Snapdragon 8 Elite is Qualcomm's Newest Top-End Chip for Phones
Qualcomm's newest flagship chip for flagship phones is the Snapdragon 8 Elite. For the first time in a chip for phones, Qualcomm is using its own, all-new Oryon CPU architecture, the fruit of its acquisition of Nuvia in 2021. Qualcomm claims the new Oryon CPU delivers a 45% performance improvement in both single- and multi-core tasks compared to last year's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. The prime core runs at up to 4.32 GHz and the performance cores run at up to 3.53 GHz. Qualcomm is also using a cutting-edge 3nm manufacturing process, which contributes to a 27% overall power savings. Power savings are even better in some areas, such as 45% for AI, 44% for CPU, and 40% for graphics. Qualcomm also claims 45% faster AI and 40% better gaming performance. The 8 Elite also includes the X80 modem and FastConnect 7900 announced in February. These bring standards-based support for satellite connectivity as well as integrated UWB. The 8 Elite also supports Bluetooth 6.0. Qualcomm is breaking with its usual naming scheme for smartphone chips, where this would otherwise have been called the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4. The Snapdragon 8 Elite is expected to reach the market in phones starting "in the coming weeks" from brands that include Samsung, OnePlus, and Asus.
Chrome on Android to Play Nicer with Third-Party Password Managers
Google is improving how its Chrome web browser on Android integrates with third-party auto-fill services such as password managers. Currently, such software must use a "compatibility mode" in Chrome that can be glitchy and is being phased out. Starting in Chrome version 131, a new "Autofill services" setting will let users choose a third-party service. Chrome 131 is scheduled to be released November 12, with a beta version already available. Users will have to manually choose a third-party autofill service in system settings (if they haven't already done so), then choose "Autofill using another service" in Chrome settings. Chrome will then use whatever service was chosen in the system settings. Google recommends that third-party password manager apps show a prompt to users, to inform them of these steps they need to take. Google plans to phase out Chrome's "compatibility mode" sometime in "early 2025".
FCC Strengthens, Modernizes Phone Hearing Aid Compatibility Requirements
The FCC has adopted new rules that will require 100% of cell phones sold in the US to be hearing-aid compatible (HAC). The FCC is also modifying its rules to incorporate Bluetooth connections to hearing aids. Currently, phone manufacturers and service providers are only required to offer HAC in 85% of the models in their lineup. (In practice, most reach 100%, or nearly, already.) The new rules address three distinct ways someone might use a phone with a hearing aid: acoustic, telecoil (T-coil), and Bluetooth. Acoustic means simply holding the phone up to your ear, and phones must be designed so they don't create interference when used this way. This benchmark moves from 85% to 100%. The telecoil requirement remains at 85%, but since Bluetooth is a more modern alternative to telecoil, the FCC will now require that at least 15% of phone models support Bluetooth connections to hearing aids. Further, 100% of phones must support either telecoil or Bluetooth. Phone makers have two years to meet these requirements, while national carriers will have 2 1/2 years, and smaller carriers will have 3 1/2 years. For now, companies will be able to meet the Bluetooth requirement with proprietary solutions like Apple's MFi and Google's ASHA. But in four years, companies will be required to support non-proprietary standards like the new Hearing Access Profile (HAP) introduced as part of Bluetooth LE Audio.
Android 15 Exits Beta, Starts Rolling Out
Android 15 is finally, officially launching, starting today with Pixel devices. This version had an unusually long beta testing period. Among many new features, the biggest may be a suite of new anti-theft features. Most interesting is Theft Detection Lock, which uses AI and the phone's sensors to detect when a phone may have been snatched and automatically lock it. Google has also added "authentication requirements for settings targeted by thieves, like removing your SIM or turning off Find My Device, and will lock down your device if we sense multiple failed attempts for apps and settings." These features are not necessarily on by default, often needing to be activated manually in Settings. Android 15 also brings "Private Space", a place to hide sensitive apps behind an additional layer of authentication. Finally, Android 15 brings a standardized way for carrier messaging apps to send and receive messages via satellite. Android 15 should come to Samsung and other Android phone brands in the coming months. Google is also using the Android 15 update for Pixel phones to do a new "Feature Drop" with new Pixel-exclusive features. This includes Audio Magic Eraser, to clean up audio in your captured videos. The camera app gains a new Underwater mode, to capture better colors underwater. Finally, the Pixel Weather app now includes a three-part pollen tracker for seasonal allergies.
JLab's Newest ANC Earbuds are Just $30
JLab's new Go Pop ANC are the new most affordable Bluetooth earbuds on the market with ANC (active noise cancellation), at just $30. The buds have a decent feature list, too, with a "Be Aware" pass-through mode, 10mm drivers, customizable EQ, IP55 rating for sweat and rain, Multipoint Bluetooth, and Google Fast Pair support. They also offer over seven hours of charge, or over 24 hours with case charging. That case has a built-in USB-C cable for convenience. They're available now, in black, fuchsia, or teal.
Cricket's Newest 5G Phones are Around 50 Bucks
Cricket has launched updated versions of its two most affordable 5G phones. The Cricket Magic 2 5G replaces the Cricket Magic 5G. It has a much larger battery at 5,000 mAh (vs. 4,000 mAh before), a new MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset, and adds a 5 megapixel wide-angle camera. Other features remain similar, including 6.6" HD+ 90 Hz display, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage (expandable), 13 megapixel main camera, NFC, fingerprint reader, and a headset jack. Cricket lists the price at $100 but is currently offering it to existing customers for $40, or free to new customers. The new Cricket Outlast 5G is a significant departure from the original Outlast. While the first Outlast was a 4G phone with a huge 6,000 mAh battery, the new Outlast 5G is a 5G phone with a more-common 5,000 mAh battery and slightly better specs than the Magic 2 5G. Those specs include a larger 6.8" display, 6 GB of RAM, 128 GB storage, and a 50 megapixel main camera. Other specs are similar to the Magic 2 5G, including the same MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset. Cricket is currently selling the Outlast 5G for $60, or free for new customers. Third-party retailers like Walmart are also selling these phones under different names for AT&T Prepaid, with similar pricing. The "AT&T Propel 2 5G" is the same phone as the Magic 2 5G, while the Outlast 5G goes by "Motivate Pro 5G" as an AT&T phone. The original Magic, new Magic 2 (and Propel 2), and original Outlast were all manufactured by Tinno, which also makes the Cricket Debut S3. However the new Outlast 5G (and Motivate Pro) is made by Coosea, which also makes the Cricket Icon 6.
T-Mobile Enables Text Via Satellite as Carriers Prepare for Hurricane Milton
T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T have put out detailed information on how they're preparing for Hurricane Milton and responding to Hurricane Helene. For the first time, T-Mobile is activating Starlink Direct-to-Cellular satellite SMS service for its customers, including the ability to text 911. This experimental service is being deployed on a temporary, emergency basis in Florida as well as the areas previously impacted by Hurricane Helene. This service enables any ordinary T-Mobile phone to receive service via satellite (at this time, for texting only) when land-based networks are unavailable. Engadget reports that phones will display a network name of "T-Mobile SpaceX" when connected to the service. SpaceX advises that the service works best outdoors or, if necessary, near a window. Because the Starlink Direct-to-Cellular fleet is only partially deployed, service may be intermittent. Separately, Verizon announced that it's waiving all "domestic call, text, and data usage for postpaid consumer and Verizon Small Business customers most impacted by the storm in parts of Florida from Oct. 9th – Oct. 23rd, 2024."
T-Mobile Testing Satellite Coverage in Hurricane-Affected Areas
T-Mobile and SpaceX have received special permission from the FCC to test their new satellite coverage technology in areas affected by Hurricane Helene. The SpaceX Starlink system used by T-Mobile works with essentially all existing T-Mobile phones, using an existing cellular frequency band (band 25). T-Mobile has already activated the system to send out emergency alerts in North Carolina, which can be received by any compatible phone, not just those of T-Mobile customers. The two companies also said they "may" test "basic texting (SMS) capabilities for most cell phones on the T-Mobile network in North Carolina." Because of the limited number of satellites deployed to date, service is likely to be intermittent for now.
Google Now Lets You Search with Camera + Voice
Google has enhanced its Google Lens feature on mobile to support voice queries while doing a visual search with your phone's camera. On both iOS and Android, you can now ask Google questions like "why did the artist paint this?" or "what kind of clouds are these?", using your voice, while pointing your phone's camera at a painting or the sky, for example. To access the feature, open the Google (search) app, tap the camera (Google Lens) icon, aim, and hold down the shutter button while speaking. The feature can also be accessed from the dedicated Google Lens app, or anywhere else a Google Lens icon appears, such as in camera apps or home screen widgets.
Tracfone Doubles Data on Plans
Tracfone, a Verizon prepaid brand, has revised its plans to add more value. Plans that previously included 2–10 GB of data now include twice as much, up to 20 GB, for the same price. Tracfone is further enhancing these plans by now allowing mobile hotspot at all price points, a feature previously reserved for the most expensive plan. The new 20 GB plan runs $40/month, the new 4 GB plan runs $20/month, and there are $25 and $30 plans as well. The $15/month plan now includes 1 GB of data when it previously included none. Tracfone is also introducing discounts when buying multiple months in advance; 10% off when buying three months, 15% off for six, and 20% off when buying a whole year of service. All of these plans include unlimited voice and texts. Tracfone also still offers plans with fixed buckets of voice minutes and texts.
Consumer Cellular Gets Into Medical Alert Devices
The Iris Ally is a new medical alert device from Consumer Cellular. The device and service includes automatic fall detection, a feature that competitors charge extra for. The Ally is small, weighs 1.5 ounces, and is fully waterproof. It can hang from a lanyard or clipped to a waistband. The device is $89 up front, with service running $25/month. Through the end of the year, existing customers can get the Ally for $44.50. For a limited time, AARP members can get the device 50% off until the end of the year and an ongoing 5% off the monthly service fee.
OpenSignal Rates Carrier's 5G Performance
OpenSignal has released its latest annual ranking of 5G networks worldwide. T-Mobile USA and Puerto Rico came in first in 5G availability among all 5G networks on the planet. In other key categories — like 5G download speed — no US carrier cracks the top-20 list globally. However, AT&T and Verizon did both place in the top 5 worldwide for "most improved" year-over-year in 5G download speed. In a similar report focusing on the US released in July, T-Mobile came in first for "average overall download and upload speeds" as well as "consistent quality". However Verizon came in first for video and gaming "experience" and 5G upload speed. AT&T, meanwhile, came in first for overall "availability" (regardless of technology).
Pebblebee's New Trackers Work with Both Apple and Google Find My Networks
Peeblebee has launched a new lineup of "Universal" Bluetooth item-tracking tags that are the first to be compatible with both Apple Find My and Google's Android Find My Device networks. The $35 tags are rechargeable and come in three form factors: Tag, Card, and Clip. The rectangular Tag is the smallest. The round Clip has a lanyard hole ideal for attaching to keys and bags. The Card is 2.8mm thin to fit into wallets and laptop sleeves. The Clip can charge directly via USB-C, while the Card and Tag come with a magnetic charger. The Tag lasts 8 months on a single charge, while the Clip lasts 12, and the Card, 18. All include a buzzer and lights to aid finding when lost, and are rated IPx6 for water resistance. Both the Apple and Google networks work similarly, by leveraging Bluetooth of smartphones and other connected devices worldwide. Encryption and anonymization ensures privacy and security. Cross-platform anti-stalking features help guard against unwanted tracking.
EchoStar Sells Dish TV to Focus on Boost Mobile
EchoStar has reached an agreement to sell its Dish satellite TV business — including its Sling streaming TV service — to DirecTV. This will help the company "focus more clearly on enhancing and further deploying its nationwide 5G Open RAN wireless network, which will provide more choices and better service to consumers under the Boost Mobile brand". The company will also continue focusing on new direct-to-device (D2D) satellite solutions, such as satellite service for phones. EchoStar is already partnered with Skylo to provide such service.
Verizon Experiencing Outage
Many Verizon customers are reporting an outage in mobile service. Reports started around 9:30 Eastern this morning. DownDetector shows the majority of issues on the east coast. Verizon says it is aware of an issue and is working to resolve it.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Boosts Display and Battery Size
Samsung has revealed the Galaxy S24 FE, this year's edition of the company's most affordable model in the flagship S-series. Compared to last year's S23 FE, this model has a larger 6.7-inch display (with 120 HZ refresh), and a larger 4,700 mAh battery. It's powered by a Samsung Exynos 2400 series chipset that supports ray-traced graphics, paired with 8 GB of RAM. It will come with 128 GB of storage; a 256 GB version will be available unlocked and with Verizon. The camera system is similar to last year's, with a 50 megapixel main camera, 12 megapixel wide-angle camera, and 3x, 8-megapixel telephoto camera with OIS. It also supports wired fast charging, as well as fast wireless charging and reverse wireless charging. Naturally, it comes with a full suite of AI features, including Generative Edit, Circle to Search, Live Translate, and Note Assist. It comes in four colors: Blue, Graphite, Gray, and Mint. All three major national carriers will offer the phone. Pricing for the Galaxy S24 FE starts at $650. Pre-orders start today, with full availability on October 3rd.
Iridium on Track to Provide Standards-Based Satellite Service Direct to Phones
The 3GPP (standards body for cellular technology) has agreed to make its NTN satellite service spec compatible with Iridium's satellites in 3GPP Release 19, due by the end of 2025. This will add a major new provider to the standards-based NTN ecosystem. Uniquely, Iridium's constellation provides 100% global service, including over oceans and in polar regions. Existing 3GPP standards include optional NTN satellite service compatible with satellites from Echostar, Viasat, Ligado, Terrestar, and Inmarsat. Skylo partners with all of those companies and facilitates satellite NTN service for Google and Verizon. NTN satellite service requires specific hardware support in a phone to work. The new Google Pixel 9 series includes this hardware, as will forthcoming phones from Samsung. MediaTek makes chipsets that include NTN support, and Qualcomm will offer them soon. Qualcomm and Iridium originally tried to partner on a proprietary solution called Snapdragon Satellite, which was abandoned after the rest of the industry chose to pursue standards-based solutions instead.
Suicide Lifeline Calls Getting Geo-routing, Like 911
The FCC today announced that wireless calls to 988 will be routed to nearby suicide & crisis centers based on the caller's actual location, instead of the previous area-code-based routing. This will make the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline work more like 911, where the cell phone's GPS and nearest-tower information is automatically used to route the call to the most appropriate call center. Two of US's largest wireless carriers — T-Mobile and one other — have already implemented this new "georouting" as of last week. The FCC will soon vote on a new rule requiring all carriers to implement this technology. FCC Chairwoman Rosenworcel says of the new rule: "Georouting means those responding to 988 calls have a lot more knowledge of local resources at their fingertips and are better equipped to get the caller the help they need, where they need it."
