Latest Mobile & Gadgets News

📅January 14, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Apple partners with Google Gemini for Siri, Meta cuts metaverse jobs, global smartphone shipments rise; new devices like Moto G Power 2026 launch amid hologram retail tech and 2026 trends.
1

Apple to Use Google Gemini to Power Siri

Apple has announced a multiyear partnership with Google to integrate Gemini AI into Siri, buying time to develop its own AI while expanding Google's mobile reach. This echoes their past search deal and features will run on Apple devices and Private Cloud Compute. Shares of both companies rose slightly post-announcement.Source 1

2

Meta Plans Layoffs in 15,000-Person Reality Labs Division

Meta will lay off 10% of its Reality Labs metaverse team responsible for VR headsets and Horizon Worlds, as reported by the New York Times with announcements this week. Despite cuts, Meta vows continued heavy AI spending after $75B last year. This unwinds metaverse ambitions amid shifting priorities.Source 1

3

Global Smartphone Shipments Grow 2%

Global smartphone shipments increased by 2%, attributed to improved marketing and financing options. This growth reflects stabilizing demand in the mobile market. No specific vendors highlighted in the uptick.Source 1

4

Apple Surpasses Samsung as World's Top Smartphone Maker in 2025

Counterpoint Research data shows Apple achieved 20% market share in 2025, overtaking Samsung as the number one smartphone vendor globally. This marks a significant shift in market leadership. The data underscores iPhone's strong performance.Source 9

5

Moto G Power (2026) Now Available for $299

Motorola's Moto G Power (2026), announced late December, launched January 8 with a 6.8-inch display, solid battery, but reduced Android updates and no wireless charging. It's positioned as a budget Android option available at major retailers. Reviewers note good value despite software shortcomings.Source 4

6

T-Mobile and Samsung Test Hologram Displays in Retail Stores

T-Mobile is piloting holographic 3D displays for Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 and Watch8 in NYC, Seattle stores to enhance shopping with immersive product views. Part of broader retail media exploration to improve buying decisions beyond traditional screens. Success could expand to more locations.Source 3

7

Upcoming Vivo and Tecno Phones Set for January 16 Release

Vivo Y500i with 6.75-inch display, Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, 7200mAh battery, and Tecno Spark Go 3 expected January 16, 2026. Both run Android 16 with strong camera and battery specs for budget segments. Listings highlight imminent market entry.Source 2

8

2026 Flagship Smartphones Rumors: Samsung S26 Ultra Slim Design

Leaked specs for Samsung S26 Ultra include slimmer lighter design, improved 200MP main sensor with deep trench isolation, launching end of February alongside S26 and Plus. No edge display in initial lineup, foldables later. Video highlights camera advancements.Source 6

9

Smartphone Trends for 2026: Flat Displays Lock In

2026 trends feature widespread flat displays in OPPO Find X9, Vivo X300, OnePlus 15, iQOO 15, Xiaomi series following 2025 revival. Expect thinner designs and advanced cameras across flagships. This shift prioritizes usability over curved aesthetics.Source 8

10

Honor Magic 8 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max Among 2026 Contenders

Upcoming 2026 phones like Honor Magic 8 Pro, Xiaomi 17 Ultra, Pixel 11, Oppo Find X9 Ultra promise crazy cameras and innovations. Motorola Signature and OnePlus 16 also teased with major releases through the year. Leaks cover specs and timelines.Source 6

11

CES 2026 Showcases Latest Tech Innovations

CES 2026 in Las Vegas from January 4-9 featured major gadget announcements in smartphones, PCs, and lifestyle tech. Coverage highlights global launches from top brands and startups. Ongoing reports detail consumer impacts.Source 7