Technology

Dust on the Wind, Drift Beyond the Flame, and End the Pain, are all songs by the hot new band The Velvet Sundown, who are blowing up on Spotify with over 470,000 monthly listeners. There’s only one problem. It doesn’t look like the band actually exists, and the music appears to have been created by AI.

While the band appears as a Verified Artist on Spotify, the bio says an incredible amount of nondescript things about the band, like “There’s something quite spellbinding about The Velvet Sundown. You don’t just listen to them, you drift into them”.

The bio lists the band members as singer and mellotron player Gabe Farrow, guitarist Lennie West, Milo Raines, who "crafts the band's textured synth sounds," and "free-spirited" percussionist Orion “Rio” Del Mar. No amount of digging that I (or the music press) have been able to do has persuaded me that any of these people are real.

The music itself sounds to me like a kind of mash-up of various mellow, country-influenced, rock bands like The Eagles, JJ Cale, and The Allman Brothers. I can also detect an element of another Texas band, Khruangbin, in their sound.

(Image credit: The Velvet Sundown)Dust and Silence

The Velvet Sundown already has one album out, Dust and Silence, which you can listen to right now, and another, Paper Sun Rebellion, is set for release in 13 days on July 14, but the signs of AI are all over everything to do with them.

For instance, both album covers look like two versions of the same AI-generated design. Both are surrealism scenes of a floating eye and a staircase in a desert landscape with mountains in the background. It looks like what happens when AI generates two or more versions of an image for you to choose between.

Then take a look at pictures of the band - they look like they’ve been created by ChatGPT to me. If you look at the band’s Instagram account, you’ll see what obviously looks like AI-generated photos of the band.

With powerful AI music creation tools like Suno available online, it’s quite possible that the particular blend of easy-listening, middle-of-the-road, rock that The Velvet Sundown specializes in is AI-created too. Another giveaway for me is that the singer’s voice sounds slightly different on each track the band plays, and the music has a soulless, generic quality to it, even if it makes for pleasant and inoffensive background listening. There’s nothing cohesive between the tracks that makes me think they’re played by the same people.

Hard times

As we reported in February, since 2024, Spotify has demonetized songs that don't get 1,000 streams a year – by some estimates, 86% of music on the platform – making it even harder for musicians to make a living.

In a time when the big streaming services are reaping vast profits and artists who aren't in the top percentage of streamers are struggling, the fact that an AI band is grabbing the ears of listeners away from real human-generated music, while not being labelled as AI, is proving divisive.

Many people are understandably unhappy that what appears to be an entirely AI-generated band is getting plays and being supported by Spotify.

“Just looked them up, and the description on Spotify doesn't make any mention of them being AI. This honestly is making me lean towards cancelling my Spotify subscription”, said Reddit user blyzo.

“Yeah, that's what people are today; all frauds, and all supporters of the fake. Milli Vanilli came out decades too early!”, commented Reddit user Big-Rabbit9119

However, Reddit user AnyPomegranate4981 said, "ngl the songs are fire".

We reached out to Spotify for comment on how this band had achieved Verified status and if it thought The Velvet Sundown was a real band, despite all the obvious evidence, but they haven't responded. We'll update this article if we get a response.

One thing that did occur to me was that if it is a real band, then this could be a very clever marketing campaign. Generating controversy by appearing to be a fake AI band would be a great way to get yourself noticed.

If The Velvet Sunset is indeed an AI band, though, one thing is for sure – we’re unlikely to ever see them play live.

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• Hawaiian Airlines files 8-K form with the SEC
• It claims to have observed an attack, but it didn't affect flights or their safety
• Security researchers believe the attack was done by Scattered Spider

Hawaiian Airlines has said it recently suffered a cyberattack, but stressed the incident didn’t affect any flights.

In a new 8-K form filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the airline said it identified a “security incident affecting certain information technology systems”, on June 23, 2025.

The company responded by “taking steps to safeguard the operations and systems”, bringing in external third-party cybersecurity experts to investigate the attack, and notifying relevant authorities about the incident.

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Scattered Spider's fingerprints

Other details are unknown at the time, but security experts and the media are speculating this might have been the work of Scattered Spider, a hacking collective that’s been targeting US-based retailers lately.

In fact, Charles Carmakal, the CTO of Google's Mandiant Consulting security research arm, told The Register this attack “bears the hallmarks” of that particular threat actor.

"Mandiant is aware of multiple incidents in the airline and transportation sector which resemble the operations of UNC3944 or Scattered Spider. We are still working on attribution and analysis, but given the habit of this actor to focus on a single sector we suggest that the industry take steps immediately to harden systems," said Carmakal.

"The actor's core tactics, techniques, and procedures have remained consistent. This means that organizations can take proactive steps like training their help desk staff to enforce robust identity verification processes and deploying phishing-resistant MFA to defend against these intrusions. Additional advice can be found in our previous hardening guide."

Hawaiian adds its flights are operating safely and as per schedule.

“The company has not yet determined whether the incident is reasonably likely to materially impact the company’s financial condition or results of operations,” the filing concluded.

Since the company did not take down its IT network, it’s safe to assume that this wasn’t a ransomware attack, but these details could be known in the coming weeks.

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• A range of new security features arrived with One UI 7
• Samsung is recommending users turn them on
• They'll help to protect your data if someone swipes your phone

Samsung is rather proud of some of the anti-theft features it's recently rolled out with One UI 7 (based on Android 15), so much so that the company has issued a press release strongly advising users to turn on these new features.

"Samsung is calling on Galaxy users to activate the latest anti-theft features now available on their devices," reads the directive (via Android Authority). "These updates reflect Samsung's commitment to delivering smarter, stronger protection – helping users safeguard their data and stay in control, even in high-risk situations."

There are five features mentioned, though they're not all brand new. First up is Theft Detection Lock, which uses the sensors on your phone to detect when it might have been snatched, and automatically locks the screen.

There's also Offline Device Lock, which locks the phone after it's been offline for an extended period, and Remote Lock – the ability for users to lock a phone remotely from a different device if its been lost or stolen.

Where to find these features

You can find these features in the Security and privacy section of Settings (Image credit: Future)

Samsung One UI 7 also offers Identity Check, which means biometric authentication is needed for changing security settings, and Security Delay: a one-hour waiting period that's enforced if the biometric data is reset on a phone.

If you have had your phone taken from you, that waiting period should give you time to remotely lock it and take whatever other steps are needed, before the person who's trying to reset it can gain full access.

All of these features can be found and enabled through the Settings panel in One UI 7: Tap Security and privacy > Lost device protection, and you'll find options for registering your device with the Find My Mobile service (for locking it remotely), and for managing the other security features flagged up by Samsung.

it's also worth mentioning that these aren't Samsung exclusives: you can find these features, such as Theft Detection Lock, on other phones running Google's Android 15 software (including the best Pixel phones).

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• Microsoft has confirmed Windows 11 25H2 is the update for this year
• The upgrade is now officially in testing
• It'll be a more minor update delivered as an 'enablement package' and that's a good thing as we're likely to see fewer bugs than with 24H2

Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11 25H2 is the next update for its desktop operating system, arriving later this year.

That ends whispers that we might just see the release of Windows 12 - or whatever the next incarnation of the OS will be called - later this year. However, hope of that had already dwindled to pretty much dying embers in all honesty.

The announcement came in an IT Pro blog post from Microsoft that Tom's Hardware flagged.

Microsoft told us: "Today, Windows 11, version 25H2 became available to the Windows Insider community, in advance of broader availability planned for the second half of 2025."

The Windows Insider community is the formal name for those who are testing Windows 11, running preview versions of the OS (in various channels, from the earliest builds in the Canary channel to the Release Preview channel, which, as the name suggests, is one step away from release).

So, some of those testers are now officially using Windows 11 25H2, and Microsoft further confirmed another suspicion that's been previously aired about the next big update for the operating system - that it's what's known as an 'enablement package' or 'eKB' for short.

This means that the move to 25H2 will be a swift upgrade for those who are on Windows 11 24H2, and as Microsoft puts it, the update will be "as easy as a quick restart".

The 25H2 update would typically be expected to arrive in September or October, and I wouldn't expect it any sooner - neither would I rule out the possibility of a November release. As ever, it'll be an ongoing rollout, so it could take some time to reach your PC.

Analysis: Fewer features, but fewer problems?

(Image credit: MAYA LAB / Shutterstock)

How does the enablement package delivery method Microsoft is employing here help to ensure a speedy and simple update? It's because 25H2 is built on the same 'servicing branch' as 24H2, meaning that they use the same code. They are, for all intents and purposes, the same, except 25H2 has some extra features added on top - and because these versions of Windows 11 are the same codebase, those features can effectively be preloaded to devices running 24H2.

What this means is that when it comes to applying the update, it's already in place, and it just has to be enabled. Hence the phrase 'enablement package', and with just a simple switch being flicked to turn on 25H2's features when the update is sent live, it's basically just a quick reboot, and you're done. At least in theory, anyway, barring any issues.

However, what this also means is that there'll be no major changes with Windows 11 25H2. An enablement package release is a fast and quick deployment, but doesn't change anything major with Windows 11's code, as noted, and so we will likely get a fairly limited dollop of new features with 25H2.

In short, don't get your hopes up for anything earthshaking this year regarding Microsoft's changes to Windows 11. However, the flipside is that without any major moves, there's far less chance of any nasty bugs popping up.

Windows 11 24H2 brought in a new underlying platform - Germanium - which was a huge shift, and my theory has long been that this is why we've seen more than the usual helping of critters skittering about in the works of the OS (and some very strange glitches, too). In 2025, that shouldn't happen, and hopefully, Microsoft will get back on course with ensuring Windows 11 runs more smoothly (knock on wood, fingers crossed, etc.).

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• Kansas man hacked health club, nonprofit and former employer to promote his services
• He claimed responsibility and offered remedial support
• He could face up to five years in prison and more

A Kansas man has plead guilty to hacking multiple organizations only to promote his own cybersecurity services.

Nicholas Michael Kloster, a 32-year-old from Kansas City, was indicted in 2024 for breaching three organizations, including a health club and a Missouri nonprofit organization.

During the incident, Kloster emailed business owners claiming responsibility for the attacks, and offering consulting services to prevent future cyberattacks, and his fate will soon be determined.

Cyberattacker admits to pushing his own consulting services

In one case, Kloster accessed a gym's systems by breaching a restricted area. He manipulated the system to remove his own photo from the member database before reducing his monthly membership fee to $1. He then explained to the business owner that he had bypassed login credentials for security cameras and accessed router settings.

In a separate incident, Kloster used a boot disk to bypass authentication into a nonprofit's systems, stealing sensitive data, installing a VPN and changing user passwords.

A press release from the US Attorney's Office of Western District of Missouri explains that "the company has sustained significant losses in an attempt to remediate the effects from this intrusion."

Furthermore, Kloster is said to have stolen credit card data from a former employer to buy hacking tools (including a thumb drive advertised as a tool for hacking into vulnerable computers) after being fired from the company in April 2024.

The Attorney's Office explained that Kloster's actions deserve him up to five years' imprisonment in federal prison without parole, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release, and an order of restitution. A jury will decide the exact consequences he will face, but the involvement of the FBI suggests Kloster could face some pretty serious punishments.

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• US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. says every American should own a wearable
• The plan could bring major benefits, but also comes with risks
• We don't have much information about what the plan entails

The best smartwatches and other fitness wearables offer huge potential when it comes to helping us manage and improve our health – and now US Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has said he'd like to see every American wearing some form of health or fitness device.

“My vision is that every American is wearing a wearable within four years,” he said at a congressional hearing last week. To that end, his department will soon begin one of “the biggest campaigns in HHS history” that it says will help Americans “take control over their own health.”

Right now, the plan is short on specifics. We don’t know, for example, if it will involve the government promoting the benefits of wearables, federal bodies partnering with or subsidizing existing devices, or even the release of a Trump-branded health tracker (akin to the recent Trump Phone). A major campaign to promote the use of wearables, however, seems likely.

During the congressional hearing, Kennedy Jr. – who's helped to inspire the 'Make America Healthy Again', or MAHA, movement, said that while blood glucose monitors can cost $100 to $300 a month, his agency is “exploring ways of making sure that those costs can be paid for.”

He also suggested that an $80 wearable might be a better solution to the weight-loss drug Ozempic – which can cost over $1,000 a month – for controlling diabetes and weight.

More info is needed

(Image credit: Future)

On the surface, a campaign promoting the use of health wearables sounds like a good idea. These devices are tuned to nudge you towards healthier habits, such as exercising regularly and understanding your sleep patterns.

But questions are likely to be raised over Kennedy Jr.’s role in this, given his past promotion of some medical practices that are considered dubious by experts, and his skepticism over some vaccines.

Wearables also come with potential issues, regardless of who's promoting them. Your medical data is some of the most sensitive information about you, and if it were to be stolen, sold to advertisers without your knowledge, or otherwise fall into the wrong hands, it could have serious implications for you. That makes it a juicy target for hackers and identity thieves.

It’s also worth adding that wearables are not a cure-all solution. While they can provide important health information, including, for example, warnings about irregular heart rhythm, they can also fuel health anxiety and lead to unsafe self-medication.

Ultimately, they’re only one piece of the puzzle, and should be accompanied by other healthy actions and habits, as well as input from health professionals.

It sounds like a worthy endeavor, and one that could both improve American's health and save billions of dollars on healthcare costs over the long term – but right now we have more questions about RFK Jr.’s wearables plan than we do answers.

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• A former Microsoft Game Studios executive producer has released a video discussing the future of Xbox
• She discussed the reveal of the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, and recent focus on the Xbox Play Anywhere initiative
• She suggested that "Xbox has no desire or literally can't ship hardware anymore"

Former Microsoft Game Studios executive producer Laura Fryer has discussed the future of the Xbox brand on her YouTube channel and argued that Xbox hardware is effectively "dead".

She described the recent reveal of the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X as unsurprising, saying that it's "much easier to slap an Xbox sticker on an existing piece of hardware and call it a day."

Fryer predicted that the upcoming handheld will be hampered by some of the wider issues currently facing the Xbox brand, including a lack of compelling exclusive experiences: "Xbox doesn't do exclusives anymore. Even if Xbox delivers a crazy great game 'Xbox Anywhere' means that I can play that game on any platform."

Many Xbox first-party titles also seem to suffer from protracted development cycles. There were several notable absences from the recent Xbox Games Showcase, such as State of Decay 3, which was originally announced five years ago, Fable, and the Perfect Dark remake.

In her eyes, the lack of exclusive experiences and years between major releases leaves consumers without a compelling reason to consider the Asus ROG Xbox Ally or Xbox Ally X over alternatives like the Steam Deck OLED or building your own PC.

She went on to suggest that the handheld and current focus on the 'Xbox Play Anywhere' initiative is part of "a slow exit from the hardware business completely" and that the end goal appears to be driving players towards Xbox Game Pass.

"As one of the founding members of the Xbox team, I'm not pleased with where things are today," she concluded. "From my perspective, it looks like Xbox has no desire or literally can't ship hardware anymore."

Looking at the current trajectory of Xbox, it's hard not to disagree. Sales of the Xbox Series X and Series S have been trailing behind the Xbox One for some time, so it's clear that Microsoft will need to drastically shift its strategy in order to continue growing its gaming division.

In my eyes, the acquisition of Activision Blizzard suggests a shift towards generating revenue through multi-platform software sales rather than truly competing in the console space. This lines up with Xbox boss Phil Spencer's professed desire to release more Xbox games on other platforms.

This will likely mean less of a focus on dedicated hardware from Microsoft itself, with third-party manufacturers like Asus (and recently Meta with the Limited Edition Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition) catering to the remaining demand for Xbox products with licensed hardware instead.

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The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 could be one of the best-selling foldable phones of 2025 going by past form, as Samsung’s foldable flip phones combine a compact form factor with a more reasonable price than its Z Fold line, making them a popular choice. So will this trend continue into 2025?

Well, nothing about the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 has been confirmed just yet, but it sure is starting to leak. So below, you’ll find all the news, leaks, and rumors we’ve heard about this foldable contender so far.

We’ll also update this article whenever any new rumors emerge, so make sure to check back soon if you want to stay informed. And if you want to know what we're hoping for from the Z Flip 7 too, check out five things we want from the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7.

Latest news

A massive specs leak suggests the Galaxy Z Flip 7 could have some serious upgrades.View Deal

Cut to the chase

• What is it? The next clamshell foldable from Samsung
• When is it out? Probably July 9
• How much will it cost? Likely upwards of $1,099.99 / £1,049 / AU$1,799

Look out for it in July

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

• Expected to launch on July 9
• Could cost the same as last year

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 release date will probably be July 9, as the next Samsung Galaxy Unpacked is then.

Samsung hasn't specifically said that we'll see the Z Flip 7 there, but it seems very likely, as the previous two models had July announcements, and the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 also shipped in July.

That said, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 shipped in August of its release year, and the Z Flip 4 wasn’t even announced until August. Still, if not July then we’ll probably see the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 in August.

As far as release date rumors go, @PandaFlashPro has claimed that mass production of Samsung’s upcoming foldables started in May, which probably works for a July or August announcement. We've also heard the same mass production claim from another source, so this is looking likely.

Plus, July 9 has also been rumored for the Galaxy Z Flip 7's launch.

And sources have also spotted both a Galaxy Z Flip 7 codename (specifically ‘B7’) and a Galaxy Z Flip 7 model number (SM-F751), as well as a certification, which at the very least suggests that this phone is in the works.

However, a leak suggests the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 won't actually ship until August.

As for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 price, we’ve heard that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 might have the same starting price as the Galaxy Z Flip 6, and this is a claim we've now heard multiple times. That would mean a starting price of $1,099.99 / £1,049 / AU$1,799.

That said, leaker Roland Quandt claims the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 will actually cost around 100 euros (roughly $115 / £85 / AU$180) less than its predecessor.

It might also come with a free Google AI Pro subscription, so you could get more than just the phone for your money.

Can you trust these rumors?

It seems almost certain that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 will be announced on July 9, since Samsung's next big phone event is then.

And since multiple sources have pointed to no change in price, that much is looking fairly likely.

Bigger screens and a better hinge

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 (Image credit: Future / Axel Metz)

• The Galaxy Z Flip 7 might have bigger screens than its predecessor
• It could also have a better hinge mechanism
• And it might be slimmer and lighter

We don’t have to rely purely on rumors when it comes to the design of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7, as Samsung itself has said during an earnings call (via @Jukanlosreve) that this year “we will release new foldable products with improved form factors, durability,” so while the Z Flip 7 wasn’t named, it’s likely one of the devices the company is referring to.

Since then, Samsung has said that its upcoming Galaxy Z models will be thinner, lighter, and more durable then their predecessors. Samsung's post is primarily talking about the Galaxy Z Fold line, so there's slight uncertainty over whether it refers to the Z Flip series too, but the wording suggests it probably is.

Beyond that, we’ve heard that the Galaxy Z Flip 7 might have bigger screens than its predecessor, with a source claiming the foldable display will be 6.85 inches (up from 6.7 inches), and the cover screen will be around 4 inches (up from 3.4 inches). We've heard that 4-inch claim a second time now too, and animation files spotted by Android Authority also point to a bigger secondary screen, as does a leaked photo of Galaxy Z Flip 7 cover screen glass.

Elsewhere, we've similarly heard that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 might have a 6.9-inch foldable screen and a 4.1-inch cover screen, with both having a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2,600 nits.

They also claim that it will be 13.7mm thick when folded and 6.5mm thick when unfolded, making it slimmer than its predecessor, and that it will weigh 188g.

Also on the design front, leaker @PandaFlashPro claims that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7’s hinge mechanism will be more smooth and durable, that the button placement will be the same as last year, and that the Galaxy Z Flip 7 will have a smaller display crease than its predecessor.

(Image credit: Android Headlines / OnLeaks)

And perhaps most excitingly of all, we've seen renders (one of which you can see above) showing a full-width cover screen on the Galaxy Z Flip 7.

Additional Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 renders have since leaked, and these line up with other leaks, as well as showing the phone in Blue Shadow and Jet Black colors.

Speaking of Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 colors, Samsung itself has accidentally listed four shades, specifically Jet Black, Blue Shadow, Coral Red, and Green Mint, with the last of those being exclusive to Samsung's online store.

That matches earlier leaks which stated that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 might be sold in a Coral Red shade, while another Galaxy Z Flip 7 colors leak had pointed to black, blue, and Coral Red shades.

Can you trust these rumors?

So far, the design leaks all only come from one source each, so we’d take them with a dose of skepticism. Though the claims of larger screens come from a source with a good track record, so that much may well be true.

If nothing else though, Samsung’s own comments strongly suggest we’ll see some changes to the design.

Copying the cameras

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

• The cameras might not get an upgrade
• That would mean a 50MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, and 10MP selfie camera

According to one Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 camera leak this phone will have exactly the same cameras as the Z Flip 6. That would mean a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultra-wide one, and a 10MP front-facing one. Sadly, we've heard the same Z Flip 7 camera specs leaked by a second source now too.

These specs would be rather disappointing, so we hope that subsequent camera leaks will disagree with this.

Still, if nothing else the software will probably be improved, and we’d expect to see new AI photography tools too. Indeed, one more recent leak points to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 having a new version of Samsung's ProVisual Engine, which will use AI to improve photos and videos.

Can you trust these rumors?

As we’ve only heard camera claims from a couple of sources so far, we’d take them with a pinch of salt. That said, it’s believable that Samsung wouldn’t improve the cameras, especially as the Samsung Galaxy S25’s cameras weren’t upgraded from the Samsung Galaxy S24’s.

An Exynos chipset and no change to RAM

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

• Likely to use an Exynos 2500 chipset
• May match its predecessor's RAM and storage

There’s potentially bad news when it comes to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7’s specs, as according to multiple rumors, it will have an Exynos 2500 chipset, with SamMobile even claiming to have 'confirmed' as much.

That’s set to be Samsung’s most powerful in-house smartphone chipset of 2025, and is almost certainly going to outperform the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 used by the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6. But based on past form it probably won’t quite be a match for the Snapdragon 8 Elite, which is used by the Samsung Galaxy S25 series, and is what we were hoping would power the Galaxy Z Flip 7.

Indeed, an early Galaxy Z Flip 7 benchmark with the Exynos 2500 shows worryingly low scores.

There's still some hope for the Snapdragon 8 Elite though, as another source claims there are prototypes of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 with both chipsets.

This rumor is given more weight as Korean-language website The Bell reported there's been lower than expected yields of Samsung’s Exynos 2500 chip, which is why we saw the Galaxy S25 range get a Snapdragon chipset across all the phones and regions. And this situation is expected to continue for the Galaxy Z Flip 7, meaning it'll likely get Snapdragon 8 Elite tuned for Galaxy use.

Indeed, most recently we've heard from one source that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 will use a Snapdragon 8 Elite.

And for software, Samsung has confirmed that the Galaxy Z Flip 7 will launch with Android 16. There will likely be improvements to the phone's AI too, as Samsung will reportedly focus on AI features at its launch.

Beyond that, we’ve elsewhere heard that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 could have 12GB of RAM, and a choice of 256GB or 512GB of storage – specs which are identical to the current model.

On the other hand, another source has pointed to 8GB or 12GB of RAM, plus 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage for the Galaxy Z Flip 7. Though we're skeptical that Samsung would offer lower RAM configurations than you can get the Z Flip 6 in.

And leaker @PandaFlashPro has posted on X, saying that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 will have a bigger vapor chamber than the Z Flip 6, which could help it keep cool and therefore avoid throttling.

That might also aid the battery life, as might the use of a "highly efficient" display, though as yet we haven’t heard anything about the phone’s battery. For reference though, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 has a 4,000mAh battery, so we’d expect the Z Flip 7’s would be at least that size.

A more recent tip has the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 slated to get a 4,300mAh battery, which is a boost up from 4,000mAh in the Galaxy Z Flip 6. We've heard that 4,300mAh claim multiple times now too, from numerous sources, and even seen 4,300mAh mentioned in a certification. Add in a improved chip and display efficiency and we could be looking at a very solid battery life for the Flip 7.

Can you trust these rumors?

Some of these specs have only been stated by one source, so we’d take them with a pinch of salt for now, though there’s nothing unbelievable here.

Hopefully though Samsung will either equip the phone with a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset or give it more than 12GB of RAM – or both. But that’s just our hope, not a prediction.

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With the Samsung Galaxy S25 series now here we’re looking ahead to Samsung’s next big smartphone launch, which in all likelihood will consist of the brand's 2025 foldables.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 could be the most high-end of these, though there are also reports of a tri-fold model in the works, which might have it beat. Either way though, the Z Fold 7 is likely to be an impressive phone.

We don’t know anything for sure about it yet, but leaks and rumors have revealed some possible specs, features, and other details, so you’ll find all of that below. And we've also written an article focused on the five things we most want from the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.

We've also got an article covering whether you should wait for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.

Latest news

A massive Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 specs leak points to some serious upgrades.View Deal

Cut to the chase

• What is it? The next big-screen Samsung foldable
• When is it out? Likely landing on July 9
• How much will it cost? Likely upwards of $1,899.99 / £1,799 / AU$2,749

Likely landing in July

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)

• Samsung is holding a big event on July 9
• The price is reportedly unchanged from last year

We're almost certainly the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 release date will be July 9, as Samsung has confirmed that its next Galaxy Unpacked event will be then.

But even before that announcement we were leaning towards that date, due to a combination of leaks, educated guesses, and past form.

Samsung hasn't confirmed that the Z Fold 7 will be in attendance, but it looks very likely, and we can confidently say that this phone is in the works at the very least, especially as multiple sources have come across codenames and model numbers for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.

Plus, leaker @PandaFlashPro claims that mass production of the phone has started as of May, which would likely work for a July launch. A second source had also claimed that the Z Fold 7 would begin mass production in May, so that's promising.

In fact, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 has even now been certified, suggesting that it's coming soon.

However, while it will probably be announced on July 9, one source suggests the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 won't ship until sometime in August.

As for the price, according to one source the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will cost the same amount as its predecessor. That Galaxy Z Fold 7 price claim is something we've now heard multiple times. That would mean a starting price of $1,899.99 / £1,799 / AU$2,749.

However, we've elsewhere heard that the Z Fold 7 could cost €100 (roughly $115 / £85 / AU$180) more. Plus, there might be a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Ultra, and that would almost certainly be more expensive.

Regardless of the price though, you might at least get more than just the phone for your money, with one leak suggesting the Z Fold 7 will come with a Google AI Pro subscription.

But for a deeper dive into possible pricing, give our Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 price predictions guide a read.

Can you trust these rumors?

Samsung has now all but confirmed that it will unveil the Galaxy Z Fold 7 on July 9.

We’d take the price rumors above with a pinch of salt, since so far each of them only comes from one source. But given that the pricing of the Samsung Galaxy S25 series was for the most part identical to that of the S24, there’s a good chance prices will stay the same here too.

A bigger screen and a slimmer build

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)

• Reports suggest the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will have bigger screens than the Z Fold 6
• It will be slimmer and lighter
• The crease could be smaller this year too

During an earnings call (via @Jukanlosreve), Samsung itself said that its upcoming foldable phones would have “improved form factors, durability”, so we can probably expect some changes to the design and build of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.

At MWC 2025, Samsung Display showed off a ceaseless foldable display, which hits at tech the Galaxy Z Fold 7 could adopt to remove, or at least go someway in removing, the display crease currently seen in the Fold 6.

From other tips and some render images courtesy of tipster OnLeaks, who has a solid track record of accuracy, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 looks to be a decent bit slimmer than it's predecessor, measuring 4.5mm thick when unfolded compared to the Fold 6's 5.36mm; a millimeter makes a difference with foldable phones.

(Image credit: @OnLeaks / Android Headlines)

The renders also tip a larger display, with the main display hitting 8.2 inches, up from 7.6 inches, with the cover display reaching 6.5 inches, a tad bigger than the 6.3 inches on the Fold 6.

A leaked Galaxy Z Fold 7 dummy unit also points to it being 4.5mm thick when unfolded, while other leaked renders point to the Z Fold 7 having a punch-hole camera in the main screen, rather than an under-display camera.

Another image has also been shared, as you can see below, this time just showing the back of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. This is the first actual photo we've seen of the phone, and it lines up with leaked renders.

(Image credit: Setsuna Digital)

We’ve also heard that Samsung is considering not putting a digitizer on the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s screen, which might allow the phone to be around 1.5mm thinner, but would also mean the S Pen would likely be thicker and require a battery (and therefore need charging), as without a digitizer in the display, the stylus would instead have to generate an electric current to interact with the screen.

This claim about a lack of digitizer and a redesigned S Pen is something we've now heard from another source too, so it could well be correct.

Yet another source has now said this too, adding that as a result the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will be under 10mm thick when folded, making it the slimmest Z Fold model yet. However, the S Pen could get an unspecified "downgrade" as a result.

More specifically, we've heard that the Galaxy Z Fold 7 could be as slim as 8.2mm thick when folded.

That said, another claim slightly differs from those above, with one source saying the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will be 3.9mm thick when unfolded and 8.9mm thick when folded. That source has since added that the full unfolded dimensions will apparently be 158.4 x 143.1 x 3.9mm, and that the Z Fold 7's bezels will be just 1.0mm thick (down from 1.9mm on the Galaxy Z Fold 6).

And we've heard yet another set of possible Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 dimensions, with another source claiming it will be 8.9mm thick when folded, 4.2mm thick when unfolded, and 215g.

Regardless of exact dimensions though, we know the Galaxy Z Fold 7 will be slimmer than its predecessor, as Samsung has confirmed as much, while also saying it will be lighter and more durable.

Also on the design front, leaker @PandaFlashPro has claimed that the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will have a smaller display crease than its predecessor, and a more smooth and durable hinge mechanism.

We've also heard from another source that the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 could have a smaller display crease, and they echo leaks above in saying that it could be just 4.5mm thick too, and have a larger 8-inch main and 6.5-inch cover screen. Interestingly, they also say that it could have better water and dust resistance than the Z Fold 6.

There has been slight disagreement on whether the main screen will be 8 inches or 8.2 inches, but a recent leak suggests the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will have the same size 8-inch panel as the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition, but that thanks to smaller bezels the usable area will be around 8.2 inches, which could explain the disagreements.

And elsewhere we've heard that the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 could have a titanium backplate, making it lighter and more durable, and that it might have "all-new" glass for the screen.

For colors, Samsung itself has accidentally listed four Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 colors on its Irish website. Specifically, Jet Black, Blue Shadow, Silver Shadow, and Green Mint, the last of which is listed as an online store exclusive.

Multiple other sources meanwhile have mentioned Coral Red, so perhaps that will be offered too.

Can you trust these rumors?

Until we’ve seen more renders of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 we’d take any design claims with a pinch of salt. But with Samsung itself saying that at least some of its foldables will be in for a change, there’s a good chance the Galaxy Z Fold 7 will be among them.

There’s also a fair chance the claims of larger screens are accurate, since multiple sources have said as much.

A big 200MP upgrade

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)

• The Galaxy Z Fold 7 could have a new 200MP main camera
• The under-display camera might be improved, or absent
• There's no news yet on the other cameras

So far the main Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 camera claim we’ve heard is that it will have the same 200MP main camera as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition, which would be quite an upgrade on the 50MP main camera of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6.

This rumor was given more heft by another that claims the Galaxy Z Fold 7 will get the 200MP main camera from the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Given the high price of the Fold phones, it's arguably high time they got given the same powerful main camera as their S-series Ultra counterparts.

Another source has also said the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 will have a 200MP camera, and added that the under-display camera will be improved too. That said, another leak suggests the Z Fold 7 won't have an under-display camera at all.

More recently we've heard this 200MP claim again, but with the addition that the Galaxy Z Fold 7's other two rear cameras won't be upgraded, meaning a 12MP ultra-wide and a 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom.

However, there might be behind the scenes improvements to all the cameras, with one leak saying the Z Fold 7 will have a new version of Samsung's ProVisual Engine, improving both photos and videos.

Can you trust these rumors?

Since multiple sources have pointed to a 200MP camera, that much is looking likely, but we'd take the other camera spec leaks with a pinch of salt for now.

An Elite chipset

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)

• Likely to use a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset
• Could have 12GB of RAM, just like the current model

We're heard quite a lot about the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 specs. According to multiple sources, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will use a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, which is what we’d expect since that’s what the Samsung Galaxy S25 series uses. If it does, then it should be significantly more powerful than the Galaxy Z Fold 6, which uses a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.

One of the same sources though says to expect 12GB of RAM and a choice of 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB of storage, all of which are the same specs as the current model.

Another source has similarly said to expect a faster chipset than the Z Fold 6, and both they and @PandaFlashPro have pointed to a bigger vapor chamber (which could help with sustained performance) and better speakers.

And another leak agrees with previous leaks that the Z Fold 7 will have a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and a larger vapor chamber.

A Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 benchmark also mentions much of the above, including a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and 12GB of RAM.

That said, we've elsewhere heard that there could be both 12GB and 16GB versions of the Z Fold 7, paired with 256GB, 512GB or 1TB of storage.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will also have new software, with the company confirming that it will launch with One UI 8 (Samsung's take on Android 16). It's likely that AI improvements will be a big focus too, with Samsung reportedly set to talk a lot about AI at the Z Fold 7's announcement.

Sadly, what the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 might not have is a bigger battery, with multiple sources claiming the Z Fold 7's battery is the same size as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6's, which would make it 4,400mAh.

That's now looking more likely, as a certification also points to a 4,400mAh battery. However, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7's battery life might still be improved through the use of a highly efficient display. And another source points to new battery and charging tech being used, which could also help, or mean it supports faster charging than the 25W of its predecessor.

We've also heard that much like the Galaxy S25, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 might support Qi2 charging, but not offer a magnetic connection.

Can you trust these rumors?

We’d be very surprised if the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 didn’t use a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, since that’s the next model on from the chipset used by the Z Fold 6, and since it’s also used by the Galaxy S25 series.

The storage and vapor chamber claims also sound believable, and sadly so does the claim that it will stick with 12GB of RAM, since even the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra only has that much in most regions.

And Samsung often doesn't increase battery sizes, so the claim that this aspect won't be changing is believable too.

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• A detailed specs leak includes the possible dimensions and weight of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7
• It also includes screen, battery, camera, and chipset details
• If this is correct, then these phones could be substantial upgrades

Just yesterday we saw some unofficial renders showing how thin the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 might be, and now a leaker has revealed the phone's possible dimensions.

Setsuna Digital (via Phone Arena) claims that the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will be 8.9mm thick when folded and just 4.2mm thick when unfolded – that would be down from 12.1mm and 5.6mm on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 meanwhile is apparently 13.7mm thick when folded and 6.5mm thick when unfolded, so this could be a chunkier device, but that would still make it slimmer than the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, which is 14.9mm and 6.9mm when folded and unfolded respectively.

This source additionally claims that the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will weigh 215g (down from 239g), and that it will have an 8-inch foldable screen and a 6.5-inch cover screen, both of which would be slightly bigger than its predecessor's.

It’s also said to have a 200MP main camera (up from 50MP on the Z Fold 6), a 10MP front camera, an “enhanced armor aluminum frame”, and a glass-ceramic back panel, while the chipset is apparently a “Snapdragon 8”, which presumably means a Snapdragon 8 Elite – the same chipset as you’ll find in the Samsung Galaxy S25 series.

From the Fold to the Flip

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

As for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7, it's said to weigh 188g, which would actually make it marginally heavier than its 187g predecessor. It also apparently has a 6.9-inch foldable screen and a 4.1-inch cover screen, both of which would be bigger than on the current model, with the cover screen in particular growing a lot from the 3.4-inch Z Fold 6 one.

Both screens are said to have a 120Hz refresh rate, which would be an upgrade for the cover screen, and apparently the bezel around the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7’s screen is 1.25mm.

This source also claims that both screens have a maximum brightness of 2,600 nits, which again would be an upgrade for the cover screen but not for the main display, and that the battery is 4,300mAh, up from 4,000mAh on the current model.

If this leak is accurate, both of these phones could be in for some pretty impressive upgrades, and as we’ve heard many of these details before it’s likely that much of this is accurate, especially as this leaker has a good track record.

That said, some details conflict slightly with things we’ve heard before – in particular, there doesn’t seem to be any agreement among leakers on the exact dimensions of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.

We should find out how accurate this leak is soon though, as the next Samsung Galaxy Unpacked is on July 9, and we’ll almost certainly see both phones unveiled at the event.

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• Lyon has confirmed plans to pull the plug on some Microsoft software
• European and open source software are the preferred alternatives
• Other European cities are making similar moves

France's third-largest city, Lyon, is the latest European city to have ditched Microsoft Office in favor of open-source software alternatives.

It's a move which is gaining traction across Europe, as countries look to reduce their dependence on American software amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, while simultaneously boosting sovereignty.

At the same time, ditching Microsoft will enable Lyon to extend the lifespan of its hardware to reduce its environmental impact, with open source software less likely to impose end-of-life dates such as the upcoming Windows 10 deprecation in October 2025.

Lyon switches away from Microsoft

In an online memo, Lyon's office explained it would be transitioning away from Microsoft software towards OnlyOffice, developed by a group of Latvian developers, as well as Linux and PostgreSQL.

As part of the move, Territoire Numérique Ouvert is also being adopted as an alternative for video conferencing and office automation.

It's believed that the Lyon government employs around 10,000 individuals, making this a colossal shift that could require large amounts of retraining and upskilling. Munich previously attempted a similar switch, but later reversed the move due to compatibility issues and user dissatisfaction.

Still, with EU-US tensions at an all-time high, the movement is gaining traction once more.

Germany's Schleswig-Holstein recently announced plans to end contracts for Microsoft software including Teams, with neighbouring Danish cities Copenhagen and Aarhus also reportedly exploring options.

Microsoft counts enough customers in its order books for it not to have to worry about losing Lyon, with the move instead marking a symbolic shift. However, if more European cities begin to turn their backs on Microsoft, the American tech giant could begin to see financial impacts.

TechRadar Pro has asked Microsoft for thoughts on the ongoing European trend, but we did not receive an immediate response.

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• Freelancers are using ChatGPT to help them work - and then charging more
• Businesses are still saving money by paying freelancers over employees
• Policies must be revised to "support this new way of working"

Freelancers are now able to earn more thanks to AI, according to research from Fiverr comparing UK-based freelancers with business decision-makers in Britain.

The data claims one in five UK business leaders also relies on freelancers to fill AI kills gaps, with two in five (38%) businesses actively seeking workers with AI expertise.

Despite the productivity gains freelancers are seeing from artificial intelligence, many (44%) are charging more for AI-driven work, boosting their income while simultaneously reducing their workloads.

Freelancers are unlocking more money with AI

More than half of the freelancers surveyed said they wouldn't be able to work without AI – many can now save several hours per week on their work, with some boasting that they're saving two full working days every week.

More than two in five say they're able to set their own hours, with around three-quarters also setting their own rates. Nearly as many (70%) claim to be earning more than they were in full-time roles as a result.

ChatGPT was found to be the most popular tool (70%), with Google (38%), Gemini (33%) and Microsoft Copilot (24%) also widely used.

Despite the considerable boosts, a significant proportion of freelancers (36%) expressed concerns that AI could eventually automate parts of their role.

Fiverr also explored the shift away from traditional workers, revealing that most businesses (87%) plan to hire freelancers up to 10 times in the next six months. Two in five UK businesses claim to be using more freelancers in 2025 than ever before, with companies saving on average £33,000 per month by favoring freelancers over in-house employees.

However, with the added flexibility come increased financial complications – more than half (55%) stated that current tax laws deter businesses from hiring freelancers, and only two in five (39%) freelancers feel supported by the government.

Reduced worker protections and rights have also caused freelancers to have to consider diversifying their income – 70% now have more than two.

Looking ahead, there's a clear need for some readjustments to be made to accommodate the shifting worker patterns.

Fiverr UK Country Manager Michele Tropeano summarized: "Portfolio careers are moving mainstream and becoming the backbone of the UK workforce."

"To truly harness this potential, we need modern policies and systems that support this new way of working, not hold it back."

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When it comes to backups, IT leaders often only focus on data recovery, but in today’s cyber threat landscape, simply having a backup isn’t enough. It is also critical to ensure that backups go along with proactive planning, with protection strategies to ensure the organization can quickly respond to issues and restore data in the event of an incident.

Ransomware attacks, insider threats, and platform over-utilization can cripple IT environments before a backup is even needed. Often, the damage is already done by the time data loss or system failures are detected.

That’s why modern enterprises need more than just data backup. They need cyber-resilient storage, meaning their data security is proactive and self-defending, thanks to AI analysis taking place in the background.

AI-powered backup & storage: The new standard for cyber-resilience

A backup and storage solution that works in conjunction with AI doesn’t just protect data - it predicts, alerts, and responds to threats before they escalate. Instead of simply reacting after an attack or failure, an AI-powered system can detect anomalies in real time and spot suspicious activity before ransomware encrypts files.

Additionally, it lets you monitor platform utilization, preventing performance slowdowns due to storage overuse, high user activity, or degraded hardware. You get proactive security alerts, identifying vulnerabilities (such as CVEs, misconfigurations and unauthorized access attempts) before they are exploited.

And lastly, it ensures compliance and audit readiness, tracking backup integrity, storage trends, and policy violations with automated reporting.

The end result is faster threat response, minimized downtime, and a smarter, more resilient backup strategy.

Anomaly detection: Catching threats before they strike

Ransomware doesn’t strike instantly, but instead, it moves silently, encrypting files over time. In these situations, traditional backup solutions only help after an attack.

However, with AI-powered anomaly detection, you can monitor for unusual storage access patterns or anomalous actions (such as the sudden encryption of multiple files). You can detect repeated, unauthorized or irregular access attempts before data exfiltration occurs.

So following this new intelligence, you can alert IT teams to irregular user behaviors that indicate insider threats. With AI-powered alerting, you can stop ransomware before it spreads, ensuring backup systems aren’t just recovery tools, but active defense layers.

How intelligent storage utilization prevents performance bottlenecks

Data storage isn’t infinite, yet many enterprises don’t have any real-time visibility into utilization issues. AI-driven monitoring can detect a number of critical performance bottlenecks. This includes when storage is nearing capacity before it impacts applications.

It highlights performance tiers that slow critical workloads. And it will notify you of sudden spikes in storage consumption that might indicate runaway processes or security breaches.

With storage analytics, IT teams can optimize resources proactively, avoiding downtime caused by storage exhaustion or performance degradation.

Security alerting: closing the gap on vulnerabilities

Backup data is a prime target for attackers - yet many storage environments lack real-time security intelligence. AI-powered storage protection can identify misconfigurations that expose backup data to unauthorized access, as well as alerting about known security vulnerabilities (CVEs) before they can be exploited. It will also flag suspicious user behavior, such as unusual restore requests or mass deletions.

AI-powered security alerting closes gaps in backup security, ensuring storage remains resilient against both external and internal threats.

Automated compliance & policy enforcement

Data compliance isn’t just about having backups - it’s about ensuring they meet retention, encryption, and audit requirements. AI-driven policy enforcement ensures that data retention policies align with GDPR, HIPAA, and industry regulations.

Additionally, it ensures backup integrity is continuously verified to prevent silent corruption, and that automated reporting can provide auditors with real-time insights into storage security and compliance.

It means enterprises can avoid costly fines and compliance violations by ensuring their backups meet regulatory mandates without manual intervention.

Cyber-resilience in action: AI and backup mean a smarter future

A truly cyber-resilient storage solution doesn’t just store data - it monitors, protects, and alerts IT teams to potential issues before they become disasters.

With AI-powered backup and storage intelligence, enterprises can detect ransomware before encryption spreads. It helps them optimize storage performance before over utilization slows systems. It means they can identify security risks before backups are compromised, as well as compliance reporting before auditors come knocking.

This is the future of cyber-resilient storage—and it’s the backup strategy that enterprises need to prioritize. AI-powered cyber-resilience is a way to level up, not merely back up your data storage.

While traditional backup is reactive, AI-powered backup is proactive. Enterprises need storage that doesn’t just save data but instead, defends it. The best backup is the one that stops disasters before they happen. AI-powered analytics means your backup strategy is built for resilience rather than just recovery.

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This article was produced as part of TechRadarPro's Expert Insights channel where we feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today. The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/news/submit-your-story-to-techradar-pro

We are living through one of the most significant shifts in retail point-of-sale (POS) technology since the introduction of the chip-and-PIN terminal.

After years of relying on rubber-buttoned, specialist PEDs (PIN Entry Devices) from manufacturers like Ingenico and Verifone, the retail sector is now embracing generic Android devices that accept payments using downloadable software.

This shift is more than a change in hardware—it’s a full-blown operating system revolution. But as Android becomes increasingly embedded in our in-store shopping experiences, a bigger question looms: are we handing over control of this multi-billion-dollar ecosystem to a single platform? Is Android now the new kingmaker in retail POS?

From Proprietary Hardware to Programmable Platforms

Until recently, the POS hardware market was tightly controlled. Devices ran customized versions of Linux, and software applications were typically monolithic, expensive to build, and hard to update. Developing or modifying software on these systems required specialist engineering skills, long certification cycles, and intimate knowledge of closed systems.

Innovation under this model was stifled. Only the boldest players attempted to build their own apps for PEDs—and many failed. As a result, the pace of progress in in-store payment gateways lagged behind online and mobile commerce, where new features and updates could be deployed instantly.

That legacy model is now crumbling. Android, originally developed for smartphones, is increasingly used to power POS devices that are more flexible, easier to develop for, and significantly cheaper to deploy. This has paved the way for a new era of programmable retail terminals that run on open platforms and offer the same agility as app-based ecosystems.

The Rise of Android POS

Over the past 18 months, we’ve seen a surge in software-only payment services from major fintech players. Stripe introduced its Stripe Reader S700, which not only processes payments but also runs custom business apps, giving merchants the ability to fully customize the checkout experience. Revolut has also launched its own Android-based retail POS terminal designed for high-speed environments.

This shift is being driven by Android’s flexibility. The OS runs on everything from ruggedized tablets used in queue-busting or pay-at-table scenarios to consumer-grade phones used by mobile merchants. Android has already displaced Windows-based till systems in many cafes, bars, and restaurants due to its lower cost and broader developer base.

This transformation isn’t limited to startups or small merchants. Large-scale retailers and payment providers are building their own custom apps using Android, allowing them to tailor checkout flows to their exact operational needs. At the same time, the smallest merchants—like plumbers or stallholders—can now download a basic Android app to accept payments on their personal phones, with no extra hardware required.

Projections suggest this is only the beginning. The global Android POS market was valued at $7 billion in 2024 and is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 29.4%, reaching over $71 billion by 2033. The low licensing costs, massive developer pool, and ability to create customized hardware configurations all make Android the preferred choice over Apple or Windows alternatives in the retail world.

Specialist SaaS providers like Toast are already bundling Android devices with vertical-specific software tailored to restaurants, and other niche segments. As Android continues to expand its footprint, its influence on the hardware ecosystem is undeniable.

But Who Really Holds the Power?

Despite Android’s rapid ascent, the notion that it is becoming the “kingmaker” in POS is flawed. In reality, merchants aren’t choosing operating systems—they’re choosing the SaaS platforms that best meet their business needs. These platforms, not the OS, will ultimately determine which hardware gets deployed, how app stores are curated, and how secure the payment environment is.

Android simply enables more flexibility. It gives SaaS providers the tools to innovate—whether by enabling tap-to-pay on a handheld device or deploying self-checkout kiosks in fast food restaurants. The OS is the enabler, but the strategic control lies with the platform operators.

What we are witnessing is the fragmentation of the POS landscape into a marketplace of thousands of SaaS providers, each making their own decisions about hardware, app design, and consumer experience. These platforms vary not just by country or language, but by sector. A fast-fashion retailer and a sports store may both sell clothes, but the software they use to manage inventory, payments, and loyalty programs can be vastly different.

This market diversity means that no single OS—Android included—can dictate how the retail world functions. The analogy to Nokia’s decline is striking. Just as Android and Apple reshaped the smartphone industry by empowering app developers and creating open ecosystems, they are now unlocking similar creativity and value in physical retail.

What follows could be a renaissance in the in-store experience. With open systems and software-based interfaces, retailers are no longer tied to generic, inflexible terminals. They can experiment, personalize, and streamline—making checkout faster, more intuitive, and more aligned to their brand.

Android Is the Platform, Not the Power

Android is clearly becoming the operating system of choice for the next generation of POS devices. Its versatility, affordability, and openness make it a natural successor to the locked-down Linux boxes of the past. But that doesn’t mean Android is the new kingmaker.

The real power will lie with the SaaS platforms that orchestrate the entire merchant experience—from inventory and customer engagement to payments and reporting. These platforms are the new center of gravity in retail, and they will continue to shape how we shop in-store.

So yes, Android may well be the plumbing of the new POS world—but it’s the platforms that will design the taps.

We list the best POS system for restaurants and bars. We've also listed the best pizza restaurant POS system.

This article was produced as part of TechRadarPro's Expert Insights channel where we feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today. The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/news/submit-your-story-to-techradar-pro

Many companies, including some of the UK’s largest banks, major retailers, and government departments, are still grappling with the fallout from legacy software. Compatibility issues and security risks tied to aging platforms remain widespread. This familiar pattern means migration projects are often postponed until the last minute, increasing the risk of costly disruptions and avoidable security vulnerabilities.

Microsoft’s decision to end support for Microsoft Teams Classic on 1st July is more than just a routine update deadline; it represents a critical juncture for enterprise IT teams. For many organizations, this is a firm cutoff with serious operational and security implications.

Stopgap measures bring their own challenges

The impact of these delays is already evident. Many enterprises are paying for Extended Security Updates (ESUs) to buy extra time, while others are accelerating hardware refresh cycles, replacing laptops and desktops earlier than planned just to keep pace. Yet these stopgap measures bring their own challenges. Rushed rollouts often trigger user frustration, operational hiccups, and technical setbacks, complicating what should be a straightforward upgrade.

Security concerns are particularly acute. Recent breaches at major UK retailers such as Marks & Spencer and the Co-op were directly linked to weaknesses in legacy systems. These incidents underline a stark reality that running unsupported software is a liability that can have serious consequences for both security and reputation.

Windows 10 complications

The October deadline for Windows 10 support compounds the challenge. While Microsoft will continue offering paid ESUs for Windows 10, these only provide a temporary patch rather than a long-term solution. Organizations relying on extended support risk developing a false sense of security. Without a full platform upgrade, vulnerabilities pile up, documentation becomes obsolete, and the loss of staff familiar with legacy systems makes future migrations more complex and expensive.

For IT teams facing the double challenge of migrating both Teams and Windows 10 within months, the situation is stressful. Budgets are tight, resources limited, and the window to complete a compliant and smooth transition is rapidly closing.

Often, delaying migration comes down to competing priorities, constrained budgets, and a lack of clear understanding about how legacy systems interact with current business processes. Legacy environments are typically poorly documented, and over time, institutional knowledge is lost as experienced staff leave. This makes migration projects time-consuming and costly, not only in terms of software upgrades but also in mapping the impact on security and compliance.

Postponing these migrations carries hidden costs too. Every month that passes increases the risk of security breaches, operational failures, and regulatory penalties. Delaying upgrades becomes an increasingly risky gamble.

Successfully navigating this challenge

Successfully navigating this challenge demands urgent action and careful planning. One lesson from past migrations is clear in that scheduling rollouts thoughtfully and having robust rollback alternatives in place are crucial to minimize disruption. The old adage “plan for success but prepare for failure” rings especially true here. Working closely with users throughout the process helps manage expectations and surface issues early on.

Another key priority is capturing institutional knowledge before critical staff move on. Documenting legacy configurations, workflows, and vendor agreements is vital to maintain continuity and enable effective troubleshooting during migration. Testing compatibility thoroughly in controlled environments is also crucial to spot potential problems before they affect users. Planning phased rollouts with clear fallback procedures helps manage risk and keeps disruptions to a minimum.

At the same time, clear communication and user training can’t be overlooked. Engaging with end users early reduces resistance and confusion, helping teams adapt smoothly to the new platform without unnecessary setbacks.

End of support

The end of Teams Classic support should serve as a clear warning that last-minute fixes and reliance on extended support aren’t sustainable. In an era where digital transformation and cyber threats are accelerating, organizations need to take control of their technology lifecycles. Early, comprehensive planning combined with cross-team collaboration is the only way to ensure timely migration while maintaining security and operational stability.

Those organizations that act now will not only meet critical deadlines but will also reduce risks and build resilience for the future. For those that continue to delay, the risks of costly disruptions, breaches, and compliance failures will only grow.

With time running out on both Teams Classic and Windows 10 support, the path forward requires decisive, well-coordinated action to safeguard security and prepare organizations for the challenges ahead.

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