Samsung has made an announcement that will result in a big change to its upcoming devices. No longer will the manufacturer pre-install its own Samsung Messages app on Galaxy devices in certain markets. Instead, it and will replace it with the Google Messages app. Samsung started this process back in 2022 with the flagship Galaxy S22 series because its own messaging app did not support Rich Communication Services (RCS) as well as Google Messages.
It’s not too late to pre-order the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6!
RCS is the platform that brings certain features such as read receipts, high-quality images and videos, typing indicators, end-to-end encryption, and more to Android users. Apple is adding RCS support to the iPhone in iOS 18 which will allow Android and iPhone users to enjoy most of these features when engaged in a cross-platform chat. However, the version of RCS that Apple is supporting does not include end-to-end encryption.
Even though Samsung made Google Messages the default app for SMS and RCS messaging on Galaxy devices, it was still pre-installing Samsung Messages on its own products. The first phones to follow the new policy after the announcement will be the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and the Galaxy Z Flip 6 which are still in their pre-order stage until next Wednesday, July 24th.
Samsung announces that it will preload Google Messages instead of Samsung Messages on Galaxy devices. | Image credit-Max Weinbach
Posted on the Samsung Members app and shared by Max Weinbach on “X,” Samsung’s message notes that with the latest foldable models, the Samsung Messages app will no longer be preloaded on Galaxy devices. The app, as noted, will be replaced by Google Messages and the Samsung Messages app will still be available from the Galaxy Store although some features will be excluded.
Starting with Flip6, Fold6, and newer models, the Samsung Messages app will no longer be preloaded. Instead, Google Messages will provide a new and enhanced experience to express your emotions, making communication safe and fun. You can also exchange messages with users around the world.”-Samsung
The new policy does not appear to be in place worldwide. While U.S. variants of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 have Google Messages preloaded instead of Samsung Messages, Android expert Mishaal Rahman said on “X” that Google Messages is replacing Samsung Messages on U.S. carrier and unlocked Galaxy devices only. Rahman made a point of saying that Samsung Messages is still pre-installed on Canadian and European builds of the new foldable models.
For those with older Galaxy devices or not in the U.S., you can install Google Messages from the Google Play Store by tapping on this link.
The OnePlus Open 2 foldable Android smartphone is rumored to pack a massive 6,000mAh battery. With a tablet-like screen when unfolded, this flagship device would be powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipset.
OnePlus Open 2 foldable getting a massive battery upgrade?
The second iteration of the OnePlus foldable Android smartphone has started appearing in leaks and rumors. According to reliable tipster Digital Chat Station, the upcoming dual-screen flagship phone is getting a massive upgrade in terms of battery.
As the name suggests, the OnePlus Open 2 would be the second-generation foldable smartphone from OnePlus. The first generation of the smartphone is a flagship device with impressive specifications, but it packs a rather diminutive battery.
The OnePlus Open has a 4,805mAh battery, which is smaller than most single-screen smartphones. For example, the OnePlus 12 has a 5,400mAh battery.
Despite the seemingly smaller battery, the first-generation foldable Android smartphone from OnePlus performed quite well in our review. If the latest rumor is true, the second-generation OnePlus foldable is packing a massive 6,000mAh battery. This would translate to impressive battery endurance for a dual-screen smartphone.
Previous leaks have claimed the upcoming OnePlus foldable smartphone would pack the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipset. The latest rumor reiterates the same specification.
When will the OnePlus Open 2 launch?
Oppo rebranded its Oppo Find N3 as the OnePlus Open and launched in multiple markets outside China. Similarly, the Oppo Find N5 could be rebranded for the international markets as the OnePlus Open 2.
As for the launch of the second-generation foldable Android smartphone, OnePlus may have hit several roadblocks. Recent reports suggest that OnePlus has had to delay the device’s launch.
Sales of Ray-Ban Meta AI-powered smart glasses have increased in recent months. The segment appears to be growing at a sufficient pace to attract the attention of big tech companies. One of those companies would be Google, which would seek a deal with Ray-Ban to manufacture smart glasses with Gemini. However, Meta seems to have the upper hand.
Meta, driven by the success of Ray-Ban smart glasses with its Meta AI assistant, wants to buy 5% of EssilorLuxottica, Ray-Ban’s parent company. According to recent reports, negotiations between both companies are at an advanced stage. However, Google might be trying to “get in the way.”
Google might be trying to “hijack” the Ray-Ban and Meta deal for smart glasses
Google reportedly wants to bet heavily on the smart glasses segment. These devices seek to offer a smart assistant and AR navigation experience in a compact and comfortable format. The company is also working with Samsung on an XR headset that will arrive this year, as the South Korean giant confirmed this month.
Currently, Google seems to be looking for the ideal partner to launch Gemini-powered smart glasses, and the Ray-Ban brand seems like a strong candidate. EssilorLuxottica already has experience in the segment after working with Meta. Also, the company worked with Google in the past, manufacturing Google Glass.
While Google’s previous attempt in the segment didn’t go well, the industry has changed a lot. It’s been almost a decade since the Google Glass launch. Now, sales of this type of product are increasing, so they seem more accepted by people. Also, integrating the glasses with the Gemini assistant would give them a strong additional appeal.
Google stealing the Ray-Ban deal from Meta is “extremely unlikely”
That said, according to The Verge, it is “extremely unlikely” that Google can stop the deal between Meta and EssilorLuxottica. After all, the negotiations seem to be in a very advanced state. Still, the source claims that the Mountain View giant has recently approached EssilorLuxottica to talk about possible Gemini-powered glasses.
So, it’s quite likely that Google will have to find another partner. It will be interesting to see who the company chooses to make its smart glasses a reality, or even think about the (distant) possibility that Google “steals” the Ray-Ban brand from Meta for its glasses.
Feeling a little out of the loop? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We are back with another episode of “News You Probably Missed and Shouldn’t Have!” our weekly rundown of the tech headlines you might have missed. From the latest launches and announcements to big fails, we compiled a comprehensive weekly roundup to bring you back up to speed. So, buckle up, grab a cup of coffee, and get ready to catch up on the headlines that have been making waves.
Google Maps gets a major UI update on Android
Google Maps for Android is getting a makeover! Say goodbye to those pesky full-screen menus that always seemed to block your view of where you were going. Now, you can swipe up from the bottom to see them in fresh new sheets, like magic! Searching for directions is still the same old full-screen affair, but once entered, you get a newer UI. The update makes Google Maps less cluttered and more user-friendly. Let’s just hope they don’t accidentally hide the “directions” button altogether!
Fairphone announces Android 14 for Fairphone 5
Is your Fairphone 5 feeling a bit behind the times? Well, fret no more! It’s getting a software update that’s like a makeover for your phone. No more fumbling around in the dark with a not-so-dark dark mode. Now you can customize your phone by swapping buttons on the navigation bar, like rearranging the furniture in your house but with way less effort. And for those of us who are forgetful, our phones can now flash like a disco ball to remind us of notifications. Watch out for the Android 14 update in the coming weeks and let the good times roll (or should we say, flash)!
Google Photos readies an updated built-in video player
Google Photos is working on a feature that lets you be the DJ of your videos! You can finally speed up those boring vacation montages of your uncle staring at pigeons, or slow down that epic squirrel chase to make it look like a dramatic action movie. Just imagine chipmunks with tiny mustaches and sunglasses in slow motion – hilarious! But be warned, with great power comes great responsibility. Too much fast-forwarding might make your grandma dizzy, and slow-mo everything could turn a five-minute video into an overnight movie marathon. Use this power wisely!
Google Messages brings back screen effects
Texting just got way more dramatic on Google Messages with the return of Screen Effects. Now you can send a “Congrats” and watch a confetti explosion. Feeling beachy? Text “Going to the beach” and witness a digital tsunami of pool floats and beach umbrellas. But beware, this feature can backfire. Text “Boo” with too few o’s and you might get a virtual shrug instead of a tomato barrage. And if you laugh too hard with just three “hahaha”s, well, you’ll be left disappointed. So unleash your inner drama queen responsibly, and remember, four “hahahaha”s are the minimum for a dancing tube man!
Samsung stops pre-loading its Messages app on Galaxy devices
Samsung is breaking up with its own messaging app! In the US, new Galaxy phones like the Z Flip 6 are ditching the pre-installed Samsung Messages app and going steady with Google Messages instead. Looks like Google’s RCS texts finally won Samsung’s heart (or maybe the Korean company just got tired of maintaining two apps). Fear not, Samsung fans! You can still download the old app if you miss it dearly. But for everyone else, get ready for a future filled with… uh… Google Messages?
YouTube Music now lets you mark podcasts as played
YouTube Music finally listened to users’ pleas (begging, really) and added a “Mark as played” feature for podcasts. It’s like they graduated Podcast 101 this week! Previously, your only option was to pretend to listen to the whole thing while fast-forwarding like a maniac. Now you can just tap a button and, voila, podcast progress gets a thumbs up. If you accidentally mark a podcast as played, fear not. There is also a “Mark as unplayed” button to undo the accident. Beware, not every accident can be undone.
Android Auto prepares to tune with your car’s built-in radio
Looks like Android Auto is finally moving out of its phone-based music bubble and getting ready to jam with the car’s built-in radio. No more switching between apps to change stations – Android Auto might soon be your one-stop shop for all things audio in your car. This is great news for drivers who want a smoother music experience. Imagine cruising down the highway, seamlessly switching between your Spotify playlist and the latest hits on the radio, all controlled from the same interface.
Samsung prepares satellite connectivity for Galaxy phones
Looks like the Galaxy S25 is about to phone home… literally! Samsung might be joining the space race, equipping the S25 with satellite connectivity for emergencies. Imagine getting lost in the wilderness, phone signal kaput. But fear not, with the S25, you can send an SOS text that blasts off to a satellite and beams your message for help. Just be careful not to accidentally text your grocery list to aliens.
T-Mobile outruns the competition in the 5G speed test
T-Mobile is on a winning streak, crushing Verizon and AT&T in network tests like a boss! Download speeds are so fast on T-Mobile, it’s almost unfair. Imagine downloading a movie in the time it takes to say “network congestion.” The carrier might not be perfect (because let’s be real, no carrier is) but according to users, they’re at least the most likable of the bunch. Although, with speeds this fast, who needs friends anyway? You’ll be too busy streaming cat videos (or whatever it is you cool kids do these days) to care.
As the smartphone market grows, Samsung is still at the top
Hold onto your hats, smartphone fans! The global market grew a healthy 6.5% in Q2 2024, according to IDC. Looks like the future is still bright (and probably filled with apps). Samsung is still the world’s biggest smartphone vendor, capturing nearly 19 percent of the market. It sold 54 million smartphones between April and June this year. Apple, Xiaomi, Vivo, and OPPO, made up the top five brands. These companies left only 32 percent of the market for other players. Imagine the hustle between Google, Tecno, HMD, Sony, Motorola, Infinix, Lava, etc.
Grand Theft Auto VI fans beware of Fake GTA VI Beta download ads! Don’t get scammed by fake GTA VI beta versions advertised on social media. Learn how to spot these phishing attempts and protect yourself from malware.
Grand Theft Auto (GTA) is a household name in gaming, and Rockstar Games, the developer behind GTA, has announced the release of Grand Theft Auto VI in Autumn 2025 for PS5 and Xbox Series, which has got fans all excited.
However, this presents threat actors with the perfect opportunity to exploit fans, with Bitdefender researchers detecting suspicious Facebook ads and promoting fake beta versions for free download on PC.
Social media users, particularly those following GTA content, might encounter sponsored ads promising early access to a non-existent GTA VI beta. These ads often showcase tempting features, early release dates, and even include convincing-looking gameplay footage (likely stolen from 2022’s Rockstar data breach and other sources)
According to Bitdefender‘s report, between July 16 and 18, researchers came across a Facebook page promoting free access to the GTA beta version for the first 100 people through sponsored ads. This page was running three different ads all using the same message and visuals, targeting people aged 18-65.
The malicious domain used in the ad was created on June 27, 2024, and was also hosting another Ethereum scam. Users in Europe, including France, Poland, Romania, Germany, Spain, Hungary, Italy, Greece, the Netherlands, and Sweden were the primary targets.
Security researcher Andrei Mogage’s analysis revealed that the MSI file downloaded through the Facebook ad impersonated a legitimate GTA VI installer and mimicked the installation process. The file shared similarities with FakeBat loader malware that deployed malicious payloads and PowerShell scripts to download next-stage malware like info-stealers and RATs.
Clicking the ad leads to a website mimicking a legitimate download page. Here, a user might be prompted to download an ‘exclusive beta client’ or complete a survey to gain access. These downloads aren’t beta versions; they’re malware in disguise. It is worth noting that Rockstar Games has not announced a beta program for GTA VI.
The three malicious samples available for download from the ads were “broken” and could not execute payloads or exfiltrate data. As of July 19, none of these malicious ads remain active.
Malicious GTA 6 Facebook ads (Bitdefender)
Malicious GTA 6 Facebook ad (Bitdefender)
Clicking download leads to a malicious domain running ETH scam and also drops a malicious MSI file (Bitdefender)
Facebook’s history of approving malicious ads
While the reported malicious ads may be removed, there could be hundreds of such malicious ads currently running on social media, especially Facebook, which is known for approving malicious ads.
In February 2024, Savvy Seahorse, a DNS threat actor, was found using Facebook ads to promote and lure unsuspecting victims into its investment scams. In November 2023, Facebook displayed AI-generated “provocative” ads that spread NodeStealer malware.
Back in April 2021, Facebook approved an advertisement that displayed and distributed a Facebook Messenger phishing link. In April 2021, Facebook also displayed an ad that mimicked the Clubhouse app but, in reality, was malware.
But that’s not all. The severity of malicious Facebook ads is highlighted by a December 2020 report, which revealed that hackers phished more than 615,000 login credentials using Facebook ads.
Nevertheless, you can easily spot fakes in the gaming industry as these often make unrealistic promises, and poor grammar, and create urgency to download games. To stay safe, ignore sponsored social media ads, and download games from official sources like the developer’s website or trusted retailers.
Forgetting about Apple Intelligence for a minute, there are plenty of non-AI features coming to iPhone users this year thanks to iOS 18. You can lock an app and require Face ID or your Passcode to open it. Or, you can hide an app so no one sees it on your home screen. With iOS 18, you’ll be allowed to. customize the app icons on your home screen by moving them around or by selecting a color theme. When sending a message, you can schedule the time that it will be sent with “Send Later,” and there is finally support for RCS messages.
There are plenty more new features in iOS 18 including one that will allow you to open any app from the Lock Screen. This is possible because Apple will allow you to customize the Lock Screen shortcuts that currently open the flashlight on the left side and the camera on the right side. Actually, with iOS 18, you’ll be able to launch any app without unlocking your iPhone. That’s pretty cool, eh?
You can wait until September when the stable version of iOS 18 is released, or you can roll the dice, install the iOS 18 Public Beta, hope that features you need aren’t impacted, and enjoy the new features. We suggest the Public Beta over the Developer Beta because the Public Beta is released after the Developer Beta has been dropped and Apple has had the time to patch any major issues.
You can have any of your apps open on your iPhone even with the device locked. | Image credit-Apple
Once you install the iOS 18 beta, long press on the Lock Screen. You’ll see two “-” buttons, one next to the icon on the lower left and one next to the icon on the lower right. Press the button next to the icon you want to replace and then tap the “+” button. Select Open App and select the app you want to open from your Lock Screen. Tap on Done. And that is all there is to it.
To install the iOS 18 Public Beta on your iPhone, go to Settings > General > Software Update. Tap on Beta Updates, select iOS 18 Public Beta, hit the back button in the upper left corner, and you’ll see your invitation to update to the beta. Follow the directions to install it.
We often hear about malware being discovered on an Android app that somehow managed to escape the Google Play Protect layer of protection. Last year, malware was downloaded from the Google Play Store over 600 million times according to cybersecurity firm Kaspersky. Apple also gets fooled by developers looking to pull the wool over the company’s eyes to obtain a listing in the App Store.
An app, recently removed from the App Store by Apple, was able to trick the App Store Review team to gain a listing in the iOS app storefront which it held for years. The developer employed the old ‘UI switcheroo’ technique. The app, titled “Collect Cards: Store box” appeared on the surface to be an app where an iPhone user might store and manage photos and videos. So far so good although we do note that the native Photos app and the Google Photos app are both outstanding on iOS.
The App Store listing for the app didn’t reveal much about it and the screenshots seemed to confirm that the app was designed to store users’ photos and videos. But the “Collect Cards: Store box” app had a secret dark side that helped it become the second most downloaded free app in the Brazilian version of the App Store. That alone should have set off some alarms inside Apple since you wouldn’t expect a rather plain-looking photo and video storage app to gain “must-have” status in one country.
Sure enough, the app would first determine the location of the user before fully loading. In the U.S., the app would load the basic UI of a photo and video storage app. In other regions, like in Brazil, the app was a pirate streaming service showing content from Disney+, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max. To really rub salt in the wound, the app even displayed content from Apple TV+.
When Apple was vetting the app in the U.S., all it saw was a mild-mannered photos and video storage app. In other markets where Apple didn’t look, the app turned into an evil super anti-hero disseminating streaming content that the user usually had to buy in order to view. Apple did take down “Collect Cards: Store box” after 9to5Mac ran a story on the app and we hope that Apple has made a change to its app vetting process so, as the Who once sang, it won’t get fooled again.
Tech enthusiasts and rugged smartphone devotees, take note: the world premiere sale of the Ulefone Armor 25T on AliExpress is about to draw to a close at the end of July 20(PT). Priced at an exceptional $259.99, this limited-time offer is set to end, marking the final opportunity to acquire the 4G version of the 5G-enabled Armor 25T Pro at this groundbreaking price.
The Ulefone Armor 25T has captivated audiences with its slim yet robust design since its debut. Ulefone’s dedication to creating a device that’s as durable as it is stylish is reflected in its stringent compliance with IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810H standards, fortified by the Ulefone defender structure.
A recently leaked durability test video on YouTube showcases the Armor 25T’s resilience like never before. In this compelling footage, the device undergoes a series of relentless challenges that would daunt most smartphones. It crushes walnuts with ease, serves as a makeshift hammer to drive nails into wood, and even faces the intense heat of a flame—yet the screen remains pristine.
The true test of the Armor 25T’s mettle comes when it’s plunged into the water, simulating a scenario that would spell disaster for lesser devices. It emerges unscathed, a testament to its waterproof capabilities. Dropped from significant heights, and dropped into sand, the Armor 25T demonstrates its shockproof nature, dusted off and ready for more.
Besides a durable structure, Armor 25T stands out with its dual vision technology, that is thermal imaging and infrared night vision capabilities. The thermal imaging sensor’s 160 x 120 high resolution and the highest 25Hz frame rate offer a diagnostic tool unmatched in the thermal rugged smartphone market, while the night vision camera, supported by OMNIVISION’s OV64B 64MP high-resolution sensor and Ulefone’s NightElf Ultra 3.0 algorithm, ensures clarity even in total darkness.
Its appearance and design reflect a modern aesthetic with a Kevlar texture back cover and a metallic frame, full of technology and a sense of future. Under the hood, the MediaTek Helio G99 SoC, up to 12GB of RAM, and 256GB of expandable storage provides the performance needed for demanding tasks, while the 6.78-inch Full HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate offers a smooth and immersive viewing experience.
The Armor 25T’s 6500mAh battery, with support for 33W fast and 30W wireless charging, enables users to power through their day without worrying about battery life. The inclusion of the latest Android 14 OS guarantees a secure and feature-rich user experience.
The clock is ticking on Ulefone’s world premiere sale for the Armor 25T on AliExpress! Don’t miss your chance to snag this exceptional rugged phone at its introductory price. The Armor 25T offers incredible value and performance, making it the perfect choice for anyone seeking a future-proof, tough thermal imaging smartphone.
Google will launch the Pixel 9 Pro in August, and some lucky people will get a special pre-order gift. However, it seems that the promo will be available in just a few regions. The Google Store describes the gift as a “limited-edition collectible.”
The Pixel 9 Pro special pre-order gift will not only be limited in terms of regions but also in available units. For starters, only buyers based in Australia, Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan will be able to try to get it. Also, the Google Store says it will be a “special gift for our first orders.” It seems that just pre-ordering the device won’t be enough, so interested parties must act quickly.
Some regions will get a Pixel 9 Pro with gift and a special box for the first pre-orders
The Google Stores in Australia, Japan, and Singapore try to keep the gift a bit mysterious. They say it is a “piece of Google Pixel design history.” However, the one from Taiwan “ruins” the surprise a bit by saying that it could be a set of “original Google Pixel design posters.” Anyway, there may still be more surprises in the box.
Regarding the box, it will also be different from the normal one. According to the image, the box has a thicker cardboard cover, similar to a book. The cover is engraved with the multicolored “G” Google logo in the center and “Google Store” just below. Its interior is black, and it also appears to use a thick material. In general, the box is quite elegant and even decorative.
It seems that vanilla Pixel 9 buyers will not receive something similar. Google Stores say the gift is “exclusively for the first orders of our new Pixel 9 Pro phones.” Also, there is no news yet on special pre-order gifts for other markets. The company is likely to offer promotions such as discounts on Google products or even free accessories in multiple markets. However, it would be great if this special Pixel 9 Pro with a more elegant box and limited edition posters reaches more regions.
In recent years, terms like “AI” and “satellite connectivity” have taken the smartphone industry by storm. Apple popularized the latter by implementing support in the iPhone 14 series. Now, it seems that Google will enter the segment by offering a Satellite SOS feature in the Pixel 9 series.
The Android 15 beta 4 arrived recently, and its code is revealing potential new features that Pixel phones or Android devices in general will get. Android Authority found direct references to Satellite SOS telecommunications that would be present in the Pixel 9 series, which is expected to include the necessary hardware to support it. A leak from mid-April showed what the UI would look like while showing instructions to establish a connection with a satellite.
The Satellite SOS feature would be free for two years on the Pixel 9 series
According to the report, strings in the Android 15 beta 4 code mention the name “Pixel Satellite SOS.” This suggests that Google is working on support for emergency satellite telecommunications on Pixel devices. However, it will probably only be available on the Pixel 9 series and future models. This is because current and older models do not integrate the required hardware.
In addition, the strings suggest that Google would offer a period of free use similar to that of iPhone devices. That is, the Pixel Satellite SOS service would be free for two years. After the term expires, people would have to start paying a fee to continue using it. More specifically, the string says that “Satellite SOS is included at no charge for {two} years.”
The source suggests that “{two}” could be just a placeholder, so the actual free trial time could differ. However, it seems certain that the company will offer a time of use without having to pay.
The feature could arrive later with an update
Interestingly, another string mentions that “Your Pixel has been updated to support satellite communication.” So, the feature may not be available on the Pixel 9 series for launch. Instead, it would arrive later through an update.
Android 15 is just getting full support for satellite telecommunications. This means that the OS natively includes the tools necessary to use it and for other apps to detect it. However, it is up to each manufacturer to implement their own solution on their devices. They need to reach deals with telecommunications carriers to enable the service.
