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- Flappy Bird has made a comeback exclusively for Android users through the Epic Games store, developed by Flappy Bird Publishing.
- The game includes Classic mode and a new Quest mode with unlockable worlds and obstacles.
- Epic Games Store has struggled to meet installation goals, achieving fewer than 30 million installs out of a goal of 100 million by the end of 2024.
- Alternative marketplaces on iPhones are needed to increase competition and benefit consumers through improved pricing and innovation.
Fox News is providing free access to premium content for users who enter a valid email address and agree to its Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. "A Minecraft Movie," based on the popular video game, has become a hit in theaters, attracting young audiences and generating significant social media buzz. A scene featuring Jack Black has led to enthusiastic reactions, including fans throwing popcorn and even a live chicken during screenings. Some theaters, like Springs Cinema & Taphouse in Georgia, have faced extensive clean-up due to the rowdy behavior. Director Jared Hess noted the humorous nature of the screenings, while Raymond Arroyo expressed concerns about safety and order in theaters. The film has grossed million worldwide, and Regal Cinemas plans special "Chicken Jockey" screenings to encourage fan engagement while promoting respectful behavior. Arroyo highlighted a cultural shift in entertainment from superhero films to video game adaptations, suggesting a growing trend in Hollywood.
Microsoft has encountered issues in its enterprise sector, particularly involving the unintended release of Windows 11 to devices that do not meet eligibility criteria due to a bug in Intune. This problem has persisted since April 12 and is caused by a "latent code issue" that prevents Intune from enforcing rollout block policies. The bug allows Windows 11 to be available to "ineligible" Windows 10 desktop devices that IT administrators had blocked from receiving the update. Microsoft is working on a targeted code fix and has advised IT administrators to pause Windows feature updates and manually revert affected devices to Windows 10. The number of companies impacted is unclear, and there are no automated solutions available for the rollback process.
Japan's Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) has issued a cease-and-desist order against Google for violating the nation's anti-monopoly law by requiring smartphone manufacturers to preinstall its applications on Android devices. This practice has been in place since at least July 2020 and has hindered competition by making it difficult for rival search engines and browsers to gain a foothold on Android devices sold in Japan. The JFTC found that Google's contracts incentivized manufacturers to set Google Chrome as the default browser and not preinstall competing applications, affecting around 80 percent of Android smartphones in Japan. The JFTC classified these actions as violations of the Antimonopoly Act and mandated Google to stop these practices, develop compliance guidelines, and appoint an independent third party to oversee adherence to the order. Non-compliance could result in significant financial penalties. Google expressed disappointment but indicated a willingness to collaborate with the JFTC.
The Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) issued a cease-and-desist order against Google for violating Japan's anti-monopoly law by requiring Android smartphone manufacturers to preinstall its applications, which restricted competing search engine applications. Google incentivized manufacturers financially to designate Chrome as the default browser and not to preinstall rival search applications. The order mandates that Google stop these practices, prohibits the requirement for preinstallation of its apps, and requires the company to create compliance guidelines and appoint an independent third party to oversee adherence for five years. Google had agreements with six manufacturers representing about 80% of Android smartphones in Japan. The investigation began in 2023, reflecting a trend of increased scrutiny of big tech firms globally.
In Hayden, Idaho, the release of the Minecraft movie has led to disruptive behavior in theaters, prompting cinemas to implement new regulations. Hayden Cinema announced that for all Minecraft showings after 8 p.m., unaccompanied minors will not be allowed, and those under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or a friend's parent. This policy aims to improve the theater experience and aligns with similar measures taken by other theaters nationwide. The management is prepared to extend these restrictions if disturbances continue.
The City of Jacksonville is launching a citywide Minecraft build challenge for K-12 and college students in Duval County, starting on April 14. Participants will redesign Jacksonville's public spaces, focusing on sustainability and collaboration. The competition has four divisions: Elementary (3rd-5th grade), Middle (6th-8th grade), High School (9th-12th grade), and College. Teams can have up to five members and two alternates. Entries are due by May 2, with the top eight teams advancing to a live final event, the Mayor’s Cup, on May 20. More information is available at Jacksonville.gov/minecraft.
Cinemas are experiencing a phenomenon where audiences celebrate the appearance of the character Chicken Jockey in the newly released A Minecraft Movie, leading to enthusiastic reactions such as shouting and popcorn tossing. Some cinema operators, like Gareth Boggis from Abbeygate Cinema, have noted the excitement and engagement of diverse audiences, while also expressing concerns about potential disruptive behavior. The film has performed well at the box office, grossing approximately £233 million globally during its opening weekend and features stars like Jason Momoa, Jack Black, and Jennifer Coolidge. In response to the trend, Cineworld is hosting a special event encouraging fans to engage with the film, while the Riverside cinema has taken a stricter stance, prohibiting disturbances and filming.
The Google Play Store offers millions of mobile games and enforces strict regulations to ensure user safety and legal compliance. These regulations cover content policies, monetization practices, data protection, technical requirements, and regional compliance. Games must adhere to content policies that prohibit hate speech, excessive violence, and misrepresentation, and must be rated by the International Age Rating Coalition (IARC). Monetization strategies require developers to use Google’s payment system for in-app purchases and disclose pricing and refund policies. Gambling games must have the necessary licenses and disclose odds for loot boxes. Data privacy guidelines mandate clear communication about data collection and user consent. Technical standards require games to function well across devices and be free from security threats. Google employs automated and manual reviews to enforce compliance, with consequences for violations ranging from warnings to permanent bans. Regional compliance is necessary, particularly in areas with strict regulations like China and the EU.
