9 Great Reads From CNET This Week: Google I/O, iPods, Black Holes and More – CNET

The Met Gala they’re not, but tech events like Google I/O have an appeal to folks beyond the developers in the audience. They offer a peek at the tech that’ll soon be in our hands and our homes.

This year’s Google I/O brought us more than software updates, like Android 13, tweaks to Google Maps and the shift to the Monk skin tone scale. Google went big on hardware as well, talking up, among other things, the Pixel 6A and Pixel 7 phones, the Pixel Buds Pro earbuds and the Pixel Watch, its first smartwatch. Be sure to check out our complete Google I/O coverage.

Those stories are part and parcel with the many in-depth features and thought-provoking commentaries that appeared on CNET this week. So here you go. These are the stories you don’t want to miss.

Google’s language algorithm can handle your dad jokes. Here’s why that matters.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai on stage with a large screen detailing AI and joke explanation
Screenshot by Imad Khan/CNET

Here’s why the first black hole images look like fiery doughnuts. 

Two black hole photos, side by sideTwo black hole photos, side by side
EHT Collaboration

Commentary: The gadget survived music streaming, rival players and the iPhone.  

Illustration of the original iPod if it was made from marbleIllustration of the original iPod if it was made from marble
Collin Buenerkemper/CNET

Facebook said last year that it mistakenly took down pages of the Australian government and emergency services. Whistleblowers say it was intentional.

Facebook logo on a phone screenFacebook logo on a phone screen
Sarah Tew/CNET

Commentary: Google wants to make technology less obtrusive. But to do so, its devices need to be everywhere.   

Google Pixel Family productsGoogle Pixel Family products
Google; composited by Sarah Tew/CNET

Body doubling can be a total game changer for people who struggle to retain focus. 

A couple sits together on a couch, both reading.A couple sits together on a couch, both reading.
Getty Images

We need to fix the problems that already exist on today’s social platforms, he says. 

Tony Fadell in a V-neck sweaterTony Fadell in a V-neck sweater

Tony Fadell

Williamson Adams

Last week, a luna coin was worth $85. Now it’s worth a penny. Here’s why that matters. 

Terra logo on a phone screen, plus a couple of coinsTerra logo on a phone screen, plus a couple of coins
Getty Images

The Burnt City proves that Punchdrunk can still create fantastical new worlds, but exploring them brings new discomfort.  

A masked audience member watches a performer in The Burnt CityA masked audience member watches a performer in The Burnt City
Punchdrunk

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