Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Google.
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Saturday Mobilization
Google has introduced a new process for installing unverified Android applications. This change aims to provide users with more control over app installations while potentially impacting the security landscape for Android devices.
Evening Mobilization
Google Messages has received two new basic features that were previously expected to be included. The update aims to enhance the functionality of the messaging application.
Morning Metaverse
Google has reportedly made changes to its browser agent team amidst a growing interest in OpenClaw. The article also mentions a personal anecdote about switching to a self-hosted search aggregator.
Google is reportedly testing a Gemini app for Mac
Google is reportedly testing a version of its Gemini AI assistant for macOS, which would bring it into direct competition with standalone Mac apps from OpenAI's ChatGPT and Anthropic's Claude. The app is expected to offer similar features to the web version, with a potential differentiator being 'Desktop Intelligence' that allows Gemini to access on-screen context and information from other apps.
Fortnite back on Google Play worldwide after Epic and Google settle
Fortnite is now available worldwide on the Google Play Store following a settlement between Epic Games and Google that resolves their antitrust dispute. This marks the return of the popular game to the platform after a nearly six-year absence. The settlement also includes changes to Google's app store policies, such as easier access for rivals and reduced developer fees.
Android will hide app sideloading behind a new one-time security process
Google is implementing a new one-time security process for Android users to sideload apps from unverified developers. This multi-step procedure includes enabling developer mode, restarting the phone, and confirming identity via biometrics or PIN. The company is also offering free limited distribution accounts for hobbyist developers to share apps with up to 20 devices without requiring verification.
A new iPhone hacking tool puts some iOS 18 users at risk
A new fileless hacking technique called DarkSword poses a risk to iPhone users running specific versions of iOS 18 by exploiting malicious web pages to steal sensitive data and cryptocurrency. While Apple has released patches for the vulnerabilities in subsequent iOS updates, a portion of users may still be at risk if they have not updated their devices.
After Years Away, Fortnite Returns to the Google Play Store
Fortnite has returned to the Google Play Store after a five-year absence, following legal settlements between Epic Games and Google. Players on Android devices can now access the game, including its latest Chapter 7 Season 2: Showdown content. This return coincides with Google's announcement of reduced in-app payment percentages.
Nothing Phone 4a Pro review: A midrange phone that rivals the Pixel 10a
The Nothing Phone 4a Pro offers a premium metal unibody design and a refined camera system for $499, positioning it as a strong competitor to the Pixel 10a. It features a brighter 6.83-inch AMOLED display, improved performance with the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 processor, and a 24-hour battery life, though it lacks wireless charging and has a less playful Glyph Matrix than previous models.
A new iPhone hacking tool puts anyone still on iOS 18 at risk
A new fileless hacking technique called DarkSword exploits vulnerabilities in iOS 18 versions, potentially affecting a quarter of iPhone users. The hack steals sensitive data, including cryptocurrency, and deletes itself without leaving a trace. Apple has released patches in later iOS versions, but users on iOS 18 are advised to update immediately.
Senator Blackburn introduces the first draft of a federal AI bill
Senator Marsha Blackburn has introduced the first draft of a federal bill aimed at regulating artificial intelligence, focusing on protecting children, creators, and communities. The draft proposes a duty of care for AI developers, addresses copyright concerns regarding AI training data, and includes provisions for online safety for minors and transparency for AI-generated content.
Google is testing Search Live in more markets
Google is testing its Search Live feature in additional markets beyond the US and India, with a global rollout potentially imminent. The feature, which allows users to ask questions about objects captured by their phone's camera, has been updated to use the Gemini 3.1 Flash model for improved performance and multilingual capabilities.
UK reverses course on AI copyright position after backlash
The UK government has reversed its proposed stance on AI training data, abandoning a plan that would have allowed AI companies to use copyrighted materials without consent. Following backlash from artists like Paul McCartney, Elton John, and Dua Lipa, the government will now reconsider its approach to copyright law to balance the needs of creators and the tech industry.
Morning Mobilization
The article discusses potential issues with wireless charging on the upcoming Galaxy S26 and notes that Google may be reversing some controversial changes made to the Photos app. These topics are presented as separate news items.
Google expands Search Live globally
Google is expanding its Search Live feature globally to all regions where its AI Mode chatbot is available, over 200 countries and territories. The feature, which allows users to point their camera at objects and ask questions, has been updated to run on the Gemini 3.1 Flash model for improved performance and multilingual capabilities. Search Live can be accessed through the Google app on Android and iOS, as well as Google Lens.
The Defense Department reportedly plans to train AI models on classified military data
The US Department of Defense is reportedly planning to train AI models on classified military data with companies like OpenAI and xAI. This initiative aims to create AI systems for military use, potentially offering more accurate responses for specific situations. However, concerns exist regarding data security and access control for personnel without the correct clearance.
Boss of GTA 6 Owner Take-Two Says the Idea That AI Tools Will Mean Everyone Can Create Video Game Hits 'Doesn’t Stand to Reason' - IGN
Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick dismisses the notion that AI tools will enable individuals to create hit video games, calling the idea "laughable." While acknowledging AI's potential as a creation tool, he emphasizes that human creativity and engagement are essential for developing successful and engaging interactive worlds, contrasting this with the rapid launch of numerous games that fail to become hits.
Defense Department says Anthropic poses 'unacceptable risk' to national security
The Department of Defense has informed Anthropic that continued access to its warfighting infrastructure poses an "unacceptable risk" to national security. This statement was made in a court filing responding to Anthropic's lawsuit challenging its supply chain risk designation. The department cited concerns over AI systems' vulnerability to manipulation and Anthropic's refusal to allow its model for mass surveillance or autonomous weapons development.
Evening Safety Dance
Google has announced a multi-million-dollar investment aimed at bolstering open-source security initiatives. This investment is intended to support the development and maintenance of secure open-source software.
Fortnite will return to Google's Play Store globally on March 19
Fortnite will be available globally on Google's Play Store starting March 19, coinciding with the launch of a new season. This marks the resolution of a long-standing dispute between Epic Games and Google, which led to Fortnite's removal in 2020. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney confirmed the return following a settlement and Google's adjustment of its in-app payment cut.