AllYouCanTech

Samsung Galaxy S26 Prototype Apparently Thicker Than Expected

**The Samsung Galaxy S26: Clarifying the Thinness Myth**

In the rapidly changing landscape of smartphones, each new introduction generates a wave of excitement and conjecture. The Samsung Galaxy S26, the newest addition to Samsung’s premier lineup, is no different. Among the countless rumors, one of the most discussed was the anticipation that the Galaxy S26 would be much thinner than its predecessors. Nevertheless, recent revelations indicate that this might not hold true.

**Design Aspirations vs. Reality**

Early leaks and visuals of the Galaxy S26 ignited enthusiasm with promises of a more refined, streamlined design. Fans and tech experts speculated that Samsung would break engineering limits to produce a device that was not only robust but also remarkably slim. This hope was amplified by the trend of manufacturers aiming to create increasingly compact and lightweight devices without sacrificing performance.

However, as more definite information has surfaced, it seems the Galaxy S26 might not be as slim as once thought. Sources associated with the development process have revealed that while Samsung has indeed concentrated on honing the design, the emphasis has been on boosting other facets of the phone, such as battery longevity, camera features, and processing capabilities.

**Finding a Balance Between Thinness and Functionality**

The choice to retain a somewhat thicker build might stem from various reasons. One significant aspect is battery life. A thinner device typically means a smaller battery, which can result in decreased usage times. Samsung appears to have favored a more balanced strategy, ensuring that users can benefit from prolonged battery life without the need for constant recharging.

Moreover, the incorporation of sophisticated camera systems and advanced processing units requires additional space. The Galaxy S26 is anticipated to showcase state-of-the-art camera technology, featuring enhanced sensors and lenses, which inherently require more room within the device. Likewise, the addition of powerful processors and efficient cooling systems demands a design capable of fitting these components without risk of overheating.

**Consumer Demands and Market Dynamics**

While the appeal of an ultra-slim smartphone is undeniable, consumer wants have shifted. An increasing number of users now favor functionality and performance over mere thinness. The craving for extended battery life, exceptional camera performance, and robust capabilities often surpasses the desire for a sleeker device. Samsung’s choice to concentrate on these areas demonstrates a strong awareness of market patterns and consumer preferences.

**Conclusion**

As the Samsung Galaxy S26 approaches its launch, it is evident that the company has opted to emphasize a comprehensive user experience over attaining the thinnest design possible. Although it may not be as slender as first suggested, the Galaxy S26 is set to excel in other areas, providing a potent, feature-rich smartphone that meets the expectations of contemporary users. As always, Samsung’s dedication to innovation and quality ensures that the Galaxy S26 will stand out in the fiercely competitive smartphone arena.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Leak Discloses Disputed Design Modification

Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra: An Advancement in Group Selfies with an Upgraded Front Camera

Samsung has consistently advanced the limits of smartphone technology, and the forthcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra exemplifies this commitment. A standout feature of this premier device is its emphasis on enhancing group selfies, a favored trend among users globally. This enhancement is mainly realized through the addition of a larger front camera aperture, which is set to improve the quality and enjoyment of taking group photos.

The Development of Smartphone Cameras

Over time, smartphone cameras have transitioned from simple point-and-shoot devices to complex systems that can compete with professional cameras. Samsung has been leading this development, continually upgrading camera features with each new model. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is positioned to uphold this legacy by tackling a prevalent issue for selfie lovers: capturing crisp and colorful group images.

The Enlarged Front Camera Aperture

The choice to include a larger front camera aperture in the Galaxy S26 Ultra is a tactical decision aimed at enhancing image quality. A bigger opening permits more light to reach the camera sensor, essential for producing detailed and well-illuminated photos, particularly in dimly lit situations. This upgrade is anticipated to considerably diminish noise and boost clarity, resulting in group selfies that are more vibrant and realistic.

Furthermore, the larger size of the camera aperture may facilitate advanced sensor technologies, potentially delivering higher resolutions and superior dynamic range. This implies that users can anticipate sharper images with more faithful color reproduction, even while photographing large groups in difficult lighting conditions.

Improved Software Capabilities

Alongside hardware upgrades, Samsung is expected to unveil enhanced software functionalities to complement the larger front camera aperture. Sophisticated algorithms driven by artificial intelligence may play a key role in optimizing group selfies. Features such as facial recognition, automatic focus adjustments, and real-time image processing could be refined to ensure that everyone in the frame appears at their best.

The software might also introduce new modes specifically tailored for group selfies, like wide-angle settings or panoramic stitching, enabling users to include more individuals in a single shot without sacrificing quality.

User Engagement and Market Influence

The emphasis on enhancing group selfies resonates with prevailing social media trends, where sharing experiences with friends and family constitutes a vital aspect of user engagement. By improving front camera capabilities, Samsung is likely to appeal to a wider demographic, including younger users who prioritize social media interactions.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra’s focus on group selfies could also establish a new benchmark in the industry, prompting rivals to innovate and upgrade their front camera technologies. This rivalry ultimately benefits consumers, who can expect increased options and improved features in future smartphone models.

In Summary

Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra is set to transform the group selfie experience with its larger front camera aperture and supporting software upgrades. By concentrating on this favored element of smartphone photography, Samsung reaffirms its commitment to satisfying consumer needs and maintaining its lead in the competitive smartphone landscape. As excitement grows for the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s launch, users can anticipate capturing cherished moments with friends and family in unparalleled quality.

Samsung Launches Pre-Sale of Refurbished Galaxy S25 and Galaxy Z Fold 6 Models

You can now cut down on costs with the Samsung Galaxy S25 series.

Samsung Expands One UI 8 Watch Beta Program to Encompass Galaxy Watch 5 Series

The Galaxy Watch 5 Finally Engages with One UI 8 Watch Beta, Yet Samsung’s Rollout Remains Slow

Owners of the Galaxy Watch 5 can be thrilled as Samsung has officially launched the One UI 8 Watch beta, based on Wear OS 6, for both the Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro. First introduced in South Korea, this beta is set to launch in the U.S. shortly. This update brings enhanced gesture controls, a new Now Bar for real-time updates, and the option to combine two tiles into a single one.

The rollout commenced with an announcement on Samsung Korea’s community forum, and additional markets are expected to follow suit. Eligible users may register for early access to experiment with new features prior to the stable release. The update guarantees notable enhancements, such as gesture controls for tasks like answering calls or dismissing alarms, along with a consistently present Now Bar for live updates on the watch interface.

Additionally, users can merge two tiles for more convenient information retrieval. These functionalities have been vetted on the Galaxy Watch 6 and Watch 6 Classic, currently on the fifth beta iteration of One UI 8 Watch.

Nonetheless, the stable variant of One UI 8 Watch is presently restricted to the Galaxy Watch 7 series and the latest Watch Ultra. Previous models, including the Watch 5 and Watch 6, continue in beta. Samsung aims to roll out the stable update for older models by year’s end, though advancements have been gradual. The broadened beta program implies that the final version is nearing.

At this moment, the beta is exclusively accessible in South Korea, with U.S. availability expected shortly. Galaxy Watch 5 users can register through the Samsung Members app if they satisfy the geographical and device criteria. As is the case with any beta software, users should anticipate possible bugs in return for early access to new functionalities.

Creative Launches a Modular Sound Card Crafted as the Premier Audio Center for Linking All Your Equipment

Creative’s Sound Blaster line of audio cards was a major player in the market during the ’90s and ’00s, and I first encountered the brand in 2008 when I built a gaming setup in college and integrated a dedicated audio card. Now, Creative is set to revamp the Sound Blaster series significantly: introducing the Sound Blaster Re:Imagine, a modular audio card tailored for contemporary use.

To begin with, this is far beyond a conventional sound card; Creative refers to it as an audio hub for linking all your devices. The aesthetics and modular design resemble creations from teenage engineering, capturing my immediate interest in the product.

Over the years, Creative has sold more than 400 million units of Sound Blaster cards, but for this launch, they are opting for crowdfunding. The Re:Imagine is currently available on Kickstarter, with Creative stating that this approach will help them engage with their user community to gauge their desires from an audio card. To acquire the sound card, one must invest $349, and at the time of this writing, the project has received $202,000 in pledges.

The Re:Imagine hub boasts a built-in 32-bit/384kHz DAC, and the amplifier effortlessly drives headsets ranging from 32Ω to 300Ω. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, PS5, Switch, and all Android devices, and notably, it can operate in standalone mode — powered by Linux, it features 8GB of RAM, 16GB of internal storage, and an SD card slot.

The main attraction (for me, at least) is its modularity, featuring distinct components: a rotary knob, mixer-style slider, buttons, and a 3-inch display panel. The Horizon Cluster package from Creative includes a base unit along with one of each module, with the modules magnetically attaching to the base unit. Furthermore, the base unit houses all connectors, such as 3.5mm output, line in/out, optical, USB-C audio input, and connections to USB-C hosts.

The buttons are programmable, allowing for action customization or macro assignments when used with Windows. Creative is also providing a collection of entertaining tools accessible through the 3-inch panel, including an AI-driven music generator (naturally), nostalgic music visualizers, and even a DOS emulator.

Everything appears quite promising, and I am eager to try out the Sound Blaster Re:Imagine to evaluate its performance in practical application. Creative has announced that deliveries will commence by mid-2026, and with expected retail pricing at $500, you’ll want to participate if the modular audio card appeals to you.

RayNeo Launches the Most Luminous XR Glasses Featuring a Major Enhancement

With double the luminosity compared to its predecessor, the Air 3s Pro represent the pinnacle of XR eyewear currently on the market.

There’s no doubt that XR glasses are rapidly gaining traction, and it’s clear to see why. Devices like the RayNeo Air 3s make it incredibly convenient to carry a massive display anywhere, and the incorporation of Micro-OLED technology ensures excellent visuals while on the move. I evaluated the Air 3s when they launched earlier this year, and having tried all prior RayNeo versions, I found the Air 3s to be more comfortable and to offer superior image quality.

With the Air 3s Pro, RayNeo isn’t introducing many modifications — which is a positive aspect. The eyewear maintains the same design and craftsmanship, ensuring they remain comfortable to wear, with equivalent adjustability options. Weighing in at 76g, they’re quite light, and you won’t experience any discomfort, even after several hours of use. The Air 3s Pro are currently available for $299 on Amazon, just $30 above the standard model.

If you’re considering XR glasses and wish to see how they perform, I highly endorse opting for the Air 3s Pro over the regular version. The reason for this is clear: brightness. The standard Air 3s delivers a respectable 650 nits, and while RayNeo employs a similar imaging engine in the Air 3s Pro, they have managed to enhance brightness to an impressive 1200 nits, which makes a significant impact.

In fact, the Air 3s Pro are the most luminous XR eyewear available at this time, and there’s a noticeable difference compared to other brands, including devices like the Rokid Max 2. RayNeo mentions it’s utilizing a newly developed HueView 2.0 Micro-OLED engine this time, enabling much improved brightness.

Fortunately, all the other features remain unchanged; you still receive 3,840Hz PWM dimming, and the glasses are not in the least bit tiring. The default refresh rate is 60Hz, but you can switch to 120Hz, and there are six distinct color modes available, providing considerable customizability for adjusting the color balance to your preferences.

To compare with the Air 3s, I utilized the Steam Deck while wearing the glasses for an hour, then switched to the Air 3s Pro. The difference using the Air 3s Pro is immediate, and it’s clear that these glasses offer considerably greater brightness. While I typically increase the brightness to 80% on the Air 3s, I found it sufficient to keep it at 50% with the Air 3s Pro.

A more significant advantage is that the increased brightness minimizes light bleed, making the Air 3s Pro a far superior option for outdoor use. Although there isn’t a photochromatic outer lens, so some light bleed occurs in bright ambient conditions, it’s not nearly as problematic as with the Air 3s or older models.

This alteration alone is compelling enough for me to choose the Air 3s Pro over any other glasses during gaming sessions. Additionally, connecting to devices is just as simple via USB-C, and I encountered no difficulties pairing the XR glasses with my Find X9 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro. Due to the distribution of weight, there’s notably no strain when wearing these glasses, and the 76g weight feels evenly balanced.

Other specifications are identical to the standard model; you benefit from detailed onboard audio courtesy of a dedicated quartet of audio drivers. There’s also virtualized spatial audio this time, enhancing the perception of dimensional audio. The glasses project a 201-inch image from a distance of six meters, producing excellent contrast levels alongside vibrant colors.

RayNeo has revamped the packaging, and instead of the typical hard shell case, you now receive a fabric one. While it still offers reasonable protection for the XR glasses, I would have preferred a hard shell case, as the one that accompanied the Air 3s has superior durability — especially if you plan on tossing these glasses into a bag. Besides the case, you receive a USB-C angled cable, which I utilized to connect the glasses to various smartphones and handheld devices.

As seen in past models, the glasses are constructed from plastic, and there are no issues with the build quality. I’ve used these glasses for over three months now, and they remain in excellent condition.

With the Air 3s Pro, RayNeo is providing nothing less than the finest XR glasses currently available. The glasses are easy to wear, boast impressive color vibrancy and unparalleled brightness levels, deliver good onboard sound, and offer hassle-free connectivity. If you’re looking to expand the screen of your handheld console or need a way to enjoy entertainment

Top 4 Most Loved Chromebooks Available on Discount Before Black Friday

November has officially arrived, and we all know what that signifies! A plethora of deals! Best Buy barely waited for the calendar to change before launching a range of discounts on everything from smartphones to tablets and of course, Chromebooks.

The retailer is presently running an assortment of “Early Black Friday Deals,” along with a selection of “Doorbusters” for even greater savings. This is truly advantageous as it means you don’t have to wait a few more weeks if you’ve been considering a new Chromebook, as there’s a solid chance it’s discounted right now.

This time, several early Black Friday Chromebook deals caught my attention, each aiming at a different demographic.

– **Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus (8GB/256GB)**: $749.99 $599.99 at Best Buy. If you are searching for a conventional Chromebook with a sleek design and a large screen, your search can end here. The Galaxy Chromebook Plus stands out as one of the finest Chromebooks you can buy, featuring a stunning 15.6-inch AMOLED display, and it’s so lightweight that you might hardly notice it in your bag. Additionally, this was the first Chromebook to come with the new “Quick Insert” key when it launched last year.

– **Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11 (4GB/128GB)**: $399 $249 at Best Buy. What if you’re looking for something versatile? The Chromebook Duet 11 is virtually flawless, owing to its 11-inch touchscreen display, which is also compatible with the best USI pens. Moreover, since the Duet 11 doubles as a tablet, we’re grateful that Lenovo includes the Keyboard Cover in the package, allowing you to utilize it as either a tablet or a laptop.

– **Acer Chromebook Plus 516 (8GB/128GB)**: $479 $299 at Best Buy. Sometimes, it’s just refreshing to have a Chromebook that’s dependable, supports the latest features, and has a classic appearance. Enter Acer’s Chromebook Plus 516, which showcases the same timeless design we’ve seen repeatedly. It boasts the largest screen in this group with its 16-inch display, making it excellent for working with side-by-side app windows or relaxing while watching a movie.

– **ASUS CX14 Chromebook Plus (8GB/128GB)**: $429 $249 at Best Buy. Completing the lineup is yet another “under-the-radar” choice, as the ASUS CX14 Chromebook Plus sees a $180 reduction, dropping the price to just $249. This is probably going to be a hot seller at this price, as it provides a capable Chromebook that simply fulfills its role, while remaining lightweight and compact. Honestly, I might just pick one up as an early Christmas gift because who can say it’ll be this affordable on Black Friday or Cyber Monday.

It’s well-known that Black Friday and Cyber Monday are among the best times of the year to get new technology, and this period often sees Chromebooks reaching their most competitive prices. However, if you happen to miss these deals, don’t worry. I believe Best Buy and other retailers will be running numerous promotions throughout the month and into December.

Another nice aspect of these retailers competing for our holiday spending is that if a specific sale ends at one store, you’re likely to find it at another. Of course, this isn’t always guaranteed, but it’s something worth considering as you start to check items off your gift shopping list.

**Black Friday 2025 – quick links**

– **Best Buy:** up to 60% off Chromebooks, Android phones, and more
– **Amazon:** early discounts on headphones, smart home tech
– **Walmart:** early price drops on ASUS laptops, locked phones
– **Samsung:** new Galaxy XR headset, trade-in opportunities
– **Verizon:** free phones with new line, trade-in
– **T-Mobile:** free Galaxy phones, $300 back w/ 5G Home Internet
– **Mint Mobile:** 50% off Pixel 10, BOGO Unlimited plans
– **AT&T:** get a free Z Flip 7 with trade-in, new line

Initial Glimpse of Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus Design Uncovered via Leaked CAD Renders

Not a significant improvement, if you ask us.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus leaks indicate design likenesses with Galaxy S25 Plus. Expected features include a 6.7-inch AMOLED display and a largely unchanged camera setup. Anticipated release may present vibrant color variants and robust battery life.

Leaks regarding Samsung’s forthcoming flagship line are improving continuously. We caught some whispers about a potential earlier release, albeit at higher price points. Nonetheless, this gives us a solid glimpse at the Korean manufacturer’s rumored Galaxy S26 Plus. Indeed, it seems the Plus variant is making a return, as Samsung might not introduce the S26 Edge this time.

Earlier today, Android Headlines shared images of the supposed Galaxy S26 Plus, showcasing it from multiple perspectives. The device resembles the Galaxy S25 Plus significantly, without any discernible design alterations.

Per these CAD visuals, the Galaxy S26 Plus might have a 6.7-inch AMOLED 2X flat display featuring slim, consistent bezels and a centered camera cutout. However, as suggested by previous leaks, Samsung may focus on making the devices more ergonomic, implying that the device could possess more rounded corners compared to the Galaxy S25 Plus. All physical buttons, including the power/lock and volume controls, appear to be situated on the right side.

The site mentions that the phone’s dimensions might vary slightly, approximately measuring 158.4 x 75.7 x 7.35mm. The visuals also display the phone’s rear panel, which accommodates three camera lenses, with the flash positioned adjacent to them.

Speculations propose that the Galaxy S26 Plus might include a 50MP primary, 12MP ultrawide, and 12MP telephoto camera. Nonetheless, prominent leaker IceUniverse took to X to suggest that the telephoto lens might be considerably smaller this time, and the primary camera is expected to remain the same, with the ultrawide potentially being similar or identical.

It’s crucial to highlight that the colors shown for the phone are for illustrative purposes solely, and there’s no confirmation regarding the actual colors in which the Galaxy S26 might launch. However, rumors have suggested that Samsung could adopt the bright orange color scheme from the iPhone 17 range.

Other anticipated specifications for the device include a nearly 5,000mAh battery with 45W wired charging capability. Under the hood, the Galaxy S26 is rumored to feature either an Exynos 2600 or a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, depending on the market in which the device is purchased, combined with 12GB of RAM.

Samsung Intends to Introduce a Credit Card in the US to Rival Apple

Samsung is allegedly considering the launch of its own credit card in the U.S., possibly collaborating with Barclays to compete with Apple’s financial services. The anticipated “Samsung Card” could provide benefits such as cashback on Samsung products and appliances, digital prepaid accounts, and high-yield savings options. Discussions with Barclays are reported to be at an advanced stage, with Visa likely to support the card, although no formal agreements have been reached yet. An announcement could be anticipated by the close of 2025.

Samsung has been improving its digital payment offerings, particularly through Samsung Wallet, which now features options like Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) and cryptocurrency management through Coinbase integration. These advancements reflect Samsung’s dedication to broadening its presence in the financial services arena, utilizing its existing technology ecosystem to deliver comprehensive payment solutions.

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