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Google's Latest Warning to Android and iPhone Users Worldwide

Google’s Latest Warning to Android and iPhone Users Worldwide

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Google’s recent announcement regarding privacy concerns for Android and iPhone users has sent ripples through the tech community. With the emergence of Gemini Apps, akin to a turbocharged Google Assistant, users are urged to exercise caution when sharing sensitive information.

Google’s Gemini App Privacy Hub blog sheds light on the potential security pitfalls associated with the use of artificial intelligence in smartphone applications. The blog emphasizes the need to refrain from divulging confidential information during conversations within Gemini apps.

The Persistence of Data

Google's Latest Warning to Android and iPhone Users Worldwide

One alarming revelation is that once conversations are reviewed, they linger in the system for an extended period, even after deletion of Gemini Apps activity. Google clarifies that these conversations are kept separate from users’ Google Accounts and may persist for up to three years.

Extended Data Retention

Conversations, inclusive of sensitive data, are retained for an extended period, posing a significant concern for user privacy. Despite deactivating Gemini Apps Activity, conversations remain associated with the user’s account for up to 72 hours, facilitating service provision and feedback processing.

Unintended Activations

Another cause for apprehension is the potential for unintended activations of Gemini, triggered by ambient sounds resembling its wake phrase. Google assures users that such activations are treated similarly to intentional ones, adhering to user settings.

Also Read: Elon Musk’s Bold Vision of Moving a Million People to Mars

Safeguarding Your Privacy

In light of these revelations, it becomes imperative for Android and iPhone users to adopt proactive measures to safeguard their privacy. Avoiding the disclosure of sensitive information and regularly reviewing privacy settings are crucial steps in mitigating potential risks associated with Gemini Apps.

Google’s cautionary advisory serves as a wakeup call for smartphone users to reassess their digital privacy practices. With the prevalence of AI-powered applications, vigilance and informed decision-making are paramount in protecting personal data from potential exploitation. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritize your privacy in the digital age.

How to Enable or Disable Google Assistant on Your Android Device

How to Enable or Disable Google Assistant on Your Android Device

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Google Assistant has become an integral part of the Android experience, offering users with a hands-free way to control their devices, search the Internet, and manage their daily tasks. Whether you’re new to Android or a longtime user, understanding how to effectively manage Google Assistant can increase the functionality of your device. This article guides you through the process of turning Google Assistant on and off, as well as some tips for getting the most out of it.

Understanding Google Assistant

How to Enable or Disable Google Assistant on Your Android Device

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The Google Assistant is voice-activated software that provides a conversational interface to Google’s search and organizational tools. From setting reminders and sending texts to controlling smart home devices, its capabilities are vast and constantly growing.

Turning On Google Assistant

Step 1: Check Device Compatibility

  • Ensure your Android device is running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher and has Google Play Services installed.

Step 2: Update Your Device

  • Go to Settings > System > Advanced > System Update to check for any available updates to ensure your device is running the latest version of its operating system.

Step 3: Open Google Assistant Settings

  • Long-press the Home button to activate Google Assistant or open the Google app, tap on “More” (three dots or lines) at the bottom right, go to “Settings,” and then select “Google Assistant.”

Step 4: Navigate to the ‘Assistant’ Tab

  • In the Google Assistant settings menu, tap on the “Assistant” tab to access various settings and preferences.

Step 5: Activate Google Assistant

  • Scroll down to “Assistant devices” and choose your device (e.g., Phone). Here, make sure the Google Assistant toggle is turned on.

Step 6: Set Up Voice Match (Optional)

  • For hands-free operation, you can set up Voice Match by finding this option in the “Assistant” tab. Follow the prompts to teach Google Assistant to recognize your voice.

Step 7: Test Google Assistant

  • Say “OK Google” or long-press the Home button to start using Google Assistant. Try asking a question or issuing a command to ensure it’s working correctly.

Turning Off Google Assistant

Step 1: Access Google Assistant Settings

  • Just like turning it on, access the Google Assistant settings by long-pressing the Home button or through the Google app.

Step 2: Go to the ‘Assistant’ Tab

  • Within the Google Assistant settings menu, select the “Assistant” tab to find the settings related to your devices.

Step 3: Find Your Device

  • Under “Assistant devices,” select your device (e.g., Phone) to access its specific settings.

Step 4: Disable Google Assistant

  • Toggle off the option for Google Assistant to disable it on your device. This will turn off Google Assistant’s ability to respond to voice commands or the Home button activation.

Also Read: Google Maps Introduces Cutting-Edge Generative AI Features

Conclusion

Google Assistant can significantly enhance your Android experience with its wide range of features. By following this guide, you can easily turn Google Assistant on or off depending on your preference. Experiment with its settings to customize its functionality to suit your needs.

Google Maps Introduces Cutting-Edge Generative AI Features

Google Maps Introduces Cutting-Edge Generative AI Features

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With the release of a major upgrade, Google Maps for Android will now provide weather and Air Quality Index (AQI) data overlays. This capability, which was previously limited to a few devices, is now being made available to a larger user base and offers useful information from within the Maps interface.

Improved Display of AQI and Weather Data

Google Maps Introduces Cutting-Edge Generative AI Features

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The most recent version of Google Maps for Android has a weather box that is conspicuously positioned in the upper-left area, directly beneath the search bar. When you tap on this box, a comprehensive card with more meteorological data—such as hourly predictions, temperature extremes, and an AQI section—is displayed. Users may easily navigate while remaining updated about environmental conditions by tapping on the AQI section to overlay air quality data right onto the map.

Compared with the iOS Version

The Android version of Google Maps provides more extensive information in a floating card, but the iOS version also has a weather box beneath the search bar. On the other hand, touching the box on the iOS version does not display any extra weather information. However, the map type and information part of both versions include AQI data.

Introducing the Features of Generative AI

Google recently announced the inclusion of new generative AI tools for Google Maps, in addition to weather and AQI data overlays. Currently in the testing stage, these capabilities are originally accessible in a few US locations. By offering carefully chosen destination suggestions in response to cues, generative AI is being used with the goal of improving user experience.

AI-Driven Suggestions

Based on user questions, Google Maps can now provide personalised suggestions for different activities and destinations thanks to the incorporation of generative AI. For instance, when users ask Maps for recommendations for indoor activities on a rainy day, it will provide things like comedy clubs and movie theatres. Additionally, customers may narrow down their search by adding preferences, like kid-friendly activities, and get recommendations that are specifically catered to their needs.

Also Read: Startup Zededa Raises $72 Million to Advance AI-Powered Solutions

Future Development and Worldwide Accessibility

Although the new generative AI tools are now only available in certain US locations, Google intends to increase their accessibility in the upcoming months. The goal of these AI-powered improvements is to let consumers adjust their plans and make impulsive decisions based on preferences and situations that are relevant at the moment.

Users may anticipate increasingly sophisticated and customised experiences that are catered to their requirements and interests as Google develops and enhances its Maps platform. Even with the addition of generative AI capabilities and weather data overlays, Google Maps is still a useful tool for exploration and travel.

 
How to use Google Bard's new AI image generator?

A Step-by-Step Tutorial on Using Google Bard’s AI Image Generator

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Google Bard, renowned for its prowess as an AI chatbot, has recently been equipped with a powerful new feature: an AI image generator. Dubbed Imagen 2, this innovative tool operates akin to the Gemini AI large language model (LLM) that fuels Bard’s linguistic capabilities. The best part? It’s both free and readily accessible, allowing users to delve into creative exploration effortlessly.

Getting Started: Simple Steps to Dive In

To embark on your journey with Bard’s AI image generator, follow these straightforward steps:

  1. Access Google Bard: Begin by opening Google Bard, your gateway to a realm of creatvity.
  2. Sign In or Create a Google Account: Ensure you’re logged into your Google account, or sign up for one if you haven’t already.
  3. Craft Your Prompt: Enter a concise yet descriptive prompt to guide the image generation process. Emphasize your desire for Bard to create an image to refine the output further.

Remember, specificity is key when formulating prompts for AI. The more precise your instructions, the more tailored and accurate the generated images are likely to be.

Exploring the Possibilities: Unleash Your Imagination

How to use Google Bard's new AI image generator?

While the potential of Bard’s image generator is vast, it’s essential to temper expectations, especially in comparison to dedicated graphic design software. While experimentation can yield delightful results, professional designers may find limitations within the free tier.

Overcoming Restrictions: Navigating Geographic Constraints

A notable caveat of Bard’s AI image generator is its limited availability, primarily restricted to the United States. However, a simple workaround exists in the form of a Virtual Private Network (VPN). By utilizing a VPN, users can mask their IP address and simulate their location, granting access to geo-restricted features such as Bard’s image generator.

Also Read: Apple CEO Tim Cook Reveals AI Enhancements for 2024 iPhones

Thankfully, employing a VPN is both legal and straightforward. By selecting a server located in the US, users can seamlessly access Bard’s image generation capabilities from anywhere in the world. Tested and proven effective, this method ensures that geographic barriers do not hinder creative exploration.

In conclusion, Google Bard’s integration of an AI image generator heralds a new era of creative expression. With its intuitive interface and expansive capabilities, it empowers users to transform their ideas into visual masterpieces. By following the outlined steps and leveraging available tools like VPNs, individuals can unlock the full potential of Bard’s innovative feature set, transcending geographical limitations to unleash their creativity on a global scale.

How to Add Google Calendar Event Via Gmail: Quick Tips

How to Add Google Calendar Event Via Gmail: Quick Tips

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How to Add Google Calendar Event Via Gmail: Quick Tips

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Have you ever been scrambling to find a date or event detail that you thought you had quickly written down somewhere? If this sounds like you, don’t panic; there is an easy fix for it. Making Google Calendar events straight from Gmail may transform your life by preventing you from ever missing another deadline or significant occasion. Let’s examine the detailed procedure and delve into this productivity trick.



Step 1: Start Gmail

Open Gmail on your phone or computer to get started. The procedure is the same on both systems, giving users freedom.

Step 2: Click on the Email or Event

Open the email or message that has the pertinent details you want to add to your Google Calendar. 

This approach guarantees smooth integration, regardless of the meeting time, project deadline, or any other important information.

Step 3: Construct an Event

Find the “More” toggle (three dots) in the upper-right corner of the email at the top. You will see a drop-down menu with the option to “Create event.”

Step 4: "Allow" Notifications.

Once you click “Create event,” a new window will open and ask if you wish to accept calendar notifications. Selecting alerts guarantees that you get reminders on time. To make this feature active, click “Allow”. Keep in mind that these alerts seem like normal phone or computer notifications, which sets them apart from typical in-browser or in-app reminders.

Step 5: Complete the Information

Although the linked email subject may automatically appear in the subject line, you are free to change it to suit your tastes. Modify the event’s information, such as the time, place, attendees, and reminders that are planned. Use the “Notification” toggle (bell) to set a reminder and select the desired notification period.

Step 6: Save

After completing the information, click the blue “Save” button located in the upper-right corner. You’ve been able to successfully create an event on Google Calendar right from Gmail. You may quickly update information on the event card by editing it if something changes.

Also Read: Apple Unveils Over 600 Apps for Vision Pro: A New Era of Augmented Reality

Adding Events to Your Calendar from Your Phone

You must manually open the Calendar app and create a new event in order to add an event from your phone. To add a task straight from Gmail to Google Tasks, click the three dots in the upper-right corner of the email and select “Add to tasks.” Before adding a task, make sure you have downloaded the Tasks app.

Putting Events in Google Calendar That Are Permanent

After creating an event, you can choose a repetition range from the drop-down menu or click the “All Day” option to have the event repeat. You may customise Google Calendar to include weekly, monthly, or annual repeats.

 
Google Announces Subscription Requirement for Bard Advanced Access

Google Announces Subscription Requirement for Bard Advanced Access

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Google’s latest move in the realm of AI subscription services is set to shake up the market once again. With the announcement of Bard Advanced, the tech giant is signaling a shift towards offering premium features through a subscription model. Here’s what you need to know about this latest development:

Google Announces Subscription Requirement for Bard Advanced Access

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Alphabet, Google’s parent company, recently unveiled its fourth-quarter earnings for 2023, revealing a staggering $15 billion in annual subscription revenue. This surge underscores the growing importance of subscription-based services in Google’s revenue stream. With Bard Advanced, Google aims to capitalize further on this trend by offering enhanced AI capabilities through a subscription package.

Introducing Bard Advanced

Bard Advanced represents the pinnacle of Google’s conversational AI technology, powered by the cutting-edge Gemini Ultra architecture. This advanced AI assistant is equipped to handle complex tasks across various modalities, including text, images, audio, video, and even code. With Gemini Ultra at its core, Bard Advanced promises unparalleled understanding, summarization, reasoning, coding, and planning capabilities.

The Subscription Model

During Google’s Q4 earnings call, Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai confirmed that Bard Advanced would be available exclusively through a subscription model. While details regarding pricing and release dates remain scarce, it’s evident that Google is doubling down on its subscription strategy to unlock the full potential of Bard Advanced. Early testers can expect to get their hands on this powerful AI assistant before a wider rollout ensues.

Also Read: Neuralink Implant Successfully Installed in Human, Elon Musk Confirms

Pricing Speculations

As Bard Advanced gears up for its debut, speculation abounds regarding its pricing structure. Given Google’s existing subscription offerings, such as ChatGPT Plus priced at $20 per month, it’s reasonable to assume that Bard Advanced will fall within a similar range. However, until Google releases official pricing details, users can only speculate on the cost of unlocking the advanced features of Bard.

In conclusion, Google’s decision to require a subscription for Bard Advanced marks a significant shift in its AI strategy. By leveraging the Gemini Ultra architecture and embracing a subscription model, Google aims to deliver a sophisticated AI experience tailored to the evolving needs of users worldwide. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, Bard Advanced signifies Google’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of AI innovation while embracing new monetization avenues.