Technology

The Verge

Google Pixel phones sold with security vulnerability, report finds

Google Pixel phones sold since 2017 had hidden software, Showcase.apk, allowing surveillance and control. Discovered by iVerify at Palantir, the app was inactive but vulnerable to attacks. Palantir banned Android devices internally. Google confirmed the software was for Verizon demos and no longer in use. iVerify informed Google in May, and Android will remove the app soon. No evidence of exploitation found.

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CNET

Gemini AI Gets a Boost on Pixel 9 and Pixel Buds Pro 2

Google’s Gemini AI model took center stage at the Made by Google event, with executives mentioning it 115 times. The event introduced new Pixel 9 phones, a smartwatch, and earbuds. The Gemini era emphasizes AI integration into Google’s tech stack. New hardware updates include the Tensor G4 processor for faster generative AI on Pixel 9 devices and the Tensor A1 chip in Pixel Buds Pro 2 for audio access to Gemini.

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The Verge

Highend racing bikes are now vulnerable to hacking

Computer scientists discovered vulnerabilities in wireless gear-shifting systems in high-end bikes, posing cybersecurity risks for races like the Tour de France. The systems, like Shimano Di2, can be hacked to manipulate gear shifts or cause crashes. Researchers are collaborating with Shimano to address the issues, with firmware updates planned for late August to enhance security for all riders.

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Ars Technica

AMD Ryzen 9000 review Impressive efficiency, with bugs and soso speed boosts

AMD has launched the Ryzen 9000 series with new Zen 5 architecture, offering power efficiency and performance gains. The chips are compatible with existing AM5 motherboards. However, high launch prices, motherboard and RAM costs, and some bugs during testing are concerns. The new architecture includes a Zen 5 CCD built on TSMC’s N4P process, enabling lower TDP and operating temperatures. AVX512 support is a notable improvement.

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GSMArena.com

Google has partnered with Garmin and Skylo for the emergency SOS feature on the Pixel 9 series

Google has partnered with Garmin and Skylo for the emergency SOS feature on the Pixel 9 series. Garmin Response will provide emergency response coordination services for the satellite SOS feature, currently available only in the US for the new Pixel 9 models. Skylo, a Non-Terrestrial Network service provider, will offer satellite connectivity globally. Android 15 will have native support for satellite messaging.

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9to5Google

You can get over 1,000 off of Pixel 9 Pro XL with these Samsung and iPhone trades

Pre-orders open for Google Pixel phones with high trade-in values at Best Buy. Up to $1,099 off Pixel 9 Pro XL and free base Pixel 9 with select trades. Top trade-in values for iPhone 14 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. Google Store offers slightly higher values. Trade-ins can be combined with $100-$200 gift cards.

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Kotaku

After 10 Years, The Next Dragon Age Has A Release Date

BioWare announces Dragon Age: The Veilguard release date for October 31, coming to PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X. Trailer teases new protagonist Rook facing elven gods and returning character Morrigan. Collector’s edition without game available. Fans excited after long wait since Dragon Age: Inquisition cliffhanger in 2014.

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Nasdaq

Hidden Android Flaw Leaves Google Pixel Phones Exposed

Mobile security firm iVerify warns of security risk posed by pre-installed software “Showcase.apk” on Google Pixel devices. The app, with advanced system privileges, downloads configuration files over unsecured connections, leaving devices vulnerable to cyberattacks. Google has been notified and plans to remove the package. Data analytics company Palantir has phased out Android devices due to the flaw.

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ZDNet

Google Meet gets emoji reactions, filters, and mobile screensharing

Google Meet is introducing new AI features like meeting summarization and note-taking. The video conference software will have a revamped UI, live captions in 70+ languages, real-time chat, emoji reactions, screen sharing on iOS and Android, and an audio-only mode. Users can also switch calls between devices seamlessly. Updates will be gradually released over the next few months.

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Windows Central

The world’s most powerful CPU is AMD’s Ryzen 9 9950X, and it’s now available to buy alongside its 9900X sibling

AMD has launched the Ryzen 9 9950X and 9900X CPUs, priced at $649 and $499, respectively. These chips, based on the Zen 5 architecture, offer high-level performance for creators and gamers. The Ryzen 9 9950X boasts 16 cores and a 170W TDP, while the 9900X has 12 cores and a 120W TDP. Expectations for Ryzen X3D variants remain unconfirmed.

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