from, suggesting apps, songs, and more at specific times or while executing certain tasks. AssembleDebug highlights the extensive reach Google could achieve with this feature on Android devices.

As noted by the leakster, it remains uncertain whether Contextual Suggestions will continue to be exclusive to devices with on-device AI and whether it will extend to Cloud services.

A touch of Android magic

When we initially discovered Magic Cue, Google described it as an “in-context” suggestion feature applicable across the Pixel 10. The company asserted that Magic Cue will draw relevant information from all your apps when you’re making calls or sending texts. Magic Cue can extract data from Gmail, Calendar, Screenshots, Messages, and more. For instance, if you’re messaging someone who requests a screenshot, Magic Cue would recognize this and suggest accessing Google Photos.

If someone inquires about your flight schedule, Magic Cue would retrieve those specifics from Gmail and prepare them in your clipboard for pasting.

Given Magic Cue’s deep involvement in your activities, Google assures users that they need not activate it if they prefer not to. However, if you opt to use it, you maintain full control over your data with the ability to delete any information. Google reassured users by stating that their data is managed “securely and privately” with Gemini.

Assessing the Effectiveness of Qi2 and Bluetooth Auracast in 2025: Did They Fulfill My Anticipations?

I Reflect on My Forecasts for 2025 to Determine Which Ones Came to Pass

As we near the conclusion of 2025, it’s time to look back at the forecasts I made for this year and evaluate which ones came true. Two noteworthy forecasts focused on the implementation of Qi2 and Bluetooth Auracast within the mobile accessories sector. Let’s explore the outcomes of these technologies.

Grades: Qi2 (B), Bluetooth Auracast (C)

Although Qi2 and Bluetooth Auracast were not novel by 2025, neither achieved the widespread adoption that was hoped for. I anticipated that leading smartphone companies would adopt Qi2 and that Auracast would thrive, but the reality diverged from my expectations.

The Qi2 Launch Started Off Roughly but Ended Strongly

HMD took everyone by surprise by being the first to roll out full magnetic Qi2 support in the HMD Skyline, which debuted in July 2024. I expected flagship models in 2025 to follow suit, but this did not materialize. Smartphone manufacturers faced challenges with Qi2 adoption. The OnePlus 13 and Galaxy S25 series necessitated magnetic cases for magnetic charging, with only the latter having technical support for Qi2. Samsung’s S Pen magnet issues likely played a role in the absence of Qi2 support in the S25 series.

On the positive side, Google’s Pixel 10 series, which includes the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, embraced magnetic Qi2, referred to as Pixelsnap by Google. This led to a surge of Qi2 accessories, with numerous brands providing support. The Qi2 accessory market grew considerably, presenting a broad assortment of products.

I Had Such Optimism for Bluetooth Auracast

I was confident that Auracast would reach mainstream status in 2025, but it did not. While a variety of smartphones offer this feature, it is frequently buried in the settings and remains underutilized. Audio accessory manufacturers have not prioritized Auracast, with only a few, such as EarFun, integrating it into their 2025 product launches.

Auracast’s intricacy obstructs its adoption. Users face the challenge of navigating extensive settings to activate Bluetooth LE and configure broadcasts, which is not very user-friendly. Until the process is streamlined, Auracast is unlikely to achieve widespread acceptance.

In summary, although Qi2 showed significant advancement, Bluetooth Auracast did not meet expectations. As we move forward to 2026, there is optimism that these technologies will continue to advance and become more user-friendly.

Android Central’s Special Review for the End of 2025

Here’s all that Android Central was thrilled about in 2025 and our aspirations for 2026.

The past year has been a whirlwind! Every single company unveiled a plethora of news and products, and Android Central had a remarkable year covering the technology you engage with on a daily basis.

We witnessed significant advancements in the evolution of AI by various companies, and many launched innovative products that could define the future. We took time to reflect on the year and consider our vision for 2026.

This year-end feature is broken down into three sections. For the first time, Android Central’s team opted to issue report cards. We reviewed what we penned at the conclusion of 2024 and pondered: Did companies live up to our expectations for 2025? Were they able to realize some of our forecasts?

We also dedicated time to envision 2026. What are our hopes, what types of launches do we desire, and what do we anticipate from the companies we follow daily? Interestingly, this has evolved into an enjoyable experiment. By the end of 2026, will these companies fulfill our expectations?

Additionally, we wish to express our gratitude to those companies that introduced outstanding products. Our team put considerable effort into voting and narrowing down our selections of winners from the past year into several categories, and we hope you appreciate it.

Congratulations to all the winners! We eagerly anticipate your endeavors next year.

Lastly, thank you to our devoted readers for being the core of Android Central. Your trust, passion, and involvement drive everything we do. We are profoundly thankful for your ongoing support and for incorporating our content in your daily life.

Cheers to another thrilling year of exploration, learning, and growing together in the realm of Android and beyond!

Enjoy your reading, happy holidays, and a joyful New Year! Stay safe and find happiness!

– Shruti Shekar, Editor-in-Chief

Google Pixel Cameras Encounter Problems After Android 16 QPR3 Beta Update

**Another Camera Jitter Problem Has Surfaced for One of Google’s Previous Generation Phones**

In the most recent update from Google’s Android 16 beta testing, Pixel 8 Pro users are facing a new camera dilemma. Users have reported a trembling, unsteady camera issue occurring at 1x and 2x zoom levels, predominantly impacting the 50MP lens. This issue has been widely noted on platforms such as Reddit, following the release of Google’s Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1, which introduced features like an “At a Glance” toggle in Quick Settings.

The problem presents itself as a focusing difficulty, where the camera initially operates normally but turns blurry and unfocused when switched to 50MP mode. Users have provided video proof of this issue, mentioning that it was not present prior to the update. The issue is limited to the 50MP lens, with some users experiencing temporary relief by switching to the 12MP lens or manually focusing, although these are not optimal fixes.

Google is aware of the situation, as indicated in their IssueTracker, but a swift solution may be delayed due to the holiday season. This is not the first occasion Pixel phones have encountered camera troubles; Pixel 10 Pro users previously noted a jittery camera during video recording because of EIS (electronic image stabilization) issues.

While Google’s Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 introduced some improvements, such as a new Quick Settings slider, the camera problems remain a major concern for affected users. As the community waits for a fix, attention stays on Google’s response to these ongoing camera issues.

2025: A Year of Peaks and Valleys in Consumer Audio Technology

Successes, failures, and HiFi. 2025 was simultaneously amazing and disappointing!

Affordable Android Devices Showcase Ample Battery Life and Signal-Free Operations

The Redmi Note 15 Pro and Pro+ showcase Xiaomi’s dedication to enhancing the Note series, focusing on durability and battery performance. These devices exceed the Note 14 Pro series with improved protection and endurance. Each phone features IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K ratings, SGS drop certification, and Gorilla Glass Victus 2, indicating a considerable boost in durability. The “Titan Structure” augments structural strength with a reinforced mid-frame and shock-absorbing elements.

There is a significant boost in battery capacity, with the Note 15 Pro+ equipped with a 6,500mAh silicon-carbon battery and the regular Pro providing 6,580mAh. The Pro+ is compatible with 100W HyperCharge, ensuring a six-year lifespan under ideal conditions. The processing capabilities are enhanced with the Note 15 Pro+ utilizing Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 and the Pro variant housing Dimensity 7400-Ultra. Additionally, the Pro+ features Xiaomi’s IceLoop cooling mechanism to avert overheating during demanding tasks.

A notable aspect is Xiaomi Offline Communication, facilitating long-distance voice calls without network access, perfect for adventurers and emergencies. The Note 15 Pro+ maintains its quad-curved Liquid Display, while the Pro version chooses a flat screen, both reaching up to 3,200 nits of brightness. The 200MP primary camera now includes sophisticated AI functionalities such as Google Gemini and AI Erase Pro.

Offered in multiple colors, the Redmi Note 15 Pro is priced at €399/£349, while the Pro+ is available for €499/£429, with preorders set to commence in January 2026.

The Year 2025: Significant Progress for Google and Samsung within the Android Ecosystem

A Year of Achievements, Challenges, and Evolving Focus: The Year That Transformed the Android Environment

2025 represented a pivotal year for the Android ecosystem, featuring substantial advancements from its two leading entities, Google and Samsung. This year was defined by a sequence of tactical achievements, notable challenges, and a realignment of focus that together transformed the Android environment.

Google’s Tactical Transformation: Adopting AI

Google’s trajectory in 2025 was highlighted by a tactical shift toward artificial intelligence (AI). The company prioritized a deeper integration of AI within its ecosystem, resulting in major advancements with its Gemini initiative. This year, Google concentrated less on hardware and more on software and AI, laying the groundwork for sustained success. The Pixel 10 series, dubbed as “prepared for the Gemini age,” exhibited Google’s dedication to AI, featuring robust on-device AI processing abilities. Innovations like Magic Cue and AI-crafted writing prompts showcased Google’s creative strategy to enhance user experience with AI.

Samsung’s Comeback: A Year of Breakthroughs

Samsung experienced an exceptional year, characterized by a succession of successful product introductions and tactical choices. The company commenced powerfully with the S25 series and sustained its momentum with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the groundbreaking Galaxy TriFold. Samsung’s emphasis on hardware advancements, coupled with a solid partnership with Google, proved to be an effective strategy. The introduction of the Galaxy XR, a formidable contender against Apple’s Vision Pro, underscored Samsung’s capacity to compete successfully in the marketplace.

Evolving Focus and Market Changes

Both Google and Samsung showcased a sharp awareness of evolving market dynamics. Google’s focus on AI signifies a wider industry trend towards intelligent, context-sensitive devices. On the other hand, Samsung’s concentration on hardware advancements and strategic rivalry with Apple highlights its determination to uphold its leadership within the Android ecosystem.

Final Thoughts: A Year of Change

2025 was a crucial year for the Android ecosystem, with Google and Samsung spearheading the efforts to reshape the landscape. As both corporations persist in innovating and adjusting to shifting market conditions, the future of Android appears optimistic, with AI and hardware innovation leading this change.