Samsung Malaysia Newsroom has officially announced the rollout of One UI 8.5, with the global release beginning from 11 May onwards for supported Galaxy smartphones and tablets. The update brings Samsung’s latest Galaxy AI features, alongside improvements focused on communication, creativity, multitasking, and overall user experience across the Galaxy ecosystem.

In an unexpected move, Google is rolling out broader access to picture-in-picture playback on YouTube, with the feature set to reach users worldwide over the coming months. The update aims to make multitasking easier by allowing videos to continue playing even when users leave the app.

Today, Google has introduced an upgraded fraud protection feature under Google Play Protect for all Android users in Malaysia. The move is part of a broader effort to combat rising financial scams by preventing the installation of potentially harmful apps, particularly those installed outside official app stores. The rollout is supported by the National Cyber Security Agency under the National Security Council, reinforcing a coordinated national push to improve digital safety.

Samsung’s foldable ambitions may be expanding beyond its current lineup. A new leak suggests the company is developing a different type of foldable smartphone that focuses on a wider form factor instead of the tall, narrow design seen in its existing foldable devices. The rumoured device could introduce a more tablet-like experience while maintaining a familiar display size and flagship-level hardware.

Apple has announced plans to celebrate its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of innovation that have helped shape the modern technology landscape. The milestone commemorates the company’s founding on 1 April 1976, and highlights the philosophy of “thinking different” that has guided Apple’s products and culture ever since.

In other news relating to rising phone prices, OPPO is set to increase the prices of some of its existing smartphones following a sharp rise in global memory component costs. The adjustment will take effect starting 16 March 2026, according to a notice posted on the company’s official online store.

Just weeks ago, we reported that ASUS would pause new smartphone launches for 2026. Although there was no official word from the company, ASUS Chairman Jonney Shih has come forward and confirmed the new direction. ASUS is moving its focus away from expanding its smartphone lineup to concentrate on artificial intelligence–driven innovation.

realme has been a well-known brand in Malaysia for a few years now, due to its cost-efficient devices with good features. However, the company announced it will be integrated into OPPO as a sub-brand, marking a significant restructuring within the BBK Electronics family of smartphone brands.

In a quiet announcement, CelcomDigi has rolled out PhoneFIX, a new device coverage subscription designed to help customers fix damaged phones without the stress of high repair costs. Available exclusively to CelcomDigi users in Malaysia, PhoneFIX offers an affordable way to keep your smartphone in top shape, whether you’ve just bought a new device or are using one you already own.

Industry research firm Counterpoint Research has revised its outlook for the global smartphone market, now projecting a slight contraction in shipments in 2026. The adjustment is largely due to a sharp rise in memory chip prices, especially for DRAM (RAM) used in smartphones, as supply tightens against booming demand from artificial intelligence (AI) data centres and other high-end computing sectors.