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The latest in data centers, AI, and energy.
Massive new data centers are the physical foundation for tech companiesâ hopes and dreams for AI. But the rush to expand warehouses full of energy-hungry servers has also kicked up fights across the world over their impact on power grids, utility bills, nearby communities, and the environment. From audacious plans to launch data centers into […]
Google Pixel 9a Price Reduced to $399 in Amazon’s Major Spring Sale
An impressive midrange gem priced under $400.
Finding a great deal on a Pixel phone becomes much simpler during several prime times of the year, with the spring sale period being one of those occasions. Consequently, Amazon is pricing the Google Pixel 9a at just $400 during its Big Spring Sale, representing a 20% reduction and $100 off the regular price.
This previous-gen A-Series model showcases a stunning, compact display, remarkable performance and cameras for the cost, along with an exceptionally durable battery. It is also equipped with a broad array of Gemini AI features and a camera that boasts a particularly appealing Macro Focus mode. With seven years of updates and an IP68 water and dust resistance rating included, many will genuinely wonder why this flagship is offered at such a reasonable price point.
This specific offer is available for the phone’s Peony and Iris colors, particularly in the base-level, 128GB variant. Luckily, those in need of more than 128GB of storage can still enjoy a 19% discount on the 256GB model during the sale, although it’s exclusively available in the Obsidian hue.
- View the complete list of deals during Amazon’s Big Spring Sale
✅Recommended if: you’re seeking an economical contemporary phone offering fast performance, some Gemini AI features, and a bright, visually appealing display; you favor a device that leans more toward the compact side of things; you desire a phone with exceptionally long battery life and notable photography and videography capabilities.
❌Skip this deal if: you can afford the newer Google Pixel 10a; you need a device with top-tier charging speeds; you prefer a larger phone over this smaller design.
The Google Pixel 9a significantly distinguished itself from the A-Series image thanks to a remarkably long battery life, an attractive display, and Tensor CPU performance that is hard to distinguish from the premium tier.
The 9a debuted last summer, delivering over 30 hours of battery life or up to 100 hours when utilizing the Extreme Battery Saver mode. It comes equipped with 8GB of RAM, a Google Tensor G4 processor, and a 6.3-inch pOLED screen with refresh rates of up to 120Hz. Fans of smaller devices will appreciate the 9a’s compact design, which also features a 48MP rear camera, a 13MP Ultrawide rear lens, and a 13MP front camera.
Gemini 3.1 Flash Live Improves AI Real-Time Support Features
Check out the newest version in Gemini Live and Search Live.
Google has introduced Gemini 3.1 Flash Live, an enhancement for Gemini Live and Search Live that provides low-latency, more lifelike voice assistance to the AI. This iteration of the AI is streamlined, allowing Google to improve its response times and expand its context window for ongoing assistance. The company emphasizes significant advancements compared to the Gemini 2.5 Flash Native model, which premiered in December.
Google’s updates for Gemini are continuous, and this week is no exception, with the introduction of a fresh, lightweight, low-latency model. The company outlined what users can anticipate from Gemini 3.1 Flash Live, touted as its “best-quality audio and voice model” yet. Google asserts that this updated version of Gemini aligns with its “voice-first AI” goals for “speed and natural flow.” For those who have been following Gemini closely, you can likely predict what’s coming next (hint: Gemini Live). The announcement reveals that Gemini 3.1 Flash Lite will be integrated into Gemini Live and Search Live to aid with all voice-based inquiries.
With this enhancement, Google showcased “more useful and natural replies” as a primary feature. It notes that v3.1 can assist with everyday inquiries as well as more intricate subjects. Given that “Flash” appears in the title, 3.1 Flash Live is built to provide responses significantly faster than previous user experiences. Furthermore, “it can maintain the course of your discussion for double the duration.”
While you’ve been neglecting your Duolingo exercises (or Google Translate practice), Gemini has been advancing. Google indicates that the AI is “multilingual, allowing real-time replies in your desired language.”
Gemini 3.1 Flash Live has reportedly achieved high scores on benchmark evaluations, benefiting developers and businesses. On the technical front, Google highlights the AI’s “enhanced tonal” abilities and its capability to recognize “acoustic nuances,” like pitch.
Your voice comes first
Developers receive additional benefits, as Google mentions they can create conversational agents that assist in real time. Available through the Gemini API and AI Studio, developers are reportedly experiencing improved task completion rates in “noisy” settings. It’s not just the AI’s capacity to deliver accurate replies during live conversations; it’s also the enhancements that distinguish a person’s speech from the disruptive noise of traffic.
The AI has also undergone improvements to its instruction-following skills. Google states, “Your agent will remain within its operational boundaries, even when discussions take unexpected directions.” This complements other previously mentioned upgrades in Gemini 3.1 Flash Live, including its multilingual features and low-latency performance.
As Google enhances the voice-centric aspect of Gemini Live, there was one update that brought it into the real world to observe your actions. Users can share their camera feed with Gemini, enabling them to inquire about what they’re observing. Additionally, this update included a screen-sharing feature, so if you’ve searched for something you’re uncertain about, you can ask Gemini for more details.
Android Central’s Perspective
An update like this feels like a clear progression for Google. It’s being executed in a slightly unexpected manner. I assumed it would place greater emphasis on its camera functionalities or screen-sharing capabilities. However, enhancing its voice-based features isn’t a negative approach, either. This involves real-time assistance, so Gemini’s ability to comprehend the user, as effectively as possible, is crucial. Nothing is more frustrating than having to repeat yourself to a digital assistant.
iOS 26 Improves One of Apple’s Leading Home Screen Widgets with Two Significant Enhancements
### iOS 26.4 Improvements: Revamped Photos Widgets for iPhone Home Screen
With the launch of iOS 26.4, Apple has revealed exciting new features for the iPhone’s Home Screen, specifically improving the beloved Photos widget. This article delves into the latest enhancements that make the Photos widget even more captivating and visually appealing.
#### The Appeal of Photos Widgets
Among the numerous Home Screen widgets available to iPhone users, the Photos widget is distinctive due to its remarkable ability to surprise and delight. While many widgets fulfill practical functions, such as showing calendar appointments, the Photos widget adds a personal aspect by displaying treasured memories.
#### New Features in iOS 26.4
In the most recent update, Apple has introduced two major options to the Photos widget:
1. **Spatial Scenes**
2. **Full Color**
##### Spatial Scenes
The Spatial Scenes feature brings a new dimension to the display of images. This groundbreaking addition allows users to enjoy depth in their photos, featuring a parallax effect that responds to device movement. Users can navigate around their images, creating an immersive effect that enhances the visual charm of the Home Screen.
This feature works particularly well for Lock Screen wallpapers but is also applicable to the Photos widget on the Home Screen, offering a lively and engaging way to view pictures.
##### Full Color Toggle
Another significant upgrade is the ‘Always Display in Full Color’ toggle. This feature is especially useful for users who favor Clear or Tinted designs for their Home Screen icons. By activating this toggle, users can guarantee that their photos are visible in their original, vivid colors, instead of being modified to fit the overall theme of the Home Screen.
#### Personalizing Your Photos Widgets
To take advantage of these new features, users can effortlessly customize their Photos widgets. By long-pressing the widget and selecting ‘Edit Widget,’ they can access the new options and tailor their experience.
#### Conclusion
The enhanced Photos widgets in iOS 26.4 not only elevate the visual appeal of the iPhone Home Screen but also offer users a more interactive method to relive their memories. With features such as Spatial Scenes and the Full Color toggle, Apple continues to push boundaries, making the Photos widget an essential addition for iPhone users. What are your preferred Home Screen widgets? Share your views in the comments!
HomeKit Weekly: Benefits of Selecting Eve Aqua in Place of Fixed Irrigation Systems
**Spring 2026: Getting Your Garden Ready for Summer Heat**
As spring arrives in the southern United States, the season introduces a revitalizing transition with blossoming flowers, thriving greenery, and the anticipation of warmer days ahead. Nevertheless, this picturesque climate is frequently paired with heavy downpours, which can swiftly give way to the unbearable heat of summer, marked by elevated temperatures and high humidity. To guarantee your garden flourishes during the scorching months, it’s vital to establish a robust watering strategy now.
**The Significance of Regular Watering**
In areas where summer temperatures may soar to 97 degrees Fahrenheit alongside 90% humidity, the likelihood of plant stress escalates dramatically. A week without sufficient watering can convert healthy plants into struggling specimens. Thus, introducing a dependable watering mechanism is crucial for sustaining a vibrant garden.
**Eve Aqua: An Intelligent Watering Solution**
For those who favor a less labor-intensive method for irrigation, the Eve Aqua offers a groundbreaking alternative to conventional systems. This device connects between your outdoor faucet and hose, facilitating automated watering without the intricacies of a professionally installed irrigation system.
**How Eve Aqua Operates**
Eve Aqua functions through a straightforward setup: keep your faucet turned on, and the device will manage the water flow according to a pre-established schedule. This feature is especially advantageous for temporary watering requirements, such as during vacations or dry spells. The device runs on two AA batteries, which Eve states can last throughout an entire watering season.
Installation is easy; after unpacking, you attach the device to your faucet, ensuring a secure connection with the provided accessories. While it currently requires batteries, future models might feature USB-C charging and integrated battery options.
**Connecting Eve Aqua with Apple Home**
After setup, Eve Aqua effortlessly integrates with Apple Home, allowing users to manage watering schedules directly from their devices. While manual operation is straightforward—just tap the icon in the Home app to initiate or halt watering—the true power lies in the automation functions available via the Eve app. Users can establish schedules that optimize watering times, generally early in the morning or late in the evening, to reduce evaporation and enhance efficiency.
**Benefits of Eve Aqua Compared to Traditional Systems**
Eve Aqua presents multiple benefits over permanent irrigation systems. There’s no requirement for invasive installation, no ongoing maintenance expenses, and no concerns regarding broken sprinkler heads or backflow testing. It delivers a cost-effective, hassle-free solution for automated watering, making it an excellent choice for most homeowners.
**Conclusion**
As you prepare your garden for the upcoming summer heat, think about investing in the Eve Aqua for an intelligent, efficient watering solution. With its user-friendly nature and compatibility with smart home technology, it can help ensure your plants stay healthy and vibrant throughout the hot months. For more details or to purchase, visit [Amazon](https://amzn.to/4sifZdX) or the [Eve Store](https://www.evehome.com/en-us/store#outdoor).
Is It Worth Buying a Nintendo Switch 2 for Pokémon Pokopia?
‘Pokémon Pokopia’ fever is sweeping the internet, and surely some folks who don’t have a Switch 2 are feeling left out.
European Commission Confirms Cyberattack After Hackers Claim Data Breach
The European Union’s top executive body has confirmed a cyberattack after hackers reportedly stole reams of data from the European Commission’s cloud storage.
John Travolta’s Frenzied ’90s Action Film Now Accessible on Prime Video
techno thrillers such as “Enemy of the State” featuring Will Smith, memorable sequels like “Terminator 2: Judgement Day,” and some of the finest alien invasion films ever created. Yet the ’90s also introduced us to cheesy action favorites that we can’t resist adoring, including “Con Air,” “Last Action Hero,” and the frantic John Woo-directed “Face/Off,” with Nicolas Cage and John Travolta.
Prior to “Face/Off,” Hollywood icon John Travolta collaborated with John Woo on another kitschy ’90s action movie that might have escaped your notice: “Broken Arrow.” Released in 1996, this film is one of Woo’s uncommon English-language projects, but is likely best remembered — for better or for worse — due to Travolta’s over-the-top portrayal as the film’s deranged, wise-cracking antagonist, Major Vic Deakins. If you’re a fan of extravagant ’90s action flicks and haven’t seen “Broken Arrow” yet — or are simply craving a hit of nostalgia — you’re in for a treat, as the film is currently available to stream on Prime Video.
What is a Broken Arrow?
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Apple Names Ex-Google VP to Lead AI Product Marketing
**Apple Names Lilian Rincon as VP of Product Marketing for AI**
Apple has revealed the appointment of Lilian Rincon, who previously held a vice president position at Google, as its latest vice president of Product Marketing for Artificial Intelligence (AI). Rincon will be tasked with spearheading product marketing and management for Apple’s AI offerings, including Apple Intelligence and Siri. She will report directly to Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president for worldwide marketing.
Rincon brings a vast array of experience from her nine years at Google, where she most recently acted as vice president of product management. In this capacity, she supervised Google’s global product organization for Google Shopping and Google Assistant. Her career also features significant roles at Microsoft and Skype, illustrating her comprehensive expertise in technology and product management.
In a LinkedIn post revealing her exit from Google, Rincon shared her enthusiasm for her new position at Apple, showing an optimistic view on the future of AI within the company.
Her appointment follows Apple’s reorganization of its AI team, which has undergone several major leadership changes. Notably, Amar Subramanya joined Apple in December as the VP of AI, reporting to Craig Federighi. Subramanya has a robust background in AI, having dedicated 16 years to Google, where he served as an engineering VP on projects like Gemini, prior to a brief period at Microsoft.
The reorg also encompassed the recent resignation of John Giannandrea, who stepped down from his role as senior vice president for Machine Learning and AI Strategy. This wave of changes underscores Apple’s persistent dedication to enhancing its AI capabilities and strategies.
As Apple progresses in investing in AI technologies, the inclusion of seasoned leaders like Rincon and Subramanya indicates a strategic initiative to fortify its standing in the competitive arena of AI development.
