Tag: google

  • Google Signs 200 MW Corporate Fusion Power Deal with Commonwealth

    Google Signs 200 MW Corporate Fusion Power Deal with Commonwealth

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google signed a corporate power-purchase agreement for 200 megawatts of fusion energy from the upcoming ARC plant in Virginia, developed by Commonwealth Fusion Systems.
    2. This agreement highlights the increasing demand for energy due to AI workloads, with Google consuming 30.8 million MWh of electricity in 2023, primarily for data centers.
    3. Commonwealth Fusion Systems aims to achieve commercial fusion operation in the early 2030s, using high-temperature superconducting magnets for plasma confinement.
    4. Google has been a financial supporter of CFS since 2021, and this agreement strengthens their partnership while encouraging other fusion startups to pursue corporate clients.
    5. Despite challenges in achieving practical fusion energy, commitments from companies like Google suggest a potential shift towards clean baseload electricity for the digital economy.


    Google has made a significant move by signing the first direct corporate power-purchase agreement for fusion energy. The tech giant has committed to purchasing 200 megawatts from the upcoming ARC plant, which is being developed by Commonwealth Fusion Systems in Virginia. Once operational, the ARC facility is expected to provide a total of 400 MW, sufficient to power a large group of data centers located in one of the busiest server corridors in the world. The financial specifics of the deal have not been made public.

    Rising Demand for Energy

    This agreement underscores the growing clash between the rising demands of artificial intelligence workloads and the need for electrical power. According to Google’s sustainability report for 2024, the company consumed a whopping 30.8 million MWh of electricity in the previous year, which is double the amount used in 2020. A staggering 96 percent of this energy was utilized by data centers. To expand this energy footprint while still adhering to decarbonization goals, innovative energy generation technologies are essential.

    About Commonwealth Fusion Systems

    Commonwealth Fusion Systems, which was established as a spin-off from MIT in 2018, is working on a tokamak design that utilizes high-temperature superconducting magnets to confine plasma. In 2022, the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory managed to achieve a short net-energy gain with lasers, but no fusion project has yet been able to reach a continuous state of “engineering break-even.” CFS plans to showcase commercial operation in the early 2030s, with ARC serving as both a testing platform and a source of initial revenue.

    Investment and Future Prospects

    Google has been a financial backer of CFS since a funding round in 2021 that raised $1.8 billion. This new power-offtake agreement strengthens their partnership and sends a clear message to other fusion startups looking to attract corporate clients. In 2023, Microsoft entered into a similar but smaller agreement with Helion Energy, indicating that major cloud providers are ready to take risks on energy projects to secure long-term, zero-carbon energy sources.

    Fusion energy still has to overcome tough physical and engineering challenges, including the need for continuous plasma confinement, materials that can withstand neutron bombardment, and making the economics of fusion plants competitive with renewables and energy storage. However, the scale of commitments from companies like Google, along with the momentum in public sector research, indicates that a practical fusion energy contribution is becoming more plausible, even if it remains uncertain. If ARC meets its goals, it could signify a major shift in how the digital economy acquires clean baseload electricity.

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  • Google Pixel Watch 4 Leak: Sizes, Colors, and Accessories Revealed

    Google Pixel Watch 4 Leak: Sizes, Colors, and Accessories Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel Watch 4 has been confirmed with new leaks from trusted source Roland Quandt.
    2. It will be available in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm, similar to the previous model.
    3. The watch will come in five color options and include both Wi-Fi and LTE versions.
    4. Accessories for the Pixel Watch 4 have been listed, but no official images have been released.
    5. The starting price for the Pixel Watch 4 is expected to be $399, like its predecessor.


    While fresh information about the Pixel 10 has been coming out almost every day lately, the Pixel Watch 4 has been pretty quiet. Back in April, leaked images based on CAD models showed what the Pixel Watch 3’s successor might look like, but there hasn’t been much else since then—until today, that is.

    New Insights from a Trusted Source

    Thanks to reliable leaker Roland Quandt from Germany, we now have a sneak peek at a retailer’s database that has already listed several Pixel Watch 4 models, along with some accessories. It’s not clear yet if there will be more models than those mentioned below. For now, this leak reveals two sizes, five color choices, and some initial details about bands and accessories like a charger.

    Specifications Unveiled

    According to the leak from an unnamed retailer, the Pixel Watch 4 will come in sizes of 41mm and 45mm, which are the same as the previous generation (starting at $399 on Amazon). As expected, both Wi-Fi and LTE versions are in the works. The color options listed are as follows:

    Accessories have also been found in the retailer’s database, particularly:

    However, the leak does not show any official images of these accessories or the Google smartwatches. It’s very likely that there will be more accessories available beyond these.

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  • Google Pixel 6a Users Get Up to $150 After Battery Update Issues

    Google Pixel 6a Users Get Up to $150 After Battery Update Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google will launch an update for Pixel 6a devices on July 8 that may decrease battery life and slow charging speeds.
    2. The update aims to prevent battery overheating issues that have caused some devices to catch fire.
    3. Only certain Pixel 6a devices with 400 full charging cycles will experience decreased battery performance.
    4. Affected users can get a free battery replacement starting July 21, along with options for compensation of a $150 gift card or $100 cash.
    5. Users can check their eligibility for compensation on a specific website, noting that the gift card cannot be combined with other discounts.


    As mentioned before, Google is set to launch an update for all Pixel 6a devices beginning July 8. This update might lead to a notable drop in battery life and slower charging speeds. It will install itself automatically when the Pixel 6a is connected to the internet. Only certain Pixel 6a devices, specifically those that have gone through 400 full charging cycles, will see a decrease in battery performance.

    Reasons Behind the Update

    This software improvement is meant to stop the Pixel 6a battery from overheating, which has led to some devices catching fire. Since not every Pixel 6a is impacted, it indicates that batteries from specific manufacturers are the root of the problem. Those who experience issues with their battery can get a free replacement starting July 21. Google has also disclosed information about two other compensation options. For some users, they can receive a Google Store gift card valued at $150. Alternatively, there’s a cash option of $100. Google will adjust these amounts according to the current exchange rates.

    Checking Eligibility

    To find out if your Google Pixel 6a is affected and qualifies for compensation, you can visit this website. However, it’s important for users opting for the gift card to remember that it cannot be used alongside other discounts or promotions. Given that Pixel smartphones often have lower prices at other retailers, the cash payout may prove to be the wiser option in certain areas. For instance, the Pixel 9a is priced at €549 at the official Google Store in Germany, while it is available for just €452 on Amazon.

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  • Google Pixel 6a Battery Update Issues and Compensation Offered

    Google Pixel 6a Battery Update Issues and Compensation Offered

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google will reduce the battery capacity of the Pixel 6a through a mandatory update starting July 8, which will be included with Android 16.
    2. This “battery performance improvement update” aims to lower battery voltage to prevent overheating after incidents of some devices catching fire.
    3. Not all Pixel 6a devices will be affected; the impact depends on the battery supplier for each device.
    4. Affected users will have three compensation options: free battery replacement, a discount code for a new smartphone, or a cash payment.
    5. Google has not yet disclosed the amounts for the discount code or cash payout, but previous compensation for Pixel 4a users was $100 voucher or $50 cash.


    Just a few months ago, Google significantly reduced the battery capacity of the Pixel 4a through an update. Now, they are set to do the same for the Pixel 6a. This update was first announced in mid-June, and Google has provided more information on a support webpage. Most crucially, they revealed the release date. Starting July 8, the update will be automatically and mandatorily installed on all impacted Pixel 6a devices. Users will easily notice the update since it will come together with Android 16.

    Battery Performance Claims

    Interestingly, Google refers to this patch as a “battery performance improvement update,” even though it acknowledges that the patch will lower both battery capacity and charging performance after 400 charging cycles. The reason behind this change is due to incidents where some Pixel 6a devices caught fire. The lower battery voltage aims to prevent overheating. Google points out that this update does not affect every Pixel 6a phone, similar to the case with the Pixel 4a. This likely varies based on the battery supplier for each device.

    Compensation Options for Users

    Like with the Pixel 4a, Google is providing affected Pixel 6a owners three options for compensation regarding the diminished battery life. Beginning July 21, users can have the smartphone’s battery replaced at no cost to restore full capacity. Alternatively, Google is providing a discount code for those looking to purchase a new smartphone from the Google Store. Lastly, customers can choose to receive a cash payment as compensation.

    Google has yet to disclose the value of the discount code or the cash payout amount. For context, affected Pixel 4a users received either a $100 voucher or a $50 cash payment. Users can find out if their Google Pixel 6a is impacted by visiting this website.

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  • Google Pixel 10 Pro & Pro XL Specs Leak: Bigger Batteries & Upgrades

    Google Pixel 10 Pro & Pro XL Specs Leak: Bigger Batteries & Upgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is set to unveil the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL on August 20, with rumors suggesting specifications have been leaked.
    2. The Pixel 10 Pro features a 6.3-inch display, while the Pro XL has a larger 6.8-inch display, both maintaining a 120 Hz refresh rate.
    3. Both models will come with 16 GB of RAM and storage options ranging from 128 GB to 1 TB, along with a similar camera setup to previous models.
    4. The Pixel 10 Pro XL will support 29 W wired and 15 W Qi2 wireless charging, with slightly increased battery capacities compared to their predecessors.
    5. The main camera will remain at 50 MP, supplemented by a 48 MP telephoto, a 48 MP ultra-wide, and a 42 MP front camera, powered by the new Google Tensor G5 chipset.


    Google is expected to reveal the new Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL models in a little over a month, according to the latest rumors. Currently, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is priced at $726.55 for refurbished units on Amazon. Reports suggest that the upcoming hardware event will take place on August 20. In the meantime, Android Headlines has reportedly gotten its hands on a nearly complete list of specifications for the new devices.

    Similarities in Size and Performance

    Not much distinguishes the two models aside from their display sizes and resolutions. Google appears to be sticking with last year’s sizes and resolutions, with the Pixel 10 Pro featuring a 6.3-inch display at 2,856 x 1,280 pixels, while the Pixel 10 Pro XL sports a larger 6.8-inch display with a resolution of 2,992 x 1,344 pixels. Both devices are said to offer improved brightness compared to their predecessors, but they will retain the same refresh rate of 120 Hz.

    Storage and Camera Specs

    As for performance, Android Headlines reports that both smartphones will be equipped with 16 GB of RAM and will offer storage options of 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, and even 1 TB, similar to the Pixel 9 models. The camera setup will also see a return to the 50 MP main camera, a 48 MP telephoto lens, a 48 MP ultra-wide camera, and a 42 MP front camera, enhanced by the new Google Tensor G5 chipset.

    Charging and Battery Life

    Interestingly, the Pixel 10 Pro XL will support 29 W wired and 15 W Qi2 wireless charging, despite the fact that the Pixel 9 Pro XL could theoretically handle up to 37 W. Battery sizes are expected to increase slightly, with the Pixel 10 Pro featuring a battery capacity of 4,870 mAh, and the Pro XL model boasting a 5,200 mAh battery. However, these increases are only marginal, with a few percent improvement over the previous generation.

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  • GerriScary Vulnerability in Gerrit Threatens Google Project Integrity

    GerriScary Vulnerability in Gerrit Threatens Google Project Integrity

    Key Takeaways

    1. A weakness in Gerrit could allow unauthorized code to enter important software projects without proper approval due to misconfigured permissions and review logic.
    2. Attackers can bypass manual code reviews by using automated systems to inject unauthorized code directly.
    3. At least 18 notable repositories, including Chromium and Dart, were identified as vulnerable to this issue.
    4. Google has updated configurations to fix the vulnerability and advised other users of Gerrit to audit their permission settings.
    5. No confirmed cases of exploitation have been reported, but the incident underscores the need for secure development practices in open-source projects.


    A recently uncovered weakness in Gerrit, the open-source code review tool utilized by Google and several other entities, might have made it possible for unauthorized code to sneak into important software projects without the usual approval steps. Security experts at Tenable found that the issue arose from badly set permissions and incorrect review label logic. In some setups, attackers could take advantage of a feature called “addPatchSet” to alter changes that had already been approved, allowing them to insert harmful code without needing to initiate a re-review.

    Automated Tools Bypass Reviews

    Another report from CybersecurityAsia.net validated that attackers could skip manual review stages entirely and use automated systems to inject unauthorized code without any user involvement.

    Vulnerable Repositories Identified

    At least 18 notable repositories were marked as vulnerable, including those related to Chromium, Dart, Bazel, and other essential infrastructure components. This problem also included a race condition in the automated submission process, which permitted attackers to act within a short time frame before the code was merged.

    As of the time the vulnerability was made public, no confirmed cases of exploitation had been seen in real-world scenarios. Tenable performed responsible testing with harmless code and did not execute a comprehensive end-to-end exploit of the vulnerability.

    Steps Taken by Google

    In response, Google has made configuration updates to address the issue. At the same time, Tenable has alerted other open-source projects that utilize Gerrit to check their configurations, as similar misconfigurations might be present in other places. They recommend that all Gerrit users conduct an audit of permission rules and label persistence policies to maintain code integrity. The underlying misconfigurations might also impact other organizations employing Gerrit, especially where default permission settings and automated code submission processes are utilized. This event highlights the continuing significance of secure development environments within the open-source ecosystem.

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  • Google Pixel 7 Sales Ban in Japan; Pixel 8 and 9 at Risk

    Google Pixel 7 Sales Ban in Japan; Pixel 8 and 9 at Risk

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google holds a 5.81% market share in Japan, significantly trailing behind Apple’s 62.46%.
    2. Google’s Pixel 7 smartphones are banned in Japan due to a patent violation involving Pantech.
    3. The Tokyo district court ruled that Google violated a standards essential patent related to LTE modem technology.
    4. Google faced criticism for delaying license negotiations and not proposing a reasonable royalty rate.
    5. If negotiations with Pantech fail, Google may be forced to exit the Japanese market entirely.


    Japan holds a significant place in Google’s strategy. Data from StatCounter shows that Google possesses a market share of 5.81%, putting it in second place, but it’s still far behind the Apple iPhone, which dominates with an impressive 62.46%. Google’s position is slightly better than competitors like Samsung and Xiaomi. Unfortunately, the Pixel 7 smartphones have faced a sales ban in Japan due to a patent conflict with the South Korean firm Pantech.

    Court Ruling Details

    According to a report by MLex, a Tokyo district court has found that Google violated a standards essential patent linked to the LTE modem used in Pixel devices. These types of patents are crucial for product manufacturing, which is why they need to be licensed under fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory criteria. Pantech claims that Google utilized the specific method outlined in the patent to facilitate communication between Pixel phones and cell towers without securing a license.

    Google’s Negotiation Issues

    The court pointed out that preliminary injunctions on standard essential patents (SEPs) can only be enforced if the defendant has not made an effort to obtain a license. Google postponed negotiations and pushed for terms like a confidentiality clause, which Pantech argued was wholly unnecessary. Furthermore, during the legal proceedings, Google did not offer a “reasonable” royalty rate, stating that determining one would be “too complex.”

    Implications for Google

    After Google declined to share sales data for Pixel smartphones in Japan, the court enforced a sales ban on the Pixel 7 series. Pantech has already initiated legal action to stop sales of the Pixel 8 and Pixel 9, including their Pro variants. If Google cannot negotiate a settlement with Pantech, it might have to exit the Japanese market entirely.

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  • Google Pixel 10 Specs Leak: Camera Upgrade Disappoints Users

    Google Pixel 10 Specs Leak: Camera Upgrade Disappoints Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 10 will feature a 48MP main camera, down from earlier reports of a 50MP camera.
    2. The ultrawide camera will now have a 12MP sensor instead of a previously expected 48MP sensor.
    3. The Pixel 10 will include the Tensor G5 chip, 12GB of RAM, and storage options of 128GB or 256GB.
    4. The display will be a 6.3-inch FHD+ with improved brightness capabilities, reaching up to 3,000 nits.
    5. Battery capacity will increase to 4,970 mAh, but some features like Wi-Fi 7 and vapor chamber cooling will be missing compared to the Pixel 10 Pro.


    What was Google thinking? Let’s dive into the details. A new leak from Android Headlines reveals the final specifications for the standard Pixel 10 model, and they seem quite different from earlier reports. The camera improvements, or rather the lack thereof, appear to be more pronounced than anticipated compared to the Pixel 9, which is priced at $799 on Amazon. Previous leaks hinted at a camera setup featuring a 1/1.95-inch 50MP main camera, along with a 1/3.1-inch 13MP ultrawide and a 1/3.1-inch 11MP telephoto camera.

    Camera Changes

    The most recent leak, however, indicates a shift to a 48MP main camera, likely borrowing the same tech as the Pixel 9a. This points to a 1/2.0-inch sensor. Instead of the 48MP ultrawide previously mentioned, a 12MP sensor for ultrawide shots has been deemed adequate. The 1/3.2-inch sensor for the 5x telephoto lens seems to come straight from the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which will also be featured in the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. It remains uncertain if Google’s computational photography can make up for these hardware reductions, especially since some camera abilities will once more be exclusive to the Pixel 10 Pro.

    Other Upgrades

    Nonetheless, there are enhancements in other aspects, as we noted earlier today. The Pixel 10 is set to include the Tensor G5 chip, manufactured by TSMC using a 3nm process, alongside 12GB of RAM and storage options of 128 or 256GB. The display is a 6.3-inch FHD+ with Gorilla Glass Victus 2, expected to shine even brighter. High Brightness Mode (HBM) will increase from 1,800 nits to 2,000 nits, while peak brightness will rise from 2,700 nits to 3,000 nits. The battery capacity will see a bump from 4,700mAh to 4,970 mAh, and USB-C charging will max out at 29 watts, with Qi2 reaching up to 15 watts. Although features like Wi-Fi 7 and vapor chamber cooling might not be included, the Pixel 10 will show notable hardware differences when compared to the Pixel 10 Pro, even with the introduction of its new telephoto camera.

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  • Google Pixel 10 Series Leak: Major Display Upgrades Before Launch

    Google Pixel 10 Series Leak: Major Display Upgrades Before Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google acknowledges discomfort issues like headaches and eyestrain related to Pixel smartphones, particularly with the Pixel 9’s 120 Hz pulse-width modulation (PWM).
    2. The upcoming Pixel 10 series is expected to feature consistent 240 Hz PWM across all brightness settings, but it may still not be competitive.
    3. The Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL may reach 480 Hz PWM with brightness adjustments, improving their standing against competitors like the Galaxy S25 and iPhone 16.
    4. All Pixel 10 models will have at least a 200 nits increase in brightness compared to Pixel 9 models, enhancing display quality.
    5. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is expected to achieve up to 1,850 nits on its main display and 2,050 nits on its foldable screen, with a release set for August.


    It’s well-known that Google knows its Pixel smartphones can lead to discomfort like headaches and eyestrain for some users. For instance, the basic Pixel 9 (currently priced at $589 for refurbished models on Amazon) shows pulse-width modulation at a mere 120 Hz. In contrast, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL have improved this to 240 Hz, yet they still lag behind rivals like Apple, OnePlus, Xiaomi, and Samsung, among other Android manufacturers.

    Upcoming Improvements

    Earlier this year, we mentioned that Google promised enhancements for Pixel fans with the upcoming Pixel 10 series. Sadly, the company hasn’t provided any detailed information on this. As reported by Android Authority, it has been revealed that the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro Fold will feature a consistent 240 Hz across all brightness settings, which still isn’t very competitive and could lead to headaches.

    Comparing with Competitors

    On the other hand, the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL are expected to reach 480 Hz when adjusting brightness, aligning them more closely with the Galaxy S25 and iPhone 16 series. To put things into perspective, recent high-end devices from Honor, such as the Magic7 Pro, have PWM dimming values of 4,320 Hz, which should significantly reduce any health concerns tied to flickering screens.

    Brightness Enhancements

    According to Android Authority, every Pixel 10 model will enjoy at least a 200 nits increase in brightness compared to their Pixel 9 counterparts. Specifically, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is anticipated to achieve up to 1,850 nits on its main display and 2,050 nits when utilizing its foldable screen in bright conditions. Meanwhile, the Pixel 10 will reach 2,000 nits, while the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel Pro XL will offer 2,250 nits. Presently, Google is set to release the Pixel 10 series in August.

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  • Google Pixel 10: Key Camera, Cooling, and Network Features Lacking

    Google Pixel 10: Key Camera, Cooling, and Network Features Lacking

    Key Takeaways

    1. Performance Differences: The standard Pixel 10 lacks a vapor chamber for cooling, potentially impacting performance during demanding tasks compared to the Pro version.

    2. Connectivity Issues: The Pixel 10 may not support Wi-Fi 7, a feature present in the Pixel 9, despite both models using the same modem.

    3. Camera Features: Certain camera capabilities will be exclusive to the Pixel 10 Pro, including advanced stabilization and improved zoom features.

    4. Design Variations: The base Pixel 10 may have a different design aesthetic compared to the Pro, featuring contrasting materials like a matte frame and glossy back.

    5. Hardware Similarities: Both Pixel 10 models share the same Tensor G5 chipset, but the Pro version will offer additional features to justify its higher price.


    Since all the Pixel models, including the mid-range A-series, run on the same chipset, there has to be other features and differences to persuade customers to pay extra for the much pricier Pro version. In 2025, it appears that many features will still be reserved for the Pixel 10 Pro, even though the Pixel 10’s hardware could, in some situations, perform equally well. Let’s kick things off by looking at the physical differences that are genuinely hardware-related.

    Performance Discrepancies

    Much like the Pixel 9, the Tensor G5 in the standard Pixel 10 won’t have a vapor chamber for cooling. This could seriously affect how well it performs, especially under heavy stress and when running demanding applications, like games. Since TSMC will be making the new Tensor processor for the first time, there’s hope for enhanced power efficiency, but it’s likely that a performance gap will still be noticeable.

    Connectivity Concerns

    This limitation is surprising, particularly since the Pixel 9 (starting at $799 on Amazon) supports Wi-Fi 7. Reports from Android Headlines suggest that this feature will be missing in its successor, marking a significant step back. Whether this is factual is yet to be determined. Regardless, this omission would feel rather arbitrary, as the same modem is reportedly included in all Pixel 10 models, and it’s the same one found in the current Pixel 9.

    Camera Features and Design

    As usual with Google, there may be several artificial restrictions regarding the cameras. Alongside the hardware variations in the camera, some features will once again be exclusive to the Pixel 10 Pro. For instance, leaks indicate a new gimbal-like stabilization feature and “Ultra Res Zoom.” The latter is expected to enhance zoom quality even more than the previous “Super Res Zoom,” pushing well beyond the maximum 8x zoom currently available.

    The design may also hint at the different price ranges of Google’s upcoming devices. Similar to the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, there may be a matte frame with a glossy back cover, meaning the base model could feature a look that is the complete opposite of the Pro variant.

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