The tech landscape continues its rapid evolution, with significant updates rolling out across several key platforms this week. From a major overhaul of Home Assistant to improvements in Google Home automation, and even a glimpse at a potential folding iPhone, here’s a breakdown of the most noteworthy developments.
Home Assistant 2026.2: A Streamlined Smart Home Experience
Home Assistant, the open-source home automation platform, has released version 2026.2, bringing with it a redesigned user experience focused on simplicity and accessibility. The update introduces a new default Home Dashboard, aiming to provide a more intuitive starting point for new users. Alongside the dashboard revamp, a redesigned quick search function promises to make finding and controlling devices within a smart home setup more efficient. Perhaps most significantly, the release includes opt-in data collection for a new device database. This initiative aims to improve compatibility and streamline the integration of a wider range of smart home devices, addressing a common pain point for users.
Google Home Automation Gets a Boost
Google Home has long faced criticism for its limitations as a smart home platform. However, Google is actively addressing these concerns with a recent update focused on enhancing automation capabilities. The update introduces new automation triggers and more specific actions, giving users greater control over their smart home devices and routines. This allows for more complex and personalized automation scenarios, moving beyond simple on/off commands. While details on the specific new triggers and actions weren’t provided, the update signals a continued commitment to improving the Google Home experience.
Raspberry Pi Faces Another Price Increase
The Raspberry Pi Foundation is once again adjusting prices on its single-board computers and Compute Modules, citing ongoing increases in RAM costs. This marks the second price hike in just two months, reflecting the continued volatility in the semiconductor market. While the Raspberry Pi remains a popular choice for hobbyists, educators, and developers, these price increases may impact accessibility for some users. The foundation has not specified the exact amount of the price increase, but it underscores the challenges facing the hardware industry.
Folding iPhone Rumors Intensify
Speculation surrounding a foldable iPhone continues to build, with recent reports suggesting that Apple is making significant progress on the project. While Apple has not officially confirmed the existence of a foldable iPhone, the increasing number of leaks and rumors indicates that the company is seriously considering entering the foldable smartphone market. The potential arrival of a foldable iPhone could disrupt the smartphone industry, challenging Samsung’s dominance in the foldable space.
Other Notable Updates
Beyond these major developments, several other noteworthy updates were announced this week. Plezy, a third-party Plex client, received an upgrade offering a sleek design and unique features for users dissatisfied with the official Plex apps. Ubuntu is gaining improved compatibility with RISC-V systems-on-chip thanks to collaboration with SpacemiT, potentially opening up new possibilities for open-source computing. Samsung’s Galaxy S26 series will, unfortunately, not address the lack of magnetic wireless charging found in the S25, a disappointment for users hoping for MagSafe-like functionality. LibreOffice released version 7.6, bringing performance improvements and enhanced compatibility with Microsoft Office formats. Nvidia confirmed it has no plans to stop updating the Shield TV and hasn’t ruled out a future Shield 2 device. Finally, a striking replica of the iconic Harman Kardon HK195 speakers was created, demonstrating a nostalgic appreciation for classic audio hardware.
The pace of innovation shows no signs of slowing down. These updates, ranging from significant platform overhauls to incremental improvements, demonstrate the ongoing efforts of tech companies to enhance user experiences and push the boundaries of what’s possible. The continued focus on smart home automation, open-source platforms, and emerging technologies like foldable displays suggests a dynamic and exciting future for the tech industry.
