Welcome to this week’s installment of News Weekly, your essential summary of the most significant tech happenings stirring excitement in the digital realm. From substantial job cuts at Google to thrilling leaks and software enhancements, here’s all the info you need to stay updated.
In a noteworthy action, Google has terminated hundreds of positions within its Platforms and Devices division, affecting crucial groups including Android, Pixel, and Chrome. This development follows a pattern of restructuring that began with the merge of the Android and Pixel teams last year. The company commented that these layoffs are part of a strategy to become “more agile and function more efficiently.”
These layoffs come shortly after a voluntary departure initiative launched in January, indicating a widespread change in Google’s internal approach as it concentrates on main products and operational efficiency.
Leaked intel indicates that Google’s forthcoming Pixel 10 series will showcase diverse pricing across its models. While the standard and smaller Pro versions are anticipated to keep their existing prices, the Pixel 10 Pro XL could face a $100 price hike. Notably, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold may experience a $200 reduction, lowering its price to $1,600.
Value-seeking consumers will likely be happy to learn that the Pixel 10a will supposedly preserve its $499 price, with Google intending to maintain A-series pricing stability through 2028. However, just like with all leaks, these specifics remain unverified until officially announced.
Motorola has officially unveiled a teaser for its next-gen foldable, the Razr 2025, through a brief video on X (formerly Twitter). The teaser reveals three foldable variants in various colors and promises a launch on April 24 with the slogan “Make it iconic.”
Speculations suggest that the Razr 2025 will uphold Motorola’s design ethos, featuring a 4-inch cover display and a 6.9-inch pOLED foldable screen for the Plus variant. The device is also rumored to include Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, likely positioning it as a leading foldable contender.
Samsung has initiated the rollout of the stable version of One UI 7 for users across Korea, the U.S., and Europe. Following months of beta evaluation, the update is now accessible for the Galaxy S24 series as well as the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6.
One UI 7 introduces a multitude of new features, such as a redesigned notification panel, enhanced camera performance, and upgraded live notifications. Users can verify the update by navigating to Settings > Software Update > Check for updates.
Rumors surrounding the forthcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7 hint at substantial enhancements, which may include:
If these speculations prove accurate, the Z Fold 7 could become Samsung’s most sophisticated foldable to date, addressing numerous user concerns from prior versions.