Tino Talks Tech

Category: Google

  • Google’s GenAI is Too Impressive

    Google’s GenAI is Too Impressive

    So, I was scrolling through Instagram the other day and came across some mind-blowing images showing how powerful Google’s Generative AI is on the new Pixel 9. These images were posted by The Verge, and I have to say, they stopped me in my tracks. They made it clear that Google’s Magic Editor is next-level stuff, and I couldn’t wait to dig deeper.

    Take a look at the side-by-side image in the thumbnail. On the left, you’ve got an ordinary, quiet street, nothing exciting. But on the right? It’s been completely transformed into the aftermath of a dramatic car crash, complete with wrecked vehicles and scattered debris. This transformation was done with just a few taps using Google’s Magic Editor on the Pixel 9. It’s crazy how much of a difference this AI-powered tool can make, and it has the potential to change the way we think about editing photos.

    What is Generative AI?

    First things first, let’s quickly break down what Generative AI is. In simple terms, Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence that can create new content based on patterns it’s learned from existing data. This includes everything from text to art, and of course, photos. In the case of Google’s Pixel 9, it means you can take a regular image and transform it in all sorts of ways, like adding objects, changing the lighting, or, as in the thumbnail, turning an empty street into a scene from a movie. The AI fills in the blanks in a way that looks natural and believable.

    Now if you don’t understand it, let’s put it this way. Imagine you’re drawing, but instead of doing it yourself, you tell an incredibly talented robot what you want, and it just gets it right every time. You ask for a car crash in a peaceful scene? Boom, the robot adds a perfect one, and it looks like it was always there. *chuckles. I’m great at explaining 😉

    Why Google’s Pixel 9 GenAI is a Game-Changer

    I’ve seen and tried my fair share of mobile built-in editing tools over the years, but what Google is doing with the Pixel 9’s Magic Editor takes things to a whole new level. From the examples I found on Instagram, it’s clear that this isn’t just about small tweaks to brightness or filters. Google’s Generative AI can completely reshape your photos, adding new objects or even reimagining entire environments, all in a few quick steps.

    Take the thumbnail again: in the original shot, it’s just a calm, quiet street. But the edited version tells a whole different story, turning that peaceful scene into something intense, the aftermath of a crash. And the most mind-blowing part? It’s not just a quick Photoshop job, the AI understands context. It knew how to position the vehicles and add debris in a way that matches the scene perfectly. You could easily mistake the edited version for a real photo of a car accident.

    Why Google’s Magic Editor is So Impressive

    Here’s a breakdown of what makes Google’s Magic Editor such a banger:

    1. AI-Powered Scene Editing: The Pixel 9’s Generative AI goes beyond just touching up photos. You can change the story of an image, like in the crash scene example. The AI doesn’t just plop objects in your photo, it seamlessly integrates them into the environment, so it feels like they were always there.
    2. Add or Remove Objects with Ease: One of the coolest features is the ability to add or remove objects at will. Let’s say you want to erase a random person from your vacation shot or add something like a rainbow to your landscape pic. Done. And when you remove something, the AI fills in the background so naturally that you’d never know anything was missing.
    3. Quick Edits, Big Changes: Traditional editing software can take forever to get right, especially if you’re not a pro. But with the Magic Editor, it seems like you can make massive changes in a matter of seconds. Just look at the street scene example, what would take hours in Photoshop was done in a few taps with AI.
    4. Super Easy to Use: The best part? You don’t need to be a tech guru to make these changes. From what I’ve seen in the demos and examples, Google’s Magic Editor is intuitive and user-friendly. It’s perfect for people like me who love to edit photos but don’t have the time or skills to mess with complicated software.
    5. Natural, Realistic Results: One thing that stands out is how realistic the edits look. Sometimes, with other tools, you can tell when a photo’s been altered, the lighting’s off, or the objects don’t quite blend in. But Google’s Generative AI gets it right. The crash scene looks believable as if the wrecked car and debris were there.

    The Future of GenAI

    While photo editing is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Generative AI, its potential goes way beyond that. Google’s Generative AI could soon be applied to video editing, content creation, and even productivity tools. Imagine being able to edit videos, create presentations, or generate marketing visuals all from your phone, without needing to rely on heavy software. The possibilities are huge.

    If you want to stay updated on the latest in tech, be sure to subscribe to the Tino Talks Tech newsletter and enable notifications. Here are more examples by The Verge:

  • Google’s Gemini Approach is Wild

    Google’s Gemini Approach is Wild

    Google’s Gemini AI has recently rolled out some impressive updates at the Made by Google event yesterday, and they’re hard to ignore. One of the mainstream features is Gemini Live, a version designed to provide natural, hands-free conversations with your device, it’s nothing new though. It’s meant to make your digital interactions feel more like talking to a friend, with multiple voice options, just like the assistant. This new AI is also more deeply integrated into Android, offering smarter, context aware assistance and faster response times across various Google apps like Tasks, Keep and YouTube Music.

    But before you get too excited like I did when I was watching the keynote, here’s a bit of a reality check: to enjoy Gemini Live, you’ll need to subscribe to Gemini Advanced, the paid version of Gemini. For those of us who’ve been enjoying the Google Assistant for free, this feels a bit like being told that the air we breathe is now subscription-based. Oh and during the live demo, Gemini failed twice before they had to switch devices and btw they were using Galaxy 24 Ultras, so this doesn’t look good for both Google and Samsung.

    So, Google, here’s the deal if you keep putting basic features behind a paywall, I might just switch to the other side.

    P.S. Subscribe to the Tino Talks Tech newsletter for more tech talk especially if you want to see whether I actually leap to the other side, I’m not tho! 😅

  • Google Makes You Choose Between Assistant and Gemini

    Google Makes You Choose Between Assistant and Gemini

    So once again we have Google introducing something new, something shiny and it’s called Gemini. But there’s a cap, instead of rolling this out as an upgrade to our beloved Google Assistant, they’ve decided to make it a separate thing. Now, we’ve got a choice to make, and frankly, it’s a hard decision to make.

    Google’s Split Decision

    I’ve been using Google Assistant since birth, well maybe not but you get the point. It wakes me up, tells me the weather, and even handles the odd Google search or two. It’s even built into my headphones. It’s like the reliable friend who’s always there when you need them. Now we have Gemini, the new kid on the block promising smarter conversations and a bit more pizzazz with handling complex tasks.

    Here’s my situation:

    • Google Assistant: It’s like an old friend. Reliable, predictable, and deeply woven into all the Google stuff I use every day. It’s comfy and familiar.
    • Gemini: This one’s meant to be cutting-edge with better chat abilities. Cool, yes, but also a tad intimidating? Oh and there are lots of compromises to make here, don’t get me started with those.

    Why Not Just One Super Assistant?

    Honestly, I can’t help but wonder why Google didn’t just merge Gemini into Google Assistant. Wouldn’t it be smoother to have one super assistant that gets better over time rather than choosing between old reliable and the new experiment? Here’s why this split feels a bit off:

    1. No More Juggling: Seriously, who wants to switch between two assistants? I’d love one assistant that just gets all the new updates and keeps getting smarter.
    2. Learning Curve: Learning how to use a new assistant sounds like a chore. I’ve got enough on my plate already without adding “figure out Gemini” to the list.
    3. Efficiency: Combining the cool new features of Gemini with the established reliability of Google Assistant seems like the smarter move. Why reinvent the wheel?

    I’m Sticking With What Works… For Now

    For now, I’m sticking with Google Assistant. It does everything I need, and well, I’m used to it. Unless Gemini blows my socks off or they decide to merge it with Assistant (please do!), I don’t see a reason to switch.

    Conclusion: Keep It Simple, Google

    This whole scenario feels like Google might be complicating things unnecessarily. We don’t need two assistants; we need one that’s always evolving and adapting. Maybe it’s time for Google to consider not just what’s technologically possible, but also what’s genuinely useful for us, the users.

  • Microsoft Pays You to Use Bing: Why Else Would You?

    Microsoft Pays You to Use Bing: Why Else Would You?

    Google reigns supreme, that’s nothing new. It’s the beloved first choice for billions around the globe. But wait, there’s another contender trying its hardest to woo you over—Microsoft’s Bing. Yes, Bing, the one you forgot existed.

    Microsoft Rewards: The Desperate Bribe You’ve Been Waiting For

    Microsoft Rewards is the brilliant strategy Microsoft devised to make you want to use Bing. It’s a loyalty program that showers you with points for using Bing instead of Google. These points can be redeemed for gift cards, sweepstakes entries, and even donations to charity. Because nothing says, “We believe in our product,” quite like paying people to use it, right?

    Why Does Microsoft Have to Pay People to Use Bing?

    Here are a few reasons why Microsoft thought bribery was the best way forward:

    1. The Monopoly of Google:

    Let’s face it, when you think of searching for anything, your brain automatically types Google.com and for most of us, Google is our default search engine. It’s become a reflex, like breathing. Microsoft knew that to break this habit, they had to offer a little more.

    1. Bing’s Lack of Appeal:

      Despite Microsoft’s best efforts, Bing hasn’t captured the hearts and minds of internet users. Maybe it’s the uninspired logo or the not-quite-Google results that keep people away. Whatever it is, Microsoft decided that the only way to lure you in was through your wallet.

      Conclusion

      Microsoft Rewards is an amusing yet desperate attempt to get you to use Bing. But hey, if you don’t mind clicking through an unfamiliar interface for some extra pocket change, then why not give it a shot? After all, who doesn’t love getting paid to do something they weren’t going to do anyway? Oh and they also pay you to use other services from them not just Bing, I had almost forgotten that, silly me…

      So go ahead, give Bing a try. Maybe you’ll find it’s not so bad after all—or maybe you’ll just enjoy the rewards while going back to Googling. Either way, it’s nice to know that Microsoft is willing to pay for your loyalty, even if it’s only temporary.

    1. We’re Getting the Pixel 9 Series Earlier Than we Expected

      We’re Getting the Pixel 9 Series Earlier Than we Expected

      If you’re waiting to see the Pixel 9, Pixel Watch 3, or other new Google hardware, mark your calendars for August 13th. Google has announced an in-person “Made by Google” event where they’ll showcase the best of Google AI, Android 15, and the Pixel portfolio. The keynote will take place at 10AM PT / 1PM ET as reported by The Verge.

      Leaked Designs

      After the video which was released by Google on their socials, we’re now definitely sure that what we saw in the leaks is true. The Pixel 9 series has been leaked online, revealing significant design changes. The new lineup includes:

      • Pixel 9: 6.2-inch display.
      • Pixel 9 Pro: 6.2-inch display.
      • Pixel 9 XL: 6.7-inch display.

      Leaked images show a transition from the horizontal camera bar to a more traditional camera island with three cameras. But honestly, I prefer the camera bar more. The series is expected to feature a 120Hz refresh rate across all models and be powered by the new Tensor G4 chipset.

      New Devices Under CMF Brand by Nothing

      I can’t stop talking about them right? 😁Nothing is also gearing up to launch new devices under their CMF brand:

      1. CMF Buds Pro 2: Successors to the CMF Buds Pro, expected to offer enhanced sound quality and active noise cancellation.
      2. CMF Watch 2: Following the original CMF Watch, likely to run on a proprietary OS with improved health tracking and battery life.
      3. CMF Phone 1: Featuring a design with a repairability focus, hinted by a picture of a screwdriver posted by Nothing. It’s expected to have a unique dial at the bottom corner.

      These devices will be announced during Nothing’s Community Keynote on July 8th.

      Android 15 Release

      Alongside the Pixel 9 series, Android 15 will also be launched. The beta version is already available on Pixel 7 and later models, as well as some third-party Android smartphones. Key features(for now) include:

      • System-Wide Toggles: For keyboard vibration and haptic feedback.
      • Partial Screen Recording: Record individual apps. (Already available on Pixel devices.)
      • Enhanced Bluetooth Tile: Improved device management.
      • Edge-to-Edge Displays: Full-width content display.
      • Foldable Optimization: Better multitasking on foldable devices.
      • Power Efficiency: New thermal thresholds and optimization APIs.

      Stay tuned for detailed reviews and updates after the official announcements. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Tino Talks Tech newsletter and enable notifications to stay up-to-date with the latest tech news.

    2. The New Pindula Marketplace: A Step Backwards?

      The New Pindula Marketplace: A Step Backwards?

      Pindula news logo

      Today, I want to talk about a significant change in the Zimbabwean online shopping scene, specifically concerning the Pindula Marketplace, and yes, this is not the first time. As we’re restarting the Zimbabwean Marketplace website series, I thought it would be great to restart with the ones we covered before. So some of you might remember it as a bustling hub for all sorts of goods, from clothing and electronics to homeware and more and like I said, I wrote an article about ‘that’ Pindula Marketplace. Well, those days are gone. Let’s dive into what’s happened to Pindula Marketplace and how it’s affecting us all.

      The Old Pindula Marketplace

      For those who aren’t familiar, the Pindula Marketplace used to be a vibrant platform where you could find a wide range of products. It was like our very own Amazon, sort of :). Sellers from all over Zimbabwe listed their items, and buyers had the convenience of shopping for anything and everything from the comfort of their homes. It was particularly handy for those who wanted to support local businesses. You could find unique items and get them delivered right to your doorstep. Ah, the good old days!

      What’s Changed?

      Fast forward to today, and Pindula Marketplace has undergone a radical transformation. Now, you can only buy gadgets, and they’re limited to a few specific brands: Samsung, itel, and Tecno. This drastic change happened last year, but I’m only writing about it now because I’m restarting my Zimbabwe Marketplace Series, revisiting platforms I had reviewed the first time around.

      Here’s a breakdown of what’s new:

      • Limited Product Range: Gone are the days when you could browse through a variety of products. Now, it’s strictly gadgets from Samsung, itel, and Tecno.
      • Simplified Purchase Process: You no longer need to create an account. To buy a gadget, all you need to do is enter your name, phone number, and address. However, there’s a catch – they only deliver within Harare. This lack of support for other cities is quite frustrating.
      • Payment Methods: You can pay using EcoCash, OneMoney, InnBucks, or opt for cash on delivery. A $5 delivery fee applies to every order.

      Final Thoughts

      The new Pindula Marketplace feels like a shadow of its former self. While it’s great that you can easily buy gadgets from top brands, the lack of variety, limited delivery area, and the overall reduction in service are hard to overlook. It’s a disappointing turn of events for what was once a great marketplace.

      Let’s hope that in the future, Pindula will consider broadening its offerings again and bringing back the vibrant marketplace that many of us came to rely on.

      Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more tech updates. Also, if you haven’t yet, enable notifications so you never miss out on the latest posts from Tino Talks Tech!

      Zimbabwean Marketplace Series: Pindula Marketplace
    3. Google I/O 2024: The Gemini Era is Here!

      Google I/O 2024: The Gemini Era is Here!

      Alright folks, the Google I/O keynote was a lot to take in, but let me break down the AI goodness they dropped on us in plain terms. Buckle up, because this is gonna change how you use Google services, and honestly, how you do a lot of things in your daily life.

      First things first, Google’s been all over AI for a while now. Their new AI, Gemini, is basically a super-smart AI model that can juggle text, images, videos, and even code like a pro and yes, like the GPT-4o we recently talked about. It’s like having a super-powered brain that can handle any kind of information you throw at it.

      So, what does this mean for you? Well, let’s start with Google Search. Remember those days of trying to figure out the right keywords to find what you’re looking for? Forget about it. With Gemini, they introduced the AI Overview, and you can search in plain English, just like you’d ask a friend. Need to find out how you can take a screenshot on your PC? Just ask, “How do I take a screenshot on Windows?” No more deciphering complex search terms. For me, it’s already available on desktop however it’s still being tested so it might not show up every time, and after learning how I can take a screenshot, I took this:

      Next up, Google Photos. We’ve all been there, scrolling endlessly through photos trying to find that one perfect shot. Gemini’s got your back. It understands what’s in your photos, so you can search for “sunset at the beach” or “my dog playing fetch” and find exactly what you’re looking for. It’s like having a photographic memory, but, you know, better.

      But Gemini isn’t just about making search easier. It’s also a creative powerhouse. In Google Workspace, you can use Gemini to summarize long meetings, write emails in different styles, or even generate poems. It’s like having a personal writing assistant who can do anything you ask.

      And for those of you glued to your Android phones (guilty!), Gemini is coming for you too. They’re working on new AI assistants that can do everything from booking flights to managing your calendar. Imagine having a personal assistant who can take care of all the boring stuff, freeing you up to focus on the things that matter.

      But here’s where things get really interesting. Google is also rolling out a bunch of Gemini-powered extensions for some of your favorite apps. Planning a trip? The Google Flights and Google Hotels extensions will help you find the best deals and plan your itinerary like a pro. Google Maps will give you personalized recommendations based on your location and interests. And even YouTube is getting in on the action, with Gemini helping you find and understand videos like never before.

      Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Extensions? Other AIs have those too.” And you’re right, they do. But what makes these extensions special is that they’re built right into the Google apps you already use every day. It’s a seamless experience that just makes sense.

      Oh, and did I mention Magic Compose? It’s like having a Shakespeare writer for your text messages. Literally, you can choose from different styles like “Shakespeare,” “Chill,” or “Lyrical” to spice up your texts. It might not sound like a big deal, but it’s these little touches that make Gemini feel like a gamechanger.

      Alright devs, listen up! This one’s for you. Google’s not just stopping at Gemini-powered apps for the average Joe. They’re giving you the keys to the kingdom with Gemini 1.0 Pro, 1.5 Flash, and 1.5 Pro available on Google AI Studio and you can also get up to 2M tokens now. These are the tools that will let you build your own AI-powered apps and experiences, so let those creative juices flow!

      Now, I know this all sounds a bit ‘futuristic’, any way you’d like to call it, but trust me, this is happening. Google is all about making AI work for everyone, not just the techies. They’re working with schools to help students learn better with AI, and they’re making sure it’s all done ethically and responsibly.

      So yeah, the Google I/O keynote was a bit of a whirlwind. But the takeaway? AI is here to stay, and it’s about to make your life a whole lot easier. Whether you’re searching the web, managing your photos, or just trying to get through your day, Gemini and its AI buddies are here to help. And that, my friends, is pretty darn exciting.

    4. Google Pixel 8a: Redefining the Mid-Range Android Experience

      Google Pixel 8a: Redefining the Mid-Range Android Experience

      The Google Pixel 8a’s mission is clear: redefine expectations for mid-range smartphones. It seeks to offer premium intelligence, features, and performance usually linked with flagships, all while maintaining a friendly price point. But does Google succeed in making the affordable exceptional? Let’s dive deeper.

      Key Specifications

      SpecificationDetail
      Display6.1-inch OLED, 1080×2400 resolution, 120Hz (adaptive), Gorilla Glass 3
      ProcessorGoogle Tensor G3
      RAM8GB
      Storage128GB / 256GB
      Rear Cameras64MP main (OIS) + 13MP ultrawide
      Front Camera13MP
      Battery4492mAh (typical), Fast charging, Wireless charging
      Operating SystemAndroid 14
      SecurityTitan M2 security chip, Fingerprint Unlock, Face Unlock
      Dimensions & Weight152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm, 188g
      OtherIP67 water/dust resistance, Stereo speakers

      A Performance Disruptor

      The Pixel 8a shatters mid-range conventions with its heart – the Tensor G3 chip. Typically, phones in this category settle for less powerful processors. By including their flagship processor, Google significantly boosts the Pixel 8a’s computational power. This translates to snappy performance in everything from opening apps to gaming. Coupled with Google’s software optimizations, the Pixel 8a promises a user experience unmatched at this price, with the potential to outshine even higher-priced competitors. However, it’s important to consider those tempting Amazon deals on the Pixel 8. For a slightly higher price, you could potentially snag the Pixel 8 with its slightly larger screen and a few extra bells and whistles.

      Visuals and Usability

      The 6.1-inch OLED display, with its adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, offers a remarkably fluid visual experience. Scrolling, browsing, and gaming feel smooth and responsive. Paired with the potent Tensor G3, the 8a should effortlessly handle any daily task you throw its way. Battery life also promises improvements, potentially extending beyond a full day’s use on a single charge and going even further with Extreme Battery Saver mode. This combination of visual excellence and long-lasting power makes for a device that consistently delivers.

      Build Quality

      While the Pixel 8a features a plastic build, it borrows the sleek design language of the premium Pixel line, offering a modern aesthetic. IP67 water and dust resistance give you confidence for everyday use. Though the Corning® Gorilla® Glass™ 3 protection could raise some concerns about display durability, Google’s impressive support mitigates that worry. Expect years of guaranteed OS, security, and feature updates, keeping the Pixel 8a secure and fresh long after its initial release.

      Google’s AI Advantage: Photography & Beyond

      The Pixel 8a inherits Google’s tradition of computational photography excellence. Powered by the Tensor G3, tools like Magic Editor, Photo Unblur, and Real Tone ensure your photos stand out from the crowd. Even after you’ve snapped the shot, Google’s AI lets you manipulate images in ways few other phones can match. This computational strength extends beyond the camera. Expect Google to continually optimize the Pixel 8a, delivering clever new features and enhancements through updates – it’s a phone that’s designed to evolve with you.

      Who Should Consider the Pixel 8a?

      The ideal 8a user prioritizes a smooth Android experience, exceptional camera capabilities, and software that feels ‘smart’ and responsive. You value the reliability of a device that won’t slow down or feel outdated a few months down the line. If you currently own a Pixel 7a, the upgrade decision could be less clear-cut. While a noticeable performance boost is expected, your 7a might still serve you well. However, switching from another mid-range Android device, where camera inconsistencies and software hiccups are commonplace, makes the Pixel 8a a very compelling option.

      The Competition Heats Up

      The mid-range market is notoriously competitive, and the Pixel 8a needs to prove itself against capable alternatives. Here are a few worth a second look:

      • Samsung Galaxy A54
      • OnePlus Nord 3
      • Nothing Phone (2)
      • iPhone SE (2023)
      • Xiaomi 13 Lite

      The Early Verdict

      The Google Pixel 8a presents a strong case for becoming the 2024 mid-range king. Its powerful processor, focus on user experience, computational photography mastery, and attractive price point combine in a highly compelling package. While detailed real-world testing and a rigorous assessment against its competitors remain to be done, the Pixel 8a is a persuasive reminder that exceptional smartphones don’t have to be budget-breaking investments.

      Here’s a summarized table of the key review pillars along with estimated scores for the Google Pixel 8a. Since we haven’t fully tested the device, these scores are based on the specs and Google’s track record:

      PillarScore (Out of 10)Reasoning
      Value for Money9The inclusion of the Tensor G3 chip at this price point is exceptional, offering flagship-level performance.
      Real-World Usefulness8Smooth performance, a refined display, and long-lasting battery should deliver a great everyday experience.
      Build Quality & Longevity7Plastic build, but IP67 rating provides peace of mind, and Google’s software support history is stellar.
      “Wow” Factor/Innovation8Computational photography excellence and AI-powered software tricks are the primary draw.
      Target Audience Fit9Ideal for those seeking premium Android experiences without a premium price.

      Average Score: 8.2

      Please note: These scores are speculated based on research only.