Android Circuit: Details on Galaxy S24 Ultra, Pixel 8 Pro Components, and the Substantial OnePlus 12R Update

Weekly Android Recap

Taking a look back at seven days of news and headlines across the world of Android, this week’s Android Circuit includes the latest Galaxy S24 Ultra camera details, Galaxy Unpacked details, OnePlus 12R’s impressive battery, Pixel 8 Pro parts for sale, ROG Phone 8 details, basic watches and wearables, and the importance of Android security updates.

Android Circuit Weekly Reminder

Android Circuit is here to remind you of a few of the many things that have happened around Android in the last week (and you can find the weekly Apple news digest here).

Galaxy Unpacked AI Event Scheduled

Samsung has announced the next Galaxy Unpacked event. As expected, it will take place on January 17th, and while there will be several new Galaxy smartphones, the focus is squarely on the software… the AI-powered software.

Anticipating Galaxy S24 Ultra’s AI Camera Innovations

Samsung has already spoken of its AI ambitions and how it can enhance the smartphone experience. One area is in the camera. Working with the new specs, AI can boost the images for improved clarity.

OnePlus 12R’s Battery Breakthrough

New details on the OnePLus 12R ahead of its launch at the end of January are available. The screen is one essential upgrade—thanks to 4th generation LPTO technology there will be faster switching between refresh rates and thus a smoother UI. But it’s the battery that’s worth paying attention to.

Pixel 8 Pro DIY Repair Parts Available

Google’s partnership with iFixit to supply spare parts for seven years—alongside seven years of software updates and security support—went live this week with key parts on sale to consumers.

ROG Phone 8 Aiming for Broader Appeal

Asus’s next gaming smartphone, the ROG Phone 8, will have some interesting design changes. It looks to be moving away from pure gaming choices towards something more mainstream.

Basic Watches Lead Wearables Growth

The wearables market is set to grow in 2024, according to the latest numbers from Canalys. Curiously, it’s not going to be driven by expensive smartwatches. Instead, it’s all about the “basic watch” with a real-time OS and running built-in apps.

Security Update Roundup

The latest Android security update shows how important they are—with close to 100 issues addressed.

Android Circuit rounds up the news from the Android world every weekend here on Forbes. Don’t forget to follow me so you don’t miss any coverage in the future, and of course, read the sister column in Apple Loop! Last week’s Android Circuit can be found here, and if you have any news and links you’d like to see featured in Android Circuit, get in touch!