This Week in Android: Pixel 11 Pro Benchmarks, Galaxy S26 FE Launch, and Declining Smartphone Sales

Benchmark tests for the Pixel 11 Pro reveal that while Google prioritizes AI and user experience with its Tensor chipset, there remains significant interest in raw performance. In comparison to competitors powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, the Pixel 11 Pro shows a 20% improvement in single-core and multi-core performance over its predecessor, the Tensor G5. However, it's approximately 35% slower than both the Galaxy S26 Ultra and iPhone 17 Pro Max in single-core performance, suggesting a considerable performance gap. Additionally, the Tensor chip lags behind in machine learning tasks compared to its rivals.

Samsung has officially launched the Galaxy S26 Fan Edition, which offers features typical of mid-range devices while maintaining affordability. Notably, this model replaces the Qualcomm chipset with an Exynos 2500, a new 3nm chip previously seen only in the Galaxy Z Flip7, marking a significant upgrade over the Exynos 2400 used in the Galaxy S25 FE.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro have been awarded the 'In-ear Headphones 2026/27' by the EISA Awards. These earbuds feature a two-way speaker system with individual amplifiers for improved sound quality and boast IP57 water resistance, supplemented by Samsung's Seamless Codec technology for high-resolution audio playback when used with compatible Galaxy devices.

Looking ahead to the Galaxy S27 Ultra, which is set to launch in late January, early details suggest improvements including an upgraded camera system, a more streamlined design, and a substantial 7,000 mAh battery, compared to 5,000 mAh in its predecessor. This likely incorporates silicon-carbon technology to enhance energy storage without increasing size.

Xiaomi's Poco brand has confirmed the launch date for the Poco F9 Pro and F9 Ultra on September 1st. The F9 Ultra will feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, while the F9 Pro will have the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 V series processor, which offers slightly reduced graphics throughput due to fewer GPU slices.

Counterpoint Research reports a decline in global smartphone sales by 11% this quarter, following a 4% decrease last year. Android's share has decreased by 4% year-over-year to 75%, impacted by increasing competition from iOS and Huawei's HarmonyOS. Samsung's Galaxy S26 series has performed better than its predecessor, partially offsetting the downturn in Android's sales share.

Finally, Google is rolling out Motion Assist within Android 17, initially to Pixel 11 devices. This assistive feature aims to reduce motion sickness by displaying dynamic on-screen markers that adjust with the vehicle's movement, enhancing user experience beyond what was initially demonstrated in early versions.

Android Circuit continues to gather updates from the Android world every weekend.