Key facts

• Open-weight models are backed by Nvidia and more than 200 organizations.
• The biggest unresolved issue is sustainable funding for free-to-use weights.
• Meta, Alibaba, DeepSeek, and Nvidia all have different incentives to support open weights.
• Open models trail the frontier by around four months, according to Epoch AI, but that gap matters little for many enterprise workloads.
• License terms vary widely; some open-weight models restrict large commercial deployments.

Open weights and the open source playbook

Former Red Hat CEO Jim Whitehurst has argued that open weights can play the same catalytic role as open source in driving AI innovation. This does not mean open weights will defeat closed models in every arena. Linux, for example, became essential to enterprise computing, but Windows servers still exist. Similarly, open-weight models like Kimi or Nemotron are unlikely to topple the leading proprietary AI labs overnight. Instead, Whitehurst says, they can create a broader competitive landscape where innovation happens faster and the power of AI is more widely shared.

The catch remains money. Someone must train these models. Training a frontier-scale AI model costs tens of millions of dollars, often more. If the resulting weights are given away, how does the original investor recover that cost? The answer, at least historically, is that open source survived because of corporate self-interest. At any moment one company may decide it no longer benefits from contributing to Linux, but another discovers a new reason to start.

Self-interest, it turns out, is a powerful force.

In 2016, a common refrain was that there is no money in open source. That remains true in 2026, both for open source and open weights. But the smart bet is not that any particular company will keep pouring cash into models it gives away. The smart bet is that the overall supply of open-weight contributions will persist because the incentives are distributed across many players with different business models.

Betting on self-interest

Meta, Alibaba, DeepSeek, Nvidia, and a host of inference providers all have different reasons to support open weights. Meta wants to avoid depending on another company's AI platform the way it depends on Apple's mobile ecosystem. Alibaba wants cloud consumption. DeepSeek and Moonshot want global attention. Nvidia wants chip demand. When one company becomes more closed, another sees an opportunity to gain market share by staying open. These asymmetric incentives make the ecosystem resilient, even when the cost to individual contributors is high.

Mark Zuckerberg has been unusually candid about Meta's reasoning. After releasing models such as Llama, he explained that Meta did not want to be locked into someone else's AI stack. A large ecosystem around Llama would produce silicon support, inference optimizations, tools, and integrations that Meta could not build alone. And because Meta's primary business is advertising, giving away model weights was unlikely to cannibalize its revenue.

Will Meta always release open weights? Probably not forever. The company says it expects to train a mix of open and closed models. But even if Meta becomes more selective, other players are ready. Alibaba's Qwen releases create demand for proprietary models and cloud compute. Z.AI, formerly Zhipu, can release GLM-5.2 under an MIT license while charging for API access. The incentives differ, and that is exactly the point.

We do not need any single company to remain generous. We need at least one ambitious model builder in each generation to decide that distribution is worth more than exclusivity. The market leader usually has the strongest reason to protect scarcity. A challenger, by contrast, tends to use open source or open weights to catch up and shift the playing field. Should today's underdog become tomorrow's leader and pull back from openness, someone else inherits the incentive. Competition drives contribution.

Good enough is often good enough

Open models do not have to beat every closed model to matter. Research from Stanford found that the best closed model outperformed the best open model by 3.3% in one assessment. Epoch AI estimates that open models have lagged the closed frontier by roughly four months during 2026. Four months may feel like an eternity at the frontier, but it is largely irrelevant to an enterprise that wants to summarize documents, classify support requests, extract data, or run a routine agent.

The best model in the world is not necessary. What matters is whether a model clears a company's evaluation bar at the right price, latency, and level of control. Open-weight models can be finely tuned for specific enterprise use cases, making "good enough" open weights arguably better than closed frontier models for particular workloads.

Market data shows this dynamic in action. Vercel's AI Gateway reported that in July, open-weight models handled 36% of its tokens while capturing only 8.6% of spending. DeepSeek became the gateway's second-largest lab by token volume, while Anthropic collected 65% of spending on 30% of tokens. One provider's traffic is not the whole market, but the pattern is telling: open models absorb an increasing share of high-volume work, while closed frontier models retain premium workloads. The same kind of split has appeared in markets like databases, where commodity solutions handle standard tasks and premium products serve demanding customers.

'Open core' comes to open weights

Weights alone are not a product. Someone still has to make them fast and reliable, serve them efficiently, help customers evaluate and adapt them, and make a newly released model available in production on day one. This is the ecosystem that open-weight advocates expect to develop. It is also where tension will grow.

A model creator wants inference providers to broaden adoption, optimize performance, and create demand. But it may become less enthusiastic once those providers start capturing meaningful revenue. Open source history suggests a familiar pattern: when downstream companies make serious money from someone else's work, the original creator often wonders whether it is getting a fair return. This happened with databases and cloud providers, when vendors changed licenses to defend against competition. The same dynamic is now emerging with model weights, perhaps ushering in a new phase of so-called open core models.

Some licenses already show this tension. Moonshot's Kimi K3 license says a model-as-a-service provider with more than $20 million in annual revenue must negotiate a separate agreement. MiniMax M3 similarly requires prior authorization once products built on the model exceed $20 million in annual revenue. In contrast, DeepSeek V4 and GLM 5.2 use permissive MIT licenses. The market is splitting between models designed to commoditize the entire model layer and models designed to win adoption while protecting the most valuable commercial uses.

Bet on the supply, not the supplier

What should an enterprise do? It should not bet the company on any single model, whether open or closed. It should build evaluations that reflect actual work. It should preserve the ability to move data and tuning. It should keep application logic from becoming unnecessarily dependent on one provider. And it should read the license before confusing downloadable with unrestricted.

Technical portability without legal portability is not real portability. It is lock-in. A model might be downloadable, but the license may restrict how it can be used commercially, especially as a service. That distinction becomes critical when a startup grows or an enterprise scales a use case.

The larger point is that the open-weight movement will endure because of competition, not because of charity. Some company will always decide that breaking rank with closed competitors is the fastest way to gain ground. Open source history offers a clear lesson: open weights will likely continue to evolve, and the meaning of "open" will remain contested. Quasi-open and pseudo-open arrangements may multiply, but there will also always be room for a fully open approach as a competitive differentiator.

Competition is openness's best friend.

Source: InfoWorld News

The first video runs nearly 90 seconds and appears to have been filmed in Malaysia at a Samsung product area inside a store. It highlights the phone’s design, which features a camera housing in line with the Galaxy S26 series. The video also confirms a 4,900mAh battery, a 120Hz display, and Horizontal Lock video capture. Photo samples were also shared alongside the clip.

A second video, just over 30 seconds long, was posted by another TikTok account and later shared on X. It also shows a Purple/Violet Galaxy S26 FE with the same camera design, running One UI 9 on top of Android 17. The video reiterates the Horizontal Lock video capture feature and the 120Hz refresh rate.

One or both clips mention an Exynos 2500 chipset, 45W charging speeds, and a 50MP/12MP/8MP rear camera setup. It is unclear whether this information was taken directly from the demo units or simply repeated from earlier leaks. Regardless, the cumulative evidence suggests the Galaxy S26 FE is very close to its official unveiling.

Horizontal Lock video mode explained

Horizontal Lock is one of the more intriguing features to come out of the Galaxy S26 series this year. It appears to be a specialized video capture mode that locks the camera’s orientation to horizontal, regardless of how the phone is held. This could be particularly useful for creators who want stable landscape video without having to physically rotate the device or rely on third-party apps.

The feature was previously spotted in leaks related to the Galaxy S26 Ultra, and its presence on the Galaxy S26 FE suggests that Samsung is bringing this capability to a wider range of devices. While the exact implementation remains unclear, it likely uses a combination of gyroscope data and software cropping to maintain a horizontal frame even when the phone is tilted.

For mobile videographers, Horizontal Lock could be a game-changer. It eliminates the need to rotate the phone in your hand when switching between portrait and landscape recording, and it ensures that video always appears upright on social media platforms. This is a small but meaningful quality-of-life improvement that could help Samsung differentiate its mid-premium FE lineup from competing devices.

In addition, Horizontal Lock might work in tandem with Samsung’s existing Super Steady video stabilization. The combination of electronic image stabilization and orientation locking could deliver remarkably smooth footage. It remains to be seen whether the feature will be available at all resolutions and frame rates, or restricted to specific recording modes. Samsung will need to explain these details at launch.

A familiar design with a fresh look

The Galaxy S26 FE appears to borrow heavily from the design of the Galaxy S26 series. The camera housing in the videos matches what we have seen in leaked renders, with vertically arranged sensors that sit flush within a raised module. The Purple/Violet finish is also in line with Samsung’s recent trend of offering playful color options across its FE lineup.

The front of the device is not shown in great detail, but earlier leaks suggest a flat AMOLED display with slim bezels and a centrally aligned punch-hole camera. A 120Hz refresh rate is expected, and the hands-on videos confirm this spec. The display size is likely to be around 6.7 inches, though that has not been officially confirmed.

Samsung’s FE series has traditionally offered a near-flagship experience at a more accessible price, and the Galaxy S26 FE looks set to continue that trend. The inclusion of the Exynos 2500 chipset is notable, as previous FE models have sometimes used older or slightly lower-tier processors. The Exynos 2500 is expected to deliver solid performance and improved efficiency, bringing the FE closer to the flagship S26 series.

Design-wise, the Galaxy S26 FE is expected to feature an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass on the front and back. The IP68 water and dust resistance rating has been a staple of the FE line since the Galaxy S20 FE, and it should remain here. Wireless charging is another feature that FE fans have come to expect, and there is no reason to believe Samsung would remove it.

Performance, battery, and charging

One of the most significant upgrades in the hands-on videos is the mention of 45W charging. Samsung’s FE models have traditionally been limited to 25W charging, so a jump to 45W would be a welcome improvement. Combined with a 4,900mAh battery, the Galaxy S26 FE could offer all-day battery life and faster top-ups when needed.

The 4,900mAh capacity itself is a step up from the Galaxy S25 FE, which reportedly featured a 4,600mAh battery. This increase, paired with a more efficient chipset, should result in noticeably better endurance. Fast charging at 45W means a 0-50% charge could take well under 30 minutes, depending on the charger and Samsung’s software optimization.

While the videos do not show charging speeds or battery settings being toggled, the fact that the information appears on demo units suggests it was confirmed by Samsung’s own marketing material. It is also possible that the 45W figure was repeated by the TikTok creator from previous leaks. Still, given the cadence of Samsung’s recent releases, it would be surprising if the Galaxy S26 FE launched without this upgrade.

On the performance side, the Exynos 2500 chipset is expected to

Source: Android Authority News

The satellite feature appears to be a direct implementation of Google's Satellite Connectivity Hub, which was first introduced with the Pixel 9 series. For Samsung users, this could mean the ability to send text messages and contact emergency services when no terrestrial mobile network or Wi-Fi is available. The leak also suggests there will be a demo mode and an alignment guide, helping users learn how to point their phone toward a satellite for a stable connection.

Additionally, a new “Debugging only” option was found in the USB settings menu. If shipped, it would sit alongside existing options like file transfer, USB tethering, and MIDI. This new mode aims to give developers a cleaner, more direct way to access Android Debug Bridge (ADB) and other development tools without cluttering the connection settings with multiple notifications or requiring frequent changes in the Developer Options menu.

What is One UI 9.5 and when will it arrive?

One UI is Samsung's custom skin built on top of Google's Android operating system. The company usually releases major updates annually, and the version numbering reflects both the underlying Android version and Samsung's own feature layer. One UI 9 has just started rolling out to recent Galaxy devices, bringing a refreshed design language, improved performance, and deeper system-level integration. Historically, Samsung follows up with a point release (like 9.1 or 9.5) that introduces additional refinements and, occasionally, new features that weren't ready for the initial launch.

Based on Samsung's release patterns, One UI 9.5 is expected to debut in the second half of 2026, likely alongside the next generation of foldable devices. The update will probably be based on the next Android release or a later build of Android 16, depending on Google's timeline. Leaks from internal builds typically emerge a few weeks or months before the official beta program begins, and this leak aligns with those expectations.

While Samsung has already delivered One UI 9 to flagships like the Galaxy S24 series and the Galaxy Z Fold 6, the 9.5 update is likely to be a more focused release. Rather than overhauling the entire interface, it may concentrate on connectivity features, enhanced privacy controls, and developer-oriented improvements. The satellite hub and the new USB mode fit neatly into that pattern.

Satellite connectivity: the next frontier for smartphones

Satellite connectivity has become one of the most talked-about features in the smartphone industry over the last few years. Apple introduced Emergency SOS via satellite on the iPhone 14 lineup in 2022, allowing users to send distress messages when outside cell towers' reach. Since then, Apple has expanded the feature to more countries and added roadside assistance support in the United States. Google followed suit with its Satellite SOS feature on the Pixel 9 series, which uses the same underlying Garmin Reference APIs to connect with satellites for emergency messaging.

Samsung has been noticeably quieter on this front, but the company has clearly been exploring the idea for some time. Early Galaxy S25 leaks hinted at satellite support, though the final hardware did not include the required modem or antenna design. Now, with the apparent adoption of Google's Satellite Connectivity Hub, Samsung appears ready to leapfrog the competition by not only offering emergency SOS but also general person-to-person messaging through satellites.

Google's Satellite Connectivity Hub is more than just a SOS button. It provides a unified interface for users to compose messages, choose a recipient, and send them via satellite when no terrestrial network is available. It also includes a guided alignment process to help users aim their phones at a satellite, which is crucial because satellite signals are weak and require precise antenna orientation. The demo mode in the leaked Samsung build indicates that the company wants users to practice this alignment before they find themselves in an actual emergency.

There are limitations, of course. Satellite messaging is generally slower than traditional SMS or internet-based messaging. It also consumes more battery power, and most phones are not designed to sustain a continuous satellite connection. That is why these features are usually limited to short text messages and emergency alerts. Voice calls over satellite are still a rarity in consumer smartphones, although some companies are beginning to test the technology with LEO (low Earth orbit) constellations. For now, SMS and emergency services are the practical focus.

How satellite SOS works

When a user activates satellite connectivity on a compatible device, the phone first attempts to find a network signal. If none is available, the interface prompts the user to move to an open area with a clear view of the sky. The phone then uses built-in sensors and augmented reality to guide the user's alignment with a satellite. Once a connection is established, the user can send a pre-defined or custom text message. The message is transmitted to the satellite, which relays it to a ground station, and from there it reaches a local emergency dispatch center or the intended recipient's phone.

In the case of Samsung's implementation, Google's Satellite Connectivity Hub would likely integrate with existing emergency services and messaging apps. This means Galaxy users might not need to download a separate app; the functionality would be embedded directly into One UI 9.5. The leak also suggests that the feature will allow users to share their location, a common requirement for search-and-rescue teams.

For countries where the feature is supported, this could be a lifesaver for hikers, campers, and anyone traveling through rural regions. Satellite connectivity does not require a SIM card or an active contract, making it an attractive option for travelers who frequently cross international borders.

Debugging only mode: a gift for developers

The second leaked feature is arguably less flashy but potentially just as important for the developer community. One UI 9.5 may include a “Debugging only” option in the USB settings. Currently, when a Galaxy phone with USB debugging enabled is connected to a computer, the system does not always show a clear notification that the debugging session is active. This lack of visibility can be risky, because a user might connect their phone to a public charging station or a computer they don't fully trust, inadvertently granting ADB access to a malicious actor.

The new “Debugging only” mode would simplify the process. Instead of having to go to Developer Options every time to toggle USB debugging on or off, users could do it directly from the USB settings dialog. This would also make it easier to avoid accidental ADB connections. For power users and app developers, this is a significant quality-of-life improvement.

Moreover, this change could enhance security by putting USB debugging controls front and center. Right now, if a phone is connected to a PC and USB debugging is enabled, the phone may not display a persistent notification. The user might assume the connection is purely for charging. With a dedicated debugging mode, the system could show a clear status indicator, making it obvious that the phone is in developer mode and that ADB commands can be executed.

It remains to be seen whether Samsung will implement additional safeguards, such as requiring authentication before switching to the new mode. But the company's focus on user security in recent updates suggests that the feature will include some form of user confirmation.

What this means for Galaxy users

For the average Galaxy owner, the satellite connectivity hub is the most exciting addition. It closes a critical gap in smartphone coverage and gives users a reliable communication channel in areas where traditional networks do not exist. While many people will never need to use it, the mere presence of the feature provides peace of mind. Hikers, climbers, sailors, and people living in disaster-prone regions stand to benefit the most.

The debugging mode, on the other hand, is aimed squarely at the developer audience. Samsung has been actively courting app developers and power users with its DeX desktop environment and advanced multitasking features. Adding a more transparent and efficient USB debugging option is a natural extension of that strategy. It also helps Samsung compete with Google's Pixel devices, which are often favored by developers because of their stock Android experience and robust developer tools.

There are also broader implications for the Android ecosystem. If Samsung adopts Google's Satellite Connectivity Hub, it could become a standard feature in other Android manufacturers' devices. Google has been working to integrate satellite capabilities into the core Android framework, and having Samsung on board would accelerate that effort. This could lead to a future where satellite messaging is as common on Android as NFC payments are today.

Challenges and considerations

Despite the excitement, several challenges remain. Satellite connectivity requires specific hardware, including a modem that can communicate with satellites, an RF front-end tuned for satellite frequencies, and an antenna design that can handle the signal characteristics. Samsung's internal builds are often ahead of the production schedule, but it is possible that some hardware limitations could delay the feature's release.

Carrier partnerships are another hurdle. In many countries, emergency services have strict regulations about how users can access them. Satellite SOS often requires collaboration with local emergency response centers and government agencies. Google and Apple have spent considerable time and resources negotiating these agreements, and Samsung will need to do the same if it wants to offer the feature globally.

Additionally, users will need to be educated. Satellite connectivity is not like cellular connectivity. You can't just walk into a basement and expect to get a satellite signal. The demo mode in One UI 9.5 is a positive step, but it remains to be seen how effective it will be in helping users understand the limitations and requirements.

Cost is also a factor. Some satellite messaging services charge a subscription fee, although emergency SOS is typically free. If Samsung integrates the hub deeply into One UI, the company may choose to offer the service free for a limited time or bundle it with other Galaxy services. That would be a welcome move, but it could raise questions about long-term pricing.

On the debugging front, there is always a risk that new security features could interfere with existing workflows. Developers often rely on ADB over Wi-Fi or other tools, and a new USB mode might complicate things if not implemented carefully. However, Samsung's track record with developer options suggests that the company will keep those options accessible to those who know how to unlock them.

The road ahead

These features were spotted in an internal build, which means they may never reach the public. Samsung frequently tests experimental ideas that are ultimately discarded due to technical problems, cost concerns, or lack of demand. Yet the company tends to implement features that appear in multiple leaked builds over a long period, and satellite connectivity has been rumored for Galaxy devices for more than two years.

The timing also aligns with industry trends. Satellite connectivity is moving from a luxury feature to a standard part of the mobile experience. In 2026, several Android flagship phones are expected to support satellite messaging. Samsung cannot afford to stay on the sidelines. The One UI 9.5 update could be the vehicle for that inclusion, especially if Samsung plans to launch the next Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip around the same time.

If the satellite connectivity hub makes it into the stable release, Samsung will join Apple and Google in offering native satellite SOS. That would be a significant milestone for the Galaxy ecosystem. Similarly, the “Debugging only” USB mode would show that Samsung is paying attention to the developer community's needs, even as it pushes forward with consumer-facing features.

For now, Galaxy users can only wait and watch. The beta program for One UI 9.5 will likely open in the coming months, and that will provide a much clearer picture of what changes make the final cut. Until then, the leaks from internal builds serve as exciting glimpses into the future of Samsung's software.

Source: Android Authority News

Googlebooks and Android integration takes shape

Rumors and leaks have been swirling around Google's laptop hardware efforts, and this update confirms that Google is actively laying the software foundations. The Play Services release notes mention that during the setup wizard on PC hardware, users will see prompts explaining multi-device features for Googlebooks. This means first-time owners could be guided through phone-to-laptop handoff features immediately after unboxing.

More importantly, Google is adding Quick Start support for PCs. Quick Start has long been an iPhone onboarding feature, but Android users have seen similar functionality when setting up new phones. Now, a new desktop or laptop powered by Googlebooks can be configured using an existing Android phone. This fits into the broader trend of unified ecosystems, where a phone isn't just a phone but a key to setting up and syncing all other devices.

Cross-device settings are also being introduced. These settings will let users toggle experimental beta features directly from their device menus. This is similar to how Google has offered beta flags within Chrome or Play Services, but with a dedicated cross-device section, it becomes easier for early adopters to test new integrations before they roll out globally.

Tap to Share adds links and locations

The update expands Tap to Share with two new categories: links and location details. Tap to Share originally debuted with the Pixel 11, allowing users to share contacts, photos, videos, and files by tapping two phones together. With v26.32, the feature now supports URLs and map locations, making it a stronger alternative to the standard Android share sheet.

This expansion is meaningful because it moves Tap to Share closer to a universal quick-sharing tool. Instead of fumbling through a long list of apps, users can tap devices together to send a web page or a pin on a map. The feature relies on the same proximity-based gesture that made NFC sharing popular, and while it is not yet ready to replace every sharing method, it is becoming more flexible.

The underlying technology for Tap to Share combines NFC and ultra-wideband capabilities, depending on the devices involved. For supported devices, the tap gesture initiates a handshake, and then the actual data transfer can happen over a faster connection like Wi-Fi Direct or Bluetooth. This allows large files to be shared with minimal setup. Adding links and locations makes the feature even more practical for everyday interactions, like sharing a restaurant recommendation with a friend or sending directions to a nearby event.

Wear OS location sharing

Another notable addition is location sharing for Wear OS. Smartwatch users will get a centralized hub to configure location permissions for supported Google apps right from their wrist. This is a quality-of-life improvement, because location controls have traditionally required digging through phone settings. Now users can manage which apps have access to their location, and possibly revoke permissions, without pulling out their phone.

Wear OS has been gaining momentum with new hardware and software updates, and this improvement makes the platform more independent from the phone. It also aligns with Google's broader privacy efforts by giving users clearer visibility into location access. For example, a user might see that a weather app is using location in the background and decide to switch that to 'only while using the app' directly from the watch.

This location hub is expected to support Google apps that already have Wear OS versions, including Maps, Find My Device, and maybe even the Google app itself. Since location data is sensitive, the update is likely to include clear toggles and permission explanations that are easy to read on a small display. The goal is to make location governance as simple on the wrist as it is on the phone.

Wallet age credentials

Google Wallet is also receiving an update. Digital IDs will gain push provisioning support for age credentials. That means supported identity providers can push verified age cards directly to Wallet, making it easier to prove legal age at stores, bars, or venues. The system is expected to work with existing verified identity services and could streamline how age cards are issued and updated on Android devices.

Age verification has become increasingly important in digital and physical settings. Many online platforms now require users to prove their age beyond simply checking a box. Having an age credential in Wallet could allow users to confirm that they are over a certain threshold without exposing their full date of birth or other identifying details. This privacy-preserving approach is common in modern digital identity systems, and Google appears to be following that standard.

The update also benefits businesses that need to verify ages. Instead of relying on physical IDs that can be forged or misplaced, merchants can potentially scan a barcode or QR code from Google Wallet. The verification is done securely, and the user's sensitive data is not shared unnecessarily. This could speed up entry at age-restricted venues and reduce the burden on staff manually checking IDs.

Play Store and WebView improvements

Google Play Store v52.8 is rolling out with a redesigned navigation bar on home pages. The new navigation makes it easier to jump into tailored topic categories and interests. For users who find app discovery overwhelming, the refreshed layout could reduce the time spent scrolling. The categories are likely based on previously downloaded apps, search history, and trending content, allowing the Play Store to act more like a personalized app portal than a generic directory.

Android WebView v152 brings security and privacy patches along with new developer tools for web-rendered content inside apps. WebView is a critical component for many third-party apps that display web content without launching a full browser. This update is essential for performance and security, especially for hybrid apps that rely on embedded web pages. Developers will also gain new tools to debug and monitor web content, which is particularly useful for apps that use WebView for rich media, payment forms, or interactive articles.

WebView updates are often overlooked but they are vital to the Android ecosystem. Because WebView is used by thousands of apps, a single vulnerability can have a huge impact. Google regularly pushes WebView updates through Play Services, and v152 is no exception. The inclusion of new developer tools suggests that Google is also thinking about the developer experience, not just end-user security.

What this means for Google's ecosystem strategy

The timing of this Play Services update is notable. Google has been increasingly focused on creating a connected hardware ecosystem, much like Apple's Continuity features that allow seamless handoff between iPhone, iPad, and Mac. With Android already powering billions of devices, extending its cross-device capabilities to PCs could give Google a distinct advantage.

Googlebooks has been long anticipated by enthusiasts, with reports of partnerships with OEMs and belief that it could either complement or eventually replace ChromeOS. While ChromeOS has dominated education and low-cost laptops, Googlebooks could aim for a more premium, consumer-friendly experience that integrates tightly with Android apps and services. The Play Services update reinforces the idea that Googlebooks will not be a standalone experiment but a key part of Google's multi-device ecosystem.

The inclusion of Quick Start for PCs is particularly strategic. Many users find setting up a new laptop cumbersome, with account connections, sync configuration, and installing updates. Using an Android phone as a setup companion removes friction and makes the ecosystem feel more cohesive. This is a well-known onboarding flow from other platforms, and Google is clearly trying to replicate that ease for its own hardware.

Multi-device features in the setup wizard also suggest that Googlebooks won't just be a standalone device. Instead, it will be positioned as an extension of the phone in your pocket. We can expect features like notifications mirroring, file sharing, and maybe even app streaming to take advantage of this connection. The experimental beta toggle in cross-device settings hints that Google is willing to iterate quickly and let users help shape the experience.

Implications for Android users

While this update is aimed at future Googlebooks owners, existing Android users also benefit. Tap to Share's expansion works with current Pixel devices, as long as both devices have the latest Play Services. Wear OS users will gain location controls on their watches, and Android users will eventually see Wallet age credentials appear when checking out.

These incremental updates are part of Google's larger playbook. Rather than announcing one massive feature, the company steadily improves underlying services. This approach ensures that features are tested and refined before they become mainstream. It also means that Android users are often receiving new capabilities without needing to buy new hardware.

For developers, the Play Services update is a reminder that Google's ecosystem is constantly evolving. The addition of cross-device APIs and WebView tools gives developers more ways to build connected experiences. As Googlebooks approaches, developers will likely be encouraged to adopt multi-device features in their own apps, similar to how they've been nudged to support wearables, tablets, and foldables.

The rollout

As with most Play Services updates, this rollout is staged. Not all devices will see v26.32 immediately. Users can check their device settings under Google Play Services or wait for the automatic update to arrive in the coming days. The related app updates — Play Store v52.8 and WebView v152 — are similarly rolling out in phases.

Google's server-side updates are also an important part of this process. Some features may not be visible right after installing the Play Services update because Google can toggle them remotely. This means that even if your device is running v26.32, some of the new capabilities could appear gradually over the next several days. That is standard practice for Google's Play system to ensure stability and to avoid overwhelming users with too many instant changes.

The August 2026 Play Services update may not be the flashiest announcement, but it is one of the most strategically important in recent months. It reinforces Google's ambition to make Android more than a phone operating system, expanding its reach to PCs, wearables, and identity verification. With Googlebooks on the horizon and cross-device tools maturing, the line between Android phone and Android-powered laptop is becoming increasingly blurred.

Source: Android Authority News

What's New in Gboard Beta?

The latest version of Gboard, v18.0.3.954559732-beta-arm64-v8a, contains code for a new dismiss button. This button appears as a cross icon that can be placed next to clipboard suggestions. It can also appear alongside the undo and redo buttons that show up in the top bar. When tapped, this button would dismiss the corresponding suggestion, saving you from having to type a character just to clear it away.

This is a small but meaningful addition. Many users have complained for years about not being able to manually dismiss suggestions without interacting with the text field. Typing a space or a letter just to make the suggestion disappear is a workaround, but it is clunky and interrupts the flow of writing. A dedicated dismiss button makes the process intuitive and quick.

How Clipboard Suggestions Work Now

Gboard's clipboard suggestion feature is designed to help you paste recently copied text without going into the clipboard manager. When you copy something, the keyboard remembers it and may show the snippet in the suggestion bar. This can be handy if you frequently paste the same address, code, or phrase. But it can also be annoying if you copied something sensitive, irrelevant, or simply don't need to paste it.

Currently, if you want to remove a clipboard suggestion from the top bar, you have to type something in the text field. This triggers a change in the keyboard's state, causing the suggestion to disappear. However, this is not a permanent dismissal. The suggestion may reappear later. With the new dismiss button, you can explicitly dismiss a suggestion, which should offer a more reliable and consistent way to keep the top bar clean.

Undo and Redo Buttons Also Get Dismissal

The same dismiss button is also being tested for the undo and redo buttons that appear in Gboard's top bar. These buttons are useful when you make a mistake and want to revert your last action, but they can also clutter the interface if you rarely use them. Being able to dismiss them gives users more control over their keyboard layout and the amount of on-screen clutter.

It is worth noting that this is an APK teardown finding. This means the feature exists in the beta code but may not be fully functional or may change before the final release. Google often tests features in beta and then decides whether to roll them out to the stable version. Some features disappear after testing, so there is no guarantee this dismiss button will make it to everyone.

Why This Matters for User Experience

Keyboard apps are central to the smartphone experience. Every time you type, the keyboard is right there, taking up a significant portion of the screen. The suggestion bar adds another layer of information, but when it is not useful, it becomes noise. A dismiss button is a small gesture toward giving users more control over their interface.

This change is especially relevant for users who rely on Gboard for work or communication. Clipboard suggestions can be useful in some situations, but they can also expose private information. If you copy a password, bank account number, or other sensitive data, the last thing you want is for that snippet to appear in the suggestion bar of a chat window. The dismiss button gives you a quick way to clear it, though you should still be careful about what you copy and paste.

From a design perspective, the dismiss button aligns with modern UX principles. Instead of forcing users to work around a feature they don't want, the app gives them an explicit way to opt out. This respects user agency and reduces frustration. It is the kind of small improvement that can make a big difference in daily usability.

Background: Gboard's Evolution

Gboard was launched in 2016 as Google's official keyboard for Android. It quickly gained popularity due to its fast typing experience, Google Search integration, GIF support, and emoji suggestions. Over the years, Google has added many features, including Google Translate, voice typing, and a robust clipboard manager. The clipboard manager itself was a major addition, allowing users to store multiple copied items and pin important ones.

The suggestion bar has evolved alongside these features. It now shows not only text suggestions but also actions, media, and shortcuts. With so many possible suggestions, Gboard has to decide what to show you at any given time. Sometimes it gets it right, and sometimes it doesn't. The dismiss button is a step towards letting users correct those decisions manually.

Historically, Android keyboards have not given users much control over suggestion bars. Apple's QuickType bar on iOS also offers suggestions and predictive text, but it does not have a simple dismiss button for individual suggestions either. This puts Gboard in a position to lead in customization and user control.

How It Works in the Beta

According to the teardown, the dismiss button is represented by a cross icon. When it appears, it is likely to be placed at the end of the suggestion or as a separate button near the suggestion. Tapping the cross would hide the suggestion. This is similar to how Google Chrome clears suggestions from its address bar or how many apps allow users to dismiss notification cards.

The feature seems to be fully built in the beta, which suggests it may not be far from a public release. However, Google often rolls out features in stages to ensure stability. It is possible that the dismiss button will be enabled for a small percentage of users first, then gradually expanded. This is a common practice for Android features.

The Problem with Current Dismissal Methods

As noted, the only way to dismiss suggestions right now is to type. This is inconvenient because it changes the content of the text field. If you are in a chat and you just copied something, typing a random character to dismiss the suggestion means you then have to delete that character. If you are in a form or an email, you might accidentally submit something unwanted. The new dismiss button eliminates this risk entirely.

Another issue is that typing to dismiss does not work for all suggestions. Some suggestions, like undo and redo, are not triggered by the text field in the same way. They appear based on the current state of the text field and your last actions. Typing a character may change the state, but it does not necessarily make those buttons disappear. So the new dismiss button could be the only reliable way to hide them.

For users who frequently use Gboard's clipboard suggestions as a quick-paste tool, the dismiss button is not likely to interfere with their workflow. You can still tap the suggestion to paste it. The dismiss button is an additional action, so it won't slow down those who want to use the suggestion.

Potential Impact on Productivity

In a world where we are constantly typing on our phones, any reduction in friction is welcome. The dismiss button can save a few seconds each time you encounter an unwanted suggestion. Over the course of a day, those seconds add up. More importantly, it removes the feeling of being at the mercy of the keyboard's algorithms.

It also improves the visual cleanliness of the keyboard interface. The top bar will only show what you want to see, at least after you dismiss the suggestions you don't want. This can make Gboard feel more minimal and less distracting. For users who prefer a clean typing experience, that is a significant benefit.

Comparison with Other Keyboards

Other popular Android keyboards, such as Samsung Keyboard, SwiftKey, and Grammarly Keyboard, have their own versions of suggestion bars. Some allow you to hide the suggestion bar entirely in settings, but few offer per-suggestion dismissal. Gboard's approach, if implemented well, could set a new standard.

Hiding the entire suggestion bar is a blunt tool. It removes all suggestions, including useful predictive text and undo/redo. The dismiss button is more surgical. It lets you keep the suggestion bar but remove only the items you don't need at that moment. This is a better user experience for people who like suggestions in general but occasionally encounter unwanted ones.

What Could Come Next

The dismiss button might be just the beginning. Google could later add a long-press gesture to dismiss suggestions or allow users to turn off specific suggestion types in the settings. The code for the dismiss button suggests that Google is actively thinking about how to improve the suggestion bar. We might also see related features in future beta releases.

It is also possible that the dismiss button will be accompanied by a setting to disable certain suggestions entirely. For example, you might be able to turn off clipboard suggestions altogether while keeping other suggestions active. That would be a welcome addition for users who never want their clipboard contents to appear in the top bar.

Until then, the dismiss button is a promising sign. It shows that Google is listening to user feedback and working on usability improvements. It is not a flashy feature, but it is the kind of change that makes a product feel more polished and user-friendly.

As with any APK teardown, there is uncertainty about whether the feature will ship. But the fact that it appears to be fully built is encouraging. If everything goes according to plan, you might soon be able to tap a tiny cross and make that clipboard suggestion go away for good.

Source: Android Authority News

The feature was spotted in a beta version of Gboard for Android. In version 18.0.3.954559732-beta-arm64-v8a, Google appears to be preparing an animation that triggers when a person types especially quickly. The effect shows moving lines across the keyboard, almost like a depiction of the keyboard entering hyperspace. It is a subtle but striking visual cue that could make fast typing feel even more rewarding.

What Is the New Gboard Animation?

The animation is designed to appear only during high-speed typing. The moving-line effect might remind some users of the light streaks seen in science-fiction films when a ship jumps to warp speed. The keyboard itself seems to remain fully functional, but the background or surrounding area displays a dynamic set of zooming lines that reinforce the sense of momentum. The visual is meant to convey that the user has reached a speed threshold that Gboard recognizes as noteworthy.

This is not the first time Gboard has experimented with playful or functional animations. The keyboard already includes haptic feedback, glide trails, and other subtle motion effects to make typing feel more responsive. However, a dedicated animation for speed is a different idea. It turns a practical action into a small celebration, rewarding users who are especially fast and possibly encouraging others to type faster.

How Was the Feature Discovered?

The information comes from an APK teardown, a process in which someone decompiles an app's installation file to look for code and resources that may hint at future features. A teardown does not guarantee that a feature will be released, but it is a useful way to see what a developer is experimenting with. In this case, the animation was found in the beta version of Gboard, which means it is in active development but not necessarily ready for a public rollout.

APK teardowns have revealed many Gboard features in the past. They are especially common in the Android community because app updates are often distributed in beta form before a wider release. Users who install the beta version get an early look at new functionality, and developers can receive feedback before the features reach the stable channel. The presence of the animation in a beta build suggests that Google is at least testing the idea internally.

What We Still Don't Know

Several questions remain about the new Gboard animation. Google has not announced an exact typing speed threshold that must be crossed to activate it. It could be a relatively low bar, such as 40 words per minute, or it could be much higher. The animation might also require sustained speed over a short interval rather than a single quick burst. Without official documentation or a comment from Google, the exact conditions are unknown.

There is also no word on whether the animation can be toggled on or off. Some users enjoy visual effects and would welcome the feature, while others might find it distracting. Gboard already offers a wide range of settings for themes, haptic feedback, and sound, so a new toggle would fit the app's existing design. However, the code discovered so far does not reveal whether a setting will be included.

Another open question is whether the animation will have a specific name. The original description references the phrase "Ludicrous Speed," which is a humorous nod to a famous sci-fi comedy film. If Google embraces that idea, the feature could be branded with a playful name. But it could also ship with a more practical label, such as "Speed lines" or "Fast typing animation."

Why a Speed Celebration Makes Sense

For many people, typing on a smartphone is a daily activity. Messages, emails, notes, and search queries all require text input, and speed matters. A person who can type quickly on a mobile keyboard can save significant time over the course of a day. But speed is not just practical; it can also be satisfying. The feeling of your fingers moving rapidly and accurately across the glass is a kind of flow state. It is easy to see why Google would want to acknowledge that experience with a visual flourish.

Typing speed on mobile devices has increased over the years thanks to better autocorrect, swipe gestures, and predictive text. Gboard has been a leader in this area, offering multiple input methods so users can choose the style that works best for them. Some people tap with two thumbs, while others swipe continuously across the keyboard. The new animation could appeal to both groups as long as their input speed is high enough.

In addition, a well-designed animation can provide immediate feedback. People generally respond well to positive reinforcement, and a small visual celebration after a fast burst of typing might help users feel more engaged. It could even become a friendly challenge among friends who use Gboard: can you type fast enough to see the zoom lines? That kind of organic sharing is often valuable for a consumer product.

How Gboard Has Evolved

Gboard has come a long way since its release. It includes Google Search integration, GIF support, translation, one-handed mode, and many other tools. The keyboard is available for both Android and iOS, and it has become one of the most popular virtual keyboards in the world. Google regularly adds new features based on user feedback and internal research. The company has also introduced accessibility features, such as voice typing and braille support, to help a wider range of people communicate.

Animations are an important part of the Gboard experience. The keyboard already uses motion to show when a key is pressed, when a word is selected, and when the keyboard opens or closes. These animations are designed to feel smooth and natural, not distracting. The new hyperspeed animation would fit into this pattern by adding a rare, special effect that only appears under certain conditions. That rarity could make it feel more like an Easter egg than a standard feature.

Google has also worked to make Gboard faster in general. Performance improvements in recent versions have reduced the time it takes for the keyboard to appear after a user taps a text field. The company has also improved the accuracy of its predictive models and the reliability of its swipe gesture recognition. A speed-based animation would be a natural extension of this focus on fast and fluid input.

The Role of Beta Testing

Because the animation was found in a beta build, it is likely that Google is still refining the details. It might appear in a future Gboard update that has been prepared for a stable release. The timeframe is uncertain, since some features remain in beta for several months before being widely distributed. Google could also decide to cancel the animation if internal testing reveals performance issues or if it does not have a positive user response. Beta features often change significantly before launch, and some are removed entirely.

Users who are interested in seeing the animation can install the Gboard beta version from the Google Play Store, but they should be prepared for changes and potential bugs. Beta versions are generally less stable than public releases, so they are not recommended for people who rely heavily on their keyboard for critical tasks. For those who enjoy testing new features, the beta is an excellent way to experience Gboard's latest developments early.

What This Means for Gboard Users

The possible arrival of a hyperspeed animation is not a major functional change, but it is a charming detail that emphasizes the fun side of mobile typing. It suggests that the Gboard team is thinking about the emotional experience of using a keyboard, not just the technical aspects. A small animation might seem trivial compared to a new language model or a better autocorrect engine, but small touches are often what make an app feel special.

For now, the exact trigger condition and the official status of the feature remain unconfirmed. There is also no information about whether the animation will be available in all countries, on all Android devices, or only in specific Gboard versions. As with any beta feature, the final implementation could differ from what the teardown uncovered. Google could refine the speed threshold, change the animation style, or add a setting that lets users decide whether they want to see it at all.

Until Google makes an official announcement, the hyperspeed animation remains a fun glimpse of what the team is exploring. It speaks to the broader idea that even the most ordinary actions, like typing on a keyboard, can be turned into a delightful experience. Whether it arrives in the next update or much later, the fact that Google is considering a speed celebration is a sign that the company still cares about the small moments of joy in everyday technology use. Keep an eye on Gboard updates, and maybe start working on your typing speed while you wait.

Source: Android Authority News

What is Connectivity health?

The Connectivity health option will appear in the Network & internet settings on Pixel phones. When tapped, it will show whether the system has detected any problems with Wi-Fi, mobile data, or calls. This gives users a single entry point to assess the overall health of their phone’s connectivity, rather than having to manually troubleshoot each issue individually.

Once the feature is fully rolled out, users will see dedicated sections for “Mobile data diagnostics,” “Call diagnostics,” and “Wi-Fi diagnostics.” Each section is designed to run specific tests and provide recommendations based on what the system finds. The ultimate goal is to guide users through step-by-step troubleshooting, similar to how existing Pixel diagnostic tools work for touch, battery, and Bluetooth problems.

How mobile data diagnostics works

According to the early code and screenshots, Mobile data diagnostics will let users check their data connectivity and speed. It will also offer recommendations to improve cellular data connectivity. For example, the system might suggest setting Private DNS to “off” or “automatic.” These suggestions are likely meant to eliminate common configuration issues that can interfere with data connections.

After the diagnostic process is complete, the feature will generate a report of all settings that were changed during troubleshooting. This transparency helps users understand what was altered and allows them to revert if necessary. Once everything is resolved, the Connectivity health option will display a “Normal” status, giving immediate peace of mind.

Call diagnostics and Wi-Fi diagnostics

Call diagnostics and Wi-Fi diagnostics are also expected to work in a similar way. Call diagnostics will help users identify issues with incoming and outgoing calls, which could involve problems with the network signal, carrier settings, or even hardware. Wi-Fi diagnostics will allow users to test their Wi-Fi connection, including signal strength, interference, and configuration problems.

However, based on the teardown, these two features are not fully ready yet. Only the initial screens were visible, and the actual troubleshooting steps had not been implemented. This suggests Google is still ironing out the details, and users may have to wait a bit longer before they can use all three diagnostic tools.

The evolution of Pixel diagnostics

Google has been steadily expanding the diagnostic capabilities of Pixel devices over the years. Earlier models introduced built-in tests for battery health, screen color, touch responsiveness, and even USB ports. The addition of a dedicated Connectivity health feature is a logical next step, especially considering how essential reliable mobile data, calls, and Wi-Fi are to daily phone use.

In fact, one could argue that Pixel devices could have benefited from such a feature a couple of years ago. Many users have reported intermittent connectivity issues on various Pixel models, some of which were later fixed through software updates. Having a direct diagnostic tool would have allowed users to identify the source of the problem more quickly, and potentially avoid unnecessary trips to repair centers.

How the feature fits into Google’s broader support ecosystem

Connectivity health is not an isolated development. Google has been building a comprehensive support ecosystem for Pixel devices, which includes the Pixel Troubleshooting app, interactive service guides, and even remote support options. These tools are designed to reduce the strain on customer support and empower users to solve common problems on their own.

The new diagnostic features align with this philosophy. Instead of searching through forums or waiting for a support representative, users can simply open the Network & internet settings and run a diagnostic test. The system will handle the heavy lifting by detecting anomalies and offering clear, actionable steps.

What this means for Pixel users

If the feature rolls out as expected, it could significantly improve the user experience for Pixel owners. Many connectivity issues are caused by simple settings misconfigurations or temporary glitches. With Connectivity health, users can quickly check whether their phone detects a problem and follow guided steps to fix it. This is especially useful for less tech-savvy users who might otherwise be unable to diagnose the issue.

Moreover, the generation of a report after mobile data diagnostics provides a useful record. Users can share this report with support teams if the problem persists, making it easier for technicians to understand what has already been attempted. This could streamline the support process and lead to faster resolutions.

Potential limitations and considerations

It is important to note that diagnostic tools are not silver bullets. While they can identify common issues, they may not be able to detect every possible cause of a connectivity problem. For instance, network outages or carrier-side problems are outside the control of the phone and may not be fully reflected in the diagnostics. Similarly, hardware failures that are not tied to software settings may require physical inspection.

Additionally, the feature is still under development, and Google could change or delay it at any time. APK teardowns are based on work-in-progress code, so there is no guarantee that the feature will make it to a public release. However, given that Google has invested time in building multiple diagnostic tools, it is highly likely that Connectivity health will eventually be available to users.

The role of software updates and carrier collaboration

Connectivity issues on Pixel devices are often resolved through software updates that optimize modem behavior, radio frequency management, and network selection. Google works closely with carriers and chipset manufacturers to refine these systems. The new Connectivity health feature could also provide valuable data to Google about recurring problems, helping the company prioritize fixes in future updates.

For now, the feature appears to be in early stages. The presence of only the initial screens for Call diagnostics and Wi-Fi diagnostics suggests that Google is still developing the underlying logic and troubleshooting steps. It is possible that the full feature will be introduced in a future Pixel Drop or a new version of the Pixel Troubleshooting app.

How to keep an eye on the feature

Pixel users interested in the Connectivity health feature should keep their devices updated and watch for new versions of the Pixel Troubleshooting app. Google often rolls out such features gradually, sometimes through server-side updates, so even the latest app version may not show the option immediately. Users can also check the Play Store for app updates and review settings periodically to see if the new menu appears.

In the meantime, users can continue using existing diagnostics for other components, and for connectivity problems, they can manually check basic settings like Airplane mode, Wi-Fi forgetting and reconnecting, and ensuring that the SIM card is properly inserted. Once Connectivity health arrives, these manual steps may become a thing of the past for many common scenarios.

The development of this feature is an encouraging sign that Google remains committed to improving the reliability and user experience of Pixel devices. By giving users more control and insight into their device’s connectivity, Google is helping to demystify a common area of frustration. As more details emerge, we will likely see how the feature evolves and whether it fulfills its potential to make network troubleshooting a more seamless process.

Source: Android Authority News

From basic warnings to a persistent timeline

The Mobile Network Security feature in Android 16 was a notable step forward. It gave Pixel users a way to receive Network notifications that would alert them in real time when they connected to an unencrypted network or to a potential stingray, a fake base station designed to intercept mobile traffic. The interface was simple, and the warnings appeared as heads-up notifications that could be dismissed quickly. However, the transient nature of those notifications made them easy to miss, especially for users who were not actively paying attention to their phones.

Android 17 QPR 2 Beta 3 addresses this issue by introducing a SIM security timeline. This new component maintains a persistent, timestamped log of modem-detected security events. If a rogue cell tower or compromised network attempts to record the device's unique IMEI or IMSI identifiers, the event is saved to the timeline. Users who have multiple active SIMs can filter these logs by individual cards, making it easier to see exactly which carrier line was targeted and when.

The timeline is more than just a notification center. It functions as an audit log, giving privacy-conscious users a way to review what their modem has encountered over time. This is especially useful for people who travel frequently or who visit areas with questionable cellular infrastructure. Instead of relying on a fleeting alert, users can now look back at a history of security events and identify patterns that might indicate ongoing surveillance or repeated attacks.

Understanding the SIM security timeline

The SIM security timeline is designed to work alongside the existing Mobile Network Security settings. In the beta, the feature appears within the mobile network security menu, near the 2G network protection toggle. Users can open the timeline to view events recorded by the modem, and each event is marked with a timestamp. The log includes attempted access to identifiers such as IMEI, which identifies the hardware, and IMSI, which identifies the subscriber. These identifiers are highly sensitive, and rogue base stations often try to harvest them in order to track a user's movements or clone a SIM identity.

The ability to filter by SIM is another important addition. Many modern Android devices support two SIMs, whether through physical cards or eSIM profiles. A security event on one line may be unrelated to the other, and the filter allows users to isolate the relevant card. This can help with troubleshooting and also provides a clearer picture of which carrier network is behaving suspiciously.

Cipher encryption details at a glance

Another new element in Android 17 QPR 2 Beta 3 is the SIM security information option. This appears above the 2G network protection toggle and shows the name of the active network, such as BSNL MOBILE in a recent example. Tapping on this option opens a page that provides an overview of encryption ciphers for the current connection over that SIM. The page description notes that if a connection using a certain network generation was never established, ciphers may be missing.

The information shown on this page depends on the type of connection. It can display ciphers for:

• Calls & SMS (CS)
• Call initiation (SIP)
• Call data (RTP)
• Data authentication (NAS)
• Data (PS)
• Data transfer (AS)
• Emergency call data (RTP)
• Emergency call initiation (SIP)

These abbreviations correspond to the different protocols and network layers that a mobile phone uses to make calls, send messages, and connect to the internet. CS stands for circuit-switched, which is the traditional path for cellular calls and SMS. SIP, or Session Initiation Protocol, is used to set up voice calls. RTP, or Real-time Transport Protocol, carries the actual voice data. NAS, or Non-Access Stratum, handles signaling between the device and the core network. PS stands for packet-switched, the modern data path. AS, or Access Stratum, manages the connection between the device and the radio network. Understanding these layers can help users see whether their connection is properly encrypted or whether it is relying on an older, weaker cipher.

This level of detail is rare in consumer operating systems. Most users never see the encryption algorithms that protect their calls and data, and even security researchers often have to use specialized tools to extract this information. By putting cipher details directly in the system settings, Google is giving users a way to verify that their connection is using strong encryption. It also creates an opportunity for users to spot weak ciphers that might indicate a downgrade attack or a suspicious network configuration.

New alerts for a wider range of attacks

Beyond the timeline and cipher details, the beta contains evidence that Google is preparing a new set of granular network notifications. Strings within the beta reveal warnings for several specific types of cellular threats. These include:

• Downgrade attacks: Forcing devices onto older 2G/3G/4G protocols to bypass encryption.
• Imprisonment attacks: Trapping a device in connection loops to cut off legitimate carriers.
• Denial-of-Service (DoS) and jamming attacks: Flooding frequency or signaling channels to disrupt reception.
• Location tracking attacks: Exploiting cellular protocols to secretly triangulate a device's position.
• Unauthenticated SMS and emergency alerts: Spoofed local broadcasts that are not sent by the carrier.

These categories address some of the most common techniques used by malicious actors and surveillance equipment. Downgrade attacks, for example, force a phone to fall back to older network generations like 2G or 3G, which lack the strong encryption of modern 4G and 5G connections. Once the device is downgraded, an attacker can intercept calls and messages with minimal effort. Jamming and DoS attacks disrupt service by overwhelming the radio spectrum or signaling channels, which can leave users without connectivity during critical moments. Location tracking attacks can exploit cellular protocols to determine a device's position without the user's consent.

The new strings that hint at these notifications are straightforward. They include labels such as Downgrade attack, DOS attack, Imprisonment attack, Jamming attack, Location tracking attack, Unauthenticated emergency message, and Unauthenticated SMS. These labels suggest that Android will be able to surface targeted warnings when one of these attack types is detected, rather than relying on a generic network security alert.

Why cellular security matters

Cellular networks have historically been a weak point in mobile security. SS7, the signaling protocol used by telecom operators for decades, is known to have serious vulnerabilities that allow attackers to intercept calls and texts. More recent protocols like Diameter have their own flaws. At the same time, the proliferation of fake base stations, often called stingrays or IMSI catchers, has made it possible for law enforcement and private actors to track phones and collect data without the cooperation of mobile carriers.

These devices work by impersonating a legitimate cell tower. A phone will attempt to connect to the strongest available signal, and a stingray can broadcast a signal that appears to be from a trusted carrier. Once the phone connects, the stingray can force it onto a weaker encryption protocol or none at all, allowing the attacker to capture identifiers, intercept communications, or inject messages. The threat is particularly serious for journalists, activists, and other people who may be targeted for surveillance, but ordinary users are also at risk in crowded areas or at borders.

Android's Mobile Network Security feature was designed to mitigate some of these risks by detecting suspicious network characteristics and alerting the user. The Android 17 QPR 2 Beta 3 update builds on that foundation by making the warnings more useful and more persistent. The SIM security timeline gives users a historical record, while the cipher information makes it easier to understand the encryption status of the current connection. The expanded set of alerts also means that users are more likely to see a specific message about the type of attack they are facing, rather than a vague warning that something is wrong.

Limitations and expectations

It is important to note that this article is based on an APK teardown and early beta code. Features that appear in a beta build do not always make it to a public release. Google may change the behavior of these features, rename them, or remove them entirely before the final version of Android 17 QPR 2 is released. Nevertheless, the presence of these strings and user interface elements in the beta indicates that the company is actively working on this area of the operating system.

The effectiveness of these new features will depend on the underlying modem firmware and the device's ability to detect the attacks. Android can provide the user interface and the notification system, but the modem must be able to identify suspicious signaling, rogue base stations, and encryption downgrades. Google works closely with silicon vendors to implement these checks, and the level of protection may vary from device to device. Pixel devices, which run the software first, are likely to have the most complete implementation.

Another limitation is that no security feature can protect against every possible attack. A sophisticated adversary with physical access to a device or with control over a legitimate carrier's infrastructure could still find ways to intercept data. However, the new tools in Android 17 QPR 2 Beta 3 raise the bar by giving users more visibility into what is happening at the modem level and making it easier to detect anomalies that would otherwise go unnoticed.

As Android 17 continues to evolve, the mobile network security suite is becoming a more mature and comprehensive feature. The addition of a SIM security timeline, cipher details, and targeted attack notifications reflects a broader effort by Google to treat cellular security as a first-class concern. For users who want to understand the threats facing their devices and who value transparency about network connections, the beta offers a compelling preview of what's coming.

Source: Android Authority News

Watermarking has become a familiar idea in the AI industry. Google and OpenAI already use SynthID watermarks for images generated by their AI models. That system lets people check whether a shared picture was created by an AI rather than captured by a camera or edited by hand. Text, however, has always presented a harder problem. Unlike images, which can carry invisible patterns in pixels, text is made of discrete words and punctuation marks. Changing even one word can alter meaning, and adding hidden characters can break formatting or be stripped out by tools.

Anthropic says its new watermarking system for Claude is based on SynthID-Text, a solution published by Google DeepMind. It is not something readers will notice. The company says the watermark has no practical impact on the content or quality of generated text, does not introduce hidden characters, does not require extra tokens, and cannot be traced back to a specific person, organization, or chat session. That last point is important for privacy, because it means watermarking is not a way to identify who prompted a particular piece of text.

How Claude decides which words to use

To understand how the watermark works, it helps to know how large language models generate text. AI models like Claude produce text one word at a time, and each new word is chosen based on the words that came before it. The model assigns probabilities to a list of possible next words, then picks one. In many cases, there is an obvious choice. In other cases, several words might fit equally well.

Anthropic uses a simple example: "The weather today was cold and..." The next word is unlikely to be "sugary," because that would not make sense. It could be "overcast" or "grey," though. Both are reasonable, and most readers would not care which one the model chooses. These are the low-stakes decisions that make watermarking possible.

The company says that when watermarking is enabled, Claude still chooses randomly between words, but the source of that randomness is different. Instead of using the normal random process, it uses a random number that is related to a secret key. The result is a pattern spread across the entire piece of text. That pattern looks normal to a human reader, but anyone with the key can detect it.

Anthropic clarifies that Claude does not lean toward a particular word to create the watermark. The watermarking system does not force the model to consider a word it would not have considered before. It simply changes how a random choice is made among words that are already plausible. That is why the quality of the output remains the same.

What the watermark does and does not reveal

One of the most important details in Anthropic's explanation is that the watermark is not a universal AI detector. It can only answer one question: What is the likelihood this was partly written by Claude? It does not confirm whether text was written by a human. It also cannot tell whether the text was written by a different AI model, even if that model uses the same watermarking technique. Other AI systems would use different keys and possibly different methods altogether.

That means a piece of text generated by ChatGPT or Gemini would not be detected by Claude's watermark system. Conversely, if someone uses Claude and then edits the text heavily, the watermark might become harder to detect. The system is also not effective on very short passages. With fewer word choices, there is less information for the pattern to work with. As a passage grows longer, however, confidence in whether Claude wrote it also increases.

Where watermarking struggles

Anthropic also acknowledged that watermarking is less effective in certain types of text. Factual passages, for example, offer fewer opportunities for low-stakes choices. The company gives the example of the sentence "Isaac Newton's most famous work was called Principia..." The only accurate continuation is "Mathematica." There is no random choice to exploit, so no watermark can be embedded in that portion of text.

The same limitation applies when Claude is asked to proofread a user's own writing. The watermark will only appear in the corrections Claude makes, such as changes to punctuation or grammar. The original text written by the user remains unwatermarked. This is a sensible limitation, because proofreading should not turn a person's words into AI-generated content.

Generated code is another area with limited watermarking potential. Code often has strict syntax requirements and exact names for functions and variables, leaving little room for the kind of random choices that watermarking depends on. In many cases, there is only one correct way to write a line of code, and a watermark cannot be inserted without breaking it.

The growing push for text provenance

Anthropic's announcement is part of a broader push for provenance in the AI industry. Governments, publishers, and tech companies have all shown interest in ways to label AI-generated content. Images have received much of the attention so far, thanks to SynthID and similar tools. Text is more difficult, but it is also more important in some ways, because text is everywhere: news articles, school essays, product descriptions, social media posts, and more.

Watermarking is not the only approach to text provenance. Some companies have explored adding hidden characters to text, but those can be removed or cause formatting problems. Others have proposed using classifiers that analyze the statistical properties of text, but those can be unreliable and are often fooled by edits. Watermarking based on random word choices is appealing because it does not change the surface text at all. The words are still natural and the meaning is preserved.

There are still challenges. A determined user could ask Claude to translate the text into another language or heavily rewrite it, which would likely destroy the watermark. Paraphrasing tools may also weaken the pattern. Anthropic does not claim that watermarking is a silver bullet. Instead, it positions the system as one tool in a larger toolkit for understanding where text came from.

What comes next

Anthropic says it will soon offer a watermark detection API that will let developers and platforms check whether text was generated by Claude. That could make it easier for publishers, schools, and social media platforms to integrate Claude text detection into their workflows. The API would presumably accept a piece of text and return a score indicating how likely it is that Claude wrote it, based on the secret key.

The company has not said exactly when the API will be available or whether it will be free for all users. It has also not detailed how the system will handle edits, translations, or other transformations. Those details will matter for real-world adoption, because AI-generated text is rarely left completely untouched.

The move also raises questions about how other AI companies will respond. Google DeepMind published the SynthID-Text research, and Google already uses SynthID for image generation. OpenAI has also adopted SynthID for images. Neither company has announced a text watermarking system as openly as Anthropic has, though research continues. Anthropic's decision to build on SynthID-Text could set a precedent for collaboration across the industry.

For now, Claude's watermarking is best understood as a subtle layer of accountability. It does not interfere with the writing process, it does not expose private information, and it does not pretend to solve every problem. It simply leaves a faint trace that can be checked by someone who has the right key. As AI-generated text becomes more common, that faint trace could become a critical part of how readers verify what they see online.

Source: Android Authority News

What Is Battery Usage Summaries?

According to strings discovered in the latest Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 release, Google is building a feature that will generate a summary of a user's app and battery usage. Instead of just showing a graph of battery drain over time, the feature will provide contextual insights and recommendations. Users will be able to access it via the three-dot menu icon in the Battery Health section of the Settings app. There, they can enable or disable the feature, though it is not yet fully functional. Enabling it currently shows an error message stating, "Device Health services not responding. Check back later."

How It Works

The feature relies on Gemini Nano, Google's lightweight on-device AI model. This means the processing happens locally on the phone, ensuring privacy. Google even highlights this in the feature's description, noting, "Your data stays private and never leaves your device." The summaries will be generated based on the user's activity over the last 14 days. The system will calculate "usual battery life" based on this window, providing a more accurate picture of typical usage patterns.

Critically, the feature will exclude system apps from its analysis. System apps are essential software that can't be disabled, so including them would add noise without offering actionable insights. Instead, summaries will focus solely on apps that the user actively uses. This approach is designed to simplify the information and make it more relevant to the user's daily habits.

Personalized Tips and Feedback

In addition to summarizing battery usage, the feature will provide personalized tips to help users improve battery life. The exact nature of these tips is not yet clear, but they could include suggestions like reducing background activity for certain apps, adjusting screen brightness, or limiting location access.

Users will also be able to provide feedback on the summaries to help Google improve the feature. Positive feedback options include "Accurate," "Insightful," "Easy to understand," and "Useful actions." Negative feedback options include "Inaccurate," "Not insightful," "Hard to understand," "Poor actions," and "Missing information." This feedback loop will be crucial for refining the AI-generated content and ensuring it meets user expectations.

Gemini Nano and Device Compatibility

One of the most significant implications of this feature is its reliance on Gemini Nano. This model is currently supported on Pixel 8 and newer devices, as well as some other flagship Android phones. As a result, older Pixel devices—such as the Pixel 7 and earlier—are unlikely to receive the Battery Usage Summaries feature. This would be a notable distinction, as many users of older Pixel phones still expect timely software updates and new features.

Gemini Nano is part of Google's broader push to bring on-device AI to Android. It powers features like Magic Compose in Messages, Summarization in Recorder, and more. By running AI models locally, Google can offer advanced capabilities without sending sensitive data to the cloud. This not only enhances privacy but also reduces latency and allows features to work offline.

Potential Impact on Battery Health Management

Battery health is a growing concern for smartphone users. As batteries age, their capacity degrades, leading to shorter battery life and potential performance issues. Most phones offer a basic battery usage screen that shows which apps consume the most power, but this data is often presented in a raw, uncompromising format. The Battery Usage Summaries feature aims to change that by offering a more holistic and actionable view.

For example, instead of just seeing that YouTube used 30% of your battery, the feature might explain that YouTube was used for 2 hours of video streaming and suggest reducing video quality or enabling battery saver mode. This type of contextual insight is only possible with the kind of on-device AI that Gemini Nano provides.

How It Compares to Existing Battery Tools

Pixel phones already have a Battery Health section that displays battery capacity and estimated lifespan. However, the new summaries feature goes a step further. It doesn't just tell you the physical health of the battery; it tells you how you're using it and what you can do to get more out of it. This is closer to the kind of features seen on some other Android devices, like Samsung's Device Care, but Google's approach appears to be more deeply integrated with AI.

Samsung offers a "Battery Protection" feature and a battery diagnosis tool, but it doesn't provide AI-generated conversational summaries. Apple's iOS offers a battery health menu with peak performance capability and battery cycle count, but again, it lacks the personalized recommendations that Google is developing. If Google executes this well, it could set a new standard for battery management on Android.

Development Status and Release Timeline

The feature is still in active development. The presence of strings in Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 suggests that Google has already laid the groundwork, but the implementation is incomplete. The error message regarding Device Health services indicates that the backend is not yet fully connected. However, Google may be planning to launch the feature in a future Pixel Drop or with the stable QPR2 build, which is expected to arrive in December.

Android 17 QPR2 is the second quarterly platform release for Android 17. It is being tested on Pixel devices, and the beta program allows users and developers to try new features before they are publicly released. Historically, Google has used QPR releases to introduce features that are not tied to a major Android version update. Battery Usage Summaries could be one of those features.

Privacy and Security Considerations

Given that the feature processes data on-device, privacy concerns are minimal. Google has emphasized that user data never leaves the device, aligning with its broader privacy initiatives. The company has been increasingly focusing on local processing for sensitive features, such as Private Compute Core and on-device speech recognition. This approach could also help Google avoid some of the regulatory scrutiny that comes with cloud-based AI processing.

However, there are still questions about how the feature will handle data from apps that are not downloaded from the Play Store or sideloaded apps. Since the summaries are generated locally, the AI should be able to process data from any app, regardless of its source. This could be a privacy advantage, as the app usage data is not shared with Google servers.

What This Means for Pixel Users

For Pixel users, especially those with newer devices, Battery Usage Summaries could be a valuable addition. It promises to turn battery management from a passive review of graphs into an active, guided experience. The personalized tips could help users extend their battery life without needing to manually dig into app settings. It also reinforces the idea that Google's Pixel devices are the primary platform for showcasing its latest AI innovations.

Still, the success of this feature will depend on the accuracy of the AI-generated insights and the relevance of the tips. If the summaries are vague or generic, they won't add much value. Google's feedback mechanism suggests that the company is open to iterating based on user input, which is a good sign.

The Broader AI Push on Android

Battery Usage Summaries is just one example of how Google is weaving AI into the Android operating system. From adaptive battery and adaptive brightness to the more advanced Gemini-powered features, AI is becoming a core part of the user experience. Google's strategy is to mature these features over time, using on-device models to deliver personalization without compromising privacy.

As AI hardware capabilities continue to improve, we can expect more features like this to emerge. The integration of Gemini Nano into battery management is a natural next step in this evolution. It also demonstrates how AI can be used to solve everyday problems, rather than just powering chatbots or image generators.

While the feature is not yet live, the discovery in the beta firmware gives us a clear picture of what Google has in store. With the stable QPR2 release expected in December, Pixel users may not have to wait long to try it. Until then, we'll keep an eye on further developments in the beta builds and update as soon as more information is available.

Source: Android Authority News

According to the memorandum, the program will be overseen by the Justice Department and the Department of Homeland Security. Companies that wish to participate must undergo a vetting process and receive written approval for each operation. The operations can include surveillance, disruption, manipulation, degradation, or even destruction of computer systems and data belonging to foreign cybercriminal organizations.

This is a significant escalation in the fight against ransomware, fraud, and other cybercrimes targeting American citizens and businesses. Instead of only defending networks and cleaning up after breaches, private cybersecurity firms may soon be authorized to take the fight directly to the attackers.

Key Facts of the New Program

• The US is creating a federal program that lets vetted private companies conduct offensive cyber operations against foreign criminal groups.
• Every operation will require written approval from program directors at the Justice Department and the Department of Homeland Security.
• Participating companies may be required to put up at least $1 million in a bond or escrow account, which could be forfeited if they break the rules.
• The memorandum allows operations that can manipulate, disrupt, degrade, or destroy computer systems and data, as well as surveillance operations that involve secretly accessing systems without the owner's permission.
• Officials have 60 days to establish the operating procedures and precise rulebook for the program.

How the Program Would Work

Under the memorandum, companies participating in the program will not be given unrestricted authority. Each operation must be individually approved by designated directors at the Justice Department and the Department of Homeland Security. The companies will operate under federal supervision, and any deviation from the approved scope could result in severe penalties, including forfeiture of the escrow funds.

The requirement for a $1 million bond or escrow account is intended to ensure accountability. If a company violates the terms of its authorization or causes unintended harm, that money could be seized. This provision acknowledges the high-risk nature of offensive cyber operations and aims to deter reckless behavior.

There are also guardrails to protect American interests. The program is explicitly designed to target foreign criminal groups rather than foreign governments. If an operation accidentally targets a US person or a US-based system, the company must stop immediately and report the incident to federal authorities. This is a critical safeguard given the difficulty of attributing cyber activity with precision.

A Major Policy Shift

For years, the US government has maintained a clear line: private companies can defend against hackers, but they cannot launch offensive attacks. This policy was rooted in concerns about vigilante justice, escalation, and the potential for collateral damage. The new memorandum erases that line, at least for a select group of vetted companies operating under federal oversight.

The shift is driven by the growing scale and sophistication of cybercrime. Ransomware attacks have disrupted hospitals, pipelines, schools, and government agencies, causing billions of dollars in damage. Traditional defense and law enforcement methods have not been enough to deter these criminal groups, many of which operate from countries with weak cyber enforcement or tacit government support.

By empowering private companies to go on the offensive, the US government is acknowledging that the private sector may be better positioned to disrupt criminal networks quickly. These firms often have deep expertise in the tactics, techniques, and procedures used by hackers, as well as access to threat intelligence that government agencies may lack.

Industry Reactions and Concerns

Cybersecurity experts have reacted with a mix of cautious optimism and serious concern. Some view the program as a necessary evolution in the fight against cybercrime, arguing that the current rules give attackers a safe haven. Others worry that the plan is poorly defined and could create legal and diplomatic problems.

Jake Williams, a well-known cybersecurity veteran, described the plan as “half-baked.” He warned that Americans involved in these operations could face legal trouble or accusations from foreign governments when traveling overseas. Because offensive cyber operations may violate the laws of the countries where the targets are located, participating companies and their employees could be exposed to prosecution abroad.

There are also concerns about whether private companies have the discipline and accountability to conduct operations that often require split-second decisions. Unlike government intelligence agencies, which have decades of experience with covert operations and legal review, private firms are driven by profit and may face conflicts of interest.

Historical Context: The Longstanding Ban on Hacking Back

The prohibition on hacking back is not a casual policy; it is deeply embedded in US law and practice. The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, first enacted in 1986, makes it illegal to access computer systems without authorization. While it is primarily used to prosecute hackers, it also applies to victims who attempt to hack back against their attackers.

For years, cybersecurity firms have argued that the law is outdated and leaves victims defenseless. They have pushed for legislation that would allow some form of active defense. However, previous attempts to pass such laws failed due to concerns about escalation, misattribution, and the danger of accidentally harming innocent systems.

The new memorandum bypasses legislation by using executive authority. It creates a pilot program that grants specific authorizations to vetted companies, effectively creating a legal pathway for hacking back that did not exist before. This approach has its own risks, as it could be overturned by a future administration or challenged in court.

The Challenge of Attribution and Collateral Damage

One of the biggest challenges in cyber operations is attribution. It can be extremely difficult to know with certainty who is behind an attack. Criminal groups often hide behind compromised servers, anonymity tools, and infrastructure located in multiple countries. The memorandum requires that operations target foreign criminal groups, but making that determination accurately is no small feat.

If the attribution is wrong, the consequences could be serious. A company might attack systems belonging to an innocent business, a foreign government, or even another US agency. The guardrail requiring immediate notification of any accidental US target is helpful, but the damage may already be done by then.

The memorandum also requires companies to stop operations that accidentally target US persons or systems, but it does not clearly define what happens if a foreign government is accidentally hit. Criminal groups often operate with some degree of impunity in countries where law enforcement is weak or corrupt, and they may use government infrastructure to launch attacks. Navigating these gray zones will be a monumental challenge for the program directors.

Financial and Legal Implications for Participating Companies

Participating in the program will not be cheap or easy. The $1 million escrow requirement is just the beginning. Companies will need to hire lawyers, cyber insurance specialists, and compliance officers to ensure they meet the federal government's standards. They will also need to invest heavily in operational security to protect their own systems from retaliation.

Retaliation is a significant risk. Criminal groups that are attacked by private companies might not simply disappear. They may respond by targeting the company's employees, customers, or infrastructure. The memorandum does not outline how the US government will protect participating companies from such retaliation, leaving a major question mark over the program's viability.

Despite these challenges, some companies are likely to step forward. The program offers an opportunity to shape a new frontier in cybersecurity and to profit from the demand for offensive capabilities. But the risks are substantial, both professionally and personally for the people involved.

What Happens Next

The memorandum gives federal officials 60 days to establish the operating procedures for the program. During this time, the Justice Department and the Department of Homeland Security will need to craft detailed rules on everything from target selection to post-operation reporting. They will also need to determine how companies are vetted and what specific qualifications they must meet.

The program's future will depend on how these rules are written and how effectively they are enforced. If the program can demonstrate that it disrupts cybercrime without causing major incidents, it may become a permanent part of the US cybersecurity strategy. If it fails, it will likely be remembered as a risky experiment that went wrong.

For now, the announcement sends a clear signal to the world: the US government is no longer content to let private cybersecurity companies sit on the defensive. By empowering them to attack foreign criminals, the United States is entering a new era of active cyber defense. The coming months will determine whether that era is defined by success or by cautionary tales.

Source: Android Authority News

The premise is straightforward. Buildings are not simply physical structures; they are information-rich environments. Heating, ventilation, security, occupancy, energy use and even structural performance can be monitored in real time. When this data is connected to digital twins, analytics platforms and AI-driven decision support tools, it can support more efficient maintenance, lower operating costs, reduce emissions and improve the quality of life for residents and workers. For cities, the gains can be reinvested in public services and used to strengthen their resilience to shocks such as heatwaves, floods and power outages.

The panel will focus on the practical ways local authorities can unlock this value. That means addressing not only technology requirements, but also governance, procurement, skills and cybersecurity. It also means building confidence among citizens and applying AI responsibly, ensuring that algorithms do not reinforce existing inequalities. The session is expected to feature a range of urban practitioners and technology specialists who are already applying these methods.

A wider energy and infrastructure conversation

The benefits of combining building data and AI go far beyond the property boundary. A companion strand of the summit will examine how local authorities can shape energy systems through renewables, flexibility, storage and smarter networks. Cities are increasingly becoming active players in the energy transition, from issuing municipal solar schemes to retrofitting public buildings with heat pumps and engaging with grid operators on demand management.

Buildings can become flexible nodes in a local energy system. With smart meters and management systems, they can respond to price signals, shift load away from peak periods, and support grid stability. AI can forecast energy demand at a granular level and coordinate thousands of individual actions across a district. This is especially important as electric vehicles, electric heat and distributed generation change the shape of the urban energy load. Local authorities have a role to play in bringing these elements together, and in ensuring the benefits are accessible to those in fuel poverty or in less energy-efficient homes.

Sunderland’s long-term smart city strategy

The summit will also hear from cities that are already delivering measurable benefits. Sunderland’s smart city programme is a leading example of how long-term connectivity investment, civic leadership and trusted partnerships can turn digital ambition into real impact. Sunderland has developed a fibre network that serves businesses, schools and public buildings, creating a platform for new services in health, mobility and energy. It has also pioneered city-wide IoT and 5G infrastructure, alongside projects focused on low-carbon innovation and community inclusion.

Recent research into the programme shows that the benefits are tangible, covering economic growth, social outcomes and improved public services. But the case of Sunderland also illustrates that technology is only one element. Leadership, patience and collaboration are essential. The city has worked closely with business partners, investment bodies and community groups to ensure that the smart city programme is not just a collection of gadgets, but a long-term approach to local growth.

Leadership in Glasgow and the power of community

The importance of civic leadership in urban transformation is echoed in Glasgow. Susan Aitken, Leader of Glasgow City Council, will soon step down after nine years at the helm. During her tenure, she has described Glasgow as a global superpower of local climate action. Her time in office has been marked by an ambitious climate emergency plan, a focus on community wealth building, and efforts to improve housing and transport.

Aitken has often argued that leadership, courage and community are essential ingredients for a successful green transition. Digital technology and data have an important role, but they must be anchored in the needs of the people they serve. Glasgow has integrated its smart city activity into a broader environmental and social agenda, showing that data and AI can be used not only for efficiency, but also for fairness. Her exit is likely to prompt reflections on how much progress has been made and how much remains to be embedded in the city’s administrative DNA.

Dublin’s digital twin and mobility innovation

Dublin is another city using data and digital tools to transform public services. The city is developing digital twin projects that create virtual replicas of physical assets and urban systems. These models allow planners to test scenarios, predict maintenance needs and improve the quality of the environment. Dublin has also focused on traffic reduction, using data from roads, buses, bikes and pedestrians to inform a more sustainable mobility strategy.

These projects show a shift in how cities approach infrastructure. Instead of managing silos such as roads, parks, water or buildings separately, digital twins allow a more integrated view. Data from different departments can be combined with AI to better understand how one decision in one area affects another. Dublin’s innovation work is also intended to boost economic growth, attracting technology companies and skilled workers to a city that is active in the global smart city market.

Smart lighting and cybersecurity foundations

One of the most visible and rapidly evolving urban assets is the streetlight network. In recent episodes of a series on urban lighting, global experts have discussed how cities are approaching smart lighting and the related cybersecurity risks. Smart lighting is no longer only about energy efficiency; it is increasingly seen as a backbone for sensors, connectivity and public safety applications. But with increased connectivity comes a greater attack surface, so cybersecurity and interoperability must be designed from the start.

The technology and considerations behind converting existing streetlight networks into secure, interoperable and future-proof infrastructure were explored in detail. For many cities, streetlights are among the first assets to be given a digital layer, and their ubiquity makes them an ideal platform for urban IoT sensors. But this also means that cities need to think carefully about procurement, data sharing and vendor lock-in. These lessons apply just as strongly to buildings, energy systems and transport.

AI in transport and the data imperative

In transport, agencies are increasingly turning to AI to improve services. The opportunities, however, are not automatic. According to a technology executive from a global firm contributing to the summit conversation, the greatest potential will be unlocked when agencies have strong data foundations, workforce readiness and responsible governance. Without clean and well-governed data, AI systems cannot provide reliable recommendations. Without training and change management, front-line staff will not trust or use the insights. And without ethical safeguards, cities risk undermining public faith.

These factors are interlinked. Transport has long had access to large amounts of data, from ticket sales to traffic cameras, but this data is often fragmented. The task for cities is to build the pipelines and agreements that allow data to flow securely across agencies, while respecting privacy and security. AI can then be applied to everything from predictive maintenance of rail infrastructure and real-time traffic signal optimisation to passenger information and accessibility planning.

A wider ecosystem of practical solutions

Part of the value of a gathering such as the summit is the diversity of actors who take part. Ecomondo, a major event focused on green innovation, has discussed the priorities shaping healthier, more sustainable cities. Its representatives have noted that a platform like the 2026 summit offers an opportunity to share practical solutions and build new connections, across sectors and national boundaries.

This emphasis on ecosystem building matters because the challenges facing cities are interconnected. Energy, buildings, transportation, water, waste and digital infrastructure cannot be dealt with in isolation. AI and data are the languages through which these sectors can be brought together. But the political and institutional work is equally important. Cities need legal frameworks that support data-sharing, finance models that spread costs over long periods, and procurement rules that reward resilience and sustainability rather than lowest price.

The panel discussion on buildings, data and AI is therefore likely to be more than a technology update. It will be an opportunity to reflect on how cities are rethinking their role: from owners of assets to orchestrators of systems; from users of data to governors of data; from consumers of energy to managers of local energy systems. The key test will be whether they can do so in a way that creates real value for people and places, while preparing for future disruptions.

Through real-world examples in Sunderland, Glasgow, Dublin and elsewhere, the summit points to an emerging model of urban innovation. It is one that relies less on grand one-off demonstrations and more on sustained investment in the foundations of digital and physical infrastructure. It also depends on a willingness to learn from others, to tackle difficult governance questions, and to keep the focus on the public value at stake.

Source: Smart Cities World News

RGIII’s endorsement, shared across his social media channels, immediately ignited a firestorm. While the MVP award has traditionally been won by players on top-seeded teams, Clark’s rookie campaign has been historic in ways that transcend wins and losses. But is it enough to surpass Wilson, who has put together a season for the ages herself? The answer depends on how much weight voters place on narrative, statistical output, and overall impact on the game.

Caitlin Clark's Historic Rookie Season

Clark entered the WNBA after a record-breaking career at Iowa, where she became the all-time leading scorer in NCAA Division I basketball — a mark she achieved with a deep-range shooting style that thrilled audiences. Her transition to the professional ranks was closely scrutinized, and early season struggles drew criticism. But Clark quickly adjusted, and by midseason she was setting rookie records for assists, three-pointers made, and scoring.

The numbers are staggering. Clark averaged over 19 points, 8 rebounds, and nearly 8 assists per game at one point, making her one of only a few players in league history to put up such a balanced stat line. More importantly, her court vision and transformation of the Fever’s offense turned an also-ran franchise into a playoff contender. She also became the fastest player in WNBA history to reach 400 points and 200 assists in a single season, and she broke the league’s single-game assist record with 19 assists in a July matchup against the Dallas Wings.

Beyond the box score, Clark’s ability to stretch defenses with deep three-pointers opened up driving lanes for her teammates. Her basketball IQ is off the charts, often making reads that leave opponents and analysts in awe. In many ways, she has brought a new level of creativity to the WNBA, and her influence at the gate and on television ratings cannot be overstated.

A'ja Wilson's Reign of Dominance

A'ja Wilson has been the gold standard for consistency and power. The two-time MVP (2020, 2022) entered the 2024 season with a chip on her shoulder after being snubbed in the 2023 finals voting. She responded with the best offensive campaign of her career. Wilson finished the regular season averaging a career-high 27 points per game, along with 12 rebounds and 2.2 blocks. She led the league in scoring by a wide margin and carried the Aces while the team dealt with multiple injuries and the suspension of head coach Becky Hammon.

Wilson’s most notable achievement was becoming the first WNBA player to score 1,000 points in a single season. She also set a record with 40+ points in multiple games, including a 42-point explosion against the Chicago Sky. Her mid-range jumper became virtually automatic, and her ability to bully defenders in the post remained unmatched. On defense, she anchored the Aces' interior, serving as a rim-protecting menace and a rebounding machine.

Even in a crowded field of elite talent, Wilson stood out. She was the clear statistical leader in several advanced metrics, including Player Efficiency Rating (PER) and Win Shares. For many traditionalists, the MVP should go to the best player on the best team, and Wilson’s Aces finished with one of the league’s top records. That argument carries tremendous weight.

The Debate Over MVP Criteria

The WNBA MVP is awarded based on regular-season performance, and voters are asked to consider a player’s overall contributions to her team’s success. There is no explicit requirement that the winner come from a top seed, but history shows that most MVPs have led teams to the top two or three records. Wilson, with the Aces' 30-10 record, fits that mold. Clark’s Fever finished around 20-20, earning the sixth seed — not exactly the profile of a conventional MVP.

However, there is precedent for players from lower-seeded teams winning MVP. In 1997, Cynthia Cooper won while her Comets had the best record. But in 2008, Candace Parker won the award as a rookie on the Los Angeles Sparks, who finished fourth. Lisa Leslie also won in 2006 when her Sparks were second. More recently, Breanna Stewart in 2018 and 2023 won with top teams. The closest exception in recent memory is probably Elena Delle Donne in 2019, when the Washington Mystics had the best record anyway.

RGIII’s pick suggests he believes the new criteria should prioritize individual brilliance and narrative. In his social media post, he supposedly highlighted Clark’s rookie status, her assist-to-turnover ratio, and her unique ability to elevate her entire roster. He also pointed out that Clark’s shooting range forces defenses to cover more ground than any player in the league, creating a ripple effect that is hard to quantify.

The Case for Clark

Proponents of Clark argue that no player in the league has faced more defensive attention. She is routinely double-teamed at half-court, and opponents often trap her beyond the three-point line. Yet she still manages to create quality looks for teammates. Her 8+ assists per game are a testament to her passing vision. She led the league in assists for a large portion of the season, and became the first rookie to lead the WNBA in total assists and assists per game.

Clark’s impact is also visible in the Fever’s transformation. In the 2023 season, Indiana finished with a league-worst 13-27 record. With Clark at the helm, they improved to a playoff berth, and their offense jumped from the bottom to the top five. That kind of single-season improvement directly correlates with her presence. Moreover, she brought unprecedented attention to the WNBA, selling out arenas across the country and breaking records for television viewership. Her rookie card and merchandise sales have also skyrocketed, signaling her cultural impact.

From a pure basketball standpoint, Clark’s efficiency improved as the season went on. After a slow shooting start, she finished with a true shooting percentage above league average. She also showed remarkable durability, leading the league in minutes while maintaining her production.

The Case for Wilson

Those who support Wilson counter with a simple regression: she was simply better in nearly every traditional statistical category. Wilson scored more points per game, grabbed more rebounds, blocked more shots, and anchored the league’s best defense. She also did it while playing with a heavier load on both ends of the floor. The Aces, hampered by injuries to key players like Chelsea Gray and Kelsey Plum missing time, relied on Wilson to be their primary option, interior defender, and emotional leader. Without her, they would not have secured home-court advantage throughout the playoffs.

Wilson’s efficiency is also superior. She shot over 50% from the field, while Clark hovered near 42%. She drew more fouls and converted from the free-throw line at a higher rate. Her Player Efficiency Rating (PER) of 35.5 was one of the highest in league history — far above Clark’s PER of around 22. In advanced metrics like Win Shares and Value Over Replacement Player (VORP), Wilson led the league significantly. For voters who value raw output and defensive impact, Wilson is a clear choice.

Wilson also produced in clutch moments. She recorded several game-winning shots and carried the Aces through a stretch when they were missing multiple starters. Her 40-point games were not just statistical padding; they came in competitive matchups where she took over late.

Historical Context: Rookies and MVP

Winning MVP as a rookie is exceedingly rare. In NBA history, only Wilt Chamberlain, Wes Unseld, and more recently, some argue Tom Gola and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the ABA, but in the NBA, only Chamberlain and Unseld achieved it. In the WNBA, only one player has ever won MVP in their rookie year: Candace Parker in 2008. Parker averaged 18.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists, leading the Sparks to a 20-14 record. She beat out Lindsey Harding and teammate Lisa Leslie for the honor.

Clark’s statistical profile is arguably superior to Parker’s rookie season. She averaged more points, assists, and three-pointers, and did so in an era with more parity and higher levels of athleticism. That does not automatically mean she deserves the award, but it shows that the precedent exists. The difference is that Parker’s Sparks finished second in the Western Conference, while Clark’s Fever finished in the middle of the league.

Another factor is that Parker also won the championship that season, though it was the Sparks and they lost in the Finals? Actually, in 2008, the Sparks lost in the Western Conference Finals. But Parker won MVP anyway. So team success is not the sole determinant.

Media and Fan Reactions

RGIII’s comment has split the basketball world. Many fans and analysts, particularly those who have watched Clark’s magnetic effect on the league, agree with him. They argue that Clark’s rookie season is the greatest in WNBA history because she changed the way the game is played. Others, including former players and coaches, have pointed to Wilson’s outstanding numbers as undeniable evidence that she should win her third MVP.

Basketball Twitter erupted with debates. Some fans created custom graphics comparing the two players’ stats. Wilson supporters highlighted her triple-double and scoring records, while Clark fans responded with highlights of her amazing passes and deep threes. The discourse has even reached mainstream sports talk shows, with the WNBA’s growing popularity putting the MVP race as centerpiece discussions.

The final voting, conducted by a panel of sports journalists and broadcasters, will likely be close. Historically, the award has gone to players who combine statistical dominance with team success. Wilson has the edge in both areas, which makes RGIII’s pick more of an upset. But if the voters decide to embrace the new era of basketball’s long-range creativity, Clark could make history.

What Makes a Most Valuable Player?

The core of the debate centers on the definition of "most valuable." Is it the player who contributes the most to her team's winning percentage, or the player who brings the most financial and cultural value to the league? Clark has undoubtedly brought a new audience to the WNBA. Arenas have sold out when the Fever visit, and television ratings have surged. In an era where the league is looking to expand and increase its brand, having a transcendent star like Clark is a tremendous asset.

Wilson, while not as publicized, is the steady engine of a dynasty. Her leadership in Las Vegas has been consistent, and recent star acquisitions like Aces point guard Jackie Young have benefited from her gravity. Wilson demands double teams and commands respect from every defense. Her teammates often say that she makes the game easier for them, much like Clark does, but from the post instead of the perimeter.

If we use the NBA's current model, where players like Nikola Jokic have won MVP with mediocre team records due to sheer advanced stats, then Wilson would be the winner. Jokic won two MVPs and his team was in playoff positions but not necessarily top seeds. His advanced statistics were historically dominant. Wilson's advanced stats are also historically dominant, arguably more so than Clark's. So under the "best stats" argument, Wilson wins.

But if the voters are influenced by the "narrative" factor, as often happens in sports awards (like Tom Brady winning MVPs based on comeback narratives, or Derrick Rose winning MVP in 2011 due to his youth and excitement), then Clark has a compelling case. Her story — the rookie who redefined perimeter play and rescued a franchise — is irresistible.

Basketball Impact Beyond the Box Score

Clark’s impact can be seen in the Fever’s offensive rating. In 2023, Indiana’s offensive rating was around 98.3, which was near the bottom. In 2024, with Clark running the pick-and-roll and creating havoc, their offensive rating increased to over 103.5, which was fourth in the league. That jump is nearly unprecedented for a single player addition. She also helped the Fever set a franchise record for three-pointers in a season, and several players on the team had career-best scoring averages, largely due to the open look created by her penetration and kick-out passes.

Defensively, Wilson’s value is equally profound. The Aces posted a defensive rating near 95.1 when Wilson was on the floor, which would have been the best in the league. Without her, that rating dropped to over 100. Wilson also led the league in Defensive Win Shares, proving her value on that end. Clark’s defense, on the other hand, was often targeted. She racked up steals and showed effort, but her negative defensive rating in certain lineups was a liability. Some analysts have pointed out that Wilson plays on both ends, while Clark primarily affects the offensive side.

RGIII, a former athlete who knows about explosive playmaking, may have been drawn to Clark’s highlight reel style. His selection is not without precedent, as many former players prefer the player who creates the most "wow" moments. However, MVP voting is typically more disciplined, and Wilson’s defensive credentials cannot be ignored.

The Final Stretch

As the regular season concluded, both players delivered exceptional performances. Wilson nailed her 1,000th point in the final game, while Clark finished with a triple-double in her last regular-season appearance, making her only the 7th player in WNBA history to record a triple-double, and the first rookie to do it. Their teams entered the playoffs with different trajectories: the Aces as heavy favorites, and the Fever as a rising threat.

MVP finalists will be announced after the playoffs, though voting is completed before the postseason begins. With the balloting closed, neither player can change the outcome now. All that remains is the speculation, the debates, and the eventual announcement. RGIII has made his choice clear. The panel of voters will now have their say, and the world will see whether they agree with the former Heisman winner.

Source: MSN News

Une enfance marquée par l'abandon

Née le 25 mars 2000 à Dallas, au Texas, Sha'Carri Richardson n'a jamais connu la présence paternelle. Élevée par sa tante et sa grand-mère, elle a dû composer avec les carences d'une mère qui abandonne ses deux filles. « Je me demandais ce qui n'allait pas avec moi. Si ma mère ne souhaitait pas être ici, je me disais que personne ne voulait être avec moi », confiait-elle dans un documentaire en 2020.

Cette absence de lien maternel l'a profondément marquée. « Cette absence de lien avec ma mère biologique m'a tourmentée à l'adolescence et conduite vers l'obscurité. J'ai fait une tentative de suicide lorsque j'étais au lycée, je me suis retrouvée le lendemain matin à l'hôpital pour un lavage gastrique », a-t-elle révélé. Une détresse que seule la piste d'athlétisme parvenait à apaiser.

La jeune Sha'Carri a commencé à courir en imitant sa tante, dont les médailles de jeunesse traînaient à la maison. « C'était la plus petite, mais d'entrée la plus rapide. Elle voulait toujours être devant, prouver sa valeur, elle travaillait dur, menait toutes les séries d'entraînement », raconte Lauren Cross, son entraîneure au lycée, devenue sa marraine. « Elle était déjà très sérieuse, concentrée. Elle travaillait d'autant plus dur qu'elle détestait perdre. »

L'éclosion d'une sprinteuse prodige

Les prouesses de Sha'Carri Richardson l'ont menée à l'Université de Louisiane, puis en 2019 dans le groupe professionnel de l'ancien sprinteur Dennis Mitchell, en Floride. Avec ses longs ongles travaillés, ses perruques colorées et son style flamboyant, elle ne passe pas inaperçue. Dès 2021, l'athlète explose littéralement lors des sélections olympiques américaines, signant des chronos parmi les meilleurs mondiaux de la saison.

Mais son ascension fulgurante est brutalement interrompue. Une semaine avant les trials, elle apprend le décès de sa mère biologique. Pour surmonter la douleur, elle fume du cannabis, ce qui entraîne un contrôle antidopage positif. Disqualifiée de sa victoire aux sélections et suspendue plusieurs semaines, elle est privée des Jeux de Tokyo. Un revers retentissant qui fait polémique dans les médias américains.

« Je ne suis pas cette fille qui a été suspendue, qui a fait polémique sur les réseaux sociaux. À chaque fois que je tapais mon nom pour voir des vidéos ou des articles à mon sujet, ça me rendait triste, j'avais l'impression que ce n'était pas moi », explique-t-elle sur son vlog. L'année 2021 devient alors la plus sombre de sa carrière, entre attaques médiatiques et doutes personnels.

Une renaissance sur les pistes du monde

Sha'Carri Richardson touche le fond sportivement, mais elle apprend aussi à s'ouvrir sur ses tourments. « Depuis ma suspension, les gens voient mon côté humain, ma chair à vif », dit-elle. Sur les réseaux sociaux, elle écrit : « Je suis à la fois mature et immature. Parfois je suis de bonne humeur, parfois je suis toxique. Merci de me corriger de façon respectueuse. » Elle estime que son « plus grand obstacle » est de « rester stable », avouant : « Parfois je flanche parce que je n'arrive pas à gérer tout ce qui m'arrive. »

Mais la sprinteuse texane est une battante. En août 2023, à Budapest, elle devient championne du monde du 100 mètres devant le gratin mondial. Ce titre la propulse définitivement parmi les toutes meilleures sprinteuses de la planète, et fait d'elle la grande favorite pour les Jeux olympiques de Paris.

Sa technique de course, ses départs explosifs et sa capacité à accélérer dans les 30 derniers mètres en font une redoutable compétitrice. Ses chronos de l'année 2024 – notamment lors des sélections américaines où elle a largement dominé le 100 m avec un impressionnant 10,80 secondes – confirment son excellente condition du moment.

Une icône pour la jeunesse noire américaine

Avec sa notoriété et son titre mondial, Sha'Carri Richardson fait la fierté des banlieues sud de Dallas, à grande majorité afro-américaine. L'an passé, le district scolaire a renommé la piste de ses débuts à son nom lors d'une émouvante cérémonie. La sprinteuse y a glissé des conseils aux jeunes athlètes qui rêvent de suivre ses foulées : « La vie ne s'arrête pas ici, il y a tant à découvrir. J'ai été moi aussi une jeune fille noire du sud de Dallas. Je veux que vous croyiez en vous, que vous sachiez que tout est possible. »

Sha'Carri Richardson se définit « comme une personne noire avant d'être une athlète ». « Hors de la piste, je vis des choses comme les autres femmes, comme les autres noirs en vivent », explique-t-elle dans Teen Vogue. Elle dit s'inspirer des légendes afro-américaines du sprint, Wilma Rudolph et Florence Griffith-Joyner. Sans le revendiquer, Sha'Carri incarne ainsi le « féminisme noir », estime la docteure en sociologie Letisha Brown, de l'Université de Cincinnati, elle-même militante.

À Dallas, sa marraine Lauren Cross voit en elle une personnalité « solaire », « franche mais très sociable », derrière un masque de défiance principalement destiné aux médias. « Son histoire montre que l'on peut survivre à tout », ajoute Mme Cross, qui entraîne au quotidien des jeunes Texanes qui se rêvent sur la scène olympique, telle Sha'Carri.

Vers Paris 2024 : le défi de la consécration

à l'approche des Jeux olympiques de Paris, Sha'Carri Richardson n'a jamais semblé aussi sereine. Elle a appris à composer avec ses émotions, transformant sa fougue en arme. Ses récentes sorties médiatiques montrent une athlète plus apaisée, qui dit vouloir « profiter de chaque instant » et « honorer toutes celles qui l'ont soutenue ».

Elle reste toutefois consciente des défis qui l'attendent. La concurrence sera rude : la Jamaïcaine Shericka Jackson, championne du monde du 200 m et double médaillée olympique, ainsi que sa compatriote Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, vétérane de 37 ans, seront de redoutables adversaires. Mais avec son chrono de 10,80 secondes réalisé le 22 mai 2024 à Eugene, Sha'Carri a montré qu'elle était prête à jouer les premiers rôles.

Sa présence sur la piste violette du Stade de France, où se dérouleront les épreuves d'athlétisme des JO 2024, est très attendue. Le 100 mètres féminin, dont les séries débuteront le 2 août, constituent l'un des moments forts de cette quinzaine olympique. Sha'Carri Richardson y disputera également le relais 4x100 mètres, où les États-Unis espèrent monter sur le podium après leur médaille d'argent à Tokyo.

Au-delà de la performance sportive, les Jeux olympiques représentent pour Sha'Carri une revanche personnelle. Tokyo la privée a marqué à jamais, mais cette fois, elle arrive avec un statut de championne du monde, un mental renforcé par les épreuves, et un besoin viscéral de démontrer qu'elle a su relever la tête quand tout semblait perdu. « Peu importe ce qu'il se passait dans ma vie, la piste restait un lieu où je pouvais être en paix », avait-elle confié. À Paris, c'est dans cette paix qu'elle espère décrocher la consécration suprême.

Source: RFI News

Kendall Jenner's Fall 2026 Shoe of Choice

A few days ago, Kendall Jenner was photographed in Los Angeles as she met up with Hailey Bieber before heading to a concert by their friend Justine Skye. For the occasion, the model stayed true to her minimalist and elegant aesthetic. She wore a black baby tee, loose blue jeans, and a brown bowling bag. The deliberately simple silhouette was elevated by a pair of black wedge-heel pumps: the Liisa Pumps from The Row.

The shoe stands out for its particularly elongated toe and, above all, its curved wedge heel, slightly tilted inward. These two details completely transform the line of the pump, giving it a distinctly retro feel. One might almost think it came straight from a 1960s boutique, except that it displays a modern interpretation. Worn with such a basic outfit, the pair immediately becomes the focal point of the look and alone proves its full fashion potential. It is enough to make us seriously want to adopt the wedge pump for the fall term.

The Wedge Heel's Comeback

In 2026, the wedge heel is marking a true return to grace. Gradually, it seems to be overtaking stiletto heels and kitten heels, with one major argument: it allows you to gain a few centimeters without completely sacrificing comfort. This summer, wedge sandals and flip-flops made a strong comeback, and they should no doubt continue to establish themselves next summer. But there is no question of saying goodbye when fall arrives; the wedge heel is now making its mark on closed shoes. This is already evident in the new collections of luxury houses and ready-to-wear brands.

For fall, two interpretations stand out: the classic wedge heel and its bolder version, with a curved heel. At Louis Vuitton, the focus is on a black model with a very high wedge heel, as graphic as it is elegant, which seems perfect for an oversized suit. Loro Piana imagines a brown version with an almond toe and subtly inclined heel, ideal with a satin skirt and a white baby tee for a very chic office silhouette. At Reformation, the patent leather version with a strap adds a twist to a leather skirt and shirt, while Massimo Dutti offers a mule with a very elongated toe, perfect with straight jeans and a tank top.

The History of the Wedge Heel

To understand why Kendall Jenner's choice is so significant, it helps to look at the wedge heel's history. While the exact origin is debated, the wedge heel as we know it rose to prominence in the 1930s. It is believed to have been inspired by European platform shoes, and designers such as Salvatore Ferragamo popularized it as a sophisticated and practical alternative to the traditional high heel. The wedge heel became a symbol of modern femininity, especially in the United States and Europe, where it was championed by actresses and socialites.

In the 1960s, the wedge heel took on a more playful and futuristic look, particularly with the rise of space-age fashion. Then, in the 1970s, it became a staple of disco and bohemian style, often seen on sandals and boots. The 1990s and 2000s saw wedge heels re-emerge through brands like Gucci and Miu Miu, usually in the form of espadrilles or massive platform wedges. But in the 2010s, the trend faded as sleek stilettos and block heels took over.

Now, in the mid-2020s, the wedge heel is being reintroduced with a quieter, more elegant design. The new wedge is less about the chunky espadrille and more about a sculptural, architectural shape. The Row's Liisa pump is a perfect example: its curved wedge is subtle yet distinctive, offering a nod to vintage style without feeling costumed. This aligns perfectly with the current fashion mood, which favors sophisticated simplicity and investment pieces.

Why Kendall Jenner's Endorsement Matters

Kendall Jenner is not just a model; she is one of the most influential fashion figures of her generation. With over 200 million social media followers, her sartorial choices are scrupulously observed by fashion enthusiasts and young women around the world. When she wears a piece, it often sells out in hours. Her ability to mix high-end luxury with everyday basics has made her a style icon for the 'quiet luxury' aesthetic that dominates the industry.

Jenner's decision to wear the Liisa pumps outside a concert is particularly telling. It proves that these heels are not just for the red carpet or formal events; they have a place in a casual, off-duty outfit. By pairing them with jeans and a simple tee, she demonstrates the versatility of the wedge pump. This is exactly the kind of styling trick that encourages people to embrace a trend that might otherwise feel too retro or uncommon.

Moreover, Kendall Jenner has a history of launching footwear trends. In 2022, her frequent appearances in point-toe ballet flats contributed to the revival of the style. In 2024, she was among the first to wear the 'mob wife' aesthetic's statement kitten heels. Now, with the wedge pump, she is signaling that

Source: MSN News

The sighting served as confirmation that Sofia has moved on from her lengthy on-and-off relationship with Scott Disick, which officially ended in August 2020. While fans were initially left guessing about the identity of Sofia's new beau, it didn't take long for internet sleuths to piece together the clues. The masked man in the elevator selfie was quickly identified as Elliot Grainge, a man whose connections to the entertainment industry run deep.

Who Is Elliot Grainge?

Elliot Grainge may not be a household name to the general public, but he is a influential figure in the music business. As the founder and CEO of 10K Projects, an independent record label, Elliot has carved out a niche for himself in an industry often dominated by major labels. His company has worked with high-profile artists and has been behind a number of successful releases, giving him a reputation as a savvy and forward-thinking executive.

Born into music royalty, Elliot is the son of Lucian Grainge, the powerful CEO of Universal Music Group, one of the largest record labels in the world. Despite his father's monumental success, Elliot has built his own path, launching 10K Projects in 2018. The label has since grown into a respected player, signing artists across various genres and adapting quickly to the ever-changing landscape of streaming and digital music.

With his sharp business acumen and family pedigree, Elliot provides a stark contrast to Sofia's previous partner. Where Scott Disick was known for his reality TV fame and association with the Kardashian-Jenner clan, Elliot is more reserved and focused on his career. Friends close to Sofia suggest that this difference is exactly what she needed.

The Relationship Timeline

According to sources, Sofia and Elliot began seeing each other quietly after her breakup with Scott Disick. The pair reportedly met through mutual friends in the music and entertainment circles. While Sofia initially kept the relationship under wraps, she eventually felt comfortable enough to offer a glimpse into her new life. On March 26, 2021, she posted a mirror selfie on Instagram featuring a man wearing a mask. She captioned the photo with a sunflower emoji, leaving fans to speculate about the identity of the mysterious figure.

Within days, fans had identified him as Elliot Grainge. But the couple remained coy about the nature of their relationship. That all changed on the night of April 5, when they were photographed leaving Matsuhisa, a well-known upscale Japanese restaurant in Los Angeles. The public outing effectively confirmed what many had suspected: Sofia Richie is in a new relationship, and she doesn't care who knows it.

A Look Back at Sofia and Scott's Relationship

Sofia Richie and Scott Disick’s romance was one of the most talked-about celebrity relationships of its time. The pair first sparked dating rumors in 2017, when they were seen together in Los Angeles. At the time, Scott was 34 and Sofia was just 18, a 16-year age gap that drew significant attention and criticism from both fans and tabloids.

Despite the scrutiny, the couple stayed together for nearly three years. They appeared to be happy, often posting photos of themselves enjoying vacations and spending time with Scott's children, Mason, Penelope, and Reign, from his relationship with Kourtney Kardashian. Sofia seemed to have integrated into the Kardashian-adjacent world, attending family events and building a close relationship with her then-boyfriend's children.

However, by 2020, rumors began to circulate that the relationship was on shaky ground. Reports suggested that the couple had grown apart, with Scott’s desire for a quieter, more home-focused life conflicting with Sofia’s youthful desire to explore her own path. In August 2020, it was announced that they had officially split, and sources close to the couple painted a picture of two people simply at different stages of life.

One source revealed to a magazine at the time: "He is at a very different stage in his life and is really focused on a calmer lifestyle, his children, and his investment businesses. And Sofia is still trying to figure out what she wants to do with her life, which is what drove them apart over time. Scott has been very clear about his decision to end the relationship and does not see the couple getting back together in the future."

Why Age Difference Played a Role

The breakup between Sofia Richie and Scott Disick has often been attributed to their significant age difference. When they got together, Sofia was on the cusp of adulthood, while Scott was already a father of three and had been a central figure in one of pop culture's most famous families for years. Although their age gap didn't stop them from falling in love, it inevitably contributed to their divergent priorities.

While Scott seemed ready to settle into a more routine life, Sofia was just beginning to establish her career as a model and influencer, with countless opportunities ahead of her. The strain of balancing her ambitions with Scott's responsibilities reportedly took a toll on the relationship. In contrast, Elliot Grainge is just five years older than Sofia, a far more conventional and manageable difference. This new relationship allows Sofia to enjoy her youth while being with someone who shares a similar cultural and social context.

Sofia’s Family and Career

As the daughter of legendary singer Lionel Richie and his second wife, Brenda Harvey-Richie, Sofia has grown up in the spotlight. However, she has worked hard to create her own identity outside of her family name. She has walked the runway for major fashion brands, landed campaigns with well-known designers, and become a prominent figure on Instagram, where she boasts millions of followers.

In addition to her modeling career, Sofia has started to make moves in the business and fashion worlds, launching collaborations and lending her image to various products. She has also been open about her commitment to self-improvement, sharing her journey through therapy and wellness with her followers. Her new relationship seems to have brought her a sense of calm and happiness, as evidenced by her recent posts and more relaxed demeanor at public appearances.

Scott Disick's New Romance

While Sofia Richie has moved on with Elliot Grainge, Scott Disick has not been left behind. In recent months, the reality star and entrepreneur has been linked to Amelia Gray, the 19-year-old daughter of actresses Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin. The pairing raised eyebrows, not only because of the age gap, but because Amelia is even younger than Sofia was when she and Scott started dating.

However, those close to Scott say he is enjoying his new relationship and doesn't seem concerned about public opinion. He and Amelia have been spotted together on several occasions, suggesting that their connection is more than a passing fling. For both Scott and Sofia, it seems that life after their breakup has taken them in new and unexpected directions.

What the Future Holds

As Sofia Richie and Elliot Grainge begin to step out publicly, fans are eager to learn more about their dynamic. The pair seems to be taking things at a comfortable pace, with no rush to define their relationship publicly. Still, their willingness to be seen together indicates that they are both invested in making things work.

The coupling of Sofia and Elliot brings together two worlds: the glitzy, celebrity-adjacent life of a model and the authoritative business side of the music industry. It’s a pairing that makes sense on many levels—two young, ambitious people with strong family legacies and a shared understanding of the demands of the entertainment world.

For now, fans can only watch and wait to see how this new romance unfolds. There's no doubt that Sofia Richie has moved forward with grace, finding someone who appears to be a positive influence in her life. And with her modeling career flourishing and a supportive partner at her side, the future looks bright for the 22-year-old.

Source: Purepeople News

Source: CNEWS News

A Second Massive Round in 2026

The investment was led by Coatue and included Blackstone, MGX, T. Rowe Price, and new investor Sixth Street Growth. It is the company's second major round this year. In February, Databricks raised money at a $134 billion valuation. The new round values the company at $190 billion, a 42 percent increase. Earlier reports had suggested the valuation would land at $188 billion, but the closing price was $2 billion higher.

The ability to raise $5 billion in a single round reflects the enormous investor appetite for companies that provide infrastructure for data-intensive AI workloads. Databricks is not alone in attracting such capital. Many of the largest private companies in technology have chosen to raise in the private markets rather than pursue an initial public offering, and Databricks is following that pattern.

Growth Accelerates at Scale

The most notable part of the announcement is the acceleration in growth. In February, Databricks reported a revenue run-rate of $5.4 billion and year-over-year growth of 65 percent. By the second quarter, the run-rate had passed $7 billion and growth had accelerated to more than 80 percent. This is unusual for a company of this size. Most software businesses see their growth slow as revenue increases, but Databricks has expanded its addressable market and moved into adjacent categories such as data warehousing and database management.

The company said its data warehousing business has passed a $1.5 billion run-rate and is growing at more than 100 percent year over year. Lakebase, its database product, has passed $100 million in run-rate. Databricks also said it has been adjusted free cash flow positive over the last twelve months, a rare milestone for a private company still investing heavily in growth.

Enterprise Customers Are Spending Big

Databricks also shared customer metrics that are not commonly disclosed in private rounds. More than 1,000 accounts currently spend at a $1 million run-rate, and more than 100 spend at a $10 million run-rate. Those figures highlight the company's focus on large enterprises, which rely on Databricks to process, store, and analyze massive amounts of data.

This customer concentration is both a strength and a risk. Large accounts can provide stable, recurring revenue and expand quickly, but they can also create concentration risk if a major customer decides to cut spending. Databricks' top-of-market metrics suggest that it has become a core part of the technology stack for many of the world's largest companies.

How the Valuation Compares With Snowflake

The $190 billion valuation looks expensive in absolute terms, but compared with public market peers it may be less extravagant than it appears. At a $7 billion run-rate, Databricks is valued at roughly 27 times revenue. Snowflake, one of its closest competitors, trades near 23 times trailing revenue of $5.03 billion. Snowflake's growth is around 30 percent, while Databricks says its growth is above 80 percent. A four-point multiple premium for nearly three times the growth rate could be considered modest.

However, the comparison requires caution. Revenue run-rate annualizes the most recent quarterly or monthly revenue, which can flatter a fast-growing company. Snowflake's multiple is based on twelve trailing months of reported revenue, a more conservative baseline. If Databricks' actual trailing revenue is significantly below its run-rate, the 27 times figure may understate the true valuation multiple. Still, the market appears to be giving Databricks credit for stronger growth without overpaying relative to public alternatives.

Why Stay Private?

Databricks chief executive Ali Ghodsi has said that 2026 is a bad year to go public. His comments refer to a crowded IPO pipeline that includes SpaceX, OpenAI, and Anthropic, three companies expected to absorb roughly $200 billion of listing capital. That amount of supply could put downward pressure on valuations and make it difficult for new issuers to trade well in the secondary market.

By raising private capital at a $190 billion valuation, Databricks can delay an IPO without sacrificing access to funding. The company is also under less pressure to manage quarterly earnings expectations and can continue to invest in products with longer payback periods. Ghodsi's stance is a clear signal that Databricks believes the private markets are the better source of capital for now.

From Apache Spark to AI Agents

Databricks was founded in 2013 by the team behind Apache Spark, an open-source framework for large-scale data processing. The company built a business around making Spark easier to use in enterprises, then expanded into a broader data platform. It popularized the data lakehouse concept, which combines the cost and flexibility of data lakes with the performance and governance of data warehouses.

The company competes with Snowflake, as well as with Microsoft's Fabric, Google's BigQuery, and Amazon's Redshift and S3 ecosystem. Its differentiation lies in open standards and the ability to run on top of existing cloud infrastructure. Databricks has also made significant investments in AI, including its own large language models and tools for custom model building.

AI Agents Are the Next Growth Driver

The new funding will be directed to three products focused on enterprise AI agents. Ghodsi has described the vision as agents that hold context, stay accurate, and respect a budget, rather than chatbots that answer generic questions. Enterprise customers want AI that can act on their data, follow business rules, and operate within cost constraints.

This is a different approach from consumer AI products. For Databricks, the opportunity is to become the trusted data layer for AI agents, ensuring that they have access to the right data and that their outputs can be audited. The company has been building governance and lineage features that allow enterprises to trace how an AI agent arrived at a decision, which is critical in regulated industries.

A Changing Private Market Landscape

The Databricks raise is further evidence that the most valuable technology companies are staying private longer. The availability of large private checks means that companies can grow to public-market scale without the scrutiny and volatility of a stock exchange listing. That trend has implications for public markets, which lose the opportunity to participate in the early growth of these companies, and for late-stage private investors, who take on more risk.

Databricks has been transparent about its financial performance in this round, sharing revenue run-rate, growth, free cash flow, and customer metrics. This level of disclosure is closer to what a public company would offer and suggests the company wants to establish a track record of transparency. It also gives investors confidence that the valuation is grounded in measurable performance.

The company's ability to accelerate growth while maintaining a multi-billion-dollar revenue run-rate is rare. Whether it can sustain that pace as the enterprise AI market matures will determine whether the $190 billion valuation looks reasonable in hindsight. For now, Databricks has both the capital and the product momentum to remain a major force in the data and AI software market. The next few years will test whether its strategy of staying private and betting on AI agents pays off.

Source: TNW | Artificial-intelligence News

The pitch arrives at a nervy moment. As agentic AI quietly multiplies the steps, and therefore the tokens, behind every task, enterprise bills have started to sting. Writer is wagering that a cost backlash has arrived, and it is far from alone in scenting the opportunity, with Baseten raising $1.5bn on the theory that AI’s profits lie in cheap inference.

What is a harness?

A harness, in Writer’s telling, is the orchestration layer wrapped around a model, the machinery that decides how a multi-step agent actually executes each request. Optimise that layer, trimming the redundant calls and bloated context that agents tend to accumulate, and you cut token consumption without ever touching the model itself. The savings, Writer says, are substantial. The company estimates that the new model and harness together cut costs by as much as 50% for basic tasks, while a Writer research paper found that harness-efficiency changes alone trimmed costs by roughly 40% on average across testing.

What makes the harness interesting is that it is model-agnostic. It works with Writer’s own models, but also with external ones served through Microsoft Azure and Amazon Bedrock, so the efficiency gains are not locked to a single vendor’s roadmap. “The harness is the one component whose efficiency multiplies across every model an organization runs, present and future,” Writer’s researchers write, framing orchestration rather than raw model quality as the lever enterprises have been ignoring.

A pointed message to big labs

It is also a pointed one. Writer’s underlying claim is that the big labs have little incentive to help you spend less, because their revenue rises with every token you burn. Distrust of that arrangement is doing a lot of work in the company’s messaging. CEO May Habib put it bluntly. “The enterprise is absolutely sick of chasing the next benchmark,” she said. “They want flattening cost.” It is a neat inversion of the usual sales script, in which each new model is faster, cleverer and, invariably, hungrier.

A wider thrift-maxxing trend, in which buyers reach for cheaper Chinese models, has already started to unsettle the valuations underpinning eventual OpenAI and Anthropic IPOs, a sign that price sensitivity is no longer a fringe concern. Building the flagship on GLM-5.2 is telling in its own right. Rather than train a frontier model from scratch, Writer took a capable open-source base and specialised it through post-training, a route that keeps costs down and neatly matches the frugal story it is selling.

Appealing to European buyers

For European buyers, the framing should feel familiar. Scepticism about American hyperscalers’ incentives, and a preference for architectures that are not hostage to one provider, has been a running theme on this side of the Atlantic, and Writer is pitching straight into it. The company’s harness approach also resonates with a broader movement in enterprise technology toward vendor-neutral abstraction layers, where companies can switch models without rewriting their entire stack.

The timing is no accident. Agentic AI has moved from demo to production in many organisations, but the operational costs have become a board-level concern. Each agentic workflow can involve dozens of model calls, each with its own prompt and context window, and the cumulative token burn can far exceed the cost of a single answer. Enterprises are increasingly demanding observability into these token flows, and tools that can reduce waste without compromising output quality are gaining traction.

Writer’s bet on harness engineering is an attempt to redefine where AI value creation lies. Instead of competing solely on benchmark scores, the company is positioning itself as the efficiency player, the one that helps clients do more with less. This is a stark contrast to the prevailing narrative in the industry, where larger models and longer context windows are marketed as inherently better, even if they cost more to run.

The underlying economics are worth unpacking. Token prices have been falling across the industry, but the volume of tokens consumed has been rising even faster, driven by agentic workloads that loop through multiple reasoning steps. For many enterprises, the net effect is that their AI spend is still climbing, and finance teams are starting to push back. Writer’s research paper claims that its harness can reduce the number of context tokens sent to a model by pruning irrelevant information and storing intermediate results more efficiently. These optimisations are particularly valuable for complex tasks like document analysis, coding assistants, and customer support automation, where agents often re-read the same source material multiple times.

There are caveats worth keeping in mind. Efficiency figures produced by a vendor about its own product deserve the usual pinch of salt, and “up to” 50% is not the same as a guaranteed 50%, but the direction of travel is hard to dispute. Independent testing will be needed to verify Writer’s claims, and the company has not yet published detailed benchmark results for Palmyra X6 on standard efficiency metrics. Still, the broader industry is moving in the same direction. AI infrastructure companies like Baseten are raising huge sums to provide low-cost inference, and cloud providers are introducing new pricing models that reward efficient usage.

For Writer, the move also signals a strategic shift in its relationship with open-source models. By building Palmyra X6 on GLM-5.2, the company acknowledges that the frontier is no longer the exclusive domain of closed labs. Open-source models have become so capable that bespoke fine-tuning can yield competitive performance at a fraction of the cost. This is a playbook that several other enterprise AI vendors have adopted, and it is likely to become more common.

The deeper shift is what Writer calls harness engineering: the discipline of spending fewer tokens per task rather than chasing another point on a leaderboard. If it takes hold, and the incentives increasingly suggest it will, the era of the ever-hungrier model may finally be meeting its budget. Enterprises are beginning to demand that every AI purchase justify itself through measurable cost savings, and vendors that can demonstrate tangible ROI will have a clear advantage. Writer’s new offering is a bet that the future of AI is not just smarter, but leaner.

Source: TNW | Artificial-intelligence News