Daily Tech Headlines Summary
Episode: A Google Cloud Disruption Caused A Widespread Internet Outage
Release Date: June 13, 2025
Hosts: Sarah Lane, Robb Dunewood, Tom Merritt

1. Google Cloud Disruption Causes Major Internet Outage

On Thursday, a significant disruption within Google Cloud services led to a widespread internet outage affecting millions across the United States. The outage commenced around 11:00 AM Pacific Time, impacting major platforms such as Cloudflare, Spotify, Discord, Snapchat, and Character AI.

Rob Dunewood reports, "A Google Cloud disruption on Thursday caused a widespread Internet outage, affecting services like Cloudflare, Spotify, Discord, Snapchat, Character AI, and others." (02:09)

Google Cloud swiftly initiated an investigation, with expectations to restore services by 2:23 PM Pacific Time. Despite the extensive impact, Cloudflare confirmed only a limited effect on its services reliant on Google Cloud, while AWS and Microsoft Azure reported no disruptions.

2. Google Shuts Down Android's Instant Apps

In a strategic move, Google announced the discontinuation of Android's Instant Apps, a feature introduced in 2017 to allow instant loading of various app versions and game demos. Citing low usage, Google decided to cease support, emphasizing that the functionality did not garner sufficient popularity.

Nia Carter, a company spokesperson, stated to The Verge, "Functionality wasn't popular enough to continue support," highlighting the decision's basis. Developers received notifications through a warning in Android Studio, indicating that all Instant App support, including publishing and APIs, would cease by December 2025. Additionally, tooling support and the Android Studio Otter feature will be removed.

3. Meta's Strategic Investment in Scale AI

In a bold move to bolster its position in the artificial intelligence sector, Meta Platforms has invested over $29 billion into Scale AI, acquiring a 49% stake. This investment integrates CEO Alexander Wang into Meta's superintelligence unit, signaling the company's aggressive push to accelerate AI development.

Rob Dunewood explains, "Meta aims to catch up to Google and OpenAI and deepen its ties within the US government through this strategic investment in Scale AI." (02:09) This partnership is expected to enhance Meta's AI capabilities, particularly following the impressive performance of Llama 4.

However, OpenAI CFO Sarah Fryer addressed concerns at the Viva Tech conference in Paris, assuring that OpenAI will maintain its collaboration with Scale AI. Fryer emphasized, "Preventing collaboration due to acquisitions would hinder the pace of innovation within the AI ecosystem," underscoring the importance of continued partnerships for technological advancement.

4. Apple's Delayed Siri Update and WWDC 2025 Developments

Apple has announced a delay in the release of its next-generation Siri, now expected to launch in spring 2026 with iOS 26.4. The postponement stems from the update not meeting internal standards, leading to internal disputes over the initial hype and subsequent withdrawal of advertisements.

Rob Dunewood reports, "Apple's next Siri, previewed at WWDC 2024, might not arrive until spring 2026, possibly with iOS 26.4 due to it not meeting internal standards." (02:09) The revamped Siri is designed to perform in-app actions, understand screen context, and reference emails for flight details or embed photos, aiming for a more intuitive user experience.

Despite the delay, Apple showcased similar features through Mac OS 26's Spotlight, which includes app intents, demonstrating the company's continued focus on enhancing AI functionalities. However, the WWDC 2025 AI focus was notably toned down in light of these challenges.

5. Steam Enhances Compatibility with Apple Silicon Macs

Steam is rolling out native support for Apple Silicon Macs, allowing the Steam client and helper applications to operate more smoothly without relying on Rosetta 2, Apple's emulator for Intel-based applications. This update is part of Apple's phase-out of major updates for Intel-based Macs following macOS Tahoe and signifies a shift towards optimizing software for the latest hardware.

Rob Dunewood notes, "Steam is rolling out native support for Apple Silicon Macs, meaning its client and helper apps will run more smoothly without needing Rosetta 2." (02:09) Users interested in experiencing the enhanced performance can opt into the Steam beta through the client settings.

6. Tesla Introduces Updated Model S and Model X with Price Increase

Tesla has launched updated versions of its Model S and Model X in the United States, accompanied by a $5,000 price increase. The enhancements, though relatively modest, include a new Frostblue paint option, an increased range of up to 410 miles for the Model S Long Range, and interior upgrades such as enhanced active noise cancellation and dynamic ambient lighting.

According to Rob Dunewood, "Both models now include front bumper cameras and adaptive driving beams, with the Model S Plaid's exterior optimized for high speed stability and the Model X offering increased third-row space." (02:09) Additionally, customers have the option to select larger wheels at an additional cost, further customizing their vehicles to their preferences.

7. Google Revamps Snapseed Image Editing App for iOS

Google has significantly updated its Snapseed image editing app for iPhone and iPad, marking the first major overhaul since 2021. The 3.0 update introduces a refreshed interface, a new favorites option for SA tools, repositioned export functionalities, and new vintage filters, enhancing the user experience for longtime fans.

Rob Dunewood states, "This redesign aims to provide more of an intuitive layout and a new feature set for its longtime users," as confirmed by Google spokesperson Michael Marconi. However, an update for Android devices has not yet been announced, keeping the new features exclusive to Apple's ecosystem for the time being.

Originally acquired by Google in 2012 to rival Instagram, Snapseed was later made available on Android and offered for free, solidifying its position as a versatile photo editing tool.

8. Anker Recalls Over 1.1 Million Power Banks Due to Safety Concerns

Anker has issued a recall for 1,158,000 PowerCore 10,000 Power Banks (model A1263) sold in the United States between June 2016 and December 2022. The recall is prompted by 19 reports of fires or explosions caused by lithium battery overheating, resulting in two minor burn injuries and $60,700 in property damage.

Rob Dunewood informs, "PowerCore 10,000 owners can check their model number for A1263 on the back of their device. They can receive a $30 gift card or replacement by submitting photos of the device and serial number." (02:09) Owners are advised to dispose of the recalled units at municipal hazardous waste collection centers to ensure safety.

For a more in-depth analysis of today's tech news, visit dailytechnewshow.com. Access show notes and links to all the headlines there as well.

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