ruling Archives

AppWizard

April 17, 2026

Aptoide sues Google over alleged Android App Store monopoly

Aptoide has filed an antitrust lawsuit against Google in federal court in San Francisco, alleging that Google imposes unlawful restrictions that hinder competition in the Android app ecosystem. The lawsuit claims that Google maintains an "anticompetitive chokehold" on app distribution, which limits the growth of rival app stores. Aptoide seeks an injunction against these practices and unspecified triple damages. The company has over 436,000 apps and more than 200 million annual users, and it argues that Google directs developers to its own platform, Google Play, while restricting access to popular applications that could benefit alternative app stores. This lawsuit comes amid increased scrutiny of Google, which is facing multiple antitrust cases in the U.S. and has recently been deemed a monopoly in a 2024 ruling regarding its search engine.

AppWizard

April 16, 2026

Krafton still ‘supporting the early access launch of Subnautica 2’ despite its name being removed from the Steam page

Krafton has stepped back from publishing Subnautica 2 on Steam, with its subsidiary Unknown Worlds now taking on both development and publishing roles. Krafton acquired Unknown Worlds in 2021, but tensions escalated when Krafton dismissed the studio's leadership, leading to a lawsuit from CEO Ted Gill, who claimed the dismissal was to avoid a million bonus tied to the game's performance. A judge ruled in favor of Gill, reinstating him as CEO. The release date for Subnautica 2, initially set for May, is now uncertain, with Gill granted an extension until September 15 to launch the game. Subnautica 2 is currently the most wishlisted game on Steam.

AppWizard

April 15, 2026

Aptoide sues Google for Android app store monopoly

Aptoide, a Portuguese app store company, has filed an antitrust lawsuit against Google in a federal court in San Francisco, alleging that Google is monopolizing the distribution of Android applications and payment processing. Aptoide claims that Google's practices hinder its ability to compete, despite offering lower commissions and more affordable options. The lawsuit seeks court orders to stop these practices and demands triple damages. Aptoide previously won a legal case against Google in 2018 regarding the removal of its app without user consent and was involved in the European Commission's Android antitrust case that resulted in a €4.34 billion fine against Google. The lawsuit comes amid increased scrutiny of Google's business practices, including a December 2023 jury ruling that found Google maintained an illegal monopoly in Android app distribution and in-app billing. Following this ruling, a U.S. District Court ordered Google to implement reforms to enhance competition within the Android ecosystem. Additionally, a proposed settlement between Google and Epic Games aims to facilitate the installation of third-party app stores and allow alternative payment methods. In August 2024, a U.S. District Court identified Google as a monopolist in the general search market, citing exclusionary agreements that restrict competition. Aptoide's lawsuit reflects concerns among smaller competitors about Google's influence over Android app distribution despite ongoing legal challenges.

AppWizard

April 15, 2026

Rival Aptoide sues Google in U.S. over alleged Android app store monopoly

A Portuguese app store, Aptoide, has filed a lawsuit against Google in a U.S. federal court, alleging monopolistic practices that hinder competition in the Android ecosystem. Aptoide claims that Google controls app distribution and in-app billing systems, violating U.S. antitrust laws. The company argues that it could compete more effectively against Google's pricing and policies if not for what it describes as an "anticompetitive chokehold." Aptoide alleges it is directed away from exclusive content and is excluded from accessing critical services, which harms its business. The lawsuit seeks to stop these practices and demands unspecified triple damages. Aptoide has approximately 436,000 apps and serves over 200 million annual users. This lawsuit follows Aptoide's previous complaint against Google with EU regulators in 2014. The case adds to Google's ongoing antitrust issues, including a recent agreement to modify its practices following a legal battle with Epic Games and a separate ruling declaring Google's search engine an illegal monopoly.

Winsage

April 13, 2026

Mozilla accuses Microsoft of running the old browser wars playbook to lock in AI dominance through Windows

Mozilla has accused Microsoft of using its dominance in the Windows operating system to marginalize competitors in the AI sector, particularly through the promotion of its Copilot feature. Mozilla claims that misleading update mechanisms are being used to push Copilot onto users and that system settings are being adjusted to hinder the performance of alternative browsers like Firefox. This situation is reminiscent of the 1990s browser wars when Microsoft bundled Internet Explorer with Windows to eliminate competition. In July 2025, Opera filed a formal antitrust complaint in Brazil against Microsoft, leading to an investigation into whether Microsoft was coercing hardware manufacturers to bundle Edge exclusively. A ruling against Microsoft could require a separation between the operating system and AI services. Microsoft's current strategy aims to control the AI inference layer, with each interaction through Copilot representing valuable data and monetization opportunities. Reports indicate that Microsoft is removing Copilot branding from standalone applications to further integrate it into the operating system. Despite Edge being the third most popular browser, Microsoft's tactics suggest a focus on securing AI infrastructure rather than just competing for browser market share. Regulatory scrutiny may increase due to ongoing antitrust challenges related to Microsoft's OpenAI investment and cloud AI bundling practices. The development of OEM relationships and potential resistance to Microsoft's requirements could significantly impact its integration strategy.

AppWizard

April 12, 2026

Fan World of Warcraft servers face shut down as Blizzard wins Turtle WoW case

Activision Blizzard won a copyright infringement lawsuit against the private gaming server Turtle WoW, which was filed in August 2025. The court ordered Turtle WoW to cease all activities related to private servers and modded client software. The ruling prohibits the defendants from transferring any Turtle WoW client software, source code, or promotional materials to third parties. A settlement has been reached between Blizzard and the Turtle WoW defendants, with plans for Blizzard to file for a dismissal of the case by June 8, 2026. Donations on the Turtle WoW website have been suspended, and the community is reacting to the court's decision.

AppWizard

April 4, 2026

Netflix ordered to pay back millions of subscribers in landmark ruling

A court in Rome ruled that Netflix's price hikes from 2017 to 2024 were illegal due to a lack of justified reasons. Long-term subscribers in Italy could receive refunds of up to €500 for Premium plan users and €250 for Standard plan users. Netflix has 90 days to inform affected customers, or it may face daily fines of €700. The ruling stems from a lawsuit by consumer advocacy group Movimento Consumatori, which challenged the price increases. Current prices must revert to previous levels, and Netflix plans to appeal the decision while updating its contract terms for future price increases. The ruling currently applies only in Italy.

AppWizard

March 30, 2026

Borderlands 4 just got its first story DLC, and you can get the full experience at its lowest price yet

Borderlands 4, a looter shooter game, initially faced challenges in securing a strong reception due to awkward humor and technical issues. However, it has improved significantly with updates, making it a good time for new and returning players to engage with the game, especially with the release of a first story DLC and discounts. Players can choose from four or five Vault Hunters, each with unique skills, to confront the Timekeeper in a more serious narrative tone compared to previous titles. The game features diverse loot from enemies and rewarding boss fights. The new Story Pack 1 introduces a new Vault Hunter, C4SH, and new bosses in the Whispering Glacier. The base game and deluxe edition are currently discounted by 38% on Fanatical, priced at .39 / £37.19 and .99 / £40.29, respectively.

AppWizard

March 25, 2026

Is the tide turning? Jury holds YouTube and Meta accountable for addictive apps

A jury has found YouTube and Meta liable for millions due to negligent and addictive app design, following a lawsuit by K.G.M., who experienced severe mental distress linked to her use of these platforms during her teenage years. K.G.M. filed her lawsuit in 2023, citing struggles with body dysmorphia and self-harm as a direct result of her experiences on these platforms. TikTok and Snap settled out of court, while YouTube and Meta contested the claims. The jury's ruling mandates that Meta and YouTube pay millions in compensatory damages, with Meta responsible for the majority. A spokesperson for Google disagreed with the verdict and stated intentions to appeal.

AppWizard

March 21, 2026

Oblivion turns 20 today, and I need Bethesda to return to its roots for Elder Scrolls 6

The author purchased The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion the day after its release, exchanging all their pocket money at Gamestation. The game came with a disc and a glossy map of Cyrodiil. Oblivion allowed players to take on various roles, showcasing the flexibility characteristic of RPGs. The author experienced the game on PC, while it also became a flagship title for the Xbox 360, broadening the appeal of RPGs to console gamers. Oblivion has influenced many contemporary games, including Elden Ring and Kingdom Come Deliverance. It is associated with the controversial horse armor DLC, which sparked discussions about microtransactions in gaming. The author reflects on the game's graphical limitations and the unnecessary nature of the Oblivion Remastered version. As Oblivion celebrates its 20th anniversary, the author considers the future of RPGs and the potential impact of The Elder Scrolls 6.