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Google Android users can search the web or launch actions on their phones or tablets by tapping a microphone icon and then speaking. If you have a Google Nexus 5 or other supported device you don’t even have to tap — just say “OK Google” to get started (when you’re on the home screen).
A few months ago Google released a browser extension that lets you do the same thing on a PC running the Google Chrome web browser. But soon you may not even need an extension. The developers behind Chrome are working to build an “OK Google” option right into the web browser.
Here’s a roundup of tech news from around the web.
- Coming soon to Chrome web browser: “OK Google” voice search without installing an extension
Want to talk to you web browser (and have it answer by providing search results?) There’s a Google Chrome extension for that… but soon you may not even need it. [+François Beaufort] - Acer will launch wearable products later in 2014
Why not? Everyone else is doing it. Acer hasn’t confirmed if it’s looking at smartwatches, smart glasses, smart scuba gear, or smart dentures… but it’s looking into making smart wearable somethings. [gforgames] - OnePlus CyanogenMod phone due out in Q2, 2014
Maybe it should be called the Two though… since it’ll be the second phone to ship with CyanogenMod. [Android Police] - Debian Linux developers can get free games from Valve
How do you get third party developers to help you improve your upcoming operating system based on Debian Linux? Give freebies to Debian developers. [Phoronix] - Latest SteamOS beta release now supports non-UEFI systems, dual boot, more
Valve is also doing a bit of work of its own on the company’s Debian-based operating system for gamers. The latest beta is easier to use part time. [Steam Community] - RealVNC VNC Viewer app for Android is now free in the Play Store (was $10)
Burned by LogMeIn’s decision to shutter its free remote desktop service? There are plenty of free alternatives. Now there’s one more, since the maker of one of the better VNC apps for Android has decided to slash its price by 100 percent. [Android Police]
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