News
New Windows Feature Mounts Your Android Phone Like a Disk
Microsoft has released a new beta version of its Link to Windows app for Windows 11. This version comes with a new feature that lets you automatically display your Android phone's files directly in the Windows File Explorer, just like any connected disk/drive. The feature works wirelessly, over Bluetooth. It provides full file access, such as move/copy, rename, and delete. The feature does require some setup within the settings of the Link to Windows app. Although it's in beta now, this version of Link to Windows is already part of Microsoft's "Release Preview" channel, indicating it should be finalized and released for all Windows 11 users soon.
FCC Revamps its Mobile Speed Test app
The FCC has launched a new mobile app for consumers to test the data performance of mobile networks themselves and contribute to the FCC's database of real-world mobile broadband speeds by area. Unlike the old app, the new FCC Mobile Speed Test app has a "Repeated test" function that lets users enter their info once for a series of tests, including hands-free mobile tests while driving. Users can also now review their own speed test data on a map. Data contributed to the database can help other consumers choose the best network in their area based on real-world performance. Challenge mode lets consumers challenge provider-reported coverage with the FCC using real-world tests. Aggregate data collected using Crowdsource mode is "used to inform the Commission's verification and audit work, as well as other policy decisions." Finally, a Background Test mode lets users schedule automatic tests on a regular basis in the background, on a schedule of their choosing. The free app is available now for Android and iOS.
Boost Merges Brands
Boost Mobile has consolidated its Boost Mobile (pre-paid) and Boost Infinite (post-paid) offerings into one unified brand and website, now known as simply "Boost Mobile". The change comes with updated, unified service plans, most of which are no-contract and available on either a pre-paid or post-paid basis. The entry-level "Unlimited" plan is just $25/month (after auto-pay discount, before taxes & fees) with a "forever" pricing promise. It includes 30 GB of high-speed data per month. The "Unlimited+" plan for $50/month (after auto-pay discount, taxes & fees included) steps up to 40 GB of high-speed data per month and adds hotspot access, global talk and text, and up to $300 in device savings. The "Unlimited Premium" plan for $60/month (after auto-pay discount, taxes & fees included) steps up to 50 GB of high-speed data per month, up to $430 in device savings, and adds roaming for Canada & Mexico. Boost Mobile also offers $65/month "Infinite Access" plans for iPhone or Samsung Galaxy that include annual phone upgrades. These offer 30 GB of high-speed data, no hotspot, and taxes are not included. (Infinite Access plans were $60/month under Boost Infinite.) Boost also offers many "Add-On" plans such as $20/month for global roaming, hotspot access for $10/month, or $10/month for "Boost Family Guard", a parental control app. The new Boost Mobile also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, just as Boost Infinite did before. The new Boost Mobile logo is based on the old Boost Infinite logo.
HMD Launches Repairable Affordable-Flagship Model
HMD today announced the HMD Skyline, the company's first "premium" model under its own HMD brand. The phone is easily repairable thanks to a unique "internal screw-driven camshaft" that lets you pop open the back cover with just the turn of a screw. The screen, battery, charging port, and back cover are all designed to be easily replaced by the end user or a repair center. The phone has high-end specs including a 108 megapixel main camera, 13 megapixel wide camera, 50 megapixel tele camera for 4x zoom, and a 50 megapixel front camera with auto-focus. The 6.55-inch pOLED display has FHD+ resolution, 144 Hz refresh, and Gorilla Glass 3. The recycled-aluminum-frame body is rated IP54 for water and dust. The 4,600 mAh battery can be charged with 33-watt fast charging. The Skyline also supports two-way Qi2 wireless charging (15W/5W). Other specs include Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor, 8 or 12 GB RAM, 128 or 256 GB storage (expandable), NFC, Wi-Fi 6E, and a fingerprint sensor. It has good support for most 4G and 5G networks in the US (particularly T-Mobile, and Verizon if they certify it). It will come in pink or black. The HMD Skyline goes on sale in the US this August for $499 unlocked. HMD is best known for making Nokia-branded phones for the last several years, but is now branching out to other brands, including its own.
Google Pixel 9 Series Revealed: at Least Four Models This Year
Google's Pixel 9 series of phones has leaked via official regulatory filings for Taiwan. In addition to a standard, Pro, and Fold model, this year's lineup will include a Pixel 9 Pro XL, meaning the Pro model will come in two sizes. [Update: Google has also posted revealing teaser videos via official social media channels, essentially confirming the leaked info.] The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has been revised with a shape and size that appears closer to Samsung's Z Fold. All three Pro models appear to have periscope telephoto camera lenses for extended optical zoom. The Pro models also have UWB, while all four models have a Thread radio for better Matter smart-home support. Some of these models have also recently been approved by the FCC. Those FCC approval documents do not contain photos, but do confirm the presence of not only Thread radios, but dual-band satellite (NTN) connectivity as well.
iOS 18 Reaches Public Beta
Apple has released the first beta version of iOS 18 intended for curious non-developer iPhone users. iOS 18 introduces a bevy of new features, including more customizable home screen and Control Center, redesigned Photos app, and many new features in Messages. As usual, beta versions of OS software should not be installed on anyone's primary device that they rely on. To install a public beta of iOS, users must first enroll in Apple's beta program.
Verizon, T-Mobile Protest Allocation of 4.9 GHz Band to AT&T's FirstNet
The FCC has proposed that the 4.9 GHz band be managed by FirstNet, a 5G network dedicated to public safety and operated by AT&T. The 4.9 GHz band (4,940–4,990 MHz) has been set aside for local public safety use since 2002, but local agencies have found it challenging to make full use of it with modern technologies. Meanwhile FirstNet and AT&T have years of experience operating a nationwide 4G/5G network dedicated to public safety. AT&T's agreement with FirstNet gives public safety users priority, but allows AT&T to use excess capacity on FirstNet for its own commercial network at times. For this reason, Verizon and T-Mobile have filed complaints against the FCC's plan, calling it a $14 billion giveaway to AT&T.
TCL Brings Two NXTPAPER Phones to US Carriers
After several years of promoting its NXTPAPER matte-display technology, TCL has finally landed two different NXTPAPER phone models with US carriers. Spectrum Mobile is now offering the TCL 50 XE NXTPAPER 5G for $150, while regional carrier C Spire is now offering the TCL 50 XL NXTPAPER 5G for $200. Verizon already offers the glossy-screen version of the 50 XE, and Metro offers the glossy-screen version of the 50 XL. The NXTPAPER versions are identical, save the display technology. Both models have a 50 megapixel camera, MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ 5G chipset, 5,010 mAh battery, and NFC. The XL model differs mostly in having a larger 6.8-inch display with FHD+ resolution, and more RAM (6 GB instead of 4). According to TCL, "NXTPAPER 3.0 display technology ... provides enhanced eye comfort while preserving vibrant colors. Both smartphones perfectly balance high refresh rate performance and a comfortable viewing experience".
AT&T Discloses New Data Breach
AT&T has disclosed a data breach involving nearly all call and text records from its wireless network covering a period of several months in mid-2022. This includes both AT&T customers and customers of other carriers that use the AT&T network. The records only include phone numbers (from both ends), the number of times contacted, and call duration. The records do not include customer names nor any other personal info. They also do not include the content of texts or calls, nor do they include timestamps. For a subset of the breached data, cell tower IDs are also included, providing rough location data. AT&T does not believe the data is publicly available. Wired reports that a security researcher involved in the incident claims AT&T paid the hacker $370,000 for the only copy to be deleted. AT&T first discovered the breach in April, but was asked by the US Department of Justice to delay disclosure. At least one person has been arrested relating to the incident. 404 Media reports that the hacker arrested is John Binns, an American living in Turkey. Binns claimed responsibility for a large hack of T-Mobile in 2021. AT&T will notify affected customers directly.
Android Gains Support for Thread
Android 15 will include support for phones with a built-in Thread radio for connecting directly to Matter smart-home devices. No such Android phones yet exist, but the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 pro Max include Thread radios for the first time. A typical Matter smart-home network today consists of smart devices with Thread radios and a Matter "hub" or "border router" that connects the Thread mesh network to Wi-Fi and the Internet. Today, smartphones control a Matter smart-home via Wi-Fi and the Matter hub. But a phone with a Thread radio would be able to connect directly to Matter devices like smart switches and smart light bulbs. This might enable faster setup, or perhaps improve day-to-day reliability by giving the phone two ways to connect to a device when controlling it locally. Matter is the relatively new industry standard for smart-home networks and devices, embraced by both Google and Apple, and designed to replace proprietary solutions.
Total by Verizon Rebrands, Remixes Plans
Of Verizon's multiple prepaid brands, Total by Verizon might have the most confusing branding. Which is why the company is rebranding the offering to just "Total Wireless". Total is also remixing its service offerings so that all plans now include 5G. Total now offers a five-year price lock guarantee (excluding promotions and discounts like the auto-pay discount). For family plans, the fourth line is free. New customers get a free 5G phone, and existing customers get a "$200 Anniversary Credit towards any 5G phone". Total now advertises "10x faster data that never slows you down", but the "10x" is referring to the speed of Verizon 5G UW vs. Verizon 4G, and the plans still carry the disclaimer that "in times of traffic, your data may be temporarily slower than other traffic." Total considers itself "a community-focused brand" "committed to serving and connecting with Latino audiences". While the logo remains red to subtly remind people of its continued Verizon affiliation, new marketing will include a distinct shade of teal, as well as a "rich blue" and "bright yellow".
Samsung's New Foldables Bring Small Refinements Inside and Out
Samsung has revealed its newest flagship foldable phones: the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Galaxy Z Flip6. The two models have a new, more angular design with flat sides. They're Samsung's slimmest and lightest foldables ever, and also most durable thanks to Armor Aluminum, Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and a new, more durable "dual-rail" hinge. "Enhanced layers" on the main screen help reduce creasing at the hinge. Both are powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy chip. The Fold6 features a 1.6x larger vapor cooling chamber for better sustained performance, and the Flip6 includes vapor cooling chamber for the first time on a Flip model. The software includes a variety of new AI features, including Google Gemini and an all-new "Sketch to image" which "allows you to create more sophisticated art pieces by generating image options when you simply sketch or draw on the photos in Gallery or Note screen." The Z Fold6 has thinner bezels on both displays. The Z Flip6 has numerous improvements to the outer display functionality and camera system. When closed, there are new multi-widget options and AI-powered Suggested Replies when messaging. The FlexCam mode now supports Auto Zoom to automatically frame you in your own photo. The camera sensors have also been upgraded and night modes enhanced. Samsung offers an industry-leading software support promise, with a full seven years of OS upgrades (not just security updates). The Galaxy Z Fold6 starts at $1,900 and comes in Pink, Navy, or silver. Black and white options are also available from samsung.com. The Galaxy Z Flip6 starts at $1,100 and comes in Yellow, Mint, Blue, or silver. Peach, black, and white options are also available from samsung.com. All models ship July 24 with pre-orders starting today. Pre-orders include a free upgrade to the next storage level.
Galaxy Ring Joins Samsung's New Wearable Lineup
Samsung has launched a new lineup of wearable devices, including the all-new Galaxy Ring, as well as the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, Watch7, and Buds3 series. The Galaxy Ring is similar in concept the Oura Ring: a health-tracking device small enough fit into a ring on your finger. The Ring is designed to be worn 24/7. It weighs as little as 2.3 grams (thanks to a titanium frame), has a battery that lasts up to seven days, and has 10ATM (+IP68) water resistance. It's available in three colors (black, silver, and gold) and nine sizes. The comprehensive sleep monitoring includes heart rate, breathing, movement, and snoring. It also monitors skin temperature to track menstrual cycles. The Ring automatically detects and tracks walking and running activity. A double-pinch gesture can interact with your phone, taking a picture or dismissing an alarm. It also works with Samsung Find to locate a lost Ring. Unlike some competing devices, the Ring does not require a subscription. It comes with a charging case and will retail for $399. The Galaxy Watch Ultra competes with the Apple Watch Ultra. Extra durability includes a titanium "cushion" frame, Sapphire Crystal display, and 10ATM water resistance (plus IP68 and ocean swimming). In bright light, the display can reach a peak brightness of 3,000 nits. In an emergency, it can emit a loud Emergency Siren. In Power Saving mode, the 590 mAh battery can last up to 100 hours. A special performance cycling mode can calculate your personal FTP (functional threshold power) in just four minutes. It's also approved in the US for tracking ECG and sleep apnea. The Galaxy Watch Ultra starts at $649.
Pink Motorola razr+ Exclusive to T-Mobile
T-Mobile will have an exclusive on the "hot pink" color for the new Motorola razr+ flagship foldable phone in the US. Pre-orders start tomorrow, July 10.
NFC Starts Push to Standardize "Multi-Purpose Tap"
The NFC Forum is gearing up to define standards for Multi-Purpose Tap, which will enable a single tap of your phone to perform multiple actions at once. NFC Forum is the standards body for Near Field Communication (NFC) technology (AKA contactless or "tap"). For example, when tapping to pay for something, your loyalty program info could also be transmitted, and receipt received, all in that single tap. Another example is age verification when purchasing alcohol. On transit, you might be able to pay and receive an electronic ticket in one tap. Another proposed use case is sustainability, where after purchasing an item, you would receive info on how to recycle the item and/or its packaging. The NFC Forum is seeking input from the industry on all possible use cases and how best to implement this technology. Key members of the NFC Forum include Apple, Google, and Qualcomm.
FCC Proposes Mandate for Phone Unlocking After 60 Days
FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel has proposed that the Commission require mobile providers to unlock customers' mobile phones 60 days after the device is activated. (Unlocking would let customers take their phone and use it with any other compatible network.) The FCC is seeking comment on the proposal, including "whether an unlocking requirement should be applied to existing contracts or future contacts", and "the impact ... in connection with service providers' incentives to offer discounted phones for postpaid and prepaid service plans".
Apple Loosens Some Repair Restrictions
Apple has quietly issued a new paper revealing plans to make it easier to repair iPhones and improve functionality when using third-party parts. Currently, when an iPhone detects that a third-party part has been installed, it disables certain features that require calibration. This includes True Tone — which auto-adusts white balance on the display — and battery health metrics. Those restrictions will be lifted starting later this year. Instead, a small warning will be displayed. Apple will also stop requiring a device serial number when purchasing parts via Apple's Self Service Repair store. The changes come as a wave of new "Right To Repair" laws are being passed in multiple US states and countries abroad.
Verizon Refreshes Brand, Adds Perks
Verizon today launched a new logo for the company. The new logo trades a red checkmark for a soft yellow glow in the "v" of the wordmark. The company is also expanding its smartphone trade-in program and rolling our new ticket-access perks. "Verizon Access" is a new program for all Verizon customers offerings exclusive event ticket pre-sales and free giveaways. This includes "thousands of tickets to concerts and music festivals" as well as soccer and football games, and red carpet movie premieres.
Hands On with the Motorola razr and razr+ (2024)
Motorola has a refreshed pair of razr foldables for 2024 and they come with a solid set of upgrades over last year's models. Most notably, the $700 model now has a full-size outer display, making it look much more like a premium foldable while offering considerable functionality. There are plenty of other upgrades to talk about, and there's a lot of unique software to explore. And what are they like to hold and use in person? We'll cover it all in this hands-on report with our first impressions of both phones.
Motorola Upgrades its razr Foldables Across the Board
Motorola has revealed its new razr and razr+ foldable phones for 2024. While the price points are unchanged at $700 and $1,000, both models get important upgrades. The most obvious and important is that the cheaper model now has the same large (3.6-inch) OLED touch display on the outside as last year's plus model, offering extensive functionality while closed. Both models also get the same new and improved main camera with 50 megapixel resolution and OIS, and much better waterproofing (IPx8 to withstand full immersion). Both also share a new hinge design that's 30% smaller while offering better reliability, stability, dust resistance, and "crease" resistance. Both have Gorilla Glass Victus protecting the outer display and a similar 6000-series aluminum frame. Both have a 6.9-inch flexible main display inside with FHD+ resolution, and HDR10+. Other features in common include Google Gemini AI pre-installed, 256 GB of storage, 15-watt wireless charging, Bluetooth 5.4, and a 32 megapixel internal camera.
- The razr (2024) has a 3.6-inch outer touch display and both displays have 120 Hz refresh. It's powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300X chip and 8 GB of RAM. The battery is 4,200 mAh and it fast-charges at up to 30 watts. The second camera remains a 13-megapixel wide-angle one. Wi-Fi is version 6E. Color options include grey, sand, and orange. (Grey will be most common in the US.) The back is a smooth "vegan suede" texture.
- The razr+ (2024) has an even larger 4-inch outer display and both displays have up to 165 Hz refresh. It's powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chip and 12 GB of RAM. Both the RAM and storage are faster than on the base model (LPDDR5x and UFS 4.0). The battery is 4,000 mAh (larger than last year), it fast-charges at up to 45 watts, and the wireless charging is two-way. The second camera is a 2x telephoto instead of wide-angle, with 50 megapixel resolution but no OIS. Wi-Fi 7 is supported. Color options include blue, green, peach, and pink. (Blue will be most common in the US, with a vertical "racing stripe" of smoother texture in the "vegan leather".)
iOS 18 Brings Fast Pairing to 3rd-Party Wireless Accessories
Apple has quietly introduced a way for third-party wireless accessory makers to implement a new pairing process on iPhone and iPad that's as fast and easy as the one Apple uses for its own AirPods. This "AccessorySetupKit" API is new in iOS 18, currently available in beta for developers. Once users have the manufacturer's app installed, pairing can be as simple as turning on the accessory and bringing it near the phone. A pop-up automatically appears on the phone, and one tap can complete the process, without having to open an app or go into Bluetooth settings. Apple has recently come under government scrutiny in multiple parts of the world for abusing its market position and platform control.
AT&T Raises Prices on Most Old Plans
AT&T is raising prices on most of its older service plans by up to $10 per line per month starting this August. This includes most legacy "Unlimited" plans, as well as Mobile Share, FamilyTalk, and Nation plans. Unlimited plans will get a $10/month hike for a single line, or an extra $20/month (total) for family plans. Some plans get additional high-speed data as part of the deal. "AT&T Unlimited Choice, Choice II, Choice Enhanced, Unlimited &More, and Unlimited Value plans will now include 75GB of high-speed data and 30GB of hotspot data. AT&T Unlimited Plus, Plus Enhanced, Unlimited &More Premium, and AT&T Unlimited (with TV) plans will now include 100GB of high-speed data and 60GB of hotspot data." Mobile Share plans gain access to 5G, but also see a price hike. Plans with 6 GB or more of data will see a $10 hike, while plans with less data get a $5 hike. FamilyTalk and Nation plans that are currently $45/month (before taxes and fees) or less will see an increase of $5. More expensive plans will see a $10 bump. These plans will not gain any new benefits. All of these changes go into effect August 2024. Verizon and T-Mobile have also raised rates on older plans in the past year, and AT&T has already done two small increases before this.
Major Battery Maker Makes Big Advance in Solid-State Batteries
TDK claims to have made a rechargeable solid-state battery with an energy density 100 times that of existing solid-state batteries, bringing the technology much closer to production for a wider range of consumer devices. TDK is positioning these new batteries for use in wireless earphones, hearing aids, and smartwatches. Solid-state batteries are safer than today's lithium-ion batteries, and can be soldered directly to a circuit board like any other electronic component, helping to reduce overall device size. TDK plans to offer samples of the prototype battery to customers next year, with mass production to follow. TDK is a major battery supplier to Apple and other phone makers.
Chrome Adds "Listen to this page"
Google's Chrome web browser for Android has quietly added a new feature that will read a web page aloud. On pages where it makes sense, the main options menu now has a "Listen to this page" option. This brings up a basic audio playback interface at the bottom, which can be expanded to show more options. A scroll bar lets you skip around. Two buttons let you skip 10 seconds back or ahead. You can also choose from several different voices and set playback speed from 0.5x to 4x. By default, it highlights what it's reading and auto-scrolls so you can follow along visually, but this can be disabled.
Light Phone Gets a Complete Redesign with Third Edition
The new Light Phone III offers significant upgrades over the Light Phone II, while maintaining the same concept of an un-smartphone without internet, social media, news, or email. The compact, metal-framed design has a simple black & white interface on a larger, matte OLED display. There's a 50 megapixel camera with a two-stage shutter button. A spinning navigation wheel graces the side, while the power button on top includes a fingerprint reader. The 1,800 mAh battery is replaceable. It's rated IP54 for basic water protection. The proprietary software includes: alarm, timer, calculator, calendar, directory, directions, voice memo, and a simple music / podcast player. It does not currently support streaming music, third-party messaging, nor rideshare hailing. The Light Phone III also includes NFC and front-camera hardware for "potential" future updates that would enable video calling and/or a tap-to-pay digital wallet. It's powered by a Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset, enabling 5G. The single unlocked model available globally has excellent support for 4G networks in the US and decent support for 5G in the US. The company currently plans to ship the Light Phone III in January 2025. It can be pre-ordered now for $399, a 50% discount.
FCC, Navy Expand Commercial Access to 3.5 GHz Band
The FCC, US Navy, and NTIA (National Telecommunications and Information Administration) this week announced new rules for the 3.5 GHz band, also known as block A of band 77, band 77-A, or the 3.45 GHz band. The new rules dramatically expand the "unencumbered service area" where wireless carriers can freely use this band for commercial 5G service. The US Navy maintains priority access to this band along coastlines and around federal facilities throughout the country, via a dynamic spectrum sharing system. However the geographic area where this system is required is being reduced by an area covering 72 million people. This mid-band spectrum is ideal for good 5G service. AT&T is one of the largest users of this band. States most affected by this change include Texas, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia.
Samsung Reveals Galaxy Watch FE
The new Samsung Galaxy Watch FE promises to be a more affordable Wear OS smartwatch, starting at $200. Samsung emphasizes the health features, which include Samsung's "BioActive" sensor that measures heart activity two ways as well as skin impedance. The Galaxy Watch FE includes tracking for over 100 different workouts, sleep tracking, ECG, and detection of abnormal heart conditions. It also works with Samsung's Find My Phone feature, can control a Galaxy smartphone camera remotely, and includes Samsung Wallet for tap payments and digital ID. The round face is 40mm, with an always-on AMOLED display protected by Sapphire Crystal glass. It's powered by a Samsung Exynos W920 chip and 247 mAh battery. It charges wirelessly. It has Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, and GPS. It will be available with or without 4G LTE. The aluminum case is rated IP68 for water and 5ATM for immersion. It comes in black, silver, or pink gold. A "one click" band design makes it easier to change bands quickly. The Bluetooth-only model goes on sale in the US June 24. Samsung plans to launch the LTE model in October.
Hands On with the TCL 50 XE NXTPAPER 5G
TCL has been showing off prototype phones with its "NXTPAPER" matte-display technology for a while now, but now one is actually going on sale in the US. The TCL 50 XE 5G comes in two flavors: with or without the NXTPAPER display. The display is the only difference, so this hands-on also applies to the TCL 50 XE 5G. The model with the regular display was just launched on Verizon Prepaid, while the NXTPAPER version is sold unlocked by TCL. So, what's the phone like in person? What's the NXTPAPER display like? Read on for our impressions.
Boost Celero5G SC is Just $110
Boost Mobile today launched the Celero5G SC, a more-affordable model in Boost's own Celero5G lineup that retails for just $110. Compared to the standard Celero5G (2024), the SC has less memory and lacks NFC or a dedicated wide-angle camera. It does have a fingerprint reader, large battery, and large 6.6-inch display with 90 Hz refresh. It's powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset, the same as in the new TCL 50 XE 5G that also launched this week on Verizon Prepaid. The Celero5G SC is available in black or white.
New York State Launches Mobile ID App
New York is newest US state to offer an official, standards-compliant mobile ID (MiD). The new New York Mobile ID app is available for both Android and iOS. The dedicated app is required for both setup and use; New York's solution is not yet compatible with Apple Wallet nor Google Wallet. During setup, the user scans both their physical ID card and face. The app can then display a personalized QR code any time identity and/or age need to be verified. The code is scanned by the person requesting verification using any standard-compliant verification app. They then choose what information to request, the ID holder gives permission on their device, then the requested information (and that info only) is transmitted wirelessly and automatically verified with the NY DMV. The ID holder does not need to hand over their phone at any time. The verifying device must have an internet connection, but the device of the ID holder can be offline. The TSA currently accepts mobile ID at 28 airports, including all terminals of JFK and LaGuardia in New York City. Businesses that need to check ID can start accepting mobile ID at any time, but verification apps are not yet in widespread use. New York's app is similar to that of California, Delaware, Iowa, Louisiana, Mississippi, Utah, and Virginia. States with mobile IDs that can also be added to mobile wallets are currently: Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, and Maryland.
New Update for Pixel Phones Brings TV-Out, Dead Phone Finding
Google has released its June Feature Drop, a software update for Pixel devices that adds several new features. The Pixel 8 series phones (including 8a) gains support for external monitors with video-out over USB-C. The new, Bluetooth-based Find My Device network can now locate a Pixel 8 series phone even if it's battery has been "dead" for up to one day. The Phone app now has an option for reverse phone number search in the call log. (This is available for most Pixel devices.) The camera app now lets you manually choose a specific lens instead of just a zoom level. Finally, Google is expanding its new Gemini Nano AI model to the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a, although it must be manually enabled in Developer Settings. On Pixel Watch 2, the update bring Car Crash Detection, which can automatically call for help if it detects a crash and you're unresponsive.
Verizon Prepaid Intros Another 5G Phone Under $100
The TCL 50 XE 5G is now available on Verizon Prepaid, the second 5G phone available from Verizon Prepaid for under $100, following the Motorola moto g 5G (2024). The 50 XE has a 6.6-inch display with 90 Hz refresh, 5,010 mAh battery, 18-watt fast charging (charger included), 50 megapixel camera, NFC, and a fingerprint reader. It's powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset with 4 GB RAM and 128 GB storage (expandable). TCL will also be offering the 50 XE 5G unlocked in the US in a NXTPAPER edition with its unique matte display technology. Verizon Prepaid also recently added the TCL 50 LE, a 4G entry-level phone for just $80.
Nokia Makes First Phone Call with Spatial Audio
Nokia has conducted the first successful test of Immersive Voice and Audio Services (IVAS), a new technology that brings 3D spatial sound to mobile phone calls. IVAS is a new industry-standard codec that will be part of the next 3GPP 5G Advanced standard. Nokia was one of 13 companies that helped develop IVAS. While IVAS is designed to work across many device types, Nokia was particularly involved in "the development of a smartphone specific format for the IVAS standard." The call was made on a public 5G network.
Apple Intelligence Promises Personalized AI, Requires iPhone 15 Pro
Apple today launched Apple Intelligence, its big generative AI effort. Apple Intelligence focuses on personalized on-device AI, but also includes a limited cloud component for more advanced requests, and the option to use OpenAI's ChatGPT for certain types of requests. The on-device component maintains a private "semantic index" of your data like your recent messages, calendar, contacts, and more. This allows Siri to answer new kinds of requests more intelligently, using the context of that data and what's on your screen at the moment. Siri also now maintains conversational context across multiple requests, and can be queried via text instead of voice. New system-wide Writing Tools work across all apps. They can proofread, summarize, and rewrite. Any selected text can be rewritten in any style of your choice. New options offer to summarize long emails or messaging threads for you. Genmoji uses on-device generative AI to create any new emoji you can cream up. More advanced image generation is available via Image Playground, available in Messages and other Apple apps, some third-party apps, and as its own standalone app. Image Playground lets you create a small image based on any prompt. If the image includes a person, you can ask it to make them look like someone specific in your contacts. It will not generate photorealistic images, though, offering only "animation", "illustration", and "sketch" styles. Apple is also introducing a "Cleanup Tool" in Photos that can remove unwanted objects from photos using generative fill, much like Google's Magic Eraser. A new Priority Notifications feature uses the semantic index to understand and highlight which notifications are actually important, and a Reduce Interruptions option hides all non-Priority notifications. When a request cannot be handled on-device, Apple Intelligence sends only the necessary info to Apple's own "Private Cloud Compute" servers for processing, where Apple promises your data is not saved or logged. Apple Intelligence is free to use. Basic use of ChatGPT is also free, and you can link a paid OpenAI account to Apple Intelligence so you can access more advanced ChatGPT features right from Siri. The ChatGPT integration is multimodal, offering both text and images as input and output. Apple says it's working to integrate other models besides ChatGPT. On phones, Apple Intelligence requires the A17 Pro chip, which means it will only work on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, not the standard iPhone 15, nor any older models. It will also be available on tablets and computers using any M-series chip
iOS 18 Overhauls Home Screen, Messaging, Photos
Apple just announced iOS 18 for iPhones. The update will bring a slew of new features, with the biggest changes coming to home screen icons, messaging, and the Photos app. You'll now be able to put app icons anywhere, even at the bottom of the screen. Icons also have a special dark mode appearance, and a monochrome appearance that lets you customize them all to the color of your choice. Other new features let you lock or hide specific apps (and their data) so they're unavailable when you hand your phone to someone else. Finally, there's a new option for extra-large app icons. A major new service is Messages by Satellite, which lets you communicate via iMessage or SMS over a satellite connection even in non-emergency situations. Like Apple's existing SOS service, it requires that you point your phone at a certain part of the sky, which it guides you through. This feature offers end-to-end encryption. As promised, Messages now supports RCS for rich messaging compatibility with Android phones. iMessage will also now let you Tapback with any emoji, and apply formatting and animations ("Text effects") to your text. Finally, Messages will now let you schedule messages to be sent automatically at a later time. The Photos app gets a complete redesign, with a single home screen that shows the photos grid in the upper half and Collections below that. New automatic Collections include Recent Day and Trips, as well as People and Pets to group photos by who's in them. The grid has date tools and filters. Maps gains topographical maps, including offline hiking maps. Tap to Cash lets you send money to someone else just be tapping your phones together. Apple Wallet also gains enhanced event tickets that automatically include venue info, including maps. The Mail app gains new automatic Categorization. A new Game Mode minimizes background activity for better performance, and improves audio latency. Control Center also gets a major upgrade with third-party Controls, multiple pages of controls, and the ability to re-arrange and even resize controls. Third-party Controls can be assigned to lock screen shortcuts or the physical action button on iPhones that have one. A new feature of macOS called iPhone Mirroring lets you wirelessly view and use your iPhone from your Mac. It also integrates your iPhone notifications with your Mac notifications. Apple also introduced whole new password manager called Passwords, that's available for iOS and many other platforms. A beta version of iOS 18 will be available to developers today. Apple promises a public beta next month, and the final version this fall.
RCS Messaging to 911 Coming to Android
Google is working on the ability to communicate with 911 dispatchers via RCS in its Google Messages app. RCS (Rich Communication Services) is the industry standard for rich messaging (similar to iMessage, but open). Texting 911 via SMS/MMS is already an option in some areas. RCS bring additional capabilities, such as sharing high-resolution photos and videos, delivery confirmation, and typing notifications. It also enables Android Emergency Location Service, which can automatically send info like precise location, language settings, and opt-in medical info. Google is working with RapidSOS to enable this feature for specific emergency call centers starting this winter, starting with areas that don't even support texting to 911 yet.
Hands On with the T-Mobile REVVL 7 and REVVL 7 Pro
Carrier-branded phones are nothing new, but T-Mobile's line of REVVL phones is one of the most simple, consistent, and long-running such efforts in the US. Most years, we get two phones: an entry-level model and a step-up model; this year is no different. We checked out the T-Mobile REVVL 7 5G and T-Mobile REVVL 7 Pro 5G for a day and have some first impressions to share. Read on to find out what these phones are like in person.
T-Mobile Picks up the New Motorola Edge
Motorola has taken the wraps off the 2024 edition of its mid-range Edge phone. True to its name, this year's model has an "endless edge" design with a 6.6-inch pOLED display that curves at the sides. Other key specs include 144 Hz display refresh, Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB storage, IP68 water rating, and a 50 megapixel camera with a Sony Lytia 700C sensor and OIS. The 5,000 mAh battery can fast-charge at up to 68 watts, or 15 watts wireless. There's also a 13 megapixel wide-angle camera, 32 megapixel front camera, and a customizable shortcut button on the side. The back is "vegan leather" in Midnight Blue. It will be carried by T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile, Spectrum, Consumer Cellular, Straight Talk, Total By Verizon, and Visible. Motorola will also sell it unlocked for $550 starting June 20th.
You Can Now Edit Messages on Android
The Google Messages app has been updated to support editing messages after they've been sent in RCS chats. The feature is supported in both group and one-on-one threads. Editing is only allowed for 15 minutes. To use the feature, press and hold on the message you wish to edit. Apple's iMessage has supported message editing since 2022, when Apple also introduced message un-sending and the ability to mark messages unread.
New Tech Locates Cell Phones of Lost Hikers
A Spanish company has developed a new product that search and rescue teams can use to locate people in distress in remote areas dramatically faster than previous methods. Lifeseeker mimics a cellular tower to connect to cell phones carried the people who may need rescue, even where there is no cellular service. The product can be mounted to a helicopter, plane, or drone. In as little as a minute of flying around, the person's location can be pinpointed. It works even at night, in low visibility, and from as far as 20 miles away. A recent test in Colorado found two people in just over two minutes. Lifeseeker can also send messages to phones, giving instructions or sending broadcast alerts.
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