TECHBOOK

On September 4: Gemini Replaces Google Assistant: Google Begins Major Transition

Mats Pache — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 03:03:00 -0400

]]> Google is pushing forward with the transition from its classic voice assistant to Gemini. Users are now being informed via email that the switch will begin on September 4, 2026. From that date, the AI Gemini will gradually replace Google Assistant on supported devices.

New EU Rules Since Aug. 12: Changes Coming to Supermarket Packaging

Rita Deutschbein — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 02:01:37 -0400

]]> Those shopping at the supermarket might hardly notice the recently implemented changes. On August 12, new EU packaging regulations came into effect, aiming to fundamentally change how packaging waste is handled in Europe.

Another Price Increase: Higher Windows Licensing Costs Worsen PC Market Situation

Rainer Schuldt — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 01:49:00 -0400

]]> New PCs could soon cost even more. Microsoft has apparently significantly raised the fees for Windows licenses that manufacturers preinstall on their devices. For the PC industry, already suffering from high hardware costs, this increase comes at a bad time.

D23 Convention: Disney Unveils Movie Offensive! These Cult Films Are Getting Sequels

Rainer Schuldt — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 11:47:00 -0400

]]> Disney announced a slew of potential blockbusters at the D23 Convention. The focus is primarily on sequels to well-known series: “Frozen,” “Star Wars,” “Ice Age,” and “The Simpsons” are all getting new films. Elsa and a new “Star Wars” film starring Ryan Gosling are particularly drawing attention.

New Document: Samsung may redesign the cameras on the Galaxy S27.

Przemyslaw Szymanski — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 09:33:00 -0400

]]> Samsung might give its Galaxy S series a significantly different look with the Galaxy S27. There has been speculation for some time about major changes in performance, technology, and design. Now, published design drawings suggest that the rear camera, in particular, could be redesigned.

Apple Announcement: If You Receive This iPhone Warning, Act Quickly

Charlotte Ziesing — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 08:41:00 -0400

]]> Apple again warns users about cyberattacks. The alerts appear directly on the lock screen of affected devices, among other places. Recipients should take them seriously. The background involves attacks with so-called mercenary spyware. According to Apple, these are targeted attacks on individuals, not ordinary malware or classic phishing messages.

Video of Gold Dealer Goes Viral: Gold From E-Waste? Current Case Highlights Major Issue

Rainer Schuldt — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 07:31:00 -0400

]]> The idea sounds tempting: Use discarded computers as a personal gold source and maybe even get rich. Many electronic components do contain small amounts of the precious metal. But how realistic is it to profitably extract gold from them?

Orders, Visits ...: How McDonald’s Collects User Data Extensively

Przemyslaw Szymanski — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 06:22:13 -0400

]]> The McDonald’s app has become a daily tool for many customers. It allows for redeeming coupons, collecting loyalty points, and ordering before visiting the restaurant. At the same time, it generates a significant amount of usage data. A case from the U.S. shows how extensive data collection can be.

Experts Voice Criticism: Mathematician Convinced: There’s a Formula for Love

Rainer Schuldt — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 05:39:44 -0400

]]> A French mathematics professor claims to have discovered when a relationship will last–and when it will fail. His formula takes into account feelings of love, habituation, crises, and even infidelity.

Soon to be Uninstallable: Microsoft Responds to Criticism of OneDrive Photos

Mats Pache — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 02:55:09 -0400

]]> Microsoft plans to reverse a controversial change regarding OneDrive Photos. The new photo app appeared on numerous Windows 11 devices, even though many users neither installed nor requested it. The criticism was accordingly significant.