Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Google.
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Android XR is finally starting to feel real
Google's efforts in Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are beginning to show tangible progress with its Android XR platform. Despite needing to prove its capabilities, Google's smart glasses are poised to leverage significant advantages in the emerging XR market.
Google debuts AI-powered tools to optimize scientific research workflows
Google has launched three new AI-powered features under the Gemini for Science collection. These tools are designed to optimize workflows within scientific research.
Google announces Wear OS 7
Google has announced Wear OS 7, an update for its smartwatch operating system. The new version integrates Gemini Intelligence and introduces a new widget system for enhanced user experience.
Fortnite returns to the App Store everywhere except Australia
Fortnite has returned to the App Store globally, excluding Australia, following a dispute between Epic Games and Apple. Epic Games expressed confidence that regulatory scrutiny will force Apple to be more transparent about its fee structures. The legal battle continues in Australia, where Epic claims Apple is still enforcing unlawful developer terms despite a court ruling in Epic's favor.
Everything announced at Google I/O 2026
Google announced several new initiatives at its annual I/O developer conference, including advancements in AI with Gemini Spark and Omni, and updates to Google Search and Shopping. The company also touched upon developments in Extended Reality (XR).
XREAL and Google Bring Project Aura to Life at Google I/O 2026
XREAL and Google showcased Project Aura, their lightweight XR glasses, at Google I/O 2026, demonstrating the integration of Google's Android XR platform, Gemini AI, and Qualcomm processors. The event provided hands-on opportunities for attendees to experience spatial computing applications like immersive navigation and virtual screen usage. An Android XR Developer Catalyst Program was also announced to foster platform development, with a global release for Project Aura confirmed for 2026.
Google's redesigned Gemini comes with a new interface and AI models
Google has launched a redesigned version of its Gemini chatbot, now available on Android and iOS devices. The update features a new interface and incorporates updated AI models.
Samsung and Google just teased their upcoming Android XR smartglasses at Google I/O
Samsung and Google have teased their upcoming Android XR smartglasses, developed in partnership with Warby Parker and Gentle Monster. The announcement was made at Google I/O, highlighting advancements in augmented and virtual reality hardware.
Project Genie adds Google Street View integration and goes live for global AI Ultra users
Project Genie, an AI tool for creating virtual worlds, has added integration with Google Street View, allowing users to ground their creations in real-world locations. This feature is now live for global AI Ultra users.
Google's Circle to Search feature can tell you if an image was AI-generated
Google is expanding its AI detection capabilities to more products, including the Circle to Search feature. This allows users to more easily verify if an image was generated or edited using artificial intelligence.
Google's Universal Cart will keep an eye on your shopping
Google is introducing a new feature called Universal Cart designed to streamline the online shopping experience. This tool will allow users to make purchases directly from within applications like YouTube and Gmail, simplifying the checkout process.
The Google AI Ultra plan now starts at $100 a month
Google has reduced the starting price of its most expensive AI plan, the "Ultra" tier, to $100 per month. This adjustment makes the premium AI service more accessible to a wider range of users.
Google says Gemini 3.5 Flash rivals 'large flagship models' for coding and agentic tasks
Google claims its new Gemini 3.5 Flash artificial intelligence model significantly outperforms other large flagship models in coding and agentic tasks. The company states that Gemini 3.5 Flash can complete these tasks in a fraction of the time compared to existing frontier models.
Google's Gemini Omni can generate 'anything from any input,' starting with video
Google announced its new AI model, Gemini Omni, capable of generating content from any input, including video. This announcement was made alongside other Gemini updates aimed at AI creators.
Google shoves more AI into Search, including a dynamic Search box and agentic features
Google is integrating more artificial intelligence features into its Search engine, including a dynamic search box and agentic capabilities. This update signifies a significant shift away from the traditional Google Search experience.
Google's newest app is an AI-powered image editor
Google has launched a new AI-powered image editing application. While not as comprehensive as professional software like Photoshop, it aims to offer enhanced editing capabilities compared to existing tools within Google Photos.
Google's Gemini Spark is an agentic AI assistant
Google is rolling out its new AI agent, Gemini Spark, to testers this week. This agent is designed to function as an AI assistant.
I/O 2026 is bringing more AI to Google Play
Google is expanding the integration of Artificial Intelligence features within Google Play, including a wider rollout of its Play Games Sidekick tool. This initiative aims to enhance the mobile gaming experience for users.
Google brings more conversational features to Gmail, Docs and Keep
Google is integrating more conversational AI features into its Workspace applications, including Gmail, Docs, and Keep. These new features will allow users to generate initial drafts of documents by speaking their thoughts, with the AI organizing the content.
Ask YouTube compiles video answers to your questions
Google has launched a new feature called Ask YouTube, which utilizes AI to compile answers to user questions by drawing from both short- and long-form video content on the platform. This new tool aims to provide users with quick and comprehensive information directly from YouTube videos.