Sun Sep 15 12:00:10 UTC 2024: ## Google Faces Antitrust Fines and Lawsuits, But Also Releases New AI Features

**Mountain View, CA -** Google has had a turbulent week, facing significant legal challenges while also introducing new AI features and releasing its latest foldable smartphone.

**Antitrust Actions:**

* The European Union upheld a $2.7 billion fine against Google for favoring its own shopping service, a ruling Google has appealed multiple times. This marks the largest antitrust fine ever imposed by the EU on a single company.
* Google is also facing separate antitrust lawsuits in the US, with one involving its dominance in online search and another targeting its online ad business.

**New AI Features:**

* YouTube Music’s AI DJ feature, “Ask Music,” is now rolling out to Premium subscribers. This allows users to create personalized playlists based on vague music descriptions.
* Gemini Live, a conversational AI feature previously exclusive to the paid Google One AI Premium Plan, is now available for free in the Gemini app.
* Google is working to integrate its Data Commons database of verified information into its large language models, aiming to improve the accuracy of AI outputs and reduce hallucinations.

**Pixel 9 Pro Fold:**

* Google’s new Pixel 9 Pro Fold, the sequel to its first foldable phone, has been released and received positive reviews for its hardware design and build quality. However, its camera performance and battery life are considered less impressive compared to other foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 6.

**Other Google News:**

* Google is testing a new Google One Lite subscription service, offering 30 GB of cloud storage for a low price in India.
* The second beta version of Android 15 QPR1 has been released, featuring UI updates and new features.

While Google faces legal challenges, the company continues to invest in new technologies and features, showcasing its commitment to AI and innovation. However, the antitrust lawsuits and the EU fine raise serious questions about the company’s future and its position in the tech landscape.

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