tech industry Archives

AppWizard

August 5, 2025

Google Gemini Android App to Add Audio Uploads for AI Insights

Google's Gemini app for Android is set to enhance its functionality by supporting audio file uploads, as indicated by an APK teardown revealing code strings and user interface elements for this feature. This development will allow users to summarize podcasts, transcribe meetings, and extract insights from voice memos. The introduction of audio capabilities follows earlier features like Audio Overviews, which enable podcast-style discussions from written documents. However, there are significant privacy concerns regarding the handling of sensitive audio data, with fears that Google may access personal information without explicit user consent. Critics warn that audio uploads could lead to unauthorized data scraping and complicate compliance with data protection regulations. Google has mentioned configurable privacy settings to address these risks, but skepticism remains about their adequacy. The anticipated rollout of this feature is expected in the coming months.

AppWizard

August 4, 2025

Everything that grinds our gears about PC gaming in 2025

Users often experience frustration when a user interface (UI) shifts unexpectedly as they attempt to click a button, leading to unintended actions. The tech industry struggles to establish a sustainable business model despite advancements toward artificial superintelligence, resulting in cycles of rapid growth followed by staff reductions. A week-long initiative is planned to address various grievances related to user experience and industry practices, with updates and articles provided throughout the week.

Winsage

August 4, 2025

Windows Central Podcast: 10 years of Windows 10, and Copilot Mode!

This week's episode of the Windows Central Podcast celebrates the 10th anniversary of Windows 10, discussing its evolution over the past decade. The hosts, Dan and Zac, also address Microsoft's strong financial performance alongside recent layoffs. They explore new Copilot features in Microsoft Edge and Copilot Vision on smartphones, as well as the current state of the Surface line, including limited-edition laptops. The anticipated integration of GPT-5 into Copilot is discussed, along with the latest Windows 10 security updates, Adobe's new ARM-native beta applications, and a deal on the Asus ZenBook A14. The podcast also touches on the future impact of artificial intelligence on daily life and the tech industry.

BetaBeacon

August 1, 2025

Epic just won against Google again, and Google is appealing to Supreme Court

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a jury verdict declaring Google's app store and payments system as illegal monopolies.

AppWizard

August 1, 2025

Google ordered to open Android app store after losing Epic Games appeal

Google has faced a setback in its legal battle with Epic Games as the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit upheld a ruling requiring Google to revise its app store policies. This decision mandates the removal of restrictions that prevent developers from creating competing marketplaces and billing systems on Android. Judge Margaret McKeown noted that antitrust remedies may require limitations on lawful business practices to address anticompetitive behavior. Google expressed concerns about the ruling's implications for user safety and innovation, emphasizing its commitment to protecting users and developers. Following the ruling, Alphabet's shares fell over 2% due to investor concerns about its business model.

AppWizard

August 1, 2025

Google lost its antitrust case with Fortnite maker Epic Games, again

Google is required to provide alternatives to its Google Play store for app downloads on Android devices, following a ruling that upheld a jury verdict declaring Google's app store and payment systems as illegal monopolies. This decision is seen as a victory for Epic Games, which argued that Google imposed restrictive policies and engaged in anticompetitive practices. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed that Google must allow competition in its app store, potentially opening the Android platform to third-party app stores. Google plans to appeal the decision, which may lead to significant changes in app distribution on Android devices. Additionally, a federal judge is expected to rule on necessary changes to Google's online search business due to findings of illegal monopolization in the search and advertising markets.

Winsage

July 30, 2025

Optional Windows 11 update fixes mouse cursor size problems

Mikael is a seasoned journalist with experience at Macworld, currently contributing to PC för Alla and M3. He tracks the latest gadget releases, analyzes trends in streaming services, and explores advancements in artificial intelligence. His writing distills complex information into accessible narratives, making him a trusted voice in the tech community.

AppWizard

July 29, 2025

Tea app takes messaging system offline after DMs exposed in security…

Tea, a dating discussion app, has temporarily taken its messaging system offline following a cybersecurity incident that exposed some users' direct messages. The company announced this precautionary measure to safeguard user information and is conducting a thorough investigation into the breach. Users can still access other functionalities of the app while the messaging feature remains unavailable. Tea's management is working to restore the messaging system once a secure environment is ensured.

Winsage

July 21, 2025

Microsoft commits to improving Windows 11 performance, with a catch

Windows 11 has been criticized for its resource consumption and performance issues compared to Windows 10, which has deterred users from upgrading. In response, Microsoft is encouraging users to share performance logs through the Feedback Hub to help improve Windows 11's performance. Users can authorize data collection by selecting the "System Sluggishness" category in the app, and logs are stored locally before being transmitted to Microsoft upon feedback submission.

AppWizard

July 18, 2025

Crypto Messaging App Ephemera Bags $20M Series B at $300M Valuation

Ephemera, a blockchain-based messaging platform, secured million in a Series B funding round, co-led by Union Square Ventures, A16z Crypto, and Lightspeed Faction, achieving a valuation of 0 million. The round included participation from Coinbase, Sound Ventures, and actor Ashton Kutcher. The funding was structured as equity with token warrants, and Fred Wilson from Union Square Ventures joined Ephemera’s board. The platform is developed by the creators of XMTP, a decentralized messaging network utilizing IETF-standard Messaging Layer Security, which is trusted by companies like Mozilla, Google, Wire, and Cisco. XMTP aims to allow users to transfer conversations between different messaging apps, addressing concerns about centralization and user ownership of messages.