Stay connected in the world of technology and media with our weekly round-up of the top headlines you may have missed. From Game Boy Beats to Plastic-Free Keurig Pods and more, we have you covered on the news of the week. Check out the latest buzz below!
Retro Song Bird Turns Game Boy Cartridges Into a Music Library
A clever new prototype is giving old Game Boy cartridges an entirely different purpose by turning them into miniature music collections. Retro Song Bird reads the music and sound effects stored on a cartridge, then plays them through a built-in speaker with simple controls for skipping tracks and adjusting volume. The device also includes stereo line-out support for better speakers, while its USB connection can separate the Game Boy’s four sound channels for recording or sampling. Users can also back up ROMs and save data or export music as WAV files to a computer. Only a handful of prototypes exist so far, but its creator is considering crowdfunding or selling the finished device once the hardware is finalized.
Google Builds a One-Stop Gemini Agent for the Workplace
A new enterprise-focused AI tool is bringing more of Google’s workplace automation into a single interface. The universal Gemini agent can work across Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Calendar, Slack, Microsoft 365, and other connected services while maintaining context across desktop, mobile, and web. Businesses can also assign specialized sub-agents to individual jobs, or create dedicated coworker agents with their own identities and company email addresses. Google says the system automatically selects the AI model best suited to each task instead of relying on one model for everything. The feature is currently available to enterprise customers in private preview, but it offers a clear look at Google’s broader vision for an AI assistant that can do more than simply answer questions.
Amazon Gives Parents More Control Over Kids’ Tablets
Families will have more flexibility over apps and content with Amazon’s new Kids Tablets, which now run Android with access to the Google Play Store. The 8.7-inch model starts at $229.99 with 64GB of storage and up to 14 hours of video playback, while the larger 11-inch version starts at $329.99 with a 2.5K display, 8GB of RAM, and stylus support. Both tablets come with kid-friendly protective cases and a one-year subscription to Amazon Kids Plus, which includes ad-free books, shows, games, apps, and audiobooks. Parents can use the built-in Parent Dashboard to set screen-time limits, establish learning goals, monitor usage, and approve every Google Play download remotely. Amazon is also adding an AI-powered Storybuilder feature that lets children generate picture books and comics from their own ideas.
Samsung Wallet Can Now Unlock Select GM Vehicles
Digital car keys are expanding to more drivers as General Motors adds Samsung Wallet support for select vehicles in the United States and Canada. Compatible Samsung devices can now lock, unlock, and start supported GM models without requiring a traditional key fob. The rollout begins with vehicles including the 2025 through 2027 Cadillac Lyriq, 2026 through 2027 Optiq, and 2027 Vistiq, with additional models expected before the end of 2026. GM has also announced plans to bring digital keys to select GMC and Chevrolet trucks, while Apple Wallet and Google Wallet support are part of the broader strategy. The update reflects how smartphones are steadily becoming central to the everyday functions once handled by physical car keys.
Apple and LG Reportedly Team Up on New Smart Home Gear
Fresh reports suggest Apple is working with LG on a new collection of connected home products designed to integrate closely with Apple’s upcoming smart home platform. The lineup reportedly includes a video doorbell, thermostat, indoor camera, deadbolt lock, outdoor security camera, and floodlight camera, all carrying LG branding. Several devices are expected to support Thread and Matter as Apple prepares what has been described as a broader reboot of HomeKit. One reported deadbolt design includes ultra-wideband technology that could automatically unlock the door as an authorized user approaches. The products may arrive alongside Apple’s rumored six-inch smart home hub, giving the company a much stronger foothold in connected home hardware.
Keurig Replaces Plastic Pods With Compostable Coffee Pucks
Single-serve coffee is getting a more sustainable redesign with Keurig’s new Alta machine and its plastic-free AltaRounds. Instead of traditional pods, the system uses compressed coffee grounds wrapped in a plant-based seaweed coating that Keurig says is fully compostable. The $499.99 machine can brew both coffee and espresso, includes a built-in milk frother, and automatically reads a QR code on each puck to determine the correct brewing temperature and pressure. A large touchscreen lets users choose recipes, while Wi-Fi connectivity allows the appliance to gain new drink options as additional AltaRounds become available. Preorders are open now, with shipping expected to begin October 21 in three finish options.