Google is set to establish an artificial intelligence data center in space, with initial test equipment scheduled for launch into orbit in early 2027.
The company’s scientists and engineers are confident about deploying a densely clustered array of around 80 solar-powered satellites at approximately 400 miles above the Earth, each outfitted with robust processors to cater to the escalating AI demands.
Google highlights the rapid decline in space launch costs, suggesting that by the mid-2030s, operating space-based data centers may become as affordable as their terrestrial counterparts. The study was made public on Tuesday.
Utilizing satellites could significantly lessen the impact on land and water resources that are currently required for cooling ground-based data centers.
Once operational in orbit, the data center will harness solar energy and aim to achieve up to eight times the productivity of grounded facilities. However, launching a single rocket into orbit emits hundreds of tons of CO.2.
Astronomers have expressed concerns about the burgeoning number of satellites in low-Earth orbit, describing it as “akin to a bug on a windshield” when observing the cosmos.
The envisioned data centers under Project Suncatcher would use optical links for data transmission, primarily leveraging light or laser beams.
Major technology firms aiming for swift advancements in AI are projected to invest $3 trillion (£2.3 trillion) in data centers worldwide, ranging from India to Texas and Lincolnshire to Brazil. This surge in spending raises alarms regarding the carbon footprint if sustainable energy solutions are not sourced for these facilities.
“In the future, space might be the ideal environment for advancing AI computing,” stated Google.
“In light of this, our new research initiative, Project Suncatcher, envisions a compact array of solar-powered satellites utilizing Google TPUs and linked through free-space optical connections. This strategy has significant scaling potential and minimal impact on terrestrial resources.”
TPUs are specialized processors designed for AI model training and routine use. Free-space optical connections enable wireless communication.
Elon Musk, who oversees satellite internet provider Starlink and the SpaceX rocket program, announced last week that his company would begin expanding efforts to develop data centers in space.
Nvidia AI chips are anticipated to be launched into space later this month in collaboration with startup Starcloud.
“Space provides virtually limitless low-cost renewable energy,” commented Philip Johnston, co-founder of the startup. “The environmental cost occurs only at launch, and over the lifespan of the data center, there’s a tenfold reduction in carbon dioxide compared to ground-based power.”
Google aims to deploy two prototype satellites by early 2027, referring to the research findings as “the first milestone toward scalable space-based AI.”
However, the company cautions that “substantial engineering challenges persist, including thermal management, high-bandwidth ground communications, and the reliability of systems in orbit.”
Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite, has come to a “comprehensive settlement” with Google, which may mark the end of a legal dispute lasting five years regarding Google’s Play Store for Android applications, as stated in joint legal filings by both parties.
Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic, hailed the settlement as a “fantastic offer” in a post on social media.
In documents submitted on Tuesday to the federal court in San Francisco, both Google and Epic Games noted that the settlement “enables the parties to set aside their differences while fostering a more dynamic and competitive Android environment for users and developers.”
Epic secured a significant legal victory over Google earlier this summer when a federal appeals court upheld a jury’s verdict declaring the Android app store an illegal monopoly. The unanimous decision opens the door for federal judges to potentially mandate substantial restructuring to enhance consumer choices.
While the specific settlement terms remain confidential and require approval from U.S. District Judge James Donato, both companies provided an overview of the agreement in their joint filing. A public hearing is set for Thursday.
The settlement appears to align closely with the October 2024 ruling by Donato, which directed Google to dismantle barriers that protect the Android app store from competition. It also includes a provision requiring the company’s app stores to support the distribution of competing third-party app stores, allowing users to download apps freely.
Google had aimed to reverse these decisions through appeal, but the ruling from the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in July posed a significant challenge to the tech giant, which is now facing three separate antitrust cases that could impact various aspects of its internet operations.
In 2020, Epic Games launched a lawsuit against both Google’s Play Store and Apple’s iPhone App Store, seeking to bypass proprietary payment processing systems that impose fees ranging from 15% to 30% on in-app transactions. The proposed settlement put forth on Tuesday aims to decrease those fees to a range between 9% and 20%, depending on the specific agreement.
Google has introduced its third-generation foldable phone, now the first completely waterproof and dustproof model on the market. It’s touted as being more robust than any existing phone, featuring cutting-edge AI and a collection of adaptive cameras.
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold enhances last year’s highly praised 9 Pro Fold by eliminating the hinge mechanism along the spine. This improvement addresses the dust issue that has plagued previous foldable devices, thereby elevating its usability beyond that of typical flat phones.
However, similar to other foldable smartphones, the Pixel comes with a hefty price tag of £1,749 (€1,899/$1,799/AU$2,699), significantly higher than the £1,199 Pixel 10 Pro XL and comparable to the similarly priced Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.
According to Google, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold’s innovative gearless hinge can endure over ten years of folding. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Beyond the enhanced durability, there are minimal design modifications compared to the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The outer display is marginally larger due to slimmer bezels, and both screens are a bit brighter. When closed, the Fold is perfectly shaped for mobile tasks, while its spacious internal screen elegantly accommodates two full-sized apps side-by-side.
Nonetheless, the Pixel feels quite hefty and somewhat bulky in contrast to Samsung’s unexpectedly slim and lightweight Z Fold 7. Weighing in at 258g, it’s comfortable to handle and fits in your pocket, yet remains notably thicker than standard phones and its modern competitors.
The inclusion of Qi2 charging compatibility enhances its versatility with various magnetic accessories, including the Superior Magnetic Accessories. Twelve South Curve Nano stand (left) and QDOS SnapStand Qi2 Charger (right). Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The Fold operates on the same Google Tensor G5 chip utilized across the Pixel 10 lineup, equipped with 16GB of RAM and a minimum of 256GB of storage. Its performance aligns with that of the Pixel 10 Pro, providing snappy responsiveness and managing tasks effortlessly. Nonetheless, for the top frame rates in high-end gaming, a device with Qualcomm’s premier Snapdragon chip has an advantage.
As with all foldable models, the Fold’s battery life shifts significantly based on which display you predominantly use. With approximately 5 hours of active screen time on a bright day, evenly split between the inner and outer displays while mostly on Wi-Fi, the Pixel achieved around 38-40 hours between charges. On heavily 5G days with extensive screen usage, it lasted about 28 hours, concluding the day with 25% battery remaining. While this isn’t unacceptable, it certainly lags behind its top competitors and larger screens such as the Pixel 10 Pro XL.
To achieve a full charge, it takes 90 minutes and reaches 50% in just 30 minutes with a 30W or higher USB-C power adapter (sold separately). It also supports 15W Qi2 wireless charging. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Water Resistance: IP68 (30 minutes at a depth of 1.5 meters)
Dimensions when folded: 155.2×76.3×10.8mm
Unfolded Dimensions: 155.2×150.4×5.2mm
Weight: 258g
Android 16, Magic Cue, Gemini
If you’re running two apps simultaneously on your screen, you can slide one out of the way for additional space. Tap it to restore the app to full screen. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The Fold operates on the same Android 16 software found across the Pixel 10 Pro lineup, featuring a vibrant and colorful exterior while integrating advanced AI tools throughout the device.
Key features include the Gemini chatbot, which can observe and interpret user interactions, engage with different apps, and overall provide greater utility. Additionally, there’s an innovative real-time translation system for calls, replicating the caller’s voice directly.
A notable addition is Magic Cue, a discreet assistant that functions in the background, synthesizing information from various Google services and presenting it when pertinent. For example, if a friend texts asking for flight details, it can suggest corresponding information from your calendar for easy sharing. Likewise, when contacting a business, relevant order details from Gmail are displayed in your phone app.
Moreover, the Fold has been optimized to fully utilize the expansive internal display. A taskbar at the bottom facilitates quick app placement into split screen mode. Similar to the Honor Magic V5 and OnePlus Open, it allows for resizing apps across the screen’s borders, offering increased adaptability when multitasking with two apps.
The Fold also includes subscriptions for Google AI Pro at £19 a month for the first year, granting access to more robust Gemini AI models along with 2TB of cloud storage for photos, documents, and emails. The device is also eligible for software updates until October 2032.
Sustainability
The recycled aluminum framework offers a premium and sturdy feel. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The battery is rated to endure over 1,000 full charging cycles, maintaining at least 80% of its original capacity. The phone can be repaired by Google, at third-party services, or through self-repair options with available manuals.
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold comprises 29% recycled materials by weight, including aluminum, cobalt, copper, glass, gold, plastic, rare earth elements, tin, and tungsten. The company provides insights on the lifecycle impacts of its products in its report and offers to recycle old devices for free.
Camera
The camera application offers multiple functionality modes, but shooting images is most efficient when the Pixel is closed, much like a traditional smartphone. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The 10 Pro Fold features a camera system comparable to last year’s 9 Pro Fold and the new Pixel 10. It includes a 48MP primary camera, a 10.5MP ultra-wide camera, a 10.8MP 5x telephoto camera that can outperform rivals in its class, along with two 10MP selfie cameras.
The primary camera captures excellent images across various conditions, though some blurriness and graininess may occur in low-light scenarios. Google’s Night Mode remains the industry’s best for darker environments. The ultra-wide-angle camera performs well, and the 5x optical zoom telephoto lens effectively closes distances to subjects, although detail may falter in less-than-ideal lighting. While the camera consistently delivers high-quality photos and videos, it doesn’t entirely meet the high standards expected from the Pixel 10 Pro line at this price point.
The Fold comes with unique features such as the ability to utilize the main camera for selfies, alongside various shooting modes that engage both displays while at a partially folded position. A captivating “Made You Look” option plays a lively animation on the outer screen that captures your child’s attention, allowing you to seize the perfect moment. Regrettably, this feature employs one of the selfie cameras instead of the primary one, prioritizing fun over quality.
Price
Pricing for the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold starts at £1,749 (€1,899/$1,799/2,699 AUD).
For reference, the Pixel 10 is priced at £799, the Pixel 10 Pro at £999, and the Pixel 10 Pro XL at £1,199. In comparison, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 retails for £1,799, while the Honor Magic V5 is available for £1,699.99.
Verdict
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold represents a subtle improvement over last year’s exceptional 9 Pro Fold, but its true influence may unfold in the future. As the first genuinely dustproof foldable device, it establishes a new durability standard, gradually aligning itself with conventional flat phones.
That said, the inner screen is inherently softer than regular tempered glass to accommodate folding, necessitating careful handling to avoid marks.
The addition of Qi2 magnetic accessories and charging support is a valuable enhancement for the Fold, as it is across other Pixel models. This phone offers impressive speed, reasonable battery life, efficient software, and leading-edge AI capabilities. The camera is competent for foldable devices, though it doesn’t quite match up to regular smartphones.
The Pixel does a commendable job of functioning as a standard phone when closed and a versatile tablet when expanded, though it is bulkier and heavier than the noticeably sleeker Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.
Pros: Combines the functionality of a phone and tablet, waterproof and dust resistant, supports Qi2 magnetic accessories and charging, fantastic tablet display, powerful performance, excellent camera with 5x zoom, rich AI features including Magic Cue, accompanied by a year of Google AI Pro service, and 7 years of software updates.
Cons: High price point, more fragile than standard devices, costly repairs, thicker and heavier, the camera doesn’t rival the regular Pixel 10 Pro, battery performance could improve, and lacks advanced features for power users in comparison to competitors.
In its closed form, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold approximates the size of an ordinary smartphone. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
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Google’s Quantum Computing Willow Chip
Google Quantum AI
Researchers at Google Quantum AI have leveraged Willow quantum computers to enhance the interpretation of data sourced from nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy—an essential research method within chemistry and biology. This significant advancement may open new horizons for the application of quantum computing in various molecular technologies.
While quantum computers have been most effectively demonstrated in cryptographic contexts, current devices face limitations in scale and error rates that hinder their competence in decryption tasks. However, they show promise in expediting the discovery of new drugs and materials, which align with the fundamentally quantum nature of many scientific procedures. Hartmut Neven and colleagues at Google Quantum AI have showcased one instance where quantum computers can mimic the complex interactions found in natural processes.
The investigation centered on a computational method known as quantum echo and its application to NMR, a technique utilized to extract detailed information regarding molecular structures.
At its core, the concept of quantum echoes is akin to the butterfly effect. This phenomenon illustrates how minor perturbations—like the flap of a butterfly’s wings—can trigger substantial changes in broader systems. The researchers exploited a quantum approach within a system made up of 103 qubits in Willow.
During the experiment, the team executed a specific sequence of operations to alter the quantum state of a qubit in a manageable way. They then selected one qubit to disrupt, acting as a “quantum butterfly,” and employed the identical sequence of operations, effectively reversing time. Finally, the researchers evaluated the quantum characteristics of the qubits to extract insights regarding the entire system.
In a basic sense, the NMR technique applied in the lab also hinges on minor disturbances; it nudges actual molecules using electromagnetic waves and examines the system’s reactions to ascertain atomic positions—similar to using a molecular ruler. If the operations on qubits can replicate this process, the mathematical scrutiny of the qubits can likewise be translated into molecular structural details. This series of quantum computations could potentially enable the examination of atoms that are relatively distant from one another, said team member Tom O’Brien. “We’re constructing longer molecular rulers.”
The researchers believe that a protocol akin to quantum echoes would require approximately 13,000 times longer on a conventional supercomputer. Their tests indicated that two distinct quantum systems could successfully perform a quantum echo and yield identical outcomes—a notable achievement given the inconsistencies faced in previous quantum algorithms supported by the team. O’Brien noted that enhancements in the quality of Willow’s hardware and reduced qubit error rates have contributed to this success.
Nonetheless, there remains ample opportunity for refinement. In their utilization of Willow and quantum echoes for two organic molecules, the researchers operated with a mere 15 qubits at most, yielding results comparable to traditional non-quantum methods. In essence, the team has not yet demonstrated a definitive practical edge for Willow over conventional systems. This current exhibition of quantum echo remains foundational and has not been subjected to formal peer review.
“Addressing molecular structure determination is crucial and pertinent,” states Keith Fratus from HQS Quantum Simulations, a German company focused on quantum algorithms. He emphasizes that bridging established techniques such as NMR with calculations executed by quantum computers represents a significant milestone, though the technology’s immediate utility might be confined to specialized research in biology.
Doris Sels, a professor at New York University, remarked that their team’s experiments involve larger quantum computers and more complex NMR protocols and molecules than prior models. “Quantum simulation is often highlighted as a promising application for quantum computers, yet there are surprisingly few examples with industrial relevance. I believe model inference of spectroscopic data like NMR could prove beneficial,” she added. “We’re not quite there, but initiatives like this inspire continued investigation into this issue.”
O’Brien expressed optimism that the application of quantum echo to NMR will become increasingly beneficial as they refine qubit performance. Fewer errors mean a greater capability to execute more operations simultaneously and accommodate larger molecular structures.
Meanwhile, the quest for optimal applications of quantum computers is ongoing. While the experimental implementation of quantum echoes on Willow is remarkable, the mathematical analysis it facilitates may not achieve widespread adoption, according to Kurt von Keyserlingk at King’s College London. Until NMR specialists pivot away from traditional methods cultivated over decades, he suggests that its primary allure will lie with theoretical physicists focused on fundamental quantum system research. Furthermore, this protocol may face competitive challenges from conventional computing methods, as von Keyserlingk has already pondered how traditional computing might rival this approach.
Google has announced a significant breakthrough in quantum computing, having developed an algorithm capable of performing tasks that traditional computers cannot achieve.
This algorithm, which serves as a set of instructions for guiding the operations of a quantum computer, has the ability to determine molecular structures, laying groundwork for potential breakthroughs in areas like medicine and materials science.
However, Google recognizes that the practical application of quantum computers is still several years away.
“This marks the first occasion in history when a quantum computer has successfully performed a verifiable algorithm that surpasses the power of a supercomputer,” Google stated in a blog post. “This repeatable, beyond-classical computation establishes the foundation for scalable verification and moves quantum computers closer to practical utilization.”
Michel Devore, Google’s chief scientist for quantum AI, who recently received the Nobel Prize in Physics, remarked that this announcement represents yet another milestone in quantum developments. “This is a further advancement towards full-scale quantum computing,” he noted.
The algorithmic advancement, allowing quantum computers to function 13,000 times faster than classical counterparts, is documented in a peer-reviewed article published in the journal Nature.
One expert cautioned that while Google’s accomplishments are impressive, they revolve around a specific scientific challenge and may not translate to significant real-world benefits. Results for two molecules were validated using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), akin to MRI technology, yielding insights not typically provided by NMR.
Winfried Hensinger, a professor of quantum technology at the University of Sussex, mentioned that Google has achieved “quantum superiority”, indicating that researchers have utilized quantum computers for tasks unattainable by classical systems.
Nevertheless, fully fault-tolerant quantum computers—which could undertake some of the most exciting tasks in science—are still far from realization, as they would necessitate machines capable of hosting hundreds of thousands of qubits (the basic unit of information in quantum computing).
“It’s crucial to recognize that the task achieved by Google isn’t as groundbreaking as some world-changing applications anticipated from quantum computing,” Hensinger added. “However, it represents another compelling piece of evidence that quantum computers are steadily gaining power.”
A truly capable quantum computer able to address a variety of challenges would require millions of qubits, but current quantum hardware struggles to manage the inherent instability of qubits.
“Many of the most intriguing quantum computers being discussed necessitate millions or even billions of qubits,” Hensinger explained. “Achieving this is even more challenging with the type of hardware utilized by the authors of the Google paper, which demands cooling to extremely low temperatures.”
Hartmut Neven, Google’s vice president of engineering, stated that quantum computers may be five years away from practical application, despite advances in an algorithm referred to as Quantum Echo.
“We remain hopeful that within five years, Quantum Echo will enable real-world applications that are solely feasible with quantum computers,” he said.
As a leading AI company, Google also asserts that quantum computers can generate unique data capable of enhancing AI models, thereby increasing their effectiveness.
Traditional computers represent information in bits (denoted by 0 or 1) and send them as electrical signals. Text messages, emails, and even Netflix movies streamed on smartphones consist of these bits.
Contrarily, information in a quantum computer is represented by qubits. Found within compact chips, these qubits are particles like electrons or photons that can exist in multiple states simultaneously—a concept known as superposition in quantum physics.
This characteristic enables qubits to concurrently encode various combinations of 1s and 0s, allowing computation of vast numbers of different outcomes, an impossibility for classical computers. Nonetheless, maintaining this state requires a strictly controlled environment, free from electromagnetic interference, as disturbances can easily disrupt qubits.
Progress by companies like Google has led to calls for governments and industries to implement quantum-proof cryptography, as cybersecurity experts caution that these advancements have the potential to undermine sophisticated encryption.
Using explicit language in your Google searches can help reduce the frequency of unwanted AI-generated summaries. Some applications also provide options to disable artificial intelligence features.
You might consider not utilizing ChatGPT, steering clear of AI-integrated software, or avoiding interactions with chatbots altogether. You can disregard Donald Trump’s deepfake posts, and find alternatives to Tilly the AI actor.
As AI becomes more widespread, so do concerns regarding its associated risks and the resistance to its omnipresence.
Dr. Kobi Raines, a specialist in AI management and governance, emphasizes that healthcare professionals often feel compelled to utilize AI.
She mentioned that she preferred not to use AI transcription software for her child’s appointment, but was informed that the specialist required it due to time constraints and suggested she seek services elsewhere if she disagreed.
“There is individual resistance, but there are also institutional barriers. The industry is advocating for the use of these tools in ways that may not be sensible,” she states.
Where is the AI?
AI is deeply embedded in digital frameworks.
It’s integrated into tools like ChatGPT, Google’s AI repository, and Grok, the controversial chatbot developed by Elon Musk. It informs smartphones, social media platforms, and navigation systems.
Additionally, it’s now part of customer service, finance, and online dating, impacting how resumes, job applications, rental requests, and lawsuits are evaluated.
AI is expected to further integrate into the healthcare sector, easing administrative workloads for physicians and aiding in disease diagnoses.
A University of Melbourne Global Studies report released in April noted that half of Australians engage with AI regularly or semi-regularly, yet only 36% express trust in it.
Professor Paul Salmon, deputy director of the Center for Human Factors and Socio-Technical Systems at the University of the Sunshine Coast, highlights that avoiding AI is becoming increasingly challenging.
“In professional environments, there’s often pressure to adopt it,” he shares.
“You either feel excluded or are informed you will be.”
Should we avoid using AI?
Concerns include privacy violations, biases, misinformation, fraudulent use, loss of human agency, and lack of transparency—just a few risks highlighted in MIT’s AI risk database.
It warns about AIs potentially pursuing objectives conflicting with human goals and values, which could lead to hazardous capabilities.
Greg Sadler, CEO of Good Ancestors charity and co-coordinator of Australians for AI Safety, frequently references the database and advises caution, stating, “Never use AI if you don’t trust its output or are apprehensive about it retaining information.”
Additionally, AI has a sizable energy footprint. Google’s emissions rose by over 51%, partly because of the energy demands of its data centers that facilitate AI operations.
The International Energy Agency predicts that electricity consumption by data centers could double from 2022 levels by 2026. Research indicates that by 2030, data centers may consume 4.5% of the world’s total energy production.
How can I avoid using AI?
AI Overview features a “Profanity Trigger.” If you inquire on Google, “What is AI?” its Gemini AI interface may provide a bland or sometimes inaccurate response, acting as an “answer engine” rather than a “search engine.”
However, posing the question, “What exactly is AI?” will yield more targeted search results along with relevant links.
There are a variety of browser extensions capable of blocking AI-related sites, images, and content.
To bypass certain chatbots, you can attempt to engage a human by repeating words like “urgent” and “emergency” or using the term “blancmange,” a popular dessert across Europe.
“Why not implement a kill switch?” he questions. The issue, he claims, is that AI is so deeply entrenched in our lives that “it’s no longer something you can easily switch off.”
“As AI continues to seep into every facet of our existence, it’s imperative to ask ourselves: Do we still have the freedom to refuse?”
“The real concern is not whether we can coexist with AI, but whether we possess the right to live without it before it becomes too late to break away.”
What does the future hold for AI?
Globally, including in Australia, governments are grappling with AI, its implications, potential, and governance challenges.
The federal government faces mounting pressure to clarify its regulatory approach as major tech firms seek access to journalism, literature, and other resources necessary for training their AI models.
Notably, three out of five experts believe AI does not present an existential threat.
Among those who express concerns, Aaron J. Snoswell of the Queensland University of Technology opines that the transformative nature of AI is not due to its potential intelligence but rather to “human decisions about how to construct and utilize these tools.”
Sarah Vivian Bentley of CSIRO concurs that the effectiveness of AI is dictated by its operators, while Simon Coghlan of the University of Melbourne argues that despite the worries and hype, evidence remains scant that superintelligent AI capable of global devastation will emerge anytime soon.
Conversely, Nyusha Shafiabadi of Australian Catholic University warns that although current systems possess limited capabilities, they are gradually acquiring features that could facilitate widespread exploitation and present existential risks.
Moreover, Saydari Mirjalili, an AI professor at Torrens University in Australia, expresses greater concern that humans might wield AI destructively—through militarization—rather than AI autonomously taking over.
Raines mentions she employs AI tools judiciously, utilizing them only where they add value.
“I understand the environmental impacts and have a passion for writing. With a PhD, I value the process of writing,” she shares.
“The key is to focus on what is evidence-based and meaningful. Avoid becoming ensnared in the hype or the apocalyptic narratives.
“We believe it’s complex and intelligent enough to accommodate both perspectives, implying these tools can yield both beneficial and detrimental outcomes.”
Google is encountering mandatory changes in its search operations within the UK, following the competition regulator’s decision to grant the company special status and impose stricter regulations.
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has confirmed that Google holds a “strategic market position” (SMS) in both search and search advertising. This classification indicates that the company wields sufficient market power to necessitate a unique regulatory framework.
The regulator now has the authority to mandate alterations in how Google conducts business in these sectors, as per new digital legislation. This announcement on Friday marks the first time a tech company has been recognized with an SMS designation.
The CMA has already indicated several potential changes, such as providing internet users with the option to select a different search service through a “choice screen.” This could include AI-driven competitors like Perplexity and ChatGPT among the available options.
The CMA is also looking to ensure equitable ranking of search results and to provide publishers with greater control over the usage of their content, including responses generated by AI. Features such as AI Overview and AI Mode powered by Google’s AI are also included under the SMS classification.
The CMA clarified that its ruling does not imply any wrongdoing and that no immediate actions will be enforced. However, this year it intends to initiate discussions regarding potential alterations to Google’s operations.
Will Hayter, executive director of digital markets at the CMA, asserted that enhancing competition in realms like search and search advertising—which involves advertisers paying to appear in users’ search results—could foster new business opportunities and stimulate investment throughout the UK economy.
He stated: “Over 90% of searches in the UK are executed on Google’s platform, underscoring Google’s continued strategic role in search and search advertising.” He added, “In response to the feedback we received post our proposed decision, we have today designated Google’s search service with a strategic market position.”
Oliver Bethel, Google’s senior director of competition, expressed concerns that this decision might jeopardize UK users’ access to emerging products and services.
He commented: “Several of the intervention ideas proposed in this process could hinder innovation and growth in the UK, potentially delaying product introductions at a time when AI-based advancements are rapidly progressing.”
Tom Smith, a competition lawyer at Geradin Partners and former CMA legal director, noted that there is a substantial case against Google.
He remarked: “There exists a clear basis for eliminating some of the market distortions caused by Google’s monopolistic stance. This has already been addressed in the US and EU. Today’s ruling empowers the CMA to take similar action.”
In a separate inquiry, the CMA is evaluating whether Google’s and Apple’s mobile platforms should be classified as SMS-enabled under the newly established digital regulatory framework outlined in the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024.
After successfully countering the US Department of Justice’s challenge regarding illegal monopoly in online searches, Google now faces another threat to its internet dominance in a trial centered around potentially abusive digital advertising practices.
This trial, which commenced on Monday in Alexandria, Virginia, focuses on the detrimental ruling by US District Judge Leonie Brinkema in April, who deemed certain aspects of Google’s digital advertising technology as an illegal monopoly. The judge concluded that Google’s actions were reducing competition and harming online publishers who depend on this system for revenue.
Over the next two weeks, Google and the Justice Department will present evidence in court and seek rulings on how to restore competitive market conditions, in what is being referred to as a “relief” trial according to Judge Brinkema.
As the Justice Department progresses, Brinkema has instructed Google to divest parts of its advertising technology. Google’s legal team argues that this could lead to “confusion and damage” to consumers and the overall internet ecosystem. However, the Justice Department contends that this is the most efficient and immediate approach to dismantling monopolies that have stifled competition and innovation for years.
“The goal of the relief is to take necessary steps to restore competition,” stated Julia Tarver Wood from the DOJ’s antitrust division during the opening remarks.
Wood accused Google of manipulating the market in a manner that conflicts with the principles of free competition.
“The means of fraud are hidden within computer code and algorithms,” Wood remarked.
In response, Google’s attorney Karen Dunn argued that the proposed government intervention was unreasonable and extreme, asserting that the DOJ aimed to eliminate Google from the competitive landscape entirely.
The Justice Department is “advocating for a solution that addresses a past overshadowed by technological advances and market shifts in digital advertising consumption,” Google’s attorneys contended during the trial.
Regardless of the judges’ verdict, Google plans to appeal any earlier decisions labeling its advertising networks as a monopoly, although an appeal can only proceed once a remedy is established.
This case was initiated under the Biden administration in 2023 and threatens the intricate network that Google has built over the last 17 years to bolster its dominant position in the digital advertising sector. Digital ad sales contribute significantly to the $350 billion revenue generated by Google’s services division for its parent company, Alphabet Inc.
Google asserts that it has made considerable adjustments to its “advertising manager” system, including more transparency and options for pricing, to address concerns highlighted in the judge’s ruling.
Google’s legal struggle regarding its advertising technology signifies another confrontation, following a recent case in which a federal judge condemned the major search engine as an illegal monopoly, leading to Remedy Hearings earlier this year aimed at combatting fraud.
In that scenario, the Justice Department suggested a strict enforcement measure that would mandate Google to sell its widely-used Chrome browser. However, US District Judge Amit Mehta opted for a more measured approach in a recent ruling that reshaped the search market, which is undergoing changes driven by artificial intelligence technology.
Google opposed all aspects of Mehta’s ruling, yet the outcome was generally perceived as a mere slap on the wrist. This sentiment contributed to a surge in Alphabet’s stock price, yielding a 20% increase since Mehta’s decision, elevating the company’s market valuation to over $3 trillion, making it one of only four publicly traded companies to achieve such a milestone.
With indications that the results of the Search Monopoly case could significantly impact advertising technology practices, Judge Brinkema has instructed both Google and the Department of Justice to incorporate Mehta’s decision into their arguments in forthcoming trials.
As seen in previous search cases, Google’s legal representatives have already asserted in court documents that the AI technologies applied by competitors in ad networks, like those operated by Meta, have transformed market dynamics, making a “radical” approach proposed by the Justice Department unnecessary.
Google has announced plans to invest £5 billion in the UK over the next two years to aid the government and address the increasing demand for artificial intelligence services.
With the opening of a new data centre in Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, this investment is anticipated to create thousands of jobs.
Prime Minister Rachel Reeves is focusing on stimulating growth amid challenges facing the UK economy, stating that research and development, capital expenditures, and engineering investments are a show of “voting for trust” in the UK economy.
US President Donald Trump began his official state visit to the UK on Tuesday, coinciding with announcements of significant investments in UK data centres from ChatGpt parent OpenAI and chipmaker Nvidia.
On Tuesday, Google disclosed that it plans to allocate £5 billion towards capital expenditures, research and development, and associated engineering efforts over the coming two years, which includes “pioneering” AI research in science and healthcare via Google Deepmind.
The Silicon Valley firm stated that the investment will foster the UK’s AI economy, spearheading technological advancements, enhancing cybersecurity, and generating jobs.
Google anticipates that the investment will create 8,250 jobs annually for UK companies.
Reeves will formally inaugurate the company’s first UK data centre at Waltham Cross on Tuesday, responding to rising demand for Google’s cloud, workspace, search, and map services.
Google has also announced a partnership with Shell to manage the UK’s renewable energy resources.
According to The Guardian, the new Google DataCentre in Essex is projected to emit over 500,000 tonnes of CO2 each year.
Reeves will also facilitate a meeting with leaders of top US and UK financial companies on Tuesday, jointly hosted with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bescent and attended by senior representatives from BlackRock, Barclays, and Blackstone.
Trump is set to visit the UK for two days starting Wednesday, featuring several business sessions and a state banquet with prominent tech leaders and senior ministers. The US President will subsequently head to Checker on Thursday for a business reception, lunch, and press conference with Keir Starmer.
Google’s £5 billion investment aims to mobilize approximately $850 billion from investors in July for the 2025 fiscal year, reflecting a significant rise in capital expenditure budgets compared to previous £750 billion forecasts.
On Monday, parent company Alphabet joined the ranks of firms beyond the $30 billion market cap, alongside giants like Nvidia, Microsoft, and Apple.
Alphabet’s shares surged earlier this month following a court decision that softened the most stringent rulings sought by US competition regulators, including the potential forced sale of Chrome browsers.
Reeves commented: “Google’s £5 billion investment is a considerable display of confidence in the UK economy and the robustness of its partnership with the US, promising job creation and economic growth in the coming years.
“This government is reversing decades of neglect that have restricted our growth by addressing the burdensome deficit, implementing transformational reforms in our planning systems, and investing in advanced technologies to unlock better employment opportunities.”
“We’re committed to delivering a range of services to our clients,” said Demis Hassabis, co-founder and CEO of Google Deepmind.
“The UK has a rich tradition of being at the forefront of technological advancement, from Lovelace to Babbage and Turing, making it fitting for its legacy to continue by investing in the next wave of innovation and scientific discovery in the UK.”
The Pixel 10 Pro stands out as Google’s premier smartphone, compact yet powerful, enhancing the capabilities of the already impressive Pixel 10 and raising the bar in the camera category.
This model competes closely with Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro, delivering the finest Google hardware without the bulk of a large display. It’s also the most affordable among the trio of Pixel 10 phones, starting at £999 (€1,099/$999/$1,699), with the larger XL and tablet variants hybridizing 10 folds.
The 10 Pro bears a familiar resemblance to its predecessor, featuring a 6.3-inch OLED display that matches the Pixel 10 in size but is notably brighter, smoother, and sharper. As one of the top displays in the mobile realm, its refined aluminum edges and matte glass back exude a premium feel, though the color options are somewhat conservative compared to its less expensive counterparts.
With Qi2 support, magnetic chargers and accessories, such as the sleek Anker 5K Maggo, can effortlessly attach to the device’s back. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The 10 Pro is among the first devices to incorporate Qi2 wireless charging, allowing compatibility with a variety of magnetic accessories, including those designed for Apple’s MagSafe.
Under the hood lies Google’s latest Tensor G5 chip, offering approximately 35% improved speed over last year’s iteration, though it does not quite match the performance of Qualcomm’s top Android chips found in competing devices. The 10 Pro delivers a smooth user experience and performs well for gaming, although those seeking top-tier graphics may want to explore other options.
Boasting solid battery life, the Pixel enables a mix of 5G and WiFi usage lasting up to two days, with around 7 hours of active screen time. Most users will find they need to charge it every other day, but I managed to get through a heavy usage day in London, ending with approximately 25% battery remaining by midnight.
The Pixel 10 Pro fully charges in about 90 minutes with a compatible power adapter of 30W or more (not included), achieving 52% charge in just over 30 minutes. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Google’s version of Android is vibrant, user-friendly, and customizable within reasonable limits. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Running on Android 16, your phone will receive security and software updates until August 2032, keeping your device current over its lifespan. The software mirrors that of the regular Pixel 10, featuring a bold and colorful aesthetic.
Google has infused AI into various aspects of the phone’s operation, with many features powered by the recent Gemini Nano models. This ensures privacy since processing can occur directly on-device without needing to transmit data.
With Gemini Chat Bot, you can engage with apps, view visuals on-screen, capture content through the camera, or have live interactions through audio.
Magic Cue enhances numerous Google and third-party apps by offering quick access to contextual information derived from data stored on your phone. Composite: Samuel Gibbs/Guardian
A standout feature is Magic Cue, which operates in the background by merging data from your Google account with your mobile data to provide assistance or quick recommendations in various Google applications. For instance, when you call a business, Magic Cue displays your card directly in the phone app, and order confirmations are readily accessible with a single tap when needed.
Magic Cue operates locally using around 10 days of data, helping to streamline operations without requiring extensive logs of your activities. It’s exclusive to Google and select third-party apps like eBay, limiting its functionality for users not utilizing compatible applications, such as WhatsApp.
The 10 Pro also includes a one-year subscription to Google AI Pro, which typically costs £19 per month, granting access to more advanced Gemini Pro models for image and video generation, along with 2TB of cloud storage across Google Drive, Photos, and Gmail.
Camera
The Camera app is user-friendly and versatile, offering various modes to enhance your photography experience, including manual controls. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The 10 Pro features an exceptional camera setup with a 42MP front-facing camera, a 50MP primary camera, a 48MP ultrawide, and a 48MP 5x telephoto lens, delivering up to 10x optical zoom quality. Notably, it debuts direct AI image processing in its camera, which raises intriguing questions about the nature of photography itself.
The primary camera is one of the industry’s finest, capturing a remarkable array of detailed images across varying lighting conditions. The ultrawide camera excels in landscapes and group shots, producing excellent macro photography results for engaging close-ups. The 5x telephoto lens is a highlight, providing exceptional performance even at 10x magnification, especially in good lighting.
Google’s smartphone excels in challenging lighting scenarios, handling bright or high-contrast scenes adeptly. In darker settings, Night Sight provides more accurate color representations compared to its competitors. Additionally, this year sees enhancements to the pixel portrait mode.
Zooming past 30x employs locally generated AI models to restore lost details during digital zooming, allowing users to choose between preprocessed and post-processed images. Composite: Samuel Gibbs/Guardian
Zoom capabilities extend from 30x to 100x, utilizing a local generative AI model to recover lost details and sharpness during digital zooming. It generally performs well, although not flawlessly. AI-generated images may sometimes display inconsistencies in perspective or details. However, capturing predictable subjects like buildings, vehicles, and trees leads to solid results, making the 100x zoom surprisingly user-friendly.
When capturing people, the camera avoids using the Genai model, which might be the most suitable option. Yet, like all generative AI systems, it can occasionally struggle to produce coherent outputs, mirroring what often appears as alien-like scripts.
The camera application has integrated C2PA Content Credentials, documenting not only how images were taken but also whether generative AI was involved in their creation. Best Take functionality captures multiple images with a single press of the shutter button.
The 10 Pro also features AI camera coaching capabilities seen in the standard 10, providing users with guidance on scene composition and optimal shooting angles.
The camera comes loaded with entertaining photography and videography modes, solidifying the 10 Pro’s status as a leading contender in the market.
Sustainability
The front and back of the Pixel feature scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass Victus 2. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The battery is designed to last through at least 1,000 full charge cycles, maintaining a minimum of 80% of its original capacity. The phone is repairable by Google, third-party shops, or through DIY methods. A repair manual and accessible parts are available.
The Pixel 10 Pro comprises 30% recycled materials by weight, including aluminum, cobalt, copper, glass, gold, plastic, rare earth elements, tungsten, and tin. The company is transparent about the environmental impact of its phones and offers a program to recycle old devices free of charge.
Price
The Google Pixel 10 Pro is priced at £999 (€1,099/$999/$1,699), offering four color options.
In comparison, the Pixel 10 starts at £799, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is available at £1,199, while the Pixel 9a can be found at £399. The Samsung Galaxy S25 retails for £799, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is priced at £1,249, and the iPhone 16 Pro costs £999.
Verdict
The Pixel 10 Pro does not radically reinvent the smartphone with its enhancements but builds upon the successes of the Pixel 10, itself a strong contender this year. Yet it still elevates market-leading camera capabilities alongside advanced AI integration.
It offers reliable performance, solid battery life, and an attractive design, though avid gamers may prefer options with superior graphics. Google’s version of Android remains among the best, offering years of support for longevity.
Several new features in Gemini provide enhanced convenience with fewer gimmicks. Magic Cue is a valuable tool that saves time without being intrusive, though it could benefit from broader app integration.
The incorporation of generative AI into the camera app refines the zoom experience, albeit it does blur the distinction of traditional photography. Debates about authenticity in photography will undoubtedly arise as usefulness and novelty intersect.
The Pixel 10 Pro is among the finest compact smartphones available, showcasing just how sophisticated Google’s AI tools have become, surpassing both Apple and its other competitors.
Pros: Seven years of software updates, 5x optical zoom, 10x AI zoom, Magic Queue, impressive local AI features, Qi2 wireless charging with magnetic accessory support, solid battery life, excellent display, ergonomic size, quick fingerprint and face recognition, and a year of Google AI Pro subscription.
Cons: Relatively high price, does not match facial recognition safety, lacks best-in-class raw performance, and the absence of a physical SIM card slot in the US, with no major improvements over the standard Pixel 10.
Greetings and welcome to TechScape. I’m your host, Blake Montgomery, currently working on the audiobook rendition of Don DeLillo’s White Noise.
In today’s tech segment, Artificial Intelligence finds itself in the courtroom spotlight as Google’s pivotal antitrust trial unfolds, coinciding with significant settlements involving the book’s author.
Why Did OpenAI Assist Google in Skirting the Chrome Sale?
Google has evaded a major crisis thanks to its largest competitors. A judge recently ruled against forcing the sale of Chrome, the most popular web browser globally, allowing the tech giant to maintain its place.
Judge Amit Mehta, who concluded in 2024 that Google has maintained an illegal monopoly in internet search, indicated last week that the US government’s attempt to sell Chrome was not necessary. While the company cannot strike exclusive distribution deals for search engines, it still retains the ability to distribute on certain conditions, including sharing data with competitors. Although an appeal is likely, Sundar Pichai can breathe a little easier for now.
Many critics deemed this decision a light penalty, often referring to it as merely a “wrist slap.” This phrase echoed through numerous responses I received after the ruling was announced.
The leniency in the ruling stems from the emergence of real competition against Google, underscoring the significance of this case. While United States v. Google targets search specifically, its implications ripple into the developing realm of generative artificial intelligence.
“The rise of generative AI has altered the trajectory of this case,” remarked Mehta. “The remedies now focus on fostering competition among search engines and ensuring that Google’s advantages in search do not translate into the generative AI sector.”
Mehta noted that previous years saw little investment and innovation in internet searches, allowing Google to dominate unchecked. Today, various generative AI companies are securing substantial investments to introduce products that challenge conventional internet search advantages. Mehta particularly commended OpenAI and ChatGPT, mentioning them numerous times in his ruling.
“These firms are now better positioned, both financially and technologically, to compete with Google than traditional search entities have been for decades,” he stated. “There’s a hope that if a groundbreaking product surfaces, Google cannot simply overshadow its competitors.” This suggests a prudent approach before imposing serious disadvantages on Google in an increasingly competitive landscape.
For nearly two decades, Google has served as the default search engine for Safari since the iPhone’s launch. In contrast, competition in generative AI mirrors Apple’s dealings with both Google and OpenAI. In June 2024, Apple announced a collaboration with OpenAI for iPhone features. However, by August 2025, discussions with Google about utilizing Gemini for Siri’s overhaul surfaced. Bloomberg. May the best bot triumph.
Back in April, I speculated that OpenAI might emerge as a potential buyer for Chrome, predicting that ChatGPT’s creators would benefit from Google’s vulnerabilities. Later that month, OpenAI executives confirmed their intentions to pursue exactly that.
It’s almost poetic that OpenAI’s success has inadvertently saved Google. The startup seems to owe a debt of gratitude to its predecessors, as a research paper crafted by Google scholars laid the groundwork for ChatGPT back in 2017.
With Google valued at $2.84 trillion and OpenAI emerging as a David worth around $500 million, the narrative shifts to a classic underdog story. Stay tuned; OpenAI is not merely Google’s biggest competition. In December 2022, Google’s management team acknowledged the threat posed by ChatGPT, labeling it a “Code Red” for a profitable search business. Pichai even redirected many Google employees to focus on AI projects.
Unlike Goliath, who underestimated his challenger, Google recognized that the launch of ChatGPT—the moment generative AI entered mainstream consciousness—redefined the competitive landscape. The threat was indeed substantial.
While Google is racing to catch up with OpenAI in the AI arena, David still features the advantage of being the first mover. ChatGPT has become synonymous with generative AI, potentially representing AI in general. However, Google remains a formidable player, engaging billions daily through search engine AI features.
Thanks to Mehta’s ruling, Google narrowly averted a disaster, keeping Chrome in its portfolio. However, looming challenges await, as the tech giant faces another antitrust hearing later this year concerning its advertising business, essential to its financial success. Google controls the online advertising distribution channels and the platforms for digital sales.
Coincidentally, the European Union imposed a fine of approximately 3 billion euros on Google for exploiting its dominant position in advertising technology in the same week as Mehta’s verdict, threatening to dismantle its AdTech division.
Significant Payment Hopes to Secure Authors Cash from AI
On July 25, 2023, Dario Amodei, CEO of Anthropic, testifies before the Senate Judicial Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology, and Legal Trials in Washington, DC. Photo: Valerie Press/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Recently, Anthropic, the creator of the Claude Chatbot, agreed to a $1.5 billion payout to an authors’ group, settling allegations that they used millions of books to train their AI. This landmark settlement is hailed as the largest copyright restoration attempt ever. While Anthropic did not admit fault, they allocated $3,000 for each of approximately 500,000 authors, totaling $1.5 billion.
The company acknowledged training on roughly 7 million books acquired from various unauthorized sources in 2021. Following burgeoning copyright threats, they have since obtained and scanned physical copies of these works. Destruction of these items was lamentable.
For creative professionals concerned about AI’s existential threats, this settlement is a hard-won victory, addressing unauthorized use that threatens livelihoods. British writers have raised alarms about AI generating original text and are advocating for accountability from tech giants like Meta. However, hostility from the government appears unlikely, given Meta’s CEO’s close ties to the current US president.
The aftermath of Anthropic’s settlement has already had ripple effects, with authors filing lawsuits against Apple for allegedly using similar training methods.
Nonetheless, this outcome isn’t an unqualified triumph for writers. The central issue revolved around copyright infringement, which, while serious, had precedent under fair use, allowing Anthropic to utilize copyrighted books for AI training. Judge William Allsup suggested that using these books was akin to “readers wishing to become writers.” This outcome indicates that AI companies may have initially secured stronger positions than believed.
Read More: Anthropic did not infringe copyright when training AI on books without permission, court rules.
Moving forward, Meta appears to be the next prime litigation target for authors, given its similar practices to Anthropic in training models using unauthorized databases. While Meta emerged relatively unscathed in its recent copyright dispute, the Anthropic settlement could prompt Meta’s legal team to expedite resolving pending lawsuits.
Other key AI players remain unencumbered by lawsuits. While OpenAI and Microsoft face accusations regarding unauthorized usage of Books3, no substantial evidence has been established against them, unlike Anthropic and Meta.
This legal scrutiny extends to various media, with recent lawsuits against AI entities like MidJourney from Warner Bros. Discovery and Disney.
Regulators from the European Union imposed a hefty fine of 2.95 billion euros ($3.5 billion) on Google for breaching competition laws by prioritizing its own digital advertising service.
As the administrative body for the 27-nation bloc and the leading antitrust authority, the European Commission mandated U.S. companies to cease their “self-preferences” and implement measures to eliminate “conflicts of interest” in the advertising technology supply chain.
The findings of the committee’s investigation indicated that Google “exploits” its dominant role within the ad technology sector.
In response, Google labeled the decision “incorrect” and announced plans to appeal.
Lee-Anne Mulholland, Google’s global regulatory director, commented, “This demands changes that could negatively impact countless European businesses by imposing unjust fines and inhibiting their profitability.”
This decision follows more than two years after the European Commission first raised antitrust accusations against Google. At that time, the Commission asserted that selling off parts of Google’s profitable digital advertising enterprise was the only viable way to address antitrust issues. However, this decision signifies a departure from their earlier stance and arises amid renewed tensions over trade, tariffs, and technology regulations between Brussels and the Trump administration.
Top officials in the EU have previously indicated that forced divestitures are being considered since past penalties against Google have proven ineffective in curbing anti-competitive practices, allowing the company to continue its behavior in other forms.
The committee’s penalty stems from a formal investigation initiated in June 2021, assessing whether Google compromised rival publishers, advertisers, and ad tech services in order to favor its own online display ad technology. Online display ads typically include banners and text that are customized based on user browsing patterns.
Mulholland asserted: “We are not anti-competitive in offering our services to advertisers and publishers. The alternatives to our services have never been more abundant.”
On Tuesday, the judge ruled that Google would not be required to sell its Chrome browser or Android operating system, a decision that shields the tech giant from the most severe penalties the US government has pursued. This same judge previously sided with US prosecutors nearly a year ago, determining that Google has established and continued an illegal monopoly over its namesake search engine.
Critics of Google’s dominance in the internet search and online advertising arena are outraged. They contend that the judges failed to implement significant reforms in an industry that has been stifled under the immense pressures of leading competitors. Conversely, groups within the tech industry and investors are feeling optimistic. Since Tuesday afternoon, shares of Google’s parent company Alphabet have surged by 9%.
Judge Amit Mehta mandated that Google share data with its competitors and its various search engines. Furthermore, he ordered the company to establish or sustain exclusive agreements for the distribution of its products, such as Chrome, Google Assistant, and the Gemini app. This penalty does not inhibit payment to distributors like Apple or Mozilla, which utilize Google as their default search engine. Google is also facing another hearing later this year regarding its monopoly in online advertising technology.
The Department of Justice heralded the ruling on Tuesday in a press release, calling Mehta’s suggested remedy “crucial.”
“Today, the court’s decision acknowledges the necessity for a remedy to rejuvenate the market for popular search services that has remained stagnant for over a decade,” the statement indicated.
Free market advocates argue, however, that the measures are insufficient.
Critics argue the judge granted Google a lenient victory
Mehta’s verdict has prompted substantial backlash from leading technology critics who have been observing antitrust laws for years. Many organizations and advocacy groups have long advocated for breaking up Google’s exclusive tactics, asserting that robust measures are essential to restoring genuine competition.
Instead of fostering an open online search industry, critics argue that while removing some of Google’s advantages, Big Tech sets a precedent indicating that serious repercussions for legal violations are not to be feared.
“For years, Google has been competing across all facets of the digital economy, overpowering its rivals, stalling innovation, and denying Americans their rights to read, view, and purchase without manipulation by one of the most potent corporations in history,” stated Barry Lynn, executive director of the Open Markets Institute ThinkTank. “The Mehta Order requiring Google to share its search data with competitors and cease exclusive agreements will do little to rectify those issues. It seems that even serious legal violations result in mere wrist slaps.”
Some organizations and analysts have reservations about Mehta’s ruling that Google maintained an illegal monopoly, suggesting that a more favorable decision may be filed this week.
“I would ask him to send a thank-you note to the robbers after finding someone guilty of robbing a bank,” remarked Nidhi Hegde, executive director of the nonprofit American Economic Freedom Project.
Several prominent tech leaders, including Yelp, DuckDuckGo, and Epic Games’ CEOs, criticized the decision, claiming it fails to level the playing field for their competitors. Both Yelp and Epic Games are engaged in legal actions against Google concerning antitrust issues, while DuckDuckGo’s CEO testified during the government’s antitrust trial against the search giant.
“It appears that the accused have committed a string of bank robberies, and the court’s decision has found them guilty and placed them on probation, allowing them to continue robbing banks but requiring them to share data on how the robbery works,” remarked Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, drawing on the bank robbery analogy.
Democrats advocating for stricter regulations on big tech companies have similarly condemned the ruling, with some calling for the Department of Justice to appeal the decision.
“The court previously determined that Google’s search operations constituted an illegal monopoly, but now the judge’s remedies do not hold Google accountable for violating the law,” stated Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren in a statement. “Instead of reinstating competition and curtailing Google’s dominance, this ruling serves as a mere wrist slap for illegal behavior that ensures this tech giant remains intact.”
The chairs of the Monopoly Busters Caucus—US Representatives Chris Deluzio, Pramila Jayapal, Pat Ryan, and Angie Craig—issued a statement condemning the ruling as a “wrist slap,” arguing it undermines bipartisan efforts to tackle tech monopolies.
“This ruling effectively permits Google to retain its monopoly. Despite Google’s illegal actions regarding its search monopoly, the courts are allowing it to keep Chrome and Android, which are essential tools for Google’s market control,” the Caucus asserted.
Human rights organization Amnesty International also expressed outrage at the decision, highlighting that Google’s business model is fundamentally flawed. They emphasized that Chrome is a critical tool utilized for collecting personal data from Google users.
“Google’s infringement on the search industry and the imposition of a sale on Chrome could have signaled the initial step toward a digital landscape that respects our rights,” stated Agnès Callamard, executive director of Amnesty International.
Silicon Valley and Wall Street celebrate
The tech sector rejoiced while antitrust advocates lamented the verdict. Industry groups stated that Mehta’s ruling prevented a potential disaster for Silicon Valley. The Developers’ Alliance, a high-tech industry group, praised the judge for rejecting the severe structural relief sought by the Justice Department.
“The sale of Chrome and Android would have had catastrophic implications for web and app developers and the broader digital ecosystem,” the group stated. “Developers are relieved that this trial’s political theatrics have reached a conclusion.”
Another industry organization, the Consumer Choice Center, supported Google’s claim that its products are superior, justifying its market control. Stephen Kent, the group’s media director, likened the Justice Department’s “politicized incident” to a larger player enjoying popularity due to offering superior products rather than competing apps and services.
Many of these organizations referenced Mehta’s assertion that, over the years, Google has given rise to technically viable competitors within Chrome. “This new reality illustrates that if a strong competitor arises, Google should not be expected to outweigh them in distribution,” the judge’s ruling indicated.
“The debate around search engine market shares is particularly relevant in light of the dramatic and significant advancements in AI that are reshaping the landscape,” remarked the Developer Alliance.
Jennifer Huddleston, a senior fellow at the Libertarian Think Tank The Cato Institute, advised careful consideration, emphasizing that “innovation often remains our best competitive strategy.”
“The month between the initial ruling and the remedial decision underscores the rapid changes occurring in the tech industry,” Huddleston noted. “This is especially true considering the transformative nature of AI technologies in search. As Judge Mehta points out, courts must not only analyze historical facts but also forecast the future in a swiftly evolving market.”
Apple also experienced a boost, with Google’s stock rebounding following Mehta’s ruling. Historically, the iPhone manufacturer has received billions from Google annually, as Google serves as the default search engine for its devices. The arrangements between the two companies account for approximately 15% of Apple’s operating profits. Shares have risen nearly 4% since Tuesday.
“We’ve been eager to get started,” wrote Gene Munster, managing partner at Deepwater Asset Management, on X.
Critics of the ruling are not surprised that Wall Street has responded positively to Mehta’s decision. “There’s a reason Google stock skyrocketed following this ruling,” stated Christo Wilson, a professor of Computer Science at Northeastern University, who led a team that studied Google’s monopolistic practices in search. “This represents a historic failure to address the significant evidence that Google is an online search monopoly.”
google has unveiled the affordable Pixel 10, boasting enhanced cameras, speedier processors, and high-end software, stepping out from the shadows of its pricier professional counterparts to redefine expectations for flagship phones in the base model category.
The standard Pixel 10 is priced at £799 (€899/$799/$1,349) – the same as last year’s Pixel 9 – positioning it strategically below the £200 mark of the 10 Pro while competing effectively with rivals from Samsung and Apple.
The design closely mirrors that of the Pixel 9, featuring some new striking colors and the essential third camera situated in a distinctive tablet-shaped bump at the back. The satin aluminum and glass finish conveys high-quality craftsmanship, distinguishing it from the plethora of uniform smartphones. The 6.3-inch OLED display is sharp, exceptionally bright, and fluid with a 120Hz refresh rate.
The fast-screened fingerprint scanner enhances the Pixel 10’s responsiveness. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The glass back conceals another noteworthy upgrade: QI2 wireless charging and compatibility with magnetic accessories. Google has developed its own pixelsnap, an accessory QI2 is an open standard also compatible with a variety of Apple’s Magsaf accessories, such as chargers, wallets, grips, and stands that attach to the back of the phone.
Connectivity: 5G, ESIM, WiFi 6E, NFC, Bluetooth 6, GNSS
Water Resistance: IP68 (1.5m in 30 minutes)
Size: 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.6mm
Weight: 204g
Tensor G5
Charged via a power adapter (not included), Pixel 10 reaches 50% in 90 minutes and supports 15W wireless charging. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Google’s new Tensor G5 chip outperforms its previous processor by 34-38% in speed tests, marking a significant advancement for the brand, although it’s still not quite on par with Qualcomm’s flagship Snapdragon processors employed by competitors. Users will perceive a boost in speed during operation, effectively managing most tasks.
Battery longevity is commendable, providing around two days under light usage and approximately 33 hours under heavy usage, including five hours of 5G activity, with around seven hours of active screen time. Users will typically need to recharge every other day.
The Tensor G5 also features a notably faster AI processor that enhances Google’s advanced AI functions, allowing for more sophisticated on-device processing, effectively showcasing Google’s AI potential through the Pixel.
Android 16 with AI
Introducing Google’s new AI features: Magic Queue, Daily Hub, and Camera Coach. Composite: Samuel Gibbs/Guardian
Running on Android 16 out of the box, the Pixel 10 offers software support until August 2032. Google’s Android interface features vibrant typography, bold colors, large buttons, and lots of delightful interactions throughout. Even more subdued color combinations provide a premium experience.
The Pixels leverage some of Google’s most advanced AI technologies, including the latest version of Gemini Nano On-Device. A new voice translation feature allows for conversations simulating the caller’s voice, rather than using the default Gemini voice.
However, the standout AI feature is the Magic Cue, running locally on your device, designed to act as a small assistant to streamline your smartphone experience. It aggregates data from your Google account and phone to offer helpful suggestions when using various Google apps. For example, during a delivery inquiry, an order confirmation email appeared as a card in the phone app providing one-tap access to the order number.
If a text arrives regarding a flight’s landing time, it can automatically extract the date and time from your calendar for quick sharing. Additionally, the Weather app can suggest locations for upcoming trips from your calendar.
While these features may seem trivial, they mark an evolution in the use of AI, transitioning from flashy gimmicks to practical time-savers. Currently, Magic Cue supports Gmail, Maps, Calendars, Notes, Screenshots, Contacts, Messages, Google Photos, and more, with promising expansions in the pipeline. However, the absence of third-party app integration—such as WhatsApp—limits its utility.
Camera
The camera app is user-friendly, equipped with numerous tools and modes to enhance your photography. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The Pixel 10 features a 10.5-megapixel selfie camera and three rear cameras: a 48MP main, 13MP ultra-wide, and 10.8MP 5x telephoto, addressing prior criticisms of base model Pixel devices lacking telephoto capabilities.
Both the main and ultra-wide cameras deliver exceptional photos across various lighting scenarios, producing vivid contrast and outperforming competitors in low-light conditions. The new 5x telephoto lens captures impressive images and significantly enhances zoom capabilities, reaching up to 20x digital zoom. Although some images exhibit minor graininess when fully magnified, most users will be satisfied with the results.
Google excels in simplifying photography, ensuring good images with minimal effort. The revamped Auto Best Take mode improves upon the popular Group Shot Best Take feature, taking multiple photos and automatically blending them to ensure everyone is looking good. While most shots require little intervention, more complex scenarios with numerous subjects might see increased AI involvement.
The large rectangular camera bump on the back provides a stable grip, reducing camera shake. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The popular Add Me feature has been enhanced, allowing for larger and more intricate group photos, improved to accommodate more individuals and complex backgrounds. The
camera app will also implement C2PA Content Credentials in photos, detailing how images were captured and whether generative AI contributed.
One of the most noteworthy AI features is the new Camera Coach, which utilizes Gemini to guide users in configuring and framing shots for enhanced photography. Pressing a small button in the viewfinder sends the current image to Google’s servers for analysis, providing several suggested configurations. Users can select their preferred option and receive step-by-step advice on adjusting the camera for the shot. Initial tests showed promising suggestions, potentially aiding those wishing to elevate their photography skills.
In summary, the Pixel 10 excels in producing impressive photos and videos, with AI enhancements that add practical value.
Sustainability
Pixel 10 devices in the US do not include nano-SIM card slots and rely exclusively on eSIMs. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The battery israted for longevity, exceeding 1,000 full charge cycles while maintaining at least 80% of its original capacity. Users have the option to repair their devices through Google, authorized service centers, or via self-repair guides and parts available online.
The Pixel 10 comprises 32% recycled materials by weight, including aluminum, cobalt, copper, glass, gold, plastic, rare earth elements, tungsten, and tin. Google will disclose the environmental impact of the device and offers a program to recycle old devices at no charge.
Price
The Google Pixel 10 is priced at £799 (€899/$799/$1,349), available in four color options.
In comparison, the Pixel 10 Pro is priced at £999, while the Pixel 9a costs £399. The Samsung Galaxy S25 and iPhone 16 both retail for £799.
Verdict
The Pixel 10 sets a new benchmark for flagship phones in the base model segment, delivering a premium experience and an impressive camera with a valuable telephoto zoom that feels like an integral part of the device.
While the exterior remains largely unchanged from last year, it offers an attractive design that stands out amid a crowd of similar smartphones. Despite not being equipped with the fastest chip on the market, it operates smoothly, with a battery that lasts between 1.5 and 2 days on a single charge.
Several new AI features provide substantial improvements, particularly Magic Cues, Auto Best Take, and other small enhancements that run seamlessly in the background. Coupled with Gemini, Google has positioned itself ahead in the realm of genuinely useful AI tools compared to competitors like Apple, without compromising the core smartphone experience.
Although it may not be the steal that Google’s budget Pixel 9a offers, the Pixel 10 stands out as one of the best smartphones available, providing excellent value for users.
Pros: 7 years of software updates, 5x telephoto lens, excellent display, Magic Cue, outstanding camera with impressive AI features, QI2 wireless charging, magnetic accessory support, great battery life, ideal size, quick fingerprint sensor, and facial recognition capabilities.
Cons: The lack of a physical SIM card slot in the US, reduced performance compared to flagships, and less secure facial recognition compared to Face ID.
The Pixel 10 is a striking and superior flagship smartphone that exceeds its competitors. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Google will not be compelled to divest its Chrome browsers. A federal judge ruled last year’s monopoly case in the ongoing legal dispute involving the tech giant.
The company is prohibited from specific monopolistic transactions with device manufacturers and is required to share data from search engines with competitors, according to the judge’s decision.
Judge Amit Mehta’s ruling comes after months of speculation regarding the penalties Google might face, following a judgment last year which found that Google violated antitrust laws, establishing what the company referred to as an online search monopoly. This case is considered one of the most significant antitrust proceedings in decades, resulting in further hearings in April to ascertain appropriate government actions for relief.
Mehta’s decision to let Google retain Chrome reflects a more favorable outcome for the company than what federal prosecutors had sought. The prosecution had proposed that Google divest its marquee search products and barred it from entering the browser market for a period of five years. In his extensive 230-page ruling, Mehta stated that the prosecutors had “overvalued by seeking mandatory sales of these key assets.”
While Google averted the most severe repercussions for antitrust violations, Mehta’s ruling supported prosecutors by forbidding the establishment or continuation of exclusive agreements regarding the distribution of products such as Chrome, Google Assistant, and Gemini apps. However, this ruling does not restrict Google from compensating distributors.
Following Mehta’s decision, Google’s shares experienced a rise in after-hours trading, indicating investor confidence in the favorable outcomes for the company.
The ruling was critiqued as “a complete failure” by the nonprofit advocacy group, the American Economic Freedom Project.
“It’s akin to finding someone who robbed a bank, only to tell him to write a thank-you note to the robber,” remarked Nidhi Hegde, the executive director of the American Economic Freedom Project. “Likewise, Google is not held accountable for monopolistic behavior, while a remedy is drafted to safeguard that monopoly.”
Google contended that under the Antimonopoly Act, which was first tried in 2023, its advantage in search is not a product of anticompetitive actions but stems from the creation of superior products.
Meanwhile, prosecutors have demonstrated that Google has invested billions in agreements with device manufacturers like Samsung and Apple to establish the browser as the default search for their products, allowing it to secure approximately 90% of the U.S. search market.
“After thorough deliberation and consideration of witness testimonies and evidence, the court concluded that Google was the monopoly and acted to preserve its monopoly,” Mehta ruled last year.
Mehta’s relief decision this week acknowledged that there have been significant transformations in the internet search industry since last year’s case concluded, indicating that his ruling was designed to address both popular search engines and the recent emergence of AI search engines and chatbots developed by Google.
“The procedures for these remedies were aimed at fostering competition among general search engines (GSEs) as much as ensuring that the advantages in search were not overshadowed by developments in the AI space,” Mehta stated.
Additionally, Google is set to face another hearing later this year regarding how the government will manage antitrust violations connected to its monopoly in online advertising technology.
Google’s newest Gemini AI update aims to forecast how you can obtain essential information to enhance your photography skills or to function as a tailored health and sleep adviser for addressing various concerns.
The newly announced Pixel 10 features a Magic Cue capability for Android devices that enables chatbots to sift through digital content and present relevant information concerning their phones as needed.
When contacting an airline, your reservation details will automatically appear in the phone app via Gmail. Similarly, if a friend texts about Sunday brunch, Gemini will propose the ideal coffee shop and display your calendar alongside the message.
This capability is part of an array of artificial intelligence enhancements for the latest Pixel 10, 10 Pro, and 10 Pro fold Phones. Each device boasts a new Tensor G5 chip that executes magic cues and additional AI functions locally.
Leo Gebbie, a principal analyst at CCS Insight, observed that Google “effectively utilizes AI on-device more than its competitors,” noting that the Magic Cue feature represents “an initial stride towards a much-anticipated agent AI experience that has been long-promised on smartphones.”
He further stated: “Google can leverage the fact that many Android users already have well-populated apps such as Gmail, Calendar, Maps, and others for personal data. This amalgamates the information in a more practical manner than ever before.”
The Pixel 10 is equipped with a Tensor G5 chip that facilitates magical cues and other AI functionalities locally. Photo: Google
The Pixel 10 features an enhanced imaging system with a 6.3-inch OLED display and a 10.8-megapixel 5x telephoto camera for the first time, evolving from the previous models which had two cameras. The Pixel 10 Pro is available in two sizes, with options for a 6.3-inch or 6.8-inch display, and includes three cameras with a 48MP telephoto lens capable of 10x optical zoom.
The Pixel 10 Pro fold is among the first foldable phones boasting complete IP68 water and dust resistance, akin to standard slab devices, as Google aims to address concerns regarding flexible screen durability. It shares a camera system similar to that of the Pixel 10.
The device also supports multiple AI photography features, including a new camera coach that utilizes Google’s AI server to evaluate the scenes in front of the camera and provide suggestions for improved framing, angles, and lighting.
The Pixel 10 starts at £799 (899 Euros/$799/$1,349), whereas the Pixel 10 Pro begins at £999 (€1,099/$999/$1,699) and will be available from August 28th. The Pixel 10 fold will be priced from £1,749 (€1,899/$1,799/$2,699) and will launch on October 9th.
Pixel Watch 4 and Pixel Bud 2a
The Pixel Watch 4 Smartwatch brings Gemini to your wrist, serving as a personal AI health coach. Photo: Google
Google has also unveiled the Pixel Watch 4 Smartwatch, which integrates Gemini to offer personalized health coaching on your wrist. Utilizing the new Fitbit app, Gemini can devise customized fitness and sleep plans, track training impacts in real-time, and respond to health and fitness inquiries in a chatbot style.
Available in two sizes, the Pixel Watch 4 features a dome-shaped display that is 10% larger than its predecessor. It is the first smartwatch capable of providing SOS satellite-based emergency services in the U.S. when off the grid. This model is also the first designed with maintainability in mind, allowing for easier repair of the battery and screen, aiming to compete with Apple and Samsung in this regard. It starts at £349 (499 Euros/$349/$579).
In addition, the Pixel Buds 2a offers a more affordable option for Google’s compact Bluetooth earphones, priced at £129 (€149/$129/$239). They incorporate the same Tensor A1 chip found in the premium Buds Pro 2, along with noise cancellation and integrated Gemini AI assistants. The Bud 2a charging case is designed with a replaceable battery, although the earphones themselves are not repairable.
for tourists exploring Korea, a nation renowned for its technological advancements, navigating through the heart of its cities can be unexpectedly frustrating due to the ineffectiveness of Google Maps.
This may change soon, as South Korean authorities will deliberate on whether to permit the export of Google’s intricate mapping data to foreign servers. However, the decision has already been postponed for the second time this year on Friday to allow more time for security concerns to be addressed.
Such a decision would unlock features that enable the app to offer detailed guidance and show users optimal routes for their journeys.
This ongoing discussion has spanned nearly two decades, evolving into a broader examination of how democracy can strike a balance between digital sovereignty and economic openness. Local industry advocates have raised alarms about market control by foreign firms, while supporters of Google’s request argue that restrictions may hinder tourism and innovation.
South Korea is among a select few countries, including China and North Korea, where Google Maps is not functioning optimally.
While Google dominates online services globally, the digital landscape in Korea is primarily managed by local “portal” firms, Naver and Kakao.
These platforms offer wide-ranging services such as search engines, email, news, messaging, music, and maps, creating a robust ecosystem that has effectively resisted foreign technological dominance. Local companies supply accurate public mapping information but are obligated by law to store it on domestic servers.
Google does license similar data from local providers, but it is limited to displaying information like landmarks and local businesses, without the capability to give navigational instructions.
Security concerns and local opposition
Google asserts that it needs to distribute and process data through its global server network to provide real-time navigation services to billions of users worldwide, including those exploring Korean destinations from abroad.
Nonetheless, Google counters that the mapping data it seeks has already undergone security evaluations and that sensitive location details have been omitted. Furthermore, the same data is utilized by domestic competitors. Google has stated it would obscure satellite imagery of any sensitive sites should authorities require it.
Critics assert that granting Google’s request could create precedents for other foreign companies. Photo: Andrew Merry/Getty Images
There is significant resistance to Google’s requests. The Korean Association of Spatial Information, Research and Mapping (KASM), representing 2,600 local businesses, reported that 90% of the 239 member companies surveyed opposed it, fearing market domination by U.S. tech giants.
“The government must heed industry concerns,” cautions KASM Chairman Kim Seok-Jong, warning of potential “industrial decimation.”
Critics also caution that acquiescing to the request could set dangerous precedents for other foreign firms, especially those from China. Local reports indicate that Apple has similarly sought authorization.
The government argues that if Google establishes a local data center, like its domestic rivals, it can access detailed mapping data, which does not resolve the issue of processing this data on Google’s global servers.
In 2022, vulnerabilities related to such approaches were highlighted when one of Kakao’s data centers was set on fire, leaving messaging, mapping, and ride services inaccessible to millions.
The impact of tourism
Data from the Korean Tourism Organization reveals that complaints surged by 71% last year, with Google Maps accounting for 30% of all app-related grievances.
Francesco, an Italian tourist, remarked that he was “shocked” to discover that Google Maps was ineffective upon his arrival in Seoul for a week-long visit.
“It’s quite frustrating. I’ll look for restaurants reviewed on Google, only to have to switch to Naver Maps for walking directions,” he shared.
“I heard it’s a security issue,” said Reus, a French traveler. “But I sense it’s more about protecting local businesses.”
The restrictions have drawn criticism from tourism startups and tech advocates who assert that they will struggle to develop competitive services globally and hinder growth without access to standardized international mapping tools.
Previous governmental reviews in 2007 and 2016 both declined Google’s requests.
Currently, the interagency committee, which includes representatives from the Defense and Intelligence Reports, has extended the deadline twice, from May to August and once more to October, emphasizing the need for in-depth discussions with security agencies and industry stakeholders.
This matter has surfaced amid broader U.S.-Korea trade tensions, with the U.S. Trade Bureau identifying South Korea’s mapping constraints as a “non-tariff trade barrier.”
South Korea recently wrapped up trade negotiations to secure a 15% tariff, avoiding the original 25% threat. President Lee Jae Myung is set to meet with President Donald Trump at the White House in the upcoming days or weeks.
South Korea’s Ministry of Transport could not be reached for comment prior to the decision.
Google claims its map software assists individuals to “navigate and explore with confidence using fresh information about locations, roads, and traffic,” and that it “works closely with local governments to aid residents and visitors.”
Google has committed to securing up to 3GW of hydropower in what is being termed the largest clean power agreement by a corporation, as the tech giant seeks to expand its energy-intensive data centers, the company announced on Tuesday.
The agreement with Brookfield Asset Management includes a 20-year power purchase deal worth $3 billion for electricity generated from two hydroelectric plants located in Pennsylvania.
Additionally, the tech giant will invest $25 billion into data centers across Pennsylvania and neighboring states over the next two years, according to Semafor’s report on Tuesday.
The technology sector is increasingly seeking vast amounts of clean energy to support the power demands of data centers essential for artificial intelligence and cloud computing.
Ruth Porat, president and chief investment officer of Google’s parent company Alphabet, spoke about the initiative at the AI Summit in Pittsburgh, where Donald Trump announced a $70 billion investment in AI and energy.
Amanda Peterson Corio, head of Datacenter Energy at Google, commented on the collaboration with Brookfield, stating, “This partnership is a crucial step towards ensuring a clean energy supply in the PJM region where we operate.”
Almost a year ago, Google initiated several unique power purchase agreements involving carbon-free geothermal energy and advanced nuclear options. The company is also collaborating with PJM Interconnect, the largest power grid operator in the U.S., to expedite the integration of new power sources using AI technology.
Google has entered into an initial framework agreement with Brookfield, the owner of Brookfield Renewable Partners, stating its intent to develop and operate a renewable energy facility. The two hydroelectric plants in Pennsylvania will undergo upgrades and refurbishment as part of this agreement. Furthermore, Google intends to expand its commitment beyond these facilities to other regions within the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest.
Google has struck a significant agreement with the UK government to supply complimentary technology to various public sector entities, ranging from the NHS to local councils.
US corporations are being called upon to “upskill” tens of thousands of civil servants in technology, including the application of artificial intelligence, as part of a deal that doesn’t necessitate payment from the government. Whitehall is set to enhance its collaboration with Google as public services evolve.
However, this arrangement has raised alarms about the potential risks to UK public data that could be housed on US servers, particularly in light of Donald Trump’s erratic leadership.
The Department of Science and Innovation Technology (DSIT) stated that Google Cloud, known for its databases, machine learning, and computing capabilities, “has agreed to assist public services in leveraging advanced technology to break free from outdated ‘ball and chain’ legacy contracts.”
Although Google’s offerings are believed to be more nimble and effective than those of traditional competitors, there are concerns within Whitehall’s digital circles that governments might become reliant on a new form of dependency.
Other American tech giants, including Microsoft, OpenAI, and Anthropic, are also providing services to civil servants as they look to harness technology to enhance the efficiency of financially constrained public services.
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Rachel Reeves convened with two senior members of Mark Zuckerberg’s team, Joel Kaplan, Meta’s top global affairs officer, and Nicola Mendelson, head of the global business group.
During the 2020 pandemic, Palantir, a high-tech firm founded by libertarian Trump supporter Peter Thiel, worked with the UK government for just £1 and secured a £330 million contract in 2023 to create a unified platform for NHS data.
DSIT also announced that Google DeepMind, the AI division helmed by Nobel Prize winner Demis Hassabis, will “partner with government tech experts to help implement and propagate new emerging technologies across the public sector, enhancing efficiency and driving scientific advancements.”
Nevertheless, ministers and regulatory bodies are grappling with crucial decisions on regulating AI, search, cloud computing, and copyright, as noted by Martha Dark, co-director of nonprofits advocating for fair technology use. The complexity of data sovereignty poses significant challenges, echoing concerns from Peter Kyle, the Secretary of Science and Technology.
Experts caution that this agreement could solidify the market dominance of companies like Google, placing the UK government in a position dependent on technology from major corporations. At a Google event in London on Wednesday, Kyle emphasized, “Whenever feasible, UK tech firms, whether large or small, will have equitable opportunities to win public technology contracts.”
According to sources within the government, the advantages gained by Google were not subjected to public bids as no financial exchange occurred. DSIT clarified, “These arrangements are fully compliant with all relevant public procurement regulations and may lead to future commercial agreements.”
As of the end of March, Kyle has engaged in 11 meetings with Google representatives since Labour took office.
The government affirmed that Google will not be allowed to train AI models using government data or access the data for other purposes. Additionally, data can only be stored abroad if adequate legal and security measures are established.
Google asserted that it retains control over where client content is stored and processed through partnerships with independent infrastructure providers, employing an “air gap” system for added protection.
Kyle remarked, “I aim to maximize the potential of the government-Google partnership and explore further collaborations with the UK’s AI lab, DeepMind, and my own AI developers.”
There are indications of new technologies that could enhance efficiency within the public sector. A recent examination of Microsoft’s AI Copilot tool revealed that 20,000 civil servants saved an average of 26 minutes each day, with 82% expressing a desire not to revert to previous work methods, as highlighted in a study.
However, Imogen Parker, Associate Director of the Ada Lovelace Institute, emphasized the necessity for public understanding regarding the benefits Google will derive from this partnership and what taxpayers might face in the coming years. “Deals like this may appear beneficial today, but there’s a risk of becoming locked in tomorrow, limiting options for future alternatives,” she cautioned.
Kyle has faced criticism for appearing too cozy with Big Tech. After being reported by the Guardian, he began a speech admitting he had likely engaged more with tech executives than his predecessor.
“I will never apologize for engaging with tech companies – that’s my role,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of ensuring children’s safety on social media, preparing the UK for advancements in AI, and securing better value from the significant sums spent on technology each year.
In 2021, Google established an ambitious target to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030. Nevertheless, since that time, the company has taken a contrary path by investing in energy-demanding artificial intelligence. According to its latest sustainability report, Google’s carbon emissions surged by 51% between 2019 and 2024.
The intent behind the new research is to challenge even the vast statistics, contextualizing Google’s sustainability report and presenting a more somber outlook. A report from nonprofit advocacy group Kairos Fellowship revealed that, between 2019 and 2024, Google’s carbon emissions increased by 65%. Additionally, from the first year public data on Google’s emissions became available in 2010 to 2024, the total greenhouse gas emissions soared by 1,515%, according to Kairos. The report noted that when Google upped its emissions by 26% from 2023 to 2024, this was the largest increase within that timeframe.
“Google’s own data supports this assertion. Companies are accelerating climate crises, and key metrics—including emissions and water usage—are trending in a concerning direction for both us and our planet.”
The authors of the report found that they discerned Google’s energy consumption and the bulk of the figures used to calculate rising carbon emissions within the appendix of Google’s Sustainability Report. Many of these figures were not prominently featured in the main body of Google’s report, they claim.
Google did not respond promptly to inquiries regarding these figures.
The authors of the report, titled Eco Fail, attribute the discrepancies between the calculated figures and Google’s sustainability report to several factors. Google employs market-based emissions metrics, while researchers use location-based emissions. Location-based emissions represent the average energy consumed from the local electricity grid, while market-based emissions include the energy procured to offset total emissions.
“[Location-based emissions] Franz Ressel, lead researcher and co-author of the report, stated. Businesses may pollute in one area while trying to ‘settle’ those emissions by purchasing energy contracts from elsewhere.”
According to a Kairos survey, the energy demand from Google’s data centers has surged by 820% since 2010. Emissions from electricity purchases for data centers increased by 121% between 2019 and 2024, according to the report’s authors.
“This increase is equivalent to adding 6.8 TWh of energy consumption, comparable to the total energy used by the state of Alaska over a year,” Sugerman explained.
Based on the current trajectory, the Kairos Report authors assert that it appears unlikely Google will meet the 2030 deadline without considerable public pressure. Since 2019, Google has tracked three categories of greenhouse gas emissions, referred to as Scopes 1, 2, and 3, and has made significant reductions in Scope 1 emissions. According to the report, Scope 1 emissions, which include emissions from Google’s own facilities and vehicles, represent merely 0.31% of its total emissions. Scope 2 emissions primarily consist of indirect emissions associated with the electricity purchased to power its facilities, while Scope 3 encompasses indirect emissions from various other sources, including suppliers, the usage of Google’s consumer devices, and employee business travel.
“Continuing to expand at current rates is unsustainable,” Sugerman added.
Thirsty, power-hungry data centers
Amid the construction of resource-intensive data centers across the country, experts are scrutinizing Google’s water usage as well. Google’s sustainability report reveals a 27% increase in water withdrawal to 1.1 billion gallons between 2023 and 2024.
Kairos indicates that this volume is “sufficient to meet the drinking water needs of 2.5 million residents and 5,500 industrial users in Boston and its surrounding areas.”
Tech companies are facing both internal and external pressures to enhance the sustainability of their data centers with clean energy. Recently, Amazon employees proposed a series of shareholder proposals which compelled the company to disclose its overall carbon emissions and assess the impact of its data centers on the climate. This proposal was ultimately voted on. Multiple organizations, including Amazon’s Employees for Climate Justice, the Conservation Voters Federation, Public Citizens, and the Sierra Club, published an Open Letter in the San Francisco Chronicle and the Seattle Times, urging the CEOs of Google, Amazon, and Microsoft to “refrain from committing to new gas and delaying coal plants to power their data centers.”
“In just the last two years, your corporation has constructed data centers across the United States that could consume as much electricity as 4 million American households,” states the letter. “Within five years, these data centers alone will use enough electricity for more than 22 million households, comparable to the consumption of several medium-sized states.”
In its sustainability report, Google cautions that the company’s “future trajectory” may be influenced by the “evolving landscape” of the tech industry.
“We are at a significant inflection point due to the rapid growth of AI, which affects not just our company but the entire tech sector,” the report explains. “The unprecedented pace of development and potential nonlinear growth driven by the uncertain availability of clean energy and infrastructure needed to support this growth may affect our capacity to project future emissions and reduce them.”
The Kairos report criticized Google for its “heavy reliance on speculative technologies, especially nuclear power,” in pursuit of its 2030 zero carbon emissions goal.
“Google has concentrated on nuclear energy as a ‘clean energy solution’, despite the prevailing consensus among scientists and industry experts that achieving successful large-scale deployments will not happen in the near or medium term,” the report states.
Furthermore, the Kairos report contends that Google’s presentation of certain data can be misleading. For instance, in discussing data center emissions, Google claims a 50% improvement in energy efficiency over 13 years. The report’s authors argue that focusing on energy efficiency figures rather than sharing absolute emissions numbers obscures Google’s total emissions.
“Since 2010, the company’s overall energy consumption has increased by 1,282%,” the report concludes.
Google may be compelled to implement a range of modifications in its search operations, including allowing internet users to select alternative services, following suggestions from the UK’s competition regulator to strengthen regulations on the company.
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is set to classify the leading search engine as having “strategic market status,” a designation that empowers regulators to impose stricter controls on major tech firms deemed to hold substantial market influence.
The CMA expressed its intention to introduce tailored regulatory measures for U.S. companies, which may include offering users a “selection screen” to ensure a fair ranking of search results, thereby gaining more oversight on content usage, including AI-generated responses.
Should the CMA finalize its decision in October, Google will be the first company subjected to new regulatory powers established this year.
CMA CEO Sarah Cardell highlighted that this announcement signifies a “major milestone” in the newly enacted regulatory framework stemming from recent digital market, competition, and consumer legislation.
Cardell remarked, “These proportionate measures will create greater opportunities for UK businesses and consumers, providing them with more choices and control over their engagement with Google’s search services, as well as fostering innovation within the UK’s tech industry and the economy at large.”
Google has stated that this move could significantly impact businesses and consumers in the UK.
“We are worried that the breadth of CMA’s considerations is excessive and unfocused, and that various interventions are being contemplated prior to the collection of sufficient evidence,” stated Oliver Bethell, senior director at Google.
Aiming to be a cutting-edge office in central London for Google over the coming decades, the new £1 billion headquarters faces challenges with local foxes, one of the oldest known nuisances to humans.
Valpin assumed control of the rooftop garden at the so-called “Craper of Land” in Kings Cross, which influenced the construction, though the company reported that the impact was “minimal.”
The initial report of fox activity Newsletter London Centric was verified by a source with knowledge of the construction. They relayed to the Guardian that the situation had been observed for three years, starting when foxes began to dig dens on well-maintained grounds.
“There are small holes in the garden,” they mentioned. “We’ve seen her around the building, even from the fifth floor.”
Others reported finding fox droppings on the property of the structure designed by Thomas Heatherwick.
The rooftop garden is estimated to hold 40,000 tonnes of soil and 250 trees. Photo: Tim Robberts/Getty Images
Mosh Latifi, co-founder of Ecocare, a pest control firm based in London, noted they can’t stay away from rodent populations.
“Foxes thrive off rodents. We don’t live more than three meters from the nearest rat,” he remarked, explaining that they have spotted the fox in a building where workers seek out leftover food.
Leaky pipes or plentiful food from local establishments might be sustaining the foxes, suggested another London pest control expert who requested anonymity. “London is a vast playground for foxes; they’ll go just about anywhere,” he stated.
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A spokesperson for Google mentioned: “Sightings of foxes at construction sites are quite common, and our King’s Cross project is no exception. Foxes have occasionally been seen on-site, though their presence has been limited and had little effect on the construction progress.”
According to searches using the company’s own search engine, effective ways to deter foxes include removing food sources, installing secure fencing, and sealing any gaps.
This isn’t the first time a costly London construction has faced such an issue. In 2011, a fox named Romeo was discovered at a site. He was found living in the shard, surviving on leftover scraps from construction workers.
Romeo was captured and, after a health check, was released back into the wild.
Facebook also had to deal with a fox family at their Menlo Park headquarters, which gained popularity on social media with a series of stickers introduced for the Messenger app.
Plans for the new Google building were unveiled in 2013, marking it as the first fully owned and designed site by the company outside the United States. The 11-story structure will host up to 7,000 employees.
The 300-meter-long rooftop garden extends along the building, wrapping around the seventh to eleventh floors. It is estimated to contain 40,000 tonnes of soil to support 250 trees, all strategically placed. The garden aims to attract bees, bats, birds, and butterflies, with areas designated for dining, lounge chairs, a fitness zone, and even an indoor pool.
Currently under construction since 2018, the nearly 1 million square foot building is expected to be completed later this year.
In 2022, a topping-off ceremony featuring non-alcoholic pims and exquisite canapés was attended by London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Keir Starmer, representing the Holborn and St Pancras constituencies.
“This project signifies a robust confidence in London, our community, and our flourishing tech sector,” Khan commented at the event.
Lawmakers have accused Apple and Google of benefiting from millions of pounds linked to mobile phone theft operations that police claim are orchestrated by organized crime networks in the UK, Algeria, and China.
In London alone, 80,000 mobile devices were stolen in 2024, marking a significant increase from 64,000 in 2023—an uptick of a quarter. The total street value of these devices is estimated to be around £20 million, with iPhones constituting the majority of the thefts.
During a session of the House of Representatives’ Science and Technology Committee on Tuesday, the Metropolitan Police indicated that smartphone manufacturers should actively work to diminish the resale value of stolen devices. They noted that companies are starting to prevent stolen phones from accessing cloud services, which could help in this regard.
However, despite calls for action since 2023, the companies have yet to respond positively, commented Darren Scates, the Metropolitan Police’s chief officer for digital data and technology.
“We’ve observed significant community impact,” remarked Martin Wrigley, a liberal Democrat on the committee. “[The companies] should implement this immediately, without excuses.”
When questioned about their inaction, representatives from the companies highlighted existing security features aimed at protecting customer data.
Simon Wingrove, Google’s software engineering manager, asserted that their system is “robust and highly effective.”
Gary Davis, Apple’s senior director of regulatory affairs, acknowledged that account disconnection due to fraud poses a challenge, as it can delete accounts that unauthorized users wish to regain access to.
Kit Malthouse, a Conservative former police minister, suggested that Apple has a strong commercial incentive to maintain the status quo, stating that the £50 million loss from stolen phones in London each year favors their business model.
He also proposed that Apple may be profiting from providing services to a vast number of users who own stolen mobile phones worldwide.
In response, Davis asserted: “We do not profit from this situation. We must reject the notion that users can somehow gain from the distress of having their phones stolen. We have invested hundreds of millions to ensure user protections.”
The Metropolitan Police reported a 15% decline in all types of thefts during April and May, with roughly two-thirds of mobile phone thefts decreasing. Commander James Conway cautioned that this is a “tentative reduction,” attributing it to enhanced police focus on mobile theft and user safety. Scotland Yard recently acquired a fleet of high-speed electric bikes to pursue thieves more effectively.
Conway noted that theft and robbery are “easy crimes to commit” in London, citing how young adults can use high-powered e-bikes to swiftly package stolen phones in silver foil or Faraday bags to evade detection, then transfer them to mid-market resellers.
The majority of stolen phones are high-end Apple models, with police estimating that such devices are sold on the streets for between £300 and £400. The trade is driven by the relatively high costs of phone usage in low-income regions. Over 90% of stolen mobile phones are reused, while the remainder is dismantled for parts, with screens being particularly valuable.
The hearing began as Malthouse witnessed an attempted phone theft by two masked individuals on a bike while en route to Congress on Tuesday morning.
A frenzy erupted across Germany’s Autobahn and highways at the onset of one of Thursday’s busiest holiday weekends, prompted by Google Maps erroneously suggesting that extensive sections were closed.
Navigators in major cities like Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Berlin encountered maps populated with glaring red dots, signaling stoppages on highways spanning western, northern, southwestern, and central Germany. The disruption also impacted areas of Belgium and the Netherlands.
Users dependent on Google Maps perceived a nationwide standstill. This confusion was intensified by the fact that numerous Germans were on the move for the four-day Ascension holiday.
Reports of closures created bottlenecks on alternative routes, as motorists sought detours, resulting in extended delays. Police and traffic control were inundated with inquiries from concerned individuals seeking assistance.
Motorists who used or switched to alternative applications like Apple Maps or Waze, or who tuned into radio traffic updates, received a vastly different perspective.
On social platforms, users inquired about the chaos and expressed their dissatisfaction. “They can’t close all the highways,” one user remarked. Another quipped, “It’s like the Autobahn system has broken out in acne.”
Some speculated on whether there had been a significant terrorist incident, while others speculated about foreign meddling in a cyberattack.
The cause behind the navigation failure remains unclear.
A spokesperson from Google informed German outlets that they are currently analyzing the situation to determine the cause. They began mending the false closure notifications after receiving user reports of suspicious errors.
The spokesperson stated, “We can’t comment on a specific incident.” They highlighted that information comes from three primary sources: public data, third-party providers, and user inputs. While map data is updated frequently, the frequency varies.
“Generally, these sources form a solid foundation for accurate and timely map information,” the spokesperson added.
Road users were recommended to consult multiple resources when planning their upcoming travels.
On Tuesday, Google introduced a new surge of artificial intelligence capabilities, transforming how users access information and expediting a year-long evolution of search engines that has reduced internet traffic to other sites.
At its annual developer conference, Google unveiled a novel “AI Mode” in the US, designed to facilitate conversations with experts who can respond to a wide variety of questions during searches.
This AI mode will be available to all US users just two months after its initial testing in the limited Labs division.
Additionally, Google plans to integrate its latest AI model, Gemini 2.5, into the search algorithms and trial new features such as the ability to automatically purchase concert tickets and sift through live video feeds.
In a bold move, Google announced its re-entrance into the smart glasses sector, introducing a new version powered by Android XR. This announcement comes 13 years after the launch of Google Glass, which was withdrawn due to public privacy concerns.
While the release date and pricing for the Android XR glasses remain undisclosed, Google indicated they are being developed in collaboration with Gentle Monster and Warby Parker. These glasses will compete with offerings from platforms like Facebook’s parent Meta and Ray-Ban.
This expansion builds on a transformation initiated a year prior, introducing an “AI Overview” that is increasingly featuring at the top of the search results page, altering conventional web link rankings.
Google reports that approximately 1.5 billion users are currently engaging with the “AI Overview,” with many now inputting longer, more intricate queries.
“Our progress indicates that we are entering a new stage in the AI platform evolution, where years of research are turning into practical applications for people globally,” stated Google CEO Sundar Pichai during his address to attendees at the amphitheater near the company’s Mountain View, California headquarters.
Although Pichai and other executives suggested the AI overview would drive more searches and clicks to external sites, data from search optimization firm BrightEdge reveals that this has not yet been the case.
BrightEdge’s recent findings indicate that click-through rates from Google search results have dipped nearly 30% over the past year.
The decision to make AI modes widely available after a brief testing period underscores Google’s assurance that the technology won’t routinely disseminate misinformation, thus protecting its reputation amidst escalating competition from AI-enhanced search platforms like ChatGPT.
The swift emergence of AI alternatives is a consistent theme in legal proceedings allowing Google to dismantle parts of its internet dominance after a federal court deemed search engines a monopoly last year.
In testimony during a trial earlier this month, veteran Apple executive Eddy Cue mentioned a decrease in Google searches made via Safari on iPhones.
Google links this decline to the rise of AI, which is prompting necessary adaptations in how search engines function as technology reshapes the competitive landscape.
Despite its increasing reliance on AI, Google appears to maintain its position as the primary gateway to the Internet, a key reason why its parent company, Alphabet Inc., boasts a market value of $2 trillion.
According to data from oneLittleweb.com, Google attracted 136 billion visits in the year ending in March.
During an interview, an Associated Press reporter inquired whether the implementation of AI modes would strengthen Google, noting the unlikelihood of AI technology causing significant harm to its search engines.
The AI mode acknowledged that its implementation is likely to enhance Google’s influence, especially regarding information accessibility and online engagement, while cautioning web publishers about potential traffic declines from search results.
Upcoming tests in Google’s Labs division aim to introduce new waves of AI technology expected to be rolled out to consumers.
These tests include features that enable AI agents to book tickets and restaurant reservations using Project Mariner Technology, as well as experiments with live video and opt-in features, granting AI access to users’ Gmail and other Google apps for increased understanding of preferences and behaviors. Furthermore, this summer’s test lineup features a “deep search” tool and a new option for creating visual presentations of sports and finance data.
Google will also offer a subscription package called “Ultra,” providing 30 terabytes of storage for $250 a month, representing a significant upgrade from its previous “Top of the Line” offer, now known as “AI Pro,” which costs $20 a month and includes just two terabytes of storage.
As reported by Google, members of the UK-based spider-hacking community are actively “promoting” cyberattacks amid the increasing disruption faced by UK retailers in the US market.
A hacker collective known as the “scattered spiders” has been connected to attacks on British retailers such as Marks & Spencer, Co-op, and Harrods. Google Cybersecurity experts have now warned that unidentified retailers in the Atlantic region are also under threat.
Charles Carmakal, the chief technology officer for Google’s Mandiant Cybersecurity division, noted that the threat has shifted to the US, following a pattern commonly observed with scattered spider attackers.
“They focus on a specific industrial sector and geographic location for a short period, before moving on to a new target,” he explained. “Currently, their attention is on retail organizations. They began in the UK and have now extended their focus to firms in the US.”
When asked about the involvement of British members in the M&S hacking, he stated, “While I can’t name specific victims, it’s clear that UK-based scattered spider members are promoting and facilitating these incursions.”
On Friday, it was disclosed that M&S alerted employees that some personal data may have been compromised during a cyber attack last month. Sources informed the Daily Telegraph that staff members were notified that their email addresses and full names were potentially exposed in the breach.
Earlier this week, M&S reported that hackers had accessed personal information of thousands of customers.
In light of these attacks on UK retailers, cybersecurity agencies have urged businesses to remain vigilant and aware of specific tactics employed by scattered spiders.
In an advisory notice, the National Cyber Security Center recommended businesses to leverage IT support to assist staff in resetting their passwords. One tactic associated with scattered spiders—named for a set of hacking tactics rather than a unified group—involves calling help desks to gain access to corporate systems while impersonating an employee or contractor.
“We have observed instances where they call the help desk, masquerade as employees, and convince the staff to reset their passwords,” Carmakal explained.
Carmakal also noted that these calls to help desks are sometimes made by younger members of the scattered spider network.
“It’s not always the threat actor themselves making the call… some tasks are outsourced to other community members, often younger individuals looking to earn some quick money through various schemes and inconsistencies,” he shared.
Scattered spiders primarily consist of native English speakers from the UK, US, and Canada, which sets them apart from other ransomware groups. Karmakal mentioned that he has received reports of “numerous calls” made by scattered spider hackers to corporate employees.
Ransomware gangs typically infiltrate target computer systems with malware that effectively locks users out of their internal files. These groups usually originate from Russia or former Soviet states.
Carmakal’s remarks coincided with French luxury brand Dior disclosing that “fraudulent external parties” had accessed some customer data. The Paris-based brand has yet to clarify the nature or extent of the attacker’s incursions.
This week, Google’s cybersecurity team affirmed that scattered spiders have shifted their focus to US retailers.
“We are dedicated to offering a variety of services to our customers,” stated John Hultquist, chief analyst at Google Threat Intelligence Group. “The group that originally targeted retail in the UK, after a significant hiatus, has a track record of concentrating on one sector at a time, and we anticipate they will continue to prioritize this sector in the near future. US retailers should exercise caution.”
Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet, issued a warning on Wednesday, indicating that hackers responsible for disrupting UK retailers are now focused on similar companies in the U.S.
“U.S. retailers need to remain vigilant. These actors are offensive and innovative, particularly skilled at bypassing established security measures,” stated John Hartquist, an analyst in Google’s cybersecurity team, in an email sent Wednesday.
The culprits have identified themselves as part of a group known as “scattered spiders,” which refers to a loosely connected network of highly skilled hackers operating at various levels.
The scattered spiders have been linked to a notably severe cyberattack on M&S, a prominent name in UK retail, which has been unable to conduct online business since April 25th. Hultquist mentioned that this group tends to fixate on one sector at a time and is expected to target retailers for an extended period.
Just a day prior to Google’s alert, M&S revealed that some customer data had been compromised, excluding payment information, card details, or account passwords. Sources indicate that the data may include names, addresses, and order history. M&S acknowledged that personal information was accessed due to the “sophisticated nature of the incident.”
“Today, we are informing customers that some of their personal data have been acquired due to the sophisticated nature of the incident,” the company stated.
Hackers from the scattered spider network have been linked to numerous damaging breaches on both sides of the Atlantic. In 2023, group-associated hackers made headlines for infiltrating casino operators MGM Resort International and Caesars Entertainment.
Law enforcement agencies are struggling to manage the scattered spider hacking groups. This challenge is partly attributed to their fluid structure, uncooperative younger hackers, and the complexities faced by cybercrime victims.
On Friday, Google consented to pay Texas $1.4 billion, facing accusations of violating state residents’ privacy related to two lawsuits concerning location tracking, search history, and facial recognition data collection.
Attorney General Ken Paxton, who facilitated the settlement, initiated a lawsuit in 2022 under Texas’ data privacy and deceptive trade practices legislation. Less than a year later, he achieved a $1.4 billion settlement with Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram.
This settlement marks another legal challenge for the tech giant. In the last two years, Google has faced a series of antitrust cases, revealing its significant control over app stores, search engines, and advertising technology. Recent legal battles have sought to counter the U.S. government’s requests to break up the company.
“Big tech must adhere to the law,” Paxton stated.
Google spokesperson José Castañeda remarked that the company has already revised its product policies. “This resolves numerous longstanding claims, many of which have found resolution elsewhere,” he noted.
Privacy concerns have caused significant friction between tech corporations and regulators in recent years. In the absence of federal privacy regulations, states like Texas and Washington have enacted laws to limit the collection of facial, voice, and other biometric data.
Google and Meta have been among the leading companies challenged under these regulations. Texas law, known as the Capture or Use of Biometric Identifiers, mandates that companies obtain consent before utilizing features like facial and speech recognition technology. Violators can face penalties of up to $25,000 per breach.
The lawsuit under this law centers on the Google Photos app, which facilitates searching for images of specific individuals. Future Google cameras may issue alerts upon recognizing visitors at a door. Moreover, Google Assistant is designed to learn and respond to inquiries from up to six users.
Mr. Paxton filed another lawsuit claiming that Google misled Texans by tracking their personal location data, even when they believed they had disabled the feature. He asserted additional grievances in the lawsuit, alleging that Google’s private browsing settings (known as Incognito Mode) were not genuinely private. These cases were filed under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act.
Over the last three weeks, the Department of Justice and Google have questioned over 20 witnesses in an effort to influence a federal judge’s ruling regarding the company’s unlawful monopoly in internet searches.
The hearing in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on Friday is anticipated to yield conclusions. To address the monopoly, the government has proposed robust measures, such as divesting Google of its widely-used Chrome web browser and obliging it to share its own data with competitors. Google contends that minor adjustments to its business practices would be more effective.
Both parties are set to present their closing arguments at the end of the month. Judge Amit P. Meta, who presides over the case, is expected to make a decision by August. His ruling could significantly impact how Google, its competitors, and users search for information online.
Here’s what you need to know about the discussions during the hearing:
What case does the hearing stem from?
In August, Judge Mehta ruled that Google breached antitrust laws by paying billions to companies like Apple, Samsung, and Mozilla to ensure its status as the default search engine on browsers and smartphones. He also found that Google’s monopoly could inflate certain search ad prices and create unfair advantages.
Last month, Judge Meta held a hearing to explore the best strategies for addressing search monopolies through a measure known as treatment. Executives from Google, competing search engines, and AI firms, along with experts, provided testimony regarding Google’s dominance on the Internet.
What did the government assert?
Government lawyers claimed that the only effective way to dismantle Google’s search monopoly is through decisive action.
They argued that Google should be compelled to spin off Chrome and share search results and ads with its competitors, enabling them to subscribe to their search engines. Other search engines and some AI firms require access to data regarding what Google users search for and the sites they visit.
During the hearing, the government cautioned that if Judge Meta does not act, Google could gain control over another technology, artificial intelligence. Searches may become chaotic as AI and chatbots transform the way users seek information online, similar to Google’s Gemini.
“The court’s remedy should be forward-looking and take into account future developments,” stated David Dalkist, the lead government attorney. “Google is employing the same strategies with Gemini that they once used for search.”
“It’s the first time in over 20 years in the last two months,” remarked Eddy Cue, an Apple executive who testified against Google. He linked this decline to the rise of AI.
What was Google’s defense?
Google’s attorneys contended that the government’s proposals could jeopardize products that consumers rely on for privacy and security during their online activities.
“There could certainly be many unintended consequences,” testified Sundar Pichai, Google’s CEO.
The disclosure of Google data to competitors would compromise user privacy, the company’s attorneys claimed. They referenced incidents from 2006 when AOL released search data for research purposes, leading journalists to identify individuals through their searches.
They also noted that competition in AI is robust.
Instead, Google’s legal team suggested that web browsers and smartphone manufacturers should grant more freedom to competing search and AI services. Pichai testified that Google has already adjusted its contracts with other entities in line with the case’s proposals.
(The New York Times has sued OpenAI and its partner Microsoft over copyright infringement concerning news content related to AI systems, which they denied.)
What did other companies express?
During the hearing, several of Google’s competitors, including those from OpenAI and Chatbot Company, indicated they would consider purchasing Chrome if it were put up for sale. Government witnesses stated that access to Google’s search and advertising data would be beneficial for AI companies aiming to compete with Google.
What comments did the judge make?
When Judge Meta posed questions to the witnesses throughout the hearing, he offered insight into his perspective.
At times, he encouraged witnesses to discuss whether rivals could effectively compete with Google’s search dominance without court intervention.
Many of his inquiries focused on AI and its significance. Google competes against its rivals and has developed technology that has become a major influence in the tech industry.
When Pichai took the stand, Judge Meta mentioned he had noted the swift advancement of AI since the case commenced in the fall of 2023, highlighting his awareness of how technological developments have shaped the context of the hearing.
“One of the things that Pichai impressed upon me in these cases was that when we met long ago, consistent testimonies from witnesses indicated the combined AI and search impacts had been separate for years. By the time we convened today, the landscape had changed dramatically.”
Google is set to introduce the Gemini AI Chatbot next week for children under 13 who have Google accounts, as tech companies vie for the attention of younger users with their AI offerings.
“The Gemini app will soon be available for your kids,” the company informed an 8-year-old’s parent via email this week. “This means your child can use Gemini to ask questions and get assistance in creating stories for homework.”
Chatbots will be available to children using their parents’ Family Links, Google services designed for families to set up Gmail accounts and access services like YouTube for their children. To create a child account, parents need to provide information such as the child’s name and birth date.
Regarding Gemini, Google has established guardrails for young users, ensuring that chatbots do not generate certain unsafe content. Karl Ryan, a Google spokesperson, noted that data from children with Family Link accounts will not be used to train AI.
The rollout of Gemini for children is expected to help educational institutions, businesses, and others in assessing the efficiency of common generative AI technologies, thus broadening the use of chatbots among at-risk populations. These systems, which are trained on vast amounts of data, can produce human-like text and realistic images and videos.
Google and other developers of AI chatbots are fiercely competing to attract younger users. Recently, President Trump encouraged educational institutions to adopt these tools for learning. Millions of teenagers are already utilizing chatbots for learning support, writing guidance, and virtual companionship. However, a group of children has cautioned that chatbots can pose serious safety risks.
“Generative AI is producing hazardous content,” noted UNICEF’s Global Research Office in a statement about the risks and opportunities posed by AI for children.
In an email to families this week, Google acknowledged some risks, informing parents that “Gemini can make mistakes,” and advised them to “help children think critically” about chatbots.
The email also suggested that parents educate children on how to fact-check the responses from Gemini. The company urged parents to remind kids that “Gemini is not human” and to “avoid sharing sensitive or personal information with Gemini.”
The email emphasized that, despite Google’s attempts to filter inappropriate content, caution is still advised.
This week’s Google Mail to Parents highlighted the risks associated with Gemini for children.
Over the years, Google has rolled out various products, features, and safety measures for children and teens. In 2015, Google launched YouTube Kids, a dedicated app for children that remains popular among families.
Other initiatives aimed at attracting children online have raised concerns from government officials and child advocates. In 2021, Meta abandoned plans for Instagram Kids after a group of state attorneys general sent a letter criticizing the company for historically failing to ensure the safety of children on its platforms.
Several prominent tech companies, including Google, Amazon, and Microsoft, have faced significant fines for violating the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. Federal regulations mandate that children under 13 must obtain parental consent before any personal information is collected online.
With the launch of Gemini, children with family-managed Google accounts will soon be able to access the chatbot on their own. However, the company advised parents that they can modify their children’s chatbot settings to “disable access” if needed.
“Your child will soon gain access to the Gemini app,” an email to parents stated. “We will also notify you when your child first uses Gemini.”
Ryan mentioned that Google’s strategy for offering Gemini to younger users adheres to federal regulations concerning children’s online privacy.
tThis is some kind of guy looking at Google Maps for fun. I’m that guy. As a child, I went through the stages of cartography, drawing elaborate maps of fictional islands, peering into the family’s road supervision, working to ensure that the lines and dots of overcrowded pages were harmonized in the eyes of my mind, the shops, and friends’ homes. You can say that the phase never really ended.
Just like some people measure IMDB entries in movies, whenever I start watching the second time, whenever I come across an interesting town, country, or geographical oddity (often in the news business), I burn maps to see what bites of terrain I can discover. I’m not a Geoguessr Savant, but I spent a lot of fun time getting confused by the interesting enclaves and Panhandles and getting tired of the faraway parts of Street View. After finishing a recent episode of Severance, I opened the tab and took an armchair tour through the remote Newfoundland filmed.
I’m not revealing exactly the mystical corners of the internet here. Google Maps is very ubiquitous and has become a utility – I feel like I’ll admit to opening it and praise the virtue of the calendar app or call Centrelink Just to enjoy hold music. There are many other decent navigation apps, but the special source for Google Maps is a mountain of user-generated data.
The key to the power of Google Maps is the compulsive “local guide” volunteer workforce. Clicking on these profiles makes it vaguely illegal, as if you’re tracking it for ASIO. These are users who record every move, gathering hundreds of reviews, from restaurants to payphones, detailing opening hours, accessibility features, and taking the worst food photos you’ve ever seen. I don’t understand these people and their points and badge currency, but I am grateful to them. There are men who reviewed all the public mailboxes in Ballarat and expressed their opinions on all of them. My nearest bus stop has a 3.3 star rating and a single review: “It’s just a bus stop.” got it!
Flumpy: Google’s Neighborhood Cat is a map with (almost) complete ratings. Photo: Google Maps
Some Google Maps discoveries feel like they’re stumbling over other people’s private jokes. Not too far from my girlfriend’s house, the inconspicuous tarmac is dubbed “Tristan’s Roundabout” – The review tab boasts tourist selfies and comically exaggerated admiration for Tristan of the same name, responding in equally enthusiastic terms to reviewers comparable to intersections.
On Google Maps, this roundabout list includes “tourist selfies and comically exaggerated admiration.” Photo: Google Maps
In the surrounding streets, reviewers can be found waxing more lyrical than local attractions. Hole in the ground or Abandoned trailerand the friendly orange cat that writes a sparkling tribute terrible. When I pass through these waypoints as I move around my neighborhood it feels like a digital scavenger hunt. This is the act of realizing and recording small habits of suburban life.
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Maps are packed with political and imperialist symbolism, and Google is mostly more responsible for the dire state of the Internet. At the moment, we are confident that product managers are brainstorming how to put shoes on the maps even more AI slops. But for now, when the internet feels like a constant flow of noise, it’s nice to relax by slowly wrapping around your neighborhood.
Google, owned by Alphabet, was found to have illegally controlled two markets related to online advertising technology. The ruling by a US District Judge in Alexandria, Virginia, on Thursday dealt a blow to the tech giant, opening the door for anti-trust prosecutors to potentially split up its advertising products.
The judge, Leonie Brinkema, held Google responsible for monopolizing the market for advertising exchanges between buyers and sellers, as well as for publisher ad server platforms used to manage advertising inventory on websites. The judge rejected the claim that Google had a monopoly on advertisers’ ad networks.
Lee-Anne Mulholland, vice-chairman of the regulator, stated that Google plans to appeal the ruling.
The decision sets the stage for further proceedings to determine how Google can restore competition in the markets it monopolized. This may involve selling off a portion of its business, though no date has been set for this examination.
The Department of Justice has indicated that Google may need to sell Google Ad Manager at the very least.
In addition to this case, Google is facing the possibility of being forced to sell assets or change its practices in another court case. A Washington judge is set to preside over a trial next week concerning Google’s Chrome browsers and its dominance in online searches. Google has previously considered selling ad exchanges to comply with European antitrust regulations.
Brinkema presided over a trial last year where prosecutors accused Google of using monopoly tactics to eliminate competitors and control online advertising transactions. Google refutes these claims, stating that it continues to develop tools that can work with competitors’ products and pointing out competition from companies like Amazon and Comcast.
Google is facing a £5 billion lawsuit in the UK for allegedly stealing from its competitors in the internet search market and exploiting this advantage to overcharge companies for advertising.
A class action lawsuit filed in the Court of Competition Appeals claims that Google has manipulated search results to charge higher prices for ads compared to a fair market scenario.
It is alleged that Google, a part of Alphabet, struck deals with phone manufacturers to make Google the default search engine on IPHONE, preinstalling the Google search app and Chrome browser on Android devices to stifle competition from Apple.
The lawsuit, filed on behalf of numerous companies by competition law experts, argues that Google’s ad offerings give search engines better features and more visibility than its rivals.
A Google spokesperson dismissed the lawsuit as speculative and opportunistic, stating that consumers and advertisers choose Google willingly.
Businesses are said to have no alternative but to use Google Ads for promotion, as securing a spot on Google’s homepage is crucial for visibility and success.
The UK’s Competitive and Markets Bureau is currently investigating Google’s search services and their impact on the advertising market, as Google faces multiple antitrust probes worldwide.
In a recent antitrust case loss in the US, Google faces the possibility of having to restructure its business and divest parts of its advertising technology, impacting its revenue streams and industry practices.
The European Commission has accused Google of violating competition rules by favoring its own services in search results over competitors, potentially resulting in hefty fines.
President Donald Trump seeks to dismiss antitrust lawsuits against tech companies, while the UK government considers reducing the Digital Services Tax on high-tech firms like Amazon, Google, and Apple.
It was a quarter of a century ago when the court seriously considered the wisdom of disbanding a giant technology company after it was discovered that Microsoft had illegally curtailed competition for personal computer software.
A U.S. District Judge said Microsoft forced it to split into two, and forced its exclusive window operating system to separate its office productivity products and other software. However, the Court of Appeals abandoned the order, calling it a “relief imposed with great care because it is rarely certain of its long-term effectiveness.”
This month’s pair of landmark lawsuits in two courtrooms in Washington, the issue of possibly potentially disbanding a large tech company is once again on the judicial table.
In an antitrust trial that began Monday, the Federal Trade Commission alleged that Meta maintained an illegal monopoly on social media through its acquisition of Instagram and WhatsApp. The agency is trying to force Meta to sell both. Next week, in another proceeding, federal judges will hear debate from the Department of Justice about why the courts are disbanding Google to improve the company’s monopoly in internet searches.
“We’re a great leader in our efforts to help people understand how we’re doing,” said William Kovacic, a law professor at George Washington University and a former chairman of the FTC.
For generations, courts have faced the challenges of what to do in major antitrust laws after it was discovered that the dominant company was engaged in anticompetitive behavior. In a Supreme Court decision in 1947, Judge Robert H. Jackson wrote that if the court’s solution did not open the market for competition, the government would remember that “we won the lawsuit and lost the cause.”
However, while the court’s decision is based on examining past facts, its remedies look to the future. The goal is not to thwart the market, but to free it and create a competitive environment that brings new ideas, new companies, more innovations, lower prices.
The challenge is to take on new importance as regulators have a huge drive to curb the tech giant in a series of antitrust laws that oppose power beyond communication, commerce and information.
In another lawsuit against Google, the Department of Justice awaits a judge’s decision regarding the company’s superiority in advertising technology. The department also sued Apple for its tactics to protect the favorable iPhone franchise. The FTC sued Amazon, saying it illegally protected its monopoly in its online retail business from competition.
This wave of antitrust lawsuits, including appeals, could last for years. And if the government wins any of the cases, the judge could order a breakup – the worst outcome for the business.
History shows that these orders could be effective, antitrust experts said. However, the outcomes of improved competition are mixed.
Standard Oil, an energy giant founded by John D. Rockefeller in 1870, was the decisive case of a progressive and unreliable era of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. That’s what the company was like Disbanded by the Supreme Court In 1911 it was divided into 34 entities that made up the original standard oil trust that controlled the production, refining, distribution and pricing of the oil industry. It initially helped the competition, but over time the trust’s descendants became their own oil giants, including Exxon Mobil, Chevron and ConocoPhillips.
The AT&T split in the 1982 settlement followed a lengthy antitrust lawsuit by the Department of Justice, which accused the United States of illegally monopolying the US telecom market. The local telephone business was split into seven regional “babybell” companies, with the order opening a long-distance telephone and telephone equipment market, increasing competition and lowering prices.
In antitrust terminology, such “structural” solutions generally refer to division. But there is Steps other than forced sale It could form a market and stimulate competition, anti-trust experts said.
In 1969, IBM unlocked hardware from software after pressure from the government’s antitrust laws, which accused it of monopolizing the computer market at the time. The software will no longer be “free” included in the computer price. It helped Microsoft as the biggest winner to ignite the rise of the commercial software industry.
Microsoft avoided breaking up, but the final settlement in 2001 included a ban on contracts that essentially used Windows monopoly as a club by restricting computer manufacturers from distributing software from emerging rivals. That suppression has kept the door open to new competition in browser software and search. Google was a major beneficiary.
“These were strong, break-up-free relief packages that created more competition,” said Fiona Scott Morton, professor of economics at Yale School of Business Administration.
The next powerful tech company facing court scrutiny is Meta and Google.
On Monday, the FTC and Meta (formerly Facebook) issued their opening statement in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. The company’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, then stood up. The essence of the government case is that Facebook has been extremely overpaid for Instagram and WhatsApp over a decade ago, killing them to protect the lucrative monopoly of social networking.
Meta replied that Instagram and WhatsApp have grown and flourished under their ownership. And the company argued that there was a lot of competition in the social networking market, including the rise of the Tiktok meteor.
If the government wins the meta case, antitrust experts said there is a high possibility of a relief measure.
In the same Washington court next week, Google is facing a relief phase in a lawsuit by the Department of Justice and a group of states over its internet search monopoly. In August, Judge Amit P. Mehta discovered that Google was keeping its search monopoly illegal.
To restore competition, the government has asked the court to order Google to sell popular web browsers and is prohibited from spin-off the smartphone operating system Android or make the service mandatory on Android phones. Chrome and Android are powerful distribution channels for Google search.
Google describes the government’s list as “a violently outboard proposal” that “goes beyond court decisions” and harms consumers by providing products that are inferior to consumers. The company also said it would appeal.
Tim Wu, a law professor at Columbia University, was a White House advisor on technology and competition policy for the Biden administration, helping to break up Google and META cases.
“If you want to stir the pot, the structural solution is clean and essentially self-executive. You break up and leave,” he said. (Mr. Wu writes about the New York Times opinion section.)
However, every split order has been appealed, and today’s High Court appears to reflect skepticism in the Microsoft era.
In a rare unanimous decision in 2021, the Supreme Court ruled that the National Association of College Athletics cannot use its market power to stop paying student-athletes. It was essentially a fixed wage price case and was decided entirely for the plaintiff.
However, Judge Neil M. Gorsuch, who wrote for the court, derailed to create a broader point about antitrust judicial binding.
“In short, judges should never aim for that role to create poor “central planners,” he wrote.
When it comes to tariffs increasing costs, the term “cheap” can provide a sense of relief for many. Google has recently launched its affordable smartphone shortly after Apple introduced a slightly cheaper iPhone.
This week, Google unveiled Pixel 9a, priced at $500, as a budget-friendly alternative to the $800 Pixel 9 flagship. It directly competes with the $600 iPhone 16E, which is the more affordable version of Apple’s $800 iPhone 16.
Both these new phones offer essential features that users prioritize, such as excellent cameras, quality screens, fast performance, updated software, and long-lasting battery life. To keep costs low, some advanced camera features have been omitted.
Is it smart to save money or invest in a more luxurious phone? To find out, I tested all four phones rigorously last week while lugging them around in a fanny pack.
Results show that, as expected, you get what you pay for. The $800 phone offers slightly better functionality and performance than the lower-priced model, while the $600 iPhone boasts a better camera compared to the $500 Pixel.
Interestingly, in some of my tests, the cheaper Pixel and iPhone models were almost indistinguishable from their pricier counterparts. In some aspects, the budget phones even outperformed, especially in terms of battery life.
The future of smartphone pricing remains uncertain, but an upward trend is likely. Following President Trump’s announcement of tariff suspension but an increase in tariffs on products from China, where many phones are manufactured, consumers may need to act fast and consider more affordable options.
While Apple has not confirmed any price adjustments for the iPhone, analysts predict potential increases due to tariffs, possibly raising the cost of the iPhone 16 Pro model to as high as $2,300. Google, on the other hand, has stated no changes for the $500 Pixel 9a price but did not comment on the pricing of the $800 Pixel 9.
The cheaper iPhone and Pixel models bear a striking resemblance to their pricier counterparts. Here’s a rundown of their key differences:
Phone Screen: Both have the same size which is 6.1 inches diagonal for iPhone 16E and 6.3 inches for Pixel 9a. The iPhone 16E screen appears slightly dimmer than the iPhone 16, but the variance is minimal.
Camera Features: Neither budget phone includes all the camera functions present in their pricier versions. The Pixel 9a has a smaller camera sensor than the Pixel 9, resulting in less light and detail. The iPhone 16E features a single camera lens, lacking the capability for certain special effects like “ultra-wide” photos.
Processing Power: Both budget phones are slightly less powerful than their higher-end counterparts. They share the same processor, but the Pixel 9a has less memory for multitasking, and the iPhone 16E has a slightly weaker graphics processing unit for handling graphic-intensive games.
Magsafe Feature: The iPhone 16E omits the Magsafe functionality available on the iPhone 16, which allows the attachment of accessories using magnets. Although wireless charging is still possible, it utilizes a slower standard called QI.
Artificial Intelligence: Both phones support AI capabilities. The iPhone 16E leverages Apple’s AI for tasks like text summarization and image generation, while the Pixel 9a utilizes Google’s AI for various applications. However, the AI software is still in development and may not be critical for most users.
Battery Life
For many new phone buyers, the extended battery life of the budget-friendly Pixel 9a and iPhone 16E stands out as a major advantage. These phones incorporate larger batteries due to the absence of certain features found in their pricier counterparts.
Both the iPhone 16E and Pixel 9A typically last a day and a half with regular usage like web browsing, photography, and video playback, surpassing the battery life of the higher-priced models that last only about a day.
Camera Test
One notable drawback of cheaper phones is evident in their camera performance.
During my camera tests, both the Pixel 9a and Pixel 9 captured clear and accurate photos in various lighting conditions, with the Pixel 9 suffering in challenging light situations where details were lost.
In more demanding lighting scenarios, such as shadows cast by trees with filtered sunlight, the Pixel 9a struggled to differentiate light and dark, resulting in overexposure. (The Pixel 9 handled this situation better.)
The camera performance of the iPhone 16E and iPhone 16 excelled during these tests, displaying consistent results with minimal variations.
Both iPhones surpassed the Pixel phones in video recording. Videos of Max, the Corgi, taken on an iPhone were smoother and clearer compared to the choppier footage captured on the Pixel Phone.
The primary limitation of budget iPhone cameras is the absence of certain features. For example, the iPhone 16E lacks a second lens, preventing the capture of wide-angle shots.
Speed
Higher-priced phones exhibited slightly better speed performance than budget phones.
According to GeekBench speed test results, the Pixel 9a is approximately 4% slower than the Pixel 9, while the iPhone 16E lags behind the iPhone 16 by 3%.
In everyday use, most users might not notice these speed differences. When I compared the phones side by side, launching various apps and games, the performance felt largely similar to me.
Implications for Users
Whether you opt for the iPhone 16E or Pixel 9a, you’ll likely be satisfied with a smartphone that offers long battery life and good camera capabilities. However, if premium features like detailed photography or Apple’s Magsafe charging are important to you, investing in a higher-end model remains a viable choice.
With potential price hikes on the horizon, considering your smartphone as a long-term investment like a car is advisable.
Google has agreed to pay $28 million (£22 million) to settle class action lawsuits by compensating white and Asian employees more and providing them with a higher career track compared to other employees.
The settlement with Alphabet’s Google was preliminarily approved by Judge Charles Adams of Santa Clara County Superior Court in California last week.
Judge Adams described it as “a positive outcome for the class” consisting of at least 6,632 Google employees in California from February 15, 2018 to December 31, 2024.
A Google spokesperson confirmed the settlement, stating, “We refute the allegations of differential treatment and are committed to compensating, hiring, and promoting all our employees fairly.”
The lawsuit was spearheaded by Ana Cantu, who identifies as Mexican and indigenous, on behalf of minority employees at Google from Hispanic, Latino, Indigenous, Native American, and other backgrounds.
Cantu claimed that despite performing exemplary work in Google’s People’s Business and Cloud sector for seven years, she was not compensated or promoted on par with her white and Asian counterparts.
She alleged that Google favored white and Asian employees, placing them in higher “levels” within the company even when performing similar roles as minority employees.
Cantu argued that Google’s actions violated California’s Equal Pay Act, and she left the company in September 2021.
The final settlement amount will be $20 million after deducting legal costs, penalties related to Cantu’s claims under California’s General Civil Attorneys Act, and other expenses totaling $7 million.
Judge Adams has scheduled a hearing in September to review and approve the final settlement. Cantu’s legal representatives have not yet responded to requests for comment.
Alphabet, the owner of Google, has agreed to purchase Cybersecurity Group Wiz for $32 billion (£24.7 billion).
Google is acquiring an Israeli startup in an effort to compete with rivals Microsoft and Amazon in the cloud services market.
Wiz provides services that scan data from cloud storage providers like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure for security risks. It previously turned down Alphabet’s $23 billion bid last summer.
However, concerns about regulatory approval caused some issues with the initial bid.
If the deal falls through, Alphabet has agreed to pay a $3.2 billion fee. This acquisition indicates a test of the Trump administration’s willingness and shows President Biden’s leadership in acquiring major technology companies.
Alphabet is currently facing pressure from US Department of Justice officials to sell off its Chrome browser to address concerns about its dominance in the search market.
Wiz, founded in 2020 by graduates of the Israeli Intelligence Corps, has offices in New York and Israel, with its European headquarters in London.
Despite the acquisition, Wiz will operate independently from Google, similar to how Microsoft operates LinkedIn.
Wiz will continue to collaborate with major cloud platforms such as Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Oracle Cloud.
Wiz co-founder and CEO Assaf Rappaport will remain in his position until October 2024. Photo: Bloomberg/Getty
“We’re excited for the future,” said Sundar Pichai, Google’s CEO. “Google Cloud and Wiz will enhance cloud security and multi-cloud capabilities. Businesses and governments operating in the cloud seek stronger security solutions and a wider range of cloud computing providers.”
Startup CEO Assaf Rappaport previously rejected Alphabet’s $23 billion offer to focus on growth and potentially going public.
Analyst Dan Ives from Wedbush commented on the acquisition, highlighting Wiz’s strong presence in the cloud cybersecurity industry.
Google’s move to acquire Wiz is seen as a strategic step to compete with other tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon in the cloud security space.
Wiz currently generates $750 million in annual revenue, and Google aims to capitalize on the company’s market position for future growth.
Alphabet’s previous acquisitions include Motorola Mobility, Mandiant, YouTube, and Deep Mind as part of its strategy to diversify from search-related ads.
With Wiz’s expertise, Alphabet hopes to gain a larger share of the global cloud market, currently lagging behind Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services.
Analyst Dan Ives sees Google’s acquisition of Wiz as a strategic move to enhance cloud security offerings and drive cloud and AI initiatives forward.
Tiktok was made available on the US App Store by Apple and Google on Thursday after President Donald Trump postponed the ban on Chinese-owned social media apps. This ensured that the tech giants would not face fines for distributing or maintaining the app.
The popular short video app, used by nearly half of all Americans, faced a temporary ban last month. However, the ban was scheduled to take effect on January 19th due to national security concerns surrounding its Chinese ownership. The owners were asked to sell the app or risk being banned.
Following this, Trump signed an executive order the next day, delaying the enforcement of the ban by 75 days, allowing Tiktok to continue its operations in the US temporarily.
After receiving Trump’s assurance, Tiktok resumed its service, but Google and Apple continued to remove the app from the US App Store.
Tiktok, the second-most downloaded app in the US last year, announced on Thursday that the latest version of the app was now available for download.
Analysts speculate that there was a delay as Google and Apple were waiting for guarantees that they would not be penalized for hosting or distributing the app.
Trump’s order ensured that companies would not face fines for running the Tiktok app.
According to Market Intelligence Firm Sensor Tower, Tiktok was downloaded over 52 million times in 2024. The majority of downloads came from Apple’s App Store, with the rest from Google Play in the US.
Regulations demanding the sale of Tiktok’s US assets by a deadline, or the possibility of a ban, were put in place in April last year by then-President Joe Biden. This was in response to national security fears and concerns about potential surveillance by China through video sharing apps.
The US has never banned major social media platforms, and the law enacted last year gives the government the authority to ban or require the sale of other Chinese-owned apps.
Trump mentioned on Thursday that the 75-day deadline for Tiktok could be extended.
The uncertainty surrounding Tiktok has attracted interest from potential buyers, including former Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt.
Trump indicated that he has been in talks with various parties regarding the purchase of Tiktok and is likely to make a decision on the app’s future in February.
The former Google CEO, Eric Schmidt, warns that rogue nations like North Korea, Iran, and Russia could utilize artificial intelligence to harm innocent people. Schmidt, who served as the CEO of Google from 2001 to 2017, expressed his concerns on BBC Radio 4 about the misuse of technology and weapons by malevolent entities.
He emphasized the potential dangers posed by countries with malicious intentions, such as North Korea, Iran, and Russia, who could exploit advanced technology for harmful purposes. Schmidt highlighted the urgency of addressing this threat, citing the devastating impact it could have on innocent individuals.
In response to the export controls implemented by President Joe Biden to restrict the sale of AI-related microchips, Schmidt voiced his support for government oversight of tech companies developing AI models. However, he cautioned against excessive regulation that could stifle innovation.
While acknowledging the importance of government understanding and monitoring technological advancements, Schmidt also underscored the need for collaboration between tech leaders and policymakers to navigate ethical concerns and potential risks.
Speaking from Paris at the AI Action Summit, Schmidt highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing AI-related challenges. While some countries, like the UK and the US, did not sign a comprehensive AI agreement due to concerns about national security and regulatory impact on innovation, Schmidt stressed the need for a balanced approach to driving progress in AI.
Regarding the use of smartphones by children, Schmidt expressed concerns about their safety and advocated for measures to protect young users from online threats. He supported initiatives to regulate social media use for children and emphasized the importance of safeguarding children in the digital age.
Google executives discussed the tech giant’s diversity initiative, announcing its sunset and the removal of the pledge to create artificial intelligence for weapons and surveillance during all-staff meetings. Former Head of Diversity, Melonie Parker, mentioned updates to the company’s diversity and inclusion training programs. Parker, now Vice Chairman of Googler Engagement, highlighted the impact of changing geopolitical dynamics on Google’s AI principles, emphasizing the importance of being part of societal conversations. Company executives addressed questions from employees, including concerns about the removal of AI construction bans for weapons and surveillance. Google CEO Sundar Pichai reiterated the company’s commitment to following legal guidelines while striving for a diverse workforce that mirrors its global user base.
Google’s recent shift away from diversity goals and employment targets for underrepresented groups aligns with industry trends influenced by government policies. The company’s decision to collaborate on defense contracts, including the provision of AI services to the Israeli Defense Forces, has sparked internal and external discussions. Employee questions addressed concerns about the removal of AI principles related to weapons and surveillance, prompting further examination of Google’s ethical standards and corporate values.
The connection between Google’s DEI program and AI initiatives has raised questions about the company’s direction and ethical considerations. Employee activism within Google has highlighted the complex balance between corporate interests and societal impacts. As Google navigates its role in technology development and defense contracting, internal conversations around AI ethics and transparency continue to shape the company’s decision-making processes.
Google’s use of AI to summarize and address employee queries reflects the company’s efforts to streamline communication and address concerns effectively. Employee questions range from ethical AI development to corporate transparency, highlighting the need for open dialogue within the organization. As Google grapples with evolving industry standards and societal expectations, ongoing discussions about AI ethics and diversity initiatives will shape its future trajectory.
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