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Previously, verifying end-to-end encryption involved comparing a lengthy 80-digit code with your contact. Now, users can simply scan each other’s QR codes to confirm identity. To use the feature, open a conversation in Google Messages, tap the contact’s name, and navigate to their details page. There, you will see the option to show your QR code or scan the other person’s code.

Google notes that verified keys ensure that only the sender and recipient can read messages exchanged through RCS (Rich Communication Services). While the QR code offers a more user-friendly method, the original 80-digit number comparison remains available as a backup.

The company first announced this feature in October of the previous year. At the time, Google stated it was creating a unified system for public key verification that could work across different apps. The QR code feature is supported on Android 9 and newer devices.

Google Moves Toward QR Code-Based Security Across Its Ecosystem

The introduction of QR code verification in Google Messages reflects a larger trend in Google’s approach to user security. In addition to secure messaging, the company is planning to replace SMS-based two-factor authentication for Gmail with QR codes. This move aims to reduce reliance on older. Less secure verification methods that are more susceptible to phishing and SIM-swap attacks.

By making QR codes central to identity verification, Google hopes to simplify the process while maintaining strong encryption standards. The new method also aligns with user behavior trends. As many users already trust QR codes for payments, app logins, and event access.

This update also addresses growing concerns about digital impersonation and fake identities in personal and business communication. By making identity verification more accessible, Google lowers the barrier for users to ensure they are messaging the correct person securely.

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Although still in beta, this feature shows how QR codes could become standard for secure communication on Android. As Google continues to develop cross-platform verification systems, users can expect stronger privacy tools built into everyday apps.

In the coming months, wider adoption of QR-based verification may significantly improve the user experience in encrypted messaging, setting a new standard for communication security on mobile devices.

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Traditional lithium-ion batteries used in energy storage can typically store and discharge power for four hours or less. In contrast, Energy Dome’s carbon dioxide battery can dispatch energy for 8 to 24 hours. This extended capacity allows more consistent use of solar and wind energy. Even when the sun isn’t shining or the wind isn’t blowing.

The system uses carbon dioxide in a closed-loop cycle. During times of excess renewable generation, the battery compresses carbon dioxide gas into a liquid using that surplus power. When demand rises, the liquid carbon dioxide is converted back into gas, which expands under pressure to drive a turbine. The energy generated is then fed back into the grid, supporting continuous power delivery for up to a full day.

This innovation provides a scalable and cost-effective solution for overcoming the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources. Google believes this partnership will help accelerate deployment of long-duration energy storage technologies worldwide.

CO₂ Battery Technology Could Accelerate Google’s 24/7 Clean Energy Goal

Google emphasized that Energy Dome’s technology offers a faster commercialization path than many of its other clean energy investments. By supporting the scaling of carbon dioxide battery systems, Google aims to reduce the cost of clean energy adoption and increase its availability across regions where the company operates.

The CO₂ battery’s modular design and reliance on abundant, non-toxic materials also make it a promising candidate for widespread use. Unlike some emerging technologies that are still in early development, Energy Dome’s system has already undergone successful pilot testing and is ready for broader deployment.

Google’s investment aligns with its ambitious goal to run entirely on renewable energy, every hour of every day, by 2030. Achieving this requires more than just purchasing green power—it involves ensuring that clean energy is available even when intermittent generation dips. Long-duration storage technologies are seen as critical in meeting that challenge.

The partnership with Energy Dome adds a new dimension to Google’s growing portfolio of sustainability projects. As more companies and governments pursue aggressive climate targets, solutions like carbon dioxide batteries may play a vital role in enabling reliable, low-carbon power systems.

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This development highlights a broader trend in the tech industry, where companies are not only consumers of clean energy but also active investors in technologies that make the energy transition possible. Through this partnership, Google is contributing to the global push for energy innovation while addressing its own carbon footprint in a scalable and sustainable way.

The post Google Invests in CO₂ Battery to Power Green Future appeared first on Plow United.

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AI Mode first began rolling out broadly in May, following Google’s I/O conference announcements earlier this year. At that event, Google introduced Deep Think as an option linked to the Gemini 2.5 Pro model. The recent enhancements build on those promises by offering subscribers a more powerful and efficient search experience. Users can expect more accurate, in-depth responses and improved ability to analyze complex queries.

While these features can still be accessed outside of AI Mode through other Google services, the company’s focus on centralizing them within AI Mode suggests a strategic push. This move aims to streamline user interactions and make the AI chatbot the hub for search queries. By offering tiered access through subscription levels, Google also ensures that professionals and power users benefit from these advanced tools first. These additions reflect Google’s commitment to advancing AI within its search ecosystem. As AI technologies grow more sophisticated, Google is preparing its platform to meet increasing user demands for faster, smarter, and context-aware search results.

AI-Powered Phone Calls and Search Updates

Alongside improvements to AI Mode, Google is rolling out a new AI-powered calling feature within its core Search experience. Announced at the same I/O conference, Project Astra enables AI to place phone calls to local businesses. This tool aims to assist users by inquiring about availability and pricing for goods or services.

Initially, the AI calling feature will have limited scope. It will only contact local businesses and focus on specific topics such as product availability and pricing inquiries. When users search for relevant companies or services, they may see prompts like “Have AI check prices.” Selecting this option triggers the AI to make the call on their behalf.

This feature is now available to all Search users, but Google AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers receive higher usage limits. Unlike the enhancements to AI Mode, this phone call function operates directly within Search rather than the chatbot interface. It represents a step toward more interactive and practical AI assistance in everyday queries.

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Google’s introduction of AI phone calls shows its intent to integrate AI deeply into various aspects of search, making interactions more seamless. While still early in deployment, these calls have the potential to save users time and provide quicker access to information that typically requires manual phone inquiries. Looking forward, Google’s ongoing AI enhancements indicate a broader vision. The company plans to evolve AI Mode and Search into highly intelligent assistants that not only find information but also act on behalf of users. These innovations could redefine how we use search engines in daily life, blending AI convenience with trusted results.

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