regulatory concerns Archives

AppWizard

May 14, 2025

Nextcloud cries foul over Google Play Store app rejection

Nextcloud, a European software vendor, has raised concerns about Google's treatment of its Android Files application, which has over 800,000 users. The issue centers on the "All files access" permission, which was revoked by the Play Store in 2024, impairing the app's functionality. Nextcloud argues that alternatives like the Storage Access Framework (SAF) and MediaStore API are inadequate for their needs. The app has been able to read and write all file types since its launch in 2016 without security concerns from Google until the recent revocation. Nextcloud claims that Google's policies are stifling competition and that they have faced bureaucratic inefficiencies in addressing their complaints. Despite having a fully functional version on F-Droid, the Google Play version is restricted. Nextcloud has previously lodged a complaint with the EU regarding Microsoft's anti-competitive behavior, and they express frustration over the lack of action taken. They believe larger tech companies are trying to suppress smaller competitors.

AppWizard

August 30, 2024

Report: Tencent and NetEase reconsidering Japanese bets

Chinese gaming companies Tencent and NetEase are reassessing their investment strategies in Japan due to dissatisfaction with returns from their ventures. They initially sought blockbuster titles but found that supported developers focus on smaller-scale games. The companies are looking for opportunities outside China due to potential stricter regulations at home, but recent successes in the Chinese market have renewed interest domestically. Analyst Robin Zhu suggests that Tencent and NetEase may start scrutinizing their returns more closely. The global gaming industry is facing a retrenchment, leading to workforce reductions and scaled-back investments. Additionally, Japanese developers' desire to maintain control over intellectual property may complicate partnerships. Future investments in Japan may require a more nuanced approach.

Winsage

July 20, 2024

Microsoft’s global sprawl comes under fire after historic outage

Microsoft experienced outages impacting its email, cloud storage, and video conferencing products, leading to calls for the federal government to diversify its vendors. Lawmakers requested briefings on the incident and Microsoft's regulatory troubles are increasing globally. The company has deep lobbying resources to manage the fallout and is engaging with policymakers about the incident. The FTC, led by Lina Khan, is investigating consolidation among cloud computing services, including Microsoft's purchase of Activision.