Samsung ignited the competitive foldable market, but I’m more enthusiastic about an impending unique competitor.

      Samsung took a significant step forward with its Galaxy Z Fold 8, which features a major redesign for the company's foldable series. The new device has a shorter, nearly passport-shaped body that unfolds to reveal a 7.6-inch display with a more media-friendly 4:3 aspect ratio. This design feels more natural compared to the previous squarer foldables. Additionally, it weighs a more portable 201 grams and is equipped with a respectable 4,800mAh battery.

      This combination makes it one of Samsung's most intriguing foldables to date. However, a forthcoming Xiaomi device may take this wide-screen concept and incorporate some of the eccentricities unique to Chinese smartphones.

      Xiaomi could introduce its own unique silicon

      Recently, a Xiaomi foldable identified by the model number 2608BPX34C appeared in China's CMIIT certification database. Currently, it’s referred to as the Xiaomi Mix Fold 5, Xiaomi 17 Fold, or Mix Fold 6, indicating that the final name is still undecided.

      What really grabbed my attention are the rumored specifications. Xiaomi's foldable might feature a 7.6-inch inner display, a 200MP main camera, wireless charging, and an estimated 6,000mAh battery. This would provide it with a 1,200mAh advantage over Samsung's Z Fold 8, at least in theory. Additionally, the listing suggests it could be equipped with the XRING O3 processor. Xiaomi first unveiled its flagship in-house chip, the 3nm XRING O1, back in 2025, which offered remarkable performance and allowed the company greater control over imaging, AI processing, and energy management. As a result, the Mix Fold 5 could stand out significantly from other high-end foldables that rely on the latest Snapdragon platform.

      Before you get overly enthusiastic

      The certification confirms that Xiaomi is working on an unreleased device, but details regarding its official name, design, or hardware specifications are still pending. The same model number has also been connected to rumors of Xiaomi’s tri-fold phone, leaving its exact identity uncertain.

      It’s possible that Xiaomi will unveil this model prior to its next-generation flagship phones, with a debut likely set for sometime between August and September in China. However, it’s expected to come with a high price tag of around 10,000 yuan or more (approximately $1,500 USD). Until we receive more concrete information or official announcements, consider this as just another rumor.

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      Experienced tech journalist Vikhyaat Vivek covers consumer hardware with a focus on...

      After years of using foldable phones, I've come to realize that selecting the right one involves much more than just aesthetics or size. Book-style foldables are typically marketed as productivity devices, whereas flip phones appeal to those who prioritize portability. Samsung’s latest offerings complicate this decision by launching two distinctly different book-style models alongside its standard clamshell.

      Many shared specifications become less significant once you start using them; the design and screens greatly influence daily use. Thus, here’s my guidance on choosing between the new Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold 8, and Galaxy Z Flip 8.

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      Learn how to set up selfie video sign-in for your Google account

      Your face can now be utilized as a method to regain access to your Google account. Here’s how to configure it.

      Regaining access to a Google account is often a complex issue, but Google has been striving to simplify the process. Last year, the introduction of Recovery Contacts allowed users to designate a trusted friend or family member to verify their identity if they ever encountered lockout. Now, Google has rolled out an additional option that enables you to use a selfie video instead of making a phone call to a friend.

      Similar to Recovery Contacts, the new video authentication feature requires some setup before using your face for account login. This includes recording a reference video that Google will use to confirm your identity whenever you attempt to log in this way. Here’s how to set up selfie video sign-in for your Google account.

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      Apple may restrict app access on financed iPhones due to missed payments

      Code discovered in the iOS 27 beta hints at a system that could limit most apps until any outstanding payments are settled.

      Reports indicate that Apple is expected to launch a Klarna-supported financing program next week, allowing users to pay off an iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple Watch in monthly installments over a two to three-year period. Although Apple has yet to provide details about the rumored "Apple Upgrade" program, code found in an iOS 27 beta release suggests that the company has developed a mechanism to handle customers who default on payments, potentially including a built-in switch for lenders to disable most apps.