In this episode of the MadTech podcast, ExchangeWire’s head of marketing Grainne Reid is joined by head of content John Still and COO Lindsay Rowntree to discuss three major stories surrounding AI, consumer tech, and media power dynamics.

They look into Google’s new protocol for AI-driven commerce, Apple’s decision to tap Google’s Gemini for Siri, and Paramount’s lawsuit following Warner Bros’ rejection of its latest offer.

This week's news stories:

Google announces new protocol for AI-driven commerce

Google has announced the Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP), a new standard for AI agent-based shopping developed with major names in retail, including Shopify, Wayfair, and Target. It lets agents work across different parts of the customer buying process, from discovery to post-purchase support.

Apple to use Google's Gemini models for Siri

Apple has struck a deal with Google which will see it using Google's Gemini models to power its AI features, including a major Siri update expected sometime this year. The company will also lean on Google's Gemini models and cloud technology for its future foundational models.

Paramount sues Warner Bros Discovery over Netflix deal

Paramount has sued Warner Bros and its CEO, David Zaslav, following Warner Bros recommending its shareholders to rejected Paramount's amended offer. The lawsuit, filed in Delaware, asked the court to call on Warner Bros to provide information about its sale process and pending deal with Netflix.