Google has finally released Android 17 for Pixel phones, following a brief tease yesterday afternoon. This morning, Google said that Android 17 Beta 1 will be available to developers without a Pixel as pictures in Android Studio and as an over-the-air upgrade in the Android Beta Program.
You might be wondering why we aren’t receiving a Developer Preview build first or why this seems so early. We no longer receive developer preview builds, therefore it’s different. You may obtain these new beta builds earlier than ever before since Google is using the Android Canary track, which was released last year, as a developer preview moving forward.
Regarding scheduling, Google declared that Android releases would alter toward the end of 2024. Google shifted to a two-release Android strategy for 2025, with the primary and largest Android 16 release stabilizing by the middle of the year and a secondary release occurring before the year’s conclusion. Android 17 will follow the same timetable. A Platform Stability release is scheduled for sometime in March, although the first release has already begun and will stabilize rather fast. Similar to what happened with Android 16 last year, a small SDK update is scheduled for Q4 of this year.
We will explore all of the exciting new features that Android 17 offers on your own device in a separate post that will be published soon. However, as of right now, Google has simply disclosed the modifications that developers should be aware of. There are various performance enhancements (such as new garbage collection and notification constraints), more professional-grade camera capabilities and media experiences, a redesigned print dialog for improved usability, and restrictions on screen resizability so that apps can run on all devices.
You may receive Android 17 on your Pixel device immediately by signing up for the Android Beta Program. System images are also available to developers (here).
We have lately reviewed, reported, and praised numerous Garmin wearables, praising the gadgets’ purportedly extended battery life. But according to leaks from Garmin’s Canadian website, the wearables company might be releasing something new soon.
Garmin recently gave us an official update at CES earlier this month, when they revealed that the Garmin Connect would soon provide complete nutrition tracking. Though not as fast as it just did, it appears the business has a brand-new wearable that it should be ready to reveal soon.
Garmin’s newest wearable appears online
Android Authority claims that on its Canadian website, the corporation unintentionally revealed the existence of a gadget known as the Cirqa Smart Band. A Redditor managed to capture a screenshot of the listing before it was removed.
It’s interesting to note that the ad contained a few facts but no photographs. It stated that the band will be offered in two sizes (S/M and L/XL) and two colors (Black and French Gray) at launch. Additionally, the gadget will be ready for shipment in four to five months.
Apart from the listing, screenshots of the search results were taken by the5krunner, which showed that the S/M size fits wrist circumferences between 120 and 200 mm, while the L/XL size fits wrist circumferences between 145 and 200 mm.
The most likely explanation for this, in my opinion, is that someone with back-end site access unintentionally clicked publish before the business was prepared to make the product public. The shipment date indicates that devices would reach customers’ doorsteps by the middle of the year, just in time for the busiest time of year for outdoor training and jogging, even though it suggests the launch will occur shortly.
Though there have been goods in the past that were limited to Canada, particularly in the automobile sector, it is reasonable to believe that this one will be offered in the US. To find out more about availability and the specific features, we’ll need to wait till the official release date.
Xiaomi has begun releasing the latest testing release for these 12 models after launching a new HyperOS 3.1 Beta Program for the second batch of its smartphones. To improve the user experience, the most recent version includes a few improvements.
The latest beta, which includes features like Live Updates and Stacked Recent Apps Menu, has already been sent to the first batch of smartphones by the Chinese tech giant.
The HyperOS 3.1 beta upgrade is now being extended for 12 additional Xiaomi devices by the company. It will take some time for the version to reach every unit because it is arriving in groups.
As the OEM has begun distributing the latest testing release to more devices, HyperOS 3.1 beta is becoming more stable. This implies that Xiaomi will soon start rolling out the HyperOS 3.1 beta update to phones and tablets from earlier generations.
The 12 devices that are getting the new beta build are mentioned below. With the testing version listed next to it, you can determine the update for your device.
HyperOS 3.1 beta available for the following devices
Xiaomi 15: HyperOS 3.0.300.5 Beta
Xiaomi 15 Pro: HyperOS 3.0.300.4 Beta
Xiaomi 15S Pro: HyperOS 3.0.300.5 Beta
Xiaomi 15 Ultra: HyperOS 3.0.300.4 Beta
Xiaomi 14: HyperOS 3.0.300.3 Beta
Xiaomi 14 Pro: HyperOS 3.0.300.4 Beta
Xiaomi 14 Ultra: HyperOS 3.0.300.3 Beta
Redmi K80: HyperOS 3.0.3003 Beta
Redmi K80 Pro: HyperOS 3.0.300.3 Beta
Redmi K80 Ultra: HyperOS 3.0.300.3 Beta
Xiaomi MIX Flip 2: HyperOS 3.0.300.6 Beta
Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra: HyperOS 3.0.300.2 Beta
Before starting the installation, make sure your phone or tablet has enough storage space. Since it’s a beta version, the data on your device might be erased. Therefore, make a backup in advance.
There are now reports regarding the successor of Nothing’s Phone 3a series, which debuted in the first few months of 2025.
According to a post made early this morning (January 26) by X tipster Anvin, the Nothing Phone 4a has appeared in a significant database (via GSMArena). The tipster’s information is light, but if it’s accurate, that’s probably intentional because the Phone 4a has supposedly received international certification. According to their post, the gadget was found in the TDRA database of the United Arab Emirates. The model’s codename, A069, is mentioned in the listing.
The people at GSMArena draw attention to a prior finding that stated this device’s Pro version was identified as A069P.
9to5Google once highlighted a Telegram tipster, but this database entry didn’t reveal much information (they don’t often). Nothing could compete with Qualcomm’s more mid-range/affordable Snapdragon 7s series CPUs, according to that article, which also claimed that a Phone 4a and 4a Pro were on the horizon. The 4a and 4a Pro could cost between $475 and $540, respectively. According to the rumors, eSIM may only be available on the Pro model.
Once more, the tipster stated that the two might make their debut in March 2026, coinciding with Nothing’s last serie
The Nothing Phone 4a series is coming
Last year, the Nothing Phone 3a transformed that mid-range market for consumers. The business was promoting its move from MediaTek CPUs to Qualcomm chips at the time, giving its smartphones the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3. It was an inexpensive semiconductor that had been enhanced to provide more powerful AI capabilities and improved performance. In gaming and graphical scenarios, the 3a was found to be lower than the 2a in some testing.
Given that the Phone 4a and 4a Pro may include the more recent Snapdragon 7s Gen 4, it is unclear what these devices will offer. Perhaps the gadget can aim higher this year because that chip put a lot of effort into providing flagship-quality gaming capabilities and support. Nothing has confirmed that phone prices will increase in 2026 as a result of increased DRAM and NAND costs, therefore pricing is a problem.
OnePlus released its Wear OS 5 update to certain OnePlus Watch 2 and 2R customers on December 29, slipping past its self-imposed end-of-year deadline, much like a college student faxing their assignment to the professor at 11:59 p.m. This last-minute update has caused issues ever since, as you could anticipate.
Wear OS 5 was originally scheduled to be released between July and September 2025 for the OnePlus Watch 2 and Watch 2R, which were both released in 2024 running Wear OS 4. The company merely stated that the upgrade would arrive “in the near future” after Android Authority inquired about the delay in October.
Some owners of OnePlus Watches have now received the update, but not all of them; my OnePlus Watch 2R, which is located in the United States, still displays the May 2025 security update and Wear OS 4. But considering the impact of the update, this could be a blessing in disguise.
The upgrade is seriously depleting the battery, according to this Reddit thread and other OnePlus forum postings. Before the upgrade, the Watch 2 and 2R often lasted three days in smart mode; however, some customers claim that even after attempting factory resets and other solutions, it won’t last a full day.One user states, “I’m completely heartbroken and frustrated with the severe battery drain issue impacting my OnePlus Watch 2 with the Wear OS 5 update.” “On light usage, my OnePlus Watch 2 now drops from full battery at 1:00 PM to a crucial 10% by 11:00 PM.”
Another customer comments, “I used to get 2.5 days easily with most settings on (at least 2 days)… Now I hardly get 1 day.” In response, someone said that while his drain wasn’t quite as bad, it was now “a strict 2 days” instead of the previous 3–4 days.
Many customers identify particular apps—such as the Weather app, Play Store, or “Wear OS” itself—as the source of the drain, but the diversity indicates that this is a system-wide problem rather than a single app.
The fact that stock Wear OS 5 is (A) a very modest upgrade with few notable changes and (B) meant to make Wear OS work more efficiently, as it did on Pixel and Galaxy Watches, is what makes this update particularly annoying to users. This unoptimized upgrade for last-generation phones is frustrating because the OnePlus Watch 3 has been running this version since April without any problems.
Any company can release a flawed update, but I would have expected OnePlus to either pull it back or provide an update schedule after two weeks. Instead, based from what we’ve seen, OnePlus hasn’t made any formal announcements. A few days ago, my colleague contacted OnePlus on the update, but we haven’t heard anything yet.
This upgrade greatly worries me because I have suggested the OnePlus Watch 2R as my top choice for an inexpensive Android smartwatch, mostly due to its long battery life. OnePlus must demonstrate that it will appropriately support these watches and that its pledge of two Wear OS updates and three years of security updates is more than just platitudes.
As it stands, the new OnePlus Watch Lite used a proprietary RTOS similar to the previous OnePlus Watch, completely eschewing Wear OS.
On January 22, 2026, Xiaomi launched the HyperOS 3.1 beta, which included minor but significant UI and privacy improvements. Phones become smoother and speedier as a result. Additionally, the HyperOS 3.1 update uses AI to extend battery life.
With improved app switching and adjustable settings, it improves the user interface. Additionally, it offers improved multitasking, smoother animations, and increased privacy and security.
A more reliable, refined, and connected experience is provided by HyperOS 3.1. It also offers support for iOS calls and security updates for Android 16. Let’s examine the characteristics of HyperOS 3.1 in more detail below:
Quick look at Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1 features coming to your device
Category
Feature
Explanation
iOS Integration
AirPods Native Pop-Up
Let users hide unlock pattern traces
iOS Integration
Spatial Audio Support
Enables 360-degree immersive audio on Xiaomi phones
iOS Integration
ANC & Transparency Control
Manage noise cancellation and sound modes easily
iOS Integration
Find My AirPods
Locate lost AirPods without needing an Apple ID
UI & Animations
New System Animations
Smoother, more fluid transitions across the system
UI & Animations
iOS-Style Recent Apps
Card-like multitasking view inspired by iOS
Apps Overhaul
New Gallery & Weather Apps
Faster apps with rewritten code for better performance
Accessibility
New “Assistance” Menu
Easier access to vision, hearing, and control tools
Accessibility
Active Visual Perception
Helps users better understand on-screen content
Motion & Comfort
Motion Sickness Feature
Reduces visual motion to prevent dizziness
Super Island
Live Update Support
Real-time updates from apps like Uber and Spotify
Super Island
Todo Notes & QR Access
View tasks, QR codes, and maps directly on Island
Lock Screen
Card Swipe Support
Swipe payment and transit cards on lock screen
Media
Music Progress Bar
iOS-style glowing progress bar on media player
Ecosystem
Xiaomi + iPhone Call Support
Answer Xiaomi calls directly on an iPhone
System Core
Biometric Redesign
Improved fingerprint and unlock settings
System Core
Quick Gestures
Faster gesture shortcuts on select premium phones
Security
New Password App
Stores passwords, Wi-Fi logins, and passkeys
Security
Password Breach Alerts
Warns if your passwords are compromised
Privacy
Shake Permission Update
Limits app access to camera, mic, or location
Privacy
Hidden Pattern Trail
Lets users hide unlock pattern traces
Performance
Faster & Smoother System
Improved speed and stability
Battery
AI Battery Optimization
Smarter power saving using AI
Android Core
Android 16 Security Patches
Latest system-level security improvements
iOS integration
You may have overlooked many Apple-only features if you have Apple AirPods and a Xiaomi phone. The AirPods’ battery level was visible before the introduction of Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1. Similar to Apple AirPods, Xiaomi phones have developed as a local brother that will never be alone.
Important improvements like Apple-like native Pop Up support are included in the latest version of HyperOS 3.1. A brief card with details about the battery and connectivity now appears on your screen when you open the AirPod
Spatial Auido, one of Apple’s most exclusive features, is now accessible. Users of Xiaoimi can now enjoy native 360-degree immersive audio. Additionally, the HyperOS club allows you to control the connection time, ANC, and Transparency mode.
Additionally, instead of displaying the standard Bluetooth icon, it only displays the appropriate AirPods model icon. Notably, Xiaomi’s “Find My” Integration allows you to locate your misplaced AirPods using Xiaomi Online Search without even requirin
New UI animations
Xiaomi rewrites Gallery and Weather and changes its animations. To enhance system performance, all outdated code has been eliminated. The new APK files will crash when installed on older HyperOS 3 devices as a result of this modification.
Additionally, the company imitated the latest iOS 26 app animation. Switching between programs feels more contemporary because to the new style, which resembles the iOS cards.
Improvements have been made to the white bar at the bottom of the screen that indicates when you are in full-screen mode. It now responds better to touch and moves more fluidly.
HyperOS 3.1 now has a new Motion Sickness function from Xiaomi. Motion sickness-causing visual motion cues are lessened by this featur
Improved Super Island
Although Super Island now uses the native Android 16 “Live update” API, it was completely inspired by iOS Dynamic Island. Thus, Xiaomi-specific code will no longer be required for international apps such as Uber, Spotify, or other food delivery services to display real-time information on Super Island
Following this upgrade, Xiaomi added a Todo Notes feature. You no longer need to open the app landing page in order to view a variety of notifications, QR codes, and map instructions in Island. Additionally, a function known as Lock Screen Card Swipe is added. This makes it simple to swipe through your cards, including transit and payment cards, directly on the lock screen. You won’t have to visit a different wallet website.
The new Music Progress Bar, which was completely lifted from iOS, is one of my favorites. The media player on the island now has a glowing progress bar thanks to a straightforward yet lovely modification.
System Core enhancements
The “Assistance” Menu functionality was implemented in HyperOS 3.1 (Accessibility Settings Change). This indicates that Xiaomi renamed and relocated the accessibility options to a new main menu called “Assistance.” Those who require simpler phone controls or who have vision or hearing issues can benefit from these options.
Features, for instance, relocated there. Active Visual Perception improves the clarity of what users see or comprehend on the screen. Screen readers, text size control, and tools for hearing and vision assistance.
Additionally, the new biometric area offers a more contemplative experience. Additionally, Xiaomi included Quick Gestures control, which is only available on more recent high-end models like the Poco F8 Ultra and Redmi K90 Pro Max.
As I have stated, deep ecosystems are greatly impacted by Apple AirPod integration. Additionally, the most crucial brick is iPhone Cross-Compatibility (Xiaomi + iPhone). You can now answer and receive calls from your Xiaomi phone directly on your iPhone if you have both an iPhone and a Xiaomi phone. To put it simply:
When your Xiaomi phone calls, you may answer it on your iPhone. Thus, you don’t always need to touch your Xiaomi phone. Since Apple and Xiaomi often don’t collaborate closely, this function is unique in that it links two competing ecosystems.
Many security improvements
The Passwprd App, similar to iOS, is now one of the key features of HyperOS 3.1. Similar to Apple, this new tool helps you manage your Wi-Fi passwords, passkeys, and app logins.
It can detect and alert you if your passwords have been stolen. Additionally, it allows you to manage all of your passwords in one location by combining them from several online browsers. Additionally, it offers a simple method for your passwords to be automatically filled in throughout the system.
The way you can use patterns and fingerprints has changed in the latest release. The pattern trace can now be concealed once more. Additionally, it is now simpler to select your security options because the fingerprint unlock is independent of the private password settings.
Shake Permission Update is a new function that allows you to modify your privacy. This enables you to restrict access to your location and camera, for example, only when your screen is on. Additionally, you have the option to restrict these permissions to eight seconds following the opening of an application. By doing this, you can stop apps from following you when you’re not
Overall, HyperOS 3.1’s improvements prioritize polish over a significant redesign, enhancing ecosystem connectivity, privacy, battery efficiency, and smoothness. This beta seems more polished, reliable, and prepared for the future than earlier HyperOS iterations thanks to Apple-inspired features and Android 16 security improvements.
One of the best things about owning a Garmin smartwatch is its battery life. One of the main drawbacks of owning a smartwatch is alleviated by Garmin, which produces long-range timepieces where companies like Samsung and Google fall short.
The Instinct Crossover Solar may be worth considering if you’ve been considering trying something from Garmin. Despite its seemingly simple appearance, the watch is everything but. It combines digital and analog to create a unique appearance. Additionally, as previously said, it has an amazing battery life.
No more charging
Garmin Instinct Crossover Solar
Luminescent analog watch hands in a bold, rugged watch body with dual-layered bezel
You can keep the watch operating indefinitely by just charging it with solar power if you’re prepared to put it in power-saving mode. It can last up to 71 days in smartwatch mode and 31 hours in GPS mode.
This is an excellent watch to use if battery life is important because it generally outperforms everything from the competition.
Garmin Instinct Crossover Solar highlights: what’s great and worth knowing
The Instinct Crossover Solar can monitor your fitness and health stats, just like other Garmin smartwatches. Sports apps and daily exercise recommendations are integrated. It will provide information on your stress levels and sleep quality in addition to the standard tracking features.
Additionally, you can receive notifications directly on your wrist because it’s a smartwatch. Additionally, you may use Garmin Pay to check out at compatible terminals in case you forget your wallet at home. Additionally, you may use the watch’s physical buttons to traverse menus and screens even if it lacks a touchscreen.
The fact that this watch is now on sale for a substantial discount is what really sets it apart. For a brief period, you can purchase this item for just $250 instead of the typical retail price of $450. Tidal Blue and Graphite are the two available colors. Before you miss it, get it while it’s on sale.
Garmin Instinct Crossover Solar
Luminescent analog watch hands in a bold, rugged watch body with dual-layered bezel
Two groups of researchers have found two new, distinct types of malware that function similarly and are embedded in a variety of programs that are accessible through different channels. Worst of all, the standard advice to “don’t install apps from strange sites” is less helpful because some of them are even available on the Google Play Store.
Although these two pieces of malware appear to be distinct, they function similarly. They exploit the functions of your phone to click on advertisements nonstop, slowing it down and significantly depleting its battery.
Virtual screens, real ads
Researchers at the mobile security company Dr.Web found the latest recent spyware, which has not yet been named. Bleeping Computer revealed the discovery. This malware makes use of the TensorFlow.js framework that Google distributed with Android phones to enable machine learning operations in browsers.
And it works: when the malware is activated, it creates a virtual (false) screen where it shows and clicks on advertisements. Compared to more traditional ad-clickers, the clicks appear far more natural due to the usage of a machine learning technique. However, it has an equally detrimental effect on your device as earlier malware, with notable effects on battery life and processing speed.
Even worse, the app allows attackers to interact with the fake display as needed by opening a permanent livestream on your device.
Interestingly, Xiaomi’s GetApps software catalog is where the apps originates. Dr.Web claims that the malware is introduced after the apps are uploaded, avoiding all possible security measures.
inevitably, third-party app websites like Apkmody and Moddroid have also been severely compromised by the malware. Researchers assert that both the latter’s Editor’s Choice list and “premium” versions of apps like Spotify that may be accessible on Telegram channels are rife with compromised apps.
According to reports, the Honor Magic V6 foldable has earned a 3C certification and disclosed a few key features. The most recent listing clarifies if the forthcoming flagship smartphone will actually have the biggest battery to date or whether this is simply a rumor.
ExperienceThe Honor Magic V6 has many upshifts (new changes) this time, according to more Weibo tipsters. from a large folding mechanism to a number of recognizable features.
The informant added that the Honor Magic V6 passed the 3C certification. He posted two pictures that showed the device’s battery specifications.
Honor Magic V6 passed the 3C certification
Honor intends to seed a premium battery pack in the highest storage variant based on the 3C data. It has two batteries—2320mAh and 4680mAh—and a rating of about 7000mAh, with an average value of 7150mAh.
This deal appears to be fairly strong and is almost $1,000 more than the Magic V5 model from the previous generation. Other storage models will probably include a 6700mAh battery pack, with a typical value of 6850mAh, according to the tipster.
The Magic V6, which has the biggest battery capacity to date, is expected to launch as a formidable competitor in the foldable market, according to early leaks. This is further supported by the current listing. For this gadget, Honor might also employ innovative battery technology.
And here’s some positive news! Honor has revealed that the ROBOT PHONE and the Magic V6 foldable will make their worldwide debut at the MWC 2026 event.
Along with the gadgets’ primary features and important specifications, the business will provide an official look at them. It will also reveal information about its next AI-powered innovations and other plans to promote sustainable growth.
The latest version of Xiaomi’s HyperOS is almost here, and it looks like there will be a lot of changes. Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1 appears to be attempting to improve the appearance of their software by drawing inspiration from well-known skins. There is a significant hitch, though, that could let some users with outdated specs down. According to the most recent reports, this upgrade will only come on Android 16 devices because it is closely related to the underlying OS design.
What are the new features that are coming to HyperOS 3.1?
We have also been monitoring the development of Xiaomi’s latest software update, and version 3.1 has a long list of features. The “Stacked Layout Style” in more modern apps is likely to be the first thing you notice. You will therefore recognize this design if you have used an iPhone within the last year or so. A horizontal scroll where the apps stack seamlessly one after the other has replaced the conventional two-column grid. It’s noteworthy to note that individuals who are prepared to take the risk can already download this launcher upgrade.
Improved “Super Island”
Additionally, Xiaomi is creating a Super Island settings page that lets users select which apps are linked to the animation effect and improving the HyperIsland feature. Not only is functionality being enhanced, but visual effects are as well. The media playing progress indicator on the island is now interactive thanks to new light effects. Additionally, the Super Island logic has been improved for smoother transitions. This was a problem that many users had previously brought up because animations were stuttering.
More customizations
In terms of versatility, HyperOS 3.1 is a great choice for home screen organizers. Drag-and-drop folder size changes are now properly regarded. To enable users to conceal numerous apps in a tiny area without sacrificing accessibility, new folder sizes including 2×1 and 1×2 have been included, along with page turning. A complete photo editing suite is added to the Lock Screen to facilitate the placement of widgets and the incorporation of depth effects.
System-wide improvements
There are other “under the hood” adjustments in addition to the aesthetic modifications that are intended to make the phone appear smarter.
Multi-Volume Adjustment: Managing media, ringer, or alarm volume all at once gets a new design.
Bluetooth Memory: The system will now remember the connection status of Bluetooth devices more accurately.
HyperAI Suggestions: The active suggestions in the app drawer and negative screen are getting the optimization boost. (China only)
Roadmap
The HyperOS 3 Beta Phase 2 recruitment will take place in two waves from January 22 to January 30, according to the official Xiaomi announcement. In its job ad, the business makes it clear that these are engineering builds that are not stable and should not be used as everyday drivers. The first round of updates, which concentrated on the newest flagship devices, started on January 22.
The following gadgets will be compatible with the first wave of upgrades for China:
While the testing process is underway, Xiaomi claims that beta testers are unable to upgrade to the stable build right away. Users in the first batch will begin receiving OTAs on January 22; users in the second batch will receive the update ten days after the distribution process begins.
When the update is expected?
According to our sources, Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1 is anticipated to become available in China in February. However, it is limited to Android 16-capable smartphones. This implies that the Xiaomi 17 series and other flagship devices, like the Xiaomi 15T Pro, will receive the updates first. The aforementioned upgrades might not be accessible to you if you are currently using a device that won’t be receiving the Android 16 update. Xiaomi typically transfers some of the functions to the outdated operating system, though.
