From Engadget · 40 stories
Google expands Play Age Signals API globally for age-appropriate app experiences
Google is expanding its Play Age Signals API globally to Android developers by the end of 2026, starting with Australia and Canada by mid-August. This API allows developers to identify users' age ranges for age-appropriate app experiences without accessing personal data, addressing increasing regulatory pressure for minor protections.
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.
Framework Laptop 13 Pro Memory Prices Increase Due to Supplier Cost Hikes
Framework has increased pricing for 32GB and 64GB LPCAMM2 memory modules in its Laptop 13 Pro, with the 32GB option rising from $439 to $800. This change is a direct result of a supplier doubling the cost of LPCAMM2 components, which Framework states it cannot absorb without financial risk. The price adjustment also affects pre-order fulfillments, with some customers receiving lower capacity memory at their original configured price.
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.
SpaceX Starship Test Launch Aborted Due to Engine Ignition Failure
SpaceX aborted its Starship rocket launch due to engine ignition failure on Thursday. Two engines will be replaced, with a new attempt planned for next week, critical for deploying new Starlink satellites. SpaceX's stock fell following the aborted launch, continuing volatility post-IPO.
Amazon Seeks FCC Approval for 5,105-Satellite Direct-to-Device Network by 2028
Amazon has filed an application with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to launch a new constellation of 5,105 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, with deployment planned to begin in 2028. This initiative aims to provide direct-to-device services for voice, messaging, data, and emergency services, leveraging Globalstar's spectrum and integrating with Amazon's existing satellite infrastructure. The network will target users in areas unserved or underserved by traditional wireless providers.
US utility companies pledge to shield consumers from AI-related energy costs
Nearly 200 U.S. utility and data center companies have pledged to protect consumers from rising electricity bills linked to AI. Signed by major firms including NextEra Energy and Google, the pledge lacks enforcement mechanisms, raising concerns over its actual impact.
Patreon Lays Off 20 Percent of Workforce, Citing Organizational Restructuring
Patreon laid off 93 employees, representing 20 percent of its workforce, as part of an organizational restructuring to flatten the company and refocus teams. This decision impacts the company's operational structure, though CEO Jack Conte stated the core business and value of human creativity remain unchanged.
Ford Integrates Apple Maps into Universal EV Platform for 2027 Vehicles
Ford will embed Apple Maps directly into its Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) Platform, starting with a midsize pickup truck in 2027. This integration, utilizing Apple's new MapKit for Automotive SDK, will provide navigation, real-time traffic, EV-specific routing, and support Ford's hands-free driving systems like BlueCruise.
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.
AWS Billing Bug Leads to Erroneous Billion-Dollar Estimates for Customers
AWS users experienced incorrect billing estimates due to a bug causing charges to show as billions of dollars instead of reflecting actual usage. The fault in the AWS billing computation system involved incorrect unit pricing. Amazon is addressing the issue by halting billing updates and reverting to accurate data.
AliExpress Fined €550 Million for Selling Counterfeit and Unsafe Products
AliExpress has been fined €550 million ($629 million) by the European Commission for failing to prevent the sale of illegal and counterfeit products, marking the largest fine under the Digital Services Act. The investigation revealed shortcomings in product verification and removal processes, posing risks to consumer safety. This fine underscores the EU's commitment to stringent e-commerce regulations.
Trump Media to Launch Truth Social API for Instant Access to Influential Posts
Trump Media & Technology Group will launch a Truth Social API offering real-time access to posts from influential accounts, starting August 1. This paid service targets financial firms, allowing them to receive posts from key accounts, including Donald Trump, in milliseconds. The service aims to generate consistent revenue for the loss-making company.
San Francisco Orders Apple and Google to Remove Nudify Apps for Legal Violations
San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu ordered Apple and Google to remove 13 nudification apps from their app stores, citing violations of California laws against deepfake pornography. The apps are accused of creating non-consensual explicit images, which impact women and minors. The city claims the companies have profited from these apps and warns of potential civil penalties if they do not comply within 28 days.
Roblox Unveils AI-Powered Game Creation Tool for Mobile Devices
Roblox has launched 'Build', an AI-powered tool allowing users to create games via text prompts on mobile devices. Starting July 28, the feature expands game development accessibility to smartphones, with alpha testing initially in New Zealand. Concerns persist over potential low-quality content influx.
Tesla Driver Charged with Manslaughter for Fatal Texas Crash
Michael Butler faces manslaughter charges after a Tesla Model 3 crash killed Martha Avila in her home. The NTSB confirmed Butler manually overrode the Full Self-Driving system, reaching over 70 mph in a 30 mph zone. The crash raises concerns about autonomous vehicle safety and driver responsibility.
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.
Apple Intelligence Secures Chinese Market Entry with Alibaba's AI Integration
Apple has secured regulatory approval in China for its generative AI service, Apple Intelligence, by integrating local AI models from Alibaba and Baidu. The collaboration facilitates compliance with Chinese laws and advances Apple's expansion in a major market. This has implications for Apple's presence in China, a key growth region.
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.
Microsoft Removes Ads from Windows 11 Search Box for Cleaner Experience
Microsoft is testing a refined Windows 11 Search Box through the Windows Insider program, featuring a decluttered interface and the removal of advertisements in web searches. These changes aim to enhance user experience by prioritizing recent searches and presenting relevant local content without promotional clutter, addressing user feedback.
FCC Approves Light-Reflecting Satellite Despite Astronomer Concerns
The US FCC has approved Reflect Orbital's Earendil-1 satellite to reflect sunlight to Earth at night for improved visibility and solar energy. While the project aims to innovate night-time visibility in various sectors, it faces strong opposition over potential impacts on astronomy and environmental health. The approval marks a critical test stage before a planned expansion to a 50,000-satellite network by 2035.
Nintendo to End Original Switch Sales in Europe by 2027 Due to Battery Regulations
Nintendo will cease sales of the original Switch consoles in Europe by February 2027, aligning with new EU regulations requiring user-replaceable batteries. Updated versions of products, including the new Switch 2, will feature replaceable batteries, supporting sustainability goals.
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.
Apple Introduces Impersonation Risk Detection in iOS 27 and iPadOS 27
Apple has released Impersonation Risk Detection in iOS 27 and iPadOS 27, a new security feature designed to identify social engineering scams in real-time. This on-device tool analyzes user behavior and interaction patterns to flag suspicious activity, providing an additional layer of protection against scams that bypass traditional security measures.
EU Proposes Mandatory Energy and Water Use Disclosure for Data Centers
The European Union has proposed new rules requiring data centers with over 500 kW capacity to disclose their energy and water consumption through a common rating system. This initiative aims to manage the environmental impact of projected data center growth, which is expected to triple by 2030, and will inform future minimum performance standards.
Paramount Settles Antitrust Lawsuit, Clearing Path for $110 Billion Warner Bros. Discovery Merger
Paramount has reached a settlement with California and 11 other states, resolving an antitrust lawsuit that challenged its $110 billion merger with Warner Bros. Discovery. The agreement includes commitments for theatrical film releases and increased U.S. production spending, removing a significant obstacle to the merger's completion.
Suno Releases v6 AI Music Models, Collaborating with Warner and BMG for Training Data
Suno has launched its new v6 family of AI music models, which were trained with assistance from Warner and BMG, marking the company's first formal partnership with music labels for model development. This release introduces new capabilities for AI music generation, including faster processing, advanced editing, and multi-modal understanding, impacting how users can create and manipulate AI-generated audio.
Logitech Launches Yeti 2 USB Microphone with AI Noise Reduction and Proximity Sensor
Logitech has released the Yeti 2, an updated version of its Blue Yeti USB microphone, 17 years after the original's launch. The new model includes a 3D proximity sensor for automatic gain and pickup pattern adjustments, AI-powered noise reduction for background sounds, and a 1.3-inch LED display. Priced at $159.99, the Yeti 2 aims to simplify audio recording for podcasters and streamers.
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.
Eight Sleep Launches Pod 6 Smart Sleep System with Smaller Hub and Enhanced Biometrics
Eight Sleep has released its new Pod 6 intelligent sleep system, featuring a redesigned cooling hub that is half the size of previous versions and 20% faster at temperature adjustments. The system includes 18 biometric sensors, an increase from the Pod 5's two, to track health metrics without wearables. The Pod 6 is available in standard and a new Solo option, with prices starting at $1,999.
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.
GM's Cadillac Lyriq EV to retain CarPlay and Android Auto support, unlike other GM EVs
General Motors will continue to support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in the 2027 Cadillac Lyriq, making it an exception to GM's broader strategy of removing these systems from its electric vehicles. This decision contrasts with GM's plan to replace third-party infotainment with an in-house Google-based system and Gemini AI assistant in most of its new EVs. The Lyriq's continued support for phone mirroring systems is notable given GM's stated goal of providing a more integrated native experience.
FCC Waives Foreign Ownership Rules for Paramount-Warner Bros., Allowing 49.5% Stake by Sovereign Funds
The FCC has waived its rules limiting foreign equity ownership to 25 percent, permitting sovereign wealth funds from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi to collectively own 49.5 percent of Paramount-Warner Bros. This decision has drawn criticism from advocacy groups and a Democratic commissioner who argue that such a significant stake grants influence to foreign governments despite the FCC's assertion of no voting control.
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.
Apple Reportedly Developing Own iPhone Game Controllers, Potentially Under Beats Brand
Apple is reportedly designing its own game controllers for iPhone, with model identifiers T6502 and T1057 found in macOS beta code. These controllers may be released under the Beats brand and could include features like a D-Pad, thumbsticks, haptic motors, and motion controls. This move would allow Apple to enter the iPhone gamepad market directly, complementing its existing sales of third-party controllers.
Sony seeks arbitration for PlayStation Store 'buy' button class action lawsuit
Sony Interactive Entertainment has requested a federal judge to move a class action lawsuit regarding PlayStation Store's "buy" and "purchase" labels into individual arbitration. The lawsuit alleges Sony misleads consumers by using terms like "buy" for revocable game licenses, violating California's digital goods law (AB 2426) which became effective January 1, 2025.
EFF Urges Governor Newsom to Veto California's AB 1709 Social Media Ban for Under-16s
The California legislature passed Assembly Bill 1709 (A.B. 1709), which bans social media use for individuals under 16, prompting the EFF to call for a gubernatorial veto. The EFF argues the bill restricts access to essential information and online communities, particularly for vulnerable youth, and could lead to privacy issues through mandatory age verification.
Chrome moves to bi-weekly update schedule for faster security and feature delivery
Google Chrome has transitioned from a four-week to a two-week release cycle, starting with Chrome 153, to enhance security patch delivery and accelerate feature deployment. This change addresses the increased volume of security vulnerabilities and the need for quicker responses to evolving threats, partly driven by AI advancements.
Microsoft introduces Project Zenith for developer-optimized Windows experience
Microsoft announced Project Zenith, a new initiative for developer-optimized Windows devices with 64GB or more unified memory, designed to provide a distraction-free environment and local AI model execution. This project aims to accelerate experimentation for developers by enabling local execution of large language models and reducing reliance on cloud tokens.
Audacity 4.0 Rebuilds Interface on Qt, Introduces New Clip Editing Model
Audacity 4.0 has been released, rebuilding the application's interface on Qt and introducing a new clip-editing model. This update brings significant quality-of-life improvements for audio editing workflows, including enhanced clip manipulation and a more customizable user interface.