Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Google.
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Dragon Quest creator Yuji Horii says AI "hardly ever makes things up" anymore, even if it once made up that he…
Dragon Quest creator Yuji Horii expressed his admiration for the advancements in AI, noting its improved accuracy. He discussed the implementation of a Google Gemini-powered chatbot, Oshaberi Slimey, in the MMO Dragon Quest 10, aiming to make AI interaction more accessible.
Data: 96% of studios now run a direct-to-consumer web store or plan to
A survey by FastSpring and Omdia reveals that 96% of game studios either operate or plan to launch a direct-to-consumer (D2C) web store. Recent regulatory changes, particularly concerning Apple and Google, have increased developer confidence in D2C's future value, with many planning to increase investment and launch stores within the next year.
Why Fast Charging Never Agreed on a Standard: USB PD, PPS, SuperVOOC and the Rest
The fast charging landscape is fragmented with competing standards like USB PD, PPS, and proprietary solutions such as SuperVOOC, leading to consumer confusion. While USB PD with PPS is emerging as a near-universal standard for phones, tablets, and laptops, it doesn't always unlock peak speeds for devices using proprietary technologies. Factors like device internal silicon, cable quality, and charging habits significantly impact charging speed and battery longevity more than the specific protocol used.
Pixel Watch 5 hands-on: A very good smartwatch shipping without half of what makes it new
The Google Pixel Watch 5 is a competent smartwatch with useful upgrades like on-device Gemini and improved GPS tracking, though many new features are delayed until September. It offers a refined user experience with enhanced gestures and a familiar design, but existing Pixel Watch 4 owners may not find enough new to justify an upgrade as most new features will also be available on the older model.
Pixel Watch 5 review: A fantastic watch that's missing features at launch
The Google Pixel Watch 5 is a fantastic smartwatch, though it has some missing features at launch. This review provides thoughts on the device in its current state.
Roblox makes three of its AI safety tools open source
Roblox is open-sourcing three of its AI safety tools, including a PII classifier and a voice safety classifier, through the Robust Open Online Safety Tools Model Community (ROOST), which it co-founded with Google, OpenAI, and Discord. These tools are already deployed on Roblox's platform and aim to help other companies improve their online safety measures. This move comes as Roblox faces scrutiny from the US Senate regarding its child safety practices.
Google now allows you to add your favorite new sources to Search
Google is enhancing its Search and Discover features by allowing users to add their preferred news sources. This update provides greater control over personalized content experiences.
Australia passes law to charge tech companies levies unless they reach deals with news publishers
Australia has passed new legislation requiring major tech companies like Meta, Google, TikTok, and LinkedIn to pay levies to support local news outlets. These companies must reach agreements with news publishers or face mandatory payments under the new rules.
Google Offers University Students One Year of Google AI Plus for Free
Google is offering eligible university students one year of Google AI Plus for free in supported countries, redeemable until December 31, 2026. This promotion provides enhanced features like higher Gemini usage limits, Deep Research, and additional cloud storage to aid students with academic tasks. Eligibility requires students to be at least 16 years old, enrolled in an institution, and possess a personal Google Account with a valid school email.
Evening Reading - August 19, 2026
This edition of Evening Reading covers various gaming news, including updates on Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl, Tekken 8, and Subnautica 2. It also highlights the launch of a new studio by former Arkane leads and mentions upcoming titles like Kingdom Hearts 4 and The Witcher 4. The article includes links to reviews and discussions on other internet content.
Google is offering college students a year of its AI Pro plan for free
Google is offering college students a complimentary year of its AI Pro plan, a service typically valued at $200. This initiative aims to provide students with access to advanced artificial intelligence tools.
Google (GOOGL) to buy up to $12.2 billion shares in US chip firm Marvell (MRVL)
Google is set to invest up to $12.2 billion in Marvell stock and partner with the semiconductor firm to develop custom chips for AI infrastructure. This strategic move involves Google purchasing up to 59.97 million Marvell shares through fiscal year 2033, aiming to bolster Google's AI capabilities.
Google is trying to solve contrails with AI
Google is utilizing artificial intelligence and subtle flight rerouting through its Operation Blue Skies initiative to test methods for avoiding contrails. This project, in collaboration with the UK government, aims to mitigate the environmental impact of aircraft emissions.
Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold review: Doing more but not quite enough
The Google Pixel Fold receives a review highlighting welcome upgrades but a disappointing lack of significant design changes. While it offers more functionality, it falls short of expectations for a next-generation foldable device.
Gmail verification program lets political campaigns escape its spam filter
Google has introduced a new verification program for Gmail that will allow political campaigns to bypass its spam filters. This initiative aims to ensure that campaign communications reach voters' inboxes more reliably.
Report: Google Set to Move All Pixel Manufacturing Out of China by 2027
Google is reportedly planning to move all Pixel phone, watch, and earbud manufacturing out of China by 2027, shifting production to Vietnam and India. This move is facilitated by Google's lack of a domestic market in China and its ability to leverage existing supply chains built by companies like Samsung in Vietnam. The company also aims to increase Pixel shipments by 8-10% this year, using the devices as a distribution channel for its AI capabilities.
Google is reportedly planning to move all Pixel production out of China
Google is reportedly planning to shift all production of its Pixel devices away from China starting next year. This move, according to Nikkei Asia, signals a significant change in the company's manufacturing strategy.
PlayZap Claims First Web3 Studio Slot on YouTube Playables
PlayZap has launched a game on YouTube Playables, marking its claim as the first Web3 gaming studio to do so. While the specific game title and whether it incorporates PZP mechanics remain undisclosed, the launch leverages YouTube's massive audience. The platform's limitations, such as a 30 MB file size and no external network calls, shape the capabilities of crypto games within this environment.
Turn on these settings to protect your Android phone from theft
This guide details new theft-detection features added to Android phones by Google. These settings aim to enhance the security of Android devices against theft.
How to make the perfect video game according to Google AI - Reader's Feature
A reader explores the concept of the 'perfect video game' by asking Google's AI for its criteria, which include good controls, clear rules, no wasted time, and good style. The AI's top picks were Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and Elden Ring, prompting a discussion on how games like Grand Theft Auto 5 and Assassin's Creed succeed and fail in meeting these standards.
