Google Wallet Expands Digital ID Support to Montana

Google has expanded its digital wallet service to include support for state IDs in Montana, giving residents a new way to carry identification securely on their smartphones.

The feature, which has already rolled out in several other states, allows users to upload their Montana state ID or driver’s license directly into Google Wallet. Once added, the digital ID can be used at select checkpoints, such as TSA airport security lines, where digital identification is accepted.

Officials say the move is part of a broader effort to make carrying and presenting identification more convenient. With Google Wallet, residents no longer need to worry about forgetting their physical ID, as the digital version is securely stored and can be accessed with just a few taps.

Google has emphasized security in this rollout, noting that IDs in Wallet are encrypted and can only be accessed through device authentication methods like fingerprint, face unlock, or PIN.

Montana joins a growing list of states that are adopting digital identification in mobile wallets, a trend that is expected to expand further in the coming years. For now, residents will still need their physical IDs for certain uses, but the introduction of digital IDs in Google Wallet marks a step toward modernizing how people carry and use their identification.

Also Read- Google Wallet Streamlines Pixel Payments with New Quick Access Overlay.

How to Set Up Your Montana ID in Google Wallet.

If you’re a Montana resident and want to add your ID to Google Wallet, here’s how to get started:

1. Update Google Wallet – Make sure you have the latest version of the Google Wallet app installed on your Android device.
2. Open the App – Launch Google Wallet and tap the “Add to Wallet” button.
3. Select ID Card – From the list of options, choose “ID Card or Driver’s License.”
4. Verify Eligibility – Pick Montana as your state and follow the on-screen prompts.
5. Scan Your ID – Use your phone’s camera to scan both sides of your physical ID.
6. Take a Selfie – Google may ask you to take a quick selfie to confirm your identity.
7. Submit for Verification – Once submitted, your ID will be verified by state authorities.
8. Ready to Use – After approval, your digital ID will appear in Google Wallet, ready to use wherever accepted.

This setup process takes just a few minutes, and once done, Montana residents can start using their phones as official ID in supported locations.

Google Powers Up its Clean Energy Future with First Advanced Nuclear Reactor Project.

In a landmark move set to significantly impact the landscape of clean energy and data center sustainability, Google has announced its first direct involvement in an advanced nuclear reactor project. Partnering with Kairos Power and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this ambitious initiative aims to power Google's data centers with reliable, carbon-free energy while simultaneously revitalizing the Oak Ridge region as a hub for nuclear innovation. This news marks a pivotal step in Google's commitment to achieving 24/7 carbon-free energy for all its operations.

A New Era for Sustainable Data Centers

Google's pursuit of 24/7 carbon-free energy (CFE) requires diverse and dependable clean energy sources. While renewable energy, such as solar and wind, plays a crucial role, its intermittency necessitates a consistent, always-on power supply. This is where advanced nuclear energy steps in. By investing in this project, Google is not only securing its energy future but also demonstrating a viable path for other large energy consumers to achieve similar sustainability goals.

The collaboration centers around Kairos Power's innovative Hermes 2 Plant in Oak Ridge. This facility represents a significant leap forward in nuclear technology, leveraging advanced Generation IV reactor designs that are inherently safer, more efficient, and produce less waste than traditional nuclear power plants.

The Power Purchase Agreement: A Model for Clean Energy Partnerships

A critical component of this project is a new power purchase agreement (PPA) between Google, Kairos Power, and TVA. This agreement is groundbreaking for several reasons:

• First of its Kind: It marks the first time a U.S. utility (TVA) has agreed to purchase electricity from an advanced Generation IV nuclear reactor. This sets a precedent for future deployments of similar technologies across the nation.
• Initial 50 MW Boost: The Hermes 2 Plant will initially provide 50 megawatts (MW) of nuclear energy to TVA's grid. This power will directly support Google's data centers in Montgomery County, Tennessee, and Jackson County, Alabama.
• Around-the-Clock Clean Energy: Google will specifically procure clean energy attributes from the Hermes 2 Plant. This ensures that its regional data centers are powered with locally sourced, 24/7 carbon-free energy, moving beyond simply matching energy consumption with renewable purchases.
• Scalable Solution: This initial deployment is part of a broader, long-term collaboration with Kairos Power, with the ambitious goal of unlocking up to 500 MW of nuclear power for the U.S. electricity system through multiple deployments of their small modular reactor (SMR) technology.

Re-establishing Oak Ridge as a Nuclear Innovation Hub

The choice of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, is strategic. Historically a center for nuclear research and development, this project aims to re-establish the region as a vibrant hub for nuclear innovation. This will not only foster technological advancements but also create high-skilled jobs and contribute to local economic growth. The public-private partnership exemplifies how collaboration between technology companies, energy providers, and nuclear developers can drive significant progress in clean energy.

A Three-Party Solution for the Future of Energy

This project serves as a powerful example of a "three-party solution," bringing together energy customers (Google), utilities (TVA), and technology developers (Kairos Power). This collaborative model is crucial for accelerating the development and deployment of new, reliable, and affordable clean energy technologies. As the world seeks to decarbonize energy grids, such partnerships will be vital in advancing solutions that offer both sustainability and energy security.

Google's foray into advanced nuclear energy signals a major step towards a truly carbon-free future for its operations and offers a scalable blueprint for other industries striving for similar environmental targets.

Generate Images with Gemini in Google Docs on Android.

Google is rolling out an exciting new feature for Google Docs users on Android: the power to generate images directly within their documents, all thanks to Gemini AI. This update significantly enhances the mobile editing experience, bringing powerful creative tools directly to your smartphone or tablet.

Building on the existing capability to generate images with Gemini in Google Docs on the web, this new integration means you no longer need to switch between apps or devices to create visuals for your documents. Whether you're drafting a presentation on the go or refining a report from your phone, Gemini's image generation is now at your fingertips.

How To Generate Images in Google Docs?

Using Gemini to generate images in Google Docs on Android is designed to be intuitive. While specific menu paths might vary slightly during rollout, the core functionality involves these steps:

1. Open your Google Doc on your Android mobile device.
2. Locate the Gemini option on the toolbar next to the three dots.
3. Enter your text prompt describing the image you want to create.
4. Once Gemini generates the image, you'll have options to download it, copy it, or directly insert it into your document.

This seamless integration allows for quick visual enhancements to your documents without ever leaving the Docs app on your Android device.

How Image Generation in Docs Will Help Users?

• Seamless Mobile Creation: Generate, save, copy, and insert AI-powered images directly into your Google Docs on your Android device. This streamlines your workflow and makes content creation more fluid than ever.
• Enhanced Visual Storytelling: Easily add relevant and engaging visuals to your documents, from custom illustrations to concept art, without leaving the Docs app.
• Gemini AI at Your Fingertips: Leverage the advanced capabilities of Google's Gemini AI for quick and intelligent image generation, transforming your ideas into visual assets.

Availability:

This new feature is rolling out gradually, with visibility expected to reach all eligible users over the next 14 days, starting from August 8, 2025.

The image generation feature in Google Docs on Android will be available to a wide range of Google Workspace customers, including those with:

• Business Standard and Plus
• Enterprise Standard and Plus
• Google AI Pro and Ultra subscriptions
• Customers with specific Gemini add-ons

This update underscores Google's commitment to integrating advanced AI capabilities across its Workspace suite, making powerful tools more accessible and intuitive for users across all platforms. Stay tuned to your Google Docs app on Android for this exciting new creative capability! 

Google Docs Adds Gemini-Powered Audio Playback Feature.

Google is rolling out a new feature for Google Docs, powered by its Gemini AI, that allows users to generate and listen to audio versions of their documents. This update transforms how users interact with their content, offering a new dimension for accessibility, comprehension, and error checking.

This feature enables users to consume documents audibly, which is beneficial for busy individuals, students, and anyone who prefers to listen to information.

How to Use the New Audio Feature in Google Docs:

Google has made the process straightforward, with options for both individual listening and embedding audio for collaboration.

For Listening to the Current Document:

1. Open your Google Doc: Ensure your document contains content.
2. Access the Audio Feature: At the top of your screen, click Tools > Audio > Listen to this tab. An alternative is finding a "Listen to this tab" icon directly in your toolbar.
3. Control Playback: A pill-shaped audio player will appear. This floating window can be moved anywhere on your screen. The player includes controls for:
• Play/Pause: Start or stop the audio.
• Scrubber: Navigate to different parts of the document.
• Playback Speed: Adjust the reading speed (e.g., 0.5x, 1x, 1.5x, 2x).
• Change Voice: Select from various natural-sounding voices, such as Narrator, Educator, Teacher, Persuader, Explainer, Coach, and Motivator.

Credit: Google

For Adding an Audio Button to Your Document:

To allow others to easily listen to your document, you can embed an audio button directly:

1. Open your Google Doc.
2. Insert Audio Button: Go to Insert > Audio buttons > Listen to tab.
3. Customize the Button: The inserted button can be customized in terms of label, color, and size to integrate with your document's design.
4. Quick Insert with @: Typing @Listen to tab directly into your document lets you insert an audio clip quickly in a selected section.

Credit: Google

This significant development follows Google's ongoing commitment to integrate AI into its Workspace suite, expanding how users create and consume content. Complementing this, Google also rolled out an image generation feature in Docs for paid users, further leveraging AI to enhance document creation directly within the platform.

Google Maps Introduces "Tap and Hold to React" Emojis for Image Feedback

Google Maps is rolling out an exciting new feature allowing users to react to images within business listings using a "tap and hold" gesture to select from a range of emojis. This update, currently in testing for some Android users, aims to boost engagement and provide a quick, intuitive way to offer feedback on the visual content of places.

Similar to how users can react to messages in Google Messages, this new functionality in Google Maps presents a small overlay of five distinct emojis when an image is pressed and held: a heart, praying hands, fire, a side-tongue emoji (likely for food-related reactions), and a mind-blown emoji. While tapping an emoji triggers a small animation, the reactions do not yet appear on the images within the UI, indicating the feature is still under development.

This move signifies Google's continued efforts to make its mapping platform more interactive and social. By allowing users to quickly express their sentiments on photos, Google Maps could see increased user participation and richer, more nuanced feedback on places and businesses. While the exact impact on Local Guides and overall listing engagement remains to be seen, this update clearly points towards a future where user reactions play a more prominent role in how businesses are perceived on the platform.

This development is a key indicator of how Google is evolving its core services to foster deeper user engagement and provide more dynamic ways for consumers to interact with local businesses and points of interest. As the feature rolls out more widely, it will be interesting to observe how it influences user behavior and the quality of image feedback on Google Maps.

Also Read- Google Maps Unveils America's Favorite State Parks of Summer 2025.

Google Hit with A$55 Million Fine in Australia for Anti-Competitive Telco Deals.

Key Highlights.

• Google fined A$55 million by ACCC for anti-competitive deals with Australian telcos.
• Fine relates to pre-installation of Google Search on Android phones, stifling competition.
• Marks a significant regulatory action against tech giants' market dominance in Australia.

Google has agreed to pay a significant A$55 million (approximately $35.8 million USD) fine for engaging in anti-competitive practices with major Australian telecommunication companies, including Telstra and Optus. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) brought forth the proceedings, asserting that Google's agreements for the pre-installation of its search engine on Android mobile phones stifled competition in the market.

The landmark settlement, which Google (Alphabet Inc.) has cooperated with and admitted liability for, marks a crucial development in the ongoing global scrutiny of tech giants' market dominance. The agreed-upon penalty will be jointly submitted to the Federal Court for approval.

The ACCC's investigation focused on agreements where Google's search engine was set as the default on Android devices distributed through these telcos. Regulators argued that such arrangements limited consumer choice and hindered smaller search engine competitors from gaining traction in the Australian market.

This fine underscores a broader push by regulatory bodies worldwide to ensure fair competition in the digital economy. For a tech news and blog website focused on Google Updates and News, this ruling highlights the increasing legal challenges faced by the company regarding its market behavior and the proactive stance of international regulators.

The ACCC has consistently voiced concerns over the market power of major digital platforms, and this outcome signals a continued commitment to address practices deemed detrimental to competition and consumer welfare. As the digital landscape evolves, the focus on fair play in search and mobile ecosystems remains a top priority for watchdogs.

Google Ads Opens Doors for Sports Betting in Missouri.

The landscape of online advertising for sports betting is undergoing a significant shift in Missouri. Google Ads has officially announced that it will begin accepting and running advertisements for sports betting from certified, state-licensed entities in Missouri, effective August 15, 2025. This pivotal policy change comes as Missouri prepares for the official launch of legal retail and online/mobile sports betting on December 1, 2025, following the narrow approval of Amendment 2 by voters in November 2024.

This development marks a new era for sports betting operators and advertisers in the Show-Me State, offering unprecedented reach through Google's powerful advertising platform. However, this opportunity comes with stringent requirements and a clear emphasis on responsible advertising.

Google's Evolving Gambling Ad Policies.

Google maintains a nuanced and often strict approach to gambling advertising worldwide, prioritizing responsible practices and adherence to local laws. Generally, Google's policy on gambling and games content requires that:  

• Advertisers only target approved countries where gambling is legal.  
• Landing pages display information about responsible gambling.  
• Ads never target minors or vulnerable individuals.  
• Advertisers obtain a mandatory Google Ads certification before running gambling-related advertisements. This certification is often tied to specific websites and requires proof of fulfilling legal requirements in the targeted area.

While Google is tightening its rules for political advertising in regions like the EU, its measured expansion into regulated sports betting markets like Missouri demonstrates a strategic adaptation to evolving legal frameworks. This approach allows for growth in regulated sectors while maintaining a commitment to user safety and compliance.

Missouri's Sports Betting Landscape.

Missouri officially legalized sports betting when voters approved Amendment 2 in November 2024, permitting both retail and online/mobile sports wagering for individuals aged 21 and older. The Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) is the regulatory body tasked with overseeing the licensing and operation of sports betting.

The official launch of sports betting in Missouri is set for December 1, 2025. The MGC has already begun the process of awarding licenses, with prominent operators like DraftKings and Circa securing untethered sportsbook licenses. Other operators, such as FanDuel and Fanatics Sportsbook, are also actively pursuing licenses, often requiring an in-state partner.

For advertisers, understanding Missouri's specific laws is paramount. The state's regulations will dictate what can be advertised and how, ensuring that all promotions align with legal provisions and responsible gambling initiatives.

Navigating Google Ads Certification for Missouri Sportsbooks.

To leverage Google Ads for sports betting in Missouri, licensed operators must undergo a mandatory certification process. This is not merely a formality but a critical step to ensure compliance and responsible advertising. The certification requirements include:  

• Proof of State Licensure: Advertisers must demonstrate that they are certified, state-licensed entities operating legally within Missouri.  
• Accurate Business Model Identification: During the application process, advertisers must accurately identify their business model, choosing from options such as "Sports betting," "Daily fantasy sports," or "Online casino" (where permitted).
• Policy Adherence: Advertisers must commit to abiding by all of Google's advertising policies, including those related to gambling, as well as all local laws and industry standards.  
• Account Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of the ad account is essential to maintain certification status and ensure ongoing compliance. Falsifying certifications or submitting inaccurate documentation can lead to permanent bans from the platform.

Also Read- Google Unleashes AI & LLMs to Slash Invalid Ad Traffic by 40%.

Advertising Guidelines and Best Practices on Google Ads in Missouri.

Even with certification, sports betting advertisers in Missouri must adhere to specific Google Ads guidelines to ensure their campaigns are compliant and effective:

• Permitted Ad Formats and Content: While the policy allows sports betting advertising across most Google Ads formats, certain restrictions apply. The advertising content must strictly align with permitted gambling activities under Missouri state law. For instance, the policy specifically covers "sports betting" but does not automatically extend to other gambling categories like online casino games or social casino applications unless explicitly permitted and certified.  
• Geographic Targeting: Ads must be geographically targeted to reach only users within Missouri, where sports betting is legal. This is crucial to avoid violations in states where such advertising is prohibited.
• Landing Page Requirements: Destination URLs (landing pages) for sports betting ads must display clear information about responsible gambling. They should not offer gambling services themselves or link to gambling services owned by the advertiser if the destination is primarily an aggregator or informational site.
• Keyword Strategy: Advertisers should conduct thorough keyword research to target relevant terms while avoiding overly aggressive or misleading language. Focusing on compliant, high-intent keywords will maximize visibility among the target audience.

The Impact on the Missouri Market: Opportunities and Challenges

The green light from Google Ads presents significant opportunities for the burgeoning sports betting market in Missouri:

• Increased Visibility: Licensed operators can reach a vast audience of potential bettors through Google's expansive search and display networks.  
• Market Growth: Enhanced advertising capabilities are likely to accelerate the growth of the legal sports betting industry in Missouri, increasing engagement and revenue for both operators and the state.
• Competitive Edge: Compliant advertisers can gain a competitive edge by effectively reaching users actively searching for sports betting options.

However, challenges remain:

• Strict Compliance: The rigorous certification process and ongoing policy adherence demand significant attention and resources from advertisers.
• High Competition: As more operators enter the market, competition for ad space and keywords on Google Ads will intensify.  
• Potential for Violations: Any deviation from Google's policies or Missouri's laws can lead to ad disapprovals, account suspensions, or even permanent bans, underscoring the need for continuous vigilance.

Conclusion: A Regulated Yet Promising Future.

Google Ads' decision to accept sports betting advertisements in Missouri marks a pivotal moment for the state's newly legalized industry. This move not only provides a powerful platform for licensed operators to reach their audience but also reinforces the importance of responsible and compliant advertising practices. As Missouri gears up for its official sports betting launch in December 2025, the synergy between evolving state laws and adaptable advertising policies promises a dynamic and regulated future for the market. For advertisers, success will hinge on navigating these new policies with precision, ensuring both regulatory adherence and effective outreach.