This week’s Friday Checkout covers the launch of a unique triple-boot smartphone, major rumors about Apple’s AI and Siri plans, and reports of OnePlus being scaled back by Oppo, alongside new product releases from Sony, Lynx, and Samsung. The episode also highlights trends in open-source software, app boycotts in Denmark, and concludes with a sponsor segment on hearing protection.
This week’s Friday Checkout covers several major tech stories, starting with the launch of a unique smartphone capable of running three operating systems: Android 16, a desktop Debian Linux build, and Windows 11 with a mobile UI. The Android and Linux systems share a partition and file system, allowing seamless switching, while Windows runs on a separate partition and offers both a full desktop experience and a custom mobile interface. However, the phone uses an underpowered Qualcomm IoT chip, making it less suitable for running Windows long-term. Despite its limitations, the $549 price tag makes it an intriguing option for enthusiasts, though the host does not recommend it for most users.
The second story focuses on rumors about Apple’s plans for Siri. According to The Information, Apple is developing a wearable AI pin, similar to the Humane AI Pin, featuring a thin, circular design with two cameras. More concretely, Bloomberg reports that Apple is revamping Siri into a chatbot for iPhone and Mac, potentially powered by Google’s Gemini AI and possibly hosted on Google’s servers. This would mark a significant shift for Apple, which has previously emphasized privacy and running services on its own infrastructure.
The third major topic is the potential dismantling of OnePlus by its parent company, Oppo. An article from Android Headlines claims that OnePlus is being scaled back due to declining sales in key markets like China, India, the US, and Europe. The company has lost its Hasselblad partnership, canceled its foldable series, and significantly reduced staff in Europe. While Oppo hasn’t officially killed the brand, it appears to be consolidating operations, possibly leading to a gradual phase-out of OnePlus. This trend is echoed by Asus, which has paused smartphone releases until 2026 to focus on AI and robotics.
In the release monitor segment, the host highlights several new products. Sony has introduced LinkBuds Clip, earbuds designed to be worn like jewelry while allowing users to hear their surroundings—a style popular in China. French company Lynx has released the Lynx R2, an open-source VR/AR headset with an open-sided design for better blending of digital and real worlds. Nintendo announced a talking flower toy, and Sony sold a majority stake in its home entertainment unit, raising concerns about the future of Bravia TVs. Samsung’s new magnetic power bank for the S26 series and the rebuilding of Bixby using Perplexity AI were also mentioned.
The brief news section covers a surge in apps for boycotting American products in Denmark, with some reaching the top of the app store charts. LibreOffice reported slow but steady growth in downloads and a significant increase in donations, signaling greater support for open-source alternatives. The video concludes with a sponsor segment for Here earplugs, which offer certified noise reduction and comfort for travel and concerts, emphasizing the importance of hearing protection for all ages.