Tag: Source: Androidcentral.com

Following two years of speculation, new information suggests we may have to say goodbye. The highly awaited OnePlus Open 2, a foldable smartphone that had generated significant buzz, might never be released. Recent reports indicate that OnePlus has supposedly canceled the global debut of this device, which was anticipated to include an 8.1-inch 2K resolution primary display, a 50MP camera, and a 32MP front-facing lens. The OnePlus Open 2 was rumored to feature a sleek chassis and support for wireless charging, positioning it as a sought-after successor to the initial OnePlus Open launched in late 2023.

The news of the cancellation is a letdown for many who had been looking forward to the device, particularly after leaks pointed to it being in an advanced testing phase. The OnePlus Open 2 was predicted to be equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, offering options for 1TB of storage and 16GB of RAM. However, rising RAM costs and other factors might have played a role in the decision to cease production.

In spite of this setback, some fans remain hopeful that OnePlus may revisit the endeavor down the line. The brand is recognized for its innovative smartphone designs, and the OnePlus Open 2 was projected to surpass rivals like the Honor Magic V3 in terms of slimness and aesthetics. As supporters come to terms with the news, the chance of a future launch remains unclear, prompting many to ponder if they will ever experience what could have been a revolutionary foldable device.

Apple and Google have unveiled a revolutionary multi-year partnership that will incorporate Google’s Gemini AI technology into Apple’s upcoming devices. This alliance seeks to improve AI functionalities across both Android and iOS platforms, with Gemini poised to enhance Siri’s intuitiveness and personalization. Apple will uphold user privacy while utilizing Google’s sophisticated AI features. This collaboration signifies a notable change, as Apple’s devices will now possess a cohesive AI framework, possibly reshaping the AI technology landscape in smartphones.

Samsung is rumored to be set to unveil a 24MP photography mode on its forthcoming Galaxy S26, likely in reaction to the iPhone 15’s standard 24MP option. In contrast to Apple, Samsung’s 24MP setting won’t be the default and will necessitate manual activation via the Good Lock’s Camera Assistant, instead of the primary camera settings. Once activated, users can select the 24MP option directly within Photo and Portrait modes without needing to switch applications. This capability aims to deliver high-resolution images while avoiding the processing challenges seen in Samsung’s Expert RAW app, including excessive sharpening and purple fringing. The new mode is expected to feature no shutter lag, although processing each image will take approximately three seconds in the background. This feature might not be accessible on earlier Galaxy models.

Alongside enhancements to the camera, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is anticipated to receive performance upgrades, likely powered by Qualcomm’s next-generation Snapdragon chip. Leaked performance results indicate that the Snapdragon version will surpass the Exynos variant, providing a more seamless experience for handling high-resolution photos. The official launch of the Galaxy S26 series is expected in February 2026.

# OnePlus Implemented Major Adjustments with the OnePlus 15 Series — Here’s the Model You Should Choose

The OnePlus 15 series signifies a notable transition in approach for OnePlus, featuring important alterations in design, specifications, and pricing. This article examines the distinctions between the OnePlus 15 and OnePlus 15R, assisting you in deciding which model to acquire.

## OnePlus 15R: Costly Midrange Option

The OnePlus 15R comes at a price of $699, $100 above its predecessor, the OnePlus 13R. Even with its speedy Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor and remarkable 7,400mAh battery life, it falls short of including a telephoto lens and showcases a design that reminds one of an iPhone. These shortcomings alongside the price increase render it less attractive.

**Pros:**
– Expansive, vivid display
– Swift performance
– Extended battery life

**Cons:**
– Pricier than its predecessor
– Absence of telephoto lens
– Lack of originality in design

## OnePlus 15: The Premium Model

With a price tag of $899, the OnePlus 15 presents better value and features than the 15R. It comes equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, a robust design, and an enduring battery. However, it misses out on the alert slider and Qi2 magnets, and its aesthetic is not particularly distinctive.

**Pros:**
– Sturdy design
– Top-tier performance
– Rapid charging

**Cons:**
– Camera reductions
– Lower resolution display
– Heating issues under intense usage

## Design and Display

Both models feature a flat, angular design, departing from OnePlus’ signature circular camera layout. They come with IP69K durability and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection. The OnePlus 15 sports a 6.78-inch OLED display with a 165Hz refresh rate, while the 15R has a marginally larger 6.83-inch screen.

## Hardware and Specifications

The OnePlus 15 is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, delivering outstanding performance with up to 16GB RAM and 1TB storage capacity. The 15R is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, offering a maximum of 12GB RAM and 512GB storage.

## Cameras

The OnePlus 15 is outfitted with a trio of 50MP rear cameras, including a telephoto lens. In contrast, the 15R features a 50MP main camera coupled with an 8MP wide-angle lens, excluding the telephoto option, which might dissuade certain buyers.

## Which One Should You Choose?

The pricing and reductions of the OnePlus 15R make it less appealing, particularly with the OnePlus 13R providing more value for a lower price. On the other hand, the OnePlus 15, despite its elevated price point, delivers better value with its advanced processor, camera system, and RAM capacities. It holds its ground well against other flagship offerings from Google and Samsung.

In summary, the OnePlus 15 is the advised option for those in pursuit of the latest features and performance within the OnePlus range.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 Chromebook is now offered at an impressive discount, priced at only $129, which is significantly more than half off its standard price. This promotion is part of Best Buy’s January outlet sales event, showcasing a $190 cut from its regular price. The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 serves as an entry-level Chromebook, equipped with a 14-inch non-touch display, 64GB of storage, and a MediaTek Kompanio 520 processor. It operates on Chrome OS and is provided with 4GB of RAM. Though its specifications are basic, the device is lauded for its vibrant display, satisfactory battery longevity, and lightweight build, making it a fantastic option for individuals looking for an economical, portable laptop for everyday use. Nonetheless, it might not meet the needs of users who demand considerable storage or advanced connectivity features. This deal offers a wonderful chance to acquire a practical Chromebook at a wallet-friendly price.

Google has announced a new open standard known as Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP) that enables AI agents to shop, complete purchases, and manage payments on your behalf. This groundbreaking protocol seeks to enhance the online shopping journey by enabling AI agents to handle product searches, comparisons, cart additions, and checkouts with one command. UCP standardizes the interactions among AI agents, retailers, and payment processors, establishing a unified language for effortless transactions.

Google has collaborated with significant entities such as Shopify, Walmart, Visa, and others to implement this protocol. Initially, UCP-enabled checkout will be accessible in AI Mode within Google Search and the Gemini app in the U.S., utilizing Google Pay and Google Wallet for transactions. Support for PayPal and additional features like loyalty rewards is expected to be introduced soon.

For enterprises, Google is rolling out Business Agents, virtual sales helpers that provide product information in the brand’s voice, along with Direct Offers, which deliver exclusive coupons within AI Mode. This advancement sets the stage for AI-driven shopping experiences, simplifying purchases to a single tap.

A recent case listing from Thinborne seems to have confirmed the design of the forthcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, just prior to its official introduction. The leaked design hints at an elegant appearance with rounded edges, consistent with earlier rumors regarding the device. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is projected to be revealed on February 25, 2026, during Samsung’s launch event for the Galaxy S26 series.

The leaked design reveals that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will showcase a slightly modified camera arrangement, featuring three lenses situated in a pill-shaped, slightly elevated island on the left side, alongside two additional sensors to the right. This design has been verified by various leaks, implying that it is likely close to the final aesthetic of the device.

In addition to the design modifications, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to support Qi2 magnetic wireless charging and will be equipped with a larger battery and enhanced charging capabilities. The device is also rumored to come in a striking orange color option, potentially rivaling the iPhone 17 Pro’s orange finish.

Although case manufacturers frequently base their designs on early CAD representations, the uniformity across multiple leaks suggests that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will closely mirror the leaked design. As the launch date draws nearer, more information is anticipated to surface, offering a clearer insight into what to anticipate from Samsung’s latest flagship.

all-inclusive AI plans to genuine workout coaches, gym exercise logs to marathon support, these are our carefully selected app suggestions.

Whether you’re aiming to achieve New Year’s resolutions or simply require a robust workout or diet tracker, the top health and fitness apps can assist you in reaching your objectives. And if the available options feel daunting (or lacking), I’m here to provide personally-tested workout and planning apps to get you underway.

Some individuals thrive with tailored, AI-generated workout or diet strategies. Others gain from social apps like Strava where challenges and “kudos” from friends keep you inspired. And you’d be amazed at how an effective spreadsheet or straightforward workout log could outperform an expensive app laden with videos and plans.

Categorized into specific segments — general health/ fitness apps, workout applications, companion apps for smartwatches, and weight/ diet tools — these are the most effective apps to help you achieve your 2026 goals, complete with information on essential features, pricing, and reasons they have assisted our staff in succeeding.

General health & fitness apps

Fitbit Personal Health Coach

Key Health Features: Sleep Score, Daily Readiness Score, Stress Management Score, Menstrual Health, Meal & Water logging, Mindfulness sessions, Trend “Insights”

Key Fitness Features: Active Zone Minutes, Cardio/ Target Load, Gemini-generated personalized workout plans, video workouts, Fitbit/ Pixel Watch integration

Subscription: $10/month or $80/year (AI plans/ analysis, video workouts, long-term reports)

Why Fitbit will aid your goals: Recommending Fitbit Premium became simpler when Google enlisted Gemini to develop the Fitbit Personal Health Coach. It allows you to “converse” with an AI coach and formulate a thorough workout plan within minutes, incorporating a multitude of different indoor or outdoor workout types. So whether your fitness goal is shedding pounds, excelling in a particular sport, enhancing muscle mass, increasing walking frequency, or anything else, Gemini can provide you weeks of tailored workouts for that aim. No other app is as extensive or adaptable.

Beyond AI, Fitbit benefits from syncing with affordable Fitbit trackers, enabling the app to monitor metrics like resting heart rate, blood oxygen, skin temperature, sleep stages, and HRV. The new app displays “Insight” cards with trend data for these metrics, so you can observe how your health is improving as you strive to get fitter or shed weight.

Why we trust Fitbit: “Fitbit is straightforward and accessible for anyone just beginning with serious workouts.” — Derrek Lee, Managing Editor

“I’m enjoying the updated interface and how easy it is to access significant data at a glance. I’ve been impressed with the AI coach and its suggestions. I believe it’s one of the finest lifestyle fitness apps with a comprehensive approach.” — Tshaka Armstrong, Contributor

Google Docs / Google Sheets

Why a spreadsheet will assist with your goals: Apps can be motivating and automatically track your data and progress over time, with elaborate graphs and AI analysis. But they are typically (A) subscription-based, (B) mobile-only, and (C) tailored to a single activity.

That’s why, when dealing with New Year’s resolutions or creating a workout schedule, a straightforward document or spreadsheet is more effective than trying to discover the perfect all-in-one app! Utilize other apps to monitor specific objectives like miles/ steps/ weight loss/ books read, but consolidate them into one document you can access on your phone or computer, utilizing tables and drop-down menus to indicate your progress (as I did above).

Alternatively, use a spreadsheet to outline your long-term workout plans, and then a specific running or strength app to execute those plans. I applied that technique to plan my months of marathon training (see above), combined with my Garmin watch, and it was exceedingly effective.

Why we depend on Google Docs/ Sheets: “Yeah, it might sound silly, but I’ve genuinely found a purpose for spreadsheets. I need upper body strength, so lifting weights is how I aim to maintain it. I can record my existing regimen as well as any ambitions, and there’s ample space for additional notes. Best of all, I can check off each day’s workout from my phone or my desktop and have access to all my long-term progress, so I feel like I’m achieving something.” — Jerry Hildenbrand, Senior Editor

Strava

Key Fitness Features: Activity recording, local routes with 3D maps, Heatmap, Segment leaderboards, Clubs, Challenges, long-term workout analysis, Athlete Intelligence summaries, race predictions, Instant Workouts

Subscription: $12/month or $80/year (Saved routes, comprehensive data analysis with AI summaries, Instant Workouts)

Why Strava will support your goals: Most individuals exert more effort when encouraged or competing with others. Strava allows you to connect with friends to give and receive “kudos,” motivating you to continue getting out there. You also have “Challenges” where reaching specific thresholds earns you badges and awards from

The Bixby leaks continue to emerge, and this particular one has a wealth of information.

What you should know:
– Samsung’s Bixby featured prominently in a significant report on Reddit that disclosed potential AI enhancements for One UI 8.5.
– Among the findings, it appears that Samsung is set to introduce a “Bixby Live” functionality, akin to Gemini Live, along with “Circle to Ask.”
– Recent rumors regarding Bixby suggest that the device may acquire a new pop-up bar for swift inquiries, as well as integration with Perplexity.

We’ve encountered these rumors previously, but now a social media report claims to have identified various ways Bixby could evolve. A Reddit user explored Samsung’s One UI 8.5 build and allegedly found clues about what a major Bixby upgrade could entail (via SamMobile). One notable feature mentioned is allegedly named “Bixby Live.” If this rings a bell (Gemini Live), it’s because the functionality operates in a manner quite similar to Google’s iteration, at least based on this initial discovery.

When enabled, it seems Bixby Live will display a multi-hued strip along the edges of your phone’s screen. The center will likely contain a circle, probably just signaling the AI’s presence. At the bottom, the AI will be “listening,” along with options to mute the microphone, share the camera, and upload content.

As pointed out by SamMobile, the drop menu is reportedly indicating “conversational styles” for Bixby. Styles such as general agent, tour guide, storyteller, interview, and others.

AI generation features for Bixby were observed, with one of the Reddit user’s screenshots showcasing a “content above was generated by AI” notice. Two additional purported glimpses reveal Bixby’s chatting interface: one that’s its primary app and the other that exists off the home screen. Concerning the former, it seems users immersing themselves in Bixby’s app can experience a chat thread reminiscent of what one would encounter with Gemini. It even mentions “Circle to Ask,” which sounds remarkably akin to Circle to Search.

The alternative chatting method with Bixby is a straightforward, semi-transparent window that appears for quick inquiries on your device.

Bixby aims to keep pace

These alleged modifications for Bixby were identified in Samsung’s One UI 8.5 test; however, indications first surfaced back in October. A social media update noted that Samsung was trialing a new Bixby pop-up bar when activated on a Galaxy device. The bar would align with your Light or Dark mode selection and present a vibrant blue/purple color scheme along its edges.

It certainly imparts a more Gemini-like essence to the otherwise ordinary and low-profile AI.

On a more significant note, Samsung was recently observed testing its Perplexity AI integration with Bixby. A report indicates that the company was assessing the AI’s replies for queries directed to Bixby, intensifying speculations regarding its possible enhancements for the complete One UI 8.5 rollout. Furthermore, leaks suggest that Bixby could handle basic functions, while Perplexity’s intelligence would be utilized for “complex, web-backed” inquiries.

A summary of the most significant technology news highlights from this week.