Plants vs. Zombies 3: Evolved has officially launched in early access on mobile devices, marking a major step forward for a game that’s been in various stages of development for roughly nine years. The early access rollout begins today in Ireland and the Philippines, with more regions set to follow in the coming months ahead of a worldwide launch later in 2026.

PvZ 3 is now in Early Access 🌱

Starting today in Ireland & the Philippines, we’re beginning our global rollout, with more regions coming in the months ahead.

This is just the beginning! We’ll be growing and evolving the game with your feedback throughout development.

Learn… pic.twitter.com/Mi0LMgOYXC

— Plants vs. Zombies (@PlantsvsZombies) April 7, 2026

PopCap Games, the studio behind the beloved tower defence franchise, confirmed the news alongside EA this week. The game is available on both iOS and Android, and the plan is to keep early access running continuously through to the full global release.

What’s Changed Since The Seedling Build

This isn’t the first time players have gotten their hands on PvZ3. PopCap ran an earlier test phase last autumn called the Seedling Build, which launched in select regions to gather player feedback. That feedback has directly shaped what’s arriving in early access, with several notable changes making their way into this version of the game.

Levels are now longer with more substantial battles, giving players more room to experiment with higher-tier plant combinations. PopCap has also slowed down the pace at which new plants are introduced, aiming to let players build deeper familiarity with each one before moving on. The avatar system that appeared in the Seedling Build has been removed entirely, putting the focus back on the plants themselves.

Perhaps the biggest structural shift is a narrower gameplay focus. Rather than spreading across a wider neighbourhood setting, the experience now centres on the player’s own lawn, which is where the core tower defence action plays out.

How Plants vs. Zombies 3: Evolved Plays

At its core, PvZ3: Evolved sticks with the lane-based tower defence formula the series is known for. The twist this time around is a plant merging system tied to a meteorite belonging to Crazy Dave. Players can combine plants in various ways to create new hybrid variants, and naturally, Dr. Zomboss is trying to steal the meteorite for himself. That conflict forms the backbone of the game’s progression.

Read More: Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted Review – A Nostalgic Comeback That Misses Its Bloom

Read More: Pokemon Showdown Vs Pokemon Champions, Will They Coexist After Release?

PopCap has described the early access period as a living development phase. New systems, features, and content will be added over time, while elements that aren’t working will be cut. Community feedback remains central to the process, much as it was during the Seedling Build.

When Will PvZ3 Launch Worldwide

A specific global release date hasn’t been confirmed yet, but PopCap has said the worldwide launch is planned for later in 2026. Between now and then, early access will expand to additional regions gradually. Players who join during early access will retain their progress through to the full launch.

For a franchise that’s been quiet on the mainline front since Plants vs. Zombies 2 launched back in 2013, this is the closest PvZ3 has come to a proper release after multiple soft reboots and extended testing phases. Whether the early access feedback loop produces the game fans have been waiting for remains to be seen, but the foundation is now publicly playable for the first time in a meaningful way.

The post Plants vs. Zombies 3 Evolved Hits Early Access on Mobile After Years in Development appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

After years of back-and-forth, Fortnite is officially returning to Google Play worldwide on March 19, marking a major shift for Android players who’ve been dealing with workarounds since 2020.

No matter where you are, we’ve got you covered. Fortnite is back on Google Play.

Available everywhere Thursday, March 19. pic.twitter.com/gy9MCIstXx

— Fortnite (@Fortnite) March 17, 2026

Epic Games confirmed the news directly, stating that Fortnite will once again be available through the Google Play Store globally, not just in limited regions like the United States.

Fortnite Finally Back On Google Play Worldwide

For Android users, this is a pretty big quality-of-life upgrade.

Since being removed from Google Play in 2020, players have had to either sideload the game through the Epic Games Store app or rely on cloud streaming services. While those options worked, they were never as simple or seamless as installing directly from Google Play.

With the March 19 relaunch, Fortnite will once again be available through the standard storefront everywhere, removing one of the biggest barriers to entry on Android.

Epic’s announcement also highlights that the global rollout is happening all at once, meaning no regional delays this time around.

Why Fortnite Was Removed In The First Place

This whole situation goes back to 2020, when Epic Games deliberately bypassed Google’s in-app billing system.

By doing that, Epic avoided Google’s revenue cut, which was originally around 30 percent on in-app purchases. Google responded by removing Fortnite from the Play Store, triggering the long-running legal battle known as Epic v Google.

That case eventually led to a major ruling, where a jury found that Google had violated antitrust laws related to Android app distribution and billing practices. The court also upheld an injunction tied to those findings, reinforcing Epic’s position that Google’s ecosystem had been too restrictive.

Epic consistently argued that Google used its dominance to limit competition and make it harder for alternative app stores to succeed.

What Changed Between Epic And Google

The turning point came with a settlement between Epic Games and Google in late 2025.

As part of the resolution, Google also adjusted its revenue share model, lowering its cut on in-app purchases to somewhere between 10 and 20 percent instead of the previous 30 percent. Around the same time, Epic CEO Tim Sweeney confirmed that Fortnite would return to the Play Store.

Interestingly, reports suggest Sweeney also agreed to limit public criticism of Google Play as part of the deal, signalling that both sides were ready to move on after years of conflict.

The timing also lines up with other recent Fortnite changes. Epic has already confirmed a price increase for V-Bucks, the game’s in-game currency, which is expected to roll out around the same period. While not directly tied to the Google Play return, it shows Epic is making broader adjustments to its monetisation strategy as Fortnite expands back onto major mobile storefronts.

What This Means For Android Players

From a player perspective, this is all about convenience and accessibility.

Even though Fortnite never fully disappeared from Android, having it back on Google Play makes installation, updates, and general maintenance far easier. For casual players especially, sideloading an APK was always a friction point, even if Epic is a trusted developer.

There’s also a strong chance Fortnite will quickly climb back up the Play Store charts. Historically, the game has been one of the most downloaded titles whenever it’s available through official storefronts, which could bring in a fresh wave of players.

The timing is also notable, with Fortnite’s return aligning with a new season launch, giving returning and new players a clear entry point.

A Bigger Moment Than It Looks

This isn’t just about Fortnite being easier to download.

The resolution between Epic and Google represents one of the most significant outcomes in the ongoing debate around app store control, revenue cuts, and developer freedom. Combined with Epic’s earlier legal battles with Apple, the ripple effects are already being felt across the industry.

For now though, most players will just care about one thing, being able to install Fortnite on Android without jumping through hoops again.

And come March 19, that’s exactly what’s happening.

The post Fortnite Returns To Google Play Store Globally March 19 After Epic vs Google Settlement appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Blizzard has officially announced Overwatch Rush, a brand-new mobile spin-off set in the Overwatch universe. Rather than being a straight port of the main game, Overwatch Rush is a top-down 4v4 hero shooter built specifically for iOS and Android, and it’s already gearing up for regional testing.

The studio shared the news in a development update, making it clear that everything shown so far is still a work in progress and subject to change. Even so, there’s already plenty to unpack about what this mobile take on Overwatch will actually look and feel like.

What Is Overwatch Rush

Matches are 4v4, and based on early gameplay footage, they revolve around objective-based modes similar to the main game. Familiar heroes like Mercy, Reaper, Tracer, and Reinhardt appear in the reveal, with ability kits that largely mirror their original counterparts.

Blizzard has stressed that Overwatch Rush is an entirely new game. It is not a port, not a companion app, and not an extension of the current Overwatch experience. It is being built from the ground up for mobile players.

Developed By A Separate Blizzard Team

One key point Blizzard clarified in its development update is that Overwatch Rush is not being made by Team 4, the core team behind Overwatch.

Instead, it’s being developed by a dedicated team within Blizzard that has deep mobile experience. Team 4 remains focused on the main Overwatch game on PC and console, which is currently in its recently launched Season 1 and beyond.

That distinction is important for players concerned about resources being pulled away from the core game. Blizzard’s messaging makes it clear that Overwatch Rush is an expansion of the universe, not a replacement or shift in direction for the flagship title.

Game Modes And Match Length

According to hands-on impressions from GameSpot’s Jessica Cogswell, who spent around 90 minutes with the game, matches are designed to last about three minutes. That short format is intentional, built around quick sessions that suit mobile play.

Three modes were available in her preview build: Control-Point, Nano Grab, and Free-For-All.

Control-Point is a condensed version of the classic mode Overwatch players already know, with action focused on a single objective. There are no enforced role restrictions, but team composition still matters.

Nano Grab is more bespoke to Rush. Teams collect glowing objects called Nanos and deposit them into a shifting bank location, with the first team to reach 100 Nanos winning. Because the bank cannot be captured if the enemy team is present, it creates fast-paced, tactical skirmishes.

Free-For-All strips things back even further. Four players enter, and the first to reach five eliminations wins. With smaller, scaled-down maps inspired by locations like Busan, Gibraltar, and Anubis, encounters happen quickly and constantly.

Familiar Heroes With Mobile Tweaks

At launch, Overwatch Rush features eight heroes drawn directly from the main roster: Mercy, Tracer, Reaper, Soldier 76, Kiriko, Lucio, Reinhardt, and Pharah.

Most heroes play very similarly to their core versions. Reaper still uses his Hellfire Shotguns, can enter Wraith Form, and unleashes Death Blossom as his ultimate. However, the top-down perspective changes how some abilities feel in practice.

Mercy, in particular, has been reworked. Instead of relying primarily on her Caduceus Staff, she now uses her blaster as her main attack, leaning more into a self-sufficient “Battle Mercy” style. Her Guardian Angel ability has also been adjusted so she can dash in a chosen direction rather than locking onto a specific ally.

Reinhardt’s shield, meanwhile, appears larger and curved in this version, likely to better suit the faster, tighter mobile maps.

The team has said its goal is eventually to include the full Overwatch roster, though that will come over time.

Progression, Skins, And Monetisation

Overwatch Rush includes a system of Mods and Talents. Mods act as general stat boosts, improving things like attack, speed, or defence across characters. Talents are hero-specific and enhance certain playstyles, such as giving Tracer additional self-sustain when using Blink.

As players use a hero, they increase their Mastery level and unlock more Mods and Talents. This adds a layer of progression without fundamentally altering each hero’s core identity.

Cosmetics are also a big part of the package. Rush features both redesigned versions of existing skins and entirely new ones, including crossover designs like Pharah’s Inarius skin inspired by Diablo. Blizzard has not yet confirmed pricing.

In terms of monetisation, Blizzard says Overwatch Rush will be free-to-play with optional in-app purchases focused on cosmetics. The studio stated that player skill should remain the deciding factor in matches, and that monetisation elements may be adjusted during testing based on feedback.

Testing Plans And Release Window

There is currently no release date for Overwatch Rush. Blizzard is preparing to test the game in select countries and regions, and has directed interested players to its official Discord for updates.

The studio has indicated that a lengthy testing period is likely, and that players should not expect a full 1.0 launch anytime soon. Given how early the build appears to be, further changes to heroes, balance, progression, and monetisation are almost certain.

Whether it becomes a daily mobile habit for fans or simply a side experiment, it’s a notable step for the franchise.

The post Overwatch Rush Announced As Blizzard Reveals Mobile 4v4 Spin-Off appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Epic Games and Google appear to have quietly formed a massive new partnership worth up to $800 million, even as their long running antitrust fight was still playing out in court.

The previously undisclosed agreement came to light during a recent court hearing in San Francisco, where a judge raised concerns that the deal may have influenced settlement talks between the two companies. At the centre of it all are Unreal Engine, Fortnite, Android, and a surprising level of cooperation between two companies that were, until recently, fierce rivals.

Court Reveals Previously Hidden Epic And Google Partnership

The Verge reports that during a hearing tied to the Epic versus Google antitrust case, California District Judge James Donato revealed that Epic and Google have entered into a new business arrangement involving joint product development, joint marketing commitments, and shared partnerships.

According to the court, the agreement would see Epic helping Google market Android, while Google gains broader access to Epic’s core technology, including Unreal Engine. Judge Donato questioned whether this new relationship could have led Epic to soften its stance during settlement negotiations.

While most details remain sealed, the judge confirmed that the partnership represents new business between the two companies, something that did not exist before the legal battle began.

Tim Sweeney Hints At Metaverse And Unreal Engine Use

Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney provided one of the clearest hints about the nature of the deal during his testimony. He suggested the partnership is connected to what he frequently describes as the metaverse, a term he often uses to refer to Fortnite’s broader ecosystem.

Sweeney explained that Epic’s technology is already used by many companies in the same space Google operates in, particularly for training and development. He went on to suggest that Google would be able to use Unreal Engine more extensively, before abruptly stopping himself and joking that he was breaking confidentiality.

That moment offered a rare glimpse into how deeply Unreal Engine may be involved in Google’s future product plans.

Judge Confirms $800 Million Six Year Commitment

While the finer points of the partnership remain secret, Judge Donato did confirm one major detail. The deal involves an $800 million commitment spread across six years, which he described as a healthy partnership by any standard.

Reports indicate that Epic Games will be paying Google as part of the agreement, though it remains unclear how that money is structured or which specific services and technologies it covers.

The judge allowed both companies to keep most details under wraps, but made it clear the court is carefully examining how the agreement intersects with the recently announced settlement.

Settlement Raises Questions About Epic And Google’s Feud

Epic and Google first announced a settlement in November, signalling the end of their lengthy legal dispute, pending final court approval. The sudden revelation of this partnership has raised questions about whether the deal helped smooth negotiations behind the scenes.

Judge Donato openly questioned whether Epic’s demands for broader changes to the Android ecosystem were softened as a result of this new cooperation. While no wrongdoing has been established, the timing has drawn scrutiny.

Epic has maintained that the agreement represents separate product lines being built by both companies, with plans to work together rather than merge efforts.

More Questions Than Answers For Now

Despite confirmation of the deal’s size and general scope, much remains unknown. Neither Epic nor Google has publicly explained what products or services are being developed, how Unreal Engine will be used, or how Fortnite fits into the long term strategy.

What is clear is that this partnership marks a dramatic shift in the relationship between Epic Games and Google. After years of courtroom battles and public disputes, the two companies are now quietly collaborating on technology that could shape the future of gaming, Android, and beyond.

For now, the industry is left with more questions than answers, and plenty of curiosity about what an $800 million Unreal Engine partnership might actually deliver.

The post Epic And Google Quietly Signed $800 Million Deal To Help Market Android appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

A New Way To Explore Jianghu On The Go

Where Winds Meet has already made waves on PC and PS5, but NetEase is now gearing up to bring its open world Wuxia RPG to mobile. The global mobile version launches on 12 December 2025, giving players the chance to continue their adventure anywhere, whether they’re mastering the Sword, Fan, or rope-based combat styles.

As winter’s breath settles, a new path opens.

Where Winds Meet Mobile launches December 12, 2025 (UTC).
Cross-play & shared progress with PC and PS—a portable Jianghu in the palm of your hand.

Mobile pre-registration is now open on the official website, Apple Store, and Google… pic.twitter.com/CoCt4Wwiuq

— Where Winds Meet (@WhereWindsMeet_) November 30, 2025

The game has been live in China across all platforms since its original release, but this global launch brings mobile players into the fold at last. With the world already filled with striking player-made characters and a huge amount of freedom in how you approach combat and exploration, the mobile release is shaping up to be a major moment for the community.

Global Mobile Release Date Confirmed

NetEase has officially confirmed that Where Winds Meet Mobile will go live worldwide on 12 December 2025 for both iOS and Android devices. The announcement was shared across social channels, noting that winter marks a new beginning for wanderers keen to explore Jianghu from the palm of their hand.

The PC and PS5 versions went live globally in mid November, so this mobile launch neatly rounds out the game’s cross platform availability.

How To Pre-Register On iOS And Android

Pre registration is now open across all major platforms, and it’s the easiest way to make sure you’re notified the moment the game goes live in your region.

iOS

• Open the App Store
• Search for Where Winds Meet
• Tap Get or Pre-Order
• The game will automatically download once available

Android

• Open the Google Play Store
• Search for Where Winds Meet
• Tap Pre register
• Enable Auto install if you want it downloaded instantly at launch

You can also sign up through the official website if you prefer. Early registration doesn’t unlock bonuses, but it does guarantee you won’t miss launch day.

Full Cross-Play And Shared Progress

One of the biggest strengths of Where Winds Meet is its seamless platform ecosystem. The Chinese edition already supports full cross play and cross progression across mobile and PC, and NetEase has confirmed that the global version will follow the same model.

That means you can play on PS5 or PC at home, then pick up exactly where you left off on your phone while you’re out. You’ll be able to interact and team up with players across all platforms, making the world feel alive no matter where you choose to play.

Device Requirements For Mobile

To give players a clear idea of what to expect, NetEase has shared baseline device requirements for iOS. Official Android requirements are still to come, but the Chinese version offers a reliable early reference.

iOS Requirements

• Requires iOS 15.0 or later
• Supports iPhone and iPad

Android Requirements

The Chinese build recommends:
• Android 7.1 or later
• At least 8 GB RAM

These numbers may shift slightly depending on optimisation for the global release, so treat them as approximate guidelines rather than finalised specs.

What Makes The Mobile Version Special?

The mobile release isn’t a stripped down version. It features the complete Where Winds Meet experience, including the same open world, combat system, and detailed AI driven character customisation found on PC and PS5.

A big highlight is the game’s use of AI to tailor NPC conversations and world interactions, allowing each player to experience unique story moments. With cross progression, your character, cosmetics, and progress carry over seamlessly, ensuring no time is wasted switching between platforms.

For new players, the mobile version makes it easier than ever to step into the world as a travelling Wuxia swordsman, explore its sprawling landscapes, and experiment with different combat arts.

While You Wait

If you want to prepare before launch day, you can browse the available outfits, check out the cosmetic banners, or redeem in game codes for bonus currency. It’s a good way to get ahead before bringing your character to mobile.

Where Winds Meet Mobile arrives on 12 December, and with the full experience now playable across PC, PS5, and mobile, this winter is shaping up to be the perfect time to begin your journey across Jianghu.

The post Where Winds Meet Mobile Launches This December With Full Cross-Play And Shared Progress appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

The Legendary Shooter is Back for Mobile Players

Good news for mobile FPS fans, Crossfire Legends is officially making its comeback, with pre-registration now open on Google Play and the App Store. Developed by Smilegate and TiMi Studio Group, and published in Southeast Asia by Level Infinite, the mobile version of the iconic Crossfire franchise brings the classic tactical shooter experience to a new generation of players.

Pre-registration is currently available in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines, giving players a chance to secure early access and claim exclusive in-game rewards ahead of the official launch later this year.

Global Pre-registrations are now live for Crossfire Legends
Expected Release December Month pic.twitter.com/I8rUswxl38

— Dramic (@DramicGaming) October 13, 2025

Classic Modes, Modern Gameplay

Crossfire Legends stays true to its roots while introducing fresh updates for mobile. Players can look forward to the return of fan-favourite game modes, including the iconic Mutation Mode, where teams must survive waves of fast-moving mutants in tense, unpredictable matches that test reflexes, coordination, and survival strategy.

Other returning modes include:

• Search & Destroy (S&D) – A tactical 5v5 mode where Global Risk and Black List teams battle it out. One side plants the bomb, the other must defuse it. Precision shooting and teamwork are key.
• Team Deathmatch (TDM) – For those who prefer constant action, this mode delivers pure chaos. Every second counts as players race to outgun opponents in close-quarters firefights.

Why You Should Pre-Register Now

Players who pre-register will receive a bundle of exclusive in-game rewards, including Diamonds and rare weapon skins like the M4A1-Ultimate Silver, Desert Eagle-Fire Dragon, and AK47-Gold Black Dragon.

Image Credit: Level Infinite

On top of that, Level Infinite is hosting a “Fortune’s Choice” event, where players can invite friends for a chance to win premium prizes such as in-game items, a PlayStation 5, a smartphone, and even real golden bullets.

It’s a solid incentive for both returning veterans and newcomers eager to dive into the action.

How to Pre-Register:
To join the pre-registration campaign, simply head to the official website at playcfl.com and choose your preferred platform. From there, follow the prompts to sign up and secure your early access rewards before the game’s official launch later this year.

Built for Mobile, Ready for Esports

Originally released globally in 2018, Crossfire Legends remains hugely popular in China, where it has an active esports scene with the CrossFire Mobile League (CFML) now running its 16th season. The league features top teams such as LGD, All Gamers, Q9, and EDward Gaming, competing at the CrossFire League Arena in Chengdu.

With the SEA release on the horizon, fans are already speculating about the potential for regional esports tournaments. Given Southeast Asia’s thriving mobile gaming scene, Crossfire Legends could easily find a strong competitive audience.

About Crossfire Legends

Powered by the Unity engine, Crossfire Legends has been rebuilt for mobile with smooth performance, customisable controls, and optimised gameplay. It captures the tactical intensity of the original Crossfire PC game while making it accessible on the go.

The game’s faithful adaptation and polished mobile design promise one of the most immersive FPS experiences on handheld devices this year.

Get Ready for Battle

With pre-registration now open, the countdown to the official launch of Crossfire Legends has begun. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the franchise, this is your chance to jump in early and claim rewards before the servers go live.

The post Crossfire Legends Opens Pre-Registration in SEA With Exclusive Rewards – Here’s How You Can Join appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Today at Samsung Galaxy Unpacked Samsung announced Galaxy Z Fold7, a device that brings together the best of Galaxy design, camera functionality and AI innovation in the thinnest and lightest Galaxy Z Fold series to date.

It delivers the premium performance and experience of an “Ultra” smartphone, while unlocking new levels of efficiency and productivity with a larger, more immersive display when unfolded. And with the new One UI 8 as its foundation, it seamlessly integrates intelligent, multimodal agents optimised for the foldable form factor.

“Galaxy Z Fold7 combines Galaxy AI with powerful hardware to deliver our most advanced smartphone experience yet,” said TM Roh, President and Acting Head of the Device eXperience (DX) Division at Samsung Electronics.“ This next chapter of foldables brings together design and engineering, with AI built specifically for the foldable form. It gives people the ultra experience they want— powerful, immersive, intelligent, and portable all in one.”

Galaxy Z Fold7 is crafted for those who want the everyday portability and intuitive feel of a traditional smartphone, combined with the enhanced power and flexibility of a larger, unfolded display – all in one device. With its ultra thin and light design and wider cover display, Galaxy Z Fold7 delivers a seamless on- the-go experience that makes typing and browsing effortless when it is folded. At just 215 grams, Galaxy Z Fold7 is even lighter than Galaxy S25 Ultra. It is just 8.9 mm thick when folded and 4.2 mm thick when unfolded.

The device comes with 6.5-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x cover display, a wider screen with a new 21:9 aspect ratio. When unfolded, Galaxy Z Fold7 becomes more than just a smartphone. It transforms into another device entirely and revealing an expansive screen that expands the workspace for editing, multitasking and immersive viewing – and for getting more out of Galaxy AI.

The main display on Galaxy Z Fold7 is 11% larger than the previous generation, providing even more screen real estate for content editing and multitasking across multiple apps.

The 8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x main display offers ultra-rich contrast, true blacks and vibrant detail that make everything pop — from movies to tabs open while multitasking. With Vision Booster and up to 2,600 nits of peak brightness, Galaxy Z Fold7 stays brilliantly visible even in direct sunlight.Thin and light, Galaxy Z Fold7 is built to move with users, confidently.

The Armor FlexHinge is thinner and lighter, thanks to an enhanced water droplet design and newly implemented multi-rail structure that reduces visible creasing. The cover display is made with Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic, a new glass ceramic that has crystals intricately embedded within its glass matrix. This secures the screen’s durability and crack deflection capabilities and delivers protection in a remarkably thin form factor.

The main display is restructured to be thinner and lighter – yet stronger. This was achieved by implementing the Titanium plate layer. Additionally, Ultra-Thin Glass (UTG) was increased to be 50% thicker, making the display tougher.

Under the hood, Galaxy Z Fold7 is powered by the best-in-class processor used in Galaxy devices. It’s uniquely customised and makes on-device AI processing tasks – like real-time language translation and Generative Edits – faster and more seamless.

The Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy delivers performance boost of 41% in NPU, 38% in CPU, and 26% of GPU compared to the previous generation. This power fuels Galaxy Z Fold7’s ability to process more AI experiences on-device without compromise.

Galaxy Z Fold7 now brings the best of the Galaxy’s pro-grade camera experience to a foldable, combining advanced hardware with intelligent processing for consistently stunning results. Its high-resolution camera captures incredible detail, vibrant colour and rich texture, pulling users back into every moment. AI-enhanced imaging automatically optimises lighting, detail and realism, so photos and videos stay sharp and vivid, even in low light settings such as milestone dinners and late-night café scenes. Featuring the first 200MP wide-angle camera in the Galaxy Z series, it captures 4x more detail. The 10MP 100° camera on the main display expands the frame, so when users unfold their phone, it’s easy to capture group selfies, valuable moments and more of the world in a single shot.

Samsung’s next generation ProVisual Engine processes images faster, enabling every photo and video to be more crisp, vibrant and full of detail. With Night Video, intelligent motion detection now separates moving subjects from still backgrounds to reduce noicses. 10-bit HDR provides more colour depth. The result is videos with richer colour, deeper contrast and more lifelike detail, no matter the time of day.

Galaxy Z Fold7 puts a pro-grade creative studio in users’ pocket, with AI-powered tools optimised for its large display. Users can capture stunning photos and videos and then edit with ease. From cleaning up clutter in product shots to removing background noise from café recordings, studio-quality enhancements can be done in a few easy steps. The intuitive and intelligent features on the Galaxy Z Fold7 make it effortless to transform photos and videos into pro-level content, with no extra tools required.

Shots look flawless with Photo Assist, 11 which moves, erases or enlarges objects and adjusts angles and fills in backgrounds with AI-powered precision. Users can seize vibrant expressions, including pet profile with Portrait Studio and refine their photos using Galaxy’s enhanced Generative Edit. The ability to seamlessly remove distractions and fill in backgrounds has made Generative Edit a fan favourite, and now it’s even smarter. It offers proactive suggestions with the new Suggest Erases , which automatically detects passersby with the tap of a button. Side-by-Side Editing and Show Original enables real-time comparison of original images and edited versions on the large screen, making it easier to decide what to modify and what to keep.

Audio Eraser has also been upgraded to be more intelligent and convenient. There’s a new toggle in Gallery, and it now proactively detects and removes unwanted background noise like wind or traffic from video recordings.

Galaxy Z Fold7 harnesses the power of the foldable display to amplify the power and convenience of AI, delivering experiences that are instinctive, adaptive and effortlessly efficient. The new One UI 8 is context- aware and naturally responsive, optimised for Galaxy Z Fold7’s flexible format and expansive screen offering a more intuitive and immersive way to interact with AI. There’s less jumping between apps and screens and more frictionless creativity and productivity happening seamlessly in one place.

Designed as a true multimodal agent, One UI 8 seamlessly combines large-screen multitasking with intelligent tools that understand what users type, say and even see. And with an AI-powered camera and privacy built into every layer, Galaxy Z Fold7 becomes a smart and secure personal assistant, ready to help anytime, anywhere.

Launching with the all-new One UI 8 on Android 16, Galaxy Z Fold7 debuts Samsung’s latest AI- powered platform on foldables, delivering the latest Android experience straight out of the box. Gemini Live is now enhanced with multimodal AI that understands what users see, say and do, making it possible to seamlessly type or speak contextual questions and get answers without having to toggle back and forth between apps. And with screen sharing on Gemini Live or camera sharing on Gemini Live, you can simply show Gemini what users are looking at on the screen or on the camera, then ask questions to get instant insights.

With Circle to Search, gaming tips appear exactly when and where you need them. Just circle an item on screen and get instant results, tips or tactics in a floating view that ensures a smooth, uninterrupted experience.

With Galaxy AI Optimised for Large Screens, Galaxy Z Fold7 delivers experiences that maximise the benefits of the expansive foldable display to boost productivity. AI Results View displays results from AI features in a separate Split View or in a Floating View, so the user’s original content remains unobstructed and visible. Users can be more efficient with Drag & Drop AI-generated content, including images and text, directly from Multi Window. With tools like Drawing Assist or Writing Assist, it’s easier than ever to move ideas and visuals, enabling a smoother creative process.

As mobile experiences grow ever more intelligent and interconnected, Samsung is reinforcing the foundations that protect them – unveiling new protections for on-device AI, expanding cross-device threat detection and enhancing network security with quantum-resistant encryption. One UI 8 brings enhanced privacy to personalised AI experiences with the new Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP).

KEEP creates encrypted, app-specific storage environments within the device’s secure storage area, ensuring each app can access only its own sensitive information and nothing more. With One UI 8, Samsung is advancing Knox Matrix to deliver more proactive and user-friendly protection across the Galaxy ecosystem. Furthermore, as part of its ongoing commitment to quantum-safe security, Samsung is integrating post-quantum cryptography into Secure WiFi. This enhancement secures the key exchange process at the core of encrypted connections, helping ensure robust privacy even over public networks.

The Galaxy Z Fold7 will be available for pre-order starting  July 10, with general availability beginning July 25, 2025. The Galaxy Z Fold7 comes in Blue Shadow, Silver Shadow, Jetblack and Mint (online exclusive) colour options.

The post Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 Raises the Bar appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Today at Samsung Galaxy Unpacked, Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Z Flip7, a compact AI phone with multimodal capabilities, powered by a new FlexWindow.

Small enough to slip into a pocket, yet powerful enough to deliver the handiest assistance, it melds Galaxy AI with a now edge-to-edge FlexWindow, a flagship level camera and an ultra-compact and iconic design. From intuitive voice AI to the best selfie capabilities, the Galaxy Z Flip7 is an intelligent pocket-sized companion built for seamless interaction and everyday reliability.

“Galaxy Z Flip7 is proof that big intelligence can come in a small, pocket-sized form factor,” said TM Roh, President and Acting Head of the Device eXperience (DX) at Samsung Electronics. “By bringing rich multimodal AI capabilities and seamless functionality to the FlexWindow, we’ve created a device that adapts, anticipates and empowers users, unlocking a smarter, more intuitive way to engage with the world.”

Content spills elegantly from edge to edge on the Galaxy Z Flip7’s stunning FlexWindow display , which brings essentials front and centre and makes it easy to type out quick messages, check schedule at a glance and snap high-quality selfies. Galaxy Z Flip7’s brightest FlexWindow yet delivers a super-smooth refresh rate, so everything looks vivid and feels fluid – even when outside on a sunny day.

The 4.1-inch Super AMOLED FlexWindow is the largest on a Galaxy Z Flip yet, with edge-to-edge usability that enables users to see and do more on the cover screen. With 2,600 nits of peak brightness and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate on both the main display and the FlexWindow, Galaxy Z Flip7 enables ultra-fluid scrolling, streaming and gaming. Plus, the FlexWindow gets an upgrade with Vision Booster, enhancing outdoor visibility so users can stay connected wherever they are.

The main display is a 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, built for an ultra-smooth, immersive experience.

Galaxy Z Flip7 is crafted for portability and puts powerful performance right in the palm of the user’s hand. With its compact size and sleek silhouette, it slips effortlessly into a small pocket or purse, perfect for whatever the day brings. Whether catching calls during a coffee outing or snapping pictures at the store – no need to worry about the inevitable drops and bumps along the way. It’s also built to last and engineered to handle the rigors of daily use.

Weighing just 188 grams and measuring only 13.7mm when folded, Galaxy Z Flip7 is the slimmest Galaxy Z Flip yet. The cover and back are protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus.

The Armor FlexHinge is thinner than the hinge on the previous generation and features a restructured design and the robust Armor Aluminum Frame provides a tough exterior for resilience.

While the Galaxy Z Flip7 has been slimmed down and refined throughout, it now features a bigger battery and an even bigger display – all in a more compact form. With the largest battery in the Galaxy Z Flip series yet, users can stream music or listen to podcasts during long commutes, edit photos on the fly and share updates throughout the day without missing a beat.

The 4,300mAh battery 7 is the largest ever on a Galaxy Z Flip yet, and the Galaxy Z Flip7 is powered by the latest 3nm processor, customised for Galaxy and fit for today’s lifestyle with an even more powerful CPU, GPU and NPU than Galaxy Z Flip6.

Samsung DeX comes to a Galaxy Z Flip for the first time, enabling it to instantly transform into a handy workstation: users can flip it open, connect to a screen and instantly get PC-like tools for enhanced multitasking. Pocket-Perfect AI

With FlexWindow enhanced for greater usability and Galaxy AI 10 that is smarter and more intuitive than ever, Galaxy Z Flip7 introduces a new era of convenience and functionality, empowering users to search with their voice, get answers and take action directly on FlexWindow. Powered by the newest One UI 8 and Android 16 right out of the box, it delivers true multimodal AI experiences optimised for the Flip’s iconic design, with many tasks now able to be handled right from the cover screen.

This intuitive, one-handed experience enhances productivity and introduces even more personalisation options, making the Galaxy Z Flip7 a smart and handy companion, whether a user is traveling around the globe or simply navigating a busy day.

Galaxy Z Flip7 brings a new level of AI-powered personalisation, tailored to users’ style and routine. From curated wallpaper suggestions to emoji, color and widget customisation, the FlexWindow becomes a dynamic extension of a user’s personality. Whether prepping for travel or matching the mood, personalisation is effortless and always evolving.

Gemini Live is now available directly on the FlexWindow, enabling users to search for information with their voice and complete tasks – hands-free. It’s like having a personal assistant, right on the cover screen.

With camera sharing on Gemini Live, getting real-time help is as easy as pointing the camera. Whether packing for a trip or choosing an outfit, users can simply show Gemini what they’re looking at. Ask questions like, “Which of these outfits is better for the weather in Seoul?” Gemini will respond, just like a helpful friend would.

Galaxy Z Flip7 brings flagship-level photography and Samsung’s best selfie camera yet. With Samsung’s advanced ProVisual Engine, it intelligently optimises every scene to deliver crisp, detailed shots in any lighting, without any manual adjustments needed. From playful pet moments to zoomed-in festival shots and glowing sunset portraits, Galaxy Z Flip7 captures stunning results without a tripod or even unfolding the screen.

The dual rear camera system includes a 50MP Wide and a 12MP Ultra-Wide lens, delivering flagship-level clarity in any lighting, whether capturing scenic shots or snapping high-quality selfies directly from the cover screen.

With Enhanced Nightography, users can capture vivid photos in low-light environments through improved lighting adjustments and the removal of noise and blurred frames. 10-bit HDR provides richer colour, deeper contrast and more life-like detail in video, no matter the time of day.

Galaxy Z Flip7 takes selfies to the next level, right from the FlexWindow. Real-Time Filters now lets users preview and perfect FlexCam shots instantly. And with the new Zoom Slider, users can quickly zoom in or out with just a swipe- making it perfect for capturing a full outfit or fitting everyone into the frame for a flawless group selfie.

With Dual Preview, the photographer and the subject can see the composition live on the FlexWindow, helping users nail the perfect shot on the first go. Everyday pet moments become eye-catching shots with Portrait Studio in Photo Assist whether featuring a playful cartoon style, a quirky fisheye look or a polished, professional finish.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE brings the foldable experience to even more users.

Compact when folded and expansive when opened, Galaxy Z Flip7 FE features a 6.7-inch Main Display for an immersive viewing experience. The 50MP FlexCam enables high-quality selfies and video in Flex Mode, letting users capture content hands-free, without even opening the device. Now Brief surfaces helpful updates – including weather, daily schedules and commute alerts – on the cover screen, in a layout optimised for Galaxy Z Flip7 FE’s compact form.

Available in Black and White, it delivers a minimalist look that complements its intelligent, foldable design.

As mobile experiences grow ever more intelligent and interconnected, Samsung is reinforcing the foundations that protect them – unveiling new protections for on-device AI, expanding cross-device threat detection and enhancing network security with quantum-resistant encryption. One UI 8 brings enhanced privacy to personalised AI experiences with the new Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP). KEEP creates encrypted, app-specific storage environments within the device’s secure storage area, ensuring each app can access only its own sensitive information and nothing more. With One UI 8, Samsung is advancing Knox Matrix to deliver more proactive and user-friendly protection across the Galaxy ecosystem. Furthermore, as part of its ongoing commitment to quantum-safe security, Samsung is integrating post-quantum cryptography into Secure Wi-Fi.

This enhancement secures the key exchange process at the core of encrypted connections, helping ensure robust privacy even over public networks.

The Galaxy Z Flip7 will be available for pre-order starting July 10, with general availability beginning July 25, 2025 and comes in 21 Blue Shadow, Jetblack, Coral-red and Mint 22 (online exclusive) colour options.

The post Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7: A Pocket-Sized AI Powerhouse appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

OPPO has released its latest A Series lineup, the A5 range with a new wave of smartphones built for durability, performance and outstanding everyday value.

Combining unbeatable resilience, smart features and polished design, the A5 Series makes high-performance essentials accessible to everyday users, without the premium price tag.

The expanded A5 Series includes the OPPO A5 5G and A5 4G, two feature-rich devices made for daily life. They join OPPO’s toughest smartphone to date, the A5 Pro 5G – which launched in June 2025 – in offering more choice when it comes to durable, dependable tech.

OPPO New Zealand Managing Director Morgan Halim says the A Series range is for Kiwis who need a good-value phone that works as hard as they do. “Whether someone’s on the tools, outdoors in all conditions or buying a reliable first phone for their kids, the A Series is a dependable, great-value choice that’s made to last,” says Halim. “It’s built to survive backpacks, pockets and the occasional drop – and it keeps up with your hustle, whatever your day looks like.”

The A5 5G and A5 4G are engineered to handle more than just the basics. With large, high-refresh-rate displays, splash and dust resistance and OPPO’s 300% Ultra Volume Mode, these phones are made to be heard and seen clearly – even outdoors or on noisy job sites.

With 6,000mAh batteries across both models and support for 45W SUPERVOOCTM Flash Charging, users can spend less time plugged in and more time getting things done. OPPO’s battery technology has been tested for 1,700 full charge cycles, equivalent to approximately five years of regular use, while maintaining at least 80% battery health. It’s power that lasts day after day, year after year.

And because durability should extend beyond hardware, the A5 Series is backed by OPPO’s industry-leading software support – with 5 years of operating system updates and 6 years of security updates. It’s long-term peace of mind that sets a new standard in this price bracket, especially compared to competitors who typically offer only 2 years of updates or less.

These devices are made to move at your pace. They offer practical, efficient performance for everything from messaging and music to maps and media.

The OPPO A Series is available online at OPPO’s official website and from electronic retailers.

The post Tough just got smarter – OPPO’s A5 2025 Series appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Global smart device brand OPPO has released the Watch X2. Its latest wearable flagship product to launch, this high-performance smartwatch is created for those who expect durability, practicality and long-lasting power from their tech.

Building on the rugged sophistication of last year’s Watch X, the new Watch X2 introduces military-grade endurance with smarter health tracking and next-level battery life – all in a sleek, refined design.

The Watch X2 is packed with features typically reserved for higher-priced competitors, delivering flagship-level performance and premium materials at exceptional value.

OPPO New Zealand Country Manager Morgan Halim says the Watch X2 reflects the brand’s growing momentum in wearable technology. “Kiwis are active, health-conscious and style-savvy – and the Watch X2 was built with that in mind. It combines medical-grade health features, military-grade durability and smart features that keep you connected in one beautifully designed piece of tech. With flagship performance at an exceptional value, it’s a smartwatch that’s ready to go the distance.”

Available in Lava Black with a sporty fluorine rubber strap or Summit Blue with a classic leather band, the OPPO Watch X2 is crafted for both performance and polish.

A polished stainless-steel case, titanium alloy bezel and eco-friendly PVD coating provide durability and a premium finish. The 1.5-inch OLED display boasts ultra-bright visibility and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass, ensuring it can go wherever you do.

Certified IP68, 5ATM water-resistant and MIL-STD-810H tested, the Watch X2 stands up to everything from morning commutes to daily workouts and outdoor adventures.

Whether you’re training, travelling or tackling daily demands, the Watch X2 keeps pace. Powered by a dual-chip system – Snapdragon® W5 and BES2800BP – it delivers smooth multitasking and energy efficiency through a smart blend of Wear OS by Google real-time tasks like checking incoming messages and quick media playback.

Performance is notably faster than its predecessor, while battery life remains a standout: up to five days in Smart Mode or 16 days in Power Saver Mode, thanks to OPPO’s innovative Silicon-Carbon Battery technology. With Watch VOOC Flash Charge, just 10 minutes of charging delivers up to 24 hours of use.

This is a smartwatch that works as hard as you do.

The post Built to endure, made to move. The new OPPO Watch X2 appeared first on Shane the Gamer.