Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Google.
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Meta is reportedly building its own cloud business
Meta is reportedly developing its own cloud computing business, which would position the company as a competitor to established players like Amazon and Google. This move involves selling server infrastructure.
Google kills yet another API, shutting out all non-Google platforms from favoured gif database
Google is shutting down the Tenor API on June 30, 2026, impacting platforms like X and Discord that relied on it for GIF integration. While the Tenor website and some Google products will retain access, third-party applications will lose the ability to access its GIF database. Tenor, originally Riffsy, was acquired by Google in 2018.
Evening Reading - July 30, 2026
This article rounds up various gaming news items from July 30, 2026. Highlights include a live-action Persona adaptation for Netflix, a fall 2026 release window for Cyberpunk Edgerunners 2, and SECI Interactive warning of staffing decisions after Microsoft pulled out of publishing Project Fantasy. It also touches on esports events like EVO 2026 for 2XKO and mentions updates for games like Battlefield 6 and Turok: Origin.
Gemini Spark comes to Google's Gemini app for macOS
Google's Gemini app for macOS has been updated to include access to its Spark agentic AI assistant. This integration allows macOS users to leverage Google's advanced AI capabilities directly within the Gemini application.
Evening Metaverse
Google has shut down the Tenor GIF API, impacting services like X and Discord. Mozilla Thunderbird has released Desktop version 140.12.1esr.
Google to shut down Tenor API on June 30, killing GIF support on Twitter/X, Discord & more
Google will be shutting down the Tenor API on June 30, 2026, which will disable GIF support in numerous applications including Twitter, Discord, and WhatsApp. Integrations using the API will cease to function, potentially impacting GIF sharing capabilities unless alternative solutions are implemented.
Don't panic, Discord isn't losing GIFs as Google shuts down Tenor API
Google is shutting down the Tenor API on June 30, impacting applications that use it for GIF integration. While users expressed concern about losing GIF functionality on platforms like Discord and X, many apps have already transitioned to alternative providers like Klipy and Giphy. Discord, WhatsApp, and X have successfully moved away from Tenor, ensuring continued GIF support for their users.
Google's Gmail Live AI feature is now available in beta
Google's Gemini AI feature is now available in beta for Gmail, allowing users to search their inbox using natural language queries. This integration aims to streamline email management and information retrieval.
Google expands personalized intelligence to Gemini app image creation
Google is expanding the personalized intelligence features of its Gemini app to include image creation capabilities. This update allows users to generate images directly within the Gemini application, leveraging advanced AI models.
Morning Mobilization
T-Mobile is retiring its legacy mobile plans, which is leading to price increases for some customers and causing backlash. Separately, Google Wallet can now be used at airport security checkpoints as an alternative to a physical ID, and Samsung Messages functionality is also mentioned.
AI Yi-Yi!
A24 is defending its partnership with Google regarding AI technology, while OpenAI is previewing its next-generation model, GPT-5.6 Sol. Separately, The New York Times has criticized Microsoft for allegedly building a copyright-infringing supercomputer for OpenAI.
After Confirming $80 Price For GTA 6 And Preorders, Take-Two Stock Is Predicted To Rip
Following the confirmation of Grand Theft Auto 6's $80 price point and the start of preorders, stock analysts have issued positive price targets for Take-Two Interactive. Despite a recent dip in stock value, analysts from Bank of America, BMO Capital, TD Cowen, B. Riley Securities, and BTIG predict significant gains, with some targets exceeding $300 per share. The article also touches on the game's November 19 release date for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, and dismisses concerns about AI's impact on the company's business.
Google Finance is now available as a standalone Android app
Google Finance has been released as a standalone application for Android devices, with an iOS version planned for the future. This move aims to provide users with dedicated access to financial information on their mobile devices.
Morning Mobilization
Google will allow third-party billing on the Google Play Store starting June 30, a move that could impact developers' revenue streams. Separately, a proposal by the FCC regarding burner phones has raised privacy concerns.
Morning Legal Briefs
Disney will pay $50 million to YouTube TV and DirecTV users to settle a lawsuit concerning price hikes. Separately, British police developed a crime-prediction system with questionable reliability.
Google will open the Play Store to outside billing on June 30
Google will permit developers to implement alternative billing options within the Play Store in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe starting June 30. This change allows for more flexibility in payment processing for applications.
Micron (MU) Q3 FY26 earnings results beat EPS and revenue expectations
Micron reported its Q3 FY26 earnings, exceeding analyst expectations for both revenue and earnings-per-share. The company's strong performance is attributed to high demand for its memory and storage components, driven by AI development and the gaming industry. Micron's stock saw an increase in after-hours trading following the announcement.
Morning Mobilization
Google Wallet has received a significant update designed to streamline airport security processes. Additionally, the cross-platform mobile game FIFA Heroes has launched globally, offering a mobile-first football experience.
Morning Legal Briefs
Google's YouTube has settled a lawsuit concerning social media addiction among teenagers. The terms of the settlement were not immediately disclosed, but the case highlights ongoing concerns about the impact of online platforms on young users.
Google says it'll soon be easier to use TSA PreCheck Touchless ID via Wallet
Google Wallet will soon simplify the use of TSA PreCheck by enabling touchless identification. This integration aims to make the airport security process more convenient for travelers.