Phones articles

researchers pixel cpu research google pixel data center

Researchers are turning old Pixel phones into a data center – and they outperform some server hardware

Old smartphones are piling up as e-waste, but wait... 25 phones can match a single server CPU
Forward-looking: Researchers at the University of California San Diego are testing whether retired smartphones can still do useful work instead of ending up as electronic waste. Working with Google, the team is trying to turn retired Pixel smartphones into a low-cost data center. The goal is to keep working hardware in use instead of throwing it out after a few upgrade cycles.
samsung dram samsung galaxy memory phones supply

Samsung phone division could post its first ever loss as AI drives memory costs higher

Even strong Galaxy sales may not offset surging RAM and storage costs that now rival displays and processors
Bottom line: Samsung's mobile division faces an unprecedented financial threat not from competition or weak sales, but from the AI industry's insatiable appetite for memory components. TM Roh, head of Samsung MX, has alerted company leadership that the division could post its first net loss in the division's history. The culprit is LPDDR5X memory and NAND storage, components now commanding premium prices.
samsung galaxy s26 ultra samsung galaxy privacy

Galaxy S26 Ultra reviewed: Better cameras, Privacy Display, same price

The Galaxy S26 Ultra is Samsung refining rather than reinventing its flagship formula. Reviewers are positive about the excellent cameras, a Snapdragon processor that benchmarks neck-and-neck with Apple's latest, and the standout Privacy Display. Faster charging, improved low-light photography, and Super Steady video round out an update that moves the needle without raising the price.
apple iphone a19 magsafe with video

Apple unveils iPhone 17e with A19 chip and MagSafe charging starting at $599

The takeaway: Apple has unveiled its next budget smartphone, the iPhone 17e, featuring several upgrades over its predecessor. The most notable additions include MagSafe support, a more powerful processor, an improved cellular modem, enhanced screen protection, and double the base storage capacity. Despite these improvements, the iPhone 17e is expected to retain the same starting price as the model it replaces.