Google’s AI Mode now lets you link and interact with select apps

With this new update, Google is expanding AI Mode beyond answering questions and into completing tasks across the apps they use regularly.

The UK won’t restrict VPNs after all, and its own research is why
The UK won’t restrict VPNs after all, and its own research is why

The UK looked set to crack down on VPNs as it tightens the rules for children online. Instead it has backed off, and its own research is the reason why. Online Safety Minister Kanishka Narayan put it plainly on the BBC. “We decided not to limit VPNs,” …

Google will start carrying rival app stores inside Google Play on 22 July
Google will start carrying rival app stores inside Google Play on 22 July

Android has always let people install apps from outside Google’s store. Next week it goes much further. Google will start carrying rival app stores from inside Google Play itself. Google told a California court it is ready to begin on Wednesday 22 July…

Meta now alerts parents if their teen discussed suicide or self-harm with its AI chatbot

The updates come as Meta and other tech companies are facing scrutiny from regulators and parents around how AI chatbots respond to users in crisis, particularly teenagers.

Apple quietly reveals how its Maps ads will differ from Google’s

Apple has published the policies governing its upcoming Maps advertising business, revealing a strategy that differs from Google’s. The new rules prohibit home services businesses like plumbers, electricians, locksmiths, and roofers from advertising on…

Whatnot acquires Shaped to power real-time live shopping recommendations

Livestream shopping platform Whatnot has acquired AI startup Shaped, a machine learning company focused on real-time recommendations and search. The deal will bolster Whatnot’s personalization and discovery features as it expands into new product categ…

Spotify launches a conversational AI that lets you shape what plays by talking to the app
Spotify launches a conversational AI that lets you shape what plays by talking to the app

Spotify launched a conversational AI feature that lets Premium users type or speak directly in the app to control what plays, learn about music, and explore their listening history. The beta is rolling out for users 18 and older in the US, Ireland, and…

Stripe and Advent reportedly offered to buy PayPal for around $53.4B

Stripe and private equity firm Advent International have reportedly submitted a joint bid to acquire PayPal in a deal valued at approximately $53.4 billion.  Reuters reports that the offer was submitted earlier this month and is backed by roughly …

Spotify expands parent-managed accounts to users on its free tier

The feature was previously only available to paid subscribers.