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Cloudflare has announced a new setting called Disallow AI Training, which allows website owners to stay indexed for search while refusing to let mixed-use crawlers train on their content. This setting is available for Apple, Google, and Microsoft, which have committed to honoring it. Cloudflare has also introduced a new classification system for bots, which includes Search, Training, and Agent behaviors. The Disallow AI Training setting is a response to the tradeoff between allowing content to be used for AI training and risking losing discoverability in search. Cloudflare has been working with bot operators to establish a new standard for transparency and control, and has created an 'Accountable' designation for operators that meet certain requirements. The new setting is part of Cloudflare's Bot Management and AI Crawl Control system, and will become part of the recommended configuration for certain new domains.

A former Google DeepMind employee has joined the growing chorus of AI researchers warning that the technology could pose a catastrophic threat to humanity. Bilal Chughtai, who worked on AGI safety and alignment research, resigned from the company in July 2026 and has expressed his concerns about the potential dangers of AI. Chughtai believes that AI has the potential to kill all humans and that time may be running out to avoid this outcome. He calls for a slowdown in the pace of advanced AI development to allow society to handle emerging risks before extreme harm is realized. Chughtai's comments come as Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has also called for a slowdown in AI development, winning backing from SpaceXAI's Elon Musk and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. However, President Donald Trump has dismissed the warnings, calling the AI industry's call for regulation a 'hoax'.

Google has made a strategic acquisition of Mechanize, a company specializing in AI-powered automation. The deal marks Google's latest acqui-hire, where it acquires a company for its talent rather than its technology. Mechanize's expertise in automation will likely be integrated into Google's existing AI initiatives. The acquisition is a testament to Google's commitment to advancing AI capabilities. Mechanize's team will join Google, bringing their expertise to the table. The acquisition is expected to enhance Google's AI offerings, particularly in the areas of automation and machine learning. Google has not disclosed the terms of the deal, but it is likely to have a significant impact on the tech industry.

Over the weekend, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, Google DeepMind co‑founder Demis Hassabis, and SpaceX chief Elon Musk announced a joint decision to slow the pace of AI research. The group signed a proposal that would embed third‑party auditors, impose new regulations on domestic AI labs, and pursue a coordinated global slowdown. Critics argue the move could suppress competition, stifle the open‑source community, and avoid robust legal safeguards, labeling it a potential cartel. The announced framework will require participating labs to submit to independent oversight and adhere to stricter safety protocols before releasing new models. The initiative marks the first formal agreement among major AI developers to curb rapid progress, setting a precedent for industry‑wide governance.

Google has announced a significant update to its search engine, incorporating advanced AI technology to improve search results. The update, which is now live, uses machine learning algorithms to analyze user queries and provide more accurate and relevant responses. According to Google, the new system can better understand natural language and context, leading to more precise search results. The update also includes a new feature called 'Multitask Unified Model', which enables the AI to perform multiple tasks simultaneously, such as answering questions and providing definitions. Google claims that the update will improve the overall search experience for users, making it easier to find the information they need.

Google has moved a 90‑person AI responsibility team out of its DeepMind unit and into the global affairs division that handles policy and lobbying. The change, effective September, is part of a broader reorganisation that brings DeepMind closer to central Google. Staff members have expressed concern that the move could cut the team’s access to Gemini researchers, potentially weakening the company’s AI safety work. Team lead Helen King has reassured employees that the team will retain its access to resources and collaborators. The reallocation places the AI safety function directly under the policy arm, positioning it to influence regulatory discussions while maintaining its research capabilities.

State Rep. David Maloney, a Republican from Pennsylvania, has announced a resolution that would ask President Donald Trump, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, and Congress to rename Lake Erie to "Lake Pennsylvania." Maloney argues the lake is Pennsylvania’s only Great Lake and its modern economy—boaters, anglers, families, and tourists—depends on the waterway. He points out that Ohio has shoreline, New York already has two Great Lakes, and Canada has four others. The proposal follows Trump’s recent executive order to rename Lake Ontario to "Lake America," a change that has been adopted by U. S. federal agencies and reflected in Apple and Google Maps for U. S. users, though Canada rejects the new name. The resolution is still in draft form and would only affect U. S. federal usage if enacted.

Slack announced Slackforce Surfaces, a new AI‑driven feature that lets users create interactive reports, dashboards, polls, presentations, and microsites directly within a Slack conversation. By describing the desired content to Slackbot, the system pulls data from relevant messages and connected apps such as Google Drive or Salesforce, automatically generating the requested surface. Once created, the surface can be shared, pinned to channels, and interacted with by teammates, who can view, comment, and engage with the embedded content. Slack demonstrated the capability by generating an arcade‑themed visualization of AI token usage on demand. The feature aims to streamline collaboration by keeping data and analysis inside the chat environment.

Google has introduced a new feature that streamlines the process of switching between password managers on Android devices. This development allows users to easily transfer their passkeys, making it more convenient to switch between password management services. The feature aims to provide a seamless experience for users who want to change their password manager without losing access to their stored credentials. Google's move is expected to benefit users who frequently switch between password management services or want to try out different options. The new feature is part of Google's ongoing efforts to improve the Android ecosystem and enhance user experience.

Google has rolled out a new Android feature that enables users to securely transfer passwords and passkeys between password managers. This development aims to simplify the process of switching between password managers, making it easier for users to manage their digital security. The new feature allows users to export their passwords and passkeys from one password manager and import them into another, all while maintaining the highest level of security. This is made possible through the use of advanced encryption and secure authentication protocols. The introduction of this feature is a significant step towards improving the user experience and making password management more accessible. It also underscores Google's commitment to enhancing the security and convenience of its Android ecosystem. The feature is now available on Android devices, and users can take advantage of it by accessing their device settings and navigating to the password manager settings. From there, they can initiate the transfer process and securely move their passwords and passkeys to their new password manager.

Google has introduced a built‑in process that lets Android users move stored passwords from one manager to another without manual re‑entry. The feature works entirely on the device; both the source and destination apps must be installed and have the user’s credentials synced. To begin, the user opens the import option in the target app—its location varies, but in Google Password Manager it sits near the top under Settings. Selecting import triggers the new migration system, which transfers the data securely. The existing export function still produces an unencrypted CSV that can be imported into any app. Currently, the migration works with Google Password Manager, 1Password, Bitwarden, and Dashlane. The change streamlines switching providers while keeping passwords protected during transfer.

Volvo announced it will no longer sell the entry‑level electric EX40 in the United States, while giving its hybrid XC40 a fresh look for next year. The new XC40 will feature a redesigned exterior, a fully updated interior, a larger infotainment screen, and Google’s Gemini AI assistant. Safety will be enhanced with a new sensor‑and‑software suite. Volvo plans to replace the EX40 with the slightly larger EX50, built on the lower‑cost SPA3 platform, which is expected to arrive in U. S. dealerships by mid‑2027 and likely start in the high‑$40,000 range. The hybrid XC40 remains available, continuing to serve as Volvo’s entry‑level model in the U. S. market.

The tourism industry is slowly recognizing the growing demand for solo travel. According to Google, online searches for 'solo travel' hit an all-time high in 2026, with 26% of travelers planning to take a trip alone this year. To cater to this trend, some tour operators and hotels are waiving or reducing single supplements. For example, Tauck is waiving the single supplement on its riverboat cabins, while Aurora Expeditions sets aside dedicated solo cabins with no single supplement. However, the industry still has a long way to go in designing products specifically for solo travelers. Many hotels and cruise lines still base prices on double occupancy, which can be a barrier for solo travelers. To truly adapt to the solo economy, the industry needs to redesign its products and services, rather than just repricing them.

Volvo has announced the return of its plug-in hybrid XC40, nearly three years after its discontinuation. The new model features a refreshed exterior design, a revamped interior with Google's Gemini AI assistant, and a larger infotainment screen. Additionally, the XC40 will come equipped with a new sensor-and-software safety suite. This hybrid model aims to serve as a bridge for customers seeking improved gas mileage without fully transitioning to an electric vehicle lifestyle. The new XC40 is set to arrive at dealerships early next year, offering a more appealing option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint without abandoning traditional fuel sources entirely.

Google announced AlphaGenome Atlas, a resource that predicts the consequences of every possible single‑base variant in the human genome. The genome contains about 3 billion bases; testing the other three bases for each position yields 9 billion variants processed by AlphaGenome software. The system focuses on non‑coding DNA, which makes up most of the genome and regulates protein‑coding genes. Some non‑coding regions are viral remnants, while others control where and when messenger RNAs are produced. Consolidating all analyses in one package offers convenience, but its added value beyond existing training data will only become clear once researchers adopt it. The Atlas could streamline functional annotation of non‑coding variants, accelerating studies of gene regulation and disease mechanisms.

Google has rolled out a Live Game Feed for NFL matches, debuting with the regular‑season opener tonight. The feature appears as a red “Live” icon on mobile search results, offering a concise recap of the current game, play‑by‑play commentary, top social media reactions, video highlights, and AI‑powered insights. Users can also flip through a new carousel that lists scores for all games in progress. Updated statistics now display leading players in categories such as passing touchdowns and rushing yards. The service launches in English on mobile, with college football coverage added and additional languages slated for release later this month.

In a 90-minute interview with POLITICO, European Commission Vice President Teresa Ribera outlined her post-summer policy wishlist, which includes taxing Big Oil, making Big Tech invest in renewables, and protecting Europe from climate disasters. Ribera emphasized the need for climate action, citing the recent heat waves, wildfires, and drought that have ravaged Europe. She also discussed the EU's plans for the coming months, including a potential breakup of search giant Google and a proposal to better protect Europe against climate disasters. Ribera proposed a windfall tax on fossil fuel companies to raise money for climate protection measures, and suggested that Big Tech companies should invest in renewable energy generation to power their data centers. She also expressed a desire for a mix of dialogue and trade measures to cope with the challenges posed by China's manufacturing dominance.

Microsoft’s September security update set a new record by addressing 972 vulnerabilities, including 112 that were classified as high‑critical. The company’s patch count has climbed steadily, from 570 two months ago to 620 last month, and now tops the previous peak. The surge mirrors similar releases from Google and other major vendors, all of whom have recently published record numbers of fixes. Two weeks earlier, a coalition of 100 companies—including OpenAI, Anthropic, Amazon Web Services, Google, and Microsoft—issued an open letter warning that the window for patching is narrowing ahead of a projected wave of AI‑enabled attacks that could exploit these weaknesses first. Researchers at the Zero Day Initiative describe the current spike in patch activity as the “new normal” and caution that AI‑assisted attacks may ultimately cause substantial damage.

Google has released version 3 of its WeatherNext AI weather model, the first major update in several years. The new model now ingests satellite weather data, a change that shortens the lag between the latest observed conditions and the generation of a fresh forecast. By incorporating real‑time satellite imagery, WeatherNext can produce updated predictions more quickly than before, while still matching the accuracy of traditional numerical models. The update is detailed in a Google white paper and follows the company’s strategy of using AI to deliver comparable forecast performance with less computing power, enabling more frequent runs. The move also highlights the growing role of reanalysis techniques—combining diverse data streams into a consistent global atmospheric snapshot—to support AI‑based forecasting.

Meta has launched Muse, a personal AI agent designed to assist with everyday tasks and projects. The product is part of the company's multi-billion dollar strategy to revitalize its position in the AI market and catch up with rivals like OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google. Muse can work independently, completing tasks such as online shopping, sending emails, and planning trips. Users can give Muse a goal, and it will open a browser, fill out forms, and even negotiate on their behalf. This move marks Meta's latest attempt to bring AI to the masses and compete in the rapidly evolving AI market.

Google has restructured its search results in Europe to comply with the Digital Markets Act after a €460 million fine for favoring its own travel and shopping services. The changes remove prominent sponsored links, booking recommendations, and price‑comparison tools from the top of search pages, pushing them further down. Google’s Nick Fox said the new layout will degrade the user experience for Europeans, boost online intermediaries, and disadvantage local businesses by stripping away helpful features. The European Commission maintains that the adjustments level the playing field for competitors. The move marks a significant shift in how Europeans access travel information online.

Google DeepMind has introduced an AI tool called AlphaGenome Atlas, which contains a predictive map of every possible DNA letter change in the human genome. This platform, developed by Google's scientists, aims to accelerate scientific research and pave the way for new treatments for diseases. The human genome is composed of approximately three billion letter pairs, written in an alphabet of four chemical letters - A, C, G, and T. These letters contain the instructions for human development and function. The AlphaGenome Atlas is a significant development in the field of biology, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the human genome. According to Google DeepMind, this tool will help unravel the mysteries of the human genome, ultimately leading to breakthroughs in disease treatment. The researchers behind the project have published a blog post detailing their work, but the full story is available on The Verge.

An Indiana family farm, Global Farms, announced a corn maze honoring Charlie Kirk, the Turning Point USA president who was assassinated on Sept. 10, 2025. The tribute sparked immediate backlash: former customers posted one‑star reviews, and Google flagged the farm’s profile for alleged deceptive practices, temporarily suspending it. Manager Jeremy Goebel said the maze was meant to honor Kirk’s advocacy for free speech, not to divide. Despite the criticism, Goebel insists the farm would “absolutely” repeat the maze. He noted that while some negative comments came from the U. S. , supporters from places like Cape Town and Australia praised the gesture. The farm’s stance underscores the ongoing debate over public memorials for controversial figures.

Google announced a partnership with Cathay Pacific to test its AI‑powered contrail mitigation technology on ultra‑long‑haul flights across the Asia‑Pacific region. The trial will deploy machine‑learning algorithms that predict and adjust flight paths to reduce contrail formation, a major contributor to aviation emissions. Cathay Pacific will operate the technology on selected long‑haul routes, providing real‑time data on flight performance and environmental impact. The collaboration aims to evaluate the system’s feasibility and scalability for commercial airlines. Results will be shared with industry stakeholders and regulators to guide future emissions‑reduction initiatives. The project marks a step toward integrating advanced AI solutions into routine airline operations.

Google announced it will support 16 organizations across the Asia‑Pacific region, deploying frontier artificial‑intelligence technologies to address climate, agriculture and biodiversity challenges. The initiative expands Google’s commitment to sustainable technology and provides these groups with resources, expertise and funding to accelerate development of AI‑driven solutions. By backing a diverse portfolio of projects, Google aims to foster regional innovation and help stakeholders implement data‑driven strategies that can reduce emissions, improve crop resilience and protect ecosystems. The partnership signals a growing focus on green AI in the region.

A new Innerbody Research analysis of a year’s Google Trends data shows Wisconsin again ranked highest in beer‑related searches, confirming its status as America’s beer capital. The study labels the Midwest a "beer belt," with Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Missouri all in the nation’s top ten and every Midwestern state in the top 20. Wyoming led the West with the second‑highest score, followed by Kansas, Nebraska and Iowa. States on the Pacific coast—Alaska, Washington, California, Oregon and Hawaii—fell into the bottom ten. Brand‑specific searches reflected historic market entry: Miller dominated Wisconsin, Budweiser led St. Louis, and Michelob Ultra topped searches nationwide, especially in Alabama, Nevada and Oklahoma. Michelob Ultra also overtook Bud Light and Modelo Especial to become the U. S. top‑selling beer by volume this year. While search interest does not perfectly mirror sales, the data signals growing enthusiasm for certain brands and regions, offering breweries a clearer map for future marketing and product placement.

A group of hikers were rescued by the sheriff’s office after using Google Gemini to plan their trip. According to the sheriff’s office, Gemini advised the hikers to bring far less food and water than their group required. The inaccurate recommendation left the hikers under‑supplied, prompting a rescue operation. The incident highlights the potential dangers of relying on AI tools for outdoor expedition planning, especially when the AI’s guidance conflicts with established safety practices. The rescue underscores the need for hikers to verify AI‑generated advice with reliable sources and traditional planning methods.

Google has announced that its Gemini Spark AI now supports full management of Google Photos libraries for users on the AI Pro and Ultra plans. The feature lets subscribers edit and curate photo albums, create shared collections, and automatically convert photos into calendar events. Gemini Spark can also perform other routine Google Photos tasks, such as organizing images by date or location, and suggesting edits. The update extends the AI’s reach beyond text and image generation into everyday media organization, giving premium users a hands‑free way to keep their photo libraries tidy and shareable. Subscribers can activate the feature through the Google Photos settings.

Google has announced new updates to its Translate app, effective today. The iOS version now includes a listening mode that captures spoken input and provides instant translations. On Android, the app can maintain live translation streams even when users switch to other applications or lock their screens, allowing continuous real‑time translation without interruption. These features aim to improve usability for travelers and business users who need seamless language support across devices. The updates are part of Google’s ongoing effort to enhance cross‑platform functionality and user experience in its translation services.

Researchers at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Janelia Research Campus and Google have completed a map of every neuron in the brain of a male fruit fly. This 'connectome' provides a valuable tool for neurobiologists to understand how the brain works. The collaboration between biologists and computer scientists has refined tools that can be applied to more complex nervous systems, including those of vertebrates. The map of the fruit fly brain is a significant step towards understanding the intricacies of the brain, which is a task that cannot be achieved by humans in a manageable amount of time.

Google, in collaboration with HHMI Janelia and other partners, has released a comprehensive map of the brain and central nervous system of a male fruit fly, a cornerstone model organism in biological research. The project produced five high‑resolution visualizations that illustrate the intricate neural architecture of the fly’s nervous system. By charting every neuron and synapse, the team has created a reference atlas that can be used by neuroscientists worldwide to investigate how neural circuits generate behavior and how they may be altered in disease. The mapping effort demonstrates the power of large‑scale imaging and data integration, setting a new standard for neural circuit documentation in small organisms.

Google has unveiled WeatherNext 3, its latest global weather AI model, claiming it is the most advanced and accurate in the company’s history. The new model is now embedded in several key Google products, including Search, Gemini, Maps, the Google Maps Platform, and Google Cloud. By integrating WeatherNext 3 across these services, Google aims to provide users with more precise weather forecasts and insights directly within their everyday tools. The rollout expands the company’s AI-driven weather capabilities, offering developers and consumers alike access to high‑resolution, real‑time weather data through familiar interfaces.

Google has announced the introduction of three new voice-activated features in its Workspace products, including Gmail, Docs, and Keep. These features aim to enhance user experience by allowing users to complete tasks more efficiently. The voice-activated features will enable users to perform various actions, such as sending emails, editing documents, and jotting down notes, using voice commands. This development is expected to streamline workflows and improve productivity for users of Google Workspace products.

Google has introduced the Google AI Educator Series (GES), a training program designed to equip teachers with the skills to effectively integrate artificial intelligence (AI) tools into their classrooms. The series aims to provide educators with hands-on experience and practical knowledge on how to leverage AI for teaching and learning. Teachers are already putting these tools to work, exploring innovative ways to enhance student engagement and outcomes.

Cloud-based AI models operated by OpenAI, Anthropic, xAI, and Google suffered significant service interruptions on Thursday morning. Anthropic reported a partial outage related to elevated errors on its Claude models at 9:23 am Eastern, which was resolved by 12:16 pm after a fix was deployed. OpenAI reported elevated errors across ChatGPT and Codex, resulting in degraded performance, which was resolved by 12:55 pm after a mitigation was put in place. xAI and Google also experienced downtime, although details were not provided.

Motorola has released the Moto Watch Ultra, its first premium smartwatch, available in a single size and two colors. The device runs Google’s Wear OS, a shift from the custom OS used on the earlier Moto Watch. Powered by a Snapdragon W5 Plus Gen 1 chip, the Ultra offers broader app support and tighter integration with Android phones. However, it does not include the outdoor‑tracking features that define competitors like Samsung’s and Apple’s Ultra models. The move positions Motorola as a new contender in the high‑end smartwatch market, leveraging Wear OS to expand its ecosystem.

Google DeepMind and Google Research unveiled WeatherNext 3, an artificial‑intelligence system that enhances atmospheric visibility and increases the frequency of weather predictions. The model represents the latest iteration in a series of deep‑learning tools reshaping meteorology. Google said it will begin feeding the system with data, though the specific data sources were not detailed in the announcement. The release follows earlier versions that have already shown improved forecast accuracy over traditional methods.

Google has introduced the Fairwind Program, a limited-access initiative aimed at providing governments and trusted partners with proactive cyber defense tools. This program is designed to help these entities protect themselves against emerging cyber threats. The Fairwind Program is a part of Google's efforts to enhance global cybersecurity. By offering its cyber defense tools to select partners, Google aims to support the development of more secure digital environments.

Google has made a significant contribution to the development of a more private digital world by donating its open-source Longfellow Zero-Knowledge Proof library to the Linux Foundation Europe. This donation aims to advance the field of zero-knowledge proofs, a crucial technology for secure and private data sharing. The Longfellow library is a key component in enabling the creation of secure and private digital systems. By making this library open-source, Google is facilitating collaboration and innovation among developers and researchers. The Linux Foundation will oversee the development and maintenance of the library, ensuring its continued growth and adoption.

Google’s latest Ads Decoded episode introduces a measurement stack designed to help marketers evaluate their campaigns. The discussion focuses on three key tools: attribution, incrementality, and media mix models. By integrating these components, advertisers can gain clearer insight into which channels drive results, measure the true impact of their spend, and optimize media allocation. The episode serves as a practical guide for building a reliable measurement framework that supports data‑driven decision making in advertising.

A federal judge in Washington has denied the Department of Justice’s request that Google sell its online advertising exchange, AdX, following the company’s 2025 antitrust defeat. While the court found that Google had illegally locked publishers into using its exchange, it did not agree that the company broke the law over the tools available to advertisers. The DOJ had argued that divesting AdX would level the playing field for competitors, but the judge concluded that the remedy would be too limited to affect Google’s broader ad business. The ruling leaves AdX, a small but strategically important part of Google’s revenue, intact and signals that the DOJ’s ability to force structural changes in Big Tech may be constrained.

Google has entered a 400‑megawatt purchase agreement with Fervo, a geothermal developer in Utah. The deal marks a milestone for enhanced geothermal technology and could be scaled up to 1 gigawatt of clean power. That capacity would be sufficient to supply a very large artificial‑intelligence data center in the state. The agreement demonstrates a growing partnership between a major tech firm and a renewable energy provider, potentially accelerating the deployment of geothermal resources for high‑energy‑intensity applications.

US District Court Judge Leonie Brinkema declined the Justice Department’s request to force Google to sell parts of its ad‑tech business. Instead, she will adopt most of the behavioral changes proposed by the parties, with some modifications. The judge’s opinion will not be made public until the parties meet to work out any additional revisions and to review confidential information that must be redacted. Proposed remedies could include restricting Google from using self‑preferencing ad auction tactics or allowing third‑party…

Google has announced a multi‑year partnership with YouTube star Jimmy "MrBeast" Donaldson that will debut on September 5. The first episode will feature MrBeast and his crew using Google’s Gemini AI to navigate three extreme environments—jungle, desert, and Arctic—while the team competes to survive harsh weather and avoid dangers. The series will also highlight Google Health and the Fitbit Air, positioning the devices as essential tools for real‑world endurance challenges. The collaboration marks Google’s push to embed its AI platform into mainstream entertainment and consumer health products, offering a new way to demonstrate practical AI applications to a broad audience.

Tado, a German-based smart home company, has launched its second-generation Smart Thermostat X, aiming to attract European users of Nest thermostats. The move comes after Google's exit from the European thermostat market last year, which led to significant sales for Tado. Tado's cofounder and managing director, Christian Deilmann, believes the third-generation Nest still has a strong presence in Europe, but sees a potential opportunity for Tado to gain market share. The Smart Thermostat X is designed as a Matter-over-Thread thermostat, a technology that allows for seamless integration with other smart home devices.

Skyscanner, Kiwi.com and Wego have each built distinct businesses around the core problem of helping travelers locate flights. Their most recent private‑company filings disclose how valuable that market is now that Google’s dominance has waned. The documents also outline how artificial‑intelligence tools could reshape the industry’s economics. The filings provide a snapshot of current valuations and signal that AI may become the next driver of competitive advantage and revenue streams for these platforms. WhyItMatters: The disclosed valuations confirm the flight‑search market’s resilience and suggest that AI could become a decisive factor in future pricing, service differentiation and market share among the leading players.

Google has partnered with MN8 Energy and Eos Energy Enterprises on a clean energy project in West Virginia. The project, located on the PJM grid, aims to bring long-duration energy storage to the region. This collaboration combines Google's expertise with the companies' experience in energy storage and grid management. The project's focus on long-duration energy storage is a key step in reducing the country's reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating the impact of climate change.

Google DeepMind has unveiled how its artificial‑intelligence models predict tropical cyclones, offering warnings earlier than traditional methods. In a recent blog post, a DeepMind scientist detailed the system’s architecture, noting that the AI ingests vast meteorological datasets and learns patterns that precede cyclone formation. By identifying these precursors faster, the model can issue alerts days before a storm reaches land. The company says the approach could give coastal communities more time to secure property, evacuate residents, and mobilize emergency services.

Google announced a September Android update that adds several new conveniences. The update lets users keep track of important items, reduces motion sickness while riding, and allows users to create and edit notes directly from chat. The changes are part of the company’s ongoing effort to improve daily productivity and user experience. Devices running the new Android version will receive the update automatically through the standard software update channel.

Google is reportedly contacting major Hollywood studios to negotiate licensing agreements that would let the company train its AI models on copyrighted film and television content. In return, studios would receive substantial cash payments. The arrangement promises a short‑term financial boost for studios while giving Google a competitive edge in the AI race. However, the deals also expose studios to legal and reputational risks, as reliance on a single tech giant could create dependency and potential conflicts over content usage. Studios are currently weighing the immediate monetary benefits against these long‑term uncertainties.

Apple Maps has followed Google in renaming Lake Ontario to Lake America, as reported by Bloomberg. The change comes after an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in a trade dispute with Canada. The Canadian version of Apple Maps still shows 'Lake Ontario', while international versions show both names. Apple waited longer than Google to update its map, which changed the name after it went live in the US Geographic Names Information System (GNIS).

Google has rolled out a new Android update that tackles motion sickness, improves accessibility, and adds several other enhancements. Some of the new features bring Android closer to Apple’s existing offerings for iPhone users, while other additions specifically use Gemini to deliver new capabilities. The update is part of Google’s effort to broaden the platform’s appeal to users who need better health‑related and accessibility support. It also demonstrates the company’s focus on integrating its AI technology into everyday device functions. The changes are available to users through the standard system update channel and are expected to be adopted by the majority of Android devices within the next few weeks.

Google announced that the upcoming Android feature drop will add a new Find Hub capability that lets users ask Gemini to remember where they placed important items, such as a passport, without attaching a physical tracker. The update, part of the month’s Android release, also introduces Motion Assist, a motion‑sickness reduction feature that overlays responsive dots on the screen. The Find Hub enhancement will allow users to locate rarely used items by recalling their last known placement, streamlining the search process and eliminating the need for dedicated tracking devices.

Google has acquired the corporate data of Spirit Airlines for $10 million, after the airline ceased operations in May. The data package includes emails, internal messages and lines of code. Google beat out AI‑training data startups such as Mercor, underscoring the growing value placed on private corporate datasets. The specific use Google intends for the data remains undisclosed. The transaction highlights a trend where major technology firms are willing to pay significant sums for proprietary business information, potentially reshaping how AI models are trained and what data sources are considered. WhyItMatters: The deal illustrates the escalating demand for corporate data in AI development and may set a new benchmark for future data acquisitions in the tech industry.

Google's latest Android Drop includes several new features, some of which are AI-powered. Messaging threads have been improved, and the Motion Assist dots are now widely available. The AI-powered Gemini can now log the location of items without a tracker tag, allowing users to recall where they placed items in the Find Hub. This feature is available on Android 16 and higher.

Google's new AI-driven image creation tool, Google Pics, signals the company's push into the creative software arena, traditionally led by Canva and Adobe. By focusing on prompt-based design rather than manual editing, Google aims to differentiate itself and leverage its AI capabilities. The tool allows users to generate images and design elements through natural language prompts, reducing the need for graphic design skills. This approach aligns with Google's broader strategy to embed AI across its product suite.

Google has unveiled Pics, a new image creation and editing tool that runs on its latest Nano Banana model. The feature is now available within Google Workspace, allowing users to generate and refine images directly in the familiar suite. By embedding image creation into Workspace, Google removes the need to switch to separate design applications for simple graphics tasks. The tool supports basic editing functions and can be used for quick visual content, from marketing graphics to presentation visuals. Users can access Pics from the Workspace app menu, making image work part of the everyday workflow.

President Donald Trump has renamed Lake Ontario as Lake America amid ongoing trade disputes. The change appears on Google Maps for U. S. users and has also been adopted by Apple’s mapping services. International users still see the original name. The Canadian Prime Minister responded, stressing the historical importance of the lake’s traditional designation. The move underscores the use of digital mapping as a tool for political messaging during trade tensions.

In a swift move, Google Maps began displaying the name "Lake America" for the body of water that straddles the U. S. –Canada border, after President Donald Trump signed an executive order to rename Lake Ontario. The change was rolled out to U. S. users on Saturday, with the company citing its reliance on the U. S. Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) for mapping data. Official U. S. government maps have not yet been updated. The update marks the fastest adoption of the new name by a major mapping platform, reflecting the influence of federal naming decisions on commercial geographic services.

The U. S. Department of Defense has incorporated versions of OpenAI’s ChatGPT and SpaceXAI’s Grok into its central AI tools portal, alongside Google’s Gemini. The move expands the Pentagon’s AI toolkit, giving staff access to a broader array of generative models for analysis, drafting, and operational support. The integration is expected to streamline AI adoption across defense units and enhance the speed and quality of information processing. The new portal will serve as a single entry point for these models, simplifying access and governance for military personnel.

Google Maps has updated the name of the water body that borders the U. S. and Canada, displaying 'Lake America' for users in the United States while Canadians continue to see 'Lake Ontario'. Users outside the two countries will see both names. The change follows an executive order signed by former President Donald Trump that officially renamed the lake. Google confirmed the update was made days after the order was issued. The company noted that the new designation will apply only within U. S. map views, with other regions retaining the traditional name or displaying both. The update reflects the federal decision and aligns the digital map with the new official terminology.

Google Maps has updated its geographic database to label a large inland body of water in the United States as Lake America, removing the reference to Lake Ontario. The change follows a similar 2025 update that renamed the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. The new designation appears in the app’s map layers and search results, affecting navigation, location-based services, and geographic data used by businesses and travelers. Users who rely on Google Maps for directions, real‑time traffic, or geographic analysis will see the updated name in both the map view and the search interface. The alteration reflects Google’s ongoing effort to standardize place names across its global mapping platform.

Google Maps has updated its U. S. interface to display Lake Ontario as Lake America, following a new presidential executive order and changes to the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS). The renaming applies only to American users, while Canadian officials continue to use the traditional name, citing the lake’s long heritage. Other mapping services, including MapQuest and Apple Maps, have not yet adopted the change, and the update is tailored to the user’s location. The move reflects a broader trend of national naming preferences influencing digital cartography and highlights the need for consistency across international mapping platforms.

The U. S. Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) has officially renamed the body of water known as Lake Ontario to Lake America within the United States. Google announced that its mapping service will incorporate this change in upcoming updates. The renaming is part of GNIS’s ongoing effort to standardize geographic names across federal agencies. Google’s update will replace the former label on all map views, satellite imagery, and navigation prompts. The change will be visible to users worldwide who rely on Google Maps for directions, location-based services, and geographic data. No additional alterations to the lake’s boundaries or characteristics are indicated.

Google is now automatically expanding AI search summaries at the top of the results page for some searches. This change pushes the typical list of links from a search much farther down the results page. Instead of seeing a partial AI Overview with a 'Show more' button, users will see a full AI Overview at the top, followed by an 'Ask anything' box and then the list of links. The exact criteria for auto-expanding AI Overviews is unclear.

Brave's browser has introduced a new feature allowing users to sign up for websites and online services without sharing their personal email addresses. This move aims to enhance user privacy and security. The feature, announced this week, is a direct competitor to Google Chrome's capabilities. Brave's users can now create email aliases, which can be used for various online activities without exposing their primary email address. This development is expected to appeal to users concerned about online data protection.

Google announced on its blog that it is adding flexible, compute‑specific usage limits to Gemini Notebook. The update replaces the previous static limits, giving users the ability to set thresholds based on the type of compute resources they consume. The change is intended to help developers manage their workloads more precisely. By allowing more granular control, the platform can better match usage patterns to resource allocation. The update is effective immediately for all Gemini Notebook users.

Google announced new memory‑use limits for Android applications as AI data centers increase demand for memory, tightening supply chains and threatening to reduce available RAM on lower‑cost phones. The policy will require developers to re‑evaluate and optimize their code to stay within the new thresholds. It signals a shift in how Google manages hardware constraints while maintaining support for AI‑enabled features across the Android ecosystem. The limits are expected to take effect shortly, compelling app teams to adjust their memory budgets and potentially influence future app design decisions.

Google announced a partnership with Khan Academy to develop AI‑driven resources for the upcoming school year. The collaboration uses Google’s Gemini model to create interactive visual aids and practice materials that teachers can control. The tools are designed to support classroom instruction by providing dynamic graphics and customized exercises. They will be released at the start of the new academic cycle, giving educators immediate access to AI‑enhanced content. The initiative aims to blend Khan Academy’s educational platform with Google’s AI capabilities, offering a ready‑made suite of resources for teachers and students alike.

A former PG&E engineer is leading a startup that is developing a mapping system for underground infrastructure. The system aims to provide a comprehensive view of underground utilities and construction projects, similar to how Google Maps represents the surface world. The startup has recently secured a $26 million Series A funding to expand its customer base and streamline processes for utility and construction work.

Google has added new capabilities to its AI Mode that let users track flight prices and book hotels directly through the assistant. The update moves the feature from a simple information‑retrieval tool to an active travel agent, capable of managing parts of the trip‑planning and booking process. Users can now rely on AI Mode to monitor airfare changes, secure hotel reservations, and potentially coordinate other travel arrangements without leaving the Google ecosystem. The change signals a shift toward integrated travel services, offering a streamlined experience that could reduce the need for separate booking sites and simplify itinerary management for frequent travelers.

Google has partnered with the Pokémon Company to release a limited‑edition Fitbit Air that works with the Pokémon Sleep app. The new smartwatch combines Fitbit’s health‑tracking capabilities with Pokémon’s popular sleep‑monitoring game, allowing users to log sleep data and receive in‑app rewards and challenges. The collaboration targets both fitness enthusiasts and Pokémon fans, offering a unique blend of wellness and entertainment. The device is available in select markets and is expected to drive interest in wearable sleep‑tracking technology. Google’s move positions Fitbit as a leader in gamified health solutions, while the Pokémon brand gains a foothold in the growing health‑tech sector.

Barret Zoph, co‑founder and former CTO of Thinking Machines Lab, was ousted from the startup before joining OpenAI. He spent a short period at OpenAI, where he worked on AI research projects, before moving to Google. Zoph co‑founded Thinking Machines with Mira Murati, and his experience spans early AI hardware and software development. His transition to Google follows a brief stint at OpenAI, marking a new chapter in his career within the industry. The move places him in a leading position to influence Google’s AI initiatives.

At TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, the AI Stage returned to the conference floor, featuring industry leaders Anthropic and OpenAI. The stage, presented by Google for Startups, focuses on the single hottest topic in the tech community over the past few years—artificial intelligence. The event marks a renewed emphasis on AI innovation and collaboration among major players. Attendees can expect presentations, panel discussions, and demos that showcase the latest advances and applications of AI technology. The inclusion of both Anthropic and OpenAI signals a convergence of research and commercial interests, underscoring the growing importance of AI in shaping future technology ecosystems.

Google Search now includes AI Mode that lets users book hotels, track airfares, and view miles and rewards. The new features are integrated into Search, enabling users to manage travel directly. This expands Google's travel services. By consolidating booking, price monitoring, and loyalty information in a single interface, the update simplifies the planning process and offers a more personalized experience. Users can search for destinations, compare rates, and see reward balances without leaving the search page.

Google's acquisition of Spirit Airlines' data has sparked concerns among flight attendants, who are fighting to protect passenger information. The airline claims to be working with a third-party to scrub personal data from the transaction. This move has raised questions about data privacy and the potential consequences for passengers. The exact nature of the data and its intended use remain unclear. Flight attendants are pushing for greater transparency and safeguards to ensure that passenger information is not compromised. The outcome of this dispute will have significant implications for the airline industry and data protection regulations. Spirit Airlines' data sale to Google has sparked a heated debate about the balance between business interests and passenger privacy. The airline's efforts to scrub personal data from the transaction are seen as a step in the right direction, but flight attendants are demanding more robust measures to protect passenger information.

Google's AI note-taking app, Gemini Notebook, has gained a new feature called 'Expert Intelligence'. This feature allows users to bring titles from Google Play Books directly into Gemini Notebook. With this integration, users can ask questions, generate plans, infographics, and AI podcasts based on the contents of the books. For example, users can create a recipe book using information from Michael Pollan's 'Food Rules' or apply knowledge from Kim Scott's management-focused book. This new feature was demonstrated by Google Labs editorial director Steven Johnson during a briefing with The Verge.

Google’s agentic hotel booking tool, which had been teased nine months ago, is now available in AI Mode. The company’s new offering follows the shuttered Book on Google service, and while critics view it as a repeat of the earlier platform, Google maintains that it has a stronger chance of success. The launch marks a return to the company’s efforts to integrate artificial intelligence into travel booking workflows, offering users a more interactive and potentially streamlined hotel search and reservation experience.

Google has issued a memo to Android app developers demanding stricter memory usage, citing a persistent RAM crisis that affects device performance. The company will use the Play Store to enforce limits that were first introduced with Android 17 on Pixel phones. Developers must now keep their apps within the new thresholds or face unspecified penalties. The policy aims to help developers navigate industry‑wide hardware constraints and Android’s broader memory limits. By tightening memory usage, Google intends to preserve smooth operation across a range of devices, especially those with limited RAM. The memo signals a shift toward stricter oversight of app resource consumption on the platform.

OpenAI, Anthropic, Google and roughly 100 other technology firms issued a joint statement today, criticizing the current state of cybersecurity and announcing a new solution they claim can protect against a new generation of AI‑driven threats. The companies argue that existing defenses are inadequate for the rapidly evolving capabilities of autonomous systems. The announced tool is positioned as a proactive measure to detect and neutralize rogue AI behaviors before they can be exploited by attackers. The coalition urges industry partners and regulators to adopt the solution and to strengthen overall cyber resilience. The move reflects a growing consensus that AI‑enabled attacks will become more sophisticated and harder to defend against without coordinated action.

Google’s latest update to Workspace introduces Gemini‑powered tools aimed at helping students streamline their academic workflow as the new semester begins. The blog notes that Gemini can organize notes, track deadlines, and assist in project preparation, offering a single platform for managing coursework. By integrating these AI‑enhanced capabilities directly into familiar Google Workspace apps, students can reduce the time spent on administrative tasks and focus more on learning. The update is positioned as a proactive way to get a jump on the semester, encouraging early adoption among schools and learners worldwide.

Apple has begun displaying paid advertisements in its Maps app, following a March announcement that would allow businesses to purchase premium placement. The first ads appear as the top entry in the “suggested places” list when a user searches, and they also occupy the top spot in search results. The rollout started this week, with a pop‑up warning users that ads are now part of the app. Apple says the feature will expand over the coming weeks to more users in the United States and Canada. Ads are identified by a blue “ad” icon, mirroring the format used by Google Maps. The move marks Apple’s entry into location‑based advertising and could change how users discover nearby businesses.

Google for Startups Accelerator has selected 28 energy-focused startups that utilize AI to drive innovation in the sector. These startups, based in North America and Europe, are working to transform the energy industry through AI-driven solutions. The selected startups showcase the potential of AI to address pressing energy challenges and promote sustainable development. By leveraging AI, these startups aim to improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the overall energy landscape. The Google for Startups Accelerator provides these startups with resources and support to help them scale and achieve their goals. This initiative demonstrates Google's commitment to fostering innovation and driving positive change in the energy sector.

Google has developed a sign-to-text translation feature in partnership with the Deaf community for its Pixel 11 device. This technology translates American Sign Language (ASL) into text in real-time, enabling users to communicate more effectively. The feature aims to bridge the communication gap between the Deaf and hearing communities. Google's collaboration with the Deaf community ensures that the technology is culturally sensitive and accurate. The sign-to-text translation feature is a significant advancement in accessibility technology, providing users with a more seamless and efficient way to communicate.

Google’s Pixel 11 Pro XL offers faster camera performance and new AI tools such as Rambler, yet the device largely builds on previous models. The upgrade focuses on incremental improvements rather than major changes, which may leave recent Pixel owners unimpressed. While the camera speed gains and useful AI features enhance everyday use, the lack of significant new hardware or software breakthroughs could limit its appeal. Consumers looking for a substantial upgrade might consider other options.

The Google Blog article, written by a DeepMind engineer, outlines the concept of full‑stack AI by dividing it into five layers. It explains how each layer—from data ingestion to user‑facing applications—contributes to the overall AI experience. The piece highlights how these layers shape everyday interactions with AI, from the underlying models that power services to the interfaces that users engage with. By demystifying the architecture, the article helps readers understand the components that enable AI to function seamlessly in daily life.

Google has announced a new sweepstakes that lets users redeem their Google Play Points for a chance to win a trip to New York Comic Con, along with rare collectibles, gaming gear, and other prizes. Participants can enter by using their accumulated Play Points, turning loyalty rewards into tangible experiences and exclusive items. The promotion is part of Google’s effort to increase engagement with its Play ecosystem, offering fans a unique way to leverage their points beyond in‑app purchases. Winners will receive a full ticket to the convention, special merchandise, and other gaming accessories, providing a memorable blend of fandom and reward.

Google is introducing a new feature to its Discover feed, allowing users to customize their content by describing their preferences. The feature, set to roll out in the coming days, utilizes AI to automatically adjust the feed based on user input. Users can access this option within the three-dot menu on their Discover feed and interact with a chatbot-style interface to specify their preferences. The chatbot will confirm and outline the types of content it will prioritize, with the option to add more information if needed.

In November, California voters will decide whether to impose a one‑off 5% tax on the wealth of all state‑resident billionaires. The proposal, which would target the richest individuals in the state, has attracted worldwide scrutiny as it could set a precedent for wealth‑based taxation. Google co‑founder Sergey Brin, a California billionaire, has already spent $100 million on political donations to a group opposing the measure, hoping to avoid a potential tax bill. The outcome of the vote will signal how aggressively the state, and possibly other jurisdictions, are willing to tax extreme wealth, and could influence global discussions on fiscal policy for the ultra‑rich.

Google won an auction last Friday to acquire a vast collection of Spirit Airlines’ employment and workplace records. The dataset contains no personal or customer information, but it covers nearly every employee’s work history. To prevent any individual from being identified, Google agreed to have a court‑appointed ombudsman oversee the removal of all personally identifying information before the data is transferred. The company must keep the data in its de‑identified form, is prohibited from intentionally re‑identifying it, and any third‑party access will be bound by the same restrictions. The move has raised concerns among flight attendants, who fear how the data might be used, while regulators will monitor the compliance with privacy safeguards.

Google has unveiled a dedicated student hub within its Gemini AI platform as the back‑to‑school season kicks off. The hub serves as a one‑stop repository where students can collect research, create flashcards, and take practice quizzes. Gemini’s study notebooks now support graphs and images, and can sync test dates and deadlines to Google Calendar based on a syllabus. The update also adds Deep Research to Gemini Live, letting users generate detailed research reports and discuss results; if a query takes time, the chat can be closed and the phone locked while Gemini continues working.

In a move that underscores the growing intersection of travel data and artificial intelligence, Google has announced plans to acquire large volumes of Spirit Airlines’ business data and software code as part of the carrier’s bankruptcy sale. The tech giant intends to use the trove to refine its AI models and enhance its product offerings. While the company has not yet detailed specific applications, the strategy signals a broader trend of airlines’ data becoming valuable assets for AI training. For the travel industry, this could mean more sophisticated tools for pricing, route optimization, and customer experience—though the full impact remains to be seen as Google navigates regulatory and privacy considerations.

Relay, a startup that provided AI‑driven workflow automation for businesses, announced it will cease operations next month. The company’s CEO and several employees will transition to work on Google Chrome’s development team. The shutdown marks the end of Relay’s independent service offering, while the move to Google suggests a consolidation of AI expertise within a major browser platform. No details were provided about the reasons for the closure or the impact on Relay’s existing customers. The shift highlights the ongoing trend of larger tech firms absorbing specialized AI talent from smaller startups.

Earlier this week, Google began allowing downloads from third‑party app stores in the Play Store, but U. S. District Judge James Donato found the rollout insufficient. In a ruling issued on Thursday, Donato said Google’s implementation added unnecessary “anticompetitive friction” and ordered the company to remedy the issues. The decision comes amid a broader antitrust case that saw Google lose a 2023 ruling, prompting a global partnership with Epic to address the problem. While Google and Epic are working on a settlement, the court still requires Google to make third‑party stores, such as Aptoide Games, easily accessible to users. Donato’s judgment signals that Google must improve its Play Store interface to comply with antitrust remedies.

Google has rolled out Gemini 3.7 Flash, a new iteration of its Gemini family that replaces the 3.6 Flash model released just three weeks earlier. The update is described as a “workhorse” version built on core optimizations and developer feedback, aiming to improve coding and agentic performance while offering a lower introductory price to compete with cheaper alternatives. Senior Director Tulsee Doshi highlighted measurable gains in coding benchmarks: the FrontierCode 1.1 Main score jumped from 34.4 % to 43.6 %, and DeepSWE v1.1 rose from 49 % to 65.3 %. Web development metrics also improved, with the WebDev Arena score climbing from 1,538 to 1,588. In complex document processing, the GDP.pdf benchmark increased to 34 % from 22 % in the previous Flash release. AutomationBench, which tests business workflow execution, saw a rise to 30.4 % from 17 %. These enhancements suggest Google is tightening its focus on practical, developer‑friendly capabilities while keeping pricing competitive in a crowded AI market.