Google goes into gaming
Google is looking to take consoles out of the equation when it comes to video games, launching its brand new online gaming platform ‘Stadia’. Rather than needing a traditional console of gaming PC, gamers will just need to access Google’s Chrome browser to start gaming via Stadia. It’s a move that leverages Google’s ownership of YouTube, which has become a popular platform for gaming clips in recent years. Stadia allows users to watch these gaming clips online and then launch into the game themselves. There will also a custom-made Google Stadia controller, equipped with a Google Assistant button and built-in microphone.
Warning: Don't pay for anything with gift cards
Beware of being asked to pay an invoice in iTunes cards! Australians have lost more than $5 million in gift card scams, a 38% increase from the year prior. According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Comission's Scamwatch, it's now spread beyond just iTunes cards, with cards such as Google Play, Amazon, and Steam cards, and Australia Post Load & Go prepaid debit becoming popular. “It’s concerning that the scammers are now demanding payment in other forms of gift cards," said ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard. "This is likely in response to scam warnings about using iTunes cards for paying scammers that are in stores like supermarkets and on the cards themselves.”
$220 million for regional communications
The Federal Government has committed $220 million in funding to go towards a “large-scale, multi-year Stronger Regional Digital Connectivity Package” that will improve mobile and broadband services in regional areas. The funding boost includes two additional rounds of the Mobile Black Spot Program and a new Regional Connectivity Program. It follows the 2018 ‘Edwards Review’ into regional telecommunications. Minister for Regional Services Bridget McKenzie said “our response to the review will ensure regional, rural and remote Australians have the connectivity they need to maximise their economic, social and public safety benefits.”
Coles expands its UberEats selection
After first announcing its partnership with food delivery giant UberEats in January, Coles has now expanded its selection of items available via the service. The original pilot, limited to the Pagewood store in Sydney, was just for ready-made and semi-prepared meals , such as barbecue chicken. However, Coles has since expanded the agreement to include goods like milk, bread fruit and vegetables, as well as items from the bakery and deli. The stores offering the service has also grown, now including Bondi Junction, Leichhardt, North Sydney and World Square, all in Sydney.
