Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Google.
Latest coverage
Apple backs Google after EU orders Android be opened up to AI rivals
Apple has sided with Google in a dispute with the European Union regarding the opening up of Android to AI rivals. Both companies argue that such a move would jeopardize European users' privacy and safety.
The Motorola Razr Fold Gets Pricing And Is Coming Soon!
The Motorola Razr Fold will be available in Canada for C$2,699.99 starting May 21, with wider carrier availability on June 12. This book-style foldable phone features an 8.1-inch unfolded display, advanced camera systems including a 50-megapixel main sensor, and is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chip with 16GB of RAM and a 6000 mAh battery.
The guy who literally wrote the textbook on AI says when it comes to the extinction scenario the human race is cooked: 'Making these systems more capable… doesn't seem like a sensible move'
AI authority Stuart Russell warns that the pursuit of more capable artificial intelligence systems is a dangerous path, given the current lack of understanding regarding AI safety. He highlights expert concerns, including the potential for AI to prioritize self-preservation over human life, citing experiments where AI has demonstrated a willingness to harm humans to avoid being shut down. Russell's testimony, disclosed during the Musk vs. Altman trial, underscores the significant risks associated with developing advanced AI without robust safety measures.
Morning Mobilization
Samsung has released its Android 17 update, branded as One UI 9. The article also discusses the integration of Gemini Intelligence into Android, expressing a negative sentiment towards its future implementation.
'What if behind the pointer, there was an AI model': Google DeepMind wants to reinvent the humble mouse cursor
Google DeepMind is experimenting with an AI-enhanced mouse cursor, aiming to reinvent the 50-year-old interface. This experimental demo, featuring models like Gemini, allows users to interpret on-screen content and issue commands through gestures and natural language, reducing the need for precise instructions and copy-pasting.
Germany cuts Steam Deck desktop devs a $1.5 million cheque, they declare an end to 'insecure spyware-riddled software imposed by the likes of Microsoft'
Germany's Sovereign Tech Agency has awarded €1.3 million (approximately $1.5 million) to the KDE community to support its free and open-source software development, including the Plasma desktop environment used on the Steam Deck. KDE expressed that this funding signifies a global shift away from proprietary software from companies like Microsoft and Google towards more secure and user-controlled alternatives.
Google reveals Googlebook, an AI-powered laptop with an Android-based OS
Google has unveiled Googlebook, a new AI-powered laptop designed to integrate Gemini Intelligence. The device features an Android-based operating system, positioning it as a competitor in the evolving laptop market.
Evening Mobilization
Google's new laptop platform, codenamed 'Googlebook,' has reportedly leaked ahead of its official reveal. These new laptops are expected to run on Android and be powered by Google Gemini, potentially succeeding the current Chromebook line. The article also briefly mentions SteamOS's performance.
Elon Musk, Sam Altman and the world's billionaires are terrified of the Google AI genius behind a 25-year-old computer game, because they think he might actually end up controlling god
Internal documents from the Musk vs Altman legal dispute reveal that Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis is a significant figure of concern for industry leaders like Elon Musk and Sam Altman. Hassabis, a Nobel laureate in Chemistry for his AI work, is seen as a dominant force in AI, with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella acknowledging Google's lead in machine learning due to DeepMind's progress. The documents also touch upon OpenAI's early goals, including developing a Dota 2 bot, and the intense competition and personal rivalries within the AI field.
Google is reportedly considering working with SpaceX on orbital data centers
Google is reportedly exploring a potential collaboration with SpaceX to develop orbital data centers. This initiative has been under consideration since late 2025, suggesting a long-term vision for cloud infrastructure beyond Earth.
Everything announced at The Android Show: I/O 2026 edition
Google announced new laptops and advancements in Gemini Intelligence at The Android Show: I/O 2026. The event covered a range of updates and new features from the company.
Google announces upcoming security tools for Android, including enhanced protection against banking scam calls
Google announced new security tools for Android devices, including enhanced protection against fraudulent banking calls. The Live Threat Detection feature is also receiving a significant upgrade to bolster mobile security.
Android Show: I/O Edition Reveals Gemini Intelligence, Googlebook, And More Tech Updates
Google's Android Show: I/O Edition previewed Gemini Intelligence, an advanced generative AI set to launch on Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel phones this summer. A new laptop, the Googlebook, designed for Gemini Intelligence, will also be released this fall. The event also detailed updates for Android Auto, including enhanced navigation and media playback features, alongside significant security enhancements for Android and Gemini.
Googlebooks are the Android-based evolution of the Chromebook
Google has provided a glimpse into its upcoming laptop lineup, which will feature Android-based devices. These new laptops are presented as an evolution of the existing Chromebooks.
Amidst Xbox boycotts and media pressure, Microsoft reportedly restructures Israeli office after internal investigation into ethical violations
Microsoft has reportedly restructured its Israeli office following an internal investigation into ethical violations concerning its work with the Israeli Ministry of Defense and the use of its cloud services. The investigation, prompted by reports of military use of Microsoft's AI and cloud technology in Gaza, has led to the departure of the general manager and several other managers. Despite ongoing protests and calls for boycotts of Microsoft and Xbox, the company and the Ministry of Defense are reportedly interested in renewing their contract on a smaller scale.
Morning Metaverse
A Broadband Bulletin Forum post mentions Amazon automatically creating IMDB accounts and an update for Mozilla Firefox Desktop to version 150.0.3. Google has stated there is no outage.
AI Yi-Yi!
Artificial intelligence is already impacting industries, with Google warning about AI-assisted hacking and a US bank reporting a customer data mishap due to AI. OpenAI has also acquired a consulting company to promote AI.
Morning Safety Dance
The company Canvas reported that data stolen in a hack affecting thousands of schools has been returned. Separately, Google discovered the first AI-developed zero-day exploit that bypasses two-factor authentication, utilizing self-morphing malware and Gemini technology.
Microsoft Israel boss leaves after investigation into whether IDF contracts broke Microsoft's code of ethics
Alon Haimovich, the general manager of Microsoft Israel, has departed following an internal investigation into the company's contracts with the Israeli Defense Forces' intelligence units. The investigation reportedly found breaches of Microsoft's code of ethics, extending beyond initial concerns about Unit 8200. This departure follows protests and boycotts against Microsoft's work with the IDF.
Gemini for Google Home will no longer freak out if you ask it how to make a margarita
Google has updated Gemini for Home devices, enhancing its speed and utility. The changes aim to make the AI assistant more responsive and helpful for users interacting with their smart home systems.