google Google Releases Two Android Apps to Improve Audio Accessibility Google introduces Live Transcribe and Sound Amplifier, two new Android applications designed to assist deaf and hard-of-hearing users in their daily lives.
facebook Facebook Pays Phone Makers to Force Undeletable Apps Onto Devices Facebook signs deals with Android manufacturers to pre-load undeletable versions of its app on smartphones, sparking crapware comparisons. Users can only disable the software, which acts as a placeholder for future updates.
google assistant Google Expands Lock Screen Assistant Access Beyond Pixel 3 Google announces that its Assistant will be available on more Android lock screens, a feature previously limited to the Pixel 3. Users must opt-in to use the hands-free feature for security reasons.
google Google Launches Pixel 3 and 3XL With AI Features and Unlimited Storage Google introduces the Pixel 3 and 3XL smartphones, challenging Apple with AI-powered cameras, wireless charging, and an AR partnership with Marvel Studios. The devices feature larger screens and start at $799.
google Google Surpasses $15 Million in Bug Bounty Payouts to Security Researchers Google pays out $3.4 million to 317 researchers in 2018, bringing its total bug bounty spending to over $15 million since 2010. The program rewards hackers for finding and responsibly disclosing vulnerabilities rather than exploiting them.
gdpr Privacy Advocates File First GDPR Complaints Against Facebook and Google Digital rights group noyb, led by privacy critic Max Schrems, files immediate GDPR complaints against Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Android for forcing user consent.
google Google I/O 2018 Unveils Six Major AI Advancements Google cements its AI leadership at I/O 2018 by introducing groundbreaking tools like Google Duplex and Google Lens. These innovations span across core services like Gmail, Photos, and Maps to significantly enhance user experience.
microsoft Microsoft Build 2018 Focuses on AI, Cross-Platform Apps, and Mixed Reality Microsoft reveals major new tools at its Build developer conference, emphasizing cross-device experiences over Windows exclusivity. Highlights include a new Your Phone app and a mixed reality design tool called Microsoft Layout.