We finally got a glimpse of Android 17's gaming technique reminiscent of the Nintendo DS.

      Your Android foldable could soon function as a compact gaming handheld

      Foldable smartphones have significantly advanced in recent years, and my experience with the Motorola Razr Fold has reinforced this notion. Beyond the novelty of a flexible display, manufacturers are incorporating unique features that truly leverage the foldable design and laptop-like configurations.

      Now, Android 17 may shift its focus from just productivity to provide a new way to engage with video games. A preview shared on Reddit by Mishaal Rahman reveals a forthcoming foldable gaming mode. This is a platform feature accompanying Android 17. Simply unfold your device, launch a compatible game, and Android can divide the screen into two segments. The top section displays the game, while the bottom segment transforms into a dedicated virtual gamepad. If this evokes memories of older handheld gaming consoles like the Nintendo DS, you are absolutely correct!

      How does the new controller function?

      The virtual gamepad aims to mimic physical controller inputs at the system level. Therefore, it should work seamlessly with games that already support controllers, without the need for developers to create a new touch layout from scratch. The current button configuration features 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 configurations, size adjustments (small/medium/large), light and dark themes, and a toggle for haptic feedback.

      Additionally, the controller can conceal itself when not in use. If you connect a physical controller via Bluetooth or USB, the virtual gamepad is designed to deactivate automatically. Touch-only games can still utilize the entire unfolded screen without being forced into the controller layout.

      Foldables are finally receiving the gaming enhancements they deserve

      However, there is a limitation: games must be adaptable to properly utilize the 50/50 layout when the device is unfolded. Currently, users cannot modify the game-to-controller split or make the controls semi-transparent as an overlay, though device manufacturers might implement their own adjustments, as the feature is part of AOSP.

      This means that brands 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 other large-screen foldable may each handle the feature differently. While this won't replace gaming enthusiasts who favor a physical controller, it certainly adds more convenience and a touch of nostalgia for many casual gaming sessions.

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

      iPhone 18 may see a RAM upgrade, but just a slight increase for AI tasks in iOS 27

      A recent report indicates that the additional memory is intended to keep Apple Intelligence functioning smoothly. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo from TF International Securities, the standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e are expected to transition from 8GB to 9GB of RAM, mainly to enhance Apple Intelligence integration in iOS 27.

      Just enough RAM to keep Apple Intelligence satisfied

      This free iPhone app utilizes calming haptics to assist in relaxation

      This iOS application avoids accounts and subscriptions, depending solely on touch to help you unwind.

      Most mindfulness apps require account creation, subscription payments, and significant attention investment before they can help you relax. Vän, a new iPhone app from Swiss indie developer Adrian Stanco, is designed contrary to that.

      I discovered the app on Reddit, and the 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 is already capable of making. This results in a sense of calm achieved by merely holding your smartphone, rather than focusing on the screen.

      In the final hours of Prime Day, I found the best deals to prevent any feelings of regret for missing out

      A few hours remain, with plenty of great deals and no time to overthink your choices.

      Prime Day 2026 officially concludes today, and while some offers are already sold out, I have carefully curated the best remaining deals. Below are selections I would confidently endorse with my own money, encompassing mid-range Android smartphones, flagship foldables, bone-conduction earbuds, Bose products, and smartwatches across all price ranges. Act quickly before time runs out.