Technology
15 Exciting Highlights from Google I/O 2023

At the annual Google I/O developer conference, a wide array of cutting-edge technologies and updates were showcased, all aimed at enhancing user experiences across various platforms. Google emphasised its commitment to improving search experiences and ensuring user safety by introducing new generative AI capabilities for search and implementing advanced tools for online protection.
Significant updates were also announced for Android, Pixel devices, and Google Photos. A standout moment of the conference was the unveiling of PaLM 2, Google’s latest generative language model. This breakthrough model surpasses previous language models in areas such as maths, coding, reasoning, multilingual translation, and natural language generation.
In addition to these advancements, Google reiterated its commitment to responsible AI, striving to address pressing societal challenges like climate change and flood forecasting while maintaining ethical AI practices.
Here are the 15 significant announcements made at Google IO that we thought would be of interest to you:
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PaLM 2, next generation language model: Google has unveiled PaLM 2, a next-generation language model designed to improve language translation, reasoning, and coding capabilities. The model is more heavily trained on multilingual text, demonstrating advanced proficiency in logic, common sense reasoning, and mathematics. Additionally, PaLM 2 was pre-trained on publicly available source code datasets, making it more efficient and faster than previous models. PaLM 2 will be available in four sizes, from smallest to largest: Gecko, Otter, Bison, and Unicorn, making it versatile for a range of use cases. The model is set to power 25 new Google products and features, including Bard and Med-PaLM 2, a medical competency model that can answer questions and summarise insights from dense medical texts. Learn more about PaLM 2 here.
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Expansion of Bard: The waitlist has now been removed, making Bard available in English in over 180 countries and territories, with the addition of Japanese and Korean languages, and planning to support the world’s top 40 languages. As the platform expands, Google will focus on maintaining high standards for quality, local nuances and adherence to AI principles. More here.
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Image Capabilities: Google is making it easier to prompt Bard with images, using Google Lens. This integration of images with text in Bard aims to enrich the user experience by providing visually informative responses to queries. Users can also include images in their prompts, offering new possibilities for creativity and imagination. More here
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Developer Features for Bard: Google is introducing three new ways to use Bard based on developer feedback: Making code citations even more precise by showing you the source of specific blocks of code. This also applies to citing narrative content from across the web; by adding export to Replit and by making Bard friendlier on the eyes in low-light conditions by introducing Dark theme. More here
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Export to Docs and Gmail: Google is making it easier and more seamless for users to continue their work by exporting Bard’s responses to Google Docs or Gmail. Formatting stays intact so users can continue editing directly in Docs or Gmail without needing to copy, paste, and reformat Bard’s responses.
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Integration into Apps:: Bard will be integrating with various Google apps and services like Docs, Drive, Gmail, Maps, and more, while maintaining user control over privacy settings. The platform will also connect with external services and partners, such as Adobe Firefly for image creation, Kayak for travel, Instacart for groceries, Wolfram for computational knowledge, and Khan Academy for education, offering a wide range of possibilities for users.
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Integrating generative AI across all the Workspace apps: The new features help one write, organise, visualise, accelerate workflows, have richer meetings, and much more. This powerful new way of working is what Google calls Duet AI for Workspace. Google is bringing the generative AI experience to Gmail on mobile and embedding generative AI into Slides so one can easily create unique visuals with a few words. The generative AI will help one analyse and act on data in Sheets, with automated data classification and the creation of custom tables.
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Simplifying Shopping with Generative AI: Google is using generative AI to make shopping faster and much easier, providing users with a snapshot of noteworthy factors to consider when searching for a product. Built on Google’s Shopping Graph, this new generative AI shopping experience will offer a seamless and informed decision-making process for users.
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Search Labs: Google’s advanced generative AI capabilities are now accessible through Search Labs, an innovative platform that allows users to explore and engage with early-stage experiments in Search. By registering for Search Labs, users have the opportunity to experience the Search Generative Experience (SGE) on Chrome desktop and the Google App in the US (available in English at launch).
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Magic Compose: Magic Compose, a new Messages by Google feature powered by generative AI, can help you add an extra spark of personality to your conversations. The feature offers suggested responses based on the context of your messages and can even transform your writing into different styles. Release set for July.
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New AI features in Android: Google’s upcoming Android 14 update (expected later this year) promises to change the way users personalise their smartphone experience, taking customization to the next level. Material You customization enables users to personalise their lock screen with new shortcuts, clocks, and a monochrome colour theme. The update also offers diverse wallpaper options, including emoji, cinematic, and generative AI wallpapers that allow users to generate unique designs based on their preferences. To enhance social media, Google is bringing Night Mode and 10-bit HDR video support to popular social apps like Instagram. The Android 14 update introduces Ultra HDR, promising stunning photo quality and raising the bar for smartphone photography.
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Reimagine Your Photos with Magic Editor in Google Photos: The new experimental editing feature, Magic Editor, powered by generative AI, will enable users to make complex photo edits effortlessly without requiring professional editing skills. Users can selectively edit specific parts of an image, such as the subject, sky, or background, for more control over the final appearance of their photos.
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Features and Updates to Enhance Online Safety and Trust: Google’s new suite of features and updates aims to improve online safety and provide users with reliable access to trustworthy content and information. The “About This Image” tool helps users evaluate the reliability of visual content found online by providing important contextual information, such as when an image was first indexed by Google, its original appearance, and other online occurrences. Google is also expanding its Content Safety API to include potential child sexual abuse material in video content, addressing a critical safety concern as video files account for nearly 50% of all files reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).
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Spam view in Drive: Google’s ongoing efforts to protect Gmail users from unwanted messages, which currently block over 99.9% of spam, phishing, and malware, are now being extended to Google Drive with “Spam View”, a new feature that simplifies the process of separating and reviewing files, allowing users to identify potential spam and stay safe from unwanted or abusive content. Google Drive will automatically classify content into the Spam View, similar to Gmail’s current system, ensuring that users are protected from encountering dangerous or unwanted files.
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New additions to the Pixel family: Google’s Pixel product line continues to expand with the introduction of three new devices: the Pixel 7a, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet. The Pixel 7a is Google’s latest A-series phone, featuring Face Unlock, 8GB RAM, a 90 Hz display, and wireless charging for the first time, making it an affordable package with the best of Google’s hardware and software. The Pixel Fold is Google’s first foldable phone, boasting a 7.6-inch screen when opened, offering a large, immersive display, and the best camera on a foldable phone, ensuring high-quality photography. Additionally, the 11-inch Pixel Tablet is designed for entertainment and gaming, comes with a Charging Speaker Dock, and functions as a helpful smart home device.
Technology
FG Eyes 21% ICT Contribution to Nigerian Economy

By Adedapo Adesanya
The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Mr Bosun Tijani, has set a target of increasing the Information Communication Technology sector’s contribution to the Nigerian economy to 21 per cent from currently below 18 per cent.
Speaking during a visit to his alma mater, Anglican Grammar School, Onikolobo, Abeokuta, he said President Bola Tinubu was making significant efforts to raise Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) through increased contributions from the digital economy.
As of the fourth quarter of 2024, Nigeria’s ICT sector contributed 17.68 per cent to the country’s real GDP, marking an increase from 16.66 per cent in Q4 2023.
He said if the target is actualised, it would translate to further growth in Nigeria’s economy.
“This means more jobs and opportunities. For the first time in the history of this country, an administration is investing in 90,000 kilometers of fibre optic cables across the nation.
“This infrastructure will bring high-speed internet to schools through cables—not through jungles—enabling better learning environments,” he said.
Encouraging the students, Mr Tijani said background should not be a barrier to success.
“I once sat where you sit today. The lessons of kindness and empathy I learnt here shaped who I am.
“You can become ministers, ambassadors, governors, or even the President. You can shake the world,” he said.
To support education, Mr Tijani announced a fellowship programme for the top three students in JSS 1–3 and SS 1–2.
Each will receive N100,000 annually, along with laptops and school uniforms.
This will benefit around 70 students each year.
He also revealed plans to refurbish and digitally equip a school building and adopt the science laboratory.
The minister attended an ‘Innovation and Startups Roundtable’ with digital technology entrepreneurs and solution providers in Ogun State.
There, he underscored the need for technology-driven agriculture to address food insecurity and boost local food production.
“Given our large population and reliance on traditional farming, we cannot meet local food demand without embracing digital tools,” he said.
“Technology such as mobile apps, sensors, and drones can help farmers monitor crops, control pests, track soil changes, and ultimately improve productivity.”
Mr Tijani noted that countries like Ukraine had sustained agricultural output even amid conflict, due to their heavy investment in agricultural technology, encouraging Nigerian farmers to adopt similar innovations to reduce dependence on food imports and preserve foreign exchange.
Technology
Tijani Lauds Huawei on Driving Nigeria’s Digital Infrastructure

By Adedapo Adesanya
The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Mr Bosun Tijani, has lauded the Chinese multinational corporation and technology company, Huawei Technology Company Limited, for its investment in Nigeria’s digital sector.
He highlighted Huawei’s strong commitment to building national digital infrastructure and commended the company’s efforts in launching an Innovation Centre and fostering local talent development at the Huawei Day Nigeria 2025 Government Forum, held in Lagos.
He expressed appreciation for Huawei’s ongoing contributions to Nigeria’s digital transformation and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between the ministry and Huawei.
The Huawei Day Nigeria 2025 Government Forum brought together top government and industry leaders to explore the transformative impact of digital technologies on governance, security, and public service delivery.
The forum featured a series of presentations with key leaders sharing their vision for the future of Nigeria’s digital landscape and the pivotal role of ICT in driving national progress.
The government forum organised as part of the activities in the ongoing Huawei Day Nigeria 2025 had speakers from various government MDAs share insights and best practices on digital transformation urban security, intelligent traffic and video surveillance, and ICT talent cultivation.
On his part, Mr Olusegun Olulade, the Executive Director, Centricity and Marketing of Galaxy Backbone stressed the importance of E-Government Network & Cloud in enabling Nigeria’s digital services.
He disclosed that “Galaxy Backbone’s cloud infrastructure is crucial for supporting Nigeria’s digital programmes by enhancing secure communication and data exchange across government ministries and agencies.
“It enables seamless interoperability, real-time data sharing, and improved decision-making, while ensuring robust cybersecurity.”
Furthering the discourse, Huawei Global Public Sector BU Chief Technology Officer, Mr Augustine Chiew, highlighted the cruciality of smart cities for Urban Digital Transformation.
“Smart city initiatives are reshaping urban environments by leveraging AI-powered surveillance, IoT platforms, and scalable cloud solutions to enhance traffic management, public safety, and overall quality of life.
“Cities like Lagos and Abuja are benefiting from these innovations, with a strong focus on sustainability, energy efficiency, and real-time connectivity, driving more efficient and livable urban spaces.
“Huawei smart city solutions accelerate public service digitalisation, serving 700+ smart cities in 100+ countries across the globe.
“Taking Lagos as an example, Huawei’s intelligent traffic solution has increased traffic efficiency, reduced traffic accidents, and decreased economic losses, which boosts city service efficiency and citizen satisfaction.”
The event had other speakers including the Director of Lagos State Vehicle Inspection Service, Mr Akin-George Fashola, who examined the importance of creating effective transportation systems in Lagos State.
He emphasised the need for the integration of big data analytics with video surveillance to enhance security operations and build public trust.
“This will contribute to multi-agency collaboration and improve emergency response capabilities, particularly in high-traffic and densely populated areas,” he said.
The government forum was an interactive platform for discussions on the impact of digital technologies on governance and public services in Nigeria.
The event underscored the need for enhanced collaboration between the public and private sectors to overcome infrastructure challenges, accelerate digital adoption, and build a more inclusive digital ecosystem.
Other speakers at the event include Deputy Comptroller General (ICT), Nigerian Immigration Service, Mr Mohammed Tukur Umar; Head, Infrastructure and Operations, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Mr Lanre Olaifa; ICT Director of the Lagos State Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr Adeyinka Sorungbe; Head of Computer Engineering Department, Ahmadu Bello University, Professor Muhammed Muazu; and top Huawei executives.
Technology
Hadron by Tether Integrates Chainalysis

By Aduragbemi Omiyale
Hadron by Tether has set a new standard for compliant tokenization with the integration of Chainalysis’ compliance and monitoring tools.
This upgrade brings institutional-grade oversight to Hadron by Tether by further strengthening its position as a trusted and regulation-ready marketplace for token issuance and asset management.
With this, the system can now monitor transactions to flag suspicious activity and enable ongoing compliance, and also streamlines onboarding and due diligence processes.
“With Hadron by Tether, we’re building the gold standard for compliant, secure, and scalable tokenization.
“By integrating Chainalysis directly into the platform, we’re offering institutional-grade transparency, compliance, and risk mitigation without compromising on decentralization or control,” the chief executive of Tether, Mr Paolo Ardoino, said.
“Chainalysis has always believed that trust is the foundation for the future of digital assets.
“We’re proud of this work with Hadron by Tether that will bring digital assets and blockchain technology to more institutions and organizations underpinned by our technology and blockchain intelligence that make the solution ready for a compliance-first world,” the chief executive of Chainalysis, Mr Jonathan Levin, stated.
Designed for institutions, corporations, and governments, Hadron by Tether enables the creation, management, and deployment of tokenized assets such as stablecoins, bonds, funds, and commodity-backed tokens across multiple blockchains.
With the integration of Chainalysis, participants now gain access to enhanced risk detection, real-time transaction monitoring, and full Know Your Transaction (KYT) support – ensuring adherence to global regulatory standards from day one.
This latest enhancement follows Tether’s broader commitment to security and accountability. As the issuer of USD₮, the most widely used stablecoin in the world, Tether has collaborated with over 255 law enforcement agencies across 55 countries and helped freeze more than $2.7 billion in illicit assets to date.
The same compliance ethos is now embedded in Hadron by Tether, empowering asset issuers to operate with confidence in an increasingly regulated environment.
The Chainalysis integration represents a major step in making Hadron by Tether not only a powerful platform for tokenization, but also a future-proof infrastructure layer for digital assets.
Tether previously announced it had adopted Chainalysis’ ecosystem monitoring solution to enhance surveillance across secondary markets and bolster compliance across all Tether tokens.
Now, those same advanced tools are directly accessible to Hadron participants, reinforcing a unified compliance standard across Tether’s expanding digital asset ecosystem.
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