Tag: google

  • Sustainable IT: Smartphones Repurposed as Data Center Servers

    Sustainable IT: Smartphones Repurposed as Data Center Servers

    Key Takeaway

    – Repurposing decommissioned smartphones reduces embodied carbon from manufacturing.
    – Clusters of 25-50 smartphone motherboards match traditional server performance with lower energy.
    – Kubernetes and a specialized Linux distribution manage the smartphone-based cloud infrastructure.
    – A 20-board cluster can handle a lecture of 75+ students with low latency.
    – The final 2,000-device system will support ~100 courses, equaling about 50 conventional servers.

    A current collaborative project between the University of California San Diego (UCSD) and Google aims to address the topic of sustainability in information technology. The researchers hope to develop a method that repurposes discarded smartphones as resource-efficient cloud computing platforms. This approach is designed to reduce “embodied carbon,” namely the greenhouse gas emissions generated during the production and transportation of electronic components. To build the server cluster, the scientists are removing the motherboards from approximately 2,000 decommissioned Google Pixel smartphones.

    How the server clusters actually work now

    The motherboards will be combined into clusters and managed using container tools such as Kubernetes. Instead of the Android mobile operating system, a specially adapted Linux distribution will be used. A physical cluster will consist of 25 to 50 smartphone motherboards, which is expected to achieve the computing power of a conventional server mainframe, but with lower energy consumption during operation. This is a pretty smart way to reuse old electronics that would otherwise just end up in a landfill somewhere.

    Testing and real world performence seen so far

    The planned data center at UCSD is intended to provide the university with a cost-effective and low-emission cloud computing infrastructure. Tests have already shown that a network of just 20 smartphone boards is sufficient to handle the requests of a lecture with over 75 students stably and with low latency. The final system, with 2,000 integrated devices, is expected to be capable of supporting around 100 such courses simultaneously and offering computing capacity equivalent to approximately 50 traditional servers. That’s alot of processing power for basically free hardware.

    • Pricing and specification details: Not specifically given, but using 2,000 discarded Google Pixel motherboards implies near-zero hardware cost for the boards themselves.
    • Energy consumption: Lower than conventional server mainframes during operation, making it a greener option for cloud computing.
    • Performance: 20 boards handled 75+ students with low latency; 2,000 boards equals about 50 traditional servers worth of capacity.
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  • Goodbye Google: European Parliament picks Qwant as default search engine

    Goodbye Google: European Parliament picks Qwant as default search engine

    Key Takeaway

    – European Parliament switching Firefox/Edge default search from Google to Qwant
    – Framed as commitment to “digital sovereignty” amid EU push to reduce reliance on US tech
    – Qwant is developing its own search index with Ecosia (Staan), not just using Bing
    – MEPs and staff can still manually switch back to Google or any other engine
    – Many other dependencies (Windows, Office, hardware) remain unchanged

    European Parliament Switches to Qwant Search Engine

    Starting this Thursday, MEPs typing a query into the address bar of Firefox or Edge will no longer get Google results. The European Parliament is switching its default search engine to Qwant — a French rival that promises not to track users or collect personal data, according to an internal email reported by Euractiv.

    Symbolic Move Against US Tech Giants

    The move looks small but is symbolically loaded. Google controls roughly 90% of Europe’s search market, and EU institutions use US software heavily — Microsoft’s Office suite being one of the major ones among them. The Parliament is framing the swap as part of its commitment to “digital sovereignty,” and the timing is no accident too: it comes one day after the European Commission unveiled a whole package of proposals meant to loosen the bloc’s dependence on American tech giants.

    Qwant’s Search Index Development

    One of the most interesting wrinkles is Qwant itself. The company has long piggybacked on Microsoft’s Bing index to deliver results — hardly independence. But it is now co-developing its own index, dubbed Staan, alongside fellow European engine Ecosia. That probably explains the Parliament’s pick as being a bet on homegrown infrastructure, instead of a rebranded front end.

    No Mandatory Lockdown for Users

    It’s important to note that nobody is forced offline. MEPs can still switch their default back to Google or any other engine; Qwant is simply the out-of-the-box choice for the Parliament’s 720 lawmakers and thousands of staff.

    • Qwant does not track users or collect personal data
    • New search index called Staan is being co-developed with Ecosia
    • Parliament aims to reduce dependency on US tech infrastructure

    Remaining Dependencies on US Software

    Also, plenty of other dependencies — Windows, Office, foreign-built phones and email clients — are still firmly established.

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  • Google I/O’s Unexpected Winner: DuckDuckGo

    Google I/O’s Unexpected Winner: DuckDuckGo

    Key Takeaway

    – DuckDuckGo’s traffic tripled after Google’s controversial AI-heavy search update.
    – DuckDuckGo offers users the ability to opt out of AI-generated summaries and images.
    – Users are switching due to a desire for choice and a simpler, AI-free search experience.
    – DuckDuckGo saw a 30% spike in mobile app downloads, with a 29% daily increase in the U.S.
    – Google’s forced AI mode has led to inaccurate results, pushing users to seek alternatives.

    DuckDuckGo sees big traffic jump after Googles AI update

    Privacy-oriented search engine alternative DuckDuckGo’s search page traffic has tripled since Google rolled out its biggest yet most controversial update in recent years. The Mountain View-based company revealed on May 19 that it was delving deeper into AI for search engine results at its I/O developer conference. The unasked-for result? DuckDuckGo’s traffic has spiked significantly.

    DuckDuckGo gives users a choice over AI

    DuckDuckGo has embraced AI in its search results to a similar extent as Google, but it still offers users the option to turn off AI-generated summaries or exclude AI-generated images via no-ai.duckduckgo.com. This means no more AI chat features and to-the-point search results without the extra AI enhancements.

    Traffic numbers show users fleeing Google

    Visitors to DuckDuckGo’s No AI search engine tripled on May 28 and are still climbing, averaging around 84% above the normal traffic since Google’s controversial I/O conference. The backlash stems from the fact that many users simply want an AI-free search experience, with direct results rather than being fed a pushy AI experience on the world’s most-used search engine.

    Considering the commotion, DuckDuckGo’s founder and CEO, Gabriel Weinberg, stepped forward with his two cents and said, “Google is force-feeding AI with no way to opt out. As a result, their results are getting worse, not better. We want to be the place that puts users in charge and allows them to decide how much or how little AI they want.”

    Executives highlight user demand for choice

    The chief communications and policy officer at DuckDuckGo, Kamyl BazBaz, summed it up in a single sentence: “People just want a choice.”

    Many users are currently switching to DuckDuckGo (via TechCrunch), with an estimated 30% spike in the search engine’s mobile app downloads and an even sharper increase on iOS. Analytics firm Apptopia cited a 29% increase in daily app downloads in the U.S. in late May.

    Google transforms search into AI mode

    Google, on the other hand, has transformed its once-simple search box into something more “intelligent” and conversational. Its AI mode now offers longer answers to search queries and pulls in personal context from Gmail or even your Photos when deemed relevant.

    While AI Overviews were being tested in recent years, AI mode now sits at the top and is pretty much hard to skip for most users, sometimes churning out inaccurate or hallucinated AI answers and thereby forcing people to look for alternatives elsewhere.

    • No AI – DuckDuckGo
    • TechCrunch
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  • Google Ends Free Service Youve Had Since 2013

    Google Ends Free Service Youve Had Since 2013

    Key Takeaway

    – Google is testing 5 GB default storage for some new Gmail accounts, down from the traditional 15 GB.
    – The change aims to preserve service quality and push users toward stronger security and data recovery practices, while curbing multi-account storage abuse.
    – Existing accounts are unaffected during the test; the rollout could be regional or someday global depending on results.
    – The move aligns with comparable offerings from others (e.g., Microsoft) and follows subtle shifts in Google’s storage messaging.

    For nearly two decades, signing up for a Google account has meant walking away with 15 gigs of free cloud storage. That number, which was shared across Gmail, Drive, and Photos, has been one of the more reliable constants in consumer tech over the years. It may not stay that way for much longer.

    Update on storage policy

    Google has confirmed it is currently testing a reduced storage allocation for newly created Gmail accounts in certain regions, where some users will receive just 5 GB by default instead of the standard 15 GB. The test was first flagged by user reports on Reddit before Google acknowledged the experiment directly to Android Authority. The company added that it is evaluating the new policy to maintain service quality — at the same time, it will also push users toward better account security and data recovery practices.

    Regions and rollout

    As of writing, Google has not disclosed which regions are part of the trial. However, early reports hint that the rollout has been concentrated in parts of Africa. Existing accounts are unaffected for now.

    Background to the change

    This move does appear to be at least partly geared towards curbing the practice of creating multiple accounts to stack free storage. If that wasn’t clear already, Google’s own support page has been quietly updated since February to describe storage as up to 15GB. It’s not hard to discern that the company had been laying the groundwork for this change for some time.

    Why it matters

    Whether the 5 GB stays regional or eventually becomes the global default for new sign-ups will depend on how the test plays out. For reference, other providers like Microsoft Outlook also bundle 5 GB of free storage with new accounts.

     

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  • Fitbit Air Launches at $99 for iPhone Users

    Fitbit Air Launches at $99 for iPhone Users

    Key Takeaway

    1. Fitbit Air is an affordable, versatile fitness wearable with a hidden sensor insert, offering up to one week of battery life.
    2. It includes essential health sensors like SpO2, skin temperature, and motion sensors to track sleep, calories, exertion, and steps without requiring a subscription.
    3. Premium AI-driven features such as guided meditations, detailed sleep analysis, and personalized coaching are available through Google Health Premium at an additional cost.
    4. The device is waterproof, compatible with both iPhone and Android, and comes with a free three-month Google Health Premium trial for pre-orders.

    Introduction to Fitbit Air by Google

    Google has recently introduced a new fitness wearable called Fitbit Air, which is aimed to compete with other popular devices like Whoop 5.0. It is positioned as an affordable option in the fitness wearable market, similar to the Amazfit Helio Strap. Google offers a variety of bands, including a sporty one made from recycled materials with a velcro fastener, and a more high-end model featuring a stainless steel clasp.

    Design and Features

    The Fitbit Air fits seamlessly into the wristband and is nearly impossible to see from outside. These banded devices manage to pack quite a bit of technology despite their sleek look. Removing the display helps improve battery life, which Google claims can last up to a week even when heart rate is being measured every two seconds. The device is outfitted with various sensors such as an SpO2 sensor, skin temperature sensor, and a 3-axis accelerometer. These sensors are enough to track sleep patterns, calories burned, cardio efforts, and steps, making it a versatile fitness tracker.

    Subscription and Additional Features

    While core features like sleep tracking and heart rate monitoring are accessible without additional costs, some advanced AI-driven features come with a subscription. Google Health Premium is required for guided meditations, detailed sleep insights, and AI-based recommendations, costing an extra $9.99 monthly. An especially intriguing addition is Google’s AI Coach which can automatically generate workout plans and offer exercise tips, aiming to personalize training experience.

    Waterproofing and Pre-Order Details

    Fitbit Air is designed to be waterproof, allowing users to wear it during swimming activities without worry. Currently, it can be pre-ordered from the Google Online Store in several colors including red, turquoise, blue, and black. The retail price is set at $99, with delivery expected by late May. Compatible with both iPhone and Android devices through the new Google Health app, buyers will receive three months of Google Health Premium free with their purchase.


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  • Chrome 147 Released Early for Select Windows and Mac Users

    Chrome 147 Released Early for Select Windows and Mac Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google has launched an early stable version of Chrome 147 (147.0.7727.24/.25) for a limited number of desktop users on Windows and Mac.
    2. The early stable release allows Google to monitor the build and identify issues before a broader rollout.
    3. No detailed features, security patches, or bug fixes were listed in the announcement, only a link to the Chromium change log.
    4. Chrome 147 was previously available in the Beta channel for Windows, Mac, and Linux, with general enhancements for performance and stability.
    5. The release strategy varies across platforms, with Chrome 147 rolling out for desktops while other channels and platforms receive different updates simultaneously.

    Google has begun to launch an initial stable version of Chrome 147 for desktops on Windows and Mac. In an announcement made on March 25, the Chrome team indicated that the Stable channel has been updated to version 147.0.7727.24/.25 for a limited number of users, marking it as an early stable release instead of a full standard rollout.

    Brief Confirmation of Updates

    The official post about Chrome Releases is quite short and only verifies the new desktop build numbers, notes the limited scope of the rollout, and mentions the existence of a complete change log. However, Google did not provide a detailed breakdown of features in this early stable note. Instead, it directed users to its early stable explanation and standard release documentation.

    Importance of Limited Rollout

    The limited rollout language is significant because Google’s early stable process aims to present a new Stable build to a smaller audience first. According to Google’s Chrome developer guidelines, early stable releases are shared with a tiny fraction of users prior to the more extensive scheduled Stable release, allowing the company to monitor the build and identify major problems before the broader rollout takes place.

    Details on the Release

    For this early stable desktop release, Google has only provided a link to the Chromium change log and has not specified any security patches, new user-facing features, or platform-specific bug fixes in the announcement itself.

    Nevertheless, there is a noteworthy reference: Chrome 147 had already been available in the Beta channel for Windows, Mac, and Linux earlier this month as version 147.0.7727.3. In the Beta announcement on March 11, Google mentioned that the build included usual enhancements for performance and stability and guided readers to Chromium blog resources for new features, but the March 25 early stable desktop announcement does not reiterate these details.

    Broader Release Context

    The same update cycle on March 25 also introduced Chrome 147 to other channels and platforms, which includes an early stable build for Android, a desktop Beta version, and a stable release for iOS. For desktop users on Windows and Mac, the key takeaway is straightforward: Chrome 147 is beginning to transition to the Stable channel, but only for a select group of users at this time.

    For Android users, the wider context shows that Google’s release strategy is currently divided across various channels and platforms: While Chrome Dev 148.0.7739.3 is already rolling out via Google Play as a test build for Android, desktop users on Windows and Mac are only starting to experience Chrome 147.0.7727.24/.25 in the early stable phase, highlighting how Google continues to introduce major browser updates differently based on platform and release track.

    Google Blog

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  • Google’s Music AI: Create an Album in Just a Few Clicks

    Google’s Music AI: Create an Album in Just a Few Clicks

    Key Takeaways

    1. Advanced Music Creation: Lyra 3 Pro allows users to create entire songs or albums, extending track length to three minutes for richer compositions.

    2. Improved Musical Structure: The AI can identify different song sections (intro, verse, chorus, bridge) for better transitions, reducing the need for human composers.

    3. Reduced Creative Effort: The tool significantly lowers the creative input required, making it suitable for businesses needing original soundtracks without hiring artists.

    4. Copyright Management: Lyra 3 Pro uses licensed data and SynthID watermarking to address copyright concerns while producing high-quality audio.

    5. Shift in AI Role: The introduction of Lyra 3 Pro marks a transition in AI’s role in music, evolving from a supportive tool to a primary creator.

    Expanding on last month’s Lyria 3 launch, Google has introduced Lyra 3 Pro, a more advanced version of the Lyra 3 music generation AI. This tool can create entire songs or even albums from scratch. Lyra 3 Pro appears to offer a significant improvement in how users can “construct” a new track. Now, users can produce tracks that last up to three minutes, giving them control over various elements of the music.

    Enhanced Musical Understanding

    This new version of Lyria 3 Pro is capable of recognizing the differences between an intro, a verse, a chorus, and a bridge. This allows for more intricate transitions that used to need a human touch, like that from a composer, songwriter, or music producer.

    As previously mentioned, the primary enhancement here is that unlike Lyria 3, which could only create 30-second music snippets, Lyria 3 Pro allows for complete three-minute compositions. To put this into context, three minutes is sufficient time to become the next Eurovision Song Contest winner.

    A Shift in Creative Input

    Lyria 3 Pro drastically reduces the amount of creative effort needed. While Google positions this as a tool for “creative expression,” it could also be a perfect solution for corporate clients.

    By incorporating Lyria 3 Pro into Vertex AI and Google Vids, companies can now create original soundtracks for marketing and gaming. This could potentially eliminate the need to compensate artists for jingles or background music.

    Integration and Copyright Concerns

    Lyra 3 Pro is being rolled out throughout the Google ecosystem. To tackle copyright issues, Google claims that Lyria 3 Pro is trained on licensed data and features SynthID watermarking. Although it does not imitate specific artists, its ability to produce high-quality audio may forever change the perception of “stock” music.

    It’s important to highlight that while the surge of AI-generated audio may seem sudden, professional Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) such as FL Studio have been utilizing AI for tasks like stem separation and chord progressions for several years. For artists, Google’s new Lyra 3 Pro music generator signifies a major transition from being a “helper” to an “architect.”

    The Future of AI in Music

    Just a few hours ago, OpenAI decided to close Sora, its AI video generation tool. Could Lyra 3 Pro face a similar fate? Only time will tell.

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  • Google Unveils New Health Coach Features for Fitbit Users

    Google Unveils New Health Coach Features for Fitbit Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Enhanced sleep tracking accuracy improved by 15%, now recognizing naps and sleep interruptions.
    2. New research study “Get care now” launched to evaluate conversational AI in virtual health consultations.
    3. Upcoming feature to link continuous glucose monitors (CGM) for blood sugar insights, available in April 2026.
    4. Users can soon connect medical records to the Fitbit app with secure verification methods.
    5. Personal health coach feature made available to Premium users in several countries, with broader rollout details pending.

    New updates are coming for some users of the Fitbit app. During the yearly event called The Check Up, organized by Google, the company shared a variety of “significant” upgrades for its personal health coach feature. This tool was introduced in late 2025 as part of a Public Preview for Fitbit Premium users in the United States.

    Enhanced Sleep Tracking

    The newest edition of the Fitbit personal health coach offers better accuracy in tracking sleep stages. Google states that this accuracy has improved by 15%, allowing your device to more effectively monitor when you are awake or asleep. It can now also recognize naps and sleep interruptions. This information is utilized to generate a Sleep Score, along with suggestions on how to enhance your sleep quality. Users in the US who are part of the Public Preview can expect to see these sleep-related features in the upcoming weeks.

    New Research Study and Features

    Moreover, Google announced a new research study called “Get care now” in collaboration with Included Health, a healthcare provider. The goal of the study is to assess how effective conversational AI is during virtual health consultations. In addition, users will soon have the ability to link a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) through Health Connect to gain insights about their blood sugar levels. This feature will be available in Public Preview in the US starting April 2026.

    Linking Medical Records

    Lastly, Google disclosed that users in the US who are part of the Public Preview will soon be able to connect their medical records to the Fitbit app. This service will work with partners such as b. well and CLEAR, and it is designed to be secure, requiring selfie and ID verification. This new feature is also set to launch in April 2026. In mid-February 2026, the personal health coach from Fitbit was made accessible to Premium users in the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. However, it remains unclear when these updates will be available to a broader audience.

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  • Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold: First Look at Early Leaks

    Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold: First Look at Early Leaks

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold was announced on August 20 and released in mid-October, priced at $1,499 on Amazon.
    2. Leaker OnLeaks shared CAD render images of the upcoming Pixel 11 Pro Fold, but specific hardware details are not yet available.
    3. The Pixel 11 Pro Fold features a larger cover display due to slimmer bezels and a redesigned camera setup.
    4. The height of the Pixel 11 Pro Fold remains the same at 155.2 mm, with a width of 150.4 mm when opened and 76 mm when folded.
    5. The new model is 0.7 mm thinner, measuring 10.1 mm and 4.8 mm on each side, with a launch date for flagship models expected in summer.

    The Pixel 10 Pro Fold has only been around for about six months. It was announced on August 20, but Google didn’t start sending it out until mid-October (current price $1,499 on Amazon). Despite this, OnLeaks has already shared a sneak peek at the upcoming model through a set of CAD render images.

    Potential Hardware Insights

    At this time, the leaker hasn’t revealed any specific hardware information about the new device. However, the Tensor G6 chipset, which seems to be part of the device, was spotted on Geekbench less than a month ago. Some hardware updates can be seen in the CAD render images that OnLeaks leaked.

    Design Changes

    For example, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold boasts a bigger cover display compared to the previous model, thanks to slimmer bezels. Moreover, Google has redesigned the camera setup to place the LED flash and microphone array under the same glass as the telephoto camera. It’s still uncertain if this alteration is linked to any new camera sensors.

    The height of Google’s foldable device remains the same at 155.2 mm between models. Similarly, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold keeps a width of 150.4 mm when opened, which is said to translate to a width of 76 mm when folded. Google has also trimmed 0.7 mm off the thickness, meaning that the Pixel 11 Pro Fold will measure 10.1 mm and 4.8 mm on each side. As of now, it seems Google won’t be launching the Pixel 11 flagship models until summer.

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  • Google Pixel 11 Pro XL Case Leak Reveals Design Changes

    Google Pixel 11 Pro XL Case Leak Reveals Design Changes

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 11 series is anticipated to launch in Q3 2026, following the Pixel 10 Pro XL released in August 2025.
    2. A protective case for the Pixel 11 Pro XL suggests design changes, including a narrower and taller camera module that protrudes less from the body.
    3. The overall dimensions of the Pixel 11 Pro XL are not expected to change significantly.
    4. Caution is advised regarding leaks, as the accuracy of the case design information is uncertain.
    5. The Pixel 11 Pro (XL) may feature 3D facial recognition technology, with sensors hidden beneath the screen, while retaining a single, round punch-hole display.

    After Google introduced the Pixel 10 Pro XL ($949 on Amazon) in August 2025, the anticipation for the Pixel 11 series is building as it is expected to launch in the third quarter of 2026. Even though the official release is still some months away, ThinBorne, a maker of accessories, has already put up a protective case for the Pixel 11 Pro XL, which is the premium model in the upcoming series.

    Design Changes Noted

    This protective case, crafted from aramid fibers, hints at a shift in design. The cut-out for the pill-shaped camera module is now a bit narrower and taller compared to what we see on the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL. Additionally, the camera module seems to stick out less from the body of the smartphone, suggesting that Google is adopting a design approach similar to what was done when moving from the Pixel 9a to the Pixel 10a. However, the overall dimensions of the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL don’t appear to change much.

    Caution Advised

    Given that we are likely looking at a wait of nearly six months until the launch of Google’s next flagship smartphone, it’s wise to take this leak with a grain of salt. It’s unclear if the case manufacturer has genuine insights into the phone’s design or if the case is merely a placeholder.

    Exciting Features Expected

    Regardless, earlier leaks hint that the Google Pixel 11 Pro (XL) may feature at least one notable upgrade—3D facial recognition similar to the technology found in the Apple iPhone 17. However, the smartphone will still utilize a single, round punch-hole display instead of a larger pill-shaped one like the iPhone. The additional sensors necessary for facial recognition, part of what’s called “Project Toscana,” are expected to be concealed beneath the screen.

    ThinBorne, as reported by Android Authority.

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