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Google stopped Motorola from using Perplexity as default assistant

A senior executive at Perplexity AI has testified that Google prevented Motorola from setting the AI startup’s assistant as the default on new smartphones, citing restrictive contracts.

The testimony came during a trial seeking remedies after Google was found to have unlawfully maintained a search monopoly.

Although Motorola will preload the app, it cannot make it the default due to binding agreements with Google. Perplexity’s Chief Business Officer, described the difficulty of replacing Google’s assistant on Android phones, saying Google’s terms create an environment where device makers fear losing revenue.

The CEO added that ongoing negotiations with other companies only became possible due to pressure from the US Department of Justice’s antitrust case.

The Justice Department is asking the court to ban Google from paying for default placements, which would also affect its AI products like Gemini.

Meanwhile, Perplexity is developing its own browser, Comet, and voiced concern about any Chrome sale undermining open-source access. The company does not support OpenAI’s interest in acquiring the browser, citing past inconsistencies in its open-source commitments.

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Google launches Gemini 2.5 Flash with faster and smarter AI thinking

Google has unveiled Gemini 2.5 Flash, an enhanced version of its AI model that brings improved performance, faster response times, and cost-efficiency for developers and users alike.

Released in preview through Google AI Studio and Vertex AI, the model is designed to be highly responsive while also offering advanced reasoning capabilities when needed.

The hybrid design allows developers to toggle the model’s ‘thinking’ function, enabling it to pause before answering to better understand prompts and plan complex responses.

Even with this added step, Gemini 2.5 Flash maintains the quick speeds of its predecessor, Gemini 2.0 Flash, while improving on accuracy and depth of output in areas like mathematics, science, coding, and visual reasoning.

Benchmark tests reveal Gemini 2.5 Flash outperforms competing AI models across a range of technical and analytical tasks.

Developers can begin building with it today, and everyday users can explore the model through the Gemini app, which also features earlier models including Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking and Gemini 2.0 Pro Experimental.

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OpenAI eyes Chrome in bid to boost ChatGPT

OpenAI has expressed interest in acquiring Google’s Chrome browser if it were to be made available, viewing it as a potential boost for its AI platform, ChatGPT.

The remarks, made by Nick Turley, head of product for ChatGPT, surfaced during the US Department of Justice’s antitrust trial against Google. The case follows a 2023 ruling that found Google had maintained an illegal monopoly in online search and advertising.

Although Google has shown no intention to sell Chrome and plans to appeal, the DoJ has suggested the move as a remedy to restore competition.

Turley disclosed that OpenAI previously approached Google to use its search technology within ChatGPT, after facing limitations with Microsoft Bing, its current provider.

An email from OpenAI presented in court showed the company proposed using multiple partners, including Google’s search API, to improve the chatbot’s performance. Google, however, declined the request, citing fears of empowering rivals.

Turley confirmed there is currently no partnership with Google and noted that ChatGPT remains years away from answering most queries using its own search system.

The testimony also highlighted OpenAI’s distribution challenges. Turley voiced concerns over being shut out of key access points controlled by major tech firms, such as browsers and app stores.

While OpenAI secured integration with Apple’s iPhones, it has struggled to achieve similar placements on Android devices. Turley argued that forcing Google to share search data with competitors could instead speed up ChatGPT’s development and improve user experience.

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Google invites African AI startups to join 2025 accelerator

Google has opened applications for its 2025 Startups Accelerator Africa programme, aiming to support early-stage African companies leveraging AI to solve critical local challenges.

The three-month initiative is open to Seed to Series A startups with a live product, at least one founder of African descent, and a strong focus on responsible AI development.

Successful applicants will receive tailored technical mentorship, up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits, and access to a global network of investors and partners.

Participants will also benefit from workshops covering technology, strategy, leadership, and AI implementation.

Google emphasised that empowering local innovators is key to unlocking the potential of AI across the continent.

Since 2018, the programme has backed 140 startups from 17 countries, helping them raise over $300 million and create more than 3,000 jobs.

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Google spoofed in sophisticated phishing attack

A sophisticated phishing attack recently targeted Google users, exploiting a well-known email authentication method to bypass security measures.

The attackers sent emails appearing to be from Google’s legitimate address, no-reply@accounts.google.com, and claimed the recipient needed to comply with a subpoena.

The emails contained a link to a Google Sites page, prompting users to log in and revealing a fake legal support page.

What made this phishing attempt particularly dangerous was that it successfully passed both DMARC and DKIM email authentication checks, making it appear entirely genuine to recipients.

In another cyber-related development, Microsoft issued a warning regarding the use of Node.js in distributing malware. Attackers have been using the JavaScript runtime environment to deploy malware through scripts and executables, particularly targeting cryptocurrency traders via malvertising campaigns.

The new technique involves executing JavaScript directly from the command line, making it harder to detect by traditional security tools.

Meanwhile, the US has witnessed a significant change in its disinformation-fighting efforts.

The State Department has closed its Counter Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference group, previously known as the Global Engagement Center, after accusations that it was overreaching in its censorship activities.

The closure, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has sparked criticism, with some seeing it as a victory for foreign powers like Russia and China.

Finally, gig workers face new challenges as the Tech Transparency Project revealed that Facebook groups are being used to trade fake gig worker accounts for platforms like Uber and Lyft.

Sellers offer access to verified accounts, bypassing safety checks, and putting passengers and customers at risk. Despite reports to Meta, many of these groups remain active, with the social media giant’s automated systems failing to curb the activity.

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DOJ adds to Google’s antitrust trial the AI-driven search monopoly

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) launched its opening arguments this week in a landmark antitrust trial against Google, aiming to curb the tech giant’s dominance in online search and prevent it from leveraging AI to entrench its position further.

Prosecutors argue that Google’s market control is bolstered by exclusive contracts, such as being the default smartphone search engine, and now by integrating AI tools that guide users back to its ecosystem.

The DOJ calls for decisive action, including the potential sale of Google’s Chrome browser and changes to its default settings agreements with device manufacturers.

Central to the DOJ’s argument is the concern that Google’s AI products, including its Gemini app installed on Samsung devices, create feedback loops reinforcing its search monopoly.

Court documents reveal that Google pays Samsung a significant monthly sum for this privilege, with the deal potentially extending into 2028.

The DOJ contends that remedies must be forward-looking to ensure competition as generative AI becomes increasingly intertwined with search.

Google, however, rejects the proposed measures as excessive. Its legal team argues that competitors perform well in AI without regulatory intervention and that forced divestitures or licensing obligations would harm innovation.

The company insists that AI falls outside the scope of the case, which is focused on traditional search, and has pledged to appeal any adverse ruling.

A key concern for Google is the DOJ’s suggestion that, should other remedies fail, the court could mandate the breakup of its Android mobile business, a move Google claims would disrupt the wider digital ecosystem.

DOJ officials emphasised that the legal remedies proposed are nonpartisan and reflect a consistent policy direction. Meanwhile, other tech giants, including Meta, are also under increasing scrutiny, with separate trials looming over market dominance and acquisitions.

DW Weekly #208 – US tariffs, the digital trade and digital policies court battles

12 – 18 April 2025

Nature, Outdoors, Sea, Water, Animal, Dinosaur, Reptile, Mammal

Dear readers,

Last week, we focused on the effects that the global trade war is producing worldwide. After President Trump’s administration increased tariffs, forcing major tech firms to rethink their strategies urgently, Apple swiftly responded to the looming trade barriers by orchestrating a record-breaking $2 billion iPhone airlift from India to the US, strategically sidestepping the elevated tariffs.

Meanwhile, the US has temporarily exempted certain critical electronics imported from China, including smartphones and semiconductor components, from tariff hikes.

The ripple effects of the US tariffs extend beyond US borders. South Korea, heavily reliant on its semiconductor exports, has launched an ambitious $23 billion investment into its domestic chip industry.

Parallel to the tariff turmoil, major US tech firms are embroiled in intensifying legal disputes concerning digital market dominance. The US Justice Department is pursuing legal action against Google, alleging monopolistic practices within its search and advertising services.

Echoing similar concerns, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is challenging Meta’s stronghold on the social media market, marking a critical moment in US antitrust enforcement.

These legal confrontations are not confined to the US. Japan recently directed Google to address its dominant position on Android search services, pressing for enhanced competition and user choice.

In Europe, X (formerly Twitter) faces heightened scrutiny over its AI data-use policies, as the EU regulators investigate potential misuse of user data.

Additionally, Meta has confirmed plans to utilise the EU user data for AI model training, prompting regulatory concerns and further legal scrutiny.

For the main updates and reflections, consult the Radar and Reading Corner below.

DW Team

RADAR

Highlights from the week of 12 – 18 April 2025

Crypto leaders gather in Moscow for the Global Blockchain Forum 2025

The Global Blockchain Forum will bring together international crypto experts to discuss Bitcoin, adoption trends, and Russia’s crypto future.

AI firm DeepSeek opens up on model deployment tech

Community gains from DeepSeek’s open-source contributions.

Trump-backed WLFI boosts crypto portfolio with SEI token acquisition

Despite significant investments, WLFI’s portfolio is down by $145.8 million, with losses primarily in its Ethereum holdings.

Beijing blames NSA for hacking Asian Games systems

Beijing claims US operatives targeted infrastructure and Huawei with NSA-led cyberattacks.

Panama City introduces cryptocurrency payments for public services

Mayor Mizrachi confirmed Panama City’s plan to facilitate cryptocurrency payments, using banks to convert assets into fiat currency.

eu flags in front of european commission 1

EU plans major staff boost for digital rules

Despite launching multiple probes under the Digital Services Act, the EU has yet to close any, prompting a recruitment push for its enforcement team.

amd launches new ai chips to take on leader nvidia

AMD warns of financial hit from US AI chip export ban

The US administration has tightened rules on AI chip exports, affecting AMD’s MI308 products and potentially causing major financial losses for the company.

Benchmark backlash hits Meta’s Maverick model

AI developers question Meta’s transparency after benchmark controversy.

nato flag north atlantic treaty organization flag waving

NATO allies strengthen cyber defenses against critical infrastructure threats

A cyber defence exercise involving 20 allied nations was held to strengthen coordination and improve response to attacks on critical infrastructure, led by NATO.

Most Bitcoin firms in El Salvador are inactive

Just 11% of El Salvador’s Bitcoin service providers are operational under the country’s Bitcoin Law, central bank data shows.

double exposure creative artificial intelligence icon with man hand writing notebook background neural networks machine learning concept

Hamburg Declaration champions responsible AI

As the global race to harness AI accelerates, a new international effort is working to ensure that progress doesn’t come at the cost of people or the planet.

View all updates

READING CORNER

Beyond the imitation game: GPT-4.5, the Turing Test, and what comes next

What happens when machines not only speak like us but begin to mirror the subtleties of our personalities, emotions, and intentions — and we can no longer tell the difference?

How concepts get their meaning – Diplo

How do words get their meaning? Aldo Matteucci shows how terms like ‘dispositif’ and ‘consul’ gain meaning not through definitions, but through repeated use in historical and political contexts.

UPCOMING EVENTS

23 April 2025

Demystifying AI: How to prepare international organisations for AI transformation?

The event will provide a timely discussion on methods, approaches, and solutions for AI transformation of International Organisaitons.

dig.watch

WIPO Conversation 11: AI and IP: Infrastructure for rights holders and innovation

Conversation on IP and AI will take place on April 23-24, 2025, focusing on the role of copyright infrastructure in supporting both rights holders and AI-driven innovation.

www.sdgaicompendium.org

Hamburg Declaration

The Hamburg Sustainability Conference (HSC) is a global gathering of leaders and changemakers from governments, international organizations, businesses, civil society, and academia. Together, they co-create innovative solutions for a sustainable and fair future. The next conference is scheduled for 2-3 June 2025.

Japan tells Google to stop Android search dominance

Japanese regulators have accused Google of breaching the country’s anti-monopoly laws by restricting competition through the pre-installation of its search engine on Android smartphones.

The Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) issued a cease and desist order on Tuesday, directing the US tech giant to halt the practice.

Google Japan called the move ‘regrettable’ and emphasised its long-standing investment in Japan to support innovation. The company has not yet indicated whether it will appeal the ruling.

The JFTC’s investigation began in 2023, with input from overseas regulators handling similar concerns in the United States and Europe.

This marks the first time the JFTC has taken such action against a major global technology firm. It follows global scrutiny of Google’s dominance, including a US court ruling last year that found Google had unfairly used its market power to suppress rivals.

European authorities have also raised similar concerns, accusing the company of monopolistic behaviour.

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Google uses AI and human reviews to fight ad fraud

Google has revealed it suspended 39.2 million advertiser accounts in 2024, more than triple the number from the previous year, as part of its latest push to combat ad fraud.

The tech giant said it is now able to block most bad actors before they even run an advert, thanks to advanced large language models and detection signals such as fake business details and fraudulent payments.

Instead of relying solely on AI, a team of over 100 experts from across Google and DeepMind also reviews deepfake scams and develops targeted countermeasures.

The company rolled out more than 50 LLM-based safety updates last year and introduced over 30 changes to advertising and publishing policies. These efforts, alongside other technical reinforcements, led to a 90% drop in reports of deepfake ads.

While the US saw the highest number of suspensions, with all 39.2 million accounts coming from there alone, India followed with 2.9 million accounts taken down. In both countries, ads were removed for violations such as trademark abuse, misleading personalisation, and financial service scams.

Overall, Google blocked 5.1 billion ads globally and restricted another 9.1 billion, instead of allowing harmful content to spread unchecked. Nearly half a billion of those removed were linked specifically to scam activity.

In a year when half the global population headed to the polls, Google also verified over 8,900 election advertisers and took down 10.7 million political ads.

While the scale of suspensions may raise concerns about fairness, Google said human reviews are included in the appeals process.

The company acknowledged previous confusion over enforcement clarity and is now updating its messaging to ensure advertisers understand the reasons behind account actions more clearly.

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Google Search drops local domain URLs

Google is set to begin redirecting its country-specific search domains, such as google.fr or google.co.uk, to the main global address at google.com.

The company says the move is intended to streamline user experience across different regions, with the update being gradually rolled out over the coming months.

Although users will see google.com in their browser instead of their local version, Google assures that the way Search functions will remain the same.

Some users may be prompted to re-enter their search preferences during the transition, but results will still reflect local relevance.

Since 2017, the platform has delivered the same core Search experience regardless of whether users accessed it through a country-specific address or the global one.

With this standardisation already in place, Google has concluded that separate country domains are no longer necessary.

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