Tag: google

  • Google Acquires HTC Vive Business for Android XR Development

    Google Acquires HTC Vive Business for Android XR Development

    Google made headlines last year when it unveiled Android XR, an operating system designed for mixed reality headsets and smart glasses. Recently, the company shared exciting news about its collaboration with HTC’s VIVE division.

    Partnership Details

    In a blog post, Google revealed that it has formed a partnership with HTC, which involves a technical engineering team from HTC Vive joining their ranks. This team, known for its strong VR development expertise, will assist Google in speeding up the progress of Android XR.

    Sale of Business

    However, a report from Reuters has indicated that HTC is actually divesting a portion of its extended reality business to Google for $250 million. This transaction will also involve transferring some personnel to Google, consistent with Google’s earlier announcement. The deal is anticipated to conclude within this quarter.

    Clarification from HTC

    HTC has clarified that this agreement is not a complete buyout or an exclusive licensing deal. The company will retain rights to use and further develop the intellectual property that it has provided to Google.

    This marks the second time Google has taken ownership of part of HTC’s operations. The first instance was back in 2017, when Google acquired a segment of HTC’s smartphone division for $1.1 billion, which also led to some HTC workers transferring to Google.

    Upcoming Device Launch

    It has been confirmed that Samsung will be the first to release a device that runs on Android XR. This headset, codenamed Project Moohan, was showcased during the Galaxy Unpacked event for the Galaxy S25 series, but attendees were not permitted to interact with it.

    The device likely needs further software development, but the recent acquisition could expedite that process. It’s slated for launch later this year.

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  • Pixel 4a Update Causes Battery Issues; Google Offers $50 Solution

    Pixel 4a Update Causes Battery Issues; Google Offers $50 Solution

    In early January, Google released a support article announcing an update aimed at fixing battery issues for some Pixel 4a smartphones. Google clarified that this issue only impacts certain devices, meaning only those with specific serial numbers will get the update. The goal of the update is to improve battery performance consistency, but Google also warned that it could lead to decreased battery life and slower charging speeds.

    User Complaints Surge

    Recently, Reddit has seen a surge of complaints from unhappy users stating that their Pixel 4a has become nearly unusable after applying the update. One user shared that their battery drains completely after only 20 minutes of usage during a five-hour span. For others, the time it takes to charge has reportedly increased threefold since the update. Another user mentioned that the battery indicator has turned unreliable, showing random percentages like 1%, 56%, and 91% after rebooting, without any changes during actual use or while charging.

    Google’s Acknowledgment

    On its support page, Google has recognized that there could be problems with the battery indicator. However, the company has not yet identified the root cause of these battery issues affecting Pixel 4a devices. It is still unknown if avoiding the update carries any risks for users.

    Solutions Offered

    To pacify the discontented Pixel 4a customer base, Google is providing three options to address this frustrating situation — a complimentary battery replacement, $50 in compensation, or a $100 credit for purchases from the official Google Store. Affected users need to complete a registration form on Google’s support website and confirm their Pixel 4a’s serial number, as not all smartphones in that series are impacted and thus eligible for the offer.

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  • Google Pixel 10 Pro Concept Video: Bold Redesign & Upgrades

    Google Pixel 10 Pro Concept Video: Bold Redesign & Upgrades

    Google has made big changes to its main smartphone, the Pixel 9 Pro, and it looks like it might do the same with the next version. New leaks suggest that the upcoming Pixel 10 Pro will keep the horizontal camera layout found on the current model. A recent concept video from 4RMD gives us a glimpse of what the Pixel 10 Pro might look like if Google decides to go for a bolder redesign.

    Unique Camera Design

    The standout feature in the video is a vertical camera setup located in the center, which is similar to the larger, centrally placed camera module on the Sony Xperia 1 VI. This camera module includes three lenses arranged in the familiar Pixel traffic light style, along with an LED flash and a prominent Google logo. As is common with concept videos that are not based on leaked designs, the Pixel 10 Pro is depicted with very slim screen bezels.

    Display and Features

    The display integrates a fingerprint sensor that is subtly built into the screen, and it features a smaller punch-hole front camera situated in the middle, which is less prominent than that on the Pixel 9 Pro. The back and metal frame of the phone are shown in a variety of colors: white, black, red, and blue. The concept video also presents a wishlist of features, including Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, larger display sizes of 6.4 inches and 6.9 inches with a maximum HDR brightness reaching 4,000 nits, a bigger 5,300 mAh battery that supports 45-watt fast charging, and enhanced camera capabilities.

    Camera Specifications

    These camera enhancements consist of a 64 MP primary camera, a 64 MP ultra-wide camera, and a 64 MP periscope telephoto lens, which could potentially offer up to 50x zoom when combined with digital zoom. The new Tensor G5 ARM chip is also mentioned, although previous leaks have already provided various details about it. It’s important to note that the specifications outlined are merely a wishlist from the concept designer; whether the Pixel 10 Pro will actually get these upgrades is still uncertain. Nevertheless, the Pixel 10 series is anticipated to be launched in the summer of 2025.

    Source: Link

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  • New Rumor Suggests Google Gemini Live for Chrome Desktop

    New Rumor Suggests Google Gemini Live for Chrome Desktop

    Google might be looking to add Gemini Live to the desktop version of the Chrome browser. This speculation began when a user named @Leopeva64 shared information on X about a new button in the tab strip, codenamed GLIC.

    New Features in Chrome

    When users click this button, it seems to open a new floating window that comes with its own interface and settings. This feature would allow users to manage various options, including microphone permissions. This could suggest that Gemini Live is set to get its own area within Chrome soon.

    Currently, Google has kept its voice assistant mainly on mobile devices. Gemini Live, which debuted earlier this year, lets users engage in natural conversations with the AI. It offers multiple voice options and can even operate in the background while a phone is locked.

    Rumor and Speculation

    The button was discovered in the Chromium Gerrit, which is a code repository associated with the open-source Chromium project. Since the initial find, there have been updates, such as a special system tray icon and the option for users to set their own keyboard shortcuts. However, it’s important to remember that this information is still based on speculation, with GLIC being theorized to stand for Gemini Live in Chrome, and its accuracy remains uncertain.

    Source: Link

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  • Japan’s Antitrust Case May Find Google Guilty of Competition Violations

    Japan’s Antitrust Case May Find Google Guilty of Competition Violations

    Nikkei Asia has reported that Japan’s Fair Trade Commission plans to find Google guilty of violating the country’s antimonopoly regulations. The regulatory body has concluded that Google’s agreements with smartphone makers “unfairly limit competition” in the search industry.

    Unfair Contracts

    According to the watchdog, Google’s contracts contain conditions for the installation of its Search app and Chrome browser on Android devices, which could stifle competition in both the search and browser markets. Google is currently confronting multiple antimonopoly lawsuits globally, including in the United States.

    Legal Actions in the US

    Last month, the US government proposed that Google divest its Chrome and Android platforms in order to eliminate the company’s monopolistic influence on the search engine market. This proposal requires Google to sell Chrome and allow third-party access to its search engine at a minimal cost. The trial is set to occur in April 2025.

    Investigations in India

    In India, the Competition Commission is looking into Google following complaints from Winzo, a local real-money gaming company. Winzo claims that Google has exploited its dominant market position to disadvantage real-money gaming apps.

    Source: Link

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  • EU Investigation Sought by Price Comparison Sites Over Google Search Changes

    EU Investigation Sought by Price Comparison Sites Over Google Search Changes

    Last month, Google announced a range of updates to its Search platform to align with the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA). The tech giant claims it has implemented over 20 modifications, including specialized units and formats aimed at enhancing the visibility of comparison websites throughout Europe.

    Impact on Users and Businesses

    Google pointed out that the removal of certain features from Search, such as flight details and limited functions in clickable maps, has adversely affected users in Europe. The company reported that smaller businesses, including "airlines, hotel operators, and small retailers," are finding it more difficult to connect with customers, with some noting a drop in booking clicks of up to 30%.

    Testing New Formats

    Additionally, Google is pilot testing a new format resembling the older "ten blue links" style that was used in Germany, Belgium, and Estonia. Over the past three years, the search behemoth has engaged in dialogue with comparison services but has yet to establish a format that meets DMA requirements and is seen as favorable.

    Concerns from Comparison Websites

    In an open letter from last year, comparison websites expressed their concerns that Google continues to favor its own Comparison Shopping Services (CSS). They argue that paid results using CSS appear on search engine results pages (SERP), which effectively pushes their listings down unless they opt into Google’s CSS.

    In a recent open letter shared with Reuters, these websites emphasized that Google has "simply, repeatedly, ignored this feedback, and instead continued to iterate on the same non-compliant solution for months."

    Call for EU Action

    The comparison websites are calling on the EU to take action against Google, asking for "preliminary findings" and the imposition of fines, including ongoing penalty payments, to compel Google to finally heed their concerns and comply with regulations.

    Source: Link

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  • Google Pixel 9a Specs and Pricing Leaked Before Launch

    Google Pixel 9a Specs and Pricing Leaked Before Launch

    Google’s upcoming mid-range smartphone has been in the spotlight due to numerous leaks recently. Just two weeks after Google unveiled the Pixel 9 (currently priced at $622 on Amazon) along with its other flagship models, the first images of the Pixel 9a emerged. Since that time, the Pixel 9a has made several appearances, with the latest leaks surfacing earlier this month.

    New Specifications Revealed

    Android Headlines has released what it claims to be the ‘complete technical specifications’ of the device. Based on the information provided, the Pixel 9a will feature several updates compared to this year’s Pixel 8a, such as a larger chassis and a battery that is 13.5% bigger. Additionally, the smartphone will sport a 6.28-inch display, which is 0.18 inches wider diagonally than the display found on this year’s mid-range Pixel.

    Camera and Brightness Enhancements

    In terms of brightness, the HDR peak has been raised from 2,000 nits to 2,700 nits, although the maximum full panel brightness is capped at 1,800 nits. Google is reportedly replacing the main camera with a Samsung ISOCELL GN8 sensor, which offers a resolution of 48 MP with a 1/1.95-inch optical format. This means the Pixel 9a will have a smaller main camera compared to its predecessor. However, the 13 MP front-facing and ultra-wide-angle cameras will be retained from the Pixel 8a.

    Performance and Storage Options

    As anticipated, the upcoming Pixel A series smartphone will be equipped with a Tensor G4 chipset and come with 8 GB of RAM. The device is expected to be offered with storage options of 128 GB and 256 GB at the same prices as before, at least in the United States. Interestingly, the Pixel 9a might be the only smartphone launched by Google that runs on Android 15. For more technical details, please check the image below.

    Source: Link

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  • Google Urges FTC to Block Microsoft’s OpenAI Cloud Partnership

    Google Urges FTC to Block Microsoft’s OpenAI Cloud Partnership

    Google has requested the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to look into Microsoft’s exclusive cloud service deal with OpenAI. The Information, as reported by Reuters, indicates that this discussion took place while the FTC was probing Google about Microsoft’s business practices as part of a wider investigation.

    Microsoft and OpenAI’s Growing Partnership

    The alliance between Microsoft and OpenAI started back in 2019 when Microsoft made an initial investment of one billion dollars, which has now surged to $13 billion. In return for this investment, Microsoft gained exclusive rights to provide hosting for OpenAI’s services on its cloud platform. Notably, Microsoft intervened to prevent the ousting of Sam Altman last year.

    Shift from Non-Profit to For-Profit

    OpenAI was founded in 2015 as a non-profit research organization, but things took a turn with the establishment of OpenAI Global in 2019, which operates as a for-profit branch.

    According to a report from The Financial Times, OpenAI may be thinking about dropping a clause related to Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) in their agreement, which would have limited Microsoft’s access to more advanced models in exchange for additional investments. Recently, OpenAI rolled out a subscription plan priced at $200, named ChatGPT Pro, aimed at researchers and engineers.

    Impact on Competitors

    Competing companies in the cloud market, such as Google and Amazon, find themselves having to rent Microsoft’s servers, even if they are mainly focused on utilizing OpenAI’s technology. Microsoft’s rivals argue that this could lead to higher costs for consumers.

    Source: Link

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  • Google’s Willow Quantum Chip Completes 10-Septillion-Year Task in Minutes

    Google’s Willow Quantum Chip Completes 10-Septillion-Year Task in Minutes

    Google’s latest quantum processor, Willow, is creating a buzz due to its revolutionary error correction capabilities. It’s able to handle calculations that would take traditional supercomputers billions of years to complete. This 105-qubit chip represents a significant advancement in quantum computing, particularly in addressing the critical issue of quantum error rates.

    Advancements in Error Correction

    Willow effectively minimizes error rates by expanding its qubit grids from 3×3 to 7×7, achieving a 50% reduction in errors with each increase. This is the first instance where quantum systems have reached “below threshold” performance since Peter Shor introduced the idea of quantum error correction back in 1995.

    Incredible Performance

    In testing, Willow accomplished tasks in less than five minutes that would take roughly ten septillion years (10^25 years) on Frontier, one of the fastest supercomputers globally. The test utilized Random Circuit Sampling (RCS), known to be one of the most challenging benchmarks for quantum computers.

    Another impressive feature of Willow is its T1 times, which indicate how long qubits can maintain their state — now nearly 100 microseconds. This is five times better than earlier versions. Willow was developed at Google’s advanced quantum facility in Santa Barbara, one of the rare locations globally designed specifically for creating quantum chips.

    Aiming for Practicality

    However, Google’s efforts with Willow are not merely about showcasing impressive figures. They are also striving to transform quantum computing into a practical tool, seeking to evolve quantum supremacy into a solution for real-world challenges. Currently, Willow is employed in areas like scientific simulations and quantum system modeling, with future potential applications in enhancing AI training, drug discovery, and energy efficiency.

    Despite Willow representing a significant move toward commercially viable quantum computing, the technology remains in the experimental phase. Google is persistently refining it, concentrating not only on increasing the number of qubits but also ensuring that the technology is dependable and applicable for practical use.

    Source: Link

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  • Google Extends Bluetooth Switch Deadline for Stadia Controller

    Google Extends Bluetooth Switch Deadline for Stadia Controller

    When Google decided to close its Stadia game streaming service in early 2023, they gave users of the Stadia Controller a chance to transform it from a Wi-Fi controller to a Bluetooth controller, making it usable with other devices.

    Extension of Deadline

    Initially, the online tool designed for this conversion was set to be discontinued on December 31, 2023, but Google has pushed this date back to December 31, 2024. Recently, the tech giant has once again extended this deadline.

    New Conversion Date Announced

    The Stadia Controller webpage now indicates that users can convert their Wi-Fi controllers to Bluetooth mode until December 31, 2025, giving them an extra year. This conversion makes Wi-Fi functionality unusable, but users can still utilize USB mode.

    Pros and Cons of Switching

    Although switching to Bluetooth mode helps avoid the Stadia Controller becoming e-waste, there are some limitations. For instance, users cannot connect headphones through the 3.5mm audio jack or USB port because the Bluetooth Low Energy connection does not allow passthrough audio. However, if the controller is used in wired mode via the USB port on Windows or Android, the audio jack remains functional.

    Upon completion of the switch, the controller can be connected to various devices like Windows 10 and 11 PCs + Steam, macOS 13 + Steam, ChromeOS, and Android. Additionally, users can customize the functions of the Assistant and Capture buttons.

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