Wed. 05/21 – Everything Google Everywhere And All At Once

May 21, 2025 16m

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Episode Description

It’s Google day. Everything Google, everywhere, all at once. All the headlines from IO and there were a ton. What even is Google search in the age of AI? Google’s big push into smartglasses, a wild new video model and a ton, ton more. Here’s what you missed, yesterday, mostly, I guess, in the world of tech. Sponsors: Venice.ai/techmeme and code techmeme Links: Google is rolling out AI Mode to everyone in the US (Engadget) Android XR is getting stylish partners in Warby Parker and Gentle Monster (The Verge) My demo with Google's AR glasses went better than the one on stage (AndroidCentral) Google launches Veo 3, an AI video generator that incorporates audio (CNBC) Watch Me Try Google’s Live Language Translator. It’s Wild. (WSJ) Google moves to reassure EU cloud users amid concern over Trump threat (Financial Times)

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Google's AI Mode Expansion

In the latest developments, Google rolled out its AI mode to all users in the US, enabling a chatbot within the search engine designed to handle intricate queries. The AI mode is powered by a custom version of Gemini and will allow users to generate comparisons, complete web tasks such as ticket purchases, and create custom charts based on user queries. Google also plans to incorporate functionalities from its deep search and shopping capabilities into this AI mode, enhancing user interaction with the search engine.

The Push into Smart Glasses

Google's announcement of Android XR Smart Glasses, in collaboration with brands like Warby Parker and Gentle Monster, marks a significant investment in augmented reality. This $150 million initiative aims to create stylish glasses featuring AI assistance via Gemini. The glasses are designed to offer functionalities such as real-time navigation and object recognition, competing directly with Meta’s successful smart glasses, incorporating a sleek design aesthetic targeted at both everyday and fashion-forward users.

Advancements in AI Video and Music Generation

Google introduced new AI tools, VO3 for video creation and Lyra 2 for music generation, which integrate audio elements, offering a leg up in the competitive landscape against other tools like OpenAI's offerings. The VO3 video tool can generate realistic audio effects and is part of a new ultra subscription plan. Additionally, Google's collaborative filmmaking tool, Flow, allows users to describe shots and settings to create cinematic videos, evidencing the increasing importance of video and audio content in generative AI.

Enhanced Translation Capabilities at Google Meet

Google's live translation feature for Google Meet debuted, providing real-time language services that imitate the speakers' voices and tones. Despite some initial hiccups, the technology promises fluid communication between speakers of different languages, with minimal lag. This innovation aims to tackle language barriers in virtual meetings, enhancing user experience and making cross-lingual interaction smoother.

Sovereign Cloud Expansion in the EU

In response to rising data privacy concerns, Google is expanding its sovereign cloud solutions in Europe, introducing new cybersecurity shields tailored for European clients, especially in sensitive industries. This strategic move aims to reassure clients amid geopolitical tensions regarding data usage and retention, emphasizing Google's commitment to meet stricter data protection laws across the EU.