From 9to5Google · 40 stories
Microsoft discontinues 'Copilot Plus PC' branding for new Surface devices
Microsoft is no longer using the 'Copilot Plus PC' brand for its new 12-inch Surface Pro and 13-inch Surface Laptop, despite these devices meeting the technical requirements. This change indicates a shift away from the branding, which was originally intended to highlight PCs with built-in AI capabilities.
Qualcomm Unveils Dual Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Chips with Enhanced On-Device AI
Qualcomm announced two new flagship smartphone processors, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6, both built on a 2nm process. These chips focus on improving on-device AI capabilities, enabling local execution of large AI models and enhanced personalization for AI agents. The Extreme version offers additional performance improvements in AI processing, video capture, and gaming, positioning them for premium Android smartphones.
Google Launches Pixel Tag Item Tracker with UWB and Bluetooth Channel Sounding
Google has released the Pixel Tag, a new item tracker priced at $29, designed to compete with Apple's AirTag. It features Ultra Wideband (UWB) for precision finding and Bluetooth Channel Sounding, integrating with Google's Find Hub network to help Android users locate lost items.
Google Not Forced to Sell Ad Exchange After Antitrust Loss; Behavioral Remedies Imposed
A US federal judge ruled that Google will not be required to sell its online advertising exchange (AdX), despite losing an antitrust trial in 2025 where it was found to have illegally locked publishers into its exchange. The Department of Justice (DOJ) had sought the divestiture, but the court instead accepted undisclosed "behavioral remedies" that will mandate Google open its ad tech tools to rivals. This decision limits the structural penalties Google faces following the antitrust verdict.
Google launches Pixel 11 series and Pixel Watch 5 with expanded Gemini AI features
Google unveiled its Pixel 11 smartphone series, including the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and Pixel 11 Pro Fold, alongside the Pixel Watch 5 at its Made by Google 2026 event. The new devices emphasize Gemini AI integration, offering features like proactive assistance, task automation, and enhanced accessibility, with minimal hardware changes to the Pixel 11 phones. Google also reduced the free trial period for its Google One AI Pro plan for Pixel 11 models.
Google Pics AI Image Editor Rolls Out to Workspace and AI Pro/Ultra Subscribers
Google has launched Google Pics, an AI-powered image creation and editing tool, to Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers, and most Workspace business customers. Built on the Nano Banana generative AI model, Google Pics integrates directly into Workspace applications like Docs, Slides, and Drive, allowing users to generate and edit images with granular control over prompt-based manipulation and object segmentation.
Android 17 Integrates Encrypted Client Hello for Enhanced Web Privacy
Android 17 introduces platform-wide support for Encrypted Client Hello (ECH), a new internet standard that encrypts website destination information. This prevents internet service providers (ISPs) and Wi-Fi operators from seeing specific domain names, thereby limiting user profiling and targeted advertising. This makes Android the first major mobile operating system to implement ECH at a platform level.
Google Assistant to be Replaced by Gemini on Android and Wear OS Starting September 4
Google will begin phasing out Google Assistant on Android phones, tablets, Wear OS devices, headphones, and Android Auto starting September 4. Users will no longer be able to use or switch back to Google Assistant on these platforms, with Gemini becoming the sole AI assistant experience for compatible devices in supported regions. This transition marks a significant shift in Google's mobile AI strategy.
Google introduces tap-to-share for Quick Share on Android devices
Google has rolled out a new tap-to-share feature for Android's Quick Share, enabling users to exchange contact information, photos, and videos by tapping compatible devices together. This functionality is initially available on Pixel 6 series and newer devices, with plans to expand to select Samsung Galaxy models soon and more Android devices by the end of the year.
Google Schedules August 12 Event for Pixel 11 and Pixel Watch 5 Launch
Google will host its Made by Google event on August 12, 2023, in New York City to unveil the Pixel 11 series, including possible new features like slimmer bezels, a new camera design, and increased base storage. The event will also introduce the Pixel Watch 5 and possibly new Pixel Buds Pro. Rising component costs may result in higher prices for the new devices, which start at 256GB of storage.
Spotify Introduces AI-Powered Running Mode for Premium iOS Users
Spotify has launched a new Running Mode feature for Premium subscribers on iOS in select markets, including the US, UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and Sweden. This AI-powered mode curates music based on workout type, duration, beats per minute (BPM), and user preferences, and includes optional audio cues. The feature is available in the Fitness Hub and builds on Spotify's existing personalization capabilities, expanding its fitness offerings.
YouTube Premium to Include Peacock Premium for US Subscribers Starting Early 2027
YouTube Premium subscribers in the U.S. will gain access to Peacock Premium, the ad-supported streaming service, at no additional cost starting in early 2027. This multi-year agreement between NBCUniversal and YouTube integrates Peacock's content directly into the YouTube platform, expanding Peacock's distribution and adding a major entertainment service to YouTube Premium's offerings.
Amazon Integrates Luna Game Streaming into Prime Video App on Fire TV Devices
Amazon has integrated its Luna cloud gaming service directly into the Prime Video app, making games accessible to Prime subscribers on Fire TV devices in the US and UK. This move allows users to play games alongside video content, aiming to broaden gaming accessibility and position Prime Video as a comprehensive entertainment platform.
EU Mandates Google to Provide AI Rivals Access to Android and Search Data
The European Union requires Google to provide rival AI applications access to Android functionalities and to share anonymized search data under the Digital Markets Act. This aims to prevent Google from leveraging its OS dominance to limit competition. Google cited potential privacy and security concerns with these changes.
Google Introduces Gemini Omni for AI-Powered Video Editing
Google launched the Gemini Omni model to enhance video editing with AI, allowing users to edit videos using text, image, and audio inputs. The feature debuts as the Video Remix tool in Google Photos and the Gemini Omni Flash model in apps like YouTube Shorts. This development simplifies video editing for both individual users and businesses, integrating AI further into Google's ecosystem.
OnePlus to Cease Operations in US, Europe Amidst Oppo Restructuring
OnePlus will stop launching new products in North America and Europe, as part of a restructuring initiative by its parent company, Oppo. The company will transition existing devices to Oppo's ColorOS for updates while maintaining support agreements. This move, triggered by declining demand and operational challenges, marks a significant change for OnePlus's presence in Western markets.
Spotify Launches AI Chatbot for Interactive Music and Media Control
Spotify has introduced 'Talk to Spotify,' a beta AI chatbot feature for Premium users. Available in the US, Ireland, and Sweden, it allows users to interact with the app to create playlists and learn about songs, audiobooks, and podcasts using voice or text commands. This rollout is part of Spotify's ongoing strategy to enhance user engagement through personalized AI interactions.
NVIDIA GeForce NOW Releases Native Linux App, Adds Nine New Games, and Cloud Optimizations
NVIDIA's GeForce NOW cloud gaming service has officially released its native Linux application out of beta, introduced new cloud optimizations for Frame Generation and CPU-intensive games, and added nine new titles, including "Halo: Campaign Evolved." These updates allow users to stream PC games with RTX-level performance on devices like laptops, Macs, and Chromebooks without requiring high-end local hardware.
Microsoft Updates Smaller Surface Pro and Laptop with Snapdragon X2 Plus Chips
Microsoft has refreshed its 12-inch Surface Pro and 13-inch Surface Laptop with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 Plus chips, launching on October 13. These devices feature improved performance, brighter displays, and a minimum of 16GB RAM, but come with higher starting prices of $1,149.99 for the Surface Pro and $1,199.99 for the Surface Laptop. The Surface Pro 12-inch will also offer an optional 5G variant for enterprise versions.
Google's September Android Drop Introduces Find Hub Item Tracking, Motion Assist, and Gemini Live Guided Vision
Google is rolling out its September Android feature drop, introducing updates to Find Hub that allow users to save item locations via Gemini without a physical tracker. The update also includes Motion Assist for Android 17+ to reduce motion sickness, and Guided Vision for Gemini Live, providing visual assistance. Additionally, Google Messages gains Keep integration for shared notes and new conversation themes.
ChatGPT, Claude, and Grok AI platforms experience simultaneous outages
Major AI platforms including OpenAI's ChatGPT, Anthropic's Claude, and X's Grok are currently experiencing widespread outages. The simultaneous disruption across these services suggests a potential underlying issue with Microsoft Azure, which many of these platforms utilize for cloud services.
Instagram to demote unlabeled AI-generated profiles, renames "AI creator" label
Instagram is implementing new rules for profiles featuring AI-generated personas, requiring them to use a new "AI-generated profile" label. Accounts that fail to self-label will have their reach limited, meaning their content will not be recommended to non-followers in Reels and Explore. This change addresses user feedback regarding misleading AI content and aims to increase transparency on the platform.
Google Play to mandate reduced memory usage and seamless device migration by 2027
Google Play will enforce new requirements for Android apps by 2027, including reduced memory usage and automatic sign-in during device transfers. These changes aim to improve app performance and user experience on Android devices, particularly in response to hardware supply constraints affecting memory availability.
YouTube Changes View Counting to Register a View as Soon as Video Starts Playing
YouTube will update its view counting method on August 24th, registering a view as soon as a video begins playing or a live broadcast is entered. This change aligns YouTube's system with those used by Instagram, TikTok, and its own Shorts videos, and is expected to increase view counts for creators.
YouTube Doubles Monetization Requirements for New Creators, Expands Premium Lite
YouTube is increasing the eligibility criteria for its Partner Program (YPP) starting February 1, 2027, requiring new creators to have 1,000 subscribers and either 8,000 watch hours or 20 million Shorts views. This change doubles the previous watch hour requirement and significantly raises the Shorts view threshold, impacting how new creators can monetize content. Additionally, YouTube's Premium Lite subscription will expand to all countries where Premium is available.
Google Wallet Introduces Supervised Balances for Minors in the US
Google Wallet has launched a new feature allowing parents in the US to set up secure digital balances for children under 18. This enables minors to make tap-to-pay purchases using Android or Wear OS devices where Google Pay is accepted, without needing a bank account, while parents can monitor spending and set limits.
Samsung reveals features of new smart glasses to compete with Meta
Samsung introduced features of its upcoming smart glasses, including gesture controls and a built-in camera for recording. This launch challenges Meta's dominance in the smart glasses market, where it holds a significant share.
Qualcomm to Increase Chip Prices by Double-Digit Percentages Starting September 1
Qualcomm will raise prices on its chips by a double-digit percentage for products shipped after September 1. The company attributes this increase to its inability to absorb higher supplier costs and ongoing component shortages. This price hike is expected to affect device manufacturers and could lead to higher costs for consumer electronics, including smartphones and PCs.
WhatsApp Web Adds Audio and Video Calling with Call Transfer and Waiting Room Features
WhatsApp has rolled out one-on-one and group audio and video calling capabilities to its web platform. This update allows users to transfer ongoing calls between devices and the web, introduces a waiting room option for hosts, and includes features like screen sharing, reactions, and background noise suppression. The expansion makes WhatsApp's full calling functionality available directly through web browsers, removing the need for dedicated desktop applications for calls.
Google Enhances Gemini AI and Pre-installs Gemini Notebook on New Samsung Foldables
Google has announced updates to its Gemini Intelligence platform at Galaxy Unpacked 2026, which includes expanded AI task automation now supporting over 40 apps, and the introduction of Gemini Notebook pre-installed on Samsung's latest foldable devices. The task automation upgrades enable users to manage tasks through advanced AI capabilities, increasing productivity on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Flip 8.
Google's AI Mode Integrates with YouTube Music, Canva, and Instacart for Task-Based Use
Google has expanded AI Mode's capabilities to interact with apps like YouTube Music, Canva, and Instacart. The updates allow users to manage tasks such as creating playlists, designing flyers, and compiling shopping lists directly within the app. This aims to enhance AI-driven task management and positions Google more competitively against other platforms offering similar app integrations.
Google to Allow Third-Party App Stores on Android From July 22
Starting July 22, Google will allow third-party app stores on Android, complying with a court order after its legal battle with Epic Games. This change lets rival app stores operate within Google Play in the U.S., potentially changing app distribution and pricing.
Nothing Launches Headphone 1 Pro with Triple-Driver Design and Studio Features
Nothing has released its new flagship Headphone 1 Pro over-ear headphones, priced at $399. These headphones feature a triple-driver design, improved Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) up to 46 dB, and a unique Flat EQ switch designed to disable EQ and spatial audio for studio professionals.
Android Auto Prepares to Integrate Google Pixel's Proactive Assistance/Magic Cue
Google is preparing to integrate Proactive Assistance, also known as Magic Cue, from Pixel phones into Android Auto. This feature delivers proactive information and suggestions, such as flight details or map listings, and its inclusion in Android Auto could provide users with personalized, time-saving suggestions while driving.
Fitbit Air Launches in India for ₹13,999, Includes Google Health Premium Trial
Google is launching the Fitbit Air fitness tracker in India on October 2 for ₹13,999. The device, which is screen-less, will be available in four colorways and includes a three-month trial of Google Health Premium. This launch expands the Fitbit Air's availability to the Indian market following its global release earlier this year.
Samsung begins Android 17 and One UI 9 rollout for Galaxy S26 series
Samsung has started rolling out its One UI 9 update, based on Android 17, to the Galaxy S26 series after a four-month beta period. This update introduces new features like My FanCam, Generative and Editable Cards, and additional Galaxy AI capabilities, marking the beginning of a wider rollout to other Galaxy devices.
YouTube Introduces Custom Feeds, GIF Comments, and AI-Powered Shopping Features
YouTube announced new features at its Made on YouTube 2026 event, including Custom Feeds for personalized content organization, GIF support in comments, and AI-driven shopping recommendations. These updates aim to enhance user experience through greater personalization and interactive options on its video platform.
Adobe Premiere Mobile App Launches on Android with Free Core Editing and AI Features
Adobe has released its Premiere mobile app for Android devices, over a year after its initial iOS launch. The app offers core video editing functionalities like trimming, cropping, and 4K export for free, with generative AI features available through in-app purchases. This expansion brings Adobe's mobile video editing tools to a wider Android user base, including optimization for foldable smartphones.
Roku Launches Experimental App Program, Expands Home Screen Redesign, and Open-Sources Remote OS
Roku introduced Roku Labs, a new program allowing users to access experimental apps directly from their home screen, initially featuring apps for weather, stocks, and a game. Concurrently, Roku is expanding its redesigned home screen to Mexico and Brazil, adding subscription bundling options, and open-sourcing LT OS, the operating system for its remotes and smart home products. These updates aim to provide users with new features and offer developers access to the remote's underlying software.
Android Introduces System-Level Password and Passkey Transfer Between Managers
Google has launched a new system-level feature on Android that enables direct and secure transfer of passwords and passkeys between different password manager applications. This update eliminates the need for insecure CSV file exports and manual recreation of passkeys, simplifying the migration process for users on devices running Android 8 or above. The feature is currently supported by Google's own password manager, Bitwarden, 1Password, and Dashlane.