Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Google.
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Fortnite's Android Comeback Is On, As Google And Epic Make Nice
Fortnite is set to return to the Google Play Store worldwide following a legal settlement between Epic Games and Google. The resolution allows Epic to invest in the Epic Games Store for Android and brings Fortnite back to Google's platform after a legal feud that began in 2020. Google will also begin allowing third-party billing on its platforms in stages.
Malwarebytes says a fake Google Account security page is distributing 'what may be one of the most fully featured browser-based surveillance toolkits we have observed in the wild'
Cybersecurity firm Malwarebytes has identified a sophisticated phishing campaign using a fake Google Account security page to distribute a highly capable browser-based surveillance toolkit. This malware can infect Windows, macOS, and Android devices, capable of clipboard monitoring, SMS interception, and even acting as a WebSocket relay to bypass network security. The Android version includes a custom keyboard for keystroke logging and notification listening for two-factor authentication codes.
Evening Mobilization
The Division: Resurgence has announced its release date after 10 years, while Google Messages is finally receiving a long-awaited feature. Additionally, the mobile game StoneAge: Idle Adventure has launched.
Google Ireland Study Shows SMEs Want AI; Launching Events Series and Scholarships
A study by Google Ireland reveals that 80% of Irish small and medium-sized enterprises believe Artificial Intelligence will positively impact their business, with nearly two-thirds expecting growth by 2026. Despite this optimism, many SMEs face barriers such as skill gaps, cost concerns, and fear of mistakes, leading to slow adoption. In response, Google is launching a series of free regional events called 'AI Works for Ireland' and offering up to 10,000 AI scholarships in partnership with the Local Enterprise Office to help businesses integrate AI technologies.
Google introduces Find Hub updates and more AI tools in the March Pixel Drop
Google is rolling out new features for Pixel devices and the broader Android ecosystem, including updates to the Find Hub for location sharing and baggage tracking. The March Pixel Drop also introduces personalized Calling Cards, a Google Play Shorts feed for app discovery, and enhancements to AI features like Circle to Search and Magic Cue. Pixel smartwatches will receive new safety alerts and Express Pay access.
Morning Mobilization
Google is reportedly closing down Android, prompting opposition from 37 organizations. Meanwhile, Samsung is preparing a security update for Galaxy devices scheduled for March 2026, and Apple has unveiled a new MacBook Air.
Solana Mobile Opens Stack Access to All Android OEMs with SeekerClaw AI Integration in Seeker Phone
Solana Mobile is shifting its business model from hardware manufacturing to providing its blockchain infrastructure, the Solana Mobile Stack, to all Android OEMs. This stack includes enhanced security features like Seed Vault, a user-friendly wallet, and a decentralized app store, aiming to integrate advanced crypto tools into mainstream Android devices. The move also introduces new revenue-sharing models for manufacturers based on transaction volume.
"It needs to cooperate fairly, and it's clearly not." Why Valve is facing a £656m day in the UK courts
A UK court has allowed a class-action lawsuit against Valve to proceed, alleging the company violates competition law through its 30% revenue share on Steam and price parity requirements. Digital safety campaigner Vicki Shotbolt is leading the case, seeking up to £656 million in damages for UK consumers. The lawsuit argues that Valve's practices harm consumers by inflating game prices and limiting developer pricing flexibility.
Why Do Game Console Prices Keep Going Up?
The ongoing global chip shortage, exacerbated by the massive demand for AI data centers, is driving up prices for gaming consoles and PC components. This situation is leading to longer console generations, potential consolidation in the PC building market, and a shift towards cloud gaming as a more accessible option for consumers. While the shortage presents challenges, it could also lead to developers focusing more on optimizing games for existing hardware, potentially resulting in better-designed and more accessible gaming experiences in the long run.
Google Adds Custom Music Generation to Gemini with New Lyria 3 Model
Google has integrated Lyria 3, a new generative music model, into its Gemini app, allowing users to create 30-second songs with lyrics, vocals, and cover art from text prompts, photos, or videos. This feature aims to make music creation casual and is also being added to YouTube Shorts' Dream Track feature. Google emphasizes that Lyria 3 is designed for original expression and includes AI watermarking via SynthID to identify generated content.
Best Android Emulators for PC and Mac
This guide recommends the best Android emulators for PC and Mac, focusing on performance and user experience for gaming. It highlights Nox Player as the top pick, followed by BlueStacks, Gameloop, AndY, MEmu Play, KoPlayer, and ARChon, detailing their features, costs, and platform compatibility.
Google Stadia: Future or Failure?
This review examines Google Stadia, a cloud gaming service that offers a digital-only experience without downloads or updates. While promising 4K and 60fps, actual performance often falls short, leading to user skepticism. The article questions the viability of game streaming as a future prospect compared to video streaming services, citing interactivity and library limitations as key drawbacks.
