Tag Archives: Googles

How Google’s Custom AI Chip is Disrupting the Tech Industry

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Ironwood is Google’s latest tensor processing unit

Nvidia’s dominance in the AI chip market is facing challenges due to a new specialized chip from Google, with several companies, such as Meta and Anthropic, planning to invest billions in Google’s tensor processing units.

What is TPU?

The growth of the AI industry heavily relies on graphics processing units (GPUs), which are designed to execute numerous parallel calculations at once, unlike the sequential processing of central processing units (CPUs) found in most computers.

Originally engineered for graphics and gaming, GPUs can handle operations involving multiple pixels simultaneously, as stated by Francesco Conti from the University of Bologna, Italy. This parallel processing is advantageous for training and executing AI models, particularly with tasks relying on matrix multiplication across extensive grids. “GPUs have proven effective due to their architecture fitting well with tasks needing high parallelism,” Conti explains.

However, their initial design for non-AI applications introduces some inefficiencies in how GPUs handle computations. Google launched Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) in 2016, which are optimized specifically for matrix multiplication, the primary operation for training and executing large-scale AI models, according to Conti.

This year, Google introduced the 7th generation TPU called Ironwood, which powers many of the company’s AI models, including Gemini and AlphaFold for protein modeling.

Are TPUs Superior to GPUs for AI?

In some ways, TPUs can be considered a specialized segment of GPUs rather than an entirely separate chip, as noted by Simon McIntosh-Smith from the University of Bristol, UK. “TPUs concentrate on GPU capabilities tailored for AI training and inference, but they still share similarities.” However, tailored design means that TPUs can enhance the efficiency of AI tasks significantly, potentially leading to savings of millions of dollars, he highlights.

Nonetheless, this focus on specialization can lead to challenges, Conti adds, as TPUs may lack flexibility for significant shifts in AI model requirements over generations. “A lack of adaptability can slow down operations, especially when data center CPUs are under heavy load,” asserts Conti.

Historically, Nvidia GPUs have enjoyed an advantage due to accessible software that assists AI developers in managing code on their chips. When TPUs were first introduced, similar support was absent. However, Conti believes that they have now reached a maturity level that allows more seamless usage. “With TPUs, we can now achieve similar functionality as with GPUs,” he states. “The ease of access is becoming increasingly crucial.”

Who Is Behind the Development of TPUs?

While Google was the first to launch TPUs, many prominent AI firms (referred to as hyperscalers) and smaller enterprises are now venturing into the development of their proprietary TPUs, including Amazon, which has created its own Trainium chips for AI training.

“Many hyperscalers are establishing their internal chip programs due to the soaring prices of GPUs, driven by demand exceeding supply, making self-designed solutions more cost-effective,” McIntosh-Smith explains.

What Will Be the TPU’s Influence on the AI Industry?

For over a decade, Google has been refining its TPUs, primarily leveraging them for its AI models. Recently, changes are noticeable as other large corporations like Meta and Anthropic are investing in considerable amounts of computing power from Google’s TPUs. “While I haven’t seen a major shift of big clients yet, it may begin to transpire as the technology matures and the supply increases,” McIntosh-Smith indicated. “The chips are now sufficiently advanced and prevalent.”

Besides providing more options for large enterprises, diversifying their options could also make economic sense, he notes. “This could lead to more favorable negotiations with Nvidia in the future,” he adds.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Google’s Gemini 3 Model Keeps AI Buzz Alive – For the Time Being

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Gemini 3 is Google’s latest AI model

VCG (via Getty Images)

Google’s newest chatbot, Gemini 3, has shown remarkable advancement on various benchmarks aimed at evaluating AI progress, according to the company. While these accomplishments may mitigate concerns about a potential AI bubble for the time being, it’s uncertain how effectively these scores reflect real-world performance.

Moreover, the ongoing issues of factual inaccuracies and problematic illusions that are often present in large-scale language models remain unaddressed, particularly in scenarios where accuracy is critical.

In a blog post announcing the new model, Google leaders Sundar Pichai, Demis Hassabis, and Koray Kavukcuoglu stated that Gemini 3 possesses “PhD-level reasoning,” a term also used by competitor OpenAI during the release of its GPT-5 model. They presented scores from several assessments aimed at measuring “graduate-level” knowledge, such as Humanity’s Last Exam, comprising 2500 research-oriented questions from fields like mathematics, science, and humanities. Gemini 3 achieved a score of 37.5 percent on this exam, surpassing the previous record held by OpenAI’s GPT-5, which scored 26.5 percent.

Such improvements could indicate that the model has developed enhanced capabilities in certain areas. However, Luc Rocher suggests caution in interpreting these outcomes. “If a model increases its score from 80 percent to 90 percent on a benchmark, what does that represent? Does it mean the model was 80 percent PhD-level and is now 90 percent? This is quite difficult to ascertain,” he remarks. “It’s challenging to quantify whether an AI model demonstrates inference, as that concept is highly subjective.”

Benchmark tests come with numerous limitations, including the requirement for single answers or multiple-choice responses that do not necessitate demonstrating how the model operates. “It’s straightforward to evaluate models using multiple-choice questions,” notes Roche. “Yet in real-world scenarios—like visiting a doctor—you are not assessed with multiple-choice questions. Likewise, a lawyer does not provide legal counsel through pick-and-choose answers.” There’s also the risk that responses to such tests could be included in the training data of the AI models being assessed, essentially allowing for cheating.

The ultimate evaluation of whether Gemini 3 and its advanced AI models justify the massive investments being made by companies like Google and OpenAI in AI data centers hinges on user experience and the perceived trustworthiness of these tools, according to Roscher.

Google asserts that enhancements to the model will assist users in developing software, managing emails, and analyzing documents more effectively. The company also emphasizes that it will enhance Google searches, providing AI-generated results alongside graphics and simulations.

Perhaps the most significant advancement, as articulated by Adam Mahdi from Oxford University, is the autonomous coding capabilities facilitated by AI tools, a technique known as agent coding. “We might be approaching the limits of what traditional chatbots can achieve, and it is here that the true advantages of Gemini 3 Pro come into play. [the standard version of Gemini 3] It’s likely that it won’t be used for everyday conversations, but rather for more intricate and potentially agent-based workflows,” he explains.

Here are some initial reactions online: People admire Gemini’s impressive coding and reasoning skills. However, as is typical with new model releases, some users pointed out failures in seemingly simple tasks like drawing an arrow or a straightforward visual reasoning challenge.

Google recognizes in Gemini 3’s technical specifications that the model continues to experience hallucinations at a rate similar to other major AI models and sometimes disseminates inaccuracies. This lack of progress is a significant concern, according to Artur Davila Garces from City St George’s, University of London. “The challenge lies in the fact that AI companies have been striving to minimize hallucinations for over two years, yet even one severely misleading hallucination can irreparably damage trust in the system,” he warns.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Mathematicians Announce Significant Impact of Google’s AI Tools on Research Advancement

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AI aids mathematicians in solving diverse problems

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The AI tools created by Google DeepMind are proving to be remarkably effective in aiding mathematical research, and experts believe this could initiate a wave of AI-driven mathematical breakthroughs on an unprecedented scale.

In May, Google unveiled an AI system named AlphaEvolve, which may reveal new algorithms and formulas. This system generates numerous potential solutions through Google’s AI chatbot Gemini, which then feeds them into a distinct AI evaluator. This evaluator filters out nonsensical outputs that chatbots are prone to produce. During initial tests, Google researchers pitted AlphaEvolve against over 50 unresolved mathematical problems, and discovered that it accurately rediscovered the most prominent solutions established by humans in approximately three-quarters of the cases.

Recently, Terrence Tao and his team at UCLA assessed the system using 67 more rigorous and extensive mathematical research queries. They found that AlphaEvolve did more than merely revisit old solutions; in certain instances, it could generate improved resolutions suitable for integration into other AI systems, like a more resource-intensive version of Gemini or AlphaProof, the AI that secured a gold medal in this year’s International Mathematics Olympiad, to craft new mathematical proofs.

Tao noted that it’s challenging to gauge overall effectiveness, as the problems differ in their complexities. However, the system consistently operated much faster than any individual mathematician.

“Addressing these 67 problems through traditional methods would require us to design a specific optimization algorithm for each task. That would take years and we might never have initiated this project at all. This initiative offers a chance to engage in mathematics on a previously unseen scale,” Tao states.

AlphaEvolve is particularly adept at solving what are known as optimization problems. These encompass tasks like determining the optimal figures, formulas, or objects that best resolve specific challenges. For instance, calculating the maximum number of hexagons that can occupy a defined area.

While the system is capable of addressing optimization problems across various branches of mathematics, such as number theory and geometry, these still represent “only a small fraction of all the problems that mathematicians are interested in,” according to Tao. Nonetheless, the power of AlphaEvolve is such that mathematicians might attempt to reformulate non-optimization problems into solvable forms for AI. “These tools offer a fresh perspective for tackling these issues,” he adds.

A potential drawback, however, as Tao explains, is that the system sometimes tends to “cheat” by producing answers that seem correct but utilize loopholes or methods that don’t genuinely solve the problems. “It’s akin to administering a test to a group of exceptionally bright yet morally ambiguous students who will do whatever it takes to score highly,” he remarks.

Even with its flaws, AlphaEvolve’s achievements are garnering interest from a broader segment of the mathematical community that might have previously leaned towards more general AI solutions such as ChatGPT, according to team member Javier Gomez Serrano from Brown University. Although AlphaEvolve isn’t publicly accessible yet, numerous mathematicians have expressed interest in testing it.

“There’s definitely a growing curiosity and openness to employing these tools,” asserts Gomez Serrano. “Everyone is eager to discover their potential. Interest in the mathematical community has surged compared to a year or two ago.”

Tao believes that such AI systems alleviate some of the burdens of mathematical work, allowing researchers to focus on other areas. “Mathematicians are few in number globally, making it infeasible to consider every problem. However, there exists a multitude of mid-level difficulties where tools like AlphaEvolve are particularly effective,” he notes.

Jeremy Avigado, a researcher at Carnegie Mellon University in Pennsylvania, observes that machine learning methods are increasingly beneficial to mathematicians. “The next step is enhancing collaboration between computer scientists skilled in machine learning tools and mathematicians with domain-specific knowledge,” he emphasizes.

“We aspire to witness more outcomes like this in the future and identify methods to extend this approach into more abstract mathematical fields.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

How Google’s DeepMind Tool Accelerates Hurricane Behavior Predictions

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As Tropical Storm Melissa wreaked havoc south of Haiti, meteorologist Philippe Papin from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) firmly believed it was on the verge of evolving into a formidable hurricane.

In his capacity as the lead forecaster, he forecasted that within a mere 24 hours, the storm would escalate to a Category 4 hurricane and shift its course toward Jamaica’s coastline. Up to that point, no NHC forecaster had made such an announcement. What a daring prediction for quick validation.

However, Mr. Papin had an ace up his sleeve: artificial intelligence, specifically Google’s newly released DeepMind hurricane model from June. As expected, Melissa transformed into an unbelievably strong storm that devastated Jamaica.

NHC forecasters are increasingly depending on Google DeepMind. On the morning of October 25th, Mr. Papin elaborated on this in a public forum. He also shared on social media that Google’s model was central to his confidence: “Approximately 40 out of 50 members of the Google DeepMind ensemble predict Melissa will reach Category 5. While we are cautious about predicting its intensity due to track uncertainty, it remains a strong possibility.”


“Rapid intensification is likely as the storm traverses very warm ocean waters, characterized by the highest ocean heat content in the entire Atlantic Basin.”

Google DeepMind’s first AI model specifically designed for hurricanes has now surpassed traditional weather forecasters at their own game. It has accurately predicted all 13 Atlantic storms so far this year, outperforming human forecasters in course prediction.

Ultimately, Melissa made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 hurricane, marking one of the most powerful landfalls recorded in nearly two centuries across the Atlantic. Mr. Papin’s audacious forecasts could provide Jamaicans with critical time to brace for disasters, potentially safeguarding lives and property.

Google DeepMind is revolutionizing weather forecasts in recent years, and the parent forecasting system that the new hurricane model is based on has also excelled in identifying last year’s large-scale weather patterns.

Google’s models function by discovering patterns that traditional, slower, physics-based weather models may overlook.

“They operate much faster than their physics-based counterparts, with increased computational efficiency that saves both time and resources,” remarked former NHC forecaster Michael Rowley.

“This hurricane season has demonstrated that emerging AI weather models can be competitive, and in some instances, more accurate than the slower, traditional physics-based models that have long been our standard,” Rowley noted.

It’s important to note that Google DeepMind exemplifies machine learning—not generative AI like ChatGPT. Machine learning processes large data sets to identify patterns, allowing models to generate answers in minutes using standard computing resources. This stands in stark contrast to the flagship models employed by governments for decades, which take hours to compute using some of the world’s largest supercomputers.

Nevertheless, the fact that Google’s model has quickly surpassed traditional models is nothing short of remarkable for a meteorologist devoted to forecasting the planet’s most powerful storms.

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Former NHC forecaster James Franklin expressed his admiration: “The sample size is now significant enough to conclude this isn’t merely beginner’s luck.”

Franklin indicated that Google DeepMind has eclipsed all other models in tracking hurricane paths globally this year. As with many AI models, high-end intensity predictions can sometimes miss the mark. Earlier this year, Hurricane Erin rapidly intensified to Category 5 in the northern Caribbean, while Typhoon Karmaegi struck the Philippines on a recent Monday.

Looking ahead, Franklin mentioned his intention to engage with Google during the upcoming offseason to enhance DeepMind’s output by providing additional internal data for better assessment of its predictions.

“What concerns me is that while these predictions appear very accurate, the model’s output operates like a black box,” Franklin remarked.

No private or commercial entity has ever developed a leading weather model that allows researchers to scrutinize its methods. Unlike the majority of models built and maintained by the government, which are available to the public at no cost, Google has established high-level resources for DeepMind; published in real-time on a dedicated website, though its methodologies largely remain concealed.

Google is not alone in harnessing AI for challenging weather forecasting issues. Governments in the US and Europe are also working on their own AI weather models, demonstrating enhanced capabilities compared to previous non-AI versions.

The next frontier in AI weather forecasting seems to be for startups to address sub-seasonal forecasts and challenges that have so far proven difficult. To enhance advance warning of tornado outbreaks and flash floods—a goal supported by US government funding. Additionally, a company named WindBorne Systems is launching weather balloons to bridge gaps in the U.S. weather observation network, recently diminished by the Trump administration.

Source: www.theguardian.com

EU Launches Investigation into Google’s ‘Demotion’ of News Media Commercial Content

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The European Union has initiated an investigation into Google Search amid worries that the US tech giant may be “downgrading” commercial content from news media platforms.

The enforcement body of the bloc announced this move after monitoring revealed that various content produced in collaboration with advertisers and sponsors was ranked so low by Google that it essentially vanished from search results.

Officials from the European Commission indicated that this potentially unfair “loss of visibility and revenue” for media owners could stem from Google’s anti-spam policies.

According to the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which governs competition within the tech sector, Google is required to provide “fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory conditions for access to publishers’ websites in Google Search”.

Committee officials clarified that the investigation does not pertain to the overall indexing of newspapers or Google search coverage but focuses specifically on commercial content supplied by third parties.

Media collaborations with firms selling products and services, from seasonal items to apparel, are described as “normal business practices in the offline world” and should be supported in equitable online ecosystems like Google, according to the officials.

For instance, a newspaper may partner with Nike to offer discounts, but evidence suggested that Google Search “demoted the newspaper’s subdomains to the extent that users could no longer access them.” This situation would also negatively impact newspapers.

“We are concerned that Google’s policies do not facilitate fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory treatment of news publishers in search results,” stated Teresa Rivera, European Commission vice-president for clean, fair, and competitive transition policy.

In the upcoming days, authorities will request publishers to present evidence regarding the effects on traffic and revenue resulting from the alleged violations of fair practices, according to the commission.

Rivera further remarked: “We will investigate to ensure news publishers are not losing essential revenue during a challenging time for the industry and to make certain that Google adheres to the Digital Markets Act.”

“We are taking measures today to guarantee that Digital Gatekeepers do not unreasonably hinder the ability of businesses relying on them to promote their products and services.”

In response, Google has criticized the EU investigation as “misguided” and “without merit”.

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The company shared in a blog post: “Unfortunately, the investigation into our anti-spam efforts announced today is misguided and risks harming millions of users in Europe.

“And this investigation is without merit. German courts have already dismissed similar claims, ruling that our anti-spam policies were effective, reasonable, and applied consistently.”

The policy is designed to build “trustworthy results” and “combat deceptive billing tactics” that “degrade” the quality of Google search results.

The EU stated it took these actions to safeguard traditional media competing in online markets, especially after President Ursula von der Leyen recently highlighted in her State of the Union address that the media sector is at risk due to the growth of AI and other threats to media funding.

Officials emphasized that the investigation is part of a “routine violation” inquiry and could lead to penalties of up to 20% of Google’s revenue, although this would only occur if Google is found to be in “systematic violation.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Italian News Publisher Urges Investigation into Google’s AI Overview | Artificial Intelligence (AI)

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An Italian news publisher is urging an investigation into Google’s AI profile, asserting that the search engine’s AI-generated summary feature is a “traffic killer” that jeopardizes its survival. FIEG, the federation representing Italian newspapers, has formally lodged a complaint with Agcom, Italy’s communications watchdog.

Similar grievances have emerged in other EU countries. Coordinated by the European Newspaper Association, the initiative aims to prompt the European Commission to investigate Google under the EU Digital Services Act. One of the primary concerns for European news organizations is the threat posed by AI summaries, which condense search results into text blocks at the top of results pages, offering information without requiring users to click through to the original source.

FIEG expressed particular anxiety regarding newer AI models that gather information from various sources and present it as a chatbot. The federation argues that Google’s services “violate fundamental provisions of the Digital Services Act and negatively impact Italian users, consumers, and businesses.”

“Google is becoming a traffic killer,” FIEG stated, highlighting that these products not only compete directly with content from publishers but also “reduce visibility, discoverability, and ultimately advertising revenue.”

“This, along with the risks associated with a lack of transparency and the spread of disinformation in democratic discussions, poses serious challenges to the financial sustainability and diversity of the media,” the statement continued.

A study released in July by the UK-based analytics firm Authoritas indicated that Google’s AI Overviews, introduced last year, decreased click-through rates by as much as 80%. This study was submitted as part of a legal complaint to the UK competition regulator about the impact of Google AI Overview, which also revealed that links to YouTube—owned by Google’s parent company Alphabet—were more prominently displayed than in traditional search results.

A second study from the US think tank Pew Research Center showed a significant decline in referral traffic from Google AI Overview, with users only clicking on a link under AI Overview once in every 100 attempts. Google responded by claiming the study was based on inaccurate and flawed methodology.

Google AI Overview made its debut in Italy in March. In September, Italy became the first EU country to enact comprehensive legislation regulating artificial intelligence, including restrictions on access for children and potential prison sentences for harmful uses, such as generating deepfakes. Giorgia Meloni’s government asserted that the legislation aligns with the EU’s groundbreaking AI law and represents a decisive action that will shape the use of AI in Italy.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Pixel 10 Pro XL Review: Google’s Superphone Boosted with AI and Magnetic Features | Pixels

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google’s Pixel SuperPhone returns, featuring enhanced battery life, rapid charging, magnetic accessories, and cutting-edge AI tools, aiming to challenge the dominance of Apple and Samsung in the mobile market.


The Pixel 10 Pro XL is Google’s largest smartphone, and it ranks among the biggest available in Europe and the US. Priced at £1,199 (€1,299/$1,199/$1,999), it sits at the pinnacle of the Pixel 10 Pro range, just below the forthcoming folding Pixel 10 Pro Fold, and competes head-on with Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max and Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra.

Similar in size to the previous generation, the 10 Pro XL boasts a slight increase in weight of 11g. It’s a sizable and hefty device that usually requires two hands for operation and benefits from accessories like grips or handles.


The device features a magnetic ring that allows for various Qi2 or MagSafe accessories, including grips, car mounts, wallets, stands, batteries, and more. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

It sports a large, bright OLED display that offers a superb viewing experience for TV shows and movies. The rear integrates QI2.2 wireless charging and magnetic accessory support, positioning it as one of the few smartphones able to charge at up to 25W with the latest wireless chargers.

The 10 Pro XL carries the same Google Tensor G5 chip found in the entire Pixel 10 series, providing smooth and responsive performance. While it handles gaming adequately, those seeking top-tier graphics and frame rates may prefer competitors using Qualcomm’s premium Snapdragon processors, such as the S25 Ultra.

With the largest battery among the Pixels, the 10 Pro XL offers impressive longevity. It matches its predecessor, providing roughly 52 hours of use through a combination of Wi-Fi and 5G. Users can expect it to last through even the most demanding days, typically requiring charging every other day.


Charging is quick, taking under 90 minutes via cable and about 2 hours via a QI2 25W wireless charger. See the Ugreen Magflow 2-in-1 (left) or Belkin Ultracharge Pro (right) for options. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Specifications

  • Screen: 6.8in 120Hz QHD+ OLED (486ppi)

  • Processor: Google Tensor G5

  • RAM: 16 GB

  • Storage: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB

  • Operating System: Android 16

  • Camera: 50MP + 48MP UW + 48MP 5X TELE; 42MP Selfie

  • Connectivity: 5G, eSIM, Wi-Fi 7, UWB, NFC, Bluetooth 6, GNSS

  • Water Resistance: IP68 (1.5m for 30 minutes)

  • Size: 162.8 x 76.6 x 8.5mm

  • Weight: 232g

Android 16 with AI


Magic Cue is among the most advanced AI features, working silently in the background to provide useful, timely information. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The 10 Pro XL operates on Android 16 software, enriched with AI capabilities similar to the 10 Pro, delivering one of the most comprehensive and sophisticated user experiences available. Google will offer updates until 2032.

Gemini Chatbot is integrated system-wide, complemented by a standalone app that visually displays screen content. The standout new feature, Magic Cue, operates in the background, proactively showcasing data from calendars, emails, chats, and other Google apps as needed. Whether providing location details when a friend texts about dinner or displaying an order confirmation when a recognized business calls, it seamlessly integrates with various Google and select third-party apps, although it currently does not support popular messaging apps like WhatsApp.

Moreover, the 10 Pro XL includes a one-year subscription to Google AI Pro, granting access to Google’s more powerful Gemini models and 2TB of cloud storage for photos, files, and emails (valued at £19 per month).

Camera


With the 10 Pro XL, you’re likely to capture stunning photos in various conditions. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The camera system on the larger Pixels mirrors that of the 10 Pro, meaning the choice lies in the size rather than the camera quality. Its 50MP main sensor, complemented by a 48MP ultra-wide and a 48MP 5x telephoto lens, provides some of the finest photo capabilities available. With a point-and-shoot approach on the Pro XL, you’re virtually guaranteed excellent results, irrespective of the conditions.

Additionally, several AI tools enhance the photography experience, including: Novel Camera Coach; Please Add Me that blends two photos to introduce the photographer into a group shot; and Best Take, which now operates automatically. By simply pressing the shutter button or combining multiple shots, you’re more likely to achieve group photos where everyone is looking at the camera.

Moreover, activating the Pro Res Zoom feature when exceeding a 30x zoom utilizes GenAI to restore details and clarity in images lost due to digital zoom. While results can vary, and the feature deactivates when it detects people, it often enhances blurry 100x zoom photos. It’s essential to note that this process interprets and reconstructs the image using AI, clearly indicated by the camera app. C2PA Content Credentials.

Overall, the Pixel camera system ranks among the best on the market, regardless of AI tool usage.

Sustainability


The fingerprint scanner at the bottom of the display is quick and accurate, enabling seamless unlocking. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Battery longevity is rated to exceed 1,000 full charge cycles while maintaining at least 80% of its original capacity. Repairs can be conducted through Google, authorized third-party providers, or via self-repair using available parts and manuals.

The Pixel 10 Pro XL includes 29% recycled materials by weight, such as aluminum, cobalt, copper, glass, gold, plastic, rare earth elements, tungsten, and tin. The company is committed to minimizing its environmental impact, as indicated in their Environmental Report, and offers free recycling of old devices through their platform.

Price

The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is priced at £1,199 (€1,299/$1,199/$1,999) and is available in four color options.

For context, the Pixel 10 is priced at £799, the Pixel 10 Pro at £999, and the Pixel 9a at £399. The Galaxy S25 Ultra retails for £1,249, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max is priced at £1,199.

Verdict

The Pixel 10 Pro XL epitomizes a superphone with significant size, price, and functionality. If you appreciate the features of Google’s 6.3-inch smartphone but desire larger dimensions, this model is the ideal choice.

The camera stands out as one of the best, the display is stunning, and the software, which integrates Google’s most advanced AI features, is superb. The introduction of QI2.2 support accelerates wireless charging while providing access to a range of magnetic accessories, such as grips that facilitate handling larger devices.

While the pixels exhibit responsiveness, they don’t represent a groundbreaking upgrade from last year’s 9 Pro XL. Particularly regarding raw gaming performance, they fall short compared to competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra.

Pros: 7 years of software updates, 5x optical zoom and 10x AI zoom, excellent display, magic cues, stellar camera with impressive local AI capabilities, QI2.2 wireless charging and magnetic accessory support, exceptional battery life, great ergonomics, swift fingerprint and face recognition, and a one-year subscription to Google AI Pro.

Cons: High price point, large and heavy, reliance on face ID, insufficient raw performance, inconsistent battery performance, lack of physical SIM slot in US models, and not a significant enhancement over its predecessor.


Please note, the Pixel 10 Pro XL lacks a physical SIM slot in US versions, relying solely on eSIMs. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Source: www.theguardian.com

Google’s Massive New Essex Data Centre Releases 570,000 Tonnes of CO2 Annually

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The new Google Data Centre in Essex is projected to emit over 500 tons of carbon dioxide annually.

Spanning 52 hectares (128 acres), the “Hyperscale Data Centre” in Thurrock is set to join the ranks of large-scale computers and AI infrastructures, pending planning approval.

This proposal was submitted by a subsidiary of Google’s parent company, Alphabet. Concerns about carbon emissions arose before a coordinated initiative by Donald Trump’s White House and Downing Street aimed at enhancing the UK’s AI capabilities. A multibillion-dollar investment deal with major tech firms from Silicon Valley is anticipated to be unveiled during the US president’s state visit, starting on Tuesday.


According to Keir Starmer’s Government, there is a forecast that AI will require 13 times the current processing power by 2035, leading to a rush in data centre construction to fulfill demand. The expectation is that this technological advancement will enhance the UK’s economic productivity. A collaboration is anticipated involving Nvidia, the largest AI chip manufacturer, and OpenAI, the creators of the ChatGPT AI assistant.

However, advocates argue that the influx of new large computer facilities will raise UK greenhouse gas emissions and strain limited electricity and water resources.

If approved, the Thurrock facility will encompass up to four data centers on “Grey Belt” land, some of which has been used for speedway events and stock car racing. This will contribute to a net increase of 568,727 tons of greenhouse gas emissions (carbon dioxide equivalent) annually at operational status. For further details, refer to the planning document reviewed by the Guardian.

According to the United Nations International Civil Aviation Organization, this is roughly equivalent to 500 flights from Heathrow to Malaga each week, as calculated by the carbon calculator. Google’s planning application contends that this will not significantly impact the UK carbon budget, a view challenged by campaigners.

A spokesperson from FoxGlove, a group advocating for fair technology, stated, “The facility planned by Google in Essex will generate emissions significantly higher than those produced by an international airport.” This reflects a broader trend of imposing ‘hyperscale’ data centers across the UK, prioritizing profit over environmental health.

“The Starmer government must resist the influence of big tech and advocate for the UK populace,” they continued. “Otherwise, we will all bear the consequences of expensive energy bills, dwindling water supplies, and the effects of a warming planet.”

Currently, data centers account for approximately 2.5% of the UK’s electricity consumption, with demand predicted to quadruple by 2030, as noted by the Commons Library.

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The UK government asserts that data centers will not significantly affect the UK carbon budget due to an ambitious objective to decarbonize the electricity grid. However, there are concerns that without significant investment in new data centers, the UK risks falling behind international competitors like France, jeopardizing its ambitions in national security, economic growth, and AI.

Other noteworthy data center initiatives include a £10 billion project at a former coal-fired power plant in Blythe, Northumberland, which received planning approval in March. This facility is positioned at the core of a major contract involving Nvidia and OpenAI. Over the weekend, there were also reports that Google was in discussions regarding a large data center in Teesside.

Global consultancy Bain & Company reported on Monday that AI and data centers could contribute to 2% of global emissions and 17% of industrial emissions by 2035, with the most significant impact occurring in nations where fossil fuels dominate energy generation.

Google declined to comment on the planning application for the Thurrock site, while Teesside stated that they “do not comment on rumors or speculation.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Reevaluating Reality: How Google’s AI Transformation is Reshaping the Online News Landscape

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WThe chief executive of the Financial Times suggested this summer at a media conference that competing publishers might explore a “NATO” alliance to bolster negotiations with artificial intelligence firms.

Nevertheless, John Slade’s announcement regarding a “pretty sudden, sustained” drop in traffic from readers via search engines quickly highlighted the grave threat posed by the AI revolution.

Queries submitted on platforms like Google, which dominate over 90% of the search market, have been central to online journalism since its inception, with news outlets optimizing their headlines and content to secure high rankings and lucrative clicks.

Currently, Google’s AI summary appears at the top of the results page, presenting answers directly and reducing the need for users to click through to the original content. The introduction of the AI mode tab, which responds to queries in a chatbot format, has sparked fears of a future dominated by “Google Zero,” where referral traffic dwindles.

“This is the most significant change in search I’ve witnessed in decades,” states a senior editorial tech executive. “Google has historically been a reliable partner for publishers. Now, certain aspects of digital publishing are evolving in ways that could fundamentally alter the landscape.”

Last week, the owner of the Daily Mail revealed that the AI summary was officially in place following Click-Through traffic to a competitive market review of Google’s search services.

DMG Media and other major news organizations, including the Guardian Media Group and the Magazine Trade Body, the PPA, have advocated for the competitive watchdog. Urge Google for more transparency regarding AI summaries and traffic metrics provided to publishers as part of an investigation into tech company search monopolies.

Publishers are already experiencing financial strain from rising costs, declining advertising revenue, reduced print circulation, and changing readership trends. Google insists that they must accept agreements regarding how their content is utilized in AI systems or face the loss of all search results.

Besides the funding threat, concerns about AI’s impact on accuracy persist. Historical iterations advised users to consume harmful items, and although Google has since enhanced its summaries, the issue of “hallucinations” — where AI presents inaccurate or fabricated information as truth — remains, alongside inherent biases when machines, not humans, interpret sources.




Google Discover has supplanted search with content as the primary source of traffic clicks. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

In January, Apple pledged to improve its AI feature that summarized BBC News alerts with the company’s logo on the latest iPhone model. The alert misleadingly stated that a man accused of murdering a US insurance executive had taken his own life and falsely claimed that tennis star Rafael Nadal had come out as gay.

Last month, in a blog post, Liz Reid, Google’s search manager, claimed that AI had not yet been integrated into searches. “Driving more queries and quality clicks”.

“This data contradicts third-party reports that inaccurately suggest a drastic reduction in overall traffic,” she stated. “[These reports] are often based on flawed methodologies, isolated instances, or traffic alterations that occurred prior to the deployment of AI functionalities during searches.”

She also mentioned that overall traffic to all websites remains “relatively stable,” though “spacious” webs mean that user trends are redirecting traffic to different sites.

Recently, Google Discover, which delivers articles and videos tailored to user behavior, has taken precedence over search as the main source of traffic.

However, David Buttle, founder of DJB Strategy, stated that the services linked to publisher search transactions do not supply the quality traffic most publishers require to support their long-term strategies.

“Google Discover holds no product significance for Google,” he explained. “As traffic from general search diminishes, Google can concentrate more traffic on publishers. Publishers are left with no choice but to comply or face losing organic search, which often rewards ClickBaity content.”

Simultaneously, publishers are engaged in a broader struggle against AI companies looking to exploit content to train extensive language models.

The creative sector is rigorously lobbying the government to prevent AI firms from using copyrighted materials without authorization, urging for legislation.

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The February Make It Fair campaign highlighted threats to the creative sector posed by Generative AI. Photo: Geoffrey Swaine/Rex

Some publishers have reacted against bilateral licensing agreements with AI companies, including the Financial Times, German media group Axel Springer, the Guardian, and Nordic publisher Schibsted. Others, like the BBC, have initiated actions against AI companies for alleged copyright infringement.

“It’s a double-edged attack on publishers, almost a ‘Pinker move’,” remarks Chris Duncan, a senior executive at News UK and Bauer Media, also leading the consultancy Seadelta. “Content is vanishing into AI products without appropriate compensation, while AI summaries are embedded within products, negating the need for clicks and effectively draining revenue from both ends. It’s an existential crisis.”

Publishers are pursuing various courses of action, from negotiations and litigation to regulatory lobbying, while also integrating AI tools into their newsrooms, as seen with the Washington Post and Financial Times launching their AI-powered chatbots and solutions for climate inquiries.

Christoph Zimmer, chief product officer at Germany’s Der Spiegel, notes that while current traffic remains steady, he anticipates a decline in referrals from all platforms.

“This is part of a longstanding trend,” he states. “However, it has affected brands that haven’t prioritized direct audience relationships or subscription growth in recent years, instead depending on broad content reach.”

“What has always been true remains valid. Prioritizing quality and diverse content is essential; it’s about connecting with people, not merely chasing algorithms.”

Publication industry leaders emphasize that efforts to negotiate deals for AI models to aggregate and summarize news are rapidly being replaced by advancements in models interpreting live news updates.

“The initial focus was on licensing arrangements for AI training to ‘speak English,’ but that will become less relevant over time,” asserts an executive. “We’re transitioning towards providing news directly. To achieve this, we require precise, live sources — a potentially lucrative market publishers are keen to explore next.”

PPA CEO Saj Merali emphasizes the need for a fair equilibrium between technology-induced changes in consumer digital behavior and the just compensation for trustworthy news.

“What remains at the core is something consumers require,” she explains. “AI needs credible content. There’s a shift in how consumers prefer to access information, but they must have confidence in what they read.”

“The industry has historically shown resilience through significant digital and technological transitions, yet it is crucial to ensure pathways that sustain business models. At this point, the AI and tech sectors have shown no commitment to support publishers’ revenue.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Google’s Emissions Projected to Increase 51% Due to Rising AI Electricity Demands

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Since 2019, Google’s carbon emissions have surged by 51%, with artificial intelligence proving to be a hindrance to tech firms’ sustainability initiatives.

While companies are pouring resources into renewable energy and carbon capture technologies, they struggle to manage emissions in Range 3, which originates further down the supply chain and is significantly influenced by the expanding data center capabilities required for artificial intelligence.


The company noted a 27% year-on-year increase as it grapples with decarbonization amidst rising energy demands.

Data centers are crucial for training and operating AI models like Google’s Gemini and OpenAI’s GPT-4. The International Energy Agency projects that the total electricity consumption of data centers could reach double the level from 2022, with Japan’s electricity demand expected to hit 1,000 TWh (terawatt hours) by 2026. AI accounts for 4.5% of global energy production, according to estimates from Semianalysis for the year 2030.


The report expresses concerns that the rapid advancement of AI may trigger “nonlinear growth in energy demand,” complicating predictions for future energy requirements and emissions trajectories.

Additionally, Google pointed out the slow progress in new low-carbon power generation technologies. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), which are compact nuclear power plants designed for quick deployment to support the grid, are seen as a promising solution to lower the carbon footprint of data centers. Areas hosting numerous data centers could benefit from one or more SMRs to significantly cut down their electricity-related carbon emissions.





Google’s data center is situated in Grange Castle near Dublin. In 2022, Ireland’s energy grid operators halted the expansion of new data centers in Dublin until 2028. Photo: Patrick Bolger/Guardian

According to the report, the development of these technologies is lagging behind schedule. “The main obstacle is the slow rollout of large-scale carbon-free energy technologies, making it highly challenging to reach goals by 2030.

It further indicated that Scope 3 emissions pose a “challenge,” with Google’s total ambitions representing 11.5 million tons of CO2 equivalent, marking an 11% year-on-year rise since 2019, equating to a 51% increase. This is primarily driven by heightened emissions from the supply chain, with Scope 3 emissions surging by 22% in 2024.

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Google has made significant strides in acquiring clean energy, signing over 170 contracts for more than 22 gigawatts since 2010. In 2024, 25 of these contracts added 2.5GW of fresh clean energy to its operations, marking a record year in clean energy transactions with an agreement totaling 8GW.


The company has also achieved one of its environmental goals ahead of schedule by eliminating plastic packaging. Google announced that all new products launched and produced in 2024 will be entirely plastic-free. This goal was initially set for the end of 2025.

The report adds that AI may offer a “net positive potential” for the climate, with aspirations that emissions reductions facilitated by AI applications will outweigh the emissions generated by AI itself, including the energy used by data centers.

Google envisions aiding individuals, cities, and other partners in collectively lowering carbon equivalent emissions by 2030 through AI-powered products. These innovations can enhance energy usage predictions, reduce waste, and optimize solar panel placement to maximize energy generation.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Request to Dissolve Google’s Advertising Technology Business Follows Chrome Sale Motion

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On Friday, the US government demanded that Google divest its highly lucrative advertising technology division. This follows a judge’s finding that the tech giant is responsible for a second illegal monopoly in just a year.

U.S. government attorney Julia Turber Wood stated in federal court in Virginia, “We have a defendant who has discovered a way to protest. Maintaining the monopoly of repeat offenders is not a viable solution,” she added.

This marks the second request from the US government, amidst another suit regarding Google’s premier search engine, which also seeks to address sales involving the Chrome browser.

The US government specifically pointed out that Google dominates the market for publishing banner advertisements on websites, impacting a wide range of creators and small news outlets.

A second phase of the Virginia court hearing is set for September, where discussions will focus on modifying the advertising landscape per the judge’s ruling.

During the initial phase of last year’s trial, plaintiffs alleged that the majority of websites utilize Google’s Ad software products.

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District Court Judge Leonie Brinkema largely agreed with the rationale and found that Google has established an illegal monopoly over the advertising software and tools utilized by publishers, albeit partially dismissing claims concerning tools used by advertisers.

The US government indicated it would leverage this trial to motivate Google to divest its exchange operations with ad publishers, asserting that it cannot be relied upon to change its practices.

“Behavioral modification is not enough since it won’t stop Google from discovering new methods of exerting control,” stated Tarver Wood.

Google has countered the suggestion of agreeing to a binding commitment to enhance transparency with advertisers and publishers on the AD Tech platform. However, Google’s attorney Karen Dunn acknowledged the “trust issues” raised in the case and expressed willingness to accept oversight to ensure compliance with the judge’s order. Google also contested the proposed divestiture as inappropriate, which Judge Brinkema quickly dismissed as a viable debate.

The judge encouraged both parties to seek mediation, stressing that a negotiated settlement is far more efficient and cost-effective than conducting a prolonged trial.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Justice Department Attorneys Advocate for the Dissolution of Google’s Ad Technology.

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On Friday, the Justice Department unveiled a strategy aimed at dismantling Google’s advertising technology empire. This marks the second time within a year that authorities are urging the company to divest parts of its business, potentially altering the landscape of the $2 trillion giant.

These comments were made during a hearing led by Judge Leonie M. Brinkema at the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. Last month, she determined that Google holds a dominant position in specific segments of the vast advertising system associated with its website. She is now tasked with deciding on a relief measure to address these concerns.

Lawyers from the Justice Department expressed hopes that the government will compel Google to force online publishers to sell their ad space exclusively to them. In the original lawsuit, the government had sought the court’s intervention to make Google enforce its ad technology acquired over the years.

“It’s frankly too risky to allow Google to control 90% of publishers,” stated Julia Tarver Wood, the lead attorney for the government.

In response, Google’s legal team argued that dissolving the company’s advertising division contradicts established legal precedents and threatens privacy and security measures.

The Justice Department’s request represents another blow to Google during an ongoing second hearing discussing its search monopoly in federal courts in Washington. In that instance, the government asked the judge to mandate the sale of Chrome, a widely-used browser, as part of various measures.

Collectively, if approved, these two governmental requests could signify the most significant restructuring of a powerful corporation since the 1980s, when AT&T was split into several companies as a result of an antitrust agreement with the Justice Department.

It remains uncertain whether the judges will impose such a breakup, which many antitrust experts deem the most extreme solution.

In the AD Tech lawsuit initiated in 2023, government attorneys contended that Google dominated the nearly invisible technology responsible for providing advertisements across the internet, conducting auctions for available ad spaces as web pages are loaded.

The government alleged that Google illegally controlled three critical aspects of its advertising system, namely the tools used by websites to display open ad spaces, the instruments that advertisers utilize to purchase these spaces, and the software that facilitates transactions between the two.

Last month, Judge Brinkema concluded that Google had violated the law to maintain its monopoly over publishing tools and the software that links sellers of ad spaces, referred to as Advertising Exchange. However, she noted that the government had not substantiated claims that Google monopolizes the tools used by advertisers.

During a hearing on Friday, Judge Brinkema indicated that she would reconvene in September to explore the relief package.

To address the issues, the Justice Department revealed plans to compel Google to divest its ad exchanges.

The government is also looking to create an open-source version of Google’s publisher advertising tools that manage auctions for available ad spaces, potentially allowing publishers and other ad tech firms to benefit. The hope is that Google will sell tools that support other functionalities for publishers, such as record-keeping.

Karen Dunn, Google’s lead attorney, argued that the proposed plan would not align with existing legal precedents. She further stated that even if the court seriously considers dissolving Google’s advertising technology division, the government’s recommendations are impractical.

There are limited buyers for this technology, with the few that could afford it being “massive tech companies.” Additionally, the essential security and privacy measures currently provided by Google would likely be lost.

“It’s highly probable that what they’re proposing is entirely unfeasible,” she remarked.

Instead, Google proposed that the company focus on amending or discarding certain practices identified by the court as solidifying its dominance, and take steps toward enhancing the transparency of its ad auction bidding system to benefit publishers.

Source: www.nytimes.com

How Google’s Antitrust Case Reshapes the AI Competition

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A federal judge made a significant ruling last year, declaring Google as a dominant player in the internet search industry. However, during a recent hearing aimed at addressing this issue, the focus shifted towards the rapidly evolving technology of artificial intelligence.

In a U.S. District Court session in Washington last week, a Justice Department attorney contended that Google’s search monopoly could hinder transparency within the company regarding the development of its AI chatbot, Gemini. Rivals in the AI sector also noted that Google’s influence poses a challenge to their success.

On Wednesday, the first critical question was directed at Google CEO Sundar Pichai. AI topics emerged more than 20 times during a 90-minute testimony after he took the stand.

“I consider it one of the most dynamic moments in the industry,” Pichai remarked. “I’ve observed user home screens featuring seven to nine chatbot applications that they’re experimenting with and refining.”

The antitrust lawsuits of the past have essentially morphed into a debate about the future, with both the government and Google suggesting modifications to the tech giant’s business practices that could alter the trajectory of AI development.

For over two decades, Google’s search engine has dominated the online information landscape. Now, federal courts are assessing whether the Silicon Valley behemoths will lead the next phase of how users access information as consumers increasingly turn to new chatbot technologies for answers and solutions.

During the proceedings, government attorneys asserted that Google’s monopolistic search strategies could facilitate the widespread adoption of its Gemini Chatbot. They argue that the burgeoning AI sector should not allow consumers to be deprived of diverse product alternatives.

Google countered by stating that OpenAI’s rapid ascent (the AI startup powering Apple’s products) showcases the existing competition, asserting that intervention from the courts is unnecessary.

Judge Amit P. Mehta, who is overseeing the search-related cases, may reshape this fierce competition and influence technology policy through these AI discussions. Google is already a leading AI entity, with Gemini attracting over 350 million active users monthly. Any measures to curb this endeavor or support competitors will greatly impact the race.

The government has requested the court to mandate Google to divest its Chrome browser and share data with competitors, which includes search results and advertisements, along with other actions.

These government initiatives are inherently forward-looking, aiming to dismantle long-standing monopolistic practices and open the market to new challengers. As John Newman, deputy director of the Competition Bureau during the Biden administration, stated, “You don’t want to spend five years on a case that leads to no substantial action and consumes resources across multiple agencies.”

A spokesperson for Google highlighted John Schmidtlein, the company’s lead counsel, who claimed that the artificial intelligence market is “extremely competitive.” The Department of Justice has opted not to provide comments.

This year’s hearings follow a 2024 ruling that found Google illicitly maintained its monopoly by compensating companies like Apple, Mozilla, and Samsung, ensuring its search engine’s automatic prominence on web browsers and smartphones.

From the start of the hearings, the focus has remained firmly on artificial intelligence.

Professor Gregory Dullett, an associate professor of computer science at the University of Texas, was the first witness, providing Judge Mehta with an overview of AI technologies and their integration into Google’s products.

The government presented documentation indicating that last year, Google contemplated a deal with wireless carriers and smartphone manufacturers for premium placement of Gemini Prime alongside its search engine, reminiscent of a previous arrangement for prominent search engine positioning.

After the judge’s ruling last year regarding search practices, Google opted not to pursue the Gemini initiative with wireless carriers and phone manufacturers. Ultimately, separate agreements were reached with Samsung to feature Gemini on their devices, as documented.

Google executives testified that their partnership with Samsung allowed smartphone makers to collaborate with other AI services. Pichai noted that the company is focused on forming partnerships in alignment with its relief proposals, emphasizing that smartphone manufacturers should have greater autonomy in determining which Google applications to utilize.

Executives from competing AI firms, including OpenAI, shared that proposed changes to Google’s business practices would help facilitate product development and consumer access.

Nicholas Turley, head of product for OpenAI’s ChatGPT, revealed that his company developed a prototype search tool called SearchGPT in July, requesting Google to participate in a transaction for data access. However, an email from OpenAI’s team indicated that Google rejected the request due to its “complexity.”

“Given the competitive nature of our products, we recognized that Google might not be inclined to offer favorable terms,” Turley remarked, adding that if Judge Mehta compels Google to provide greater data access to OpenAI, their company could “develop better products more swiftly.”

OpenAI has also expressed interest in acquiring Google’s Chrome browser if it becomes available for sale, Turley noted.

(The New York Times has sued OpenAI and Microsoft regarding copyright infringement related to news content and AI systems, both parties have denied these allegations.)

Dmitry Shevelenko, chief business officer of AI search startup Confusion, testified that his organization sought a deal with a telecom company to source a chatbot, which was already in an arrangement with Google.

He stated, “They really appreciate our assistant and believe it enhances user experience, but we can’t modify the default assistant on our devices due to our obligations to Google.”

Google’s legal team countered that the company has not imposed overly restrictive agreements on smartphone manufacturers concerning Gemini. They reiterated that many AI firms are flourishing, citing data showing that ChatGPT surpasses all other chatbots in usage.

“I believe ChatGPT is performing well without any interventions required in this case,” Schmidtlein stated in his opening remarks. “These companies are thriving independently of the plaintiff’s proposed solutions.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Google’s Chief Warns That Breakup Proposals Could Be Challenging for Business

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On Wednesday, Google CEO Sundar Pichai addressed a federal judge, stating that the government’s plan to dissolve the company would significantly obstruct its operations as it seeks to implement changes to remedy alleged illegal monopolies in online search.

Judge Amit P. Mehta of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia ruled last year that Google had violated laws to sustain its search monopoly. This month, he held a hearing to establish a remedy for addressing these unlawful practices.

As the company’s second witness, Pichai argued against aggressive governmental solutions, including the sale of Google’s widely-used Chrome web browser and mandates to share data with competitors. He expressed concern that such proposals would force the company to scale back on investments in new technologies in order to redistribute profits to rivals with minimal fees.

“No combination of bailouts can replace what we have invested in R&D over the past three decades and our ongoing innovation to enhance Google search,” he stated, referring to research and development.

Pichai is expected to testify throughout a landmark three-week hearing. The tech industry is currently racing to develop internet products powered by artificial intelligence, and new restrictions on Google’s business could energize its competitors and hinder its own progress.

This case against Google marks the first substantial examination of the U.S. government’s efforts to rein in the extensive power held by commercial entities in the online information landscape. Recently, a federal judge in Virginia concluded that Google also holds a monopoly over various online advertising technologies.

The Federal Trade Commission is engaged in a legal battle with Meta, scrutinizing whether the acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp unlawfully diminished competition. Additional federal antitrust actions against Apple and Amazon are anticipated in the coming years.

The Justice Department initiated a lawsuit against Google regarding search practices during President Trump’s first term in 2020.

At the 2023 trial, government attorneys contended that Google has effectively highjacked other search engines by compensating companies like Apple, Samsung, and Mozilla to ensure that its search engine appears as the default on browsers and smartphones. Evidence submitted indicated that this amounted to $26.3 billion in payments in 2021.

In August, Judge Mehta expressed opposition towards the company. Last week, he conducted a three-week hearing aimed at determining an appropriate relief strategy.

The Department of Justice’s suggestions are extensive. The government has asserted that Google must divest Chrome since user queries are automatically directed to its search engine.

During approximately 90 minutes of testimony, Pichai emphasized the company’s significant investments in Chrome, citing its effectiveness in safeguarding users against cyber threats. When government attorneys probed whether future browser owners would manage cybersecurity, Pichai responded assertively, drawing on his deep knowledge of the field.

“Based on my extensive expertise and the understanding of other companies’ capabilities regarding web security, I can confidently discuss this,” he noted.

The government also desires that Google provide search result data to its rivals, a move that would grant other search engines access to information about user searches and clicked websites.

Pichai criticized the proposal for mandatory data sharing, suggesting it effectively threatens the company’s intellectual property, enabling others to reverse-engineer its comprehensive technology stack.

In contrast, Google’s proposal is more limited. He stated that the company should be permitted to continue compensating other businesses for search engine placements, with some arrangements open for annual renegotiation. He also emphasized that smartphone manufacturers should have greater autonomy in selecting which Google applications to install on their devices.

Judge Mehta inquired how other search engines might compete with Google.

“We can hardly rely on the notion that ‘the best product wins,'” Pichai later remarked.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Review of Pixel 9a: Google’s Budget-Friendly Android Champion | Pixels

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Google’s latest discounted Pixel offers the best value for Android phones and outperforms models twice its price in many regions.


The Pixel 9a starts at £499 (€549/$499/A$849), the same as last year’s model. It is about £300 less than Google’s regular Pixel 9 and competes with mid-range devices like the Nothing Phone 3a Pro and Samsung’s Galaxy A56.

Google has maintained its successful A-Series formula with the 9a, offering top-tier specs, chips, and cameras while cutting costs. The result is a compelling package for the price.




The 9a resembles a standard Pixel 9 from the front, featuring an optical fingerprint reader at the bottom of the screen and face recognition for unlocking phones and apps. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The 6.3-inch OLED display is sharp, smooth, and bright, surpassing many competitors. While slightly thicker bezels surround the screen compared to the Pixel 9, it retains the premium feel with an aluminum band. The back is crafted from high-quality plastic, maintaining durability. Additionally, the 9a is fully IP68 water-resistant, in line with the industry’s best.

One notable change is the absence of a prominent camera bar on the back. Instead, the dual camera sits within a discreet black oval, providing a sleeker appearance though potentially losing some distinctive charm found in Google’s other phone designs.

Specifications

  • Screen: 6.3in 120Hz FHD+ OLED (422ppi)

  • Processor: Google Tensor G4

  • Ram: 8GB

  • Storage: 128 or 256GB

  • Operating system: Android 15

  • Camera: 48MP + 13MP Ultrawide, 13MP Selfie

  • Connectivity: 5G, SIM/ESIM, WIFI 6E, NFC, Bluetooth 5.3, and GNSS

  • Water resistance: IP68 (1M for 30 minutes)

  • Size: 157.7 x 73.3 x 8.9mm

  • Weight: 185.9g

Most of the Tensor G4 and Google’s AI




Charging takes about 90 minutes to fully charge the 9a using a USB-C charger of 23W or more (not included). The phone is also equipped with 7.5W wireless charging. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Internally, the 9a boasts the top-tier Google Tensor G4 chip found in other Pixel 9 models, albeit with 8GB of RAM rather than 12GB on pricier variants. The chip delivers fast performance, outpacing most midrange chips albeit falling short in raw performance benchmarks.

The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 57 hours with light use, 9 hours of active screen time, and 5 hours on 5G. This longevity rivals some of the longest-lasting phones on the market, offering a two-day usage window.

While the reduced RAM doesn’t significantly impact daily use, it does limit some local AI functionalities, such as Google’s Gemini AI Tools, which enable text processing but exclude some advanced audio or image-based features like Pixel Screenshots. Call Notes on the Pixel 9.




Gemini serves as the AI assistant for Pixel phones, working seamlessly with the 9a like other models. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

All Gemini features that leverage web capabilities, such as Gemini Live, perform well on the 9a. The phone can also generate summaries of audio recordings, albeit with limitations on word count per session.

The overall user experience on Android 15 matches other Pixel phones, with the added benefit of Google’s seven years of software support for Pixels. This longevity ensures the 9a remains relevant in the mid-range market for an extended period.

Camera




The Pixel Camera app simplifies the process of taking excellent photos with minimal effort. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The Pixel 9a features exceptional cameras, including a new 48-megapixel main camera and a 13MP Ultra Wide lens alongside it.

The main camera captures high-quality images, rivaling flagship phones, especially in low-light conditions. Photos are detailed and balanced across various lighting scenarios, with the Ultra Wide lens standing out as a great feature. The main camera also offers a decent 2x zoom, extendable to 8x with some digital artifacts.

A new addition to the 9a is the Macro Photography mode, leveraging the main camera for impressive close-up shots. The selfie camera performs well, and video capture is equally strong.

The 9a inherits popular features like Best Takes and main Pixel 9 AI capabilities, incorporating various Google Photos AI editing tools such as Magic Editor, Unblur, and Audio Magic Eraser.

Sustainability




The phone’s back is crafted from recycled plastic with a smooth matte finish. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Google ensures the battery should retain at least 80% of its original capacity after about 1,000 full charge cycles. The phone is repairable by Google or third-party shops, with genuine replacement parts available directly from sources like iFixit.

The Pixel 9a is constructed from recycled materials, comprising at least 23% of the phone’s weight. Google’s public Environmental Impact Report outlines the phone’s sustainability efforts and offers free recycling for old devices.

Price

The Google Pixel 9a is priced at £499 (€549/$499/A$849).

For comparison, the Pixel 9 costs £799, the Samsung Galaxy A56 retails for £499, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro is priced at £449, and the Apple iPhone 16e is priced at £599.

Verdict

The Pixel 9a demonstrates Google’s ability to deliver a flagship-level phone at a mid-range price point better than most competitors.

A combination of premium chips, long-lasting battery, top-tier screens, and exceptional cameras outshine more expensive options. Google’s robust software and extended seven-year support further enhance the overall value.

Some compromises have been made to lower costs, but they are hardly noticeable in day-to-day usage. Omissions like WiFi 7, lack of satellite messaging, spatial audio, plastic backs, etc., can be overlooked given the 9a’s price point.

While pricier Pixel phones offer additional features, the Pixel 9a is hard to ignore as the best mid-range phone by a significant margin, providing a quality experience at an accessible price point.

Strong Points: Undercuts high-end phones with 7 years of software updates, top-tier cameras, excellent screens, premium chips, ultra-long battery life, recycled materials, advanced AI features, competitive pricing.

Cons: Common design, lack of optical zoom for cameras, limited performance, plastic back, absence of spatial audio, no WiFi 7 or satellite messaging, older Gorilla Glass 3.

www.theguardian.com

Isomorphic Labs, Google’s AI pharmaceutical venture, secures funding for growth

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Over the past 12 months, Google’s efforts to accelerate drug design using artificial intelligence have achieved a breakthrough in mimicking human biology, with its top scientist receiving the Nobel Prize in Chemistry.

Now, within the software giant, Isomorphic Labs is taking another major step towards raising money from outside investors, with the aim of developing and commercializing technology.

Isomorphic is set to announce on Monday that it has raised $600 million, led by Thrive Capital, a venture capital firm that has placed a big bet on AI companies, including OpenAI. GV’s Venture Capital Arm and Google’s parent company Alphabet have also invested.

The announcement highlights Google’s ambitions for Isomorphic. This was spun from the company’s DeepMind Lab to focus on drug discovery. It is based on software developed by DeepMind, a central intelligence lab in London. This includes Alphafold, which can predict structures such as millions of proteins.

In its third iteration, Alphafold, which can predict complex behaviors of DNA and RNA, promises to reduce development time for new drugs. That’s how I shared with Demis Hassabis, co-founder of Isomorphic and DeepMind, John M. Jumper, who last year shared half of the Nobel in Chemistry.

Hassabis said the goal is to carry out most of the drug discovery process ultimately via computers rather than traditional labs that require biological materials, strict safety requirements and a lot of time.

“This is the most useful and number one application for AI,” Hassabis said in an interview. He added, “One day our mission is to solve all diseases.”

Allogeneity is studying potential treatments, including those focusing on cancer and immune disorders. Last year, they signed a research partnership with two major drug makers Elilily and Novartis, potentially bringing billions of payments through promising drug breakthroughs.

But like many things related to AI, the job, hiring top research talent to do it, is expensive. Hassabis said Isomorphic didn’t need capital — its parent company reported profits of more than $100 billion last year, but bringing in external partners makes sense.

Hassabis’s idea made it possible for a long time. However, he added that he wanted to pin the supporters over the long term, which also had a deep focus on life sciences.

Additional money will help Isomorphic expand its stable research model like Alphafold, recruiting the best talent across the science field.

“The company’s ambition is to become a fully stacked life sciences company, so it will require more capital to create more drugs and invest in technology platforms,” ​​said Vince Hankes, a thriving partner who has led many of the company’s AI investments.

Hassabis added that he wants to be selective with a partner of the same type. Formal consultations with Thrive took place over several months.

Funding is another big bet by 15-year-old Thrive, who put together money to invest in companies like Instagram and Payments Processor Stripe. He recently focused on AI companies, leading the recent round at OpenAI, which nearly doubled its valuation to $157 billion, winning Analytics Provider Databricks and programming startup Anysphere.

“Our hope is for AI to fundamentally change the way drugs are created and discovered,” said Joshua Kushner, founder and managing partner of Thrive. “Isomorphisms push the boundaries of what small molecule drug discovery is possible.”

Over the next year or so, the isomorphism hopes to create more breakthroughs with computational models like Alphafold, perhaps bringing drug candidates closer to preclinical trials, Hassabis said.

Isomorphic will likely raise money from more outside investors, he added. The goal is for the company to become an independent business.

“This will be one of the most consequential companies,” he said. “We want it to be a real powerhouse in the industry.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Is Google’s new research assistant AI capable of giving scientists a “superpower”?

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Google’s AI “co-scientists” is based on the company’s Gemini major language model

Raa/Nurphoto/Shutterstock

Google has announced an experimental artificial intelligence system that uses advanced reasoning to help scientists integrate vast amounts of literature, generate new hypotheses, and propose detailed research plans. “Idea with [the] “AI co-scientists” is about giving scientists a superpower,” says Alan Karthikesalingam of Google.

The tool, which has not yet been officially named, is based on Google’s Gemini major language model. When researchers ask questions or specify goals, they come up with their first idea within 15 minutes, for example, to find a new drug. According to Google’s Vivek Natarajan, several Gemini agents “discuss” these hypotheses with each other, ranking them over the next hours and days, and improving them.

During this process, agents can search the scientific literature, access databases, and use tools such as Google’s AlphaFold system to predict protein structure. “They constantly refine ideas, discuss ideas, criticize ideas,” says Natarajan.

Google has already made the system available to several research groups and has released a short paper explaining its use. The teams who tried it were keen on the possibilities, and these examples suggest that AI co-scientists can help integrate their findings. However, whether the example supports the claim that AI can generate new hypotheses is debatable.

For example, Google says a team used the system to find a “new” method of potentially treating liver fibrosis. However, drugs proposed by AI have been previously studied for this purpose. “It is well established that all identified drugs are anti-fibrotic.” Stephen O’Reilly at the UK biotechnology company Alcyomics. “There’s nothing new here.”

The potential use of this treatment is not new, but team members Gary Peltz at Stanford University School of Medicine in California, two of the three drugs selected by AI co-scientists showed promise in testing for human liver organoids, while the two he selected were both his. There is no growing evidence supporting a choice. Peltz says Google gave him a small amount of money to cover the costs of the test.

In another paper, Jose Penades Imperial College London and his colleagues explain how co-scientists proposed hypotheses that matched unpublished findings. He and his team are studying mobile genetic elements that can move between bacteria – bits of DNA that can move between bacteria – mobile gene elements. Some mobile genetic elements hijack the bacteriophage virus. These viruses consist of a DNA-containing shell and a tail that binds to specific bacteria and injects DNA into IT. Therefore, if the element can enter the shell of a phage virus, you can ride another bacteria for free.

One mobile genetic element creates its own shell. This type was particularly popular and confused Penade and his team. The answer they discovered recently is that these shells can connect with different phage tails, allowing mobile elements to enter a wide range of bacteria.

The discovery was still unpublished, but the team asked AI co-scientists to explain the puzzle. The number one suggestion was to steal a different phage tail.

“We were shocked,” Penades says. “I sent an email to Google. I can access the computer. Is that right? Otherwise, I can’t believe what I’m reading here.”

However, the team released a paper supplied to the system in 2023 – how this family of mobile genetic elements “It steals the tail of a bacteriophage and spreads naturally.” at the time, researchers thought that the elements were limited to obtaining tails from phages that infect the same cell. Only later they discovered that elements can pick up tails floating outside the cell.

So one explanation of how AI co-scientists came up with the correct answer is that they missed the obvious limitation that stopped humans from getting it.

What’s clear is that instead of coming up with a whole new idea, you’re given everything you need to find the answer. “Everything was already public, but it was publicly available on different bits,” Penades says. “The system was able to put it all together.”

The team tried other AI systems already on the market, but none of them came up with an answer, he says. In fact, some people didn’t manage it even when they gave the answer to a paper explaining it. “This system suggests something you’ve never thought of,” says Penades, who hasn’t received funding from Google. “I think it’s going to change the game.”

It becomes clearer over time whether it really changes the game. There’s a mix of Google’s track record when it comes to claiming AI tools to help scientists. Its Alphafold system withstands hype and won the team behind it a Nobel Prize last year.

However, in 2023, the company announced it. Approximately 40 “new materials” It was synthesized with the help of GNOME AI. However, according to the 2024 analysis Robert Palgrave University College London One of the synthesized materials was not actually new.

Despite his discoveries, Palgrave believes that AI can help scientists. “In general, I think AI has a huge amount of contributions to science when implemented in collaboration with experts in their respective fields,” he says.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Alphabet, Google’s Parent Company, Fails to Impress Wall Street with Revenue Amid Tough AI Competition

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Alphabet, Google’s parent company, saw a drop of over 6% following the release of its quarterly results on Tuesday. The company reported revenue of $96.5 billion, slightly below analysts’ expectations of $96.67 billion. While Alphabet exceeded investors’ earnings per share (EPS) expectation of $2.13 by reporting $2.15, the company highlighted a strong fourth quarter led by AI advancements and overall business momentum.

Revenue breakdown included $84 billion from Google Search and services, with $12 billion from YouTube advertising and cloud revenue. Analysts are closely watching Alphabet’s competitive position in AI search and cloud revenues amidst growing competition from players like Chinese DeepSeek and OpenAI.

The company’s deceleration reflects a challenging year for Google, raising concerns about its future competitiveness. Alphabet plans to invest $750 billion in capital spending in the coming year to further develop AI and infrastructure.

Despite ongoing AI development efforts across the industry, Alphabet remains focused on AI innovation with a significant investment plan. The company aims to leverage its AI capabilities for monetization in the coming years.

Concerns about rising AI costs and their impact on Alphabet’s AI advertising strategy have emerged in light of recent developments. Analysts are closely monitoring how these developments will shape Alphabet’s future AI initiatives and competitiveness.

Additionally, Alphabet remains committed to responsible AI development practices, emphasizing the importance of democracy, human rights, and global cooperation in AI leadership. The company reaffirms its commitment to using AI for positive impact and national security.

Legal challenges, including antitrust investigations, pose further uncertainties for Alphabet’s future. The Ministry of Justice’s case against a major search company raises concerns about potential regulatory actions that could affect the tech industry.

In light of geopolitical tensions, particularly with China, Alphabet faces additional challenges as regulatory scrutiny intensifies. China’s response to tariff announcements and antitrust investigations adds to the uncertain outlook for Google.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Competition regulator probes Apple and Google’s mobile platforms in the UK

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The UK’s competition watchdog is set to investigate the impact of Apple and Google’s mobile platforms on consumers and businesses, following criticism over the appointment of a former tech executive as its new chair.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) will look into the tech giants’ mobile operating systems, app stores, and browsers to determine if specific guidelines are needed to regulate their behavior.

This inquiry comes after Doug Gurr, a former Amazon UK country manager, was appointed as the CMA chair, with the government denying any bias towards big tech companies.

The investigation will focus on how Google and Apple’s mobile platforms impact consumers, businesses, and app developers, as most smartphones in the UK come with pre-installed iOS or Android operating systems.

The CMA will assess whether Google and Apple should be classified as companies with “strategic market positions” under the new Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act (DMCC). If designated as such, the CMA could impose regulatory requirements or mandate changes to promote competition on their platforms.

Sara Cardel, CEO of the CMA, emphasized the importance of mobile platforms as gateways to the digital world and highlighted the potential for a more competitive ecosystem to drive innovation and growth.

The CMA aims to complete its investigation by October 22nd, in line with its focus on ensuring consistent regulations that support economic growth and competition.

Both Apple and Google have expressed readiness to cooperate with the CMA and reiterated their commitment to fostering choice and opportunity for consumers and businesses while complying with regulations.

Source: www.theguardian.com

UK watchdog examining Google’s search dominance

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Google is currently under investigation by Britain’s competition watchdog regarding the effects of its search and advertising practices on consumers, news publishers, businesses, and other search engines.

The Competition and Markets Authority reports that Google dominates over 90% of general searches in the UK.

The CMA estimates that search advertising costs UK households nearly £500 annually, but competition can help lower this cost.


The CMA has announced an investigation to determine if Google is hindering competition in the market and engaging in potentially exploitative practices, such as collecting large amounts of consumer data without informed consent.

Additionally, the investigation will assess if Google is unfairly promoting its shopping and travel services using its dominant search engine position.

The investigation is expected to last up to nine months, during which Google will be required to share data with other companies and provide publishers with more control over their content.

This investigation marks the first under the new digital market competition regulations in the UK, enabling authorities to impose conduct requirements on technology companies.

Pressure from the US to regulate tech companies has been increasing leading up to President Trump’s inauguration. Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg criticized European laws and expressed intentions to work with the new US administration to protect American companies.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has plans to integrate AI into the UK economy and establish partnerships with AI companies with a pro-growth approach to regulation.

The EU is reportedly reevaluating its investigations into US tech giants, including Google, Meta, and Apple, under digital market regulations, potentially altering the scope of the probes.

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The CMA’s investigation will examine the impact of Google’s search, advertising platform, and AI assistant.

CMA Chief Executive Sara Cardel emphasized the importance of fair competition and consumer rights in search services and data privacy.

Google has responded by stating that search is crucial for economic growth and they will collaborate with the CMA to ensure compliance with new regulations.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Is Google’s new Willow quantum computer truly groundbreaking?

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Google announces new quantum chip is the most powerful yet

Google Quantum AI

Google has unveiled a new quantum computer, reasserting its lead in the race to prove that these unusual machines can beat even the world's best conventional supercomputers. So does that mean we've finally arrived at a useful quantum computer?

Researchers at the tech giant unveiled their quantum computing chip Sycamore in 2019, becoming the first in the world to demonstrate this feat known as quantum supremacy. But since then, supercomputers have caught up and left Sycamore behind. Now, Google has produced a new quantum chip called Willow. julian kelly Google says its Quantum AI is the best in the company's history.

“You can think of this as having all the benefits of Sycamore, but when you look under the hood, the geometry has changed…We've rethought the processor,” he says.

The latest version of Sycamore boasted 67; The quantum bits, or qubits, that process information have been upgraded to Willow's 105 qubits. Ideally, larger quantum computers should be more powerful, but researchers have found that qubits in larger devices struggle to remain coherent and lose their quantum nature. I discovered it. This is also the case with competitors IBM and California-based startup Atom Computing, both of which recently debuted quantum computers with more than 1,000 qubits.

For this reason, the quality of the qubits is a big focus for the team, and Willow's qubits can store complex quantum states, reliably encoding information more than five times longer than Sycamore's qubits, Kelly said. says.

Google uses a specific benchmark task called RCS to evaluate the performance of its quantum computers, and Willow said it was superior. Hartmut Neven also with Google Quantum AI. This task involves verifying that the distribution of numerical samples output by programs running on the chip is as random as possible. For several years, Sycamore was able to do this faster than the world's best supercomputers, but in 2022 and again in 2024 a new record was set by a conventional computer.

Google says Willow's task took five minutes on a chip, once again widening the gap between quantum machines and conventional machines, but the company said its prior technology would take 10 septillion years, or the age of the universe. We estimate that it will take much longer than the square of supercomputer.

For this comparison, the researchers modeled a Frontier supercomputer (recently downgraded to only the second most powerful supercomputer in the world) with more memory than is currently available. This only emphasizes Willow's computational abilities. says Naven. Although Sycamore's record has been broken, he is confident Willow will remain champion for much longer as traditional computing methods reach their limits.

What remains to be seen is whether Willow can actually do anything useful, given the lack of practical use for RCS benchmark tests. Kelly said that while success in benchmarks is a “necessary but not sufficient” condition for a quantum computer's usefulness, chips that fail to perform well in RCS are unlikely to be used in the future.

But the Google team has another reason to believe in Willow's bright future. That said, Willow is very good at correcting her own mistakes. Quantum computers' propensity for error is one of the biggest current problems preventing them from fulfilling their promise of being more powerful than other types of computers. To improve this, researchers, including a team at Google, are grouping physical qubits together to form “logical qubits” that are much more resilient to errors.

Using Willow, the team showed that as logical qubits get larger, they become more error-proof, with about half as many errors as the physical qubits that make up logical qubits. Furthermore, when the size of the logical qubit was approximately doubled, the error rate was further halved. In this way, Google researchers believe they can continue to increase the number of qubits, making quantum computers larger and larger and capable of performing increasingly greater calculations than previously trending. Threshold reached.

“In my opinion, this is a distinctive result, and although we are still far from demonstrating a practical quantum computer, it is an important and necessary step towards that goal.” Andrew Cleland at the University of Chicago.

Martin Wides Researchers at the University of Glasgow in the UK say their work points the way towards building quantum computers that are “fault tolerant” – quantum computers that can find and correct all errors. Although challenges remain, he says these advances pave the way for innovative applications in quantum chemistry, such as cryptography and machine learning, as well as drug discovery and materials design.

The increased focus on error correction in academic labs and across the burgeoning quantum computing industry has made advances in logical qubits a key point of comparison for today's best quantum computers. In 2023, a team of researchers from Harvard University and the startup QuEra set a record for the most logical qubit ever created using a qubit made from cryogenic rubidium atoms. did. Earlier this year, researchers at Microsoft and Atom Computing linked a record number of logical qubits through quantum entanglement.

Google's approach is different. Because instead of maximizing the number of single logical qubits, the focus is on making single logical qubits bigger and better. “We could have split the chip into even smaller logical qubits and run the algorithm, but we really wanted to reach this threshold. all challenges exist [of quantum computing] ,” says Kelly.

But ultimately, the biggest test of Willow's impact will be the goal that all other quantum computers also pursue: reliably computing things that are useful but impossible for classical computers. The question will be whether it can be achieved. Neven said Sycamore was already used for scientific discoveries such as quantum physics, but the team is setting its sights on more real-world applications with Willow. “We are moving toward new calculations and simulations that could not be performed on classical computers.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Google’s AI asserts it can create superior chips compared to human designers, but experts are skeptical

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Can AI design chips that are more efficient than those made by humans?

Yuichiro Kayano/Getty Images

Google DeepMind says its artificial intelligence is already helping design chips used in data centers and even smartphones. But some chip design experts are skeptical of the company’s claims that these AIs can plan new chip layouts better than humans.

He said the new method, dubbed AlphaChip, can design “superhuman chip layouts” in hours, rather than relying on weeks or months of human effort. anna goldie and Azaria Mirhoseiniaccording to researchers at Google DeepMind. blog post. This AI approach uses reinforcement learning to figure out relationships between chip components and receives rewards based on the quality of the final layout. However, independent researchers say the company has yet to prove that such AI can outperform expert human chip designers or commercial software tools, and they say they are unable to demonstrate that such AI can outperform expert human chip designers or commercial software tools, and that they believe that current state-of-the-art The company hopes to test AlphaChip’s performance on public benchmarks that include cutting-edge circuit designs.

“If Google provides experimental results for these designs, we’ll be able to make a fair comparison, and we hope everyone will accept the results,” he says. patrick madden At Binghamton University in New York. “Experiments take a day or two to run at most, and Google has nearly infinite resources. The fact that these results aren’t being provided speaks volumes to me.” He declined to comment.

Google DeepMind’s blog post says: update Google for 2021 nature A journal paper about the company’s AI process. Since then, Google DeepMind says AlphaChip has helped design three generations of Google’s Tensor Processing Units (TPUs). TPUs are specialized chips used to train and run generative AI models for services such as Google’s Gemini chatbot.

The company also claims that its AI-assisted chip designs outperform those designed by human experts and are steadily improving. AI accomplishes this by reducing the overall length of wire needed to connect chip components. This could reduce the chip’s power consumption and increase processing speed. Google DeepMind also said AlphaChip created the layout for a general-purpose chip used in Google’s data centers, while also helping MediaTek develop a chip used in Samsung’s phones.

However, the code published by Google lacks support for common industry chip data formats, which suggests the AI method is currently more suited to Google’s own chips, it said. . Igor Markovchip design researcher. “We have no idea what AlphaChip is today, what it does or doesn’t do,” he says. “We know that reinforcement learning requires two to three orders of magnitude more computational resources than techniques used in commercial tools, and typically lags behind. [in terms of] result. “

Markov and Madden criticized the original paper controversial Claim that AlphaChip outperforms anonymous human experts. “Comparisons to unnamed human designers are subjective, non-reproducible, and very easily fooled. Although it is possible that the human designer is not trying hard enough or is underqualified. , there are no scientific results here,” says Markov. “Imagine if AlphaGo were reported to have won against an unknown Go player.”

In 2023, independent experts who reviewed Google’s paper revoked his nature An explanatory article that initially praised Google’s efforts. The expert is andrew kern At the University of California, San Diego, Public benchmarking efforts When we tried to replicate Google’s AI methods, we found that they could not consistently outperform human experts or traditional computer algorithms. The best approach was commercial software for chip design from companies like Cadence and NVIDIA.

“Reinforcement learning appears to lag significantly behind the state-of-the-art in every benchmark that would be considered a fair comparison,” Madden says. “I don’t think that’s a promising research direction when it comes to circuit placement.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Review of the Pixel 9 Pro XL: Google’s Superphone with AI capabilities competes with the best available.

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Google’s latest flagship phone is a significant advancement, focusing on battery life, camera quality, and intelligent features. It represents a new era of Android devices that can run Google’s Gemini AI system along with a next-generation conversational voice assistant.


Priced starting at £1,099 ($1,099/AU$1,849), the Pixel 9 Pro XL is Google’s largest phone offering. This year, a smaller 9 Pro model with identical specifications and cameras is also available for £999 ($999/AU$1,699). The XL variant caters to users who prefer a large screen and extended battery life.

Featuring a bold design with a noticeable camera bar reminiscent of Google’s Nest Doorbell, the Pixel 9 Pro XL stands out visually. Its aluminum body with flat edges bears similarities to Apple’s iPhone 14 Pro Max.




The Pixel 9 Pro XL boasts a large, vibrant 6.8-inch screen, ideal for multimedia consumption and outdoor use. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Equipped with Google’s Tensor G4 chip, the Pixel offers faster browsing and app launching compared to its predecessor. The phone efficiently handles games and apps, leveraging AI enhancements to boost performance.

Notably, the Pixel 9 Pro XL delivers extended battery life, lasting up to 52 hours under mixed usage conditions, setting it apart from competitors in the market.




The ultrasonic fingerprint scanner on the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers enhanced speed and accuracy, providing a seamless user experience. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Specifications

  • Screen: 6.8-inch 120Hz QHD+ OLED (486ppi)

  • Processor: Google Tensor G4

  • RAM: 16GB RAM

  • Storage: 128, 256, 512GB or 1TB

  • Operating System: Android 14

  • Camera: 50MP + 48MP Ultra Wide + 48MP 5x Telephoto, 42MP Selfie

  • Connectivity: 5G, eSIM, Wi-Fi 7, UWB, NFC, Bluetooth 5.3, GNSS

  • Water Resistance: IP68 (1.5m for 30 minutes)

  • Size: 162.8 x 76.6 x 8.5mm

  • Weight: 221 grams

Source: www.theguardian.com

Google’s partnership with Anthropic under review by UK regulators

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The Competition and Markets Authority has initiated a preliminary inquiry into Google’s collaboration with AI startup Anthropic, marking the latest in a series of probes into agreements between major tech companies and smaller AI enterprises.

Google has injected $2 billion (approximately £1.56 billion) into the firm by 2023, following a recent cloud-computing deal with Clode LLM and chatbot startup Anthropic.

The CMA is currently assessing whether the partnership may have led to “merger-related situations” that warrant a formal investigation. Public feedback is welcomed over the next fortnight.

This move comes amidst broader worries about competition in the generative AI sector, with Amazon also collaborating with Anthropic to secure a $4 billion stake in the company and serve as one of its cloud computing suppliers. The Amazon-Anthropic deal is also under scrutiny by the CMA for potential merger implications.

Additionally, the CMA has launched investigations into OpenAI and Microsoft, following Microsoft’s acquisition of a significant share in the commercial division of ChatGPT creator, as well as into Microsoft’s partnership with AI startup Inflection, where the tech giant obtained access to its AI models and recruited the startup’s founders and management.

An inquiry into Microsoft’s dealings with French AI startup Mistral was terminated in May.

Regulators are apprehensive about the dominance of big tech players, especially in competitive fields like AI, hence direct takeovers are improbable. However, the CMA is vigilant about agreements that could impede competition through other means.

An Anthropic spokesperson refuted any claims of a merger, stating that they remain an autonomous entity with no compromise to their corporate governance independence or partnership freedom.

A Google representative affirmed the company’s commitment to fostering an open and innovative AI ecosystem globally.

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Furthermore, it was clarified that “Anthropic utilizes multiple cloud providers and has not sought any exclusive technology rights.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Wizz, a cybersecurity company, turns down $23 billion acquisition bid from Alphabet Inc., Google’s parent company

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Cybersecurity company Wizz has turned down a $23bn (£18bn) takeover offer from Google’s parent Alphabet, making it the largest takeover bid ever for a tech company, and has opted for a stock market listing instead.

Alphabet had been in discussions with Wizz, a company established by graduates of Israel’s cyber-intelligence program, in an effort to catch up with competitors Microsoft and Amazon in the competitive cloud-services market.

Wiz provides a service that scans data on cloud storage platforms like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure for potential security threats.

The New York-based startup, which is financially backed by investors such as Sequoia Capital and Thrive Capital, was last valued at $12 billion.

In an internal email to employees, the company expressed gratitude for the offer but decided to remain committed to its mission of building Wiz. CEO Assaf Rapaport outlined the company’s objectives of reaching $1 billion in annual recurring revenue and going public.

Despite the tempting offer, the company’s trust in its skilled team reaffirmed their decision. The positive response from the market further reinforced their aim to create a platform that is loved by both security and development teams.

As of Tuesday morning, neither Wizz nor Google have released an official statement regarding the end of the acquisition negotiations.

There are concerns that the deal may face regulatory challenges as authorities seek to tighten their control over acquisitions involving major tech companies.

Last month, the US Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission agreed to investigate leading players in the AI market, including Microsoft, OpenAI, and Nvidia.

Established in 2020, Wizz was valued at $12 billion in a funding round in May, attracting investments from Andreessen Horowitz, Lightspeed Venture Partners, and Thrive.

Wiz claims to have 40% of the Fortune 100 as clients and boasts an annual recurring revenue of $350 million.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Understanding ImageFX: A Comprehensive Guide to Google’s New AI Image Generator

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Google is lagging behind in artificial intelligence. While OpenAI’s innovative Dall-E AI art image generator was released two years ago, Google only recently released its competing product.

The software, known as ImageFX, is backed by one of the largest technology companies and a substantial amount of data. So how is this data accumulated?

In brief, ImageFX has produced some impressive images that rival the best. But how does it work? Can it be accessed now? And have major problems in the AI art world been solved?

How to use Google ImageFX

Google ImageFX is currently available in countries like the United States, Kenya, New Zealand, and Australia.

If you attempt to access the site in a country like the UK, you’ll see a warning stating, “This tool is not yet available in your country.”

To access it from any of the currently available countries, visit Google’s AI Test Kitchen. Then create an account. Once everything is set up, your new prompt will be ready for use.

Even if you’re not in one of the listed countries, the website is still worth visiting. Google allows you to sign up for notifications about when the platform becomes available in your area.

How good is Google ImageFX?

There’s no denying that Google is late to the game. OpenAI’s Dall-E was released in January 2021, and Midjourney was released a year later. So did Google’s delay pay off in terms of quality?

Two images generated by ImageFX. On the left is a room with an art desk, and on the right is a painting of a vampire – Credit: ImageFX

The images released so far demonstrate that ImageFX is capable of producing content at a very high level. Detailed and contextual, ImageFX is an unsurprisingly capable image generator.

But that’s expected. AI art has made significant progress over the years, and Google’s main competitors are producing similarly high-quality work and have been doing so for much longer.

The significant advantage of ImageFX at the moment is that it’s free (in select countries). Both Midjourney and Dall-E are mainly behind paywalls or restricted services, so it’s worth making the most of ImageFX before any changes.

ImageFX also includes a unique feature called the “Expressive Chip.” This allows users to quickly edit the prompt and try a different search. For example, if you request a portrait of a woman, you can quickly switch this to an abstract, hand-drawn, or even oil painting.

How does it work?

Basically, Google ImageFX works like any other AI art generator. This involves several steps, starting with obtaining an image database large enough for training.

Google has not disclosed the source of its training data, but it likely includes a combination of internal sources, collaborations, and possibly web scraping and user-generated content.

Once the database is built, a model is trained on these images to learn the relationships between the words and visual concepts in the images, possibly through a diffusion model.

These models start with random noise in the image and are refined based on information from both the data and the accompanying text description. By repeating this process, you essentially learn the relationships between words, images, and context.

This training helps ImageFX and other AI image generators understand the prompts asked because it understands what words are associated with the images.

How is it linked to Google Bard?

Google Bard is probably the biggest competitor to the AI chatbot ChatGPT. Google has been working on the chatbot for some time and was released publicly in 2023.

If ImageFX is photography, Bard is understanding words and context. The goal is to combine the two to create the ultimate AI model, similar to OpenAI’s combination of ChatGPT and Dall-E (OpenAI’s image generator).

Google Bard is currently in testing but will soon be fully operational with the recently announced Google Gemini system.

This could theoretically mean a platform that asks models to create a board game and returns both the rules and lore, as well as all images, boards, and content. Or you could write a series of books with illustrations to go along with it.

Does ImageFX produce bad images?

There’s a problem with AI art…people. When trained on artwork from a human population and then utilized again by humans, less appropriate parts of the human brain tend to enter.

Previous AI art generators displayed sexist, biased, and sometimes intensely graphic images. This is a problem that all major technology companies are trying to tackle, including Google with ImageFX.

“All images generated with ImageFX are marked with SynthID, a tool developed by Google DeepMind that adds digital watermarks directly to the content we generate.” Google says:.

“SynthID watermarks are imperceptible to the human eye but can be detected for identification. Additionally, all images contain metadata, so when you encounter an AI-generated image, You can get more information.”

In addition to this, Google announced that it has improved the safety of its training data, reducing problematic output such as violent, offensive, or sexually explicit content. This extends to a reduced ability to create images of real people.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Epic Games CEO Criticizes Google’s $700 Million Settlement with US States as Unjust to Android Users

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Google agreed to pay $700 million and allow more competition within the Android app store as part of a settlement with all 50 states and millions of U.S. consumers, but Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney denounced the deal as “unfair to all Android users and developers.” ”

The exact terms of the settlement, first reached in September, were announced just days after Google was handed a major legal defeat in a related lawsuit with Epic Games, best known as the maker of Fortnite.

As part of the lawsuit, U.S. District Judge James Donato is expected to order sweeping changes that could upend Google’s lucrative app store.

In its settlement with states, Google targeted consumers who may have overpaid for apps as a result of Google’s practices, according to terms detailed in documents filed Monday in San Francisco federal court. It plans to contribute $630 million to the settlement fund.

This equates to just $6 per person when divided evenly among 102 eligible U.S. consumers.

All eligible consumers will receive a minimum of $2. The state said at least 70% of consumers should automatically receive their share of the settlement.

The remaining $70 million will be earmarked for the state to use to cover various fines and legal costs.

Google will pay $700 million as part of the settlement. SOPA Image/LightRocket (via Getty Images)

Google also agreed to a series of time-bound changes to its app store practices.

This includes allowing developers to use other in-app purchase systems for the next five years, dialing back the use of so-called “horror screens” when Android users try to use competing app stores (but This includes making it easier for users to use it. Download apps directly from developers.

A coalition of state attorneys general says Google’s dominance in the Android software market – taking up to 30% fees from big developers in the Play Store – has resulted in higher prices and fewer choices for consumers. He claimed to be inviting.

Epic used the same argument in its successful battle with the company.

In a series of scathing tweets, Sweeney criticized the states that accepted the deal.

“The settlement with the state attorney general is unfair to all Android users and developers,” he wrote, adding that the settlement was “intentionally designed by Google to disadvantage competing stores and direct downloads.” It supports a misleading, anti-competitive and scary screen.”

“Previous U.S. lawsuits have made a strong case for $10.5 billion in damages, as well as a 30% fee that Google wrongly collected,” Sweeney added. “I think they would have been satisfied if they had continued to fight for a few more weeks until they won a resounding victory in court. It was a disappointing outcome.”

Pictured is Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney. Getty Images

The terms of the settlement could not be disclosed until the end of the separate Google v. Epic case. Epic was particularly opposed to the settlement when it was first announced in September.

The settlement still needs formal approval from Donato, who presided over each state’s case, before it becomes effective.

During the trial, Donato accused Google of “disturbing” efforts to delete employee chat logs it was ordered to keep.

Luther Rowe, an antitrust watchdog and longtime Google adversary, said: described the settlement as a “scandal” That could derail another major antitrust battle, the Justice Department’s landmark case targeting Google’s online search business.

“Not only was the fine an order of magnitude larger than it should have been, but[RI AG]won a $250 million settlement in 2012 with Company G, which didn’t even split with anyone for not blinking. (remember), the fine was lowered in mid-2012. The US v. G case was designed to make it seem as though it was unreasonable for the Department of Justice and the state in the case to bring it to the finish line. It seems as if the

Elsewhere, Wilson White, Google’s vice president of government affairs and public policy, said he was “pleased” to resolve the dispute with the state and that efforts to challenge the Epic lawsuit verdict were still “not over.” ‘ he claimed.

Google suffered a huge loss in its recent battle with Epic Games. AP

“We are pleased to be able to reach an agreement on that basis and to advance Android and Google Play for the benefit of millions of developers and billions of people around the world. We look forward to making these improvements that will help.” White said in a blog post..

Washington, D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb was among those touting the settlement as a victory for consumers.

“For too long, Google’s anticompetitive practices in app distribution have deprived Android users of choice and forced them to pay artificially high prices,” Schwalb said in a statement.

with post wire

Source: nypost.com

Analyst warns that Google’s major court defeat to Epic Games may lead to reorganization of Big Tech companies due to antitrust concerns

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One of Google’s most vocal critics says Google’s “catastrophic” antitrust loss this week to “Fortnite” maker Epic Games is a huge blow to Big Tech companies and other companies. This could potentially change the situation completely, potentially exposing the company to a wave of restructuring. Matt Stoller, director of research at the antitrust watchdog American Economic Liberties Project, said the jury’s unanimous verdict that Google maintained an illegal monopoly through the Android app store was a sign that “the truly powerful Big Apple… This is the first time a “tech company” has lost a major antitrust case. case. “There will be appeals and things like that, but I think over the next five years or so Google will start to settle and agree to splits because they know they’re going to lose.” , it’s not worth it. There is a lot of legal uncertainty.” Stoller told journalist Glenn Greenwald on his show “System Update.” “I know there’s a lot of cynicism, but this is actually how we’re going to rebuild these companies,” Stoller added. “It’s kind of amazing that it actually works.” “It’s over.”Google just lost a major antitrust lawsuit brought by Epic Games, the first judgment of its kind against a major tech company.The potential impact on Google, Amazon, Facebook, and other companies cannot be overstated.@MatthewStoller I’ll explain 👇 pic.twitter.com/aaGQ96Bcgu— System Update (@SystemUpdate_) December 13, 2023 Stoller added that the jury’s decision sets an important new legal precedent that is likely to influence the process in a range of antitrust cases facing Google and other large companies. Google is awaiting a judge’s ruling on a landmark Justice Department case targeting its online search empire, as well as separate investigations into its digital advertising business and Google Maps business. “All of a sudden, there’s a precedent and these sneaky judges are going to have to find reasons to rule in favor of Google, whereas before they had to find reasons to rule against Google. Deaf,” Stoller said. “I think all of these lawsuits are going to be overturned, and it’s going to be much harder for Google to win the lawsuits.” As The Post reported, experts say the Google v. Epic ruling could upend the business model that underpins the company’s lucrative Play Store. The Play Store previously charged large companies up to a 30% fee on in-app purchases and required them to: Use your company’s pricing system. Matt Stoller is the research director of the American Economic Liberties Project, an antitrust watchdog group. X/@SystemUpdate_ U.S. District Judge James Donato will next decide which illegal business practices Google must eliminate. A judge could order Google to stop paying major app developers to discourage them from launching competing app stores and suspend billing requirements, among other remedies. . In May 2024, Judge Amit Mehta will decide Google’s fate in a Justice Department lawsuit that alleges it has maintained an illegal monopoly over online search. The Post reached out to Google for comment on Stoller’s comments. Google faces a series of antitrust battles in the future. EPA Meanwhile, Google has already announced plans to contest the verdict in the Epic lawsuit. “Android and Google Play offer more choice and openness than any other major mobile platform,” said Wilson White, the company’s vice president of government affairs and public policy. “This trial makes clear that we are in intense competition with Apple and its App Store, as well as the App Store for Android devices and game consoles.”

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Source: nypost.com

Google’s AI demo was fake, Grand Theft Auto VI captures attention, Spotify reduces workforce

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Welcome to the Week in Review (WiR)

Welcome everyone to Week in Review (WiR). This is TechCrunch’s regular newsletter that recaps the past few days in technology. AI is back in the headlines, with tech giants from Google to X (formerly Twitter) taking on OpenAI for chatbot supremacy. But so much more happened. In this issue of WiR, Google fakes a demo of a new AI model (and handed out an offensive note to Black Summit attendees), defense startup Anduril unveils fighter jet weapons, and the latest from the 23andMe hack The Continuing Aftermath and Grand Theft Auto VI trailer. Other stories include patient scans and health records leaked online, Meta’s new AI-powered image generator, Spotify layoffs, and self-driving truck startup pulling out of the US. There’s a lot to do, so don’t delay. But before that, if you haven’t already, here’s a reminder to subscribe here so you can receive her WiR in your inbox every Saturday.

Google fakes a new AI model (and hands out an offensive note to Black Summit attendees)

Google this week announced a new flagship AI model called Gemini. However, the complete model Gemini Ultra was not released, only a “lite” version called Gemini Pro. Google touted Gemini’s coding and multimodal capabilities in press conferences and blog posts, claiming the model can understand not only text but also images, audio, and video. However, because Gemini Pro is strictly text input and text output, it has proven to be error-prone. And to make matters worse for Google, the company was caught faking the Gemini demo by adjusting the text prompts with still images taken away from the camera. In another Google PR failure, people who attended the company’s K&I Black Summit in August were given third-party notebooks containing extremely insensitive language. My colleague Dominique Madri wrote that the inside of the notebook had the phrase “I was just now” printed on it. cotton That was the moment, but I came back to take your notes” (emphasis on our notes). Needless to say, this would not have been well-received by the mostly black audience in attendance. Google promises to “avoid similar situations.”

Anduril’s new weapons

Anduril, the controversial defense company co-founded by Oculus founder Palmer Lackey, has developed a new product designed to counter the proliferation of low-cost, high-powered aerial threats. A modular, twin-jet-powered, autonomous vertical take-off and landing aircraft (one version of which can carry warheads), called the Roadrunner, can take off from, track, and destroy targets, as well as intercept them. If there is no need, you can intercept the target. autonomously maneuver back to base, refuel and reuse. More 23andMe victims: Last Friday, genetic testing company 23andMe announced that hackers had accessed the personal data of 0.1% of its customers, or about 14,000 people. But the company initially declined to say how many other users may have been affected by the breach, which 23andMe first disclosed in October. In all, 6.9 million people had their name, year of birth, relationship label, percentage of his DNA shared with relatives, ancestry reports, and self-reported location exposed.

Grand Theft Auto VI trailer goes viral

The first trailer for Grand Theft Auto VI reached 85 million views in just 22 hours, breaking the MrBeast video’s record for most YouTube views in 24 hours. The excitement for Grand Theft Auto VI continues for his decade. The previous installment in Rockstar Games’ long-running series, Grand Theft Auto V, remains the same. second best selling Best video game of all time, not even close to Minecraft.

Patient records leaked

A security weakness in a decades-old industry standard designed for storing and sharing medical images has led to thousands of exposed servers exposing the medical records and personal health information of millions of patients. I am. This standard, known as Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM), is an internationally recognized format for medical images. However, as German-based cybersecurity consultancy Aplite has discovered, security flaws in DICOM are allowing many healthcare facilities to unintentionally make their personal data accessible from the open web.

Meta generates images

Not to be outdone by the launch of Google’s Gemini, Meta has launched a new standalone generative AI experience, Imagine with Meta AI, on the web. This allows users to create images by describing them in natural language. Similar to OpenAI’s DALL-E, Midjourney, and Stable Diffusion, Imagine with Meta AI leverages Meta’s existing Emu image generation model to create high-resolution images from text prompts.

Spotify makes layoffs

Spotify will cut around 1,500 jobs, or about 17% of its workforce, in its third round of layoffs this year as the music streaming giant aims to “increase both productivity and efficiency.” It’s a schedule. In a memo to employees on Monday, Spotify founder and CEO Daniel Ek cited slowing economic growth and rising costs of capital, saying the company needs more employees to face “the challenges ahead.” He stated that it is important to set an appropriate size of staff.

TuSimple will exit

When TuSimple went public in 2021, it was emerging as the leading self-driving truck developer in the U.S., but now, after a series of internal disputes and the loss of a key partnership with truck manufacturer Navistar, TuSimple is completely removed from the U.S. We are withdrawing. TuSimple says:

ZestMoney will shut down

ZestMoney, a buy-now-pay-later startup that can underwrite small loans to first-time Internet customers and has attracted a number of high-profile investors, including Goldman Sachs, has found a buyer. Efforts failed and it was closed. At its peak, the Bangalore-based startup employed around 150 people and raised more than $130 million during its eight-year run.

TechCrunch’s latest podcast episodes

TechCrunch’s list of podcast episodes continues to grow, just in time for your weekend listening. capital We featured a retrospective conversation from TechCrunch Disrupt 2023. Alex is the founder of Trible, a no-code app builder that helps you build online courses. He spoke with Serhii Bohoslovskyi. The two talked about the current state of the creator economy, the state of use of no-code tools today (and how it’s being embraced by non-technical creators), and the safety of startups with Ukrainian roots. . It’s over found, the crew spoke to David Rogier, CEO and founder of MasterClass, a streaming platform where you can learn from world experts on a variety of topics. Before Rogier launched his MasterClass, he worked as a VC, and through those connections he secured a $500,000 seed round before the company even had an idea. and, Chain reaction, Jacqueline interviewed David Packman, Managing Partner and Head of Venture Investments at Coinfund. Prior to CoinFund, David worked at venture capital firm Venrock where he worked for 14 years. He also led the Series A and B rounds of Dollar Shave Club, which was acquired by Unilever for $1 billion. And he co-created Apple Music in 1991, when David was in Apple’s Systems Software Product Marketing Group.

Source: techcrunch.com