EU opens antitrust investigation into Google's AI practices

Google has launched open-source Gemini CLI extensions for its Data Cloud services, enhancing the functionality of applications and data analysis directly from local development environments. This initiative follows the introduction of the Gemini CLI, an AI agent designed to streamline data interactions across various Google services like Cloud SQL, AlloyDB, and BigQuery.

Starcloud, a startup backed by Nvidia, has successfully launched a satellite equipped with an Nvidia H100 chip, which is now operational and querying responses from Google's AI model, Gemma. This marks a significant milestone as it represents the first instance of training an AI model from space, showcasing the potential of orbital data centers in AI development.

Google has launched managed MCP servers designed to make its services, including Maps and BigQuery, ready for AI agents. This initiative aims to streamline integrations and enhance the usability of AI tools within its ecosystem.

Developer Mark Russo discovered child sexual abuse material (CSAM) within an AI dataset and reported it to the appropriate organizations. Despite his actions, he faced a prolonged account ban from Google, raising concerns about the company's response to such serious findings.

Google has launched a new AI Plus subscription plan in India, priced at approximately $2.21 per month for the first six months and $4.44 thereafter, aiming to compete with OpenAI's ChatGPT Go. This initiative reflects Google's strategy to enhance its presence in the AI market by offering affordable options to users in India.

Google has announced new AI-driven security measures for its Chrome browser, aimed at preventing hacking attempts. This initiative includes a $20,000 bounty for researchers who can successfully breach the new security boundaries, highlighting the company's proactive approach to cybersecurity.

Artist Jon Rafman has gained recognition for his collection of unusual images captured by Google Street View, which will be showcased in a major exhibit. This collection highlights the unique and often bizarre moments that the platform has documented since its launch in 2007.

Apple's App Store and Google's Play Store have been found to host numerous applications linked to companies under U.S. sanctions, with Apple removing 35 such apps and Google 17. This revelation comes from the Tech Transparency Project, highlighting the ongoing scrutiny of tech giants regarding compliance with U.S. regulations.