Google’s Gemini 3.1 Pro introduces a range of updates aimed at improving performance and adaptability across diverse applications. Building on the foundation of its predecessor, this release features enhancements such as higher accuracy in humanities exams, improved efficiency in coding challenges, and refined outputs for visual design tasks. According to Sam Witteveen, the model’s new […]
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra delivers a range of enhancements that elevate functionality, privacy, and user experience. With a focus on meaningful upgrades, this flagship device builds on its predecessor while introducing refined features. From an upgraded selfie camera to advanced privacy tools, the Galaxy S26 Ultra offers a compelling package for users seeking a […]
Google has announced that with the help of AI, it blocked 1.75 million apps that violated its policies in 2025, significantly down from 2.36 million in 2024. The lower numbers this year, it said, are because its "AI-powered, multi-layer protections" are deterring bad actors from even trying to publish bad apps.
Google said it now runs more than 10,000 safety checks on every app and continues to recheck them after they're published. Its use of the latest generative AI models helps human reviewers discover malicious patterns more quickly, it added. The company also blocked 160 million spam ratings, preventing an average 0.5-star rating drop for apps targeted by review bombing. Finally, Google stopped 255,000 apps from gaining excessive access to sensitive user data in 2025, down from 1.3 million the year before.
Meanwhile, Google Play Protect, the company's Android defense system, sniffed out over 27 million new malicious apps, either warning users or preventing them from running. The company added that Play Protect's enhanced fraud protection now covers 2.8 billion Android devices in 185 markets and blocked 266 million risky "side-loading" installation attempts.
"Initiatives like developer verification, mandatory pre-review checks, and testing requirements have raised the bar for the Google Play ecosystem, significantly reducing the paths for bad actors to enter," the company said its blog. "This year, we’ll continue to invest in AI-driven defenses to stay ahead of emerging threats and equip Android developers with the tools they need to build apps safely."
Google has steadfastly justified its relatively high fees on app purchases and subscriptions by touting its investments in app safety. However, its Play store has been under pressure from regulators in Europe and other regions that claim it amounts to a monopoly. Last year, the company changed its fee structure for developers using alternative payment channels, but EU regulators recently claimed the company still isn't complying with Digital Markets Act regulations.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apps/google-play-used-ai-to-help-block-175-million-bad-apps-in-2025-102208054.html?src=rss
Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses have introduced five new accessories designed to enhance their functionality and adaptability, as overviewed by Steven Sullivan. These additions include features like polarized clip-on lenses for improved outdoor visibility and a magnetic infinite battery system that provides extended power on the go. Whether you own the first or second generation of […]
Streamlining daily tasks and enhancing productivity has never been easier, thanks to the robust capabilities of iPhone shortcuts. These automation tools, powered by Apple’s ecosystem and third-party app integrations, enable you to perform complex actions with minimal effort. By using these features, you can customize your device to suit your unique needs, saving time and […]
Most people don’t carry a flashlight, which is something they only realize when they’re already crammed under a sink, squinting at a fuse box, or trying to read a label in a poorly lit corner of a garage. Cylindrical lights are bulky, they roll off surfaces, and they feel overbuilt for the kind of everyday moments where you just need a quick, reliable beam. So they get left at home, and your phone flashlight ends up doing all the work.
The Wedge SL is a USB-C rechargeable inspection light with a sleek, modern design built to actually stay in a pocket. The ultra-thin unibody construction puts the dimensions closer to a pen than a flashlight, 5.65 inches long, 0.28 inches thick, and about 1.14 oz light, which means it doesn’t fight for space with keys and a wallet. A stainless steel injection-molded pocket clip also lets it ride on a shirt pocket or tool pouch without bouncing around.
One-handed operation was clearly part of the brief. The tail switch handles momentary or constant-on use, so one hand can hold a panel, a wire bundle, or an awkward hatch while the other hand aims the light exactly where it needs to go. TEN-TAP programmable switch lets users choose whether constant-on defaults to High or Low intensity, which means the light can match your habits rather than forcing you to cycle through modes every time you switch on.
For an inspection light, the available modes are spot on, pardon the pun. Constant-on High runs at 100 lumens for 1.75 hours, Low drops to 50 lumens for 3.5 hours, and THRO (Temporarily Heightened Regulated Output) mode pushes 500 lumens with an 80m beam when you need maximum brightness fast. THRO is activated by a 3-second press, which keeps it from firing accidentally during sustained work while still making it quick to trigger when a tight space needs a real burst of light.
The battery side holds up well. USB-C charging and a four-level LED battery status indicator with charge alerts mean you always know roughly how much is left, without deciphering blink codes. A full charge takes about four hours. The field serviceable, user-replaceable lithium polymer battery is also worth calling out, since many rechargeable lights eventually become e-waste once the cell degrades inside a sealed body.
Durability gets the same careful treatment, as the extruded aluminum alloy case comes with a Type II MIL-Spec anodized finish. The lens is also unbreakable acrylic, and the light is IPX4-rated with 1m impact resistance testing. A bite boot is also included, which lets you grip it with your teeth during two-handed work without scratching the finish or the inside of your mouth.
The Streamlight Wedge SL earns pocket space by being thin, predictable, and quick to operate instead of trying to be a tactical statement piece. A flashlight that’s actually on you is always going to matter more than one that performs better on a spec sheet but gets left on the workbench because it’s too big to bother carrying every day.
Apple Freeform and Apple Notes offer complementary features that can enhance both creative brainstorming and structured organization. As overviewed by Learning to Learn, Freeform provides an infinite canvas for visualizing ideas, while Notes excels at capturing and organizing detailed information. Together, these platforms allow you to seamlessly transition between visual exploration and text-based documentation, making […]
Apple’s iOS 26.4 brings a host of new features designed to enhance functionality, customization, and user interaction. Currently in its first beta phase, this update introduces subtle yet impactful changes that aim to improve your daily device usage. From advanced audio recording capabilities to personalized battery management tools, iOS 26.4 caters to a wide range […]
iPadOS offers a range of multitasking features designed to make managing multiple apps and tasks more efficient. As overviewed by Apple Support, features like Split Screen, Slide Over, and Exposé allow you to work with apps side by side, access floating windows, and organize your workspace with ease. For example, Split Screen enables you to […]
Samsung is preparing to launch its highly anticipated Galaxy Buds 4 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro alongside the Galaxy S26 series at the Unpacked event on February 25, 2026. Leaked press renders have already provided a glimpse of the upcoming earbuds, showcasing notable design changes and the removal of a key feature. These updates reflect […]
