Google, Meta and Microsoft opts to stop showing political ads in EU

Meta has replaced the standalone WhatsApp application for Windows with a web wrapper version that reportedly consumes 1 GB of RAM even when idle. This change, announced on November 13, 2025, raises concerns about resource efficiency and user experience, as many users may find the high memory usage problematic for their systems. The shift to a web-based application could also impact the performance and functionality that users expect from a dedicated desktop application, making this a significant development in the technology landscape.

Windows 11 users are expressing dissatisfaction following a statement from a Microsoft executive claiming that the operating system is 'evolving into an agentic OS.' This shift towards an 'AI-native' framework, filled with buzzwords, appears to resonate poorly with consumers who feel disconnected from such terminology. The negative sentiment among users highlights a growing concern about the direction of Windows 11 and its alignment with user needs and preferences.

On November 13, 2025, Google announced a significant policy change allowing users to sideload Android apps without the need for verification. This move is seen as a positive development, enhancing user autonomy and access to a wider range of applications. By enabling sideloading, Google aims to provide users with more flexibility in how they install apps, potentially fostering innovation and competition within the Android ecosystem. This change is particularly relevant as it addresses user demand for greater control over their devices and the applications they choose to use.

Anthropic has announced a significant investment of $50 billion to build data centers in the US, marking a major commitment to expanding its infrastructure. Concurrently, Meta plans to invest $1 billion in a new data center in Wisconsin. This surge in investment reflects the growing demand for data processing capabilities and highlights the competitive landscape in the tech industry, particularly among companies like AMD and Nvidia.

Microsoft plans to leverage OpenAI's development of custom AI semiconductors to enhance its own chip initiatives. This collaboration signifies a strategic move to strengthen Microsoft's position in the AI hardware market, potentially leading to advancements in AI capabilities and applications.

Microsoft has released an update aimed at fixing a bug that prevented eligible Windows 10 PCs from enrolling in its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This update is significant as it allows users to access essential security updates, ensuring their systems remain protected against vulnerabilities. The resolution of this issue is crucial for maintaining the integrity and security of Windows 10 devices, particularly for organizations relying on these updates to safeguard their operations.

Google has introduced its Private AI Compute within the Gemini cloud, aiming to shift AI functionality back to the cloud while ensuring privacy levels comparable to on-device processing. This initiative raises questions about the feasibility of maintaining such privacy in a cloud environment, as it challenges the traditional notion of data security associated with local processing. The implications of this technology could significantly impact user trust and the future of cloud-based AI applications.

Microsoft has reduced the price of its Surface Laptop by $350, making it more accessible to consumers. This significant discount highlights the company's efforts to attract buyers in a competitive technology market, offering an excellent Windows laptop at a fraction of its usual price.