App Development
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Google Play is expanding age confirmation tools for app developers
Google Play is expanding its age confirmation tools for app developers globally with the upcoming release of the Age Signals API. This feature aims to enhance age verification processes for applications before the end of the year.
Meta wants to get into the prediction market game
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is reportedly exploring the development of a standalone prediction market app, codenamed Arena. Unlike existing platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi, Arena would utilize a points and ranking system rather than real-money bets. The app would operate independently but leverage Meta's existing social media user base for growth.
Apple announces Europe's first Developer Centre
Apple is opening its first European Developer Centre in Berlin later this year, its fifth globally. The facility will provide developers with consultation areas, labs, and resources to enhance app design and performance. This initiative aims to support Europe's developer community and foster innovation on Apple platforms.
Apple Intelligence is coming to the Shortcuts app
Apple is integrating its new Artificial Intelligence features into the Shortcuts app. This update will bring AI capabilities to the automation tool, enhancing its functionality for users.
Sunday Mobilization
Instagram has launched a new app called Instants, which is described as a clone of Snapchat. The app appears to be designed for sharing ephemeral content, often referred to as 'thirst traps'.
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.
Instagram's in-app camera will support Ultra HDR and Night Sight on Android
Meta is releasing an Instagram app for Android tablets and updating the in-app camera on Android devices to support Ultra HDR and Night Sight features. This update aims to improve the photo and video experience for users on both tablets and phones.
Judge sides with creators of banned ICE trackers who allege DHS and DOJ violated their First Amendment rights
A judge has ruled in favor of creators of ICE tracking apps, granting a preliminary injunction against the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Justice. The court found that the government likely violated the First Amendment by pressuring platforms like Facebook and Apple to remove the apps, which used publicly available information to monitor ICE activity.
Sunday Mobilization
A $1,700 liquid-cooled phone is capable of running Grand Theft Auto V at up to 100 FPS and Red Dead Redemption 2 at over 50 FPS through emulation. Additionally, Samsung Messages will be discontinued in favor of Google Messages.
Google begins calling out battery-killing Android apps
Google has begun labeling Android apps in the Play Store that are found to excessively drain battery life due to high background activity. These warnings aim to inform users before download and may also impact app discoverability. The company is focusing on the 'partial wake lock' mechanism, which allows apps to keep the processor running when the screen is off.