Google Maps has introduced a hands-free feature that allows users to interact with Gemini while walking or cycling. Users can ask questions like, "What are must-see attractions nearby?" or "Text Emily I’m 10 minutes behind," without disrupting their navigation. This serves to enhance real-time, conversational navigation alongside its existing features, including restaurant suggestions and neighborhood details. The feature is rolling out globally on iOS, with Android support coming soon.
Apple reported record Q1 earnings, surpassing expectations with iPhone revenue of $85.3 billion, beating forecasts of $78.3 billion. CEO Tim Cook warned of potential margin impacts due to a global memory shortage, projecting Q2 margins of 48-49%. Overall, Apple earned $2.84 per share on $143.8 billion in revenue, exceeding analyst predictions of $2.68 EPS on $138.4 billion. Additionally, China sales surged 38% to $25.5 billion, indicating a resurgence in that market.
Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, announced a collaboration between Google’s Gemini AI and the International Cricket Council (ICC) aimed at enhancing viewer engagement during cricket matches. Pichai stated, “Now Google can help with your Googly,” emphasizing the technology's ability to provide real-time insights and analytics. This partnership is expected to transform the way cricket is experienced by fans worldwide, reflecting Google’s commitment to innovation in sports tech.
New Mexico's trial against Meta emerges from "Operation MetaPhile," where investigators, posing as children, reported receiving explicit content. The lawsuit accuses Meta of purposely designing Facebook and Instagram to engage minors, despite acknowledging mental health risks. Internal documents reveal failures in safety measures like age verification. The state seeks damages and reforms for child safety. Meta denies the allegations and claims immunity under free-speech protections, stating it promotes safety improvements.
Google DeepMind unveils Project Genie, utilizing its advanced Genie 3 AI to create immersive, interactive worlds based on simple text or images. This innovative technology allows users to navigate imagined environments by walking, flying, or driving. The project showcases the AI's capability to redefine user experiences in virtual spaces, potentially revolutionizing the realms of gaming and simulation. As DeepMind states, “Genie 3 unlocks creative possibilities previously thought unattainable.”
OpenAI is reportedly developing a biometric-based social media platform aimed at eliminating bots and enhancing authentic interactions. A small team is exploring strict identity verification, possibly using tools like Apple’s Face ID or iris recognition. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has expressed concern over the prevalence of non-human accounts affecting discourse. While no launch date is confirmed, the initiative aims to compete in the saturated social media market dominated by platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Neuralink is poised to implant its Blindsight device in a human for the first time, subject to regulatory approval. Elon Musk explained that this brain interface aims to restore limited vision to fully blind patients, starting with low-resolution visual signals that improve over time. Musk anticipates a next-generation version by late 2026, featuring three times the capability, and a faster surgical robot that reduces implant time from 17 to 1.5 seconds. Blindsight could revolutionize blindness treatment and expand human sensory perception.
Google has dismantled IPIDEA, one of the world’s largest residential proxy networks, to stop cybercriminals and state-backed hackers from exploiting compromised consumer devices. Residential proxies allow attackers to mask malicious activity by routing traffic through infected home and mobile devices. Led by the Google Threat Intelligence Group, the operation involved legal action to seize control domains and new Android protections via Google Play Protect. Google says the takedown removed millions of compromised devices, shut down 13 proxy brands, and disrupted infrastructure linked to hundreds of Android apps and thousands of Windows files.
China aims to establish space-based AI data centers within five years to compete with Elon Musk’s SpaceX initiatives, according to state media reports. This strategic move highlights China's commitment to advancing its space technology capabilities. The new data centers will leverage artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency and operational processing in space, positioning China as a formidable player in aerospace and technology sectors. This development raises significant implications for the future of space-based services.
LinkedIn has rolled out a feature enabling users to highlight their “vibe coding” skills, marking a shift as AI transforms software development. By partnering with platforms like Replit and Lovable, LinkedIn automates certification updates based on user activity, allowing developers to reflect their real-time capabilities. These innovations, which Chief Executive Sundar Pichai endorses as enhancing software development, offer candidates a distinct advantage, especially as companies seek AI competency in prospective hires.