Search results for: “digital”

  • Apple updates App Store rules in Europe to follow new law

    Apple updates App Store rules in Europe to follow new law

    Apple recently changed its App Store rules in the European Union to meet the requirements of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). These updates, announced on June 26, 2025, allow app developers to tell users about other payment options outside the App Store, like buying directly from their websites.

    Starting with iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6, users will see a new interface for installing apps from alternative app stores or developer websites. Later in 2025, Apple plans to offer a tool for developers to start these downloads directly within their apps.

    However, Apple warns that these changes might make iPhones and iPads less secure, raising risks of scams or harmful content. Despite these updates, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney criticized Apple, calling the changes “unlawful” and a “malicious compliance scheme.”

    He argues that Apple’s new fees, like a 5% commission on external purchases, hurt developers who use other payment methods. Sweeney says these rules make it tough for developers to compete fairly and limit features like automatic app updates.

    Apple disagrees with the European Commission’s push for these changes and plans to appeal, but it will follow the rules for now. The EU will review Apple’s efforts to ensure it meets DMA standards. Developers can use the new tools right away, but many are waiting to see if the fees will change.

    Source/Via

  • Apple to tweak App Store rules in Europe to Dodge more fines

    Apple to tweak App Store rules in Europe to Dodge more fines

    Apple is in a rush to avoid new penalties from the European Union over its App Store policies. Back in April 2025, the EU fined Apple €500 million for breaking the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to make tech companies play fair. The issue? Apple’s rules stopped app developers from telling users about cheaper payment options outside the App Store.

    The EU gave Apple 60 days to fix these rules, with a deadline of June 26, 2025. Now, Apple is in last-minute talks with EU officials to ease its “anti-steering” restrictions, which limit developers from guiding users to external payment systems. A report suggests Apple might soon announce changes, like letting developers add links to their websites for payments, though it still charges a 27% fee on those transactions.

    The EU is also eyeing Apple’s Core Technology Fee, a 50-cent charge per app install per year, which developers must pay. Discussions have touched on this fee, but no clear changes have been confirmed yet. If Apple’s tweaks satisfy the EU, it could avoid more fines. If not, the EU has the power to hit Apple with bigger penalties for ignoring DMA rules.

    Apple’s already made some changes, like allowing one external payment link in the EU, but the EU wants more freedom for developers and users. The outcome of these talks will decide if Apple can keep its App Store model or face tougher consequences.

  • Apple and Meta avoid instant EU fines but could still face big penalties

    Apple and Meta avoid instant EU fines but could still face big penalties

    Apple and Meta fined for breaking EU digital rules

    In April 2025, the European Union fined Apple €500 million and Meta €200 million for not following the Digital Markets Act (DMA). This law is meant to make digital markets fairer by giving users more choices and stopping big tech companies from limiting competition. Apple was punished for stopping app developers from telling users about cheaper deals outside the App Store, while Meta was fined for forcing users to either pay for ad-free services or agree to share their data for ads.

    No immediate new fines, but risks remain

    Both companies were given 60 days to fix their practices, with the deadline set for June 26, 2025. However, the EU has said that there will be no automatic new fines when this period ends. Instead, the Commission will first review what Apple and Meta have done and discuss their findings with the companies before deciding on any further penalties.

    Possible future penalties

    If Apple or Meta are still not following the rules after the review, they could face much bigger penalties. The EU could charge up to 5% of a company’s average daily worldwide revenue for each day they break the rules, and single fines could reach up to 10% of their yearly global revenue, or even double for repeat offenses.

    What’s next?

    For now, Apple and Meta do not have to pay more fines immediately, but they are still under pressure. The EU has not said when it will finish its review or if more penalties will come. Both companies have said they plan to challenge the fines and keep talking with EU officials.

  • Apple introduces new guide to help parents with Mac safety for kids

    Apple introduces new guide to help parents with Mac safety for kids

    Apple has released a new online guide to help parents keep their children safe while using Mac computers. This guide, called the “Parent Presentation for Mac,” is designed to make it easier for families to understand and use the safety features built into Macs.

    The guide covers important topics like setting up parental controls, managing screen time, and protecting children’s privacy. It explains how parents can limit what their kids can access, set time limits for using the computer, and block certain websites or apps. The guide also shares tips on how to talk to children about staying safe online and making smart choices when using technology.

    Apple has made this guide simple and easy to follow, so even parents who are not very familiar with computers can use it. The company hopes that this new resource will help families create a safer and healthier digital environment at home.

    This new guide is part of Apple’s ongoing effort to support families and promote safe technology use. Parents can find the “Parent Presentation for Mac” on Apple’s official website and use it to learn more about keeping their children safe while using a Mac.

  • Apple shortcuts app will get new features with Apple Intelligence

    Apple shortcuts app will get new features with Apple Intelligence

    The company is creating new stuff for its Shortcuts app. Using this app, people can create shortcuts to help them quickly achieve things on their iPhones and Macs. Apple Intelligence is going to make the app operate even better shortly. With this design, the Shortcuts app will be able to do more for you and learn from its users.

    Apple Intelligence enables the Shortcuts app to know what you need and gives you shortcuts to handle it. So, if you regularly check the weather before going, the app can gradually offer to create a shortcut for the same action. In turn, this allows everything to go faster and be less complicated.

    It is possible to control many apps at the same time with Shortcuts and get tasks done together. Since you use many apps every day, the Shortcuts app helps you combine them so that you don’t have to open them all separately.

    All these updates mean you won’t have to do so many boring tasks when using your digital devices. Apple making the Shortcuts app more useful means the app will become more valuable. Apples wants you to spend less time using your iPhone and Mac, so you have more time for things that matter.

  • Apple’s US App Store crossed $400 billion in developer earnings and sales in 2024

    Apple’s US App Store crossed $400 billion in developer earnings and sales in 2024

    Developers on the United States App Store made over $400 billion during the year 2024. We can see that many people make and use apps on the platform due to its success.

    Apps created for iPhones, iPads and additional Apple devices brought in significant earnings for developers on the US App Store last year. Including cash from purchasing, subscribing and selling in the app store. The rise is the result of Apple gadgets being used for apps and digital content.

    Millions of customers have made the App Store important for developers to reach them. Apple continues to update the store’s offerings to let developers make better apps and expand their businesses. This achievement indicates that the App Store is still a key player in the app business.

    Because Apple pays attention to security, privacy and quality, users continue to feel safe in using their apps and services. As more people trust the App Store, they spend more money and this is good for developers and Apple.

    All in all, the US App Store reaching $400 billion by 2024 demonstrates its relevance as a place where apps succeed and users discover valuable offers. The report also reveals that more people are buying software from their mobiles.

  • Texas introduces new App Store age rules as Apple faces European deadline

    Texas introduces new App Store age rules as Apple faces European deadline

    Under a new law, apps available on the App Store in Texas must ask for proof of age. Consequently, such apps have to verify the age of their users before allowing them access. Our aim is to stop children from seeing unsuitable content. In order to follow Texas law, app developers will add these age checks, and Apple will ensure they are used properly. If companies do not follow the rules, they may be fined.

    Apple has to deal with new guidelines in Europe as a result of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Big tech companies like Apple have been told by the European Union to follow these rules within the next 30 days. Users should be allowed to delete Apple-provided apps easily and Apple needs to give developers the opportunity to tell users about different ways to make payments. If Apple delays these changes, it may have to pay major penalties.

    With these changes, governments demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding and justifying the digital world for every user. The U.S. aims to defend children from threats on the internet, but the European Union wants to increase competition between companies by offering users more choices. Both Apple and app developers will have to move fast to remain in line with the new regulations.

  • Apple’s iOS 19 brings better gaming, easier eSIM transfers, and smarter Siri

    Apple’s iOS 19 brings better gaming, easier eSIM transfers, and smarter Siri

    Apple will soon bring in iOS 19, giving your iPhone some amazing new updates. A quick overview of new developments is here:

    A more enjoyable gaming time

    When you play games with iOS 19, you can switch on a mode that leaves you uninterrupted by notifications and ads. As a result, you won’t be interrupted by phone calls or messages. Apple is making your iPhone a better gaming device, and this update demonstrates that.

    Moving to a new eSIM with Android is quick and simple

    It will soon be much simpler to switch from an Android phone to an iPhone. iOS 19 will provide a way to transfer your digital SIM card from your old Android to your brand-new iPhone. A few quick steps on your phone are all it takes, and you don’t have to deal with carriers or SIM cards.

    A more intelligent Siri

    Apple is trying to ensure Siri gets even smarter over time. Siri will start to give you better answers with the help of recent AI advances. As part of its plan, Apple wants Siri to be useful for common tasks, including setting reminders, messaging from your phone, or looking up information.

    In summary:

    iOS 19 will bring ease to gaming, help with phone transfer,s and provide a smarter Siri. If you have an iPhone, you’ll find plenty of great features.

  • Apple raises prices for iCloud and Apple One subscriptions in Brazil

    Apple raises prices for iCloud and Apple One subscriptions in Brazil

    In Brazil, the prices for Apple’s iCloud storage and Apple One bundles have gone up. Because of this change, Apple users in the country who count on its cloud and paid subscription services will experience changes.

    Higher prices are set because Brazil has introduced new taxes and its currency fluctuates, which Apple now needs to consider for local services. As a result, Apple adjusted the subscription prices to match today’s costs.

    Now, iCloud charges more for monthly fees in each storage plan. Prices for the 50GB, 200G,B and 2TB plans have all increased. Subscribers in Brazil now have to pay more for Apple One, the bundle that offers Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade and extra iCloud storage.

    Apple has raised the prices of its subscriptions in Brazil before. Similar structural changes were put into place in the past for economic reasons. Residents of Brazil are encouraged to check their subscription information and decide if they’d like to stay with the new prices or change their plans.

    All in all, these price rises show how tough it can be for companies to run digital services across the world’s different economies. Customers may notice some cost adjustments on Apple’s services because of factors in each location.

  • Apple highlights iPhone safety features and CEO opposes Texas age check law

    Apple highlights iPhone safety features and CEO opposes Texas age check law

    Apple recently launched a campaign on its website, highlighting iPhone privacy and safety features and also joined in on a debate about online privacy laws in Texas.

    A new Apple ad called “Ease” highlights how iPhone offers App Tracking Transparency, Mail Privacy Protection, and does processing for Siri and Photos right on the device. They make sure users’ data stays safe and private without making the phone perform more slowly. Apple made a special page on its site to explain the steps it takes to protect user privacy using hardware and software.

    Apple’s CEO Tim Cook is now involved in a Texas bill that demands websites verify people’s age with facial recognition or ID checks before providing adult content. Reports say that Cook reached out to Texas Governor Greg Abbott to stand against the bill. He fears that making people disclose their data could seriously threaten online privacy.

    The company believes you should not have to give away personal information to verify your age. According to the company, its products are built around protecting personal data, but the new law might threaten their ability to do this.

    Apple’s case proves Apple does more than sell phones, as it also works to defend digital privacy rights in its products and in public debates.