August 24, 2025
Tech News
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission’s Chair, Andrew Ferguson, has issued a stark warning to major tech firms, including Apple and Alphabet, about potential conflicts between U.S. laws and newly established European digital content laws. He cautioned that compliance efforts should not undermine the privacy rights of American users.
In other developments, Apple has decided to increase its Apple TV+ subscription price from $9.99 to $12.99, mirroring a recent move by Comcast’s Peacock. This price hike applies to new subscribers in the U.S. and select international markets, while annual subscription rates remain unchanged.
Continuing in the entertainment sector, Netflix has launched a new series titled *Long Story Short*, produced by Raphael Bob-Waksberg, known for *BoJack Horseman*. This fresh show explores human experiences through the lens of a typical family, integrating poignant time shifts to convey deeper narratives.
In the gaming world, Bungie CEO Pete Parsons announced his departure after leading the company for a decade. He will hand over leadership to Justin Truman, who has been with Bungie since 2010. Parsons’ tenure included launching the popular title *Destiny 2* and navigating challenges post-acquisition by Sony.
These significant shifts in both the entertainment and technology arenas reflect the ongoing evolution and challenges faced by industry leaders as they navigate compliance, content creation, and consumer engagement.
Tech Explained
Data Privacy – This refers to the handling and protection of personal data collected by organizations. Strong data privacy laws prevent unauthorized access and misuse of sensitive information, ensuring user rights in a digital world increasingly focused on personal data.
Subscription Service – A subscription service provides customers with access to a product or service for a recurring fee. This model is commonly used in streaming platforms, where users pay monthly for access to movies, shows, or music without owning the content outright.
Streaming Media – This technology allows users to access audio and video content over the internet without needing to download the entire file first. It enables real-time viewing or listening, enhancing the experience of consuming media like films or music on demand.
Alpha Testing – This is an early phase of software testing conducted within the developing organization. It serves to identify bugs and improve functionality before a public release. Feedback from this phase is crucial for refining the final product.
