Google Withdraws Earth AI Feature One Day After Launch
Google removed an AI feature that could place generated imagery over real Google Earth maps after criticism that it could enable misinformation.

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Latest reporting, briefings and public-interest updates from the tech desk.
Google removed an AI feature that could place generated imagery over real Google Earth maps after criticism that it could enable misinformation.


US safety regulators granted Zoox a temporary exemption allowing the Amazon-owned company to charge passengers for rides in its purpose-built autonomous vehicles.

Meta reported second-quarter 2026 revenue of more than $60 billion, up 28%, while recording a $2.4 billion charge related to legal proceedings.

Google is rolling out its Play Age Signals API globally, giving Android developers age-range information intended to support age-appropriate app experiences without disclosing a user’s exact age.

Russia’s FSB charged Telegram founder Pavel Durov with aiding terrorism on July 29 and placed him on international wanted lists, alleging the platform failed to remove channels used to plan attacks.

The US Federal Communications Commission has blocked authorization of new Chinese-made humanoid robots and connected power inverters, citing national-security risks tied to data collection and remote control.

Labour MP Jess Asato’s newly published claim against xAI alleges Grok created fake sexualised material beyond what users requested, raising questions about chatbot design and data-protection liability.

Apple reportedly launched an Upgrade device-leasing program with Klarna, with monthly pricing listed for iPhone, Apple Watch, Mac and iPad.