We witnessed initial changes to the policies and services of major tech companies like Apple, Google, and others just before the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) cracked down on monopolistic practices. These changes included the introduction of third-party app stores for Apple, the option to pay on Facebook, and the ability to select your default browser, search engine, and more.
However, the EU is not entirely satisfied with Alphabet and Apple. The European Commission stated that these companies have not adequately allowed app developers to guide consumers to offers outside their app stores for free. Alphabet is accused of leading users to Google-owned services like Google Flights, while Apple is criticized for not giving users meaningful choices in selecting alternatives to default iOS services or removing preloaded apps.
Apple recently announced adjustments to the App Store to comply with the DMA, allowing the use of alternative app marketplaces on iOS in the EU. A new “core technology fee” of €0.50 per user per year will be imposed on developers after the first million installs of an app, even if downloaded from a third-party marketplace. Many of Apple’s competitors are unhappy with these changes, particularly the fees for third-party payments in the US.
In a separate development, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill into law imposing stricter rules on social media usage for kids under 16. The bill mandates parental consent for 14- and 15-year-olds to create or use social media accounts and requires companies to delete these accounts upon request within five business days or face fines up to $10,000 per violation.
Spotify has partnered with content providers to offer music-making, creative, business, and health courses to UK users at prices ranging from £20 to £80. The courses are available to both free and premium subscribers, offering at least two free lessons per course.
Lastly, TikTok initiated a youth council of teens to advise the company on safety features for its younger users. This move coincides with potential legislation that could force parent-company ByteDance to sell TikTok or face a ban in the US. The influence of this youth council on TikTok’s policies remains to be seen, highlighting the importance of teens on the platform.
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