Tech Brew Ride Home

The EU's antitrust investigation into Apple raises eyebrows, especially regarding its App Store practices. Instagram is emerging as a front-runner for news, potentially edging out Twitter. Basecamp's new email service, Hey, aims to revolutionize how we manage emails with a focus on user experience. Dropbox unveils innovative features including a password manager and secure file vault. Plus, Boston Dynamics opens the doors for businesses to own its Spot robot, combining high-tech innovation with practical applications.

Apple's new zero-interest financing opens doors for buyers, while Shopify's partnership with Walmart strengthens their marketplace. Fascinating research suggests people may be more honest when using smartphones compared to PCs. The tech industry prepares for potential testimonies from giants like Jeff Bezos amid antitrust scrutiny. Meanwhile, Quibi grapples with subscriber issues and internal strife, alongside the challenges of COVID-19 contact tracing apps that struggle to gain interest.

Twitter has cracked down on government propaganda, removing thousands of accounts linked to misinformation. Meanwhile, Chris Cox's return to Facebook as chief product officer could signal significant shifts in strategy and governance. The PlayStation 5 makes waves with its new designs, as the gaming world adapts to esports and novel advertising tactics. Additionally, Adidas' innovative marketing during virtual matches showcases the evolving landscape of fan engagement, while musicians benefit more from direct sales than streaming platforms.

Regulation news takes center stage as the EU gears up to file antitrust charges against Amazon and California reclassifies Uber and Lyft drivers as employees. In tech innovation, Amazon halts its facial recognition technology pending Congressional guidelines, while Adobe unveils its fun Photoshop Camera app. The podcast also dives into Postman's impressive growth and discusses Just Eat Takeaway's acquisition of Grubhub, reshaping the food delivery landscape. Plus, Facebook establishes a venture arm to invest in startups!

Discover the latest Intel chip vulnerabilities that might push Apple to embrace TSMC’s 3nm technology. Explore the fallout from a robocalling scam that misled many, with perpetrators facing serious legal consequences. Delve into Just Eat Takeaway's potential acquisition of Grubhub amid food delivery shifts. Plus, learn about the innovative interactive storytelling app Whatifi and the changes in Reddit's leadership as it embraces diversity in tech. This episode is packed with tech insights and industry drama!

Apple is on the brink of a major shift to ARM-based chips for Macs, promising enhanced graphics and AI performance. IBM has announced its exit from facial recognition, advocating for ethical technology practices. Nextdoor grapples with serious community moderation issues, tackling misinformation and racial tensions. Meanwhile, Amazon is embroiled in a lawsuit over non-compete agreements, highlighting the ongoing debate around workers' rights in tech. Finally, new Google Maps features are set to help users avoid crowding during the pandemic.

Airbnb reports a surge in travel bookings, hinting at a possible V-shaped recovery fueled by pent-up demand. The Brave browser faces backlash for questionable user practices, leading to an apology. Kids are now consuming videos at an unprecedented rate, with YouTube still leading but TikTok catching up fast. Exciting news from Apple reveals plans for interest-free payment options, making tech purchases easier. Meanwhile, LinkedIn upgrades its recruitment tools, ensuring better job matches.

Amazon teams up with Slack to enhance their market position, driving competition against Microsoft. Meanwhile, cybersecurity concerns loom as hackers target presidential campaigns. A study raises doubts about self-driving cars' ability to significantly lower accident rates. The impact of timing in business decisions surfaces, highlighted by the unfortunate repurchase of StubHub just before the pandemic. Meanwhile, the evolution of shareware shapes the gaming landscape, showcasing its pivotal role in the development of major tech companies.

A class-action lawsuit against Google raises questions about the true privacy of Incognito Mode. Meanwhile, Amazon is eyeing a $2 billion investment in Indian telecom Bharti Airtel amid booming demand for online services. Apple may be developing a subscription bundle to enhance user retention. On another front, the CES gears up for an in-person event next year despite COVID concerns, while Kitty Hawk pivots from its Flyer program to focus on a cutting-edge electric aircraft.

Zoom's impressive revenue surge highlights its status in tech. Apple may introduce on-device translation in iOS 14, enhancing user experience. The Brave browser is thriving, doubling its active user base, while Facebook faces internal challenges over its policies. In sports, FC Barcelona's innovative streaming service sets a precedent for fan engagement. Meanwhile, controversial app removals like 'Remove China Apps' spark discussions on data privacy and geopolitical tensions. Will on-device applications become the new norm?