Technology

Google's Gemini Spark Agentic Assistant Launches on Mac with New Features

Google has expanded its Gemini Spark agentic assistant to Mac users, broadening the platform's availability beyond its previous reach. The AI-powered assistant is designed to operate around the clock, functioning as a continuous autonomous helper for users. The Mac release is accompanied by several enhancements, including real-time tracking capabilities. Support for a wider range of applications has also been added as part of this update.

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TechnologyTechCrunch ·

Sony to halt physical PlayStation game disc production by 2028

Sony has announced it will cease manufacturing physical game discs for all new PlayStation titles starting in 2028. The move signals the company's full commitment to a digital-only gaming future. This decision will affect all new PlayStation game releases from that year onward. The shift reflects a broader industry trend away from physical media toward digital distribution platforms.

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TechnologyBBC Tech ·

Netflix Wonka Show Draws Criticism Over AI Recreation of Gene Wilder's Voice

A new Netflix show based on the Wonka franchise has sparked backlash for using an AI-generated version of the late actor Gene Wilder's voice. Wilder, who famously portrayed Willy Wonka in the 1971 film, passed away in 2016. The production was carried out with the permission of Wilder's estate, which granted consent for the use of his likeness and voice. Despite this approval, the decision has drawn criticism from viewers and commentators concerned about the ethical implications of recreating a deceased actor's voice using artificial intelligence.

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TechnologyTechCrunch ·

TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 Builders Stage to Offer Startup Scaling Strategies

TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 will feature the return of the Builders Stage, a dedicated forum focused on practical startup growth strategies. The event is expected to draw more than 10,000 founders, operators, and investors. Sessions will include discussions and Q&A segments centered on building and scaling successful companies. Early registrants can save up to $330 on attendance.

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TechnologyTechCrunch ·

Meta Plans to Sell AI Compute Power, Taking On AWS, Google, and Azure

Meta is working on plans to launch a cloud infrastructure business that would monetize its surplus AI computing capacity. The company intends to sell access to both AI compute power and its AI models to external customers. This strategy mirrors a similar approach taken by SpaceX, which also sought to commercialize excess computing resources. If realized, the move would place Meta in direct competition with established cloud giants including Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure.

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TechnologyArs Technica ·

UK Regulator Set to Scrutinize Paramount's Takeover of Warner Bros Discovery

The United Kingdom is expected to intervene in the proposed acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery by Paramount. The deal had previously received approval from the US Department of Justice in June without requiring any concessions. UK regulators are now likely to conduct their own review of the merger. Such interventions typically assess potential impacts on competition and media diversity within the UK market.

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TechnologyBBC Tech ·

PlayStation to go disc-free by 2028, switching to digital codes in stores

Sony has announced that PlayStation will cease releasing games on physical discs by 2028. Future game titles will still be available for purchase in retail stores, but will come with a digital download code instead of a disc. The move marks a significant shift in how PlayStation games are distributed physically. This change reflects the broader industry trend toward digital-first gaming consumption.

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TechnologyThe Verge ·

Sony to shut down PS3 and PS Vita digital stores globally by 2027

Sony has announced plans to close the PlayStation Store on both the PS3 and PS Vita consoles. The shutdown will begin in select Latin American markets, including Mexico, Honduras, and Nicaragua, starting in August 2025. Additional Latin American and Middle Eastern countries will follow in late 2026, with the remaining regions affected by July 2027. After closure, users will no longer be able to purchase new content on these platforms. However, Sony confirmed that previously purchased games can still be downloaded for the foreseeable future.

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TechnologyThe Verge ·

Sony to halt physical PlayStation game disc production from January 2028

Sony has announced it will stop manufacturing physical discs for new PlayStation games starting January 2028. After that date, all new game releases will be available exclusively in digital format through the PlayStation Store and other retailers. Titles released before the January 2028 cutoff will remain available on disc. Sony cited shifting consumer preferences toward digital media as the primary reason for the decision. The company stated the move will help it better align with how most of its player base chooses to access and play games.

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TechnologyThe Verge ·

Google launches first smart speaker in six years, but Gemini AI feels unfinished

Google has released the Google Home Speaker, its first new smart speaker in six years and its first device built around the Gemini AI assistant. The launch signals a renewed commitment from Google to the smart home space after years of limited hardware investment. Smart speakers have broadly struggled to move beyond basic tasks like playing music, setting timers, and controlling lights, with AI seen as the key to unlocking new value. Amazon made a similar push last fall with a revamped Alexa-powered device, and Google is now following suit. However, early impressions suggest that Gemini for Home still feels incomplete, tempering excitement around an otherwise well-designed product.

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TechnologyThe Verge ·

Rhythm Heaven Groove launches on Nintendo Switch after decade-long hiatus

Nintendo released Rhythm Heaven Groove on the Switch on July 2nd, marking the franchise's first new entry in over a decade. The series has only four previous titles, one of which never left Japan, making it one of Nintendo's lesser-known but well-regarded franchises. Rhythm Heaven is often compared to WarioWare, featuring a collection of short, quirky minigames centered around music and rhythm challenges. Despite its limited output, the series has built a reputation for consistent quality across all its releases.

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TechnologyArs Technica ·

Study finds no link between prenatal Tylenol use and autism risk

A new scientific study has once again found no evidence linking acetaminophen, commonly known as Tylenol, to autism in children. The research comes in the wake of claims made by former President Donald Trump suggesting a possible connection between the painkiller and autism. Following Trump's statements, reported use of Tylenol among pregnant women declined, raising concerns among health professionals. Scientists emphasize that the findings reinforce previous studies that have similarly cleared the widely used medication of any autism-related risk. Medical experts worry that unsubstantiated warnings may lead pregnant women to avoid safe and effective pain relief options.

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TechnologyThe Verge ·

Tornado Hits Rivian's Illinois Factory Days Before Critical R2 SUV Production

A tornado struck Rivian's electric vehicle manufacturing plant in Normal, Illinois on April 17th, tearing a hole in the roof and triggering the facility's sprinkler system, which flooded assembly pits. The storm formed rapidly as a supercell before expanding into a squall line, with one tornado making a direct hit on the factory. Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe learned of the damage through a video sent while he was attending an event in Southern California. The timing was particularly damaging for the company, as the affected section of the plant was set to begin production of its more affordable R2 SUV within days. Rivian now faces the dual challenge of repairing the factory while navigating a difficult broader environment for electric vehicle sales at a pivotal moment in its history.

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TechnologyThe Verge ·

Dbrand cancels Portal Companion Cube Steam Deck shell after Valve legal threat

Dbrand, known for its defiant stance against console maker legal threats, has cancelled its Portal-themed Companion Cube external shell for the Steam Deck following pressure from Valve's legal team. The cancellation was announced on June 29th, marking a rare defeat for the company that previously challenged Nintendo and Sony. CEO Adam Ijaz admitted the company misjudged the situation, stating plainly that they 'fucked this one up.' Unlike past legal standoffs where Dbrand had backup plans ready, no alternative strategy exists this time. The company is now required to destroy every unit of the Companion Cube shell it had already manufactured.

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TechnologyThe Verge ·

Fujifilm adds black-and-white and rugged models to its QuickSnap disposable lineup

Fujifilm has announced two new additions to its QuickSnap disposable camera range: the Black and White and the Active models. The QuickSnap Black and White, priced at $22.90, comes loaded with monochrome film designed to produce rich contrasts and textured grain. The QuickSnap Active, at $24.75, is built to withstand tough outdoor conditions. Both cameras are expected to go on sale later this fall. The launch comes amid a broader resurgence in disposable and retro film photography, largely fueled by Gen Z consumers.

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TechnologyNYT Technology ·

Yoto Audio Player for Kids Offers a Screen-Free Alternative in Tech-Weary Era

The Yoto is a screen-free audio player designed specifically for children, offering a contrast to the growing backlash against addictive digital technology. The device has gained attention as consumer frustration with smartphones and apps continues to rise. Yoto demonstrates that companies can build commercially viable products without relying on engagement-driven, screen-based design. The player represents a broader search among parents and consumers for healthier tech alternatives for young children.

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TechnologyThe Verge ·

Getty scraps $3.7B Shutterstock merger after UK regulator demands asset sale

Getty Images has announced plans to terminate its $3.7 billion merger with Shutterstock following restrictive conditions imposed by the UK Competition and Markets Authority. The CMA required Shutterstock to divest its global editorial business, including the Backgrid and Splash paparazzi agencies, as a condition of approval. Despite the US Department of Justice granting unconditional antitrust clearance in February, Getty stated in a Tuesday SEC filing that it is not obligated to accept the UK regulator's terms. The conditions were deemed unacceptable by Getty, ultimately derailing the deal.

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TechnologyBBC Tech ·

Extreme Heat Poses Growing Risk to Energy Grids and Rail Networks

Critical infrastructure such as power grids and train services faces significant vulnerability during periods of extreme heat. High temperatures can cause equipment to overheat, malfunction, or fail, disrupting essential services that millions depend on daily. Energy transmission systems and railway tracks are particularly susceptible, as they are often designed to operate within specific temperature ranges. As heatwaves become more frequent due to climate change, the risk to these vital systems is increasing. Authorities and operators are under pressure to adapt and upgrade infrastructure to withstand rising temperatures.

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TechnologyTechCrunch ·

Vint Cerf, Co-Creator of Internet Protocols, to Retire from Google

Vinton Cerf, widely regarded as one of the founding figures of the internet, is set to retire from his role at Google next week. Cerf has held the title of chief internet evangelist at the tech giant for a significant period. He is best known for co-developing the foundational protocols that underpin how the internet functions. His departure marks the end of a notable chapter in both his career and Google's history.

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TechnologyTechCrunch ·

Anthropic to Restore Access to Fable Model from July 1 After Trump Lifts Curbs

Anthropic has announced it will begin restoring access to its Fable AI model starting July 1. The move follows the Trump administration's decision to lift restrictions that had been placed on Anthropic's Mythos and Fable models. The rollback of these curbs clears the way for broader availability of the previously restricted models. Anthropic confirmed the timeline for the restoration, with access set to resume at the start of the month.

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