GoKawiil
Tech News
Researchers warn that this year's El Niño event, combined with ongoing global warming, resembles a rare pattern last observed in the late 1990s. They caution that the interaction between these two forces could produce extreme weather events that fall outside the range of existing climate models and historical data.
Forecasters say the current El Niño event, already projected to be one of the strongest on record, may drive extreme weather patterns lasting into 2027. New analysis suggests it could also raise sea levels along the California coast by roughly a foot, a previously underreported consequence of the phenomenon.
Google has released version 3 of its WeatherNext AI weather forecasting model, which now incorporates raw satellite data instead of relying solely on six-hourly reanalysis snapshots used by most AI weather systems. The update allows the model to generate hourly forecasts instead of every six hours, while also increasing spatial resolution through a larger machine-learning model, according to a newly published white paper.
Android Authority surveyed nearly 2,200 readers about Google's tougher sideloading measures, which add security checks, a 24-hour delay, and a forced restart before installing apps from outside the Play Store. Roughly 47.5% said the extra friction is always worth it, while another 36.6% said it's worth it for certain apps only, meaning over 80% of respondents remain willing to sideload despite the added steps.
Google has introduced WeatherNext 3, its newest AI-driven weather forecasting model, which will feed into Search, Gemini and Maps. Unlike its predecessor, which updated every six hours at a 25km resolution, the new model can refresh hourly and pinpoint conditions down to 5km by incorporating live satellite data instead of older simulation outputs.
Google has introduced WeatherNext 3, a new AI-driven forecasting system meant to replace or augment traditional numerical weather prediction methods. The system aims to deliver faster, less computationally expensive forecasts while maintaining or improving accuracy compared to physics-based models.
Google is rolling out version 1.0.0.94 of its Pixel Weather app for Wear OS, adding three new watch face complications: Air quality index, Pollen, and Precipitation. These join the existing Sunrise/sunset, UV Index, and Weather complications available to Pixel Watch owners. Users can add them through the Pixel Watch companion app or by long-pressing the watch face directly.
Google has released WeatherNext 3, an updated AI weather forecasting model that generates hourly predictions using live satellite observations rather than relying solely on historical data. The model can resolve certain variables like temperature and moisture at up to 5-kilometer resolution, a sharp improvement over its predecessor's 25-kilometer, 6-hourly forecasts.
A hidden feature in Android Auto beta version 17.6.66 shows a small animated raccoon, internally named 'Jimothy' after the viral social media character, hopping across the music player interface to display weather information. The widget also shows rain, clouds, or sun icons depending on local conditions, and currently only appears after manually switching the device theme in settings. Google has not confirmed a timeline or plans for a wider public rollout.
Prediction market Kalshi has teamed up with The Weather Channel to verify outcomes of trades tied to weather events, including bets on record temperatures and extreme conditions. The partnership aims to add credibility to Kalshi's weather markets by using an established meteorological source for settling wagers.
An Android Authority writer tested two third-party Android weather apps, Gradient Weather and Breezy Weather, after years of relying on Samsung Weather, Pixel Weather and AccuWeather. Both apps offered strong customization and usability, but the reviewer ultimately favored one over the other after weighing their strengths and drawbacks.
The Weather Channel has released a CarPlay version of its Storm Radar app, filling a gap left by Apple Weather, which still isn't supported on CarPlay. The new app shows a live map with radar, clouds, and precipitation layers, plus current conditions and forecasted weather at a driver's destination alongside ETA. The same update also brings new home screen widgets and a redesigned Apple Watch app.