Taking a look back at this week’s news and headlines across the Android world, including a Pixel 8 update, Galaxy Z Flip 6 leak, Nothing Phone (2a) review, OnePlus prepares Nord CE4, Galaxy Ring launch details, the little Snapdragon, and Google Play Pass additions.
Android Circuit is here to remind you of a few of the many discussions around Android in the last seven days. You can also read my weekly digest of Apple news here on Forbes.
Pixel 8’s Display Boost
While an ‘act as a desktop PC’ has been an option various Android manufacturers have used, Google has not added this to its Pixel range until now. It does take a few tweaks in the settings, but the candidate released for Android 14’s next update includes an option to begin the process:
"With the recent release of Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2, however, Google reversed course and enabled DisplayPort Alternate Mode by default in the Pixel 8’s software. As a result, when you connect your Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro to an external screen using a compatible USB-C to USB-C or USB-C to HDMI adapter, you’ll now be met with an option to “mirror display”…"
Google Pixel 8 and Google Pixel 8 Pro phones are displayed during a Google product launch event in ... [+]
Galaxy Z Flip 6 Specs Leak
More details on Samsung’s next pocket-sized foldable have come to light. The Galaxy Z Flip 6 is, naturally, a flip-phone, but the changes over last year’s model show a larger screen, battery, and camera:
"Most of these specs are things we’ve heard before, but hearing them from another source increases the likelihood that they’re accurate... the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 will have a 3.9-inch cover screen (up from 3.4 inches on the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5). It’s also said to have a 4,000mAh battery (up from 3,700mAh), a 50MP main camera (up from 12MP), and an improved hinge and internal layout."
(TechRadar).
Nothing Phone (2a) Review
The team at GSM Arena have taken an in-depth look at the latest phone from Nothing Tech. The Nothing Phone (a) targets the mid-range audience, and while that does mean some compromises in specs, the smartphone retains the styling an hallmarks of the more expensive options:
“All of the unique Nothing design and aesthetics are there. If it happens to be your particular cup of tea, we can safely say that the Nothing Phone (2a) hardware platform that is powering the experience does not disappoint... you can probably get better value for money in this price bracket, but nothing quite as unique as the Nothing Phone (2a).
(GSM Arena).
OnePlus Prepares New Nord CE4
Also looking to expand the product line while growing the flagship line is OnePlus’ upcoming Indian release. The brand has a strong reputation in the mid- to lower-end of this market, so expect the upcoming Nord CE4 to be a popular seller:
"On the design front, the device will likely come in two color variants: a traditional black colorway and another green shade with some kind of textured finish. A triple-camera system is seen on the rear. Unlike the previous OnePlus phones, the company seems to be opting for a new camera placement that is similar to that of Samsung Galaxy phones, featuring a vertical array system in a dedicated visor."
Ring In The Launch
One of the most exciting products to come out this year is Samsung’s health-focused wearable, the Galaxy Ring. Teased in January, the signs are good that we’ll see a launch before the end of the summer:
“...the smart ring will be announced alongside Samsung’s new foldable phones at the Galaxy Unpacked event this summer. The device will then go on sale “as early as August,” according to the publication. That lines up with last year’s release schedule for the Galaxy Fold 5 and Flip 5, which were announced on July 26th and shipped on August 11th."
The Next Snapdragon
Qualcomm is expected to launch the next chipset in its 8th generation of Snapdragon. It’s going to sit alongside the powerful 8 Gen 3 system-on-chip… get ready to meet the “Little 8G3:"
"Qualcomm has now announced the imminent launch of a new chipset, with the event scheduled for March 18. "The new Snapdragon flagship is about to be released, let's welcome the new year and new atmosphere together," Qualcomm shared on its official Weibo page hours ago. "...On March 18, please look forward to the Snapdragon flagship new product launch conference”."
And Finally...
Google has outlined several new features for game developers at the inventively titled “Google Game Developer Summit.” One of the more interesting ones in terms of business is the additions to Play Pass
"Starting today, Google Play Pass subscribers in select markets will receive in-game items and discounts on popular games like EA Sports FC Mobile, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Monopoly Go and Roblox. This is offered in addition to our current catalog of over 1,000 ad-free games and apps, so you get even more value at the same monthly price"
Android Circuit rounds up the news from the Android world every weekend here on Forbes. Don’t forget to follow me so you don’t miss any coverage in the future, and of course, read the sister column in Apple Loop! Last week’s Android Circuit can be found here, and if you have any news and links you’d like to see featured in Android Circuit, get in touch!
