The update affects multiple device categories, including phones, tablets, Wear OS watches, Android Auto and Automotive systems, and Android TV.

How to: Go to Settings > Display on your Android phone. There, you'll find the option to switch between a light and dark theme and to have dark mode turn on automatically at a certain time of day. I recommend keeping dark mode turned on all the time to maximize battery life.

From March 1, 2026, Google will introduce battery usage warning labels for Android apps that consume excess power in the background. Developers will be required to optimise their apps or risk being removed from Play Store recommendations.

It'll be making a new push in the US with an Android version of its Fairphone 6, along with over-the-ear headphones called the Fairbuds XL. Both feature a modular construction, as well as the incorporation of recycled materials and components that are e-waste neutral.

The mobile market has never been more competitive, and there are some really fantastic Android phones that you can score at surprisingly low prices.