Tech News Today – Reported 4/25/2025
AI Developments & Features:
- Microsoft Recall Rollout: After delays, Microsoft has started rolling out its controversial “Recall” feature, along with other AI enhancements, to Copilot+ AI PCs today. Recall aims to create a searchable photographic memory of user activity, though it has raised privacy concerns.
- YouTube Testing AI Overviews: Following Google Search, YouTube is reportedly testing its own AI-generated highlight clips or summaries for videos.
- Gmail Layout Update: Gmail on Android tablets and foldable devices now features an adjustable layout, allowing users to resize the list and conversation views.
- Perplexity Voice Assistant: The AI search company Perplexity has launched a voice assistant for iPhones, offering an alternative to Siri. However, separate reports flag potential security flaws in Perplexity’s Android app.
- WhatsApp AI Circle Backlash: WhatsApp is facing user backlash for prominently featuring a blue Meta AI circle/button within the app, though the company defends it as a “good thing.”
New Gadgets & Hardware News:
- Motorola Razr Foldables Launch: T-Mobile announced it will carry the new 2025 motorola razr lineup, including the razr, razr+, and the brand-new razr ultra. Metro by T-Mobile will also carry the standard razr.
- Motorola Razr (2025): $699.99 USD
- Motorola Razr Plus (2025): $999.99 USD
- Motorola Razr Ultra (2025): $1,299.99 USD (starting price for 512GB model)
- Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-orders: Pre-orders for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 (reportedly launching June 5th) are experiencing high demand, selling out quickly at major retailers and causing some frustration for potential buyers. Nintendo is also reportedly charging $20 for Switch 2 upgrades for games like ‘Kirby and the Forgotten Land’ and ‘Super Mario Party Jamboree’.
- Samsung Galaxy Deals & Leaks: Samsung is offering promotions like a free watch with new Galaxy phone purchases. Pricing details for the upcoming Galaxy S25 Edge may have also been accidentally shared by Samsung. (Rumored Pricing – Official US pricing not confirmed)
- 256GB Model: Around $1,045 USD (based on conversion from leaked Korean pricing)
- 512GB Model: Around $1,135 USD (based on conversion from leaked Korean pricing)
- Sony Bravia Audio: Sony has launched new Bravia home theater audio products, including two new soundbars.
- Boox E Ink Tablets: Boox has released new Go 7 E Ink tablets that support handwriting with an optional stylus and allow users to get books from any Android-compatible storefront.
Software Updates & Potential Issues:
- iOS 18.4 Warning: While the iOS 18.4 update reportedly fixes some bugs for iPhone users, sources suggest it may also introduce a new problem. Users should be aware when considering the update.
Deals & Market Trends:
- Apple Product Sales: Several deals are available on Apple products, including the newest iPad dropping to a record-low $320 and the M4 MacBook Air hitting a new low price of $899.
- Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 Discount: Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 are reportedly $50 off with a coupon code ($179).
- Increased Interest in Second-Hand Phones: Reports indicate searches for used or pre-owned phones have increased, potentially driven by concerns over possible future US tariffs on electronics imported from China, which could raise prices for new devices like iPhones. Apple is reportedly considering shifting all US-bound iPhone production from China to India to mitigate potential tariffs.
- VPN Deals: Discounts are available on subscriptions for ExpressVPN (61% off 2-year plan + extra months) and ProtonVPN (64% off 2-year Plus plan).
Other Notable Items:
- TikTok Sale Speculation: Shark Tank’s Kevin O’Leary commented on the ongoing situation regarding a potential sale or ban of TikTok in the US, suggesting ByteDance might move towards a deal soon.
- AI Photo Editing Concerns: Discussions continue around the ethics and trustworthiness of AI photo editing tools, like Apple’s “Clean Up,” questioning our ability to trust what we see.
Mobile / Smartphone / Cell Phone Accessories
