Tech Wrap May 2: Major Updates in Tech
The tech world witnessed significant developments across various sectors on May 2. Here’s a roundup of the key updates:
ASUS Launches New ROG Gaming Laptops
ASUS has introduced its latest lineup of gaming laptops in India, featuring refreshed models from the ROG Strix, Zephyrus, and Flow series. These new laptops are equipped with Intel Core Ultra 9 and AMD Ryzen AI Max processors and are currently available for pre-orders in the Indian market.
Google Voice Update Adds Three-Way Calling
Google has rolled out an update for its Voice app, bringing a redesigned call interface and support for three-way conference calls. The enhancements are being gradually deployed and are accessible to select Google Workspace users. The updated call screen consolidates essential call controls into a single row.
Microsoft to Make New Accounts Password-Free by Default
Microsoft is pushing further into a passwordless future. As of May 1, new Microsoft accounts will be set up without traditional passwords by default. Instead, users will be guided to adopt passkeys, which utilize face recognition, fingerprint scans, or PINs for secure authentication.
Spotify to Roll Out iOS App Update with Out-of-App Purchase Options
Following a recent ruling in the Apple vs Epic legal battle, Spotify has submitted an iOS app update to Apple, enabling the app to display pricing and link users to its website for subscription transactions. This change reflects a shift in Apple’s policies, which now prevent it from mandating exclusive use of its in-app purchase system.
Google Expands AI Mode in Search with New Features
Google is broadening the rollout of its AI Mode in Search after a successful initial trial. The feature is now available across the US via Search Labs, with no waitlist. Additionally, a dedicated AI Mode tab will be introduced in the coming weeks for select users of the Google app.
Other Key Developments
- Samsung is reportedly gearing up to unveil the ultra-slim Galaxy S25 Edge smartphone later this month, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.
- Epic Games plans to enable developers to launch their own webshops through the Epic Games Store, allowing players to make purchases outside of the Apple and Google app ecosystems.
- Perplexity AI’s WhatsApp bot is operational again after a short suspension caused by a dramatic increase in user activity.
- Samsung is expected to use its proprietary Exynos 2500 system-on-chip (SoC) for the Galaxy Z Flip 7, while the Galaxy Z Fold 7 will likely feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset.
- Nvidia and Anthropic clashed over US semiconductor export rules, with Nvidia stating that American firms should focus on innovation rather than telling “tall tales” about smuggling electronics.
- Apple CEO Tim Cook confirmed that the company now sources half of the iPhones for the US market from India, citing lower tariffs compared to China.
- Apple aims to procure more than $19 billion worth of chips from the US this year as part of its broader strategy to diversify its supply chain.
