#Google

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.

Nollywood actress Adunni Ade has announced her legal victory against Google, winning ₦30 million in a dispute. This development has generated significant discussions on social media.

Google has announced plans to deploy engineers in the African region to support local customers, as part of its vision for the agentic enterprise, revealed during the first Cloud Summit event on the continent.

Google is set to launch the Eastern Cape Digital Exchange Port, which is part of a broader initiative to establish four connectivity hubs across Africa. This project aims to enhance local connectivity and computing capabilities in the region.

At the first Cloud Summit for Africa, Google announced its plan to invest R3 million in establishing a digital innovation centre in Soweto. This initiative aims to foster digital skills and innovation in the region.

Google has not included the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro in a significant Tensor kernel upgrade, which has raised concerns among users. This follows a trend where these devices were also excluded from several Android 17 Beta releases and certain Android 16 updates. Such omissions are typically not accidental, suggesting a potential end-of-life status for these models ahead of the expected October deadline.

Google and Akuna Group have launched a $1 million initiative to support underrepresented creators in Africa by providing education in artificial intelligence and access to advanced digital tools. This partnership was announced during Google Cloud’s first Summit in Africa, held in Johannesburg, and is part of Google’s broader mission, "Building for Africa," aimed at enhancing opportunities for African talent.

Google has secured permits for a project in the Eastern Cape, which is intended to serve as the southern anchor of a four-hub network across Africa. However, the project has not yet commenced, and specific details about the plan remain undisclosed.

Google is set to release four new models in its Pixel 11 lineup: the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and Pixel 11 Pro Fold. Details regarding the release date and pricing for each model have not yet been disclosed.

Google has announced its commitment to enhancing Ghana's digital transformation by investing in digital skills development and local-language artificial intelligence initiatives. This move is part of a broader strategy to support the country's technological growth and improve access to digital resources.

Google has selected 15 AI-focused startups from various African countries including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, Tanzania, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and Angola for its Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program. This initiative emphasizes a transition towards scalable and revenue-generating innovations within the continent's tech ecosystem. The startups, which span sectors such as fintech, mobility, healthtech, agritech, and SaaS, completed a three-month hybrid program.

On June 18, 15 AI-focused startups from various African countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, Tanzania, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and Angola, graduated from the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa programme, which is a three-month hybrid initiative.

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 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.

Google is set to introduce a search bar within the Play Store reviews, allowing users to quickly find specific features or experiences related to apps. This new functionality aims to enhance the user experience by making it easier to locate relevant information in reviews.

Google, a leader in AI research, is currently facing increased competitive pressure and regulatory scrutiny, which has put the company on the defensive, according to SABC Sci-Tech.