Google showcased its vision for the future of Android at the 2026 Android Show, introducing innovations such as AI-powered widgets and a new category of laptops. This event took place a week before Google I/O, continuing the trend from the previous year of unveiling significant Android developments ahead of the annual conference.

Pick n Pay has launched an AI assistant as part of its strategy to reclaim market share from the Checkers Sixty60 app. Meanwhile, Woolworths is expanding its operations with the addition of another 'dark store'.

Google has started the rollout of Android 17, which includes significant updates focused on enhancing multitasking, mobile gaming, and device security. This update is part of Google's effort to integrate its Gemini intelligence layer more closely with Android. Initially available on Pixel devices, it will be extended to other eligible smartphones throughout 2026, according to TechMoran.

Google Play has announced a $1 million fund aimed at supporting independent game developers in Africa, marking its first regional Indie Games Fund. This initiative will offer equity-free funding, technical assistance, and mentorship to selected game studios across 32 African countries, with individual funding allocations starting at $50,000. The announcement was made on Tuesday, highlighting Google's commitment to enhancing the continent's gaming ecosystem.

Google is implementing a ban on browser extensions that allow users to 'jailbreak' AI chatbots, which are designed to bypass the security measures of platforms like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Anthropic Claude, among other generative AI services.

According to Gadgets Africa, an 18-month study on mobile gaming habits reveals a surprising trend: quick-decision gaming is increasingly appealing to mobile users who have grown up with apps. This shift indicates a change in user preferences and gaming dynamics in the mobile sector.