This week’s news and headlines from the Android world, including Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition, Galaxy A35, OxygenOS 15 official announcement, Google’s Photo Picker requests, Qualcomm’s promise of Snapdragon 4, goodbye to the original Google Meet, and more. Let’s look back.
Android Circuit is here to remind you of some of the many discussions surrounding Android over the past seven days. You can also read my weekly Apple news digest here on Forbes.
Introducing Samsung Special Edition
A new version of the Galaxy Z Fold6 is expected to launch in the coming weeks. The z Fold Special Edition takes the current flagship folding model and reduces its dimensions. The 4.9mm depth certainly puts it below devices like the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, but it still doesn’t beat the current champion, Honor’s Magic V3.
“Assuming that most of the work on foldable devices is done while unfolded, the Z Fold SE will have an advantage over the Google device’s 5.1mm. This is an impressive win over Google, but this special Even the edited version can’t compete.” Honor Magic V3 surprised the market when it was launched in July. Measures 9.2 mm when closed and 4.4 mm when opened. ”
(Forbes).
Samsung’s next Galaxy A
This isn’t the only Samsung device that has been leaked. It looks like the popular Galaxy A series will be getting an updated mid-range phone in the form of the Galaxy A35 in 2025. It has been indexed by Geekbench and the team at SamMobile has discovered new details.
“Its octa-core CPU features four high-performance CPU cores running at 2.4 GHz and four power-efficient CPU cores running at 1.8 GHz. A closer look at the Geekbench listing reveals that the chip The chips are either Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 or Snapdragon 7s Gen 2. Both chips are manufactured using Samsung Foundry’s 4nm (4LPX) manufacturing process. It has been.”
(Sam Mobile).
OnePlus confirms new OxygenOS update
With Android 15 at the top of the update spectrum, manufacturers are rolling out new code and their own additions to upgrade the operating system and make it available to existing customers (in addition to getting them ready for new hardware). We are working on integration. OnePlus has confirmed when OxygenOS will switch to Android 15. What is the date? October 24th.
“One of the first operating systems based on the Android 15 update, OxygenOS 15 leverages OnePlus’ extensive research and deep user insights to create a new generation of software that embodies the iconic Never Settle spirit. Create.
“With an industry-leading fast and smooth experience, meaningful new AI features, and a distinctive design style that sets OnePlus apart, OxygenOS 15 is on track to be the fastest and most user-friendly OxygenOS ever.
(One Plus).
Select Google picker
Google has reached out to several developers to point out the benefits of using the built-in photo picker API instead of writing your own code that requires a lot of permissions from users. There are certainly security benefits for users (and the bonus effect of moving developers closer to Google’s recommended security model).
“In 2022, Google introduced the Photo Picker API, a privacy-preserving way for apps to access photos and videos. The Photo Picker API allows apps to pick up photos and videos without requesting user permission. You can request access to your entire media gallery. This is for apps that need access to some photos or videos once or frequently.
Compatible with Snapdragon 4
Qualcomm’s flagship chipset is likely to be installed in many smartphones in 2025. Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 has been mentioned in many spec sheets and will likely be compared to similar chips from Samsung’s Exynos series and Mediatek’s Dimensity. Nevertheless, Qualcomm’s stock price is poised to benefit regardless of competition.
“I think Qualcomm stock has already factored in the negative impact from Apple developing its own 5G chips. It is also poised to benefit from strong trends in 2025, such as “AI PC growth and SoC price increases due to adoption of TSMC’s N3P process. ”
(Ming-Chi Kuo on Medium).
And finally…
While Google Duo won the corporate battle and became Google’s messaging app of choice (and has since taken over the brand), the original Meet app has undergone subtle “original” changes to support its corporate partners. I kept my outfit. That grace period appears to have come to an end, if only for a year.
“Google is currently adding features first introduced for business customers to personal Meet, including an updated UI, audio-only on-the-go mode, live captions, and more expressive features. Included.
(9to5Google).
Android Circuit rounds up news from the world of Android every weekend here on Forbes. Don’t forget to follow me so you don’t miss any future coverage. And of course, be sure to read Apple Loop’s sister columns as well. Last week’s Android Circuit can be found here. If you have news or links you’d like to see featured on Android Circuit, please contact us.