Samsung

Technology News

  • Why I'm Betting on Galaxy XR: Android XR, Affordability, and Future-Proof VR for Professionals
    November 18, 2025, 5:46 AM EST. At $1800, Galaxy XR undercuts the Apple Vision Pro and doubles as my first foray into VR for work. The appeal isn't impulse buying-it's a test drive for Android XR, the first major Android platform update in a decade, designed for a new class of apps beyond smartphones. This headset isn't a standalone OS; it's a showcase for Android XR that Samsung and Google back, with promises of software arriving on other devices too (think XREAL Aura glasses). For me, the real upside is integration with my existing ecosystem: a Galaxy environment and a foldable phone setup, along with ongoing curiosity about professional productivity in XR. If hardware finally unlocks capable XR apps, I'll admit I was wrong to doubt it.
  • Samsung Internet Browser 29.1.2.23 Brings UI Refresh and New Features with One UI 8.5
    November 18, 2025, 5:44 AM EST. Samsung is rolling out the Internet Browser update to version 29.1.2.23, likely alongside One UI 8.5 (Android 16-based). The update adds Auto Close Unused Tabs, Grid View Mode, and a refreshed icon and welcome screen. A floating, blurred address bar hides on scroll, and the grid layout now mimics Gallery albums with floating access options. The floating bar lets you rearrange buttons and reach synced tabs and secret mode in a tap. There's a new compact tab layout and semi-transparent stack/list layouts. Privacy gains include blocking fixed-position pop-ups and in-app video likes. APK downloads from Galaxy Store install automatically. An AI Search option in debug settings queries Gemini or Perplexity.
  • Samsung Internet redesign for One UI 8.5 leaks with new UI and tab management
    November 18, 2025, 5:40 AM EST. Leakers hint at a major Samsung Internet redesign arriving with One UI 8.5. After the One UI 8.0 refresh, Samsung is reportedly testing version 29.1.2.23 featuring a brand-new introduction screen and a refreshed address bar with a Liquid Glass-like style. The bar splits into two sections: a left area with the home icon and URL, and a right area for Browsing Assist, Tabs, and Options. Shortcuts can be rearranged, and the menu now opens in a vertical flyover UI instead of the previous grid. Three URL bar styles are offered-Compact, Standard, and Bottom-and tab views include List, Grid (two-column), and Stack. Tabs live in a bottom pill bar, consistent with other leaked One UI 8.5 apps like Finder, Gallery, and Phone.
  • Apple to let iPhone users choose a different default voice assistant in iOS 26.2 beta 3
    November 18, 2025, 5:36 AM EST. Apple's third beta of iOS 26.2 unlocks a potential multi-voice future. The update reveals a new framework to let users set a default voice assistant and swap Siri for another option. In beta 3, a new Settings section would let users pick a different assistant, activated via the iPhone's side button and even display a branded interface on Springboard instead of launching a separate app. While the feature is currently disabled for users, it hints at deeper integrations with third-party assistants-possibly letting users switch to ChatGPT or Gemini at a system level. This aligns with Bloomberg's EU-focused regulatory push, though limits may still apply outside the region, and Apple's own Apple Intelligence prospects remain pending.
  • One UI 8.5 leak reveals major Samsung Internet overhaul with new icon, grid layout, and AI search
    November 18, 2025, 5:34 AM EST. Samsung's One UI 8.5 reportedly revamps the Samsung Internet browser with a new icon and welcome screen, a blurred, floating address bar that hides on scroll, and a grid layout reminiscent of Gallery albums. The update supposedly brings floating controls, easier access to synced tabs and secret mode, and a compact tab view that stacks or lists semi-transparent tabs. A redesigned interface aims to reduce fixed-position pop-ups and may introduce in-app video liking. An AI Search option in the debug settings would query via Gemini or Perplexity. There's also chatter of a new pop-up menu for closing all tabs at once, and improved privacy features and pop-up blocking. If real, these changes could reshape Galaxy browser UX.