Tag: google

  • Perplexity Bids $34.5 Billion for Chrome as AI Firms Eye Browsers

    Perplexity Bids $34.5 Billion for Chrome as AI Firms Eye Browsers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Perplexity has made a $34.5 billion all-cash unsolicited bid to acquire Google’s Chrome browser, surpassing its own market valuation of $14 billion.
    2. Google faces a monopoly case concerning its search services and advertising, which may force it to consider selling Chrome.
    3. Perplexity plans to maintain the open-source Chromium browser and invest $3 billion over two years while keeping the default search engine unchanged.
    4. Legal pressures could create opportunities for acquisitions as Google may need to divest parts of its business to comply with antitrust laws.
    5. Chrome holds about 68% of the global browser market share, making it highly valuable for AI companies seeking search data for training models.


    Perplexity, an AI startup, has made a surprising all-cash unsolicited bid to take over Chrome, the web browser that belongs to Google, which is part of Alphabet. This isn’t the first time a company has shown interest in buying Chrome, as both OpenAI and Yahoo have previously hinted at wanting to acquire the popular browser.

    Monopoly Concerns

    Google is currently dealing with a monopoly case related to its search services and advertising. This situation could lead to significant adjustments in search agreements and how data is shared. Such legal pressures may force Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet, to consider selling Chrome. However, up to now, Google has not indicated any plans to sell the browser.

    Unexpected Offer

    The proposal is surprising for a few reasons, but the most notable is that the offer exceeds Perplexity’s market valuation, which is around $14 billion. Perplexity has put forth a bid of $34.5 billion in cash and claims that various funds are ready to help finance the purchase; however, they did not disclose the names of these funds, as noted in a term sheet reported by Reuters.

    This term sheet also mentions that Perplexity intends to maintain Chromium, the open-source browser, invest $3 billion over the next two years, and keep the default search engine unchanged.

    Legal Pressure and Market Share

    During the ongoing legal issues, Google may be compelled to divest part of its business to adhere to antitrust laws, which could create opportunities for acquisitions. A ruling from federal judge Amit Mehta is anticipated between August and September. Nevertheless, Google has announced its plans to appeal this decision.

    According to Global Browser Market Share 2025, Chrome holds approximately 68% of the browsing market. This represents a treasure trove of search data that can help decipher search queries and user behaviors, making it extremely valuable for training large language models and AI. This is likely the reason many AI companies are eager to acquire Chrome, as it would reduce their dependence on Google for this crucial data.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • “Privacy Risks of Smartwatches and Wearables: Data Gaps Explained”

    “Privacy Risks of Smartwatches and Wearables: Data Gaps Explained”

    Key Takeaways

    1. Modern wearables collect sensitive personal information, raising significant privacy concerns.
    2. A study assessed 17 wearable brands based on 24 privacy criteria, revealing many have confusing policies and insufficient protection against data leaks.
    3. The “Privacy Risk Score” ranges from 33 (lowest risk) to 60 (highest risk), indicating varying levels of data protection among brands.
    4. Leading brands like Google and Apple score well for clear policies and strong security, while brands like Huawei and Xiaomi show major privacy shortcomings.
    5. Consumers should prioritize data protection when choosing wearables and regularly check how their data is managed.


    Modern wearables gather various types of personal information, like sleep habits, heart rate, physical activity, and menstrual cycle data. While this information can enhance health tracking, it also brings up significant privacy issues.

    Privacy Assessment of Wearable Brands

    A research published in npj Digital Medicine assessed 17 popular wearable brands including Apple, Google, Fitbit, Huawei, and Xiaomi, evaluating them against 24 specific criteria. These criteria include how transparent the privacy policies are, how much control users have, and how companies respond to security breaches. The findings indicate that many brands have confusing privacy policies and often lack clear details on data sharing practices. Additionally, the methods to protect against data leaks are generally insufficient, and users have few chances to manage or delete their data.

    Risk Scores for Data Protection

    The evaluation assigned a “Privacy Risk Score” to the 17 wearable brands, with scores ranging from 33 (indicating the lowest risk) to 60 (indicating the highest risk).

    Leading the pack in terms of data protection are Google (33), Apple (35), Oura (38), Polar (38), Withings (39), and Garmin (41). These brands are noted for their clear policies, transparent controls over data, and solid security measures. Users of these brands can feel confident about the safeguarding of their personal information.

    In the middle tier, brands like Fitbit (43), Ultrahuman (44), Samsung (47), Fossil (48), Coros (50), Whoop (50), Wahoo (52), and Suunto (53) are seen to have medium risks regarding data protection. While these companies have some measures in place, they often fall short on transparency and user control. It is advisable for users to carefully scrutinize the specific data protection policies of these brands.

    Concerns for Bottom-Ranked Brands

    On the lower end, Huawei (58), Wyze (60), and Xiaomi (60) show considerable shortcomings in data protection. Despite being significant players in the market, these brands lack clarity about data collection, provide limited user control options, and have inadequate protection systems. The study highlights a high data protection risk associated with these companies, urging users to be especially cautious and thoroughly assess their own data protection choices.

    The research emphasizes that when selecting a wearable device, data protection should be as crucial as features and pricing. Consumers are encouraged to routinely verify how their data is handled and what rights they possess, as this is essential for making informed choices about how to safeguard their privacy.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Latest Pixel Watch 4 Leaks: Key Features and Release Details

    Latest Pixel Watch 4 Leaks: Key Features and Release Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel Watch 4 will come in 45 mm and 41 mm sizes with an improved Actua 360 display and a peak brightness of 3,000 nits.
    2. It will feature a Quick Charge Dock that charges 25% faster and offers over 40 exercise modes, ECG, SpO2 monitoring, and more health tracking options.
    3. The smartwatch will integrate Gemini for quick AI assistant responses and text suggestions mimicking the user’s voice.
    4. Color options include three for the 44 mm version and four for the 41 mm version, with the exclusive Limoncello hue for the 41 mm model.
    5. Google is set to reveal the Pixel series on August 20, but the products may not be available for purchase until October.


    Google’s next Pixel 10 series, along with the Pixel Buds and Pixel Watch, have been the topic of numerous leaks and speculations. Recently, promotional advertisements for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold and the Pixel 10 Pro surfaced. As these leaks keep coming, we now have additional information about the Pixel Watch 4 and the improvements it will introduce compared to the existing Google smartwatch.

    Details on Specifications

    The same source who earlier leaked the promo ads has now provided the specifics for the Pixel Watch 4. According to Evan Blass’s posts on X, this smartwatch will be available in both a 45 mm and a 41 mm size featuring what Google refers to as an Actua 360 display. The Pixel Watch 3 (available on Amazon) also came in those two sizes but had a regular Actua display. The differences between the Actua and the Actua 360 displays are still not clear. The Pixel Watch 4 will boast a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, an upgrade from the 2,000 nits of the Pixel Watch 3. The 41 mm version is expected to last 30 hours on an always-on display, while the 44 mm variant could last up to 40 hours.

    Charging and Features

    The Quick Charge Dock, which had images leaked last month (July), can charge the Pixel Watch 4 25% quicker than the previous model. In addtion, this smartwatch will offer over 40 exercise modes, ECG, SpO2 monitoring, breathing rate tracking, pulse detection, and HRV (Heart rate variability) tracking.

    The Pixel Watch 4 will integrate Gemini allowing users to just lift their wrist for quick responses from an AI assistant, and the text suggestions from the conversational AI will mimic the user’s voice. What this precisely means is still unclear. Moreover, the LTE version of the Pixel Watch 4 will offer two years of data through Google Fi Wireless.

    Color Options and Release Date

    Finally, the leaks indicate the color choices, with the 44 mm version expected to have three options while the 41 mm version will have four, similar to the Pixel Watch 3. The Limoncello hue appears to be exclusive to the 41 mm model.

    Google plans to reveal its new Pixel series on August 20, but a recent report has indicated that the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, Pixel Watch 4, and Pixel Buds 2a might only be available for sale starting in October.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Create Illustrated Children’s Storybooks with Google Gemini

    Create Illustrated Children’s Storybooks with Google Gemini

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google Gemini can create fully illustrated children’s storybooks from simple prompts, designed for quick reading.
    2. Users can personalize storybooks by uploading their own photos and drawings, and the tool supports over 45 languages and various art styles.
    3. AI-generated content may contain errors and inconsistencies, such as differing character art, spelling mistakes, and unusual narratives.
    4. The quality of the storybooks depends on the prompts given, so users should be cautious and treat the feature as a fun tool.
    5. The storybook generator is available on both desktop and mobile devices through the Gemini app.


    Parenting might be evolving thanks to AI technologies like Google Gemini.

    Google’s AI tool, Gemini, now has the capability to produce fully illustrated children’s storybooks from simple prompts. These storybooks feature a total of 10 pages, designed for quick and easy reading, and can be read aloud by an AI-generated voice that turns pages automatically.

    Customization Options

    Google has revealed that users have the option to upload their own photos, drawings, or files to personalize the storybooks even more. Furthermore, Gemini can create books in over 45 languages and utilize various art styles, such as pixel art.

    Caution with AI Content

    Even though the storybook generator is generally adept at creating content, users should be aware that the material is still generated by AI. Consequently, the books may include errors and inconsistencies that are common in AI outputs. This could involve differing character art across pages, spelling mistakes, or strangely structured sentences, along with strange themes or narratives.

    The quality of the resulting storybooks largely hinges on the prompt provided. For example, a prompt asking for a storybook featuring trains discussing the risks of smoking produced a tale where a personified train was advised to “only puff out his wonderful, clean steam,” instead of the black smoke he believed would make him appear older and faster. Thus, it’s wise for users to treat this feature as more of a fun tool and be very careful before sharing these tales with children.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Reddit Aims to Be Your New Favorite Search Engine

    Reddit Aims to Be Your New Favorite Search Engine

    Key Takeaways

    1. Reddit aims to become a primary search destination by leveraging its collection of genuine human discussions, responding to user trends of searching for real opinions online.

    2. CEO Steve Huffman emphasizes enhancing the main product, positioning Reddit as a search engine, and expanding internationally as key focus areas for the company’s growth.

    3. A significant number of users prefer human responses over AI-generated content, highlighting the importance of real conversations on the platform.

    4. Reddit is experimenting with “Reddit Answers,” an AI-driven feature that summarizes threads, which has quickly gained popularity among users.

    5. Reddit’s core search product attracts over 70 million weekly users, and the company’s stock has risen significantly due to strong revenue growth, indicating positive investor sentiment.


    If you’re anything like me, you might have started to include “Reddit” in your Google searches. This is a popular technique for discovering genuine opinions and experiences from real individuals. The company seems to have noticed this trend, and it now aims to encourage users to visit its platform directly for answers. They’re making a concerted effort to become a key search destination by using their extensive collection of human discussions.

    Leadership’s Vision

    The leadership at Reddit is vocal about this new strategy. CEO Steve Huffman mentioned, “We’re putting our focus on areas that will yield results for our urgent needs: enhancing the main product, positioning Reddit as a prime search engine, and growing internationally,” in his recent letter to shareholders.

    Meeting User Needs

    This initiative is a direct reaction to how users already engage with the platform. Millions of people visit Reddit daily, seeking advice and information that isn’t available elsewhere. What sets Reddit’s search apart is the human touch; in a digital world full of AI-generated material, the platform provides real conversations and personal stories.

    A recent poll indicated that around 80% of users in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada feel that certain questions can only be answered by humans, not AI summaries. Huffman pointed this out by saying, “In a time when algorithms and automation are taking over, the demand for human voices is more important than ever.” While emphasizing the importance of human interaction, Reddit is not completely turning away from AI. They are experimenting with a feature called “Reddit Answers,” which is an AI-driven tool that gathers summaries from threads. This feature has already increased from one million to six million weekly users in just one quarter. The goal is to merge traditional search with these AI-generated answers to form a unified, robust search experience.

    Growth Potential

    The core search product of the platform already draws in more than 70 million weekly users, revealing the promise of this initiative. Investors are also quite pleased, with Reddit’s stock climbing over 20 percent to $194 per share after the company’s second-quarter earnings exceeded expectations, reaching $500 million in revenue.

    Reddit is stepping into a competitive arena where it will face off against Google, OpenAI, and Meta, all of which are crafting their own search solutions. The relationship with Google is particularly intricate; Google pays Reddit $60 million each year to use its content for AI training, even as Reddit positions itself as a direct rival. Huffman has characterized this relationship as “symbiotic,” but he seems determined to boost Reddit’s autonomy and competitive edge.

    If you’re eager to dive straight into genuine human experiences instead of wading through SEO-optimized content, Reddit’s new search focus could be a refreshing change. The company is prioritizing the search bar within the app, making it simpler to access the platform’s extensive knowledge network.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Google Signs Deals to Cut AI Energy Use During Peak Hours

    Google Signs Deals to Cut AI Energy Use During Peak Hours

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google has signed agreements with U.S. power companies to reduce electricity use at AI data centers during peak demand times.
    2. The initiative aims to improve grid stability and speed up the connection of new data centers without needing more power infrastructure.
    3. This approach to energy management for AI operations is novel compared to practices in other sectors like manufacturing and cryptocurrency mining.
    4. Google is committed to workforce development, investing $10 million to train electricians and support new energy source approvals.
    5. Energy consumption from AI is expected to triple by the end of the decade, highlighting the need for innovative solutions in energy management.


    Google has made its first agreements with U.S. power companies to reduce electricity consumption at its AI data centers during times when the power grid is heavily loaded. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to tackle increasing energy challenges as AI technologies rapidly evolve.

    New Agreements and Their Purpose

    The contracts, signed with Indiana Michigan Power and the Tennessee Valley Authority, allow these power providers to request Google to temporarily decrease certain AI operations, such as machine learning processes that require significant electricity. Google states that this adaptability will speed up the connection of new data centers, decrease the necessity for constructing additional power infrastructure, and assist in maintaining grid stability during heatwaves or periods of high power demand.

    “Large electricity loads like data centers can now be interconnected more quickly,” Google mentioned in a blog entry, noting that the program is advantageous for both grid operators and utility consumers.

    A Novel Approach to Energy Management

    While reducing power usage during peak times is a common practice in sectors like manufacturing and cryptocurrency mining, specifically doing this for AI operations is relatively novel. Google’s strategy draws on previous experiments where it shifted tasks to different locations or times based on the availability of cleaner or less expensive energy.

    The tech giant also highlighted its commitment to workforce development and grid policy. In April 2025, Google revealed a $10 million initiative to train more electricians and supported efforts to expedite approvals for new energy sources, including small modular reactors and geothermal energy.

    The Future of AI Energy Use

    As energy consumption from AI is projected to triple by the decade’s end, officials have cautioned that data centers might expand quicker than the power supply in some regions of the U.S. Google’s actions could serve as a model for other cloud service providers, although similar agreements have not yet been confirmed by companies like Microsoft or Amazon.

    Source:
    Link

     

  • Google Pixel Watch New Prices Leaked with Launch Offers

    Google Pixel Watch New Prices Leaked with Launch Offers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is set to unveil the Pixel Watch 4 series on August 20, with the Pixel Watch 3 currently priced at $269.99 on Amazon.
    2. The Pixel Watch 4 is expected to maintain the same pricing as its predecessor, with the Eurozone launching at €399 for the standard model and €549 for the 45 mm LTE version.
    3. In the US, the Pixel Watch 4 will start at $349 for the 41 mm model, while the 45 mm model will cost $399.
    4. Both models will have an additional $50 charge for LTE connectivity.
    5. Google will offer six months of Fitbit Premium and one month of YouTube Premium with the purchase of the Pixel Watch 4.


    We have now reached the month when the Pixel Watch 4 series is set to be released. Google is anticipated to unveil the Pixel Watch 3 (currently priced at $269.99 on Amazon) on August 20. Android Headlines has reportedly gotten hold of US pricing details ahead of time. A while back, Dealabs and billbil-kun shared similar insights regarding the pricing for the Eurozone.

    Pricing Expectations

    As previously mentioned, Dealabs and billbil-kun believed that the Pixel Watch 4 would keep the same pricing as its predecessor for all models. Therefore, it’s expected that the Pixel Watch 4 will launch in the Eurozone at €399, with the 45 mm version featuring LTE connectivity priced at €549. Android Headlines suggests that the US pricing will follow a similar pattern.

    US Pricing Details

    According to the website, they have learned that the Pixel Watch 4 will be available starting at $349 for the 41 mm model, which offers Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities. In contrast, the 45 mm version will cost an additional $50, bringing its price to $399. Both sizes will also be available with LTE connectivity for an extra $50 fee. To help balance out these costs, Google plans to include six months of Fitbit Premium but will only offer one month of YouTube Premium. For more information on the Pixel Watch 4’s launch colors and band selections, check out our previous article.

    Source:
    Link


  • Pixel Buds 2a: Redesigned Case and Improved Stabilizer Arcs

    Pixel Buds 2a: Redesigned Case and Improved Stabilizer Arcs

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel launch event will reveal new smartphones and the Pixel Buds 2a, successors to the Pixel Buds A-series from 2021.
    2. The Pixel Buds 2a feature a new design with a rounder white case and will be available in three colors: Iris, Strawberry, and Fog Light.
    3. The earbuds have updated features, including modified stabilizer arcs for a better fit and large recessed microphone holes covered with black mesh.
    4. While specific technical features are not yet known, the Pixel Buds 2a are expected to offer improvements over the previous model.
    5. The Pixel Buds 2a will compete with other brands like OnePlus, Nothing, and CMF in the earbuds market.


    The Pixel launch event set for later this month is expected to introduce not only new smartphones but also a fresh set of earbuds — namely, the Pixel Buds 2a. These new earbuds will serve as the successors to the Pixel Buds A-series that debuted in 2021. A leak has surfaced prior to the event, showcasing the design of the upcoming earbuds.

    Design Preview

    According to details from Android Headlines, the Pixel Buds 2a feature a new design that still resembles the previous model. The leaked images show a white case that looks slightly rounder compared to the original Pixel Buds A-series case. Google has also maintained its design approach of matching the case color to the earbuds. The source mentions that this color is called Iris, which aligns with one of the shades of the Pixel 9a. In addition, the Pixel Buds 2a will come in two other colors, Strawberry and Fog Light.

    New Features

    The inside of the case has been updated due to the new look of the earbuds. Unlike the Pixel Buds A that had sticking-out stabilizer arcs for a snug fit, the Pixel Buds 2a seem to have a different design. It’s likely that these arcs are still present but have been modified to resemble those found on the Pixel Buds Pro 2 (currently sold on Amazon for $189).

    Moreover, the new earbuds are equipped with large but recessed microphone holes. However, these holes are covered with black mesh material rather than a color-matched one like what is seen in the Pixel Buds Pro 2.

    Competition Ahead

    While the exact technical features of the Pixel Buds 2a are still a mystery, they are expected to offer improvements over the previous generation. However, they will likely have enough differences to set them apart from the higher-end pro model. Upon their release, the Pixel Buds 2a will likely face tough competition from brands like OnePlus with their Buds 4, Nothing Ear (a), and CMF Buds 2 Plus.

    Source:
    Link

  • Pixel 10 Series Pricing Leak Indicates No Price Increase This Year

    Pixel 10 Series Pricing Leak Indicates No Price Increase This Year

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google will launch the Pixel 10 series on August 20, featuring four new models: Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
    2. Pricing for the Pixel 10 lineup remains unchanged from last year, with the base model starting at $799.
    3. The 128 GB option for the Pixel 10 Pro XL has been discontinued, resulting in a slightly higher starting price for that model.
    4. A new 1 TB version of the Pixel 10 Pro Fold will be introduced, expected to exceed $2,000, and it will be the first folding phone with an IP68 rating.
    5. The Pixel 10 base model may include new features like a telephoto camera and the Tensor G5 chip, enhancing its value compared to previous models.


    Google is gearing up to launch its Pixel 10 series on August 20, introducing four new phones: the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Unlike Samsung’s forthcoming Galaxy S26 series, the Pixel models will remain similar to last year’s versions, and the pricing is also staying the same. A recent leak has revealed the prices for all models, indicating that there won’t be an increase this time, in contrast to the Pixel 9 series.

    Pricing Information

    According to a report from Android Headlines, the pricing for both the US and Canada for the Pixel 10 lineup has not changed this year. However, Google is discontinuing the 128 GB option for the Pixel 10 Pro XL, which means that the starting price for this larger model will be slightly higher this time. Below are the detailed pricing options:

    In addition to removing the 128 GB variant of the Pixel 10 Pro XL, Google has introduced a new 1 TB version of the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, which, according to the leak, will exceed the $2,000 mark. It’s noteworthy that the starting price for the base model remains the same as last year, even though the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is expected to be the first folding phone with an IP68 rating.

    Features and Value

    With the Pixel 10’s base model maintaining its starting price of $799, it offers more value, especially as previous leaks hinted at the addition of a telephoto camera. Coupled with the Tensor G5 chip and rumored integrated magnets, the Pixel 10 is shaping up to be a fantastic and appealing smartphone option.

    Source:
    Link

  • Court Orders Google to Pay $12,500 for Naked Street View Image

    Court Orders Google to Pay $12,500 for Naked Street View Image

    Key Takeaways

    1. An Argentine police officer received $12,500 in damages after Google Street View captured him naked in his yard.
    2. The appeals court ruled that Google violated the man’s dignity by posting the image online without adequate privacy protection.
    3. The initial dismissal of the man’s claim was overturned because the court found a clear invasion of privacy within his home boundaries.
    4. The court criticized Google for not blurring the naked image, emphasizing that the company has guidelines for protecting privacy.
    5. This case is part of a history of legal challenges faced by Google regarding privacy issues related to Street View.


    An Argentine police officer has been awarded around $12,500 in damages after a Google Street View camera took a picture of him naked in his yard. An appeals court decided that the tech giant “flagrantly violated” the man’s dignity by posting the image online.

    The Incident

    The event took place in 2017 when a Google Street View camera, while capturing images of a small town in Argentina, took a photo of the man from behind as he was unclothed in his garden. At that moment, he claimed he was behind a nearly 2-meter (6.5-foot) wall. The image that was published did not blur out his home address, which resulted in the photo being aired on local television and circulated on social media, leading to him being mocked at work and in his community.

    Legal Battle

    Seeking compensation from Google for the damage to his dignity, the man initially had his claim dismissed by a lower court, which said he was at fault for “walking around in inappropriate conditions in the garden of his home.” Google’s defense contended that the perimeter wall was not tall enough to create a reasonable expectation of privacy.

    However, the appeals court reversed the lower court’s decision, stating that the man’s privacy was clearly violated. The judges mentioned, “This involves an image of a person that was not taken in a public area but within the boundaries of their home, behind a fence taller than the average-sized person.”

    Court’s Conclusion

    The court determined that there was an “arbitrary intrusion into another’s life” and found no justification for Google to evade responsibility for the mistake. “No one wants to be seen naked by the world as they came into it,” the judges added. They also referenced Google’s own guidelines as an indication of its accountability.

    While Google does automatically blur faces and license plates in Street View photos, the judges pointed out that although the man’s face was not shown, his “entire naked body” was visible, and this “should have also been prevented.” Interestingly, the court did not hold the other two parties involved — telecom company Cablevision SA and news site El Censor — responsible for the spread of the image. The judges indicated that their actions “helped highlight the misstep committed by Google.”

    Previous Challenges

    This isn’t the first instance where Google’s Street View has encountered legal troubles. In 2019, it was reported that Google settled for $13 million due to the collection of private information through the program. In another case back in 2010, the company paid a couple $1 in damages after admitting it trespassed to photograph a house in the Pittsburgh area.

    Source:
    Link