We finally caught a glimpse of Android 17's gaming technique that resembles a Nintendo DS.

      Your Android foldable might soon serve as a mini gaming handheld

      Foldable smartphones have significantly evolved in recent years, and my experience with the Motorola Razr Fold has reinforced that notion. Beyond the novelty of a flexible display, manufacturers are incorporating distinctive features that effectively utilize the foldable design and orientations similar to laptops.

      With Android 17, the focus may shift from solely productivity to providing a new way to engage with video games. A preview shared on Reddit by Mishaal Rahman reveals a new foldable gaming mode, which will be a platform feature included in Android 17. You can simply unfold your device, launch a compatible game, and Android will split the screen into two sections. The upper section displays the game, while the lower portion functions as a dedicated virtual gamepad. If this brings to mind older handheld gaming devices like the Nintendo DS, you're absolutely correct!

      How does the new controller function?

      The virtual gamepad is crafted to mimic physical controller inputs at the system level, meaning it should be compatible with games that already support controllers, without developers needing to create a custom touch layout from scratch. The current button configuration consists of a D-pad, left and right thumbsticks, A/B/X/Y buttons, L1/L2/L3, R1/R2/R3, and a Start button. Android 17 also offers several customization options, including various twin-stick layouts, sizing options (small, medium, large), light and dark themes, and a toggle for haptic feedback.

      Additionally, the controller can conceal itself when not in use. If a physical controller is connected via Bluetooth or USB, the virtual gamepad will automatically disable. Touch-only games can continue to use the fully unfolded screen without imposing the controller layout.

      Foldables are finally receiving the gaming enhancements they merit

      The catch is that games must be adaptive to effectively utilize the 50/50 layout when the device is unfolded. Moreover, users currently cannot modify the game-to-controller split or make the controls transparent as an overlay, though device manufacturers could implement their own adjustments since the feature is part of AOSP.

      In other words, companies like Samsung, Google, OnePlus, Honor, and other foldable manufacturers could customize the experience for their specific hardware. A Galaxy Z Fold, Pixel Fold, or any large-screen foldable may handle the feature differently. While this may not serve as an immediate substitute for gaming enthusiasts who prefer physical controllers, it offers more convenience for many casual gaming sessions and adds a touch of nostalgia.

      Vikhyaat Vivek is a tech journalist and reviewer with seven years of experience focusing on consumer hardware.

      iPhone 18 might receive a RAM increase, but only slightly to support AI tasks in iOS 27

      A recent report suggests that the additional memory is intended to ensure the smooth functioning of Apple Intelligence.

      Apple's upcoming iPhone may not undergo a significant RAM upgrade, but it could receive just enough additional memory to support its expanding AI capabilities seamlessly. According to TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e are anticipated to upgrade from 8GB to 9GB of RAM, primarily to enhance the integration of Apple Intelligence in iOS 27. Just enough RAM to satisfy Apple Intelligence.

      This free iPhone app employs soothing haptics to assist in relaxation

      This iOS app avoids requiring accounts and subscriptions, relying solely on touch to help you unwind.

      Most mindfulness applications ask you to create an account, subscribe, and provide a considerable amount of your focus before helping you to relax. Vän, a new iPhone app from Swiss indie developer Adrian Stanco, has been designed to be the opposite. I discovered the app on Reddit, and the initial description intrigued me enough to give it a try. Instead of sounds or endless scrolling, it relies entirely on haptics, the subtle vibrations your phone can produce. The outcome is a sense of calm that comes from simply holding your smartphone rather than staring at the screen.

      In the final hours of Prime Day, I found the best deals to save you from regretting missed opportunities

      A few more hours, numerous fantastic deals available, and no time left to hesitate.

      Prime Day 2026 officially concludes today, and while some deals have already sold out, I have thoroughly explored the entire site to identify the best remaining offers. Below are the selections that I would confidently invest in myself, spanning from mid-range Android smartphones to premium foldables, bone conduction earbuds to Bose products, and smartwatches at various price points. Act quickly, as time is running out. Best Amazon Prime Day deals on smartphones.