Global Scans · GAFA et al · Weekly Summary

• [New] Meta is competing head-to-head with Microsoft and Google to unlock the enormous potential of AI. CNN
• [New] As Google continues to enhance SGE's performance and optimize monetization, the eventual GA of the supplementary tool to its search engine could potentially offer additional and higher value ad inventory. Seeking Alpha
• [New] Industry forecasts currently project $9 billion in non-recurring ad spend in 2024 attributable to the Presidential elections, with digital ad formats - including Google Search and YouTube - being a key beneficiary. Seeking Alpha
• [New] The tech giant will put artificial intelligence to good use, with Google Maps with AI helping users get precise directions to find a charger that's otherwise hard to navigate. EVANNEX Aftermarket Tesla Accessories
• [New] Google Cloud's AI and ML capabilities, including BigQuery and Vertex AI, Healthcare Natural Language API and Looker, will be used to build tools for enhanced patient care and to also advance UMass' own research needs. JD Supra
• [New] Image generation is strong and now has that unique imagine feature, and Meta AI has access to one more search engine than Google Gemini does. LifeHacker
• [New] EDF's MethaneSAT satellite will collect precise methane emissions data, which, combined with Google's AI and Cloud computing, will identify and trace methane sources from oil and gas infrastructure worldwide. GoGeomatics
• [New] AI is a tailwind for Google, noting that while AI use does pose long-term competitive risks for Google, in 2024 Google are likely to see AI monetization improvements. Investopedia
• [New] Finance leaders are buzzing about the transformative potential of generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini. SaaSWorks, Inc.
• [New] Google will need to continuously invest in cutting-edge research and attract top talent in AI to maintain its competitive edge. GizChina Media
• [New] Recognizing the transformative potential of AI in shaping tomorrow's computing platforms and devices, Google is establishing a new division called Platforms & Devices. GizChina Media
• [New] Google could shut news organizations out of the world's primary search engine, making their content difficult to find and imperiling their existence. Los Angeles Times
• [New] Google will be moving its Responsible AI teams from its Research department to DeepMind in order for it to be closer to where its AI models are being built. Verdict
• [New] The US National Guard will use Google's AI to analyze disaster zones Just in time for the summer wildfire season. MIT Technology Review
• [New] Google has been exploring the use of machine learning models and AI to predict natural disasters for some time now. TechCrunch
• Google is reportedly working on a handy new feature that could help users isolate a malicious app on their smartphone after it is detected. Gadgets 360
• Alteryx announced an expanded partnership with Google to launch Alteryx Analytics Cloud on Google Cloud, alongside expanded AI capabilities with Google Cloud's Gemini models that will extend the capabilities of Alteryx AiDIN. RTInsights
• The Google One VPN service will continue to be available to Pixel users - specifically, Pixel 7 and newer - but paying Google One customers will lose the key benefit in the near future. Android Police
• Companies like Google have been at the forefront of integrating AI into their products to enhance security measures and protect sensitive data against cyber threats. elblog.pl
• Apple has made a significant change to the wording of its threat notifications, opting not to attribute attacks to a specific source or perpetrator, but categorizing them broadly as mercenary spyware. The Register
• For repair shops, Apple writes that service providers will no longer need to provide a device's serial number when ordering parts from the Self Service Repair Store for repairs not involving replacement of the logic board. Gizmodo
• Google plans to invest $1 billion in digital connectivity for North Pacific Connect, which expands the Pacific Connect Initiative, with NEC, to improve digital communications infrastructure between the United States, Japan, and Pacific Island Nations. The White House
• Over the coming months, Airwallex plans on expanding the Airwallex Borderless Card functionality, including the addition of Apple Pay and Google Pay, and the availability of physical multi-currency payment cards for business owners and their employees. FinExtra

Last updated: 28 April 2024