From The Verge · 40 stories
Federal Court Halts $110 Billion Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery Merger
A judge issued a temporary restraining order on Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery following a lawsuit from 12 state attorneys general. The lawsuit cites antitrust concerns, predicting reduced competition in film distribution and cable licensing. This delay could cost Paramount significantly, impacting the media industry landscape.
LG Monitors Trigger Unwanted McAfee Ads on Windows PCs
LG monitors, when connected to Windows PCs, can trigger automatic installation of software promoting McAfee, without user consent. This occurs through the LG Monitor App Installer, leading to privacy concerns and user complaints about unwarranted pop-up ads. Such behavior reflects broader issues of unsolicited software installs linked to hardware.
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.
Hacker Reveals AI Music Generator Suno Breached, Exposing Data Practices
A hacker breached AI music generator Suno, revealing it had scraped millions of songs from platforms like YouTube and Deezer for its training datasets. Exposed user data from over 55 million accounts highlights serious privacy and copyright violation concerns. This incident raises questions about the legality of Suno's dataset usage amidst ongoing lawsuits.
Google Launches Gemini 3.5 Flash Cyber for Efficient Vulnerability Management
Google DeepMind has launched Gemini 3.5 Flash Cyber, a cybersecurity AI model to detect and patch vulnerabilities efficiently. Initially available to governments and trusted partners via CodeMender, this model provides a cost-effective alternative to larger AI security models like Anthropic's Mythos. Its introduction is part of a broader release including Gemini 3.6 Flash and 3.5 Flash-Lite, demonstrating Google's continued commitment to cybersecurity innovation.
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.
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.
Google Rebrands NotebookLM to Gemini Notebook with Enhanced Features
Google has rebranded its AI research tool NotebookLM to Gemini Notebook, integrating it into its AI ecosystem and enhancing it with new capabilities including secure code execution for data analysis. The tool, used by 30 million individuals and over 600,000 organizations, will now allow for deeper integration with Google Search and AI-related applications. This change marks Google's alignment of its AI tools under the Gemini brand, expanding the functionality and versatility of the tool.
Meta Faces Lawsuit Over AI-Driven Layoff Decisions Allegedly Discriminating Against Leave-Takers
Twenty-six former Meta employees have filed a lawsuit claiming biased AI systems were used for layoffs, disproportionately targeting those on protected leave. The suit alleges that AI tools ranked employees for layoffs without accounting for leave-related absences or disabilities, leading to possible violations of federal and state discrimination laws.
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.
Ford Names Affordable Electric Truck 'Fathom,' Production Slated for 2027
Ford has named its upcoming affordable electric midsize truck the "Fathom," with a starting price of $28,350. This vehicle is the first to be built on Ford's new Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) platform, designed to reduce costs through innovative assembly and electronics architecture. Deliveries are expected to begin in fall 2027, with production starting in Q1 2027 at Ford's overhauled Louisville Assembly Plant.
WhatsApp Rolls Out Optional On-Device Scam Alert Feature in Limited Beta
WhatsApp has launched a limited beta of "Scam Alert," an optional feature that uses an on-device machine learning model to identify suspicious messages from unknown contacts. This feature processes message content locally on the user's device to maintain end-to-end encryption while alerting users to potential scams. Users can block, report, or ignore flagged messages, and can opt to share message data to improve the model's accuracy.
Microsoft to Launch Unified Copilot "Super App" This Year, Consolidating AI Features
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella confirmed the company will release an AI "super app" this year, integrating Copilot's chat, coding, and agentic capabilities for both consumer and commercial use. This move consolidates Microsoft's AI offerings into a single application, aiming to simplify access and user experience by merging existing Copilot and Microsoft 365 Copilot apps.
Apple Reportedly Preparing Three New Smart Home Devices for Launch
Apple is reportedly preparing to launch three new smart home devices: an updated Apple TV, a new HomePod mini, and a smart home hub with a 7-inch display. These products are expected to feature faster chips to support enhanced Siri AI capabilities and expand Apple's presence in the smart home market.
EU Mandates AI Content Labeling and Transparency Under AI Act
The European Union's AI Act now requires AI-generated images, audio, and text designed to appear authentic to be labeled as AI-made, effective August 2 for new systems and with an additional four months for existing ones. This regulation aims to combat deceptive content and misinformation, ensuring users are aware when interacting with AI or AI-created media.
Crypto Traders Value Chinese Chipmaker CXMT at $425B on Derivatives Platform Pre-IPO
Crypto traders on a decentralized exchange are valuing China's largest memory chipmaker, ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT), at $425 billion, significantly higher than its official IPO valuation. This speculative valuation, driven by offshore investors lacking direct access to the upcoming Shanghai listing, highlights the demand for exposure to major Chinese tech companies through alternative financial platforms.
Apple Partners with Alibaba for China-Specific AI, Diverging from Global Strategy
Apple will use Alibaba's Qwen models to power new Siri AI features in China, a departure from its global partnership with Google's Gemini models. This decision is driven by Chinese government regulations requiring local AI partnerships, which may result in different privacy protections for users in China compared to other regions.
Samsung Galaxy Buds to gain FDA-cleared hearing aid feature; new over-ear headphones in development
Samsung will release an FDA-cleared hearing aid feature and a five-minute hearing test for Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro later this year in the US and other markets. This feature provides an over-the-counter solution for individuals aged 18 and over with mild to moderate hearing loss. Additionally, Samsung is developing new over-ear headphones, codenamed "Galaxy H1," which could launch as early as 2027.
Google Allows Users to Remove Visible Watermarks from AI-Generated Content
Google has introduced an option for users to remove visible watermarks from AI-generated images, videos, and songs created with its models, including Nano Banana, Omni, and Lyria. This change, announced by Josh Woodward, VP for Gemini, will be available in Gemini and Flow, with Search integration planned, allowing for greater creative control while maintaining invisible SynthID watermarks and C2PA metadata for content identification.
New York Sues Kalshi for Illegal Gambling, CFTC Orders Continued Operation
New York Attorney General Letitia James has filed a lawsuit against prediction market platform Kalshi, alleging it operates an illegal gambling business by accepting wagers without a state license. This action follows similar lawsuits in other states, while the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has issued an emergency order for Kalshi to continue operating, citing a "market emergency" and asserting federal oversight.
OpenAI Sees Executive Departures, Including COO Brad Lightcap and CRO Denise Dresser
OpenAI has experienced multiple executive departures, including longtime operating chief Brad Lightcap and Chief Revenue Officer Denise Dresser. Lightcap, who joined in 2018, left to "start something new," while Dresser, who joined in December, is being replaced by Dali Rajic. These changes occur as OpenAI prepares for a potential IPO and aims to justify its $852 billion valuation.
Suno to Implement Audio Watermarking and Download Limits for AI-Generated Music
AI music generation service Suno announced new tools including audio watermarking and fingerprinting technology, revised download policies, and updated community guidelines. These changes aim to identify AI-generated content, prevent misuse on streaming platforms, and address ongoing legal challenges from music labels and artist organizations.
Spotify to Label AI-Generated Artists and Exclude Them from Recommendations
Spotify will introduce "AI Persona" labels for artists whose identities are AI-generated, starting in mid-September. These labeled artists will be excluded from Spotify's editorial and algorithmic recommendations by default, aiming to differentiate human artists from AI creations and address the influx of AI-generated content on the platform.
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.
Zoox to Launch Paid Robotaxi Service in Las Vegas Following Federal Exemption
Amazon-owned Zoox will begin charging for robotaxi rides in Las Vegas starting August 10, 2024. This follows a temporary exemption granted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that allows Zoox to commercially operate its custom-built, steering wheel-free vehicles, deploying up to 2,500 vehicles annually for two years.
FCC to Vote on Repealing 39% TV Ownership Cap, Prompting Legal Battle
The FCC, led by Chairman Brendan Carr, plans to vote on repealing the 39% TV ownership cap, potentially leading to increased media consolidation and favoritism towards certain broadcasters. Carr argues the rule is outdated due to social media and streaming. This decision may face legal challenges over the FCC's authority to change a congressionally mandated limit.
Google Maps Adds Food Ordering, Hotel Booking, and Event Ticket Capabilities
Google Maps has expanded its "Ask Maps" feature with new agentic capabilities, allowing users to order food, book hotels, and find event tickets directly within the application. This update integrates "Personal Intelligence," which uses data from Gmail and Google Calendar to personalize responses, transforming Google Maps into a more comprehensive assistant for real-world tasks. The new features are rolling out in English to over 150 countries.
Microsoft expands backward compatibility to original Xbox games on PC
Microsoft introduces four classic Xbox games to PC as part of its backward compatibility initiative. This allows PC gamers to access original Xbox titles, enhancing the gaming ecosystem and preserving classic games for future generations.
Xbox Console Prices Increase in EU and UK by up to €200 or £170
Microsoft has increased the prices of Xbox Series X and Series S consoles in the European Union and the UK, with some models rising by up to €200 or £170. This adjustment follows previous price bumps in the US and is attributed to rising component costs, particularly for RAM and storage, impacting consumer affordability in these regions.
Google Earth AI Image Generator Removed One Day After Launch Due to Misinformation Concerns
Google launched an AI feature in Google Earth that allowed users to generate and superimpose images onto satellite views using text prompts, but removed it one day later. The feature, powered by Nano Banana 2, was retracted after users created and shared images violating Google's policies, raising concerns about its potential for misinformation.
Google DeepMind's Gemini Robotics 2 Enables Whole-Body Control for Humanoid Robots
Google DeepMind has released Gemini Robotics 2, an updated AI model that allows humanoid robots to control their entire bodies, from feet to fingertips. This advancement enables robots to perform a wider range of actions and more complex dexterous tasks, moving towards physical Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). The update includes new sub-models, with one, Gemini Robotics ER 2, now available for developers.
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.
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.
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.
Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis Proposes U.S.-Led Global AI Regulation Body
Demis Hassabis, CEO of Google DeepMind, has suggested the formation of a U.S.-led global AI watchdog to regulate advanced AI models. This proposed body would assess the safety of AI systems before their release and manage risks associated with emerging technologies like artificial general intelligence. Hassabis emphasizes the need for urgent regulation as AI developments pose increasing cybersecurity and biosecurity threats.
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.
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.