At first glance, the closures might suggest weakening demand. But shoppers haven't abandoned their favorite brands. Instead, they're changing how they browse, buy, and interact with retailers.

That shift is reshaping the apparel industry.

As consumers embrace a more flexible mix of online and in-store shopping, retailers are rethinking how many stores they need and where those should be located. Across the sector, companies are investing in more productive locations while reducing their overall store count.

Now, one of the world's largest fashion groups is closing more than 100 stores across several brands while continuing to grow sales and invest heavily in future expansion.

The company behind the move is Inditex (Industria de Diseño Textil, S.A.), the Spanish retail giant that owns Zara, Zara Home, Pull&Bear, Massimo Dutti, Bershka, Stradivarius, Oysho, and Lefties.

The group operates thousands of stores across nearly 100 markets and maintains online sales platforms in 215 worldwide. 

Inditex closes 106 stores across multiple brands

Inditex (IDEXY) closed 106 stores during the first quarter of fiscal 2025, ending the period with 5,456 locations worldwide, according to its earnings report.

The closures are the latest step in a multi-year strategy to optimize the company's store network.

Over the past several years, Inditex has consolidated smaller locations into larger flagship stores while investing heavily in logistics, technology, and digital capabilities to improve efficiency and long-term profitability, rather than reducing its physical retail presence.

Here's some of my previous coverage of Inditex store closures:

• Global retailer closes 132 stores across several brands

As part of that effort, Inditex is investing approximately €900 million ($1.05 billion) annually to improve logistics capabilities, renovate existing stores, and relocate or open locations in high-traffic areas.

"The end result of our unique approach is the integration of the physical with the online experience in a seamless manner that permits us, across multiple formats, to rapidly react to changing fashion trends and offer the latest collections," Inditex CEO Óscar García Maceiras said during an earnings call.

Inditex store closures by brand

Store closures during the quarter included:

• Zara: 50 
• Zara Home: 27
• Pull&Bear: 12
• Massimo Dutti: 19
• Bershka: 4
• Stradivarius: 1
• Oysho: 16

Lefties was the only brand to increase its footprint, opening eight new stores during the period.

While several brands opened new locations alongside the closures, Zara and Zara Home accounted for the majority of the reductions. The figures suggest the company is prioritizing larger and more strategically located stores rather than pursuing aggressive store-count growth.

Why is Inditex closing stores?

The closures are part of a long-term strategy focused on upgrading stores, relocating locations, and expanding in key markets.

The company continues to expand internationally while introducing new services designed to improve the customer experience and strengthen the connection between physical stores and online platforms.

"Currently, we have operations in 215 markets with a relatively low market share in each of these," said Maceiras during the earnings call. "Let's not forget the highly fragmented nature of almost all of these markets. All this offers us substantial future growth opportunities."

He added that retail optimization activities, including refurbishments, relocations, openings, and absorptions, were carried out across 44 markets during the quarter.

The strategy reflects a broader retail trend in which industry analysts note that physical stores are no longer seen solely as sales channels but also as fulfillment hubs, customer service centers, and brand showrooms, all aimed at supporting digital growth.

Rather than measuring success by store count alone, many major retailers now focus on productivity per location, customer engagement, and omnichannel capabilities.

The rise of online shopping is reshaping retail

Online shopping continues to play a growing role in global retail sales, influencing how companies allocate resources and design their store networks.

Global e-commerce revenue surpassed $6 trillion in 2024 and is projected to reach $10 trillion by 2033, according to Capital One Shopping.

Still, physical stores remain critical to retail success. Worldwide online sales accounted for just 19.9% of total sales in 2024, indicating that the majority of purchases still occur in person.

For that reason, retailers like Inditex continue investing heavily in brick-and-mortar locations while integrating digital tools that allow customers to move seamlessly between online and in-store shopping.

The company expects annual gross space growth of around 5% in 2026, supported by positive net space contributions and continued strength in online sales.

Inditex also anticipates a 1% negative currency impact on 2026 sales at current exchange rates.

Retail experts say the strategy reflects a broader shift toward omnichannel retailing.

"One of Inditex's major strengths is its omnichannel integration, blending physical stores with a strong online presence," said Forbes Consumer Expert Contributor Kate Hardcastle. "This seamless shopping experience has been critical in keeping Inditex at the forefront of fashion retail, particularly as consumers increasingly demand flexibility in how they shop."

Inditex boosts sales despite store closures

Despite reducing its overall store count, Inditex's financial results suggest its strategy is delivering results.

During the first quarter of fiscal 2025, the company reported a net sales increase of nearly 5.8% year over year, or 8.8% in constant currency.

Executives attributed this growth to strong demand for the company's Spring/Summer collections. Online sales in constant currency from 1 May to 1 June 2026 also rose 11.5% compared with the same period last year.

To support long-term growth, Inditex expects to invest about €2.3 billion ($2.67 billion) in capital expenditures during 2026. The spending will primarily be directed toward commercial space optimization, technology integration, logistics improvements, and digital platform enhancements.

Here's some of my previous coverage of Inditex's retail strategy:

• Bad Bunny's bargain outfit breaks Super Bowl fashion tradition
• Award-winning music star unveils first-ever Zara collection

Although macroeconomic and geopolitical challenges have weighed on sales in parts of the Middle East, the company has continued to post global growth supported by strong product demand and a diversified supply chain.

"We have once again demonstrated a remarkable degree of adaptability, not only in terms of disciplined cost control, but also through the flexibility and resilience of our operating model," said Inditex Director of Investor Relations Gorka García-Tapia in its latest earnings call.

While the closures of more than 100 stores may appear significant on the surface, the numbers point to a company that is reshaping, not shrinking, its retail presence.

Rather than retreating from physical retail, Inditex is concentrating resources into larger, more productive locations while expanding its digital capabilities.

As consumer shopping habits continue to evolve, Inditex is betting that fewer stores, stronger logistics networks, and deeper digital integration will drive more growth than simply operating more locations.

Related: Another retail chain closing all stores after 33 years in business

T-Mobile’s most affordable 5G home internet plan has been hit with an artificial speed cap. We’re talking about the Rely Home Internet plan, which has been updated to include a new artificial cap on data speeds for new subscribers. Simultaneously, the prices of the 5G Home Internet plans have also increased.

T-Mobile has reportedly added an artificial speed cap to the Rely 5G home internet plan

As spotted by The Mobile Report, T-Mobile’s Rely Home Internet plan previously advertised as offering download speeds in a typical range of 170 to 498 mbps based on your location. However, it now reportedly offers speeds up to 354 mbps. This will apply to all new customers. The report notes that the plan now carries the internal name “Rely Home Internet Capped.” 

Before the change, all T-Mobile’s 5G home internet plans offered the same speed range, with higher tiers offering extra perks like Wi-Fi 7 routers and video streaming bundles. Now, those perks remain on the more expensive plans, which are now also promoted as coming without speed caps.

There’s a price change

T-Mobile has also quietly increased the price of all three 5G Home Internet plans by $5 per month for new subscribers. However, the autopay discounts have also gone up by $5, effectively cancelling out the price change for most new subscribers. They’ll be paying the same price, technically. Again, these new changes don’t affect existing subscribers. If you’re already on T-Mobile’s Rely plan, you have nothing to worry about. This only impacts new customers.

Separately, the carrier is marking 10 years of T-Mobile Tuesdays by launching “Member Month” this June. It has announced a bunch of freebies and discounts, turning it into a broader loyalty platform. The perks include Delta premium in-flight drinks and a free one-year subscription to DashPass by DoorDash. Then there’s up to 50 cents off per gallon of gas at Shell stations.

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At this point, it looks like Apple may unveil its first foldable, the iPhone Ultra, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro. The company is reportedly aiming to offer a crease-less display experience. Apple will reportedly turn to liquid metal for the hinge, which should make it quite durable. While that’s for hardware, today’s leak focuses on aesthetics. A Weibo tipster hints the foldable iPhone Ultra may not be available in a black color.

Apple’s iPhone Ultra foldable may not come in black color, tipster suggests

Well, if you were hoping for the classic black color option for the foldable iPhone, this is definitely disappointing news. Weibo leaker “Instant Digital” claims that Apple hasn’t decided yet whether the foldable screen will come in black. He even notes, “Do they have a vendetta against the color black?”

This remark certainly suggests black is probably under consideration, but isn’t confirmed as a part of the lineup. If that is indeed the case, it certainly seems significant for a device that may enter mass production imminently and debut officially in September.

Back in February, the leaker said the device would come in just two colors, with white as the only confirmed shade and the second was unspecified. In May, Instant Digital repeated that claim without changing any color details. While today’s leak isn’t in a contradictory tone, it adds uncertainty about what the second color might be.

The second color could be Indigo

MacWorld, citing a supply chain source, claimed the second finish will be an indigo option similar to iPhone 17 Pro’s Deep Blue, alongside white and a classic silver. The source also said the device will get fewer color choices than the iPhone 18 Pro models, with no bold shades. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman also similarly reported that Apple wants to stay away from fun colors and stick to traditional silver/white and space gray/black finishes.

For what it’s worth, Samsung Display’s OLED panels for the foldable iPhone are reportedly entering mass production. Companies usually finalize color choices in early stages. This is because they directly impact manufacturing and component procurement, both of which must be locked in well ahead of launch. So, given the foldable iPhone’s complexity and supply constraints, any major last-minute indecision seems unlikely. The rumor likely indicates some uncertainty within the supply chain about the second color.

The dummy units of the iPhone Ultra that have come out so far have only been in white. We’ll know more about Apple’s color choices for the iPhone Ultra as we move closer to the launch timeline.

The post Apple's First Foldable iPhone May Skip Black Color Option appeared first on Android Headlines.

Last month, Vivo debuted its V70 series phones in the Indian market. The company then introduced two devices, including the Vivo V70 and Vivo V70 Elite. These are mid-range smartphones with high-end features. The brand has quietly added another phone to the lineup: the Vivo V70 Lite. Unlike the earlier two models, this one is a budget offering.

Vivo’s V70 Lite is a budget offering with some high-end features

The Vivo V70 Lite budget phone brings a slightly similar specs sheet and design to its predecessor, the Vivo V60 Lite. It has highly narrow bezels, a punch-hole display, and a vertically-placed dual camera island at the rear. Vivo has equipped the phone with a 6.77-inch AMOLED display offering full HD + resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate.

Vivo has powered the V70 Lite with the MediaTek Dimensity 7400-Turbo chipset, which offers a maximum clock speed of 2.5GHz. It has paired the chipset with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage.

The other key specs and pricing details

Talking about the camera features, the Vivo V70 Lite features a 50MP primary Sony camera at the rear. There’s another 8MP wide-angle secondary shooter. For selfie lovers, the phone offers a 32MP shooter up front.

The software side of things is supported by OriginOS 6, based on Android 16. The connectivity features are standard, including 5G, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.4, and USB 2.0. Lastly, a 6,500mAh battery with 90W fast charging support keeps the whole package alive.

Let’s come to the pricing, the Vivo V70 Lite’s base model with 8GB of storage and 256GB of storage costs AED 1,099 (around $299). The higher-end variant with 12GB RAM and the same storage is available for AED 1,299 (approx. $354). The phone will initially be available in the UAE in black and gold colorways.

The post Vivo V70 Lite launches with the Dimensity 7400 Turbo SoC and 6,500mAh battery appeared first on Android Headlines.

PC gaming isn’t exactly in a good spot right now when it comes to acquiring the components and building a PC, and part of that has to do with availability. That might change some with the arrival of the RTX 50 Super series, which as one would have it, are not actually seeing any more delays according to a new rumor. Of course, this won’t do anything for the cost. No matter how many GPUs become available, the fact remains that they will still likely be expensive thanks to the ongoing memory crisis caused by AI data centers.

Still, having RTX 50 Super GPUs on the list of possible options means more GPUs for PC gamers. And that could lead to a somewhat balancing of other models, particularly OG options that are supposed to be less powerful. Buyers shouldn’t expect any large price drops, but it would be surprising if new arrivals didn’t cause some sort of price adjustment downward. Even if it were small.

NVIDIA RTX 50 Super delays subside, with the GPU now “back on track”

If you thought the RTX 50 Super GPU series was dead, you’d be forgiven for thinking that. It’s been a while since anything concrete about NVIDIA’s mid-cycle refresh has been mentioned. When rumors initially started surfacing about the cards, it was eventually rumored that NVIDIA was delaying a release. Likely brought on by diverting resources to development on AI technologies.

Now, @zed__Wang on X claims that RTX 50 Super GPUs are “back on track.” Suggesting that NVIDIA has once again resumed production work on these new GPU variants. What’s more is that NVIDIA apparently plans to add to the lineup with an RTX 5060 Super.

Additionally, it’s claimed that the specs remain “unchanged” for the RTX 5070 Super and RTX 5080 Super variants. So if you were hoping to get one of those, NVIDIA doesn’t appear to have switched out any specs. Of course, expect prices on these new GPUs to be quite high. At least higher than they would have been last Summer.

The post RTX 50 Super GPUs aren't dead after all, it seems appeared first on Android Headlines.

Our phones hold a lot of our personal information, including payment cards like credit or debit cards. So it’s not surprising that we’re starting to see more countries around the world accept digital forms of ID, saving users the hassle of bringing their physical cards around. Now, it looks like Google is expanding that feature by bringing Google Wallet Digital ID to Europe.

Google Wallet Digital ID is coming to Europe

Google made the announcement at Money 20/20 Europe in Amsterdam. While the company did not explicitly state which countries in Europe would get Google Wallet Digital ID support, Biometric Update claims it will arrive for users in Ireland, Spain, France, Italy, and Estonia. This means users there will be able to scan their passport to create a verified digital pass inside the app. Google says it rolls out some time this summer, but no specific date has been confirmed.

The setup works the same way it does in the US and UK. You record a short video selfie and scan your government ID. Google checks whether the two match, then adds the digital pass.

That being said, this doesn’t replace your physical passport at EU border control. The digital ID is mainly for online age verification and identity checks. You will still need a physical passport if you plan to travel overseas.

A more secure checkout experience

Google also announced changes to how Google Wallet handles online payments. The new Google Pay direct checkout brings your saved payment options straight to a retailer’s checkout page. This is similar to how Apple Pay works on supported sites. It’s available now for merchants using Airwallex, with Adyen support coming soon.

Google is also updating its Secure Payment Authentication feature for European shoppers. Anyone who’s bought something on a European site knows the drill. When you click “Place order,” you have to jump through a series of extra steps to verify your identity. According to Google, the updated SPA feature cuts those hurdles down significantly. 

Google says testing found authentication time dropped by 50% and conversions went up by 3%. The rollout covers Visa, Checkout.com, Autopay, and Adyen in the UK and Poland over the coming months.

The post Google Wallet Is Bringing Digital IDs to Europe This Summer, With More Wallet Upgrades in Tow appeared first on Android Headlines.

Apple will enforce age verification in the App Store for its users in Texas. This means users will have to confirm whether they are 18 years or older when creating an Apple account. This comes as the enforcement of Texas Senate Bill 2420 (the App Store Accountability Act) reaches its deadline. The bill requires app marketplaces and developers to ensure their users are age 18 or older.

Apple is implementing age verification in the App Store for new accounts in Texas

Texas users creating a new Apple account will have to verify their age through a credit card or government ID. This doesn’t affect existing users. On its part, the company may also automatically verify a user’s age by analyzing the age of their account and whether they have a credit card on file. Meanwhile, users under 18 must be part of a Family Sharing group, and parents need to give their consent for all App Store downloads, purchases, and in-app transactions.

As for developers, they need to ensure they’re providing age-appropriate content for those under 18 years. They can use Apple’s Declared Age Range API to check a user’s age range. They’re also responsible for implementing the correct age restrictions. Developers need to get consent from a parent if there is a significant change to an app.

Parents in Texas can revoke consent for any app they previously approved for their child. If there’s any violation, developers could face civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation.

The company opposed the law

For some context, the Texas Senate Bill 2420 was passed back in 2025. However, a federal judge issued a temporary injunction after backlash from tech groups and advocacy organizations on First Amendment grounds. After an administrative stay by the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals, the bill can now be enforced starting June 4th.

Apple opposed the law, arguing that age verification requires data collection and users need to share sensitive data for basic apps. MacRumors reports that Apple CEO Tim Cook even tried to persuade Texas Governor Greg Abbott into vetoing the law. However, the governor signed it regardless.

Google also needs to make similar changes

The case is still ongoing, and the Fifth Circuit court has not yet decided whether to keep the law in place (permanent stay of the injunction) during the appeals process. Courts also still need to rule on whether SB 2420 is constitutional and whether the state has the authority to impose age checks for app marketplaces. 

Google also needs to make similar changes to the Play Store. It’ll reportedly introduce age-checking tools for developers.

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The puzzle pieces for Samsung‘s upcoming foldable lineup are quickly locking into place. Earlier whispers pointed toward some exciting shifts—like a lighter body and a dual-chip distribution. However, the latest news regarding the battery department might leave power users wanting more. A recent appearance on a regulatory platform just pulled back the curtain on the Galaxy Z Flip 8‘s fast-charging capabilities, ruling out the long-awaited upgrade.

No charging speed upgrade for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8

As spotted by The Tech Outlook, the upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 8 recently cleared its official hurdles on the SGS certification database. The public paperwork lists an array of regional variations, confirming that the hardware is prepped for an international rollout across global markets.

Unfortunately, the tech specs hidden inside these documents put an end to any rumors of a high-speed charging revolution. The database lists the smartphone with a charging profile of 9V at 2.77A. This translates straight to standard 25W wired fast charging.

Four generations of playing it safe

If that number sounds incredibly familiar, it is because it is the exact same floor plan Samsung has relied on for years. So, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 will likely charge at the exact same velocity as the older Flip 7, Flip 6, Flip 5, and Flip 4. This means the product family is entering its fourth consecutive generation without a meaningful boost to its fill-up times.

On the other hand, if rumors are true, Fold fans will be happy in this section. Leaks claim that the book-style Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra are finally jumping up to 45W capabilities.

More specs

Returning to the Flip model, the rest of the anticipated sheet remains competitive. Rumors suggest we can look forward to a 4,300mAh power cell, a 50MP main camera system, and 12GB of RAM. You can also expect a significantly brighter display layout to help offset the lack of a speed bump. A repot report suggests a dual-chip regional strategy for the device as well.

We won’t have to wait very long to see how these elements perform in the real world. The official unveiling is expected to happen as early as next month. Until then, just keep in mind that you’ll likely want to keep your existing charger handy if you plan on making the upgrade.

The post Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 Won't Get Faster Charging, Certification Reveals appeared first on Android Headlines.

You may have a lucky streak, but even the most skilled gamblers eventually lose money.

“Every game in the casino is designed to give the casino an advantage. This is known as
the ‘house advantage,'” according to the American Gaming Association (AGA).

Even the skill-based games, including blackjack and other card games, have a house edge.

“In those games, skilled players can increase their chances of winning; however, their
outcomes also favor the casino over time. The house advantage is a mathematical
certainty that is figured into every casino game,” the AGA added.

That means when a casino loses money, it's because the operator can't attract enough customers.

For Maverick Gaming, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in July, according to documents filed on PacerMonitor, a lack of traffic has been part of why it has closed multiple casinos.

Maverick Gaming remains in Chapter 11 bankruptcy

Maverick Gaming, which owns and operates a portfolio of 27 properties across Nevada, Washington, and Colorado with a total of 1,800 slot machines, 350 table games, 1,020 hotel rooms, and 30 restaurants, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in July.

It closed the Silver Dollar SeaTac Casino in September laying off about 65 employees there,” the Puget Sound Business Journal reported.

Maverick disclosed the layoffs in a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification filed Tuesday, April 21, with the state of Washington.

“The WARN said Maverick told the state in September it planned to close the Silver Dollar, located at 19202 Pacific Highway S., in December, but Maverick didn’t end up doing so because it was negotiating a sale of the Silver Dollar as part of an ongoing bankruptcy proceeding. The company now plans to close the casino,” according to the Puget Sound Business Journal.

Now, the company has closed two more casinos as part of its ongoing Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Maverick Gaming closes two more casinos

Maverick shared on June 5 that it is closing two Washington casinos and laying off 132 employees while continuing its restructuring plan under Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, according to KIRO 7.

The layoffs are scheduled to take effect on July 31 and span a wide range of positions inside the Silver Dollar Mill Creek Casino and Crazy Moose Mountlake Casino, according to the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification.

• Crazy Moose Mountlake Casino disclosed that approximately 82 employees would be affected by the closure. The vast majority of the impacted positions are table game dealers, with hospitality and security teams also seeing significant cuts.
• At Silver Dollar Mill Creek Casino, approximately 41 employees are set to be laid off. The cuts range from table game dealers to security to management.

Maverick Gaming has disclosed three separate rounds of layoffs over the last two months, impacting 188 positions across its SeaTac, Bothell, and Mountlake Terrace locations, according to KIRO.

Maverick hopes to remain open

Maverick Gaming, under its corporate name, RunItOneTime LLC, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on July 14, 2025, according to court documents found on PacerMonitor.

“The decision to initiate this court-supervised process follows a strategic review of Maverick’s capital structure and operations,” Maverick shared in a press release.

More Bankruptcy:

• Classic comfort food chain forced into Chapter 11 bankruptcy
• Another award-winning beer brand files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy
• After bankruptcy, Hooters closes restaurants, fights for survival

Maverick’s filing came after a report from S&P Global Ratings that cast serious doubt on its finances.

“The ratings agency stated that the company’s capital structure was ‘unsustainable’ because high fixed charges, including interest, rent, capital expenditures, and lease costs, outpaced forecasted earnings.”

That was followed by an even stronger action by S&P.

In June 2025, S&P Global Ratings withdrew all ratings on Maverick Gaming, including its ‘CCC’ issuer credit rating, citing a lack of sufficient information to maintain coverage. At the time of withdrawal, the agency maintained a negative outlook on the company.

The action was later summarized by SCCG Management, a gaming industry advisory firm.

The filing followed an agreement between Maverick and its creditors.

At the time of the filing, Maverick said it planned to keep all of its locations open.

“Maverick Gaming’s properties remain open and operational, and the company is continuing to deliver the same high-quality gaming and hospitality experience that customers have come to expect,” the company shared.

Related: Google tries to take on Amazon for shopping

Google is beginning to roll out the update to Google Health that brings it up to version 5.01 which is the June Update, and although it doesn’t appear to be a massive update, it does include some notable changes. The update started rolling out the week of June 4 and has continued to reach all users. The important bit about the update for people that have been using the app since Google launched it, is that there are some fixes to what could only be described as very annoying bugs.

Google launched Google Health earlier this year after it began transitioning the Fitbit app into Google Health as a more unified offering. This transition has been part of its plan to put stuff under the Google umbrella as far as labels are concerned. It slowly started phasing out the Fitbit app on phones and tablets, and has since moved to phasing out the app on watches too.

Google Health app update version 5.01 lets you log custom foods

One of the key changes coming to the app with this update is the ability to log custom foods. To be clear, this isn’t all custom foods. Right now it’s only custom foods that were previously created. However, you’ll be able to log new custom foods in the future. Google plans to add this capability in a future update.

Google is also adding improvements to third-party food logging. As well as a feature to receive guidance on how to reach your macronutrient goals. Additionally, the update now labels workouts correctly. For example, some users were going on runs and the app would label those runs as different types of workouts. Google says this has now been fixed.

The loading states from Maps have been improved as well, and the Today Feed on Android will no show updated information for people that weren’t seen the most recent details.

The post Google Health gets a very welcomed update to fix annoying bugs appeared first on Android Headlines.

The rumor mill has been spinning for months regarding the upcoming Galaxy S27 Pro. Several reports have given us a relatively clear picture of what Samsung is planning for this flagship. But just when we thought we knew everything, a fresh hardware rumor dropped, and it changes the whole game. According to a new leak, the Galaxy S27 Pro might just inherit the battery capacity of the “Ultra” series. And, in daily use, it could actually beat the top-tier model where it hurts the most: battery life.

Galaxy S27 Pro may bring a big battery surprise

According to a report from tipster kro on X, the Galaxy S27 Pro will equip a massive 5,000mAh battery cell. If that number sounds familiar, it is because it is the exact same capacity currently found in the current Galaxy S26 Ultra. In fact, it is the same figure present on every Galaxy S Ultra model since the introduction of the lineup.

But here is where the math gets fun. The Galaxy S27 Pro is expected to sport a 6.47-inch display. That is a noticeably smaller screen than the giant canvas on Galaxy S Ultra handsets. Since a smaller screen takes way less power to juice up, the Pro model could outlast its bigger, more expensive sibling in endurance.

How did they fit it? The S Pen theory

The big question is how Samsung managed to cram an Ultra-sized battery into a much more compact body. Although there is nothing official yet, it could be thanks to the rumored absence of S Pen support.

The Ultra has to carve out a massive internal garage just to store its built-in stylus. But according to leaks, the Galaxy S27 Pro skips it entirely. Ditching that physical slot frees up an immense amount of internal space. This gave Samsung’s engineers the perfect opportunity to expand the battery size.

When you combine this massive battery with previous leaks claiming the Pro will also share the main and ultrawide camera sensors of the Galaxy S27 Ultra, the Galaxy S27 Pro starts to look like a serious disruptor. We will still have to wait for official confirmation closer to the standard February launch window. Still, this potential battery upgrade makes the Galaxy S27 Pro one of the most exciting, practical options on the horizon.

The post Samsung Galaxy S27 Pro Leak Hints at Ultra-Level Battery in a Smaller Body appeared first on Android Headlines.

The telecom behemoth has spent years trying to convince investors that its story is greater than dividends, debt reduction and old-school wireless service.

That effort has been strengthened. AT&T has been busy extending its fiber footprint, investing big amounts in 5G, and working to rebuild its balance sheet.

But a new concern has entered the discussion.

AT&T shares recently took a dive after Oppenheimer downgraded the stock, warning that Starlink could pose a stronger threat to existing communications providers over time.

Investors have to price that risk in.

But AT&T’s newest tie-up hints that Wall Street might be forgetting another piece of the story.

AT&T will provide 5G connection for Rivian’s (RIVN) R2 electric car platform across the U.S. and Canada, the company said, building on a cooperation that began in 2023.

The agreement provides AT&T a bigger role in the connected car market, a space that might help the firm make money from its network beyond phones, fiber and residential broadband.

AT&T expands its Rivian connected-car business

The Rivian deal isn’t just about adding wireless service to another car.

It signals a broader transition in the auto sector.

Cars are increasingly becoming software platforms that require ongoing connectivity to allow for navigation, entertainment, AI assistants, real-time services and over-the-air software updates.

This shift creates an opportunity for companies like AT&T.

Key takeaways from AT&T's Rivian deal

• AT&T will provide 5G connectivity for Rivian’s R2 platform.
• The agreement expands a relationship first announced in 2023.
• The network will support software updates, infotainment and artificial intelligence-powered features.
• The deal strengthens AT&T’s position in the connected vehicle market.
• It gives investors another growth angle beyond wireless and broadband.

The companies said an AT&T network will allow Rivian R2 owners to receive faster software upgrades, improved infotainment and linked services that potentially expand the vehicle’s capabilities after it leaves the factory.

“Connectivity is increasingly central to how vehicles are designed, delivered, and improved,” AT&T Connected Solutions Vice President Matt Harden said in a company statement.

That line matters because it explains why the Rivian deal fits AT&T’s broader strategy.

Related: AT&T, Verizon back $1.2B broadband bet in space tech leader

The company already connects millions of autos and fleet vehicles. AT&T has an opportunity to turn its 5G network into a regular revenue stream for enterprises as automakers switch to software-defined vehicles.

AT&T's financial story is bigger than Starlink

The AT&T profits profile won’t change overnight with the Rivian deal.

That’s not the point.

The real question is, can AT&T leverage its network to produce growth in areas that Wall Street may be underestimating?

The company reported $31.5 billion revenue in the first quarter, up 2.9% year over year. Adjusted earnings per share rose to 57 cents from 51 cents a year earlier, while EBITDA rose to $11.8 billion.

AT&T remained on the list of top dividend stocks, with $7.6 billion in operating cash flow.

Those numbers go a long way to explaining why many investors still view AT&T as a secure income investment.

But the company needs more than just stability.

If Starlink begins to take market share in the broadband industry over time, AT&T will have to show how its investments in 5G will fuel growth in other categories.

This is where connected cars, enterprise services and the Internet of Things come in.”

More AI:

• Micron sits at the center of a red-hot chip rally
• IBM CEO sends blunt message on AI and quantum computing
• Anthropic CEO makes shocking admission about AI

The Rivian partnership gives AT&T a neater growth story at a time when investors are all about disruption.

Wall Street may have a point about Starlink.

But AT&T’s new relationship illustrates that the business is not standing still.

It is looking to make its network the backbone for more connected devices, more connected automobiles and more enterprise services.

Maybe that's the part of the tale investors are missing.

Related: AT&T rolls out new phone plan to keep customers from leaving

In 1825, the information highway ran on iron rails, in Britain at least. In 1824 and 1825, prospectuses were issued for 624 railroad companies, so in early 1825, the famous London merchant banker Francis Baring declared that “a gambling mania has seized upon all classes and is spreading in all parts of the country.”

In its March 1825 issue, The Quarterly, a London publication, also proclaimed, “Nothing now is heard of but the railroads. The daily papers teem with notices of new lines in every direction; pamphlets are thrown before the public eye recommending nothing [else] throughout the Kingdom.”

This high-technology market bubble predictably topped out in July 1825 in England, and many companies were in stock liquidation by late 1825, when the first British commercial railroads began operations.

Meanwhile, across the ocean, after America prevailed in two wars of Independence with Britain (the second in 1812), we trailed Britain in technology, with many frontiers to conquer. The proposed Erie Canal would link the Hudson River to the Great Lakes, in a series of locks 363 miles long, falling 555 feet in 83 locks. It was 40 feet wide and only four feet deep and was dug out entirely by hand.

On the nation’s 41st birthday, July 4, 1817, New York Governor DeWitt Clinton turned the first shovelful of dirt on that great undertaking, one of the great early NYSE-funded efforts in nation building. At the time, everyone thought the canal would take decades to build, but that Clinton politician of old sounded like JFK in 1961 when he said, “The day will come in less than 10 years when we will see Erie water flowing into the Hudson.” Like our 1960s moon-shot, the finished canal happened in eight years.

Related: Navellier to SpaceX buyers: wait for escape velocity

America’s new stock market helped kick-start that technology boom, as the building of the Erie Canal created a mania in canal securities, generating capital inflow from Europe. When opened in late 1825, the Canal was quite profitable, but canal digging was no way to transport raw and manufactured goods over the long distances of an expanding nation. After the Civil War, railroads began to proliferate, along with hundreds of bridges spanning rivers to deliver goods across America. As with many other industries, the Panic of 1873 – which lasted until 1878 – interrupted this growth, but the 1880s were boom years.

In fact, it was on July 3, 1884, that journalists Charles Dow and Edward Jones published their first stock price index. That first index was mostly composed of railroads, the dominant sector at the time. (The Dow Jones Industrial Index was not launched until 1896, and it was also dominated by railroads.)

American history can be told in terms of each dominant technology

Turning to the dominant technologies of the day – in 50-year cycles – Britain began ahead of us:

1825: Railroads and the industrial revolution dominated Britain, as America built the Erie Canal

1875: Railroads began to dominate America, as reflected in most early stock market indexes.

1925: Automobiles began to push trains aside, while radio dominated mass communications.

1975: Computers in business, and soon personal computers, began to transform businesses.

2025: Artificial intelligence (AI) begins to dominate business practices, boosting productivity.

Just as railroad stocks crashed in Britain in 1825, so they crashed in America in the 1870s and again in the 1890s, but they kept growing throughout the 1800s (reflected in blue, above). Then came cars, industrials and materials, computers, hardware then software and information tech, in waves of creative destruction.

But stocks went nowhere in several odd decades, like the 1890s, 1930s and 1970s. Few businesses could survive the choking off of liquidity by the Federal Reserve in 1930-32 – the greatest cause of The Great Depression. Starving for cash, Americans soon began starving for food and shelter some 90+ years ago.

In 1932, 25% of American workers were unemployed, and another 25% were severely underemployed. Wages (for those who worked) were 60% below 1929 levels. Stock dividends were 57% lower than in 1929, and the GDP had shrunk in half. The stock market reached its 20th-century nadir on July 8, but on July 2, 1932 (a Saturday), Franklin D. Roosevelt became the Democratic nominee for President, and the stock market began to come off its lows. After reaching its 20th-century low of 41.22 on Friday, July 8, the Dow Jones index rose 26.7% in the rest of July 1932 and gained almost fivefold by 1937, to 194.4.

As bad as things may seem today, when people compare today to the 1930s, they reveal gaps of ignorance about our history, but the great lesson is that America bounces back and creates great fortunes yet again. 

Related: Wall Street has a new problem, and it's not the technology

Camping remains one of the most accessible types of trips, whether it's a weekend getaway at a nearby campground, a family vacation, or an adventure on the trails. Compared to other types of travel, camping can be an affordable way to explore new places while spending time in nature. A quality tent can be the foundation of any successful camping trip, providing shelter, protection from the elements, and a comfortable place to rest after a day outdoors. Choosing the right tent for your occasion can make a significant difference in comfort and convenience.

Tents are available in a wide range of sizes and designs to suit different styles, from large, house-shaped tents that can fit full blow-up mattresses for glamping, to lightweight one-person tents for backpacking trips. The best option depends on how many people will be using the tent, how often it will be transported, and the type of camping planned. While that may sound like a lot, we're here to help simplify the choosing process so you can pick the best tent for your needs.

Many campers also view a quality tent as a long-term investment. A well-chosen tent can be used for years of camping trips, helping reduce the cost of vacations while providing a reliable place to stay. Tents are great for camping, but they can also offer a sleeping option for longer road trips, festivals, and more! They can even help make a fun overnight 'backyard vacation' for summer weekends. 

Family tents

These are designed with space and comfort in mind. They're typically larger and offer enough room for multiple people to sleep comfortably, while also providing space for gear, coolers, and other camping essentials. Many models feature taller ceilings that allow adults to stand up inside, making it easier to move around and get organized during extended trips. For families with children or groups of friends, the additional room can help make a campsite feel more functional and comfortable. 

Many of these tents also include features for organization and privacy, such as room dividers, multiple doors, storage pockets, and vestibules that help keep campers' belongings organized while still allowing for enough room. These can be useful for multi-day trips where the tent won't just be for sleeping, but also for changing, relaxing, and winding down after a long day. For campers who prioritize comfort and space, family tents often provide a home base for a more relaxed outdoor experience. 

Lilypelle 4-6 Person Inflatable Glamping Tent House

Cobizi 8 Person Camping Tent

Edx 8-Person Camping Tent

Pop-up tents

Setting up camp is often one of the first challenges campers face after arriving at their destination. Instant tents are designed to simplify that process by reducing setup time and minimizing the number of steps required. Many models feature pre-attached poles or quick-deploy systems that allow the tent to be assembled in a few minutes, which can be particularly appealing for beginners, casual campers, or people arriving at the campsite after a long day of travel. 

I even swapped to a pop-up tent a few years ago after getting caught in the dark, rainy nights, trying to set up my tent one too many times after traveling all day. If you tend to drive quite a ways for your campsite, are using a tent as a means to sleep during longer road trips, or just often forget to set up the tent until later at night, once everyone is going to sleep, pop-up tents can be super beneficial. 

The ease of setup also makes these tents practical for short trips and weekend getaways. Instead of spending significant time putting up a tent, you can focus on other activities like hiking, fishing, or exploring. While these tents come in a variety of sizes, the primary advantage remains convenience, offering a popular option for people who want an easier and straightforward experience. 

Coleman Skylodge 4-Person Instant Tent

Coleman 4-Person Instant Cabin Tent

Londtren 4-Person Easy Pop-Up Tent

Lightweight tents

For people who plan to travel farther from their vehicle, weight becomes an important consideration. Lightweight tents are designed to minimize bulk while still providing a reliable shelter. The compact size makes them easier to carry while hiking and backpacking, on cycling trips, or in any other outdoor activities where gear needs to be transported. By reducing pack weight, these tents can help make travel more manageable and less physically demanding. 

Despite the lighter construction, many of these tents still offer weather protection and practical features for overnight stays. Advances in materials and designs offer tents that balance portability with durability. For solo campers, backpackers, and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize mobility, lightweight tents can provide a convenient shelter option without adding extra weight. 

XL 2-Person Backpacking Tent

Bisinna 2-Person Backpacking Tent

Alps Mountaineering Lynx 1 Tent

What's the best tent for your adventures?

The type of tent you choose can vary a good deal depending on the type of travel you enjoy. If you want to get the whole family together for an overnight camping trip by the lake, choosing a larger and more established tent would be the best fit, so you can keep changes of clothes, towels, a cooler, and set up privacy walls. If you're a solo traveler interested in doing some hiking, a smaller, lightweight tent might be the best choice for you. 

Group size, travel style, and comfort preferences all play a role in which option works well for you. Pricing also plays a role; while tents running upwards of $600 or more will most likely last longer or offer more features, it's probably not worth it unless you plan to be camping every weekend. Generally, as someone who has been camping my whole life, I've always opted for mid-range tents between $90 to $200 that have always worked well for overnight and weekend vacations. They also offer tent accessories like footprints, rainflies, and more that you can add as an addition later on to help prolong your tent's life and raise the comfort level. 

TheStreet Shopping is your guide for shopping insights and advice. We look beyond the price tag to find the best value in home, tech, and wellness gear based on product features and real-world use.

Why we love this deal

Getting around town, commuting to work, or exploring local trails sometimes means choosing between convenience and effort. While driving can work, sometimes it's not the best choice, and some may not have the means. Traditional biking can provide exercise and flexibility, but lacks efficiency or convenience. If you're looking to go longer distances, up steep hills, or over rough terrain, or just need to get somewhere quickly and don't want to worry about paying for parking, an electric bike (e-bike) can play a major role. 

If you're looking to amp up your urban exploring or find a quicker way to work besides walking or sitting in traffic, the Askgo 1500W Electric Bike is a great option. This 7-speed e-bike is on sale for $350, which is a huge $300 off the original price of $650. 

Askgo 1500W Electric Bike, $350 (was $650) at Walmart

Why do shoppers love it?

This bike is built with a 1500W high-speed motor that can handle a variety of conditions. With a top speed of 30 miles per hour, it offers enough power for daily commutes while also being capable of tackling more demanding routes. The motor can take you up hills with an incline of up to 30 degrees, and the fat tires can handle muddy roads and dirt paths, as well as float on sandy or snowy paths. For those who are looking for a bike that can transition between city streets and off-road paths, this versatility offers what you need. The LCD screen displays speed and mileage.

Related: REI is selling a $3,199 electric bike for 50% off that offers a '5-star experience'

The lithium battery provides a range of up to 65 miles in pedal assist mode on a single charge. The removable battery design makes charging more convenient, allowing riders to recharge at home or in the office without moving the whole bike. Charging typically takes between five and six hours, making overnight or workday charging a practical option. The battery is waterproof, and the bike can hold up to 365 pounds thanks to the alloy steel frame. The bike is delivered 80% pre-assembled, offering an easier installation at home. 

The pros and cons of this deal

Pros

• Impressive range: This bike can go up to 65 miles on one charge.
• Top speed: It has a top speed of 30 miles per hour, which makes it great for commutes. 

Cons 

• It's heavier than a traditional bike: Because of the larger battery, e-bikes are heavier than a normal bicycle. 
• The charging may require planning: Unless you plan to charge the bike overnight, you may need to time out charging versus riding time. 

"I don't usually ever come back to leave reviews, but this bike is amazing," said one reviewer. "The assembly was very easy, and I couldn't stop riding it today. It goes so fast. The battery seems to last pretty well."

Another shopper said, "This bike is a monster! It's powerful and fast. I've been riding it for three days, about 26 miles so far, and it still has over 50 percent battery left."

Shop more deals

• 5th Wheel Fat Tire Bike, $570 (was $1,000) at Walmart
• Salsa Moraine Cues Electric Mountain Bike, $3,500 (was $5,000) at REI
• Bell Mips Bike Helmet, $48 (was $60) at Walmart

Whether you're looking to make your commute easier or want to ride trails for fun, the Askgo 1500W Electric Bike is a solid choice. With a 365-pound capacity and up to 65 miles on one charge, this bike works for almost anyone. It fully charges in up to six hours, and it's 46% off right now at Walmart. Shoppers can get this e-bike for $350.

Based on all the leaks we’ve seen, Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 Pro series looks like its predecessors. Now, a post on Weibo by tipster Ice Universe suggests that even the dimensions of the iPhone 18 Pro Max will be identical to last year’s model as well.

iPhone 18 Pro Max dimensions leaked

According to the post, the iPhone 18 Pro Max has the same dimensions as its predecessor. In terms of thickness, we’re looking at 8.75mm, which is identical to the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Like we said, we can’t say we’re too surprised. Apple doesn’t change up the design of its iPhones that often. Sometimes newer versions might be slightly thicker or thinner, but for the most part, it looks the same.

But what’s interesting is that just last month, there was a rumor and leaked photos that suggested the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max could be taller and narrower compared to their predecessors. It seemed a little suspicious at that time, especially since there was never any indication of that before this. However, the latest leaks and rumors seem to have dispelled that.

So, what do these dimensions mean for iPhone buyers? In a video posted on YouTube last month, Max Tech shared dummy units of the phones and revealed that some existing iPhone 17 cases might actually fit the iPhone 18. However, your mileage may vary.

Coming this September

Apple is expected to host an event this September to announce its new iPhones. This year will be special. This is because for the first time ever, Apple will skip the cheaper models. Instead, the event will focus on the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. It also marks the first time that Apple is stepping into the foldables ring with the iPhone Ultra.

Now, this doesn’t mean that Apple is forsaking its cheaper iPhones. The rumors suggest that Apple could push it to early 2027, where the base iPhone 18 could launch alongside the iPhone 18e. Either way, we should have more details in the coming months. Until then, take it with a grain of salt.

The post iPhone 18 Pro Max Could Be the Same Size as Last Year, and That's Actually Good News appeared first on Android Headlines.

Google wants to help publishers and content creators reach new viewers and current viewers more often with a new features for Search that it’s calling Search Profiles. These new Search Profiles are a lot like the profiles you’d find for people you follow on platforms like X, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky, and other social media platforms.

Google says that its plan with Search Profiles is to help with discovery of content. These profiles are a “sharable space to highlight content across platforms, and help audiences find accurate, up-to-date information about sources on Search.”

By clicking on a Search Profile, you’ll be able to find a collection of information about a particular publisher or content creator. This can include links to the website, other social medial profiles like on TikTok or X, and a variety of different content such as videos and articles. It’s essentially a one-stop shop for everything about that publisher or creator. There’s even a button at the top to follow them on Google if that isn’t something you already do.

Google says that Search Profiles will start with publishers and creators that have a “sizable following”

Google seems to have a plan to eventually offers this option for a huge number of publishers and content creators. But it’ll be starting smaller with groups or people that have a “sizable following.” Google says that there will need to be a large following on at least one social platform. So that could be YouTube, TikTok, X, Instagram, maybe even Twitch.

For publishers and content creators that meet the requirement, they can “claim their profile” and then customize it in a variety of ways. This includes adding an avatar, a bio, and other notable details like website and social media info. Google also says that claiming a profile may “trigger the creation of a knowledge panel.”

The post Google's new publisher profiles for Search aim to expand viewership appeared first on Android Headlines.

It seems Samsung wants to fast-track its next generation of software releases. A fresh report indicates that the South Korean technology giant has officially kicked off internal development. More specifically, Samsung would already be testing One UI 9.0 on its previous-generation flagship hardware, the Galaxy S25 series. Based on Android 17, this major software revision is moving through the production pipeline significantly faster than past rollouts.

Beating the traditional timeline

Well-known tech tipster Tarun Vats spotted a fresh, hidden firmware file directly on Samsung’s over-the-air (OTA) update servers. The exact software version remains heavily encrypted—preventing onlookers from extracting granular details from the build number. Still, the footprint confirms active software deployment for the Galaxy S25 family.

What makes this finding particularly interesting for Galaxy enthusiasts is the unexpected timing. Vats pointed out that Samsung’s software engineers are running roughly two weeks ahead of the schedule they established last year (via Android Authority). For context, the very first internal One UI 8 build for the Galaxy S24 lineup did not surface on corporate servers until June 19. This suggests that Galaxy S25 owners might gain access to an open beta program as early as this month or next.

The flagships take priority

Unsurprisingly, this rapid deployment strategy creates a bit of a divide among older device owners. When asked if previous hardware generations would join this accelerated path, Vats suggested that Galaxy S24 users will likely have to wait. Signs of active One UI 9 development for the S24 family are not expected to pop up until at least next month. Samsung’s current priority centers on solidifying the software for its non-foldable flagships before expanding the trial parameters.

One UI 9 is expected to bring a healthy mix of visual overhauls and practical utility tweaks. Early reports revealed a redesigned Quick Panel interface and deep integration of artificial intelligence tools. Native Samsung apps like Notes and Contacts could also get structural updates.

Samsung keeps its internal testing phase behind closed doors. So, we must take early timeline estimates with a healthy grain of salt until an official public beta calendar arrives. However, given the company’s solid track record of accelerating its global software rollouts over the past few years, Galaxy S25 users should prepare their devices for an early taste of Android 17.

The post Samsung Begins One UI 9 Testing for Galaxy S25 Earlier Than Expected appeared first on Android Headlines.