From a Black Hole App to Google Gemini and more, the tech world is buzzing with new developments. Apple, Google, and Microsoft are rolling out innovative tools and apps to enhance everyday digital experiences. Waymo is pushing the boundaries of autonomous driving with its latest robotaxis. Surprisingly, even Chick-fil-A is entering the streaming arena. On another front, citizen science apps are empowering people to help discover new black holes. This blog covers the latest tech news and highlights the innovations shaping our digital future.
Apple Splits App Store Division to Tackle EU Regulations
Apple is restructuring its App Store division in response to new European Union regulations that require the company to support alternative app stores and payment methods. The division will be split into two groups: one focused on managing the App Store and the other on navigating alternative marketplaces in the EU. This change coincides with the departure of Matt Fischer, the long-time vice president of the App Store, who will be succeeded by senior director Carson Oliver. Ann Thai, a product director, will lead the new group addressing alternative distribution. Both divisions will report to App Store chief Phil Schiller.
Chick-fil-A Ventures into Streaming with Family-Friendly Content
In a surprising move, Chick-fil-A is planning to launch its own streaming platform later this year, focusing initially on family-friendly, unscripted programming, including a game show produced by Glassman Media and Sugar23. While the fast-food chain’s foray into entertainment may seem unexpected, its ties to the entertainment industry—through the Cathy family’s involvement in Trilith Studios—suggest this could be part of a broader strategy. Although Chick-fil-A has yet to comment, this new venture might echo similar moves by companies like Disney and Walmart, potentially blending content creation with advertising and customer engagement.
Google Enhances Gemini Writing Tools in Gmail
Google is upgrading its Gemini-powered writing tools in Gmail, introducing a “Polish” option to help users refine their drafts. Alongside existing features like “Formalize” and “Elaborate,” this new option makes it easier to perfect emails. The update also includes shortcuts in the email body on Android and iOS, highlighting available AI writing tools. These enhancements are accessible to those with Google One AI Premium accounts or who have purchased the Gemini add-on for Workspace, offering a streamlined way to draft, refine, and improve emails directly within Gmail.
Microsoft Launches Unified Teams App for Seamless Account Switching
Microsoft is rolling out a unified Microsoft Teams app that allows users to switch seamlessly between personal, work, and education accounts. After months of testing, the new app is now available for Windows and Mac, simplifying the previously confusing experience of managing multiple Teams accounts. The update also enhances the ability to switch between different Teams tenants and allows users to join meetings as guests without signing in. This streamlined approach replaces the need for separate apps, making it easier to manage notifications and access all accounts in one place. Existing users will receive the update automatically, while new users can download it from Microsoft’s site.
Waymo Unveils New Sixth-Generation Robotaxi Amid Tariff Concerns
Waymo has introduced its sixth-generation robotaxi, an electric minivan made by Chinese automaker Zeekr, which boasts advanced technology and reduced sensor costs. The new vehicle integrates learnings from previous models, potentially reducing the need for extensive real-world testing. However, the rollout faces uncertainty due to impending U.S. tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles, which could significantly impact production costs. The robotaxi features a streamlined sensor suite for enhanced safety and performance, but Waymo has yet to disclose when or where these vehicles will be deployed. The company is closely monitoring the tariff situation as it prepares to expand its operations.
Apple Launches Web App for Podcasts, Now Accessible Across Browsers
Apple has introduced a web app for its Podcasts platform, available at podcasts.apple.com and compatible with major browsers like Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari. The web app mirrors the familiar layout of the Mac and iOS versions, featuring sections like Browse, Home, and Top Charts. Users can sign in to access their followed shows, though playback speed controls are currently absent. This launch follows Apple’s recent rollout of web apps for Apple Maps, Apple Music, and Apple TV, expanding its web-based offerings.
Citizen Scientists Invited to Help Find New Black Holes with Black Hole Finder App
The Dutch Black Hole Consortium is enlisting the public’s help to discover novel black holes using an app called Black Hole Finder. This app allows users to analyze images captured by BlackGEM telescopes in Chile, which scan the sky for fleeting light from kilonovas—bright flashes produced when two neutron stars merge into a black hole. Due to the brief duration of this light, quick identification is crucial. The app presents users with images to determine if a potential black hole is real or a false positive, aiding scientists in where to focus their telescopes. The public’s participation also helps improve the app’s AI, and experienced users can even contribute to scientific publications. The app is available on iOS, Android, and the web.