NewApp Digest
search bot

union

Google Revamps Android App Store Rules, Cuts Fees Amid Global Antitrust Pressure
AppWizard
March 4, 2026

Google Revamps Android App Store Rules, Cuts Fees Amid Global Antitrust Pressure

Alphabet's Google has announced a transformation in app distribution on Android devices, allowing external companies to register and launch their own app stores by paying a one-time fee. This change aims to enhance accessibility for competitors and lower costs for developers. Google will reduce its standard commission for developers from 30% to as low as 15% or 10% in some cases, with implementation expected by June in the US, UK, and EU, and similar changes in Australia, South Korea, and Japan by the end of 2026. Developers using Google’s billing services will incur a flat fee of 5%, while they can also opt for third-party payment processors. Epic Games has expressed approval of these changes, which they believe will help resolve ongoing litigation. Google generated approximately .66 billion in sales from its app marketplace in 2020, and regulatory changes could reduce its gross profit by around billion. The European Commission has accused Google of violating the Digital Markets Act, which could lead to fines of up to 10% of its global annual revenue. Google has previously faced €9.5 billion in fines for competition law violations. A US jury ruled in 2023 that certain Android policies violated antitrust law, leading to an injunction requiring Google to allow competing app stores access to its app catalog. Despite regulatory pressures, Google stated that the changes to the developer fee structure were voluntary and not mandated by legal rulings.
Centre's SIM binding directive on app-based messaging platforms 'unconstitutional': Tech industry body BIF
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

Centre’s SIM binding directive on app-based messaging platforms ‘unconstitutional’: Tech industry body BIF

The Broadband India Forum (BIF) has expressed legal concerns about the government's SIM binding mandate, stating it is "ultra vires the parent legislation" and "unconstitutional," based on a senior counsel's opinion. This opinion critiques the Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Amendment Rules, 2025, claiming they exceed the authority of the Telecommunications Act of 2023. The government's directive requires app-based communication services to maintain a link to a user's active SIM card, which BIF argues violates principles of due process and proportionality. BIF also highlights that the introduction of Telecommunication Identifier User Entities (TIUEs) alters the scope of telecom regulation improperly, potentially leading to legal conflicts with existing laws like the Information Technology Act. BIF concludes that the amendment rules represent an impermissible expansion of delegated authority under the Telecom Act, advocating for adherence to the statutory framework. The government's directive, aimed at addressing cyber security concerns, would change how users access messaging services in India.
Is Microsoft really spying on you with Windows telemetry?
Winsage
February 27, 2026

Is Microsoft really spying on you with Windows telemetry?

Windows 10 was released in 2015 and faced criticism for its telemetry feature, which some viewed as a surveillance tool. In 2017, the Dutch Data Protection Authority found Microsoft's telemetry settings non-compliant with local privacy laws, leading to changes by Microsoft. Telemetry, termed diagnostic data by Microsoft, is essential for device reliability and security, with a baseline level of data collection set to "Required." Users can opt to limit data collection to this level. The Optional category of diagnostic data may include device settings and browsing history, raising privacy concerns. Microsoft introduced the Diagnostic Data Viewer in 2018 to enhance transparency, allowing users to inspect the telemetry data sent to them. As of now, Microsoft has over a billion monthly active Windows 11 users.
Kremlin says the Telegram messaging app has violated the law many times
AppWizard
February 24, 2026

Kremlin says the Telegram messaging app has violated the law many times

The Kremlin is taking actions against Telegram due to significant violations of Russian regulations, claiming Telegram is uncooperative. An investigation has been initiated against Telegram's founder, Pavel Durov, as part of a broader criminal case related to alleged facilitation of terrorist activities, according to the Federal Security Service (FSB). Telegram denies accusations of being a haven for criminal enterprises and asserts its commitment to user privacy and security. The situation reflects the challenges digital platforms face in complying with strict regulations in Russia.
Google’s Game-Changing Feature Is Rolling Out to These Android Devices
BetaBeacon
February 18, 2026

Google’s Game-Changing Feature Is Rolling Out to These Android Devices

- Google is rolling out an update for Quick Share on Pixel 9, but not all users will immediately see it. - Users may need to manually install the Quick Share extension from settings. - Quick Share on Pixel can transfer files and media from iPhones using AirDrop. - Google has not specified which non-Pixel devices will support the new Quick Share. - The EU's Digital Markets Act is pushing for broader file-sharing interoperability among major tech companies.
The Darkside Detective Free on Epic Games Store
BetaBeacon
February 13, 2026

The Darkside Detective Free on Epic Games Store

The Darkside Detective: A Fumble in the Dark is a point-and-click adventure game that follows Detective Francis McQueen and Officer Patrick Dooley as they investigate paranormal incidents in Twin Lakes, America's 34th-most haunted city. The game consists of six standalone cases that gradually build a larger narrative, taking place in various locations such as a carnival, retirement home, and amateur wrestling circuit. The game is available for free on Android through the Epic Games Store mobile app from February 12 to February 19, 2026.
silver Android smartphone
TrendTechie
February 12, 2026

США конфисковали домены трех крупнейших торрент-трекеров ЕС

U.S. law enforcement, in collaboration with Bulgarian authorities, has seized the domains zamunda.net, arenabg.com, and zelka.org due to copyright infringement related to pirated content. This operation was authorized by a U.S. District Court ruling and coordinated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Europol, and Bulgarian officials. The domains, which were managed by U.S.-based registrars, have been redirected to U.S. control, displaying an official seizure notice. A significant portion of the content on these sites is owned by American companies, allowing U.S. jurisdiction. Bulgaria has been working to combat piracy since at least 2020 and was recently placed back on the U.S. Trade Representative's "Special 301 Report" list for insufficient progress. The servers hosting the trackers may be located outside Bulgaria, complicating their seizure. This operation highlights the risks faced by piracy platforms linked to international domains.
Centre cracks down on Android scam; blocks fraud app, Telegram channels, warns users
AppWizard
January 30, 2026

Centre cracks down on Android scam; blocks fraud app, Telegram channels, warns users

The Indian government has taken action against the Wingo app, a cyber fraud network that sent fraudulent SMS messages from users' devices without consent. The app's digital infrastructure has been blocked, and four associated Telegram channels with 153,000 users have been shut down. Over 53 related videos have been removed from YouTube. The Wingo app lured users with promises of quick financial gains, encouraging them to deposit funds for minor tasks or investments, but then either shut down or blocked accounts after receiving money. Payments were made through UPI or personal wallets, complicating traceability. Users were asked for access to personal data and provided with fake customer care numbers. Android users are advised to avoid apps promising guaranteed profits, verify app legitimacy, and refrain from granting unnecessary permissions. The government recommends uninstalling suspicious apps and reporting them, as well as contacting the cybercrime helpline at 1930 for assistance.
Search