Unpatchable hardware flaw uncovered in iPhones
Security researchers have discovered a critical hardware bug dubbed usbliter8 that affects several generations of iPhones and Apple Watches. The flaw is found in chips A12, A13 and S4/S5 and allows attackers to inject malicious code in DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode. Devices like the iPhone XR, iPhone 11 and iPads using these chips are vulnerable. Because the bug is at the hardware level, the only long‑term fix is to replace the affected hardware.
## Nothing cancels the CMF Phone 3 Pro due to rising memory costs
The young brand Nothing announced it will not release the budget CMF Phone 3 Pro this year. The co‑founder said high memory prices make it impossible to build a phone at a sensible price point, so the project was scrapped. Nevertheless, Nothing promised other new products are coming and teased a new phone under the Nothing brand.
## Samsung confirms the Galaxy M47 is on the way
Samsung officially confirmed that the mid‑range Galaxy M47 5G will launch soon in India. Teaser videos show the phone with a matte red/maroon rear panel, black frame and triple rear camera module. The device is expected to use a Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset.
## Google shares new timeline for safer sideloading on Android
Last year Google announced a developer verification program to make sideloading apps (installing outside Play Store) safer. This week it revealed a detailed timeline: a new system service that checks if an app is published by a verified developer will roll out this month, and the Android Developer ID Status API will become globally available in July. Limited distribution accounts for students and hobbyists will launch later, and on September 30 the new protections will take effect in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand.
## New iPhone Ultra concept video – a closer look at Apple’s foldable
A new concept video gives a closer look at Apple’s rumored iPhone Ultra foldable. Rumors suggest the device will have a wider aspect ratio than Android foldables and a flexible display with a barely visible crease. The concept also highlights its slim profile – just 4.5 mm when unfolded, thinner than the iPad Air. Other rumored specs include Apple’s C2 modem, an A20 Pro chip and 12 GB RAM, with an expected launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series in September.
## Fresh renders of the Samsung Galaxy A27
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head of its official unveiling, new renders of Samsung Galaxy A27 show the phone in black, blue and light pink color options. Leaked specifications point to a Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset, a 6.7‑inch AMOLED display with 120 Hz refresh, and up to 256 GB of storage. The phone is also rumored to feature a triple rear camera with a 50 MP main sensor, a 12 MP selfie camera and a 5,000 mAh battery with 25 W charging.
## How much could the iPhone 18 Pro cost?
Rising memory prices are expected to push up production costs for the iPhone 18 Pro. According to TechInsights, the base iPhone 17 Pro cost about $582 to produce last year, but the base iPhone 18 Pro could cost $726. To maintain a similar profit margin, the selling price may need to be around $1,299.
## Galaxy Z Fold8 series tipped to get more expensive
A new rumor claims Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Z Fold8 lineup, including the Fold8 Ultra and Flip8, will launch with higher price tags than current models. The increase is attributed to rising memory and component costs. Production costs are reportedly higher as well, though the exact amount hasn’t been finalized.
## Brazil forces Apple to open iOS to third‑party app stores
Brazil has followed the EU and Japan in forcing Apple to allow third‑party app stores and alternative payment processing on iOS. Under the new rules, apps distributed outside the App Store must still pass Apple’s Notarization check, and Apple will continue collecting commissions. Apple warns the changes may increase the risk of malware and scams.
## GTA VI pre‑orders start June 25
Fans of Grand Theft Auto VI can pre‑order the game starting June 25. Rockstar also revealed the official cover art and confirmed the game’s release date as 19 November. Pre‑orders will be available via PlayStation and Microsoft stores.
## iQOO teases the Z11i
Chinese brand iQOO teased the upcoming Z11i in three colors: Green Peak, Desert Gold and Ink Shadow. A tipster claims it could be a rebranded vivo Y60 with a 6.74‑inch LCD, Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset, 6/8 GB RAM and a 6,500 mAh battery with 15 W charging.
## UAE bans social media for those under 15
The United Arab Emirates has banned children under 15 from creating or using social media accounts. Teenagers aged 15‑16 can use social media with restrictions, and platforms must implement age verification and disable existing accounts of younger children.
## Smartwatch shipments grow in Q1 2026
Counterpoint’s report shows global smartwatch shipments grew 4 % year over year in the first quarter of 2026, driven by demand for premium features. Apple leads the market with a 23 % share, while Huawei dominates China and Samsung saw a decline.
## Summary
Today’s GSMArena headlines highlight a rapidly changing tech landscape. Apple devices face a hardware vulnerability, Nothing canceled a budget phone due to high memory costs, and new phones from Samsung and others are on the horizon. Google is tightening sideloading security, while regulatory pressures are forcing platform changes. Meanwhile, gaming enthusiasts gear up for GTA VI pre‑orders, and public policy changes reflect growing concerns over online safety and tech usage.
