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Microsoft to invest billion in Japan for AI, cybersecurity push

Microsoft to invest $10 billion in Japan for AI, cybersecurity push

by | Apr 3, 2026 | Technology


Microsoft said the initiative aligns with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s strategy to drive economic growth through advanced technologies while enhancing national security (Photo: Reuters)

2 min read Last Updated : Apr 03 2026 | 10:59 AM IST


Microsoft said on Friday it will invest 1.6 trillion yen ($10 billion) in Japan between 2026 and 2029 to expand artificial intelligence infrastructure and deepen cybersecurity cooperation with the government.

 


The announcement was made during a visit to Tokyo by Microsoft Vice Chair and President Brad Smith. The investment includes plans to train 1 million engineers and developers by 2030, as part of efforts to strengthen Japan’s digital workforce.

 


In a statement, Microsoft said the initiative aligns with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s strategy to drive economic growth through advanced technologies while enhancing national security.

 


Partnerships and local infrastructure

 
 


Microsoft will collaborate with Japanese firms including SoftBank and Sakura Internet to expand domestic AI computing capacity. This will allow businesses and government agencies to store sensitive data within Japan while using Microsoft Azure services.

 


The company also plans to deepen cooperation with Japanese authorities on sharing intelligence related to cyber threats and crime prevention.

 


Rising AI adoption, talent gap

 


AI adoption in Japan has accelerated since 2024, with around one in five working-age individuals now using generative AI tools, according to Microsoft data.

 


However, Japan faces a significant talent shortage, with government estimates projecting a deficit of more than 3 million AI and robotics workers by 2040. The planned training initiative is aimed at addressing this gap while supporting the country’s broader digital transformation.

 


(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

 

First Published: Apr 03 2026 | 10:59 AM IST



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Google unveils Gemma 4 open models that can run on smartphones, PC: Details

Google unveils Gemma 4 open models that can run on smartphones, PC: Details

by | Apr 3, 2026 | Technology



Google has introduced its new open AI model family, Gemma 4, designed to run across a wide range of devices — from smartphones to personal computers and developer workstations. The company says the models are built for advanced reasoning and agent-based workflows, while also being efficient enough to run locally on consumer hardware. With this release, Google is targeting developers who want to build AI applications that can function both on-device and offline, without relying entirely on cloud infrastructure. Additionally, Google also detailed Gemini Nano 4 for Android, which is based on Gemma 4.


Gemma 4 models: Sizes and positioning


Google has released Gemma 4 in four configurations: Effective 2B (E2B), Effective 4B (E4B), 26B Mixture of Experts (MoE), and 31B Dense. 

 


According to the company, the larger 31B model and the 26B model focus on delivering higher performance per parameter. Google added that these models are built on the same research foundation as Google’s Gemini 3 models and are positioned as complementary to its proprietary AI offerings. 


A key focus of Gemma 4 is its ability to run on-device. Google says the smaller E2B and E4B models are optimised for mobile and edge devices, including Android smartphones, Raspberry Pi systems, and NVIDIA Jetson hardware. These models are said to be designed to operate offline with low latency and support multimodal inputs. Google adds that Android developers can begin testing these capabilities through the AICore Developer Preview, with future compatibility planned for Gemini Nano 4. 


For larger workloads, the 26B and 31B models are designed to run on personal computers, including systems equipped with GPUs. Google notes that these models can also be used locally for coding tools, AI agents, and development workflows.


What Gemma 4 can do


Google says Gemma 4 goes beyond basic chat-based AI and is built for more complex use cases. Key capabilities include:


  • Advanced reasoning: Support for multi-step logic and improved performance in math and instruction-based tasks


  • Agentic workflows: Native function-calling, structured outputs, and system instructions for building autonomous AI agents


  • Code generation: Ability to generate code offline, enabling local AI coding assistants


  • Multimodal support: Native processing of images and video across all models, with audio input support on E2B and E4B variants


  • Long context handling: Up to 128K context window on smaller models and 256K on larger ones


  • Language support: Training across more than 140 languages


Open licence and developer access


Gemma 4 is released under an Apache 2.0 licence, which Google says allows developers to use, modify, and deploy the models without restrictive conditions. The company adds that developers can access the models through platforms such as Google AI Studio and AI Edge tools, and can download model weights from repositories like Hugging Face, Kaggle, and Ollama. Support is also available across a range of development tools and frameworks. 


Developers can also fine-tune Gemma 4 for specific tasks using local hardware or cloud platforms like Google Cloud. The company adds that the models are built with the same security standards as its proprietary systems and are intended to provide a reliable base for enterprise and developer use. 


Gemini Nano 4


Google is also positioning Gemma 4 as the base for its next-generation on-device AI system, Gemini Nano 4, which is expected to arrive on Android devices later this year, according to the Android Developers Blog. The company said apps built using Gemma 4 today will remain compatible with Gemini Nano 4-enabled devices, with additional performance optimisations aimed at improving efficiency and enabling production-scale deployment across the Android ecosystem. Early access is currently available through the AICore Developer Preview. 


Google said developers will be able to test Gemma 4-based features on Android using tools such as Android Studio and the ML Kit Prompt API, with support for selecting between Gemini Nano 4 Fast using E2B, and Gemini Nano 4 Full using E4B variants during development. The use cases include reasoning, math, time understanding, and image understanding.



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Google Vids update brings free video generations, AI avatars, and more

Google Vids update brings free video generations, AI avatars, and more

by | Apr 3, 2026 | Technology


Google is expanding its video creation tool, Google Vids, with a set of new AI-powered features to make video creation faster and more accessible. According to the company’s blog, the update introduces free video generation, AI-generated music, and customisable avatars, along with easier recording and direct publishing tools. With these additions, Google is positioning Vids as an all-in-one platform where users can create, edit, and share videos without relying heavily on manual editing or external tools.


What is Google Vids?


Launched last year, Vids is Google’s newest addition to the Workspace lineup. Designed for quick video presentations, it leverages AI to streamline the process with tools for storyboarding, scene suggestions, stock imagery, and background music, making video creation more accessible.

 


Google Vids update: What’s new


With the latest update, the platform is becoming more AI-driven, allowing users to generate content rather than build everything manually. Google said that instead of recording, editing, and adding effects separately, users can now rely on AI tools to handle much of the process. 


Free video generation using AI


One of the major changes is the introduction of free video generation. Using Google’s latest model, Veo 3.1, users can create short video clips from a simple text prompt or even a photo. Google said that all personal accounts will get up to 10 video generations per month at no cost. This could be useful for quick content like social media posts, greeting clips, or basic promotional videos. Users who need more can upgrade to higher plans.


Custom music for videos


Google is also adding AI-generated music through its Lyria 3 and Lyria 3 Pro models. These tools allow users to create soundtracks that match the tone of their videos. As per the blog, subscribers to Google AI Pro and Ultra plans can generate music clips ranging from 30 seconds to three minutes. The company said that it removes the need to search for royalty-free music or edit audio manually. 


AI avatars for storytelling


As per Google, AI avatars in Google Vids are designed to act like on-screen presenters, giving users’ videos a consistent face and voice throughout. Powered by Veo 3.1, users can go beyond simple talking heads and place avatars into different scenes. They can make them interact with objects like products or props and position them against custom backgrounds. This makes it easier to create tutorials, social media videos, or storytelling content without needing to record yourself multiple times. 


Users can fine-tune how their avatar looks to suit the style of their video. This includes changing outfits, adjusting facial details, and switching backgrounds while keeping the same voice and identity. Whether it’s for a travel vlog, a school project, or a casual clip, the avatar can be styled to match the mood, making the content look more polished and engaging.


Easier recording and sharing


Google has introduced a screen recorder extension for Google Chrome that lets users capture their screen and even themselves without opening Google Vids separately. This means users can start recording instantly while browsing any website. It brings the same recording tools available inside Vids to their browser, making the process quicker and more convenient. 


Once your video is ready, users can upload it directly to YouTube from Google Vids. There’s no need to download the file first and then re-upload it manually. By default, videos are uploaded as private, so they can review and make changes before making them public. 


Additionally, higher-tier subscribers can generate up to 1,000 AI videos per month, showing that Google is pushing Vids as a more complete content creation platform.”



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Tech Wrap April 2: Vivo V70 FE, Realme 16 launched, Google AI Pro storage

Tech Wrap April 2: Vivo V70 FE, Realme 16 launched, Google AI Pro storage

by | Apr 2, 2026 | Technology


 


Vivo expanded its portfolio in India on April 2 with the launch of the Vivo V70 Fashion Edition (FE). The Vivo V70 FE sports a 6.83-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7360 Turbo chip and packs a 7,000mAh battery with support for 90W charging. The Vivo V70 FE is now available for pre-booking. For the uninitiated, the Vivo V70 FE joins the V70 lineup that comprises the Vivo V70 and V70 Elite, which were launched in February.

 
 
 


Realme launched the Realme 16 5G in India on April 2. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6400 Turbo chipset, the smartphone includes a rear “selfie mirror” designed to make taking selfies easier using the main camera. The device packs a 7,000mAh battery, which the company claims can last up to two days.

 

 


Google has raised the cloud storage limit for consumers who purchase the Google AI Pro subscription plan. Earlier, the cloud storage limit offered to consumers on the Google AI Pro plan was 2TB, and now it has been raised to 5TB, without any increase in price. The increased storage can be used for Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos backup. This upgraded plan is still available at a price of Rs 1,950 per month.

 

 


Xiaomi has launched the Redmi Note 15 Special Edition (SE) in India on April 2. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor, the smartphone packs a 5800mAh battery. The smartphone sports a 6.77-inch curved AMOLED display and has a 50MP primary camera at the back. The Redmi Note 15 Special Edition (SE) is offered in three new colour options — Crimson Reserve, Carbon Black, and Frosted White.

 

 


Google has partnered with Samsung to integrate Google Photos into Samsung smart TVs, allowing users to view their personal memories on a larger screen. The integration will be available on select 2026 Samsung TV models, where users can access their photos through the Daily+ row, the Daily+ app launcher, and the Now Brief widget within the TV interface.

 

 


Samsung has introduced a new app to tackle a common travel problem—motion sickness. Called Hearapy, the app is now available on Android via the Google Play Store and claims to reduce symptoms like nausea using sound. According to the company, the app uses sound to help users stay balanced and feel comfortable while travelling, instead of relying on medication or other methods.

 

 


Apple has reportedly rolled out an iOS 18 security update for iPhone users, aimed at addressing a recently identified exploit chain known as “DarkSword.” According to a report by 9To5Mac, the update, released as iOS 18.7.7 (build 22H340), is available for all iPhones still running iOS 18, including devices that are eligible for newer versions but haven’t been updated. The move comes as reports highlight the active use of the exploit by surveillance vendors and suspected state-backed actors.

 

 


Sony has announced the PlayStation Plus Monthly Games lineup for April, bringing titles like Lords of the Fallen, Tomb Raider I, II and III Remastered, and Sword Art Online Fractured Daydream to all subscribers. According to Sony, these games will be available to claim for subscribers from April 7 through May 4, offering a mix of action RPG, classic remasters, and multiplayer co-op gameplay.

 

 


Apple CEO Tim Cook has shared an internal memo with employees to mark the company’s 50th anniversary, reflecting on its growth, impact, and future direction. The memo was shared by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman on X (formerly Twitter) and highlights Apple’s evolution from a garage startup to a global technology company with billions of active devices.

 

 


Thin and light laptops are usually predictable. You expect a clean design, decent performance, and a focus on portability over everything else. The Samsung Galaxy Book6 Pro follows that formula; however, Samsung seems to have made fewer compromises here, offering a great touchscreen AMOLED display and an Intel Core Ultra X7 processor.



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PS Plus April catalogue: Tomb Raider I-III Remastered, Lords of the Fallen

PS Plus April catalogue: Tomb Raider I-III Remastered, Lords of the Fallen

by | Apr 2, 2026 | Technology



Sony has announced the PlayStation Plus Monthly Games lineup for April, bringing titles like Lords of the Fallen, Tomb Raider I, II and III Remastered, and Sword Art Online Fractured Daydream to all subscribers. According to Sony, these games will be available to claim for subscribers from April 7 through May 4, offering a mix of action RPG, classic remasters, and multiplayer co-op gameplay.


PlayStation Plus monthly games for April


Lords of the Fallen


As per Sony, Lords of the Fallen places players in the role of a Dark Crusader tasked with overthrowing a resurrected demon god named Adyr. The game unfolds in a vast, interconnected world said to be significantly larger than its predecessor, spanning both the realms of the living and the dead. Players will face large-scale boss battles and a demanding combat system, while choosing from nine character classes and a wide range of weapons to shape their own play style.

 


Tomb Raider I–III Remastered


Tomb Raider I, II, and III Remastered brings Lara Croft’s original adventures to modern platforms with upgraded visuals, while also allowing players to switch back to the classic polygon-style graphics, said Sony. This collection of three titles includes all expansions and secret levels for the first time, along with a new Challenge Mode. This mode introduces customised modifiers and achievements, which can unlock additional outfits that enhance Lara’s abilities.


Sword Art Online Fractured Daydream


Sword Art Online Fractured Daydream centres around a new system called Galaxia, which disrupts timelines and brings characters from across the series together. Players take on the role of Kirito and team up with allies and former foes to restore order. The game features co-op multiplayer, allowing up to 20 players to form raid parties and take on high-difficulty bosses, with each character fulfilling a specific role in combat.


Sony also reminded users that March’s Monthly Games—including PGA Tour 2K25, Monster Hunter Rise, Slime Rancher 2, and The Elder Scrolls Online Collection: Gold Road—will be available to add to libraries until April 6.



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Apple releases iOS 18.7.7 update to counter DarkSword exploit chain: Report

Apple releases iOS 18.7.7 update to counter DarkSword exploit chain: Report

by | Apr 2, 2026 | Technology


2 min read Last Updated : Apr 02 2026 | 3:27 PM IST

Apple has reportedly rolled out an iOS 18 security update for iPhone users, aimed at addressing a recently identified exploit chain known as “DarkSword.” According to a report by 9To5Mac, the update, released as iOS 18.7.7 (build 22H340), is available for all iPhones still running iOS 18, including devices that are eligible for newer versions but haven’t been updated. The move comes as reports highlight the active use of the exploit by surveillance vendors and suspected state-backed actors.

 


As per the report, citing Wired, Apple said the update is being pushed automatically to users with auto-updates enabled to ensure critical security protections are delivered without delay. Apple has also reiterated its recommendation for users to upgrade to the latest iOS version for more advanced safeguards, while making this patch available to those who continue using iOS 18.

 


What is DarkSword


DarkSword is an exploit chain identified by Google’s Threat Intelligence Group that affects iOS versions between 18.4 and 18.7. It works by combining multiple vulnerabilities to gain deeper access to devices, making it particularly concerning in targeted surveillance campaigns.

 


According to researchers, the exploit has been used by commercial spyware operators and potentially state-sponsored entities, raising concerns around user privacy and device security. Wired cited Google as saying that DarkSword has been used by various hacker groups to break into the iPhones of users in Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Ukraine.


Apple had earlier released a limited patch for older devices that could not upgrade further, but users on newer iPhones who stayed on iOS 18 remained exposed. With iOS 18.7.7, the company is extending protection to all remaining users on the older operating system, closing a critical security gap.”

 

First Published: Apr 02 2026 | 3:27 PM IST



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