Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Google.
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Google rolls back the needless AI generation tools it added to Google Earth
Google has rolled back AI generation tools that were recently added to Google Earth. The feature, which allowed users to create AI-generated images within Google Earth, was available for less than a day before being removed.
Morning Mobilization
Android phones will now automatically back up local documents to Google Drive. Separately, Zoox has begun charging passengers for rides in its new steering-wheel-free robotaxis, marking a significant step in autonomous vehicle services.
Morning Metaverse
Google is introducing a $20 monthly subscription for its most useful productivity tools. Separately, Verizon is offering a free NFL Sunday Ticket subscription to its customers.
Morning Safety Dance
Google Chrome requires patching twice a week due to a bug discovered through AI-driven analysis. This addresses a critical vulnerability in Exchange servers, highlighting the ongoing need for frequent security updates.
Xbox is (probably) not for sale | Opinion
Despite recent financial struggles and layoffs, Microsoft is unlikely to sell or spin off its Xbox division. The article argues that the financial impact of Xbox on Microsoft's overall business is minimal, making it not a significant drag. Furthermore, finding a suitable buyer with the necessary capital and without regulatory issues is highly improbable, suggesting Xbox will remain part of Microsoft in the foreseeable future.
Google Earth let me turn my hometown into a warzone with AI prompts, and the misinformation possibilities are disturbing
Google Earth's new AI image generation feature, Nano Banana 2, allows users to create realistic-looking satellite and aerial images from text prompts, raising significant concerns about the potential for misinformation and propaganda. Despite Google's claims of watermarking and content restrictions, the tool can easily generate harmful content, and detection methods are not foolproof, potentially leading to widespread deception.
Reddit's CEO sure seems frustrated with Google's AI overviews
Reddit CEO Steve Huffman expressed frustration with Google's AI Overviews, stating that users want direct access to content rather than summaries. This sentiment comes amid rumors of a potential Google breakup and ongoing discussions about the impact of AI on search results.
Leaked Pixel 11 Pro Fold photos also include mysterious new camera bar feature
Leaked photos of the unreleased Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold reveal a new camera bar design. The foldable device's overall appearance seems similar to previous models, with the camera bar being the most notable new feature.
Google's new Gemini Robotics 2 platform allows for 'intelligent whole-body control'
Google has unveiled its new Gemini Robotics 2 platform, which enables intelligent whole-body control for robots. Videos demonstrate the robots performing tasks such as cleaning up trash and handling watering cans.
Google says it has fixed a Pixel battery drain issue, but some users disagree
Google has announced that a July software update addresses a battery drain issue affecting recent Pixel devices. A fix for the Pixel 9a and Pixel 8a is scheduled for release in September, though some users report the problem persists.
Morning Mobilization
Google claims to have fixed the battery drain issue affecting Pixel phones, though user feedback suggests the problem persists. Separately, an Android Auto app is highlighted for improving commute productivity.
Rise of the Robots
China has expressed strong disapproval and threatened retaliation against the United States' ban on humanoid robots, stating it significantly harms bilateral relations. Meanwhile, advancements in AI are being integrated into robotics, with Google's Gemini Robotics 2 showcasing new capabilities. The potential of humanoid robots in sectors like farming is also being highlighted.
Google Voice paid subscriptions offer more than just a phone number
Google Voice is offering paid subscriptions that provide enhanced features beyond just a phone number. The article aims to help users decide if the upgraded features justify the cost compared to the free version.
Nano Banana image generation comes to Google Earth
Google Earth has introduced an AI-powered image generation feature, allowing users to visualize the past. This new functionality leverages artificial intelligence to create historical imagery within the platform.
Google teases the Pixel 11 Pro and hints at a new camera bar feature
Google has teased the upcoming Pixel 11 Pro, hinting at a new camera bar feature. The company released a teaser image that highlights an intriguing difference in the device's camera design compared to previous models.
Google will let Mac users talk to Gemini simply by pressing the 'fn' key
Google has enabled Mac users to interact with its Gemini AI by simply long-pressing the 'fn' key on their keyboard. This integration allows for quick access to Gemini's capabilities directly from the Mac operating system.
Apple Reclaims the Most-Valuable-Company Title From Nvidia — By Doing Almost Nothing
Apple has once again surpassed Nvidia to become the world's most valuable company, with its market capitalization reaching $4.9 trillion compared to Nvidia's $4.8 trillion. This shift is attributed to investor sentiment moving away from the volatile AI sector towards Apple's more stable financial strategy, including its decision to leverage Google's AI solutions for Siri instead of investing heavily in in-house development.
Google shuts down its Nobel-prize winning AlphaFold project as it focuses on Gemini
Google has shut down its award-winning AlphaFold project, developed by its subsidiary DeepMind. The closure comes as the company shifts its focus towards its Gemini AI models. AlphaFold was recognized for its significant contributions to protein structure prediction.
Google’s AI Spending Guidance Just Slipped — And That’s the Real Story
Google has revised its capital expenditure guidance upwards, now projecting spending between $195 billion and $205 billion, a significant increase from the previous $190 billion ceiling. This revision, coupled with competitive pressures from Chinese AI firms and potential overbuilding of data centers across the industry, raises concerns about profitability and forecasting accuracy for Google and the broader AI sector.
Evening Mobilization
Google Maps has resolved a traffic glitch, while a former Tesla manager has raised concerns about the safety of the company's Full Self-Driving technology, describing the vehicles as 'rolling hazards'.