​Google might reshuffle search results to try to dodge fines in the EU 

​ Google is planning to test changes to how it displays search results for certain topics, nearly a year after it was charged with violating antitrust rules in the European Union, Reuters reports. The shift will show top-ranked rival services for hotels, flights, restaurants, and transportation higher up in results, rather than prioritizing Google’s own […]

​Google’s Nano Banana 2 brings advanced AI image tools to free users 

​ The image generational capabilities of Nano Banana 2 seem comparable to the Pro model. | Image: Google / The Verge Google is bringing a more powerful version of its Nano Banana AI image model to free users. Nano Banana 2 (also known as Gemini 3.1 Flash Image) is rolling out today across the Gemini […]

​Democrats to introduce bill aimed at resurrecting IRS Direct File 

​ 160 Democratic lawmakers from across the country are backing a soon-to-be-introduced bill that would reverse the Trump administration’s decision to eliminate IRS Direct File. The Direct File Act, led by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA), would bring back the option to file taxes directly with the government for free. The […]

​HBO Max’s password-sharing crackdown is going global 

​ HBO Max’s password-sharing crackdown is going to get a lot bigger. During an earnings call on Thursday, Warner Bros. Discovery streaming head JB Perrette said a global expansion “will start in 2026,” as reported earlier by The Wrap. Warner Bros. Discovery has ramped up its paid sharing initiative in the US over the past […]

​8BitDo’s customizable Pro 3 controller is $30 off for the first time 

​ Woot is offering steep discounts on many video games and accessories, some of which are fairly recent releases. No matter what you choose from its sale catalog, you can get up to $30 off your order with the code LEVEL20 used at checkout through the end of the day on February 27th (the sale […]

​The smart lock standard that could replace your keys is finally here 

​ A Galaxy smartphone using tap-to-unlock on a keypad for a Nuki smart lock. A new smart lock standard, Aliro, is bringing this functionality to all smartphones. | Photo by Jennifer Pattison Tuohy / The Verge Aliro has officially arrived. The smart lock standard, first announced in 2023, finally has a 1.0 spec, meaning companies […]