Technology
Google's AI power play: Is Apple feeling the heat?
Google has its eye on the prize — artificial intelligence — and it’s making a bold power play in the tech arena. The company’s recent Made by Google event was more than just showcasing new technology. It represents a strategic effort to dominate the competitive landscape of AI.
With rivals like Apple preparing their own announcements, Google is seizing the spotlight by unveiling a number of innovations it hopes will reshape and become a part of our daily lives. The focus is on making devices smarter and enhancing our experiences through what Google considers transformative advancements.
Curious about what’s next for Google? Here are ten key highlights from the event you’ll want to know about.
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Gemini AI on Pixel (Google)
1. Gemini AI integration
A major highlight of the event was the integration of Gemini AI across devices. One of its features is Gemini Live, which offers advanced conversational capabilities and allows for more human-like natural interactions. The Gemini Advanced experience is available through a Google One subscription and enhances user experience with tasks like planning events and brainstorming ideas.
Gemini’s integration extends beyond basic functionality, offering deep connections with various Google apps and services. You can seamlessly interact with Gemini across platforms, from drafting emails to generating project plans.
Furthermore, Gemini’s multimodal capabilities enable it to process text, audio and video, making it a versatile tool for a wide range of tasks. The new Gemini features will be available on both Android and iOS.
Gemini AI feature (Google)
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2. Pixel Studio and Call Notes
Google also introduced Pixel Studio, an image generation app that leverages AI to create stunning visuals from simple prompts. This tool is designed to help you easily generate professional-quality images for various purposes, from social media posts to marketing materials. To illustrate its capabilities, consider this example: “A tiny chihuahua in white and brown enjoying a bully stick at home.” This prompt showcases how Gemini AI can generate vivid imagery and context.
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Pixel Studio app (Google)
Additionally, Call Notes was unveiled, a feature that provides conversation summaries for phone calls. This tool uses AI to transcribe and summarize key points from your calls, making it easier to keep track of important information and follow up on action items. It works on calls that are at least 30 seconds long.
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3. Pixel 9 Series unveiled
Google also introduced the Pixel 9 lineup, including the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. These devices are powered by the new Tensor G4 chip, which promises enhanced performance and AI capabilities. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL feature a 42MP front camera for sharper selfies, while the Pixel 9 Pro Fold marks Google’s second entry into the foldable phone market, offering a unique blend of innovation and practicality.
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Pixel 9 Pro Fold (Google)
The Pixel 9 series also features a sleek design with a sculpted camera bar and premium finishes, including a silky matte glass back and polished metal sides. The Pro models come in two sizes, with the Pixel 9 Pro XL offering a larger 6.8-inch display. This redesign not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also improves the ergonomic feel of the devices.
The Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL are available for preorder, with store availability starting Aug. 22, while the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold will be available Sept. 4.
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4. Android 15 and AI Tools
Google announced Android 15, which includes new AI tools branded under “Google AI.” Features like “Add Me” for group photos and “Pixel Screenshots” for information retrieval were introduced alongside enhanced security measures. These tools demonstrate Google’s commitment to integrating AI into its operating system, offering you smarter and more intuitive experiences.
Pixel screenshots feature (Google)
5. Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2
Google also showed off both the Pixel Watch 3 and the Pixel Buds Pro 2, showcasing its commitment to creating a seamless ecosystem of interconnected devices. The Pixel Watch 3 was announced with enhanced battery life, now offering up to 36 hours with a new Battery Saver Mode and deeper integration with Pixel devices, making it more efficient and user-friendly.
Meanwhile, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 was introduced with the new Tensor A1 chip, which reduces their size by 27% and incorporates Gemini AI for improved natural language interaction.
Pixel Buds Pro 2 (Google)
6. Google Photos gets a boost with Magic Editor and Best Take features
Google announced new features for Google Photos, including Magic Editor. This feature allows you to make complex edits, such as moving objects and changing backgrounds, with simple taps and gestures. It utilizes generative AI to provide contextual suggestions, enabling you to create more visually appealing images without needing advanced editing skills.
Additionally, Google introduced Best Take, a feature that helps you capture the perfect group photo by blending multiple shots to showcase everyone’s best expressions. Google hopes these updates of integrating advanced AI tools into Google Photos will make photo editing more intuitive and accessible for everyone.
People using Best Take feature (Google)
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7. Nest Thermostat update
The Nest Learning Thermostat received its first major update in nine years, now incorporating Gemini AI for more natural interactions. This update aims to revitalize the smart home category by offering more intuitive control and energy efficiency, aligning with Google’s vision of a connected home.
Nest Learning Thermostat (Google)
8. Google TV Streamer launch
The Chromecast line was replaced by the Google TV Streamer, which acts as a smart home hub with Gemini-powered upgrades. This new device supports 4K streaming and smart home controls, enhancing the entertainment experience and further integrating Google’s AI technology into home environments.
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Google TV streamer (Google)
9. Focus on privacy and security
Google’s business model heavily relies on data collection, which has led to scrutiny regarding privacy violations and data handling practices. Despite efforts to improve, such as introducing incognito mode and data auto-delete features, Google has faced challenges, including data leaks and issues with user location tracking.
In response to these ongoing concerns, Google has emphasized privacy and security in its recent updates, particularly with the introduction of new AI tools and Android 15. Features like Private Space and Theft Detection Lock aim to reassure users about their data’s safety while they enjoy the benefits of advanced technology. This focus on privacy and security is part of Google’s broader strategy to address past criticisms and build trust with its users.
Private Space, which is a secure environment within Android 15, allows users to isolate sensitive apps and data, such as health trackers or banking apps, from the rest of a device. It functions like a separate user account, accessible only through additional authentication, providing an extra layer of security and privacy for confidential information.
Theft Detection Lock, which is an enhancement to Android’s factory reset protection, ensures that a stolen device cannot be reset and reused without the owner’s credentials. This feature makes it difficult for thieves to sell stolen devices because they cannot access or reset the phone without the necessary Google account information.
10. Strategic timing before Apple
The event’s timing, ahead of Apple’s September iPhone reveal, suggests a strategic move by Google to capture market attention and showcase its advancements in AI and hardware before the competitive holiday season. This approach highlights Google’s confidence in its offerings and its desire to lead the market in innovation.
Kurt’s key takeaways
It’s clear that Google is making significant strides in the AI arena, positioning itself as a formidable competitor to Apple. With innovations like Gemini AI, the Pixel 9 series and enhanced features in Google Photos, the tech giant is not just keeping pace but actively reshaping how we interact with technology in our daily lives. As Google continues to roll out these advancements, it will be interesting to see how Apple responds and what the future holds for both companies in this rapidly evolving AI landscape.
What are your thoughts on Google’s latest AI power play? Do you think it will change the way we use our devices? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact
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Technology
Google just leaked a first look at Android for PC in action
We’ve been waiting months for our first look at Android running on a PC in Google’s upcoming ChromeOS / Android hybrid platform, codenamed Aluminium OS. Now we’ve seen it in action, and have Google to thank for the leak.
9to5Google spotted a bug report related to Chrome Incognito tabs published to the Google Issue Tracker yesterday, including two screen recordings taken from a device running Aluminium OS. Google has now restricted access to the report, but 9to5Google managed to pull the videos first. The site also reports that the bug tracker mentioned an ALOS software version — already confirmed to be the initialism for Aluminium OS — and that the recordings came from an HP Elite Dragonfly 13.5 Chromebook.
The videos themselves — shared to YouTube by Android Authority — add further confirmation that this is Aluminium OS, listing the OS as Android 16, with a build number that matches the ALOS one mentioned in the bug report. It certainly looks like this is an existing Chromebook being used to test the upcoming ALOS experience, which Android head Sameer Samat previously said we should expect to see more from this year.
As for what we see of Aluminium, it’s very much the mashup you’d expect. The taskbar resembles ChromeOS’s, but moves the start button into the center, à la Android. There’s a status bar at the top, more like Android than ChromeOS, with familiar Android icons for battery, Wi-Fi connection, and so on. The video gives us a brief look at the Play Store, along with some split-screen multitasking, but it’s hardly a deep dive of the new OS. We might need to wait for Google to release a video on purpose for that.
Technology
Uber unveils a new robotaxi with no driver behind the wheel
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Uber is getting closer to offering rides with no one behind the wheel.
The company recently unveiled a new robotaxi and confirmed that autonomous testing is already underway on public roads in the San Francisco Bay Area. While the vehicle first appeared earlier this month at the Consumer Electronics Show 2026, the bigger story now is what is happening after the show.
These robotaxis are no longer confined to presentations or closed courses. They are driving in real traffic as Uber prepares for a public launch later this year.
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Uber’s new robotaxi operates on public roads in the San Francisco Bay Area as the company moves closer to offering fully driverless rides later this year. (Klaudia Radecka/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Who is behind Uber’s robotaxi
Uber is the name most riders recognize. However, two partners handle the technology behind the scenes. Lucid Group builds the all-electric vehicle. It is based on the Lucid Gravity SUV, which was designed for long-range efficiency and passenger comfort. Nuro provides the self-driving system. Nuro also leads testing and safety validation. Together, the three companies are developing a robotaxi service that will be available only through Uber.
Uber’s robotaxi is already driving itself
Autonomous on-road testing began last month in the Bay Area. These tests take place on public streets rather than private test tracks. Nuro runs the testing program using trained safety operators who supervise each trip. The focus is on everyday driving situations such as intersections, lane changes, traffic lights and pedestrians. This stage is critical. It allows engineers to evaluate how the system behaves in real conditions before opening rides to the public.
What makes Uber’s robotaxi different
Uber’s robotaxi was designed from the start to operate without a driver. It combines electric vehicle engineering with visible autonomy features that riders can understand.
Key features include:
- A multi-sensor system using cameras, lidar and radar for full awareness
- A low-profile roof-mounted Halo module integrated into the vehicle
- Exterior LED displays that show rider initials and trip status
- In-cabin screens for climate, music and support access
- Real-time visuals that show what the vehicle sees and plans to do
- Seating for up to six passengers with room for luggage
The robotaxi runs on high-performance computing powered by NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Thor. This system handles the real-time AI processing required for autonomous driving.
A robotaxi ride that explains itself
One standout feature is transparency. Riders can see how the robotaxi perceives the road and plans its next move. The display shows lane changes, yielding behavior, slowing at traffic lights and the planned drop-off point. This helps riders understand what the vehicle is doing instead of guessing. Inside the cabin, passengers can adjust heated seats, climate controls and music. They can also contact support or request the vehicle to pull over if needed.
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The all-electric Uber robotaxi, built with partners Lucid and Nuro, is now navigating real traffic without a human driver. (INA FASSBENDER / AFP via Getty Images)
Uber plans to scale robotaxis across the U.S. and global markets
Uber plans to deploy 20,000 or more robotaxis over the next six years. These vehicles will operate in dozens of U.S. and international markets. Lucid will integrate all required hardware directly on the production line at its Casa Grande, Arizona factory. Uber will own and operate the vehicles along with third-party fleet partners. Every robotaxi ride will be booked through the Uber app, just like a standard Uber trip.
How Uber is handling robotaxi safety and regulation
Safety sits at the center of this rollout. Nuro’s validation process combines simulation, closed-course testing and supervised on-road driving. The system relies on an end-to-end AI foundation model paired with clear safety logic. The goal is predictable, comfortable driving across a wide range of conditions. Uber and its partners are also working with regulators, policymakers and local governments to ensure the service aligns with public safety standards and city planning goals.
When Uber’s driverless rides are expected to launch
Uber says the first autonomous rides will launch in a major U.S. city later in 2026. The service will be available exclusively through the Uber app. Production of the robotaxi is expected to begin later this year, pending final validation.
What this means to you
If you use Uber, driverless rides may soon appear as an option. These vehicles could offer quieter trips, more consistent driving and improved availability during peak times. For cities, a shared electric robotaxi fleet could help reduce emissions and congestion. For riders, seeing how the vehicle thinks and reacts may make autonomous travel feel less intimidating.
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Uber confirms autonomous testing is underway after unveiling its robotaxi at CES 2026, marking a major step toward a public launch. (INA FASSBENDER / AFP via Getty Images)
Kurt’s key takeaways
Uber’s robotaxi effort feels more grounded than many past autonomous promises. It combines a known ride-hailing platform a purpose-built electric vehicle and a self-driving system already operating on public roads. If testing continues to progress, driverless Uber rides could move from something new to something normal sooner than many expect.
Would you get into an Uber if there was no driver sitting in the front seat? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.
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Technology
Grubhub confirms data breach amid extortion claims
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Food delivery platform Grubhub has confirmed a recent data breach after unauthorized actors accessed parts of its internal systems.
The disclosure comes as sources tell BleepingComputer the company is now facing extortion demands linked to stolen data.
In a statement to BleepingComputer, Grubhub said it detected and stopped the activity quickly.
“We’re aware of unauthorized individuals who recently downloaded data from certain Grubhub systems,” the company said. “We quickly investigated, stopped the activity, and are taking steps to further increase our security posture.”
Grubhub added that sensitive information, such as financial details or order history, was not affected. However, the company declined to answer follow-up questions about when the breach occurred, whether customer data was involved or if it is actively being extorted.
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RANSOMWARE ATTACK EXPOSES SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS AT MAJOR GAS STATION CHAIN
Grubhub confirmed a data breach after unauthorized actors accessed parts of its internal systems, prompting an investigation and heightened security measures. (Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
What Grubhub has confirmed so far
While details remain limited, Grubhub confirmed several key points. It has brought in a third-party cybersecurity firm and notified law enforcement. Beyond that, the company has stayed largely silent. That lack of detail has raised concern, especially given Grubhub’s recent security history. Just last month, the company was linked to scam emails sent from its own b.grubhub.com subdomain. Those messages promoted a cryptocurrency scam promising large returns on Bitcoin payments. Grubhub said it contained the incident and blocked further unauthorized emails. It did not clarify whether the two events are related.
Sources link the breach to ShinyHunters extortion
According to multiple sources cited by BleepingComputer, the ShinyHunters hacking group is behind the extortion attempt. The group has not publicly commented on the claims and declined to respond when contacted. Sources say the attackers are demanding a Bitcoin payment to prevent the release of stolen data. That data reportedly includes older Salesforce records from a February 2025 breach and newer Zendesk data taken during the most recent intrusion. Grubhub uses Zendesk to run its online customer support system. That platform handles order issues, account access and billing questions, making it a valuable target for attackers.
How stolen credentials may have enabled the attack
Investigators believe the breach may be tied to credentials stolen during earlier Salesloft Drift attacks. In August 2025, threat actors used stolen OAuth tokens from Salesloft’s Salesforce integration to access sensitive systems over a 10-day period. According to a report from Google Threat Intelligence Group, also known as Mandiant, attackers used that stolen data to launch follow-up attacks across multiple platforms. “GTIG observed UNC6395 targeting sensitive credentials such as AWS access keys, passwords and Snowflake-related access tokens,” Google reported. ShinyHunters previously claimed responsibility for that campaign, stating it stole roughly 1.5 billion records from Salesforce environments tied to hundreds of companies.
Why this breach still matters
Even if payment data and order history were not affected, support systems often contain personal details. Names, email addresses and account notes can be enough to fuel phishing attacks or identity scams. More importantly, this incident highlights how older breaches can continue to cause damage long after the initial attack. Stolen credentials that are never rotated remain a powerful entry point for threat actors.
Ways to stay safe after the Grubhub data breach
If you use Grubhub or any online delivery service, a few smart steps can reduce your risk after a breach.
1) Update your password and stop re-use
Start by changing your Grubhub password right away. Make sure you do not reuse that password anywhere else. Reused passwords give attackers an easy path into other accounts. A password manager can help here. It creates strong, unique logins and stores them securely so you do not have to remember them all.
Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our No. 1 password manager pick includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials.
Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com.
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The food delivery platform says it quickly stopped the intrusion but has not disclosed when the breach occurred or whether customers were targeted. (Leonardo Munoz/VIEWpress)
2) Turn on two-factor authentication
If two-factor authentication (2FA) is available, enable it. This adds a second step when you sign in, such as a code sent to your phone or app. Even if a hacker steals your password, two-factor authentication can stop them from getting in.
3) Watch closely for phishing attempts and use strong antivirus software
Be alert for emails or texts that mention orders, refunds or support issues. Attackers often use stolen support data to make messages feel urgent and real. Do not click links or open attachments unless you are certain they are legitimate. Strong antivirus software can also help block malicious links and downloads before they cause harm.
The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.
Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.
4) Remove your data from people-search sites
Consider using a data removal service to reduce your online footprint. These services help remove your personal details from data broker sites that attackers often use to build profiles. Less exposed data means fewer tools for scammers to exploit.
While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren’t cheap, and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you.
Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.
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5) Ignore crypto messages using trusted brands
Be skeptical of any cryptocurrency offers tied to familiar companies. Grubhub was previously linked to scam emails promoting crypto schemes, which shows how often attackers abuse trusted names. Legitimate companies do not promise fast returns or pressure you to act immediately.
6) Monitor your Grubhub account and email activity
Check your Grubhub account for anything that looks unfamiliar. Watch for unexpected password reset emails, order confirmations or support messages you did not request. Attackers often test stolen data quietly before making bigger moves.
7) Secure the email linked to your Grubhub account
Your email account is the key to password resets. Change that password and enable two-factor authentication if it is not already on. If attackers control your email, they can regain access even after you change other passwords.
8) Stay alert for delayed scams tied to the breach
Breach data is often reused weeks or months later. Phishing attempts may appear long after headlines fade. Treat any future messages claiming to reference Grubhub support, refunds or account issues with extra caution.
These steps will not undo a breach, but they can limit how attackers exploit stolen information and reduce your risk going forward.
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Sources tell BleepingComputer the Grubhub breach is tied to extortion demands involving allegedly stolen customer support data. (Gabby Jones/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Kurt’s key takeaways
Grubhub’s confirmation puts an official stamp on what sources have warned about for weeks. While the company says sensitive data was not affected, unanswered questions remain. As extortion-driven breaches rise, transparency and rapid credential rotation matter more than ever. What stands out most is how past compromises continue to create new risks. When access tokens live too long, attackers do not need to break in again. They simply walk back through an open door.
If companies stay quiet after breaches, how can customers know when it is time to protect themselves? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.
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