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A federal judge joined critics in questioning Googles controversial $700 million settlement with all 50 US states over anticompetitive Android app store practices pointing out it would only provide small cash payouts to consumers and could protect the company from future lawsuits.

US District Judge James Donato described the Google deal, which would give as little as $2 per eligible user covered in the suit and also included a set of time-limited changes to its app store practices, as a bag of not great for the American public.

It looks to me just as a matter of basic math any single person isnt gonna be getting much, Donato said at a Monday hearing in California federal court, according to Bloomberg.

Donato, who has the final word over whether the proposed $700 million settlement can move forward, also harped on the fact that the agreement would essentially protect Google from facing additional lawsuits over its Play Store practices for seven years.

This seems remarkably broad for the compensation you are proposing to pay for these claims, Donato said.

Additionally, Donato questioned why the deals terms, which first surfaced in December, did not address Googles tactic of charging service fees of up to 30% on major developers within its Play store. The states lawsuit had argued the service fees result in higher prices and less choice for consumers.

Your agreement is telling these 127 million consumers that if they dont like Googles fees they cant sue? Donato reportedly told lawyers for the states.

At the conclusion of the hearing, the judge gave both Google and the states 30 days to explain why the deal should be approved.

The terms of Googles settlement with all 50 states and millions of US consumers first surfaced in December just days after the company suffered a stunning defeat in a related antitrust case raised by Fortnite maker Epic Games.

As part of the deal, Google contribute $630 million to a settlement fund for consumers who may have overpaid for apps as a result of its Play store practices. The remaining $70 million will go toward covering legal fees and penalties in individual states.

A Google spokesman declined to comment on the judge’s remarks and referred to the company’s blog post on the settlement last December.

“We’re pleased to reach an agreement that builds on that foundation and we look forward to making these improvements that will help evolve Android and Google Play for the benefit of millions of developers and billions of people around the world,” the company said at the time.

Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney was one of the most vocal critics of the settlement describing the terms as an injustice to all Android users and developers and arguing the states could have successfully secured billions in damages had they taken the case to trial.

Donato, the presiding judge in both the Epic Games case and the states case, has been sharply critical of Googles tactics a trend that could haunt the company as both legal battles enter their final stages.

In December, Donato made headlines by publicly blasting Google for what he described as a disturbing effort to destroy key evidence it was ordered to preserve, including employee chat logs, during the Epic Games case.

Donato said he had never seen anything so egregious after viewing disturbing evidence that Google had used an auto-erase feature to delete the internal conversations.

While Google has denied wrongdoing, Donato said the companyswillful and intentional suppression of relevant evidence in this case is deeply troubling to me as an officer of the court.

This conduct is a frontal assault on the fair administration of justice. It undercuts due process. It calls into question just resolution of legal disputes. It is antithetical to our system, the judge added.

Donato said Google would face penalties that would be separate from any final rulings in the Epic case, where the judge is set to determine which business practices Google must discontinue after a jury found it was maintaining an illegal monopoly through its Play Store.

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Aventon Abound SR smart cargo e-bike gets first discount to $1,799, Jackery Explorer 300 at $169, Rachio sprinkler controller, more

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August 13, 2025

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Aventon Abound SR smart cargo e-bike gets first discount to ,799, Jackery Explorer 300 at 9, Rachio sprinkler controller, more

Headlining our hump day Green Deals is Aventon’s final summer sale that is taking up to $500 in increased savings off e-bikes, including new models, with the Abound SR Smart Cargo e-bike getting its first-ever discount to $1,799. We also spotted Jackery’s Explorer 300 Portable Power Station falling to $169, as well as Rachio’s 3rd gen 8-zone Smart Sprinkler Controller also dropping back to $169. From there, we have additional savings a budget-friendly e-scooter, a new low on a pro-grade cultivator, dual one-day-only pressure washer/attachment deals, and more waiting for you below. Plus, all the hangover savings are at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s exclusive new low price on Anker’s SOLIX F2600 power station bundle, or the brand’s PowerCore Reserve 60,000mAh station dropping to $80, and much more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

Aventon’s final summer sale gives the new Abound SR smart cargo e-bike its first discount to $1,799, more from $1,199

Aventon has launched its final summer sale through September 3 with up to $500 being taken off its e-bike lineup, including increased savings on legacy models, and two of its newest smart models seeing price cuts. Alongside the second-ever discount on the new Pace 4 Step-Through e-bike, we’re seeing the first cash savings on Aventon’s Abound SR Cargo e-bike to $1,799 shipped. This smart commuting solution has been fetching $1,899 since hitting the market at the end of 2024, with discounts having been placed on its predecessor model (currently down at $1,599). This is the first time we’ve spotted any savings being attached to this model, setting the bar for future discounts. Head below to learn more about it or to check out the full lineup of deals during this sale.

The new Aventon Abound SR e-bike takes all that we love about its predecessor and steps up the game with smarter features. To start, there is a 750W rear hub motor (1,188W peak) paired with a 733Wh battery (which you can conveniently unlock and remove without keys via the LCD screen) that provides you with up to a 60-mile travel range at up to 20 MPH speeds (that can be adjusted to 25 MPH). There are three riding modes available here, with the added Ride Tune customization letting you alter their performances to suit your preferences.

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There are some great structural features like the Tektro hydraulic disc brake system, the 8-speed Shimano Altus derailleur, and the rear cargo rack with an increased 143-pound payload, but what really makes this cargo hauler truly special is the large array of new features we’ve only seen on the latest releases. First, there’s the Sensor Switch tech, allowing you to choose between a cadence sensor and a torque sensor as you ride, as well as other in-ride functions like cruise control, a boost mode to increase power for steep hills, and even a hold mode when you’re on said inclines and don’t want the bike rolling backwards. Of course, there’s also the security measures in the form of a startup password, an integrated kickstand lock, and in-app geofencing settings, which cuts the power and sends you alerts should it ever leave your designated areas.

If you want to check out the full lineup of e-bike deals, be sure to check out our original coverage of this sale here.

jackery's explorer 300 power station sitting on picnic table charging drone and camera

Jackery’s Explorer 300 power station is a compact companion keeping your personal devices running for $169

By way of its official Amazon storefront, Jackery is offering its compact Explorer 300 Portable Power Station for $169 shipped, beating out its pricing directly from the brand’s website by $70. While it carries a $279 MSRP from the brand, it keeps down at a $259 full price tag here at Amazon, with discounts having kept the costs even lower between $199 and $169 over 2025, with a one-time appearing $159 low back during Prime Day. Aside from that short-term discount, you’re otherwise looking at another shot at the best price we have tracked, which gives you an easy-to-manage compact backup power solution with $90 in savings ($110 off the MSRP). Head below for more on this model and its bundle options.

If you want to learn more about this power station, be sure to check out our original coverage of this deal here.

rachio 8-zone smart sprinkler controller with phones displaying app-based controls

Streamline your water system with smart controls through Rachio’s 8-zone sprinkler controller at $169

Amazon is now offering the Rachio 3rd Gen 8-zone Wi-Fi Smart Sprinkler Controller at $169 shipped. While it may carry a $230 MSRP, we’ve been seeing it keep down to $200 at full price here at Amazon. Aside from the short-term Prime Day discounts, which first took the price down to $165 before falling to $160, this is the best rate we’ve seen since mid-March. While it’s gone as low as $143 in the past, you’re still looking at a solid $31 off the going rate ($61 off the MSRP) that lands it among the best prices we’ve tracked in 2025.

If you want to learn more about this 8-zone device, be sure to check out our original coverage of this deal here.

man aerating garden soil with greenworks pro 80V 10-inch cordless cultivator

Take advantage of up to 50% off this pro-grade 80V Greenworks cordless cultivator at a new $175 low

Amazon is offering the Greenworks Pro 80V 10-inch Cordless Cultivator at $174.99 shipped, which beats out its tool-only option that is sitting $75 higher in price. While this package carries a $400 MSRP, which is where it’s currently priced on the brand’s direct website, it is now 50% off the price we have been tracking on Amazon since the spring and is now at the lowest price we have tracked all-time.

If you want to learn more about this pro-tier model, be sure to check out our original coverage of this 50% deal here.

man riding gotrax apex xl electric scooter through walkway

Get a budget-friendly commute to your college or work on Gotrax’s APEX XL e-scooter at its $235 low

Amazon is offering the Gotrax APEX XL Electric Scooter at $234.90 shipped. While it carries a $349 price tag, we’ve been seeing it keep more at $320 at Amazon lately, with discounts having mostly kept the costs above $243, with one previous fall to this same rate at the end of July. That low price is coming back around here, with the 27% markdown cutting $85 off the going rate for the best price we have tracked – and just in time to cover any last-minute back-to-school commuting needs.

If you want to learn more about this e-scooter’s capabilities, be sure to check out our original coverage of this deal here.

man clearing driveway with greenworks 1900 PSI electric pressure washer

Greenworks’ framed 1,900 PSI electric pressure washer hits $120 with the 12-inch cleaner attachment at $25 (Today only)

As part of its Deals of the Day, Best Buy is offering back-to-back discounts on Greenworks’ 1,900 PSI Electric Pressure Washer for $119.99 shipped, while also offering the add-on 12-inch Surface Cleaner Attachment at $24.99 shipped (more on this below the fold). This pressure washer normally goes for $200 at full price, with it currently out of stock at Amazon and only down to $150 directly from the brand’s website. While we have seen it go as low as $118 before in a one-time discount back in April, you’re otherwise looking at the best price we have tracked, giving you a reliable means to tackle outdoor cleaning with $80 savings.

If you want to learn more about this model or the attachment, be sure to check out our original coverage of this one-day-only deal here.

Best Summer EV deals!

Best new Green Deals landing this week

The savings this week are also continuing to a collection of other markdowns. To the same tune as the offers above, these all help you take a more energy-conscious approach to your routine. Winter means you can lock in even better off-season price cuts on electric tools for the lawn while saving on EVs and tons of other gear.

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Kia’s first electric van ‘unboxed’ and ready to take on the world

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August 13, 2025

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Kia's first electric van 'unboxed' and ready to take on the world

Kia's-first-electric-van-unboxed

The PV5, Kia’s first electric van, was “unboxed” after arriving in parts of Europe this week. After opening pre-orders in new markets, the PV5 is ready to take on the world.

Kia’s first electric van unboxed in Europe

It’s not just a futuristic-looking electric people mover, but the PV5 is the first van from Kia’s new Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) business.

Kia opened pre-orders for the PV5 in the UK earlier this year, starting at £32,995 ($44,000). Now, it has officially arrived in a few more European markets.

The PV5 went on sale with pre-orders opening in Germany, France, Belgium, Sweden, and other global markets. In Germany, the PV5 Passenger is priced from €38,290 ($45,000) or €249 per month. In France, it starts at €39,550 ($46,300).

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Kia Sweden posted a video on social media of the PV5 arriving on a car carrier with the caption “Unboxed, washed, and ready to face the world!”

Kia’s electric van is available in Passenger (for everyday use) and Cargo (for businesses) with various seating options.

The PV5, Kia’s first electric van, arrives in Sweden (Source: Kia Sweden)

The PV5 Passenger is offered with two battery packs: 51.5 kWh and 71.2 kWh, rated with WLTP ranges of 179 miles and 249 miles, respectively. Although it has the same battery pack options, the Cargo variant is rated with ranges of 181 miles and 247 miles.

During its PV5 Tech Day last month, Kia announced plans to launch seven PV5 body types, including a Light Camper, an Open Bed (similar to a pickup), and a premium “Prime” version.

Kia's-first-electric-van-unboxed
Kia PV5 tech day (Source: Kia)

After launching the PV5 in its home market, Kia will begin delivering the vehicle in Europe and other global markets over the next few months.

For those in the US, Kia has yet to say if it will launch the PV5 in the States. It was spotted testing in the US again last month, but it would face hurdles due to Trump’s tariffs on imported vehicles from South Korea.

Kia builds all PBVs at its Hwaseong EVO plant in South Korea. The plant can produce up to 150,000 units a year. In its first full sales year, Kia aims to sell around 3,000 to 4,000 PV5s. Kia will expand its electric van lineup with the larger PV7 in 2027 and PV9 in 2029.

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Technology

Cisco reports narrow earnings beat, issues inline forecast for the year

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3 hours ago

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August 13, 2025

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Cisco reports narrow earnings beat, issues inline forecast for the year

Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins speaks at the Business Roundtable CEO Workforce Forum in Washington on June 17, 2025.

Al Drago | Bloomberg | Getty Images

CIsco reported results on Wednesday that narrowly exceeded analysts’ expectations and issued quarterly guidance that was also better than expected. The stock slipped in extended trading.

Here’s how the company did in comparison with LSEG consensus:

  • Earnings per share: 99 cents adjusted vs. 98 cents expected
  • Revenue: $14.67 billion vs. $14.62 billion expected

Revenue increased 7.6% year over year in the quarter, which ended on July 26, according to a statement. Net income rose to $2.82 billion, or 71 cents per share, from $2.16 billion, or 54 cents per share, in the same quarter a year ago.

Management called for 97 cents to 99 cents in fiscal firsœt-quarter adjusted earnings per share on $14.65 billion to $14.85 billion in revenue. Analysts surveyed by LSEG were expecting 97 cents per share on $14.62 billion in revenue.

For the full 2026 fiscal year, Cisco forecast $4 to $4.06 in adjusted earnings per share and $59 billion to $60 billion in revenue. The LSEG consensus was for earnings of $4.03 a share and $59.53 billion in revenue.

“While we have some clarity on tariffs, we are still operating in a complex environment,” Mark Patterson, Cisco’s finance chief, said on a conference call with analysts.

In the fiscal fourth quarter, Cisco generated $7.63 billion in networking revenue, up 12%. Analysts polled by StreetAccount were looking for $7.34 billion.

Cisco’s security revenue for the quarter totaled $1.95 billion, up 9% and trailing the StreetAccount estimate of $2.11 billion.

During the quarter, Cisco said it would collaborate with a partnership to invest in artificial intelligence infrastructure, alongside BlackRock, Microsoft and other companies. It joined a Stargate data center initiative for the Middle East that involves OpenAI and SoftBank. And the company introduced switches and routers that can take on AI workloads.

AI infrastructure orders from web companies in the quarter reached $800 million, Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins said on the call. The total for the 2025 fiscal year was over $2 billion, more than double the company’s goal, he said.

Cisco’s AI infrastructure sales pipeline from enterprises is in the hundreds of billions of dollars, Robbins said.

At market close on Wednesday, Cisco shares are up 19% in 2025, while the S&P 500 has gained about 10%.

This is breaking news. Please check back for updates.

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