September 6, 2025
Tech News
TikTok has announced that it now boasts over 200 million monthly users in Europe, equating to about one in three European citizens. This remarkable growth from 175 million users last year highlights the platform’s increasing popularity among teenagers. In a global context, TikTok’s user base exceeds 1 billion monthly users, indicating a significant expansion despite ongoing regulatory challenges.
Amidst this impressive user growth, the platform has faced scrutiny, particularly in the United States, where it’s been met with demands for divestment from its assets. In Europe, TikTok was recently fined €530 million due to privacy concerns from its EU regulators. This fine exemplifies the tension between European authorities and the app, which continues to grow substantially in user numbers.
In the smartphone world, OnePlus announced that its collaboration with Hasselblad has come to an end after five years. CEO Pete Lau revealed on the company’s forums that moving forward, OnePlus will develop its own imaging technology, departing from Hasselblad’s involvement—a notable shift considering the success of their previous partnerships in enhancing smartphone photography.
The upcoming OnePlus 14 is expected to be the last phone showcasing the Hasselblad brand. Previously, Hasselblad had provided both branding and technical expertise, creating imaging algorithms that transformed OnePlus’s camera capabilities. As OnePlus introduces its new imaging engine, the OnePlus DetailMax Engine, the challenge will be to match the quality previously achieved in collaboration with Hasselblad.
Meanwhile, Oppo, which is the parent company of OnePlus, has reaffirmed its partnership with Hasselblad, announcing plans for a new mobile imaging system later this year. This decision creates a curious contrast alongside OnePlus’s decision to bring camera development in-house, leaving industry observers pondering the implications for both brands.
Tech Explained
Mobile App – A software application designed to run on smartphones and tablets, mobile apps offer various services and functionalities. TikTok, as a mobile app, enables users to create, share, and discover short videos, positioning itself as a leader in the social media space.
Camera Module – A small device that contains a camera sensor and lens assembly, it is essential in smartphones for capturing images and videos. OnePlus’s collaboration with Hasselblad focused on enhancing their camera modules to improve smartphone photography outputs significantly.
Imaging Technology – Referring to methods of capturing and processing images, imaging technology plays a crucial role in modern smartphones. The development of imaging algorithms by OnePlus and Hasselblad was aimed at enhancing picture quality, a vital aspect for consumers seeking superior photography capabilities.
Algorithm – A set of rules or calculations used for problem-solving in computer programming. In the context of smartphone cameras, algorithms are essential for processing images, determining factors like color balance, exposure, and sharpness, which enhance the overall photography experience for users.
Privacy Law – Regulations that protect personal data and privacy rights, especially concerning how organizations handle user information. TikTok’s recent €530 million fine illustrates the importance of compliance with privacy laws, particularly within the European Union, where strict regulations are in place to safeguard user data.
