Google Pixel phones security hole to be fixed; Google Search AI overviews expand to six new countries
Top 3 Key Points:
- Google to remove the “Showcase” app from Pixel phones due to security concerns.
- The “Showcase” app had advanced system privileges, potentially allowing remote installation of software or code execution.
- Google Search AI Overviews expanded to six new countries, including India, with prominent links and local language support.
Google has announced that it will soon remove the “Showcase” app from its Pixel phones, citing security concerns. The app, which was pre-installed on nearly all Pixel devices, had advanced system privileges that could have allowed remote installation of software or code execution.
This security hole was discovered by iVerify, a firm that disclosed its findings to Google in May. Although the app is disabled by default and requires physical access to the device to enable it, Google has acknowledged the vulnerability and confirmed that it will remove the app in the coming weeks. The Pixel 9 series already ships without the “Showcase” app.
In other news, Google Search AI Overviews are expanding to six new countries, including India, Japan, and Brazil. This feature provides users with more prominent links and local language support, making search results more helpful. The roll-out is gradual and will occur over several weeks.
Additionally, Google is testing new features such as inline URLs and a “Save” feature for AI Overviews. This allows users to save and revisit their search results later. Google continues to emphasize that AI Overviews drive higher traffic to publisher sites and provide more diverse search results.
Overall, Google is taking steps to address security concerns and improve user experience with its latest updates.