Tag: google

  • Google Tests New AI Mode Button, Replacing ‘I’m Feeling Lucky’

    Google Tests New AI Mode Button, Replacing ‘I’m Feeling Lucky’

    Key Takeaways

    1. The “I’m Feeling Lucky” button was introduced in 1998 to showcase Google’s search capabilities by directing users to the top-ranked page immediately.
    2. In 2012, Google changed the button’s functionality, offering playful phrases that led to various Google services instead of just search results.
    3. Google is planning to replace the “I’m Feeling Lucky” button with a new “AI Mode” button that connects users to a chat bot for assistance.
    4. The placement of the AI Mode button is being tested, with variations in location and design, such as an animated border.
    5. The new button is currently undergoing limited testing with select users in the US who have opted into Google’s experimental labs.

    Introduced in 1998, the “I’m Feeling Lucky” button on Google Search’s homepage was designed to highlight the search engine’s capabilities. This feature allowed users to go straight to the top-ranked page, skipping the typical results page.

    Change in Functionality

    In 2012, Google modified how the button worked. When users hovered over it, they would see phrases like “I’m Feeling Adventurous” or “I’m Feeling Puzzled,” leading them to various Google services. This change effectively turned the button into a promotional tool for the entire platform.

    New Developments with AI

    Now, it seems Google is planning to completely replace the button with a trendy term that everyone is talking about these days – “AI Mode.”

    According to The Verge, users on platforms like X and Threads have been sharing images of the new button present on their homepage. When this new button is clicked, it launches a chat with a bot to assist you in finding what you need.

    Testing the Waters

    Google appears to be not just changing the button but also experimenting with its placement. Some users have noticed the AI Mode button positioned next to the voice and image icons in the search bar, while others have seen it take the place of the “I’m Feeling Lucky” button entirely.

    The company is also exploring different styles for the new button, with some participants reporting an animated border around AI Mode. A representative from Google, Ashley Thompson, verified to The Verge that this new button is currently undergoing limited tests with select users in the US, specifically those who have opted into the company’s experimental labs.

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  • Google Pixel 9a Teardown Reveals Design Issues: “Do Not Buy” Warning

    Google Pixel 9a Teardown Reveals Design Issues: “Do Not Buy” Warning

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 9a is a budget-friendly smartphone priced at $499.99, designed to attract users to the Pixel ecosystem.
    2. Despite using cheaper materials like a plastic back and Gorilla Glass 3, the Pixel 9a performed well in durability tests.
    3. The phone’s battery is glued to the frame, making replacement difficult and potentially hazardous.
    4. The outdated battery attachment method lacks modern pull tab adhesives, complicating disassembly.
    5. Google’s choice of battery design is surprising given their partnership with iFixit, which promotes easier repairability.

    Google’s Pixel 9a smartphone offers a budget-friendly way to enter the Pixel ecosystem, with Google making some cuts on materials and internal components to reduce the price to $499.99. Even with a plastic back, a Gorilla Glass 3 display, and a simpler design, the Pixel 9a has shown great performance during JerryRigEverything’s tough durability tests recently shared on YouTube.

    Disassembly Findings

    After putting the midrange phone through its paces for durability, Zach Nelson, the creator of the channel, proceeded to take the phone apart. During the disassembly, he found out that Google is using an outdated method to attach the battery to the phone’s case. Unlike many modern devices, including Apple iPhones, the Pixel 9a lacks adhesive strips with pull tabs that make battery removal easier. Instead, the battery in the Pixel 9a is glued to the frame, and while there are pull tabs present, they couldn’t get past the strong adhesive during Nelson’s video.

    Difficult Battery Replacements

    As a result of this battery adhesion system, replacing the battery of the Pixel 9a becomes quite challenging and potentially hazardous. The battery is stuck firmly to the case, and the glue does not budge even with an isopropyl alcohol solution, leading Nelson to forcibly detach the battery. This task might have been safer with tools like a guitar string or piano wire, but the best solution would have been for the manufacturer to design the battery for easier removal.

    What’s particularly interesting is that Google opted for this less-than-ideal battery removal method, even though they have a partnership with iFixit, which advocates strongly for the right to repair movement.

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  • Apple Exec Warns: iPhone May Become Obsolete Due to AI

    Apple Exec Warns: iPhone May Become Obsolete Due to AI

    Key Takeaways

    1. Eddy Cue’s remark about a drop in search volume on Safari indicates a potential shift in how iPhone users will engage with web search.
    2. Apple plans to integrate generative AI search tools into Safari, moving away from traditional Google search interfaces.
    3. Google’s dominance in search is being challenged by AI platforms like ChatGPT, impacting its market value.
    4. The iPhone’s role as a primary access point for search is changing, potentially affecting Google’s advertising revenue.
    5. The rise of AI may disrupt Google’s search monopoly more effectively than legal actions from regulators.

    At a pivotal moment in an important antitrust trial in Washington, D.C., Eddy Cue, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Services, shared a remark that could signal a significant change in the iPhone’s usual function in web search. “For the first time in 22 years, we’ve seen search volume drop on Safari,” he declared. Cue’s testimony aimed to support Apple’s multi-billion-dollar agreement with Google, but it also suggested a larger transition that might alter how users engage with the iPhone. The main catalyst behind this change is artificial intelligence.

    AI Integration in Safari

    Reports indicate that Apple is looking to incorporate generative AI search tools such as OpenAI and Perplexity into Safari. This move could fundamentally transform how iPhone users search for information, shifting from the conventional Google search box to interfaces powered by AI. This trend has already begun influencing the market, as shares of Google’s parent company Alphabet fell by more than 7% this week, wiping out about $150 billion in market capitalization.

    Changes in Revenue Dynamics

    Cue remarked in court, “It just seems crazy to me,” in reference to potential revenue losses linked to Google’s antitrust challenges, acknowledging that the true disruption may arise more from AI than from legal decisions. His statements mirror a rising sentiment within the industry. Google’s long-held supremacy in search is now being challenged by generative AI platforms. With ChatGPT reportedly managing over 1 billion search queries each week and Apple working on redesigning Safari with AI capabilities, the iPhone’s role as a gateway to Google’s ecosystem might be fading.

    The Redefinition of the iPhone

    “The iPhone’s role as the portal to search is being redefined,” stated Yory Wurmser, an analyst at eMarketer. “When your default gateway no longer leads to Google but to AI, the device becomes less of a command centre and more of a conduit.” This strategic shift by Apple could have extensive implications for the smartphone and advertising sectors. Analysts caution that changing Google’s default search position on iOS could destabilize Google’s advertising revenue and redirect billions in global advertising expenditure. As U.S. regulators deliberate on actions regarding default search engine agreements, Apple seems to be gearing up its platform for a future dominated by AI.

    At this moment, the iPhone continues to hold a dominant position. However, as Cue pointed out, the emergence of AI may achieve what courts cannot — diminish Google’s search monopoly and, in doing so, reshape the iPhone itself.

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  • Google Secures First Offshore Wind Deal for Data Center Power

    Google Secures First Offshore Wind Deal for Data Center Power

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google signed its first offshore wind Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) in Taiwan, marking a first for the Asia Pacific region.
    2. The energy will be sourced from the Fengmiao I offshore wind project, developed by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), set to start operations in 2027.
    3. The wind farm will have an installed capacity of 495 Megawatts (MW) and is connected to the grid following a recent auction.
    4. Google aims to enhance its renewable energy portfolio in Taiwan, which already includes solar and geothermal energy, to meet rising energy demand and achieve 24/7 carbon-free energy.
    5. The company also plans to generate 1 gigawatt of solar energy in Taiwan in partnership with BlackRock’s Climate Infrastructure business, targeting net-zero emissions by 2030.

    Google has revealed it has inked its first offshore wind Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) in Taiwan. This is also the first agreement of its kind in the Asia Pacific region, adding to the renewable energy options available in the country.

    Energy Acquisition

    The tech giant will source energy from the Fengmiao I offshore wind project, which is being developed by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP). The project is slated to commence operations in 2027.

    “This significant step enhances our current energy technology portfolio in Taiwan, which includes solar and geothermal energy sources, ensuring we can meet the increasing energy demand and move closer to achieving 24/7 carbon-free energy (CFE) in every grid we serve,” the company stated.

    Project Specifications

    The wind farm will boast a total installed capacity of 495 Megawatts (MW) and has already secured a connection to the grid. This was confirmed following Taiwan’s Round 3.1 auction, which allotted 500 MW of grid capacity to the project.

    CIP indicated that this offshore wind project has entered into PPAs with six major local and international corporate offtakers, who will utilize the entire production capacity. However, Google has not revealed the specific capacity it will acquire under this agreement.

    Future Plans

    Google operates a datacenter in Changhua County, Taipei, Taiwan. Additionally, the company has formed agreements with BlackRock’s Climate Infrastructure business to generate 1 gigawatt of solar energy in the nation, aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030.

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  • Pixel 7a Battery Swelling? Get a Free Replacement from Google

    Pixel 7a Battery Swelling? Get a Free Replacement from Google

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google’s Pixel 7a has a battery swelling issue, leading to an Extended Repair Program for affected users.
    2. Users can receive a one-time free battery replacement or compensation up to $456, depending on their location and device condition.
    3. The battery swelling can cause bulging back panels, loose covers, and quick battery drain, similar to issues seen in previous Pixel A series models.
    4. Eligibility for free replacement is available in select countries, with certain physical damages disqualifying devices from the program.
    5. Users can check their eligibility by entering their Pixel 7a’s IMEI on Google’s registration site, and the program does not extend the original warranty.

    Google’s Pixel 7a, which came out in 2023, is dealing with a battery swelling issue. Because of this, the company has started an Extended Repair Program. Users who are affected can either receive a one-time free battery replacement or possibly get up to $456 in compensation, depending on where they live and the condition of their device. This situation adds to a series of battery problems that have plagued Google’s Pixel A series, raising concerns about its safety and dependability.

    Acknowledgment of Battery Issues

    The Pixel 7a, popular in the mid-range market, is now under the spotlight as Google admits that some of its devices have “unexpected battery swelling.” This problem can lead to bulging back panels, loose covers, or quick battery drain. The issue was shared in a support article, and it is reminiscent of previous troubles with the Pixel A series—such as the Pixel 4a, which saw its battery life cut in half after an update, and the Pixel 9a, which experienced confirmed battery degradation after 200 cycles, according to Android Police.

    Eligibility for Replacement

    Users in the US, India, Canada, UK, Germany, Japan, and Singapore can get a free battery replacement at designated walk-in repair locations, with mail-in options also available in the US and India, depending on stock. However, devices that have liquid damage, cracked screens, or other forms of physical damage may not be eligible, as per Google’s guidelines. For individuals outside these regions, like in Australia or EEA countries, there are “appeasement options” available: a $200 cash payment, a $300 discount for the Google Store, or up to $456 for in-warranty devices, which will be converted to the local currency.

    How to Check Eligibility

    To find out if they qualify, owners must input their Pixel 7a’s IMEI on Google’s registration site, followed by a physical check. This program, which was quietly announced on April 23, 2025, does not extend the original warranty, and only individual end-users are eligible. Discussions on Reddit and posts on X show user frustration but also some relief regarding Google’s actions. With the Pixel 9a priced at $499 on Amazon and closing the gap with flagship models, Google’s battery problems reveal a vulnerability in its otherwise impressive product range. If your Pixel 7a is showing signs of bulging, act quickly—this offer seems to be limited by stock.

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  • Google Pixel 9a Camera & Display Reviews – DxOMark Global Rank 33

    Google Pixel 9a Camera & Display Reviews – DxOMark Global Rank 33

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 9a scored 153 points in camera performance, ranking 33rd globally and first in the high-end category for upper mid-range smartphones.
    2. The camera features a solid dynamic range, precise exposure, and vibrant colors, but struggles with zoomed shots and low-light conditions.
    3. The display received a score of 155 points, the highest in its category, and ranked 8th globally.
    4. The display is noted for being excellent for web browsing and watching videos, with a responsive and clear screen.
    5. The Pixel 9a was launched in India for 49,999 INR and globally starts at 499 US Dollars.

    Google’s new Pixel 9a has recently been reviewed by DxOMark, and the results are now available. Similar to the other models in the Pixel 9 series, it has earned respectable scores in both camera and display categories. Let’s dive into the details.

    Camera Performance

    In the evaluation of its camera, Google’s Pixel 9a scored 153 points, placing it at 33rd in the global smartphone rankings. Remarkably, it secured the top spot in the high-end category, which encompasses upper mid-range smartphones. The tests conducted by DxOMark showed that the Pixel 9a incorporates many of the high-end features found in the pricier Pixel 9.

    Display Quality

    The camera boasts a solid dynamic range, precise exposure, and vibrant colors. However, it does face challenges with zoomed shots due to the absence of a dedicated telephoto lens. Additionally, the Pixel 9a encounters difficulties in dim lighting conditions for both photos and videos. DxOMark also assessed the display, awarding it a score of 155 points, which is again the highest in its category. Notably, the Pixel 9a even made it into the global top 10, landing at the 8th position.

    The review highlights that the display is excellent for various activities, including standard web browsing and watching videos. The Pixel 9a features a lively and clear screen that responds swiftly and accurately to touch. This model was launched in India earlier this month with an initial price of 49,999 INR, while it can be found globally starting at 499 US Dollars.

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  • Google Pays Samsung to Promote Gemini in One UI Report

    Google Pays Samsung to Promote Gemini in One UI Report

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google faces multiple antitrust lawsuits over alleged unfair market practices.
    2. The company reportedly paid Samsung a significant amount to promote its AI assistant, Gemini.
    3. Payments to Samsung are expected to last a minimum of two years, covering pre-installation on devices.
    4. Samsung agreed to make Gemini the default app despite having its own AI assistant.
    5. The Galaxy S25 series features Gemini as the default assistant, with updates and new features included.

    Google is currently facing multiple antitrust lawsuits that claim the company has engaged in unfair practices to dominate the market. It has been accused of incentivizing companies to choose its products and software over competitors. Recently, reports emerged that Google paid Samsung “a huge amount of money” to promote Gemini within One UI. This arrangement involves monthly payments expected to last for a minimum of two years.

    Monthly Payments to Samsung

    In a report by Bloomberg, Peter Fitzgerald, the VP of Global Partnerships, Platforms & Ecosystems at Google, disclosed that Samsung received substantial monthly payments to guarantee that Gemini was pre-installed on their devices. This deal encompasses payments for every device featuring the AI assistant, along with a share of the revenue generated from ads within the app.

    Contract Details and Device Integration

    Moreover, this agreement is said to extend for at least two years, and Samsung accepted these payments to make Gemini the default app, even though the company has its own AI assistant. The Galaxy S25 series comes with Gemini already set as the default assistant, which can be activated by pressing the power button, similar to how it works on Google Pixel devices. This integration ensures that Samsung phones equipped with Gemini receive all the updates, including features like real-time conversations and Visual AI.

    The final hearing is reported to have occurred on Monday, April 21, and it is expected to be the last session before a decision is reached in September.

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  • Google to Reveal Updated Material Design at I/O 2024 in May

    Google to Reveal Updated Material Design at I/O 2024 in May

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google may reveal a new version of Material Design at the I/O conference in May 2024.
    2. The upcoming update is expected to be more “expressive” and enhance app engagement.
    3. A developer’s post indicated features for a “Material3Expressive” theme, suggesting new design options for developers.
    4. A redesign of the Settings app was showcased in Android 16 Beta 3, featuring new icon toggles and card format organization.
    5. The update might be a minor enhancement to Material Design 3 rather than a complete redesign, with more details anticipated as the event approaches.

    Google first launched its Material Design theme with Android 12 in 2021, introducing a dynamic color system that adapts hues from wallpapers throughout the operating system. It appears that a new version might be revealed during the I/O conference this coming May. This upcoming update is expected to offer a more “expressive” design for the OS, although specifics remain limited for now.

    Possible Updates Uncovered

    The potential enhancements to Material Design were identified by Android specialist Mishaal Rahman, who discovered a developer’s post regarding a “Material3Expressive” theme in the GitHub repository dedicated to Material Components for Android. A Google engineer commented on this, stating, “Material is experimenting with bringing developers ways to make their apps more engaging by introducing more expressive features. Stay tuned for more updates and guidance!” This indicates that an expressive update to Material Design is likely on the horizon, aimed at making applications more engaging, as noted by Rahman.

    Redesigns and Features

    Regarding the updates this version might introduce, a redesign of the Settings app was showcased in Android 16 Beta 3, featuring toggles that use an X or checkmark icon to show off/on statuses, as well as settings organized in card formats.

    Additionally, Rahman discovered a patch from a month ago labeled “DO NOT SUBMIT I/O 2025 Expressive talk code demos” in the AOSP Gerrit, which included some new coding. While the title of this patch has been modified to remove the “I/O 2025” reference, it still contains “‘io_talk,” suggesting that a reveal at May’s Google I/O is likely.

    Anticipation for Google I/O

    Rahman mentions that this could merely be a minor update to the current Material Design 3 framework rather than a complete redesign. Google I/O is set for May 20, and as the date draws nearer, additional details about what to expect from the event are anticipated to emerge.

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  • Google Pixel 9a Launching in India Tomorrow for ₹49,999

    Google Pixel 9a Launching in India Tomorrow for ₹49,999

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Google Pixel 9a is now available globally, with a launch in India on April 16, exclusively on Flipkart, priced at ₹49,999.
    2. It features IP68 water and dust resistance, a 6.3-inch OLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, and a long battery life of up to 30 hours.
    3. The smartphone is powered by the Google Tensor G4 chipset and runs on Android 15, offering 7 years of OS and security updates.
    4. Key camera innovations include AI-driven tools like “Add Me,” “Macro Focus,” and the Magic Editor for enhanced mobile photography.
    5. Buyers in India will receive a 1-year warranty, a 14-day replacement option, and same-day repair services in select cities, along with 24/7 customer support.

    Google has introduced the Pixel 9a smartphone last month on a global level. This smartphone is now available for purchase in the US and other nations like Canada, Germany, France, and Italy. It will launch in India starting April 16, where it will be sold exclusively on Flipkart from 12 PM. Flipkart has begun promoting the device already. The phone will come in a single variant with 8GB RAM and 256GB of storage, priced at ₹49,999, and will be offered in three distinct colors: Porcelain, Iris, and Obsidian.

    Features and Specifications

    The Pixel 9a is designed with IP68 water and dust resistance, boasting up to 30 hours of battery life, alongside 7 years of OS and security updates. It operates on Google’s AI assistant, Gemini, which is integrated across various Google applications. Users can enjoy two-way natural conversations and AI-driven image creation with Gemini.

    Camera Innovations

    Noteworthy camera features include “Add Me,” “Macro Focus,” and “Best Take.” The Magic Editor tool enables users to crop, reframe, or enlarge images using AI, aiming to improve mobile photography while requiring little manual intervention.

    In India, purchasers will receive a 1-year warranty, a 14-day replacement option, and same-day repair services in certain cities. Google is also providing 24/7 customer support through chat and callback options.

    Pixel 9a Specifications

    The Pixel 9a boasts a 6.3-inch OLED display with a refresh rate of 120Hz and FHD+ resolution. It is powered by the Google Tensor G4 chipset alongside the Titan M2 security chip. The device runs on Android 15 right out of the box and guarantees 7 years of OS updates. In terms of cameras, it features a dual rear setup with a 48MP main sensor and a 48MP ultra-wide lens, complemented by a 13MP front camera. The phone is equipped with a 5,100mAh battery that supports 23W wired fast charging and 7.5W wireless charging.

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    Google Pixel 9a Launching in India Tomorrow for ₹49,999Google Pixel 9a Launching in India Tomorrow for ₹49,999Google Pixel 9a Launching in India Tomorrow for ₹49,999Google Pixel 9a Launching in India Tomorrow for ₹49,999Google Pixel 9a Launching in India Tomorrow for ₹49,999Google Pixel 9a Launching in India Tomorrow for ₹49,999

     

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  • Google Pixel Watch 4 Leak: Thicker Design, Slimmer Bezels, New Buttons

    Google Pixel Watch 4 Leak: Thicker Design, Slimmer Bezels, New Buttons

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google will release the Pixel Watch 4 later this year alongside the Pixel 10 series.
    2. The watch retains a round shape but features slimmer bezels and may support wireless charging.
    3. The Pixel Watch 4 is 14.3mm thick, accommodating a larger battery, and will be available in 41mm and 45mm sizes.
    4. Rumors suggest a new chipset may replace the Snapdragon W5 Gen 1, but specifics are not confirmed.
    5. The anticipated launch date for the Pixel Watch 4 is late 2024, with more details expected closer to the release.

    Google is gearing up to release the Pixel Watch 4 later this year alongside the Pixel 10 series. Recently, detailed 5K images were shared by Steve Hemmerstoffer (OnLeaks) on 91mobiles, giving us a closer look. The new smartwatch keeps the round shape of its predecessor, the Pixel Watch 3, but adds some subtle changes.

    Design Changes

    The images reveal that the screen bezels are a bit slimmer, and the back panel looks similar to the first-generation Pixel Watch. An interesting detail is that the four charging pins on the back are absent, hinting that the watch may support wireless charging, which would be a shift from the USB Type-C charging seen in the Pixel Watch 3. Additionally, there are two new buttons located on each side of the speaker, although their exact functions have yet to be disclosed.

    Size and Variants

    In terms of size, the Pixel Watch 4 is 14.3mm thick, compared to 12.3mm of the Pixel Watch 3. This increase in thickness likely accommodates a larger battery. It is expected to come in 41mm and 45mm sizes, just like its predecessor. A leaked image shows a Black variant, but more color options may also be available.

    Specifications and Release Date

    While detailed specifications are still under wraps, there are rumors that the Pixel Watch 4 might include a new chipset, possibly replacing the Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 found in the current model. There have been speculations about Google’s Tensor chip for wearables, but it may not be available this year. Google has not revealed any pricing, features, or specifications yet. The Pixel Watch 4 is anticipated to launch in late 2024, with more information expected to come as the release date approaches.

    The newly launched Google Pixel 9a smartphone is now available in regions such as the US, Canada, and the UK. Other countries, including Germany, Spain, Italy, Ireland, France, and more, will receive the device soon. The phone is set to be on shelves in Australia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Malaysia starting on April 16.

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    Google Pixel Watch 4 Leak: Thicker Design, Slimmer Bezels, New ButtonsGoogle Pixel Watch 4 Leak: Thicker Design, Slimmer Bezels, New Buttons

     

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