TECH

Energy security concerns spur faster renewables growth across a widening constellation of countries

New IEA forecast sees renewable capacity increase in emerging and developing economies outside China matching that in advanced economies for the first time as Hormuz crisis sharpens focus on domestic energy sources

Renewable energy is set to see strong growth across a wider range of countries worldwide in the coming years as governments seek to strengthen energy security and reduce exposure to fuel imports, according to the International Energy Agency.

In its Renewables 2026 report, the IEA said that renewable power capacity will increase by almost 4,800GW between 2026 and 2031, 60% higher than in the previous six-year period. Solar PV will account for more than 75% of this growth, followed by onshore wind.

In its forecasts, the IEA said that renewable capacity growth in emerging and developing economies outside China will match that in advanced economies for the first time.

The trend is being driven by “unprecedented disruptions to global energy markets since the outbreak of the Iran war at the end of February” that have intensified energy security concerns and led to stronger policy support in areas such as Southeast Asia, Africa, the Middle East and India.

China will remain the largest contributor to the global increase in renewable power capacity, but its share is set to decline from over 60% in 2025 to an average of 53% over the forecast period amid changes to its renewable energy policies, the IEA said.

India is emerging as the world’s second-largest growth market, with its total renewable capacity set to more than double by 2031. Growth is also accelerating across Southeast Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, and sub-Saharan Africa. Across these regions, the amount of renewable capacity added in the 2026-2031 period is forecast to almost triple compared with the previous six-year period.

“Previously, environmental concerns were the policy priority behind the growth of renewables, whose falling costs have made them a competitive option in many markets – but today, it’s mainly energy security that is driving renewables’ expansion as more and more countries seek to reduce their exposure to imported fuels,” said IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol.

“The new chapter of the renewables growth story is a truly global one as their deployment spreads well beyond major markets into every corner of the world. This is making them a key pillar of the global power sector. Today, they account for a third of global electricity generation; in the next five years, they will be getting closer to half of it.”

The report also highlights the importance of secure and diversified supply chains as renewables take on a larger role in energy systems worldwide. India is emerging as an important alternative source of supply, with its share of global solar PV module manufacturing expected to almost double to 17% over the next five years, helping diversify a market that remains highly concentrated.

Renewables, already expanding at a record pace before the current energy crisis, are set to see strong growth across a wider range of countries around the world in the coming years as governments seek to strengthen energy security and reduce their exposure to imported fuels and volatile prices, according to the IEA’s latest report.

Renewables 2026, this year’s edition of the IEA’s annual report on the sector, sees global renewable power capacity increasing by almost 4 800 gigawatts (GW) in the 2026-2031 period, almost 60% more than was added in the previous six-year period. Solar PV is set to account for more than three-quarters of global renewable capacity growth to 2031, followed by onshore wind.

Amid unprecedented disruptions to global energy markets since the outbreak of the Iran war at the end of February, stronger policy support and intensified energy security concerns are driving faster deployment of renewable power across India, Southeast Asia, Africa and the Middle East. For the first time, the amount of renewable power capacity added in emerging and developing economies outside China is expected to match the amount added in advanced economies in the forecast period.

China will remain the largest contributor to the global increase in renewable power capacity, but its share is set to decline from over 60% in 2025 to an average of 53% over the forecast period amid changes to its renewable energy policies. India is emerging as the world’s second-largest growth market, with its total renewable capacity set to more than double by 2031. Growth is also increasing across Southeast Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, and sub-Saharan Africa. Across these regions, the amount of renewable capacity added in the 2026-2031 period is forecast to almost triple compared with the previous six-year period.

“Previously, environmental concerns were the policy priority behind the growth of renewables, whose falling costs have made them a competitive option in many markets – but today, it’s mainly energy security that is driving renewables’ expansion as more and more countries seek to reduce their exposure to imported fuels,” said IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol. “The new chapter of the renewables growth story is a truly global one as their deployment spreads well beyond major markets into every corner of the world. This is making them a key pillar of the global power sector. Today, they account for a third of global electricity generation; in the next five years, they will be getting closer to half of it.”

The growth in renewable power additions is not only the result of major installations by utilities and developers; it is also being driven directly by consumers in many countries. Faced with high fuel prices and unreliable electricity supplies in some markets, households and small businesses around the world are increasingly turning to more affordable rooftop solar PV systems that can be installed quickly. These small-scale installations have already helped improve electricity services for around 70 million households worldwide, the report finds.

The report forecasts that the use of renewable energy for transport will rise by more than 60% by 2031, by which point it will cover 6% of the transport sector’s energy demand worldwide. Renewable electricity used by electric vehicles accounts for around 45% of this increase, while biofuels are making the second-largest contribution. As an immediate response to high fuel prices and availability challenges, several countries, notably in Southeast Asia and Latin America, have raised blending mandates, which set the minimum proportion of biofuels that has to be blended into gasoline or diesel sold at the pump. Our forecast for biofuels is revised up by 40% compared with last year’s report.

The report also highlights the importance of secure and diversified supply chains as renewables take on a larger role in energy systems worldwide. India is emerging as an important alternative source of supply, with its share of global solar PV module manufacturing expected to almost double to 17% over the next five years, helping diversify a market that remains highly concentrated.

As solar PV and wind continue to expand rapidly around the world, enhancing power system flexibility becomes critically important for energy security, offering new opportunities in the process. The highest priority is for countries to ensure investment in electricity grids keeps pace with the growth of renewable capacity. This should be complemented by reforms to speed up the connection of new renewable power installations to electricity networks. The amount of advanced-stage renewable energy and storage projects waiting for grid connections worldwide increased by 60% over the past year to 3 000 GW, four times the wind and solar PV capacity connected to the grid last year.

Meanwhile, the deployment of battery storage has been accelerating in many countries, offering an important way to increase the flexibility of electricity systems rapidly. Measures to enable electricity demand to become more flexible are equally important and can be implemented quickly. Digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, can help shift demand towards periods when renewable power supply is abundant, allowing a better use of variable renewable generation sources. Together, these measures will be crucial to ensuring that the rapid expansion of renewables translates into more secure, affordable and reliable energy supplies worldwide.

The quote you provided is the headline of the International Energy Agency (IEA) Renewables 2026 report, released on November 6, 2026.

The report highlights a profound paradigm shift: national energy security and a desire to reduce exposure to volatile imported fossil fuel prices have overtaken environmental concerns as the primary driver for green energy deployment. Driven by severe global energy disruptions (such as conflicts in the Middle East impacting the Strait of Hormuz), governments are rapidly prioritizing domestic green power to safeguard their economies.

📈 Core projections (2026–2031):

• Massive Capacity Growth: Global renewable power capacity is projected to increase by nearly 4,800 gigawatts (GW) over the next five years—an approximate 60% increase compared to the previous six-year period.

• Dominance of Solar: Solar PV is expected to account for more than three-quarters (75%) of all global renewable capacity additions.

• Share of Generation: Renewables currently account for roughly one-third of global electricity generation; they are on track to approach half (50%) of it by 2031.

🗺️ A "Widening Constellation": regional shifts...The IEA notes that the renewable expansion is truly global, with emerging and developing economies matching advanced economies' growth velocity for the first time.

• India: Positioned as a major alternative engine, India's renewable expansion is forecast to grow 2.6 times faster than in the previous six years. Furthermore, India is diversifying the supply chain, with its share of global solar PV module manufacturing expected to nearly double to 17%.

• China: Remains the largest market overall (accounting for 53% of global capacity growth), though it faces localized market headwinds and developer bankruptcies due to transitioning from fixed tariffs to competitive auction schemes.

• The Middle East & Africa: Regions like Southeast Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and the Middle East are expected to triple their capacity additions. Saudi Arabia is accelerating its deployment fivefold, signaling a structural step-change in petrostates.

⚠️ Critical challenges to resolve...While capacity is surging, IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol warned of two major structural bottlenecks:

1. Grid Infrastructure and Backlogs: Advanced-stage renewable and storage projects waiting for grid connections skyrocketed by 60% over the past year to 3,000 GW—four times the capacity actually connected last year. Investment in electricity grids must drastically accelerate to prevent curtailment.

2. Supply Chain Risks: "The golden rule for energy security is diversification," says Birol. Avoiding a single trade route, single country (referencing China's historical dominance), or single company is vital for long-term system stability

mundophone

 

DIGITAL LIFE

Hackers exploited flaws in Chrome and Snapdragon to attack Android smartphones

An investigation by the cybersecurity firm Sekoia has uncovered a cyber-espionage campaign that leveraged vulnerabilities in Google Chrome and Qualcomm’s graphics drivers to compromise Android smartphones. The attack could be executed via an infected webpage, without the need for the user to install any applications or grant additional permissions.

Investigators have linked the operation to the group APT29, which is frequently associated with Russian foreign intelligence services. The primary targets appear to be individuals connected to diplomacy and the conflict in Ukraine, even though the campaign utilized publicly accessible websites.

According to Sekoia’s report, the attack on Android worked in stages. First, it used a Chrome flaw tracked as CVE-2026-3910 to run code inside the browser. It then exploited CVE-2025-27038, a bug in Qualcomm’s Adreno GPU driver, to break out of Chrome’s sandbox and gain deeper access to the phone. Since Adreno graphics are found in Snapdragon chips, phones powered by Qualcomm’s silicon were the ones affected.

The attack only targeted Chrome versions 139 through 145, though it skipped version 143 for reasons Sekoia says are unclear. Once a phone was compromised, the attackers dropped malware that Sekoia calls AndroSnitch. It copied Chrome’s cookies, saved login data, and browsing history, along with the phone’s saved Wi-Fi configuration file, which contains the passwords for networks you’ve connected to. Stolen cookies are especially valuable since they can let attackers slip into accounts that are already signed in.

Interestingly, the Android exploit was coded to stop if it detected a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. Sekoia didn’t name any other phone models or Android versions that were specifically targeted.

The hack reportedly reached victims in several ways. The attackers injected malicious code into legitimate websites, set up lookalike copies of real sites, and compromised a Ukrainian web analytics service used by thousands of mostly Ukrainian websites between August 27 and September 3. The fake sites included a copy of the America250 website and one mimicking a luxury London hotel close to UK government offices. A script on these pages profiled each visitor’s device and then served the matching exploit.

Sekoia says the hacking campaign is linked to APT29, a hacking group tied to Russia’s foreign intelligence service. The targets suggest the group was mostly after diplomats and people connected to the war in Ukraine rather than ordinary Android and iOS users. Yes, iPhones were targeted too, with one exploit chain stealing cookies on iOS 16 through 17.4 and the DarkSword exploit grabbing messages, photos, and passwords from devices on iOS 18.5.

The attack combined two distinct vulnerabilities. The first, identified as CVE-2026-3910, affected certain versions of Google Chrome and allowed for the execution of malicious code within the browser.

The second, CVE-2025-27038, was found in the Adreno graphics drivers used in Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors.

The combination of these flaws made it possible to bypass security protections that typically prevent the browser from accessing sensitive areas of the operating system.

Once a device was compromised, the attackers would install a piece of malicious software identified as "AndroSnitch."

This malware collected data such as saved passwords, browsing history, authentication cookies, and Wi-Fi network settings—including the associated credentials.

The cookies were a particularly valuable target, as they can grant access to already-authenticated accounts without requiring the user to re-enter their password.

The exploit chain targeted Chrome versions 139 through 145, with the exception of version 143.

Legitimate websites were used to distribute the malware; the campaign did not rely solely on fraudulent pages created by the attackers. According to Sekoia, those responsible also compromised legitimate websites and injected malicious code into a Ukrainian traffic analysis service used by thousands of web pages.

This component of the operation was active between August 27 and September 3, 2026.

When a visitor accessed one of the affected pages, a script would analyze the device's features to determine which exploitation technique was most appropriate.

The researchers also identified a curious behavior: the code would automatically abort the attack if it detected a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. The reason for this exclusion remains unknown.

The operation also sought to compromise Apple devices, leveraging other vulnerabilities specific to iOS.

Despite the severity of the campaign, the two flaws used against Android smartphones have already been patched.

Devices running updated versions of Chrome with the relevant security patches installed are protected against this known exploit chain.

It is important to note that the research describes a targeted campaign, not an indiscriminate attack on all Android users.

Nevertheless, this case demonstrates how vulnerabilities in different components can be combined to bypass security mechanisms otherwise considered robust.

Exploiting a flaw in the browser, followed by another in the graphics driver, also illustrates the importance of keeping both applications and the operating system itself up to date.

To reduce exposure to similar attacks, it is recommended to regularly install updates provided by manufacturers, use recent versions of web browsers, and avoid using devices that no longer receive security patches.

Hackers linked to the Russian intelligence group APT29 exploited a combination of browser and hardware flaws to target Android smartphones.

Attack Details:

• Vulnerabilities exploited: The attack combined the CVE-2026-3910 flaw in Google Chrome (within the V8 engine) to execute code in the browser, and the CVE-2025-27038 flaw in the Qualcomm Adreno GPU driver to escape the system's security sandbox.

• Affected devices: Android devices equipped with Qualcomm Snapdragon processors running versions of Chrome between 139 and 145 (excluding version 143). Interestingly, the exploit was programmed to abort if it detected a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.

• Malware deployed: The malicious program, dubbed "AndroSnitch" by the security firm Sekoia, stole session cookies, browsing history, saved passwords, and Wi-Fi network configuration files.

• Infection method: The attack took place via compromised legitimate websites or fake pages that injected JavaScript to profile the device and automatically deliver the exploit. Further details on the operation can be found on Android Authority and Gadgets360.

How to protect your phone:

• Update Google Chrome: Go to the Google Play Store and install the latest version of the browser.

• Install system updates: Check for any pending monthly security patches in your Android device's settings.

mundophone

 

SAMSUNG

Galaxy S27 Ultra may feature an exclusive Qualcomm processor

Samsung appears to be preparing a significant shift in the processor strategy for its next generation of smartphones. New commercial filings associated with the Galaxy S27 series suggest that the South Korean manufacturer may reserve the most powerful version of Qualcomm’s upcoming processor exclusively for the Galaxy S27 Ultra, while other models will feature different configurations.

This information was reported by Gadgets360, based on a discovery by Notebookcheck on the trade data platform NBD. The filings identify four devices—including the as-yet-unannounced Galaxy S27 Pro—and reveal a potential split between Exynos and Snapdragon processors for the European market.

If these details are confirmed, Samsung could establish a clearer performance hierarchy among its high-end smartphones, at a time when competition in the premium segment remains particularly intense.

The key development concerns the processor identified for the Galaxy S27 Ultra. The device is linked to the model number SM-S958B/DS and the Qualcomm chip SM8975, which is expected to correspond to the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6.

Meanwhile, the purported Galaxy S27 Pro—identified as SM-S957B/DS—is equipped with the Qualcomm SM8950, associated with the standard version of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6.

This distinction suggests that Samsung might reserve the most advanced variant of the processor for the Ultra, creating an additional point of differentiation between the two premium models in the lineup.

Naturally, the presence of different processors does not yet reveal what the actual differences in performance, power consumption, or artificial intelligence processing capabilities will be. These characteristics will depend on the final specifications of the chips and how they are integrated into the devices.

However, the newly surfaced documents introduce an important detail: the possibility that the Galaxy S27 Pro could utilize a Snapdragon processor, even in its European variants. Until now, rumors regarding processor distribution suggested that Samsung might keep Exynos chips in Europe while reserving specific Snapdragon variants for other markets.

The emergence of references specifically linked to European devices reinforces the hypothesis of a more nuanced strategy, although these commercial filings do not constitute definitive confirmation of the configurations that will ultimately reach retail shelves.

Four models with varying screen sizes...In addition to the processors, the documentation provides details on the screen sizes for each device.

Model | Screen Size | Indicated Processor

Galaxy S27 | 6.3 inches | Exynos 2700

Galaxy S27+ | 6.7 inches | Exynos 2700

Galaxy S27 Pro | 6.5 inches | Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6

Galaxy S27 Ultra | 6.9 inches | Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6

All four models are also associated with configurations featuring 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage.

These figures do not necessarily mean that every commercial variant will feature the same configuration; the records may simply represent specific versions used for import, testing, or certification processes.

Another detail yet to be confirmed concerns the cameras. Rumors point to 200-megapixel main sensors for both the Galaxy S27 Pro and the Ultra, which could bring the photographic capabilities of the two devices closer together.

Even so, sensor resolution alone does not determine the final quality of photographs, nor does it imply that both devices will feature equivalent camera systems.

The potential introduction of a Galaxy S27 Pro could represent a significant shift in the structure of the Galaxy S lineup.

To date, Samsung has primarily relied on the distinction between the base, Plus, and Ultra models to differentiate features, dimensions, and photographic capabilities.

By offering four devices, the manufacturer could provide a more compact premium alternative, positioned between the Galaxy S27+ and the Ultra. The processor could become one of the key differentiators, alongside cameras, build materials, and exclusive features.

Interestingly, rumors also point to differences in charging capabilities. As we previously reported, the base Galaxy S27 may remain limited to 25W, while the Pro and Ultra models have been linked to charging speeds of up to 60W.

If this scenario holds true, Samsung will be opting for a more distinct separation between the various tiers of its premium lineup.

The official unveiling of the Galaxy S27 family is expected to take place in early 2027, during a Galaxy Unpacked event.

Until then, several questions remain unanswered, including whether a "Pro" model will definitely exist, the differences between the new processors, and the specific configuration intended for the Portuguese market.

It is also worth noting that previous reports had suggested a potential return of the Exynos chip to the Galaxy S27 Ultra. The latest findings point to a different scenario, though they do not entirely rule out the possibility of additional variants.

For now, all signs suggest that Samsung is exploring a more diverse product lineup. It remains to be seen whether this strategy will offer tangible benefits to consumers or if it will primarily serve to further distinguish the various price tiers.

What sets the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 apart from the "Extreme" version? The Extreme Gen 6 features eight cores built on a 2nm process: two "Prime" cores at 5.0 GHz, three at 4.0 GHz, and three at 3.7 GHz, along with an Adreno 850 GPU clocked at 1.45 GHz. Qualcomm has also included matrix calculation units for AI-driven upscaling and frame generation—features absent from the standard Gen 6 chip, which is expected to power the Pro model.

A similar segmentation already exists among competitors; for instance, Xiaomi opted for the standard Gen 6 in its 18 Pro, while reserving the Extreme version for the 18 Pro Max. If Samsung follows this same logic, the Pro model will feature the 2nm chip but will fall short of the Ultra in terms of GPU and AI capabilities.

Back in June, the expectation was that both the Pro and Ultra would share the same Snapdragon processor. Since then, according to the *Seoul Economic Daily*, Samsung reportedly raised concerns with Qualcomm regarding overheating issues with the Extreme Gen 6—claims that Qualcomm has denied.

If the filing is accurate, the Ultra has retained the high-end chip, while the Pro has been positioned a step lower. The Galaxy S27 Pro sits between the S27+ and the Ultra—and this hierarchy extends to the processor as well. With a 6.5-inch display, a 5,200 mAh battery, and rumored 200 MP camera, the S27 Pro occupies the tier previously held by the "Plus" model, with the chip selection following that same structure.

It ranks above the S27+ (which uses an Exynos chip) and below the Ultra (which uses the Extreme version). This allows Samsung to offer three distinct price points, each corresponding to a different level of performance.

For now, none of this is official, as Samsung typically unveils its S-series lineup in late January or early February. In reality, Brazil is likely to receive the same "B" variant mentioned in the filing. The S27 and S27+ sold here are expected to come with the Exynos 2700, while the Pro will feature the Gen 6.

If this difference in chips is reflected in the price, the Pro becomes the more rational choice for those who don’t need the S Pen or the Ultra’s zoom capabilities. Does paying more for the "Extreme" model—just to get AI-powered frame generation—seem worth it to you?

by mundophone

DIGITAL LIFE

How to identify potential spyware and prevent unauthorized access to your mobile phone

You are using your phone as usual when you notice something strange: the battery starts draining faster, the device heats up for no apparent reason, or a small colored dot appears on the screen. Most of the time, these behaviors have simple explanations. However, they could also indicate that an app is accessing features without your authorization. Knowing how to distinguish a common glitch from a potential intrusion is essential for protecting your personal information.

The small signal on the screen that can reveal camera usage...One of the simplest ways to find out when the camera or microphone is being used is to observe your device's privacy indicators.

On modern iPhones, a green dot appears when an app accesses the camera, while an orange dot indicates that the microphone is in use.

Recent Android phones also feature similar visual indicators, typically displayed at the top of the screen.

These features allow you to identify access even when the app is not actively open on your screen.

If an indicator appears unexpectedly, it is worth checking which program is using that feature.

Another behavior that warrants attention is receiving a message stating that the camera is already in use by another application.

However, this does not necessarily mean that your phone is being spied on.

Calling apps, social media platforms, and other legitimate services may use the camera or microphone in the background, depending on the permissions granted and the activities currently running.

Malicious programs known as spyware can monitor your activities, collect information, and, under certain circumstances, access sensitive features of your device.

According to guidance from the cybersecurity firm ESET, unexpected changes in how your phone functions deserve attention.

One example is excessive battery consumption.

If an app is continuously recording information or transmitting files, it may demand more power from the device.

The same applies to abnormal heating, especially when the phone is idle and seemingly not performing any tasks. Another possible sign is the presence of photos, videos, or screenshots that you do not recognize.

However, before assuming your device has been compromised, check whether these files were received via WhatsApp, downloaded automatically, or synced through services like Google Photos or iCloud.

None of these symptoms, on its own, proves the presence of spyware.

Worn-out batteries, software updates, or resource-intensive apps can also cause similar behavior.

Data usage can reveal what is happening in the background; beyond battery drain, mobile data traffic can provide important clues.

A malicious app that sends images, recordings, or other files to external servers may cause an unexplained spike in data usage.

For this reason, it is worth checking which programs are consuming the most data on your device.

Unknown apps or those showing high activity warrant closer investigation.

You should also watch for unexpected reboots, persistent sluggishness, frequent crashes, or the appearance of programs you do not recall installing.

While these signs can have various causes, a combination of unusual behaviors justifies a review of your security settings.

The goal is not to immediately conclude that your device has been compromised, but rather to identify activity that does not align with your typical usage.

How to find out which apps have access to your camera and microphone: modern operating systems provide tools to check and manage permissions.

On an iPhone, go to Settings, select Privacy & Security, and then choose Camera or Microphone. From there, you can review which apps have been granted access and revoke permissions that are unnecessary.

On Android, the steps may vary depending on the manufacturer and the version of the operating system. Generally, look for Settings, Security & Privacy, and then Privacy Dashboard or Permission Manager.

These sections allow you to see which apps have access to sensitive features and, on compatible versions, to review recent access history.

It is also advisable to keep your system updated, remove suspicious apps, and avoid installing software from unknown sources.

If the signs persist, a reliable security tool can assist with an investigation.

What should you do if you suspect your phone is being spied on? The first step is to review your installed apps and revoke any unnecessary permissions.

Next, check for security updates and analyze your battery and data usage.

If you find concrete evidence of a compromise, consider changing your passwords—using a different, trusted device—and seeking professional technical support.

The best form of protection is to maintain control over which apps have access to your camera, microphone, and personal information.

A phone that runs hot or a battery that drains quickly does not automatically mean you are being spied on.

However, keeping an eye out for unexpected changes and being familiar with privacy features can help you identify issues before they become more serious.

To identify spyware and protect your mobile phone from unauthorized access, look for warning signs on your device and follow the steps for removal and prevention.

Warning signs (how to identify them):

• Excessive battery drain: Your phone loses charge very quickly, even when not in use or during normal activity, because spyware is transmitting data in the background.

• Abnormal heating: The device frequently gets hot, even when you are not playing games or running resource-intensive applications.

• High mobile data usage: Unexpected spikes in internet traffic occur because files, photos, or audio are being transmitted to external servers.

• Unknown applications: Apps you did not download appear in your list of installed applications, or they may be disguised with generic names (such as "system update" or "service").

• Camera or microphone indicators: Green or orange dots appear on the screen, signaling that these sensors are active without your permission.

• Call and message forwarding: Settings for call forwarding or unknown paired devices appear in your linked accounts.

How to investigate and remove spyware:

1. Inspect installed applications: Go to Settings > Apps (on Android or iPhone) and remove any programs you do not recognize.

2. Check permissions and device administrators:

• On Android, go to Settings > Security & privacy > Permission manager or Device admin apps (disable administrator privileges for suspicious apps before uninstalling them). 

• On iPhone, go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management to check for suspicious MDM (Mobile Device Management) profiles.

3. Review connected accounts and devices: Open your Google account or Apple ID settings and sign out of any unknown sessions, browsers, or devices. 4. Run a security scan: Use reliable antivirus and antimalware applications, such as Kaspersky, Bitdefender, or Norton.

5. Perform a factory reset (if necessary): If the spyware persists or if you suspect a deep-level compromise, back up your essential files and restore the device to its factory settings. Change all your email and banking passwords using a different, secure device.

mundophone

 

TECH

Enough Phone is as small as iPhone 13 mini, launches with modular battery and 5 years of updates

With the Apple iPhone 13 mini and the Asus Zenfone 10, the last truly compact mainstream smartphones were discontinued years ago. Fans of small smartphones now finally have a new option in the Enough Phone, which also aims to impress with a replaceable battery and long-term software support.

After we reported on the development of the Enough Phone back in August, the compact smartphone is now finally available to preorder through a crowdfunding campaign. Measuring 133 x 64 millimeters, the device is 16.6 millimeters shorter and 7.5 millimeters narrower than the Apple iPhone 17 ($719 on Amazon), and is actually almost the same size as the Apple iPhone 13 mini.

However, the Enough Phone is relatively thick at 12 millimeters. This is due in no small part to the back being screwed on rather than glued, making the 3,500 mAh battery particularly easy to replace. The phone ships with a choice of Android 17 with full app support or OdysseyOS, a simplified operating system that forgoes features such as social media apps. In either case, the Enough Phone is set to receive security updates until 2032.

Unscrew the backplate on the enough phone to reveal its battery. When it wears out, swap it yourself, just like the good old days. 

Software updates are planned through 2032, and the back is made from recycled polycarbonate. 

One enough phone should last you into the next decade.

While this should give the device a relatively long life span, its plastic housing is not waterproof. Its specifications are in line with a conventional mid-range smartphone, as the Enough Phone features a MediaTek Dimensity 7500, paired with 8 GB of RAM, 128 GB of storage and a microSD slot. The 50 MP main camera uses a Sony IMX766 sensor in the 1/1.56-inch format, while the selfie camera offers a resolution of 32 MP. The 5.3-inch display has a resolution of just 1,520 x 720 pixels. A fingerprint sensor in the lock button, an NFC chip and a GPS module round out the specifications.

At first glance, it looks like a phone you might have bought about 15 years ago. But this is actually a forward-looking project: the Enough Phone is a compact smartphone designed to bring back the simplicity that Android once offered. It could be yours for $399.

The "straight-to-the-point" philosophy of the Enough Phone begins with its display—a 5.3-inch LCD panel with a resolution of 1520 x 720 pixels. Its small size by today’s standards highlights just how compact the device is: measuring 132.8 x 63.8 x 12 mm, it’s roughly the same size as an iPhone 13 Mini.

There’s a good reason for this. According to the project’s creators—Austin Boer, Brennan Jordan, and William Stults—mainstream brands have largely abandoned compact phones. While it’s true that most people prefer smartphones with large screens, the trio believes there are still users who miss having smaller options (I’ll admit, I’m one of them).

As for the device itself, the back features a single camera with a 50-megapixel Sony IMX766 sensor. Look closely, and you’ll notice screws just below the camera module; this is because the Enough Phone includes a user-replaceable battery.

Under the hood, the phone is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7500 chip, paired with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage. It runs a "pure" version of Android 17.

Alternatively, users can opt for OdysseyOS—a highly simplified version of Android developed by Sleke—which offers an experience similar to that of a basic, no-frills mobile phone. Sleke sells refurbished Google Pixel phones running OdysseyOS, catering to those who prefer or prioritize simpler, more intuitive features.

Other specifications include:

a 32-megapixel front-facing camera

5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, and NFC connectivity

eSIM support

a power button with an integrated fingerprint reader

a 3,500 mAh battery (a specification subject to change before launch)

The "Enough Phone" is a crowdfunding project currently running a campaign on Kickstarter. Early backers can purchase the device starting at $399, as previously mentioned.

In my view, this price point is somewhat high given the device's hardware—and it could get worse: upon its official release—expected sometime after May 2027 (the month currently slated for deliveries)—the device may carry an official price tag of $599.

Regardless, it could prove to be an interesting option for those seeking a compact yet functional Android smartphone.

Pricing and availability...The Enough Phone is currently being funded on Kickstarter and costs $399 under the "Super Early Bird" offer, with shipping expected to begin in May 2027. The price excludes shipping, import VAT and customs duties. Backing crowdfunding campaigns carries the risk of products being delivered late, not at all or with quality issues, especially as the manufacturer has yet to show a working prototype.

 

mundophone

 

TECH

Smartwatches could learn to read your hands

Northwestern University engineers are investigating new ways to tell what the hands are doing — including peering beneath the skin to watch muscles and tendons move. The new methods don’t use high-tech cameras, medical scans or advanced imaging techniques. Instead, they use a common smartwatch.

In one project, engineers designed a new smartwatch system to glean activities from the arm and hands. In another, electrodes built into the back of a watch can track more subtle hand movements and gestures, such as a thumbs up or clenched fist.

By tracking these movements, researchers could one day help improve the control of bionic prosthetics or monitor patients in specialized care settings, including elder care. Beyond health care, the systems also could make smartwatches easier to use, much like facial recognition has simplified smartphone access, or extend to monitoring everyday activities, such as helping dental hygienists track how many teeth they clean in a week.

The researchers presented both studies, named TransfHAR and EITWatch, today (Nov. 3) at the Association for Computing Machinery’s Symposium on User Interface Software and Technology (UIST). The full symposium will be held Nov. 2–5, 2026, in Detroit.

“Your hands are how you act on the world, but your smartwatch knows almost nothing about what they’re doing,” said Northwestern’s Karan Ahuja, the principal investigator on both papers. “These two projects show how much the wrist alone can reveal — one by sensing the muscles and tendons beneath the skin, the other by learning how the arm moves. We can’t recognize every movement yet, but it’s a strong starting point.”

Ahuja is the Lisa Wissner-Slivka and Benjamin Slivka Assistant Professor in Computer Science at Northwestern’s McCormick School of Engineering, where he directs the Sensing, Perception, Interactive Computing and Experiences (SPICE) Lab. 

TransfHAR was co-authored by Aidan Bradshaw, a Ph.D. student in the SPICE lab, Riku Arakawa of Carnegie Mellon University, and Xin Liu, a senior research scientist at Google Health Research. EITWatch was co-authored by SPICE lab members Xuanyou Liu and Novel Alam, who contributed equally and led the work.

Smartwatches have advanced well beyond the basics, like counting steps or displaying notifications. Today's models can monitor heart rate, blood oxygen levels, sleep quality, and even perform electrocardiograms. Researchers are now exploring another capability that could eventually make smartwatches much more intuitive to use: recognizing hand gestures without requiring cameras or bulky wristbands.

A team at Northwestern University has just reported on EITWatch, a smartwatch-integrated gesture recognition system that uses electrical impedance tomography (EIT) to sense muscle and tendon movement beneath the skin. Rather than relying on optical sensors or inertial measurement units, the prototype sends tiny electrical currents through the wrist and measures how those signals change as muscles contract. Because every gesture subtly alters the electrical properties of the tissue, the watch can identify different hand movements based on their unique electrical signatures.

This isn’t the first EIT-based gesture recognition study. However, past attempts typically required electrodes wrapped all the way around the wrist along with external electronics. EITWatch is designed around something users already wear every day: a standard smartwatch. The prototype places eight gold-plated electrodes in a 31 mm ring beneath a 40 mm watch case, allowing the entire sensing area to remain confined to the watch's contact patch. An onboard ESP32-S3 microcontroller captures impedance measurements at 48 Hz while sequencing the electrodes through multiple measurement paths.

Since a flat electrode array cannot surround the wrist the way earlier systems could, the researchers developed what they call a multi-depth scanning technique to compensate. Instead of always sending current between neighboring electrodes, the system varies the distance between the source and return electrodes. Longer current paths penetrate deeper into the wrist, allowing the watch to sample information from multiple tissue depths and muscle groups during each scan. In testing, this approach outperformed conventional adjacent-electrode measurements by 15.1 percentage points for larger gestures and 10.4 percentage points for smaller ones.

The researchers evaluated EITWatch with 12 participants performing two gesture vocabularies. One consisted of six larger static hand poses, while the other included five subtle micro-gestures along with a relaxed resting position. Within a single session, the system achieved recognition accuracies of 92.5% for the larger gestures and 91.5% for the micro-gestures, showing that a smartwatch-sized sensing area can capture enough information for reliable classification.

Keeping watch of the hand...EITWatch takes advantage of a smartwatch’s constant contact with the wrist. Using a technique called Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT), eight small electrodes on the back of the watch send tiny electrical signals through the wrist to map the muscles and tendons beneath the skin.

Each hand gesture — from pointing a finger to giving a thumbs up — produces a distinct pattern as muscles and tendons move. By learning to recognize these patterns, EITWatch can identify specific gestures and translate them into smartwatch commands.  A thumbs up, for example, could send a text message, while a pointed finger could activate a step-counter during exercise.

“The part I care about most is accessibility. Touchscreens shut out many people,” Alam said. “A second input channel built into the device gives them another way in.”

Because the same wrist signals encode what the hand intends to do, the researchers are also exploring whether this kind of sensing could help control prosthetic hands. Looking inside the arm also gives scientists a new way to track the hand, bypassing the need for cameras.

“Right now, the best way to tell what the hands are doing is a camera, and that’s a privacy nightmare,” Ahuja said. “It also only works when your hand is in view. The wrist is always there.”

Unfortunately, the system is currently not very stable across time. When users put the watch on after two days without use, recognition accuracy dropped to 73.2%. Performance fell further when attempting to recognize gestures from entirely new users without personalized training data. To make the device practical, it will need to deal with small changes in watch placement and differences between individuals better.

The team plans to address these limitations using representation learning and contrastive learning techniques designed to produce gesture embeddings that remain stable across different users and repeated wearings. If successful, future smartwatches could gain a powerful new input method without adding cameras, external accessories, or changing their familiar form factor.

EITWatch is still a research prototype. In the study, it recognized six common hand gestures with over 92% accuracy and five subtler finger movements with over 91%, but it works best when calibrated for a single user. That means borrowing a family member’s smartwatch, for example, might make it more difficult for the device to accurately recognize the new user’s wrist movements.

“Going forward, we will focus on two things. For hardware, fitting the electronics inside the watch is the next push,” Alam said. “Then there’s the people problem. One person wearing the watch does way better. The goal stays simple though. Any wearer puts the watch on and the gestures work. No calibration step.”

Watching the whole arm...Although today’s smartwatches and smartphones can recognize certain gestures, those movements are typically limited to a predetermined set of motions. TransfHAR takes a more flexible approach. The system first learns from thousands of hours of public, unlabeled motion data from everyday activities such as walking and exercise. It can then learn an entirely new activity from just a few demonstrations. Users can then associate specific movements with customized commands, expanding what their devices can do.

New research from Northwestern University introduces TransfHAR and EITWatch, two smartwatch systems that track hand gestures and arm motions without using privacy-invasive cameras.

How the new systems work:

• EITWatch (Electrical Impedance Tomography): Uses tiny electrodes on the back of the smartwatch case to send electrical currents through the skin. By varying the distance between source and return electrodes, it scans multiple tissue depths and muscle groups in the wrist. In studies, it recognized 6 common hand gestures with over 92% accuracy and 5 micro-finger movements with over 91% accuracy.

• TransfHAR (Transformer-based Human Activity Recognition): Uses existing motion sensors (accelerometers and gyroscopes) already found in standard smartwatches. Pretrained on thousands of hours of movement data, it allows users to name and demonstrate a new action (like brushing teeth or lifting weights) via a quick one-minute recording, achieving roughly 90% recognition accuracy.

Key benefits and use cases:

• Privacy Protection: Replaces camera-based hand tracking with wrist-level internal muscle and motion sensing.

• Healthcare & Monitoring: Enables caregivers or nurses in eldercare facilities to passively track daily routines—such as hygiene or physical therapy exercises—without placing cameras in private rooms.

• Prosthetic Control: Translates intended hand and wrist signals into alternative control channels for prosthetic devices.

• Fitness Tracking: Automatically logs specific gym exercises and repetitive daily tasks without manual input.

Current limitations:

• Calibration Requirement: Both prototypes currently achieve peak accuracy when calibrated specifically to an individual user, meaning sharing a watch with someone else reduces recognition precision.

• Form-Factor Scaling: Engineers are still working on shrinking all necessary hardware components to fit comfortably inside commercial, everyday smartwatch bodies.

mundophone

 

SAMSUNG

Galaxy A58 appears in certification with 45W charging, but camera setup sees little change

Samsung's next-generation mid-range smartphones are set to receive significant battery upgrades and even charge much faster than the more expensive Samsung Galaxy S26. Rumors reveal some interesting details about the Galaxy A38 5G and Galaxy A58 5G.

Since the Samsung Galaxy A37 5G ($414 on Amazon) only hit the market in April, the launch of the Galaxy A38 5G is likely still some time away. Nevertheless, rumors already revealed in October that Samsung is expected to use the same cameras as in its direct predecessor, namely a 50-megapixel main camera, a 12 MP ultra-wide-angle camera and a 5 MP macro camera. Now, GalaxyClub has learned that Samsung is planning at least one significant upgrade – a larger battery.

Galaxy A58 specs: What’s known so far...According to an earlier report from GalaxyClub, the Galaxy A58 will retain the same camera resolutions as the A57. The setup reportedly includes a 50-megapixel primary camera, a 12-megapixel ultrawide sensor and a 5-megapixel macro camera. On the front, the handset is expected to feature a 12-megapixel selfie camera. However, whether Samsung will introduce newer camera sensors remains unclear.

The upcoming phone is also tipped to run Android 17 with One UI 9.5. A firmware build carrying version A586BXXU0AZI5 was spotted on Samsung’s servers in October, indicating that software development is underway. The firmware sighting does not confirm the final software version, though.

For reference, the Galaxy A57 features a 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate, an Exynos 1680 chipset, up to 12GB of RAM and a 5,000mAh battery. It also supports 45W charging and carries an IP68 rating. Samsung could introduce a newer chipset and other incremental improvements with the A58, although its remaining specifications are still unknown.

Galaxy A58 specs: What’s known so far...According to an earlier report from GalaxyClub, the Galaxy A58 will retain the same camera resolutions as the A57. The setup reportedly includes a 50-megapixel primary camera, a 12-megapixel ultrawide sensor and a 5-megapixel macro camera. On the front, the handset is expected to feature a 12-megapixel selfie camera. However, whether Samsung will introduce newer camera sensors remains unclear.

The upcoming phone is also tipped to run Android 17 with One UI 9.5. A firmware build carrying version A586BXXU0AZI5 was spotted on Samsung’s servers in October, indicating that software development is underway. The firmware sighting does not confirm the final software version, though.

For reference, the Galaxy A57 features a 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate, an Exynos 1680 chipset, up to 12GB of RAM and a 5,000mAh battery. It also supports 45W charging and carries an IP68 rating. Samsung could introduce a newer chipset and other incremental improvements with the A58, although its remaining specifications are still unknown.

The mid-range smartphone's battery is said to have an actual capacity of 5,882 mAh, which will likely be marketed as a typical capacity of 6,000 mAh. For comparison: The Samsung Galaxy A37 5G is marketed with a 5,000 mAh battery, meaning the next-generation mainstream mid-range smartphone offers 20 percent more battery capacity. If Samsung replaces the Exynos 1480 with a more modern chip, this could result in significantly longer battery life.

Meanwhile, @ZionsAnvin spotted the more expensive Samsung Galaxy A58 5G in a certification listing, according to which the smartphone can be charged via USB-C at up to 45 watts. Fast charging is therefore just as powerful as on the Galaxy A57 5G, with the mid-range smartphone charging significantly faster than the Galaxy S26, which is limited to just 25 watts. The Samsung Galaxy A38 5G and Galaxy A58 5G are expected to launch in March or April 2027. GalaxyClub expects another price increase, which could put the list price of the cheapest Galaxy A38 5G at over $500.

The Samsung Galaxy A57 5G was released in April 2026, so its successor is not expected to launch before the spring of 2027. GalaxyClub has already obtained details regarding the camera setup for this next-generation mid-range smartphone. The news is disappointing, as none of the four cameras are expected to receive any significant upgrades.

According to reports, Samsung will retain a 12-megapixel selfie camera, a 50 MP main camera, a 12 MP ultrawide camera, and a 5 MP macro camera. The latter was first introduced with the Galaxy A51 in 2020, meaning it will be seven years old by the time the Galaxy A58 is released. Furthermore, a low-resolution macro camera will hardly be useful in 2027, and the mid-range device continues to lack a telephoto lens. It remains unclear whether any of the cameras will feature a newer or larger sensor.

For context, the Galaxy A57 features a main camera with a 50 MP 1/1.56-inch sensor, an ultrawide camera with a tiny 12 MP 1/3.06-inch sensor, and a selfie camera with an even smaller 12 MP 1/3.2-inch sensor. With this hardware, the Galaxy A57 failed to truly impress in our in-depth review—while the cameras deliver decent image quality, the results are far from exceptional, especially given the now relatively high price point of this mid-range series. However, in light of the DRAM crisis, it is not surprising that Samsung is implementing cost-cutting measures and opting against camera upgrades for the Galaxy A58.

The Galaxy A58 is expected to retain its predecessor's camera setup... Early leaks suggest that Samsung intends to carry over much of the photographic configuration from the Galaxy A57. According to information released by the website GalaxyClub, the Galaxy A58 is set to feature three rear cameras: a 50 MP main sensor, a 12 MP ultra-wide lens, and a 5 MP macro lens.

The front-facing camera is also expected to remain at 12 MP. While the resolutions are known, there is no confirmation yet regarding potential changes to the sensors themselves.

Most notable is the continued inclusion of the 5 MP macro camera. This component first appeared in the Galaxy A51—launched in 2020—and by the time the A58 hits the market, it will have been a fixture in Samsung’s mid-range lineup for seven years.

This repetition of specifications suggests that Samsung may be focusing its upgrades on other components, leaving the camera system largely unchanged from the previous generation.

Camera setup...Early leaks point to few changes in the photography department. According to information from the website GalaxyClub, the Galaxy A58 is expected to retain much of its predecessor's configuration, featuring three rear cameras and the same front-facing camera.

Main camera: 50 MP

Ultrawide: 12 MP

Macro: 5 MP

Front-facing: 12 MP

Notably, the 5 MP macro camera remains—a feature present since the Galaxy A51, which launched in 2020. If confirmed, this component will have been a fixture in the mid-range lineup for seven years by the time the A58 hits the market. The repetition of these photographic specifications suggests that the manufacturer may be focusing improvements on other components, while keeping the camera capabilities very similar to the previous generation.

Display (based on A57): 6.7-inch Super AMOLED+

Refresh rate (based on A57): 120 Hz

Chip (based on A57): Exynos 1680

Battery (based on A57): 5,000 mAh

A57 reference price: 579 euros

A58 rumored price: approximately 600 euros

The company has not yet announced an official date for the unveiling of the Galaxy A58. It is expected that the device will follow the same schedule as its predecessor—the Galaxy A57 was announced on March 25, 2026—making March 2027 a likely window for its debut.

While the Galaxy A58 might feature a newer processor, initial sources indicate that the core photographic specifications will remain unchanged. We must wait for official announcements to confirm the full specifications, pricing, and availability.

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